Guyana Times Daily

Court bars Kaieteur News from reporting on GRA email exchange

The Kaieteur News has once again found itself in hot water, as a multimillion-dollar lawsuit for libel was filed against the local newspaper for what are referred to as “scandalous” articles published about the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Khurshid Sattaur.

On Thursday, Sattaur filed an ex-parte application by way of affidavit for an interim injunction which also seeks in excess of $500 million for “false and malicious” articles published between August 31 and September 23, in various editions of the Kaieteur News.

The lawsuit names Publisher Glenn Lall, Editor-in-Chief Adam Harris and the National Media and Publishing Company Limited as the three defendants. It was heard and granted in the Chambers of High Court judge, Justice Sandra Kurtzious, on Thursday.

In addition to the $500 million, the GRA head also successfully requested for an injunction to bar the defendants from publishing any other articles about him. The court document seen by this newspaper asked

that the court “…restrain the Defendants and each of them by themselves, the directors, their servants and/ or agents or otherwise howsoever from further writing, printing or publishing or circulating or causing to be written, printed, published or circulated of the Plaintiff the said defamatory words contained in the Kaieteur News newspaper editions or issues published…”

Sattaur said in the exparte application that the issue began after he had caused an investigation to commence into the impor-

tation of two Lexus LX 570 motor vehicles into Guyana by remigrants Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan of Number 61 Village, Corentyne, Berbice. He said that it was revealed that the two vehicles were not kept or used by the remigrants, which is in breach of the Customs Act and the conditions of the grant of the duty-free concession.

Sattaur continued that further investigations revealed that the vehicles were being used by Lall and his wife, Bhena Lall; hence, they were seized by the tax regulatory body around August 20. This has resulted in a court action filed in the High Court by the two remigrants. Following the seizure, Sattaur said that Lall contacted him from the United States and “threatened to use his newspaper to malign” his character and destroy him, while accusing him of being a thief. That threat was reported to Police at Brickdam Police Station on or about August 31.

The court document states “That the threats were intended to intimidate and obstruct me in the performance of my statutory duties under the laws of

Guyana.” It was after this that the defendants began a campaign through publications to defame, malign, degrade and humiliate Sattaur in the performance of his public and statutory duties

as Commissioner General and in his personal life, the affidavit mentioned.

The articles that are referred to were published in the newspaper’s August 31, September 7, 10, 11, 14, 16, 21 and 23 editions. Sattaur is claiming that the articles are intended to destroy his character and to humiliate him “in the national and international public as a corrupt, spiteful and incompetent officer who uses his public office as an instrument of harassment against an innocent public”.

Additionally, he said that they are deliberate and calculated articles, which intended to mischievously defame him as a public officer who has no corresponding power. The CG went on to say that the publications have caused him distress of the utmost severity. “I have

been greatly injured and disparaged in my character and reputation and in my position as Commissioner General of the Authority and have been brought into public ridicule, odium and contempt. The distress and humiliation have been enormous and will continue to be felt for the foreseeable future. I have been lowered in the estimation of right thinking members of society generally and have suffered egregious injury,” the GRA head said in the legal documentation. Sattaur further pointed out that unless the defendants are restrained, they will continue to use the newspaper as an instrument of defamation, causing him irreparable harm and injury. The matter will be heard again before Justice Kurtzious on October 14 in Chambers.

Vandals cripple GT&T EBD phone service

Telephone and data services along the East Bank of Demerara were early Thursday morning disrupted as a result of vandalism and theft of two spans of fibre-optic cable measuring more than 400 feet in Agricola. By late Thursday afternoon, service was restored.

In a statement, the company said thousands of customers in Providence, Mocha, Diamond, Grove, and New Hope were affected by the disruption.

According to GT&T, it promptly diverted a team of engineers who were scheduled to carry out works on the East Bank Demerara Four-lane Road to the area and service was restored shortly after noon. Vandalism and cable theft have been plaguing GT&T over the years resulting in severe negative impacts on the company and its customers, including the diversion of its technical and material resources away from planned expansion programme works and routine installation and maintenance activities. GT&T said it continues to appeal to the general public to be vigilant and immediately report acts of vandalism to 0908.

Earlier this year, the

Chief Executive Officer of the company, RK Sharma, disclosed that for 2013, it sustained 68 instances of third party damage and 40 incidents of vandalism to its line plant facilities. The total restoration cost was in the vicinity of $50 million. For this year, there have been numerous instances of third party damage and one incident of vandalism.

Sharma noted that the cost mentioned to restore services does not take into consideration revenue foregone due to lines being out of service. Additionally, he had mentioned that resources have to be diverted to address the damage leading to delays in scheduled works.

Be vigilant

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds had also weighed in on the issue, saying citizens should be vigilant and aid in the fight against vandalism of private and public properties. The Prime Minister had noted that if people were more vigilant, then some of the perpetrators who vandalise properties to steal their copper and metal contents would be apprehended. Hinds said the continued vandalism of the GT&T Company cables was very worrisome to him and

should be equally worrisome to all citizens. He pointed out that while there is still a ban on the export of copperbased metals, there is speculation that the culprits have been managing to smuggle the contraband to neighbouring countries.

The Guyana Metal Recyclers Association (GRMA) President Desmond Sears has also in the past expressed concern over the vandalism of the cables. Vandalism of various private and state properties and commercial building sites had been widespread, since a vibrant scrap metal business developed in Guyana a few years ago. This has resulted in damage to property belonging to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) at the Lama Conservancy, the pumping facility of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), and the rails around churchyards and accessible burial grounds. In 2007, the pre-existing Metal Dealers’ Act was amended, granting Government authority over the scrap metal trade, enabling it to impose fines and criminal charges if necessary. At one point, the Government had imposed a ban on the export of such metals.

GT&T technicians repairing and replacing cables damaged by vandals in Agricola

GRA Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur

Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall

BRIDGE OPENINGS

WEATHER TODAY

GuyExpo rollout

... Minister Ali unveils traffic, transport plans

uyExpo 2014 will take Guyanese by storm, acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali said, positing that preparations are moving apace.

This year’s GuyExpo will see more than 100,000 spectators viewing the more than 400 exhibition booths at the Sophia Exhibition Centre during the four-day event. Already 353 exhibitors have confirmed their participation, 56 of whom are foreigners.

In keeping with the theme “Transformation: Partnership for a Better Guyana”, Ali said major emphasis would be placed on the key words; transformation and partnership. He explained that through the exhibits, Government will highlight the investments made over the years to transform the Agriculture, Tourism, Infrastructural, Education and Commercial Sectors among others.

Given the significant role being played by the Private Sector in the advancement of the country’s economy, the Industry and Commerce Ministry will be placing major emphasis on building partnership, both locally and internationally. Ali explained that the Building and Construction Sector, Mining Industry, Hotel Industry and Agriculture Sector are driven by the

Private Sector.

While there will be an international presence, major emphasis will be placed on Guyanese products and produce. With this in mind, the Industry and Commerce Ministry, in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry, will be launching

He said too that the international pavilion would be expanded this time around, but maintained that the primary focus would be on things Guyanese, including the Forestry Sector and the Gold Industry.

Business Forum

Forming part of GuyExpo 2014 is the Business Forum, which will be held at the Guyana International Conference Centre and hosted by the Guyana Office of Investment (GO-Invest). Presentations will be made by the Finance Minister, representatives from the Agriculture, Services, and Mining Sectors, in addition to an investor.

A delegation of 20 from Trinidad and Tobago is expected to participate in addition to 25 representatives from Barbados. Small delegations will come from Argentina, French Guiana

ing peak hours, vehicles will be given the opportunity to park at no cost. It was explained that on Saturday and Sunday between 14:00 and 16:00h, vehicles with 15 or more passengers will be allowed free parking in the compound. Additionally, he said, that transportation arrangements have been put in place for persons who would be coming from outlying communities and regions. It was further explained that persons from Bath Settlement, Port Mourant, Parika, Parfaite Harmonie, Belle West and other outlying communities would be transported by bus operators to and from the event at a fixed cost. Additionally, a taxi stand would be established at the expo to facilitate the transport of patrons to and from the venue. It was explained that there will be a fixed price to prevent exploitation, an issue

the “Eat What You Grow” Campaign. “One of the major innovations would be the establishment of the 100 per cent local supermarket that would have products for persons to purchase locally and a wide collection of exporters who would be able to engage the various business interests,” Ali added.

and Brazil. The largest delegation is expected to come from Suriname. According to Ali, the forum will give importers and exporters the opportunity to explore business ventures and opportunities.

Meanwhile, on the issue of traffic, Minister Ali said to reduce traffic jams dur-

the Ministry has been dealing with over the years.

GuyExpo 2014 will be opened on Thursday, October 2 at the Sophia Exhibition Centre by President Donald Ramotar and the acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister. The curtains will come down on October 5.

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister (acting) Irfaan Ali

One of the booths that is being erected at the Sophia Exhibition Centre

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

Violence against children

The saga of the young man who claims he was sexually abused by Raphael Trotman, former co-leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), illustrates perfectly the recent UNICEF report, “Hidden in Plain Sight”, which collated reports from 190 countries on the abuse of children.

As the release from UNICEF noted, the effects of this violence are “lasting, often inter-generational (and) exposed children are more likely to become unemployed, live in poverty, and be violent towards others”. And it is in “plain sight” if we would only open our eyes.

The report focused on sexual violence, homicide, bullying, and violent discipline. Pointing out that the data is only what was reported, the authors cautioned that their findings are almost certainly understated.

The summary on sexual violence – “About 120 million girls under the age of 20 worldwide (about 1 in 10) have experienced forced intercourse or other forced sexual acts, and one in three ever-married adolescent girls aged 15 to 19 (84 million) have been victims of emotional, physical or sexual violence committed by their husbands or partners”, is, therefore, mind boggling.

While the incidence of violence against children is higher in the undeveloped world, most of the reports are centred on girls. But this is a lacuna of information that must be filled, because even in the developed countries sexual violence against boys is quite extensive.

For instance, according to the report, “In Switzerland, a 2009 national survey of girls and boys aged 15 to 17 found that 22 per cent and 8 per cent, respectively, had experienced at least one incident of sexual violence involving physical contact.” And this is where the recent report by the young man as to how he was introduced into the pattern of sexual violence is a useful starting point for us to begin to address this scourge here.

From what other reports on individualised acts of sexual violence on boys show, most often it is a relative or close family friend who commits the act.

In Guyana, individuals are much more protective of their female children, but permit opportunities for molestation against boys: parents are just not socialised into accepting sexual violence against boys. Adult males are allowed much freedom with male children. For instance when relatives visit and “sleep over”, very frequently, older males are allowed to sleep with boys of the host family.

Because of the closeness between the victim and the paedophile, the former is often “groomed” by the latter to win their trust. The young boys would be plied with gifts, taken on trips, introduced to influential persons to impress on the intended victim that the perpetrator of the violation is an “important” person.

This serves another purpose – after the act is perpetrated, the young victim is more easily persuaded that if they speak out, no one would believe them. In addition, the threats by the paedophile that they would hurt the victim become more credible, since their access to power was made so transparent.

On account of the fact that they are violated by relatives or close family friends who are presented as authority figures, the sexual violence is doubly damaging. It is a violation of trust and of body. These violated individuals almost inevitably have problems in dealing with societal authority figures and symbols.

The violated boys grow up to become “troubled and disturbed” youths and men who we see with increasing frequency. Because the act is often interpreted by the child as having “taken away their manhood”, suicidal behaviour often results.

We can do worse than heed the advice of UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake: “Violence against children occurs every day, everywhere. And while it harms individual children the most, it also tears at the fabric of society –undermining stability and progress. But violence against children is not inevitable. It is preventable – if we refuse to let violence remain in the shadows.”

Worshipping God as Mother

Dear Editor, Today, the Hindu community begins observing the auspicious period of Navaratri, the nine nights of worship and celebration to the Supreme in the form of Mother.

‘Navaratri’ is a combination of two Sanskrit words, ‘Nava’ meaning ‘nine’ and ‘ratri’ meaning ‘nights’ hence, nine nights, Navaratri is undoubtedly one of the main periods that help the spiritual aspirant or the devotee to gravitate closer to his/ her goal, moksha.

Is the Divine Father or Mother? This is a question that may often swim around our minds. Many refer to the Supreme as Father; however, Hinduism also refers to that force as Mother. It is during this period of Navaratri that immense worship is being done to the Mother of the Universe.

The Mother is a symbolism of love and protection. The Goddess is worshipped in her various forms namely, Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. On the tenth day, i.e. the day after the last night of worship to the mother, Vijayadashami is celebrated.

On the first three days of Navaratri the Goddess is worshipped in the form of Durga. To begin our spiritual journey we must first remove all the negative tendencies. Laziness, ignorance, inertia, lust, anger and greed are just a few of the impurities that creep into our minds.

A synthesis of all these dark qualities grow to create the terrible demon, Mahishaasura, the Buffalo demon. The buffalo here is very significant as it is of the nature of Tamo-Guna, ‘Tamo’ meaning dark or negative and ‘Guna’ meaning nature or quality.

So this lethargic buffalo, the idle Mind sits there and grows stronger and stronger with the dark qualities. You have all heard the expression, “The idle mind is the Devil’s workshop.” We therefore ask the Goddess in the form of Mahishasura Mardini to come in her tenarmed form, with the sword of discrimination, the bow of determination and the mace of persistence, riding on that fierce lion, and annihilate the dark forces within us.

The second set of three nights is dedicated to the

worship of Maha Lakshmi. After clearing the mind of all that is evil, the devotee asks the Goddess to grant him/her wealth. Many deem wealth as abundance of money, the gold we trek out of the forests and our huge buildings in the City, but here we refer to the higher values and qualities of life as wealth.

One of our greatest Vedantic philosophers, Adi Shankaracharya described the six forms of wealth as calmness of mind, self-control, self-withdrawal, forbearance, faith and singlepointedness. With these qualities, the ability to accumulate material wealth will naturally come.

Knowledge is the greatest wealth one can think of.

The last set of three nights is dedicated to the worship of Sarasvati Ma, the Goddess of learning. This form of the Divine is adored by knowledge seekers. On a higher level, the knowledge of the Self is the means of Liberation. Sarasvati is the one who gives the essential knowledge (Sara) of our own self (Sva).

One may ask, ‘why is Navaratri celebrated at nights?’ Night is a represen-

tation of the Tamo-Guna or inertia. That is the time we go to sleep and are inactive, so we would in this period utilise this time to engage in sadhana to conquer our “sleepy” and inert nature of the mind.

After the nine nights of worship, Vijayadashami is celebrated. Vijayadashami literally means from the Sanskrit words ‘VijayaDashami” literally meaning the ‘victory on the dashami’ (Dashami being the tenth lunar day of the Hindu calendar month). This festival represents victory of Shakti over Mahishasura, of Lord Rama over Ravana and of Durga over demons like Mahishasura, ChandaMunda and ShumbhaNishumbha; that is victory of good over evil. Hindus for Selfless Service would wish to extend Navaratri greetings to the Hindu community and all Guyanese. May this period fill our hearts with purity and your lives with happiness.

Sincerely Praem Ramharak

The teacher was advised to inform the School Welfare Officer

Dear Editor,

The Guyana Police Force is responding to a Letter to the Editor published in another section of the media on September 24 under the headline, “Bribery and cover-up”.

The Guyana Police Force wishes to state that

on September 12, at about 1100h, Naitram Doobay, a teacher of Pomona Secondary School took two students of the said school to Aurora Police Station and reported that the students were smoking something.

However the students denied that they were engaged

in such activity. The teacher did not seize the article the students were smoking.

The Police made further enquiries, but no useful information was provided. The children were therefore released and the teacher was advised to inform the School Welfare Officer, since they was no evidence that a breach of the law has been occasioned.

Whitney Bacchus Senior Superintendent Public Relations and Press Officer

Folk dancers perform Dandiya, a traditional dance, during a rehearsal ahead of Navratri festival in Ahmedabad, India, September 24 (Reuters/Amit Dave)

Many events in Guyana tainted by political, media misrepresentation

Dear Editor,

The jury’s decision to return a not - guilty verdict in the Quancy John murder trial is indicative that justice is still alive and well in Guyana. The ex-policeman was freed of all charges surrounding the shooting death of Kelvin Fraser.

From the inception of this case the charges made against John were tainted which meant that the jury hearing this matter had the herculean task of separating fact from fiction. And seeing juries are not sequestered in Guyana, they also had the equally daunting task of disassociating themselves from “popular” sentiments while keeping an open mind.

Popular sentiments as well as witnesses of convenience conveyed the belief that young Fraser was fleeing the scene when the policeman shot him in cold blood. However, the accused’s testimony which was validated

by the post-mortem report speaks to the lad being shot at close range, which is inconsistent with the so called popular view of him running away then receiving the fatal bullet.

The post-mortem corroborated John’s story that there was a struggle and some attempt to relieve the lawman of his weapon when he was shot. Two conflicting accounts of the same event with one having direct links to the doctor’s report – whom should we believe?

The jury was convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt and rendered the accused not guilty verdict.

Now this case is synonymous with an ongoing matter in the Magistrates’Court involving another lawman in a baton rape case. Here again, the jury would be called upon to render a verdict. They would again have to separate fact from fiction, popular sentiments or a doc-

tor’s report.

And when I say a doctor’s report I speak of the primary health care provider who examined and treated him for his ailments. This would have to juxtapose that evidence against other medical reports made two months after the initial health care provider. Whom should they believe?

I close by saying much of what we see going on in Guyana today is tainted by political and crass media misrepresentation. It has reached frightening proportions.

However, thank God for our courts and jurors who oftentimes see through the schemes to come up with the right decision. This is not always the case but, from time to time, justice and fairness are served in our courts.

Sincerely, Neil Adams

Proud track record as regards concerns, needs of youth in society

Dear Editor,

The Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has a proud track record as regards the concerns and needs of the youth within our society. We understand that the challenges facing our youths are significant and paramount to their concerns within the context of Guyana is job security.

Yearly, approximately 3000 students graduate from the University of Guyana alone. In addition to the multitudes of others that complete their respective vocational and technical studies saturate the job market in search of jobs so that they can contribute economically towards the productivity of our society and also earn a comfortable livelihood.

The PPP/C knows how challenging it can be for our youths who are exceptionally gifted, intellectually and vocationally to get a job even after they would have invested significantly in their studies and made the necessary sacrifices to put themselves on the educated path of developmental growth.

It is for this reason significant strides have been made by the PPP/C Government since it came to power in 1992, to put in place mechanisms and industries to satisfy the ever increasing crop of brilliant young minds that are emerging with a view and negating the brain drain of our talented youths to foreign countries.

Significant strides are being made in cooperation with the private sector to provide jobs for youths within the services sector such as the Hotel and Tourism sectors with thousands of jobs to be created when the Marriot and other similar investments in the services sector come to fruition.

By creating a stable economic environment and aggressively encouraging investments, the government of Guyana has paved the way for increased Foreign Direct and local Investments, the likes of which the youths are currently benefiting from. One such investment, the Qualafon Call Center has established a strong presence in Guyana and has provided thousands of jobs geared mostly towards our young people.

More than 600 young persons sponsored by the Ministry of Housing and Water have benefited from jobs at the Turnkey House Initiative (THI). Moreover, the plan to construct Call Centers at Enmore in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) and Tuschen in Region Three (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands) would create opportunities for an additional one thousand young people.

More such Investments are needed and will come on stream in the near future thanks to the diligent and progressive work being done by the PPP/C.

Granger’s threats of protest and civil unrest

Dear Editor, Contrary to the boastful outbursts by the APNU that their protest actions were successful, reports from the ground tell a different story. Reports indicate that the turn out by Party Leaders, activists and supporters was very poor. In Georgetown there were no more than fifty (50) persons in a picketing exercise.

While in the outlying municipalities, participation ranged from 20 to eight persons. Sections of the media particularly Stabroek News and Kaieteur News sexed up the protests to help create the impression that the protest actions were impressive and had an impact.

Granger’s threats must be ignored by all Guyanese, especially the good people who everyday do a hard and honest day’s work to provide for themselves and their families and to build a strong economic foundation for their future. Granger and his colleagues in the PNC have become desperate and will resort to all means to disturb the peace and good order in our country.

for Granger’s recent call, Patrick Yarde has threatened that the GPSU will embark on “nationwide industrial action”. And not to be outdone, Hamilton Green joined the protest call with his “bury Sooba” protest.

There is no denying that political protest action hurts and harms the common working man and woman in particular and the country in general. Not only can we expect physical injuries to people and an escalation of crime, we also expect capital flight and economic stagnation. It is to be recalled that as a result of protests in the mid and late nineties, Guyana experienced economic stagnation and a slowing of the growth rate.

The Private Sector Commission has already alerted the Nation to the negative impact of protests on business and investment.

such street protests generate in the context of a multi-racial society and the Constitutional rights of other Guyanese whose personal, private and economic interests must not be affected but respected.

The constant blockage by the combined Opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance for Change (AFC) notwithstanding, the PPP/C will not be deterred in its goal to provide greater avenues for the young people of our country.

The combined opposition must explain to our young and alert minds how many jobs they have been denied when the Opposition voted down the construction of the Amaila Falls Hydro and other flagship developmental projects.

Further, they must explain to our youths why they voted down government loans for the University of Guyana students, as well as vital funding that would be used to aid our Amerindian brothers, sisters and youths in their pursuit of economic betterment.

This anti-development posture which the combined opposition has embraced shows clearly the trajectory and intent that they would take, should the reins of government fall into their hands.

The PPP/C is cognizant of the needs of the young people in our country and are taking the necessary steps to champion the cause of all the youths who will be the future leaders and standard bearers of this great country.

Submitted by PPP/C Freedom House

History is replete with experiences regarding the type of protests and civil unrests organized by the PNC. Those who have short memories will recall the physical and emotional hurt, many suffered, during the Agricola protests two years ago. That event was preceded by the protest at Linden a few months earlier.

One can recall the PNC protest in 2001, when they unleashed the “Mo fyah” campaign. Before that we had six months (December 1997 to June 1998) of protests, marches and civil disobedience which was followed in 1999 by the ninety days (90) GPSU strike and protest.

Incidentally, and as a form of calculated support

As regards Granger’s claim to fame in respect of public safety and security, Granger should be the last to talk about such matters since while talking about peaceful protests, at the same time he continues to stoke the furnace with a view to heating up the political atmosphere, Mr Granger prides himself as the Nation’s guru on security matters. However, when his guru-ship on security is matched against his delinquency to secure the safety of his own Comrades at Congress Place how can he guarantee the nation’s security?

The party has further noted Mr David Hinds query about “drum beating” when Afro-Guyanese protest and wishes to point out that the issue is not African Guyanese protest per say.

It is in fact PNC/APNU/ AFC organized political street protests, and the track record of such political protests and as a consequence, the anxiety and fear which

Hinds writes as though the APNU, AFC and the WPA have a monopoly on all African Guyanese but Hinds should know better especially in light of his personal involvement in the heady days of the Rodney era not to mention the revelations that the Nation is now reading about vis-à-vis the Rodney Commission of Inquiry. It is apposite to note that despite the APNU/AFC Budget cuts our country continues to see positive economic growth and citizens continue to benefit from the PPP/C Government’s spending on the social and physical infrastructures in our country.

Protest and civil unrest can reverse all these gains as it has done in the past. It is also apposite to note that Granger’s protest announcement have nothing to do with Local Government Elections, rather it coincides with implementation of two important 2014 budget measures. The payout of education grants of $10,000 for every school child and the positive impact from the $1 billion clean-up campaign as this exercise gets into full gear. The protest is clearly aimed at distracting attention from these two much welcomed Government initiatives. The PPP/C calls on all good people who are in the overwhelming majority to reject the protest calls by Granger and the APNU. Let’s continue to unite for a better Guyana.

Submitted by PPP/C Freedom House

Page Foundation

By Janet Lehman

Do you get sucked into a fight over homework with your child every night? So many parents tell me that this is one of their top struggles with their children. If you’re dealing with this now, you probably dread saying the words, “Okay, time to do your homework”, because you know what’s coming next – hours of dealing with your complaining, whining or noncompliant child or teen who just hates to do the work. Even though you reason, lecture, nag and yell, nothing seems to change — and each night turns into a battle with no victors.

Trust me, I get it. I have to admit that dealing with my son’s homework was one of my least favourite experiences as a parent. It felt overwhelming to me; often, I just wasn’t equipped to offer the help he needed. Our son struggled with a learning disability, which made the work and the amount of time required feel unending at times — both to him and to us. My husband James was much better at helping him, so he took on this responsibility — but even with this division of labour, we had to make adjustments to our schedules, our lives and our expectations to make sure our son turned it in on time.

They don’t call it “homework” for nothing

Here’s something I learnt along the way: homework is work, and there’s no getting around that fact. It’s a chore for both the child and parent. It’s important to understand that schoolwork is often the most difficult part of your child’s busy schedule. Helping your children manage it despite all the other activities they would rather be doing can be challenging at best. Remember that it’s your child’s job to go to school

and learn (including getting homework completed) and your job to provide for your children, run the house and offer love and guidance to your children.

I know from experience how easy it is to get caught up in power struggles over homework. These struggles begin for several reasons, but the most common one is because your child would rather be relaxing, playing, texting with friends, or doing almost anything else. Know that if you deal with their frustration by losing it and getting mad out of your own frustration, it will be a losing battle. Some children are even able to manipulate parents this way, because they know the battle over homework may result in your giving up on expectations of it getting done.

Here’s the truth: letting your child off the hook for their work will ultimately create problems in their lives. Instead, focus on the fact that as a parent, you need to teach your child how to follow through on expectations and be accountable. All the more reason to take control and make homework just another part of your child’s daily responsibilities.

inconsistent with what you expect, being overly critical, or giving up and just doing the work for your child. The first step is to try to stay as calm as you can. If you get frustrated and start yelling and screaming at your child, this sets a negative tone and is likely not going to help them get the work done. Set clear expectations around homework time and responsibilities Let your children know that you expect them to get the work done on time and to the best of their abilities; the

throughout a session, while others may need the task to be broken down into smaller pieces and then varied. While there are some children and teens who are self-directed and able to complete homework without assistance, most require some type of guidance and/or monitoring, depending on their age. This makes it especially challenging for parents, because it means you need to perform different functions with each child you have, depending on their needs.

Here’s my advice for reducing homework hassles in your home:

Try to stay calm: Try to avoid losing your cool and yelling and screaming, arguing about the right answer for the maths problem or the right way to do the geography quiz, ignoring the homework altogether or being

most important thing is that they try their best. Set aside the same time each afternoon or evening for them to do their work. Understand that children are all different in how they feel about and approach homework. Some may find English easy, but get really frustrated with maths. Another may be a science whiz, but have no patience when it comes to writing. It’s important to know your child: their strengths and struggles, and how they learn. Some children need small breaks

Have a relationship with your child’s teacher. Try your best to build a good relationship with your child’s teacher. Start off at the beginning of the school year and stay in touch as the year progresses. Your relationship with your child’s teachers will pay off during the good times as well as the challenging times.

Play the parental role most useful to your child. Some children need a coach; others need a “monitor”, while others need more hands-on guidance to complete tasks. Try to match your help with what is most needed. Remember also that your child is doing the homework as a school assignment. The teacher will ultimately be the judge of how good or bad, correct or incorrect the work is. You’re not responsible for the work itself, your responsibility is to guide your child. You can always make suggestions, but ultimately it’s your child’s responsibility to do his or her assignments, and the teacher’s job to grade them. (Excerpt from Empoweringparents.com)

Look for sources of information

Take a trip to the library. Use the catalogue or browse the shelves to look for books on your topic. If you find a book that is useful, check the bibliography (list of sources) in the back of that book for other books or articles on that topic. Also check indexes of periodicals and newspapers. Check with a librarian if you need help finding sources. Try to use as many different types of sources as you can, including books, magazine articles, and Internet articles. Don’t rely on just one source for all your information.

Keep a list of all the sources that you use. Include the title of the source, the author, publisher, and place and date of publication. This is your preliminary, or draft, bibliography.

Read your sources and take notes

After you’ve gathered your sources, begin reading and taking notes.

Use 3 x 5 index cards, one fact or idea per card. This way related ideas from different sources can be easily grouped together or rearranged.

On each index card, be sure to note the source, including the volume number (if there is one) and the page number. If you wind up using that idea in your paper, you will have the information about the source ready to put in your footnote or endnote.

If you copy something directly from a book without putting it in your own words, put quotation marks around it so that you know it is an exact quotation. This will help you to avoid plagiarism.

Before you sit down to write your rough draft, organise your note cards by subtopic (you can write headings on the cards) and make an outline.

Organise your ideas

Using the information collected on the note cards, develop an outline to organise your ideas. An outline shows your main ideas and the order in which you are going to write about them. It’s the bare bones of what will later become a fleshedout written report.

Write down all the main ideas.

List the subordinate ideas below the main ideas. Avoid any repetition of ideas. (Excerpt from infoplease.com)

... as T&HD ferry squeezes speedboat at Parika Passengers dunked into Esseqibo River

Several passengers on a speedboat on Thursday afternoon jumped overboard when one of the stateoperated ferries, MV Sandaka Thursday rammed into them at the docks in the Essequibo River near Parika.

The incident occurred around 15:30h. According to information, the MV Sandaka, which plies the Parika-Leguan route had just returned from Leguan Island and was mooring at Parika when a speedboat that was loading to go Supenaam was squeezed. The speedboat was unable to move because there were some high piles behind the vessel, and passengers began to panic as the speedboat flooded with water. Passengers in the boat had no

choice but to jump overboard leaving behind their valuables.

Fortunately, they were wearing lifejackets at the time. Some persons were reportedly injured but there are

no reports of anyone missing. One passenger said he had in excess of $500,000 on him and because of the sudden incident, he was forced to jump overboard. He, however, said he was thankful to be alive..

Many persons are of the view that the captain of the MV Sandaka had moored improperly.

Parika-Supenaam Speedboat Association Chairman Curtis Adams said he was happy that nothing serious had happened. He said a team from the Maritime Cadet Section was on the ground and persons were interviewed. Adams explained that the speedboat was sandwiched by the MV Sandaka between a huge number of piles, rendering it unable to move. He said that persons began to panic and as such, jumped overboard. He said the incident happened a few feet away from the step where the boat usually moors.

Plan to better manage Manatees being developed

Following months of negotiations, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, through the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), recently hosted a team of international Manatee experts at the National and Zoological Parks.

The Ministry said in a release that the team was head-

GuySuCo, GAWU to commence conciliatory talks today

Conciliatory discussions are set to commence today between the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) on an incident involving a senior manager at the Skeldon Estate and a field worker which led to the dismissal of the worker and subsequent strike action.

Following five days of strike action, the two parties finally came to a mutual agreement on Wednesday afternoon as they agreed to a six-item Terms of Resumption under the chairmanship of the Labour Ministry ’s Chief Labour Officer, Charles Ogle. This resulted in the industrial action being called off and the dismissal of the Mill Dock Operator, Stephen Daniels, being reversed.

el to commence discussion on the grievance which led to the strike”.

ed by Dr Nataly CastelblancoMartínez from the US-based Oceanic Society and the Cochair for the IUCN South American Sirenian (Manatee) Specialist Group, and includ-

ed Boris Lerebours, a Manatee breeding and reintroduction expert from the National Parks of Guadeloupe. The team conducted initial assessments of the populations and their enclosures at the National Park and Botanical Gardens, using sonar and visual observations. Water samples were also collected and a series of tests are currently being carried out. The initial findings of the assessment revealed that the animals are demonstrating increased reproductive activity, with five very young calves

being recorded and breeding behaviour being observed during the assessment. The team also noted that Guyana is the only country in the world that has maintained a captive population of reproducing manatees for over 100 years. Descended from animals originally brought into captivity in the late 1800s, the collection of West Indian Manatees at the Park and Gardens has long been part of Guyana’s natural and cultural landscape.

The PAC is now working with the team to organise a much more extensive followup assessment. This assessment will aim to tag each individual animal with a microchip; conduct full health assessments, including blood sampling; establish the ages and number of males and females in the population; and carry out a genetic analysis of the population to determine parentage and the level of inbreeding. The results of this upcoming activity will then be used to create a management plan for the population, and inform the PAC’s ongoing efforts to improve the Manatees’ care, feeding, and enclosure conditions.

The PAC will also use the

assessment to develop a controlled captive breeding programme, and a linked conservation plan for Guyana’s wild Manatees, including those observed in the Shell Beach Protected Area. Once these programmes are in place, efforts will be made to acquire captive bred or rescued Manatees from other Zoos and Aquariums, in order to bring new genes into the local population, and reduce the chance of serious genetic diseases that can result from inbreeding.

The Ministry, through the PAC, has been seeking the assistance and partnership of a number of international organisations involved in Manatee conservation, with this visit being the first activity resulting from these engagements.

GuySuCo had held firm to the decision of dismissing Daniels throughout previous negotiations, stating that the behaviour that was displayed by Daniels, who had hit the manager after reportedly being provoked, is “gross misconduct” and such behaviour is treated with “summary dismissal”. However, the Corporation eventually concurred to reverse the dismissal of the worker and put him on suspension without pay, pending the conclusion of “either conciliation or arbitration” between the Corporation and the Union.

Hence, the Corporation and the Union will commence talks in accordance with term number three of the agreement: “within 24 hours after there is full resumption, the parties will meet at the conciliation lev-

The conciliation discussions will take place between the top officials of GuySuCo and GAWU under the chairmanship of the Chief Labour Officer. The other Terms of Resumption call for the strike action by field and factory workers at the Skeldon Estate to be called off immediately and full resumption of work by Thursday’s date. Additionally, the Terms of Resumption facilitated that there be no victimisation on the part of any side and that the days for which the workers were on strike be recorded as not available as opposed to absent. Both parties will have to present reports to the Labour Ministry, which will then conduct an on-field investigation into the matter. Guyana Times was told that the investigation will be conducted by Ogle, after which he will make a recommendation as to whether Daniels’ dismissal was substantiated and should be executed or he was indeed provoked to react the way he did and will have to reinstated.

Meanwhile, workers at the Skeldon Estate have returned in full with the exception of Daniels and operations are back to normalcy.

On Sunday, both factory and field workers from the Skeldon Estate took full strike action after the dismissal of Daniels. Workers at the factory claimed that the manager was intoxicated and had provoked the Mill Dock Operator who retaliated by hitting him the day before.

The MV Sandaka that was involved the mishap

The team also noted that Guyana is the only country in the world that has maintained a captive population of reproducing manatees for over 100 years

One section of Bartica/Issano road completed so far

The

The stretch of road between Four Miles and Five Miles of the Bartica/Issano road has been completed.

According to Lawrence Mentis, Head of the Force Account Unit (FAU) of the Ministry of Public Works, the road was filled, graded, shaped and compacted with loam.Work is still ongoing on the critical sections of the roadway between One Mile and Four Miles.

“That is 70 per cent completed and we are looking at an October 15 deadline,” Mentis stated. For those sections, the FAU is using asphaltic concrete.

Furthermore, 3000 metres of concrete drains will be constructed along the critical sections. Work is expected to commence October 2.

The entire project is costing the Ministry approximately $89 million.

Man remanded for simple larceny charge

A22-year-old was on Thursday morning remanded to prison after being charged with simple larceny.

Tiffon Peters, of Lot 664 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The accused on September 24 at Wellington Street, Georgetown, allegedly stole a Toyota Hilux GLL 3333, valued $3.5 million, property of Rahul Archers.

before relating the facts. According to the Prosecutor, Archer, who is a mechanic, parked his car on Wellington Street in front of Gizmos and Gadgets and went in to purchase credit for his phone leaving the motor running. It was then that the accused went into the vehicle and drove off.

Eyew tness

Definitional power...

...abused

in Guyana

In Guyana, no one would deny the MuckrakerKN's the newspaper of record when it comes to sleaze, salaciousness, and sensationalism. It claims its excesses can be excused, in the inimitable words of its owner Mook Lall, "because de people gat wan right fuh know". But in the present "case of the paedophile accusations", we can all see very clearly that when it comes to the Mook's pals in the Opposition – "de people na gat wan right fuh know".

How else would you explain the Muckraker's tepid coverage of the young Welshman's accusations against Raphael Trotman?? Can you imagine the feeding frenzy that would've been going on over at Saffon Street if the accused child molester was from the PPP/C??!

Lord have mercy!!! So when some people excuse the nastiness practised by the Muckraker and its owner (facilitated by his aged house slave) as just "good business sense" to make money – let the Trotman coverup be an object lesson.

The Muckraker's part and parcel of the conspiracy that'll leave no stone unturned; do whatever it takes – even sell its firstborn into slavery, to depose the PPP/C Government. And since the armed attempt failed – and don't think the Muckraker wasn't directly involved: check WikiLeaks – the political Opposition must be supported in whatever they do.

So we have the attempt by lawyer Jaya Manickchand to give a "heads up" to a colleague so as not to embarrass him – being turned as the biggest smokescreen to hide the allegations from the public. Just because the individual happened to be related to a Government Minister – then the allegations have to be a "PPP/C political hatchet job"?!!

Imagine out of all the people in the world, the PPP/C tracked down a young man in Trinidad – who Trotman admits he knows –- and gets him to start making allegations about paedophilia to Jaya against the Speaker!!!???

After the accused was told to remain silent and did not enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. When the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied, the defendant refused to answer whether he wanted his trial proceedings to be conducted in the Magistrate’s Court or in the High Court. His brother who was sitting in the courtroom informed the court that his sibling suffers from a serious sickness.

peated attempts to exit the dock.

The defendant under Police security was instructed to sit after he made re-

According to his brother, he was charged with a similar offence, which was later discharged before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Police Prosecutor Kerry Bostwick objected to bail

The Virtual Complainant gave chase and managed to stop the vehicle at the traffic light at South Road and Camp Street, with the aid of public-spirited citizens who apprehended the defendant. Ranks from Brickdam Police Station were summoned and the defendant was arrested and taken into custody.

His matter will be called again before the Chief Magistrate on September 29.

Berbician on $160,000 bail for fraud charges

Stanley Bisnauth, 28, of Corentyne, Berbice, was on Thursday morning placed on a total of $160,000 bail for conspiracy to commit a felony and uttering a false document when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Judy Latchman. It is alleged that the defendant, between September 23, 2012 and September 23, 2014 in Georgetown, conspired with persons unknown to obtain a false machine readable passport – Number 189283 – purporting to show that it was issued from the

Central Immigration and Passport Office.

On September 23, he uttered to Constable Timothy Williams the said passport while at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

He was released on $80, 000 bail per charge and his next appearance will be on September 29.

Stanley Bisnauth

And six years ago, the PPP/C planted Jaya in the legal aid office so that she'd meet Welshman, the abused boy?? What a party!! But maybe Trotman's betrayal of his colleague Jaya's tipoff is poetic justice. Jaya was ready to "recuse" herself from the case – when the oath she'd taken as a lawyer, compels her to represent whomever asks for representation.

But we believe people who've allowed themselves to be titillated by the Muckraker – and unwittingly allowed it to define their reality – will now have the scales drop from their eyes. They'll now see that even though it will cost Mook Lall money – he'll refuse to print the sordid details of the betrayal of a young boy’s trust by one placed on high.

...on climate change

But if the Muckraker achieves definitional power in Guyana by pandering to the lowest common denominator here – what's going on in the "climate change" arena takes "self-serving behaviour" to a whole new low.

After a century and a half of the now developed world belching billions of tonnes of carbon dioxide from their factories and vehicles, they accepted they'd precipitated an unprecedented global warming that could wipe out life on Earth if left unchecked.

They promised to clean it up. Now is not the time to get into all the numbers that they are throwing out – that's just to confuse everyone they want to fool. The bottom line of all the "talks" we're getting reports on from the sidelines of the UN General Assembly is they're welshing on their promise. But you'd never know it if you read their media that dominates our news – even in little backward Guyana. All we can say is, "Countries of the Third World, unite!!! You have nothing to lose but your air!!”

...on No-Confidence Vote

The AFC's No-Confidence Motion's now up in the air. APNU says the Local Government Elections are just as important as the General Elections. And with their votes... we know who defines what's important in the Opposition!

section of road being graded

Tiffon Peters

Copyrights, high textbook costs big challenges to universal education – Ramotar

There must be investment by countries in their education sectors if there is to be development, President Donald Ramotar highlighted, when he addressed a meeting of Champions of the United Nations Secretary General's Global Initiative on Education.

The Guyanese Head of State said, according to the Government Information Agency (GINA): “There is enough evidence to show that countries which have developed the most are not necessarily the countries that have the most natural resources but the countries where you have a high educational standard.”

President Ramotar was selected to be a member of the United Nations Steering Committee to examine the world’s education system and make recommendations for its improvement.

The Guyanese Leader added that it is essential that

both boys and girls are educated to ensure that countries and the world move forward. The fact that Guyana has the highest number of nursery school enrolment in the Caribbean, universal achievement of primary education and is on the path to attaining universal secondary education within three years were mentioned by the President.

The quality of education, President Ramotar said, was improving in Guyana with trained teachers alone moving from 58 per cent, five years ago to 75 per cent at present. “We want to raise the standard of education and we are investing quite a lot in the physical infrastructure – the schools and the facilities. We’re trying to help with developing more critical skills, life skills in our people, and we want to ensure the relevance of the education system towards the national focus. We are trying to do that by

extending education levels in all parts of our country.”

Another important area, President Ramotar spoke of, is Government’s investment in equipping persons with technical skills, but the challenge remains of ensuring sustainability and affordability, enabling each

child to reach his or her full potential.

Intellectual property rights and the cost of textbooks remain challenges that need to be addressed, said President Ramotar. “This is something that the international community will have to look at, in or-

der to ensure that developing countries are not left behind as far as quality is concerned”. The availability of technology was another challenge mentioned by President Ramotar, and he explained that while Government has embarked on the “One Laptop Per

Family” programme, further support would be welcomed, “so that we could have access to other education opportunities in our remote areas where we could use technology, in order to deliver education to our people, in every part of our country”.

The President said that the UN Secretary General could continue to rely on Guyana to persist with various initiatives in the sector, with the international community. Referring to the figures which indicate that millions of children are deprived of a basic education, he explained that much of the tragic problem can be attributed to international politics.

“Peace is very vital to education, peace and education are linked. We will not be able to achieve these goals that we are setting ourselves...we all have to work for peace as a precondition to delivering quality education to all our people”.

Sweden honours Reis for outstanding consular duties

The continuation of what was described as a strong bilateral relationship was hailed Tuesday evening when Guyana’s new Honorary Swedish Consul, Banks DIH Executive Shabbir Hussein was formally presented with his instrument.

He replaces Banks DIH Chairman Clifford Reis, who, in recognition of his exemplary service to both countries, was presented with Sweden’s second highest national award and title, “Commander of the Polar Star”.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds expressed his strong appreciation, on Government’s behalf for the assistance that has been received from the Nordic

country, especially in the areas of maritime training.

Swedish Ambassador Claes Hammar, in brief remarks, lauded Hussein’s distinguished career and “his strong dedication to the youth in Guyana”. He said, “I was very impressed to hear about that when I was here in April. Mr Hussein has done a lot to help young people here to move away from activities that they should not be involved in, and into things like music and culture and such things. I think that says a lot about his dedication to his country and its people.”

Hussein thanked the Governments of Sweden and Guyana for accepting his nomination to the post.

“At this stage, I pledge to

do all in my capacity to provide the best possible service in order to benefit both my country Guyana and Sweden, and also to work closely with other honorary consuls who are representing their countries in Guyana. It will be the

greatest privilege to discharge my duties with excellence” by executing all that is required of me, and with a passion for success, and to deliver all that is necessary.”

In brief remarks, Reis said that service as an hon-

orary consul broadened his horizons from his initial expectations and “made me see the job of honorary consul in new and different ways. This is certainly a most rewarding, enlightening experience and for this I am grateful and ap-

preciative to the Swedish Government and all who have made this possible”. He also offered his congratulations and support to his replacement. He further described his award as a “changing of the guard”, noting that the emblem and flag of Sweden will remain in Thirst Park, Banks DIH’s headquarters, and be in safe hands for the foreseeable future.

Sweden has been instrumental in aiding Guyana and other Caricom member states in the areas which include scholarships, surveillance applications, solar energy and environmental monitoring, climate change, the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty (UNATT), and the Post 2015 Development Agenda.

President Donald Ramotar at the UN Secretary General's Global Initiative on Education Meeting

Newly-appointed Honorary Consul to Sweden, Mohamed Shabbir Hussein, Former Honorary Consul to Sweden Clifford Reis, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Swedish Ambassador Claes Hammar

Another Argentine guitarist to tour Guyana

Nestor Basurto, an iconic Argentine musical composer and tango legend, is set to arrive in Guyana this Sunday as part of a cultural exchange between Guyana and Argentina.

Basurto has to his credit a large number of compositions, both in the field of folklore and tango. Many of them have been performed and recorded over the years by major artistes.

He has also made ??compositional pairs with Hamlet Lima Quintana, Alejandro Szwarcman, Gustavo Machado, Mariano Pini, Juan Carlos Muñiz, Julio Olivera Chazarreta, Ramiro Gonzales, Marcelo Robles, Raul Aguirre, Sergio Zabala, Raul Luzzi, Mario Rodriguez, Alberto Urquiza and Cecilia Stanzione.

For the past 12 years, he has been running his own

recording studio, where he works as an arranger, producer, and director – recording and editing for the likes of Daniel Maza, Enrique Llopis, Quintet Gale, Omar Moreno Palacios, Teresa Parodi, Omar Cerasuolo, Oscar Alem, Manolo Juarez, Claudio Sosa, Eduardo

Guajardo, Santaires, Roxana Fontan, Martin Alvarado, Luis Baetti, Pablo Agri, Ernesto Baffa, and Franco Luciani, all of whom are Latin music superstars.

Argentine Ambassador to Guyana Luis Alberto Martina pointed out that the tour was the second part

of a cultural exchange that started this year. He pointed out that the exchange provides an excellent opportunity for schools and young students to interact with an internationally acclaimed music producer.

Culture Minister, Dr Frank Anthony noted that Guyanese students and music enthusiasts would interact with the guitarist. He noted that there will be workshops and training seminars at several locations throughout the country, including New Amsterdam, Linden, West Demerara, and here in Georgetown.

Dr Anthony said “by introducing these types of performances, slowly, we are getting to understand more about Argentina’s culture”.

He urged teachers in schools and interested persons to contact the Ministry for more information.

Service Commissions get down to business

SHope Trot Man can tek de Pastor advice

Old people seh do fuh do nah obeah. And de good book seh that an eye musbe fuh an eye. In fact, de good book even seh if yuh leff hand mek yuh do some ting wrong, yuh must chop it off and throw it away.

A pastor tell he church people de other day that this rule apply to every part of yuh body from yuh head to yuh foot and every ting in between. De other day it look like a man head do some ting wrong and some body find it cut off from he body. Just that in this case, it look like some body cut it off fuh he.

Imagine if that rule had been in force fuh every body today, whah de world woulda be like. Nuff husband woulda be wid out yuh know what, and nuff wife woulda be wid out yuh also know what. That woulda be a lotta unhappy people in a lotta pain.

Speaking with the Guyana Times, Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Carvil

ome two weeks after the last two Service Commissions were sworn in before President Donald Ramotar, the Commissions have commenced their work with the exception of the Judicial Service Commission. The four Service Commissions: Judicial, Police, Teaching and Public, are all fully constituted after being out of operation for a while, some longer than others. Most of the Commissions have held their first meeting.

Duncan, said that the work of that Commission is progressing smoothly. He noted that the Commission was out since October last and so they are trying to “catch up” on most of the backlog. Duncan disclosed that the PSC had a circular running, which closed on Thursday. The Chairman said that he

is hoping by the first week in October to start the interview process for positions. “Those who will pass the interview, be qualified and selected, would be appointed for the different positions in the public service,” he stated.

The PSC is responsible for the employment of workers in the public service sector with the exception of contract workers. Duncan, as the Chairman of the Commission, is automatically appointed a member of the other three Commissions.

Meanwhile, the Police Service Commission met about two Mondays ago and the members began looking at the work pending since the Commission last functioned in 2012. The Commission will be meeting the first Monday in every month and is currently looking at the promotion of Cadet Officers to Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASP).

Chairman of the Commission, Omesh Satyanand, explained that the Commission is awaiting a list of officers to be promoted from the Guyana Police Force so that they can commence the process of promotion. The Teaching Service Commission also met and began preparatory work to resume its functions.

The Judicial Commission is yet to meet; however, a meeting is expected to be held soon. This Commission has five members, three of whom are automatically appointed and two who are procedurally appointed. The Chairman of Public Service Commission is automatically appointed a member along with the Chief Justice and the Chancellor of the Judiciary, who chairs the Commission. The two other members that were appointed are former judges, Justice Prem Persaud and Justice Lennox Perry.

A case in point, although he does be both a husband and a wife dependin on who he deh wid at any given moment, is de paper man. By now he woulda had to chop out every part of he body. De only ting leff woulda be he head, but because he ain’t got no brains, it ain’t mek sense choppin that part. Every wickedness paper man do he get ketch. From de salipenter story to de backtrack story to de pumpkin story to de suitcase story to de Agricola murder story to de knockdown-de-man-and-drive-away story to de Lexus story and now to de ink story, and plenty other story in between. Is every step of de way he get ketch. That is whah you call a stupiddy and dotish and thief man. After all, wid no brains, whah else yuh expect?

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Well, Trot Man also believe in de good book and de other day he was even giving advice to some lil pickney. So hope he can tek de Pastor advice now!

CJIA security officers trained in self-defence

Sixteen Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Aviation Security Officers (ASOs) successfully completed a self-defence programme this week that demanded technical, professional and physical expertise.

The programme, the first of its kind, ran for two weeks. A second batch will go through the rigorous exercise, facilitated by a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Officer next Monday, September 29, at Timehri.

According to CJIA Senior Aerodrome Officer and head of the ASO Unit, Alvin Majeed, every ASO is required to demonstrate the level of his/her operational proficiency when confronted by a hostile airport user.

He emphasised that the techniques taught are not intended to harm or injure anyone but to subdue the individual. “These fighting and defensive techniques were developed and upgraded for our ASOs to help them during both routine and emergency exercises,” he further stated. “We are doing this type of training – fighting and defensive methods in order to protect civilians, airport users, pas-

sengers and even airport employees themselves.”

Tonia D’Oliveira, one of the 11 females that participated, said she felt more confident “as a woman and professional”, as a result of the training. “It was intense and the techniques I learn will go a long way in executing my duties. I am more focused,” she added.

Randy Shurry, who has been an ASO for the past four years, said the training opened a door of knowledge for him and his colleagues. “We now have a broader scope of how to defend ourselves. The only time I saw martial arts was on television; I am privileged to be part of the real-time experience,” Shurry stated.

Participant Ivelaw McNaughton recommended that such an exercise should be done on a regular basis. Fellow ASO Seon Sertimer felt invigorated and wished the programme could have lasted forever. “Apart from learning self-defence, all of us lost weight,” he admitted.

The ASO Unit was established in November 2009. The mandate of the Unit is to improve security at CJIA on a daily basis.

Iconic Argentine musician Nestor Basurto

NGOs urged to tap into US$22M Australian aid

Community and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) here are being urged to capitalise on Australia’s Direct Aid Programme (DAP).

DAP is a flexible small grants programme funded from Australia’s Aid Budget and managed through 66 of the department’s overseas posts across the world, including High Commissions and Embassies.

For the 2014-15 financial year, DAP’s budget has been set at US$22 million. The Caribbean Region DAP initiatives are managed through the Australian High Commission in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, which is accredited to Caricom Member States with the exception of Montserrat. Therefore, it operates in Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname.

Addressing the press at the Foreign Service Institute, the High Commission’s Senior Policy Officer, Clint Fernandes said DAP is founded on key principles, explaining that it strives to advance developmental outcomes in Official Development Assistance (ODA)-eligible countries with projects primarily focused on practical and tangible results.

It was explained that major emphasis is placed on the alleviation of poverty and basic humanitarian hardships, community health, schools and education, small-scale infrastructure, rural development, youth interventions, gender equality and women’s development, agriculture and food security and the environment, and disaster relief.

“We aim at funding at least one project in every ODA Eligible country – that is every country that is eligible for Official Development Assistance which includes Guyana,” Fernandes added.

October 17 deadline

It was pointed out that the NGOs and other organisations have until October 17 to send in their applications. Once this process has ended, the High Commission Senior Policy Officer said the DAP Committee will proceed to commence the disbursement of funds to successful applicants, but explained that funds will be disbursed from October to December. Thus far, approximately 30 applications have been received by the Australia High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago.

In an effort to enhance the quality of the DAP initiative, several changes have been administered, much to the satisfaction of beneficiaries. Generally, the smallscale and short-term projects

Body of boy tossed overboard found

The frantic search for the body of 13-yearold Omar Mitchell of Half Mile, Wismar, Linden, who had been feared drowned ended tragically on Thursday when his body washed ashore. The body was reportedly discovered at approximately 15:00h on Thursday, a short distance away from where he had disappeared in the Demerara River. The teen was reportedly pushed overboard by one of his friends while hanging out along the river at Silvertown, Burnham Drive on Tuesday.

A 17-year old lad who was with Mitchell and several male friends at the time of the incident has since been detained by Police.

Relatives of the deceased indicated that he left home shortly before 17:00h on the tragic day to hang out with friends. They noted that shortly after, they received the tragic news that Mitchell had not surfaced after being pushed overboard.

The incident was reported to the Police by one of the lads who became afraid after realising that Mitchell went under the water and did not surface. An eyewitness said the dead teen had pleaded with the lads who were playfully pushing each other overboard at the time not to push him, while indicating that he could not swim.

Police and public-spirited citizens had formed a search party over the past two days in an effort to recover the teen’s body. Mitchell was a second form student of the Harmony Secondary School. He leaves to mourn his mom, Onika Mitchell and four siblings.

normally have a lifespan of one year with funding ranging from US$5000US$20,000, with US$30,000 as the limit. However, NGOs and Community Based Organisations now have access to up to US$60,000.

“We are encouraging

NGOs, Community Based Organisations to think about bigger possibilities with larger allocations, although we will be cautious with larger allocations,” Fernandes said.

He further pointed out that projects are no longer

limited to a lifespan of one year, noting that they can be expanded to two years, allowing for greater impact. He said too that Local Government Agencies can now administer Direct Aid Project funds on behalf of the Commission. Fernandes disclosed that extensive discussions were held on Wednesday in this regard with the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry.

During the 2012-2013 Financial Year, Guyana benefited from two projects in the area of community health. The first, which totalled US$17,000, was designed to outfit a Special Needs Care and Rehabilitation Centre at Port Mourant, Berbice. Additionally, two volunteers were trained in special needs in the area of physiotherapy. Fernandes said the

project has proven to be very successful with commuters from neighbouring communities visiting the centre and utilising the existing services to capacity.

The other project formed part of a larger Caribbean initiative and was executed at the cost of US$20,000. Through the Cancer Institute of Guyana, a cervical education and screening project was executed. During this initiative, 1835 vulnerable women were educated and screened for cervical cancers, 60 uninsured women were provided with vouchers for free cervical cancer treatment, and 17 outreach workers and nurses were trained. These are just a few of the benefits derived from the regional project, which was done in collaboration with Jamaica, Dominica, Grenada, and Belize.

Australian High Commission’s Senior Policy Officer Clint Fernandes

Drowned: Omar Mitchell

Nandlall to head Guyana’s delegation at key anti-money laundering meeting

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister

Anil Nandlall will lead a Guyana delegation that will appear before the Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG) later this month.

Acting Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga and Advisor to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Alisha Williams are the other members of the delegation that will take part in the review on September 29 and 30 in Miami, Florida.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), through the International Cooperation Review Group’s ARRG, co-chaired by Darlene Boileau (Canada) and Maria Fernanda Garcia-Yrigoyen Maurtua (Peru), has been executing a targeted review of Guyana’s deficiencies with respect to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Framework.

The meeting with the ARRG forms part of the review process, which will be conducted before the FATF Plenary Meeting in October.

During this meeting, Guyana will be given an opportunity to review the draft targeted review.

The Legal Affairs Minister said the meeting with the ARRG comes at a time when the Opposition has remained bent in its ways.

Sad reality

“We have come to the position of accepting the sad reality that in term of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill of 2013, the Opposition has demonstrated that they are not interested in having the Bill passed.”

According to him, the Opposition parties will do all in their power to ensure that Guyana is blacklisted by FATF due to the non-passage of the AML/CFT Bill.

While the parties at the level of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee have agreed on the AML/ CFT (Amendment) Bill of 2013 since February; the amendments to the AntiMoney Laundering and

Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act of 2009 remain the biggest blockage.

In May, the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) referred Guyana to FATF after the country was further recognised as a jurisdiction with strategic AML/CFT deficiencies due to its non-compliance with the Action Plan developed with the regional body. CFATF had already sounded

an alarm, calling on member countries to safeguard themselves from Guyana with the introduction of countermeasures to protect their financial systems from the ongoing money laundering and terrorist financing risks.

But despite the prevailing challenges, Nandlall said Government is doing everything that is possible to enable compliance with Guyana’s treaty obligation with regard to non-legislative requirements.

In the absence of the required legislation, the Government has moved to establish the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). SOCU, when it becomes operational, will be investigating suspected cases of money laundering and terrorism plots, in close collaboration with the FIU.

SOCU will be led by Lieutenant Colonel Sydney James. Just days ago, the Guyana Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom for SOCU’s officers to be trained and monitored by the latter.

Parliament launches website

With funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the National Assembly on Monday officially launched its website, enabling a free flow of information between members of the public and those elected to serve.

UNDP Country Representative Khadija Musa, speaking at the simple launching ceremony in Parliament’s Chamber, said it is absolutely crucial that information is shared through this kind of medium, given the advancement of technology around the world. She said the achievement is a great milestone, as she commended parliamentary staff and Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, for reaching this stage.

“Without the dedicated efforts of the staff and the office of the speaker and clerk, the project would not have been realised,” Musa told attendees including Government’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira, and Members

idea for the project came about last year after which a contract was signed for its implementation.

Trotman said as a primary representative of the citizenry, it is important that Parliament has communication with the public, enhances dialogue on parliamentary issues and provides understanding of parliamentary actions.

“Creating an environment where citizens have trust in their elected officials promotes a shared commit-

of Parliament Catherine Hughes and Manzoor Nadir.

The website had seen a “soft launch” a few months ago, before Members of Parliament.

Speaker Trotman, during his brief remarks, said he was elated over the development, as the old system had been causing growing frustration.

He explained that the

ment to democratic values,” Trotman told the small audience. He said the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana recognises this and aims to improve its relationship with citizens. The website will foster two-way communication with the public and parliamentarians.

Parliament’s Deputy

US donates communication package to GDF

The Security Cooperation Office of the United States Embassy here presented a communications package to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), earlier this week.

alone, the Florida National Guard State Partnership Programme tripled the total combined number of engagements that were held in Guyana from 2012 to 2013.

Clerk (acting), Hermina Gilgeous, said the National Assembly was cognisant of the value of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) in the delivery of its work. To this end, she said the website www.parliament.gov. gy was developed and designed by a private consultant in conjunction with the Parliament Office.

“It fulfils a major objective of the Parliament’s ICT’s development plan. It is user friendly and will provide relevant and timely information to Members of Parliament among others about the various aspects of information on the National Assembly.”

The main aim of the website is to provide ICT-based information and it will be available to Members of Parliament, staff and the public. The website includes a media centre, searchable database of committee reports and resolutions, overviews and functions of the National Assembly. Audio and video telecasting of Parliament sittings will be facilitated as well.

It includes information on bills in the National Assembly: the dates introduced, second and third readings and date assented to by the President, etc. “It is a work in progress and will appreciate feedback and critical analysis from members so that what is being done could be improved,” the Speaker said.

Consultant Christopher Lawrence designed the website.

The package, consisting of several hundred carmounted and handheld Motorola radios and accessories, was donated to the Defence Force and the Government of Guyana. The presentation is one of a long list of activities demonstrating the strong relationship between the GDF, the US Embassy’s Security Cooperation Office, and the Florida National Guard State Partnership Programme, the Embassy said in a release.

According to the Embassy, the past year has featured multiple engagements between the Florida National Guard State Partnership Programme and the GDF in a number of areas. This year

The release stated that according to high-level GDF officials, the communications package will greatly enhance the Force’s capability in disaster response and coastal operations.

Captain Lawrence Fischer, the State Partnership Programme Manager for Guyana, stated that the Florida National Guard is extremely eager to continue its efforts in Guyana and looks forward to more opportunities in the near future with the GDF.

The United States and Guyana continue to seek ways to enhance bilateral security and create a partnership that develops strong security institutions in Guyana and advances the safety and security of the citizens of Guyana.

Skeldon's cogeneration being gradually restored

The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) said that with the strike at Skeldon being called off, the estate’s co-generation capacity is being gradually restored and increasing levels of power made available to the GPL grid.

Operations at the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s Skeldon facility were restored Wednesday evening following the resolution of the industrial action. The power company said it is expected that the maximum available capacity from Skeldon will be available prior to the peak evening demand.

The load shedding guide previously instituted remains in effect until today. According to GPL, the replacement component for the turbocharger of the Number Three Diesel Generator at the Kingston Two Plant was expected to arrive Thursday evening, and arrangements for its immediate installation are in place.

This will reduce the level of load shedding. Meanwhile, the Number One Diesel Generator at the Kingston One Plant, which is undergoing planned major overhaul remains on schedule to return to service on Sunday.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall

Captain Lawrence Fisher presents GDF Chief Brigadier Mark Phillips with one of several hundred communication devices

An updated Parliament website

UNDP Country Representative Khadija Musa speaking at the launching ceremony

Region Four RDC launches “women’s space”

The Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica)

Democratic Council has declared itself interested in women and the concerns of women by the momentous launching of a “women’s space” and the Women’s Affairs Committee (WAC) Exhibition, the first of their kind at its office on Wednesday.

The exhibition was a display of artwork, fine crafts, clothes and food, all made by women.

According to WAC Chairperson Genevieve Allen, the exhibition was launched to enable women to showcase their goods and sell them to generate income.

Taking action

She added that the women’s space was also launched, at the same time, to signify that women are taking action and are not sitting around waiting for things to be done.

The women’s space, an initiative of WAC, in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), aims to provide a safe haven for women. The space will provide guidance, counselling and other help sought by women as well as men.

In explaining the genesis of the events, Allen ex-

roads and in trenches and the young ladies from the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) displayed examples of various cuisines and crafts.

The PC students were particularly surprised at the quality of some of the pieces on display and were glad to be part of such a great initiative, as they lauded “independent women”.

The space, in the beginning, will be open twice a

plained that the idea came from some of the female RDC Councillors, who are ex-officio officers of the Committee and also craft officers around the region at the various craft centres in Victoria, Cane Grove and other villages – the East Coast Division Craft Centres.

Thus, it was simply a matter of them getting together to realise the idea of a women promoting event featuring the pieces made by women across the region. The idea blossomed via the different centres’ networks into a full-blown exhibition and space for women.

There were creations from schools too; President’s College coming in with an amazing floral display created from simple things students found on the

She stated that they will also be utilising the services of Welfare Officers from the Education Department attached to the RDC. The counsellors will refer certain cases to Help and Shelter or the Police as necessary.

Human Services Minister Jenifer Webster was among the officials present at the launch. She remarked that the space will be of great service to the area, as she has read in the news of recent of incest in the region and was saddened.

Empowered

She said she was glad that women are being empowered to take action through the women’s space and the display of their talent. She posited that “women’s empowerment has a multiplier effect” as women influence homes and through them, society.

She called women the “architects of great things” and challenged them to over-

week from 09:00h to 12:00h with two counsellors.

Chairperson Allen informed Guyana Times that the counsellors will be from the Committee, which has two male advisers as well for the men.

come their situations, their struggles and be glad, active participants in challenging the men to live up to society’s expectations, declaring that men are the weaker sex but women can all do much to enable them too.

Oceans crucial for climate, food and nutrition – FAO

Better management of the world’s ocean resources is crucial to ensuring food global security, FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva said during a roundtable discussion with United States Secretary of State John Kerry held here today.

The event, “Our Ocean: Next Steps on Sustainable Fishing and Marine Protected Areas”, was organised as a follow-up to this week’s UN climate summit and to take advantage of the presence of world leaders at the ongoing UN General Assembly.

Ten percent of the world’s population depends on fisheries for their livelihoods, and 4.3 billion people are reliant on fish for 15 percent of their animal protein intake, Graziano da Silva told participants.

He added that for small island development states, the contributions of ocean resources to nutrition, livelihoods, and development are especially significant.

John Kerry emphasized that "we need to do a better job of protecting our ocean’s fish stocks", which play a critical role in economic and food security.

According to the latest edition of FAO’s The

State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture report, the fisheries and aquaculture sector is facing major challenges, ranging from harmful fishing practices to weak governance and poor management to the scourge of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Beyond its negative effects on the status of fish stocks and the environment, IUU fishing brings with it very high monetary costs as well – to the tune of $20 billion per year – the FAO chief reported.

FAO is taking a number of steps together with partners to promote sustainable fisheries and combat illegal fishing, including working to promote adherence to the 2009 FAO Port State Measures Agreement and 2014 FAO Voluntary Guidelines on Flag State Performance and working with the with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to develop a Global Record of Fishing Vessels.

At the same time, the organisation has launched a new “Blue Growth” initiative which “has the potential to be a leading program on the major issues related to oceans and their resources,” the Director-General said.

The blue economy model emphasizes conservation and sustainable management, based on the premise that healthy ocean ecosystems are more productive and represent the only way to ensure sustainable oceanbased economies.

It also aims to ensure that small island developing states and developing world coastal states equitably benefit from their marine resources. The shift to sustainable and responsible oceans and fisheries management cannot wait any longer, Graziano da Silva told roundtable participants.

FAO Director General José Graziano da Silva

Handmade Tibisiri furniture made by the women of the Deens Wicker and Rattan Company

Designs by the students of the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA)

Tibisiri fruit bowls and jewellery boxes are some of the creations made by the women of the St Cuthbert’s Association

Brazil: Election poll shows Rousseff and Silva neck and neck

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff and her main challenger Marina Silva are running neck and neck if the October presidential election goes to a runoff, according to a poll published on Thursday.

Rousseff garnered 42 per cent of

voter support in an expected runoff while Silva had 41 per cent, according to a survey by pollster Vox Populi. The difference is statistically insignificant based on the poll’s margin of error.

The previous Vox Populi poll released on Tuesday, which was commis-

sioned by TV Record network, showed Rousseff with a seven-point lead in a runoff, beating Silva by a 46 per cent to 39 per cent margin.

Vox Populi polls are not as closely watched by political analysts as those by bigger research firms Datafolha and Ibope, which are more frequent and survey more potential voters.

If no candidate wins a majority of valid votes in the October 5 first round, there will be a second round between the top two vote winners on October 26.

In the first-round vote survey, Rousseff’s support was 38 per cent, down from 40 per cent in the previous Vox Populi poll on Tuesday. Silva’s support rose to 25 per cent from 22 per cent. Support for centrist candidate Aecio Neves was the same at 17 per cent.

The Vox Populi poll surveyed 2000 voters on September 23-24 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.2 percentage points. It was commissioned by the Carta Capital magazine and the results were posted on the news weekly’s website. (Reuters)

Latin American, Caribbean leaders urge action to erase inequality, spur development

Inequality is one of the greatest threats to development and international security because it fosters poverty, exclusion and breeds social unrest, resentment and violence, said Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, the first among several leaders from the Latin America and the Caribbean region to address the General Assembly on Wednesday.

“I come from Latin America, a region of middleincome countries that have

their own dreams, challenges and tasks,” said Bachelet. “For us, sustainable development, security, quality of governance and above all, inequality and social cohesion are the most pressing challenges.”

These challenges must occupy a central place among the post-2015 development goals, the Chilean President urged. While Chile has made great progress, public opinion and political evolution point out the need to take “meaning-

German firm tells TT Govt: Sell MHTL shares or else

The Trinidad Government could face a major legal battle and risk to the country’s credit ratings if it fails to sell its 56 per cent stake in Methanol Holdings Trinidad Limited to Proman Holdings, through its consortium Consolidated Energy Ltd (CEL). This is the view of the lawyers for the German company in an opinion prepared for the company, a copy of which was obtained by the T&T Guardian.

In the opinion, the lawyers quoted from a story carried in the T&T Guardian in which Finance Minister Larry Howai was reported to have said the Government had “options” following the ruling of the International Court of Arbitration that CL Financial’s 56.53 per cent shareholding in MHTL has been valued at US$1.175 billion and CL Financial now has to offer the shares for sale for this sum in two

tranches to its minority shareholder, CEL. The lawyers said for Howai and the Central Bank to have any notions that they have options in the matter is to gravely misread their obligations under various treaties and if they refuse to abide by the arbitration, Proman will trigger a number of actions. The legal opinion read: “Given the nature of a partial award and order under ICC rules, a failure of T&T, and specifically the CBTT, to consent to the sale would constitute a violation of the New York Convention, and would most likely be interpreted as such by all ratings agencies and Governments. “It would, if properly played by us, have enormous and immediate impact on foreign investment, debt ratings and country risk for T&T as it is their most important international trade obligation regarding dispute resolution.”

(Excerpt from TT Guardian)

ful” steps toward fairer development.

“Chile will not achieve development while dragging the burden of inequality,” said Bachelet, stressing the need for tax reforms that ensure fiscal sustainability, political reforms that guarantee “every vote will count” and a system that provides free quality education for all.

But global challenges are growing, she noted. Climate change continues to aggravate inequalities because it affects above all the most

vulnerable. That is why world leaders have a “collective duty to act”. To show its unwavering solidarity, Chile, with its fraction of 0.25 per cent of carbon emissions, has pledged to reduce emissions by 20 per cent by 2020.

The international community is faced with a growing number of humanitarian crises that erupted this year, she said, reiterating the need for all to respect the integrity of state borders and the rights of minorities.

(Excerpt from UN News)

Jamaica passes 5th IMF test, to get US$68.8

under agreement

Jamaica can now access roughly US$68.8 million in loan following a successful review of the economy by the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The IMF on Wednesday completed the fifth review of Jamaica’s economic performance under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The announcement was made in a release to the media from

the Finance Ministry.

“Jamaica’s economic performance under the authorities’ economic programme supported by the EFF has remained strong,” the Ministry release said.

“All quantitative performance criteria for end-June 2014, as well as the continuous quantitative programme targets and structural benchmarks, were met,” it continued.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Bishop in Paraguay sacked over abuse cover-up

Pope Francis has sacked a Paraguayan bishop who has been accused of protecting a priest suspected of sexually abusing young parishioners.

The Vatican said that “the Holy Father has decided to replace Monsignor Rogelio Livieres Plano” as Bishop of Ciudad del Este.

It is the second time in a week that Pope Francis has taken disciplinary action over clerical sex abuse scandals in Latin America.

He has promised “zero tolerance”.

Two days ago, the Pope ordered the arrest of a senior Vatican diplomat, Jozef Wesolowski, accused of the sexual abuse of children during a posting to the Dominican Republic.

The Vatican statement only referred to the reasons behind the sacking of the Right Reverend Livieres

Plano as a “painful decision taken for serious pastoral reasons”.

It also said that the move followed a Vatican investigation of the Bishop, the diocese and its seminaries.

The BBC’s David Willey in Rome says that Livieres Plano has been at the centre of a local dispute over the promotion of an Argentine priest accused of inappropriate sexual behaviour.

Our correspondent says that Pope Francis has insisted there be no privileges for Bishops when it comes to sex crimes against children.

Church prosecutors have dealt with some 3500 abuse cases worldwide during the past decade.

Pope Francis has pledged a crackdown on clerics and employees of the Church who exploit minors, comparing their actions to a “satanic mass”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Paraguay boat capsizes killing Brazilian tourists

The bodies of three Brazilian tourists have been retrieved after their boat capsized on the River Paraguay.

Brazilian and Paraguayan officials said that 13 people had managed to swim ashore, but 11 are still missing and presumed dead.

The Paraguayan vessel, Dream of the Pantanal, sank during a heavy storm on the Brazilian border.

Officials said it was carrying 11 Paraguayan crew and 16 Brazilian tourists.

“Four teams comprising a total of 21 firefighters, including 14 divers, have been mobilised,” a Brazilian rescue official told the AFP news agency.

Aldo Saldivar of Paraguay’s National Emergency Secretariat said

the tourists had been on a fishing expedition to the Pantanal.

The area, which stretches across areas of Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia, is one of the world’s largest freshwater wetlands.

The boat sank in a storm on Wednesday afternoon between the towns of Carmelo Peralta in northern Paraguay and Porto Murtinho, in Brazil’s Mato Grosso do Sul state.

Most of the victims came from the same Brazilian town, in Parana state.

They had rented the boat and had spent 10 days together, fishing in the Pantanal area.

The boat capsized less than 48 hours before the planned end of the excursion. (BBC News)

Brazil’s presidential candidates Marina Silva (left) of the Brazilian Socialist Party (PSB) in Sao Paulo, and Dilma Rousseff (right) of the Workers’ Party (PT) in Brasilia

The Right Reverend Rogelio Livieres Plano has been dismissed as Bishop of the diocese of Ciudad del Este

Around the world

French, US planes strike Islamic State; Britain to join coalition

French fighter jets

struck Islamic State targets in Iraq on Thursday, and the United States hit them in Syria, as a US-led coalition to fight the militants gained momentum with an announcement that Britain would join.

The French strikes were a prompt answer to the beheading of a French tourist in Algeria by militants, who said the killing was punishment for Paris’ decision last week to become the first European country to join the US-led bombing campaign.

In the US, FBI Director James Comey said Washington had identified the masked Islamic State militant in videos with a knife at the beheading of two American hostages in recent weeks. Those acts helped galvanise Washington’s bombing campaign. “I’m not going to tell you who I believe it is,” Comey

A still image taken from video provided by the US Central Command shows a damaged building at an Islamic State compound near the northern Syrian town of Ar Raqqah, following an air strike

told reporters. He said he knew the person’s nationality, but declined to give fur-

ther details.

A European Government source familiar with the investigation said the accent indicated the man was from London and likely from a community of immigrants.

US and European officials said the principal investigative work identifying the man was conducted by British Government agencies.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi, in New York to attend a United Nations meeting, said on Thursday he had credible intelligence that Islamic State networks in Iraq were plotting to attack US and French subway trains.

Senior US officials and French security services said they had no evidence of the specific threat cited by Abadi. (Excerpt from Reuters)

India’s Mars orbiter sends first image

India’s space agency has released a blurry image of Mars pockmarked with giant craters, taken by the country’s first interplanetary spacecraft after it began orbiting the red planet.

The image released on Thursday was taken while the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also dubbed “Mangalyaan” was about 7300 kilometres from the planet’s surface, according to the Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO). It took at least 12 minutes for the digital data to reach Earth.

ISRO scientists released the image after first bringing it to New Delhi to show to Prime Minister

the

Narendra Modi, who had spent Wednesday morning witnessing the satellite’s last manoeuvres into orbit from the space agency’s

Cyprus cruise ship's rescued migrants refuse to disembark

Almost 350 people, thought to be Syrian refugees, are refusing to disembark from a cruise ship that rescued them off the coast of Cyprus, officials say.

Salamis Cruise Lines Managing Director Kikis Vassiliou said they were insisting they be taken to Italy instead.

The cruise ship, Salamis Filoxenia, is in the port of Limassol and all those rescued are said to be in good health.

The Cypriot Defence Ministry said 52 children were on the small fishing boat that had sent a distress signal.

“We were supposed to sail at 10:30 tonight (19:30 GMT); unfortunately these people want to negotiate,” Vassiliou, Managing Director of Salamis Cruise Lines, told reporters.

“They want us to send them to Italy.”

“We did our utmost to save their lives, to give them food,

support and now they want to destroy this company,” he added, quoted by AFP news agency, saying the company’s losses as a result of the rescue had run into hundreds of thousands of euros.

The fishing boat was spotted in rough seas 55 nautical miles (100 kilometres) south of the town of Paphos. It was quite a difficult operation,” Vassiliou was earlier quoted as saying by the Cyprus Mail website.

“All the passengers are safe.” Cypriot authorities said they had picked up a radio distress signal as the boat was caught in rough seas.

This year has seen a dramatic increase in the number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean in overcrowded boats – particularly people fleeing the conflict in Syria. The majority have headed for Italy and Malta. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Mars command centre in the southern city of Bangalore.

The scientists tweeted under a special mission profile @MarsOrbiter,

which has gained more than 95,000 followers since being set up on Tuesday.

“The view is nice up here,” the scientists tweeted. Modi responded through his Twitter feed, saying he agreed.

The satellite will spend the next six months on an elliptical orbit – coming as close as 365km and swinging out to 80,000km at its farthest – as it collects scientific data on the Martian atmosphere.

India was enthralled with the mission’s success. Indian newspapers on Thursday ran front-page stories and two-page spreads detailing the mission. (Al Jazeera)

Hamas and Fatah reach accord on unity Cabinet

Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah have reached a partial understanding that should put plans of a unified government back on track, after being hampered by fresh rifts that followed the latest war on Gaza.

Following two-day meetings in Cairo, officials from the rival groups agreed on Thursday that the unity Government, run by President Mahmoud Abbas, would take control of the war-stricken Gaza Strip.

“It was a must to move quickly and to get rid of all kinds of obstacles facing the national consensus Government,” Azzad alAhmed, the head of Fatah delegation, said.

“We discussed the importance of starting the Gaza reconstruction following the 2009, 2012 and 2014 Israeli aggressions against Gaza.”

Abbas’s Palestinian Authority (PA) said in a study recently that the re-

Ebola-hit Sierra Leone city crying for help

Scores of Ebola-infected patients have been seen suffering without medical attention in one of Sierra Leone’s largest cities, as officials report success in fighting the virus following a three-day lockdown.

In the major mining hub of Makeni, Ebola is ripping through, with more than 100 cases reported in the past month alone. The city’s authorities have established three “holding centres” since the first cases were reported in August.

Medical officials say that the hospitals are totally overwhelmed.

“The situation is out of our control,” Dr Osman Mohamad Bah, Director of Makeni Regional Hospital, told Al Jazeera on Monday. “We have seen more than 100-150 cases in the last four weeks.”

He said that 99 per cent of the cases tested from the city with a population of 112,000 had returned positive.

Al Jazeera visited one holding centre on the out-

skirts of Makeni, which lies east of the capital city of Freetown, and where there are currently no Ebola treatment or testing facilities. It was said some 48 patients were inside the facility at an abandoned university compound, crowded in halls with makeshift beds.

During the lockdown that ended this Sunday, a team of 30,000 health workers went door-to-door across the country to find and isolate cases of the deadly virus, in an unprecedented Government-imposed quarantine measure which it hailed as “largely successful”.

“The exercise has been largely successful... The outreach was just overwhelming. There was massive awareness of the disease,” Stephen Gaojia, head of the Ebola Emergency Operations Centre, told Reuters news agency on Monday.

Gaojia noted that authorities reached more than 80 per cent of the targeted households. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

UN climate summit: China pledges emissions action

Cconstruction work would cost US$7.8 billion, two and a half times Gaza’s Gross Domestic Product, including US$2.5 billion for the reconstruction of homes and US$250 million for energy.

Al Jazeera’s Charles Stratford, reporting from Gaza, said that the security aspect of that agreement remained the toughest.

“We have heard these pledges before and Hamas had previously told the PA that they are ready to receive security forces to police over the region, and that they’re willing to give up the borders,” our correspondent explained, adding that these forces never arrived, and that the PA has accused Hamas of delaying the process.

“The unity Government was hindered by rifts since the ceasefire began, which would’ve potentially threatened the indirect talks with Israel, and eventually the reconstruction of Gaza.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

hina has pledged for the first time to take firm action on climate change, telling a United Nations summit that its emissions, the world’s highest, would soon peak.

Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli also said China would make its economy much more carbon efficient by 2020.

US President Barack Obama said climate change was moving faster than efforts to address it, and the US and China had a responsibility to lead other nations.

The summit was the largest high-level climate meeting since 2009.

Hosted by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, it aimed to encourage 120 member states to sign up to a comprehensive new global climate agreement at talks in Paris next year.

As he closed the summit, Ban hailed the meeting, saying “never before have so many leaders gathered to commit to action on climate change”.

The UN has previously warned that the impacts of global warming are likely to be “severe, pervasive and irreversible”, leading to problems such as sea level rises, greater flood risks and changes to crop yields.

Zhang told the summit that by 2020, China would aim to reduce its emissions of carbon per unit of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 45 per cent, compared with levels in 2005.

He said China wanted to have emissions peak “as early as possible”.

“As a responsible major country, a major developing country, China will make even greater effort to address climate change,” Zhang said.

“All countries need to follow the path of green and low-carbon development that suits their national conditions, [and] set forth post2020 actions in light of actual circumstances.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Some of

scientists responsible for the successful mission

Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli said China would aim to cap emissions or have them peak “as early as possible”

Number 63 Beach will come alive on Sunday, October 12 when the fourth annual Digicel Duck Curry competition is held, which will see winners walk ing away with over $700,000 in cash and oth er prizes. The defending champions, Bombay Masala will be coming full force to retain the title.

The first 20 groups to register will be part of the competition on the day of the event. These include persons from across the coun try, including Berbice and Demerara.

Persons wishing to participate in the competition must bring a minimum of 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds) of duck meat. All participants are allowed to clean and cut their ducks at home, but the meat must be marinated and cooked at the venue. Participants must also bring their cooking

utensils and ingredients. A ready-to-use stove will be provided by the promoters. Registration forms can be uplifted at Digicel stores in New Amsterdam, Rose Hall and Corriverton, Vreed-

in chutney music. These include Trinidad’s singing sensations Adesh Samaroo and Sally Sagram. A local artiste is also expected to perform. They will be backed by Crown Vibes Sounds out of Berbice.

Make sure to come and be ready to party to the vibes and have an entire day filled with fun and laughter. There will also be a num ber of games and activities for children, includ ing bouncy castle, trampoline, merry-go-round and face painting.

There will also be novelty events such as lime and spoon races, a bun eating completion, and a sack race where participants can win fabulous prizes.

Music will be provided by Crown Vibes International. The event is spon sored by Stag, Indi Curry, Sol Gas and Digicel. Admission is absolutely free.

The Caribbean’s hottest crossover band Karma, featuring Nisha B, Ravi B and Gregory, is already booked to perform in Guyana on October 4 at the grand reopening of the Princess Hotel Pool, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

All the merrier, patrons will be in for a treat since the siblings will be celebrating their birthday, here in Guyana for the first time. The band last performed here at the Everest Sports Club Ground at Pulse Entertainment’s Cooler

Fete, and it was “mad vibes”. Believe it or not, come October 4 at the Princess Hotel, it will be even crazier. Known for their energetic and versatile performances, the party is expected to be off the hook. Patrons will party the night away with the best in Soca, Chutney, Reggae, Dancehall and some Hip hop. The group has been creating a buzz wherever it performs, leaving patrons well-satisfied.

Come October 4, be prepared to have an unforgettable night with fun and entertainment at its best. General

admission to the event cost $3000 while VIP tickets cost $5000. Tickets will be available at the Princess Hotel Front Desk and Princess Casino.

The event is sponsored by Princess Hotel, Fun City, Princess Movie Theatre and Club Next. Gates open at 20:00h. The DJs will heat up the dance floor with their excellent selection of music and at the right time, the band will make its grand appearance.

Be sure not to miss out on this one… it will be maddddd…

In a few hours, Gravity Lounge is expected to be packed to capacity when Jamaican’s most acclaimed female DJ, SPICE, performs live. All security arrangements are in place and the stage is being constructed for what is likely to be one of the most provocative performances of all times.

Closed doors, lights, music and patrons –then it’ll indeed a party that you don’t want to miss. Spice has arrived in Guyana and will be making her rounds around the city to meet and greet her fans. She is also ex pected to make several radio and television appearances.

Spice like no other knows how to spice up the party. Known for her sassy presen tations, she will not let her fans down. The talented female artiste will undoubtedly set the place on fire.

She has just wrapped up recording three singles “I’m Back” on the North Coast Rhythm for House of Vibes; “Done Out” on Dem Rhythm for Ward 21 and “Inna Di Light” on the Gear Box Rhythm for Truck Back. There is no doubt – she is back and she in tends to keep a command ing presence on the scene.

Early bird tickets for the event cost $2000 and are available at Gravity Lounge and Electronic City, Sheriff Street. Those without tickets will pay more at the gate. Lighting and sounds will be

provided by Gravity Lounge. Also coming in October at the said nightspot is Trinidad’s soca queen, Destra. Stay tuned to Guyana Times Entertainment for an update on the happenings going down…

Jamaica’s hottest dancehall female artiste, Samantha J will be creating some stir this Saturday evening as she is listed as the headlining act for a theme party called “Sahara” at Palm Court, Main Street, Georgetown.

This young artiste is signed to Columbia Records and is known for her 2013 hit “Tight Skirt”, which has featured on international charts. In 2013, she was honoured by the Youth View Awards as the Favourite Breakout Artiste of 2013 and was also nominated for the Young, Hot and Hype Female Artiste of the Year award.

Samantha J was originally discovered by The Si Mi Yah Agency during a model and talent casting in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, days shy of her 18th birthday. The versatile recording artiste and model blends an innocent, melodic, yet edgy vocal style – overlaying patois over Pop, Dancehall, and Reggae music.

Growing up, Samantha’s talent was evident early on –singing, modelling and dancing by the time she was eight years old, and her family helped to develop and influence her musical gifts. She has been impacted by artistes like Justin Bieber, Alaine, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, Konshens, and Michael Jackson, whose influence helped to shape her own style – described as a unique blend of Island Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B, Reggae, and Dancehall.

Samantha delivered beyond expectations on “Tight Skirt” — a vibrant, catchy, musically diverse track produced by Conroy Forte of Washroom Entertainment.

She said, “When people listen to my music, I want them to feel a connection – feel uplifted by my music and art.”

It’s unmistakable that there’s something very special brewing. Samantha J’s the complete package – youth, beauty, courage, originality, and star-power, all combined for a rare fusion that is sure to ignite and blaze a whole new trail from Jamaica to the world.

Tickets for the event on Saturday evening cost $3000 and are available at Palm Court. Show time is 21:00h.

In less than 48 hours, the Buddy’s Night Club on Sheriff Street will burst its seams with popular personalities ranging from DJs and selectors to beauty queens, VIP guests and artistes, as WR Reaz, the “Party Boss”, celebrates his birthday.

He is touching 50 and believe it or not, he has planned one of the most hyped parties this Saturday to celebrate the milestone. Yes, the birthday cake has been ordered and the drinks are already in coolers; his fans are urged to come out and have a blast.

He has contracted several artistes to celebrate with him and his well-wishers. The headlining act is none other than Nishard M from the JMC 3Veni Band out of Trinidad and Tobago. He will be joined by Guyana’s own Prince JP, and creating a whirlwind on the console will be Selector Andy.

Among the guests who will be making an appearance are DJ Pink Socks out of Trinidad and Miss Earth Stacy Ramcharran. In addition, another popular DJ out of Trinidad is expected to make an appearance.

Prince JP

Nishard

Renowned Jamaican Reggae Singer Glen Washington is in Guyana ahead of the “Walk Down Memory Lane” Concert, which is billed for Saturday, at Thirst Park Ground, and promises to deliver a breathtaking performance.

He was at the time speaking at a press conference organised by Gladiator Sports Inc at the Princess Hotel on Thursday afternoon.

The artiste, who is in the same iconic category as Beres Hammond in the music industry, said that he will be performing for at least 90 minutes, dishing out hit after hit after hit from yesteryear to present day. Washington said that he was surprised that Guyanese were not up to scratch on his new releases which add up to about 33 albums. To remedy that lack, he promised that through his promoter, Desmond Grenardo, he will dispatch compact discs to the various radio and television stations.

pleased to be associated with the show and also encouraged fans to attend.

He then encouraged his fans to come out on Saturday evening and have a blast with him.

He will be sharing the stage with Guyanese singer Aubrey Mann who himself has several hits from yesteryear. The concert will be one that will attract the older folks who love the old vibes. Tickets sales have been slow, but the promoters are hoping that they will pick up momentum once the public knows that the headlining artiste is in Guyana.

The artiste is expected to make appearances at the Plaisance Line Top, White Castle Fish Shop, Palm Court and several radio and television programmes.

While Washington is here, Mann is expected to arrive today.

One of the major sponsors for the show is Fly Jamaica which reiterated its commitment to supporting clean, family-oriented entertainment.

The representative present at the press conference, Wesley Tucker, posited that his company was

General admission tickets to “A Walk Down Memory Lane” cost $3000 and for those who prefer the VIP treatment, they will pay $10,000. These tickets are available at Ashmins, High Street; M&M Snackette, Demerara Harbour Bridge; Matt’s Record Bar, Regent Street; Candy Shop, New Amsterdam; King Jewellery World, Quamina Street; and White Castle Fish Shop, Hadfield Street.

Music will be provided by Mingles Sound Machine, DJ Ricky, DJ Ryan and the emcee for the evening is the Godfather of Entertainment.

Good Fellas Entertainment invites you to experience “BLISS” this Saturday at Club Monaco. Good Fellas is a new upcoming entertainment group that promises to bring you a higher level of events in Guyana.

This event will be like no other in an impressive club atmosphere, with three bars for your convenience, secure parking and an outdoor lounge area.

Enjoy pure delight with all the latest hits by the Boom DJs and a guest DJ. Party hard with

The cast of the satirical production “Nothing to Laugh About 7” will be in Berbice this weekend for two big shows. The first is on Saturday at the Rose Hall Ground which is expected to draw a large audience. On Sunday, the show will be held at the New Amsterdam Technical Institute Building.

This is the second week and series of performances for the show in the Ancient County. Performances of the rib-tickling, belly-busting comedic production were done in Skeldon and Bath Settlement last weekend.

Trevon Fenty, a contender in the Mr Guyana International Competition, was born on June 17, 1995 to Mary Bynoe and Trevor Fenty. Fenty is a former student of St Mary’s High School and is often described as an outgoing and spontaneous person.

Today all Fenty does is work hard towards accomplishing all of the things he has set out to do. He would like to some day be a famous chef and even establish his own business.

The talented young man enjoys socialising with people and being actively involved in many voluntary groups. He has a love of giving, believing that the more you give, the more you receive. He also enjoys dancing, listening to music, and singing.

He believes happiness will be nothing without the people he loves, and revealed that he hasn’t had the best of experiences in his 19 years of life in relation to living arrangements within a “normal” family household. He has moved from one parent to the other with siblings, to foster homes, to being with his stepmother, who once told him that people would only be nice to him for a while which proved to be true.

In spite of this all, his family and friends are very important to him. His mother portrays strength and independence in everything she does – qualities he aims to emulate. Mary Fenty is a big influence in his life.

Tickets for the show cost

adults and $200 for children.

bottle specials on Johnny Walker and Hennessey all night and win ticket giveaways for Good Fellas’ next event.

Ladies will be admitted free before 23:00h. General admission is $2000 and Elevated VIP is $3000.

This event is sponsored by Pieces and Things, August Beverages, and Wings Car Rental. Follow the light in the sky to Club Monaco to experience BLISS this Saturday. Remember what happens in Monaco stays in Monaco.

He is taking on the Mr Guyana International Competition to be a better person, hoping that the pageant experience and opportunity to win the crown will make him a positive role model to the male youths in this nation of Guyana.

Fenty, who stressed that his morals, thoughts, opinions, values, and freedom, are vital to him, wants to have moments when a child will come and tug at his shirt and make the declaration, “I look up to you. You’re my role model and inspiration.”

This, he says, will bring him some sort of fulfilment and happiness in life as he would be able to smile and say with confidence

that he has accomplished something – being known for something he did to make the world a better place.

Fenty’s platform for this competition is “Child Abuse.” He wants to provide shelters and create groups for youths who were sexually molested. He stated that this is a task he must complete in his lifetime, with or without a crown. He wants to help them, teach them and inspire them. Sharing our stories with each other is bound to bring greater understanding among ourselves and progression. He intends to learn from them and share experiences.

He knows that success is achieved through discipline and hard work, which is a principle he has and will always live by. Fenty has taken this principle, along with faith, on this journey and hopes to be victorious by doing his best in every task.

The stage show is directed by veteran comedian Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones, and produced by Maria Benschop. It features seasoned comedians including Henry Rodney, Leza “Radika” Singh, Michael Ignatius, Clemencio Goddette, Mark Kazim, Kerwyn Mars, Chris Gopaul, Simone Persaud, Leon Cummings, Gerard Gilkes, Zoya Moore, Ryan Benschop, Shantel Mc Lean, Colin Barker and several young actors who are making their name in the theatrical arena.

$1000 for

Glen Washington

Aubrey Mann

Glowing tribute paid to ‘Master Blaster’

Glowing tribute has been paid to cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, one of the most destructive batsmen of a dominant era for West Indies.

Some of the most decorated names of West Indian cricket’s golden era joined in the special tributes to Richards during a dinner at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

They included former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd and former team mates Andy Roberts, Joel Garner, Gordon Greenidge and Colin Croft.

“It's not often I'm moved but this has been a truly special evening and something I won't forget for a very, very

long time,” said Sir Viv.

“I'd like to thank everyone who has come here tonight and all the speakers for their incredibly kind words."

Former England internationals Derek Underwood, David Gower, Mike Gatting, Geoff Miller as well as broadcast legends Tony Cozier and Sir Trevor McDonald joined in paying tribute to Richards known as the ‘Master Blaster’.

Tributes were also played on video screens from Michael Holding, Bob Willis, Alan Lamb and Ian Botham, Richards’ closest friend in the game and godfather to his son.

“Tonight at Lord’s, a very

special place for Viv, he was honoured in front of 550 fans, friends and former colleagues,” said Paul Robin, Chief Executive of the Lord’s Taverners.

“If he didn’t realise how special a player and human being he is, then he should after the event! It was a fun night for all and in raising funds for two good causes, we are supporting work both here and in Antigua that is close to Viv’s heart.”

The dinner raised nearly £100,000 for the United Kingdom’s leading youth cricket and disability sports charity, the Lord’s Taverners, and the St John’s Anglican Cathedral Restoration Project in Antigua.

Samuels aims to unleash "full potential"

West Indies batsman Marlon

Samuels is expressing pleasure at being recalled to the regional outfit.

The 33-year-old, who was dropped from the team in June, was on Tuesday recalled by the new Clive Lloyd-led West Indies selection panel for the team's upcoming tour of India.

"It's always a wonderful feeling to wear the maroon and gold (colours) of the West Indies," said Samuels.

"The journey continues and my story continues and, going forward, the intention is to go out there and put in the work."

Samuels, the 2012 Wisden Cricketer-of-theYear, was dropped from the West Indies Test team after scoring a double 'ducks' (0,0) during the first Test against New Zealand at Sabina Park.

This followed a series of low Test, and to a lesser extent, one-day international scores on tours of India and New Zealand late last year.

He hit a century against Pakistan and two half-centuries in the one-day international series leading up

Marlon Samuels: "I still believe I haven't shown my full potential as yet. I had some good seasons consistently, but there is a lot to come. Brian Lara's world record, for example, is still on my mind."

to his omission. "I saw it (exclusion) as an opportunity for me to go back and reflect on my life

and my talent, while at the same time putting in some hard work," he remarked.

"I have also had a few in-

juries so I took the time to recover. But I am fit again and I am back and hopefully I will be able to continue the good work I have done in the past."

Samuels, who is set to play a lead role in the team, especially given the absence of Chris Gayle who is still injured, also expressed that he hopes to make a solid impression on his return.

"I am looking at staying on another two or three years to go hard and set the record straight with my talent," he said.

"I still believe I haven't shown my full potential as yet. I had some good seasons consistently, but there is a lot to come. Brian Lara's world record, for example, is still on my mind."

Samuels currently averages 34.68 from 52 Tests and 31.35 from 159 one-day internationals.

The West Indies are down to contest five onedayers while in India, with the first set for October 8.

They will then face the hosts in a solitary Twenty20 international before rounding off the tour with three Test matches. (windiescricket)

D'Andrade and Johnson dominate in TT road races

Overseas based Guyanese Lionel D’Andrade and Kelvin Johnson continue to dominate in Trinidad and Tobago (TT)nby taking the top spots in two 5k races on Sunday.

D’Andrade was in good form, taking the Vital Corner 5k road race, while Johnson finished second.

However, later that very afternoon, from 16:00h, the duo switched places, with Johnson taking the top spot

in 15:55s while D’Andrade was second in 16:16s. Sherwyn Stapleton of TT was 3rd in 16:26.

D’ Andrade in comments highlighted his busy schedule. "I am taking a rest for the upcoming October road races. I am still doing a lot of speed work and mileage. A lot of upcoming races so I have plenty training to do," he said.

The first road race is the Palo Seco 5k scheduled for October 5 in Trinidad.

Busy weekend for Berbice cricketers

First Division cricketers in the Ancient County of Berbice are in for a busy weekend as several matches in two different competitions are slated for the two days.

On Saturday, the Carib Beer 20/20 cricket competition sponsored by Ansa McAl Trading and organised by the Berbice Cricket Board will get underway on Saturday with five first round matches.

The competition will be played on a round-robin basis in three zones, namely West Berbice, Canje/New Amsterdam/East Bank and Corentyne. After the preliminary rounds, the top two teams from each zone will advance to the play-offs.

In the West Berbice zone, Blairmont Community Centre will take on West Berbice at Blairmont and Bush Lot Rising Star will tackle D’Edward at Bush Lot, while in the Canje/ New Amsterdam/East Bank

zone, Young Warriors are down to play Universal Solutions Bermine at Cumberland and Edinburgh will have home advantage against Police.

In the Corentyne zone, Port Mourant will trade skills with Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets at Port Mourant, while the boys from Skeldon have drawn the bye. All matches are scheduled to start at 13:30 hours.

Also on Saturday, there will be the Albion versus Guytrac Upper Corentyne second round game of the Berbice Bridge Company 50-over knockout competition at Albion. This match was rescheduled from last Sunday.

The winner from that game will move forward to play hosts Port Mourant in the second semi-final of the competition, while Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets will face Universal Solutions Bermine at Albion.

Sir Vivian Richards

Lionel D’ Andrade (right) and Kelvin Johnson after the races

Dottin stars with bat and ball as West Indies level series against New Zealand

West Indies Women leveled the series after an impressive all round performance from Deandra Dottin powered them to a seven wicket win over New Zealand Women in the second T20 International at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex here on Thursday.

Dottin grabbed three wickets to upset New Zealand’s batting moment and returned to smash an unbeaten 40 to lead her side to victory and leveling the three-match series following Tuesday’s crushing defeat.

Dottin combined with Shemaine Campbelle in a

SCOREBOARD

New Zealand Women Innings (20 overs maximum)

SW Bates* run out (Selman) 29

RH Priest† b Dottin 31

SFM Devine b Dottin 8

SJ McGlashan lbw b Dottin 2

KT Perkins not out 9

AE Satterthwaite c †Aguilleira

b Selman 1

ML Green not out 13

Extras: (b 1, lb 3, w 4) 8

Total: (5 wickets; 20 overs) 101

Did not bat:FC LeydonDavis, MJG Nielsen, HR Huddleston, GA Guy

Fall of wickets: 1-50 (Bates, 8.1 ov), 2-65 (Devine, 11.3 ov), 3-70 (McGlashan, 13.5 ov), 4-75 (Priest, 15.1 ov), 5-78 (Satterthwaite, 16.2 ov)

Bowling:SS Connell 2-0-19-0, SF Daley 4-0-16-0, SL Quintyne

2-0-13-0, A Mohammed

4-0-26-0, SC Selman 4-0-

14-1, DJS Dottin 4-1-9-3 West Indies Women Innings (target: 102 runs from 20 overs)

Kycia A Knight b Huddleston 5 SR Taylor c Bates b Nielsen 5

DJS Dottin not out 40

B Cooper c Huddleston b Devine 12 SA Campbelle not out 29

Extras: (b 2, lb 2, w 5, nb 2) 11

Total:(3 wickets; 17.1 overs)102

Did not bat: SF Daley, MR Aguilleira*†, SL Quintyne, A Mohammed, SC Selman, SS Connell

Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Kycia A Knight, 1.2 ov), 2-12 (Taylor, 2.6 ov), 3-44 (Cooper, 7.2 ov)

Bowling: MJG Nielsen 4-0-201, HR Huddleston 2-0-11-1 , SFM Devine 3-0-24-1, SW Bates

1.1-0-5-0, GA Guy 3-0-15-0, FC Leydon-Davis 4-0-23-0

Deandra Dottin lines up a pull shot

half century stand as West Indies coasted to 102 for three in 17.1 overs after New Zealand, who lost the toss and were asked to bat, totaled 101 for five in 20 overs. The Barbadian allrounder wrecked havoc after a half century stand from openers Rachel Priest and Suzie Bates threatened to take the game away from the homeside.

The New Zealand collapse began when Bates who struck five fours in her knock of 29 was run out by Shakera Selman because she was backing up to far.

Dottin destroyed the top order bowling Sophie Devine for eight, trapping Sara McGlashan lbw for two and capturing the scalp of Rachel Priest for 31.

continues on page 21

as

The East Bank Football Association (EBFA) in association with the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport (MCY&S) will on Saturday kick off an Under-13 tournament scheduled for the Farm Community Centre ground, East Bank Demerara.

To date, five teams have confirmed their participation in the tournament which will see trophies and medals being awarded to the top three teams. Fourth place will also receive a trophy, as will the tournament’s highest goal scorer, best goalkeeper and most

valuable player.

in

The competing clubs are Soesdyke Falcons, Kuru Kururu Warriors, Agricola Red Triangle, Grove Hi Tech and Herstelling Raiders.

On Wednesday, Herstelling Assistant Coach Paul Sookram and his charges were seen getting the ground in shape for the tournament. Sookram said that they are excited to have the EBFA and the MCY&S host a tournament at the venue, which he said they are happy to accommodate.

“We have been trying our best at the Herstelling Raiders FC to keep our

8 clubs in Pomeroon receive balls for cricket development

... Nobert Alphonso and Hassan Rahim Memorial T20 Cricket Competition launched

The Pomeroon Sports Committee donated balls to eight cricket clubs on the Upper and Lower Pomeroon on September 22 at Xenon Hotel Boardroom in Charity.

These balls were purchased for the clubs, using the $50,000 the Pomeroon Area Committee received from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) in July this year. The GCB started a countrywide outreach programme, donating money and necessary materials to the various regions in an effort to develop cricket.

Each of the eight Area Committees in Essequibo received $50,000. Similar donations were also made in Berbice and Linden.

The clubs that received balls from the Upper Pomeroon area were Eagle Sports Club, Rising Sun Sports Club and Jacklow Sports Club. From the Lower Pomerron area, there were Pomeroon Oil Mill from Charity, Tenneze Ferme Sports Club, Friendship Sports club, Super Kings Friendship Sports Club and

Scorpion Sports Club. The distribution was made at the Pomeroon Sports Committee Executive Meeting where the Nobert Alphonso and Hassan Rahim Memorial

T20 Cricket Competition was officially launched. The eight clubs that received the balls would be competing in this competition which will commence on September 28.

Key Shop sponsors Thomas, Mckenzie ahead of Courts 10k

Two athletes from the Running Brave Athletics Club were sponsored by the Key Shop on Thursday in an effort to boost their performances for upcoming road races.

up

youths active in the sport of football and they have been doing us proud. We finished second on the just concluded Cult Under-17 League; we also did well in the Trophy Stall Under-15 League earlier this year and we are competitive in the Stag Beer Division One League,” he explained.

Sookram expressed gratitude to the Chairman and members of the Herstelling/ Farm/Little Diamond Neighborhood Democratic Council for the support they have given so far to make the hosting of the competition a reality.

Long distance star Cleveland Thomas and budding junior athlete Matthew McKenzie were the recipients of the sponsorship.

Carey Griffith of Wind Jammer who was in partner with Quincy Ridley of the Key Shop gave the main reason behind the sponsorship.

“We decided to assist with different supplements in light o the upcoming road races. We know Cleveland Forde is Guyana’s best, but I think Cleveland Thomas is going to be a threat, and Matthew McKenzie is going to doing well in the junior category,” Griffith stated at the handing over ceremony.

In addition, the sponsorship will be geared exclusively to the athletes performing in road races, “It is mostly for the road races. In addition to the Courts 10k, there is also the Guyanese leg of the South American 10k. So it’s mostly for road races and we are going to be onboard with these two guys,” Griffith highlighted.

Thomas, a recognized face in 10k events in Guyana was happy for the kind gesture shown by the Key Shop.

“We would just like to say thank you. It’s a timely gesture and we really appreciate it. This will help with our success and anybody else who wants to come onboard isfree to do so,” he stated.

Thomas, who noted that Forde is beatable, shared that while he will be putting his best foot forward, preparing for 10k events

and other general preparations are costly.

“The winning prizes can’t supplement. There isn’t a 10k every month and it’s pretty costly to prepare. I hardly take time off and you have supplements, transportation and gear, which are costly. I can’t put a figure to it but it is,” Thomas said.

When it comes to running (against) Forde, Thomas stressed, “I will go out there and put my best foot forward. I and my coach have been working over the past three weeks. There is no doubt Forde is dominant, but he is not unbeatable. He bleeds the same blood as I do,” said Thomas . Ridley said he was proud to be associated with both athletes and wished them the best of luck. He said he is looking forward to their performances on Sunday at the Courts 10k.

Secretary of Pomeroon Sports Committee Verna D’Aguiar handing over a box of balls to Captain of Eagles Sports Club Kenneth DeGrella

From left: Quincy Ridley, Matthew McKenzie, Cleveland Thomas and Carey Griffith during the handing over

Coach Paul Sookram supervises his charges

they assist

cleaning

of grass at the Farm ground

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cairns charged with perjury

Chris Cairns, the former New Zealand all-rounder, has been formally charged with perjury. Cairns attended a North London police station on Thursday to hear the charge, which carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison.

Andrew Fitch-Holland, a London barrister, from Saffron Walden in Essex, who gave evidence in the libel case against Lalit Modi from which the charge emanates, has also been charged with one count of perverting the course of justice.

Cairns, who flew from New Zealand to receive the charge, is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates on October 2 for an initial hearing at which he will enter a plea. The full hearing, which will be heard in the Courts of Justice in London, is not expected to be heard until at least May 2015.

Cairns will be able to

return to New Zealand on the undertaking that he returns to the UK for the full hearing next year. He will also be eligible for legal aid.

In a separate develop-

ment, lawyers representing Modi have begun civil proceedings against Cairns to recover £90,000 paid in damages and costs following the libel case in 2012.

A previous statement from the Crown Prosecution Service statement said: "We can confirm that we have authorised police to charge Chris Cairns with one count of perjury, which arises from a libel trial held in the UK in March 2012.

"We have also authorised police to charge Andrew Fitch-Holland with one count of perverting the course of justice, which arises from actions taken relating to the same trial. Both suspects will be formally charged by police in due course."

Metropolitan Police stated that a 33-year-old woman and 36-year-old man also arrested as part of the investigation have now been released and that no further action will be taken. (Cricinfo)

Gyan denies "ritual sacrifice" of Ghana rapper Castro

Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan says claims that he killed his friend and Ghanaian rapper Castro as part of a ritual sacrifice are "wild and absurd".

Afrobeats artist Castro, whose real name is Theophilus Tagoe, went missing, along with friend Janet Bandu, in July.

They disappeared while using jet skis on holiday with former Sunderland striker Gyan's family in the Ghanaian coastal town of Ada.

Allegations in Ghana's media suggested the disappearance was suspicious.

Castro and Bandu were last seen heading towards the ocean on a jet ski and were presumed drowned.

No bodies were recovered and rumours continued to circulate this month when Gyan's brother, Baffour Gyan, was alleged to have been part of a gang which attacked a journalist who had asked the player about the rumours. The assault charges on Baffour Gyan have now been dropped.

The speculation prompted 28-year-old Gyan, who joined United Arab Emirates side Al-Ain in 2011, to hold a press conference.

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His lawyer Kissi Agyabeng said the family had been "dismayed" and had remained silent until now as they did not want to interfere with police investigations.

The statement read: "What sells in the media, and what indeed sold and is still selling in the media in Ghana are wild allegations and rumours directed especially at Asamoah Gyanranging from the absurd - of the imputation of criminality to him in the sense that he either murdered Castro or had him kidnapped - and ending with the ludicrousthat he sacrificed him spiritually to enhance his career.

"We have been silent while these wild allegations and rumours have been peddled in the media.

"We have been silent not because we are concealing anything or that we do not feel the need to fully state what, from our reckoning, had happened in Ada. We have been silent because we did not want to interfere with police investigations and recently the leveling of assault charges against Baffour Gyan and Samuel Anim Addo, sealed our mouths further.

"Now, we can come out openly because the police have stated their position and the assault charges against Baffour Gyan and Samuel Anim Addo have been dropped and they have been discharged. We will revisit this matter.

"In our painful silence, we have been totally dismayed by the fact that the platform was provided for the peddling of these wild and ludicrous allegations and rumours against us.

"Those to whom the platform was provided offered no evidence whatsoever to back their statements. And indeed, the allegation of spiritual sacrifice can by no stretch of the imagination be propped up."

(BBC Sport)

Dottin stars with bat and ball...

five as well.

from page 20

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Priest hit three fours and faced 39 balls in her 62 minute occupation of the crease before she was caught behind.

A poor start by the West Indies saw them slumping to 12 for two after Kycia Knight was caught at the wicket for five and Stafanie Taylor mistimed a drive to mid-off when she was on

But Dottin and Campbelle pulled West Indies around with a 59 run third wicket partnership which repaired the damage and kept the homeside in the running for a series victory.

Dottin’s undefeated top score of 40 came in 42 balls and included three fours

while Campbelle scored a four and a six on her way to an unbeaten 29. Dottin was named player-of-the-match.

The come-back win by West Indies to level the series one all now sets the stage for an explosive third and deciding fixture on Saturday at the same venue.

Chris Cairns, pictured at the High Court in London in 2012

Asamoah Gyan

Guytrac 20/20 final ends in exciting tie

By Andrew Carmichael

The highly anticipated final of the Guytrac 20/20 knockout competition for teams on the Upper Corentyne between Number 64 Fighting Marines and Skeldon Cricket Club ended in a tie last weekend.

Number 64 Fighting Marines failed to get the two runs needed off the final delivery to win the game, which was played at the Crabwood Creek ground. Set 175 to win off 20 overs, Fighting Marines finished on 174-7 when the overs ran out.

Devendra Budhoo batted through the innings and was on 57, facing the last over bowled by Robert Moore, who delivered two dot balls to him and then had him caught at slip off the third.

Devendra Balram then replaced him and took one

ed the run out to formalise the result.

After the match failed to bring about a winner, organisers agreed to officially call it a tie, as it was too dark to play a Super Over.

Earlier, Budhoo and Emanuel Davidson had moved the score from 33-1 in the third over to 105 by the 10th before Davidson departed for 49 (4x6s, 3x4s).

With the overs slipping away and the score at 1163 after 15 overs, Steven Embrack hit Moore for three sixes and a four before giving away his wicket in the same over. He made 32. Deon Esan was the pick of the bowlers for Skeldon with 3-19 off three overs.

Batting first, Skeldon had chalked up 174 all out in 18.2 overs. Sherwin Murray hit 57 (6x6s, 3x4s) and he

off his first ball, but when Ramzan Subhan did not score off the next ball, two were needed off the final delivery. Subhan pushed the ball up the pitch and attempt a single, but Moore collected the ball and effect-

received good support from Rabindra Singh, who made 31 (2x6s, 1x4). Embrack grabbed 4-18 off three overs bowling for the Fighting Marines, while Subhah took

2-36 off four.

In the elimination game between Skeldon and Number 69 Red Rose, Skeldon came out on top with a 69-run victory.

Batting first, Skeldon ammassed 240-6 off their 20 overs, with Murray in devastating form, striking 82 not

out (10x6s, 4x4s) and Junior Blair making 50 (7x6s).

In reply, Number 69 Red Rose were bundled out for 171 with T Persaud scoring a game-high 97 (9x6s, 7x4s). Blair returned with the ball to take 2-21 off four overs, while Moore grabbed 4-38 off four overs. Parmanand Narine claimed 2-25.

Meanwhile, Embrack was named Man-of-theMatch in the final following his four-wicket haul and brisk 32 with the bat. The competition was organised by the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association and Was sponsored by Guytrac, a dealer in heavy duty machinery.

New anti-drugs unit would "restore faith" in cycling – Cookson

Anew independent anti-drugs body could be created to "restore faith" in professional cycling.

The International Cycling Union (UCI) has announced plans to create an Anti-Doping Tribunal to deal with all cyclists who fail drug tests.

It follows a series of doping offences in the sport, involving riders such as Lance Armstrong and Alberto Contador .

The tribunal would be one central body to deal with all drug offences and should be ready to operate in 2015.

UCI President Brian

Cookson said: "We have made decisions that demonstrate the progress we are making."

The establishment of an Anti-Doping Tribunal was proposed at a two-day UCI summit in Spain. Made up of judges specialised in the anti-doping field, the Tribunal would be independent of the UCI. Cookson, elected UCI president last September, added: "It shows the direction we are heading in and while there is still much to do, we are beginning to see the benefits of our efforts to restore trust in the UCI." (BBC Sport)

Developmental Xi struggle...

Trailing the Developmental XI first innings by 20 runs, Demerara, resuming at its overnight 134-3, reached 233-3 at lunch courtesy of an unbroken fourth-wicket partnership of 119 between the overnight batsmen.

Both Singh, who resumed on six, and Khan, had been circumspect at the start of the day’s play, but as the morning progressed runs were easy to come by, and Demerara pushed on to extend their advantage.

Despite a dropped chance when Jacobs induced a regulation nick from Singh, put down by wicket keeper Savory when he was on 12, the two batsmen batted with a lot of determination and were largely untroubled as they batted throughout the session.

Khan started to bat with positive intent and brought up his half-century off 102 balls, while Singh picked his battles shrewdly.

start as they lost Hetmyer, leg before wicket to Moriah before Chanderpaul and Latchya were dismissed by Moriah’s new ball partner Wintz.

Barnwell then accounted for Hemraj before further misery was compounded when Wintz bowled Jacobs.

The Developmental XI urgently needed to take the heat out of the game and Paul and Savory effectively did so until the evening session came to an end.

Meanwhile, in the other second round game played at the Demerara Cricket Club ground, Berbice trashed Essequibo by nine wickets.

Resuming at 130-3, trailing Essequibo first innings total by 42 runs, Berbice were eventually bowled out for 273, a lead on 100 runs.

Overnight batsmen Narsingh Deonarine fell for 93 while Jonathan Foo is took his overnight 14 to 33. Romario Shepherd-DeJonge supported with 25.

At the interval Khan was unbeaten on 63, while the diminutive Singh was two short of his half-century.

Singh raised his fifth soon after the interval, but Jacobs made the crucial breakthrough when the right-hander prodded a turning delivery straight to Hetmyer at bat pad for 56.

Nine runs later, Jacobs claimed the wicket of Barnwell (4), before Kemo Paul (1-56) removed Zaheer Mohamed (0).

Joseph Perry (14) was trapped leg before by Steven Sankar, but Khan gradually grew in confidence.

At tea, Khan had moved smoothly to 98, with Paul Wintz in support on nine.

Khan reached his milestone with a trademark cut to the ropes before Wintz (10) was sent back to the pavilion by part-time spinner Hemraj (1-19).

Sankar and Jacobs then wrapped up the innings, removing Khan and Gavin Moriah. All told Khan was at the crease for 306 minutes, faced 257 balls and struck 10 fours and one six.

The GCB Developmental XI got off to a disastrous

Heimchand Persaud (325), Anthony Adams (246), Royan Fredricks (267), Ricrado Adams (2-46) and Mark Tryll (1-28) were the successful bowlers for Essequibo.

Batting a second time, Essequibo line-up had no answers to the guile and deception of the Berbice spinners as they were bowled out for a meagre 166.

Losing wickets frequently, Essequibo innings never really looked set to take off and stuttered and stumbled all the way through.

Spinners Gudekash Motie (6-34) and Narsingh Deonarine (3-39), shared nine wickets between them with left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul claimed the other wicket. Ricardo Peters (77), Anthony Adams (40) and Ricardo Adams (13) were the only Essequibo batsmen to offer some resistance.

Set 67 for victory, Berbice reached 70-1 off 10.3 overs with opener Kandasammy Surujnarine was unbeaten on 45 and Deveon Clements on three. Seon Hetmyer (17) was the lone batsman to be dismissed.

Steven Jacobs took 5-91

Sherwin Murray scored 57 not out in the final

Stephen Embrack receives his trophy for being Manof-the-Match in the final. Presenting the trophy is Secretary of the UCCA Winston Roberts

Robert Moore bowled a tight last over to deny Number 64 Fighting Marines victory

Brian Cookson

Georgetown School Tapeball Competition starts Saturday

By Avenash Ramzan

Fifteen city-based secondary institutions will begin the quest for top honours on Saturday when the Trophy Stall sponsored Senior Secondary School Tapeball cricket competition bowls off as part of activities to celebrate Education Month 2014.

The six-over knockout competition will continue on October 4 and conclude the following day with the final. All matches will be played at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac, with action bowling off at 08:30h on each day.

According to coordinator of the activity, James Lewis, the teams have been divided into five groups of three where they will first play a round-robin format, with the winner of each group advancing to the knockout stage of the inaugural competition.

Group A consists of Charlestown Secondary, St John’s College and Lodge Secondary; Group B comprises Queen’s College, North Ruimveldt Secondary and Dolphin Secondary; Group C is made up of St Mary’s High, South

Ruimveldt Secondary and St Stanislaus College; Group D includes North Georgetown Secondary, Brickdam Secondary and Central High; while Group E comprises East Ruimveldt Secondary, Tutorial High and Christ Church Secondary.

“Every midday I would ride around the city and see these youngsters playing in the school yards, so I said why not have a competition? I made contact with the heads and the Games Masters and that’s how things started. Now the players are eager to get bat and ball together,” Lewis responded on how the schools were selected.

Apart from providing an avenue for youngsters to showcase their talents and expend their energies, Lewis said there is a bigger aim of having such a tournament.

“At the end of it, I hope to see these youngsters moving on to represent the country at Under-15 and Under-19 and probably senior level. What I did was contact the administrators of the various clubs to come out and witness the games and see the talents that would be on show,” the Coordinator highlighted.

Lewis said the overall winner will receive the Trophy Stall Cup and medals, while the runner-up school will be presented with medals. The Most Valuable Player and the Player-ofthe-Match in the final will also be the recipients of trophies.

Lewis said he is grateful to Trophy Stall for its sponsorship of the event, noting that Managing Director of the business, Ramesh Sunich, has always been an avid supporter of sport.

Meanwhile, team managers are asked to make urgent contact with Coordinator Lewis on 672-6179 or 6665857.

Christopher Singh elected new President of Lusignan Sports Club

Following a special meeting, which resulted in the election of new office bearers, Optical Technician Christopher Singh was on Wednesday night voted in as President of the Lusignan Sports Club, East Coast Demerara. Singh replaced former President Samaroo Jailall, who was elected to the position of Secretary of the Club. Narvan Singh is the Vice President, while Sydartha Anandjit is the Treasurer and Ferron Kadir the Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer.

Two Committee Members were also elected and they are Vishnu Ramjeet and Chatterpaul Balkissoon. The meeting was held in the auditorium of the Lusignan Sports Club. In an interview on Thursday, Singh said his immediate focus during the one-year term is cricket development at all levels. Apart from that, Singh is looking to partner with the Neighbouring Democratic Council, which has control of the Lusignan ground, to reinstitute the playing of table-tennis, volleyball and

East Coast clubs form committee

– receive support from DCB

The major cricket clubs on the East Coast of Demerara have banded together to play competitive cricket in the absence of a legitimate association after no elections were held for almost four years.

A press release said the committee has already begun a 40-over competition involving 12 clubs. The winner of the round-robin competition will collect $200,000, while the runner-up will walk away with $100,000. Trophies for the tournament are being donated by Nauth and Sons Motor Spares.

Trophies will go to the winner, runner-up, and Man-of-the-Match for each game, along with other individual prizes.

The former East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) executives had refused to recognise

the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB), hence they refused to participate in competitions of DCB, resulting in many players being disenfranchised.

The release said some of the clubs on the East Coast, piloted by Enmore, rescued the young players by organising practice sessions and selecting teams to participate in competitions of the DCB. As a result, players such as Brian Sattaur were able to represent Guyana.

The clubs on the East Coast then wrote to DCB President Rajendra Singh, requesting help and the intervention of the DCB. The clubs complained of no elections being held, members being sidelined from participating in authorised cricket, and denying of the rights

of members of the ECCB, among a plethora of complaints, according to the release.

The DCB President pledged his support to the committee and stated “the DCB is here to promote cricket and anyone who share that interest would be supported”.Singh also commented on recent developments in Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) where attempts are being reportedley made to disenfranchise a playing founder member, while non-playing clubs are allowed voting rights.

The committee is chaired by Shameer Shahib, while committee members include Anil Persaud, Jitlal Jawahirlall, Quancy Cummins, Richard Chaturia and Atamdeo Persaud, among others.

Jamaica appoints Fraser-Pryce

Ambassador Special Envoy

The Jamaican government has appointed two-time Olympic champion ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce as an Ambassador Special Envoy to the world.

Fraser-Pryce, who also has five World Championships gold medals to her credit, received the instruments of appointment during a brief ceremony at the office of the Prime Minister on Wednesday.

basketball at the club.

Singh is also keen on getting those members who are not financial back on board, as that has been an issue of recent.

According to information received, although the club has about 60 members, a large percentage is not financial.

Singh said he is looking forward to full cooperation from members of the executives as they work to bring the cricket section back to the glory days when they were leading team on the East Coast of Demerara.

Minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for sports, Natalie Neita-Headley, described Fraser-Pryce as the perfect role model for young Jamaicans.

"Shelly-Ann FraserPryce is, of course, an excellent athlete who has done tremendously well, winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals and, of course, being recognised as the top female athlete in the world by the IAAF," Neita-Headley told The Gleaner.

"In addition, she is well

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce

grounded and has displayed honesty and integrity in character”.

The Jamaican sprinter has also developed a local charity known as the pocket Rocket Foundation which has been raising funds and contributing to student athletes and less fortunate children.

Fraser-Pryce and her husband Jason Pryce have received diplomatic pass-

ports. "I believe Shelly-Ann (Fraser-Pryce) has added significantly to Brand Jamaica and we are very proud to have her serve as Ambassador Special Envoy to the world," said NeitaHeadley.

"She would have received official passports; herself and her husband and will be treated with the courtesies that go with those”. (Jamaica Gleaner)

James Lewis

Rajendra Singh (right) President of the DCB hands over a cheque and cricket balls to Anil Persaud to assist the committee with their competition and other administrative commitments. Sharing the moment is GCB Chairman of the Senior Selection Panel Rayon Griffith

The new Lusignan Sports Club Executives. From right (sitting) are Narvan Singh, Christopher Singh and Sydharta Anandjit. Standing from right are Ferron Kadir, Chatterpaul Balkisoon and Vishnu Ramjeet. Missing is Samaroo Jailall

Senior Inter-County 4-Day

Tournament…

Developmental XI struggle to keep afloat against Demerara

– Berbice demolish Essequibo in two days

By Rajiv Bisnauth

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)

Developmental XI are in the midst of a battle to rescue their second round senior Inter-County four-day game against Demerara at the close of the second day on Thursday at the Everest Cricket Club ground.

The Developmental XI reached 38-5 at stumps and were left trailing Demerara first innings lead of 184 by 146 runs with five secondinnings wickets remaining.

After dismissing Demerara for 338, halfan-hour into the final session, they lost Shimron Hetmyer (3), Tagenarine

Chanderpaul (0), David Latchya (0), Chanderpaul Hemraj (12), and Steven Jacobs (8) to slump to 235. Paul Wintz (3-14), Gavin Moriah (1-10) and Christopher Barnwell (1-8) were the chief destroyers to leave the Developmental XI steering at a humiliating defeat.

At the wicket are Kemo Paul and Kemol Savorynine.

Demerara made the most of the Developmental XI's limited bowling resources with only off-spinner Steven Jacobs (5-91) and leg-spinner Steven Sankar (3-48) bowling with any real penetration.

However, Amir Khan was the headline act of the

Demerara’s first innings, mixing classy accumulation with rock-solid defence to stroke an elegant 116.

The 22-year-old was 14 not out overnight and looked intent to cash in on fully helpful conditions as he reached his maiden Inter-County century.

Khan, with three Firstclass games to his credit played with the elegant assurance that has marked him as one of the most promising cricketers around.

He reached his century from 239 balls and had earlier combined with skipper Vishal Singh in a 131-run stand before Jacobs claimed the first breakthrough of the day from a faint edge.

Courts launches Pee Wee Football tournament

Courts Furniture Inc, in conjunction with Petra Organization, launched the fourth edition of the Pee Wee School Football tournament on Thursday at the store’s Main Street branch in Georgetown.

At the press conference, Director of Petra Organization Troy Mendonca saluted Courts for their efforts in building what can possibly be termed as the future of football in Guyana.

“This is the fourth school championship, but Courts has been involved with us for six years and we want to express our thanks to them for sharing the vision.

Glowing tribute paid to ‘Master Blaster’

Super Kings v Lions, CLT20, Group A, Bangalore… Rain washes

Bangalore game

“We must also thank the Ministry of Education for their blessing, as well as Banks DIH for providing the ground, snacks and Malta. The tournament is going to be a good one. We want the kids to play the duration of the tournament instead of just three and we have designed it in such a way,” Mendonca highlighted. Assistant Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson was enthusiastic for the launch of the meet, highlighting the fact that it lines up with some of the goals of the Ministry of Education.

“We want people to play, work but in the midst of everything there must be discipline, we want to see from these players that will join the Golden Jaguars,” Hutson stressed.

“I want to commend Courts and the other sponsors, the fact that this has been the fourth occasion and Courts has continued, I think it’s commendable. We at the Ministry of Education promote a healthy lifestyle and tournaments like this promote what we want to do at the Ministry which is to grow balanced persons.

Marketing Manager of Courts Pernell Cummings wished the teams well and thanked all associates for making the Courts Pee Wee Tournament one of the best tournaments in the country.

“I must say every year it gets bigger and we look forward to it growing even larger and Courts will continue

to support this tournament and Petra Organization because we couldn’t have done this without them.

“I would also like to thank Banks DIH as well… Student it’s game, win or lose you all are winners,” Cummings quipped.

Meanwhile, the round robin knockout tournament will be kicking off on October 4 with 24 schools vying for the championship as St Pius Primary will aim to defend their title as Pee Wee champs at the Thirst Park Ground.

There were gloomy scenes in Bangalore

Apersistent downpour in Bangalore forced the match between Chennai Super Kings and Lahore Lions to be called off without even the toss having taken place. Rain had been around in the lead-up to the match, but the players were briefly able to get out for their warm-ups around 15 minutes before the scheduled toss time. However, the rain returned with intensity, and about an hour after the

scheduled start of 8 pm, the game was abandoned with large puddles of water on the outfield.

Lions got on the board with two points for the washout and Super Kings went second behind Kolkata Knight Riders with six. Knight Riders have already qualified for the semi-finals. Super Kings have a game left against Perth Scorchers while Lions have two matches against Dolphins and Scorchers. (Cricinfo)

Amir Khan piles on the runs

By Treiston Joseph

Pernell Cummings hands over sponsorship cheque to Petra Organization in the presence of Marcel Hutson (middle standing)