Guyana Times Daily - February 28, 2015

saturday, february 28, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

APNU/AFC campaign heats up

…support overwhelming, claims Harmon

By Gomatie GanGadin

The newly-formed

A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNUAFC) coalition is set to officially launch its campaign on Wednesday, March 4 at the Pegasus Savannah Suites and according to APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon “things are heating up” for the grand start.

Speaking to the Guyana Times on Thursday evening in a telephone interview, Harmon said the party was in full swing with preparations, noting that even as he was speaking, the party was meeting and fine-tuning details for the campaign.

According to Harmon, the two parties will be campaigning on one platform in keeping with their ultimate goal and theme of a government of national unity.

He noted that with the launch soon approaching, the coalition camp was enveloped in enthusiasm and anxiety as the members could not wait to experience the change Guyana has been for so long awaiting.

“Everyone is enthused, man. The Guyanese people’s long wait for change won’t be a long wait anymore. There are only a few more days to go. The kind of government that they want to move forward will be here,” Harmon enthusiastically said.

When questioned about the response the coalition has been receiving from its support base as it takes its campaign across the country, Harmon claimed that the support was indeed overwhelming and has proven to be much more than what they had initially expected.

He added that even the citizens who had vowed not to head to the polls again and those who had given up hope of a change have been coming on board with the coalition, with the strong belief that change was coming for the country.

“It is excellent! Excellent! Man, everywhere we go, people are enthused. The dormant are proceeding to become alive. It is going to be a great campaign; it is awakening the spirit of the people.

"One woman told us on a

recent campaign that she is feeling light. We should all feel light.

"We have been downtrodden for so long. Our campaign will make people think that Guyana is the place they want to be; that this is the place they need to be. Persons in the United States, in Canada, the United Kingdom, the Caribbean, they must be encouraged and tempted to come back to Guyana,” the General Secretary said.

Alluding to the recent Mashramani Float Parade in which the parties took part, Harmon noted that the support which was shown by the Guyanese people as the coalition entered the National Park was indeed a reinforcement of the confidence which the Guyanese people have in the grouping.

As such, he believes that

when the campaign hits the road, the task of encouraging people to come out and show their support will not such a hard one after all.

He said the party was utilising every available tool at its disposal which included social media, print and electronic media, ground walks and bottom-house and public meetings to ensure that its message of change is spread throughout the length and breadth of the country.

“Thus far, the support is very encouraging. We have been on the ground, on the social media, it is all positive,” he said.

Targeting youths

Meanwhile, regarding the elections campaign, Ryan Belgrave, head of the Guyana Youth and Students Movement (GYSM), the youth arm of the APNU major party People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), had told this newspaper that the coalition will be taking its campaign to every corner of the country and will be targeting the young people, since they make up more than 69 per cent of the voting population.

He noted that it was time for the youths to exercise their rights to ensure a better education system and the availability of job opportunities which are currently lacking under the ruling Administration.

Belgrave related that the party would be utilising social media as well as the traditional methods of going doorto-door to get the party’s message out.

He also disclosed that the party would be seeking to have its messages translated as best as it possibly can into the language of the Amerindians, naturalised Chinese and Brazilians so that they too can come on board with the party and its plans for Guyana.

US court ruling a setback for amnesty for illegals

Arecent US court ruling has become a setback to President Barack Obama’s executive order issued in November granting relief to illegal immigrants in America.

Immigration activists and relatives of undocumented immigrants are up in arms over the Texas judicial ruling blocking the implementation of Obama’s executive order granting temporary relief from deportation to five million undocumented residents, including thousands of Guyanese. Guyanese and Indian American lawyers and immigration advocates in Queens are condemning the judge’s ruling and are forming alliances with other ethnic groups to plan a course of action to the judge’s ruling.

Immigrant groups and their supporters around the US are protesting the Texas federal court judge’s temporary injunction on February 16. The White House on February 23 filed for a stay on the ruling and simultaneously filed an appeal in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans, which has oversight over the Texas Federal Court.

The US District Court Judge Andrew Hanen in Texas issued the injunction in response to a lawsuit by 26 states which claimed that the President’s executive order was unconstitutional and would provide a burden to their state and local governments. In keeping with judicial protocol, Judge Hanen himself will decide whether to issue the stay on his injunction; it would be unusual for a judge not to issue a stay given that a matter is under appeal.

Obama’s executive order expands the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programme to allow undocumented applicants who arrived in the country before 2010 to legally work,

drive and attend college, while also gaining relief from deportation.

Immigration activists and Guyanese lawyers and community leaders fear the temporary court action may deter eligible recipients from applying for the programme for fear of providing information that could make it easier for officials to pick them up for deportation.

The White House is gung ho about the appeal. A spokesperson said: “We will seek that appeal because we believe that when you evaluate the legal merits of the arguments, that there is a solid legal foundation for the President to take the steps that he announced late last year to reform our broken immigration system. That’s consistent with the way that previous Presidents over the course of several decades have used their executive authority and that is why we’re going to continue to pursue this case through the legal system.”

In addressing a huge immigrant crowd in Miami, President Obama told immigrants not to be disheartened by legal wrangling. He urged them to keep planning for eventual relief, professing confidence that his deportation directives won’t be thrown out in court. He said: “This is just one federal judge. We have appealed it very aggressively. We’re going to be as aggressive as we can.” The President said he expected to win when the US circuit court hears his appeal that is likely to take at a minimum a few months. He added that his administration will “take it up from there” if the appeal fails, suggesting an appeal to the Supreme Court if the Circuit Court rules against him. He said at each stage of the process, the White House believes “it has the better argument on the issue of granting relief to illegal immigrants”.

Rohee talks up contributions of CPGs

The Community Policing Organisation of Guyana (CPOG) has made significant achievements since its initiation, the Home Affairs Ministry said on Friday.

In 2014 alone, the organisation was able to increase its membership of Community Policing Groups (CPGs) by 23 per cent. Currently, it consists of 270 groups with a membership of 5201.

At the end of 2014, the CPOG had garnered a total of $518,723,000 under its capital programme after starting at a low of $25, 000, 000, while under its current programme it had a total of $113,900,000 at the end of 2014.

It was also pointed out that during the period 20132014, CPGs conducted 8527 vehicular patrols, 4838 motorcycle patrols, 8344 bicycle patrols, 19,994 foot patrols, 1078 boat patrols and 381 ATV patrols. There were 920 arrests for matters ranging from murders to domestic violence. These patrols were also able to reduce electricity theft and vandalism of fibre-optic cables in Community Policing Divisions.

Additionally, in 2014, the CPOG provided additional

uniforms, vehicles and equipment to all CPGs, while training programmes for Liaison Officers were introduced. An award scheme for Liaison Officers, members of the business community and outstanding CPGs and members was also introduced.

To mark its 39th anniversary, the Home Affairs Ministry said a number of activities have been planned in the 15 Community Policing Divisions, with the main activities being celebrated on the Essequibo Coast under the theme “Community Policing supporting the fight against Domestic Violence,

Suicide and promoting Road Safety”.

The Home Affairs Ministry pointed out that Community Policing in Guyana commenced in 1976 with the aim of harnessing the energies of willing members of communities across Guyana in support of the work of the Police, to achieve a crime-free society, and to be responsive, together with the Police, to the needs of the communities in respect of the necessity to maintain law and order.

As the work of the organisation advanced, objectives were expanded to embrace youth development, health consciousness, road safety, environmental enhancement and activities that would benefit communities across the country.

“The vision of Henry Fraser, the late Commissioner of Police, to establish Community Policing in Guyana has relevance today as it did 39 years ago,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and the CPOG said they are grateful to the Government for its continuous support.

Retired Brigadier David Granger listening attentively to the remarks of this elderly gentleman on a recent visit to Essequibo

Clement Rohee

WEATHER TODAY

Winds:

High Tide: 00:19h and 12:47h reaching maximum heights of 2.06 metres and 2.14 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 06:13h and 18:58h reaching minimum heights of 1.17 metres and 1.04 metres respectively.

GGMC Engineer executed at Diamond

…drives car into trench in bid to escape

By Bhisham mohamed

An engineer attached to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) was on Friday morning executed while driving along the Diamond Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Trevor Abrams, 31, of Lot 129 Samantha Point, Grove Village, EBD, was shot at least four times by occupants of a Carina 212 motor car in the vicinity of Demerara Distillers Limited around 11:00h.

According to information received, the young man was driving his Silver Grey Toyota Allion bearing registration number PSS 6855 when another car pulled up alongside him. Several gunshots were reportedly heard as the two cars sped away.

From all indications, Abrams attempted to escape and accelerated away, but crashed into a utility pole

and ended up in a nearby canal. The other car disappeared.

Moments after the car plunged into the trench, public-spirited citizens ran to Abrams’ rescue and managed to pull him from the submerged vehicle. He was rushed to the East Bank Demerara Regional Hospital (Diamond Diagnostic Centre) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

At the scene, several Police ranks were busy collecting spent shells. At least four gold coloured spent shells were recovered from the scene.

Devastated

When the Guyana Times checked at the medical institution, family members who had gathered consoled each other. Abrams’ only sister sat on one of the benches with tears in her eyes.

One family friend, Pamela Younge told the Guyana Times that she was returning home from Georgetown when she saw the car in the canal, but at that time she did not know it was Abrams’.

Within a few minutes, Younge stated, she received a phone call and was asked by a relative to visit the Diamond hospital to confirm if indeed it were Abrams. She said at the hospital, she saw the young man clad in a jersey and pair of jeans lying on a stretcher covered with blood.

Shortly after the fiancée of the young man arrived in tears, but refused to enter the hospital compound,

claiming “I don’t want to see a dead man… I want to see Trevor alive”.

The teacher at the Grove Primary School was comforted by several of her colleagues who came with her. By this time, other relatives of the dead man arrived including his stepmother, Bridgette Abrams.

She told the Guyana Times that she was at work when she received a call informing her that Abrams was involved in an incident and he was at the Diamond hospital. She frantically

bullet wounds to his back.

Motive unclear

She recalled leaving Abrams at home claiming that he took the day off. “Honestly, I can’t say who would want to harm Trevor … he is such a peaceful child … he attends the SeventhDay Adventist Church in Grove and is well-mannered … Why would someone want to kill him?” she cried.

The devastated woman explained that he would travel into the interior and return after spending some

picked up her belongings to rush out, but, as she was about to leave, she received another phone call saying “his body is at the hospital… hurry and come”.

At that time, she became weakened, as she knew that the person’s use of the word “body” meant that he was dead. In tears, the woman stated that she drove to the hospital and as she entered, she saw her son lying motionless with at least four

time. “He returned home a few weeks ago and this morning he told me that he was going to look after some important work.”

Almost everyone who turned up at the hospital to offer support to the grieving family spoke well about the young man’s character leaving many unanswered questions about the events that led to his demise.

Executed GGMC worker, Trevor Abrams

The car Abrams was driving when he was executed

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

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Editorial

Deaths in Police custody

The recent deaths of two inmates at separate West Demerara lock-ups must be a concern for not only the law enforcement authorities, but every Guyanese whose taxes are used to pay those charged with taking care of the prisoners and the upkeep of the facilities.

What is also a cause of much concern is the manner in which both men died, the explanations by the Police and the growing mistrust of the Police Force these incidents breathe among citizens.

Whether the Police have been criminally responsible or not, citizens expect at the minimum some regard for the life and limb by our lawmen. What obtains is a hapless

Asif Raheem Khatoon of Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara (WCD) was arrested for allegedly beating his wife.

Khatoon would later receive “a sound thrashing”, according to media reports before being thrown into the lock-ups. He was released a few days later without being charged or placed before the court and died following medical checks at Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) where he was admitted due to the extent of his injuries.

The matter was investigated by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), but nothing has come out of the matter thus far.

In the case of Zaharudeen Rozan, also of Cornelia Ida WCD, he was arrested following a report of him damaging his neighbour’s fence. He was thrown into the lock-ups.

What happened next is anyone’s guess. Rozan was reportedly beaten, fell into a fit and began hitting his head on the concrete floor. He died subsequently. According to an autopsy conducted by Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh Rozan died from blunt trauma to the head, brain haemorrhage, and hyperextension which, according to the Police as explained by the Pathologist, were consistent with an epileptic seizure. There were also bite marks on his tongue.

These two cases come at a time when the dust has not yet been settled on the promotion of two officers fingered in the torture of a teenager back in 2009; the alleged brutality meted out to Colwyn Harding who had accused Police ranks of the Timehri Police Station of sexually assaulting him with a baton, and the shooting of a young man, Alex Griffith in his mouth by an officer following his arrest.

There have been other incidents of alleged Police excesses pointing to a high level of callousness among ranks. It is in this area for many citizens, our Policemen and women need training – respecting the rule of law and upholding human rights.

The Police Force should factor this in all of their training courses, making it clear that it is far more prudent, in the long run to adhere to prudent Police behaviour and rigorous enforcement of standards.

Rozan, Khatoon, Harding and Griffith’s cases, however, are not unlike the many about which people complain all too often, mostly without consequence. These men are all victims of a broken system, which must be fixed immediately if citizens are to feel any sense of security when a loved one is incarcerated.

It is common standard practice the world over that whenever someone is taken into custody and before being placed in a cell certain basic checks are carried out. For Rozan, a more alert Police officer ought to have ensured that he was sober before being thrust into a lock-up.

And what about his medical history? Shouldn’t this not have been ascertained before he was locked-up. All prisoners in correctional facilities regardless of custody level or security classification are guaranteed certain health services.

Besides, prisoners’ health records are established as soon as possible after their arrival at a correctional facility and health care staff also schedule annual health care screening appointment for each prisoner.

For what should be pellucid, assuming, somehow, it was not clear before, is that an out-of-control Police Force is not only bad for the society, but potentially expensive business for the state.

New writers should have personal integrity, an extremely rare commodity

Dear Editor,

Having written to the press on the Guyana Prize and receiving replies to statements he made, Ruel Johnson begs off from continuing the discussion, saying it is “ad hoc cross talking”, in which he is too busy to engage and finds tedious.

He now says the discussion is too important for the media and has to be done by bringing serious, knowledgeable people together, and around a table of some sort, I suppose?

I, like so many others, will never be invited to any discussion around any table at any time which leaves me wholly dependent on the media for any discussion, a situation I much prefer anyhow.

Since a free press is a fundamental of democracy and good governance, providing a free and open forum where ideas can be ex-

changed and debated, one must wonder what Johnson hopes for in a post-elections Guyana.

Tables around which a privileged, hand-picked few will meet to make decisions for all of us? This will constitute a free expression of ideas rather than the cross talking that a free press supports?

Johnson writes hopefully of a new dispensation where writers and artists would be free of fear from victimization intimating, perhaps, that he has been so victimized. I am no proponent of the current Government, but could he say when and how this occurred, especially given the fact that he won his two Guyana Prizes under the PPP/C Administration?

Johnson is proud that he succeeded in getting the Guyana Prize deadline extended and continues to ex-

hort writers to network and workshop to get their work ready for the competition and the goal of a prize because he is well aware that the million-dollar prize can go to the best of a bad lot.

It can be won by work that is poor, badly edited and shows only some promise, making it incomplete.

I would advise new writers to have personal integrity, an extremely rare commodity in Guyana, and to stand above it all and take your time to think, write, review and reflect then rewrite and when your work is good and ready, and is the best you can do then you submit it. Have your own standard of excellence since Guyana has none.

I hope that the submitted works will be available to the public so that we can all have an opinion on who should win. The secret society, back-door-deal proce-

dure that usually obtains in selecting the winners is not acceptable.

Hopefully, we will not see the same old faces, those multiple-time winners who are proud of their multiple wins and never stop to ask themselves why they have won one, two, three times. Do they win over and over because there are not enough good writers around or is it because they are favoured to win each time they submit their work, any work?

Either way, this is more than enough reason to scrap the prize and mount an investigation. Since Johnson has written to the media on so many occasions to hold government accountable, I am sure he too will insist on this investigation by whoever forms the next government.

Ryhaan Shah

President Ramotar made a strategic move in choosing Harper

Dear Editor,

It is a foregone conclusion that the APNU/AFC coalition is headed for failure. That coalition of sorts is headed down a road to nowhere due to the expressed fact that it will become a one-man.

This is scaring the daylights out of AFC. They were of the mistaken belief that the major political partner were people of trust, but this is not so. They have come to the realization that a solo event awaits them in the unlikely event of a coalition win. This is not what they bargained for. When that "uni-

ty agreement" was made the AFC did so in good faith thinking that the combined whole would showcase a party of strength and unity.

But that unity part of the whole is sadly missing when you view the situation in real life. What was said behind closed doors and what is being done on the ground right now are two separate entities.

The reality is talk unity at the negotiating table, but in actuality the one party idea is uppermost in your mind. Meantime, APNU supporters are busy selling the idea that the APNU is only using the AFC to see if

they can get into office, and believe Nagamootoo is their trump card.

The exact quotation used in that conversation is, "We only using them two; soon as we get in office case close". This is what you get from the ground, an all PNC/APNU control talk.

So, with all of this going on, my question to my AFC Friends is, do you think that section of the voting public will take kindly to those words? I think not. They are going to see clearly through the scheme which tells them that a vote for the so called unity coalition is a vote for PNC/APNU to take total

control of Guyana. This is their fear. Their dilemma is compounded further by the fact that President Donald Ramotar has made a strategic move in choosing Elizabeth Harper as his Prime Ministerial running mate – a strong Afro-Guyanese technocrat lady who will make a tremendous impact in the voting privileges of the masses. It is the typical slam dunk you see at NBA finals. Those disgruntled AFC supporters will not vote for the coalition.

Neil Adams

The Gafsons Industries Limited Chief Executive Officer Sattaur Gafoor shares gifts and feeds scores of women and children at the Company’s headquarters in Houston, East Bank Demerara on Friday

The Opposition coalition was checkmated

Dear Editor,

The Opposition coalition was given a free lesson in shock and awe when the PPP/C announced its Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2015 regional and general elections, Elisabeth Harper, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

One question which immediately raises in my head is why are they shocked especially? By “they” I particularly refer to David Granger and some of the Burnham clan who are still around.

Unlike APNU’s scandal tainted choice for Home Affairs Minister, Winston Felix, Harper is a consum-

mate professional and a diplomat par excellence, who has been in the public service for almost three decades.

She would have worked under the despotic PNC (now APNU) regime where she would have witnessed massive denial of employment in the Public Service to those who were not card carrying PNC members.

She would have witnessed that while Guyana’s Foreign Service reached its epitome at that time, the PNC’s capacity to deliver essential services had virtually collapsed. Infrastructure remained severely dilapidated.

The supply of pota-

ble water was limited to a small proportion of the population, drainage and irrigation systems had deteriorated to the point that they were no longer useful, and health and education services had become so inadequate that social indicators for the country had fallen to among the lowest in the Caribbean.

The monies that were pumped into the Foreign Service by the despotic PNC regime at that time was used on two levels – firstly, to ensure that Guyana’s image on the international stage remained one of exaltation and, secondly, to ensure that the economic and social reality in Guyana re-

mained concealed from the international limelight.

Ms Harper would have also seen the post 1992 catalytical transformation currently taking place under the PPP/C Government.

She would have witnessed first-hand the return of democracy and the rule of law, equality among all Guyanese, prosperity and the resurgence of Guyana’s economy, which can be described as nothing less than a miracle, given the state it was left in by Carl Greenidge and company.

What the Grangers, Burnhams and others a did not cater for is that Ms Harper does not view life through the prism of race,

but as a Guyanese and a human being who could distinguish between right and wrong.

There are some Facebook politicians who claim that Ms Harper doesn’t have a constituency, or that she cannot deliver anything for the PPP/C at the 2015 elections. The fact is that they are running scared, because they know the calibre of the woman and what she brings to the table.

They are worried of her presence on the slate of Guyana’s only multi-racial party that has created an environment where people of all communities are ensured sufficient safeguards to their life, property, digni-

ty, and honour, besides facilitating the fulfillment of their needs and aspirations. Ms Harper sees a Government that has embarked on determined steps towards a brighter future for this nation – a future without discrimination or exclusion of anyone. Rekindling the excitement of past years is a Government committed to public service solely to give everyone a better quality of life.

In other words the appointment of Ms Harper has political genius written all over it; the Opposition coalition was just checkmated.

Cedric Lord

One coalition member out in the cold

Dear Editor,

“Where there is incentive, there is also treachery’’ and “those that value position above all are like thieves in the night; without mercy”.

I would like to start off with those two quotes, for today I realised that the very quotes of this time could have been put there to foreshadow what is to come; perhaps they are signs from the past.

Recently, the AFC and the APNU announced a union that’s supposed to be the panacea for all Guyana’s

ills. I read somewhere that the agreement signed by the two stated that if the union was to succeed at the upcoming elections then the leader of the APNU will be the President and the Leader of the AFC would hold the Prime Ministerial post.

This new dispensation appears to have left another APNU coalition member out in the cold; the WPA. Dr Rupert Roopnarine has become the victim in the sudden fire of convenient love being described as “an effort to establish a sense of

national unity in Guyana”.

Many would recall that Roopnarine was initially touted to retain the Prime Ministerial candidate spot at the upcoming elections. This was after reports surfaced that he would make way for a much younger, vibrant candidate. Recent events have however suggested that the relationship once shared within the house is headed to an end. And the question begs why wasn’t Roopnarine given the post as promised before talks about coalition with the AFC?

Moreover, why was it so necessary for the post to be given to Nagamootoo instead?

I believe we must carefully assess the actions of both APNU Leader David Granger and the AFC and thoroughly collect the evidence that stands amidst, as verily I say unto you that it is not by mistake or accident that poor Rupert was omitted from the grand ball. What is now clear is that the WPA has lost in its gamble and they didn’t voluntarily take one for the team. It is even safer

These letter writers exposed themselves

Dear Editor,

A letter by Asquith Rose, Chandra Deolall and Dr Merle SpencerMarks makes for interesting reading. The letter exposes another reason why Magistrate Geeta ChandanEdmond may have been dismissed - they have let the cat out of the bag. According to them, the Magistrate was to have sent

Prime Minister Sam Hinds’ son to jail. Apparently, the Magistrate would have communicated this intention to them, the letter writers, before making known what her decision would have been.

If true, this is highly irregular for a Magistrate to discuss her intended decision with members of the

public and disclose what her sentence would be.

That was most irregular, since reports suggest that the Magistrate had ordered a probation report, and one would have expected her to give due regard to that report and undoubtedly to be influenced by it.

It means that what happened, according to the letter writers who knew what

the Magistrate would have done, is that the magistrate had apparently already made up her mind and was just going through the motion for the public’s eye.

The letter should have respected the confidence the Magistrate reportedly placed in them to keep quiet about it.

Dhanpaul Dhanraj

The gruesome murders of elderly women

Dear Editor,

The recent spate of gruesome murders committed on elderly women in Guyana has left me in a state of shock.

to say that they were sacrificed against their will as Granger, while promising to do what it takes for the country’s best interest, appears to be more concerned with self interest.

So while we all wonder as to what’s next for the party of the great Dr Walter Rodney, we must also be concerned for Guyana’s fate should the APNU/PNC/AFC union succeed given what it has done to the WPA.

My great grandmother always spoke of the importance of family – figuratively, collectively and politically. Under the constraints and definitive borders set

out by the term coalition, we see here that a member of a family has not been allowed to sit at the table.

In fact, literally, Roopnarine does not even possess a seat at the table at which he once held a high place.

After all that has existed here now and before time these two quotes continues to play in my head: “Where there is incentive there is also treachery’’ and “those that value position above all are like thieves in the night; without mercy”.

Darion Comacho

It seems as if we have gone back to barbaric days when men kill for the pleasure of it and when no value was attached to human lives.

papers, I have not seen any significant reaction to these sadistic acts.

I expected to hear a strong outcry from a wide cross section of Guyanese against this new state of events, but apart from a few letters written in the news-

I hope and pray that my fellow Guyanese will take up arms against these beasts who prey upon the vulnerable.

I implore the Police to leave no stone unturned in apprehending these criminals, and the Judiciary to bring the full force of the law to bear upon them.

Bibi Ali

Cuba in solidarity with Venezuela

Dear Editor,

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba expresses its unwavering solidarity and support to the people and Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and its legitimate President Nicolás Maduro Moros, against the recent attempted coup, the attack and assassination plans and conspiracies subsequently denounced.

Cuba repudiates the economic and media war against the Bolivarian Revolution and strongly rejects the interventionist statements and actions of

the United States and the Organization of American States, which encourage and promote internal subversion, violating the sovereignty, independence and self-determination of the Venezuelan people.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of

Cuba ratifies, once again, that the Cuban collaborators in the sister nation will continue fulfilling their duty under any circumstance, benefiting the brother, solidary and noble Venezuelan people.

Cuban Embassy

Page Foundation

Children and dogs Safety first – child-proof your dogs; dog-proof your children

High-pitched laughter pealing behind her, Nancy ran around the corner of the house smack dab into the dog chained by the garage. Unnerved by the noise and startled by the child, the dog lunged and bit Nancy on the nose. She screamed, and the dog bit again. Nancy ended up with several stitches in her face and nightmares; the dog was euthanised for biting; and both families were traumatised.

The tragedy could have been avoided if Nancy’s folks and the dog’s owners had been prepared.

First of all, a dog should never be chained outside unattended. Most dogs of guard or working heritage suffer personality quirks when tied and many become downright aggressive. Dogs are better off in fenced areas, where they can see the barrier between them and the world, where they can feel somewhat safe from noisy, frolicking children. In addition, many dogs instinctively equate the high-pitched sounds of children with the distress sounds of prey animals, and they react by biting the child as they would have bitten the prey animal in the wild.

Second, children should be taught how to behave around dogs, even if their own family does not own a

dog. For example, a child should never approach a strange dog without asking the owner if it’s OK to pat the dog. If the child sees a loose dog on the street, he should not approach it even if he knows the dog belongs to his friend. He should tell someone that he saw the dog, but should make no attempt to pat or grab it. Nor should he scream or run away, for these actions can result in an attack by the dog. A running being frequently says “prey” to the dog and triggers the chase response in his brain. Once triggered, this response is almost impossible to interrupt. The dog is reacting to chemical stimulus, not rational thought, and is extremely difficult to sidetrack.

cumstances, especially if he feels cornered.

Once a child is given permission to approach a dog, she should present her

cur because the child teases the pet beyond endurance.

Dog owners share the responsibility for bite prevention as well. They should so-

closed fist for the dog to sniff. This protects the fingers in case the dog is frightened and tries to nip.

Most dogs, even those that are well-trained, do not consider children as figures of authority. Furthermore, since children frequently stare intently at animals, a dog may feel threatened by this short person who is trying to catch him. Even the best-natured dog may bite to protect himself in these cir-

Children should never hug a dog that is not their own, and should only hug their own dog very gently if the dog can tolerate the hug. Children should be taught to never hit dogs with their hands or an object, to lower their voices when playing with the dog, to leave the dog alone when he’s sleeping, eating, or ill, and to never tease a dog in any fashion. Many dog bites oc-

cialise their puppies to small children at an early age. (It helps to buy from a breeder who has started this socialisation prior to the puppy purchase, for the younger the puppy is exposed to gentle children, the more tolerant of children it will become.)

Socialisation can be as simple as walking the dog near a playground where children are making noise, running about, playing ball or Frisbee or soccer or walking through the neighborhood while the children wait

for the school bus. The dog can be told to walk at heel through a crowd of children, to sit-stay and watch the play or allow the children to pet his head, to down-stay until the end of the game. Constant exposure of this type will accustom the dog to the presence and antics of children.

* The dog should never be left alone with a child less than five years of age

A young child may challenge or injure the dog unintentionally and the result could be tragic. Dogs and children should be separated at snack time so the dog doesn’t learn to steal food from tiny hands.

* The dog should have a place he can call his own, a retreat, a private room, a den. This can be a pen in the back yard or a crate in the house. The children should never be allowed to bother the dog when he is in his place.

* If the dog has access to a fenced yard, owners should make sure that neighbourhood children cannot accidentally or intentionally tease

him. Children often begin by goading the dog to bark, then to snarl. Or they may throw things at him to chase him away from the fence. However it begins, the end result is usually the same: the children learn that teasing the dog gives them a feeling of power tinged with the possibility of danger and the dog learns to hate children. This hatred may be manifest as fear or as aggression, and may end when a child is bitten and the dog is taken to the pound to be placed in a new home, (if lucky).

* If the dog does not like the children, the children must change their behaviour. Most dogs are wary of staring, of quick movements, and of high-pitched screams, all of which are typical of small children. Here’s a few hints to alleviate the tension between dog and children.

* Provide a crate where the dog can escape the attention of boisterous or over-zealous children

* Teach children to leave Ranger alone when he’s in the crate, to pat him gently – no squeezing around the neck, please – and to leave him alone while he’s eating

* Do not play tug-ofwar with any dog who has access to children

A dog that learns to tug on any item will soon figure that anything he can grab is his, even if it’s a child’s toy, clothing, or appendage.

* Teach children not to run past the dog and scream, for this can excite the dog and lead to dominant and even aggressive behaviour

* Never tie a dog in the yard. Children tend to tease tethered dogs even without realising it, which can lead to aggressive behaviour. Many instances of dogs attacking children occur when the dog is tethered in the yard and a screaming or running child enters its space.

The sight of a child and a dog napping together on the sofa or the floor, playing in the yard, or contemplating the sunset is a wondrous thing. The potential relationship between a child and the dog who considers himself the family guardian is precious, and it needs to be nurtured and guided. Families can accomplish this by teaching the dog and the child to respect and cherish each other. If this can be done, fewer children will be bitten and fewer dogs will be euthanised for aggressive behaviour. (www.canismajor.com)

Cops escape prosecution in beating death of Leonora inmate

Several Policemen who were accused of beating to death

Asif Rahim Khatoon at the Leonora Police Station last November have all been spared charges after the dead man’s wife failed to attend an identification parade to pick them out.

The lawmen have, however, been charged departmentally and the Police Complaints Authority has advised that an inmate who was in the lock-up at the time with Khatoon be charged with manslaughter since he had allegedly beaten the man prior to his death. Police said efforts were being made to locate the former inmate who was released prior to them launching an investigation into the death of Khatoon.

In a statement, Police said following the completion of investigations by the Police Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) into the circumstances surrounding the death of Khatoon, of MetenMeer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara, which occurred at his home on November 27, 2014, the Police sought and received legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

It was alleged that Khatoon had been assaulted by Police ranks while in custody at the Leonora Police Station during the evening of November 21, 2014.

Asif Rahim Khatoon

According to the advice of the Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority, the wife of the deceased, Soorsattie Chandrapaul, failed to attend an identification parade, which was to be held by the Police for the purpose of affording her an opportunity to identify the Police ranks who might have assaulted the deceased on the evening of November 21, 2014.

No evidence

In her statement to the Police, the widow said that she heard her husband saying, before his death, that he had been struck by a Police rank who was in the tray of the vehicle on his way to the Leonora Police Station, but this evidence is hearsay and could not be relied upon. Further, she stated that before they had entered the Enquiries Office at the Leonora Police Station, a short stocky Policeman had

kicked her husband under his chin.

According to Police, due to her failure to attend the identification parade the identity of the ranks who allegedly assaulted her husband remains unknown.

“Therefore, there is no evidence linking any particular Police rank to the injuries inflicted on the deceased,” the Police statement read.

“The Director of Public Prosecutions has advised that no criminal charges be preferred against any of the Police ranks.”

However, departmental charges have been advised against two Sergeants, one Corporal, one Lance Corporal and two Constables for neglect of duty. According to the Police, evidence collected during the investigations had revealed that another prisoner had allegedly assaulted Khatoon while he was in custody. The prisoner had been released from custody prior to the launching of the investigations and efforts to locate him since have so far been unsuccessful.

The Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority had advised that he be charged with manslaughter. The Director of Public Prosecutions has advised that more efforts be made to locate him, and if located that further advice be sought as it relates to him.

Eccles woman charged for indecent exposure misses trial, arrest warrant issued

Nsaturday, february 28, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Conductor shot dead during ‘gunplay’

Aminibus conductor is now dead after he was accidently shot by one of his friends on Thursday at his home at Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara.

Travis Lowenfield, 27, of Lot 96 Sixth Street, Sparendaam Housing Scheme, was shot once to his abdomen and was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he underwent an emergency surgery but later succumbed.

Based on reports received, the now dead man was in the company of three friends when one of them identified as Levi whipped out a handgun and started to ‘play’ around. He reportedly placed the gun to Lowenfield’s abdomen and joking said “hand over all the money you win last night”. He was at the time referring to the winnings from a game of cards on the “Line Top” on Wednesday evening.

The Guyana Times understands it was at this time the gun suddenly went off. Out of panic, the alleged shooter fled the scene while the two others, Akeem and Kevin (only names given) were arrested and placed in custody.

Alicia Lowenfield, an

aunt of the dead man, told the Guyana Times that earlier in the day, the now dead man turned up at her place of employment to collect the keys to get into the house, claiming that he had taken the day off.

She explained that her nephew lived with her for more than 15 years. She handed over the keys to the house and he left. At approximately 14:00h, she stated that she received a call from one of his friends informing her that Travis was shot and was taken to the hospital. She immediately instructed the friend to collect her and they both went to the hospital. The woman stated that as she arrived, her nephew was in the theatre as the doctors tried to remove the bullet. She went on to say that some time after, they received the news of his death.

“Joking around”

“I later learnt that he was at home when it started to rain and his friend from the road ran into the yard to take shelter… he was frying plantain so they all stayed and started to joke around. Apparently, they were gambling on Wednesday night

and Travis won plenty money … so Levi out of joke pulled out the gun and jokingly told Travis to hand over the money,” the aunt explained.

Neighbours reportedly stated that they saw when the men went into the yard and after some time, they heard the gunshot. Guyana Times understands that as they looked out, they saw an injured Lowenfield calling out to them for help.

The aunt described her nephew as a jovial and very hardworking individual. He was well known in the area for his ‘big mouth’, she recounted. His parents, she stated, reside in Paradise, ECD. Attempt to contact the parents of the young man proved futile. Meanwhile, Police investigations revealed that Lowenfield was involved in an argument with another man in his house during which he was shot to the abdomen. The argument, the Police stated, was over money.

The Police also stated that two men have been arrested and are in custody assisting with the investigations. The young man leaves to mourn his parents and four siblings.

GGMC Engineer executed...

An uncle by marriage, Ustus Gibson, stated that he was at home when he received the dreadful news about the death of his wife’s nephew. He recounted that he was in the shop, but after receiving the call, he closed the doors and rushed out with his wife to the hospital. He said he was hoping that it was the wrong person.

hearing is that it might have been an attempted carjacking but we are still to confirm the motive behind the shooting,” Gibson stated.

However, on her trial date on Friday, she was absent and only the Virtual Complainant (VC) Romona Yusuf was present. Presiding Magistrate Annette Singh issued an arrest warrant for the defendant.

The trial was to detail whether the defendant was guilty of stealing the VC’s Samsung Galaxy S4 cellphone valued $70,000

yomi Williams, the Eccles, East Bank Demerara resident who is on trial for indecent exposure and scheduled to have her trial commence on Thursday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts did not show up in court. Williams’ case was originally called on Friday, February 20 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Ann McLennan. The defendant was charged for stealing a cellphone and indecently exposing herself. She was told that her trial would commence on Thursday, February 26 and she was to report to court on that day.

on February 18 while at Dyna’s Embroidery in Campbellville, Georgetown. The young woman had been charged with two additional charges of disorderly conduct and indecent exposure. However, Magistrate McLennan placed her on self-bail for the former while she was placed on a bond for the latter.

As they arrived at the medical institution, he saw a few other relatives and it was then he was convinced that it was Abrams. He too stated that the young man was an ardent churchgoer and it was difficult to comprehend what occurred.

“Who would want him dead? From what we are

There was also speculation that the young man might have been carrying a large sum of money when he was killed. Others thought that it was a botched robbery and the young man might have been trailed from his house.

Police are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.

The young man had been working at the GGMC for the past three years and only recently finished his studies at the University of Guyana. He leaves to mourn

his father, step-mother, two brothers and one sister. This is the third execution in less than two weeks –41-year-old Randolph Singh, owner of Airmax Vulcanising Shop was gunned down in front of his business place on South Road, Georgetown by a lone gunman. A few days prior, an ex-policeman, Beepat Taijram of Albouys Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, was shot and killed during a robbery at Campbell Street, Grove, EBD by two men who robbed him of his gold jewellery. In both matters, the Police have failed to make an arrest. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)

saturday, february 28, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Man who threatened to kill his mother remanded

Magistrate Annette Singh remanded a man on Friday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after hearing the charge of threatening language brought against him.

The Virtual Complainant (VC) Claudette Tyrell was in despair on Friday in Court 11 when her son, 31-year-old Otis Daniels was brought before the court for threatening to kill her. The woman declared that her son is a pathological liar.

The details of the case reveal that on February 25, the defendant allegedly made use of threatening language against the VC at Tucville Secondary School.

Police Prosecutor Adoni Inniss elaborated on the charge by telling the court that the defendant is in the habit of threatening his mother. She stated that on the day in question, the defendant went to his mother’s place of employment at Tucville Secondary School where he threatened to kill her and burn down her house. The Prosecutor added that that the woman became fearful for her life and reported the matter at the East La Penitence Police Station. The defendant was subsequently arrested and charged for the offence.

The Prosecution objected to bail, stating that the accused has no fixed place of abode.

However, the defendant in his defence said he was fearful for his own life, since his brother – with whom he is a twin – is mixed up in some “dangerous business”.

This, he said, has made him quite frightened as of late. He further related that it was in connection to this matter that he had gone to his mother on February 25, as he wanted to discuss it with her. He reiterated that he had told his mother that he was “fearful for his life”, insisting that he had not threatened his mother.

The defendant also told the court that he had also visited his mother to discuss her husband’s unwillingness to give him his provisional licence. He further related that he had a confrontation with his mother’s husband on February 24 which led his step-father to run him out of his place of abode. Daniels said that driving was his only way of making a living since he has had to resign from his previous job and has been asked by his mother not to return home.

The defendant nevertheless pleaded guilty to the threatening language charge that was levied against him. He explained that the court that he was told that it was the fastest way to get the matter wrapped up.

However, Magistrate Singh stated that the defendant cannot say he did not threaten his mother and still plead guilty to the charge. She said the plea will be documented as not guilty due to his statements. Bail was refused.

The defendant’s case will be tried on February 16 in Court 11 of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Felon found guilty of unlawful and malicious wounding

A 22-year-old young man was found guilty on Friday of unlawfully and maliciously causing bodily harm to the Virtual Complainant (VC) Andre Harding in January.

The defendant, Jamal Simon, a convicted felon told the court that he was extremely sorry for having done harm to the VC.

Magistrate Annette Singh who presided over the trial at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, told the court that on January 4 at the South minibus park, near Stabroek Market in Georgetown, the defendant maliciously assaulted the VC causing him actual bodily harm.

The Magistrate said the defendant had testified that the VC had punched him and proceeded to assault him after they had exchanged words.

She continued that Police Constable Anand Singh had also testified in court that he took the statement of the VC and also the medical that indicated that the VC required medical treatment due to the blows that were rendered to him by the accused. However, Magistrate Singh pointed out that the Constable had admitted to not taking statements from the defendant.

In his defence, the defendant stated that the VC usually torments him. He related one incident where he was at a park in Georgetown about to go home when he was chased by the VC with a piece of wood. He explained that he ran to another park, got into a bus and was able to escape. However, Magistrate Singh noted that the defendant did not report this incident to the Police.

The Magistrate stated

that without any doubt the defendant is guilty of causing the VC bodily harm.

Nevertheless, she gave the defendant a chance to explain to the court why she should not exercise the highest penalty attached to the offence, which is 18 months imprisonment.

In sentencing the defendant, Magistrate Singh said she has taken into account his age and the fact that he is employed – she fined him $50,000 for which he has one week to pay. She explained that if he is unable to do so, he will be liable to three months imprisonment.

Simon told the court that he is not a troublesome person, admitting that sometimes persons do make mistakes. He stated that he learnt that sometimes it is best to ignore persons who are tormenting. He stated that if he had done this earlier he would not have been in court and facing such charges. The convicted felon also acceded that the matter could have been settled differently.

Both parties were placed on a one-year bond to keep the peace.

However, the VC was quite unhappy with the verdict, raising his voice in the courtroom saying two men had jumped him at the South Park, however only one had been tried. He also commented on the fact that the men had beaten him to extreme. He was thus arrested for disturbing the court.

Nevertheless, he was only held for an hour then released with a warning that he will be placed on contempt if he disturbs the court again.

Eyew tness

Foreign...

...observers

What would elections in Guyana be without "foreign observers"? Can you have Christmas without Santa? A young generation knows nothing else and the older generation would have it no other way. They, of course, were traumatised by the PNC's rigging between 1968 and 1985 when Guyanese actually died for their votes to be counted.

Burnham had the Brits and Yanks rig him into office in 1964. In 1968, it was ironic that when Burnham first tried his hand at rigging (having obtained permission from the Yanks) it was a British TV crew that exposed his rigging of the "overseas" vote. Just one technique that gave him a whopping "majority".

By 1973, when the Opposition started demanding international observers, the PNC merely called in the GDF to handle the "logistics" of the elections. Observers observed the voting all right...but couldn't get into Ayanganna to observe already filled out ballots being substituted.

They protested, but Burnham said, "So what?? You want those big, bad communists in the PPP to get in??" And that was that.

So the Opposition and "civil society" started demanding "counting votes at the place of poll". But when the referendum for a new Constitution was called in 1978, the PNC blithely rigged and thumbed his nose at the observers. All sorts of human rights groups made noises.

More thumbing of the nose by Burnham. After the 1980 elections, which was dubbed "crooked like barbed wire" by international observers, Burnham became Executive President with more powers than the US President.

But Reagan was now in power and didn't take too kindly at Burnham's thumbing of the nose...but Burnham died before any action could be taken like in Grenada. Nowadays, his successor Hoyte has practically been beautified and turned into "Saint Desmond"... But let's not forget that he rigged the 1985 election - giving him seven years at the helm - even more lopsidedly than Burnham ever did.

For all the carping about a "democratic opening", Hoyte's regime was condemned by international observers such as Lord Avebury and the House of Commons Human Rights group. They had to take evidence of the rigging in T&T - because Hoyte refused entry to them here.

Knowing how they'd rigged to seize power, the PNC accused the PPP of rigging every election after 1992 (1997, 2001, 2006 and 2011) which they lost. And this even with foreign observers and even "forensic audits" that showed everything was copacetic!

Anyhow, how no fear, there will be foreign observers on May 11. And after their sixth ignominious loss...we can expect the PNC (with their new sidekick AFC) to cry. "We wuz rigged!!!"

...ignorance being exploited

If it's one thing folks from the Caribbean can count on is their compatriots in the US taking up "back home" causes. Especially when those compatriots - and even their descendants - get into official positions. But like in everything else, some of our own people don't know when to stop...and they end up embarrassing well meaning compatriots.

Take the recent letter by two US Congressional Representatives, Yvette Clark and Hakeem Jeffries to Secretary of State John Kerry. Sold a bill of goods by PNC NY supporter Rickford Burke and his one-man "Democratic Institute" - that Presidential PROROGATION was somehow "anti-democracy"- the two Reps demanded Kerry take action against the present Government.

Unfortunately they've made absolute fools of themselves. Kerry will obviously be told by his staff that "prorogation" is a constitutional presidential power - just as the "No-Confidence" Motion is one of the majority Opposition. Didn't Canadian PM Harper use his power in an identical situation as President Ramotar?? Burke has embarrassed all Guyanese and their US friends.

...danger

While no one seems to be paying attention, the reverse "Cuban Missile" situation's developing in the Ukraine. The West is arming the Ukraine and threatening Russia in their backyard. We hope that we don't have to repeat that denouement!

TT chopper arrives

…for ExxonMobil’s offshore operations

Trinidadian-based company the National Helicopter Services Limited (NHSL) is in Guyana to provide services to US oil giant ExxonMobil during its operations in the country’s offshore waters.

When this publication visited the Trans Guyana Hangar at the Ogle Airport on Friday, one of the company’s helicopters had just touched down. Officials declined to comment on their reason for being in Guyana.

Neesa Gopaul murder trial:

However, reliable sources at the airport confirmed that NHSL would be servicing ExxonMobil.

According to NHSL’s website, the company provided service support to the offshore oil and gas production as well as offshore drilling and seismic surveys. Also, they would usually provide transportation to and from oil and gas platforms.

Based on previous reports which indicated that ExxonMobil already conducted seismic surveys, it is purported that, by means of elimination, the services required of the helicopter company would be for transportation. Additionally, on NHSL’s website, the company listed ExxonMobil as one of its present clients.

The NHSL, which has existed for over two decades, currently operates six helicopters for commercial use.

Meanwhile, ExxonMobil is slated to commence drilling in an area offshore Guyana known as the Stabroek Block in midMarch. The area for exploration measures some 26,806 square kilometres and the company intends to drill 1750 metres deep. Recently, executives of the company updated the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Robert Persaud on the activities it would undertake over the next few weeks before it commences its exploration project, valued at approximately US$600 million.

Star witness sticks to testimony of accused’s killing of Neesa

State’s star witness Simone Diane De Nobrega called Simone King has maintained that her testimony, on murder accused Bibi Sharima Gopaul’s confession about killing her teenage daughter, is true despite efforts by the defence attorney on Friday to discredit it.

De Nobrega returned to the stand to continue crossexamination by Attorney George Thomas, who is representing Gopaul. Gopaul along with her ex-lover Jarvis “Barry” Small is being accused of murdering her 16 year-old daughter Neesa Gopaul sometime between September 24 and October 2, 2010, at the Emerald Tower Resort at Madewini, Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

On Thursday, the witness had testified that while in the lock-ups at East La Penitence Police Station in October 2010, Gopaul confided in her that she had administered poison to her husband, which eventually killed him, because she wanted to be with Small who made her happy.

According to De Nobrega, the accused further confessed that Neesa found out about it, and was causing too much trouble for her and Small, so they killed her. The witness detailed that Gopaul had told her that they took the teen up to the Emerald Tower Resort trail where Small strangled her before taking her out

of the car. He had allegedly bashed her head in while Sharima Gopaul watched even as her younger daughter was asleep in the car.

However on Friday, Attorney Thomas put to the woman that the story she told the court the day before was fabricated, however, she denied this.

De Nobrega had told the court during her testimony that she was in the lock-ups at the time for a number of fraudulent offences and was sentenced to five years in her absence. She explained that she never turned up to court for her trial because she was threatened by persons associated to this case. However before taking the stand to testify on Thursday morning, the woman turned herself into Police.

While saying this, Gopaul just sat in the dock with her eyes locked on the witness with a look of amusement on her face.

Thomas had suggested to the witness that when she first met his client, she had enquired about the woman’s finances. At this point, De Nobrega became heat-

ney suggested to the witness that she was always trying to get close to Gopaul and always wanted to be seen with her, so that it would seem that the accused would have confided such a story to her but again she denied the suggestion.

During cross-examination, the defence attorney attempted to show that the woman only came forward to testify to avoid her five-year sentence but De Nobrega vehemently denied such suggestion. The woman said that she was not expecting anything in return, noting that she did it because she wanted “justice for Neesa.”

“My charges were pen on paper; I didn’t murder my children,” she told the court while adding that she was not expecting anything and would even spend five years in prison if she has to, so that justice can be served.

ed and denied the suggestion, saying that her mother had posted her $2.9 million bail. The attorney then suggested to the witness “you are aware that because of your history of charges, it would be difficult to accept your word (evidence),” but De Nobrega responded saying that is it not true, even after she admitted that she does not have any proof that Gopaul confided such a story to her. She noted that she would have related to the Police what Gopaul had told her.

Furthermore, the attor-

De Nobrega had admitted to Attorney Thomas that she and Gopaul, whom she claimed became good friends, had a problem. She explained that it was after she had told the Police about what the woman had told her. However, under re-examination by leading State Counsel Diana Kaulesar, the witness related to the court that even after learning that she was sentenced in her absence, she did not turn herself in because she did not want to be in the same prison facility as Gopaul. According to the witness, she was still fearful for her safety.

“…I felt my life was threatened because the number two accused (Gopaul) had razor blades placed in my food – the record will show that – while I was at New Amsterdam Prison,” she disclosed but could not remember whether this was after or before her testimony at the Magistrate’s Court, when questioned under fur-

Freedie gotta idle mind, but fast hands

Old people seh a idle mind is de devil’s wukshop, but dem didn’t remember to tell young people who wukshop it is when de devil he self gotta idle mind. That must be some kinda headquarters fuh all de wukshops.

Now this newspaper would never call any body de devil, although it got plenty of dem around who does look like de devil, sound like de devil, do tings whah de devil does do, and turn other people into devils just like dem.

When yuh go back a few decades to dem devils who used to rig all de elections, yuh would realise that it had a lotta dem back then. De problem is that some of dem devils still alive up to today. And these devils got some converts who turn just like dem.

Rum Karran get convert. Moses de Nagga Man done get convert. Samad de Nomad get convert de other day. And, of course, Rum Jhaat is de biggest convert. In fact, Rum Jhaat turn de preacher by now in charge of all converts. But Rum Jhaat does want haul (or all?) dem a** too quick. Good ting fuh Sextus and Ballswant, they end up haulin dem own a** before Rum Jhaat coulda get he idle brains but busy hands on dem a**. And talkin bout idle brains, yuh can never fuh get Freedie.

Freedie brains so idle he wanna sue poll man Bisram fuh libel, but Freedie ain’t talk bout how many times he libel people. It look like Kwame gon have to put a lash pun Freedie till he sue-sue fuh he come to he senses like Adumb. But Freedie might play more stupiddy fuh more lashin. Freedie might have a idle brain, but he hands busy wid people books just like how Rum Jhaat hands busy wid people a** and de KFC donations.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! De other day Freedie was tryin a ting to get he hands pun a Digi phone. If only Freedie brains coulda wuk as fast as he hands, tings woulda wuk out.

ther cross-examination.

Attorney Thomas, during his cross examination, had pointed out to the witness several inconsistencies about things she would have narrated to the Magistrate during the Preliminary Inquiry and did not say in her testimony at the court and vice versa.

In addition, the prosecution called their final witness, Assistant Superintendent of Police Denise Griffith-Jacobis, who was the Officer in Charge of the East La Penitence Police Station back in 2010. She recalled that both De Nobrega and Gopaul were inmates at the lock-ups but then Gopaul was transferred to the New Amsterdam Prison.

Griffith-Jacobis told the court that on October 15, 2010, the accused had returned to East La Penitence and was placed in the same cell as De Nobrega and subsequently left to go back to Berbice on October 20.

The woman added that she had to secure the cells at the station because she was informed by the then A Division Commander that there was a security threat. The witness stated that she was told that there was a plot of someone trying to escape.

Under-cross examination, the officer told the court that De Nobrega never told her that she was threatened by someone outside of the lock-ups. However, under-examination GriffithJacobis explained that De Nobrega was in custody from October 2010 to June 2011 but she was not at East La Penitence all the time. The witness disclosed that whenever Gopaul had to be in town, De Nobrega would be taken to Beterverwagting Police Station so that the two do not meet.

Following the officer’s testimony, Counsel Kaulesar informed the court that she is closing her case, bringing an end to the State’s evidence against the two accused.

Attorney Glen Hanoman, who is representing Small in association with Attorney Lyndon Amsterdam and Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos, immediately informed the court that he would like to make certain submissions.

Attorney Thomas also reiterated intentions to do the same as such the presiding judge, Justice Navindra Singh adjourned the court until Monday’s date.

The National Helicopter Services Limited Chopper at the Trans Guyana Hangar at the Ogle International Airport

Murdered Nessa Gopaul

North Ruimveldt Secondary commissioned as 'A' list school

The North Ruimveldt Secondary School, located on Mandela Avenue, Greater Georgetown, has been elevated to the rank of an “A” list school.

This is a significant boost for the institution in its pursuit of higher learning, and also a reward for its good performance at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

North Ruimveldt Secondary is the only school in Guyana that has worked its way from a lower to a higher category (“B” list to “A” list), and commendations were extended to the students, teachers and parents for their efforts.

The school, which was offering 24 subjects, has now added four others –Mechanical Engineering, Physical Education and Sports, Physics and Visual Arts.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand, along with Chief Education Officer Olato Sam, Friday unveiled the plaque to commemorate the school’s shift in status.

To bring North Ruimveldt up to the level of an “A” list school, Government expended a significant amount of

funds to ensure the necessary infrastructure and resources were made available. To this end, rehabilitation work was done to the classrooms and the sanitary block. The ceiling, sinks, and damaged bowls were replaced in the latter, while the damaged ceiling in classrooms was restored, and classrooms and the auditorium repainted. Work was also done to accommodate the Allied Arts Department which will house the music, visual arts and physical education units.

The Agricultural Science Department was also extended to cater for a component of the syllabus, while damaged computers were replaced and an air conditioning unit was installed in the Information Technology Department. A librarian was appointed as well. Students of Grades 7 to 11 were presented with recommended textbooks for the respective subjects.

Staffing

In terms of staffing, the school is short just one (a mechanical engineering teacher) of its required 38 teachers. There are nine trained graduates, four untrained graduates, 20 trained and four untrained teachers, two part-time staff members, a

music teacher and an electricity specialist.

Manickchand noted that this was a significant milestone and represented what Guyana was capable of, and how the country could develop. The school also has the first interactive smart classroom in Guyana. Minister Manickchand announced that one such classroom will also be installed at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), and at the Government Technical Institute (GTI).

According to the Minister, this initiative is intended to allow teachers to teach students interactively, through technology. “That is what Guyana is, what Guyana is moving to, and we are going to get there very soon. That is the future of education,” she said.

While highlighting the strides made in the education system, Minister Manickchand explained that the education sector receives the largest chunk of budgetary allocations.

Guyana has already achieved universal access to primary education and Government is now seeking to achieve universal access to secondary education within a five-year period.

According to Minister Manickchand, 67,000 secondary aged children are accessing secondary education, a 90 per cent increase over the last two decades. In the last five years, eight new secondary schools were built, and 31 primary tops amalgamated, she said. There are also 12 hinterland secondary schools with another coming on-stream soon.

Today, the number of students dropping out of school has declined to two per cent. Additionally, the Ministry has also been working towards having more boys ex cel academically. Minister Manickchand highlighted that in the last three years,

2000 more boys were retained to complete secondary education as a result of the programmes injected into the schools to attract them.

Meanwhile, the Chief Education Officer described the event as one of the most significant achievements in the education system, as the Education Ministry strives to put every school on a developmental path.

“This school is now a trendsetter,” he said, and it must maintain this status and continue to advance.

In 2010, the Education Ministry began ranking all schools based on their matriculation rate at the level of CSEC, from A to D, with the hope of raising aware-

ness and spurring within them a desire to elevate themselves. Sam said that some were of the view that children from the South of Georgetown underperform as compared to children from the North, and the children did not value education as much. Today, the school has proven them all wrong, not just because it is the first in Georgetown to make this stride, but is the first school in the entire country to do so. In November 2013, the Rosignol Secondary School in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) was upgraded to A list status, while the Bygeval Secondary was similarly upgraded in December of the same year.

Magistrate to challenge dismissal all the way to CCJ …action to be filed in High

By Erica Williams

Recently-dismissed Magistrate Geeta Chandan-Edmond through her Attorney, Nigel Hughes, has revealed that she intends to challenge the decision of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

During a press conference held at Hughes’ office on Friday, the former Magistrate contended that her dismissal was unfair, and she was determined to ensure justice was served. Chandan-Edmond believes she has a strong case, because the allegations made against her were levelled by someone who was part of the group that determined her fate.

She told reporters that she was also made to answer to allegations dating back some six years. Further, she pointed out that she had already dealt

with the situations put forth in the allegations. Much to her surprise, on February 14, she was told to attend a meeting with the JSC on February 18. Subsequent to that on February 20, she received a dismissal letter.

During her meeting with the JSC, she was questioned on allegations of absence from a Magistrates’ Association meeting, departure from

Guyana without approval, absence from duty without medical leave, missing records, inability to deliver rulings on 19 matters and refusal to answer queries from the Chief Magistrate.

Chandan-Edmond stated that she has at all times answered queries from the Chief Magistrate. She explained that she visited a doctor at the Woodlands Hospital, who gave her a three-day medical leave.

Other periods of absence,

Court next week

Chandan-Edmond said, occurred due to her difficult pregnancy. She explained that she was placed on bed rest by her doctor which impacted her ability to deliver a decision on some court matters. The need for bed rest was reported to the Clerk of Court and the Chancellor, according to Chandan-Edmond. After she returned to work, it was discovered that her legal books were missing, but she said all books were left in the cham-

bers when she went off duty.

Prorogation relief

Attorney Hughes said action would be filled in the High Court next week for prorogation relief which will challenge the JSC to review its decision to dismiss the Magistrate. However, Hughes said: “As you are aware, two members of the JSC sit and determine the promotional prospects of various judges who are likely to hear the case; therefore, I

suspect we will have to pursue it at the level of the CCJ, because that is where the matter ought to be properly filed and determined.”

He believes justice needs to be served, not only because of Chandan-Edmond’s dismissal, but also because the circumstances surrounding her dismissal add to the already weak image of Guyana’s judicial system.

“The judicial system in Guyana has a fragile reputa-

tion for protecting the rights of citizens. The coincidence for fixture of the date to sentence a senior official’s son and her dismissal makes the system seem even weaker,” Hughes contended.

Magistrate Chandra Sohan was also dismissed on the same day as ChandanEdmonds. As previously reported, a source said the dismissals based on solid grounds were long pending dating back to 2013.

Magistrate Geeta ChandanEdmond

Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes

Students, teachers and parents gathered at the North Ruimveldt Secondary School located on Mandela Avenue, for the commissioning ceremony

saturday, february 28, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

NIS, Lions to help woman regain sight

Lowetha Rowley, having just celebrated her 54th birthday in January, left for Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday to seek medical attention for her eyes.

The National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the Health Ministry and the Lions Club of Stabroek-Georgetown all assisted with the necessary finance to cover the trip and surgery.

“I went to the Ministry of Health and they told me I needed the letter from the hospital and an estimated cost and like other documents, and in no time they gave me the money…they helped a lot,” Rowley stated, noting that the surgery costs US$6000.

She also expressed her sincerest gratitude to the Lions Club and NIS for their “kind support.”

NIS contributed US$4800, the Health Ministry added US$600 while the Lions Club donated GYD$20,000.

Rowley, of 7 William

Street, Campbellville, realised something was wrong with her eyes a year ago.

“I was walking down the road and I felt like I had sand in my eyes and so I just rubbed it and by the time I finished rubbing, there was a bloodshot in my eye. It wasn’t clearing up so easily, so that’s when I went to the hospital and that’s when they said there’s a damage behind the eye and they recommended surgery,” Rowley explained.

She had tried desperately to locate a doctor so that immediate surgery could have been performed to save her fading sight.

“Public hospital told me they can’t do the surgery, so they sent me to Balwant Singh and they told me they’re not touching the eye,” the woman related.

She then explained that doctors at Balwant Singh Hospital recommended that she get in touch with a doctor from Trinidad and Tobago.

“It took me long to get

in contact with him because we had the wrong email address, so I was waiting on a reply and it wasn’t coming so then I went back to Balwant Singh and they gave me a number, so I called the doctor and I got through.”

The woman, who has no children nor grandchildren, said it would mean the world to her to be able to see clearly again.

“I would be so happy because it’s not easy being like this, to depend on people to do stuff, you know.” Currently, Rowley is unable to cook or clean.

“All I can see is shadows, so I can’t use the fire, I can’t see the dust so I can’t sweep, I can’t wash clothes, when I go on the road, it’s just about four houses away to the supermarket and back,” she said.

Rowley is unsure how long the trip will last and the success rate of the surgery, but she hopes upon her return to Guyana, she will be able to see again.

Parents demand bee hive removal at Good Hope

Parents of students attending the Good Hope Primary School on the Essequibo Coast are calling on the relevant authorities to get rid of the bees that have recently terrorised students and teachers and caused the disruption of classes.

Last week, six students were stung by the African bees that have taken up residence in a broken tomb next to the school. They were taken to the Suddie Public Hospital for treatment and are cur-

rently on medical leave. Classes were dismissed as a result of the incident, and the school was reportedly closed last Monday and Tuesday.

During President Donald Ramotar’s twoday visit to the Essequibo Coast, which ended on Thursday, parents publicly requested that the bees to be removed.

One parent told the President the bees created panic and confusion in the school building and disrupted classes last Monday, Tuesday and

UGSS continues push for classes to resume

President of the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS) Joshua Griffith is of the view that the administration is not doing enough to resolve the current crisis at the University.

In fact, he said that “there is no movement from the administration.”

As a result, he said UGSS will continue to push for the “all classes or no classes” policy in order to send a stronger message to those in authority to have normalcy restored at the University.

According to Griffith, approximately 35 per cent of the student population is occasionally attending classes while over 1000 students are awaiting the resumption of their classes.

Law students, in particular, are greatly affected. It was explained that the final year students have already sent their applications to law schools and are now reliant on the conclusion of their degree programme to send out transcripts.

The UGSS President reiterated that the students are suffering- even those who are attending classes.

“Even when they attend classes, the unrest at the University will obviously disrupt them,” Griffith said, noting that only a few classes have resumed.

Contending that the situation is completely “ridiculous,” Griffith said all students should abide by the “all classes or no classes” policy until all classes are resumed.

Meanwhile, the crisis at the University remains at a standstill with the administration and the unions at odds over the nature of a settlement.

The administration said it is opened to negotiations but said the protest must first be called off.

However, providing the unions’ distrust for the administration, they are de-

as house lots and duty-free concessions for the purchase of vehicles for lecturers with Master’s Degrees and 10 years of service.

An offer was also made to buy the material needed for work outfits for some staff as well as provide bursaries to their children who performed well in the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA); the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).

Despite these offers, the UGSS President justified the lecturers’ position by highlighting that they have been suffering in silence for over three years with a deadbeat salary along with poor working conditions, and will therefore, not accept that offer.

In light of statements made by Labour

Wednesday, as teachers and students were forced to flee the building. When teachers and students tried to enter the building on Wednesday, they were again attacked by the bees.

Other parents related that efforts were made to kill the bees; however, they believe that the tomb still harbours the colony.

Classes at the school are currently back in full operation, but parents are also calling on bee catchers to assist.

manding that a written statement be issued before they agree to another series of negotiation.

Griffith said he is baffled as to why the administration is hesitating to comply with such a simple demand.

The protest started more than five weeks ago after the administration failed to meet the demands of the University of Guyana Workers’ Union (UGWU) and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA). The unions have been demanding a 60 per cent salary increase among other benefits.

Instead, the workers were assured an incremental increase of 25 per cent over a three-year-period – an offer they adamantly refused.

In addition to the 25 per cent increase, workers were also assured benefits such

Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul, that negotiations cannot resume until the protest is called off, Griffith said, to his knowledge, UGWU and UGSSA feel they are being treated unfairly.

He explained that the unions are of the opinion that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) protest did not follow the same protocol.

According to Griffith, the unions believe negotiations were conducted while the sugar workers were protesting.

However, President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) Komal Chand explained that the 15 workers, who claimed they were wrongfully dismissed, ceased their protest actions and only then did negotiations with GuySuCo, began.

One of the many protest actions initiated by the University of Guyana Students’ Society (UGSS) in support of the University’s Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) and UG Workers’ Union (UGWU)

UGSSA President Joshua Griffith

Lowetha Rowley happily receiving her donation from the Lions Club of Stabroek-Georgetown

Ogle Airport tests emergency response readiness

The Ogle International Airport on Friday tested its readiness to respond to any emergency in a simulation exercise at the airport’s East Coast Demerara location. The coordinators of the Emergency Training Exercise hailed the activity as successful.

During the exercise, a bomb explosion was staged, injuring passengers on a flight, while airport security and medical practitioners responded and they were assessed on their response to the simulated emergency.

It was quite a bustling scene on the airstrip and at the various hangars as medical personnel and airport staff took their roles seriously as they hastily responded to the suspected bomb attack at the airport.

According to Aviation Security Marrissa James, the aircraft hit the Wing Hangar upon landing which caused a massive explosion

resulting in 30 deaths, including that of one infant. Airport security immediately rushed to the scene of the accident to offer assistance.

The vivid scenario also involved a suspected Ebola patient who was immediately isolated and sent for testing at the unit that was recently established at the airport.

Parika lock-up death:

Radio equipment was used to effectively communicate information and to summon the ambulance, various hospitals, emergency teams, first aid responders, the Guyana Police Force and the bomb squad.

The crime scene was cordoned off and no one, expect relevant authorities, were al-

lowed to access the area. Private vehicles were also prevented from entering the airport.

It was noted too that the ambulance responded promptly to the incident while the other emergency services arrived sometime after.

Meanwhile, victims of the

explosion were treated based on the seriousness of their injuries.

Subsequently, victims were transported from the Wing Hangar to the Caribbean Aviation Maintenance Services (CAMS) Hangar where they were further treated.

The purpose of the activity

was to test the airport’s emergency responses while providing hands-on experience for airport and airline staff, hospital, fire service, security and other emergency personnel. Ogle Airport Representative Kit Nascimento disclosed that such an activity was last performed some four months ago.

Family rejects autopsy report

Apost mortem performed on the body of Zaharudeen Rozan, who was found dead in the lock-ups of the Parika Police Station on Wednesday morning, proved that he died from injuries consistent with an epileptic seizure but the father of the dead man rejected the report and intends to legally challenge it.

The post mortem, which was conducted by Dr Nehaul Singh at the Ezekiel Funeral Home on Friday, revealed that Rozan died from blunt trauma to the head, brain hemorrhage, and hyperextension. He also claimed that there were bite marks on his tongue which is associated with epilepsy.

Majid Rozan, the dead man’s father told Guyana Times during a telephone interview, that on the day he received the news that his son was dead; he visited the funeral home where he conducted an inspection on his body. During the inspection,

he claimed that his son had marks about his body which are consistent with assault.

He said that he was surprised at the result of the post mortem and remains resolute that his son was murdered while in the Police lock-ups. As an old Rural Constable (RC), the father stated that he has experience and from what he saw on the day of the post mortem convinced him that his son was severely brutalised.

In addition, he claimed that during his son’s life time, he has never suffered a “fits” and does not believe that he would have suffered from it at this age. The elder Rozan told this newspaper that he will challenge the Police report until justice is served.

The angry man also stated that the Acting Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud had reported that his son was arrested by residents in the area but this contradicts a report given by the Divisional Commander.

“When the commander came to our house, he said that after they received reports about my son’s misbehaviour, the Police went to the scene and arrested him…The commander said that he was taken to the Parika Police Station where he continuously hit his head to a metal pole.”

This, he suggests, might be the “Police covering up the truth of the matter.” Rozan is now calling on the acting Police Commissioner and the Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee to look into the matter. The grieving father said he also intends to have an

audience with the Director of Public Prosecution, Shalimar Ali Hack.

He nevertheless, sent a strong message to the higher authorities of the Guyana Police Force, that he intends to have justice for his son who leaves to mourn his children.

The father of three was found dead in the Parika Police Station lock-ups on Wednesday at approximately 08:45h.

Police said the 38-year-old man had collapsed onto the

floor and was alive when they picked him up and rushed him to the Leonora Hospital. He was, however, pronounced dead on arrival. There were reports to the contrary that the man reportedly died while at the detention facility.

Prior to his death, he might have been crying out for pain, but was reportedly ignored by the ranks on duty. Following the discovery, the 38-year-old

was reportedly left for well over an hour before he was taken to the medical institution.

The Police stated that the man was arrested on Tuesday evening about 21:10h following a report of damage to property that was made against him.

At the time of his arrest, this newspaper understands that the man was manhandled by the Police after he resisted arrest. He was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time.

The death of Rozan comes in the wake of renewed criti-

cisms of the way the Guyana Police Force and the Police Service Commission handled the recent promotions of two officers who were charged for allegedly torturing a teenage boy back in 2009.

The incident occurred on the same day the United Kingdom-based Amnesty International released its human rights report making reference to the alleged torture committed on Colwyn Harding who had accused ranks of the Timehri Police Station of sexually assaulting him with a baton.

Zaharudeen Rozan

Twyon Thomas

Colwyn Harding

Authorities transporting one of the injured victims to the ambulance

Fire-fighters quickly responding to the emergency

Mexico captures Knights Templar drug lord Servando “La Tuta” Gomez

Mexican Police say they have captured the country’s most wanted drug lord, Servando “La Tuta” Gomez.

media the arrest followed months of intelligence work in the region.

Police reportedly seized nearby properties in the weeks leading up Gomez’s capture and arrested several of his associates. There are lots of theories as to the origin of the nickname La Tuta, but it seems that for most it’s just another mystery.

IMF concludes review mission to Jamaica

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission visited Jamaica during February 16-25, to conduct discussions on the seventh review of Jamaica’s IMFsupported programme under the extended fund facility (EFF).

While La Tuta’s capture may be a coup for the Administration of Enrique Pena Nieto, the fallout in the state of Michoacan is not clear. It is a poor and violent part of the country, the battleground between drugs cartels and vigilantes trying to oust them.

His capture is a coup for the Government of Enrique Pena Nieto in its fight against the drug cartels. A Police spokesman told local

Gomez, leader of the Knights Templar drug cartel, was arrested in Morelia in Michoacan state without a shot fired, police officials said. Previously a school teacher, he became one of Mexico’s most powerful drug lords and took control of Michoacan.

As one security expert told me, this was a man who was not just in charge of a drugs empire, he wanted political power too – and in politics you gain as many enemies as you do friends. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Parliament to become accessible to the disabled

The push to make Gordon House –Jamaica’s Parliament Building – disabled-friendly has been backed by budgetary support even though the nature of the work that will be undertaken is yet to be determined.

A portion of a J$25.6 million in the Estimates of Expenditure for the purchase of goods and service will go towards retrofitting

of the Parliament building.

“The Parliament is currently awaiting final reports from the Urban Development Corporation and the team of Canadian architects who performed an accessibility audit of Gordon House last week before we determine the scope of the work to be done to make Gordon House accessible to the physically

challenged,” the Houses of Parliament have revealed.

“We expect to receive these reports within the next few weeks,” it added.

Last year, the Houses of Parliament got $19.5 million expenditure for the purchase of goods and services, a portion of which was also slated for use in retrofitting the Parliament building. The funds were never used.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Gleaner)

Chaos erupts at robbed pawn shop, as customers demand $$ for stolen items

Pandemonium broke out outside the More Money Pawnshop and Jewelry Store on Thursday as hundreds of customers with their pawn tickets in hand demanded they get their monies for their pieces of gold, which they had pawned for fast cash.

Pounding on the shop’s glass windows and doors, hurling obscenities were too much for staff, Police and private security personnel to cope. Backup was called in and by 10:30h a contingent of heavily-armed officers from the Inter Agency Task Force arrived on the scene.

Host of Crime Watch Ian Alleyne was also on hand attempting to quell the crowd and restore law and order. He told about 300 pawn ticket holders they were going to be seen by management and assured them of a good settlement (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

At the conclusion of the mission, IMF mission chief Jan Kees Martijn issued the following statement in Kingston: “The Government of Jamaica’s resolute implementation of its economic programme, centred on strengthening the foundation for growth and employment, is starting to yield tangible dividends. There

is significant improvement in business and consumer confidence, which reached a two-year peak in September–December 2014. Unemployment declined 0.7 percentage points from a year earlier to 14.2 per cent in October 2014, and confidence in Jamaica’s economic policies is growing, as illustrated by the narrowing sovereign bond spread relative to the emerging market average.

“Looking forward, inflation is expected to fall to around five per cent reflecting both declining oil prices and a reduction in macroeconomic imbalances. At the same time, growing confi -

dence and improving competitiveness are projected to stimulate demand and increase economic activity to just over two per cent in FY2015/16. The external position is strengthening, net international reserves remain well above program goals, and the current account balance is projected to improve through this year and next.

The programme is on track and policy implementation remains strong. All quantitative performance targets through end-December were met. However, the indicative target on tax revenue was narrowly missed...” (Excerpt from

Barbados Cabinet considers changes to Police Complaints Authority Act

In making the announcement on Thursday, Acting Attorney General Michael Lashley said the Force was struggling with challenges such as allegations of abuse of power, lack of integrity and other corruption claims.

At the same time, he said he was pleased with the efforts of the Acting Commissioner of Police Tyrone Griffith in “weeding out” members of the Force who were breaking the law.

Addressing this morning’s launch of the Police Customer Satisfaction Survey at the District A Police Station, Lashley also indicated that Government was moving to tighten gun control laws in the country.

While noting that ten guns have been seized for the year, the Minister said legislation was being drafted to give additional authority to the Commissioner of Police.

He explained that this would be facilitated by

changes to the Firearms Act that would clear the way for the establishment of a firearms database to be held by

Thus, the Commissioner will become the overseer of guns coming into the island,” Lashley said.

the Police Chief.

Based on this change, all licensed firearm holders are mandated to allow the commissioner to collect ballistic DNA. “The Commissioner of Police will be authorised to take control of the weapon before it is passed to the consumer from a dealer.

Speaking ahead of the presentation of the survey, he said crime and citizen security continue to be a concern though arrests have been made in connection with all of the five homicides committed for the year. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

US, Cuba meet for second round of normalisation talks

the two countries

Cuban and US officials held talks on Friday aimed at restoring diplomatic relations, with Cuba pushing to be removed from a US list of state sponsors of terrorism but Washington saying the designation should not be linked to the negotiations on opening embassies.

The one-day talk stemmed from the decision announced by the two Cold War era foes last December to work to normalise relations, including opening embassies in each other’s countries, and to exchange

prisoners. Washington severed diplomatic relations with Cuba 54 years ago.

The delegations at Friday’s talks, which followed a first round of negotiations in Havana last month, were headed by Roberta Jacobson, US Assistant Secretary of State, and Josefina Vidal, Chief of the Cuban Foreign Ministry’s US division.

The United States said the talks should focus on issues around the functioning of diplomats in future embassies, but Communistrun Cuba is pressing

Washington to remove it from its terrorism list before the official restoration of diplomatic ties.

Havana says US sanctions on banks that do business with designated countries impede it from conducting diplomatic affairs in the United States. Re-establishing diplomatic relations should not be tied to the terrorism list, US Secretary of State John Kerry said, adding that the first was a technical process involving a set of “fairly normal” negotiations. (Excerpt from Reuters)

As head of the Knights Templar gang, Servando Gomez was Mexico’s most wanted drug lord

United States Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Roberta Jacobson (3rd L) and her team hosts Cuban Foreign Ministry Director for North America Josefina Vidal (3rd R) and her delegation for the second round of normalization talks at the State Department February 27, in Washington, DC. This is the second round of historic talks that could restore diplomatic ties and mark the end of more than 50 years of Cold War-era hostility between

Addressing this morning’s launch of the Police Customer Satisfaction Survey at the District A Police Station, Lashley also indicated that Government was moving to tighten gun control laws in the country

Bangladesh protesters denounce killing of blogger

Hundreds of protesters have rallied in the Bangladeshi capital to denounce the murder of a prominent Bangladeshborn American blogger, who was hacked to death outside a university in Dhaka.

Students, activists and journalists gathered at Dhaka University on Friday to demand quick Police action, a day after the attack on Avijit Roy and his wife Rafida Ahmed, who remains in critical condition.

The protesters said the killing raised questions about the Government’s ability to protect its citizens from crimes, and uphold

democracy and freedom of speech.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, human rights activist Khushi Kabir questioned Police inaction during the attack.

Witnesses have told Al Jazeera that Police and onlookers were present during the attacks, but no one came to help the victims. Police were not immediately available to comment on the accusation.

The couple were coming from a book fair at the university, when a group of men ambushed them, with at least two of the attackers hitting them with meat

Around the World

Cut music to “an hour a day” – WHO

People should listen to music for no more than one hour a day to protect their hearing, the World Health Organisation suggests.

It says 1.1 billion teenagers and young adults are at risk of permanently damaging their hearing by listening to “too much, too loudly”.

It said audio players, concerts and bars were posing a “serious threat”.

WHO figures show 43 million people aged 12-35 have hearing loss and the prevalence is increasing.

In that age group, the

cleavers, Police Chief Sirajul Islam told the Associated Press news agency.

The attackers then ran away, disappearing into the crowds. Two blood-stained cleavers were found after the attack, he said.

On Friday, Al Jazeera learned from the family of the slain victim that his body will be donated to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) for medical research.

Avijit’s younger brother Arijit Roy told journalists that family members have taken the decision to donate the body, according to the wishes of the victim. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Iran, 6 powers to hold nuclear talks in Switzerland on March 5 – EU

Senior officials from Iran and six powers negotiating with Tehran over its nuclear programme will hold more talks in Montreux, Switzerland on March 5, the European Union said on Friday.

The talks between political directors will be preceded by a series of bilateral meetings, EU spokeswoman Catherine Ray told report-

ers.

“The EU continues to make all possible efforts to facilitate these negotiations so that they end in success,” she said.

The State Department announced on Thursday that US Secretary of State John Kerry would meet with Iranian nuclear negotiators in Montreux next week.

The six powers – the

United States, Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany – are seeking to negotiate an agreement with Tehran to address concerns that Iran is seeking nuclear weapons technology, something it denies.

Negotiators hope to meet a self-imposed March 31 deadline for an initial political deal. (Reuters)

Leonard Nimoy, Star Trek’s Mr Spock, dies at 83

US actor Leonard Nimoy, who played Mr Spock in the cult sci-fi series “Star Trek”, has died at the age of 83 in Los Angeles, his family has said.

His son, Adam, said he died of end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on Friday morning.

Nimoy had a long career as both an actor and director. However, he was best known for his portrayal of the half-human, half-Vulcan character in both the TV franchise and series of films.

Last year, the actor revealed he was suffering from chronic lung disease, despite stopping smoking more than 20 years ago.

It was reported earlier

this week he had been taken to hospital on February 19 after suffering from chest pains.

He later tweeted: “A life is like a garden. Perfect mo-

ments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory.”

He signed off with “LLAP” – a reference to his character’s famous catchphrase, “Live long and prosper”. It was to be his final tweet.

George Takei, who played Hikaru Sulu on “Star Trek” and was a friend of Nimoy’s, paid tribute to the actor.

“The word extraordinary is often overused but I think it’s really appropriate for Leonard,” Takei told US broadcaster MSNBC.

“He was an extraordinarily talented man but he was also a very decent human being.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

WHO said, half of people in rich and middle-income countries were exposed to unsafe sound levels from personal audio devices.

Meanwhile, 40 per cent were exposed to damaging levels of sound from clubs and bars.

The proportion of US teenagers with hearing loss went from 3.5 per cent in 1994 to 5.3 per cent in 2006.

Dr Etienne Krug, the WHO’s Director for Injury Prevention, told the BBC: “What we’re trying to do is raise awareness of an issue that is not talked about enough, but has the poten-

tial to do a lot of damage that can be easily prevented.”

The full report argued: “While it is important to keep the volume down, limiting the use of personal audio devices to less than one hour a day would do much to reduce noise exposure.”

Dr Krug said that a good ambition aim: “That’s a rough recommendation, it is not by the minute, to give an idea to those spending 10 hours a day listening to an mp3-player.

“But even an hour can be too much if the volume is too loud.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Thousands rally against detention of Maldives ex-leader

Thousands of supporters of former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed have marched in the capital, Male, to protest against his detention on terror charges. Protesters gathered in

There was no official estimate on the exact strength of the protest march, but AFP news agency reported that the number was in thousands. The President’s Office could not be reached for comment.

for weeks now and they will go on until we find a solution and the former President is released.”

“Stop brutality,” said a placard carried by a Nasheed supporter wearing yellow, the colour of his

the island capital, chanting slogans accusing President Abdulla Yameen’s Administration of violating the Constitution and arresting Opposition Leaders on false charges.

Shauna Aminath, spokesperson of the Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party, told Al Jazeera that at least 10,000 people gathered in the main streets of the capital, demanding Nasheed’s release.

“People are calling for immediate resignation of the current President, people are calling for the immediate release of the former President and all other politically motivated arrests,” Aminath said over phone.

“Protests have been peaceful so far. We have been out on the street for less than an hour and streets are completely full at the moment. These [protests] have been going on nightly basis

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Others carried red and green Maldivian flags as they marched to a meeting venue while Police in full riot gear deployed in the area.

“We are with you, sir,” said a placard which had a photo of the 47-year-old Nasheed, the country’s first democratically elected leader. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

South African snatched baby found after 17 years

ASouth African woman has appeared in court over the kidnapping of a baby in Cape Town hospital 17 years ago.

The girl’s biological parents, Celeste and Morne Nurse, were reunited with her after she was enrolled in the same school as her sister.

After seeing the pair’s likeness, the biological family invited the girl for coffee and then contacted Police.

DNA tests have confirmed the identity of the girl, who has been placed in the care of social workers.

Nurse said his daughter was receiving extensive counselling. His wife said it was “like a dream” to see her daughter again.

“When she met Cassidy [her sister], there was just an incredible connection and it started from there,” she told CapeTalk radio.

“Her birthday is on April

28. This year we can celebrate it with her. It will be her first birthday with us and we have to plan something very big.”

A relative of the alleged kidnapper told reporters outside the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court: “We grew up with the child, we took care of her.”

The arrested woman and her husband, who live in the Cape Flats, have no other children. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Hundreds of people gather in Dhaka calling for police action, day after Avijit Roy, a US national, was hacked to death

The former President was arrested on Sunday on terrorism charges, which carry a jail sentence of more than 10 years (AFP)

“Star Trek” legend Leonard Nimoy

PUBLIC OPINION I SAY...

How do you celebrate Phagwah?

In light of killings:

Marlon Surjubally

“Phagwah is a festival for colours. I enjoy it. Playing Phagwah whole day, visit different villages, play with different people, meet new friends. You know, just entertain yourself. I play whole day, from morning till night. In the morning, you play with water and in the afternoon, you use the powder.”

Baby Budram

“Phagwah is a Hindu festival and so at the mandir, they have a lot of plans. We cook up a lot of food. We attend the mandir and at the mandir we do everything. We does cook, the boys would go around singing and then they would come back to the mandir. The whole village does get together. It’s a nice time.”

Tiffany Chan

“I have to work for Phagwah. I like the fact that people coming together, everybody is one, it’s not just one race alone, everybody just coming together to have fun. But sadly, not me this year, I have to work.”

James Trotman

“I used to celebrate when I was small, but not now. But I like the significance of the holiday from the start, what it actually means, and I hope that usually, those who celebrate Phagwah remember what it actually means. I like that it brings together people from different divides, but I think that from the sense of its true meaning, I think bring together deviates its true meaning.”

Karren Hinds

“I don’t get time to celebrate it. I’m too busy. I have so many things to do. But I grow in a Hindu home, so I still prepare sweetmeat for the family, especially my son.”

Dachella Watson

“I think my family is planning to go spend it at Princess Hotel. Since I was small, I loved the festivity and the colours. I don’t participate as much now, because I’m older, but the colours and the festivity of it all is wonderful. We have close ties to the Hindu society, so we grow up with them celebrating it.”

Rajkumar Persaud

“It’s a very colourful holiday. My mum, she cooks stuff. I normally go out in the morning and play with the water with my family, but I don’t really go out in the villages and stuff. It’s just a close family day.”

Dominic Richards

“Most of the time, I’m just home. Since I’m small I never played Phagwah. I don’t know. It’s not religion or anything, I just never got the urge to go celebrate it.”

Devika Rajkissoon

“I plan to spend the day with my family and friends. We always come together and prepare sweetmeat and seven curry. We would dance and sing and play Phagwah and just have a great time.”

Webster urges "Life Alert" systems for elderly

Human Services and Social Security

Minister Jennifer Webster says there is a need for the presence of Life Alert systems in Guyana to protect the elderly in light of the recent rapes and murders of elderly women.

“Abroad there are these electronic button systems for panic alert. Senior citizens would use those and in the event they feel threatened, they just push a but-

ton and the Police and hospital emergency units are notified. I think that is an avenue we need to look at seriously here in Guyana,” Webster said during a telephone interview with Guyana Times.

However, she admitted that at present, the work of the National Commission for the Elderly is being stymied due low funds. But nevertheless, the Minister took the opportunity to pub-

licly express disgust over the killings.

“I would like to publicly denounce the killings of these women. Security is threatened, if you are a woman living alone, and I am deeply saddened by the killings of these women,” Minister Webster said.

In addition, the Minister and her Ministry are in the process of reaching out to the families of the two most recent victims, 67-yearold Ramdai Mohabir and 73-year-old Suroogpattie Ramlakhan.

Further, the Human Services Minister said there is also a need for more senior citizen homes.

“We need to also provide better homes for senior citizens. We need to provide homes where the older folks who chose to live by themselves or have no choice but to live alone, can stay and be safe and comfortable,” the Minister added.

The gruesome murders of elderly women have created widespread concern and disgust. The Central Islamic

Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), in a press release, expressed shock and disgust at the murders.

The CIOG said, “We express shock and disgust at the gruesome murder of the late Suroogpattie Ramlakhan of Richmond Village Essequibo; such incidents are visited upon our citizenry with an uncomfortable regularity, and the time for positive and productive action is now.”

The CIOG advised that Guyanese return to the original values that prevailed in Guyana, since it is of the view that values of respect for life, preservation and promotion of sanctity are being diluted.

Ramlakhan’s lifeless body was discovered by residents on February 20. An autopsy later revealed that Ramlakhan died from strangulation and blunt trauma. Mohabir, of Topoo Village, Corentyne Berbice, was discovered by her son on February 9. Both women were reportedly raped before being murdered.

Guyana Music Festival postponed

The 2015 Guyana Music Festival slated for May 11-16 has been postponed, organisers said, on account of circumstances beyond their control.

The Guyana Musical Arts Festival Inc, in a release, informed of the rescheduling and said the new date for the Music Festival should be in May of 2016, but the exact dates would be released as soon as the logistics were worked out.

The Festival, which was first held in 1952 and had

a continuous presence until 1975 when it was replaced by Guyfesta, was recently resuscitated by the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry, as it strives to revive the local music industry. For further information please contact: David H J Dewar, Chairman of the Guyana Musical Arts Festival Inc c/o Dewar’s Music School at 221 Charlotte Street, Bourda, Georgetown or on 223-1069, 226-3052, or 624-8948 or at dhj_dewar@hotmail.com.

Dead: Ramdai Mohabir Dead: Suroogpattie Ramlakhan

Human Services Minister Jennifer Webster

Berbice Mash Parade to kick off with mega concert

The county of Berbice will be hosting its grand Mashramani Costume and Float Parade on Sunday, March 1, with the Region’s theme being “Celebrating Unity, Prosperity and Harmony in our Land of Rich History and Cultural Diversity”.

The much-anticipated

Costume and Float Parade will commence from Tacama Turn, New Amsterdam, then proceed into Vryheid Street, Strand South, and will culminate at Matthew Allen Road (Stelling Road), followed by a “Mash WashDown” party, afterwards. At present, nine bands have registered to enter the

parade, eight of which will be from Georgetown. Included are those from a number of ministries: Culture, Youth and Sport; Education; Health; Agriculture; and Amerindian Affairs; plus participation from the Progressive Youth Organisation; Guyana Youth and Student Movement; and Digicel.

Scrap metal dealer remanded for assault and theft

A22-year-old scrap metal dealer was remanded on Friday for stealing the phone of the Virtual Complainant (VC) Champattie Singh while landing her a number of blows about her body.

The defendant, Junior Nurse was brought before Court Eight and Nine at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

It is alleged that the VC was walking along a road-

way in Georgetown when the defendant rode up on a bicycle, dismounted and proceeded to hit her before and after he had taken her Samsung Galaxy S4, valued $60,000.

Police Prosecutor Seon Blackman in detailing the case told the court that the defendant then ran away, however, he was pursued by bystanders who had seen the defendant beat and rob the VC. He was subsequently

apprehended by bystanders and taken to a nearby close Police Outpost where he was arrested and charged.

The prosecution objected to bail for the defendant due to the nature of the offence, the punishment attached to what he did, the value of the item and how the offence was committed.

The Magistrate agreed with this, remanding the accused until the end of his trial, which begins on March 5.

Assault case dismissed as couple reunites

Acase was dismissed on Thursday when a couple who brought assault charges against each other withdrew their charges when they appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The charges read that both parties had unlawfully assaulted each another on February 23, at Barr Street, Kitty.

The event is expected to kick off with a mega concert today, compliments of Candy Shop Entertainment, in collaboration with Region Six

(East Berbice-Corentyne)

Regional Democratic Council National Events Committee.

The concert will feature performances from Jamaican artiste Tony Matterhorn, and Guyanese singers Calvin Burnette and Bunty Singh.

Previously, a series of activities was hosted in Berbice, to commemorate Guyana’s 45th Republic Anniversary. These included a Senior Citizens lunch, where over 60 elderly residents of Berbice benefited, a mega inter-agency domino competition, and a Spelling Bee competition, which targeted primary school students, who will be sitting the upcoming National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

As customary, the flag raising ceremony and cultural show were held on February 22.

GuySuCo settles Demerara Gold lawsuits

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on Friday announced that the pending litigation in Canada and the United States commenced by Bedessee Imports Ltd and Bedessee Imports Inc against GuySuCo and other parties have been settled in all respects.

The companies, founded by a Guyana-born man, were locked in a battle with local authorities over the trademark “Demerara Gold”.

GuySuCo said in a terse release that it was satisfied that Bedessee was the first to use the mark Demerara Gold on cane sugar products in Canada and the United States and was legally entitled to do so. Going forward, it is expected that Bedessee will continue to use the trademark on cane sugar products within Canada, Mexico and the United States, “whereas GuySuCo will continue to use the trademark elsewhere in the world”.

North Ruimveldt Secondary...

FROM PAGE 11

cel academically. Minister Manickchand highlighted that in the last three years, 2000 more boys were retained to complete secondary education as a result of the programmes injected into the schools to attract them.

“This school is now a trendsetter,” he said, and it must maintain this status and continue to advance.

PHowever, 25-year-old Ricardo Singh and 20-yearold Pamela Loknauth went into Court Eleven on Thursday ready to quash the charges against each other. Both parties told the court that they were not forced to do so. Loknauth stated that they share a child together.

Magistrate Annette Singh dismissed the matter, placing both on a bond to keep the peace for one year. They were told to seek counselling at Help and Shelter.

First couple ushers in Holi season

with Chowtal Samelan

Meanwhile, the Chief Education Officer described the event as one of the most significant achievements in the education system, as the Education Ministry strives to put every school on a developmental path.

Welder

In 2010, the Education Ministry began ranking all schools based on their matriculation rate at the level of CSEC, from A to D, with the hope of raising awareness and spurring within them a desire to elevate themselves. Sam said that some were of the view that children from the South of Georgetown underperform as compared to children

from the North, and the children did not value education as much. Today, the school has proven them all wrong, not just because it is the first in Georgetown to make this stride, but is the first school in the entire country to do so. In November 2013, the Rosignol Secondary School in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) was upgraded to A list status, while the Bygeval Secondary was similarly upgraded in December of the same year.

resident Donald Ramotar, First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar and other family members hosted a Phagwah Samelan on Thursday evening at State House to usher in the season of Holi (Phagwah), in what has became a new tradition. Guests that included Government officials such as Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, and members of the Diplomatic Corps were entertained by chowtal singing, in which the President and the Prime Minister joined in and lively performances from the Nachgana Academy of Dance and the Jewan Ka Nritya Dance Group.

Explaining the importance of the Spring festival that signifies the triumph

of good over evil, President Ramotar said it was a national festival, noting that Guyana was truly “a country that is rich in tradition, and a country in which we are trying to integrate all the cultures of the different strands that are existing in our society, so that we can emerge with one strong Guyanese culture”.

Awelder was today placed on a bond to keep the peace after being charged for assault and using abusive language. His case was heard in Court One of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Chief Magistrate Priya

Sewnarine-Beharry stated that the defendant Paul De Weaver, had verbally abused the Virtual Complainant (VC) Roxanne James and unlawfully assaulted another VC Keisha Kramer. Also the Magistrate posited that the defendant had behaved

disorderly at the Police Station when charged with the offence.

The court then bonded De Weaver to keep the peace. He was told to return to Court 11 on April 14 for his matter to be tried.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand along with students during the unveiling of the plaque to commission the North Ruimveldt Secondary School located on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown as an “A” list school

A shining light. The queen float of the Education Ministry Band on Monday during the Mashramani celebration (Carl Croker photo)

SUDOKU

Thursday's solution

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

(May 21June 20)

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Spend time away from home. Travel to an unexplored area of your community, take a pleasure trip or go to your local library to read up on exotic or intriguing destinations.

Review your qualifications and consider a change in vocation. If you are unsatisfied with your current position, take the steps necessary to move on to something more stimulating. Redo your resume.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Attend events that appeal to you. Your generous nature will be a definite asset to a group that helps a cause you believe in. You can make a difference. Now is not the best time to use persuasive tactics to get your way. Keep your comments to yourself, avoid confrontations and let everyone do his or her own thing.

Don’t fall for high-pressure sales talks. Acting in haste will be your downfall. Investigate the details of any commitment or contract thoroughly before you make a move.

Someone is holding back important information. Don’t rely on others’ opinions. You should do some research to determine what will be the best course of action.

Be diligent in your work habits. Professional gatherings or business meetings will figure heavily in your advancement. Your commitment and drive will be observed and rewarded.

Resist the impulse to go over budget on an unnecessary luxury item. Difficulty in your financial situation will occur if you make a hasty monetary decision. Step back and consider the consequences.

Your emotions will be close to the surface. Don’t place unrealistic demands on anyone, and think twice before you say something that’s hurtful. Trying to make amends will be difficult. Spruce up your living space. Invest in items that will add to your comfort and create a welcome refuge from your hectic lifestyle. Enlist friends to help you out.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, stop and give yourself time to regroup. Personal or professional stress will limit your ability to see the situation clearly. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Take the initiative and become involved in an unusual creative project. A community event or gathering will benefit from your contributions as well as provide you a welcome outlet.

AQUARIUS

GEMINI

PeanuTs

Calvin and Hobbes

dilberT

arCHie

Bravo out of World Cup

Darren Bravo will miss the rest of the Cricket World Cup, with West Indies set to name a replacement later this week.

West Indies batsman Darren Bravo will miss the remainder of the Cricket World Cup with a hamstring injury.

Bravo was forced to retire hurt when on 49 during the Windies’ victory over

Pakistan in Christchurch last Saturday after pulling up hurt chasing a quick single.

The 26-year-old subsequently missed Tuesday’s victory over Zimbabwe and the heavy loss to South Africa earlier on Friday.

Bravo originally stayed with the squad in the hope that he would recover in time to play a part later in

the tournament, but West Indies are now set to draft a replacement.

“Darren Bravo has been ruled out of the World Cup and will be replaced in the West Indies squad. Get well soon,” read a tweet from West Indies Players’ Association.

West Indies return to Pool B action against India next Friday. (Digicel Sportsmax)

Federer to face Djokovic in ATP tour final

Roger Federer will meet world number Novak Djokovic in his 126th Tour final in Dubai on Saturday after cruising to a 6-2 6-1 victory over Borna Coric.

Teenager Coric, world ranked 84, never reached the heights of his 6-1 6-3 shock win over Andy Murray in the previous round.

“I never thought I would play that many finals,” said 33-year-old Federer.

Serbian Novak Djokovic beat the Czech Republic’s Tomas Berdych 6-0 5-7 6-4 in the other semi.

Federer, who has reached his seventh Dubai final, stormed into a 2-0 lead in the opening set only to lose his own serve with a double fault and netted forehand.

Normal service was resumed as the 17-time Grand Slam winner pounced on the Croatian’s brittle serve to break twice more to take the set.

Federer surged 5-1 up in the second set as a half volley pulled Coric out wide and the

18-year-old could only scuff his effort into the net.

He wrapped it up with ease, charging the net yet again as Coric thumped a forehand long.

“I felt like after five games I knew more or less what to expect and I realised what had worked until that point and what had not,” the Swiss added.

Djokovic looked set for an equally comfortable win over Berdych when he raced through the opening set 6-0, only to lose the second, despite breaking Berdych when the fourth seed initially served for the set at 5-3.

A second break of serve gave Berdych the set 7-5, but Djokovic bounced back to take a hard-fought decider 6-4 with a single break of serve. (BBC Sport)

Powell, Simpson sue supplement maker

Doyle Management, the company that manages Asafa Powell and Sherone Simpson, is to sue Epiphany D1 on behalf of the athletes for US$8 million following their failed drugs tests.

Both athletes tested positive for oxilofrine at their national championships in June 2013 and were provisionally suspended for 18 months by a Jamaican anti-doping disciplinary panel . That sentence was subsequently reduced to six months after an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in 2014.

According to Athletics Weekly, during the CAS hearing, it was argued that Epiphany D1 manufacturers

had failed to specify in their listed ingredients that oxilofrene was included.

“We found out later that the supplement company actually put something else on the label that they didn’t put in the product,” said Paul Doyle, Powell’s agent and the director of Doyle Management.

“They put on the label Acacia Rigidula, which is a natural plant that grows in Texas and has a sort of stimulant property just as caffeine would have, but they didn’t actually put that in there, they put oxilofrine in instead.”

Having made the discovery, which was confirned by the World Anti-Doping Agency and the USA’s Food

and Drug Administration (FDA), Doyle told AW that they had no recourse but to file suit as it is the only way to clear the names of Powell and Simpson.

“The only situation for redemption for Asafa is to sue the supplement company and that’s what we’ve done; we’re suing them on behalf of Asafa and Sherone for over eight million dollars because to be honest the damage is stron-

ger than eight million dollars in the way that he (Powell) has been affected, this will be with him for the rest of his life and that is what kills me inside,” said Doyle. (Digicel Sportsmax)

Murray suffers shock defeat in Dubai quarterfinals

Britain’s Andy Murray was beaten 6-1 6-3 by Croatian teenager Borna Coric in the Dubai Championships quarter-finals.

Murray, ranked three in the world, was dominated by the world number 84.

Coric, 18, broke the 27-year-old three times in the first set to lead the dual major winner and followed up in the second by breaking in the sixth game.

Murray, a beaten Australian Open finalist earlier in the month, failed to get a break point and made 55 unforced errors in a poor display.

Coric is the first teenager to reach the Dubai semi-finals since Rafael Nadal clinched the title as a 19-year-old in 2006.

“[It’s] one of the biggest wins, for sure,” said Coric. “I was just trying to maintain my level, stay in the rallies as long as I can, which I was doing really well. I was also running very well.

“I’m still a little bit struggling with the best players

when they are playing really good obviously. I always need to be on 100 per cent, and when I’m on 100 per cent, mentally [and] also tennis wise, then I think I can play with them.”

Murray paid tribute to his opponent, who is aged 18 years and three months.

“He didn’t make many errors,” said Murray. “He played very solid and he moved well. I made way too many mistakes from the beginning of the match right through to the end, early in rallies, rushing points.”

The Scot thrashed Coric in a Davis Cup singles tie

in September 2013 in their only previous meeting, but was second best throughout Thursday’s encounter and was beaten in one hour and 19 minutes.

Coric, who won 66 points to his rival’s 38, will face Roger Federer in the semi-finals after the Swiss world number two progressed when Richard Gasquet retired injured at 6-1 down in their quarter-final.

The Croatian is the youngest player in the men’s top 100 and sealed victory in the quarter-finals when Murray skewed a regulation forehand return wide of the mark. (BBC Sport)

Darren Bravo carted off the field after suffering a hamstring injury

Asafa Powell

Sherone Simpson

Andy Murray

Roger Federer

Novak Djokovic

Bounty Farm Handicap Squash Tournament... Top players continue to perform in 3rd night of action

Some of Guyana’s top squash players continued with their impressive form when the third night of the Digicelsponsored Bounty Farm Ltd Handicap Squash Tournament concluded on Thursday at the Georgetown Club Squash Court.

Ashley Khalil with a negative handicap of -3 topped former junior champ Ashley De Groot who had a positive handicap of +1.

While Khalil won in two straight sets, De Groot made the former junior champ work especially in a thrilling second set that saw both utilising their skill to give a 21-19 result. Khalil won the first set 15-8.

Nyron Joseph (-16), after an easy walkover win the previous night, was made to sweat a little for his straight set win against Matthew Phang (+7) that ended 15-12 and 15-13.

Jason Ray Khalil (-24) won his second straight game of the tournament by defeating Wayne Alphonso (+11) in two straights sets, 15-12 and 15-11.

Ben Mekdeci (-11) was also in the winners’ row by defeating Daniel Islam (+7) in two straight sets. Mekdeci had to battle tediously in the first set for the win as Islam

displayed great energy, but eventually fell at 19-17. The final set was much easier for Mekdeci who won it 15-13.

Meanwhile, in Category A, James Mekdeci (+7) topped Kamir Khan (+7) in a thrilling game. James won an extremely close first game 19-17, but Khan bounced back to win the second game easily 15-11.

The third game went back and forth with Khan leading 12-8 at one point, but James won the next six points to have match point at 14-12 and eventually won 16-14.

Full results: Open Category: Ashley Khalil (-3) defeated Ashley De Groot (+1) 15-8, 21-19; Nyron Joseph (-16) defeated Matthew Phang (+7) 1512, 15-13; John Maikoo (+7) beat Jan Verwey (+9) 15-11, 17-15; Raphael De Groot (-13) beat Javid Rahaman (+37) - 15, 18-16, 15-13; Nicholas Narain (-15) defeated Ryan Rahaman (+5) 15- 8, 15-11; Ben Mekdeci (-11) defeated Daniel Islam (+7) 1917, 15-13; and Jason Ray Khalil (-24) defeated Wayne Alphonso (+11) 15-12, 15-11.

Category A: Michael Alphonso (-1) defeated Halley Carpenter (+9) 15-12, 15-11; James Mekdeci (+7)

beat Kamir Khan (+7) 19-17, 11-15, 16-14; Kirsten Gomes (+4) beat Teija Edwards (+10) 15-8, 15-8; Lucas Jonas (-3) defeated Chad De Abreu (+11) 16-14, 9-15, 16-4; Demetrius De Abreu (-1) defeated Georgiana Fernandes (+10) 15-11, 1614; Madison Fernandes (+3) defeated Mohryan Baksh (+10) 15-11, 15-8; and Ethan Jonas (-1) beat Jason Gomes (+4) 15-8, 15-7.

Open category plate: Alex Cheeks (+7) beat J Fernandes (+9) 15-9, 15-13; Timothy Jonas (+10) beat Robin Low (+10) 15-12, 15-6; Medhi Ramdhani (+5) beat Makeda Harding (+10) 15-9, 15-9; Andrea King (+8) beat Jonathan Edwards (+12) 159, 15-5; Taylor Fernandes (+6) defeated Haopei Yang (+10) 15-12, 16- 14; Dwayne Yan (+9) beat Kyle Waldron (+10) 15-9, 15-10; Joe Mekdeci (0) beat Anthony Islam (+9) 4-15, 15-13, 1614; Anil Singh (+10) beat Jamaal Douglas (+8) 15-6, 15-10; Stephen Fernandes got a walkover from David Fernandes; Sarah Lewis secured a walkover from D Dyal; Tiffany Solomon got a walkover from Dustani Barrow; and Rebecca Low secured a walkover from N Persaud.

Round 3 set for high-octane action

The Milo Under-20 School Football Tournament will hit Round Three this weekend with some intriguing match-ups at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown.

Saturday will feature four games, with the first being Freeburg versus North Ruimveldt Secondary Schools.

The second game will pit St Rose’s Secondary against St Joseph High in a game that can go either way between the two schools which more times than not have a hard time keeping up with some of the top schools in the tournament.

In the third game on Saturday, defending cham-

pions Lodge Secondary will face off against Cummings Lodge Secondary in what is expected to be a one-sided affair for the defending champs.

Richard Ishmael Secondary School will meet with Charlestown Secondary in the final game on Saturday that can easily turn one-sided in Charlestown’s favour if Ishmael does not show up with their A game.

Meanwhile, Sunday’s action at the said ground will feature Morgan Learning Centre who has been on a tear in the tournament against Houston Secondary who might not be able to compete with the Learning Centre’s pace. School of the Nations and

New Zealand

v

Australia, World

Cup

2015, Group A, Auckland ...

Australia shot out for 151 at hostile Eden Park

Never in Australia's history have they been dismissed in an ODI by a team using only three bowlers. It nearly happened at Eden Park, where - backed by a relentlessly attacking captain and an intensely supportive, partisan crowd - Daniel Vettori, Trent Boult and Tim Southee had Australia at 128 for 9 in 27 overs before Brendon McCullum turned to a fourth bowler. If New Zealand chase 152 to win their fourth consecutive group game, and secure their quarter-final in Wellington, the 2015 World Cup will have a new favourite.

After New Zealand had routed England for 123 in 33.2 overs in Wellington with a breathtakingly aggressive performance, it remained to be seen what the World Cup's most inform side could do against the pre-tournament favourites. Southee brought aggression - if sometimes uncontrolled - at the top, Daniel Vettori provided calm when New Zealand could have unraveled, and Trent Boult smashed through the middle and lower order. Australia were shot out in 32.2 overs and New Zealand were going to bat before the scheduled dinner break. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Australia innings (50 overs maximum) AJ Finch b Southee 14 DA Warner lbw b Southee 34 SR Watson c Southee b Vettori 23 MJ Clarke* c Williamson b Boult 12 SPD Smith c †Ronchi b Vettori 4 GJ Maxwell b Boult 1 MR Marsh b Boult 0

Extras (b 4, lb 2, w 6) 12

Total (all out; 32.2 overs; 152 mins) 151 (4.67 runs per over)

Fall of wickets 1-30 (Finch, 2.2 ov), 2-80 (Watson, 12.6 ov), 3-80 (Warner, 13.1 ov), 4-95 (Smith, 16.3 ov), 5-96 (Maxwell, 17.2 ov), 6-97 (Marsh, 17.4 ov), 7-104 (Clarke, 19.6 ov), 8-106 (Johnson, 21.3 ov), 9-106 (Starc, 21.6 ov), 10-151 (Haddin, 32.2 ov)

Bowling: TG Southee (9-0-65-2), TA Boult (10-3-27-5), DL Vettori (10-0-41-2), AF Milne (3-0-60), CJ Anderson (0.2-0-6-1) New Zealand innings (target: 152 runs from 50 overs

Holder lauds ‘exceptional’ de Villiers

West Indies captain Jason Holder said AB de Villiers is difficult to stop when in full flow after his sensational Cricket World Cup knock.

Mae’s Secondary School will do battle in the second game in a match-up expected to be keenly contested between the two sides.

North Georgetown Secondary and Queen’s College will face off in the third match and should provide the fans with some topnotch action in a game expected to be low-scoring, since both teams are better sides in the midfield.

The final game on Sunday will see David Rose battling Kingston Secondary School in a match-up that favours Kingston, who are one of the best teams on their day in the tournament.

Action is set to begin from 11:00h on both days of play.

Jason Holder admitted his West Indies side had no answer to the “exceptional” AB de Villiers after the South Africa captain conjured up another sensational record-breaking innings at the Cricket World Cup on Friday.

The Proteas skipper blasted the fastest century in ODI cricket against the Windies only last month and he stole the show yet again with a devastating knock at the SCG, as his side equalled the record for the biggest Cricket World Cup win.

De Villiers smashed 162 from a paltry 66 deliveriesthe fastest 150 in ODI cricket and the second-quickest World Cup century - as South Africa responded to their Pool B defeat to India by posting 408 to become only the second team to score over 400 in a World Cup match.

Imran Tahir took 5-45 as West Indies were skittled out for only 151 in reply and suffered a crushing 257-run defeat.

De Villiers took a particularly liking to Holder, plundering 34 runs off the 48th over from the Windies skipper before 30 off the last and the 23-year-old was full of praise for his counterpart.

He said: “AB played a very good innings today. I thought we were well in the game when he came to the crease, but he was his normal, exceptional self. Credit to him.

“I thought he played well and took the game away from us in the end.”

Holder added: “He obviously scores around the ground. Whenever he gains momentum, he’s difficult to stop. We tried to execute some yorkers and we just didn’t land them.

“Having said that, he created room which most batsmen probably wouldn’t have. I think we must give him credit. I mean, he’s not in a sense an easy player to take down.

“In the stage when he came to the crease, whenever he came to the crease, they were well poised in a sense, but we still had the run rate (under control).

“The platform was basically set for him so he played his free innings, and unfortunately we didn’t come up with answers today for him.”

Victory for South Africa leaves them second in Pool B behind India, with West Indies in fourth after losing two and winning as many from their four matches.

Some of the action during Round Two of the tournament

What just happened? Michael Clarke was part of a middleorder slump, New Zealand v Australia, World Cup 2015, Group A, Auckland, February 28, 2015 © Getty Images

Jason Holder

WI unable to slow down...

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Holder added 45 for the eighth wicket with wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin who struck 22 and a further 42 for the ninth wicket with Jerome Taylor, who was 15 not out, but the efforts never came close to making a dent in the run chase.

Earlier, captain AB de Villiers slammed an unbeaten 162 off just 66 balls to fire South Africa to the highest ODI total on Australian soil.

The right-hander’s 20th one-day hundred was the fastest ever 150 in one-dayers, helping to propel the Proteas to a whopping 261 runs in the last 20 overs of the game.

Opener Hashim Amla hit 65 off 88 balls, Faf du Plessis 62 off 70 balls and Rilee Rossouw, 61 off 39 deliveries in support.

Amla and de Plessis put on 127 for the second wicket after Quinton de Kock fell cheaply for 12 in the sixth over, before both perished in one over from part-time off-spinner Chris Gayle (2-21).

However, de Villiers then snatched the advantage away from the Caribbean side by inspiring a 134-run, fourth wicket stand with Roussouw.

The right-hander smashed 17 fours and eight sixes as West Indies fell to pieces after an encouraging start.

Andre Russell finished with two for 74. (Windies Cricket)

SCOREBOARD

South Africa Innings

Q de Kock+ c Russell b Holder 12

H Amla LBW Gayle 65

F du Plessis c Ramdin b Gayle 62

R Rossouw c Ramdin b Russell 61

AB de Villiers* not out 162

D Miller c Taylor b Russell 20

F Behardien not out 10

Total: 408/5 (50 Overs)

Extras: (lb2, w11, nb3) 16

Did not Bat: D Steyn, K Abbott, M Morkel, I Tahir. Fall of Wickets: 1-18 (de Kock, 5.4 overs), 2-145 (du Plessis, 29.2), 3-146 (Amla, 29.4), 4-280 (Rossouw, 42.1), 5-328 (Miller, 46.4)

West Indies Bowling: J Taylor 8-1-64-0, J Holder 10-2104-1, A Russell 9-0-74-2, M Samuels 2-0-14-0, S Benn 10-0-79-0, D Sammy 7-050-0, C Gayle 4-0-21-2. West Indies (Target; 409)

Total: 151 All Out (33.1

Extras: (lb5, w3)

Fall of Wickets: 1-12 (Gayle, 1.3 overs), 2-16 (Samuels, 3.3), 3-52 (Carter, 11), 4-52 (Smith, 11.1), 5-53 (Simmons, 12), 6-63 (Sammy, 17.1), 7-63 (Russell, 17.4), 8-108 (Ramdin, 26), 9-150 (Holder, 32.4), 10-151 (Benn, 33.1).

South Africa Bowling: D Steyn 7-0-24-1, K Abbott 8-0-37-2, M Morkel 5.1-0-23-2, I Tahir 102-45-5, F du Plessis 3-0-17-0.

wAnTed

AB de Villiers

UG, CPCE targeted in swimming expansion programme

– FINA official hails National Aquatic Centre as “great investment”

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

With the aim of constantly expanding the pool of local swimmers, the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Sport, is looking to integrate the University of Guyana (UG) and the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) into its long-term plan for the development of the sport.

Delivering remarks at the commissioning of the multimillion-dollar, state-ofthe-art, 25-metre warm-up/ warm-down pool on Friday morning at the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal, Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony told the large gathering of the Administration’s vision to tap into the sporting talents that exist within the education system.

The main swimming facilities around the country –the others being Castellani and Colgrain pools – are currently being utilised by competitive swimmers only, but according to the Minister, that will now change with the completion of the 25-metre facility at Liliendaal.

“We wrote to these two very important educational institutions, because we believe that students at the University ought to have a very strong background in sport, and more so we want to provide them with the avenue to have a swim club at the University. So we hope in a very short time that they would take up our offer to come and utilise these beautiful facilities,” Dr Anthony explained.

He added, “We’ve also

sent out a similar letter to CPCE, and the reason being because we see this as a very strategic move. We feel that if teachers come here and train – and we would also provide training in terms of coaching and so forth –that when they go back to their respective communities and to their respective schools that we would have a friend in that school would be teaching swimming and other sport. So, we see this as a very good alliance that we can have with the teachers’ college.”

The Minister further stated that invitations have also been dispatched to surrounding schools to use the facility during the day, as the national swimmers usually train early in the day and in the evenings. According to Dr Anthony, secondary school students are also welcomed to do their Physical Education evaluation at the venue.

The Minister was also pleased to report that an offer was made to the Joint Services to make use of the Aquatic Centre, and they have since made good on that offer.

In driving home his point to have more persons outside of the swimming fraternity utilise the services offered at the Centre, Dr Anthony said they would be exposed to a facility of the highest quality.

“Someone once said to me that when you think of swimming pools in the Caribbean, you can actually count the swimming pools that are of really high standard, and when they visited here and they saw this pool,

they said that we have the Rolls-Royce among pools in the Caribbean … and that is saying quite something,” the Minister said to rapturous applause.

International plaudits

Friday’s function was also attended by two top officials of the international swimming community, Vice President of swimming’s world governing body, FINA, Dale Neuburger, and President of the South American Swimming Confederation (CONSANAT), Juan Carlos

kids, our young people. And I hope that each of you students in your school uniform – looking very, very good –would soon be in the pool in your swimsuits, both learning to swim or beginning a career in competitive swimming. I hope those things occur.”

Neuburger pointed out that the opportunities for the hosting of international competitions were now “great”, and he was looking forward to the day when swimmers from South America and the Caribbean will grace these

Orihuela Garcete.

Both men, who were visiting Guyana for the first time, said they were impressed by the facility at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown and commended the Government for its investment in the sport.

Neuburger said, “I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Government because this is great investment in facilities, but it’s a great investment for our

shores for prestigious meets.

“I also look forward to some of the other additional upgrades to the facility we mentioned this morning, including electronic timings and scoreboards and other facilities. This will be one of the great facilities in this region that can host many important events and boost sport tourism for Guyana,” he related.

Neuburger and Garcete both promised to return to

Guyana and assist in the development of athletes and coaches to reach their full potential.

Garcete promised, “I would like to say today on behalf of CONSANAT that we from CONSANAT will bring courses, training, equipment, and even scholarships to this beautiful country of Guyana and its swimmers.”

Also delivering remarks was Director of Sport, Neil Kumar, who said the realisation of the project was the continuation of a vision of the Bharrat Jagdeo Government, which was subsequently fulfilled by the Donald Ramotar Administration.

At the commissioning of the Olympic-sized swimming pool weeks before the 2011 General Elections, officials of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) spoke of the need for a warm-up/warm-down pool, a request Jagdeo said would be fulfilled once his party was re-elected.

GASA President Ivan Persaud said the sport now stood “at the edge of greatness”.

“Finally, we have a facility that will allow our swimmers to participate to their full potential. Finally, we have the missing piece of the puzzle that has confounded us all these years,” Persaud pointed out.

He continued, “You will recall I mentioned that apart from the facility, much more is required for success at the highest levels. And so this must be seen as the start, not the finish of an ongoing regime of support. Indeed, though the pool proper was constructed two years ago, and to the casual eye seemed complete, it took this phase of construction to provide the warm-up pool. With this much-needed facility in place, we are sure to see our swimmers’ performances improve.”

“Today, Ladies and Gentlemen, just in front of your eyes, is a manifestation of what this caring and responsible Government is capable of doing. As a matter of fact, over the years, the PPP/C Government has demonstrated its ability to carry out its mandate as it relates to the policy direction in sports. One of the many functions of the National Sports Commission and by extension, the Government of Guyana, is to provide for the establishment, erection and maintenance of sports and other recreational facilities,” Kumar highlighted. He added, “Friends, the construction of the National Aquatic Centre, right here, and the regular upgrade of the Colgrain Pool must be seen as serious undertakings to provide for the development of our swimmers. Because of the construction of the National Aquatic Centre, two Guyanese swimmers went to the London Olympics [in 2012]. We are proud to report that over the last two years, we at the National Sports Commission trained 228 very young swimmers and approximately 100 of them have graduated to swimming the 50-metre pool.”

multimillion-dollar warm-up pool...

“But we will get much more recognition for our country when we start producing the champions that I’m sure we have right amongst us here today … and then that has a direct impact, because it is one of the ways that we can promote the beauty of our country, promote tourism, promote Guyana as a destination for people to want to come and see,” Ramotar envisaged.

He continued, “Clearly, therefore, it has economic benefits. Sports, as you

know, is big business in many places, but I still hope that the main reason for getting into business is to bring glory to country and glory to self and glory to communities.”

The construction of the Aquatic Centre and its amenities is one of several projects the Government has undertaken over the past decade, with the aim of providing high-quality facilities for the country’s athletes, while enhancing the country’s ability to host prestigious regional and in-

ternational events.

“This facility is one in a line of facilities that our Administration has been building in order to ensure that our young people, our sportsmen and women would have the facilities, the kind of worldclass facilities to help them to become world champions. I refer, first of all, to the Stadium. Now we have this facility and very soon we will be opening the new world-class track facility in the West Demerara area,” Ramotar explained.

The Government has also overseen the construction of the National Racquet Centre at Woolford Avenue, which houses public squash courts, tennis facilities and National Sports Resource Centre, as well as the setting up of a Sports Library and Gym in the upper flat of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

“And these investments, we see them as searching for talents so that our people can express themselves, and over the years, we have spent millions of dollars

into community grounds and community facilities right across our country to ensure we are able to bring out the talents from the villages, wherever they are, and hopefully our coaches, our officials can be able to spot them, to develop them and to develop talents right here. I’m particularly pleased with the fact that this facility we will try to make it accessible to as much people as possible, not only to the professional sports people, but to the man in the street, who I’m sure we can discover much talent from as well,”

Ramotar told the gathering.

Ramotar was at the time delivering feature remarks at the commissioning of the facility, which was punctuated by musical interludes by the National Steel Orchestra and dance pieces by young members of the National School of Dance.

Age group national swimmers later entertained the special invitees with an aquatic display, while there was also a Lifeguard demonstration and a tour of the facility.

Top officials of the Government, FINA, CONSANAT, GASA, and members of the religious community pose with President Donald Ramotar in front of the 25m warm-up/warm-down pool

President Donald Ramotar presents this young lady with a trophy after she won one of the exhibition races. Sharing the moment are Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and Director of Sport Neil Kumar

FINA Vice President Dale Neuburger

RHTY&SC Inter-Primary school female softball tournament billed for March 3

– Imran and Daughters on board

With the objective of identifying new talent for its Rose Hall Metro Female Cricket Team, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) will stage an Inter-Primary School Softball Tournament for female students attending primary schools in the Rose Hall Town district.

The one-day event is billed for March 3 at the Area H Ground. Rose Hall Town, Port Mourant, Belvedere and Tain Primary Schools are the participating teams, and games will be played on an eight overs per side basis.

The event is solely sponsored by Imran and Daughters of Public Road, Rose Hall Town.

Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the RHTY&SC, Hilbert Foster expressed gratitude to the management of Imran and Daughters, especially Managing Director Imran Hamid, who is a long-serving

sponsor of the RHTY&SC.

Hamid stated that his business was pleased to be associated with the RHTY&SC, an organisation he described as a model of excellence and progress.

The Hamid’s chain of stores also includes Imran and Son and the Imran Family Store.

The former President of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce pledged more assistance in the future, once the general public continues to support his business.

Sports, Hamid stated, are the best alternative for youths away from a life of crime and drugs.

Rose Hall Town will play Belvedere from 10:00h, while Port Mourant will take on Tain from 11:15h.

The two losing teams will meet in the third place play-off from 12:15h, while the final is set for 13:00h.

Hull fined by Uefa, Liverpool cleared

Hull have been fined £145,000 by Uefa for breaking Financial Fair Play rules, while Liverpool were cleared.

City boss Steve Bruce feels the penalty was a result of the costs incurred getting Hull out of the Championship. They must pay an additional £290,000 if they are

East Coast Senior football league... Stag Beer presents winners with prizes

ANSA McAL through its Stag Beer Brand presented the top teams of the East Coast Senior Football League with their prizes on Friday at the company’s Beterverwagting head office.

Victoria Kings were the winners of the league, ending on 33 points to receive $200,000 in prize money while Mahaica Determinators was second on 29 points, winning $150,000. Buxton United and Anns Grove each had 24 points, but Buxton’s goal difference of 21 goals to Ann’s Grove 19 saw them winning the third place prize of $75,000 while Anns Grove received $50,000.

At the presentation ceremony, East Coast Football Association President Aubrey Huston was grateful to ANSA McAL/Stag for coming on board with the tournament.

“We are pleased that Stag was on board and it was helpful in improv-

ing our football and it is also one of the reasons our teams did as well as they did in the year-end tournament.

“It’s a reflection of the continued progress with

our partnerships and we are very encouraged and we look forward to more football being played in 2015 with the support of Stag Beer,” Huston stated. Representative of Stag

John Maikoo assured that Stag would continue to support football and sports in general.

not compliant next season.

“It’s tough on us because the only reason we’ve come under investigation is a) we’ve qualified for a Uefa tournament and b) because of when we were in the Championship,” Bruce said.

Hull exited the Europa League at the final qualifying round stage. (BBC Sport)

Beer, Sean Abel thanked all the teams for their participation while Stag Brand Manager

A representative of Imran and Daughters hands over the trophies to RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster

Stag Brand Manager John Maikoo (second left) and Aubrey Huston pose with the reps of the various teams at the presentation

Multimillion-dollar warm-up pool commissioned

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

The state-of-the-art, 25-metre warm-up/ warm-down pool was commissioned on Friday morning with President Donald Ramotar underlining his Administration’s commitment towards the growth and development of the country’s sportsmen and women.

Prior to the unveiling of a plaque to officially declare the facility open, the Head of State spoke glowingly of Government’s continued investment in sport, noting that such undertakings have brought significant benefits to the country.

Ramotar noted that with the warm-up pool

WI unable to slow down de Villiers in crushing loss

now complementing the Olympic-sized 50-metre pool in the compound of the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal, Guyana was in a prime position to host major regional and international competitions, thereby deriving enormous benefits and recognition for the country.

“As has been mentioned here [before], I get the im-

pression that we’re already getting the good name of having this world-class facility here,” Ramotar said.

Other speakers before the President had painted a bright future for swimming in Guyana with the facility coming to fruition, something the Head of State was enthused about.

est Indies were outplayed in every department by South Africa as they plunged to a heavy 257run defeat in their fourth Group B game of the ICC Cricket World Cup at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Australia on Friday.

Chasing a massive 409 for victory, West Indies collapsed to 151 all out off 33.1 overs, with leg-spinner Imran Tahir picking up five for 45, to record the joint worst defeat in World Cup history.

Pacers Morne Morkel (2-23) and Kyle Abbott (237) finished with two wickets apiece.

Captain Jason Holder hammered 56 off 48 balls for his first maiden one-day half-century while opener Dwayne Smith got 21, but West Indies never recovered after sliding to 63 for seven in the 18th over. turn to page 21

NEW GPC embraces national ruggers

As part of efforts to fulfil its social/corporate responsibility, the NEW GPC INC on Friday threw its support behind the country’s national rugby squad, currently preparing for a few major international tournaments this year.

At a simple ceremony at its Farm, East Bank Demerara office, NEW GPC Marketing Representative Livasti Bhooplall presented a monetary contribution towards the team’s campaign, as well as medical supplies.

“NEW GPC INC, an avid supporter of rugby and sports in general, is among a group of sponsors who have faithfully backed the efforts of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU),” Bhooplall said.

She added, “NEW GPC INC’s support for GRFU comes in many forms. There are players in the GRFU who are employed with the company, who benefit from paid time off to play in the sport and to represent Guyana.

Cash and other forms of support are given to GRFU for putting Guyana ahead, in the global rugby tournament. Last year, NEW GPC INC honoured the ruggers for their outstanding performance in the NACRA finals.” GRFU President Peter Green thanked the company for once again supporting the national ruggers, pointing out that the donation would go a long way in ensuring Guyana was fully represented at the major championships this year. During the coming months, the national Men’s team will be looking to defend the NACRA 7s and 15s titles they won last year, as well as participate in the Pan Am Games. They are also looking to qualify for the Rio 2016 Olympics for the first time.

NEW GPC’s contribution came a day after the Beharry Group of Companies presented US$10,000 to the GRFU towards preparations of the team.

– President talks up economic, tourism benefits

The newly-commissioned warm-up pool

NEW GPC INC Marketing Representative Livasti Bhooplall presents the company’s sponsorship to GRFU President Peter Green