President Donald Ramotar (centre) is flanked by (from left) Managing Director of Nearshore Americas, Kirk Laughlin; Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Chief Executive Officer of Qualfon, Mike Marrow; and Founder and Chairman of Qualfon, Alfonso Gonzalez as he cuts the ribbon
Turkeyen Seawall
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, March 27 – 10:00h-11:30h and Saturday, March 28 – 11:30h-13:00h
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, March 27 – 09:10h-10:40h and Saturday, March 28 – 10:40h-12:10h
FERRY SCHEDULE
Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on:
Friday, March 27 – 05:00h, 10:00h and 14:00h
Saturday, March 28 – 07:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h
WEATHER TODAY
Light rain showers can be expected in the morning and into the early afternoon hours. Sunny intervals can be expected in the late afternoon with partly cloudy conditions in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-easterly between 4.47 metres and 5.81 metres per second.
High Tide: 09:31h and 22:19h reaching maximum heights of 2.22 metres and 2.08 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 03:01h and 15:42h reaching minimum heights of 1.06 metres and 1.01 metres respectively.
Dismembered body of woman found at Annandale
B y B
Less than 24 hours after the discovery of a body at Turkeyen Seawall along the East Coast of Demerara, the dismembered body of a woman was discovered at Annandale Seawall on Thursday morning.
Thus far, the identity of the woman whose hands and feet along with her head were severed has not been confirmed. The discovery of the corpse minus the severed parts was made around 07:30h by persons who went to the foreshore to take a bath. Upon the discovery, the Police were summoned and the area was cordoned off.
and limbs. However, Police searched the area and found several teeth and part of the woman’s denture that was ripped
The woman was clad in a purple skirt which was pulled to her shoulder and a green bra which was intact.
The body of the woman was found lying on its abdomen, and there was no sign of the head
from her mouth. There were blood stains on the rocks, but investigators believed the woman was killed and then dumped at the location. It was suspected that an electrical saw was used to remove the head and limbs.
When the Guyana
Times arrived at the scene, ranks of C Division were busy combing the area for clues that could lead them to the murderers. Several bags around the area were searched but nothing substantial was recovered.
About an hour later, the crime scene experts arrived on the scene, took photos and had a closer examination of the corpse. Scores of curious onlookers gathered to get a glimpse of the corpse,
but none of them indicated hearing any strange sounds during the wee hours of the morning when the crime is suspected to have happened. As the investigation of the scene continued, a head purportedly that of the woman washed ashore about three hours later. Both the headless corpse and the head were taken to a funeral home as Police continue their investigation into the gruesome murder.
Scores of curious onlookers gathered to get a glimpse of the corpse
Police ranks surveil the crime scene
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
On March 24, Guyana joined the rest of the world in observing “World TB Day” under the theme, “Reach the three million; reach, treat, cure everyone”. The focus of activities was based on building public awareness about the global epidemic of Tuberculosis (TB) and the efforts that are being undertaken to eliminate the disease.
Tuberculosis is one of the world’s top health challenges with nine million new cases and the deaths of nearly 1.5 million people each year. Over 95 per cent of tuberculosis deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, poor communities and vulnerable groups. This airborne disease is a risk to all and every effort must be made to reduce the number of persons who are losing their lives due to TB.
Globally, the disease is among the top three causes of death for women aged 15 to 44. It accounted for an estimated 500,000 cases and 74,000 deaths among children in 2012. In 2013, the largest number of new TB cases occurred in the South East Asia and Western Pacific Regions, accounting for 56 per cent of new cases globally, while Africa carried the greatest proportion of new cases per population with 280 cases per 100,000 populations in 2013.
The post-2015 TB strategy aims to end the pandemic by 2035. This may be seen as quite an ambitious target, but it is possible to achieve once the right decisions are made and the necessary financial support mechanisms are in place to assist the hardest-hit countries, especially in the developing world.
Already we are seeing some positive signs - the death rate for TB has dropped globally as an estimated 37 million lives were saved through diagnosis and treatment between 2000 and 2013.
Guyana still has a far way to go, but this country has done remarkably well in its fight against TB. It could be recalled that the actual number of new TB cases diagnosed by the National TB Programme (NTBP) rose steadily throughout the 90s.
With some key interventions by the current administration such as the implementation of the Directly Observed Treatment Short (DOTS) programme (2002-2007), annual cases declined from 2008 and stabilised for four years thereafter due to further DOTS expansion.
The DOTS System was successfully implemented in all the regions of the country and has been essential to ensuring case detection, standardised treatment, with supervision and patient support. Guyana is already showing a good trajectory of declining TB incidence. In 2014 only 12 new TB cases were detected; the lowest number of cases recorded in over 10 years. This is a positive indication that TB is on the decline in Guyana.
The TB Control Committee which was established in 2009 in collaboration with PAHO is also making quite an impact with the work it is doing in providing the necessary strategic guidance in order to further reduce the number of persons being infected with TB.
The battle against TB could only be won if the necessary resources are provided to undertake critical interventions needed. Attracting the required funding to carry out the necessary TB programmes has always been a challenge.
The WHO and Global Fund had identified an anticipated gap of US$ 1.6 billion in annual international support for the fight against TB in 118 low- and middle-income countries. The organisation had pointed to the fact that filling this gap could enable full treatment for 17 million TB and multidrugresistant TB patients and save 6 million lives between 20142016.
Once the necessary funding for TB is provided, the gains made so far could be improved greatly. Hence, international development partners need to make bolder financial commitments and follow through with them.
All partners can help take forward innovative approaches to ensure that everyone suffering from TB has access to TB diagnosis, treatment and cure. Governments and NGOs may have the best ideas to tackle TB, but it makes very little sense if there are inadequate financial resources to ensure their effective implementation.
The 1970s and 80s: decades of misery on Guyana
Dear Editor, I read Hydar Ally’s letter about ordinary Guyanese not owning homes under the PNC and could relate to that, as my own situation in those dreadful years showed. During the dark days of the PNC regime in the 1970s and 1980s, the political environment was extremely hostile to members of the various professions including business and accounting.
I was an Audit Leader and subsequently a Management Accountant at GuySuCo in those years after successfully completing my ACIS and ACMA exams on my own (having been refused a scholarship three times by the Public Service Ministry).
My salary in 1981 was $1400 or US$545 (G$2.5659 = US$1 back then). With my spouse’s income of $120 per month, and after taxes, we netted $1,135. Twice a week, I had to line up at a KSI in Goed Fortuin, run by a fierce-looking PNC thug, for basic food items like cooking oil, sugar, salt, soap, butter, cheese, and flour.
That was the level of degeneracy and indignity that ordinary hard-working Guyanese were brought to.
My monthly expenses amounted to $825 and were made up of groceries, rent, babysitting, electricity, transportation clothes, helping our aged parents and siblings who were not working, giving a little to the church, and saving what was left (if any at all).
Rent was $120 for a tworoom downstairs flat at Vreed-en-Hoop and that was considered cheap. When all the deductions were made, we were left with $300. All my savings from the past years were spent towards books, fees, and examination costs to earn the ACIS and ACMA.
I still remember writing to publishers in both the UK and US asking to send pro-forma invoices for textbooks and past examination questions and answers booklets in order to take to the Bank of Guyana for approval to buy bank drafts at a commercial bank, as foreign exchange was strictly controlled.
As a result, I had very little equity as a down payment for a house which was, but a dream then as Mr Ally so well articulated in his piece yesterday. To compound the problem, inflation and interest rate were running in the double digits.
Here is a scenario of an uphill battle I faced. An executive from GuySuCo was willing to sell me his home at Nandy Park for $65,000 or US$25,000 in 1981 as he was moving overseas, like so many back then.
The monthly mortgage payment would have been $900 plus home insurance of $200, totalling $1100, which was impossible to sustain with a monthly saving of $420 (if you add back the rent). And my remuneration was considered top of the line at that time.
Realizing that it was
hopeless and I could never own a home in Guyana, I turned my energies to helping others who were far worse off than me. I pitied those who were earning far below me and who wanted to pursue business and accounting badly but did not have the resources, self-motivation and guidance.
My father had desks, benches, and a blackboard at his house in Goed Fortuin as he taught Hindi and Sanskrit classes. So, I used those facilities and gave free lessons and student counselling under that very house (which still stands today) to anyone (regardless of party affiliation, ethnicity, or religion) studying for the LCC, AAT (now CAT), and the foundation levels of the professional accounting programmes.
There are a few fully qualified accountants still in Guyana who could attest to this. Even a top civil servant (a die-hard PNC) from the Ministry of Home Affairs got wind of my generous offer and came all the way from Georgetown to attend my sessions.I trust he is reading this letter.
Today in Guyana, in an open market economy where there is so much freedom we take for granted, ordinary Guyanese can easily afford their own homes. Also, there are business and accounting students who can afford attending private schools or pursue correspondence courses not only the UK programmes but those from
the US and Canada as well and there are no restrictions over foreign exchange.
But despite the hardships back in the 1970s and 1980s, I never discounted nor denied the country of my birth and I am still devoted to helping my poorer countrymen and feel proud to continue to serve Guyana from Toronto through my publications and to make frequent donations to the Libraries.
Of noteworthy is the local chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors I established in 2000 which continues to grow and professionalize internal auditing to contribute towards risk, control, and governance throughout the country. Could this have happened prior to October 1992? The answer is a resounding NO.
However, those difficulties in the 1970s and 80s should not be forgotten or easily discounted. Instead, case studies should be researched, documented, articulated, and be a reminder of the living hell that existed in Guyana before October 1992.
Alluding to the misery in living under the dreadful PNC in the 70s and 80s, here is an appropriate quote from music icon Paul Simon’s “Peace Like a River”: “You can beat us with wires; You can beat us with chain; You can run lots of rules; But you know you can’t outrun the history train….”
Lal Balkaran Toronto
A serene sunset over the Le Repentir Cemetery, Georgetown on Tuesday, March 24 (Carl Croker photo)
An opulent lifestyle is not an indication of corruption
Dear Editor,
Do we really have to live in logies or fetch water from standpipes to show that we are simple, frugal, principled and modest? I would readily give you an emphatic no! Because one’s lifestyle is but a miniature view of someone's integrity.
Another searching factor is, lifestyles are not always what they appear to be, there are very many more important and searching facts
to consider when such statements are made. If you say one’s opulent lifestyle is an indication of corrupt practices then I might be tempted to engage in a discussion and my first question would be show me the evidence to back-up your claim.
We can go about a serious discussion when facts can be tabled. Now this is the nonsensical argument the Opposition is bringing to the public, and a few in the PPP/C
realm have be dragged into this foolishness.
At the centre of discussions is the comparison of former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Dr and Mrs Jagan. A comparison of lifestyles that just isn't there. There is no comparison of the two because they are from a different background with different experiences and people of a totally different era.
One writer Sadie Amin even made the horrific com-
ment that Dr Jagan died rather than taking from the national treasury for his medical expenses. Outrageous! Dr Jagan might have been a little stubborn and maybe, just maybe a hint of eccentricity, those of us who are dear to old people know the way they behave at times.
But to say he wanted to die rather than taking from the national treasury (which he is entitled to) is sad. I am absolutely sure Dr Jagan would
Navratri: festival of Dussera
Dear Editor,
Navratri is celebrated in a large number of Indian communities. The mother Goddess is said to appear in nine forms, and each one is worshipped for a day. These nine forms signify various traits that the Goddess influences us with.
It is said, according to the Devi Mahatmya and other texts invoking the Goddess who vanquished demons are cited. For followers of Shaktism, it represents the victory of the goddess Parvati. In Hindu mythology, the demon Mahishasura had created terror in the devaloka (the world where gods live) but Durga killed him .
Several legends are attributed to the Vijaya Dasami, the 10th day, a victory of Mother Durga over the buffalo-demon Mahishasura. It is said that it was on this day that Rama won over Ravan by invoking the grace of Goddess Durga.
Dussera is interpreted as “Das-hara”, that is, cutting of the 10 heads of Ravana, symbolically meaning overcoming passion, pride, anger, greed, infatuation, lust, hatred, jealousy, selfishness and wickedness of our demon, the ego.
Again it is said that the five Pandavas, after completing their year’s service in Virata’s palace, took their arms from their hiding place in the sami tree (mimosa suma) on this day, fought against the Kauravas’ finally defeating them as a triumph
of good over evil.
On these legendary moments, Mahisharsura was given special Boon of immortality by Lord Brahma. The demon Mahishasura obtained a boon from Lord Brahma indicating that no man will kill him. He gathered strong powers from Lord Brahma as a reward for his penance. Eventually, he became so powerful that he wanted to rule over heaven. Mahisharsua was misusing his powers by antagonizing these Devtas and Deities in Devaloka. In Hindu mythology, the demon Mahishasura had created terror in the devaloka but Mata Durga killed him.
Ravana did penance to Lord Shiva for many years of which Lord Shiva was pleased with his austerity, appeared after his 10th decapitation and offered him a boon. Ravana asked for immortality, which Shiva refused to give, but gave him the celestial nectar of immortality. The nectar of immortality, stored under his navel, dictated that he could not be vanquished for as long as it lasted.
Ravana and his brother, Kumbhakarran were said to be reincarnations of Jaya and Vijaya, were gatekeepers at vikuntha (heaven), the abode of Lord Vishnu and were cursed by the monk Sanatha Kumara to be born on Earth for their insolence.
Lord Vishnu agreed that they should be punished. They were given two choices,
that they could be born about seven times as normal mortals and devotees of Vishnu, or three times as powerful and strong people, but as enemies of Vishnu.
Eager to be back with the Lord, they choose the latter one. Ravana and his brother Kumbhakarna were born to fulfill the curse on the second birth as enemies of Vishnu in the Treta-Yug.
This celebration (Navratri) Dasara (India) is performed, which is the festival of dance. Dasara is celebrated in different ways in various parts of India. For the Bengalis, it is a time when Goddess Durga is pampered, praised and worshiped during the ten-dayslong festival.
Various cultural societies and social groups set up beautifully embellished mantaps to enjoy the festival.
In north India, Vijayadasami also known as Dusshera is the 10th day following Navratri. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. Huge effigies of Ravana are burnt on this day.
In eastern India and in the Bengali diaspora, during the last six nights of Navratri, the Goddess Durga is worshipped in a grand manner. She is venerated in the form of a fierce, but kind goddess riding atop a lion or a tiger, and stamping on the demon Mahishashura.
On the 10th day follow-
have liked to live a few more years to continue the good work. He lived for this country. I used raw coconut oil as skin lotion and went to school bare-footed until such time when my parents could have afforded a flip flop and later a pair of "Buckman Clarks". There were other pupils at school who could have gone to school with a nice pair of shoes, should they be called "corrupt" because of the way they lived?
ing Navratri, the statue of the goddess Durga is taken through the streets in a procession accompanied with singing and dancing to be immersed in a river or the sea.
On this occasion, many Hindus take the opportunity to do their religious ceremonies asking God for His Blessing. Effigies of the 10-headed Ravana are burnt on Vijaya Dasami emulating the killing of Ravana by Rama.
Again, it is said that the five Pandavas after completing their year’s service in Virata’s palace, took their arms from their hiding place in the sami tree (mimosa suma) on this day, fought against the Kauravas and finally defeating them.
The joyous Navratri gets over with Goddess Durga’s Shakti (power) and wisdom being instilled in every devotee to courageously overcome our difficulties and sufferings facing life with her grace.
S N Singh
They lived a life to their estate and I mine there should be no ill will on either part. I look back at those days with nostalgia. Now, should I demand that my nephew dress the same frugal way I did?
The answer is so obvious. However, I would advise him of matters of frugality and modesty even in better times. Then I am prompted to ask the question, should all members of the PPP/C go to work with bicycles? Must they live in hovels or in logies as the former President suggested?
Former President Jagdeo merited every cent earned during and after his time in office, it goes with the office. We must study the word modest and see if the use of the word matches the action on the ground.
Modesty does not always turn out to be what it is, the word might well be used as a facade. Take for example, Burnham. He was modest, Castellani House is modest dwelling, yet we know of the treasure he amassed in Swiss bank accounts.
The real problem with some Opposition forces is that they would like to get back into power and commit those same crimes they are accusing Dr Jagdeo of. I can tell you many true stories of persons who squandered their illgotten wealth under the PNC rule because of their corrupt practices.
A former Minister of mobilization readily comes to mind. Yet others, two regional ministers of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) that I can remember never owned property because they were too busy running after women, a characteristic signature of the PNC.
In fact, what is most revealing is that the two former ministers only acquired property during the PPP/C administration. Talk about corruption, that was corruption and yet for all they could not show anything tangible for it.
This is really their gripe, try to raise suspicion in the minds of people with the legitimate gains of the present politicians and cry corruption. Is it corrupt practice to invest one’s legal emoluments? Jagdeo did that so what's the charge? I close by saying stop comparing the life styles of the revered statesman and his wife to those of our modern era. There is no comparison and that is what it should be.
Leave it there. Once we cannot prove that what they acquired was ill gotten gain or misappropriation of funds while in political office, then we must refrain from making these outrageous statements.
Hitler and Idi Amin were vegetarians and could be considered deeply religious people yet when you look at the atrocities they committed pales in comparison to their apparent modesty.
Neil Adams
APNU/AFC Whim rally
AFC: “11% Indians” for PNC or “dead meat”
...test for Nagamootoo, Ramjattan
Amonth after boldly declaring that the fledgling minority opposition party-Alliance For Change (AFC) can deliver the 11 per cent Indian votes needed by the A Partnership for National Unity to win a majority at the May 11 elections, Moses Nagamootoo will on Sunday face his strongest test yet when the coalition rolls into the heartland of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) - Whim, Corentyne for the second of its major public rallies.
It launched its first rally at the mining town of Linden. Hailed as the birthplace of Nagamootoo and where David Granger received his early education, Whim over the years has voted solidly for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and Sunday would be the litmus test of Nagamootoo’s political strength and him being able to deliver the promised 11 per cent to Granger. On the strength of that promise, the AFC were able to demand 12 guaranteed seats in Parliament, three Vice Presidents and the Prime Ministership from APNU.
On the same day the ruling People’s Progressive Party will be at the Kitty Market Square, where it traditionally kicks off its public rallies. Critics of the coalition believe that the PNC led APNU/AFC
coalition deliberately planned the rally at Whim when the PPP/C and some of its supporters would be in Georgetown. However, that party General Secretary, Clement Rohee has said that the PPP’s track record of progress and development will speak for itself wherever it takes its elections campaign. He said the party has been using every available tool at their disposal which includes social media, print and electronic media.
Back in mid February, speaking at a meeting in New Amsterdam Nagamootoo had
declared that APNU will easily win 40 per cent of the votes at the upcoming elections. Historically, the PNC which forms the bulk of APNU has always been able to secure this 40 per cent from its traditional African Guyanese base. The AFC, according to Nagamootoo could give the David Grangerled coalition the other 11 per cent it needs to clinch a majority.
At the last elections, the AFC under an Indian Guyanese leader Khemraj Ramjattan won 10.3 per cent of the votes mainly from the Indian dominated Region 6 votes. In 2006, the AFC had secured a similar percentage of votes but under the leadership of Raphael Trotman, most had come from the APNU African dominated constitu-
ency. Conceding that the AFC cannot compare itself with APNU in terms of its electoral strength, Nagamootoo who was hand-selected as Presidential Candidate by AFC’s Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan said electoral alliance was the way to go. Nagamootoo was deliberately selected by Ramjattan who arbitrarily jettisoned the “presidential candidate rotation principle” to select the Indian Guyanese AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo over the Chairman Nigel Hughes.
The AFC had expressed scepticism of coalescing with APNU earlier fearing the backlash from its constituency who have not forgotten the People’s National Congress track record in government. AFC leader Ramjattan had warned that if the AFC were to coalesce with APNU, his party would become “dead meat”.
While the AFC, the APNU and Nagamootoo are confident that they will be able to attract a good turnout at Whim, there are still doubts in the minds of many that this will be possible since reports have indicated that many residents in Berbice, who would have previously seen the AFC as a middle ground between the PNC and the PPP/C to run to, have felt betrayed by AFC after its coalition with the APNU, which they still see as the PNC but under a different name. However, General Secretary of the AFC, David Patterson, speaking to the Guyana Times on Thursday related that he does not believe that the turnout at the meeting will be poor. On the contrary, he is of the strong belief that critics might be in for a surprise when the coalition conducts its meetings there.
To this end, Patterson related while some may continue to live in the view that the Whim, Corentyne area is a PPP/C stronghold, this was not true. The General Secretary said that based on the results
of the previous elections, the area has a huge support base for the AFC party. He further pointed out that the Whim was the home to Nagamootoo and Granger and as such, he believes that the two will be given ‘a grand homecoming’ while noting that the time has come for celebrations. Patterson did not mention that Veerasammy Ramayya was also a resident of Whim. Ramayya however has been embroiled in making controversial “racial” statements. He has been ordered by one court to issue an apology to PPP/C MP Zulficar and
to pay a $250,000 to same. Up to this time he has not done so and stands in danger of being in contempt of court. Patterson however noted that this will be a true test of the need for change in the country and the power of the messages the coalition has been sending out over the past weeks. Asked about his message to the people of Whim will be, Patterson told the Guyana Times that he wants the people to know that “It is time. Change is coming. We will celebrate on May 12. David Granger is the new President and we have all good things in store for all.” Observers believe that it is a test as to whether, as Ramjattan feared, the AFC has in fact become “dead meat” because of its coalition with the PNC-led APNU.
7th Wedding Expo opens today!
Wedding Expo 2015, in all its magnificence and grandeur, is set for this weekend, beginning on Friday 27 and ending on Sunday 29.
Roraima Duke Lodge’s Wedding Expo is an event that provides couples preparing to be wed, as well as those assisting them, with an excellent opportunity to see and interact with local businesses that offer the services necessary for planning and executing a seamless wedding.
Coordinator of the event, Gerry Gouveia Jr, said Wedding Expo has become one of the most anticipated events on Guyana’s annual calendar and provides the
perfect opportunity for couples to experience a memorable wedding.
Additionally, Wedding Expo is the ideal opportunity to showcase Guyana’s rich and diverse wedding cultures and traditions.
But the bigger aim of the Wedding Expo is to promote Guyana as a wedding destination within the Caribbean.
Since its inception in 2009, Wedding Expo has grown and developed into a flourishing event, much to the delight of many.
Persons are encouraged to visit the Kingston location and participate in the deluxe ambiance. Tickets cost only GYD$500.
GPHC Paediatric Ward receives donations
The Paediatric Ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) on Wednesday received medical supplies and toys from Dr Lorna Fitzpatrick and her team from the Buffalo State University in the USA.
Dr Fitzpatrick, who is currently heading the oncology programme at the public hospital, has been instrumental in coordinating efforts to send bone marrow samples to Buffalo for further analysis.
Over the years, Dr Fitzpatrick and her team have formed a close relationship with the paediatric department and as such, the donation is just another way they have chosen to contribute to the hospital.
The Buffalo State University association with
the hospital was formed through Dr Fitzpatrick’s direct contact with the Guyana Help the Kids Organisation, which is a registered charity in Toronto. Guyana Help the Kids currently funds the paediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) training programmes. On behalf of Dr Fitzpatrick and her team, who are currently not in the country, Paediatric Resident, Dr Sherelyn Stanton handed over the items to the Sister-inCharge of the Paediatric Ward Denise Marks in the presence of other nurses.
Sister Marks expressed gratitude for the donation and said such offerings are always, noting that they have always proven to be beneficial for the children.
Wedding Expo showcases Guyana’s diverse wedding traditions
Paediatric Resident, Dr Sherelyn Stanton handing over the items to Sister Denise Marks in the presence of several nurses at GPHC Paediatric Ward
APNU Leader David Granger
AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo
AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan
Qualfon opens US$12M call centre
… on a mission to improve quality of life
Qualfon, one of the leading global business process outsourcing (BPO) providers, on Thursday opened its doors to one of the largest contact centre campuses in the world at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
President Donald Ramotar declared open the contact centre campuses in the presence of the company’s top brass which included Founder and
Chairman of Qualfon, Alfonso Gonzalez; Mike Marrow, Chief Executive Officer; Scott Warner, Vice President and General Manager and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh.
The campus which is the property of Qualfon, points to the expansion of the Mexicobased company in Guyana, which has now created thousands of jobs for young people and established Guyana
Body found at the Turkeyen Seawall
as a leading outsourcing location in the Region. The US$12 million facility will serve as a campus where persons employed by the company will be trained before they begin working. Qualfon is a global provider of contact centre, back-office and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services with locations in Mexico, Phillipines, USA and Guyana.
In his address to the gathering, after extending congratulations to the company for embarking on the initiative, President Donald Ramotar related that the facility will be a definite boost to Guyana’s economy but more so, its human capital, noting that while training will be done for Qualfon, at the same time, persons will be able to build on their knowledge of information technology which will lead to the growth and development of the technology industry here and subsequently, the economy.
Mother being questioned over daughter’s death
As Police continue their probe into the death of 15-year-old Alicia Ali of Sixth Street, Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, whose nude body was found at the Turkeyen Seawall on Wednesday, they have taken the teen’s mother, Maylene Williams into custody for questioning.
According to information received, there were some loopholes in the statement provided to Police by the woman. Initially, she reportedly told Police that her daughter went missing on Tuesday evening after she went to the shop to purchase some items.
The Guyana Times understands that despite the teenager going missing, Williams did not make a report at the Turkeyen Police Station but turned up the following day
when the body was discovered.
She told reporters that she heard about the discovery of the body and went to the station to enquire. Upon informing the ranks of her suspicions, she was reportedly taken to the Lyken Funeral Home where she positively identified her daughter’s body.
The Guyana Times understands that the young woman’s father died sometime back and ever since, she had been having her own way.
Tuesday evening was not the first time the young woman left home and returned the following morning, a Police rank told this publication. Police believe that she was with someone she knew on the night she was killed.
While they are awaiting the results of the post-mortem scheduled for today, they have
Dead: Alicia Ali
been questioning several of the teen’s close friends.
Ali’s body was discovered about 08:00h on Wednesday morning by joggers who were running along the Turkeyen Seawall. The body had several marks of violence. Investigators are presently treating the matter as murder.
Ramotar, on behalf of his Administration, promised his commitment towards the industry, identifying its potential contribution to the growth of the information and technology industry here. “We all recognise the importance of developing the human capital… it goes to the very philosophy of my Government; the most important factor for development is not just all the natural resources we have… but life has shown us that the most important factor for development is the quality of people that we have,” Ramotar told the gathering which included Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Ramesh Persaud.
The President while boasting that his Government will be encouraging more investors to Guyana disclosed that during his trip to India in January, where he met with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, talks were held for Guyana to embark on the construction of a world class information technology centre. This centre he boasted, once completed, will have the capacity to supply the South American region with reliable internet data, something the country currently lacks.
He noted that this would significantly boost the operations of Qualfon and all other such companies, since these types of companies depend mostly on information technology to operate.
Founder and Chairman of Qualfon, Alfonso Gonzalez in brief remarks, extended his thanks to President Ramotar, Guyanese and all his employees, noting that without their hospitality, the company would not have been able to reach this milestone.
He noted that when he ventured into Guyana in 2005, it was his hope that he could change and better the lives of people and their families and he is now proud and satisfied that he has been able to do. Gonzalez noted, “it was the mission of my company to make lives better.”
Guyanese hospitality was praised as General Manager and Vice President of the company Scott Warner told the invitees that when he entered Guyana just one year ago, he immediately realised that there was something “unique” and “special” about Guyana and he was enthused that expansion is taking place.
Meanwhile, according to Qualfon’s CEO Mike Marrow, some US$6 million has already been utilised for the
project while another US$6 million is expected to be spent by the time the campus is completed, before the year is out.
Qualfon expects that operations in the existing building on the campus will commence as soon as May 5, with all things going as planned, with over 100 Guyanese currently being trained at the two existing centers at Beterverwagting and Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara.
Another two-storey building with the same footprint will be constructed shortly where a total of some 3000 seats will be installed and will provided employment for persons mostly from the East Bank corridor and outlining areas, amounting to 6000 within coming months.
The current building will house just over 1000 persons with 250 cubicles already installed and ready to be occupied. The finish campus will also include an interfaith chapel, community center and a healthcare clinic.
The newly installed work stations at the Campus at Providence
The US$6 million newly commissioned Qualfon call centre
Bank of Guyana launches memorabilia coin
As part of its year of activities to commemorate its 50th anniversary, the Bank of Guyana on Thursday launched a commemorative coin.
The limited edition of goldplated silver coins were made by the Mint of Norway and the design was taken from an in-house competition. The coin has been placed on sale
and costs GUY$6,500 each. The reverse side of the coin has the anniversary theme and emblems that reflect the bank’s achievement over the past 50 years.
At the launching ceremony, Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga, pointed out that the coin is not only commemorative but also a representation of the development of Guyana’s financial system with the bank’s assistance.
“During the last 50 years, the bank has played the vital role of providing monetary and financial stability that contributed to our economic growth and development. The foundation that has been laid so far in a resilient banking and financial system as well as a buoyant economy, will not only provide for a stronger oversight of the sector to ensure its safety and soundness but will also provide for enhancing competition to reduce interest rate spreads so as to stimulate affordable financing for higher economic growth,” the Governor explained.
Dr Ganga noted that the bank has been repositioning itself to face future challenges and take advantage of new opportunities to sustain growth.
On the other hand, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh said that Guyana has a limited range of memorabilia coins and this new addition by the Bank of Guyana represents a dive into the history of the country’s financial sector.
The Minister noted that Guyana’s strong and stable financial system reflects the good choices that were made over the years. “All of these (emblems) pieces contributed to us achieving as a country strong, well regulated, well supervised, stable, robust, financial system that we have achieved today,” Dr Singh mentioned.
He outlined that Guyanese should not take for granted, the country’s financial stability and strength. The Finance
Minister urged persons to be vigilant and diligent in guarding what the country has achieved thus far.
“Our Government is firmly committed to doing what is necessary to safeguard this stability…The ultimate objective is a financial system that meets the national development aspirations of our country,” Dr Singh said.
The emblems on the reverse side of the commemorative coin are: the gears, representing the bank’s role in financial development; the financial market, which emphasises the modern means of transaction; the upward sloping chart, which indicates economic growth; and the infrastructure, which represents national development under the bank’s governance.
Additionally, the coin has a sun dance, which represents tenancy and projection, and the bank’s logo in the upper middle of the coin. The denomination of the coin is located at the bottom as $5000 and this gives the coin its legal tender status. Meanwhile, the obverse side of the coin depicts Guyana’s National Coat of Arm.
In January, Bank of Guyana launched a suite of events to commemorate its 50 anniversary under the theme “Promoting Financial Development for Guyana’s Prosperity.”
Eyew tness Counting chickens...
...by Opposition hangers-on
This Eyewitness isn’t sure why we’re having elections.
If one were to go by the Opposition letter writersthey’ve already won the election and have moved on to discussing what they’ll be DOING after May 11.
Now these aren’t your everyday, day-dreaming, fringeelement types. Of the last two letters in this vein - Mike Archer’s an ex-GDF captain, supporting his old boss. Officially, he’s Granger’s PRO.
Sase “Thunderbolt” Singh’s been writing for the AFC - and now the PNC-led APNU coalition. He hosted Nagamootoo and Granger in his basement apartment in New York and gave what for him was a VERY big contribution. It’s the thought that counts, no?
Anyhow, in his letter in today’s Muckraker, he reveals what he must’ve told them - after he shovelled the snow blocking his basement’s side-entrance.
Firstly, if they follow his suggestions, they’ll bump Guyana’s growth rate upwards by more than five per cent!! And here it is that Obama with a gazillion economists at his disposal hasn’t been able to match Guyana’s PPP/C’s growth rate!! Why didn’t Thunderbolt get out of his armchair and amble over to Washington?? Anyhow what should the Opposition be doing after May 11 to deliver this MEGA growth rate??
First, “immediately releasing a 10 per cent across the board increase for all classes of workers”. Now your Eyewitness just looooves salary increases!! But? er...could Thunderbolt tell him how the PNC-led APNU Government’s gonna force his PRIVATE SECTOR boss to cough up that 10 per cent increase??
Last time your Eyewitness looked, the PNC’s wage controls were scrapped by no other than Desmond Hoyte! Are Granger and Nagamootoo bringing back the “co-op” Republic??
Evidently another “policy” that’ll give the growth rate that adrenalin rush is not to ship anything in its “raw” state in the first 100 days of the “new Administration”. So no more shipping of “raw rice”. Really!!
So what do we do with the 650,000 tonnes of rice we’ll be producing this year?? Well...duh!!! (to quote Thunderbolt’s friend, the Donkey Cart economist). We’ll all ship “cooked” rice!!!
OK...so maybe Thunderbolt meant to process the rice into cereals?? Jeez!!! Even Kellog’s doesn’t handle that much rice!! And there’s another challenge. The Thunderbolt’s gonna have to get Guyanese to kick their “thiefing” ways.
Even when the Flour Mill got free wheat from the US, and had a monopoly in the market, they kept losing money. Why?? Fellas like Sase stole them blind. Hence the name “Thunderbolt”! What “growth rate”?? Even in a pipe dream!
...and ballots
Your Eyewitness wanted to know why the PPP/C’s making all the fuss about “public vetting” of elections day GECOM staff. He thought the PPP/C was giving Surujbally “hard card”.
But he was in for a surprise when he got the answerdirectly from the horse’s mouth, so to speak. What his “source”’- who worked for donkey’s years at GECOMtold him was that for the PPP/C, the election will be most definitely lost if the question “to vet or not to vet” isn’t answered “VET”!!!
The seemingly innocuous procedure of testing prospective Election Day workers might seem facially neutral - everybody takes the same test. But the important question isn’t who writes the test - it’s who MARKS the test ...and who then calls who to tell them they’re hired. All of these not-so-mundane tasks are tightly controlled by PNC loyalists in GECOM.
So come voting day, if even six selected votes are “spoiled” by these insider workers - that’s TWO seats right there from 2200 polling stations!! And imagine this is only ONE of the gambit in the Opposition’s polling arsenal. That’s why they can count their chickens??
...and roosting chickens
When with all its “cockishness”, the Oppsition still gets Larwah, come May 12. The chickens are gonna come home to roost. There will be weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth.
The commemorative coin that the Bank of Guyana made in commemoration of its 50th anniversary
Bank of Guyana Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga handling over the coin to Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh
Contempt motion filed in court against AFC's Ramayya
Acontempt of court motion has been filed against Alliance For Change (AFC) Executive, Veerasammy Ramayya for failing to adhere to a court order to publicly apologise, via print and electronic media, to People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha.
Reports indicate that Ramayya could face lengthy jail time for violating the court order.
After losing the libel lawsuit filed by Mustapha, Ramayya had seven days to apologise by reading a specific statement crafted by the court.
The statement which he was required to read is:
“I, Veerasammy Ramayya, Executive Member of the AFC (Alliance For Change) alleged that Zulfikar Mustapha, who was Regional Chairman for Region Six (East Berbice-
Corentyne) at the time, and a prominent member of the PPP/C, was corrupt and dishonest.
“I, Veerasammy Ramayya, unreservedly hereby withdraw all implications made by me on the character, conduct and good name of Mr Zulfikar Mustapha. I acknowledge that the statements made were wholly unfounded.
“I wish to express my deepest regret to Mr Zulfikar Mustapha, and wish to apologise to him and family, friends, the Regional Administration of Region Six and the RDC (Regional Democratic Council), and for any embarrassment which this may have caused him.”
Instead, on his television show on March 7, “Alliance on the Move”, he read “I was ordered by the court, and I am not very comfortable with what I have to do or say. On behalf of myself and TV Station, we want to apologise to Zulfi Mustapha for the allegation that was made on this television programme. So that ends the episode with a very big full stop.”
Mustapha’s legal representatives underscored that what was said on television was simply not an apology for the libellous claims made during the height of the elections campaign on November 19, 2011 via a television programme called “Issues of the People”, aired on controversial DTV Channel 8 in Berbice. Consequently, a contempt citation was filed on Tuesday and Ramayya
was expected to attend the Berbice High Court sometime in April.
Deterrent
Both the owner of the television station, Gregory Rambarran and Ramayya had been slapped with the libel lawsuit in 2012.
The duo was represented by AFC Leader and Attorney Khemraj Ramjattan, while Mustapha was represented by Attorney Adrian Anamaya before Justice Nareshwar Haranand at the New Amsterdam High Court.
In addition to issuing a public apology, Ramayya was required to pay the sum of $250,000 to Mustapha, which the politician said he would donate to charity.
Mustapha’s Attorney explained to this publication that his client was not keen on receiving money, but thought it best to do so as an act of detriment.
Melanie resident jailed for stealing
Aresident of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara received a three month sentence on Thursday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for stealing two car mirrors.
The convicted, Osafo Gordon pleaded guilty in Court One before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry when the charge of simple larceny was read to him. It was reported that he stole the mirrors valued $30,000 from the car of Joel Sukhlall along East Street in North Cummingsburg.
The Virtual Complainant (VC) had asked the defendant to wash his car.
The 33 year-old defendant told the Court that he was hungry when he decided to take the two mirrors.
He has never had any prior trouble with the police.
GAWU-GuySuCo arbitration talks… Labour Ministry awaiting court order
The Labour Ministry is awaiting an official order from the court before it arbitrates into the dismissal of Skeldon Estate worker, Daniel Stephen.
On March 17, 2015, Chief Justice Ian Chang ruled that the previous arbitration into Stephen’s dismissal should be reopened in order to conclude whether Stephen was properly dismissed as this was not done.
He was at the time hearing the matter filed by the Guyana Agriculture and General Workers Union (GAWU), seeking an interim injunction to stop the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) from dismissing Stephen as was determined following the arbitration by former Chief Labour Officer, Mohamed Akeel.
Guyana Times was informed that the Labour Ministry is awaiting the court order so that it can be informed of its duties in this regard. Chief Labour Officer (CLO), Charles Ogle had explained to this newspaper on Wednesday that he was yet to meet with the parties on a way forward due to the lack of the requisite document.
The CLO had stated that he is unaware of his role in the process as such he can-
not go ahead and act unless he is briefed. This publication was made to understand that Ogle contacted GAWU on Thursday and informed them of the Ministry’s position.
Both GuySuCo and Akeel were named Plaintiffs in the legal document filed by the union. It has been reported that the court recommended that Akeel continue the arbitration, after he agreed to do so.
However, this newspaper was made to understand that GAWU does not favour the former CLO presiding over the proceedings.
On Wednesday, GuySuCo issued a released pointing out that the court did not intervene on the issue of selecting the arbitrator. The sugar corporation pointed out that the judge recommended that the two parties return to arbitration to determine the issue of the dismissal and not the suspension as GAWU is contending.
“Both GuySuCo and GAWU voluntarily accepted the recommendation of the Chief Justice,” the corporation stated. GuySuCo further outlined that the Chief Justice did not grant the injunction filed by the union.
Last December, Akeel ended the arbitration after he was unable to determine
whether the dismissal of Stephen was justified or not. According to the Arbitrator in his ruling, “Mr Daniel Stephen remains dismissed, but whether the dismissal was justified or not, I was not allowed to determine.”
During the arbitration, Akeel was guided by the Terms of Reference (ToR) “to enquire into the disciplinary action taken against Mr Daniel Stephen and having regards to the evidence and submission by the parties, make an award as the Arbitrator deems fit.”
However, the Arbitrator had pointed out that he should have never been tasked with determining the disciplinary action. He stated that the corporation had referred to the disciplinary action as “dismissal” but on the other hand, the union claimed that it was amended to “suspension without pay” in the Terms of Resumption (ToR) following the strike actions.
“The Terms of Reference should have been clear and unambiguous. It seems that the parties, including the Ministry, could not interpret the Terms of Resumption they deliberated on, agreed to and signed and took the easy way out,” Akeel contended.
Coalition saddened at the death of Sydney Allicock Jr
The A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) is deeply saddened at the news of the death of Sydney Allicock Jr.
Sydney Allicock Jr is the son of former APNU Member of Parliament and Leadership Council member Sydney Allicock, Executive Member of the Guyana Action Party.
The APNU+AFC extends heartfelt condolences to the parents and other grieving relatives and friends of Sydney Allicock Jr at this most difficult time.
PPP/C Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha
AFC Executive Veerasammy Ramayya
PPP/C says in West Ruimveldt: Coalition offers little
…present
By Hema RamcHaRRan
Pleaders “strong headed”
eople's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)
Executive Gail Teixeira on Wednesday said the combined Opposition which have now formed a coalition to contest the upcoming elections virtually rendered Government hapless in the 10th Parliament, blocking major projects and cutting budgetary spending all to the detriment of the Guyanese people.
Teixeira was at the time addressing a meeting in West Ruimveldt as part of the Party’s elections campaign. “They gave us no chance and always came with a ‘maximum position; take it or leave it’,” Teixeira told the gathering of about 40 people. She said: “Every time from December 2014 to September 2015, President Ramotar invited the Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to discussions, they always gave a maximum position; ‘you either take it or leave it, Ramotar’. There was no wiggle room.”
Teixeira stated that previous Leaders of the
Opposition, Desmond Hoyte and Robert Corbin were always open to negotiations.
“There was always wiggle room in politics, we always sat and work out. Under this Mr Granger it’s always take it or leave it,” Teixeira told the meeting. Turning her attention to the coalition, Teixeira who is also Presidential Adviser on Governance, claimed the alliance was a product of opportunism. “They have spoken about how many seats and how many Vice Presidents they will have, but they haven’t said anything for the people as yet. What have they said to you?” she asked resi-
dents. “All they do is bully,” she added, stating that the Private Sector Commission had written a petition to the Parliament when the AntiMoney Laundering Bill was on the table urging that good sense prevail in ensuing that it was passed.
“For the first time in our country a petition was not allowed to be read. When it was being read, they shouted, they booed and they voted against a petition by the citizens of this country. That is a telling example of the disregard for the ordinary people of our country,” Teixeira stressed.
She also said that APNU and the AFC are just regurgitating the plans of the late President, Forbes Burnham.
“Again they are coming with ‘feed, clothe and house the nation’. She urged residents to remember what happened to Guyana before and vote for the Party that will bring stability – the PPP/C.
Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster has told the gathering at the PPP/C meeting that the Party had a proven track record in moving the country forward.
She said it is for this reason that Guyanese should trust the PPP/C to lead.
“Through the PPP/C Guyana is a free country, we have all gathered here and we can speak to each other, we all have access to many facilities, the telecommunication sector is much more liberalised, we all have Internet connectivity and at a cheaper cost,” Minister Webster said on Wednesday.
She indicated that there have been several improvements across the country, such as the new GPL substation which was established more specifically for the res-
idents of South Georgetown to ensure that there is a better supply of electricity.
Webster also noted that over the past two decades much has been done and persons should take this into account when electing a Government on May 11. She highlighted that the past three budgets of the social sector which included Education, Health and Human Services saw a 36.7 per cent across the board increase.
“For instance, children can be able to do their research from home, women are given the opportunity to attend training sessions organised by the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security which have indeed proven useful in that many persons are now computer literate, she said in reference to the One Laptop Per Family initiative.
“As women we all must recognise our roles in society, to be more empowered, to get involved in the decision making in the community and make a difference in our lives and the community as a whole,” Webster, a former Minister within the Finance Ministry, said.
Also addressing the meet-
ing was Attorney-at-Law, Charles Ramson Jr. “The PPP/C Government is interested in making you richer and making your lives better and despite the number of times you may have voted for the Opposition party it must be noted that they have never had your back,” Ramson told residents of the People's National Congressstronghold. Ramson also noted that the Opposition party has voted against many of the things that are of benefit to citizens.
“For example, they have voted against the National Stadium which is of considerable benefit to all citizens whether it be for recreation or business, they have also voted against the student loan provided at the University of Guyana and as we all know there are persons out there who cannot afford to raise money to pay their tuition fees, “he said.
In addition, he explained that with the PPP/C leadership, there has been progress throughout their terms in office, noting that business opportunities existed for everyone and the Government has been helping throughout this journey.
NIS to open local offices to address unallocated contributions
The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) has gotten the Government’s nod of approval to open local offices countrywide to ensure the one million plus unallocated contributions are claimed and distributed.
This is according to Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon who explained to media operatives on Wednesday that Cabinet has given instructions for the insurance body to conduct a public “mapping” exercise which would assist in identifying those contributors.
“The decision has been taken for the NIS to undertake to have the unallocated contributions provided to their rightful owners. It was Cabinet’s view that public awareness had to be in place for those whose contributions were yet to be allocated. One of the basic elements of this has been settled and this includes local offices particularly in the areas of where the unallocated contributions have been made,” he said.
Luncheon had previously disclosed to reporters that more than one million contribution records could not have been verified at the end of the NIS digitalisation process. The Scheme completed inputting all outstanding contribution records into its electronic database, but as of December 31, 2014, the incomplete records were not verified.
He explained that the final report emanating from the Data Entry and Verification Project indicated that more than 1.1 million of the records entered into NIS’ database have not been verified owing to the absence of critical data such as names and NIS numbers while noting that the final report confirmed that millions of dollars in contributions were owed to contributors and pensioners.
Realising that the Scheme cannot correct the deficiencies within the system on its own, Cabinet has ordered NIS to engage the public. The Cabinet Secretary assured the press that all contributors who had encountered difficulties prior to the establishment of the Data Entry and Verification Project would receive their
benefits once eligible.
He noted that this will be done by local offices putting out flyers with the information so that the public can be aware and can come forward to query and make claims.
“These local offices will produce flyers that will identify the year of the contributions being received along with the employers so that anyone can visit the local office and identify who were the employers who denied the employee their contributions,” Dr Luncheon disclosed.
Cabinet had mandated NIS to implement the Data Entry and Verification Project from June to December 2014 with the clear goal of putting all the outstanding paper records of contributions into the electronic database. The mandate was given as a result of the criticisms the Scheme attracted from both contributors and pensioners about the deficient records. For years, NIS has been unable to identify thousands of contributors and verify their contributions.
Dr Luncheon noted that it is expected that after a reasonable time would have elapsed there would be assignment of the contributions based on a best case scenario so that citizens can access the benefits of their respective contributions.
PPP/C Executive Gail Teixeira
Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster
Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon
PPP/C campaign 2015
La Grange residents told APNU, PNC the same
...will return Guyana to subsistence economy
Former Local Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persaud said the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition lacks the ability to lead Guyana.
At the time, Persaud, was speaking at a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) meeting in La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD) on Tuesday. In the presence of scores of residents, Persaud turned back the pages of history to when Guyana was ruled by the People’s National Congress (PNC).
He said it was a time when Guyanese faced hardships, referring to the many essential food items that were listed as “contraband” and thus illegal. Persons could be jailed if they were caught in possession with such goods. Persaud also reminded his audience of the high unemployment level.
Against this background, the former Local Government Minister contended that APNU has the same values as the PNC – which is its largest component – and if elected into Government, Guyana would return to the state in
which it was prior to 1992. “Granger and his people… in their days it was sheer hopelessness.”
He stated that the regressive intentions of APNU are evident in its many attempts to cut funds for developmental projects from the country’s budget. Persaud also reflected on the closure of the Leonora Sugar Estate, from where he hails, and the high level of unemployment created by this tragedy due to a decision taken by the then PNC Government.
Persaud also expressed disgust at the appointment of Carl Greenidge as APNU’s
Shadow Finance Minister, based on the country’s poor economic performance under his watch as Finance Minister. “That man ruined this country, abused the country’s resources, and made this country bankrupt!” He further contended that the Opposition is inciting racism and violence by levying accusations of corruption against the PPP/C.
According to him, the APNU+AFC Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo are nothing but “two lame ducks” and “wolves in sheep’s clothing,” who are incompetent to boot. Persaud further added a further caution when he advised the residents to be careful when voting on May 11, claiming that in 1979 the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) assisted PNC in rigging the elections. He said it is possible for the elections to be compromised once again.
After lambasting the Opposition, Persaud spoke of a PPP/C Government that will continue to foster growth and development in Guyana. He said under the PPP/C Government, the country’s education, health and housing sectors will be further advanced.
Canada upbeat GECOM will deliver free, fair elections
The Canadian Government is confident that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) will deliver free and fair elections come May 11.
This is according to Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Nicole Giles who was at the time addressing a gathering at the Easter Concert of the Clemsville Music Ensemble which was held in the Chancery of the High Commission of Canada on Tuesday evening.
Noting that during an election period emotions can easily supersede mutual respect, the High Commissioner said Canada is eagerly looking forward to seeing Guyana continue on its development path as she linked fair elections to development.
“Canada remains committed to the Americas and is working with its partners, including Guyana, to increase economic opportunity, strengthen security and institutions, and foster lasting relationships. Our partnerships in Guyana are based on a shared vision of a prosperous, secure and democratic Guyana where diversity, including in the arts, is celebrated,” Dr Giles said.
She noted that music and democracy share similar traits as both require a structure, rhythm, team-
work, a conductor to provide leadership, and mutual respect for other players while stating that if any of these traits are ignored, the music ceases to be beautiful and democracy cannot thrive.
“This evening we have both of these elements at play. As Guyana prepares for elections, its democracy is working within a structure, developing a rhythm, building teams, selecting leaders, and building mutual respect. From the structural perspective, Canada has confidence in the Guyana Elections Commission ability to deliver free and fair elections,” the Canadian High Commissioner added.
The diplomat assured
that her country and embassy will continue to work with all partners – the Government, all political parties, the private sector and civil society - to support free, fair and peaceful elections. In closing she told the gathering that it was her hope that the spirit of Easter and the renewal that the season represents will help to guide Guyana through the upcoming electoral period. “I hope that it will guide Guyana in renewing dialogue, focusing on issues that can bring Guyana together, and identifying policy solutions that advance Guyana’s prosperity, security and democracy.”
Former Local Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persaud
GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally as he signed an agreement with Canadian High Commissioner, Dr Nicole Giles for elections management support
Guyana-Venezuela
border controversy:
Commonwealth restates support for Guyana
...urges settlement through dialogue, cooperation
The 150-nation Commonwealth grouping has restated its support for Guyana in the country’s ongoing border controversy with Venezuela and also urged that the issue be resolved through cooperation and dialogue. The Commonwealth’s statement comes less than a week after the Caribbean Community (Caricom) expressed similar support for Guyana over the decades-old controversy, which was revived recently when Guyana granted a concession to US oil firm Exxon Mobil to drill for oil in the Stabroek Block area. Venezuela has since objected and asked the firm to leave the area. However, following a strong response by the Guyana Government and subsequent solidarity statements by a number of diplomats, Caracas seemed to have toned down its rhetoric. Meanwhile, in its terse statement, the Commonwealth Secretariat stated that it had received an update from Guyana on recent developments concerning the challenge to petroleum exploration within what Guyana maintains to be its Exclusive Economic Zone.
The Secretariat recalled the Commonwealth’s consistent and unequivocal support for the preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and said that Guyana’s concerns had been brought to the attention of all Commonwealth member states. The Secretariat added that the Commonwealth has remained engaged with the issue and looked forward to the settlement of differences bilaterally through dialogue and cooperation.
Caricom last Friday said:
Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
it “noted with concern several assertions contained in a Communiqué from the Ministry of the People’s Power of Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela dated 3 March 2015, which has been published in newspapers of Caricom Member States”. Caricom reiterated its “firm, long-standing and continued support for the maintenance of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana and for the unhindered economic and social development of all of Guyana”.
It reasoned that in this regard, the Community once again hoped for an early resolution of the controversy which has arisen as a result of Venezuela’s contention that the Arbitral Award of 1899, which definitively settled the boundary between the two countries, was null and void. It stated too that Caricom has also taken note that Guyana has commenced a review of the options available under Article 33 of the United Nations Charter, as provided by the
1966 Geneva Agreement, including the judicial option, that could serve to bring
an end to the controversy and ensure stability in the relations between the two countries, relations that in recent years have seen positive progress through highlevel political consultations and mutually beneficial programmes of functional cooperation.
Meanwhile, Guyana has indicated that it would be withdrawing from the United Nations’ Good Offices Process largely because the mechanism yielded no success and was seen as favouring Venezuela. Commenting on the issue, former Foreign Affairs Minister Rudy Insanally said while opting out of the UN Good Offices Process was commendable, Guyana still needed to strategically frame its next move to have the unsettled issues
with Venezuela resolved.
A new method of settlement must be carefully perused to have the age-old issue addressed. While opting out of the Good Offices Process has been deemed commendable, Guyana still needs to strategically frame out its next move to have the unsettled issue with Venezuela resolved.
Government, through Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon, had told the Guyana Times that it was seeking to utilise the judicial form of settlement, to address the claim made by the Bolivarian Republic. Insanally, who has been Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN since 1987, told this publication, that the only form of judicial settlement that
the countries could engage in is having the case heard at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the primary judicial branch of the UN, since the issue has already been settled through arbitration.
According to the former Foreign Affairs Minister, Venezuela will not agree to an ICJ hearing because it has never signed on to its accord. Insanally said Guyana and Venezuela must work out an alternative with the UN Secretary General to secure a new mode of settlement. He said, nonetheless, it would be a good thing if the countries could head to the ICJ, since Venezuela “needs to prove” by all means possible the nullity of the 1899 ruling.
APNU+AFC briefs diplomatic community on Cummingsburg Accord
APNU+AFC on Wednesday briefed the Diplomatic Community on the ‘historic’ Cummingsburg Accord, in a meeting de-
scribed as critical by Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo. Nagamootoo, who led the APNU+AFC delegation explained that the meeting
served as an opportunity for the coalition to brief the Diplomatic Community their priorities when or if they assume government on May 12, 2015.
“We are treating everyone as equal partners, as friends and that there is no need for anyone to have any reservations. We felt there was also need for an explanation as regards to distribution of new powers and how this will be done within the confines of consultation and consensus to bring about inclusiveness,” Nagamootoo said Nagamootoo also assured the diplomatic corps that APNU+AFC will not engage in vendetta or witchhunting. “Wherever there has been wrong doing the judicial process will take its course,” he explained.
The prime ministerial candidate said he appealed to the foreigners to join the Coalition in its quest for calm during the campaign and election period.
“We also want the international community, the embassies and missions here and Non-Governmental Organizations to join the APNU+AFC Coalition in ap-
pealing for calm and that there should be no appeal for violence or to ethnicity and racism,” Nagamootoo said.
The delegation comprised Campaign Co-Chairs Joe Harmon and Raphael Trotman, Cathy Hughes and AFC General Secretary, David Patterson. “It was an opportunity for us to brief the diplomats about the Cummingsburg Accord, what it is, what it purports to do and the way it is going to change the political culture of Guyana,” Harmon said in supporting Nagamootoo’s expressions.
“They had concerns on our emphasis on domestic violence and corruption and question about the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission and they also wanted to ensure that the political temperature over this period is calm,” Harmon added.
Representatives from the US embassy, Canadian and British High commissions, the European Union, the Indian High Commission and the Brazilian and Russian embassies among others attended the meeting which was held at Cara Lodge in Georgetown.
Members of APNU+AFC in a photo op with members of the diplomatic community at Cara Lodge after the briefing
APNU+AFC condemns actions by Kissoon
...says will not condone crass behaviour
Former A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Vanessa Kissoon has denied reports that she was arrested after trying to disrupt a people’s Progressive Party/ Civic public meeting in Linden earlier this week.
It was alleged that Kissoon was arrested in Blueberry Hill, Wismar, Linden after disrupting the public meeting in the area. But on Thursday, the APNU MP said the claim is far from the truth. “It should be stated clearly, that I was never arrested by the Police and therefore could not have been released...The source of the information of (me) being arrested and released is not only malicious but seems driven by intent to further discredit me in the eyes of the public as someone who is only capable of a street fight for justice,” Kissoon said in a two-page statement.
Earlier this year Kissoon had virtually confronted Junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill during an event in Linden. She had to be constrained by police. And in a
statement the APNU+AFC “forthrightly condemns all acts of intimidation and aggression at all political meetings.” The coalition appealed to all its supporters and activists of all political parties to conduct themselves honourably and respectfully at all times when at political meetings or campaigning otherwise. “APNU+AFC reiterates once again that it is fully committed to a clean campaign. APNU+AFC wishes to advise that it has internally addressed reports which have been brought to its attention relating to unfortunate actions of an official. Equally APNU+AFC calls on the PPP/C to take action against persons who have been aggressive towards APNU+AFC officials and supporters at public meetings of the PPP/C.”
Further APNU+AFC calls on the PPP/C leaders to exercise good judgment in their pub-
lic comments and rhetoric and refrain from race baiting, fear mongering and hateful comments which have the potential to incite persons.
“Under no circumstances will APNU+AFC condone any action which seeks to violate the constitutional rights of any Guyanese to freely exercise their right to freedom of political association,” the coalition said.
Meanwhile, according to Kissoon she is not afraid to use the constitutional measures at her disposal to protect her rights not only as a politician but a citizen. She alleges that she has been victimised by the State in her quest to represent vulnerable women within her district and country at large.
“As far as I am aware there is no law in my country preventing anyone from heckling any Government official or politician. Our right to shout or speak (heckle) at a public meeting is enshrined in the right to the freedom of speech. Unfortunately these freedoms continue to be violated in our beautiful country and more so in Linden where a vindictive Government has continued to deny us access to state media,” Kissoon who was suspended by the PNCR last year said.
In justifying her actions, Kissoon said the inability of Lindeners and by extension the people of Region 10 to utilise the state media leave them no alternative but to respond and express themselves within their communities on issues that affect them whenever the opportunity arises.
She accuses Edghill of verbally abusing her and the people of Linden. “We have no access, no opportunity for other forms of response in Linden. Mr Edghill is no gilded horse to the people of Linden and therefore the people of Linden are not in any way obliged to respectfully listen to him when he comes to address them,” she stated.
According to the MP, the right to heckle will be upheld in Region 10 in keeping with the laws of Guyana. While Kissoon has attempted to clear her name of being arrested, she disclosed that her colleague was arrested on allegations of public disturbance. “Her arrest brings to the fore concerns of the people about the widespread Police intolerance that is being encouraged as a means of violating the rights of the people of Linden.
Turning her attention to the Oscar Clarke matter, Kissoon said persons she least expected continue to use the issue as a yardstick to judge her behaviour and condemn her struggles for women’s rights.
“Further, even as I am condemned, it is noted that the visit of the coalition lead-
ers to the world’s leading democracy (USA) was not without organised and disruptive heckling, not only outside but inside the private building rented for the event. The coalition’s supporters also counter-protested the Government organised protestors and engaged in heckling...It is noted as per report that the Leader of the Opposition had to take a back entrance to avoid the Government organised protestors, or should I say hoodlums and ghetto people.”
She said it is time that Guyanese stop demonising those who are forced to use whatever legitimate means they have at their disposal to be heard. “It is time that we stop condemning those who exercise democratic rights,” Kissoon added.
Gold miner refused bail for cocaine possession
Agold miner originally from West Coast Berbice, Region Five, but who now resides in Mahdia, PotaroSiparuni (Region Eight) was sent to the Camp Street Prison on Thursday for having four grams of cocaine in his home.
Lloyd Munroe, 36, is a gold miner who works in the interior. While there, on March 25 he went to the Police Station in Mahdia to report some persons he believed may have stolen a quantity of cash from his home. The Police followed Munroe to his home to launch an investigation into his missing money, but instead found the narcotics in a counter of a room in his home.
Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru told the court that the Police were acting on informa-
tion when they went with Munroe to his home in Mahdia. He said they intentionally went there with the specific purpose of searching the defendant’s home. Prosecutor Mangru said that the defendant is the sole occupant of the
house, adding that there is no special reason in the case that should allow bail to be granted to the defendant.
However, Defense Attorney Jerome Khan stated that there is a special reason why bail should be granted. He told the Court that his client would not have invited the Police into his home if he had cocaine hidden inside of it. The lawyer also stated that the quantity of the cocaine found in his client’s home is nothing substantial, hence bail should be granted in a reasonable amount. Even so, Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, who presided over the matter in Court One, refused the defendant bail. She transferred the case to the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court.
APNU MP Vanessa Kissoon
Lloyd Munroe
friday, march 27, 2015|
Fuel prices gradually climbing at local pumps
The reduced fuel prices at the gas stations across Guyana turned out to be a fleeting experience for consumers, as the prices are now slowly increasing once again.
International reports indicate that crude oil prices have jumped to their highest level in two weeks.
Prices have now surged 8 per cent in the last 48 hours.
Notably, the oil prices, which fell drastically throughout the second half of 2014, are now climbing.
This impact is inevitably being felt by Guyana as the prices at the various gas stations have increased.
At Guyoil gas stations, the prices for gasoline per litre have increased from $152.9 to $179.3, for diesel $152.7 to $174.7and for kerosene $109 to $120.
At Shell gas station, the prices have increased from $154.9 to $194 for gasoline and from $156.9 to $176.6 for diesel.
Prices at Rubis have also increased and are now $192.9 and $178.5 for gasoline and diesel respectively.
The sudden increase in oil prices on the international market are owed to the unrest in the Middle East after Saudi Arabia and its Gulf Arab allies began airstrikes in Yemen, sparking fears of a bigger Middle East battle that could disrupt world crude supplies.
WTI (West Texas Intermediate) crude oil increased 1.07 per cent to $48.02 a barrel, Brent improved 1.25 per cent to $55.80 per barrel and US crude settled at 4.5 per cent, at $51.43 a barrel.
Meanwhile, in January, the Government of Guyana decided to reduce the fuel prices, after the world market prices for oil remained at an all time low throughout the last two quarters of 2014.
Following Guyoil’s price reduc-
tion, other leading gas stations followed suit in order to remain competitive.
That aside, taxi drivers and minibus operators especially have recognised this increase, and immediately pointed out that the government should have made the decision to lower the prices sooner, so that the consumers could have benefited for a longer period.
“It’s the same thing we were saying when they reduce the prices, it nah gonna last long. They should have lowered it when it first went down,” a taxi driver told this publication.
Initially, prices at Guyoil had decreased from $965 to $695 per gallon for gasoline, $985 to $694 per gallon for diesel and $704.32 to $496 per gallon for kerosene.
For Shell gas stations, it went down from $219.9 to $154.9 and $217 to $156.9 per litre for gasoline and diesel respectively.
Hindus observe Navratri:
Mahagauri
In this form, Durga is four-armed and she rides a bull or a white elephant. She carries a trishul and a damaru. She is pure and is believed to have been in the form of Maa Parvati when she did penance to have Lord Shiva as her husband. Purity is depicted in this form of Durga. Mahagauri is worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri. Goddess Parvati made up her mind to perform an austere penance as advised by Sage Narada so that she might beget Lord Shiva as her husband. She renounced all the comforts of the palace and started performing penance in the forest. Her severe penance continued for many years. She braved heat and cold, rains and drought and terrible storms. Her body was covered with dust, earth, soil and leaves of trees. She had developed a blackish skin over her body. At last, Lord Shiva appeared before her and gave his solemn word that he would marry her.
He bathed her vigourously by the holy waters of the Ganga emanating from his matted hair. The holy and sacred waters of Ganga washed off all the dirt clinging to Parvati and she became white-complexioned and glorious. Thus by virtue of having acquired a white complexion, Parvati came to be known as Mahagauri (Extremely Fair).
This manifestation of hers is very placid and serene. All the sins of the devotees are burnt to ashes by her adoration and worship. She possesses invincible powers and bestows merits on her devotees. Mahagauri’s meditation, her adoration, her worship and her devotion are conducive to the welfare of devotees. He who concentrates his mind on her will enjoy her blessings and achieve perfection in every walk of life. Mahagauri fulfils all the desires of her devotees. She enables them to enjoy prosperity and pleasures here in this world and salvation hereafter.
Walter Rodney CoI: Book on Dr Rodney’s death discredited
Attorney for the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) Christopher Ram on Thursday ended his round of cross-examination on the note that the book, Assassination Cry of a Failed Revolution: The truth about Dr Rodney’s death, is nothing more than a façade, since it has not revealed the truth as laid out by William Gregory Smith.
Smith, the man accused of killing political activist, Dr Walter Rodney, had reportedly chronicled his experience leading up to, and subsequent to the death of Dr Rodney on June 13, 1980, all with the aim of clearing his name. He had also reportedly charged his sister to do so after he was diagnosed with lung cancer back in 2001.
At the Commission of Inquiry (CoI), Smith’s older sister Ann Wagner who coauthored the book was accused of changing its content; a claim she vehemently denied. The book has formed the basis of many examinations of prior witnesses during evidence at the commission.
During her cross-examination, elements of the book and the manuscript that were laid over to the commission were put before her. Comparisons were made between particular chapters
of chronological order of the events as stated in the manuscript.
The manuscript which Wagner said was used to put together the book as related to her by Smith. When confronted with the fact that events listed in the book were not in the manuscript, Wagner revealed that there is another piece of the manuscript that was not presented to the commission.
That piece of information is the direct signed contribution of her brother, she said. Asked why this informa-
tion was not before revealed to the commission, Wagner said she was in a hurry to get the document together, and she thought that all the relevant information was in the manuscript she presented to the commission. The other piece was left home inadvertently.
Ram probed the witness, seeking to ascertain how she could have been going through her statement for so many months and yet miss that pertinent piece of information.
Wagner was also ques-
tioned about her decision to insert the name of a male called Daniel in the book, while it had been absent from the manuscript. Daniel is said to be an imposter of Gregory Smith’s son, who he had not seen for some nine years, and who appeared at his home in Cayenne. He stayed in the home for a while, Wagner reported. However, this information was not laid out in the manuscript presented to the commission. Other questions were posed to the witness about her mode of verification of the things that were told to her by Smith.
Ram pointed out a chapter in the book that was written by Smith’s wife Debra in Cayenne where she recollected a timeline of events. But the events laid out by Smith’s wife in the book, differs from Gregory Smith’s accounts in the manuscript before the commission. Wagner maintained that she did not change anything and that there is another piece of evidence that she failed to submit to the commission.
deviation and addition from the manuscript as related by Smith had to have come from either Wagner or the publisher. And if such is the case, then the commission could not rely on the evidence.
There were also ques-
Portions were also written by family members and friends, including his brother-in-law. This is a deviation of Wagner’s earlier evidence which revealed that it was herself and Smith who together wrote the book. Another chapter of the book contains clippings of newspaper articles that Wagner said supported Smith’s evidence. But when pointed out to Wagner, she told the commission that there are some inconsistencies in some of the clippings. This, according to Ram, is contradicting.
Meanwhile, being led into further cross-examination by People’s National Congress (PNC) lawyer Basil Williams, Wagner maintained that Rodney’s death was an accident, caused by a negligent Rodney who had failed to adhere to the instruction of her brother.
According to Ram, any
tions about portions of the book being compiled by other persons including Smith’s daughter Ann Johnson. Johnson, it is reported, was born while Smith was using the alias Cyril Johnson.
She said based on what was told to her by her brother, the notion that the Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham Government had killed Rodney was false. According to her, WPA and Donald Rodney know the truth behind the death of the historian.
New York building collapses after explosion in Manhattan
At least 12 people have been injured after a gas explosion caused two buildings to collapse in
missing persons, but noted that the situation was fluid.
Officials said they believe work was being done
New York City.
On Thursday afternoon, more than 100 fire-fighters converged to battle the resulting blaze that affected four buildings.
Mayor Bill de Blasio said there were no reports of
to the building's gas utilities before the blast.
The explosion triggered a fire in a building that housed a sushi restaurant. The blaze then quickly spread to adjacent buildings, official said.
Emergency dispatchers started received calls reporting the incident around 15:17 local time (19:17 GMT) and emergency services were on the scene in about three minutes, city officials said.
The buildings on Second Avenue at East Seventh Street are near New York University and the Washington Square Park
area.
Manhattan's East Village is a neighbourhood of small businesses, restaurants and apartments. Thick plumes of dark smoke could be seen across Manhattan on Thursday.
Ben Mackinnon, 28, said he was drinking coffee in a cafe when he heard an explosion from across the street.
"The explosion was big
enough that the door of the cafe blew open," Mackinnon told Reuters.
Outside he saw several bloodied men emerge from the sushi restaurant.
Adil Choudhury, who lives nearby, told the Associated Press that he heard "a huge boom".
"Already there was smoke everywhere" when he saw the building, he said.
"The flames were coming out from the roof. The fire was coming out of every window."
Officials remain concerned about the area's air quality, and told residents to keep their windows closed.
The fire happened little over a year after a gas explosion in a building in East Harlem killed eight people and injured about 50. (BBC News)
More than 100 fire-fighters converged to battle the resulting blaze that affected four buildings
William Gregory Smith alias Cyril Johnson and his family
The book under contention Assassination Cry of a Failed Revolution: The truth about Dr Rodney’s death
MarCH 27, 2015
Guyana gaining traction as sport fishing destination
Ateam from the awardwinning GEOBASS series, renowned for its wild adventures of some anglers’ relentless pursuit of sport fishing in out-of-the-way locales, journeyed to Guyana to film the epic task of catching the famous Arapaima and other popular fish.
The five-member crew concluded filming a few days ago, in Rewa, North Rupununi, and was eager to share their experiences, as they continued to look for undiscovered locations and new ways to find and catch fish like no one has before, risking life and limb to make their dream of catching bass around the world a reality.
During an interview on Friday, after their two-week expedition, the crew expressed their delight at having the opportunity to film in one of the “friendliest forests” they have ever experienced.
“We caught Peacock bass, two kinds of piranha, and an arapaima. It was unbelievable, it was really an ex-
perience,” explained Thad Robinson, the team’s filmmaker.
“My favourite part was seeing the culture and how the people were living. They know everything about the jungle and they took the time
vowed to return to begin filming for a television series on tarpon fishing in Region One (Barima-Waini).
GEOBASS’s Videographer Brian Jill explained, “We have gone all over the world on crazy adventures, but this
tion behind their Guyana adventure, Robinson revealed that they were encouraged by a team from Costa Del Mar who came a few years ago to promote sustainable sport fishing while preserving the country’s natural re -
to show us many things,” another crewmember, Joseph Carson revealed.
This was their first time in Guyana, but the team has
is right up there at the top. The experience is world class and the jungle is the friendliest jungle we have ever seen.”
Alluding to the motiva-
Meanwhile, Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh lauded the team for choosing the destination and invited them to explore additional locations in Guyana which hold potential of becoming popular sport fishing sites, particularly areas in Region One.
He reminded that just a few weeks ago , a filming crew from GM Productions, out of the United States, concluded filming here for a new documentary titled “The Obsession of Carter Andrews” to be aired on the Outdoor Channel in May.
Sport fishing is a relatively new type of tourism attraction here in the “Land of Many Waters”, the country is home to many unchartered riverine areas.
sources.
He explained too that the compiled footage of their adventures would be available on YouTube within the next five weeks and will receive worldwide circulation, as it will be promoted via multiple sites.
“It is going on YouTube and there is going to be teasers online. It’s free and all of your sponsors and networks will carry it including Go Pro, Mountain Dew, and Car Heart. It will be posted on costadelmar.com, they will send out press releases that hit all the trade publications. It will get a lot of traction,” the team assured.
Guyana is home to over 1800 fish species normally found in the Amazon River, among these several game fish species such as the Payara, Arowana, Himara, and what is considered by professional anglers worldwide as the world’s most popular freshwater game fish, the Peacock Bass (Lukanani).
Impact
According to the acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, the investments made towards the development of this niche market are well placed as Guyana would have leveraged millions of US dollars in exposure and destination awareness over the last few years.
“We remain committed to developing sport fishing in Guyana, as a tourism niche product. The fact that more A list documentary and filming crews are travelling to the destination to participate, promote and share their sport fishing adventures speaks to the successes of our marketing drive. Guyana holds a distinct advantage as home to unique species including the Arapaima and we will continue with the sustainable development of this new ecotourism product while promoting Guyana as a new and emerging sports fishing destination.” Minister Ali explained. The US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and WildlifeAssociated Recreation identifies fishing as one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities in the United States. As many as 33 million people aged 16 or older participate in the activity, and spend $48 billion annually on equipment, licences, trips and other fishing-related events. With Guyana’s growing popularity as a Sport Fishing destination, tapping into the market of the growing legion of anglers could be the economic engine that helps to develop the product and keep fisheries conservation moving successfully forward. This drive is also supported by connectivity provided by Surinam Airways, Fly Jamaica, Caribbean Airlines and Dynamic Airways.
Hope Canal set for April month end commissioning
Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy has disclosed that the Hope Canal Project, East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) Northern Relief Channel, is set to be commissioned late April.
Dr Ramsammy made this disclosure to Guyana Times during a telephone interview on Wednesday. He said that his Ministry is currently preparing the site for the commissioning ceremony. “We still have some landscaping work to do but that would never end. We will always have to re-engineer the dam as time goes by but the majority functioning aspect of the project is completed,” he said.
According to the Agriculture Minister, the canal is completed, however there are some parts that were not dug in order to facilitate the movement of residents from the Hope New Scheme to Anns Grove via Douch Four as a shortcut.
Dr Ramsammy explained that several walk bridges will be built across the canal connecting the two villages. “This will be very convenient for the people especially students,” he noted while stating that the construction of these bridges were not budgeted for as such he have to seek funding from the 2015 budget.
The Minister further pointed out to this publication that as it relates to the sluice, the majority of the work has been completed. He said that the head regulator,
for which the Ministry had problems sourcing parts last year, has been completed. Dr Ramsammy further revealed that over the past few months, the Ministry has been testing this component of the project to ensure that it is operating effectively and efficiently.
Meanwhile, the Agriculture Minister disclosed that the control house at the southern end of the canal has been completed along with accommodation for personnel since the sluice at that end is manually operated. He added too that the control house at the at the northern end of the canal (opening to the Atlantic Ocean) is also completed but noted that the eight gate sluice is mechanised, that is, it opens and close automatically.
Dr Ramsammy related that the gates were tested and are functioning properly. He went onto say that for the outer sluice and the gabion basket have to be installed and filled. This, he said, is to prevent erosion around the sluice. According to the Minister, the rocks have already been ordered locally and are expected before the commissioning of the project.
Nevertheless, the Agriculture Minister emphasised that despite these minor works, the conservancy is ready for immediate use if the need arises. The EDWC Hope Canal Project is an initiative of the Government of Guyana to prevent excessive flooding along the EDWC – an area
prone to floods particularly after heavy rainfall.
Following the 2005 floods, in 2008, excessive rainfall resulted in Regions Four and Five experiencing massive floods, and as such, then Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) commenced exploration of the Northern Relief Channel to address the situation.
The NDIA was mandated to establish a plan to undertake the necessary hydrological studies and an Environmental Management Plan.
CEMCO/SRKN Engineering, in association with Mott Mc Donald, was given the consultancy project to the value of $64 million for a 14-month period. The contract for the construction of the Hope Canal Project was awarded to Courtney Benn Contracting Services, DIPCON Engineering Service Limited and BK International. The first mentioned contractor was tasked with the construction of the eight-door sluice while BK International was assigned with the construction of the three-gated head regulator.
DIPCON was awarded the contract of the $349 million overhead bridge, which the Agriculture Ministry commissioned on February 15, last year. The Ministry also took the responsibility of the excavation of the 10.3 kilometre long earthen channel.
The GEOBASS team pose with GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh at Cara Lodge
Smith relishing final with Kiwis after semi-final heroics
Steve Smith is already looking ahead to the Cricket World Cup final after his century in Thursday’s last-four victory over India.
Australia’s hero Steve Smith is eagerly anticipating Sunday’s Cricket World Cup final after his century led his country to victory in Thursday’s last-four meeting with India.
Smith made 105 as Australia posted 328-7 - a
World Cup semi-final record - batting first at the SCG.
After a strong start, India fell away in their chase, ending up 95 runs short on 233 all out as Australia booked a mouthwatering showdown with fellow co-hosts New Zealand at the MCG.
“The boys did a terrific job tonight so bring on Melbourne,” said man-ofthe-match Smith.
“It’s nice to contribute to a win and I’m just happy we
got there in the end.
“I always thank the people who’ve helped me along the way. I’m really happy with where everything’s at and I’m looking forward to Melbourne.
“Hopefully another big hundred would be nice, it’s going to be amazing to play a World Cup final against New Zealand at the MCG and I can’t wait to get down there.
“New Zealand have played some very good cricket and hopefully we can put on a show for everyone that comes down.”
Australia captain Michael Clarke added: “Obviously I’m really excited, the boys played some outstanding cricket. Smithy’s hitting the ball so sweetly and I was really proud of the execution of our bowlers.
“Losing to New Zealand [in the group stage] gave us a kick up the backside, the boys have turned up to training and the results have showed that.
“It’s a wonderful achievement, we’re proud to make the final but it’s going to be tough against New Zealand. We’ll fly to Melbourne, recover tomorrow, speak about training.
“It’s been a long summer, we’ve got a few aches, we’re mentally ready for the final but physically there’s a few things to sort out.
“They’re a great team, it’s always good to play New Zealand. We hope plenty of Aussies come out to support us.” (Digicel Sportsmax)
Brazil recorded their seventh successive victory since their 2014 World Cup humiliation as they came from behind to beat France in Paris.
Raphael Varane powerfully headed in Mathieu Valbuena’s left-wing corner to put the French ahead.
But Oscar equalised when he linked up with Roberto Firmino and poked the ball past France goalkeeper Steve Mandanda.
Neymar made it 2-1 as he collected Willian’s pass and shot past Mandanda before Luiz Gustavo headed in a third.
The victory maintains Dunga’s 100% record since he took charge of Brazil for a second time in July.
He is helping to restore
Tony Gray finds technical problems with Windies bowlers
Former West Indies and Trinidad & Tobago fast bowler Tony Gray, who is also a cricket commentator, has bashed regional fast bowlers, describing them, apart from Jerome Taylor, as having “specific issues that need to be worked on”.
The pitches in Australia and New Zealand being lively, pace has been the main weapon at the World Cup — led by New Zealand’s Trent Boult and Australia’s Mitchell Starc.
Andre Russell, West Indies second leading wicket-taker behind Taylor (17 wickets), was unimpressive with 11 wickets from seven matches. He has an economy rate of 6.35.
Skipper Jason Holder had nine wickets, four of them against the United Arab Emirates while Kemar Roach, usually one of the best bowlers in the region, took just one scalp from three matches. Roach was most expensive with an economy rate of 6.81.
Gray, who also coached Trinidad and Tobago, suggested what they could do to address their accuracy problems.
“Andre Russell consistently doesn’t have his stride patterns going ... sometimes he will be balanced at the time of delivery and sometimes he will not be. He doesn’t have the consistent run-up speed like (Curtly) Ambrose or Michael Holding or Courtney Walsh. What he needs is a consistent run-
up speed,” explained Gray, who represented the region from 1985 to 1991.
“The captain Holder, he collapses the front leg and back leg so he doesn’t maximise his height. He doesn’t brace that front leg, so he doesn’t get the speed.
“You look at Roach, he depends heavily on his bowling action which is a fantastic bowling action but he doesn’t have a runup.
He ambles up rather than runs through the crease. A lot of times he gets injuries because he doesn’t alleviate the pressure on his body at the point of delivery because he doesn’t have a run-up. There are specific issues with our fast bowlers that need to be rectified,” he pointed out.
Gray, who took six for
50 against Australia at the Queen’s Park Oval in a One Day International on the 1991 tour, also took aim at Trinidadian Shannon Gabriel, who showed immense promise since making his first-class debut in 2010.
“One of the problems I have is we don’t work our fast bowlers in the right way. Shannon Gabriel obviously has to learn certain things but he is willing and a hard worker. We have to be specific with the cause with each one of our fast bowlers.
“I have had Marlon Richards for five years at UTT (University of Trinidad & Tobago); Shannon Gabriel was in our fielding workshop at UTT that was about five years ago but Shannon Gabriel needs specific help and drills.
“It’s not a question of me being disappointed with Shannon Gabriel but a question of him getting specific people to work with him year-round. It’s a technical issue that needs to be handled in the right way.
“He needs to get his body aligned — that’s all he needs to do. Get his body straighter with the head straight down the wicket and he’s going to bowl better. He’s going to hit the seam a bit more,” noted Gray, who is the High Performance Cricket Coach at UTT.
Brazil record seventh consecutive win
some pride to Brazilian football after the side suffered their heaviest ever World Cup defeat when they were thrashed 7-1 by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in
Belo Horizonte. Luiz Felipe Scolari resigned as coach after the tournament, which also saw Brazil lose 3-0 against the Netherlands in the third-
fourth play-off. Only two of the first XI from that Germany defeat started in Paris and Dunga will be pleased with their fightback after they fell be-
hind to Varane’s 21st-minute header.
Chelsea midfielder Oscar equalised before Neymar put the South Americans ahead with his eighth goal in seven internationals.
Dunga, who was previously in charge of Brazil from July 2006 to July 2010, will also be happy with his side’s defensive strength.
Varane’s goal was only the second Brazil had conceded in seven games and they had to hold on under sustained pressure in the second half when the score was 2-1.
Mamadou Sakho, Moussa Sissoko and Antoine Griezmann were denied by Brazil goalkeeper Jefferson, before Karim Benzema fired a volley over the crossbar. Those misses proved cost-
ly for the French as Gustavo ended the game as a contest when he met Willian’s corner. It was France’s first defeat in seven games since their World Cup quarter-final loss to Germany and the scoreline could have been wider as Willian’s low shot was well saved by Mandanda.
For Brazil, who play Chile at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on Sunday, it was another pleasing night as their footballing recovery continues.
Elsewhere, Chile suffered a shock 2-0 friendly defeat against Iran, while Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao scored twice as Colombia thrashed Bahrain 6-0. (BBC Sport)
Steven Smith
(Digicel Sportsmax)
Tony Gray
Neymar scores eighth goal in seven games as Brazil win
Smith ton sets up trans-Tasman finale
Four months ago, India arrived in Australia as holders of both the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the World Cup. Then they ran into Steven Smith, who ensured they will fly home with neither. Smith tormented India with a century in every Test of the summer, and like the ghost of series past, returned to haunt them
wickets - but Smith was at the heart of it. His 105 was a class above most of the batting in this game, and set Australia on the path to a match-winning 328 for 7. In the field, he claimed wickets with his eyes and ears. Smith appeared to instigate a five-star review when there was virtually no appeal for a caught-behind
gan to look like an accelerated adolescence, every over representing a year: it’s 11, now it’s 12, now it’s 13, now it’s 14, now it’s 15. Dhoni thumped a couple of consecutive sixes off Shane Watson but he could do only so much, and fell for a run-a-ball 65 when he was the victim of a direct hit from Glenn Maxwell.
The end came quickly.
with another hundred in this World Cup semi-final. The summer of Steve just keeps rolling on.
It will end at the MCG on Sunday in either World Cup triumph over New Zealand, or heartbreak at losing the trophy to the co-hosts of this six-week event. Of course Smith was not alone in delivering Australia their seventh win from seven World Cup semi-finals - Aaron Finch gave batting support, Mitchell Johnson provided invaluable late runs and key
off Mitchell Starcs bowling; snicko found the ball had kissed Ajinkya Rahane’s edge on the way to Brad Haddin. Rahane was on 44 at the time and had put together a 70-run stand with MS Dhoni that had Australia a fraction nervous. Dhoni’s calmness at the crease will always worry his opponents, but losing Rahane and then Ravindra Jadeja - Smith’s throw from backward point found Jadeja short of his crease - placed enormous pressure on Dhoni. The required run-rate be-
James Faulkner bowled R Ashwin and Mohit Sharma from consecutive balls, and Starc rattled Umesh Yadav’s stumps in the next over to secure the 95-run win and a place in the final. The result was a relief for Australia.
India needed the highest successful chase of this tournament, but possess some of the finest chasers in world cricket. And a sea of blue around the SCG created the impression this was a home match for India. A 76run opening stand between
Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma betrayed no nerves from them. But Dhawan picked out deep extra cover off Josh Hazlewood for 45 and then came a key moment: Virat Kohli top-edged a hook off Johnson to be caught by Haddin for 1.
The loss of Rohit, bowled by Johnson for 34, and then Suresh Raina, who edged behind off Faulkner for 7, boosted Australia, but Dhoni’s presence was always a threat. He just had nobody to go with him for the big partnership required, the kind Australia had. The 182 that Smith and Finch added for the second wicket in Australia’s innings was the key stand of the game.
No other Australia partnership reached fifty, or lasted five overs. India’s bowlers fought well in the later stages to keep Australia to 328 for 7, a challenging target but a gettable one, considering high 300s were plausible while Smith and Finch were there with 197 for 1 after 34 overs.
Shami found early swing and Yadav neared 150kph, but only one wicket fell early. Then came that partnership in which Smith batted like a man who had never been out, Finch like a man who had never been in. Australia’s top order has looked much sturdier since Smith moved up to No.3 and so it did again. In only one match in any format against India this summer has Smith failed to score a hundred.
His footwork was the
equal of any great boxer; he used his crease to manufacture the length he required, including going back off Jadeja to pull one of his two sixes. Smith’s precise pulling was a feature of his innings. Of his 105 runs, 77 came through the leg side as he found the gaps without much trouble. His fifth hundred of the summer against India came from 89 balls with a pull for four off Shami.
Smith was eventually out hooking to deep square
worked when they got it head high. Between them, Smith and Finch had generally been able to keep the runs ticking over even in periods where the boundaries did not flow so freely, although the spin of Jadeja and Ashwin proved harder to get away.
Finch’s 81 was valuable to Australia but it was far from his best-looking innings. His tournament began with a hundred against England but since then he has been scratchy, and was again here.
SCOREBOARD
leg off Yadav for 105 from 93 balls; India’s bouncer finally
India captain has no retirement plans
MS Dhoni says he has no plans to quit as captain of the India limited-overs sides despite their World Cup semifinal loss to Australia.
India suffered a 95-run defeat in Sydney to end their defence of the title they won on home soil in 2011.
Dhoni quit as Test captain in December but says he will decide on his ODI future after the 2016 World Twenty20.
“I’m 33, I’m still running, still fit. Next year, T20 World Cup, will be time to decide about 2019,” said Dhoni.
As well as answering questions about his own future, Dhoni was also asked about the future of coach Duncan Fletcher, whose three-year contract ends after the World Cup.
“That is between the BCCI and Duncan,” replied Dhoni. “I don’t know what will happen.
“Duncan’s technical knowledge of the game is excellent. I really enjoy his company. He took over at a time when senior players had left and he had to groom the juniors. It was a tough job.”
Dhoni scored 65 from 95 balls as India failed to achieve what would have
been a record run-chase for this World Cup of 329, of which Steve Smith scored 102 for Australia.
Shikar Dhawan (45) and Ajinkya Rahane (44) also contributed but India were unable to keep up with the run-rate and were eventually dismissed for 233 in the 47th over.
However, despite the disappointing defeat, Dhoni feels his side can be proud of their achievements after coming into the tournament on the back of a disappointing tour of Australia, with no competitive wins to their name.
“Overall, I’m quite happy,” added Dhoni, whose side had won 11 successive World Cup games ahead
of Monday’s semi-final, including seven matches in Australia and New Zealand.
“Where we were at the start of the tournament, a lot of people didn’t think we’d get this far.
“At the same time, when you come to the knockout stages you have to lift your game.
“There were too many (runs) to chase. If you lose quite a few wickets and you’re supposed to chase over six runs an over... our lower order, I don’t think they can contribute as much in these conditions.
“Overall, it’s good exposure for them. Maybe next time, in other conditions, they’ll know how to bat and do better.” (BBC Sport)
Whereas Smith finessed, Finch forced. (Cricinfo)
Steven Smith’s hundred was a continuation of his fine form against India
MS Dhoni was run out by a direct throw from mid-wicket from Glenn Maxwell
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National ruggers ready for Hong Kong
The national rugby squad wrapped up the last pieces of preparation for their first clash with Zimbabwe in the Hong Kong series tournament set to take place on Friday.
The “Green Machine”, who played Russia in their first practice game, tangled with Tunisia in their second encounter before the game against Zimbabwe.
Captain of the team, Ryan Gonsalves was pleased with what he saw during the preparation of the team while in Hong Kong.
“The team has been jelling well; we had two pretty games and the game against Tunisia was even better. All in all I think we are getting there and hopefully we get everything together in time for this weekend’s tournament,” Gonsalves highlighted.
In addition, Gonsalves shared the area he believes Guyana can improve on to have a bigger impact on the tournament.
“Definitely, we have to work on the game speed because this is not the Caribbean, so we just have to get our game on and play to our structure and our strengths,” Gonsalves stated. Guyana will first tackle Zimbabwe before moving on to Spain and Tonga.
West Indies test side mediocre says ECB Chairman
Incoming England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Colin Graves has described the West Indies test side as “mediocre” and says there will be “some enquires” if England do not win the upcoming series in the Caribbean.
A 20 man West Indies squad has been announced to begin a training camp from April five ahead of the first test in Antigua on April 13.
Graves, who starts his new role on 15 May, says the West Indies team would be without some of its leading players who will be plying their trade in the prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL).
“A lot of their stars are going to be playing in the Indian Premier League anyway, not in the Tests, so we should win that series,” Graves told BBC Radio Leeds.
“If we don’t win, I can tell you now there will be some enquiries of why we haven’t.”
West Indies opening batsman Chris Gayle has already ruled himself out of the series, and will instead play for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League.
England have not played a Test since beating India 3-1 last summer, while the one-day side had a dismal World Cup, being eliminated at the group stage.
West Indies, knocked
out of the World Cup after struggling through to the Quarterfinals, three test matches against the Englishmen.
“I’d certainly be disappointed if we don’t win the West Indies series,” Graves said.
“… Because I am pretty sure the West Indies are going to have a mediocre team”.
The West Indies training squad includes middle order batsman Darren Bravo who has recovered from the hamstring injury which forced him out of the World Cup after two matches as well as the uncapped quartet of Carlos Brathwaite, fellow fast bowler Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich and fellow wicketkeeper/ batsman Shai Hope.
It will be Phil Simmons’ first series in charge of West Indies following his appointment as the coach after the World Cup. (CMC)
serVICes
Ryan Gonsalves (Treiston Joseph photo)
Colin Graves
International Dominoes set to invade Guyana
With member clubs issuing a challenge to the Georgetown Dominoes Association (GDA) to organise a tournament of some repute, President of the entity, Faye Joseph has arranged an international tournament to be staged over the Easter weekend (April 4-6), at the National Gymnasium.
On Wednesday evening at the residence of the President, at Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt, the tournament was launched with representatives of clubs and the GDA executive in attendance.
Joseph shortly after welcoming the clubs’ representatives to the launch called on them to exhibit good discipline and play as winners to ensure that the prizes remain in Guyana.
She reflected on the time she called on the national team competing at a previous World Tournament to bring back the top prizes and they responded by winning the men’s competition and placing third in the
women’s category.
Joseph, who is enjoying her second year at the helm of the GDA, urged the local players to perform as a unit and not as individual clubs since the focus must be to ensure that Guyana dominate the tournament.
GDA Secretary Barbara Marshall gave an overview of the tournament and the rules that would govern the event, informing that the organisers agreed to allow each team to play a minimum of four times, before the points were added to come up with the semi-finalists.
She too implored the players to behave responsibly and display good discipline at all times during the competition, adding that all captains would be held accountable for any inappropriate action of their respective teams.
According to Marshall, 13 countries have been invited to participate and as of Wednesday night, the GDA has received confirmation from five – Barbados,
USA, Canada, Antigua and Barbuda and St Lucia, with each already indicating that quite a few teams would be coming.
Among the other countries she mentioned that were invited are Grenada, Montserrat, St Eustatius, Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, and Puerto Rico. The tournament, she said, will be divided into three zones and the entrance fee per team is US$220 or $44,000.
The winning team will receive US$5000, runnerup US$2500, third place US$1500 and fourth place US$1000 along with trophies. There will also be a trophy for the Most Valuable Player.
Marshall also disclosed that points and not the accumulation of games will determine which teams go forward to the semi-finals. Three points will be awarded for a win, with two for second and one for third.
Registration will end on March 31.
guyana Jaguars players...
“At the end of the day, it’s cricket and just can’t give up. I just try to stay as strong as possible and keep working on my game,” the 29-yearold, who has now picked up 275 First-Class wickets from 63 games, said. “I’m very satisfied with my performance. I think Gunnaz [Veerasammy Permaul] bowled well in the tournament and in partnership, I think, we really bowled well. I think we really enjoy bowling together.”
Bishoo, whose performance has earned him a place in the 20-man West Indies training squad for the upcoming England series, continued, “This is the best First-Class season I’ve ever had. It’s right up there with all my successes and I’m very thankful.”
His 61 wickets came at an exemplary average of 17.06 with a best of 6-74 in the final round against the Windward Islands Volcanoes in Dominica.
Left-arm orthodox spinner Permaul, who bagged a record-breaking 67 wickets, said the hard work has paid off for him, noting that he has been putting in a lot of effort, not just in his bowling, but the batting as well.
“I’m very happy and obviously the guys are happy because it’s been 17 years since Guyana won a [Four-Day] tournament and this is a tremendous achievement for the team and for Guyana’s cricket,” Permaul, who went past 300 wickets during the season, pointed out.
The 25-year-old added that the exercise of patience was key to his suc-
cess during the 10-round tournament, which was contested by the six traditional cricket territories of the Caribbean.
“I’ve been more patient this year. [I’ve basically] put the balls in the right areas and [force] the batsmen to play more often than usual. I think once you do that in regional cricket, you’re bound to get results,” Permaul, who is also part of the West Indies squad, reckoned.
Permaul’s 67 wickets were captured at a miserly average of 14.07, and they included four five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket match figures, with a best of 8-26.
Another player who tasted individual success was opener Rajendra Chandrika, who was one of the three batsmen to score over 500 runs for Guyana Jaguars. He was the second leading Guyanese runscorer behind stalwart Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who notched up 539 runs, while Narsingh Deonarine accumulated 514.
Chandrika, who made 525 runs at an average of 35 with five half-centuries, said he was pleased to play a part in the success of the team.
“To me it’s very important [to win the championship]. Being around the team for a couple of years, many players have played, but never won the FourDay championship, so it’s a very good feeling,” the elegant right-hander, who made a career-best 90 during the tournament, related. “I think we worked hard in the camp and everyone
Florida Cup bowls off today
– Canada-based Guyanese team confident of victory
By RavendRa Madholall in ToRonTo
Ontario Master Softball International Team Manager Azeem Khan is promising fans in Toronto and Guyana that his side will make a big impression in the 2015 Florida Mini World Cup softball tournament commencing today at the Brian Picallo Park, Cooper City.
He made this statement recently at a net session in Scarborough and was very optimistic his players could prove their capability beating rivals from Guyana, New York and Florida.
The veteran all-rounder also reckoned once they played good cricket, victory in the over-40, 20-over category should not be difficult, alluding to the fact that they had a great pre-tournament preparation period as well.
His team participated in the 2014 Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association tournament with encouraging success and that has also given the combination a stronger impetus to dethrone the winner on this occasion.
was there for each other and we played as a team, and it paid off.”
Chandrika, who hails from Enterprise on the East Coast of Demerara, added that he was a bit dejected at not registering a maiden First-Class hundred, but was generally pleased with his contributions during the tournament.
“I’m satisfied that I’ve passed 500 runs for the season. I was looking to come out with the most runs, but you can’t take Shiv out of the game. He’s a very good player and I’m happy to finish second [for Guyana],” Chandrika mentioned.
Meanwhile, skipper Leon Johnson said while he was proud of being the captain of the winning team, the success could not have been possible without the unity and teamwork that were displayed by the players.
He also referred to the consistency of the players, acknowledging the three batsmen who passed 500 runs and Bishoo and Permaul as the main factors of the team’s triumphant campaign.
The Guyana Jaguars will go down in history as the first team to win the revamped Regional Four-Day competition, after the West Indies Cricket Board opted to professionalise the game at the First-Class level.
Barbados Pride finished a distant second on 117 points, followed by Windward Islands Volcanoes (109); Jamaica (75); Trinidad and Tobago Red Force (65); and Leeward Islands Hurricanes (54).
“I think we have a good team to do well in Florida; we have got experience and that is very important on this overseas tour,” Khan declared.
Former Guyana youth batsman and ex-Canada player Shiv Seeram has been at the helm again. He was part of the Guyana tour and his leadership was admirable, according to Khan.
“We went to this tournament before and learnt a lot so we can expect stiff competition again; we appreciate the support to make our participation a reality again and we don’t want to disappoint fans back in Toronto,” Khan related.
Other established softball players like Jaimini Singh, Jesh Parasnauth, Terry Mathura, Patrick Shivrathan and guest player Ramcharran Singh are certainly talented enough to take up the responsibility in the batting department.
The bowling will centre
on the experienced Fazal Shakoor, Suresh Boodhoo, Khan, Parasnauth, Hazari Girdhari and Nateram Singh among others to dominate proceedings. Both Jaimini and Ramcharran Singh represented Essequibo at the senior level and their presence for this softball showdown should be profound as they are capable of being instrumental for the Ontario team in both aspects.
Mathura, a seasoned campaigner, also spoke confidently about the team’s preparations. He vehemently believes that the team have put in adequate work over the past few weeks. The left-hander said the work ethic was good and it gave every player a sense of optimism to be on the victorious side.
Mathura mentioned they would miss the services of veteran and Canadian players Sunil Dhaniram and Desmond Chumney for this year’s competition. Dhaniram and Chumney played at the Guyana Cup but were unavailable this time owing to personal commitments.
At the Guyana Cup III, the Ontario Master team featured in the preliminary round matches emerging with two comprehensive victories but fell short on net-
run rate to advance to the semi-final stage.
Mathura further stated that this would be a great opportunity for the team to display their talent and bring back glory. He noted that once the consistency was there in both facets of the game, he and his fellow colleagues would be a proud unit under lights Sunday evening at the Fort Lauderdale venue.
Guyana Floodlights team were crowned champion in the veteran division while Wolf’s Warriors copped the open category trophy.
Meanwhile, Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Club President Jai Singh wished the team good luck and stated that his organisation has begun work to host a similar tournament in early September.
Teams are expected from Guyana, New York, Miami, Florida, Orlando and of course, Ontario.
Notably, Ontario Softball Cricket League had Dant Cricket Club representing the League at last year’s Guyana’s Cup III.
The full squad reads: Shiv Seeram (Captain); Terry Mathura; Azeem Khan; Jesh Parasnauth; Patrick Shivrathan; Jaimini Singh; Mohan Harihar; Fazal Shakoor; Ron Singh; and Nateram Singh.
ICC believes in WICB – Bassarath
President of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), Azim Bassarath, believes the International Cricket Council (ICC) has shown it has confidence in the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) when it chose them to host its annual conference.
More than 50 delegates from across the globe are slated to attend ICC Annual Conference, to be held in Barbados from June 22-26.
“It represented to me that the ICC still had faith in us as a major cricketing nation and they want-
ed to show that by coming here,” said Bassarath, who is also a WICB director.
He said the decision to have the conference in the West Indies was the result of positive discussions initiated by WICB President Dave Cameron.
“These meetings shape the future of the game and we will be having it here for the first time which speaks volumes,” he said.
“Our president Dave Cameron went across to Dubai for the last meeting and was able to make a successful approach to have the meeting here, as well as the Under-19 World Cup which will also come to the Caribbean.” (Digicel Sportsmax)
Shiv Seeram
Azim Bassarath
East Coast Busta 20/20 cricket…
Mohamed spins Enterprise A to semi-final berth
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
The experienced offspinner Zaheer Mohamed claimed five wickets last weekend to propel Enterprise A into the semi-finals of the East Coast leg of the annual Busta sponsored 20/20 cricket competition, helping his side to join Enterprise B, Lusignan and Enmore in the ‘final four.’
In an exciting encounter at the Enterprise Community Centre ground, Strathavon batted first and posted a challenging 159-9 from the allotted 20 overs with Martin Dutchin making 49 and Sewchand Budhu 31.
Mohamed, with FirstClass experience under his belt, was superb in his stipulated four overs, claiming excellent figures of 5-26. Veteran spinner
Chatterpaul Singh rolled back the years, claiming 3-31, also from four overs.
Enterprise A then managed to pull off a tight one wicket victory, reaching the
704 Sports Bar ‘kicking’ with Golden Jaguars
In a move to help garner public support for Guyana’s international friendly against Grenada on Sunday, the 704 Sports Bar on Thursday formed an alliance with the Golden Jaguars – Guyana’s senior national football team.
A few players, management and representatives from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) were on
hand to present an autographed Golden Jaguars official playing jersey to the Sports Bar. It will be mounted on the Bar’s Wall of Fame.
target of 160 with a mere four balls remaining. Rohan Mangal led the chase with a fine 61, while Parmanand Dindyal and Vivian Albert chipped in with 36 and 35 respectively. Bowling for Strathavon, Gobindram Hemraj bagged 2-32 and Ganesh Sugrim 2-20.
Lusignan booked their spot in the semi-final, following a 37-run success over Bravados. Taking first strike, Lusignan managed 139-8 with Davanand Samaroo hitting 28, Kumar Bishundyal 24 and Somnauth Bharrat 21.
Anthony Ifill and Kellon Carmichael snared 2-13 and 2-16 respectively for Bravados, who could only muster 102-9 when the overs ran out. Ifill returned to topscore with 32, while Gajnan Sukanan picked up 3-11 and Feron Kadir 2-15.
Over at Enmore, the home team defeated Buxton by 15 runs to advance to the next round, courte-
sy of a solid all-rounder effort. Enmore accumulated 135-9 with Vishwanauth Ramlakhan hitting 28 and Kenon Ramascindo 23. Travis Emanuel (2-12) and Mark Cole (2-15) were the chief wicket-takers for Buxton, who responded with 120-9.
Rawle Fredericks made the lone fifty of the match, a fine 51, as off-spinner Christopher Surat snatched 4-28 and seamer Gavin Moriah 2-11.
In the other quarter-final game, Enterprise B defeated Unity by seven wickets to move deeper into the competition. Unity chalked up 131-8 from the allotted overs with Keith Suraj leading the way with 71.
Seemangal Yadram (319) and Afzal Rahaman (226) were the top bowlers for Enterprise B, who needed 17.5 overs to achieve the target. National youth player Bhaskar Yadram was the standout batsman during
the chase with a solid 43, while Lakeram Dindyal and Nishad Ulla scored 31 not out each.
In the semi-finals, Enterprise A will face Enmore at 13:30h at the Enterprise ground on Saturday, while Enterprise B and Lusignan will square off on Sunday at 09:30h at the same venue. The winners will clash in the grand final, set for Sunday afternoon from 13:30h, also at the Enterprise ground. The champion team will take home $50,000, while the runner-up will pocket half that amount. Both finalists will also be presented with a trophy. There will also be individual prizes for Most Valuable Player, Best Batsman and Best Bowler.
The competition is being sponsored exclusively by Guyana Beverage Company Inc., under its Busta soft drink brand. It is being coordinated by the Enterprise Busta Sports Club.
704 Sports Bar Project Manager Dustani Barrow said that it was an honour to have the team’s jersey mounted in the building and the entity intended to fully support the team as they prepare for the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers.
704 Sports Bar has in its possession several replica jerseys and memorabilia from various sport disciplines, autographed by its biggest athletes, among them Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, “Magic” Johnson, LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Manny Pacquiao.
Alpha United set to host CFU games
By TReisTon Joseph
Alpha United have been preparing for their Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Championships set to kick off at the Guyana National Stadium on April 15.
The club is currently involved in the Kashif and Shanghai Football Tournament. Coach of the team, Wayne Dover talked about their preparation for the CFU tournament at a press conference held on Thursday at the Waterchris Hotel. Georgetown.
“Our preparation has gone well since we started training, we train once a day and we have been focusing on conditioning for the past six weeks.
“We are in competition right now and we are assessing where we are at and
the work we have done over the last eight weeks,” Dover noted.
Club President Odinga Lumumba highlighted that they would be in need of funding to host two encounters on April 15 and 19.
“To host the games we will need $10 million; CFU has committed US$15,000 or G$3 million to us, but we will need a further $7 mil-
lion and for some reason sport is not taken as a priority in Guyana.
“I reached out to the Government and the Private Sector, but will do what I can,” Lumumba stated.
Guyana will play a team from Suriname on April 15, while playing a team from Trinidad on April 19.
Zaheer Mohamed Christopher Surat
704 Sports Bar Project Manager Dustani Barrow (third right) is surrounded by members of the Golden Jaguars during Thursday’s presentation
From left: Wayne Dover, Odinga Lumumba and Steve Ninvalle at the press conference
Milo Under-20 Football tournament…
New champs guaranteed after Lodge fall to Dolphin Secondary
final appearance
B y T R eis T on J oseph
Dolphin Secondary School played one of their best games to oust defending champs Lodge Secondary from the Milo Under-20 School Football tournament on Thursday at the Ministry of Education ground.
The 2-1 victory by Dolphin means that the team will advance to the
final of the tournament, guaranteeing that new champions will be crowned.
The game had no shortage of action as both teams showed their attacking capability from the onset.
However, it was the defending champs, Lodge who drew first blood with a blasting strike from Shemar Smith in the 13th minute of the game as the first half ended 1-nil.
On resumption of the second half, Dolphin kept the pressure on Lodge with a number of attacks either from the wing or down the middle but finally equalised in the 50th minute with a goal from Leon Richardson.
Both teams kept searching for the winner, leaving the huge crowd gasping with missed shot after missed shot before Joshua Perreira found himself re-
ceiving a prefect through pass to go one on one with the keeper, tucking the ball in the lower left hand corner of the goal that sparked wild celebrations in the 76th minute of the game.
Meanwhile in the second game of the day, a match-up of two high scoring teams, Chase Academy needled Morgan Learning Centre (MLC) with a 1-0 victory to book their spot in
the final as well.
While both teams created numerous chances to score it was Marlon Nedd’s goal in the 38th minute that won the game for Chase.
MLC had their best chance to equalise in the dying moments when one of their attacking players found themselves one on one with the keeper but pushed the ball high over
the crossbar to the groans of the large MLC supporting cast.
Director of Petra, Troy Mendoca was pleased with the turnout and the quality football, noting that ‘we are heading in the right direction.”
The final will be played on Tuesday from 16:00h at the Ministry of Education ground.
Guyana Jaguars players reflect on PCL success
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
The power of teamwork and unity has been underscored by members of the Guyana Jaguars team following their remarkable success at the recently-concluded West Indies Cricket Board’s Professional Cricket League (PCL) Regional Four-Day competition.
Guyana won the title after 17 years of fruitless attempts. The Guyana Jaguars finished comfortable winners with a total of 148 points from the 10 matches, which comprised eight victories, a loss and a draw.
The humungous effort was orchestrated by magnificent bowling from Albion spin twins Devendra Bishoo and Veerasammy Permaul,
who combined for a whopping 128 wickets, inclusive of eight fivewicket hauls and four 10-wicket match figures.
Bishoo, the leg-spinner, who claimed 61 wickets, the second highest in the tournament, said he was motivated to up his performance after being dropped from the West Indies team and subsequently by the Guyana team last year. After being overlooked by the Guyana selectors during the last season, Bishoo returned in the final round to claim a 15-wicket match haul, including a career-best 9-78. That performance brought the 29-year-old back into the fray and since then he has not looked back.
Some of the action during the Chase - MLC game
– Chase top MLC to make first
Joshua Perreira celebrates his winning goal to the dismay of the Lodge players (Treiston Joseph photos)
