Guyana Times Daily - October 3, 2015

Govt to discontinue GuySuCo's subsidy

saturday, october 3, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

As territorial threats resurface…

Guyana to US: help us with security

– Government accepts new US Ambassador’s credentials

President David Granger on Friday asked the United States of America to assist Guyana in the area of strengthening its security capacity to fend off several territorial threats which again appear to be resurfacing on different fronts.

President Granger made the call as he accepted the Letters of Credence presented by US Ambassador Perry Holloway at the Ministry of Presidency.

According to President Granger, Guyana looks forward to the support of the US in its “legitimate quest” to protect itself against, among other things, threats to its territorial integrity.

He said he wanted the North American country to guarantee security to Guyana against territorial threats made specifically by

neighbouring Venezuela.

“We are encouraged by the continued interest that the USA has shown in the

security of small Caribbean states. The USA’s geopolitical role will be fundamental to addressing the many chal-

lenges faced by the Caribbean Region. We wish to urge the USA to use its influence in the hemisphere and on the international stage to reject the use, or threat of the use, of force between states, to promote development and to preserve the Caribbean as a zone of peace,” he stated.

President Granger noted that for the past 50 years the two countries have enjoyed cordial relations which have cemented their collaboration in the promotion of democracy, energy, health, security and trade as well as other areas of mutual interest.

“Guyana welcomes the USA’s renewed commitment to strengthen existing partnerships and to forge new ones between our two Republics during your tour of duty. We acknowledge the changes which have occurred in security situation in our

hemisphere, particularly over the past two decades. These include the prevalence of transnational crimes such as terrorism, trafficking in persons, trafficking in illegal narcotics, trafficking in illegal weapons and moneylaundering to all of which small states are very vulnerable,” Granger stated.

According to the President, Guyana’s geographical location on the South American continent makes it vulnerable to penetration by transnational criminal networks and territorial claims. He said security is essential to promoting and consolidating democracy, creating a cohesive society and ensuring the good life for all. We desire respect for our sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“Guyana is resolved to defend its territory, dismantle transnational criminal networks and develop its natural resources for the benefit of its people. The capabilities of criminal cartels, however, can exceed those of small states. We must seek succour and support through partnerships with other states which have an interest in preserving the Caribbean as a zone of peace,” the President added.

Moreover, Granger reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to working with the USA to strengthen cooperation under the framework of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), to ensuring peace, stability and security, to expanding cooperation, to promote a sustainable framework for peace, security and development.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Holloway in his remarks said he looks forward to continuing the work of his predecessors while at the same time, broadening the friendship and cooperation that already exists between the two Governments and peoples.

He noted that he is looking forward to putting all

his preparation, made over the past year, into practice and seeing how well the reality on the ground matches the analysis given to him in Washington.

“I watched with great anticipation and at times some degree of trepidation, the momentous events of 2014 and 2015, which ultimately resulted in the free and fair elections of May 2015. I look forward to working closely with the Government to build on Guyana’s growing democracy. I wish to pledge my Government’s continued support to the holding of Local Government Elections before the end of 2015, hopefully with the use of electronic tabulation so that we can all have a few less sleepless nights as we await the results,” the Ambassador stated.

Holloway went on to recall President Granger’s inaugural address, highlighting his remark about the need for cooperation to achieve social inclusion.

“It is my intention to partner closely with your Government as you work to achieve this lofty goal. Together, we can ensure that all Guyanese enjoy equality of opportunity without regard to race, ethnicity, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Doing so will not only assist political reconciliation, it will also promote national development.”

Additionally, the US Ambassador committed to work with Guyana to combat transnational-organised crimes under the CBSI programme.

He pointed out that his Government will support local efforts to bring about increased transparency and accountability in the management of public resources and to protect the environment, as well as mobilise private sector resources for the development of cheaper sources of renewable energy.

Clothing vendor on bail for fraudulent conversion

Aclothing vendor was on Friday placed on $50,000 bail after he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court

Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with fraudulent conversion.

Tony Ramnarine, 34, of 6 East Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that during the month of August at Water Street, Georgetown, while being solely entrusted by Komal Chand with a quantity of body washes and clothing valued in excess of $200,000 which he was to sell and return the proceeds to Chand, he fraudulently converted same to his own uses and benefit.

He also denied the charge

which read that between Wednesday, April 1 and September 14 at Georgetown, while being solely entrusted by Renita Perry with a quantity of gift sets valued in excess of $100,000 which he was to sell and return the proceeds to Perry, he fraudulently converted same to his own uses and benefit.

The court heard that the accused is single and lives with his elderly mother who has cancer. He further related that due to the slowdown of the economy recently, he was unable to sell the items and return the money.

He requested adequate time to do such. He was released on $25,000 bail on each charge. The matter will return to court on October 9.

New US Ambassador to Guyana Perry Holloway shakes President David Granger'sGranger's hand after he presented his Credentials on Friday

saturday, october 3, 2015 |

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, October 3 – 08:10h-09:40h and Sunday, October 4 – 09:10h-10:40h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Sunny weather with intervals of cloudy weather can be expected throughout the day, with clear to partly cloudy conditions are expected in the evening. Temperatures can range between 25 degrees and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East to East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres per second.

High Tide: 08:00h and 20:15h reaching maximum heights of 2.44 metres at each scheduled high tide.

Low Tide: 01:31h and 13:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.61 metre and 0.65 metre respectively.

Sugar turns bitter….

Govt to discontinue GuySuCo's subsidy – final CoI report to be presented month-end

By Alexis Rodney

uyana’s already broken down economy might be too fragile to continue the sustenance of the ailing Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), and the final report into the investigation into the circumstances leading to its current state of affairs will reveal this and give Government an idea on the way forward.

This was revealed by Vibert Parvatan, Chairman of the Commission established to examine the operations of the Sugar Corporation. He, along with other commissioners, and Agriculture Minister Noel Holder met with members of the media on Friday to give an update on the CoI which was scheduled to come to an end on September 30.

Parvatan lamented the condition of the industry, particularly the financial pressure it imposes on the economy, with the multibillion-dollar subsidies it receives from Government. Both the past and current Governments have pumped billions of dollars into the operations of the Corporation, and Parvatan posited that this did not speak well for Guyana’s weakening financial system.

“Both Governments have been committed and compelled under the caption of bailouts or subsidies to keep the company afloat. While subsidies are not new to sugar industries, the Government of the day, conscious of its sympathy and support for the industry, acknowledges that they have their own limits in terms of

funding,” Parvatan told the Press.

According to him, “the little economy of Guyana may not be able to sustain such levels of subsidies”.

If GuySuCo was seen primarily as a business, there would have been a simple obvious solution to the situation, Parvatan said. But things, as they are now, prove that GuySuCo is “more than a business. It impacts on the lives of Guyanese, particularly those living along the Atlantic coast”.

The Chairman said it was against that backdrop that Commissioners were asked to make recommendations on the way forward for the industry. According to him, the task is complicated, but not insurmountable. He said there were a number of suggestions that have been placed before the Commission. And while many of these proposals could not be recommended to Government because of the theory of impartiality, they were in the process of looking at some sections would benefit the people.

GuySuCo, he reminded,

has been operating at a loss of billions of dollars annually.

“It is no secret that GuySuCo is in a very critical situation, with their yields declining”.

He said GuySuCo had years back been able to maintain its production at a minimum of 300,000 tonnes, today the production continues to “go down and down”.

To compound the problem of declining production, he said the unit cost of production has been climbing. Sources at GuySuCo have informed him that as things stand now, the world market price is some 13 US cents per pound and, in the same vein, the Sugar Corporation has advised that its current cost of production is around 45 cents per pound.

He said the historical position of the European Market, which gave the preferential prices and which was a bonanza in times past, was now going downhill. According to him, every estate from Skeldon to Uitvlugt was operating at a loss.

“That loss position did not start this year or last year. It goes back to a number of years and each year the figure has been climbing. Last year, it climbed to $17 billion, which is a major

concern,” he said.

“In essence, the accountants will say that GuySuCo is insolvent, the past Government and the present Government have been committed and compelled to inject funds under the caption of bailout or subsidies to keep the company afloat,” said Parvatan.

Speaking on the progress made so far by the CoI, Parvatan said currently the sub-committees’ reports have already been submitted and each was being placed before the Commission for presentation and discussion.

The Inquiry into the Sugar Corporation began in July of this year. Government said the objective was to develop a plan which would bring the State-owned enterprise, which has been operating since 1976, back to profitability, and assure its longterm environmental and economic sustainability.

The Commissioners, who are tasked with development planning for this purpose, are mandated to “investigate and inquire into the current state of cane cultivation, production, and marketing of sugar, molasses and other by-products, including power”.

Vibert Parvatan

Editor(ag): Michael Younge

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Line losses and electricity theft

It is no secret that electricity theft has been a major problem facing the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) for some time now. And it seems that despite the many efforts being made by the authorities to address the problem, theft continues to plague the company’s operations and certainly is having a negative impact in its ability to improve services to customers.

Certainly, if the electricity situation in the country is to be improved, and the company is to be in a position where it is making reasonable profits etc, the issue of electricity theft would have to be tackled aggressively once and for all. Many consumers are of the view that enough is not being done by the company to address electricity theft and they feel that (they) consumers should not be faced with the heavy burden of the paying for the electricity that is stolen by unscrupulous persons.

We are therefore pleased to see that Government, through the Public Works Ministry, has placed the issue once again on the front burner for serious attention. It was recently reported in the media that with the help of a loan programme sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), this state of affairs in relation to line losses and electricity theft is expected to be drastically improved. From all indications, the loan programme will not only seek to address the issue of technical and commercial line losses, but will pave the way for government to move ahead with projects for alternate energy sources in the future.

Certainly, the extent of electricity theft in Guyana is shocking. It is necessary that GPL continue to publicise its findings with respect to the percentage of electricity that is being stolen and engage in efforts to explain to the ordinary consumers the kind of impact this illegal practice is having on the company and its ability to improve services.

Of concern too is that some persons even risk their lives to steal electricity and a number of them have died in the process. Children accidentally are killed while playing because of crudely installed wires − wires which were not meant for electrical transmission. Homes have been destroyed by fire as well. But in spite of all of this, persons persist in making illegal connections to their homes.

The Electricity Sector Reform Act (1999), with amendments in 2010, clearly outlines severe penalties for persons found guilty of electricity theft. The authorities have made several ‘raids’ in communities in which electricity theft is prevalent, but we are not sure of the kind of impact they have had in reducing the number of illegal connections. We gather that the conviction rate is very minimal when compared to the number of persons charged for electricity theft.

We believe that GPL should step up its campaign to prevent electricity theft across the country. These efforts must also be supported by the judicial system and the communities where these practices are prevalent. For example, there have been numerous reports that GPL officials and even the police are chased out of areas whenever they go to investigate reports of electricity theft. Citizens must assist the authorities in bringing a halt to this practice by making the necessary reports to the police whenever they see it happening.

That said, in addition to tackling electricity theft, the issue of technical and commercial line losses in general must be dealt with from a holistic perspective. The company is gradually replacing old wires, which by and large contribute to line losses, but these efforts must fast-tracked. The company must also move ahead with managerial reforms and capacity building efforts with the intention of raising the bar as it relates to providing an efficient and reliable service to the nation.

The bottom line is that no entity can survive or improve its services to consumers without the much needed capital to do so. Over the years, electricity theft and line losses in general have severely dented the revenue of GPL, and as a result have crippled the company’s ability to bring improved services to Guyanese consumers.

‘Tis the season of ‘Sports’. As schools around

their day of ‘Sports’, even the little tots of ABC Academy got in on the action (Carl Croker photo)

Hamilton Green should not be able to get away with his misdeeds

Dear Editor, There is an old Guyanese proverb that says ‘Moon ah run till daylight ketch am’ which means that you may think that you are getting away with your misdeeds, but one day you will be caught.

Many Guyanese could not understand the uncultured and as we in Guyana would say ‘common’ behaviour of Mayor Hamilton Green in his interactions with the previous Town Clerks. Indeed as a woman, I found his attitude to the immediate past Town Clerk Ms Carol Sooba to be downright disrespectful, prejudiced and shocking.

But having read the recent front page story of Guyana Times which exposed an intention by Mayor Green to inappropriately retrieve monies that he and his wife had to pay in outstanding property taxes, and which he paid in the first place only because of the firmness and diligence required, tells the whole story.

In which other part of the world could the chief citizen or his family not pay their taxes until it amounts to over 10 million dollars, and still remain Mayor? Then, after reluctantly paying it out of necessity due to the fact that

he was selling the property and cashing in, he tried to have some illegal motion tabled by his cohorts in Council to exonerate him from his financial obligation. If he had any sense, he would have brought forward the amnesty period to when he was selling the property instead of now.

The complete irony of this situation is that for the last two decades, Mayor Green has been complaining of how cash strapped the Council is, all the while not paying his own taxes, and worse, has been calling on citizens to pay up and honour civic duty.

If Mayor Green is al-

lowed to get away with this, then every citizen ought to have their interest payments refunded just like him.

Now one understands why Mayor Green so brutishly removed Ms Sooba as Town Clerk, as she was standing in the way of him getting his hands on over 10 million dollars that he believes he was exempt from paying in the first place, and which he now wants to illegally retrieve after profiting from the sale of the property.

Sincerely,

Nadine Jerrick

State Assets Recovery team in Berbice alleged misconduct

Dear Editor, Reports indicate that the State Assets Recovery Unit was in Berbice last week conducting activities in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). According to these reports, the car that was attached to the three persons was seen parked in front of rum shops in

Berbice. Last Sunday, the car was allegedly seen in Mahaicony at a rum shop.

It is also reported that these three persons who were using the ‘White Car’ could have been seen every day with a State asset – Government car – drinking alcohol during working hours. If this is the case, then what is

the Minister of State “recovering” if a State asset is been abused during the process of so called “Recovering State Assets.’’ Reports are that observers overheard one of these very rum shop discussions on Government business. Apparently, observers overheard the Minister of State’s name

mentioned over a “hundred times’’ by one of the persons from the team during their imbibed arguments in the shop. Again, if this is the case, then these officials must conduct themselves professionally, in full respect of their mandate.

Sincerely, Sam Baker

Guyana celebrate

Faces of Guyanese not represented

Dear Editor,

I refer to a story carried recently in the media, on President Granger and Raul Castro holding talks on September 27, preceding the meeting with counterpart, Nicolás Maduro at the United Nations.

It is an established fact that modern day media increasingly relies on imagery to attract readers, some even indulging in inappropriate and sensitive graphic scenes. Perhaps the reason for this is that images can divulge every aspect of a situation, even those that cannot be defined by words for want of their being politically correct.

The image used by the majority of media houses which carried this story was one of Presidents Granger and Castro accompanied by their teams or diplomats (no precision was provided by the media) seated opposite each other.

What struck me is that those of the Guyanese team figuring in this image, are all Afro Guyanese, including President Granger and Foreign Affairs Minister Greenidge. There are no Indians, Amerindians or Portuguese on this team, none of any other descent. Yet, this team represents and speaks on behalf of a Guyana; land of “six peoples”, purporting to defend the rights of a “nation” which this Government wants to “unite”. How must I “unite” when I am not represented in my own country nor on the international scene?

Neither ethnicity of my mixed lineage was represented on that team, nor in this Government. Additionally, I am one of those women who feels underrepresented due to the scarcity of powerful, senior and dominant female characters in Government. They all seem to be what we commonly refer to as

“tokens”.

How is one supposed to feel “empowered” and free with such a Government, and how can this Government pretend to represent a “united” Guyana when its actions speak of the contrary? Is the world not seeing this? How can this Government expect to appear credible in the eyes of its unrepresented peoples, and how can this Government expect its authority to be recognised by the populace? Why should it be when it doesn’t represent its people and their interest? It has plunged us into a dark period of frustration and resentment, which has reopened old wounds and revived past feelings of fear of the regime.

Hopefully, this situation isn’t permanent and we will awaken from it like a bad dream.

Sincerely,

Alexi Williams

A horrible experience at the Georgetown Public Hospital

Dear Editor, This sad experience happened to my own adopted Lokono-Arawak son and his beautiful LokonoArawak wife last week who went to the Georgetown Public Hospital to deliver twins. One of the babies – a boy named Wiwa Shimara, which means ‘Shooting Star’ in the Arawak language, died during delivery; only the girl survived. Her name is Warokoma - which means ‘Morning Star’ in Arawak.

So my adopted son as a young father had to join me in grief in having to hold his dead child in his arms. I refer to the continuing treatment that poor people, native and non-native alike experience on a daily basis at the places where life is supposed to held sacred and where we expect to be treated with loving care and genuine concern. Alas, this was not my son’s experience whose uncle is arguably the biggest ‘big shot’ in medical circles of authority in Guyana

Complaint of racial discrimination in teaching music in schools

Dear Editor, I applaud the new Government’s announced plan “to integrate arts and culture in the general schools’ curriculum”. That is admirable – the nation would benefit from learning each other’s culture in our racially divided society. But Junior Education Minister Nicolette Henry, in a media report, disclosed that “the Education Ministry is looking to have steel pan taught in schools”. That would be discriminatory as pan is not the favoured music or culture of a majority of the population. It expos-

es the Minister’s biased view, mindset and mode of thought as it pertains to education and culture. What about the music of other ethnic groups?

This is a deja-vu of what took place when Minister Henry’s party previously governed Guyana between 1965 and 1992, discriminating against the culture of other ethnic groups. There should be no bias, discrimination or dominance of any one musical instrument of music or art form over others. The musical instruments used by Indians, Chinese, Amerindians, Portuguese and others must also be

given prominence in the school curricula.

The Minister explained in comments that “work in this direction has already started”. Really?! So the Minister took it upon herself to announce a discriminatory policy and has initiated a process of institutionalised bias against other ethnic groups not of her own? This will not go down well, especially now that the Government is talking the language of political and ethnic unity. How can there be unity if the Government is persistently discriminating against other ethnic groups?

It raises suspicion about the Government’s agenda and brings back memories of that dark period of the dictatorship when the culture of the ruling ethnic group towered over all others. This is unacceptable. No one’s culture or music or musical instrument must be disrespected or de-emphasised in any State sponsored cultural activity or official policy as is the case of only teaching pan in school. Every culture and music must be treated with equal footing.

Yours faithfully, Vishnu Bisram

presently. When the uncle was informed of the sad news, he told his nephew – my adopted son – that he would be coming to the hospital in person, but my son waited for hours in vain as he never saw him arrive.

We assume that my son’s uncle called the very kind senior doctor in charge when the baby was pronounced dead, because he was very friendly and helpful. Unfortunately, all the folks beneath him were not so.

From the guard who was a hoggish brute, to the mortuary workers and the person who was supposed “to have records of all deaths and births from the previous night by the following morning”, but who claimed to have no such information, therefore pushing around my son who was still in shock as he tried to view his deceased baby and deal with the necessary paperwork so he could take his child home for a proper and respectful burial. The staff was of no help.

To make matters worse, the mortuary worker demanded a monetary bribe to allow him to see his child because he claimed no-one had informed him of anything, and once in the mortuary, my son described it as being more like an abattoir than a place where human beings were supposed to be decently and hygienically kept prior to burial. He described the shock of seeing blood on the floor and flies in the room, and having to watch multiple doors be opened and bodies of dozens of other dead children be checked before his son was identified by a tag. He claimed that the worker handed him his baby carefully, but was rough with the other peoples’ babies, perhaps because these parents weren’t present.

This letter isn’t intended to attack anyone in se-

nior positions of power or embarrass the Government in any way, but those at the top need to know what is occurring at the bottom. I am certain that this is not the first time a poor person has been treated with such callousness and unprofessionalism at the Georgetown Public Hospital. I am equally certain that this ill-treatment and lack of empathy and sympathy will continue unabated until those with the mandate to effect real change and reform do so. I do not think that all lower level staff are like this, but “one bad apple spoils the bunch”, so I think that all the lower level staff that exhibit these kinds of disregard for human life need to be retrained or replaced.

Kindhearted hospital workers should anonymously report any colleague who exhibits such poor conduct as a professional and moral obligation to the public who they serve. Because such callous people are obviously doing the wrong job, they must find other work more suitable to them.

It is entirely possible that guilt reflex may cause some to attack me for being the whistle blower in this case but my 14 years of work in Indigenous Rights within the Organisation of American States (OAS) and eight years doing the same in the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) has taught me that the ‘Court of public opinion’ is a great vehicle for positive change. We need this “better tomorrow” as swiftly as possible, so my vitriolic opponents may lash out at me as they see fit; it only exposes their own pettiness and personal vendettas.

Yours sincerely,

Damon Gerard Corrie

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

Junior Education Minister Nicolette Henry

Page Foundation

There are a lot of places where there are a lot of toxic chemicals. Like, say, a Superfund such as the Gowanus Canal in New York City, or a mining waste facility. Also, your kitchen. According to numbers from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the average American has traces of 29 pesticides present in their body. And according to an opinion piece published Thursday in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the exposure through food is part of an extensive threat to global health – especially for future generations.

“We are drowning our world in untested and unsafe chemicals and the price we are paying in terms of our reproductive health is of serious concern,” Dr Gian Carlo Di Renzo, the lead author of the paper, told Reuters.

The members of the International Federation of Gynecologist and Obstetricians (FIGO) who wrote the paper mention the pesticide chlorpyirifos – which is commonly sprayed on everything from soy to citrus to grapes – in the same breath as lead and mercury as one of the chemicals that interfere “with one of more critical periods of human development leading to developmental neurotoxicity.”

“Consequently,” they continue, “even small exposures during a window of vulnerability can trigger adverse health consequences that can manifest across the life span of individuals and generations.”

While the long-term health effects of the kind of low-level pesticide exposure we get through eating produce remains unknown, the research that’s been conducted on farm workers and their children is sobering. Research conducted by UC Berkley in California’s Salinas Valley, a major vegetable growing region, found that exposure to organo-

phosphates like chlorpyirifos during pregnancy was associated with as much as a 7-point decline in IQ scores for seven-year-olds. Another study performed at UC Davis found that living in close quarters to fields sprayed with organophosphates might result in higher autism rates.

With the World Health Organisation’s cancer research group saying that the world’s most commonly used herbicide, glyphosate, is a “prob-

ing, handling, and disposing of those chemicals, in agriculture or other fields, may be more lax in those countries.

On the retail end of the supply chain, pesticides are a concern to 85 per cent of Americans, according to a recent Consumer Reports survey. But buying organic – the easiest way to limit exposure through diet – can be a financial burden.

Still, the FIGO authors recommend,

able carcinogen,” and bothstate and federal regulatory efforts promising safer handling and applications of pesticides, the issue of chemical exposure in agriculture is receiving an increasing amount of attention in the U.S.

But the FIGO members who wrote the paper warn that developing countries are set to see the most growth in chemical manufacturing in the next five years – and regulations for produc-

in part, policies “that foster a healthy food chain.”

“This includes increasing the capacity for women and men who are planning a family,” the authors continue, “as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, to eat fresh fruits and pesticide-free vegetables, legumes, and whole grains daily, to avoid fast foods and other processed foods whenever possible.” (Yahoo! News)

(Continued from friday)

3. Introverted children process their feelings internally. You may not be aware of what a child is feeling because she doesn’t wear her emotions on her sleeve.

Just to compare: an extroverted child takes in stimuli and turns it right back out at the world. A disagreement with a friend? Loud angry words right back at you. An exciting ride at the fair? Boisterous chatter, laughter, shouting. Enjoying a great movie? Vibrant narrations and commentary throughout.

By contrast, introverts take in stimuli and retain it; they toss it about for a while to decide what they think and how to respond. Sometimes sensory input may be too much for an introverted child’s internal processor and may have nowhere to go but out. Overstimulation appears in the form of an outburst that may seem random or misplaced. But it’s really too much emotional turmoil that has built up and for which there is no more room inside.

DO: Understand that your introverted child’s feelings may not be obvious. To help with communication, give children outlets for expression like journaling, art, or lots of time for free play with toys and characters. (At our house, we also like pounding nails into a stump!)

DON’T: Assume that because an introverted child is not having an outburst that she’s “fine.” A tantrum is simply the final straw for an introvert; it’s

what happens where there is no more room for stress inside. When they occur, accept them wholly and be available to listen reflectively.

4. Introverted children prefer play dates to play groups. One-on-one encounters allow people to get to know each other much more deeply, which is the kind of interaction introverts crave. I would venture to say that the deeper levels of

relationship only occur in oneon-one encounters, introvert or not; that it is impossible to truly get to know a person when you’re always in the presence of others. But for introverts, singlefriend play dates are less stimulating than being in a large group of activity and are more conducive to meaningful conversation. This is an introvert’s need that balances out their other need for alone time.

DO: Opt for play dates with a single friend or family over large groups of children and parents. Keep birthday parties small and intimate. Help your introvert develop a few close friendships rather than a variety of acquaintances.

DON’T: Assume that being a social butterfly is akin to happiness for your introvert. The more people they encounter, the harder it is for them to process the interactions and enjoy the time with everyone.

5. Introverted children enjoy activities that allow their minds to wander. Any opportunity to think, pretend, get creative, solve problems, day dream or otherwise get inside their head is welcome. Great introverted activities include reading, writing, sketching, jump rope, roller skating, fishing, painting, bike rides, gardening, playing catch, swimming, hiking, swinging, climbing trees, puzzles…the list goes on.

DO: Support and encourage your child’s natural interests. Be open about what those might be.

DON’T: Insist on participating in group activities for the purpose of social skills or teamwork. While it’s true that team sports do have a lot of value, not participating is not automatically a detriment. There are so many ways for a child to assert her talent, learn new skills, and develop her strengths. (Parentingfromscratch. wordpress.com)

Cocaine in bus saga… Four Policemen charged for accepting bribes

Four policemen were on Friday brought before Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court

Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to charges of accepting bribes.

Ray

Drepaul Sol,

27, of Eversham, East Berbice, Corentyne; Trevon Mackenzie, 26, of Kingston, East Berbice, Corentyne and Shawn McFloyd, 42, of 174 Lane Avenue, West Ruimveldt, Georgetown all pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that between September 10 and 11, being agents employed by the state of Guyana they corruptly obtained from Renson Parks, a sum of $6 million as an inducement or reward to release a vehicle carrying cocaine and cash that was seized during a road block.

Police Prosecutor Corporal Deniro Jones objected to bail, stating that he fears the three defendants may make attempts at tampering with the prosecution witnesses.

Bail was refused and the matter was transferred to the Whim Magistrate’s

Court for October 12.

Additionally, Assistant Superintendent Terrence Brown, 48, of 238 Sisters Village, East Bank Berbice was placed on $250,000 bail when he appeared in Court on the same occasion to answer to the charge which read that between September 10 and 11 at the Whim Police Station, be-

President Granger endorses Jagdeo’s climate change agenda

President David Granger was highly appreciative of the efforts made by former President and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo in his global climate change agenda.

Whilst President Granger was in New York at the United Nations General Assembly engaging world leaders on the Guyana/ Venezuela border controversy, the former President was also present on his own account to facilitate discussions on matters concerning the upcoming conference in Paris where world leaders will reach a global agreement on climate change.

When asked if he is against the Opposition Leader representing the interest of Government at the international forum, President Granger replied in the negative, noting that Jagdeo’s efforts

are openly welcomed by his Administration.

“It is well known that during his tenure he did advance certain initiatives in terms of climate change… We are not in the business of rejecting his assistance… As far as Mr Jagdeo is concerned, his intervention is welcomed,” he acknowledged during a recent media conference at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday.

Jagdeo, whilst at the UN event, engaged world leaders on the preparations toward reaching the global climate change agreement in Paris in December. Jagdeo noted that developing countries around the world, including Guyana, continue to be united in their desire to provide solutions to climate change.

In addition to meetings at the United Nations and elsewhere, the former President attended the Clinton Global

ing an agent employed by the state of Guyana, he corruptly obtained from Shawn McFloyd on behalf of Renson Parks, a sum of money as an inducement or reward to release a vehicle carrying cocaine and cash that was seized during a road block.

According to reports, the Constables were placed under close arrest after senior officials within B Division (Berbice) received word of them allegedly accepting some $6 million to release a vehicle.

Based on information received by Guyana Times the incident occurred on September 10, but the senior officials in the Division only later got wind of it and called in the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to probe the matter.

Based on information, on the day in question

the ranks, including a female Officer, were conducting a road block exercise at Salton, Corentyne, when they intercepted a minibus reportedly carrying a quantity of cocaine and a large sum of cash. The ranks reportedly took the vehicle and its occupants to the Station; however, before entering the compound the officers allegedly negotiated a settlement with the occupants instead of arresting them and took some $6 million cash in exchange for releasing the bus and its occupants.

This newspaper was told the vehicle was reportedly heading to Suriname with the narcotics and cash.

Further reports indicated the men went back to the Station where they allegedly informed the Assistant Superintendent about their crime, but instead of taking disciplinary action against

the ranks, the senior officer took a portion of the bribe money.

This, the Police source added, reportedly angered one of the ranks as his share was “shortened”, so he began complaining about it. Word of the incident began spreading and eventually reached acting Commander of the Division, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts, who took the neces-

sary action against the officers involved.

This publication was told that Watts was informed of the allegation and immediately alerted his superiors at Police Headquarters. A team from the CID was dispatched the following day to investigate.

Along with the CID, the Office of Professional Responsibility was also probing the matter.

Initiative, now in its tenth year, under the leadership of former US President Bill Clinton.

Jagdeo also joined former New Zealand Prime Minister and current Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme at the launch of a report by the Center for Global Development.

The report focused on world-leading national global models for low carbon development, and highlighted Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, and the fact that the GuyanaNorway partnership on forests is the world’s second largest forest payment for performance mechanism, after Brazil’s Amazon Fund. Jagdeo also acknowledged the immense progress made by Brazil through the Amazon Fund.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo with Nancy Birdsall, President of the Centre for Global Development and Helen Clark, Head of the United Nations Development Programme at the United Nations Headquarters, New York, USA

Assistant Superintendent Terrence Brown

Constable Shawn McFloyd

Constable Ray Drepaul Sol

Constable Trevon Mackenzie

saturday, october 3, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Pandemonium breaks out at St Margaret’s Primary – bomb scare sends students, teachers scampering

Pandemonium broke out Friday afternoon after a pupil of the St Margaret’s Primary School, Camp Street, Georgetown received a telephone call that a bomb was planted in the school and would explode.

Over 400 pupils along with teachers and other staff of the school were calmly led out by Police ranks and members of the Fire Service, who were prompt in their response to the threat.

According to teachers, a

grade five student received a call on his cell phone. The person on the other end related something to him about a bomb having being planted in the school.

The child handed his phone to a teacher, who was told the same thing.

She then handed the phone to the Head Teacher who immediately alerted the Police.

But it wasn’t until almost half an hour later did the bomb squad of the Guyana Police Force arrived to inspect the building. By that time, the students, teachers and other staff were on the Camp Street Avenue, before they were led over to nearby Parade Ground.

Police on site told Guyana Times they received the call from the school and were at the time still seeking to ascertain who the caller was.

When Guyana Times arrived on the scene, ranks were questioning the pupil, along with the teacher who had received the call.

They were taken to the Police Station as the police continue their investigations.

Final year UG student charged for stealing from sister-in-law

– neighbour charged for receiving stolen items

Two men were on Friday brought before Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with break and enter and larceny and receiving stolen items.

Leroy De Flor, 26, of 46 Goedverwagting Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara (ECD), pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on September 30, at Sparendaam, ECD, he re-

ceived from Daniel Chand one television set valued $70,000, one microwave valued $18,000 and one blender valued $12,000; all to a total value of $100,000 and the property of the Virtual Complainant (VC) Sonia Layne, knowing same to be stolen or unlawfully obtained.

Chand, 20, a minibus conductor of 72 B Kitty Railway Embankment, Georgetown, also pleaded not guilty to

the charge which read that on September 30, at Kitty, he broke and entered into the dwelling home of Sonia Layne and stole therein; the aforementioned articles belonging to Sonia Layne

During the court proceeding, the VC requested that the court dismiss the matter as she did not wish to offer any evidence against the two accused. She stated that Chand is her brotherin-law and he is a final year

student at the University of Guyana. She also revealed that she is aware Chand is going through some financial difficulties, and as such, she pardoned him. She also revealed that DeFlor is her neighbour and she does not wish to proceed with the matter.

The Magistrate placed Chand on a bond of good behaviour for one year and dismissed the matter.

Eyew tness Badminded-ness and spite...

...on Jagdeo

Now, from the day we got our own Parliament –when the British decided we were all grown up and ready to run our own affairs, the Opposition chaired the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). And what exactly is the PAC and why this tradition?

Well, in the British Parliamentary democracy, the Toffs knew that in the “National Assembly” once a Government has a majority, the song of the Minority Opposition is pretty much “Do what you want wid me!”. It doesn’t matter how nasty the motion is – the “ayes” from the Government bench will always “have it”. The Speaker doesn’t even bother to lift his head up as he calls the vote.

So to give some meaning to the essence of democracy – “the other side must be heard” – the Chairing of the PAC is given to the Opposition. The said PAC can enquire into how the Government spent the funds its “ayes” gave it to spend. Even though they can’t change anything - they can at least identify excesses committed. The arrangement at least allows skulduggery to be exposed – albeit after the fact. Now the PAC also have Government’s MP’s – so it’s not like the Opposition can “do what they want wid dem!”

And we arrive at the “bad-minedness” of the new Government. Suddenly they’ve decided that since Jagdeo might be the Chair of the PAC – the arrangement should be abandoned!! And this in the face of the conventions of Parliament – with as much force as the written law, in the British system – that you just change Constitutional whimsically. Even if your token PM is from Whim!

The reason for the flip-flop, the Government’s partisans say, is the PAC under Jagdeo’s chairmanship will be reviewing the last years of the PPP’s administration. We can hear your collective “What the *#~%!!!!”, dear readers. So how come the PPP didn’t change the transition when they took over from the PNC? And who’s messed up our finances more than the PNC?

So Jagdeo can do what he wants in the PAC? Are the Government MP’s on the Committee so bereft of testicular fortitude to stand up to him? – Notwithstanding what Nagamootoo might’ve whimpered to them!! The fact of the matter is, after Jagdeo’s tour de force during the budget debate – in which he made Winston Jordan and Nagamootoo look like water boys – the Government’s shi**g bricks about repeat performances!

So this Eyewitness just hopes APNU/AFC will man up and take their medicine.

It might just help them with their motions!

...on soldiers

OK. This Eyewitness understands that Public Servants were shafted by the new Government - who, they thought, were their friends. And for whom they’d voted en masse. In their Manifesto, APNU/AFC’d announced that within 100 days, they’d give Public Servants “significant” salary increases. Jollity and mirth filled the halls and offices at Ministries when “their party” won. Counting their chickens before they were hatched, they went on a shopping binge

on credit.

When their Government finally gave them a “raise” with the right hand, they took it back with the left hand when they only made it applicable for HALF the year! And a lot of faces went sour. So Patrick Yarde – the 70-yr-old President of an organisation in which all members have to retire at 55 – decided to take revenge.

He announced to an administration with 3 Brigadiers, one COP, one Commodore, three Colonels and three Captains (there are too many lower ranks to mention) it is top level – that he’s going to unionise the Disciplined Forces!!

Revenge is best served cold.

...on Amerindians’ guns

With (armed) crime spiralling out of control on the Coast, Ramjattan grandly announced a “gun amnesty” to counter it. 142 guns were turned in. Problem is, they’re all antiques – with 122 from the interior.

They were used by Amerindians to hunt for meat –but with supermarkets introduced they’re superfluous. Crime? Still spiralling.

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

Students of the St Margaret’s Primary School assembled outside after receiving the bomb threat

Guyana to seek clarity on Suriname’s “spurious” border claims

Body of barber fished out of Hubu Back pond – relatives suspect foul play

As Guyana continues to garner international support with regard to the VenezuelaGuyana border controversy, Suriname has again signalled its intent to pursue its claim on the New River Triangle (Tigri) area.

Reports in the Surinamese media are that President Desi Bouterse recently told Suriname’s National Assembly that this issue would be placed on his country’s agenda once more.

This is as a result of that country’s President opining that he had ‘no choice’ but to do so.

However, Guyana’s Head of State, David Granger has maintained that the claim to the New River Triangle is “spurious”.

“As you know Suriname has laid claim to part of our sea space and that had to be determined by international tribunal and it was determined in Guyana’s favour… Suriname also claims the New River Triangle; it encompasses an area of land which is larger than Jamaica. Suriname claims the Corentyne River that is still a matter of controversy,” Guyana’s President stated.

He explained that while this position taken by President Bouterse was “nothing new”, the Government was of the view that the claim in relation to the New River Triangle area was spurious and measures had been taken in the past to protect Guyana’s territorial sovereignty.

“There has never been any treaty which demarcated the boundary between Guyana and Suriname. I

read the statement attributed to President Bouterse, but, as far as I am concerned, it doesn’t change the price of rice. You cannot convene a meeting of your Parliament and change the boundaries of your country,” President Granger noted.

Guyana Times was also told that Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge would be tasked with meeting the Surinamese Ambassador to Guyana soon and this matter would be “dealt with the clarification” from Suriname’s Ambassador.

“It seems to be quite opaque. We are aware of the historical claim that Suriname has made for the New River. I think this is not the time and this is not the place…” he added.

Guyana Times understands that the De Ware Tijd online news site in Suriname on Wednesday stated that Bouterse made the announcement about claiming the area as he referred to a number of inter-

national conflicts and developments which threaten the sovereignty of countries globally.

The De Ware Tijd noted that this was the first time in years its Government appeared to want to give “serious attention to the issue”.

It should be noted that the last serious attempt to resolve this and other border issues with Guyana was in 1998.

In 1840, Robert Schomburgk surveyed the then British Guiana’s borders; for the Eastern border, he used the Corentyne River as the border and sailed up to its source, the Kutari River, in order to demarcate the boundary.

However, in 1871, Charles Barrington Brown discovered the New River, which he considered the “true source” of the Corentyne. Hence, the New River Triangle controversy erupted between the two countries.

Guyana Times was made to understand that the tribunal which dealt with the Venezuela Crisis of 1895 had also awarded the New River Triangle to the then British Guiana.

As a result, a diplomatic protest was raised by the Netherlands, claiming that the New River, and not the Kutari, was to be regarded as the source of the Corentyne and the boundary.

However, the British Government in 1900 replied that the issue was already settled by the long acceptance of the Kutari as the boundary. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

Metro’s A+ Rewards Promotion gets first winner

Alexis Pio of New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, West Bank Demerara, was the first winner in the Metro Office and Computer Supplies A+ Promotion for the Georgetown district.

Winners will receive brand new Laptop computers. Speaking at the draw, Metro’s Chief Executive Officer, Avia Maria Lindie said that the promotion was geared towards awarding

students who excelled academically and giving them more incentives. The CEO also emphasised the point that the company was one that sought to give back to its loyal customers.

The event was held on the tarmac of the company’s Quamina Street branch. There is still another draw to occur for first prize in the Berbice district, which is scheduled for today at Metro’s New Amsterdam

Complex.

To qualify for the draw, customers would have to spend a minimum of $5000 on back-to-school items, after which they submit their entries. The Promotion was done under the Metro A+ reward programme and was rolled out to coincide with the back-to-school season. The concept is set to continue as part of the company’s customer appreciation efforts.

Although a post mortem was performed on the decomposed Chaitram Hardeo, 26, of Unity Village, East Bank Essequibo proved he drowned, his relatives believe foul play was involved.

The body of the barber was fished out of a fishing pond at Hubu Back, East Bank Essequibo almost three days after he went missing. He was last seen on Wednesday, September 23.

According to information, the man and the son of the owner of a popular stall in the Hubu Area were involved in an altercation when he was severely beaten and soon after disappeared.

The dead man’s relatives believe the young man was murdered, after which his body was transported to the fish pond where it was dumped. His body was found on Saturday afternoon by two lads who went to the area to fish.

Allegedly due to piranhas (a type of fish) in the pond, portions of the man’s body were missing. Initially the Police, relatives stated, were slothful in their investigations but after the intervention of the D Division (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo) Commander Stephen Mansell investigations have intensified.

Hardeo, farther of the dead man told Guyana Times his

son left home on Wednesday evening – and admitted his son was a heavy drinker – but said that after he did not return home, on Thursday they searched the area for the young man but he was not found. He added that as they searched, they found out that he and another man had an argument followed by an altercation.

He stated that from reports, his son was beaten about the body. However, days passed by and there were no signs of the missing man, not until the two lads went to the area to fish and came in contact with the foul stench.

As they looked closer, they saw a body floating in the water and immediately raised an alarm, the distraught father stated.

Upon hearing the news

of the discovery, the family rushed to the scene and were confronted by their son’s motionless body. “He two hands and foot eat out… he head had dried blood and portion of his face was damage”, he added.

The aggrieved father stated that Ranks at the Parika Police Station refused to investigate the matter, claiming that it was a clear indication of ‘a drunken man drowned’.

Nevertheless, the post mortem on Wednesday proved that Hardeo drowned but the relatives were not satisfied since they claimed the pathologist ‘just look at the body and say that he drowned’.

The man stated that they subsequently met with the D Division Commander and raised their concerns. The Commander intervened and the post mortem was redone on Friday but the results were the same.

Despite this, the man is still not satisfied since, he claimed, there is a witness who reportedly told them he saw the now dead man being beaten, then thrown into a boat and it left for the fishing pond. He is calling for justice and is hopeful further Police investigations can prove his son was murdered.

The dead man leaves to mourn his parents and siblings and is expected to be cremated today.

Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse

CEO Avia Maria Lindie (fifth from left) along with other representatives at the draw

Dead: Chaitram Hardeo

Caricom’s oil, gas sectors get boost from Canada

BY AKEEM GREENE

Aworkshop geared towards training and competency development of personnel in the oil and gas sectors within the Region was recently held in Barbados.

The event which was sponsored by the Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice) Project was held at the Accra Beach Hotel and saw a gathering of legal luminaries in the Region as well as various Environmentalists.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams in giving the opening address underscored the importance of workshops in edifying the Region about how better to manage their resources.

The Minster also alluded to the situation Guyana currently faces with Venezuela, as another important facet of the workshop addressed how territories can draft legislation to protect their natural resources and environment in the instances of abuse from foreign investors. The three-day session, was held in conjunction with the London Centre of International Law Practice and the University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

IMPACT Justice,

Regional Project Director, Professor Velma Newton, said that the workshop was timely considering the current momentum in deep-wa-

oil and gas industry in the Caribbean and will allow them to contribute meaningfully towards improving the sector in their respective countries.”

of Calgary and Adjunct Professor, University of Tromsø, Norway; Joseph England, Specialist in International Commercial Litigation and Arbitration;

ter exploration in countries in the Caribbean. Professor Newton said that the workshop was timely considering the current momentum in deep-water exploration in countries in the Caribbean.

“The oil and gas industry is a relatively new area for most of the countries in the Region. The workshop allowed participants to address concerns around the

The workshop focused on four topic areas over the three-day period, these are: maritime boundaries and oil and gas resources; petroleum contracts; health, safety and the environment and the impact of fiscal systems and taxation.

Presentations were made by Professor Nigel Bankes from the Faculty of Law at The University

focuses on International Environmental Law and International Trade Law.

Speaking at the closing, Barbados’s Attorney General and Home Affairs Minister Adriel Braithwaite said “it was necessary to get assistance from foreign Governments whose performance in the sector represented best practices, and to review oil and gas practices that were not ideal”.

The Barbadian Attorney General further went onto say that “key areas of focus will include local content; analysis of the global and regional competitive environment; the establishment of a Petroleum Heritage Stabilisation Fund and a Decommissioning Fund; Environmental Impact Assessments; institutional strengthening; refinement of the legislative and regulatory framework; data management; monitoring and enforcement; and the provi-

sion of local goods and services”.

The course was timely, as it provided necessary training for persons in Barbados and the Region, as they sought to explore opportunities in the oil and gas sectors. The 33 participants registered for the course were drawn from around the Region. They include Attorney Generals, Public Sector officers from ministries responsible for oil, gas, energy and natural resources and university lecturers and students. Guyana’s contingent comprised Attorney General Basil Williams, Retired Caribbean Court of Justice Judge, Professor Duke Pollard, Legal Officer Joanna Homer, Head of Department of Law Sheldon Mc Donald; third-year students at law Raeanna Clarke, Akeem Greene and Otis Chase. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

St Cuthbert’s man decries horrific GPHC treatment

BY DEVINA SAMAROO

Ayoung father who just lost his baby at the hands of doctors and nurses of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), says he could have been spared unkindness, lack of sympathy and brutal demeanour displayed by the staff of the Nation’s prime health institution.

Damon Corrie’s adopted

“From the guard who was a hoggish brute, to the mortuary workers… my son, still in shock and grief, was pushed around as he tried to view his deceased baby”father recalls terrifying experience at GPHC

son and his wife were forced to endure harsh treatment last week at the GPHC. The family hails from St Cuthbert’s Mission, Region Four (Demerara Mahaica).

According to Corrie, his daughter-in-law delivered twins but unfortunately one of the babies - a boy named Wiwa Shimara which means “shooting star” in the Arawak language died — only the girl survived. Her name is Warokoma which means “morning star.”

The father of the deceased waited for hours at the institution until a “very kind, friendly. and helpful senior doctor approached however the employees beneath him were quite the contrary, Corrie stated.

“From the guard who was a hoggish brute, to the mortuary workers, and the person who was supposed to have records of all deaths

and births from the previous night, by the following morning, but who claimed to have no such information therefore pushing around my son still in shock and grief as he tried to view his deceased baby and deal with the necessary paperwork so he could take his child home for a proper and respectful burial. The staff was of no help,” he related.

Making matters worse, the family said the mortuary worker demanded a monetary bribe before the father could see his son as he claimed no-one had informed him of the situation.

Once in the mortuary, the young father was completely taken aback at the sight before him as the room was more like an abattoir rather than a place where human beings are supposed to be decently and hygienically kept prior to burial. There were bloodstains and clothes heavy with blood on the floor along with flies in the room.

The father stood there in horror as he watched multiple doors being opened and bodies of dozens of other dead children being checked before his son was identified by a tag.

According to Corrie, his grandchild was carefully handed to him but the staff handled the other dead children unsympathetically.

“Perhaps because these parents weren’t present,” he suggested.

Embarrass Government In highlighting this awful experience in the media, Corrie said his intention is not to attack anyone in senior positions of power or to embarrass the Government but it is to let those at the top know the gravity of the situation at the bottom.

“I am certain that this is not the first time a poor person has been treated with such callousness and unprofessionalism at the Georgetown Public Hospital. I am equally certain that this ill-treatment and lack of sympathy will continue unabated until those with the mandate to effect real change and reform do so,” he stated.

Corrie expressed his sincere belief that not all the lower level staff are guilty of such rude and unprofessional behaviour but noted that, “one bad apple spoils the barrel”.

“So, I think that all the lower level staff that exhibit these kinds of disregard for human life need to be retrained or replaced… kindhearted hospital workers should anonymously report any colleague who exhibits such poor conduct as a professional and moral obligation to the public who they serve. Because such callous people are obviously doing the wrong job, they must find other work more suitable for the job,” he recommended.

Damon Corrie

and Dr Francesco Sindico,

Attorney General Basil Williams along with Professor Duke Pollard (centre) and Sheldon McDonald (left) at the work shop

Judge donates books on investigation, evidence to Police

As part of efforts to improve the work of law enforcement officers, High Court Judge Justice Navindra Singh has donated several books on crime scene investigations and the presentation of evidence in Court to the Guyana Police Force.

The recently published books were handed over to the Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud by Justice Singh on Friday at the Commissioner’s Conference Room, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary.

Several Senior Officers of the Force’s Performance Group were present during the simple handing-over ceremony.

Delivering brief remarks, Justice Singh commended the work of the Guyana Police Force and said he is pleased to do his part in supporting the Police Force to carry out its mandate.

According to the Judge, this donation is in recognition of the need for capacity building in the Force as it relates to resources for the improvement of investigative skills and ability.

Justice Singh, who pre-

sides mostly over criminal cases, noted that this was something he observed during his time on the bench.

Meanwhile, Head of Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Senior Superintendent Wendell Blanhum expressed gratitude to the judge on behalf of the Guyana Police for his

continuous assistance to the Force. The Crime Chief further indicated that the books will also be used as reference literature.

Justice Singh has been playing a significant role in support of the Police Force with the training of ranks within the CID and those prosecuting in the courts.

Colombia: UN envoy welcomes parties’ agreement on no amnesty for sexual violence

Sexual

Asenior United Nations envoy on Friday welcomed an agreement between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) that includes provisions not to grant amnesties for the most serious crimes, including sexual violence.

Government looking to reduce the cost of home ownership

The Government of Guyana is looking at ways to reduce the total cost for a house under its Cohesive Communities programme. Minister within the Ministry of Communities Keith Scott said Government is working assiduously to ensure that all Guyanese can afford a home. “It is of touching concern that people are paying a lot of money for lands,” Scott told the Government Information agency in an interview.

Scott, who holds ministerial responsibility for housing, revealed that the cost for lands is not necessary exploitative, but the cost of infrastructure has influenced

that greatly. “So because of that aspect of it, I have started a unit to examine the cost of infrastructure, with a view of bringing down that cost,” he explained.

According to the Minister, the Ministry is now thinking of new designs and types of houses, with a view of bringing down the cost to build a house to as low as $3 million. “I’ve already got proposals from some developers who are offering to build houses for as low as $3 million, one man says he can go up to $2.8 million. These are in the discussion stage. After we examine that, I intend to do everything in my power to ensure that we

can bring down the cost for houses,” Scott promised.

The Minister added that he understands the struggles many face to build a house. He added that the Ministry has not abandoned giving out house lots. “There will always be people who are so poor that $3 million will be a lot, but if they have a piece of land, they might be able to engage in self help activity, which we are encouraging, so that they can bring down the cost,” he said.

The Minister said he is in discussions with organisations such as Habitat for Humanity in this regard. (GINA)

stone in explicitly addressing gender discrimination and sexual violence in the conflict,” added Bangura, who visited the country in March of this year.

“The establishment of a Gender Sub-Commission to ensure the integration of a gender perspective in the negotiations, and the participation of sexual violence survivors and leaders of women’s rights organisations in the peace talks are unprecedented and should be an inspiration for other peace processes around the world.”

“I am particularly glad that the parties have agreed that there will be no amnesties for the most serious crimes, including sexual violence. This constitutes a crucial step forward in the fight against impunity,” Zainab Hawa Bangura, the Secretary General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, said in a news release.

“The peace process in Colombia marks a mile-

By the agreement reached on September 23, the parties have agreed to create a Special Jurisdiction for Peace, which prioritises the rights of the victims, including in the areas of truth seeking, reparations and guarantees of non-repetition.

Bangura was in Havana, Cuba, in May to discuss conflict-related sexual violence with the delegations of the Colombian Government and the FARC to the peace dialogue.

The September 23 agreement was also welcomed by Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who, in a statement issued by his spokesperson last week, commended the parties’ commitment to place victims at the centre of the peace process. (Excerpt from www. un.org)

Justice Navindra Singh handing over the books to Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

Zainab Hawa Bangura, Special Representative on

Violence in Conflict, on a visit to Bogotá, Colombia in March

saturday, october 3, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

No bilateral talks between Guyana/Venezuela at UN level

President David Granger has stated that bilateral talks addressing trade between Guyana and Venezuela did not take place at the meeting convened by the United Nations (UN) between himself and Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro.

In fact, the Guyanese President told the media on Friday at the Ministry of the Presidency that bilateral talks were not his objective at the abovementioned meeting between the two leaders.

As such, he made no attempt to seek bilateral talks with regards to the much talked about PetroCaribe agreement, or on any other related trade matter that would have benefited both countries.

“It was not my purpose to have bilateral (talks) with him….(we had) four matters which were agreed by President Maduro… Those four matters were to Guyana’s advantage and at the end of it…we left satisfied,” President Granger posited.

He noted that upon entering the highly anticipated meeting Guyana, had four objectives and upon conclusion of the event these were all achieved.

Guyana Times was told that these include the withdrawal of Venezuelan naval fleets in the Cuyuni River (within Guyana’s territory); the accreditation of Guyana’s newly nominated Ambassador to Venezuela, Cheryl Myles;

the return of Venezuela’s Ambassador to Guyana and for the UN delegation’s visit to be ‘received’ in Venezuela.

With regards to bilateral talks about the PetroCaribe deal which Guyana has lost, no discussions were held, the Head of State said.

It should be noted that many Guyanese rice farmers have suffered immense -

ly due to this development since the Venezuelan market accounted for an average of 30 per cent of local exports. This was the largest export market in terms of foreign revenues since the rice farmers were able to benefit from better prices than in other countries.

This publication was also told that President Granger has ‘embraced diplomacy’ as he is relying on the UN to ensure its sup -

port in defending Guyana’s territorial sovereignty.

The Guyanese Head of State said that coming out of the meeting with UN Secretary General Ban Kimoon he is satisfied that some amount of normalcy can be restored between Guyana and Venezuela.

He is hopeful that the United States of America and Brazil can exercise their ‘influences’ in requesting that Venezuela desists from its hostility towards Guyana.

“The US is unlikely to become more deeply involved because of its foreign policy. I do believe that the US and Brazil on the North American continent and the South American continent respectively have moral-suasion; they have influence and they can exert that influence to modify the behaviour of smaller states. And they have been able to do that in the past,” President Granger added.

It was further emphasised that Venezuela’s claim to two-thirds of Guyana’s land, as well as a part of the country’s maritime zone, is “unfounded” and the persistence by the Venezuelan Government to pursue such a claim is illegal.

The tension between Guyana and Venezuela escalated after May 26 when Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro issued a decree to claim Guyana’s territory. (kristenm@ guyanatimesgy.com)

Trees wrapped in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

As Breast Cancer Awareness month commenced internationally on Thursday, members of the Guyana Breast Cancer Awareness Committee and other volunteers wrapped the trees along Camp Street Avenue, Georgetown in pink, to increase awareness of the disease.

President of the Committee Bibi Hassan explained that breast cancer is a serious issue that affects men and women around the world. She noted that it has been 10 years since her organisation has been doing the Breast Cancer Awareness Programme in Guyana, where they provide opportunities for women to have themselves examined, and continue to spread awareness about the seriousness of cancer.

Hassan said her committee is in the process of launching a Cancer Foundation in Guyana, with intentions of being able to do more for cancer sufferers.

Joining in wrapping of the trees, Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green told Guyana Times that she was happy to join in the observance of a serious cause. She added that women need to

be continuously educated about the seriousness of one of the world’s most deadly

creasing Cancer

Guyana is the best they’ve joined so far.

disease. She reflected on the passing of a family member, as her eagerness to be a part of such a movement and added that she is willingly and available to partake in any other activity during the month and beyond as it relates to the issue.

Staff of the Qualfon Call Centre also joined the committed in wrapping the trees. The group has joined with the Committee over several years and said they are always willing to support a great cause, and in-

Other activities scheduled to be held during the month include a church service at Brickdam Cathedral on Sunday, a symposium at the American School in Prashad Nagar on October 15, with Pink Day tol be observed on October 30 in honour of those who have lost their lives, who have survived, and those currently battling cancer, and a Grand Cancer awareness Walk at the end of the month. (jpinder@guyanatimes.com)

Netherlands National Archives team visits President

Awareness throughout

Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green wrapping a pink banner around a tree on Camp Street in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Members of Qualfon Guyana joined in the effort

visiting team from the National Archives of the Netherlands on Friday paid a courtesy call on President David Granger, as they sought to brief him on the

at the local

Archives.

President David Granger

From left, Liesbeth Keijser, Project Manager Digitisation, National Archive of the Netherlands; Arjan Agema; President David Granger; Roelof Hol and Ben Ter Welle, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany

Lack of markets, low prices Granger to rice farmers in crisis: “It’s a private arrangement... not a Government arrangement"

President David Granger has once again backtracked on a major campaign promise and distanced himself and his Government from the plight of rice farmers.

Echoing statements already proclaimed by Government officials, President Granger insisted that the crisis of the rice industry is not Government’s problem.

“It’s a private arrangement… Farmermiller-market… It’s not a Government arrangement,” he firmly stated.

But this goes entirely against its campaign promise to the local rice farmers. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Public Security Minister and Vice President Khemraj Ramjattan had on many occasions promised rice farmers $9000 a bag of paddy at several public meetings across the country.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (ANPU/AFC) members Dr Turhane Doerga and Jinnah Rahaman also joined the bandwagon and repeated this promise on several occasions.

The situation in the rice industry is currently so severe that rice farmers have

already signalled their intention to ‘rest’ their lands come the next crop, given the low prices and lack of Government intervention.

The lack of action and unfavourable responses from the relevant authorities to inject funds into the industry has only made matters worse. The farmers contended that the poor prices they are being offered cannot offset their cost of production that they have to outlay; and without intervention from the Administration, their future appears to be nothing short of ‘bleak’.

Generally, in a crisis of this nature, the previous Administration would have released the necessary funds to the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to pay the millers so they could pay the farmers. If it is a case where the millers actually have the money but are refusing to settle their debts with the farmers, then Government would usually threaten to take the millers to court or have their licenses revoked.

But the Granger-led Administration is taking a different approach — one which stakeholders have argued will see rice farmers continuing to suffer as the rice industry crumbles to ru-

ins.

APNU/AFC allies Dr Doerga and Rahaman have already registered their dissatisfaction with the way the new Government is handling the rice situation.

Granger, speaking to media operatives, emphasised that the problems of the rice industry are not to be blamed on the Government. He offered no form of relief to the industry except through the acquisition of markets for the millers. Granger disclosed that he met the President of Senegal and discussed matters relating to rice; particularly regarding securing rice markets for Guyana.

“The main focus for Guyana is economic diplomacy. I want to sell rice, I want to sell rum, I want to sell plantain chips, I wanna sell stuff… We are searching for markets to help the private millers and farmers because we want the industry to flourish and prosper,” he said.

Agriculture Minister Noel Holder during a previous interview with this newspaper had made it clear that his Government cannot intervene to rescue rice farmers.

Asked whether the Government would intervene in any way to ensure rice farmers get some kind

Govt ‘toying’ with transportation operators – Zone 32 minibus operators

Members of the Zone 32 Minibus Association claim that they are being “toyed with” by the Public Infrastructure Ministry and a local consultancy group.

Chairman of the Zone 32 Minibus Association, Roger Ansell Ross, explaining the reason for the claims, stated that on July 9 and 10, a road safety seminar, hosted by the Guyana Police Force, a local consultancy group called “geo Tech”, and the Public Infrastructure Ministry was held at the Aracari Conference Hall on the West Bank of Demerara.

The seminar was part of the fourth road safety project in the West Coast Demerara Improvement Project, and was attended by members of the association and the Vreed-en-Hoop hire car drivers. Ross stated that although the seminar was a very new experience, the organisations involved have yet to fulfil a promise made to the participants.

The Chairman told Guyana Times that they were given a refresher on the Guyana’s road traffic codes, the laws of Guyana, duties of drivers, maintenance of vehicles, driving under the influence and the dangers of using cellphones while driving. They

Chairman of the Zone 32 Minibus Association

Roger Ansell Ross

also dealt with issues such as defensive driving, decorum and appearance of public transportation operators.

Apart from this, there was a practical demonstration, in terms of parking on the sticks and moving off. The participants of this seminar also completed a theoretical examination and were promised a certificate after the successful completion of the examination. They were told that the certificate would enable them to acquire jobs in private companies and agencies in the future.

Ross noted that the operators took time off from their regular schedules to attend this seminar forfeiting two days income, as they thought the seminar was a good opportunity for them to be recognised and certi-

fied in some way.

However, the operators are claiming that they are yet to receive their certificates two months after the seminar concluded.

The Association’s Chairman told Guyana Times that they have repeatedly contacted the Infrastructure Ministry to investigate the reason for the long wait, and were told that the Ministry is waiting on word form Geo Tech, while Geo Tech claims to be waiting on the Ministry.

The public transportation workers shared that they feel like not much attention is being given to them since in most cases, only negative pictures are depicted of them.

Ross also added that the recent River Captains and Bowmen had quickly gained recognition because of world maritime day, and begged the question of Government’s commitment to public transportation operators.

The members of the association explains that they had sacrificed days from their regular working schedule, as they thought the event would give them a little elevation to move on in life, and are very disappointed that they are being toyed with by these officials.

saturday, october 3, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Two nabbed after robbing cellphone store

Tof relief, Minister Holder indicated it would be a difficult task.

“Intervening, I think that there are some laws that allow the Government to take over rice millers, mills and that sort of thing. Intervening is done by law because the Government would have to get this money back from somewhere,” he explained.

Therefore, the Minister indicated that the current crisis is beyond the help of Government and that millers and rice farmers have to work out among themselves the terms of the outstanding payments.

He alluded to the fact that Government has already released the names of all the millers who owe rice farmers in an effort to put pressure on those millers to quickly settle their debts.

According to the document released on September 3, the millers who were yet to pay off rice farmers are Wazeer Hussein (Dry Shore/ KSCL) – $285,360,540; Ramesh Ramlakhan (ExMouth) – $156,584,455; Deonarine (Evergreen) – $135,000,000; Old Mac Guyana Inc – $28,300,000 and La Resource Rice Industry – $27,600,000.

he prompt response by member of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has led to the arrest of two alleged robbers along the Kingston Seawalls in the vicinity of the Police Head quarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, on Friday afternoon.

At about 14:45h, ranks observed a car crashing into the seawall on the northern end of the Police Headquarters. Soon after the car hit the wall, two men exited and were seen fleeing. The vigilant officers immediately went in pursuit of the men and were able to arrest them.

Upon their arrest, one of the men was found to be in possession of an unlicensed .9mm pistol and two matching rounds of ammunition while the other was in possession of a high-end mobile phone suspected to have been stolen.

Moments after the arrest, the Police receive reports of a robbery committed on Elite Mobile Phone Store located along Parade Street, Kingston. The description of the men as well as the getaway car that was given to the Police matched the suspects and the damaged car that was abandoned by the suspects.

The suspects were lat-

er identified as Jermaine Daily of Norton Street, Georgetown and Adam McDonald of Wismar, Linden. Police investigations revealed that at about 14:30h, Daily and McDonald along with a third suspect entered the cellphone store where they held the employees at gun point and demanded cash.

They then turned their intention to the glass cases, collected several high-end mobile phones and placed them into a bag. The men also relieved a customer who was in the store at the time of their mobile device.

The employees managed to raise an alarm which created panic among the suspects. Daily and McDonald reportedly jumped into the blue Toyota Carina 192 motorcar bearing registration number PHH 6562 and escaped leaving the third suspect behind. He eventually made good his escape.

Upon discovering that the registration plates were fake, investigators soon established that the car was registered to a car rental in Georgetown. Guyana Times understands that this is the second car belonging to the car rental that was involved in an armed robbery. Daily and McDonald are in custody assisting with the investigation.

Regional

Brazilian President reshuffles Cabinet to shore up support

Embattled Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has closed eight Ministries and reshuffled her Cabinet in an effort to cut costs and shore up support.

Ministers will have their pay cut by 10 per cent to further reduce spending.

Rousseff increased the number of Ministers from centre-right coalition partner the PMDB in a bid for Congress support for austerity measures.

Brazil is facing its worst economic crisis for decades, leaving Rousseff’s popularity at a record low.

“Today we are making a first and major step toward the reorganisation of the federal public administration. We are beginning by reducing eight Ministries,” Rousseff said.

The reshuffle would “guarantee the political stability of the country” and “strengthen relations between the parties and Members of Parliament who support the Government”,

she added.

The President increased the number of Ministers in Brazil’s congress from the PMDB, the most powerful party in the ruling coalition with her leftist Worker’s Party.

Correspondents say Rousseff boosted the PMDB’s share of power in order to increase support for her economic plans and ward off moves to impeach her.

Congress has been boy-

cotting many of her attempts to implement austerity measures and achieve fiscal balance.

Rousseff made no changes to her economic team, a sign that she will continue to pursue austerity in order to reverse the country’s deficit.

She also announced the creation of a Permanent Commission for State Reform designed to make the Government more efficient. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Colombia kills most wanted drug lord

One of Colombia’s most wanted drug lords has been killed in Government air strikes.

Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos said Victor Navarro, also known as “Megateo”, died in bombing attacks on the mountain jungle region of Catatumbo.

The United States had offered a $5 million reward for his capture.

Navarro was also the

leader of a remnant faction of the leftist guerrilla group the EPL.

The EPL disbanded 16 years ago, but Navarro is believed to have pushed the band into cocaine trafficking so that they could procure weapons.

In a magazine interview more than a year ago, he denied he was a drug trafficker, but he admitted that he had collected “a tax on cocaine” so

as to “finance the war”.

Navarro was also known for his fondness for garish weapons-themed jewellery and the branding of underage lovers with a tattoo of his face.

His brash behaviour had drawn comparisons to an earlier generation of drug traffickers in Colombia such as Pablo Escobar, who had kept a zoo of wild animals, including lions and hippos in his rural estate. (BBC News)

Dominica hails UK leader’s aid package to Caribbean as “Godsend”

Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said the multimillion-dollar aid package British Prime Minister Dave Cameron has announced for the Caribbean was a godsend for his country and the rest of the Region.

He declared Thursday that “God did not come, but He sent Dave Cameron” to aid Caribbean countries grappling with sluggish economies and, in the case of Dominica, the ravages of natural disasters.

During a stop in Jamaica as he visited the Caribbean for the first time as Prime Minister, Cameron announced an aid package for the Region that includes: £300 million (US$454.8 million) for a new UK-Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund to build vital infrastructure such as new ports, roads and bridges to boost trade and growth; £30 million (US$45.4 million) to make health facilities more resistant to natural disaster;

and £30 million (US$45.4 million) for new programmes to support economic growth.

Skerrit said the timing of that gesture “could not have been more opportune”.

“While we were not daunted by the task ahead, the reality is that these countries needed a generous cousin, if not a big brother, to step in and assist. This development fund announced by Prime Minister Cameron is the lifeline that several countries in the Region were

quietly hoping for,” he said in an official statement.

Delivered in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank, the infrastructure fund will use money from the UK’s existing aid budget, to provide grants over the next few years for a range of projects that will help boost growth and trade across the Region, creating jobs and opening up new market opportunities for British businesses. (Excerpt from caribbean360)

At least 7 dead, 200 missing after mudslide in Guatemala

At least seven people died and about 200 are missing after a massive mudslide in Guatemala buried homes in a town on the edge of the capital, authorities said on Friday.

Heavy rains unleashed a torrent of boulders and mud over some 70 homes Thursday night in Santa

Catarina Pinula, a few miles outside Guatemala City, a spokesman for the country’s disaster agency said.

At least 25 people were injured, the official said.

A spokesman for volunteer firefighters said the death toll had reached seven. Emergency personnel and soldiers dug through

rubble looking for survivors on Friday while authorities set up a shelter to help some 50 people who lost their homes in the disaster, one of the worst in recent memory in the poor Central American country.

Heavy rains have killed at least eight people this year. (Reuters)

Hurricane Joaquin batters Bahamas

After being classified only as a storm early on Wednesday, Joaquin had become a Category Four hurricane – on a scale of five – by Thursday afternoon

Hurricane Joaquin has brought heavy rains and winds to parts of The Bahamas after it was reclassified up to the second strongest type of storm.

Sustained winds of up to 210 kilometres per hour (130mph) were reported in parts of the eastern Bahamas, the US National Hurricane Centre (NHC) said.

The NHC says Joaquin could affect the US East Coast by Sunday, and said it was now an “extremely dangerous” storm.

Emergency teams said there were no reports of ca-

Japan

sualties in The Bahamas.

Forecasters in the United States and The Bahamas are warning that central islands, many of which are low-lying, could see a storm surge of up to 3.7 metres (12ft).

“We do not know the impact of 130mph on those areas,” Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie said. “We know it’s a horrific kind of experience.”

One Bahamas resident, Shandira Forbes, said she had been in contact with her mother on the island of Acklins.

“She was calling for help because the sea was com-

ing into her house,” she told Associated Press. “People’s roofs were lifting up. No one knew, so there was no preparedness, there was no meeting, there was nothing.” Images on social media showed water reaching close to the roofs of some homes. The Tribune 242 website said dozens of people were trapped in their homes in the southern Bahamas.

After being classified only as a storm early on Wednesday, Joaquin had become a Category Four hurricane – on a scale of five – by Thursday afternoon. (Excerpt from BBC News)

provides US$57M

grant for Institute of Jamaica

The Government of Japan is providing US$57 million in grant funding to Jamaica for improvements at the Institute of Jamaica (IOJ) –the island’s most significant cultural, artistic and scientific organisation.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller and her Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe signed the funding agreement during the latter’s visit to Jamaica on Wednesday.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed to promote educational cooperation between the University of the West Indies (UWI) and Japan’s Sophia University. Simpson Miller said

Jamaica was also set to benefit from a new technical cooperation project in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy. Other Caribbean Community (Caricom) member states will also benefit from the initiative.

“We do not take lightly, this important contribution by Japan to Jamaica’s economic and social development,” the Prime Minister told Abe as she thanked his Government for supporting the island.

She noted that the countries share over 50 years of diplomatic relationship and the assistance being provided will enhance cooperation at all levels.

“We recognise the im-

portance of promotion of exchanges in a variety of areas such as sports… academic exchanges and Japanese language education,” Prime Minister Abe said.

During the bilateral discussions, strategic dialogue was encouraged between the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) and the Japan External Trade Organisation as well as the Private Sector organisations of both countries, in order to promote Japan-Jamaica business and investment.

The leaders also placed emphasis on issues of security, climate change, agenda 2030 and sustainable development for Small Island Development States (SIDS), and women empowerment. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff’s popularity has slumped to just eight per cent

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said God didn’t come but he sent UK leader David Cameron

Around the world

Syrian conflict: Russia air strikes stepped up

Russia has stepped up its campaign of air strikes against opponents of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Moscow said its aircraft had “conducted 18 sorties on 12 positions held by the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group in Syria” since Thursday.

Targets included the IS stronghold of Raqqa, but also Aleppo, Hama and Idlib – provinces with little IS presence.

Members of the US-led coalition targeting IS have renewed their criticism of the Russian action.

In a statement, the United States, United Kingdom, Turkey and other coalition members called on Russia to cease air strikes they said were hitting the Syrian Opposition and civilians, adding that they would “only fuel more extremism”.

The Syrian Opposition and others have suggested non-IS rebel factions opposed to President Assad – the Kremlin’s ally – are bearing the brunt of the Russian attacks.

Obama says US becoming “numb” to mass shootings

US President Barack Obama has said that the United States has “become numb” to mass shootings like the latest incident in the state of Oregon, where a 26-year-old gunman killed at least nine people at a community college.

Obama issued the statement as local and federal investigators struggled on Friday to determine a motive of the shooting at Umpqua Community College.

ports identifying the suspect as Chris Harper-Mercer, 26, who lived with his mother in a town near the college campus, where the shooting took place.

Mercer’s motive remained unclear. But an unnamed law enforcement officer told the New York Times that “he appears to be an angry young man who was very filled with hate.”

He added that the US had only “pretended” to bomb IS, and promised that Russia’s campaign would be much more effective.

The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the latest Russian air strikes had hit

Alexei Pushkov, the head of the foreign affairs committee in Russia’s Parliament, said the air strikes –which began on Wednesday – could last for three to four months.

a training camp and a camouflaged command post near the IS “capital” of Raqqa, and that 12 IS fighters were killed in the attack.

Activists and residents of the city said IS had cancelled Friday prayers and emptied mosques, amid fears of further Russian air strikes. (Excerpt from BBC News)

UN battle looms over climate finance; India in ambitious pledge to slow emissions

Divisions over money between rich and poor countries reemerged as nations submitted their plans for tackling climate change to the United Nations.

India, the last big emitter to publish its contribution, said it would need US$2.5 trillion to meet its targets.

The Philippines said that without adequate climate compensation, their cuts in emissions would not happen.

The UN says the plans increase the likelihood of a strong global treaty.

One hundred and fortyeight countries, out of a total of 196, have met a UN deadline for submitting a plan, termed an Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC).

These INDCs cover close to 90 per cent of global emis-

sions of carbon dioxide. The commitments will form the centrepiece of a new global agreement on climate change that nations hope to

Over 500 children killed in Yemen conflict, says UN

More than 500 children have been killed in war-torn Yemen since March, the UN children’s agency said on a day the United Nations passed a watered down resolution backed by Saudi Arabia to set up a national inquiry into human rights violations.

During the six months since Saudi-led airstrikes targeting Iranbacked Houthi rebels began in March to defend exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, at least 505 children have died and 702 have been injured, Christophe Boulierac, spokesman for the UN children’s agency, said on Friday.

“These are conservative figures,” he told AFP news agency.

“The situation for children is deteriorating every single day, and it is horrific,” Boulierac said, urging all parties with influence to bring an urgent end to the violence.

The UN estimates that more than 2300 civilians have died since fighting escalated in the poor Arab nation, notably involving air power from a US-backed, Saudi-led coalition.

Human Rights Watch accused the top UN human rights body of failing to improve scrutiny of abuses in Yemen by approving a resolution presented by Saudi Arabia – a major participant in the conflict.

The measure that passed Friday came after Dutch diplomats this week abandoned a separate proposal calling for an international fact-finding mission in Yemen.

Rights groups have accused both sides in the war of carrying out indiscriminate attacks on residential areas. The Saudi-led coalition denies abuses in Yemen and says it will acknowledge mistakes if and when it makes them.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

agree in Paris in December. Independent analysts at the Climate Action Tracker said that the plans, when added up, meant the world was on track for temperature rises of 2.7 degrees C above pre-industrial levels.

This is above the two-degree target generally accepted as the threshold for dangerous climate change. But it is a significant improvement on a previous assessment of 3.1 degrees, made when fewer plans had been submitted.

India’s contribution, which promised to reduce the carbon intensity of their emissions but did not commit to peaking their carbon dioxide, drew praise from around the world. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Boy sentenced to life over terror plot

A15-year-old

British boy who plotted to behead Police Officers at an Anzac Day parade in Australia has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

The Blackburn teenager will serve at least five years for inciting terrorism and will only be released once he is no longer considered to be dangerous.

He sent thousands of online messages to an alleged Australian jihadist and was planning “a massacre”, the court heard.

He is believed to be the youngest Briton guilty of a terror offence.

Police said the plan hatched by the boy –who was aged 14 at the time and will remain anonymous due to his age – was “shocking in its brutality and scope”.

The boy remains a “significant risk”, the judge, Justice Saunders, said.

Dominic Casciani, BBC home affairs correspondent, said the five-year minimum term was a “window of opportunity” to see if the boy can be deradicalised before he is then moved into the adult prison system.

But our correspondent said he may potentially never leave custody. (Excerpt from BBC News)

“We are the only advanced country on earth that sees these kinds of mass shootings every few months,” Obama said, adding that something needs to be done to stop the recurring deadly incident.

He said late on Thursday that the nation’s response to mass shootings has become “routine” – from the reporting by the media, to his own comments, to the opposition to gun control laws aimed at deterring the violence.

On Friday, law enforcement sources confirmed re-

Investigators also said the gunman had body armour and was armed with three pistols, a rifle and five additional magazines, including a 9mm Glock pistol, a .40-caliber Smith & Wesson, both traced to the suspect.

The gunman stormed into a classroom at the college in the former timber town, shot a Professor at point blank range, then ordered cowering students to stand up and state their religion before he shot them one by one, according to survivors’ accounts. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Guangxi parcel bombs: China investigates fresh blast

Firefighters and Policemen rushed to the scene of Thursday’s blast in Liucheng county

Chinese authorities are investigating a fresh explosion in Guangxi province, following a series of parcel bombs that have left 10 people dead.

The latest blast took place at an apartment block at 08:00 local time (00:00 GMT) in Liucheng county, said state media.

Seventeen separate parcel explosions hit Liucheng on Wednesday.

A man suspected of having built the bombs –33-year-old Wei Yinyong –died in one of the blasts, media said.

Earlier reports said a suspect had been arrested.

Thursday’s explosion took place at a six-storey building in a residential area. Xinhua news agency said the force of the blast had caused debris to rain down on a road opposite the building.

Local Police issued a statement calling on the public to be wary of accepting parcels sent by strangers or packages “sent by nonproper channels”.

The local postal service has halted all deliveries until Saturday. (Excerpt from BBC News)

The cause for Thursday’s blast was not clear, and no casualties have been reported. It is also not known if the blast is connected to the multiple explosions on Wednesday.

Smoke rises during clashes between forces loyal to Syria’s President Bashar alAssad and the Army of Islam fighters, on the eastern mountains of Qalamoun overlooking the town of Douma, eastern Ghouta in Damascus October 1

India’s climate plan will see a big expansion of solar power but coal use will also grow

saturday, october 3, 2015|

Guyana observes Mahatma Gandhi’s 146th birth anniversary

Guyana joined the rest of the world in celebrating the 146th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at a ceremony in the Promenade Gardens in Georgetown.

have become more relevant for today’s society which is infested with regional, racial and religious intolerance, giving rise to violence, terrorism, and war.

Mahalingam further stated that Mahatma believed that violent methods of achieving a desired goal must inevitably result in escalation of violence, and noted that Mahatma was against the idea of an eyefor-eye policy which would in the end make everyone blind.

“Mahatma’s philosophy of non-violence as we all know has influenced many international movements to this day. One of the glaring examples is that Nelson Mandela succeeded in getting freedom for South Africa by taking Mahatma as the role model,” the Indian High Commissioner explained.

Indian High Commissioner Venkatachalam Mahalingam reflected that Ghandi was a great soul and poster-boy for the Indian Independence movement who pioneered and perfected “Satyagraha” and is considered to be an apostle of “Non-violence”.

He stated that Mahatma Gandhi, who is considered the Father of the Indian Nation, no longer belongs to only India but rather his teachings and beliefs is needed throughout the world. He added that Gandhi’s values

Nagamootoo breaks silence on reason

for leave, trip –

claims trip to US “private”

Prime

After the media was left to speculate on the reason for Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s sudden departure overseas, the Office of the Prime Minister issued a statement indicating that Nagamootoo and his wife Sita travelled aboard for a private visit to the United States.

The Guyana Times had reported that the Prime Minister, after only four months in office, proceeded on leave without formally informing the public of this

development.

According to the press statement, Nagamootoo and his wife will be returning to office on October 13 however, prior to their arrival, the Prime Minister is expected to conduct official business when he attends and delivers an address at a business forum in Toronto, Canada on October 10.

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin and Public

Infrastructure Minister David Patterson will also be attending that forum.

Also addressing the gathering on the auspicious occasion, President David Granger reflected on the life of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, known everywhere as Mahatma Gandhi, and about his experiences when the news of the great leader’s assassination was heard.

He reflected that there was a large procession of persons of Indian descent,

marching down the streets in his neighbourhood. He added also that even in the mining community of Bartica, thousands of miles away from the sub-continent, hundreds commemorated the death of this great man.

Granger noted that Mahatma Gandhi is known for his non-violent civil disobedience in India and South Africa. His activities included the initiation of the non-cooperation movement in 1922 and the Satyagraha Salt (Dandi) March, which began on March 12, 1930.

The President also mentioned that Gandhi is remembered globally for his contributions towards the Indian freedom struggle and noted that India, largely through the efforts of Mahatma, finally gained its Independence on August 15, 1947. “He is revered locally for his struggle against injustice, intolerance and indignity,” Granger said.

He added that Guyanese continue to remember the peaceful leader for his humanity and as a citizen of this world, whose example has inspired generations and nations.

Opposition Party member Irfaan Ali on behalf of the People’s Progressive Party mention that as many reflect on the life of this great man, there will always be much to say. He urged persons to remember that Gandhi fought for justice in many manifestations and his life was a constant battle for injustice. Ali noted that though the great leader faced many trials, he did not fear his trials, “he only feared God”, and that is the mentality that many should attempt to achieve.

Vehicle in PM’s convoy collides with car at Agricola

On his way to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Wednesday, one of the vehicle’s in Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s convoy was involved in a minor accident in Agricola, Greater Georgetown.

The incident occurred around 08:00h amid the heavy East Bank traffic which usually prevails during that time in the morning.

When contacted, Traffic Chief Dion Moore confirmed that the accident did take place but could not provide Guyana Times with the de-

tails surrounding the incident as he was not in possessions of all of the information at the time.

According to information reaching this publication, the vehicle smashed into the car which was traveling in the same direction causing minor damage to the front bumper. No one was injured but there has been no release from the Office of the Prime Minister on the incident. It is not clear if the Prime Minister’s office would compensate the owner for the damage incurred as a result of the accident.

Region 5 starts Tree Planting Day initiative

In observance of National Tree Planting Day 2015, the staff of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) on Friday participated in a tree planting exercise one day ahead of National Tree Planting Day, which is being observed today.

Trees were planted in the compounds of all Government agencies within the Region, including hospitals, the RDC, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) and Health Centres. The Region Five Administration also presented plants to other agencies within the Region. Among those receiving plants were the Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA); Guyana Water Inc (GWI); the Fort Wellington Police Station and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

Government has decided

as a general policy to promote a Green Economy. The National Tree Planting Day Initiative was launched on September 2 by Agriculture Minister Noel Holder in

the Agriculture Ministry’s Boardroom.

Meanwhile, in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), several agencies are expected to get involved in tree

planting exercises today in observance of National Tree Planting Day. Persons are being encouraged to plant fruit trees.

The National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) demonstration station at Lesbeholden, Black Bush Polder has 5000 cherry plants which were set to be available today.

Chief Plant Officer Abdool Haniff said NAREI has made available 100,000 plants for today’s exercise. Trees play a big role in creating a healthier community; as they grow, they help reduce climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the air, storing carbon in the trees and soil, and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere.

Today’s tree planting activity is expected to be formally launched in Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) by President David Granger.

From left, MP Irfaan Ali, Indian High Commissioner Venkatachalam Mahalingam, Mayor Hamilton Green, Dr Yesu Persaud and Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green

President David Granger addressing the gathering in the Promenade Gardens

Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita Nagamootoo

Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal plants citrus

Hinterland Employment Youth Service Project launched

– thousands to be trained

Government has launched the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS) Project, with thousands of youths from hinterland communities set to benefit.

The Government Information Agency (GINA) said this was in keeping with its mandate to provide a better life for all Guyanese.

The Project was launched in Paramakatoi, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) on Thursday with the motto “Our Youth, Our Future!” , by Minister within the

not another nation, we are all Guyanese and we should have equal rights. Today we give you that opportunity, a second chance to change your life and make a meaningful contribution to your community,” she stressed.

She urged the participants to make the best of the opportunity and work diligently and attend class regularly. “Youths, you are the persons who have to take over our communities, and our country as a whole. We all have to play a part in national development, we have to help develop our communities, but how can we

who was also present at the launching ceremony, declared his support for the project. “I support this programme with all my heart because I understand the challenges we, the indigenous people, face on a daily basis because I faced it,” Fredericks said.

He urged the youths to take the programme seriously since in his opinion, “indigenous people face the most challenges since the opportunities aren’t available like the coastland”.

Toshao Frederick called on the villagers to support and encourage their children to

Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry, Valarie GarridoLowe, who has responsibility of youth and women development.

According to the Minister, the programme, which replaces the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP), will run for a period of one year, with six months of in-house and practical training along with another six months attachment to an office/ organisation which is relevant to the student’s area of study. The classes will be held in the mornings from Monday to Friday.

Addressing the gathering at the Paramakatoi Multipurpose Hall, Minister Garrido-Lowe, stressed that the Government was keen on delivering on its promises. “Our President, you can depend on him. He said the hinterland is

take part in national development if we don’t have the skills to take part? We want at least 95 per cent full attendance.”

The Minister noted that Paramakatoi has a lot of water problems which was the primary reason for including plumbing in the programme. “The more you learn the better for you, the more you will be empowered,” Garrido-Lowe said.

The Minister also noted that the hinterland has a lot of potential for tourism, especially ecotourism. “That is why we also included training in hospitality management, tour guides; workshops will be held once a month on Trafficking In Persons (TIP), Gender Based Violence, Drug and Alcohol addiction among others,” Garrido-Lowe noted.

Meanwhile, Head of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Joel Fredericks,

take advantage of the opportunity and make the best of it.

He further urged the participants to use their stipends wisely and invest in projects and educational activities. He said that the NTC would also be seeking funding from organisations to help develop the lives of Amerindian people and would not only depend on Government subventions.

The project is expected to provide training and capacity building in several key areas including, plumbing, carpentry, sewing, wiring among many other vocational areas. Mathematics and English will also be taught to each participant in order to build their capacity in literacy and numeracy.

The Ministry will be targeting Bamboo Creek and Mountain Foot for registration next.

Way cleared for small miners to benefit from tax wavier

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) on Friday signed an agreement with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), to make effective the granting of tax exemptions to medium and small-scale miners, as provided for in Budget 2015.

The parties involved in the signing were Finance Minister Winston Jordan,

the GGDMA and Deputy Commissioner (ag) Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA,) Ingrid Griffith.

The tax exemption to small and medium-scale miners was part of the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition promise in its 100-day Action Plan. To this end, Minister Jordan deemed the signing as a “small and positive step” because it gives effect to a

the recent disclosure that 15,000 ounces of gold was allegedly being smuggled out of the country on a weekly basis. He explained that smuggling did much damage to the economy in terms of lost revenue and the misrepresentation of the country’s growth. Minister Jordan asked in return that the miners and operators in the sector carry out their corporate responsibilities, by making accurate declarations and paying the rel-

Terrence Adams, the

reported. The signing took place in the boardroom of the Finance Ministry.

The agreement provides for eligible gold miners to be exempted from the payment of custom duties on fuel, matting, All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), jackhammer drills, flex hoses, expanding metals, pumps, pump housing, impellers, shaft and engines. Signing as witnesses were Patrick Harding of

promise that was made by the Government. He said too that the signing was an indication that the Government would listen to, and where appropriate, seek to give assistance to sectors that are in difficulty, as it relates to domestic and international conditions.

“I am not here to give out concessions, but I am here saying that this Government understands and appreciate and will work with all sectors to ensure that, as we promised, a good life is given to all,” Minister Jordan said.

The Minister called on miners to be honest with their declarations. He referred to

evant royalties.

“This cannot be a game, where greed and selfishness overtake the national good,” Minister Jordan said. He pointed out that the Government came to the miners’ rescue when they asked. “We are asking in return that for this sacrifice that we are making, we are not asking for a sacrifice from you, we are asking merely for you to do what is right,” he exhorted. Meanwhile, Adams expressed thanks on behalf of all the miners to the Government for keeping its promise and delivering the agreement to the Association.

The Rice Producers Association (RPA) General Secretary Dharamkumar Seeraj has denied an allegation of obtaining a loan of $100 million from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), which is still to be repaid.

Guyana Times understands that a group of farmers in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) formed a Co-op called “Quality Rice Co-op” and the RPA supported these rice farmers to get involved in milling and exporting.

The primary target at that time was the Venezuelan market and as such, these co-op members entered into an agreement with a mill in Region Three to contract an individual to process the rice and paddy for exporting purposes.

the final stages of exporting the paddy to Venezuela, it was discovered that the paddy was not processed properly by the mill as per contract.

Seeraj explained to this newspaper that as a result these farmers were unable to export the rice to Venezuela and were not getting paid.

The RPA then made representations to the Agriculture Ministry and the GRDB for a resolution into the matter.

what was done so it is only that the RPA facilitated the payments to the farmers,” he said.

It was further explained that many of these farmers were still owed since it was not a 100 per cent payment.

Guyana Times was also told that this Co-op was formed sometime in 2013 and this loan of $100 million took place in 2014.

“The RPA facilitated the payment to the farmers targeted with the intention that the paddy and rice when sold that the money would have gone back to the GRDB… There is no money and the matter is still in court. I think the Co-op is accusing the individual of stealing the paddy and all kinds of things so that is why it is still in court,” he added. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com) – monies were paid to rice farmers from Region 3

Unfortunately, after the processes began and upon

“What happened is that the Government at that time was supportive and sympathetic to the plight of the farmers and they agreed to loan some amount of money to pay the farmers to the Co-op. By then the Co-op had taken the mill to court so they said it was best that they pass the money through the RPA. Then the RPA would made the payments to the farmers and that is

GGMC Commissioner Rickford Bourne, GEA Chief Executive Officer Mahendra Sharma, and GGDMA President

Government Information Agency (GINA)

The parties signing copies of the document

Minister Valerie Garrido- Lowe along with her team and the Paramakatoi participants of the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS) Project

SUDOKU

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Mixing business with pleasure will work in your favour. Submit a proposal to associates and friends alike. The reaction you get will give you valuable insight that will help you proceed.

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Peanuts

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dilbert arChie

Coca-Cola among sponsors saying Fifa boss must go

Fifa president Sepp

Blatter will not resign despite major sponsors Coca-Cola, Visa, Budweiser and McDonald’s calling for him to go immediately.

The four each issued statements saying Blatter should quit after Swiss criminal proceedings were opened against him last week.

Coca-Cola took the first step, saying: “Every day that passes Fifa’s image and reputation continues to tarnish.”

McDonald’s said Blatter going would be “in the best interest of the game”.

The 79-year-old is accused by Swiss prosecutors of signing a contract that was “unfavourable to Fifa” and making a “disloyal payment” to Uefa president Michel Platini but denies any wrongdoing.

In a statement released through his lawyers on Friday, Blatter said resigning now “would not be in the best interest of Fifa, nor would it advance the process of reform”.

Budweiser’s parent company, AB InBev, said it considered Blatter “to be an obstacle in the reform process”,

while Visa said it would be in “the best interests of Fifa and the sport” for the Swiss to resign immediately.

Football Association

chairman Greg Dyke described Friday’s developments as a “game-changer”.

He added: “It doesn’t matter what Mr Blatter says now. If the people who pay for Fifa want a change they will get a change. For those of us who want fundamental change, this is good news.”

Blatter was re-elected for a fifth term as president of world football’s governing body in May, but the election was overshadowed when seven Fifa officials were arrested in dawn raids at a five-star Zurich hotel at the request of the United States.

The US later indicted 14 current and former Fifa officials and associates on charges of “rampant, systemic, and deep-rooted” corruption following a major inquiry by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Blatter then announced he would be stepping down as president, but not until February 2016.

On Monday, Blatter already said through lawyers he would not resign before

then, despite the criminal proceedings being opened against him.

He has said the 2011 £1.5m payment made to Platini, the head of European football’s governing body, was “valid compensation and nothing more”.

Platini, 60, has said he received the payment for work as Blatter’s technical advisor between 1999 and 2002 and has written a letter to Uefa members denying any wrongdoing.

The contract described by Swiss prosecutors as “unfavourable to Fifa” is thought to refer to a 2005 TV rights deal between Fifa and Jack Warner, the former president of Concacaf, the governing body of football in North and Central America and the Caribbean.

According to an investigation by Swiss broadcaster SRF in September, the deal allegedly resulted in a multi-million pound profit for Warner’s company.

Meanwhile, a separate Swiss investigation is looking into the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, which will be held in Russia and Qatar respectively. (BBC Sport)

Klitschko/Fury fight rearranged to November

Wladimir Klitschko’s world heavyweight title bout with Britain’s Tyson Fury has been provisionally rearranged for Saturday November 28 in Dusseldorf.

Klitschko, 39, had been due to defend his WBA, IBF and WBO titles against Fury on October 24 in the German city.

However, the Ukrainian, unbeaten for 11 years, withdrew from the fight last week, citing a calf injury.

Klitschko and Fury await the agreement of broadcaster Sky Sports for the fight to proceed on that date.

Bolton fighter Fury revealed on Twitter that his opponent had been declared fit to fight on November 28.

Last week, the 27-yearold had attended a news conference dressed as Batman during the build-up.

Fury - who called Klitschko “boring” in July - had taken his seat at the event in London before he leaped over his table to grapple with someone dressed as Batman’s enemy The Joker.

He then turned to

Klitschko and said: “This is a fool, just like you are.”

Fury - who is undefeated in 24 fights - successfully defended his European title in March and will tackle Klitschko in his recordbreaking 28th heavyweight title bout. (BBC Sport)

T20 Carib Beer semi-finals billed for the weekend

The four top teams in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) sponsored Carib Beer T20 competition will clash this weekend in the semi-final matchups.

Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) will host GNIC Sport Club today in semi-final one, while Malteenoes Sport Club will play host to Georgetown Cricket Club on Sunday in

the other semi-final. Both games are scheduled for a 13:00h start.

Meanwhile, the Noble House Sea Foods second division two-day tournament continues today, and will see Everest Cricket Club host the Guyana Defence Force and GCC hosting Gandhi Youth Organisation. Both matches start at 10:30h.

Further play in the New

Building Society 40-over Second-Division competition continues this weekend. For today’s fixture, Third Class will battle Transport SC at GNIC and Diplomats will travel to Malteenoes.

On Sunday, St Stanislaus will journey to DCC and Police will tackle Sophia at Eve Leary. All the matches are scheduled to start at 10:30h.

Inzamam appointed Afghanistan head coach

Afghanistan have appointed Inzamamul-Haq, the former Pakistan captain, as their head coach. Inzamam has initially signed on only for Afghanistan’s upcoming tour of Zimbabwe, but Shafiq Stanikzai, the Afghanistan Cricket Board CEO, has indicated that his contract can be extended for up to two years. Inzamam’s last coaching assignment at the international level was a shortterm stint as Pakistan’s batting consultant in 2012-13.

“[Inzamam’s tenure is] currently for the Zimbabwe tour and then we will be having a few meetings in Zimbabwe and after that we will be deciding, on mutual agreement, for the longer term,” Stanikzai

told ESPNcricinfo.

Inzamam had been in contention for the role of Pakistan’s batting coach for the last three years but never got the job full-time.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had mainly looked to hire qualified coaches, candidates with at least Level 3 coaching accreditation and ample experience working with top cricketers, and preferred Grant Flower, the present batting coach, ahead of him.

Since his retirement in 2007, Inzamam had engaged only minimally with cricket - apart from the odd TV appearance as an analyst - and was mostly been occupied with religious activities and his business ventures.

The PCB were keen to recruit Inzamam during

the regime of Zaka Ashraf but the two parties never found common ground to chalk out a deal. Afghanistan have been without a head coach since they decided not to renew Andy Moles’ contract in August. Stanikzai said various candidates had applied for the coach since then, among whom the “leading candidates were Sridharan Sriram from India and Inzamam from Pakistan”. Sriram, the former India batsman, served as a batting consultant with the Australia A team during their recent tour of India and was set to play the same role for the Australia side on their tour of Bangladesh, which now stands postponed. (Cricinfo)

Wladimir Klitschko (left) and Tyson Fury will have to wait a little longer before stepping into the ring

Inzamam-ul-Haq’s previous coaching assignments have included a stint as Pakistan’s batting consultant in 2012-13

No need for political intervention in WI cricket, says Rowley

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley says there is a need for “modern, sensible management” of West Indies cricket but does not believe regional politicians should intervene in the administration of the game.

The Trinidad and Tobago leader argued that the sport in the Caribbean had been badly managed and said it was “disappointing” to witness the state in which it had now found itself.

Speaking on local radio here, Rowley said he had hoped that last year’s aborted tour of India could have led to a watershed moment in the management of West Indies cricket.

“I was kind of hoping that debacle in India would have resulted in the bankruptcy of the West Indies Cricket Board,” Rowley said candidly.

“If the Indians had pressed for their [US$] 42 million and the West Indies Cricket Board couldn’t pay it, they go bankrupt and get out of business and then something else emerges as modern sensible management of this resource, this cultural iconic part of our existence that is West Indies cricket.”

He continued: “It is re-

ally disappointing to see how we as West Indians have taken the best legacy that has been bequeathed to us and just ruined it by general misconduct.”

Rowley was weighing in on the latest controversy to hit West Indies cricket, where head coach Phil Simmons was suspended for questioning the integrity of the selection process, regarding the one-day team for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

Simmons claimed there had been “interference from outside” behind the continued non-selection of Trinidadian all-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard.

“It is wrong and I don’t like it and that is my beef with the selection of the ODI team,” Simmons charged.

However, Rowley said despite the state of the game regionally, he did not think political intervention would be warmly received.

“If politicians set about to do that, politics always has a number of sides, there’s no one side in politics. If any politician or political party or any government set about to do that, the reaction will be ‘what are you doing in this? This

is not politics.’ You now become part of the problem,” Rowley pointed out.

“But we did play a role, the involvement of CARICOM through the Patterson Report.

What more can we do? And we don’t want any more political involvement than that because if you get further involved, there’s going to be a push back against the political involvement.”

Rowley said it was now ironic that Simmons was now set to answer to a West Indies Cricket Board panel over his comments, when the board itself was also guilty of glaring mistakes in the past.

“Right now, the issue in front of us today is … the people who embarrassed us in India recently – the ultimate embarrassment where our team refused to play a Test series – and the investigation showed that the Board was culpable along with the players of course, but the Board had a major responsibility in that disaster,” Rowley said.

“That board is now calling for an apology from Phil Simmons and presumably if he did not apologise and grovel to them, he would lose the job?” (Jamaica Observer)

Focus on WicB’s High Performance Programme

Asignificant shift has been made to the delivery of the West Indies Cricket Board’s High Performance Programme.

The fine work which the West Indies High Performance Centre – located on the Cave Hill campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados – and formerly sponsored by regional financial services giant Sagicor – had performed has been widely acknowledged.

The High Performance Programme, administered through the WIHPC, played a crucial role in developing the emerging generation of current West Indies players including new Test captain Jason Holder, opener Kraigg Brathwaite, fellow batsmen Jermaine Blackwood, Rajindra Chandrika, Shai Hope, wicketkeeper/batsman Shane Dowrich, allrounder Carlos Brathwaite, fast bowler Shannon Gabriel and left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican.

The HPC however, no longer operates under its previous format of registering a cohort of emerging players for a residential programme and working on a year-round basis, following a review of its structure and

programme by Director of Cricket Richard Pybus.

With the establishment of six WICB Professional Cricket League franchises, the HPC is now dedicated to providing the finishing touches to elite players that emerge from regional competitions.

“We need to differentiate between the High Performance Centre and High Performance Programme,” said Pybus. “The staff is still based in Barbados, but we no longer have a cohort because we are now looking to the franchises to develop the talent.

“The financial investment is into the establishment of a sustainable professional cricket system

allen House tops Bishops’ High track and Field sports

By Akeem Greene

When two days of fun and superb competition concluded, Allen House reigned as the superior house at the Bishops’ High School Track and Field Sports, which was recently held.

Defence Force Ground Camp Ayanganna, saw students taking part in events ranging from the 100 metres to the 5000 metres, while the field events were held in the school’s compound.

National School athlete Ruth Sanmoogan was the star of the day as she dominated the sprint events copping first in the girls’ Under-18 100m, 200m and 400m.

The Lower Sixth student executed her races perfectly as her form and speed allowed her to dominate her rivals.

na, held off a challenging Michael Williams in the highlight race of the day.

Young distance runner Dale DeMendonca copped victories in the boys’ Under 20 1500m and 5000m races. DeMendonca, whose goalkeeping skills in local schools’ football tournaments has gained the attention of many, showcased his versatility as he orchestrated a strategic approach which helped him to a victory in the 5000m.

in the region, not only as a standalone professional product in the sporting marketplace, but also with the specific goal to produce players for the West Indies.

“It is now the responsibility of the territorial boards in their development programmes and the franchises with first-class cricket to ensure the player pipeline to West Indies teams is wellstocked with international standard players.”

Pybus added however, there are two key steps in the player pathway that he would like to see addressed – the establishment of a second-tier, franchise tournament and a regional academy.

“The tournament will serve a number of playing and development purposes, expanding and accelerating the work the WICB is currently doing of preparing players for the highest levels of the game,” he said.

“The academy would bring in the best elite emerging players to the HPC for three months in the off-season and they be groomed for international cricket.

“Right now, we are seeking sponsorship to operate both programmes in a meaningful way.”

(windiescricket)

Allen House soared to 717 points with Basket House on 663; Vyfhuis House, 642; Dewar House, 615 and Wearn House, which was the victorious house on the last two occasions filling the final spot on 596 points.

The Carmichael Street School, which is renowned for its stellar performances in the academic arena, turned the tables and showcased its students’ all-round capabilities to produce highly competitive events in both Track and Field.

The track aspect, which was held at the Guyana

In the 200 metres, Sanmoogan executed her turn perfectly against a strong sea breeze before powering down the back stretch to storm to victory.

Sanmoogan, who was selected for last year’s National School Track and Field Athletics Championship but was unable to compete due to the event being washed out, will be hoping for different fortunes this year.

In the Boys’ Under 18 100m, Shemar Britton sprinted his way to victory in the marquee event. Britton, who is more renowned for his exploits in the table tennis are-

However, in the 1500m, it was not as easy when a late surge by Auden Hope threatened DeMendonca, but the young athlete held his composure and dipped to another victory.

The school’s top athletes will now shift their focus to the inter schools track and field in an effort to secure a place on North Georgetown’s Track and Field Team to the National Championships which is scheduled to run off some time in November. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)Caption: Dale DeMendonca (black outfit) dips to win the boys’ Under 20 1500m (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

Ramnarine’s ‘Boxing Beyond...

The recently-completed ICECP module featured coaches representing 34 countries and 14 sports in five continents. The 201516 programme, divided into four modules, started in September and will run until May at the University of Delaware, the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, apprenticeship sites around the US and the IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The programme aims at assisting national- level coaches in developing proficiency in the areas of sport sciences, talent identification, athlete develop -

ment, safe sport, coaching education, coaching management and grassroots sport development.

The intended outcome is for ICECP participants to return to their countries and serve as coaches within their respective sports while becoming foundation builders for future coaches and athletes and spreading the Olympic spirit.

“In the past seven years we have worked with over 190 coaches and the ICECP has impacted sport in over 80 countries through the efforts of the past participants,” said Robinson, UD sport management program director.

“Past participants have risen to positions of leadership in their National Olympic Committees and sport federations, and have enhanced the wellbeing of athletes in their countries.

We will challenge this year’s class to aspire to the same goals.

ICECP would not be possible without our colleagues here at UD and in the sport community around the U.S. So many committed professionals contribute to the success of ICECP. It is a true team effort on the part of the U.S. sport community.”

(Trinidad Newsday)

Dale DeMendonca (black outfit) dips to win the boys under-20 1500m (Harold Garrett Photo)

Shemar Britton

Ruth Sanmoogan

Richard Pybus

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31 First Street, Section L, Campbelville Georgetown, 3 Bedrooms (2 self contained). Simple clean up required, Lights at step required. Interested person kindly contact Rosann tel # 219-4535, between 08:am-04:30pm

693 Section A Diamond , EBD Upstairs, 2 Bedrooms (both self contained). Required extensive work outside (weed, paint, etc). Gate key to be requested by Wayne. Fully Air Conditioned. May require new door. Interested person kindly contact Rosann tel # 219-4535, between 08:am-04:30pm

GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

Sunshine Cabs, 24hours. Phone: 227-1720, 227-1721, 660-6102

nSc pumps $250,000 into BcB

With the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) organised three-day tournament set to commence shortly, Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, through the National Sports Commission (NSC), donated $250,000 to the Board’s President, Anil Beharry.

At a simple ceremony held at the office of the NSC, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown, Jones said that as a sports person, he was a close follower of Berbice cricket.

Jones said he was impressed with the work of the board, and as a result, he was willing to assist in the development of young cricketers.

In response, Beharry thanked the Director of Sport for his timely intervention, praising Jones for the enthusiasm and energy shown as it relates to his involvement in the development of sport in general.

At the Board’s last election held in December, the executives promised the return of school cricket and threeday cricket competitions.

They have already delivered school cricket with the A Ally and Sons Under-17 competition, which is currently in progress.

Further, the Dalchand Rambharose Under-15 competition will also be played shortly, according to Beharry.

Meanwhile, Beharry said that the BCB accounts and works are available for scrutiny. He added that despite the challenges faced, the Board continued to receive the confidence of corporate Guyana.

Beharry took the opportunity to thank all the sponsors that have supported the BCB over the years. The competition will start shortly. The Board is also pleading with private individuals, businesses, current and former cricketers and administrators to come on board and support this important venture. Contact can be made at the Board’s office on 333-2375 or any other executive.

Ramnarine’s ‘Boxing Beyond The Ring’ for Uganda

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ia Ramnarine’s brainchild female empowering initiative, ‘Boxing Beyond The Ring’, has been hailed as a model initiative by the International Coaching Enrichment Certification Programme (ICECP) and is now set to be implemented in Uganda in February 2016.

Having been especially invited as peer mentor to the first module (September 1922) of this year’s ICECP at the University of Delaware Campus in Newark, Ramnarine was priviledged to once again share her life-changing experiences throughout ‘Boxing Beyond The Ring’ with participants of the 2015/ 2016 course.

The former Trinidad and Tobago top-ranked female fighter was specifically chosen by ICECP Univeristy of Delaware director Matthew J Robinson to take part in this year’s programme, having been a model participant in the 2014 edition by making such a positive impact through her exploits ‘beyond the ring’.

As part of the IECEP, Ramnarine developed ‘Boxing Beyond the Ring’, an initiative designed to encourage female participation in boxing by highlighting the sport’s physiological and psychological benefits, including an increase in self-

efficacy, empowerment and personal safety.

“I’ve been privileged to become part of two ICECP groups, although not a student of ICECP’s 8th edition,” shesaid. “But the group made me one of their own after the few days I spent with them, sharing advice, giving support and basically fulfilling the responsibility of being the mentor. They were a great bunch who I am sure will be very successful and make the most of ICECP.

I’d like to thank the

USOC, Olympic Solidarity and University of Delaware for giving us coaches such a beneficial and amazing opportunity, and also for recommending me to this programme.

More so, my ICECP brainchild, Boxing Beyond the Ring, is set to be implemented in Uganda next February.” According to the ex-national pugilist, her recent experiences have provided her with the opportunity to become a better coach and has even propelled her into the MEMOS program.

MEMOS is an Executive Masters in Sport Organisation Management, offered by Olympic Solidarity and the University of Louvain.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ramnarine, an honours graduate of the seventh edition of the ICECP and former world champion in women’s boxing from Trinidad and Tobago also credited the works of all ICECP directors and Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee president, Brian Lewis.

“I cannot express how truly honoured I am to be asked to return and share my experiences with this year’s class. The ICECP is a great programme and I am humbled to be able to have this.”

eduCatIon

BaBy serVICes

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones (right) hands over the cheque for $250,000 to BCB

President Anil Beharry

Ria Ramnarine

Bakewell delivers sponsorship for Nasir’s memorial tournament

Bakewell, Guyana’s largest bakery, this week handed over a sponsorship cheque for $235,000 to the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) for the hosting of the first-ever Naeem Nasir five-over cricket tournament.

The competition will be held on October 11 at the Area H Ground in Rose Hall Town and will mark the third death anniversary of Nasir, the late Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/ Founder of Bakewell.

General Manager of Bakewell, Rajendra Ganga, in handing over the sponsorship cheque, stated that the company and RHTY&SC have enjoyed a remarkable and highly successful relationship since 2000, and as such, Bakewell has full confidence in the success of the tournament.

The RHTY&SC, Ganga stated, has represented the Bakewell brand well on and off the cricket field and has made a positive difference in

the lives of countless youths via sport, education and culture.

Club Secretary/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Hilbert Foster, in accepting the sponsorship, stated that the Club was proud to be associated with preserving the memory of Nasir, a businessman who invested heavily in sport, especially football, lawn tennis and cricket.

Foster committed the RHTY&SC to hosting another highly successful tournament, and disclosed that the cricket teams of the Club will be using the opportunity to promote the “Say No to Crime/Drugs and Yes to Education/Sport” message.

Among the teams that will be involved in the tournament are Rose Hall Town Bakewell A, RHT Bakewell B, West Berbice, Police, Young Warriors, Courtland, Belvedere United, Yakusari, All Stars Youth, Kennard Memorial and Tamarind Root (Hampshire). The winning team will

carry home $100,000 and a trophy, the runner-up $40,000 and a trophy, and third place $25,000 and a trophy.

Meanwhile, the management of the RHTY&SC has released the names of the two RHT Bakewell teams, as listed below.

RHT Bakewell A squad reads: James Fraser (Captain); Vidal Crandon; Khemraj Mahadeo; Renwick Batson; Michael Hicks; Mark Papannah; Rondhall Lewis; Erva Giddings; Simion Lawson; Slyus Tyndall; Jason Alexander; Mark Fernandes; Justin Gobin and Joshua Wilson.

RHT Bakewell B squad reads: Kevlon Anderson, Keith Simpson, Surendra Budhoo, Junior Sinclair, D Sinclair, Brandon Clorlette, Joshua Gobin, Denzil Sinclair, Seerinda Marimutoo, Azam Khan, Neil Pike, T Ross, Matthew Pattaya, Joel Pike, Clement King and Chanderpaul Gopinda.

The Albion Community Centre Ground in Berbice will be the venue for today’s conclusion of the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO)/RAF’s Variety Store fifth annual Hajjin Zeleena Rafeek Memorial countrywide Inter-Jamaat 10/10 knockout softball tournament.

Last year’s winner Leonora Jamaat; Farm, Grove, Queenstown, Fyrish and Albion Masjids and Adventure on the Essequibo Coast will battle in the quarter-finals; followed by the semi-finals, and grand final, which will be played under lights from 20:00h.

The winning team will take home a trophy and $300,000; the runners-up, a trophy and $200,000; third place, a trophy and $100,000 and fourth, a trophy and $50,000.

The Man of the Match in the final and third-place game, and the player with the highest individual score and best bowling figures will also be rewarded, while medals will be given to the finalists.

Teams are required to assemble at the

venue for 10:30h to facilitate a prompt start. In the quarter-finals Queenstown will face Albion, MYO will take on Fyrish, Farm will oppose Leonora and Grove will match skills with Adventure.

Handicap Squash Tournament

Mekdeci shines in latest round

National player Ben Mekdeci made a handicap of -13 seem frivolous when he defeated former badminton player Medhi Ramdhani in straight games in the latest round of the ANSA McAL/Lucozade sponsored Handicap Tournament on Thursday at the Georgetown Club courts.

The tournament, which is being hosted by the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) in collaboration with its corporate sponsor Digicel, definitely had a lot of action especially with the return of former players in GSA President David Fernandes and Suzie DeAbreu.

Mekdeci was all business dispatching a still fit Ramdhani who had a handicap of six in two straight sets at 15-13 and 15-14.

Fernandes and DeAbreu returned to the court in an energetic encounter, with Fernandes going on to win 2-1.

The game did not lack youthful exuberance nor excitement as the two veterans exchanged thoughtful blows with well-executed winners in a throwback to their competitive age.

DeAbreu took the first set 15-12, but Fernandes returned to take the following two 15-10, 15-8 to win by a 2-1 margin.

Meanwhile, Michael Atherly took advantage of a 10-point handicap to beat Raphael DeGroot, who started with a handicap of -12, 2-1 (13-15, 15-4, 15-2).

In other results: Kamir Khan beat Beau Fernandes 2-0 (15-7, 15-5); Jonathan

Fernandes beat Thi Fernandes 2-0 (15-8, 15-7); Daniel Islam beat Frankie Vieira 2-0 (15-7, 15-6); Madison Fernandes beat Shiloh Asregado 2-0 (15-12, 15-12); Ashley DeGroot beat Dwayne Yan 2-0 (15-12, 15-13); Maya Collins beat Kirsten Gomes 2-0 (15-8, 15-5); Dominic Collins beat Mohryan Baksh 2-0 (15-12, 15-12); Aliyah Persaud beat Chad DeAbreu 2-0 (15-13, 15-11); Jason Gomes beat Geovanna DoSantos 2-0 (1511, 15-9); Abosaide Cadogan beat Louis DaSilva 2-0 (1510, 15-11); James Mekdeci beat Liam Carpenter 2-0 (15-6, 15-7) and Michael DeGroot beat Jonathan Antzach 2-1 (12-15, 15-13, 15-11).

The final of the tournament will be held on Sunday.

UG to tip off Inter-Faculty basketball tourney today

The University of Guyana (UG) will hold its annual InterFaculty basketball tournament today from 13:00h at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The tournament, which is expected to conclude on October 18, will see a total of eight teams competing for

the coveted title. The teams will be divided in two groups of four and will play each other on a round-robin basis before moving into the knockout stage.

With the Faculty of Technology being the defending champions, Sports Organiser of UG, Lavern

Fraser-Thomas noted that the Faculty of Social Sciences might pose the biggest threat to the defending champs.

Nevertheless, FraserThomas highlighted that because of the spike in interest, she expects a “highly competitive tournament”.

In addition, FraserThomas noted that the Inter-Faculty basketball tournament has also generated interest from the players who regularly play basketball which has allowed the University to grow its team.

With players such as Akeem “The Dream” Kanhai, Emmanuel Archibald, Quincy Easton, and Yoel Meusa set to compete, an exciting tournament can be expected.

The tournament will tip off today with six games. The defending champs will be in action as well against the Faculty of Natural Sciences.

Bakewell General Manager Rajendra Ganga (right) hands over the sponsorship cheque to RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster

David Fernandes stretches for a return against Suzie DeAbreu

Akeem “The Dream” KanhaiLavern Fraser-Thomas

SA Volleyball Championship

Guyana fall to Colombia in straight sets

Guyana suffered another defeat, this time at the hands of Colombia when action continued in the South American Volleyball Championship in Maceio, Brazil.

After suffering a competitive three-set defeat at the hands of world number six Argentina in their opening game this week, Guyana entered the contest against

Colombia, ranked 26th in the world, confident of doing well.

While the enthusiasm did not materialise into a victory against Colombia, the Guyanese did manage to score more points than they did against Argentina.

Guyana scored 57 points, a marked improvement from the game against Argentina where they managed just 31 points. Colombia eventually

won by three straight sets, taking the game 25-22, 2515, 25-20.

Argentina had beaten Guyana 25-9, 25-9, 25-13 in the opening game.

Guyana will play Uruguay today in the final preliminary round match, and will be hard-pressed to qualify for the next round following the back-to-back defeats.

Kudrath memorial match billed for

The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC), as part of its Silver Jubilee’s Month of Heroes (October), will be hosting an Under-17 cricket match between the Club and West Berbice on Sunday at the Area H Ground in memory of the Club’s late Assistant Secretary/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Farouk Kudrath.

The match, to be played for the Farouk Kudrath Memorial Trophy, is the first to be organised by the cricket teams of the RHTY&SC in honour of outstanding members who have passed away over the last 25 years.

The Rose Hall Town Bakewell Under-17 team will be led by national Under-15 player Kevon Anderson, while anoth-

Sunday

er junior cricketer, Kris Ramnarine will spearhead West Berbice’s challenge. Anderson will be supported by fellow national Under-15 pacer Sylus Tyndall, Brandon Corlette, Keith Simpson, Surendra Budhoo and Chanderpaul Govinda. West Berbice will depend heavily on Kris Ramnarine, Travis Carmichael, Tiptus Webster, Tyrest Carmichael and Carlos Peterkin.

Secretary/CEO of the RHTY&SC, Hilbert Foster, described the late Kudrath as one of the most hardworking and dedicated executives he ever worked with and as someone who was always willing to work overtime to achieve success.

Kudrath, Foster stated, was a visionary leader,

who was most passionate about sport, education, culture and the anti-drug programme.

West Berbice squad reads: Kris Ramnarine, Travis Carmichael, Trevon Carmichael, Andy Guygobin, Carlos Peterkin, Christopher Harry, Tyrest Carmichael, Sharsar Dundas, Tiptus Webster, Davendra Budraj, Joseph Nicholson, Curtly Babb and Leonard Williams.

RHT Bakewell squad reads: Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Keith Simpson, Brandon Corlette, Surendra Budhoo, Sylus Tyndall, Chanderpaul Govinda, Simon Naidu, Matthew Pattaya, Quinton Crandon, Clement King Jr, Shakim Johnny, Joel Pike and Plaffina Millington.

The 40-over match will bowl off at 11:00h.

Jan Rolf wins Baksh birthday pool competition

LCourts Pee Wee Under-11 Tournament to kick off today

The fourth edition of the Courts Pee Wee Under-11 tournament will kick off today with 12 games and a colourful march past at the Banks DIH Thirst Park Ground from 10:00h.

The tournament, which has become a household name in Guyana, has seen advancement in the level of football being played from an early age.

On Friday, Directors of Petra Organisation, Marlan Cole and Troy Mendonca noted that all systems were in place for the event to be a success.

Mendonca, in his remarks, noted that it was a pleasure to see the teams continue to improve each year, “First of all, four

years is a lot of years and we are happy that the tournament has become a household name… teams have continuously improved over the years and we want to encourage the parents and guardians to come out, because the kids are the future,” he highlighted.

Meanwhile, Courts Guyana Inc Marketing Manager Pernell Cummings stressed that grassroots football was a key ingredient in improving Guyana’s squad.

“We are happy to support the kids and the schools and we must thank the Petra Organisation for putting together this

tournament and we are pleased to support grassroots football which is a key,” Cummings noted.

Stella Maris Primary, the defending champions, will open their title defence against St Gabriel’s Primary.

Another top school, Tucville Primary will play St Angela’s, while another tournament favourite in St Pius will match pegs with St Sidwell’s Primary.

The tournament will be played each Saturday with 12 games per day as Georgetown’s top primary schools take the field for the coveted title. (josepht@guyanatimesgy. com)

Courts Guyana Inc Marketing Manager Pernell Cummings

Petra Director Troy Mendonca

ong-serving employee of Metro Office and Computer Supplies, Arif Baksh, last Friday hosted a pools competition to celebrate his birth anniversary at the Metro Sports Club. A total of 18 players competed in the tournament, and at the end of it all, Marc

Jan Rolf copped top honours. Baksh, who is seen here on the right presenting the winner’s trophy to Jan Rolf, expressed gratitude to the players for participating and thanked the sponsor Trophy Stall for providing the trophy

Sepp Blatter