Guyana Times Daily - February 29, 2016

The Race to LGE 2016

Leguan candidate promises maintenance of trenches, P17 better roads Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2782

Monday, February 29, 2016

PRICE

Rodney CoI

Family members still to receive report – Mrs Rodney

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Man busted with 2kg P12 ganja at NA 3 more P10 Zika cases confirmed in Guyana

Page 3

…“I am disappointed at President’s response” – David Hinds

1 killed after tractor topples in Moraikobai

Page 12

– another suspected case detected, patient quarantined

IFMAS not required for CH&PA P9 – Ali

…lambasts KN for misleading article

Police Force bids farewell to a courageous officer

Page 7 Wales Estate closure

GAWU defends strike action

P9

– says GuySuCo trying to put Union “in bad light”

…ACP Balram Persaud receives ceremonial sendoff Police Officers escorting the casket bearing the body of the late Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Balram Persaud out of the Guyana Police Force’s Sports Complex, Eve Leary in Georgetown, following the conclusion of the funeral service on Sunday morning

UG refutes gang- Opposition Leader meets rape allegations with Patentia of female student residents LGE 2016

Page 10

– says student was “intoxicated” …but probe continues for UGSS

Page 8

– Party aiming for victory in at least 50 NDCs

Kortberaad to receive support for self-help community projects P11

2 news

monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Zika Virus fight

Fogging commences in Region 2 I

n continuing efforts to fight the Zika Virus in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), the Environment Health Department has commenced fogging along the Essequibo Coast.

Region Two Senior Environmental Health Officer (EHO) Shaleena Baksh told this publication over the weekend that fogging commenced from Supenaam to Dry Shore along the Essequibo Coast.

Giving this newspaper an update on the exercise, the EHO said despite the challenges, residents are co-operating and the Department has successfully conducted health education talks on the Zika Virus in several villages. Over 4000 persons benefited from these sessions.

In addition, officers from the Environmental Department in the Region also conducted health edu-

An environmental officer during the fogging exercise in Region Two over the weekend

cation sessions on the virus at various secondary and primary schools.

Baksh has advised residents to support the fogging by covering all drinking water and food during the exercises.

So far there have been five confirmed cases of Zika in Guyana.

The first case of the Zika

Virus was recorded earlier in January in a woman, 27, who resided in Rose Hall, Berbice, and Covent Garden, EBD. Two weeks ago Health Minister Dr George Norton announced that a male student, 16, who resides in Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was Guyana’s second confirmed case.

The other three cases were reported over the weekend. Two are doctors attached to the Diamond Diagnostic Hospital while the other is a woman who resides in Timehri, EBD. Additionally, a woman who travelled from Guyana to the United States was subsequently diagnosed with Zika. She was one of

two additional cases recorded by Ohio State, US. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Other common symptoms include muscle pain and headache.

Guyana has already been placed on the United States Centres for Disease Control (CDC) Zika Virus warning list.

The CDC cautioned pregnant women not to travel to Guyana, among other Zikainfected countries, since the virus is suspected to lead to severe birth defects.

Babies suffering from the condition have smaller than normal heads, preventing

their brains from developing properly.

There is also a possibility that the Zika Virus can be sexually transmitted after one recorded case in Texas.

The Zika Virus is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is also known to carry the Dengue, Yellow Fever and Chikungunya Viruses.

Health experts are unsure why the Virus – detected in Africa in 1947 but unknown in the Americas until last year – is spreading so rapidly in Brazil and neighbouring countries.

Brazil and Colombia are reportedly the worst-affected countries.

Road safety to be given high priority

T

he Public Infrastructure Ministry will be putting measures in place during 2016 on a number of initiatives geared at increasing road safety.

Recognising the number of vehicular accidents that occur as a result of either a lack of traffic lights or inadequate street lighting, corrective measures will be taken.

This will see $72 million being spent on highway lighting at Linden, Coverden, Corentyne and Ogle. Additionally $1.1 million will be spent to replace 37 high pressure sodium vapour street lamps, $1.4 million to install 65 LED street lamps, and 300 defective photo sensors on street lights will be replaced at a cost of $18.2 million, the Government Information Agency reported.

A sum of $28.6 million will be spent to install traffic lights at critical areas prone to accidents. Some of the areas under consideration include the vicinity of Caricom Building; the 5-Corner Junction in Linden, and Corriverton.

In addition to street and traffic lights, road safety mechanisms are now an added feature of road and highway projects.

The Vreed-en-Hoop to Hydronie corridor, touted as the ministry’s fourth road project, includes US$2.5 million which caters for a School Road Safety Education Programme.

This project will see the West Coast Demerara road

being widened to a threelane highway at best to accommodate pedestrians.

The shoulders of the road will also include a bus lane for the safe discharging of passengers. Sidewalks will be constructed to ensure pedestrians and motorists no longer would have to compete for road space.

This safety initiative will also be seen in Corriverton, Region 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne) where a pedestrian sidewalk will be constructed.

An amount of $5.0 billion will be invested in the reconstruction of Sheriff Street that will facilitate improved traffic safety features, including pedestrian overhead crossings at strategic locations.

The need for these levels of investments comes as a result of the rapid growth of vehicular traffic and an existing road network which does not cater for pedestrians.

The consequences of this mismatch are many, including frustration of all road users; lost time and productivity due to delays; and frequent accidents, many of them deadly.

These investments will be supported by a Sustainable Urban Transport plan which includes among other things a traffic model for Georgetown, a parking management plan, regularisation of minibus operations, provision of public transport facilities, and the use of public transport and nonmotorised modes in the most congested areas.

news

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, February 29 – 08:30h-10:00h and Tuesday, March 1 – 09:30h-11:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, February 29 – 07:40h-09:10h and Tuesday, March 1 – 08:40h-10:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Rodney CoI

Family members still to receive report – Mrs Rodney …“I am disappointed at President’s response” – David Hinds

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Sunny weather will prevail throughout the day interrupted by light rain showers in the late morning and early afternoon hours. Partly cloudy conditions can be expected in the evening.

Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 4.47 metres and 5.81 metres per second.

High Tide: 08:21h and 20:49h reaching maximum heights of 2.42 metres and 2.32 metres respectively.

Saturday, February 27, 2016

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Dr Patricia Rodney

Dr Walter Rodney

ome two weeks after the final report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the death of Dr Walter Anthony Rodney was handed over to President David Granger, family members of the slain historian are still to receive a copy.

Dr Rodney’s wife, Patricia, made this disclosure when contacted by this publication on Sunday for a comment on the findings of the three-member panel.

“I have not seen the report. I do not have a copy of the report. I have been hearing and reading, but I have no comment to make until I see a copy of the report,” Mrs Rodney told Guyana Times.

President Granger is yet to officially release the findings of the CoI, which was established by former President Donald Ramotar in February 2014. However, leaked copies of the report have already made their way into the public domain.

None of the other parties involved has yet received a copy of the report.

The 17-month Inquiry saw representatives of the Rodney family; the People’s National Congress (PNC); the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC); the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) and the Commission’s

legal team. None of them has yet received a copy of the report.

S

Low Tide: 14:20h reaching a minimum height of 0.80 metre.

17 19

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

Government and speaking on behalf of the PNC. “Had the President told the reporters that he was speaking as leader of the PNC, I would not have been disappointed. The PNC has a right to be aggrieved by the findings of the Commission; after all, the PNC Government of that time and its leaders are indicted by the report,” the political commentator penned.

In fact, Hinds expressed that the President should

WPA executive “disappointed”

Meanwhile, WPA Executive Member David Hinds reacted with great disappointment over President Granger’s comments on the explosive findings of the report into the death of Dr Rodney, which implicated the PNC. On February 24, Granger finally broke his silence on the report’s findings and declared that it was “badly flawed” and “was based on hearsay evidence”. He consequently expressed his intentions to challenge it.

Commenting on this new development, Hinds opined that the Head of State ought not to be making partisan pronouncements on matters of such national importance.

“The President, in his capacity of Head of State and Government of Guyana, has taken a clear partisan stance on a matter of high national importance and one that has continually divided the country,” he wrote in his weekly online blog, noting that he disagreed with the President’s interpretation.

He further articulated that the President must maintain a balance between speaking on behalf of the

David Hinds

refrain from making any statements on matters that were highly charged.

“He could have commented on the matter without

President David Granger

taking a partisan stance,” he stated.

Moreover, Hinds pondered whether the President was speaking on behalf of the entire coalition, inclusive of the WPA, when he rubbished the report.

Additionally, he questioned how exactly the President planned on challenging the report.

“By whom — the Office of the President, the Government or the PNC?” Hinds conceded that it was a difficult task of balancing party leadership and national leadership, but as the Head of State, he should try harder.

Call 223-7230-1 ext 35

4

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monday, february 29, 2016

Views It’s a matter of perspective General Editor: Michael Younge News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

What happened to VAT reduction?

A

n object lesson for Guyanese citizens on the tendency for Opposition politicians to exploit irresponsible populism to garner votes has been the volte-face on the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) on their promise to reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT). From the moment the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/Civic) introduced the 16 per cent VAT in 2007, the mantra of the then Opposition was it was just another mechanism to “punish poor people”.

The reduction of VAT became one of the major issues during the 2011 and 2015 elections, with the Opposition parties calling for slashing the rate by half and later settling for a three per cent reduction. The PPP/C Government balked and insisted in light of globalisation and liberalisation, the VAT was the most equitable method of collecting revenues to compensate for the reduced revenues precipitated by lowered tariffs under the new international trading regimes.

The World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) had consistently recommended VAT as a more efficient method of collecting taxes on consumption rather than the old Consumption Tax it replaced. By the time Guyana adopted VAT, Jamaica, T&T and Barbados were already on board.

Today, more than 140 countries collect VAT. However, while VAT is a fiscal measure concerned with generating revenues for the State to function, it obviously has a social impact which Governments have to take into consideration. This is frequently dealt with by exempting basic food and other items that form a larger part of the shopping basket of the poor. In Guyana, the PPP/C exempted a large number of foods such as rice, etc, from VAT. Obviously another route would be reducing the overall rate which would have to be calibrated, so that the State still collected enough revenue to perform the functions demanded by citizens.

One of the 21 promises made by the new APNU/AFC Government – to be completed in its first 100 days in office – was to: “Immediately implement a phased reduction of VAT and the removal of VAT from food and other essential items”.

But as with so many of the promises, there was no change.

What the Government did was to follow the old British tactic of establishing a Committee in June to re-examine the tax regime and within that context, reduce VAT as it has been promising for seven years. When the Budget was presented in August; however, there was no reduction in VAT but only some inconsequential extension of zero-rated items.

The Committee submitted its recommendations on January 18, 2016, but without revealing its specifics, Finance Minister Winston Jordan confessed that “reducing VAT was not straightforward”. Repeating the PPP/C’s arguments since 2007 against APNU and AFC, Jordan stated that if the VAT were reduced, some zero rated items would have to attract VAT and this would be regressive from a social perspective.

He alluded to the situation in Trinidad and Tobago, where the Government had just reduced VAT from 15 per cent to 12.5 per cent, but simultaneously taxed some previously zerorated items.

In his presentation two weeks later when he presented Budget 2016, Jordan still did not reveal the proposals of the Tax Reform Committee on VAT, only saying they were “submitted too late”. It is now revealed that the Committee had recommended a reduction of two per cent bringing the VAT rate to 14 per cent. During the Budget debate, the nowOpposition PPP/C reminded the Government of its Manifesto promise on VAT and promised to support any reduction that would be proposed. Another suggestion, which had been proffered for years by now Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes, was to lower VAT in tourism – a practice followed in several tourism locales. For instance, the Bahamas has a 15 per cent VAT but 10 per cent for tourism, while Barbados reduced their 17.5 per cent VAT even more steeply for tourism – 7.5 per cent. Unfortunately, there has been no change on tourism VAT also.

We await this Government’s action on VAT.

A ‘giant’ iceberg dwarfs a 3000 tonne ship. The photograph is actually an optical illusion, with the block of ice in the foreground only reaching six feet above sea level (Telegraph/Rick Du Boisson/Solent News & Photo Agency)

Former UG lecturer and WPA activist passes on in NY Dear Editor, Former UG lecturer Kenneth Persaud, who was a prominent WPA activist and colleague of Dr Walter Rodney passed away on Friday night. He was an inspirational teacher and mentor to many in Guyana and the diaspora. He was popularly known as KP by everyone. He was loved by his students and those who engaged him during his decades as an educator and political activist.

In my last conversation with him in December, he showered glowing tributes on the respected Pandit Ramlall and me for our commitment to community development and for my writings on varied critical issues pertaining to Guyana and the diaspora.

KP is held in high regards by the Guyanese diaspora and Guyanese at home as well. He gave his entire life fighting for the poor. He was also devoted to writing. He nurtured countless minds as a teacher and as a writer. He gave his heart, mind and soul to nurture Guyanese away from the politics of race. But he acknowledged that he, WPA and PPP failed in their advocacy of multi-racial politics.

He founded the Kitty Progressive College and became its principal. The Progressive College catered mostly for the poorer stu-

dents of society. He was an esteemed writer who was not afraid to present his views in public and wrote several lengthy essays.

He felt that through the power of education, people could understand their problems and build a better society. KP became very active in the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Guyana.

He worked closely with the late Dr Josh Ramsammy, Rodney, Dr Roopnaraine, Prof Omowale, and the WPA group and became a targeted man.

Prior to that, he was very close with Dr Jagan and PPP politics and served on the PPP Central Committee. His son Dr Cliff Persaud was originally married to Dr Cheddi Jagan's only daughter Nadira. They both studied in the Soviet Union under PPPs cholarships.

KP fled Guyana for NY after several WPA activists were assassinated and opposition political activists were beaten by (House of Israel) thugs affiliated with the PNC. He was targeted for violence and put on surveillance for his pro-democracy activism.

KP decided to leave Guyana with urgency after one of his Afro-Guyanese students came to his home during a rain storm in the middle of the night to warn him that the student got

word from reliable sources that KP was earmarked for assassination by the PNC government of Forbes Burnham.

This was a period known as “the reign of terror” in Guyana and several opposition activists were murdered and hundreds terrorized. KP had very good relationship with Afro students and they looked out for his safety.

KP was among a few activists who always remained a champion of multiracial Guyanese politics.

In NY, KP saw the need for a community publication after earlier ones failed and all of them racially partisan. He became one of the founders of the weekly Caribbean Daylight and Prime News and its editor for several years.

He also founded several other weeklies in New York and was a regular contributor to Caribbean New Yorkers. And he wrote serious political columns for several newspapers and the respected Guyana Journal.

In NY, he became the original secretary of the Arya Spiritual Centre which was formed in1984

by Pandit Ramlall after the latter left Arya Samaj USA that was formed in1981.

He also worked closely with several other community activists to build organisations. He participated in the NY struggle for the res-

toration of democracy in Guyana and was present at several protest activities.

In NY, his students acknowledge the crucial role he played in making sure every student receives a quality education. KP never wavered in his commitment to building a just, equitable, harmonious, multi-racial society.

Unlike others in the WPA he did not support the position that an Indian (Dr Jagan) could not be leader of the PCD although he had differences with Jagan.

He did not see issues in terms of race but had been disturbed by what he described as the racist practices of the APNU-AFC coalition.

KP will be fondly remembered. He left a legacy of extraordinary brilliance in his writings and speeches.

He saw education as vital and critical for success and for securing a future.

His students will always be in awe of his knowledge of issues, his teaching ability, and passionate spirit in advocating his belief.

In NY, the community is grateful for his contributions to various spheres of life and the development of their former homeland. His political views will always be treasured.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, february 29, 2016

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Government needs to Guardians’ board is a band aid solution to child diversify the workforce abandonment in Guyana Dear Editor, Please print my observations with regards to one of the most despicable and sinful acts of parents - be it men or women - who have for over hundreds of years deliberately abandoned their responsibilities in providing basic child care for their offsprings. Many governments worldwide have tried many different versions to assist these children, the results are poor and in many cases these children are abused, raped and forced into prostitution.

This social disease in Guyana has to be researched, documented by a Truth Commission on Children Abandonment.

The mandate has to be legislated with the major religions’ firm commitment and participation. The composition of this commission must be from practicing honest and truthful religious scholars, whose

actions speak louder than their words.

The main cause of this despicable action is the blatant opposition and refusal of the blessed institution of marriage which was granted by our Creator as a protection and mercy to mankind. Ignorance of our religions and failure of these religious institutions and their leaders to plan and execute proper programmes to educate their flocks in the spiritual, family, community benefits from the institution of marriage.

The government had its role to provide funds where children become orphans and in cases of no families available to take care of them. Minister Lawrence’s regional guardians board with due respect is a band aid solution.

The constitutional laws enforcement threats to deadbeat fathers failed in many countries, in Canada

for example they garnish your wages from your employers. The legal framework must be in place, the education in all schools, all religious bodies’ sermons and programmes, parents, all singles and all employers.

Another vice that breeds this illicit sex and illegitimate children are the many daily, weekly, monthly limes and parties. Men and women plan to go there and have a great time including picking up women and men and ending up in bed having sex. Next comes pregnancies, next abortion then taking unborn lives and finally destruction to the children’s future.

So to take this despicable sin with every available resource head-on, require guts not threats and band aid solutions.

Sincerely, Sheik Ally

Music carts should be regulated Dear Editor, I am requesting the Georgetown City Council to take urgent steps to curb the noise menace that is now being posed by the music push carts commonly seen around downtown Georgetown and the city as a whole.

On a daily basis citizens are bombarded both at work and at home by the loud playing of what passes now for music from these music carts. The operators clearly have no regard for the peace and tranquillity of any neighbourhood or its residents as at all hours of the day and night, lewd music can be heard blaring from these carts.

Everyone’s peace is constantly disrupted in their homes; babies are rudely awakened from their peaceful naps, children’s study are interrupted; and people suffer discomfort and sleep deprivation when these carts pass by. Very often these carts would remain in a fixed location for lengthy periods.

Most worrying of all is the fact that the lyrics of many these ostensible songs are so depraved, odious, and filled with so much smutty sexual insinuations that they are just downright demeaning to women. One should not be surprised that the society is filled with so much violence

against women.

These music carts should be a major concern to the Georgetown Council, a significant problem that should be urgently taken in hand by the City Constabulary. These music cart operators are selling pirated music and movies which is illegal and should not be promoted by City Hall, in addition to congesting the roadways.

If these music carts must operate then they should be made to vend in one place and use headphones as a means of keeping their noise level down.

Sincerely, James Mc Onnell

All is not lost at the M&CC Dear Editor, In spite of the growing concerns and criticism regarding the performance and management of the Georgetown City Council, and quite rightly so, I write to let you know of an experience of mine that is a rainbow in the dark clouds at City Hall.

Last Thursday, February 25, 2016, I had cause to telephone the Solid Waste Department on Princes Street after unsuccessfully calling several other departments seeking guidance and assistance regarding two matters of concern to me including the dire need to remove the carcass of a dead animal that lay on my parapet for a number of days and the acquisition of a skip bin

that I needed to rent for the purpose of removing a quantity of discarded household articles.

To my considerable surprise, I was met with a very pleasant voice, I had to ask twice if I was calling the Mayor and City Council.

The female answered “Good morning, Solid Waste Department, How may I help you?” And yes you are calling the Mayor and City Council for help;. After I indicated my earlier frustration I was advised how my two concerns could have been dealt with. I enquired to whom I was talking, to and she responded by saying that she was the Secretary to the Solid Waste Director.

Clearly this young lady possessed the knowledge

and competencies required to handle office administration. She understood her role within the organization. She spoke with confidence using clear, concise sentences that I was able to understand quite easily, interacting professionally with me throughout the conversation.

After terminating the call, I told my wife that all is not lost at the Mayor and City Council.

That such competent, friendly and professional staff, seriously, deserves special mention. I do believe that public servants should to the best at their workplace, to serve the public, since they have been lacking in that area.

With regards, Seon Levius

Dear Editor, Tempestuous ethnic/ race relations largely between Indo-Guyanese and Afro-Guyanese have rattled Guyana far too long, causing great physical and mental suffering over the course of more than five decades of destruction. Yet politicians glaringly foment ethnic/racial divisions to secure votes and accumulate power.

Openly, the PNC/ APNU/AFC coalition Government plays cacophonous notes regarding social cohesion — touting a mantra of racial unity while discriminating along racial lines. On the 2015 campaign trail, the AFC declared that racism is destructive. Today, however, the AFC has become part of the bigoted PNC/ APNU. Thus the PNC/ APNU/AFC Government thrives on shenanigans that deepen racial divisions and embolden racism.

Racial discrimination by the troubled coalition Government is reminiscent of the dark days of the Burnham administration.

History is repeating itself.

Evidence of such quickly bubbles to the surface when it fires predominantly Indo-Guyanese and Amerindians from the work force. For a sit-

ting President to harbour a work force comprising of more than 80% of his own racial/ethnic group calls into question his veracity as regards racial unity and his suitability as regards to ruling a country such as ours. These are testaments to the fact that the coalition Government is divisive and its stance on racial unity is bogus.

Do we ever wonder why Indo-Guyanese huddle under the PPP/C? Well mistreatment by Government is the main driver. Gains made by civil rights leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Martin Luther King fail to resonate with the PNC/APNU/AFC led Government. This is shameful!

Moreover, Government cares diddlysquat about the massive suicide crisis and protracted alcoholism within the Indo- Guyanese community, given that it turns a blind eye to diversifying the Ministry of Social Protection which is entrusted with these very same problems.

Diversifying this Ministry is critically important if Government is serious about tackling such problems.

The coalition Government deals yet another blow to IndoGuyanese when it an-

nounces that the Wales Sugar Estate will close operations. Surely, this will deepen turmoil within the Indo-Guyanese community. As citizens of a “democracy” we reserve the right to voice our concerns through debates. Where are the debates? Government needs to remember its actions are insensitive, destructive and unacceptable in a “democracy”.

Our country will never develop under a Government which in itself emboldens racism.

Editor, our Government needs to recoil from its stance.

Government needs to diversify the workforce so as to allow our country to end five decades of failure.

This is long overdue. A diverse work force is a key component in the equation necessary for development.

Just within recent weeks, Pope Francis speaking at a mass in San Cristobal De las Casa, Mexico, praised diversity, still the coalition Government is oblivious.

Editor, every Guyanese must stand against racial/ ethnic discrimination so as to curtail injustice and allow Guyana to develop.

Sincerely, Diaspora Member (New York)

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monday, february 29, 2016

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Foundation

6 signs

So much homework, so little time

your child needs a tutor pecially if a child ignores repeated reminders. “A parent’s intuition is a powerful thing when it comes to [her] child’s education,” says Joe Morgan, CEO of Noodle Education (noodle. org), a website that helps parents find tutoring and educational opportunities.

“If you notice your child struggling, be it [with] a specific subject or a time management issue, or if you suspect there might be a learning disability, there are professionals who can help and parents can be proactive seeking that assistance,” he says. Hiring a tutor can assist your child to improve study habits, cultivate self-motivation, and keep pace with upcoming assignments and tests.

By Mali Anderson

W

hen children have increased studies and busy family schedules, individual teaching can be a tremendously productive addition to a child’s studies. “One-on-one attention from a tutor can do wonders for even a typical learner,” says Laura Goldblatt, a licensed teacher in the continuing education programme at Marlboro College in Marlboro, Vermont.

Although some children do well with a helpful teacher at school and an active parent at home, others can benefit from extra help; below are examples of such situations. Seeking a tutor to circumvent falling grades can build academic success in the future, and your child will enjoy school more as a result.

Slipping grades If you believe that your child can do better than he did on his latest report card, or if you’ve noticed a gradual or sudden decline in his test scores, communicate with his teacher about your concerns. The teacher can point out con-

cepts your child is having difficulty with; if your child is good at Maths but has difficulty with reading, he may have a harder time understanding a Maths worksheet with a story problem. A teacher can also note when your child’s attention has been drifting, which can indicate that your child has not mastered a topic or lacks focus. Once you’ve pin-

pointed the problem area or areas, you can take action to improve his grades again.

Not managing time well If your child puts off projects and postpone homework, she may not be able to keep up as workloads increase. Although an occasional delay can be expected, consistent procrastination can be a sign of a larger issue, es-

Being consistently confused Sometimes a child is underperforming because he simply doesn’t understand the homework. If he is repeatedly puzzled by certain concepts, he may not be keeping up with gradelevel expectations. If your child repeatedly expresses anxiety about a test and is defensive when you try to help, a tutor can help him comprehend each subject

By Mary Mohler

at the current level to ensure grade advancement.

Lacking confidence It is natural to be uncertain when learning a new concept, but it is not constructive when a child is told she isn’t smart enough to do well in school. If your child is feeling blue and saying she can’t keep up, her impulse may be to run and hide rather than ask for help.

Decreasing parental supervision It is not always possible for a parent to manage a child’s homework. Tutors can help ease scheduling conflicts within a household.

Learning disabilities Tutoring sessions are also beneficial for children who have been diagnosed with a learning disorder, such as ADHD, dyslexia, or a visual processing problem. A specialised tutor can present information in a way that’s easier for a child with a learning disability to understand, which can then make school less difficult and more enjoyable. (Excerpt from Parents.com)

G

The Homework Crisis

isela Voss always thought that all the griping about homework overload was way overblown. Her son Luke never got more than a half hour’s worth at Mason-Rice Elementary in Newton, Massachusetts.

But once he enrolled at Brown Middle School in 2004, Gisela had a rude awakening. Suddenly Luke was grappling with 30 minutes of assignments for each of his six classes, lugging home a backpack bursting at the seams – and sagging under the strain.

“He was at school from 8 to 3, and with soccer practice he wouldn’t be done until 5. If we all ate dinner together – and it’s important to me that we do -- he wouldn’t even start cracking the books until 7,” says Gisela, 42, a toy designer who’s also mom to daughter Sydney, 10, and son Rio, 2. “He missed out on sleep, and his anxiety stressed everybody else out. We’d rush through the meal knowing that he had hours of work ahead of him, and he’d start begging for help even before he left the table.”

Luke, now 15 and a sophomore in high school, has grown more accustomed to his heavy load. But Gisela and her husband, Dan Kernan, a 48-year-old software engineer, are already worrying about Sydney, who starts at Brown Middle School next fall, and how she’ll cope with the nightly grind. “This is an insane way for families to live,” says Gisela.

She’s joined the chorus of complaints about children drowning in homework. It’s not just the marathon study sessions every night, these parents say, but heavy-duty assignments during vacations and summers as well.

The massive pileup is causing some serious burnout.

With no downtime, children can’t absorb and retain their lessons, and they dread the work so much they have to be nagged and forced to do it. With moms and dads – and tutors – routinely stepping in to help, there’s growing resentment that they’re the ones being held responsible for their children’s education instead of teachers and schools. “It’s not that homework is inherently evil, but that it has gotten so out of balance,” says Nancy Kalish, coauthor with Sara Bennett of The Case Against Homework (Crown). “The first question parents ask when their kids walk in the front door is, ‘How much homework do you have?’

For many families, everything revolves around that, and it’s causing a lot of tension, tears, and fights.” And that’s just the small picture, Kalish adds.

“Night after night, year after year, homework is swallowing up the things that are part of a good, healthy childhood – like playing, exercising, hanging out with friends, quality time with parents, even getting bored and maybe getting creative.” (Excerpt from Parents.com)

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Police Force bids farewell to a courageous officer …ACP Balram Persaud receives ceremonial sendoff

ACP Balram Persaud’s widow being consoled by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan BY: DEVINA SAMAROO

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urrounded by salutes of his siblings of the Force, family members and friends, the body of Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) Balram Persaud was at last cremated at Ruimzeight, West Coast Demerara (WCD) following a ceremonial service at the Guyana Police Force’s

(GPF) Sports Complex, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

In a solemn atmosphere further characterised by strong winds and an overcast sky, family and friends took turns paying tribute to a man whom they all lamented had lost his life too soon.

Tributes Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud reflected on the ACP’s successful ca-

reer and his gracious relationship with other members of the GPF; altogether noting that the Force has lost a valuable asset, in an all too tragic manner – as he was approaching retirement.

ACP David Ramnarine also underscored what a diligent and courageous officer his colleague was, as he reflected on several memorable moments they shared.

He pointed out that Persaud was quite a decision-maker.

“Decision making is not easy for other people, especially when you are under challenge. I have seen many people buckle under pressure when it comes to decision making, he was never that type of person,” Ramnarine reminisced.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan a friend of the ACP, spoke about a different side of Persaud many did not know.

“He was an extraordinary character… he was a great writer and a philosopher,” Ramjattan dis-

closed, as he reflected on many of the engaging conversations he shared with his late buddy.

Speaking pointedly to the tearful audience, Ramjattan charged them not to mourn Persaud’s life, but rather, celebrate it as he intensely did whilst he was alive.

Another close friend Ricky Sanasie in his tribute, reflected on his most cherished moments with his “squaddie”.

“He was a good friend and a brother for 30 years.

Our families became close friends, we became one family… conversation with Balram was usually a dis-

President David Granger pays last respect to ACP Balram Persaud

ACP Balram Persaud’s eldest son, Andre Devon Persaud delivers the eulogy

The funeral procession escorting ACP Balram Persaud’s body from the Guyana Police Force Sports Complex, Eve Leary, following the conclusion of the funeral service

Fisher Primary PTA to host social ills/suicide workshop

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he Parent-Teachers Association (PTA) of Fisher Primary School, Golden Fleece in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) will be hosting a special workshop in an effort to tackle social ills. The workshop is opened to the general public and is slated for March 3 in the school’s auditorium commencing from 15:00h.

According to Headmistress Artie Gangoo, the workshop will be facilitated by trained personnel, including a psychologist, counsellor and religious leaders. The focus will be primarily to enlighten parents on good

parenting and to identify early signs of suicidal thoughts.

Gangoo said that it would be the first initiative of its kind for the school and Region Two had the highest number of suicides, noting that the grass-roots level has to be educated.

Similar workshops will be hosted in the future.

The headmistress said that parents needed to spend quality time with their children and to find out the reasons behind a change in behaviour.

“What we find is that parents are being distracted with movies or these Indian soaps; it happens

all the time, in that time they don’t pay attention, the child may be neglected and fall trapped in a negative act. This is why we need to let parents know that family time is important and everyone need to sit and discuss things affecting them; it must be open,” Gangoo said.

The headteacher is, therefore, urging all persons living within the environs of the school and all those who are desirous of attending to join the workshop. Pandits and Pastors along with community leaders are expected to attend.

section of current issues, and he was never afraid to speak the truth, regardless of the consequences.

He loved to be the devil’s advocate and stir up a discussion; always a probing mind… the world has lost a good person, he had a big heart, probably too big for his own,” Sanasie tearfully related.

Persaud’s first son, Andre Devon, also shared a little about his father’s personal life. He recognised that his dad was dedicated to his job, he worked tirelessly to ensure Guyana is safer and better for all

Guyanese and that he will always be remembered for his selfless efforts.

Lastly, the ACP’s weeping widow Christine discovered a boost of courage and rose before the crowd to say a few words.

She tearfully reflected on her last moments with her beloved husband and thanked everyone for their heartfelt support during her time of sorrow.

Journey to ACP Persaud was born on 21 July 1961 in Colombia, Essequibo.

He gained his early education at the Anna Regina Multilateral School and

the Government Technical Institute where he earned passes at the GCE ‘O’ Level and the Ordinary Technical Diploma in Building and Civil Engineering.

Persaud joined the Force on 5 May, 1984 and was posted to ‘F’ Division following the completion of his initial training. He earned his first promotion to the rank of Cadet Officer in 1986, Assistant Superintendent in 1987, Deputy Superintendent in 1995; Superintendent in 1998; Senior Superintendent in 2002; and Assistant Commissioner in 2008.

He had the opportunity to serve in several areas including the Tactical Services Unit, Special Branch, Department of Development, Force Control and ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’ Policing Divisions. He also performed duties as Staff Officer to the then Minister of Home Affairs in 1999.

He was also awarded the Force’s 150th and 175th Anniversary Medals.

On February 23, Persaud succumbed to injuries he sustained in a car accident he was involved in at Schoonord, West Bank Demerara on February 5.

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

UG refutes gang-rape allegations of female student – says student was "intoxicated" … but probe continues for UGSS alleged in the article carried in the Guyana Chronicle, on Saturday, February 27,” the statement read.

According to the University, the student was taken to the medical centre on Friday afternoon where she was diagnosed by medical personnel as “intoxicated.”

Probe continues

UGSS President Joshua

By Devina Samaroo

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he University of Guyana (UG) Administration has said the gang-rape allegations of a female student on campus are completely false.

According to a statement issued by UG Sunday, its investigations concluded that the student was not sexually assaulted however she was “intoxicated.”

“Investigations by the University of Guyana Administration have not revealed any basis to conclude or suspect that she was sexually assaulted as

Nevertheless, the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS) is still continuing its own investigation into the matter.

UGSS President Joshua Griffith told Guyana Times he has been receiving similar information but he expressed that the findings are not exactly substantive.

Griffith said he wants to at least speak to the female student to hear her version of the story before making a definitive conclusion on the issue.

“After all, we are here to represent the students,” Griffith said, noting that no stone should be left unturned in this investigation.

Police have confirmed that no official report was made.

Security

Meanwhile, the allegations brought to the fore the burning concern of security on campus. The UGSS president had stressed time and again the need of better security on campus.

“Security has always been a major concern on campus and we, the students, are always the ones who suffer and are affected

currently pursuing several measures to enhance security and will continue to exercise maximum care and due diligence in providing a secure environment for students and staff on campus.

Allegations The state newspaper had reported on Saturday that a UG student overhead a group of male students describing in graphic details

The University of Guyana campus

more at the end,” he stated.

UG in its statement noted that it will continue to place safety and security of its members and visitors to the campus as a high priority.

The university said it is

how they gang-raped the female student. According to the newspaper article, the student said he does not know the names of the male students who allegedly committed the act, however he knows their faces very well.

NA man slapped with armed robbery charge

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construction worker was granted bail in the sum of $70,000 when he appeared before Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court to answer a charge of robbery under arms.

Kevin Edwards also called ‘Milo’ of Angoy’s

Avenue, New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne) is accused of robbing Winston Hope.

It is alleged that on February 18, while in the company of others and being armed with a gun, he robbed Hope of a gold chain valued at $120,000 and gold ring valued $56,000.

During the proceedings on Friday, Edwards told the court that he was never identified by Hope as the person who robbed him.

When asked by the magistrate about the circumstances surrounding the arrest, Police Prosecutor Phillip Sherriff informed

the court that he is unaware about the conditions surrounding the identification of the accused.

Bail was granted on condition that Edwards report to the Central Police Station every Friday.

The case will continue on March 14.

Eyew tness “Significant” ...

Y

...for teachers

our Eyewitness always was told, “payback’s a b*tch”!! Well, the Government’s finding out how true that warning is. It promised “significant” salary increases for Government workers, teachers and all the various other categories that “traditionally” support it.

But when salary increase time rolled around, all they got was 5%! Some comforted themselves by suggesting to the “lean and clean” Government, 5% was “significant”. Strict Puritan values and all that!

But when the Government awarded its Ministers a whopping 50% increase – making every one of them an instant millionaire – all its “working poor” supporters sat up and took notice. These fellas DID know what was significant!! Here it was fellas who were hustling to keep their shoe repair business afloat were now raking in over $700,000 every month. And not only that. They got dutyfree cars, gas allowance, entertainment allowance, drivers, house allowance, phone allowance...You get the idea?

Well, teachers got the idea.

And payback time’s arrived!! The teachers’ union’s decided it’s best to follow the EXAMPLE of the Government on the meaning of “significant” of their new five-year remuneration package. Starting with salaries, they proved they were positively modest – they only asked for 40% for this year and another 45% next year. They won’t get 50% increases until the following year! For three years. Now that’s being responsible, isn’t it? How can the Government say “no” to this?

If a 50% salary increase was good enough for the Ministers who just show up at air-conditioned offices to direct scads of Public Servants to shuffle paper, how do you refuse 40% to those worthies who day in, day out turn out in rain or shine to mould the minds of our children?

We wouldn’t want to have our children be affected by dissatisfied, sulky teachers, would we? And while it sounds like plenty...the teachers won’t be matching the Ministers’ present salaries until 2020. That’s when their lives, like their vision, will be perfect.

But the teachers’ union had been paying close attention to the Ministers’ package. They’re asking for $7000 monthly maintenance for those teachers who’ll be getting the 200 duty-free cars they’re asking for annually.

But being responsible, they won’t take vehicles more than 2700cc – quite a lot less than the Ministers’ SUVs that’re routinely 4500cc.

The incidentals would be getting double their salaries in December when they’ll be off on holidays. But the epitome of the teachers’ reasonableness on the Government’s idea of “significant” is their refusal to ask for meals on the job.

Not only Ministers –- but all MPs get this – $1.9M for food every sitting on the house!

..hike for hucksters?

The overall sentiment that your Eyewitness was left after perusing the Budget measures that affected the ordinary folks was dismay at the level of pettiness into which the Government had descended. This was epitomised by the massive increases in fees for hucksters – hundreds of percentage increase. Can you imagine a huckster “on foot” having to fork out $3500 annually for the privilege of going door to door to earn a living – rather than turning to a life of petty crime by stealing cell phones? Or the fella with a donkey cart having to exhibit his licence for which he had to fork out $12,500 every year, or he’ll be hauled off to jail by the policeman always on the lookout to” uphold” the law?

And all the Minister of Finance – committed to providing the “good life” to Guyanese who hopefully include hucksters – could say to Opposition objections was, “Do you expect hucksters NOT to pay licences?

Well...HECK NO! If they’re not making some minimum wage, like say, $700,000 annually which a minister makes in one month.

...tax exemption

The Tax Reform Committee wants to know why the President, Attorney General and Chancellor –- all making more than $2M EVERY MONTH – shouldn’t be taxed.

This Eyewitness believes hucksters also want to know.

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

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Wales Estate closure

GAWU defends strike action – says GuySuCo trying to put Union “in bad light”

GuySuCo on Wednesday accused GAWU of pressuring sugar workers of the Uitvlugt Estate to join the ongoing protests

BY EDWARD LAYNE

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he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is defending its decision to encourage sugar workers to stage one-day per week strike action, denouncing the Government’s decision to close the Wales Sugar Estate.

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on Wednesday accused the trade union of pressuring sugar workers of the Uitvlugt Estate to joining the ongoing protests.

It claimed a Field Officer and representatives of GAWU threatened workers who were “reluctant” to join the industrial action.

“Similarly the workers were told if they don’t support the strike they would not be afforded representation by the union in the future,” the corporation said. But GAWU in a statement over the weekend said the claims

by GuySuCo were aimed at showing the union “in a bad light”.

The union reminded that the one-day per week strike is a decision taken by the union’s General Council team on January 30, 2016 over GuySuCo’s refusal to engage union in Collective Bargaining, by imposing an “unjust” 2.72 days Annual Production Incentive (API) on workers for 2015.

The union said it will not be deterred by GuySuCo’s attempts to thwart its efforts in protecting the rights and interests of its members. “With our Collective leadership and through democratic deliberations, we intend to stand firm in taking decisions and adopting various measures in “sync with the best interests of the workers and the industry,” the union stated, adding, “workers are driven to take responsible and militant actions in defence of their interests and rights and in support of their demands.” It also warned of an emergence of an “anti-worker and anti-Union thrust” in recent months, which it said has undermined trust in the Corporation to do the right and the lawful things, to safeguard and secure workers’ interests; and to promote industrial democracy. The union said GuySuCo’s claims that the union representative was acting improperly when he encouraged workers to take industrial action is an attempt to roll-back a zealously guarded practice of trade unionism. “The GAWU, in principle, condemns such an attempt,” it stated.

The union also rubbished claims that one of its representatives was disengaged by the union for failing to galvanise workers for protest.

“While we are not surprised by such inaccuracies by the few at the top of GuySuCo, we simply wish to point out emphatically that this statement has no basis in fact,” the statement claimed.

The union said it was “somewhat amused” by the absurdity contained in GuySuCo’s statement, which claimed that GAWU representatives would be removed if they failed to get workers to strike.

It also described as “mischievous assertions”, a claim by the sugar corporation that workers were told that if they fail to join in the protest the union will not provide representation to them.

“What is more painful is to experience the low levels GuySuCo’s leadership has fallen to and low dodges it has resorted to as reflected in the statement. This condition harks back to the colonial times, not a pleasant feeling in this year when the nation is poised to mark its 50th Freedom Anniversary,” the union stated.

GuySuCo and GAWU have been at logger-heads since November of last year over disagreements on API for workers for 2015.

Recently, Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle declared deadlock after negotiations over the 2015 API between GAWU and GuySuCo ended in stalemate.

Labourer fined $3000 for narcotics possession

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labourer who pleaded guilty of possession of narcotics was fined $3000 and ordered to perform 20 hours of community service when he appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Winston John of Lot 4-A Laing Avenue, West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, stood to answer the charge which stated that on February 25, 2016 at Hunter Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, he had in his possession 3 grams

Winston John

of cannabis.

John pleaded guilty and requested that the court be lenient on him, promising that he will never do drugs again.

He was subsequently fined and ordered to perform community service, failure of which he will have to serve two months imprisonment.

The magistrate also warned him that if he ever appears before her again on the same offence he will be jailed.

IFMAS not required for CH&PA – Ali …lambasts KN for misleading article

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he Integrated Financial Management and Accounting System (IFMAS) was not required to be implemented under the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CH&PA), former Housing Minister Irfaan Ali has clarified.

The IFMAS is an electronic method of accounting that was purchased some ten years ago from a Canadian firm with the intention of being implemented to replace all manual accounting systems used by the State.

Kaieteur News in its Sunday last edition published an article insinuating that massive corruption occurred under the CH&PA owing to its failure to implement the IFMAS. The article, headlined “Irfaan Ali ran Housing’s $$$B accounts with ‘pencil and paper’ system”, detailed that though some $132 million was spent to purchase the system, it was not being used by the then Minister Ali and that this was rather “suspicious”.

Responding to the report, Ali explained that CH&PA is

Former Housing Minister Irfaan Ali

a semi-autonomous agency that operates its own independent accounting system.

He made it clear that the IFMAS accounting system was never intended to be an accounting solution for CH&PA. “It is a known fact that the CH&PA is a semi-autonomous agency that kept its own bank accounts, hence, its own accounting system,” Ali reaffirmed.

He further proffered that CH&PA utilised Acc Pac computerised account-

ing system to maintain records of all the allottees. He explained that the system is integrated with the Land Management System that allows for greater efficiency and accountability.

Ali maintained that CH&PA has an effective accounting system; timely financial statements for audit; monthly financial reports for the Board of Directors for strategic decision making; information for management; and information for external stakeholders.

Furthermore, Ali highlighted that the Agency’s last audited financial statement was for 2014.

Against this backdrop, the former Minister lambasted the Kaieteur News for publishing an “uninformed”, “mischievous” and “misleading” article.

“This article as usual carries a sensational headline but short on substance,” he stated.

Meanwhile, reports are that the current administration is making attempts to integrate the IFMAS into the CH&PA operations.

Annandale/Riverstown residents welcome intervention to clear trenches

A trench at Golden Fleece that was cleared BY: INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

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esidents living within the Annandale/ Riverstown, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Neighbourhood Democratic Council have expressed gratitude towards Region Two and the overseer of the NDC for their timely intervention in cleaning of the clogged drains and trenches in their areas.

Residents living within the villages of Golden Fleece, Perseverance, Abrams Zuil, Zorg, Suddie, and Johanna Cecilia had previously raised concerns with Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt about poor drainage and irrigation in the areas. The chairman along with several People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) councillors at the RDC statutory meetings for January and February had raised the issues where recommendations were made.

PPP/C councillor Brain

Persaud had raised issue concerning the non-payment of trench cleaners which was the result of the trench-

es not being cleaned. This have since been rectified by Region Two REO, Rupert Hopkinson.

In addition, a hymac was sent to villages clearing and cleaning clogged drains and trenches. Residents have since showered praises on the Region Two RDC for collectively addressing the problems previously raised.

The trenches in several communities were clogged for quite some time and despite several reports to NDC nothing was done. The machine was always said to be unavailable at that time to carry out the exercise.

Residents said the cleaning of the drains and trenches will avoid flooding when the rainy period commences.

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guyanatimesgy.com

monday, february 29, 2016

News

LGE 2016

Opposition Leader meets with Patentia residents – Party aiming for victory in at least 50 NDCs The former President also explained that if these spending patterns continue, money from the treasury “will disappear” and the country will have to “start borrowing” and will eventually end up again in a situation of being heavily indebted.

Jagdeo pointed out that if the administration does not start reducing excessive spending then “they’re going to take us right back in the past.”

Jagdeo reminded residents there are only three

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo addressing residents of Patentia during the meeting

Residents of Patentia

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he importance of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic gaining control over local government authorities was highlighted by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo during a meeting with residents of Patentia, West Bank Demerara, on Saturday.

The Opposition Leader was at the time meeting with residents to discuss issues affecting them while encouraging that they ex-

ercise their democratic franchise at the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE), slated for March 18.

Jagdeo noted that it is essential for the party to gain power in the local areas, so that the needs of persons at the grassroot levels can be more adequately addressed.

Supporters were warned against repeating the “mistake of voter complacency.”

During the meeting, the Opposition Leader also de-

cried the Government’s handling of the Wales Estate closure, noting that the PPP’s recommendations were not acknowledged or heeded by the administration.

“My fear is that they are spending it [money] so rapidly on things that are not important; nothing to the productive sectors where people are employed or anything that would generate income or wealth for the country,” Jagdeo stressed.

Another section of the residents

weeks left before LGE and stated that the party should strive to attain victories in at least 50 of the country’s Neighbourhood Democratic

Councils (NDCs).

He also encouraged youths in the area to assist the older supporters in getting to the polling stations to ensure the party is success-

ful at the 2016 polls.

The former President informed this publication that the prospects of the PPP gaining majority of the NDCs across the country in March are “great.”

“The prospects are great; we are looking to win a significant majority of all of the 72 areas contesting,” stated Jagdeo.

On Saturday, Jagdeo along with PPP/C Member of Parliament, Irfaan Ali held several LGE meetings on West Bank Demerara.

This year’s Local Government Elections will be the first since 1994.

3 more Zika cases confirmed in Guyana

– another suspected case detected, patient quarantined

The Aedes Aegypti mosquito

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hree more cases of Zika have been confirmed in Guyana by the Public Health Ministry which confirmed the cases after samples were tested positive by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Speaking with this publication on Sunday, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton said the three persons all live along the East Bank Demerara (EBD) and further explained that two of the individuals are Cuban doctors who reside in Guyana, while the third is a woman from Timehri.

Dr Norton explained that

another suspected case has been reported and as precautionary measures the individual has been quarantined until the result is returned.

Presently, the Vector Control Services Unit has been mandated to conduct fogging exercises within EBD, especially Grove and Diamond as these areas are heavily infested by mosquitoes.

Guyana has already confirmed five cases after the virus was detected here earlier this year. The first case was an EBD woman who had travelled to Berbice, while the other case is a teenage

boy residing at Eccles, EBD. The Zika Virus is spread by the Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes.

These mosquitoes also transmit the Chikungunya virus. They thrive in collection of water such as in open reservoirs, tyres, roof guttering, plant containers around the home.

Persons who contract the virus, may not manifest any signs or symptoms. Health officials are urging individuals, especially pregnant women to use all precautionary methods to prevent themselves being bitten by, since the virus has been linked to birth defects.

It is advisable to wear lightly coloured clothing that covers the entire body.

Insect repellents, household insecticides, sprays and mosquito coils can also be used to ward off mosquitoes.

The Public Health Ministry urges persons to check with the nearest health facility, once they develop a fever or any other Zika symptoms including joint or muscle pains, or headaches.

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Kortberaad to receive LGE 2016 support for self-help No room for rigging – Dr Surujbally community projects C

President David Granger listens as Chairperson of the community, Bernadette Douglas, makes a point while Minister of State Joseph Harmon and villagers look on

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resident David Granger has promised residents of Kortberaad, East Bank Berbice, that he will provide the material for them to construct bush sheds and support the desilting of trenches in the community.

The promise was made Saturday last when the Head of State visited the community encouraging residents to practice selfhelp to accomplish projects that would benefit them.

The President accompanied by Minister of State Joseph Harmon and other regional officials, met with residents to discuss a number of concerns affecting villagers.

Chairman of community leaders committee Bernadette Douglas along with other residents welcomed the impromptu visit with dance and song but wasted no time thereafter listing the litany of problems they need to be resolved.

These included drainage works, land demarcation, the construction of bus sheds, the inclusion of the community in the Neighbourhood

Democratic Council (NDC), the development of pasture lands for cattle rearing and a number of other issues.

In response, President Granger said that while the small projects, such as the construction of bus sheds and desilting of the trenches would receive immediate support, the community must take ownership of them.

“As far as the projects are concerned, I will help you to help yourself. I can provide all the materials if you want to build the bus sheds, but you have a lot of able-bodied men here so I will help you to get the materials, whatever you need, I will depend on you to do the construction.

Similarly, with the canals and the road shoulders, whatever it is; if you need the tools, I will help you, but you have people here who can do that. I am not going to spoon-feed you.

We are aiming to finish the sheds and the cleaning before May 26 so that’s three months to work with,” he told the residents.

Meanwhile, Minister of State, Harmon indicated that $10 million would

be committed to community work even as he echoed the President’s comments: “We have heard your complaints and we are going to do whatever possible to help you, but it is a cooperative effort. We can provide some resources, but the community would have to help.”

President Granger committed that where those funds are not sufficient, his office will ensure that funds are available for those community projects.

With regard to the surveying of household lands and allocation of pasture for cattle, the Minister of State, within whose purview the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) falls, said the matter will be addressed.

“We would have to go back to the books. We just cannot move lands from place to place so let a representative from your community make contact with me and I will provide the necessary information,” Harmon said.

In response to the issue of inclusion of Kortberaad in an NDC, it was noted that moves are afoot by the regional administration to ensure this is done.

Larceny accused to know fate this week

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break and enter and larceny accused, who appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Linden Magistrate’s Court last week is set to know his fate this week.

Terrence Lowenfield, 24, of Lot 754 One Mile, Wismar, Linden, is on remand for the offence. It is alleged that the man broke into the house of Nevlyn Benjamin at Lot 30 Plantation Fair’s Rust, MacKenzie, Linden, and stole a Sony cell phone valued $150,000, a Nokia phone valued $180,000, a pair of sunglasses valued $12,000, a blackberry cellular phone valued $65,000, a perfume

valued $18,000 and a Pandora charm set valued $150,000.

The incident is alleged to have occurred on

Monday, September 28, 2015. The items were the property of Benjamin.

He is scheduled to return to court on March 2.

hairman of the Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) Dr Steve Surujbally has strongly represented that it is “highly impossible” for any party, group or organisation to rig this year’s long-awaited Local Governmental Elections (LGE).

Surujbally was addressing a small gathering of candidates, voters and members of the diplomatic corps last Friday at the launching of the Guyana National Youth Council’s (GNYC) “Vote like a boss” campaign at the Hermandston Lodge.

“We have placed measures and systems in place to make elections “unriggable.” This is not in the days of yore. This is now. And I say to you, it is almost impossible to rig an election,” Surujbally told the gathering.

“For you to rig an election, it would have to be a great and grand conspiracy. Everybody would have to be participating. Just look at a polling station, there is the presiding officer, the deputy presiding officer, clerks, party agents… we’re talking about 80 people at least, are they all involved in the skulduggery?

I don’t think so… it is highly impossible,” he continued.

The chairman said the Commission has systems in place for everything.

“We have manu-

GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally

als for everything. With that sort of background and content, we can go to International Organisation of Standardisation (ISO)’s certification as one of the Electoral Management bodies in this hemisphere and the Caribbean that is well run. Irrespective of what you might be hearing,” Surujbally said.

The Chairman has made the promise at a time when his credibility is under dispute by the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Following its defeat at the last National and Regional elections back in May 2015, the party immediately mounted an elections petition in the High Court, calling for a recount of the votes, which the party said was highly flawed, and it believed that Dr Surujbally was part of a conspiracy with the successful A Partnership for

National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition to rig the elections.

The party has also since called for his resignation, a move Surujbally said he will make in his own time.

He has also denied the allegation.

On the other hand, the GECOM Chairman on more than one occasion derided the statements made by the Parliamentary Opposition, maintaining that he will not be going anywhere on the demand of the PPP/C. Meanwhile, with the LGE fast approaching, the PPP/C is still concerned about the competence, ability and creditability of GECOM to deliver free and fair elections.

Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang recently gave the green-light to the elections petition brought by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), allowing the matter to go to trial – a ruling described by a lawyer as “wrong and flawed.”

GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield had moved to the Court to block the summons filed by the PPP/C. Justice Chang ruled that there were sufficient grounds for the matter to go ahead, and in accordance with Article 163 of the Constitution, the court does not have jurisdiction to quash the petition.

12 news

monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

1 killed after tractor Port Kaituma man topples in Moraikobai jumps off ferry, drowns I A

By Devina Samaroo

tractor driver was fatally injured after a tractor toppled over in the quiet village of Moraikobai, situated along the Mahaicony River in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice).

The incident occurred on Saturday around 17:00h.

Divisional Commander

Marlon Chapman told Guyana Times that the driver was returning home from a lumber yard in the area when the tractor somehow toppled over, pinning him down and eventually killing him.

Guyana Times understands that his body is currently at the Lyken Funeral Home and the post-mortem examination will be per-

formed today.

Reliable sources told this newspaper that foul play might have been involved in the accident; however, the Divisional Commander said he was not aware of those allegations.

Nonetheless, he said the Police will be launching an investigation into the matter.

Corentyne “a sleeping giant” for Guyana’s economic recovery – President Granger

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he Rotary Club of New Amsterdam has been called upon to ensure that the Ancient County becomes a commercial and economic hub that would cause a resurgence in the country’s financial coffers.

This call was made by President David Granger as he addressed members at the Club’s World Understanding and Peace Dinner Saturday evening.

“East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six) can lead the economic recovery of the entire country. It can influence the economic development of the Caribbean community through the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME),” the Head of State said, adding that it was no exaggeration.

“This Region comprises 96 communities. It is the only Region with three towns. Guyana needs strong Regions… We need economically robust Regions and that is why we are paying

President David Granger receives a token from the President of the Rotary Club of New Amsterdam Chris Hicks

Belize, Burundi, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, and the residents must take the initiative and step to build a strong, resilient, economically robust region which would take the country forward.

A section of the gathering last Saturday evening

attention to strengthening our regions,” the President said, continuing that the Corentyne was a “sleeping giant” which needed to be aroused from its slumber.

“It needs to fulfil its unquestionable potential of the food bowl of the country and the Caribbean,” the President pointed out.

Granger told the gathering that the East BerbiceCorentyne Region was the only Region to be bordered by two countries: Brazil and Suriname and was the third largest administrative Region, spanning over 36,000 square kilometres.

He said it was bigger than

“The Corentyne enjoys an interesting and an enjoyable democratic spread. This Region is steeped in heritage and history. It is rich in cultural diversity. The Corentyne is the agricultural heartland in Guyana, richly endowed with fertile, cultivable lands. There are three sugar estates: Albion, Rose Hall and Skeldon. This Region is home to the country’s largest water control system, evidenced in the Black Bush Polder scheme.”

He noted that it was interesting that the Region was supported by fishing, farming, cattle rearing, timber, bauxite mining [and]

shipping. The Region is the country’s “cattle ranch, its sugar bowl, its rice pot, its fish market and a market place for its commodities.

The Corentyne also possesses untapped potential for tourism; eco and heritage tourism”.

At the same time, the President noted that the Region has been a victim of depopulation, dropping from approximately 150,000 persons in 1980 to about 110,000 in 2012. This, he opined, has had an adverse impact on its growth and development; however, East Berbice-Corentyne stands to be a force to be reckoned with if the necessary work and cooperation was received. This must start with the elimination of personal, political, racial and cultural biases and divisiveness, he said.

Noting that “fortune favours the brave, but fortune for the economic revival will not drop from the sky”, the President said an action plan was needed for the Region if its true potential was to be realised. This strategy must be based on a shared vision and focused on three areas: education, empowerment and enterprise.

The President posited that the plan must begin at the community and grassroots levels before it reached the top.

Turn to page 17

By Devina Samaroo

t was high drama aboard the MV Lady Northcote on Saturday afternoon after a passenger jumped off the vessel in the vicinity of Morawhanna, Region One (Barima-Waini).

He has been identified as 26-year-old Michael Adams, an Amerindian patient attached to the Port Kaituma Hospital.

Guyana Times was informed that the young man plunged off the ferry as it was making its way from Georgetown to Port Kaituma in the Mabaruma Sub District, Region One. His body was later retrieved from the ocean by a sailor.

Adams was allegedly diagnosed with a mental illness and was staying at the Amerindian Hostel in Princes Street, Georgetown as reportedly recommended by doctors at Port Kaituma Health Institution.

At the time of the incident, he was returning home from the boarding house.

During an interview with Guyana Times, the deceased’s uncle, Tom Adams, stated that he was unsure what exactly transpired.

He said he visited the police station on Sunday when he was informed that an investigation has been launched.

However, the uncle said

The ferry from which the young man plunged to his death

he was not provided with any further detail on the matter.

According to him, he was last aware that his nephew was staying at the Amerindian Hostel as was advised by doctors at the Port Kaituma Hospital.

Asked if his nephew was mentally ill, he responded with uncertainty, and could not say what the young man

was being treated for at the institution.

The uncle said he presumed that a medical team probably made a decision to send him back to Port Kaituma. When prompted, he explained that to his knowledge, medical teams normally do not accompany patients on board, but they would wait at the transit points to receive them.

Man busted with 2kg ganja at NA

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man is now in Police custody awaiting court proceedings after he was busted with two kilograms of cannabis sativa in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on Sunday at New Amsterdam, Berbice.

The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, disembarked a boat which would transport passengers from villages along the Berbice River to the New Amsterdam Market wharf.

He then started to proceed to Strand Street, New Amsterdam, carrying a fivegallon bucket. While he was proceeding in the vicinity of M Ally’s Service Station at the New Amsterdam Market, Police ranks on mobile patrol duty observed him and became suspicious.

They then stopped him to conduct a search, and during the search, they discovered the narcotics concealed in the bucket.

They arrested the man, and another man who identified himself as the brother of the suspected drug trafficker approached the ranks offering them an incentive for his brother’s release. However, after the officers warned him that he could also be arrested, he quickly left the scene.

Currently, the suspect is at

the Reliance Police Station lock-ups awaiting arraignment.

Over the years, Police have claimed that there were several marijuana farms situated along the Upper Berbice River. On several occasions, raids have been conducted in that part of the country, but in recent times, Police have only been able to destroy cultivated fields and camps. Arrests are seldom made during such drug eradication operations.

One senior Police Officer revealed to Guyana Times that the marijuana farmers would normally have lookouts at strategic points along the river banks.

These, the source noted, would inform the cultivators when a marine patrol was heading their way. As such, these illicit farmers are able to make their escape and

evade Police capture.

Over the last three months, the Police have been intercepting many persons trying to transport relatively large quantities of cannabis in Berbice. Commander of B (Berbice) Division, Assistant Commissioner Christopher Griffith had declared a war on the illegal drug trade in December last. Since then, more than one dozen persons have been convicted of possession of cannabis sativa while a similar number are in prison for trafficking in the illegal plant. New Amsterdam is considered a transshipment point where the narcotics arrive. According to information received, the cannabis intended for Georgetown and neighbouring Suriname is usually transported along the Berbice and Canje Rivers.

news

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

First Lady underscores the importance of educating, nurturing girls

Mabaruma Hospital to offer additional services …more nurses to enhance facility

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Mabaruma Regional Hospital

Recipients of the Muriel Wight scholarships

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irst Lady Sandra Granger has said that educating, nurturing and supporting girls are the keys to raising strong women, in her address at a ceremony hosted by the Guyana Girl Guides Association (GGGA) in observance of World Thinking Day 2016, held at GGGA’s Headquarters on Brickdam, Georgetown.

The First Lady was also officially inducted as the patron of the Association, during the ceremony on Sunday.

The First Lady pointed out that in today’s world, young women and girls are confronted with numerous challenges ranging from how they are viewed within their own families, among

AIDS and many other matters that sometimes cause us to question ourselves and our capacity to hold on and to grow and develop and be the strong women we are meant to be,” the First Lady said.

She reminded the audience that the girls of today will grow up to be the women of tomorrow, who will be responsible for holding up the world as mothers, daughters, wives, partners and professionals in all fields. As such, she said, they need to be nurtured, loved, honoured and encouraged to pursue their dreams.

“We must know that regardless of whatever skills we have and where we will make our contributions to

flect on their work and highlight issues that affect girls globally.

Delivering the World Thinking Day Message, member of the Association, Ambalika Belle called on members of the Guiding and Scouting Associations to reaffirm their commitment to bringing together more young people united in peace and friendship and to support each other to ensure young people benefit from the opportunities that both organisations can provide.

During the ceremony, six girls received scholarship awards from the Muriel Wight Scholarship Fund.

The recipients are: Christina Burrowes, Tiwana Chester, Tamara Braithwaite,

The Guyana Girl Guides Association recite the Girl Guides Promise

their friends, within their communities and among their associates to how they see themselves as individuals.

“When we look around we see issues of depression, abuse, domestic violence, lack of education, trafficking in persons, rape and incest and suicide… we have stigma and discrimination of people living with HIV/

society, every single person is unique and valued… As you observe World Thinking Day 2016, I urge you to develop a passion for compassion.”

World Thinking Day is a day set aside by Scout and Guide organisations and some boy-oriented associations around the world to get together to celebrate international friendships, re-

Tameka Braithwaite, Trishel Jarvis and Abida Alexander.

The Fund was launched in February 2010 in honour of Guide Commissioner Muriel Wight (now deceased), whose life’s work centred on the education and empowerment of girls. The fund is sustained through fund-raisings, donations, and sponsorship.

iven the plans afoot to upgrade Mabaruma Regional Hospital, residents of the community can expect to benefit from several additional services.

Speaking with Guyana Times during an interview on Sunday, Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton disclosed that in light of the poor methods of garbage disposal, Mabaruma Hospital would soon benefit from a new incinerator, which would be installed in the Hospital’s compound. This would be used for the prop-

er disposal of medical waste on the premises, since the quantity of biomedical waste would increase as services do.

Dr Norton also explained that the facility would also benefit from a batch of newly-trained nurses to offset the long wait persons had to endure to receive medical attention.

As part of the upgraded services, Dr Norton noted that a gynaecologist would be stationed permanently at the Hospital. He said in the past, persons, particularly women, would have to travel

long distances to receive the medical attention required.

“Patients will soon benefit from the well-equipped newly-built theatre, at this hospital,” Dr Norton added.

Additionally, the Public Health Minister noted that with the newly installed ophthalmology clinic, an outreach programme was recently held by the ophthalmologist stationed within the medical facility. He stated that 55 patients who had their eyes tested were able to acquire assistance towards receiving spectacles.

Guyana moves closer to EITI membership

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atural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman and a small delegation recently travelled to Lima, Peru, to attend the seventh World Summit of Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) in an effort to propel the process of Guyana becoming a member of the body.

The Trotman-led delegation which consisted of Mike McCormack and Joy Persaud, of the civil society body, Policy Forum, attended the Summit Wednesday last.

During the visit the Guyana delegation was involved in fully constituted and break-out sessions which saw them gaining invaluable knowledge about the application process and the membership experience.

Additionally, Trotman and team managed to secure the support of other members of the body who pledged their support for Guyana’s journey towards attaining and sustaining membership in the body.

Presently, Guyana is recruiting its MultiStakeholder Group (MSG) and making preparations for establishing a fully functioning secretariat to advance the work. Guyana has also been receiving guidance and support from the EITI’S Norway-based secretariat and the Trinidad & Tobago

Mike McCormack, Joy Persaud and Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman at the Summit

Chapter (TTEITI) as to the standards in the regulation of the extractive industries used by the body.

“Guyana, with an economy heavily based on extractive industries, and soon to become an oil and gas producing nation, propelled the government’s desire in 2015 to give its approval for Guyana’s membership application to be expedited, and to date, two seminars have been convened and a third is scheduled for March 4, 2016. The March seminar will be conducted in conjunction with the TTEITI and the University of the West Indies. All seminars are aimed at raising awareness

amongst stakeholders and streamlining the application process,” a release from the Natural Resources Ministry stated.

EITI is a global organisation of 51 member countries, and the organisation promotes the principle that natural resources belong to the people and are to be extracted and managed on behalf of the people; both for current and future generations.

Countries, on assuming membership, direct their activities through a tripartite Multi-Stakeholder Group that comprises representatives of government, industry and civil society.

14

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, february 29, 2016

Regional

PNP wins another seat after T&T Central Bank reveals recount in Jamaica election TT$32B in blocked accounts

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A

n official recount of votes following last Thursday’s general election has given the People’s National Party (PNP) an additional seat, leaving the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) with the slimmest majority possible – one seat.

The 33-30 victory by the JLP was already the smallest margin of victory in Jamaican history. With the PNP picking up another seat, after its St Mary South Eastern candidate, Dr Winston Green was declared winner of the race in that constituency, it means the JLP now has 32 seats in the 63-member Parliament and the PNP, 31.

The JLP’s Dr Norman Dunn had originally been declared the winner after the preliminary count which gave him 7311 votes to incumbent Green’s 7184.

Director of Elections Orrette Fisher announced Saturday that Green had taken the seat by nine votes.

Media reports indicate that Dunn will seek a mag-

The victory of Dr Winston Green of the PNP changes the election results to 32-31, still in favour of the JLP (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

isterial recount.

Meantime, JLP leader Andrew Holness, who is awaiting his swearingin, has already indicated that there will be changes when he takes over as Prime Minister.

In a statement posted on social media Saturday morning, he said he met with the Cabinet Secretary and the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister to discuss the earliest route to inauguration and arranged a briefing on the im-

portant activities of the previous Government.

He said that, “as part of a JLP commitment not to be Government as usual and to change how Government works”, he indicated to the Cabinet Secretary, the Financial Secretary and the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister that he does not intend to continue the policy of selling Government vehicles to ministers who were using them while in office. (Excerpt from

he Trinidadian Government has TT$31.9 billion in blocked accounts at the Central Bank, monies that were placed there in an attempt to sterilise excess liquidity, the Bank disclosed on Friday.

The Central Bank was responding to questions from the Guardian, following the publication of a newspaper notice last week that the Government intended to unblock some TT$1.84 billion that would then be available for use by the State.

“The TTT$1.84 billion that was unblocked repre-

sented the proceeds of two bonds that had been issued in 2003 and 2008 (TT$640 million and TT$1.2 billion respectively) under the Development Loans Act. The Government made a specific request for the unblocking of these particular funds,” the Central Bank said.

The Government moved to unblock the TT$1.84 billion as a result of a sharp reduction in excess liquidity in the fourth quarter of 2015 that was partly due to the sale of US$500 million by the Central Bank to authorised dealers of foreign exchange at the end of

Caribbean to benefit from online course in biotechnology in agriculture

Caribbean360)

Brazil Police probe payments to ex-President’s lover

B

razilian Police are investigating allegations that ex-President Fernando Henrique Cardoso asked a private company to pay his former lover abroad.

Former TV journalist Mirian Dutra says Cardoso arranged the US$3000 monthly payments through the firm, Brasif.

The transfers began in 2002 – a year before Cardoso left office.

Cardoso denies the allegations. Brasif also says Dutra was paid for work she did for it and the former leader had nothing to do with it.

Dutra worked as a re-

porter for Brazil’s Globo TV for 35 years, losing her job last December.

“I don’t want to take this to my grave,” she said in interview with Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper.

Cardoso has acknowledged the six-year-long affair with her, which came to an end before he became President of Brazil.

Dutra said their relationship ended when she refused Cardoso’s suggestion that she should have an abortion, which is illegal in Brazil.

After her son Tomas was born, she asked Globo TV to transfer her to Lisbon. After a few years, they moved to Spain.

Cardoso supported Dutra and her son abroad, she said.

But between December 2002 and December 2006 the money came from Brasif, a company that had a licence to operate duty-free shops at a number of Brazilian airports, she said.

She said she signed a fictitious contract with the company, but never worked for them.

“He sent me money through this company. I have evidence,” she said.

“It was all arranged by my sister’s husband, Fernando Lemos, who was the top lobbyist in Brasilia at the time,” added Dutra.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

October.

The sale of the US$500 million would have removed TT$3.2 billion from the authorised dealers, who are mostly commercial banks.

T&T commercial banks had TT$3.36 billion in average excess reserves (excess liquidity) in December 2015, down from TT$7.19 billion at the start of the year.

The money in the blocked accounts belongs to the Government and it “represents the proceeds of the sales of Government of T&T securities,” for liquidity absorption purposes, the Central Bank said. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

This initiative is an effective tool for fostering the agricultural, productive and economic development of participating countries

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he Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) says agricultural technicians, specialists and producers from Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) will be able to benefit from a course on applied biotechnology in Agriculture next month.

It said the objective of the online course is to improve agricultural production in the Region and strengthen national capacities.

The technical training course for profession-

als and producers is organised by IICA and the Centre for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute of Irapuato (CINVESTAV).

The course, which seeks to strengthen the agricultural sector’s national capabilities, is part of the Mexico-CaribbeanCentral American Countries Technical Cooperation Program led by IICA and the General Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food

(SAGARPA) of Mexico.

“This programme addresses the specific needs of the participating countries through short training events that focus on improving agricultural productivity and generating a positive economic impact,” IICA said of the eight weeks course that also includes six modules that provide an overview of biotechnology and its foundations; soil and its microorganisms; genetics and molecular tools; and food security.

IICA’s coordinator for the Centre for the Promotion of Technical Capabilities and Leadership, Franklin Marín, this initiative is an effective tool for fostering the agricultural, productive and economic development of participating countries.

“Biotechnology contributes to the development of agriculture, hence the importance of promoting training courses that harness the use of techniques for improving production and preserving biodiversity.” (Excerpt

from CMC)

St Lucian Opposition warns of New leader of PNM Tobago sanctions from international community Council to be elected

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eader of St Lucia’s parliamentary Opposition – the United Labour Party (ULP), Dr Gale Rigobert has warned that the country is set to face more sanctions from the international community if Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony does not deliver on promises to clean up his act.

According to Rigobert, the country’s conduct and posture on the international stage is jeopardising long-standing and mutually beneficial relations with international partners.

Addressing a news conference, the Micoud North

Leader of St Lucia’s Opposition, Dr Gale Rigobert

Member of Parliament has chastised the Prime Minister and his Government for “the slothful response to many of the critical issues affecting St Lucia, which has also caught the world’s attention”.

She said over the past year and a half, the Prime Minister’s action has caused the country to receive certain unfortunate sanctions from the international community.

“I would not be surprised if the PM continues to renege on the promises he has made to our friends in the international community, that more sanctions may be forthcoming.”

The Opposition Leader said the Prime Minister’s countless speeches and addresses suggest that perhaps he understands the importance of addressing matters that concerns the country’s democracy.

However, this has not translated into action, because the Government is yet to address several burning issues.

“How much more can the citizens of this country take?

And when will the Prime Minister and his Cabinet find it fitting to account to the people of this country for some of the ill-advised action it has taken?” (Excerpt from CMC)

A

new political leader of the Tobago Council of the People’s National Movement (PNM) will be elected in the coming months as the party prepares for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election in January 2017.

Current leader, Dr Orville London, will not be contesting the position.

The party will host its special convention on April 3 at the St John’s Ambulance Association & Brigade of T&T, Fitzblackman Drive.

This, according to PNM chairman, Franklin Khan, when he addressed the media after Saturday’s general council meeting at Balisier

House.

He said the main item on the agenda for the convention would be amendments to the party’s constitution as it relates to the voting of officers under the one-man-one-vote system in Tobago. Khan said, “In 2013, when we amended the party’s constitution to the one-man-one-vote, Tobago was not included in that.

“Tobago still voted for its officers under the delegate system.

“This proposal will now make the positions of political leader of Tobago Affairs and chairman of the Tobago Council subject to the oneman-one-vote system. (Excerpt

from Trinidad Guardian)

monday, february 29, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the world

Iran election: Syrian war: Russia and Opposition allege truce breaches Reformists win all 30 Tehran seats A nti-Government rebels and Russia have both reported breaches of the fragile truce in Syria – now in its second day.

Russian planes have attacked several sites in northern Syria, activists say.

Russia has not confirmed any sorties on Sunday and says it has also identified nine breaches of the truce.

A cessation of hostilities was agreed as part of a US-Russian plan. Russia says that in general it is holding. It is the first major cessation of hostilities in the five years of war.

More than 250,000 have been killed in the fight against President Bashar al-Assad.

Millions more have been forced from their homes. Humanitarian agencies are hoping use the truce to deliver aid to besieged areas of the country.

The Syrian Opposition has complained of 15 violations of the ceasefire by the Government, which is supported

by Russia.

The Syrian Opposition umbrella group the High Negotiations Committee (HNC) said it would be sending a formal letter of complaint

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The truce involves Syrian Government and rebel forces, but not the so-called Islamic State group or the Nusra Front

about the breaches to the United Nations and other world powers.

However, the HNC said that despite violations “here and there”, it was “positive to see people getting relief … to be safe, and free from fear”.

Some Syrian activists say the target of the air strikes in the north, near

Aleppo, was the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front.

The truce involves Syrian Government and rebel forces, but not the so-called Islamic State group (IS) or the Nusra Front, so an attack on them would not count as a breach.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

70 dead in Baghdad’s deadliest bomb attack this year

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twin bombing killed 70 people in a Shi’ite district of Baghdad on Sunday in the deadliest attack inside the capital this year, as militants launched an assault on its western outskirts.

Police sources said the suicide bombers were riding motorcycles and blew themselves up in a crowded mobile phone market in Sadr City, wounding more than 100 people in addition to the dead.

A Reuters witness saw pools of blood on the ground with slippers, shoes and mobile phones at the site of the

People gather at the site of the blasts in Baghdad’s Sadr City February 28, 2016

blasts, which was sealed off to prevent further attacks.

In a statement circulated online, Islamic State said

it was responsible for the blasts: “Our swords will not cease to cut off the heads of the rejectionist polytheists, wherever they are,” it said, using derogatory terms for Shi’ite Muslims.

Iraqi forces backed by airstrikes from a US-led coalition have driven Islamic State back in the western Anbar province recently and are preparing for an offensive to retake the northern city of Mosul.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said the attacks were in response to Islamic State’s recent defeats. (Excerpt

A

attack by the screaming of the man’s sister, who survived the attack.

Police say it is still unclear why Warekar carried out the attack.

Authorities are yet to question Warekar’s sister, Thane police spokesman Gajanan Laxman Kabdule told AFP, as she was “in deep trauma” at a city hospital.

“He used a big knife. He

killed his parents, his sisters and his sisters’ children. He slit their throats” Kabdule said.

The Press Trust of India news agency reported that the youngest victim was his three-month-old daughter, and the oldest his 55-yearold father.

He also killed six of his sisters’ children, the report said.

The attack began in the early hours of Sunday morning, after everyone had gone to bed, he said.

Television footage showed bodies being carried out of the home, covered in sheets.

The family had gathered for dinner in Thane, about 32 kilometres (20 miles) from Mumbai, on Saturday evening. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Russian mine accident leaves 36 dead

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total of 36 people, including five rescue workers, are presumed dead following an explosion at a coal mine in northern Russia, officials say.

Four miners were killed when a methane leak triggered two explosions in

the mine near Vorkuta on Thursday.

Rescuers were trying to rescue 26 trapped miners when a new blast occurred, killing five rescue workers and a miner.

The rescue operation has been halted and those missing are presumed dead.

The incident is one of the worst Russian mining disasters in recent times.

“The circumstances in the affected part of the mine did not allow anyone to survive,” Russia’s Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov said.

“In the underground

elder and senior clerics.

This stunning election result will make a difference in Iran’s engagement with the wider world.

President Rouhani’s hand has been strengthened in Parliament to help open his country to greater trade and investment. That will help him, and others in his reformist camp, to deepen the dialogue with the West, which began with negotiations on a landmark nuclear deal.

But much of this opening will continue to be with Europe, rather than the US. Iran’s relationship with America is still complex and controversial.

Iran’s ambitions in the region are also deeply rooted – it has strategic interests in countries like Syria, Iraq and Lebanon as well as Afghanistan, and a strong sense of its right to remain engaged. These are areas where Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guards and its conservative Supreme leader hold sway. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

Huge win for Clinton in South Carolina

from Reuters)

Mumbai: Man “kills 14 members of family” 35-year-old Indian man killed 14 members of his own family, including seven children and his parents, before killing himself, Police say.

Reports suggest Hasnin Warekar laced his family’s food with sedatives before slitting their throats.

Neighbours from the home in Thane, near Mumbai, were alerted to the

llies of Iran’s reformist President Hassan Rouhani have won a landslide victory in Tehran, in the first parliamentary vote since Iran signed a nuclear deal with world powers.

With 90 per cent of the votes counted, the pro-Rouhani List of Hope is set to take all 30 parliamentary seats in the capital.

The leading conservative candidate Gholamali Haddad-Adel is in 31st place.

Millions voted on Friday to elect the 290-seat Parliament as well as members of the Assembly of Experts.

The 88-member assembly appoints Iran’s Supreme Leader and might end up choosing a successor to Ayatollah Khamenei, who is 76 and has suffered illhealth.

Early results gave former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a moderate conservative, and Rouhani the most votes for the assembly, which is composed of mostly

space where the 26 miners were, there are high temperatures and no oxygen”, he added.

All the rescuers who were killed or injured in the operation would be given State awards, the TASS news agency reported. (BBC News)

Hillary Clinton

H

illary Clinton has secured a big win over Bernie Sanders in the South Carolina primary, the latest battleground in the race to be Democratic presidential nominee.

Victory for Clinton was widely expected but it gives her momentum ahead of the “Super Tuesday” primaries in 11 states next week.

“Tomorrow this campaign goes national,” she told cheering supporters.

Sanders has congratulated her, but said the campaign was just beginning.

With almost all the votes counted, Clinton leads Sanders by an almost 50-point margin.

Eight out of 10 black voters backed Clinton, exit polls suggested, a key section of the Democratic electorate.

It is Clinton’s third victory in four contests, after wins in Iowa and Nevada.

She lost to Sanders in New Hampshire.

Eight years ago, she lost the South Carolina primary overwhelmingly to then Senator Barack Obama.

It was a different story this time. Soon after polls closed she told supporters: “You sent a message – in America when we stand together, there is no barrier too big to break.”

On the Republican side, billionaire Donald Trump leads a field that has dwindled to five from 12 a month ago.

He won the Nevada caucus on Wednesday by a wide margin –- correspondents say he is beginning to look unstoppable. (Excerpt from BBC News)

16 news

monday, february 29, 2016| guyanatimesGY.com

VOX POPULI

What the people say

I SAY...

Guyanese share their views on the final report of the Rodney Commission of Inquiry St Clair Mohabir (Georgetown) “The new Government try to boycott and derail the Commission of Inquiry: they did not allow (Cecil) “Skip” Roberts to say anything the main architect, along with Laurie Lewis, Green and all of them – they were the main ones. I believe that this CoI is right, because the Inquiry officials are reputable people. So, right, so now the new Government should give them more time to do what they have to do and in the meantime, release the information and page after page, every single page. Furthermore, the entire PNC don’t have a proper legal adviser or no legal mentality: is a pack of dunce, they doing a set of stupidness. Take a look at the market and other section of the society, there is no diversity and who’s paying the tax, they should have all the races involved in the work force…”

Leon Faria (New Amsterdam) “I have learnt a lot from the Rodney Commission of Inquiry.

It brought out a lot of Guyana’s history which we did not know of. I think someone should write a book on Guyana with the information coming out of the information.

All this talk of who to blame and who is defending should not be. We now know what we know, so let’s move on. I don’t think that persons should continue to live in the past; those people are all dead – well, most of them.

If we are going to stick with it and use to label this generation, then we need to have a commission of Inquiry into other deaths: Satyadeow Sawh, Ronald Waddell and others.”

Andy Stephenson (Georgetown)

“We talking about the Rodney Commission: we have the paper; we have the report, so let the Government tell us what is going on and finish. If it is bad or good, let it come out. I can’t comment on what the Government is now saying, but I wasn’t there, but when I used to go to school I used to hear about the assassination but I never really follow up politics to know more about the case so I don’t know, but they have to bring out the details.”

Sherida Ferguson (Georgetown) “I would like to see the final results come out of it, so that the public could get to know what really took place to Dr Walter Rodney back in those days. I don’t want to jump to any conclusion, because I wasn’t there and I don’t know what occurred, so it is just what we Guyanese are hearing is just what the Inquiry officials are saying, but now we would like to see the final results or a release of the findings now that they are about to close it.

Based on what the President is saying, he needs to release it though and I don’t think that they should close it down because if that is what the family deserves to have the final hearing, they should continue and let the truth come out and let they have a free mind and peace within them because when we don’t know the truth about something, it will always bother us if we don’t know the truth.”

Marcy Liverpool (Corentyne)

“The PPP facilitated the Commission of Inquiry to prove one thing. Okay, that has been proven, now it is time to move on, but they want to keep on with what we all knew all the time that Burnham was responsible for Rodney’s death.

President Granger should not get involved and try to justify what was legal and was hearsay. Nandlall too need to leave the report alone because when he was Attorney General, there had been plenty things that he should have commented on and he did not.”

Adrian Foster (Georgetown) “My view on the CoI findings on the Dr Walter Rodney case is that the result is supposed to be released because it is a Guyanese tragedy and millions of dollars have been pumped into the investigation, and it’s not one man’s money, it is the whole of Guyana’s money, the public money that is spent, so we deserve to know how our money was spent and what went on.

It is something that every Guyanese, the entire Caribbean and the international countries need to know about, so this cannot be kept a secret. As for what the President is saying I doubt that these officials would just do their work based on ‘hearsay’, it means to tell us that (that) exercise was just a masquerade? Also, the Walter Rodney family has suffered a lot; his son had to grow up without a father and that’s hard and he too needs to know what really happened to his dad…”

Guyana Solidarity Brigade hosts medical outreach in Berbice

T

he Guyana Solidarity Brigade, a NonG o v e r n m e n t a l Organisation (NGO), on Saturday took its services to Belvedere, Corentyne, Berbice where it held a medical outreach.

The outreach, which was held at the Ebenezer Full Gospel Church, Belvedere Public Road began at 10:00h and ended at 16:00h. Over 60 persons from surrounding communities received medical check-ups, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing, and treatment for their ailments. The patients also received medication, which was donated by the Guyana Solidarity Brigade and the Save Abee Foundation, another NGO. The team consisted of 16 volunteers, including the 10 doctors who facilitated the medical consultations.

Guyana Solidarity Brigade President, Dr Jason Ramcharran explained that the goal of the non-profit was to reach out to the underserved and those in need.

“The Guyana Solidarity Brigade aims to reach out and

help all those in need…near or far. On Saturday, February 21, we had a food sale as a fundraiser and the following Saturday, we used some of the funds raised to execute the medical outreach

also being able to interact with the people,” he explained. He related that that activity was not the first of its kind for the organisation, nor would it be the last.

“We have lots of other plans

adding “also in capacity of coordinator, I have to express sincere gratitude to Give Foundation, Guyana and Kids Joy Foundation who always support us whenever we have these activities”.

The doctors tending to the patients during the medical outreach

to the population of Belvedere, Corentyne, Berbice. It was truly an amazing experience, not just rendering medical services but

for the year, for example, in March we plan to have a series of activities promoting mental and physical health,” he stated,

He expressed his appreciation for the young volunteers who gave their time to the initiative and encouraged others to get on

board and give back to their communities. “I want to encourage all young people to get involved and let’s work together to help those in need, because in the end we are the ones that benefit the most,” Dr Ramcharran posited.

Dr Levaun Henry, who also participated in the outreach, explained that participating in such outreaches and giving his time and effort to his people was his passion. “Giving back to my fellow Guyanese is a great privilege, and it is something that I’m quite passionate about,” he explained.

He related that he would continue to offer his services and continue to reach out to communities across the country. “I will continue to work so that someday, and hopefully soon, we can not only visit the coastal regions of Guyana but the interior parts as well,” Dr Henry related.

The residents of the community who benefited from the outreach expressed their appreciation to the organisation for the project and their hope that it would not be the last venture of its kind in the community.

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monday, february 29, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

What is the difference between LGE and National Elections?

M any have found themselves slightly confused over the difference between the two election processes and how they are fundamentally different.

For one, Local Government Elections (LGE) is called by the subject Minister (Communities Minister) and General or National Elections are called by the President.

What are the differences after polling takes place?

Party agents and private groups will be able to observe the removing of ballot boxes and place locks on the containers in which they are stored at both the National Elections and the LGE. Chief Elections Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Keith Lowenfield, commenting on the process, said everything remained the same when it came to storing the ballots

GECOM CEO Keith Lowenfield

at GECOM. “When we go to open, we have to call all the agents with their locks on our container…”

“In the case of the LGE, the Returning Officer (RO) for the district is required to make a declaration of the results in his or her district.

In the case of the General Elections, the 10 Returning Officers declare the results of the 10 districts and then

I will make an overall declaration of the results of the elections. For LGE, those declarations are just as critical for information or for the outcome of the process at the level of the Returning Officer. So all the CEO will have to do is based on those declarations he will compile.”

“In the case of a tie, a lot will be drawn,” Lowenfield said. This can be done with the spinning of a coin to determine which group will have the option of leading first, as both groups if they would have won are required to share all benefits.

Lowenfield said all of the laws as it related to a recount would be adhered to in the event of a recount.

“So whatever legal procedures a party wants to pursue can be done because it is fixated in the law on the conduction of elections… if there is a recount, the RO in his or her own judgment will facilitate the recount.

The law prescribed for Local

Elections that a declaration be made in five days. For General Elections, the law says GECOM has 15 days in which to make a declaration.”

He said it was the same methodology which was used at General Elections which would be applied in each community where voting will take place at the LGE. Speaking of the Disciplined Services votes, Lowenfield noted that while there were no Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) or Municipalities in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), there will still be voting in that region. This, he said, will be done on D-Day when the Disciplined Services cast their ballots on March 8.

“Wherever the policemen are located, we have to get to their location for them to vote and then get that vote back to where they ordinary reside.”

India, US closer to pact to share military logistics – officials

I

ndia and the United States are closing in on an agreement to share military logistics after 12 years of talks, officials said, a sign of strengthening defense ties between the countries as China becomes increasingly assertive.

The United States has emerged as India’s top arms source after years of dominance by Russia, and holds more joint exercises with it than any other country.

It is in talks with New Delhi to help build its largest aircraft carrier in the biggest military collaboration to date, a move that will bolster the Indian navy’s strength as China expands its reach in the Indian Ocean.

After years of foot-dragging by previous governments over fears that the logistics agreement would draw India into a binding commitment to support the

United States in war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration has signaled a desire to move ahead with the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA).

That would allow the two militaries to use each other’s land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest, officials said.

Admiral Harry Harris, head of the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Command, said the two sides were working on the LSA, another agreement called the CISMOA for secure communications when the militaries operate together, and a third on exchange of topographical, nautical, and aeronautical data.

“We have not gotten to the point of signing them with India, but I think we’re close,” Harris, due in India this week, told the U.S. House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday.

The progress comes as

the countries consider joint maritime patrols that a U.S. official said could include the South China Sea, where China is locked in a territorial dispute with Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan among others.

An Indian government official said the main impediment to signing the LSA had been cleared, after Washington gave an assurance that New Delhi was not bound by it if the U.S. went to war with a friendly country or undertook any other unilateral action that New Delhi did not support.

“It has been clarified that it will be done on a case-tocase basis; it’s not automatic that either side will get access to facilities in the case of war,” the official familiar with the negotiations said.

India’s previous centerleft government was worried the agreements would undermine India’s strategic

Corentyne “a sleeping giant”...

“Such a plan can be the basis of transformation for this Region into an economic powerhouse. Economic development is not a racial issue. The economy does not belong to a political party. It is a public good. If the Corentyne prospers, the country will progress. You are important to the whole country. This Corentyne action must begin from the bottom up – from our communities. Community life should be reinvigorated.

Economic revival of villages will allow this Region to be-

come a magnet,” President Granger expressed.

He also spoke of the importance of Local Government Elections in advancing the Region, noting that the polls was one of the most critical ways in which citizens become empowered to develop their communities, villages, regions and country.

“When people are disempowered, councils are removed and [Interim Management Committees] IMCs implemented, they don’t feel a sense of belong-

ing. They don’t own their communities.

Garbage piles up, potholes proliferate, no street lights, Zika is on its way. These are problems that can be solved in … communities and we want to remove all those IMCs and replace them with elected councils. If they don’t shape up and perform - as long as I am here, there will be Local Government Elections every three years, move them… We have a new opportunity to re-empower ourselves,” he told the

autonomy and that it would draw it into an undeclared military alliance with the United States.

Concerns linger over the proposed communications agreement, with some branches of the military including the air force fearing it would allow the United States to access their communications network.

U.S. officials said they hoped that once the logistics agreement was signed, the others would follow.

A U.S. defense industry source engaged in business in India said there were expectations the LSA could be sealed by the time U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter visited New Delhi in April.

The source said Modi’s office was directly involved in the matter and actively considering the agreements as a key for enhanced cooperation. (Reuters)

From page 12

gathering.

The President also said that he wanted to see a safe, prospering country, to which persons would be encouraged to return and as such, he has been holding regular meetings with the Commissioner of Police to ensure that systems were being put in place to curb crime. He said that already, monthly aerial patrols were being conducted from Charity to the Corentyne, to protect fishermen and clamp down on piracy.

The Race to LGE 2016

Leguan candidate promises maintenance of trenches, better roads

By Shemuel Fanfair

T

he island of Leguan, situated at the mouth of the Essequibo River is a Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) in Region Three (Essequibo-Islands/West Demerara. Bibi Khan who has been teaching for 17 years is contesting Constituency 3 (SuccessLa Bagatelle [Belfield/ La Bagatelle]) under the banner of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Bibi Fajina Khan (PPP/C).

Though Khan is for the first time contesting an election, she is an incumbent member of the Leguan NDC’s Interim Management Committee (IMC). She posited that she is fully prepared to serve as an “elected member.”

The candidate said her main objective as the constituency representative would be to ensure there is maintenance of trenches. She noted that there will be cleaning, excavating and de-silting which are deemed necessary since Leguan is “basically” a farming community.

Khan also stated that she will ensure that her goals are aligned with that of her party.

“As a candidate for the PPP, and all the other candidates on the PPP list [I will] continue to advocate for potable water, roads, healthcare facilities; we also plan to contribute to schools. At the IMC level we are already doing that,” Khan explained.

The candidate said she will continue to listen to the needs of residents and noted that she has already been seeking to address their concerns.

“Right now in terms of water, there is one well not working at Amsterdam; we had a meeting there the other day and that is one of the major concerns.”

“We have farmers who weren’t able to plant this crop because of weather conditions, and they are not happy about the price of rice either; some farmers have not been paid for their previous crops,” stressed the school teacher.

She noted that the Rice Producer’s Association has taken up the matter and emphasised that she hopes to advocate for the farmers to receive their payments.

“The first step is engaging the media to make it clear that some of the rice farmers haven’t been paid for last year, and then of course we can do it through the Government as well because being a councillor and a constituency candidate, we obviously have to work with the Government as well, even though we are PPP representatives… we want to do this because we want to take Leguan to greater heights and we have to partner with the other stakeholders,” Khan pointed out.

It was explained that many previously constructed roads were damaged due to sea defence works which are needed to prevent flooding. Khan noted that if she is elected as the constituent representative, great emphasis will be placed to advocate for the rehabilitation of roads on the island.

Khan explained: “We can write letters, not only the RDC [Regional Democratic Council] but the Ministry of Public Infrastructure because the RDC and Ministry are two different entities, so I intend to appeal to different agencies to try to get the road fixed.”

She also outlined the reasons why members of Constituency 3 should give her their support: “I feel that they should support me because number one, I’m young, number two, I’m a woman and we should [support] women’s empowerment and number three, I’d like to feel that I’m in tune with the needs of my community and I think I can adequately address their needs as well.: Khan stated that she is optimistic she will win in her constituency.

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monday, february 29, 2016

ARCHIE

Don’t share personal or financial information. Hard (March 21- work will be your salvation April 19) and your ticket to a better position. Romance is highlighted and will bring you closer to someone special.

ARIES

Lighten up. Enjoy nature TAURUS or the company of someone (April 20- who shares your interests.

May 20) Don’t give in to pressure or let someone goad you into a senseless argument.

dilbert

Put your responsibilities GEMINI (May 21- first. Avoid covering for someJune 20) one trying to use you to get ahead. You can advance if you don’t overload your plate while striving for perfection.

CANCER

Peanuts

(June 21July 22)

Busy yourself with promising, exciting ventures. Don’t let someone who can’t keep up hold you back. Once you reach the top, offer a helping hand.

Observe what everyone LEO around you is doing. You can (July 23initiate personal change if it Aug. 22) will not disturb plans that someone has already begun to put in place.

The more you accomplish, VIRGO the less time you will have to (Aug. 23bicker with someone intent Sept. 22) on holding you back. Do your own thing in order to gain respect and greater opportunity.

Calvin and Hobbes

Charm, intellect and comLIBRA (Sept. 23- munication of your ideas Oct. 23) will lead to good fortune and an interesting partnership.

Love, excitement and adventure are in the stars.

SUDOKU TODAY’S WORD – DIETERS

Be wary of people who are SAGITTARIUS in your face or pressuring you.

(Nov. 23- Use intelligence and kindness Dec. 21) when dealing with others in order to outshine anyone trying to disrupt your day.

(DIETERS: DYE-ih-ters: Persons who regulate food intake in order to control their weight.)

Average mark 30 words Time limit 45 minutes Can you find 43 or more words in DIETERS? The list will be published tomorrow.

SATURDAY’S WORD – RETINA

rain rani rant rate rein rent retain

rite earn tare tarn tear tern tier

tine tinea tire train trine inert inter

irate near neat niter ante anti antre

Opt to put your time and SCORPIO effort into a creative endeav(Oct. 24Nov. 22) or or a project that should be finished. Trying to sort out a personal matter will lead to discord.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Bypass an erratic indiCAPRICORN vidual who has the potential (Dec. 22- to ruin your plans. You have Jan. 19) everything you need to forge ahead without the help of anyone else. A change will do you good.

Listen to the advice of othAQUARIUS (Jan. 20- ers, but don’t let anyone get Feb. 19) in your way. Focus on finishing what you start and bringing about changes that will lead to a new position. Trust in your judgment.

Impulsive spending will PISCES (Feb. 20- be your downfall. Look for a March 20) deal, but don’t make unnecessary purchases. Money in the bank will ease stress and lead to personal stability.

monday, february 29, 2016

19

RHTY&SC’s programmes receive massive boost T

he 2016 educational, sport and youth development programmes of Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) last week received a major boost when three companies handed a cartoon of 24 trophies each to the club.

Sentinel Security Limited of Lamaha Street, Georgetown, Peter Lewis Construction Firm of Hampshire Village and the Georgetown-based Farfan and Mendes Limited were the donors to the dynamic organisation, which recently received a national award, the Medal of Service, from the government of Guyana for its outstanding contribution to sport, education and community development.

Long-serving Secretary/

CEO, Hilbert Foster, hailed the contribution of the three companies and stated the RHTY&SC is seeking to obtain a total of 500 trophies for its planned list of activities.

The trophies would be used to organise sport events like cricket, football, volleyball, basketball and chess, while the RHTY&SC in April would also be hosting its 26th annual awards ceremony where over 40 club members would be honoured.

The organisation would also be organising numerous ‘Say Yes to Education’ programmes as it strives to promote the importance of education to youths. Foster disclosed that a total of 60 educational programmes like debates, essays, posters, spelling bees, public speaking and career choices competitions will be held for students

RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster receives the trophies from Sentinel Berbice Manager, Priya Rampersaud

Infantino opens FIFA museum, says reforms are priority

G

ianni Infantino opened FIFA’s new museum in his first official act as president of soccer’s governing body on Sunday and said that implementing the wideranging reforms passed on Friday would be his immediate priority.

The 45-year-old Swiss, previously general secretary of European soccer’s governing body UEFA, was elected on Friday, ahead of Bahraini Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, to become only the ninth president in FIFA’s 112year history.

He inherited an organisation in crisis after several dozen soccer officials, some holding high ranks in FIFA at the time, were indicted in the United States while former president Sepp Blatter was banned for six years by FIFA’s ethics committee.

Under pressure to clean up its act, FIFA passed sweeping reforms at its congress on Friday which include replacing the Executive Committee with a 36-member FIFA Council and limiting the president and other senior officials to three terms of four years.

A new professional general secretariat, akin to a company’s executive board, will handle the business side of FIFA, leaving the 36-member Council, elected by national member associations and including at least six women, to focus

Gianni Infantino

on broad matters of policy and strategy.

“The reforms need to be implemented now, they need to be implemented from day one. I will go up to the office and look at how to concretely implement these reforms so that, very soon, we can concentrate on football,” Infantino told reporters.

“As for the past we have to make sure we co-operate fully with the authorities to make sure everything comes out if something has happened.”

Infantino said there was no immediate hurry to appoint a secretary general, whom he said during his campaign would come from outside Europe.

“I think we have time for that, we have to look at it and analyse the situation very, very carefully. We shouldn’t rush,” he said.

Infantino, who won Friday’s vote after the United States lobbied

in his favour in between rounds of voting, denied he had promised to help them win the race for the 2026 World Cup in return.

“No, certainly not,” he said, adding that his conversation with U.S. Soccer head Sunil Gulati was “about the elections”.

“I spoke with many delegates during the two rounds, trying to tell them they should vote for football and vote for me.”

FIFA said it had invested 110 million Swiss francs (79 million pounds) in renovating the building with 30 million Swiss francs spent on the museum itself, which features more than 1,000 exhibits.

“This is the place where football will be lived and breathed,” said Infantino.

“Here you can catch the football virus, if you are not already a carrier. This is only about football.”

“It’s become a great museum with attention to the worldwide development of football.”

Infantino distanced himself from Blatter, whose ban meant he was not able to attend the opening, in comments published by the Swiss newspaper Sonntagsblick on Sunday.

“Sepp Blatter characterised one era at FIFA. I hope that I will characterise a different era at FIFA,” fellow Swiss Infantino said.

“Infantino is Infantino.

Blatter is Blatter.” (Reuters

Sport)

in the Ancient Country.

He expressed gratitude to Noreen Gaskin of Sentinel Security, Peter Lewis of Peter Lewis Construction and Onai Vasconcellos of Farfan and Mendes Limited for their continued assistance to the RHTY&SC. Meanwhile, Priya Rampersaud, Berbice’s Sentinel Security Manager, in handing over the trophies on behalf of her company, stated that her Chief Executive Officer is always willing to partner with the RHTY&SC, as it is an organisation which always upholds the meaning of the word “excellence” and is a role model for other organisation’s in Guyana.

Lewis, a long-time donor to the club, expressed delight at being able to contribute to the hosting of youth-related activities.

Spurs keep up title dream as Arsenal hopes hit T

ottenham Hotspur, who have not been champions since they won the double in 1961, kept the pressure on surprise Premier League leaders Leicester City and stole a march on neighbours Arsenal on Sunday.

After Spurs came from behind to beat struggling Swansea City 2-1, the roar that greeted the winning goal by full back Danny Rose was repeated when the White Hart Lane fans learned that bitter rivals Arsenal had lost 3-2 at Manchester United.

The two results now make Saturday’s meeting of the north London sides at White Hart Lane all the more important although before then on Wednesday, Tottenham visit sixth-placed West Ham United while Arsenal host Swansea.

Leicester, who were 5,000-1 outsiders to win the title at the start of the season, entertain West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday.

Claudio Ranieri’s Leicester have 56 points from 27 matches while Spurs are on 54 and Arsenal have 51. Manchester City occupy fourth position on 47 points and have a game in hand on their championship rivals.

“We believe we can win every game and we’ll see

what happens at the end of the season. Our mentality is to look to the next game and go step by step,” Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino told Sky Sports television.

“For me it is not important (Arsenal lost). What is important is our own performance and there are still 11 Premier League games ahead.”

RELATED COVERAGE

› Wenger defiant as ‘joke’ Arsenal condemned by pundits Marcus Rashford, the 18-year-old who scored twice on his Manchester United debut in the Europa League on Thursday, inflicted the same punishment on Arsenal in the space of three minutes at Old Trafford on Sunday.

EUROPA SHOCK

He netted his first with a confident shot following Guillermo Varela’s cross and then headed in a centre from Jesse Lingard.

Former United striker Danny Welbeck pulled one goal back before Rashford set up Ander Herrera for the home team’s third.

Mesut Ozil grabbed Arsenal’s second in the 69th minute.

“It was a shock playing in midweek but that benefited me,” said Rashford who only featured in that

Europa League game because Anthony Martial was injured in the warmup.

United manager Louis van Gaal said: “I’ve always said it’s not a matter of age, it’s a matter of quality.”

RELATED COVERAGE

› Man United kids make mark for King Louis Van Gaal also brought on two other youngsters against Arsenal as debutant substitutes in Tim Fosu-Mensah, a versatile 18-year-old Dutchman who was once at Ajax Amsterdam’s academy, and midfielder James Weir, 20.

Italian striker Alberto Paloschi, signed from Chievo in January, scored his first Swansea goal to give them a halftime lead at 1961 league and FA Cup winners Spurs.

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski frustrated the home team for long spells with a series of fine saves but was finally beaten by substitute Nacer Chadli with 20 minutes left.

Rose then hit the winner seven minutes later, leaving Pochettino delighted.

“Fabianski was great, man of the match,” the Spurs manager said. “It is a fantastic win.” (Reuters Sport)

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Sabbir’s one-man act too much for Sri Lanka

A

Mustafizur Rahman is congratulated after a wicket (Associated Press photo)

fter they ran into early trouble, Sabbir Rahman scored more than half of Bangladesh’s runs. Their bowlers followed it up by squeezing Sri Lanka in the 148 chase, eventually picking up their second win in the Asia Cup by 23 runs.

A packed crowd at the Shere Bangla National Stadium was kept on the edge for three and a half hours, mainly by Man-ofthe-Match Sabbir’s superb and clean hitting that gave him ten fours and three sixes. The home side’s tight bowling and rapid fielding across the outfield stood out too.

The loss would, however, ring loud alarm bells for Sri Lanka, especially after how they missed out on taking advantage of the home side slipping to 26 for 3, and later being unable to hit any boundaries for four and seven-over clumps. This was the first time Sri Lanka were beaten by Bangladesh in a T20.

On a pitch devoid of any grass, Bangladesh had to defend what Shakib Al Hasan called a “par score” in the innings break. But Shakib and Mustafizur Rahman bowled eight overs between them for just 40 runs, taking three wickets. Al-Amin Hossain finished with 3 for 34.

But Bangladesh’s de-

fence had not started well.

Like he did in the previous match, Soumya Sarkar dropped a catch at slip in the first over, off Taskin Ahmed, this time the lucky batsman being Dinesh Chandimal who had not scored a run. Tillakaratne Dilshan too was dropped, though the chance at wide first slip in the second over was quite hard for a diving Mahmudullah.

But Dilshan was removed in the fourth over with Sarkar making up for his drop with a brilliant catch running back about 30 yards from mid-off, diving full length and landing safely with the ball. Chandimal and Shehan Jayasuriya then added 56 runs for the second wicket though, like Bangladesh, they went through exactly four overs without a boundary.

Jayasuriya broke that duck with a six in the 11th over but Chandimal holed out in the same over after making a run-a-ball 37 after mainly trying reverse hits in the last few balls he faced.

Shakib quickly removed Jayasuriya in the next over, for a 21-ball 26 after missing a wide delivery to get stumped by Nurul Hasan.

Bangladesh’s biggest fear factor was Thisara Perera because of his performance in 2014 but today he

was lackluster, falling legbefore to Mustafizur and Sri Lanka soon slipped to 92 for 5 in the 15th over.

Angelo Mathews swung and missed plenty during his 20-ball 12 before he was well caught at point by Shakib running back a fair way. In the 18th over, with

46 still required, Dasun Shanaka finaly struck one sweetly, breaking the sevenover boundary drought. AlAmin conceded nine runs in the over and Sri Lanka were still 37 adrift from their target with two overs to go.

Mustafizur gave away just five runs in the penultimate over before Al-Amin took two wickets in the last over to seal the win.

Earlier, Sabbir’s hitting spree began in the fourth over when he took three fours and a six off Nuwan Kulasekara to kick-start Bangladesh’s innings that saw the openers Mohammad Mithun and Sarkar return for ducks within the first nine balls.

In the fifth over, however, Sabbir got into a mix-up with Mushfiqur Rahim resulting in the latter’s runout. But Sabbir responded brilliantly, taking three fours off Perera in the next over. With Shakib, Sabbir took to building the innings and the pair went through 4.1 overs without a boundary. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Bangladesh innings Mohammad Mithun lbw b Mathews 0 Soumya Sarkar c Mathews b Kulasekara 0 Sabbir Rahman c Jayasuriya b Chameera 80 Mushfiqur Rahim run out (Mathews) 4 Shakib Al Hasan c †Chandimal b Chameera 32 Mahmudullah not out 23 Nurul Hasan† c Mathews b Chameera 2 Mashrafe Mortaza* run out (Mathews/†Chandimal) 2 Extras: (b 1, w 2, nb 1) 4 Total: (7 wickets; 20 overs; 91 mins) 147 Did not bat: Al-Amin Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-2, 3-26, 4-108, 5-123, 6-140, 7-147 Bowling: AD Mathews 3-08-1, KMDN Kulasekara 4-044-1, NLTC Perera 1-0-14-0, DSNFG Jayasuriya3-0-21-0, HMRKB Herath 4-0-24-0, TM Dilshan 1-0-5-0, PVD Chameera 4-0-30-3.

Sri Lanka innings LD Chandimal† c Taskin Ahmed b Mahmudullah 37 TM Dilshan c Soumya Sarkar b Shakib Al Hasan 12 DSNFG Jayasuriya st †Nurul Hasan b Shakib Al Hasan 26 AD Mathews* c Shakib Al Hasan b Al-Amin Hossain 12 NLTC Perera lbw b Mustafizur Rahman 4 TAM Siriwardana c Sabbir Rahman b Mashrafe Mortaza 3 MD Shanaka c Mushfiqur Rahim b Al-Amin Hossain 14 CK Kapugedera not out 12 KMDN Kulasekara c Soumya Sarkar b Al-Amin Hossain 0 PVD Chameera not out 1 Extras (w 3) 3 Total (8 wickets; 20 overs; 102 mins) 124 Did not bat: HMRKB Herath Fall of wickets: 1-20, 2-76, 3-78, 4-85, 5-92, 6-102, 7-116, 8-117 Bowling: Taskin Ahmed 3-019-0, Al-Amin Hossain 4-0-343, Shakib Al Hasan 4-0-21-2, Mustafizur Rahman 4-0-19-1, Mashrafe Mortaza 3-0-17-1, Mahmudullah 2-0-14-1.

Kohli fined for dissent after dismissal

I

ndia batsman Virat Kohli has been fined 30% of his match fee for violating the ICC Code of Conduct by showing dissent after he was given out in the Asia Cup game against Pakistan in Mirpur. Kohli admitted to the offence and accepted the penalty imposed by match referee Jeff Crowe.

“The incident happened in the 15th over of India’s innings when Kohli, after being given out leg before, displayed dissent by first showing his bat and then leaving the crease while looking back at the umpire

and uttering some words that were contrary to the spirit of the game,” the ICC said in a release.

Replays of the delivery showed that Kohli had inside edged the Mohammad Sami delivery on to his pad but was given lbw by the on-field umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge.

He was on 49 at the time, having rescued India from 8 for 3 in a chase of 84. India were eight runs from victory when Kohli fell and they eventually passed the target with five wickets in hand and 27 balls to spare. (Cricinfo)

Virat Kohli

What If? L

By Treiston Joseph

inden Forbes Sampson Burnham; a strong willed man who fought immensely for nationalism as well as for African liberation as a former President of this nation.

Only recently did Guyana celebrate the late President’s birthday on February 20 and while personal opinions on Burnham’s rule as President might vary, there is one Treiston Joseph particular year that comes to mind that I believed changed the course of history for athletics and maybe even sports in Guyana altogether.

That year is 1976; the year of the XXI Olympiad or the Montreal Summer Olympics.

For those that might not know or recall, most sovereign African and a few other nations boycotted the Montreal Games because the International Olympic Committee (IOC) did not support the banning of those countries whose athletes and teams competed in South Africa as long as apartheid continued.

One of those other nations was Guyana.

During that 1976 year; Guyanese sprint great James Gilkes was a medal favourite to win the men’s 200 metres.

However, because of Burnham’s decision to boycott the Olympics that year, Gilkes could not participate despite campaigning to run as an individual under the IOC’s flag; a campaign that proved futile.

Nevertheless, Jamaica’s sprint great Don Quarrie went onto win the final of that 1976 Olympics in 20.22s, a time that Gilkes was running comfortably at the time according to historian and statistician Charwayne Walker.

Trinidad’s sprint great Hasely Crawford at that very Olympics would go onto become the first man from the Caribbean to win Olympic gold in the men’s 100 metres ahead of Quarrie who was second even as Gilkes earlier in the year was highly competitive with both over the 100 metres distance.

Now imagine what if Burnham did not boycott that Olympics and Gilkes went onto win that 200 and medal in the 100 or even just medal in both… imagine the long term effect that would have had on Guyana’s athletics landscape or maybe even Guyana’s sport landscape.

Since then Trinidad and Tobago have produced multiple Olympics champions and medalists such as Ato Bolden, Richard Thompson just to name a few.

The Twin Island republic even renamed a stadium after Crawford which is used as Trinidad’s main stop in Athletics on big occasions.

Jamaica on the other hand, since then well let’s just say Usain Bolt happened.

Both islands receieved significant endorsement deals, Trinidad Tobago with Adidas and Jamaica with Puma.

There is no question that at that 1976 Olympics a seismic shift for sport in the Caribbean especially for those two countries occurred which resulted in Jamaica taking over the USA as the sprint capital of the world some 35 years after.

The success of Quarrie and Crawford had such an impact on the athletics landscape in the Caribbean that only Grenada and the Bahamas to date have produced Olympic gold medalists in athletics.

Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago however, have gone onto have multiple medalists.

Guyana on the other have only one Olympic medalist; Michael Parris (boxing) who claimed bronze at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow, Russia… four years after a missed opportunity.

Simply put one small change to detail can cause a huge difference in the outcome of fortunes.

Guyana’s Olympic campaigns since have been fruitless with no signs of turning around and it really begs one to question what if?

Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham a strong willed man that generates various opinions by those young and old but regardless of one’s opinion when it comes to sport and the 1976 Olympics one question will always stand out in the minds of sport fans and in the mine of James Gilkes…what if?

21

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N

ational Champion rider Orville Hinds of Team Gillette Evolution in a time of 2:12:11s won the Courts Independence 50-miler in Berbice on Sunday.

Hinds dominated the entire race and together with Andrew Hicks of Trojan Cycle Club led the pack for almost the entire race.

The two along with Silvio Innis took the lead from the time Region Six Chairman David Armogan downed the flag to send the cyclists off on their 50-mile journey.

Hicks took four of the eight sprint point, Hinds three and Innis one.

With six miles left Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams (Team Gillette Evolution), Shaquille Agard of Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club, Christopher Griffith and Jeban Romello Crawford broke away from the peloton and soon were on the heels of the leaders.

With three miles to go, it was a race of seven desperate riders. Hicks’ chain slipped off the gearwheel and he was out of contention.

Williams finished second behind his teammate. The third place went to Agard. Crawford who crossed the finish line fourth

was given the fifth spot because he was assisted during the race. Griffith was fourth. Innis rounded off the top six finishers.

Hicks was able to complete the race as the second junior cyclist behind Deeraj Gabbanan.

The race wheeled off from in front of the company’s New Amsterdam Branch at Main and St Ann Streets and pedaled to Persaud Rice Mills at Number 37 Village, Corentyne before returning to the point of origin.

Meanwhile, females and U-16 cyclists participated in a 10-mile race from Fyrish Village and finished outside of Courts New Amsterdam.

The first three female were Christine Matterson, Whitney Poyer and Shamika Teixeira finishing in that order.

Prior to the start of the race, BMX riders competed in a 1.5-mile race from Marks Bridge to Courts.

The winners were Zamal Khan, Jason Cameron, Kevin Collins and Gemoore Daniels in that order.

Meanwhile, Curtis Dey and Clement Dorris also received prizes as being the first two riders from Flying Ace Cycle Club (FACC) to cross the finish line.

Coach of the FACC Randolph Roberts, in acknowledging that this was the third year the Courts had sponsored the event, explained that it is normally held in observance of Guyana’s republic anniversary, but because this year Guyana will be celebrating its 50th Independence anniversary, it was so named.

“When Courts came to Guyana, cycling was the first sporting event that they got themselves in.” He also took the opportunity to call on the corporate business community in New Amsterdam to follow Courts and support sports and more so cycling.

Manager of Courts New Amsterdam, Stanley McKenzie in brief remarks thanked all of the participants and noted that he was particularly pleased to see riders from Linden and Georgetown participating.

He promised to make the event bigger next year when it will return to the Courts Republic race.

Twenty-five riders participated in the main race.

Marketing Director of the company Burnel Cummings gave a guarantee that Courts will partner with the FACC next year to have the event. (Andrew Carmichael)

GCA 1st Division cricket…

Barnwell’s 254 leads DCC to thumping innings win over UG

N

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Orville Hinds takes Courts 50-miler in Berbice

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ational all-rounder Christopher Barnwell struck an audacious 254 against the University of Guyana (UG) which led the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) to a comprehensive innings and 208-run defeat in the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA) first division, two-day competition on Sunday.

Playing at the DCC ground, UG batted first and made 135 all out with Leon Williams top scoring with 24 and the next best scorer being Dwayne Dodson with 21.

Left-arm spinners Totaram Bishun and Ashmead Nedd picked up 4-45 and 4-44 respectively.

When DCC responded they amassed 551 all out, led by Barnwell’s magnificent 254.

The listless UG bowlers did not have answers for the aggression of Barnwell as between the start of play and lunch he moved from his overnight score of 90 to 254 with a series of powerful sixes and cracking fours.

National players Paul Wintz (88) and Kevon Boodie (50) chipped in with useful contributions.

Left-arm spinner Damein Vantull picked up three wickets.

With a lead of 416 UG took to the crease just after lunch and were quickly pegged down at 46-2.

Christopher Barnwell

Some stability came when Omesh Danram who made an aggressive 38 before he played an injudicious shot to hold-out at long-on.

It was then over to the 22-ball fifty by Darnel Douglas that brought life to the match. Douglas who is a former DCC player trudged to the crease and immediately began pouncing on any loose balls by the opposition.

He eventually fell for 53 (8x4s; 6x3s) which then saw a cluster of wickets falling to rash shots as Bishun returned to take 6-40 to end with a match haul of 10-85 as UG were bowled out for 208.

22

guyanatimesGY.com

monday, february 29, 2016

“Hostile Territory” boxing card...

Contrasting wins for Dharry and Marques

Dexter Marques in action

Some of the action during a women’s bout

By Avenash Ramzan

I

n the midst of a persistent drizzle in the wee hours of Sunday, Elton “Coolie Bully” Dharry and Dexter “The Kid” Marques churned out contrasting wins on the “Hostile Territory” boxing card at the Giftland Mall.

While Dharry walked away with a Technical Knockout (TKO) against Venezuela’s Felix Machado, Marques was made to go the distance against another Venezuelan, Freddie Beleno, winning by Unanimous Decision.

By virtue of their respective wins, USA-based Guyanese Dharry and compatriot Marques have earned the right to battle for Commonwealth titles on May 21, possibly in Guyana.

In the main contest, a 10-round bantamweight showdown, Dharry proved too hot to handle for Machado.

Despite Dharry slipping on the canvas four times due to a wet canvas (the event was open air), he battered a game Machado, who at 43, withstood a barrage of punches in the opening few rounds.

At 30, Dharry is in his prime, and his performance displayed a sense of maturity, as he was more selective in his attacks, a stark difference from the out-and-out aggression that fans have grown accustomed to over the years.

Maybe a slippery canvas was a factor in his approach, but there was the feeling that a knockout was on the cards, one which was avoided after Machado remained in his corner at the start of round five, forcing the referee to cut short the contest.

While the opening round was a ‘feeling out’ round, the next three was all Dharry, as

he made the Venezuelan feel the full weight of his punches, battering the visitor in rounds two and four.

It was during a flurry of punches from Dharry that Machado reportedly picked up a jaw injury, which ultimately forced him to ‘throw in the towel.’

The win was Dharry’s 17th on the trot, and it improves his record to 20 wins

(13 (KOs), five losses and one draw.

By virtue of the loss, Machado slipped to nine defeats in his last 10 fights. His record now stands at 26 wins and 14 defeats.

In the main supporting bout, a 10-round flyweight match-up, Marques maintained his unbeaten record at that weight, extending his record to 15 wins and two losses. Beleno suffered his 11th defeat to go along with 26 victories.

Many felt Marques may have squandered an opportunity to earn a knockout, as he allowed Beleno to recover on several occasions. Since the amateur days, Marques is not known to be a knockout specialist, but more inclined to wearing the opponent down with tactical boxing.

Much of the same was on show on Sunday, as he marched his way to a date with the Commonwealth belt in May. In the other fights, Barbados’ Miguel Antoine suffered his first defeat on Guyana’s soil as Revlon Lake earned a Split Decision win; Quincy Gomes gained a similar result against Imran Khan; Anson Greene gained a Majority Decision over Kishawn Simon; and Mandessa Moses got a Unanimous Decision win over debutant Ansilla Norville.

The card was coordinated by the Guyana Boxing Board of Control in partnership with the Giftland Mall. (aramzan@guyanatimesgy.com)

Grasstrack heroes inducted into Hall of Fame

Sheik Yaseen (centre) with four of the eight inductees

By Avenash Ramzan

S

port persons are celebrated the world over, as their achievements and accolades serve as inspiration and motivation to young persons wishing to make a career in the disciplines.

Very often, the exploits of these men and women provide a hotbed for the generation of colourful conversations and sometimes heated arguments.

In Guyana for example, avid followers of the disciplines would argue and even bet as they seek to drive home their point, especially when it comes to comparing different generations of sportspersons.

The issue of greatness is also inevitably mixed into the dialogue. It is with this in mind, the first ever Hall of Fame for grasstrack racing in Guyana came to fruition on Sunday.

Smack in the middle of the Corona Beer Grasstrack Championship Series at the Ogle Community Centre ground, the idea was birthed by former racer Sheik Yaseen of Sheik

Yaseen Promotions, geared at honouring past heroes of the sport and keeping their legacy alive.

Eight persons were inducted in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the sport of grasstrack racing as an organiser and former racer.

The inductee were Terrence Clarke, Kevin Jeffrey, Stanley Ming, Ray Rahaman, Victor Pires, Mahesh Premsukh, Mazar Mazarally and Brian McIntosh.

Yaseen explained that all these former bikers were champions during their time, and are all well respected individuals in the grasstrack fraternity.

Yaseen said it is his hope that the contributions of inductees over the years will serve to inspire more persons to take up the sport.

He further stated that other persons will be honoured during the remainder of 2016 when the Corona Beer Grasstrack Championship Series heads to various parts of the country.

All the inductees were

professional bikers during their heydays.

Clarke competed during the 1980s up to last year, and during that time he started out with a 50cc and gradually moved up to the bigger bikes.

Jeffrey, now a top Caribbean motor-racer, actually started his racing career in grass track. He used to compete with an RM 125 bike.

Ming, another racing icon, competed in the late 1980s and early 1990s on a Yamaha YZ 125, while Rahaman was active during the same period with his Kawasaki KX 125.

Pires is arguably the most experienced of the inductees, racing as far back as the 1970s. He raced up until the early 2000s and his last bike was a Honda CR 125.

Premsukh, Mazarally and McIntosh all raced during the 90s using the popular Yamaha YZ 125 bikes.

The next race meet is in April at Hampton Court, Essequibo, where another batch of inductees will be unveiled. (aramzan@guyanatimesgy.com)

10/10 Challenge Cup….

Better Hope XI wins East Coast Zone in exciting final

Part of the action during the day

T

he East Coast Mashramani 10/10 Challenge Cup was made for exciting cricket as the teams battle for supremacy with Better Hope XI being triumphant in front of a small but emotional crowd and remained the dominant team on the East Coast.

The final saw Bee Hive XI winning the toss and batting scoring 122-5 in 10 overs with Sheldon Adams scoring 52 (2x4s; 2x6s) off 26 balls. Andy Singh took 1-15 from two overs.

In reply, Better Hope XI were made to work hard even though they only lost

one wicket and only achieved victory in the last over due to a misfield with Navin Singh batting through to score 63 (4x6;4x4) off 23 balls and Sachin Singh making 30 (3x4s;1x6). Better Hope now go forward as the East Coast Representative in the Challenge series.

The day began with a mix team playing an exhibition match which saw East Coast combined and included players from all the teams against an over 40 master’s team from West Coast in Blazers in order to have the interaction between players from different

areas of The East Coast and that team was successful as they defeated the West coast team by seven wickets.

West Coast Blazers batted first and scored 80 all out in nine overs with Orville Black scoring 24 laced with one six and one four. Patrick Khan took 1-20 from his two overs with the majority of wickets going via the run out route. The Combined side replied with 81-3 in seven overs. Shakeer Ali 2-18 from his two overs.

In the female match Wellwoman defeated Lady Divas by 15 runs; Wellwoman XI lost the toss

and were inserted managing 96-8 in 10 overs and Lady Divas were bundled out for 81 in their 10 overs.

In another exhibition match Better Hope XI defeated Vipers XI by 8 wickets; Vipers XI batted and scored 113-5 in 10 overs with Premnarine Omadat scoring 29 (1x4;3x6s) and extras being the second top scorer 21.

Ajay Singh took 3-13 from 2 overs for the Better Hope boys. In reply Better hope XI rattled up 116-2 in 4.5 overs with Sachin Singh 37 (1x4; 5x6s) off 11 balls and Navin Singh 35 (2x4s; 3x6s) off 11 balls too steer-

ing them to victory. Arif Hussain 1-18 from 2 overs bowling for Vipers.

In the earlier game, Beehive XI defeated HY Times by seven wickets.

HY Times batted first and scored 94-9 in 10 overs with Keron Seunarine top scoring with 16.

In reply Bee hive raced to 95-3 in seven overs with Ovid Seymour blasting his way to 43 not out (5x4s; 2x6s) off 19 balls supported by Lionel Alphonso with 36 (5x6s) off 12 balls to propel them to victory. Andrew Williams took 3-20 in 2 overs.

monday, february 29, 2016

guyanatimesGY.com

23

Blairmont CC launches Fredericks floodlight T20

Blairmont Under-19 captain Zameer Inshan receives the donation from Baksh Travel Service

T

he Blairmont Cricket Club has launched its Roy Frederick’s memorial floodlight T20 tournament, which is slated for March 19 and 20.

After naming the main pavillion in honour of the late Guyana and West Indies batting great during the second week in January, a 40-over match involving Blairmont and GCC and a four-team T20 event were held to recognise the lefthanded opener.

“The executives of Blairmont Cricket Club intend to dedicate the first quarter of 2016 to Mr Roy Fredericks for his contributions to cricket development in Berbice, Guyana and the Caribbean,” a statement from the club read.

Funds garnered from the tournament in March will be used to secure covers for the pitches at the club.

Another of the club’s plans is to promote a Spelling Bee and a Math quiz for Grade Six students in Region Five to prepare them for the National Grade Six Assessment, with the blessing of the Ministry of Education in

the latter part of the year.

Meanwhile, the two-day cricket event will see 10 top teams tussling for supremacy, namely Cotton Tree Die Hard, Young Warriors, Rose Hall Youth and Sports Club, Bath Underdogs, Blairmont Blazers, Skeldon Gladiators, West Berbice Super Kings, Black Bush Rangers, Bush Lot Strikers and Lusignan Emperors.

Blairmont Cricket Club also will partner up with Berbice Volley Association during the event by hosting a volleyball competition to resuscitate the game at the community centre. The home team Defenders during 1995-2007 was one of the top teams in Guyana, producing many junior and senior national players.

There will also be a domino competition, live commentary, ice cream and air horns giveaways, bouncy castle, trampoline and live musical entertainment from local artiste.

For more information on sponsorship rights or participation, persons can contact Shizad Ali (Green’s Massive) on 627-5215, Nigel Trotz on 643-4289 or Shabeer Baksh on 6286767.

WICB/PCL 4-day…

Jaguars beat Volcanoes by 4 wickets to solidify top spot

G

uyana Jaguars completed a 4-wicket victory over the Windward Volcanoes at the Beausejour, St Lucia inside three days in the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL).

Jaguars took 18 points from the match (12 for the victory, 3 batting and 3 bowling) to remain on top of the table with 125 points.

Scores: Volcanoes 216 & 160, Jaguars 338 & 40/4.

In the other games: Leeward Islands Hurricanes needs five wickets to make Trinidad and Tobago Red Force bat again. Scores: 147/5 & 225; T&T Red Force 406/9.

Barbados Pride defeated Jamaica Scorpions by six wickets. Scores: Scorpions 177 &157; Pride 217 & 118-8

Executive member of the Blairmont club, Mohamed Samad, collects the sponsorship package from New Building Society

monday, february 29, 2016

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

“Hostile Territory” boxing card...

Contrasting wins for Dharry and Marques Pg 22

Elton Dharry lands a jab during his bout

Grasstrack Jaguars beat heroes inducted Volcanoes by 4 wickets into Hall of Fame to solidify top spot WICB/PCL 4-day…

Pg 22

Pg 23

Jaguars have extended their unbeaten run to 15 matches now

Some of the action during the day’s festivities

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