Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

The influence of the DEA in Guyana This year has seen a large number of drug busts. The law enforcers have found cocaine in every imaginable place. There was one large find among a consignment of lumber heading to Europe where the price for cocaine is at its highest. There have been finds in many other export commodities, not least among them food items such as fish and green vegetables. Guyanese have also been ingenious to hide the drug among fake products such as the awara. Some have hidden the drug in Hindu religious items. What was interesting was that even insoluble commodities such as molasses and coconut oil have been ignored as the drug dealing section of the society seeks to move cocaine out of the country to places where the demand is great.And for smaller quantities, there have been the drug mules. Some of these have been people who simply swallowed sachets of cocaine hoping to pass undetected through the various checkpoints. Some died trying but more than few have been nabbed both here in Guyana and at overseas destinations. The fact that even foreigners leave their homes wherever these are to come to Guyana to transport cocaine is testimony to the fact that this country is well known to the international community as a major drug shipment point. Such has been the case that there have been occasions when aircraft out of Guyana landed in the United States and provoked the presence of even more security officers. Cocaine were placed in suitcases and loaded onto aircraft. This is still the case although one would believe that such instances have declined. On a few occasions, the authorities at the John F Kennedy International airport had cause to move the entire baggage handling crew. They wanted to intercept cocaine being shipped from Guyana. That was when the society began to call for help from the Drug Enforcement Authority of the United States. This body has been long in coming but ever since it arrived in Guyana a few months back, drug interdictions have skyrocketed. The embassy has credited this to the cooperation between the local law enforcers and the DEA. This would suggest that somewhere there was not the kind of cooperation that is now a part of the legal system. The identity of drug dealers is an open secret but such has been their hold on the society that many people opted to keep their mouths shut. Corruption also facilitated the drug trade. Now all that seems to be changing for the better of the country. Of course, there is the argument that the country that fuels the demand is the country that should lead the fight against cocaine transshipment. Further, there are those who conclude that Guyana is a poor country and that it needs money from any quarter, whether cocaine or otherwise. The more knowledgeable would say that the consequences far outweigh the benefits. When the authorities uncovered more than 100 kilos of cocaine in a house in Diamond, the news found favour in certain quarters and disfavor in others. Some people saw a dent in the drug trade. There was an attempt to ship out cocaine in frozen fish, again. This tells us that cocaine is reaching the intended destinations because people are seeing the continued use of certain methods. What is killing the country is the waste of young skills. Young men see easy money coming out if the drug trade. People could pay them a certain sum and use them as paid killers or as drug distributors. The bottom line is that from quite early the young men pay little attention to academics. Guyana cannot afford the loss of young skills particularly since there is always some construction or the other. With the skills shortage projects take an inordinately long time and therefore become more costly. And of course there is the insult as reflected in the construction of the Guyana Marriott. No Guyanese gained employment because they were considered unskilled. The DEA should have been here a long time ago.

Saturday April 18, 2015

Letters... Where your views make the news

POLICE BRUTALITY DISPLAYED DURING MARRIOTT OPENING DEAR EDITOR, I’m writing to condemn the appalling behaviour of the Guyana Police Force on Thursday, April 16th at the opening of the Marriott Hotel. I was one of several peaceful protesters who gathered in the public space outside the Marriott to register our disgust and disapproval at the gross misuse of taxpayer dollars. The police presence at this event was astounding. I’m not sure why such was deemed necessary - after all, serious crime is up in Guyana, according to statistics released from the GPF themselves, so I would have expected the force to be dedicating themselves to dealing with those issues, not wasting time at a hotel

ribbon-cutting exercise. Yes, the President and many other politicians and foreigners would be at this event, and yes, some amount of people with opposing viewpoints could be expected, as in any functioning democracy, but the overblown show of force by the police is more symptomatic of repressive societies, not democratic ones. It says a great deal - none of it positive - when the leaders of a country put such huge barriers and large numbers of police between themselves and their citizens; it’s almost as if they’re afraid of the populace. Strange, in a country where people are allegedly doing so well,

according to the political advertisements currently being heard. Such fear makes sense though, if you have a history of constantly stealing from and abusing the people and resources of the nation, then you would indeed need to run and hide. The other point I want to make is about the seeming ignorance of the police of Guyana about the very laws of the land that they are supposed to be upholding. Over the course of the morning, the police physically assaulted several of us, peaceful protesters, including the Mayor of Georgetown, MP Ronald Bulkan, and myself. There is documented evidence of several male police officers

manhandling me, a female, in clear breach of the GPF’s Standard Operating Procedure. Worse, was the treatment that Mr. Hamilton Green, a man of over eighty years, and the Mayor of the city of Georgetown received. Mr. Green, as Mayor of the capital city, has a mandate to traverse the area for which he is responsible and there are absolutely no grounds on which he should be prevented from doing so. Mr. Green’s age should also be taken into consideration. But the GPF clearly has no compunctions about using brute force on women and elderly persons who were, to reiterate, absolutely no threat; we (Continued on page 5)

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Kaieteur News

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

Guyanese are faced with perhaps the most important decision in their country’s history DEAREDITOR, In the May 11, 2015 general election, Guyanese are faced with a great national decision, which is perhaps the most important in the history of the country. But it should not be a difficult one to make, because for the past 15 years they have been saddled with one of the most corrupt and dictatorial regimes in the English-speaking Caribbean. In terms of dictatorship, Guyana has become the second Cuba in the region. The PPP is not about change, but the people are, and they will determine the future direction of Guyana. So in this election, the people have the opportunity to choose between a party that is corrupt and has used the state resources to benefit themselves, friends and cronies, and a party that has always put the people and the country first and will weed out corruption. The APNU+AFC Coalition is a breed apart from the PPP. In this election, the people have an opportunity to choose between a party which claims to be for national unity and development, but has underdeveloped the country and brought it to the brink of an abyss of racial divisiveness, or a party which has and continues to work tirelessly to make Guyana a paradise and an oasis of racial and religious harmony and tolerance. In this election, the people have the opportunity to choose a party that has demonstrated its contempt for the hardworking people, the Constitution and the Parliament; a party that

has demoralized the workers including the Police Force, teachers, nurses, public/civil servants and the sugar workers by paying them starvation wages and has denied them the benefits of a decent lifestyle, while these benefits have been frittered away and concentrated in the hands of party officials and family and friends of the ruling regime. Moreover, the people have the opportunity to choose between a party which, during the last 10 years has continuously sought to trample on the very foundations of democracy and their rights, or a party with moral leaders who will uplift the people, respect their rights and the Constitution, provide decent and livable wages to workers, reduce VAT and support the tenets of democracy. On May 11, the people have the right to choose between those in power who are rigid and uncaring and see no problem in not helping themselves rather than serving the people, raping the treasury and violating the people’s trust and confidence, almost to the point where it now seems to be in serious jeopardy, or they can choose the opposition APNU+AFC Coalition whose leaders are honest, caring and decent, and will nurture the state and be totally committed to the preservation of its integrity. It is time for those in power to stop their arrogant, disorderly, immoral and infantile behaviour and act appropriately when it comes to dealing with the nation’s business. For far too long, indiscipline, negative and unscrupulous behaviour have reigned supreme in the

Government, with no end in sight. The President has failed to act in his official capacity and discipline those unruly senior public officials, including ministers of the government who believe that they are above the law. The people have a choice to end this. It is a choice between a party that has tarnished Guyana’s image in the Caribbean and worldwide, or a party that would restore the dignity and quality of life in Guyana. And last but not least, the people have the opportunity to choose between a party which as a government has disrespected the other branches of Government, namely the Legislature and the Judiciary, or a party which has always recognized and respected these institutions which are mainly responsible for the nation’s stability and growth, as well as social, political and economic progress. These are the choices that are before the electorate on May 11. The people must now determine which direction the country should take during the next five years and beyond. We urge every citizen, particularly the youths, to come out and cast their vote for the future they want for themselves, their country and their children. Dr. Asquith Rose Chandra Deolall Dr. Merle Spencer-Marks

Police brutality displayed during... From page 4 were all peaceful protesters, had no weapons, and clearly stated our intention not to harm anyone - all we were doing was simply exercising our democratic rights as citizens to freely express ourselves and move about the streets of our nation. But I guess I shouldn’t really complain too much, as I am still alive and free to tell this tale, not dead like the Linden Martyrs or so many others who have suffered at the hands of the GPF over the years. I will end by reminding the members of the GPF, however, as well as all other public servants of the fact that they are indeed servants of we, the Guyanese public, and that their execution of their jobs should never mean the breach of our human and

democratic rights as citizens. All citizens of Guyana have the right to freely express their opinions and to enjoy liberty and freedom of movement in their country. All who do so in a peaceful manner should never have to fear or experience violence and intimidation from the authorities. It is, in fact, our duty as citizens to speak out every time we witness obvious violations of our fellow people and the rule of law. The lying, corruption, and theft of taxpayer dollars to build the Marriott hotel is just one example of many violations that have occurred in Guyana over

the decades; there are innumerable others. Many have been intimidated and manipulated into silence, and some, like Courtney Crum-Ewing, murdered outright, but the truth will always come out and not all voices can and will be silenced. We must remember that might will never overcome right, and the power of the people, collectively, is always more than that of any other body. Get up, stand up for your rights, my fellow Guyanese! Do not be afraid. This is our country and we have to take it back from those who would destroy it. Sherlina Nageer

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PPP flip-flops on participation in electioneering debates - Coalition calls on President Ramotar to honour his word By Abena Rockcliffe From all indications, the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C) is not at all willing to have its Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates stand on a public platform and debate those representing A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) in the same capacity. Even though PPP/C’s Presidential candidate, Donald Ramotar declared that his running mate, Elisabeth Harper is more than capable of debating APNU+AFC Prime Ministerial Candidate, Moses Nagamootoo, the Party has officially communicated that the “handlers” of Harper have decided against such a move. The PPP/C and the APNU+AFC coalition had agreed to participate in Presidential debates organized by the Private Sector Commission (PSC). When APNU+ AFC met with the PSC, it expressed that it sees it apt to also hold Prime Ministerial debates. The coalition also stated that it would not participate in any debate unless it comes as a package deal involving

both Presidential and Prime Ministerial debates. Ramotar then conveyed a message to the effect that Harper is pumped and ready to debate Nagamootoo. Ramotar made his declaration even after Kaieteur News published a front page article informing the nation that the PPP refused to partake in Prime Ministerial debates. But President Ramotar said that he wasn’t aware that the PPP had indicated its unwillingness to participate in Prime Ministerial debates. He added that he sees no reason why this should be the case, as Harper is more than competent and equipped for any debate, in particular one against Nagamootoo. “Nagamootoo is no match for Harper, I am sure Harper can account for herself,” said Ramotar. However, it seems like the incumbent President’s confident talk was all a bluff. He made his declaration a week ago, yet according to PSC Chairman Ramesh Persaud, no official word was communicated to his organization. When contacted yesterday, Persaud

said that there is nothing new to report .Kaieteur News questioned Persaud as to whether he would have heard anything from the PPP/C, his only response was “nothing new.” However, during a subsequent interview with APNU+AFC Co-Chair, Raphael Trotman Kaieteur News learnt that there was indeed some new information. According to Trotman, the PPP/C has since communicated that it will not be “bullied” into contesting the debates. He said this is what was told to him by Persaud. “They are now trying to turn this on us, but we are not bullying anybody, we are just holding the President to his word” said Trotman. H e a d d e d , “ We a r e ready, we are anxious and the people of Guyana need this. It is what is best.”Relentless efforts to contact Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, with whom the PSC Chairman has been in communication, proved futile. Kaieteur News was interested in finding out whether he overrode Ramotar’s decision with regard to the PPP’s

PPP/C’s Presidential Candidate, Donald Ramotar

PPP/C’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, Elisabeth Harper

APNU+AFC Presidential Candidate, David Granger

participation in the Prime Ministerial leg of the debate or if it is a case where Ramotar changed his mind. From the beginning, the PPP/C was skeptical about partaking in any debate. More than a month ago Ramotar told Kaieteur News that he was up to the challenge of debating his policies but noted that he will not take part in the debate unless it is organized by his campaign team. This position, the President said, was taken because he has a bad taste left in his mouth from the last

debate held during the 2011 elections. That debate was held at the University of Guyana. A P N U + A F C Presidential Candidate, David Granger in alluding to those very debates had said that they were organized and all three parties— PPP/C, the Alliance For Change (AFC) and APNU—had agreed to go through with it. “But by the second round, President Ramotar disappeared and it was only me and (AFC Leader and 2011 Presidential Candidate) Mr.

(Khemraj) Ramjattan,” said Granger. Ramotar later told Kaieteur News that his noshow at that debate was due to the fact that it was horribly organized. He had explained that the fact that he could not hear himself during the debates coupled with other glitches caused him to abort the schedule. Eventually it was agreed that the PSC would organize the debates, but APNU+AFC’s call for Prime Ministerial debates as well has sparked new excuses.

Saturday April 18, 2014

Kaieteur News

World Bank says growth in remittances to Caribbean will slow down in 2015 WASHINGTON D.C., United States - CMC – The World Bank says remittances growth in the Caribbean is expected to slow in 2015. The Washington-based international financial institution said in its latest issue of its Migration and Development Brief that growth in global remittances, including those to developing countries, such as the Caribbean, will slow sharply this year due to weak economic growth in Europe, deterioration of the Russian economy and the depreciation of the Euro and Ruble. In the Latin America and Caribbean region, the World Bank said remittances are expected to grow by 2.3 per cent in 2015 to US$66 billion. “While this growth is slower than that seen in 2014, it is significantly higher than the anemic pace of the postcrisis period,” the bank said. It, however, said the outlook for the region is “positive, as remittance inflows are expected to benefit from growth in GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and employment in the United States, although this will be offset by high unemployment in Spain”.

The report says remittances to the region are expected to grow to US$69 billion in 2016 and US$71 billion in 2017. Officially recorded remittances to the developing world are expected to reach US$440 billion in 2015, an increase of 0.9 per cent over the previous year, with the report indicating that global remittances, including those to high income countries, are projected to grow by 0.4 per cent to US$586 billion. Overall, the report says the 2015 remittance growth rates are the slowest since the global financial crisis in 2008/ 09. Nonetheless, it says the number of international mi-

grants is expected to exceed US$250 million in 2015, adding that their savings and remittances are expected to continue to grow. “The slowdown in the growth of remittances this year will affect most developing regions, in particular Europe and Central Asia where flows are expected to decline by 12.7 per cent in 2015. “The positive impact of an economic recovery in the US will be partially offset by continued weakness in the Euro Area, the impact of lower oil prices on the Russian economy, the strengthening of the US dollar, and tighter immigration controls in many remittance source countries,” the report noted.

Jamaica’s Parliament in bottom half of world’s effective law-making bodies The Gleaner - The World Economic Forum has released a report ranking Jamaica in the bottom half of countries in the world with effective parliaments or law making bodies in the world. Singapore tops the list of 143 countries. The Global Information Technology Report 2015 ranks countries from one to seven with one being “not effective at all” and seven representing “extremely effective”. Jamaica earned a score of 3.4 which places the country in the bottom half of the countries with effective parliaments, joining others such as Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Greece and Bangladesh. The World Economic Forum says the score represents the weighted average from an opinion survey done in 2013 and 2014. The report comes as Jamaica’s Parliament is involved in a phase of heavy legislative work largely induced by requirements under the programme with the International Monetary Fund. More broadly, the Parliament has been criticised for being slow and in need of re-

forms to make it a modern lawmaking institution. Parliament’s two houses, the Senate and the House of Representatives, generally meet once per week, each. Public perception of the work of legislators has not been positive. In a Gleanercommissioned Bill Johnson poll last year, the average Jamaican believed that 70 per cent of Jamaica’s elected officials are corrupt. However, the World Bank believes that the work of Parliament can improve if the structure on Duke Street in Kingston is improved or new

one built. A team in 2013 concluded that Parliament’s infrastructure is woefully inadequate and significantly undermines the work of members of parliament, committees, and parliamentary staff. Barbados at 19th is the CARICOM country with the most effective law-making body. Haiti, with a score of 2.1, is ranked the lowest at 135th. Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago are the other CARICOM countries ranked higher at Jamaica at 75th and 80th respectively.

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ENJOY YOUR HOT CHOCOLATE The happiest persons I know are never the wealthiest. My happiest friends are simply the ones that are more contented with what they have. I tried explaining this to a friend who saw me recently and began complaining how I have a lovely home, a nice car, and a fat bank book while he is still struggling to make ends meet. I tried to explain to him that there were many things about his life that he ought to be proud off; that even the poorest man has enough to be happy if he would instead of looking at what other people have, try to value what he owns. I came over as a lecturer and could not connect with my friend whom I have known for many years. As I left him, I kept wondering how better I could have made my point to him that he has everything that should make him happy except that he is looking in the wrong places. When I went home, I went straight to my email, and as usual there was a fair

amount of mail including quite a lot of the regular make-you-feel-good stuff which I often quickly highlight and trash. However, since I was troubled by my inability to get through to my friend, I decided to read some of these emails which are circulated widely over the internet. We hardly know the original author of these mails. A friend sends it to a friend who sends it to another friend and the chain continues until it reaches you. The mail in question came to me from our publisher. It was entitled Hot Chocolate. It says exactly what I wanted to say to my friend but could not say in the way I wanted. I will repeat the message here in its entirety and ask the original author to forgive me not knowing his or her identity. I dedicate it to my friend who felt unhappy about his not having the material pleasures of life. Here goes: A group of graduates, well established in their

careers, decided to go and visit their old university professor, now retired. During the visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives. The professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large mug of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups – porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some exquisite – telling his guests to help themselves to the hot chocolate. When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said:

Notice that all the nicelooking, expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. That cup that you are drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; but you

Dem boys seh...

Remember Jimmy Carter does bring change Every government does try a hustle here and there. But most of dem around de world got limits. Dem does tek wid dem finger, some does tek a li’l lick wid dem tongue. But this government does either push dem whole hand inside, or tek a bite and a mouthful and dem don’t care if dem choke. De whole tekking thing got to do wid discretion. Live and let others live. Old people seh that you must eat and lef some fuh you mattie. Tell that to Jagdeo and he friends. Dem like dem greedy lang-hearted whore. When dem tek de nation does tek in because nutten don’t lef. And that tek in don’t mean tekking. It mean drop down, or sick fuh dead. De amount dem tekking from de projects does send people to hospital. Imagine dem tell Guyana that dem building a school in de bush (Kato) fuh ten children at a cost of $800 million. Dem boys seh that is not hustle, that is raw renk thiefing. If you can do this wid thing wha de ordinary man can see so blatant, what about these things wha de ordinary man ain’t got a clue about; things like de US$20 million Hope Canal, US$200 million Skeldon factory and US$60 million Marriott and river dredging, de billions they say dem seh dem spending on repairing roads and building highways. De athletic track wha open yesterday is another issue. Dem start building that athletic track fuh a small figure and it ain’t finish yet but dem done announce to de nation that dem done spend over $1,000 million. This not only shafting de people, is de disrespect that dem got fuh us as a people. A reporter hear when one of dem seh, “Tek dah figure fuh y’aal fastness.” Is a sin fuh wish people bad but it ain’t got a person that talk to dem boys, that don’t wish these good for nutten bastards bad. Dem seh that some of dem bastards ain’t got a chick or a child, not a granny or a grandpa, and dem grabbing up so much so much wealth. Fuh do wha wid? Dem bastards should understand that ex-US President Jimmy Carter does monitor elections all over de world and everywhere he go, change does follow. He did come in 1992. Talk half and remind dem that Jimmy Carter is on his way to Guyana.

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consciously went for the best cups. And then you began eyeing each other’s cups. Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate; your job, money and your position in society are the cups. The cups are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you have does not define nor change the quality of life you have. Sometimes by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate God has provided us. God makes the hot chocolate; man chooses the

cup. The happiest people do not have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything they have. L i v e s i m p l y, L o v e generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. And enjoy your hot chocolate.

Saturday April 18, 2015

Kaieteur News

APNU+AFC women to host rally today …Mrs. Granger and Nagamootoo to be main speakers Women of A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) will be hosting a rally today at the Merriman’s Mall between Light and Cummings Street which will commence at 18:00 hrs. The two- hour programme will see special presentations by Mrs. Sandra Granger, wife of APNU+AFC’s Presidential Candidate, David Granger, Sita Nagamootoo, the wife of APNU+AFC’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, Moses Nagamootoo, AFC Executive Member, Cathy Hughes and APNU Member Vanessa Kissoon among others. Topics are expected to be centered on issues affecting women in Guyana including poverty and domestic violence. Speakers will also focus on the party’s plans to help eradicate such problems while stimulating empowerment. This was disclosed yesterday at the APNU+AFC’s press conference held at its Queenstown, Campaign Office. Hughes at that briefing,

Mrs. Sandra Granger

Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo

told members of the media that the alliance is determined to help Guyanese women rise above their circumstances through innovative and practical approaches. She said that there is no doubt that Guyanese women are strong and industrious and that the APNU+AFC coalition is proud of the tremendous strides women have made in the past 40 years.

The AFC executive member asserted that unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the majority of the women in Guyana. She said that the coalition is not at all satisfied with the quality of programmes and services currently in place for the social and economic development of women, (Continued on page 35)

NAPS’s Food Bank gets more private sector support

From left are Mr. Eric Whaul-Sales and Marketing Rep TCL; Mark Bender-Plant Manager TCL; Miss Jennifer Ganesh-Prevention Coordinator NAPS and Mr. Somdatt Ramessar-Senior Social Worker/Nutritionist NAPS. The food bank of the National AIDS Programme Secretariat has for the third time in the last month been the beneficiary of nutritional food items. Yesterday, food items to the value of $110,000 were donated by TCL Guyana Inc. a subsidiary of the TCL Group of Companies. This is the second such donation within the last two years from TCL. Speaking on behalf of NAPS, Programme Manager, Dr. Shanti Singh pointed out that Senior Social Worker/Nutritionist Mr. Somdatt Ramessar has been working assiduously to increase private sector support and so far has been doing a great job with 41 per cent of donations coming from the private sector annually. Over the last eight years since the establishment of the Food Bank, in excess of

29,000 food hampers have been distributed to eligible beneficiaries across the country. It is through these collaborations that the Food Bank is able to sustainably address the nutritional support to persons living and affected with HIV and those co-infected with tuberculosis. The contents of the hamper aid in building and sustaining a healthy immune system which is critical for persons living with HIV to continue to live long, healthy, productive lives. TCL Guyana which has pledged continued support is a cement bagging facility, which was incorporated under the laws of Guyana in March 2004. The plant which started operation in 2006 is located at Princes and Water Street in the GNIC Compound.

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PPP will develop special fund for Region 10 - Harper Recognizing that more could be done for the development of communities across Guyana, Prime Ministerial candidate for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Elisabeth Harper, has rolled out several “sparkling” plans for Linden, Region Ten. Speaking at her party’s rally in Linden on Sunday, Harper said that if elected her party will develop a special fund for Region Ten which will be patterned from the Amerindian Development Fund to encourage jobs and recreational activities. The construction, equipping and staffing of new strategically located health centres, polyclinics, hospitals, hospital wards and training facilities are among the few things the Prime Ministerial hopeful pledged. Standing on a stage that was erected on Burnham Drive, Silverton, Linden, Harper said that the PPP is aware that there is always more that could be done to bring development to communities in Guyana.

Harper said that it is against the backdrop of her party’s manifesto that emphasis has been placed on Linden. “We will strengthen the capacity of the regional and district hospitals to reduce the amount of referrals to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), particularly concerning pregnancy cases,” Harper said. “We will strengthen the capacity of regions and districts to develop appropriate levels of care through the construction, equipping and staffing of new strategically located health centres, polyclinics, hospitals, hospital wards and training facilities. We will establish sub-regional diagnostic centers in the hinterland areas of Regions One, Seven, Nine and Ten in the Berbice River.” Harper said that her party intends to establish a Regional Sports Facility in Linden. Also, the PM Candidate told the crowd that

they will recruit foster families and promote the foster care programme. Perhaps the plan that received the most approval was that which Harper claimed the PPP had for single parent families. She added that the PPP “will establish a programme for single parents to be assisted and supported so that they can receive further training and we will ensure that day care services are provided for those of them who work.” According to her, the PPP will also ensure that when single mothers receive their “support through the court that it is paid over” and the crowd roared with approval. The gathering heard, too, that the PPP will establish retirement homes for senior citizens in the region. She said that her party will ensure the promotion of rights of persons who are differentlyable. Harper pledged support to women. The PPP, she said, has always recognised the critical role that women can

PPP/C’s PM Candidate, Elisabeth Harper play and should play in our nation building process. Bharrat Jagdeo’s wife must have been the exception. If given a chance to be the Prime Minister Harper said she will work with President Ramotar, the Cabinet and stakeholders to ensure that the progress made in the past

two decades in empowering women, that women are safeguarded and further enhanced. “We will establish a Special Victims Unit to process reports with confidentiality: to make sure that people can go and report instances of abuse without

being ridicule and without the evidence being compromised,” she said to the approving crowd. Harper said that her party will create regional solid waste landfill sites across the administrative regions from Regions Two to Ten. “As we have mentioned previously, two new state-ofthe-art and environmentally friendly water treatment plants will be completed in Linden at Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc, along with the information and transmission names and upgrading of distribution systems,” she said. She touted the project as one which will improve the quality of water and level of service to Lindeners. She said the PPP/C remains steadfast in its commitment to enhance the economic and social development across the country. She also acknowledged the works of those in the diaspora and said her party hopes to encourage greater involvement from them.

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Citizens renew calls for law enforcement to up ante against sexual violence The protest line outside the Brickdam Police Station, on Wednesday last. As cases of sexual violence in Guyana increase, citizens are mounting protest actions, demanding justice for victims as well as the implementation of plausible mechanisms to end the scourge. Concerned citizens, and representatives of NonGovernmental Organisations, (NGO), held a picketing exercise outside the Brickdam Police Station last Wednesday, renewing calls for law enforcement agencies to up the ante in tackling such cases. Many on the protest line shared the view that most times cases of rape, sexual harassment, sexual molestation and other types of sexual violence are often unreported and underreported because there is an overall public perception that such matters are not properly dealt with by the police and often end in a miscarriage of justice. The protestors, mostly women, called on the police to take the necessary steps to eliminate such a perception from the minds of members of the public. Joy Marcus of the Red Thread organization noted that people often view reporting the matter to the police as a waste of time. “A lot of persons opt not to report the matter or not to

follow through with their reports. Most people don’t see the point. They would rather take actions into their own hands, which could only result in even more violence,” Marcus said. As such she said that police must work to ensure that those who are brave enough to go through a painful process of reporting such crimes receive justice. “Our main purpose out here today is to say to all the justice institutions …that you must do your work and don’t do a sloppy job,” Marcus said noting that a lot of times cases are thrown out for lack of evidence. “To the police especially carrying out investigations…If you do your work properly then you can ensure that justice can be served. People who went through this horrible ordeal have to live with this for the rest of their lives and it’s harder to live with it knowing that the perpetrators are out here to do it to other people.” “We all have to stand together to ensure that justice is served. We could stop it from happening to others and even to ourselves,” she said. Danuta Radzick of Help and Shelter shared similar sentiments. She said that cases of sexual violence are not being reported because “people often feel like what’s the point. They don’t feel that they will get justice from the police or the court system.” Radzick called on the authorities to give the police the resources which are

needed to adequately address cases of sexual violence. She said police need to be trained continuously to address sexual violence in a comprehensive manner. The Help and Shelter representative noted that police ranks should be able to adequately understand and interpret the laws and the contents of the Sexual Offences Act since they are the ones tasked with implementing it. “We live in a country where sexual violence is tolerated. There is tolerance for sexual violence so when it happens and of course the victims of sexual offences tend to be children and young people… These are categories of persons in Guyana that pass for grass,” the woman stressed, adding that the police need to be aware of some of the best practices throughout the Caribbean and inculcate these when dealing with matters as sensitive and serious as these. Citizens against Rape representative (CAR), Nicole Cole referred to the issue as a silent epidemic. She noted that a lot of survivors of rape and other types of sexual violence suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, (PTSD) but have no method of dealing with it. Cole said that sexual violence in Guyana warrants a public health approach. This approach, the CAR representative says consists of “what you call Continuous Quality Improvement, (CQI) that means every six months (Continued on page 42)

APNU+AFC women to host... From page 15 especially, those in rural areas. She said that they still do not have sufficient knowledge about the laws and their rights regarding domestic violence and gender equality. The politician argued that whatever national policy is currently in place for women, it certainly does not seem to be working. “The deaths and permanent maiming of many women at the hands of spouses and even male family members have increased exponentially over the past decade and so has the incidence of maternal deaths. Our young women in the city and the hinterland are falling victim in increasing numbers to Trafficking in Persons.” “From all appearances, there does not appear to be any concerted administrative strategy to effectively address the gaping hole in the fabric of this society. Through the Women and Youth arms, APNU+AFC intends to institute a comprehensive programme to achieve full empowerment by providing functional facilities for education (general and vocational), specialized skills training and facilitating financial assistance for small business development,” Hughes expressed On the social spectrum, the AFC Executive

Member said that the opposition intends to go into full attack mode to confront the incredibly high rates of suicide and domestic violence against women and children in urban and rural communities. This Hughes articulated, would see the involvement of leaders from the religious community. She emphasized that the women of the APNU+AFC are determined to change the economic and social paradigms in the nation. Asked about the party’s plans to deal effectively with Trafficking in Persons, AFC member, Beverly Alert expressed that first of all, it is the worst crime that could be committed on humanity and said that there will be zero tolerance in their party for it. Alert expressed that the party plans to confront the issue by dealing with organizations which have the ability to assist in fighting the scourge. She then highly praised Simona Broomes, Head of the Guyana Women Miners’ Organization who she said, has done an exceptional job in bringing the issue to light and helping to rescue women who fall prey to the social ills. Broomes is expected to speak at the rally today as well. (Kiana Wilburg)

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CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL: CARS & SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 2193900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM VACANCY The #1 Plant Shop expanding: Need hardworking, literate, punctual workers, between age 18-28- Tel: 648-1821 Site engineer, road and architecture, 3-5year experience (male), must have ability to write construction Mothology plan – Tel: 6687104 Vacancy for body work man – Tel: 649-0659 24 Hour East Coast Guyoil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl, office assistant & handyman- Call: 695-9880; 669-4755 1 Manager for a Hotel/Club @ Essequibo Coast, experienced in hotel industry, attractive salary & Accommodation – Contact: 226-9768; 642-7963 Cashier & office assistant @ Shell Service Station Providenc e E . B . D s h i f t work – (6am-3pm & 3pm-12pm) - email: shellramsburg@gmail.com. International Cruiselines, receptionists, cooks, waitresses, carpenters, cleaners, storekeepers, electricians, welders Contact Professional Recruitment Agency - 2316296, 650-9880 Miners, we provide workers for miners & we have land for you, GME Mining Sales –Tel: 231-7805; 695-5049 Plumbers needed for a construction site, Class A, Class B and Plumbing apprentices-Call:592- 6172960 Eden Bar & Lounge in Garden of Eden, experienced chef & waitress- Call: 694-6247 Handy boy @ Christine’s Variety Store on Lombard Street – Contact: 227-8529; 626-8003 Bowser’z Pizza Lounge, Lot 10 Lusignan: waitress, cooks, bartenders, cashiers, delivery man- 7am-5pm/ 5pm-3amTel:674-6616; 680-5092

EDUCATIONAL Special after school classes for nursery students: phonics, reading, special etc for all ages, limited spaces – Tel: 675-4379

WANTED Senior Accounts Clerk, 5yrs experienced, CAT or equivalent. Email: snow198390@hotmail.com Business/Economics Writer, email application to snow198390@hotmail.com Pump attendants, cashier at Shell Mc Doom Services Station – Contact: 627-2550; 670-6005 Live in waitress age 20 & older with Secondary Education @ Diamond Gate Liquior Restaurant, Lot 18-19 Belmont Mahaica - Tel: 2285013 1 OFFICE ASSISTANT: Must have motorcycle, car/ van license, able to work flexible hours, from E.B.D. Email: snow198390@hotmail.com One Graphic Designer, To Work Full-time- Call 269 -1273/ 269 -0044 1 Carpenter, 1 Mason, 1 Painter – Call: 265-3586 Urgently needed land to buy in Fort Ordinance & Glasgow (Berbice) & Rosignol –Tel: 675-7292; 611-7223 1 Male, 3 female general workers @ Land Of Canaan E.B.D – Tel: 225-6337 Attractive live in waitressCall:327-0252/674-4665 1 Inventory clerk, apply @ Technical Services Inc, Eccles Industrial Site, EBD. One DAF 55 truck driver with mechanical skills, preferably from the Land of Canaan area –Tel:592-227-5585

DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 -DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL. COM Aidan’s Car & Pickup rental, cheap rate, low security – Tel: 698-7807

FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Vacant land space at Supply East Bank Demerara –Tel: 227-1744 or 657-9237 GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, , JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW & MORE - CALL: 675-0767, 627-5098 Diamond, Kitty, Parfaite, South, Cummings Lodge, Sophia, Lamaha Gardens & Business –Tel: 231-2200; 663-2578 Two bedrooms apartment top flat located @ 16 Stanleytown, W.B.D –C all: 684-0864 Two bedrooms apartment @ Cummings Lodge- Call after 7:00pm: 222-3750

Two Cleaner -Age 16-18yrs. Referable from Eccles to Diamond - Tel # 600-5253 Office clerk: CXC English, mathematics. Live in, live out babysitter/domestic- Call: 219-5354 Live in family: husbandDriver with mechanical experience & wife- light duties –Tel: 227-1830 Investors/Partnership needed to complete guest house on Soesdyke Linden Highway, must have $10 Million in excess – Tel:6000036; 223-1273 Urgently needed land to buy in Parfaite Harmonie, SchoonOrd, Eccles & Herstelling –Tel: 675-7292; 611-7223 TO LET Spacious upper flat three bedrooms with one master, at Fist Bridge Grove, New Housing Scheme – Call: 642-0550

LEARN TO DRIVE Shalom Enterprise @ Lot 2 Croal Street, enquire about on international drivers permit “join us on facebook” –Tel: 622-8162; 227-3869 Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997

SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.–CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Advertisements; Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building visadocumentsgy@yahoo.com Call : 225-6496, 662-6045 Mahadeo Construction for all construction, carpentry, masonry, pluming, painting etc. Free estimates and plan Contact # 669-7376 Accounting & Taxation Services: tax returns, compliances, financial statements. Avinash Persaud Tax Consultancy, 163 Parika, EBE - Call: 260-4762. Your Dream Yard Today! Stunning designs, Assortment, colourful plant choices, Professional Landscapers Tel: 219-0468/ 648-1821 Balloon decorating for birthdays, weddings, anniversary etc, make your event extra special! Tel Maya: 642-6664 Eagle’s fridge re-gas - $8,000 & washing machine repairs. Phone: 697-2969, 646-0966 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIRCONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, TVS, MICROWAVES, FREEZERS- CALL:6294946 OR 225-4822 Need your income taxes prepared. Call: 644-6077 TO LET Kitty two bedroom apartment, Cable TV, parking, Internet, Security Cameras -$100,000 monthly –Tel: 645-0247

PEN PAL Male seek mature woman, who’s honest, Cool personality, believe in love. We here today….. Call: 687-5837

Two bedrooms house @ Lot 499 Cane Ville E.B.D – Tel: 674-0169 or 627-9220 One apartment for rent @ Mon Repos, First Street E.CD –Tel: 220-7330

LEARN TO DANCE Learn To Dance Latin Style: Salsa, Merengue, Tango, Waltz Etc @ Oronoque & Forshaw Sts. Call:612-6475; 629-8842

VEHICLE FOR SALE Toyota Prado, Price$4.7M Neg. Call: 643-2403 Canter Truck, 3 Ton with tail lift, asking -$1.50M negotiable, very good condition, owner residing overseas –Tel: 687-4992; 6957845 Deals! Deals! Deals! Venus Auto Sale, new model Toyota Spacio, front and back camera/TV/CD/Navi – Call: 682-5117 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 New Model Allion $3.300, 2004 Spacio $2.050, Registered Spacio $1.7M Call: 655-3400 To y o t a Vo x y t o b e registered in “B” series $2.1M & ‘G’ series $1.7M - Tel: 617-2891 AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom, Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154 Blow Out Sales @ Star Cars Auto Sale- Premio, Spacio, Bluebird, IST, Benz, Alteeza, free alarm- Tel: 679-3140 Truck GNN5366, Car PMM 755 – Contact:613-5212 Mercedes –Benz C200 Kompressor, left hand driver, automatic, 2005 model, low mileage, excellent condition, negotiable –Call: 624-5130 Unregistered Toyota IST fully Loaded - $2.1M – Call: 657-1796 1 L-Touring Wagon, flair kit, remote start- $1.450,000, 1 Honda CRV, $1.850, 000, 1AT192 - $850, 000. All in good condition, price negotiable –Tel: 626-2884 Toyota Fun Cargo, PMM series, 1300cc, HID lights, AC -$1.150M –Tel: 677-9544 Toyota Raum new model, excellent condition, 1st owner -$1.3M negotiable – Contact Kim: 685-7728.

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. 1-4 pieces suite, 1 wardrobe, 1 vanity, 1-4 burners gas stove, 1 double bunker & single bed with mattress – Contact Bibi: 664-3454 1- Salon sink and chair, 1 massage table, a quantity of salon cosmetics & a quantity of cake stuff –Contact: 6643454 Cummings complete genset generator 4CYL 30KVA, 2011 Ducati 1198’s superbike, pearl white, CH series original – Tel: 684-2838 HOUSEHOLD ARTICLES @ GUYSUCO GARDENS, SATURDAY 18TH APRIL 1-4PM. DRYER, WASHER, FRIDGE ETC- CAL: 6558171 Male Enhancement - Tel: 642-6664 Taylor soft serve cone machine, Belshaw donut machine, Hamilton Beach3 head Blender, DVD movies & 7 Disc burner-Tel: 683-5234 1 Mini marine tanker capacity 11,500 Gallons – Tel:227-1744 or 657-9237 One new Samsung refrigerator (French door with drawer), size: 35.78"WX70"HX35.67"D – Contact: 622-5512; 687-5006 Hymac, 200KVA CAT generators, portable, hours 07115, G3 John boat 14Ft, 25HP 4 Stroke Yamaha, 399 Massey Ferguson tractor – Tel: 601-1138 Unregistered 2006 Toyota rush - $2.9M negotiable, unregistered 2007 Mitsubishi hard top convertible -$2.8M negotiable, owner migrating – Call:629-2314 International Truck and trailer –Tel: 624-4076 Canadian Books, students pursuing: Accounting, Economics, Electronics, Statistics, Computers, Cooking, Pharmaceutical Mechanics, Service manual, DVD Movies- Tel: 683-5234 1- 318 BMW and register, cash 3.2 M, down payment 1.2 M- Contact # 616-0429

1 Toyota Vigo, manual transmission – Tel:600-5759

Ice cream cone, vanilla powder mixture, toppings syrup, caramel, strawberry, butterscotch, blueberry & chocolate-Tel: 683-5234

Honda CRV 2001, Excellent Condition, price $2,050,000 – Contact: 624-6099

Pure bred German shepherd pups –Tel: 220-2277; 2208904; 629-1471

Mitsubishi Galant 1994-1996 Sold as parts. Body Condition Good. $600,000.00 Tel:216 1079 6168027

Madza Axela bumper for sale –Tel: 691-5485 Continued on page 42

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Students urged to join Guyana’s diverse array of professionals - as UG Career Day is observed

(From page 41)

LAND FOR SALE Vacant transported land at 303 Independence Boulivard, La Penitence, Georgetown, serious inquiries only – Call: 622-9998

A section of the students gathered yesterday in the George Walcott Lecture Theater (GWLT)

50 Acres titled farm land @ The Belle, Upper Dem, River Front -reasonable offer accepted, serious enquiries only! – Tel: 669-8152

Despite the rain, students from across the country turned out yesterday as the University of Guyana held its annual Career Day

5 Star gated community with pool, mall, well, solar powered, get your land/ house-Tel: 609-0783 Large land (37X724) in Bagotvilles W.B.D, great for residential and family –Tel: 600-0036 or 223-1273 Parfaite Harmonie -$1.3M, $1.4M, $1.5M, Ankerville Port Mourant -$1.5M, $2M –Tel:675-7292; 611-7223

TOURS Suriname tour return May 1st -5th, sightseeing of dolphins; shopping -Tel: 639-2663; 644-0185; 665-5171

PROPERTY FOR SALE Grove Public Road property -$19M – Tel: 613-5645 Three Bedrooms transported property at Good Hoop E.C.D –Tel: 621-1722 Transported Property @ Grove/Diamond, 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained, concrete fence, grilled store room & Shed, (45X26) – Call: 660-1353,216-4338 Diamond -$22MM, Caneville - $2.4M, Parfaite - $6M, La Grange -$22M, Roxanne Burham -$20M & Gated Community, Enterprise, Ogle –Tel:231-2199; 618-7483 Water front house on 4 acre land @ Parika, Land on Friendship, Public Road, Unfinished 2 storey house @ Sophia –Call:629-7611 (1) 2 storied concrete corner property, 3 bedrooms upstairs, 4 self contained apartment downstairs, land: 95X65 & house: 65X32 – Call: 642-0867; 644-6479

A representative from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) yesterday showed schoolchildren how fingerprint identification is done As the University of Guyana celebrated its annual Career Day, hundreds of students who were drawn to the institution yesterday were urged to take full advantage

of opportunities presented to them to join Guyana’s diverse array of professionals. The call for more professionals in the nation was made by Deputy Vice

Chancellor of UG, Dr. Barbara Reynolds. During brief remarks at the Career Day’s launch on UG’s Turkeyen campus, Dr. Reynolds noted that over the years, the idea

Citizens renew calls for law... From page 35 health officials can review the plan to see what is working and what is not.” Noting that violence and sexual violence is being referred to by the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon as a public health crisis, Cole said there is a call to scale up the public health response in regards to the issue, “because survivors of rape need closure and need to see convictions under the criminal justice system. We have 14 year- olds and 10 year

-olds giving birth.” Meanwhile, concerned citizen Vidyaratha Kissoon, who stood in solidarity with those involved in the picketing exercise noted that police need to be more consistent in their responses to these types of crimes. Kissoon pointed to the need for a Special Victims Unit, (SVU) at the various police districts, to deal specifically with crimes of sexual violence. “Some police do very well and some don’t and you can’t keep claiming it is training

(they need)…As it stands there are no guarantee that when you walk into a police station you are going to get a professional response,” the man said. He called on the law enforcement officials to ensure the implementation of such a Unit. “Each division should have a Special Victims Unit set up with police who want to deal with these cases and who are trained to carry out an investigation efficiently,” Kissoon added. (Rehanna Ramsay)

of what constituted a career has developed and shifted. “When we use the word ‘career’, we tend to think very lofty things. When I was your age, there were only three things you could openly aspire to be or do and that was a minister of the gospel, a lawyer or a doctor,” Dr. Reynolds told a packed lecture theater. However, she said, “A career is less about what we actually do and more about how we do it.” Dr. Reynolds added that, with the right training, anyone could make anything a career. She emphasised, “we need professionals in a wide range of disciplines and workplaces…and whatever you put your hand to do, with the right training, you can do it.” Furthermore, she opined that modern-day students are “blessed” with numerous choices and are aware of these viable options. “I want you to understand how blessed you are… You are much more aware than I was that you have choices beyond becoming a minister,

lawyer or a doctor,” Dr. Reynolds said before adding, “Now, not only do you have many choices but you are aware of those choices and you are aware of some of the pathways that will help you achieve those choices.” She emphasised that “half the kids in the world” are unaware of what goes on outside of their countries while their knowledge is stymied by their inaccessibility to the internet. She said too that Guyana is filled with potential industrymakers. She noted that Guyana currently lacks an industry that sells locally dried and canned food. “We don’t have that industry and someone in here could very well do that,” Dr. Reynolds said. However, she emphasised that a career choice is a lifealtering decision that could easily go wrong with the wrong choice. “The tiniest wrong choice and 5 years later, 10 years later, 20 years later, you’re either where you want to be – spot on target – or somewhere else,” Dr. Reynolds said. She added, “Also, if you don’t make a choice, life will make it for you. There are times when the choices life makes for us turns us upside down. Sometimes you get really lucky though.” She further encouraged the students to make use of higher education, whether it is in Guyana or abroad. She also encouraged them to make use of the resources available to them. “The pitch here today is that…you take a little time out to learn about a diverse array of careers. You ask other people who know about them and make the right choices,” Dr. Reynolds advised. Yesterday’s observance was well attended by more than two dozen primary and secondary schools across Guyana. This year, about 20 local businesses and organisations took part in the Open Day, including the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Banks DIH.

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Argentina defends legal action Obama’s visit could open door for more economic support — AJ over Falklands oil …Finance Minister to discuss Ja debt relief with IMF, World Bank

London (AFP) - Argentina yesterday defended its decision to take legal action against companies exploring for oil off the Falkland Islands, the latest twist in a tense sovereignty dispute with Britain. Last week, the Argentine government said it had launched legal proceedings against three British firms — Rockhopper Exploration, Premier Oil and Falkland Oil and Gas Limited — and two from the US, Noble Energy and Edison International. “Argentina will use the full force of national and international law to prevent Argentine resources from being exploited,” Argentina’s Secretary for t h e M a l v i n a s Daniel Filmus told a press conference at the London ambassador’s residence. Britain and Argentina fought a 74-day war over the Falklands in 1982 which killed 649 Argentine troops, 255

British service personnel and three islanders. Argentina claims it inherited the remote South Atlantic islands, which it calls the Malvinas, from Spain when it gained independence. But Britain argues it has historically ruled them and that the islanders should have the right to self-determination. Britain’s Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond accused Argentina of “bullying” by taking legal action yesterday. “It is an outrageous piece of bullying and threatening against the Falkland Islanders’ perfect right to develop their own economic resources,” Hammond told Sky News television. “Argentina needs to stop this kind of behaviour and start acting like a responsible member of the international community.” Filmus and Argentina’s

Daniel Filmus ambassador to London, Alicia Castro, said they were shocked by British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon’s claim last month that Argentina posed a threat to the archipelago. Fallon announced that the Falklands’ military defences would be boosted with a £180-million ($268-million, 245-million euro) programme over 10 years in response to the “continuous intimidation” from Argentina. “Whoever says that Argentina is posing a threat to the inhabitants of the Malvinas Islands is lying,” Castro said.

Jamaica Observer - The Government has signalled its intention to capitalise on the visit of United States President Barack Obama, with Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Senator AJ Nicholson indicating that the visit could influence the opening of more doors for economic support for Jamaica. “I strongly believe that the visit of the president to Jamaica at this point in time, points to the kind of international profile that Jamaica should have,” Nicholson said. The minister was addressing a press briefing at Jamaica House in St Andrew, Thursday, where he went over the details of bilateral discussions between Obama and Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, as well as those between the president and Caricom leaders. “From our perspective,

we believe that we are in a better position to be listened to, and for it to be acted upon, because of the way we have conducted ourselves over these past few years,” he said. Obama, he said, had not directly put the prospect of debt relief for Jamaica on the table. “He didn’t address that frontally, but from our perspective, I think coming out of the bilateral, that is something that he himself could not push. It is something that the finance minister would have to raise with the World Bank and others,” the minister said. Nicholson noted that it had been agreed that Finance Minister Dr Peter Phillips would discuss this and other matters during his attendance at the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, in Washington DC. The annual meetings fa-

cilitate discussion among ministers of finance, heads of central banks and other highlevel authorities, on financing and debt-related issues faced by member countries. Nicholson indicated that the Government would take advantage of the platform that the visit has provided for cooperation and development in areas such as energy, security, education, and trade. “It (the visit) revealed the readiness of the president to have his administration follow up actively, on the points made by Jamaica and Caricom, and to have the process of engagement continue, going forward,” he said. Meanwhile, as tensions continue to mount between the United States and Venezuela, Nicholson said it is hoped that the two countries can resolve their differences through diplomacy.

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Car bomb kills three outside U.S. consulate in Iraq’s Kurdish capital (Reuters) - A car bombing claimed by the Islamic State killed three people yesterday outside the U.S. consulate in Erbil, in a relatively rare attack in the capital of Iraq’s Kurdistan region. No U.S. personnel were hurt in the blast, according to the U.S. State Department, which said a “vehicle-borne improvised explosive device” exploded right outside the entrance to the heavily fortified compound. Iraq’s Kurdish region is an important partner for the U.S.led coalition in its campaign to “degrade and destroy” the Islamic State group, which overran large parts of Iraq last summer and threatened to reach Erbil. A Reuters witness heard the blast, which was followed by gunfire and a column of black smoke high above the Ankawa district, a

North Korea warns U.S. envoy of ‘bigger mishap’ than a knife attack (Reuters) - A North Korean propaganda unit said the U.S. ambassador to South Korea could face a “bigger mishap” than the knife attack to his face last month if he does not stop insulting North Korea with “laughable” accusations. U.S.envoyMarkLippertsaidin a speech on Wednesday that if North Korea improves its human rights record and takes steps to end its nuclear program, it will be rewarded with prosperity and better ties with the outside world, including the United States. The North’s Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of Korea said Lippert’s remarks were proof that Washington was intent on hostility.“Lippert needs to drop the bad habit of rashly engaging in scheming chatter distorting the truth and instigating warbytaking issue with us,” the committee said in a commentary published on Thursday on the Uriminzokkiri propaganda web site.“Otherwise, next time, he could face a bigger mishap than getting cut in the cheek by a South Korean citizen,” it said. The North frequently rails at the United States, the South’s biggest ally, accusing it of preparing for imminent invasion. North Korea previously called the attack “deserved punishment” but denied any role in it.

predominantly Christian neighborhood packed with cafes popular with foreigners. “It seems the consulate was the target,” Nihad Qoja, the mayor of Erbil’s city center, told Reuters. The head of security for Ankawa said three people were killed and 14 wounded. “They (Islamic State) want to show they are present,” Sherzad Farmand said. Islamic State also claimed responsibility for two car bombings in the Baghdad that killed at least 27 people on Friday. “The fighters of the Islamic State detonated two car bombs in the heart of the

Iraqi capital this evening and a third in Erbil,” the group said via its news agency. U.S. officials said they found the Islamic State claim of responsibility for the Erbil consulate attack credible. “We have no reason to doubt their claim of responsibility,” a U.S. counter terrorism official told Reuters. Such attacks are relatively rare in Kurdistan, which has managed to insulate itself from the worst of the violence afflicting the rest of Iraq. The last major attack in Erbil, also claimed by Islamic State, was in November, when a suicide car bomber blew himself up outside the governor’s office, killing five.

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Former president defiant as humanitarian toll mounts in Yemen war

Yemen’s former President Ali Abdullah Saleh (Reuters) - Yemen’s former president Ali Abdullah Saleh said yesterday he would not leave the country, dismissing reports in the Gulf Arab media that he was seeking a safe exit as Saudi Arabian war planes bomb troops loyal to him and their Houthi militia allies. The United Nations, meanwhile, said about 150,000 people had been driven from their homes by three weeks of air strikes and ground fighting and more than 750 people killed. Many schools, hospitals and mosques had been damaged or destroyed in the conflict, it said. A Saudi-led coalition began its air campaign on March 25 after the Houthi rebels, who run most of the country, closed in on the southern port city of Aden and forced the Saudi-backed President Abd-Rabbu Mansour to flee to Riyadh. The Iran-allied Houthis, a Shi’ite Muslim movement from northern Yemen, have formed an alliance of convenience with Saleh, who is widely believed to be plotting behind the scenes to make a comeback on Yemen’s tumultuous political scene. But military sources have said some army units loyal to Saleh have defected and now support Hadi. Saudi-owned Arabiya TV, citing a Gulf official, said representatives of Saleh had visited Arab capitals and floated an initiative for him and his family to leave safely. Saleh scoffed at the report. “I’m not the type who goes looking for a place to live in Jeddah, Paris or Europe. My country is my birthplace. The person who can say to Ali Abdullah Saleh ‘leave your country’ has not been and will not be born,” he

wrote on his Facebook page. Saleh, once backed by Saudi Arabia, is widely regarded as one of the Middle East’s most skilled political operators. Despite being forced to step down in 2012 under a Gulf-brokered transition plan following protests against his 22-year rule, he won immunity in the deal and has remained a powerful political player. U.N. APPEAL FOR FUNDS Though rooted in local rivalries, the conflict is the newest front in a sectarian proxy war between Sunni-ruled Saudi Arabia and Shi’ite Iran that also stretches to Iraq and Syria. Iran called this week for a ceasefire and dialogue but the appeal fell on deaf ears. In Geneva on Friday, the U.N. humanitarian agency OCHA said about 150,000 people have been displaced — 50 percent more than the previous U.N. estimate. Health facilities had reported 767 deaths from March 19 to April 13, almost certainly an underestimate, it said. “Thousands of families have now fled their homes as a result of the fighting and air strikes,” the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, Johannes Van Der Klaauw, said in a statement. “Ordinary families are struggling to access health care, water, food and fuel – basic requirements for their survival.” The fighting had destroyed, damaged or disrupted at least five hospitals, 15 schools, Yemen’s three main airports, two bridges, two factories and four mosques, as well as markets, power stations and water and sanitation facilities, OCHA said. Public water services were on the verge of collapse and hospitals were overwhelmed with casualties.

The United Nations appealed for $274 million to meet Yemen’s humanitarian needs over the next three months. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for an immediate halt to the fighting on Thursday. But his special envoy to Yemen, Jamal Benomar, quit after his plan to halt the war failed. In other developments, military units protecting the Masila oil fields, Yemen’s largest, withdrew on Friday and handed over security to armed local tribes, the tribesmen and oil company employees told Reuters. Companies that run the fields include state-owned PetroMasila, Canada’s Nexen Energy and France’s Total. The oil industry is watching the conflict with concern as Yemen lies on shipping lanes and the narrow Bab elMandeb passage, through which nearly 4 million barrels of oil are shipped daily to international markets. The conflict also has wider strategic dimensions. The United States has poured aid and personnel into Yemen in recent years as part of its war on Islamist militants but its military teams evacuated last month. Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, head of Lebanon’s Shi’ite Hezbollah movement, called for an end to the “aggression” against Yemen. He called on Muslim countries to urge Saudi “to end the war and sponsor a political solution.” Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran, has called on Saudi Arabia and its allies to immediately and unconditionally halt the strikes. Germany evacuated more than 100 Germans and other European Union nationals from Yemen on Friday, along with some of their Yemeni relatives.

Saturday April 18, 2014

Kaieteur News

Barbados to host CARIFESTA 2017 BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (BGIS) — “Barbados will be hosting CARIFESTA in 2017,” minister of culture, Stephen Lashley, announced on Wednesday during a press conference. According to the minister, this “huge venture” fits directly under the ministry’s mandate “to propel the growth of the cultural industries and to support our artistes.” “We can reap significant dividends through the work of our artistes as they move across the globe, and our role in government is to support

Stephen Lashley them,” he added. Lashley noted that, to ensure the success of the cel-

ebrations, action needed to be taken as early as possible; action which the ministry had in fact already begun to execute. He stated that a committee had already been deployed within the ministry and work had started in terms of the planning for what he described as “a mammoth task.” “We are working very closely with the CARICOM Secretariat,” he added. This would be the second time in 36 years that Barbados will have hosted CARIFESTA.

Grenadians in New York voice concern over closure of consulate NEW YORK, USA — Scores of Grenadians attended a meeting in New York on Tuesday night to voice their concerns regarding the closure of Grenada’s New York consulate office. The large Grenadian population in New York – estimated at more than 100,000 – has had consular services available to them locally since independence in 1974 and, according to those attending the meeting, a consulate office in the city is important for the following reasons:

• Representation is needed at a state and city level in New York; • To disseminate information relevant to issues affecting nationals; • As a local resource for citizens in case of emergency, e.g. immigration issues, deportation, arrests, etc; • To deal with applications for passport issue and renewal locally instead of some other place far away where passports may fall into the hands of criminal elements; • Grenadian nationals liv-

ing in New York feel vulnerable and open, with no representation, and fears that they are open to unwanted diplomatic and immigration problems. The recent news that Grenada is to open a consulate in Miami Beach, Florida, later this month has exacerbated concerns in New York that Florida is being given priority, when New York is the hub and serves a population of 100,000-plus, while Florida has a Grenadian population of just 5,000. (Caribbean News)

Opportunities cited for Jamaica from Cuban tourism market opening KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Tourism and entertainment minister, Dr Wykeham McNeill, says the proposed opening up of the Cuban market to visitors should be treated as an opportunity for Jamaica to further boost its tourism product, rather than be perceived as a threat to the local industry and, thus, cause for alarm. “We are taking the matter seriously. But we should avoid overreaction and panic, and recognise that the Jamaican brand is strong and our product is world class,” he stated. Rather, McNeill said the correct approach should be to “up our game while looking at the opportunities, and have confidence in Brand Jamaica. We have met challenges before, and we will meet this one as well.” The minister made his remarks during his contribution to the 2015/16 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, under the theme: ‘Tourism Working for Jamaica’. McNeill said, prior to the announced opening up of the

Dr Wykeham McNeill Cuban market, Jamaica was successfully competing with the neighbouring Spanishspeaking island in countries, such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Latin America, and Europe, which are key tourism source markets for both Caribbean nations. “Therefore, the only market that will be affected by this policy change is the United States,” he said. McNeill said, when US President Barack Obama announced his administration’s policy shift towards Cuba in 2014, a move “wholeheart-

edly” supported by the House of Representatives, he (McNeill) was “very pleased, because it is the right thing to do.” The tourism minister said, in anticipation of this development, over the past two years, the Jamaican government has been having “serious discussions” with Cuba. “So we were already well advanced with plans and programmes anticipating the inevitable change in policy,” he said. McNeill pointed out that the ‘Louis Cristal’ (also known as Cuba Cruises) already home ports in Montego Bay, and travels from there to various destinations in Cuba. “This programme started last year, has operated this year, and will continue next year as well,” he advised. McNeill further informed that, late last year, he, along with other industry partners, visited and had discussions with Havanatur, a major tour operator in Cuba, to explore multi-destination opportunities Jamaica can pursue.

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Saturday April 18, 2014

Perry returns with historic James Anderson equals Sir Ian Botham’s England wicket record 100m dash on Synthetic Track BBC Sport - James Anderson equalled Sir Ian Botham as England’s highest Test wicket-taker in history with his 383rd dismissal in his 100th match. Seamer Anderson, 32, had West Indies’ Marlon Samuels caught at gully on the final day of the first Test in Antigua. Anderson, who began the Test on 380 wickets, roared with delight and was mobbed by his teammates. Samuels’ departure left West Indies 127-4 as they attempted to bat out the final day to secure a draw. Lancashire’s Anderson, who made his Test debut in 2003, has helped England win three Ashes series and rise to the top of the Test rankings

James Anderson (Getty Images) in 2011. Botham took 383 wickets in 102 Tests between 1977 and 1992. Anderson drew level in

two matches fewer as England pressed for victory at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in the first Test of the threematch series.

Saturday April 18, 2015 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You could feel a bit low today due to disappointment in someone important to you, Aries.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your self-confidence is at a low point these days, and this is making you especially vulnerable.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You're likely changing your mind about something that has been important to you, Taurus. Perhaps you're questioning your job, career path, or choice of a mate.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You may feel some frustration over your perceived inability to reach an important milestone in your career.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Romance is in the air today, Gemini. Alas, it seems to rain down on everyone but you. You must have put on your romance-repellent raincoat before leaving the house this morning. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Your creativity is at an all-time high, Cancer, so take advantage of it. This would be an ideal day to paint or write. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your inspiration and creativity are high today, Leo. If you've been thinking about taking up painting or poetry, this would be an ideal day to get started. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) It's bad enough having too many cooks in the kitchen, but when those cooks argue not only about how to cook the meal but also about how to design the kitchen, you know you have trouble on your hands.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Sometimes you can be too passive and let others trample all over you. Your lack of ego is admirable, but only up to a point, Sagittarius. Why let others take credit for your ideas? CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) An unethical acquaintance could be spreading unfounded rumors. Don't take anything you hear today at face value, Capricorn. Get all the facts before drawing conclusions. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A longtime friend may become something more today, Aquarius. It could be that there has always been a certain spark between you, but you haven't been able to acknowledge it until now. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may be frustrated today, Pisces. An anticipated romantic encounter may be postponed or canceled. There's no reason to consider it a major setback in the relationship.

Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) sprint ace, Rupert Perry returned to form yesterday following an accident related absence from track and field with a scintillating performance that ignited stories of his dominance on the local circuit prior to his hiatus. Perry blasted 10.1 seconds in the Male 100m on the synthetic facility yesterday during the ‘mini-meet’ that marked the opening of Guyana’s first rubberised track. Kevin Abbensetts was second in 10.3 seconds while Tevin Garraway (10.5) was third. Rising sprint phenom,

Kenisha Phillips brushed aside a quality field in the Female 100m race in a time of 11.3 seconds. Anika Powley raced to 11.6 seconds, while Cassie Small (11.8) was third in the historic first two marquee sprint events on the track. Cassey George, who was perhaps denied another two CARIFTA gold medals at the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) did not field a local team because of flight issues, ran 2:13.8 in a dominant performance in the Women’s 800m race. Andrea foster (2:17.2) was second and Claudrice Mckoy (2:24.7) finished third in that race.

Cleveland Forde then produced an incredible performance to win the Male 1500m race in 4:02.0. Forde trailed for most of the race before motoring past Cleveland Thomas (4:06.8) and Winston Missenger (4:07.1) on the penultimate back straight for a comfortable victory. Natricia Hooper won the female 400m race in 56.5 seconds ahead of Avon Samuels (57.1) and Phillips (59.8) respectively. Shawn Semple (49.9) won the male race with Devon Barrington (50.2) and Quincy Clementson (50.9) second and third respectively. (Edison Jefford)

Super Kings make mockery of 184 chase ESPNcricinfo - Kieron Pollard and Rohit Sharma did their best to help Mumbai Indians set a challenging target for Chennai Super Kings, but a whirlwind opening partnership between Dwayne Smith and Brendon McCullum made a mockery of a 184-run chase. The sixwicket win at the Wankhede Stadium was Super Kings’ third in as many games, even as their opponents suffered their fourth consecutive loss of the season. That Mumbai posted a total as challenging as 183 was down to the knocks from Rohit and Pollard, who lifted the side after yet another toporder collapse. This time, it was Ashish Nehra’s accurate bowling that left Mumbai reeling at 62 for 4 at the halfway stage. Their partnership of 75 came off only 33 deliveries and played a large part in helping the home team add 121 runs in the last 10 overs. That partnership paled in comparison to the onslaught by McCullum and Smith. By the time the the batsmen holed out in the deep to Harbhajan Singh in the eighth over, Super Kings had raced to 115 and the target was almost down to less than a run a ball for the remaining 12 overs. The pair were at their harshest between the fourth and sixth overs. They combined to hammer ten fours and two sixes as the three overs fetched 61 runs. The bowler at the other end didn’t matter - Lasith Malinga, J Suchith and Harbhajan Singh were each hit for four boundaries in their overs. The assault helped Super Kings raise the second-highest Powerplay tally in the IPL overall. The highlight of McCullum’s 20-ball 46 was

the glide over the keeper off Pawan Suyal in the seventh over. McCullum was almost facing Parthiv Patel when he helped the ball over the fineleg fence, bringing up the hundred for Super Kings. Both batsmen fell within five balls but the stage was set for Super Kings to bring their batting depth into play

and improve on their net run rate. Suresh Raina achieved the objective with a trademark cameo, helping Super Kings overhaul the target with 20 balls to spare. Scores: Chennai Super Kings 189 for 4 (Smith 62, McCullum 46) beat Mumbai Indians 183 for 7 (Pollard 64, Rohit 50, Nehra 3-23) by 6 wickets.

Saturday April 18, 2014

Kaieteur News

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CFU Club Championship

Willis Plaza brace leads Central FC past Inter Moengotapoe By Franklin Wilson A second half double from Willis Plaza, led Trinidad and Tobago’s top Pro League side Central ‘The Shark’ Football Club to a 2-0 win over Suriname’s Inter Moengotapoe when Group 1 action in the Caribbean Football Union Club Championship continued last evening at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. It was Central’s debut win in this competition and sets up an intriguing final game with Guyana’s top side Alpha ‘The Hammer’ United who also whipped Inter Moengotapoe 3-0 on Wednesday evening. The loss spelt the end of the Surinamese’s club sojourn in their year’s CFU championship; two defeats while giving up 5 goals. They {Inter Moengotapoe} were in a must win situation after losing to Alpha but found the going tough against the potent Central FC. Inter MT held strong for the first 45 minutes despite Central coming close to breaking the deadlock on a few occasions. The first half was also played in overcast conditions but the entire second was played in a steady downpour that saw Central FC drilling their way to victory. The opening goal came in the 54th minute from an enterprising run down the right side by the solid looking Nathaniel Garcia whose pin point throw into the box found the ever lurking Willis Plaza who slapped the ball past custodian Obrendo Huiswoud. The ensuing celebration of the goal clearly proved that it was great relief for the TT side; the on field players all gathered with the reserves and Technical staff to rejoice. Not satisfied with the 1-0 score, Central FC kept piling on the pressure as the Surinamese looked more vul-

nerable as the game matured. The insurance goal came four minutes after the first and again it was Plaza who fired past the hapless goalkeeper to seal the game. Central were now dominating play and creating chances but poor work in the attacking third spilled at least four chances that would have really annihilated the Surinamese. But while they won, Central FC Head Coach Terry Fenwick commenting after the game said he and his staff were disappointed. ”We didn’t move the ball quick enough, we were trying to play one touch football and we kept giving the ball away instead of keeping possession and opening chances up. But I thought our general work and application was good and we always felt in the long run they would get tired and we’ll get chances which we did.” Fenwick pointed out that they threw away numerous chances towards the end of the game which means they must win against Alpha tomorrow. ”Alpha is a very good football team; they’ve got a number of well recognized players from around the region and they would be a different kettle of fish to what we played tonight. We’re expecting a tough game, they’ll be organized and I think it will be a very good game.” Coach Fenwick also commented on what the inaugural win means for Central FC: “We’re a very new club; this is our third season which hopefully we do our business back home we win the championship. CFU is a great opportunity for our players to gain experience and if we work to win the next game and go on to the finals then I think we could go all the way and then who knows.” Tomorrow’s game against Alpha United will kick off at 16:00hrs.

Battle for possession between Central FC and Inter Moengotapoe

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Saturday April 18, 2014

All set for D’Edward Sports Club Keen battles in Guyana Draughts annual t20 cricket fundraiser Association competition The D’Edward Sports Club of West Bank Berbice presents their Annual Fundraiser, a T20 tournament involving four top teams in the area, namely: Young Warriors Cricket Club, Blairmont Blazers, Cotton Tree Die Hard and the host. The tournament will be held today at the D’Edward Cricket Ground. It is anticipated to be a fun filled day of T20 cricket. Kids will have access to the Bouncer Castle for the entire day. The action is set to start at 10:00am with the first SemiFinal between D’Edward Sports Club and Young Warriors. The Second Semi-Final is set for 2pm between Cotton Tree Die Hard and Blairmont Blazers. A third place play-off for 1 case cold Banks Beer and a trophy will follow under lights. This match is sponsored by Basil Sports Bar. The grand final will follow with the winner taking home

$100,000 and a beautiful trophy sponsored by Alvin Chowramootoo’s Investments. The Runner-Up will take home $50,000 and a trophy sponsored by Alvin Chowramootoo’s Construction Services. Over the years the club has dominated second division cricket in Berbice and has since gained first division status. Proceeds from this event will go towards the further development of the venue and the day to day running of the club. Meanwhile, the teams have named their squads: Teams: Young Warriors: Ishwar Singh (captain), Wahid Edwards, Kevin Ramdeen, Ryan Ramnarine, Vishal Mohabir, Royden Phil, Jamal LaFleur, Nial Smith, Delbert Hicks, Vidal Crandon, Suresh Dhanai, Linden Austin, Alex Algu, Ricky Balak. Cotton Tree Die Hard: Roshan Gafoor (captain),

Romesh Boodram, Pooran Persaud, Abdul Subhan, Nashad Gaffoor, Jagdeo Persaud, Afzal Haroon, Keith Fraser, Ishwar Singh, Keon Fraser, Chris Pattadin, Arif Chand, Permaul Singh, Tage Singh, Brentnol Woolford. Blairmont Blazers: Nick Ramsaroop (Captain), Retish Bridgelall,Derrick Codogan, Zammer Inshan, Kevon Jawahir, Javid Karim, Deveshwair Prashad, Parmanand Ramdhan, Mahendra Singh, Nigel Trotz, Chandradat Veerasammy, Avishkai Sewkarran, Waqar Hassan, Rameshwar Somwaru, Devindra Lalsa. D’Edward Sports Club: Jaipaul Heeralall (Captain), Devindra Lalsa, Lakeraj Sookra, Corret Greenidge, Devindra Thakurdeen, Rajiv Ivan, Joshua Ramsammy, Eon Abel, Jonathan Foo, Christan France, Mahadeo Persaud, Altaf Khan, Heeralall Bridgelall, Navin Rampersaud, Devindra Singh.

Manny Pacquiao has reportedly been drug tested six times Yahoo Sports - Drug testing has always been a major issue when it comes to discussing a fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., and that remains the case even with the fighters set to square off in less than a month. On Wednesday, Pacquiao’s publicist Fred Sternburg told reporters that the Filipino fighter has already been drug tested six times by the US Anti-Doping Agency six times in advance of his bout with Mayweather. As we learned last month, Pacquiao has agreed to pay Mayweather $5 million if he fails

a drug test before the fight. Mayweather refused to sign off on the same failed drug test penalty because Pacquiao’s camp did not negotiate it into the original contract. The US Anti-Doping Agency is overseeing all urine and blood testing leading up to the May 2 fight, so it’s probably safe to assume that Mayweather has been tested just as much (or close to as much) as Pacquiao. There is a record amount of money attached to the bout, and Pacquiao vs. Mayweather negotiations have crumbled in the past over drug testing. They really can’t be too careful this time around.

The top performers in the GDA competition last Sunday at the National Gymnasium. The final leg in the Guyana Draughts Association competition was played off last Sunday at the National Gymnasium. This time it was played on the International 100 square boards. Ten (10) top players on this format of the game competed. The game was keenly contested since a purse sponsored by business man

“Pygon “of America Street was up for grabs. The purse was awarded to the first and second places only as was requested by the sponsor. Steve Bacchus and Khemraj Pooranmall shared the purse. Both players ended on 15 points each. Mark Brathwaite was third with 13 points, while Jiaram and Ulric Brathwaite

shared the 4th and 5th places since both players ended on 11 points each. Tie breakers could not be played since the competition lasted late into the night and all the top players were mentally exhausted, in addition there were power outages. Trophies were awarded by the National Sports Commission.

WDCA 40 tourney

Wales, Independence A register wins Wales and Independence A SC recorded victories when the West Demerara Cricket Association 40-over tournament continued recently. Wales beat Uitvlugt by four wickets. Uitvlugt Invaders made 108 all out in 25.1 overs, taking first knock. L. Leander made 24; C. Persaud took 4-20 and Ramesh Thakur 3-19. Wales replied with 1096 in 15.5 overs. C. Persaud got 39 and D.

Singh 23. V. Dhaniram claimed 3-23. C. Persaud was given the man of the match award. At Joe Vieira Park, All Youths went down to Independence A SC by six wickets. Batting first, All Youths scored 210 for 9 in 40 overs with R. Ramroop scoring 56 and G. Carraton 29. E. Samuel captured 2-18 and M. Dhanpaul 2-23. Independence A responded with 214 for 4 in 24.5

overs. Man of the match K. Shivgobin stroked an unbeaten 118 (5x6,13x4), S. Esau chipped in with 33 and J. Paton made 24 not out. At Number two, Lenora defeated the host and booked a spot in the quarterfinals. Teams are asked to make contact with competition chairman Omar on 610 4900 for information on the up coming T/20 knockout competition.

RHTYSC name teams for Ansa McAl May Day 5 Overs Tournament Silver Jubilee 1990 – 2015

The Selection Committee of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club has declared its two teams for the Club’s Silver Jubilee Anniversary Ansa McAl May Day 5 Overs Cricket Tournament at the Area ‘H’ Ground. The tournament, which would be played on Friday May 1st, 2015, would involve twelve teams – Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘A’, Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘B’, Young Warriors, Courtland, Fyrish, Chesney, Jai Hind, Block 4 Tain, Tamarind Root of Hampshire, Whim, Albion and Yakusari of Black Bush Polder. Organized by the Cricket Development Committee of the RHTYSC, the tournament would bowl off at 9:00 am sharp and the winner would take home $70,000 and a trophy. There would also be

prizes for the Man of the Finals, Best Batsman and best Bowler, while funds raised would be used for the RHTYSC Cricket Nursery Programme and massive antidrugs/suicide programmes which targets over 60,000 youths in Berbice. The teams announced are: Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘A’ – James Fraser (Captain), Vidal Crandon, Khemraj Mahadeo, Delbert Hicks, Akshay Homraj, Jason Alexander, Brandon Prasad, Mark Papannah, Roydel Lewis, Erva Giddings, Sherain Murray, Slyus Tyndal, Mark Fernandes, Joel Pike, Ryan O’Dell and Joshua Wilson. Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘B’ – Junior Williams, Surendra Kissoonlall, Surendra Budhoo, Kevlon Anderson, Clive Harry, Simon Lawson, Ryan Tillack, Azam

Khan, Kumar Jeet Joseph, Sunil Madimutoo, Joshua Gobin, Vitindra Kumar, Denzil Sinclair and Samuel Lewis. The RHTYSC, according to its Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster, would be organizing three more tournaments like the Ansa McAl 5 overs tournament along with the Busta Champion of Champions in 2015. The club would also be hosting a double wicket tournament in the fourth quarter of the year. The final of the 2014 Busta Champion of Champions tournament would be played on the 25th April at the Albion Community Centre Ground under lights. Arch Rivals RHT Gizmos and Gadgets and Albion would clash for the winner package of $100,000. The match would be broadcasted live on NCN Radio.