Guyana Times Daily - January 13, 2015

Businesswoman gunned down

Prorogation of Parliament:

PPP/C slams UK’s interference

7 dead as bus plunges into sea in St Vincent

Drunken nephew allegedly rapes aunt Govt spent $604M on road maintenance in 2014

Masked gunmen shoot Linden resident

Market vendor stabbed by bag seller

Young bandits held after Ruimveldt blitz

Sexual harassment in Guyana underreported

2 NEWS

Tuesday, JaNuaRy 13, 2015 | guyaNaTimesgy.com

Murders, accidents claimed 293 lives last year – Police

Atotal of 293 persons were killed due to murders and road accidents last year, the Guyana Police Force on Monday revealed.

Some 147 murders were recorded at the end of December 2014 in comparison to 155 for the same period in 2013, a decline of five per cent. Of the murders, most were reportedly disorderly and could not have been prevented by the Police. A senior Police rank told the Guyana Times that murders which were committed during drinking sprees and other social events were deemed disorderly. He said that at no point in time will the Police be able to prevent such from happening. He added that some were also committed as a

result of domestic issues and executions. Most of these, however, languish unsolved, since, in most cases, eyewitnesses are reluctant to give evidence.

In a recent outreach, acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud had urged citizens to come forward and assist the Police in solving murders and more so, to present themselves at the courts when called upon to testify.

However, in a release issued by the Police, it was stated that serious crimes decreased by 15 per cent between January 1 to December 31, 2014 when compared to the same period in 2013.

Among the serious crimes that were monitored are murder, robbery under arms, robbery with

violence, robbery with aggravation, larceny from the person, break and enter and larceny, burglary, rape, and kidnapping. In addition, a five per cent increase was recorded in robbery under arms at the end of 2014 as well as an 11 per cent rise in armed robberies involving the use of firearms. Armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by perpetrators recorded a six per cent decrease. During 2014, the Police recovered 84 firearms – 46 pistols, 28 revolvers, nine shotguns and one rifle.

Road deaths

With respect to traffic, 146 persons lost their lives in 135 recorded accidents in 2014 which saw a 30 per cent increase when com-

pared to 2013 during which 112 persons lost their lives in 103 accidents.

Pedestrians continue to suffer in this regard with 60 of them losing their lives in 2014. In addition, 26 motorcyclists, 20 pedal cyclists, 16 drivers, 23 persons travelling in motor vehicles and one pillion rider lost their lives.

The Police admitted that speeding continued to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents and was the cause of 87 of the 135 fatal accidents recorded at the end of December 2014.

For last year, 65,475 cases were made against errant motorists of which 19,075 cases were for speeding. So far, three persons have lost their lives due to fatal accidents in 2015.

As a result of the scourge on Guyana’s roadway, the Police Traffic Department will be intensifying its enforcement activities with special focus on speeding and driving under the influence, in addition to other offences such as using motorcycles without safety helmets and using cell phones while driving. To date, several persons have been charged for driving under the influence of alcohol among other traffic offences.

The statement issued by the Force also stated that at the same time the Traffic Department will enhance its traffic education programme through the Road Safety Talk and other media programmes along with interactive sessions at symposiums, visits to

schools, and bus/car parks. A number of initiatives that were adopted in 2014 will continue in the New Year, inclusive of the ‘name and shame’ campaign in relation to persons driving under the influence of alcohol and the use of the tow truck in situations where motor vehicles are parked in contravention of the laws, as the Force strives to ensure road safety. Meanwhile, the indiscriminate use of the roads by all categories of road users was a factor that contributed significantly to the spiralling number of fatal accidents last year and as such, the Guyana Police Force urges road users to be cognisant of the five Cs – Care, Consideration, Caution, Common Sense, and Courtesy.

Govt spent $604M on road maintenance in 2014

The Ministry of Public Works(MPW) last year allocated and spent $604M to maintain 359 kilometres of roads in several regions.

Vlissengen Road, Irving Street, Mandela Avenue, Duncan Street, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, Homestretch Avenue, University of Guyana road, Irving Street, Water Street, Carifesta Avenue, Sea Wall

Road, Railway Embankment; Camp Road, Barrack Street, West Coast Demerara, East Coast Demerara and East Bank Demerara roads were some of the roads upgraded.

Details of works that had performed on roads were as follows: minor rehabilitation of local failure; pothole patching; crack fill longitudinal/transverse/edge cracks; levelling and apply thin overlay to rutting; minor rehabil-

itation of local failure; surface seal block cracking; road safety maintenance (road marking and signs); cleaning or clearing of existing drains; grading and shaping of road shoulders; and revetment installation.

In a statement the ministry said due to the routine maintenance by the Force Account Unit (FAU) on all declared public roads, travelling time on the roads has

been reduced; road marking will help to make the roads safer; there will be a reduction of vehicle operation cost; an extension of the service life of the road and increase driving comfort.

Meanwhile, the main thoroughfare for Section Q Turkeyen is currently being upgraded by the FAU is expected to be completed this week, barring inclement weather. Work on the 3,280 feet long road commenced on December 12, 2014 by the FAU.

According to Lawrence Mentis, head of FAU and a Civil Engineer, works completed so far include cleaning the road’s drains, culverts and the reconstruction of its pavement from white sand/ sand clay to finish asphalt concrete. Works to be completed include the installation of culverts, priming and tacking coat of road and the laying of asphalt concrete. “This is the only road leading into the housing scheme so we have to maintain it to a certain level of acceptability for the residents,” Mr. Mentis stated.

Drunken nephew allegedly rapes aunt

A23-year-old man is presently in Police custody after he was accused of raping his 45-year-old aunt at her home in a village along the Corentyne Coast on Sunday evening.

The woman, who was sodomised, was taken to the Skeldon Hospital where she was treated and sent away. The Police have since taken a statement from the traumatised woman.

According to sources, the man who was under the influence of alcohol went to

his aunt’s place and while there, an argument broke out. In an effort to calm his relative, who was reportedly verbally abusing him, the 23-year-old reportedly placed his arms around her shoulders and “pet talked” her. He then lured his aunt into the house where he started to strip her clothes off. Although he was drunk, the woman was unable to fight him off due to his strength. During the ordeal, the neighbours heard her screaming and went to her rescue.

They found the drunken man in the house and gave him a thrashing. He managed to escape and was apprehended by Police ranks in the Springlands District. He reportedly told Police ranks that he was drunk and was not in his senses when he committed the act. The Police are in the process of instituting charges against the man. The Guyana Times understands that the young man is a frequent visitor at his aunt’s house who lived alone.

One of the many roads that were upgraded

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, January 13 – 10:30h-12:00h and on Wednesday, January 14 – 11:30h-13:00h

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

Tuesday, January 13 – 09:35h-11:05h and on Wednesday, January 14 – 10:55h-12:25h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika departure – 06:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h

Supenaam departure – 06:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers can be expected throughout the day and into the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 4.47 metres and 4.91 metres per second.

High Tide: 09:53h and 22:24h reaching maximum heights of 2.28 metres and 2.23 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 03:21h and 15:53h reaching minimum heights of 0.93 metre and 0.95 metre respectively.

Prorogation of

Parliament: PPP/C slams UK’s interference

…for threatening Commonwealth sanctions

By Alexis Rodney

The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) on Monday blasted the United Kingdom for raising con cerns about the prorogation of Guyana’s Parliament, dubbing the call interfer ence in Guyana’s affairs.

The concerns raised by the outgoing British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre on Monday over the prorogation of Guyana’s Parliament was down played by the General Secretary of the PPP/C Clement Rohee, who said that Guyana does not have to listen to Britain on this matter. In fact, Rohee baulked at what he described as the continuous interference of members of the diplomatic community in the affairs of Guyana.

Parliament is within the constitution”, Rohee continued and while he has no idea how long the prorogation will last, he said it could last for a particular time. “The President has already said that he will soon announce a date for election and the dissolution of the Parliament”.

Meanwhile Rohee said that while it is a normal practice for members of the diplomatic community to become involved in the issues of the country they serve, some are becoming “more and more involved in our internal affairs es-

Since the prorogation of Parliament on November 10 last, Government has come under severe criticisms from stakeholders both local and internationally, with many calling the move by unconstitutional. The concerns raised by Ayre come a few days after similar calls were made by the United Kingdom’s Foreign Affairs Minister Tobias Ellwood, urging an early resumption of Parliament. The British High Commissioner’s call on Monday asked President Donald Ramotar to honour his obligations and either resume Parliament or set a date for General and Regional Elections.

But Rohee, at his party’s weekly press conference on Monday told journalists that Guyana

does not have to answer to Britain. “This country has had its independence from Britain since 1966; we don’t have to listen to what Britain says. This is an independent country. The British have their own arrangement there too, so take it leave it, the fact of the matter is Guyana is an independent country. We have reached where we are by the hard work of the Guyanese people and the strength of our democracy and constitution”, Rohee declared.

The Prorogation of Parliament seeped into Guyana‘s constitution even after it gained independence from Britain. According to Rohee, this right has always been left to government’s disposal. “All of us know that prorogation was done on the basis of what the constitution permits. The British Commissioner must focus on whether this is a constitutional matter and whether the prorogation was done based on the constitution”.

“So proroguing the

President Donald Ramotar on October 10 last, put an end to the sittings of the National Assembly, after his administration was threatened by a no confidence motion by the minority opposition the Alliance for Change (AFC). The stance taken by the PPP/C General Secretary against Britain is not the first time a government minister has spoken out against diplomatic interference. Education Minister Priya Manickchand last year came under fire for also lashing out against outgoing United States Ambassador D Brendt Hardt at a ceremony to commemorate the country’s 238th independence anniversary. Manickchand, who was at the time acting as the Foreign Affairs minister told Hardt that he had “crossed the red line” regarding his criticism of Government for the delays in the holding of Local Government Elections.

Manickchand had said the Ambassador had contributed to a tensionfilled relationship with the Government of Guyana, noting that his “assault” on President Donald Ramotar and his Administration had “gone beyond the boundaries of professionalism and diplomacy”.

pecially when it comes to the holding of elections”.

“It is true also that it is quite understandable for the donor community to be concerned about the elections in Guyana, but I think there is a limit to which they must go with such matters. I see that as a normal course of their duties but to make these statements it is up to the government on the other hand to say if these statements warrant any responses”.

Rohee said as far as the PPP is concerned, “they might be going a little bit beyond the pale and so far as diplomatic practice is concerned I understand the level diplomats should go to the country to which they have to.”

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

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

To prorogue or dissolve?

The British High Commissioner yesterday threatened to have Guyana be sanctioned by the Commonwealth if the President does not end the Prorogation Order he issued last November.

This latest explicit threat followed a call five days ago by the British Foreign Office for the prorogation to be ended "as soon as possible". It is clear that the British are ratcheting up the pressure on the Guyana Government to end the prorogation.

What is also clear is that the British are threatening to impose sanctions unilaterally by simply invoking the "Commonwealth Charter" as if the Commonwealth is still its Empire on which the "sun never sets".

Today, the Commonwealth is an organisation of independent states, and these states will have to come together and vote on whatever action Britain is contemplating. Long gone are the days when the British Prime Minister could tell the Queen, as Head of the Empire, to declare sanctions or expulsion unilaterally.

Each independent member of the Commonwealth has a Constitution that governs their political processes. In Guyana, as in most Commonwealth jurisdictions like England, the reserve power of the Head of State to prorogue Parliament is part of the Constitution.

Canadian Governments in the last decade have prorogued their Parliament on at least three occasions - through the Governor General who is the Queen’s direct representative.

The British High Commissioner to Canada did not warn the Canadian Governments of Commonwealth sanctionseven though the reason for prorogation in one instance was to prevent the passing of a No-Confidence Motion that would have dissolved Parliament and precipitated general elections, just as in Guyana.

The facts behind the prorogations were debated quite widely in Canada and the Queen's Governor General offered his comments as to why he went along to order them on the advice of the Prime Minister. In each instance, it had to do with the fact that prorogation was a valid power of the Head of State.

However it was conceded that in the tradition of the parliamentary system to which all Commonwealth countries are heirs, the prorogation cannot be of infinite duration.

The Commonwealth Charter has not pronounced conclusively on the duration of a prorogation, even though the High Commissioner implies otherwise. As in trite law, one suspects it would be a period that reasonable peers would consider sufficient for the Government to deal with the immediate reasons for the prorogation.

In Guyana, the President made it pellucid that he accepts this tradition and declared he would end the prorogation and schedule general elections "early" this year. The President had announced very clearly, following precedent from other jurisdictions such as Canada, his reasons for prorogation.

Most specifically, against the background of the Opposition's threat to go ahead with its Vote of No-Confidence, the President identified several pressing matters, such as the Telecommunications Bill and the Anti-Money Laundering/ Countering of Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill, that they would have liked to be passed before elections, since they were critical to the development of the country.

The President offered to give the Opposition a breathing space so that possible saner and calmer heads might prevail. Now that the Opposition has definitively rejected any truce in their declared war to "depose" the Government, we also call upon the Government to call their bluff and announce the holding of General Elections as soon as possible. N ot to do so, would offer countries such as Britain and the US, which have shown themselves to be firmly on the side of the Opposition, to raise the red herrings of sanctions and other threats.

When the PPP/C was winning elections by large majorities, the criticism of the Opposition, echoed by those countries was that for "real democracy" elections were not enough. Now that the last elections have shown that the PPP/C may be vulnerable, suddenly elections are the panacea for the salvation of Guyana.

There is no unsustainable taking on of debt by the

Dear Editor, The statements attributed to AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo on President Donald Ramotar’s securing a US$50 million line of credit from the Republic of India for the execution of two major infrastructure project initiatives – the Ogle-Eccles Bypass Road Project and the New Northwest Ferry – are disappointing, confusing and tragicomic.

Any balanced read of the very article which contains Mr Nagamootoo’s statements along with the experience of the traffic situation which the Ogle-Eccles project will address speak volumes as to the urgent necessity for the project intervention.

It is, therefore, disappointing and confusing that Mr Nagamootoo, an experienced and veteran politician, would condescend to describe, as quoted directly “fly by night ideas that are being floated” – the very idea that he too deemed as necessary in paragraph 6 in the said article.

Mr Nagamootoo goes further by joining the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project to his unique idea of “fly by night projects”.

One can conclude, therefore, that a runway extension of 1,000 metres for aircraft capacity increase and safety assurance, and a 17,000 metres square modern, efficient, and new terminal building are not at all necessary following Mr Nagamootoo’s thought process on these matters.

He continues to deliberately mislead the public as to the reasons the Government of Guyana accessed (China Exim Bank) loan funds for the CJIA project. The reasons were and remain the

Ramotar Administration

CJIA expansion project was sorely needed and that the China-Caricom Summit in Port of Spain, Trinidad presented a final time bound opportunity to fund it on advantageous soft loan terms.

The AFC’s own ideas on an airport expansion project came from its lead person on finance and infrastructure Gerhard Ramsaroop who, in a televised debate on the project, mooted that the CJIA be abandoned and a new airport be built on the West Bank of Demerara, at Sandhills.

This idea would involve the loss investment funds sunk into CJIA, Timehri and the replication and extension of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport infrastructure as all new – not to mention the need imposed to build new road and a new upstream Demerara River Bridge, which would also have to accommodate oceangoing river traffic.

All of this would likely convert a US$150 authorized project to one that is to five times greater in costs at least and needed funding.

Last, but not least, on the project side, no one should argue with the need to secure a new Northwest Ferry. Besides the fact of the current fleet assets being quite old, the accommodations and enroute times are very unsuitable and tedious, respectively, for this service.

This discussion has been oft repeated both in the media and in the National Assembly where last Mr Nagamootoo was an active participant.

One would hope that the AFC is not now again setting its sights on shooting down another vital project which provides the life line

transport link to Amerindian communities as occurred with the Opposition refusals for Budget 2014 where Hinterland Aerodromes and the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) amongst others fell victim to the combined Opposition’s hatchets.

We need to remind, again, that funding from the BRICS grouping (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) is on typically very advantageous and concessional terms, and that these projects by their very nature in transiting the funding and project cycles, require feasibility and engineering design studies all of which involve consultation.

Perhaps Mr Nagamootoo may wish to intimate why –after having been consulted and provided with all the feasibility and engineering studies for the CJIA Expansion Project and having benefitted from the debates and interventions in the National Assembly, the combined Opposition, of which the AFC is a very vocal member, refused further funding for the project in 2014, after having approved the project via a mobilization of US 2013?

What discovery propelled the attempt to hold up or kill a vital national project that would see cheaper airfares, efficient travel and an opportunity to enhance our tourism and transport networking attractiveness?

All things considered, the answer should specifically identify the real denizens who “fly by night” and are the main actors in the tragicomedy we in Government have been striving to have our country avoid.

We can all recall the visceral negative criticisms from sections of the media

and Opposition circles when Guyana undertook, with Indian Government funding, to build a new Cricket Stadium at Providence to International Cricket Council (ICC) Standards. The undeniable fact that the Providence Stadium fulfilled its intended mission for Cricket World Cup, combined with the reality of an exemplary facility that is enjoyed by all, for a variety of cultural and social events, is a testimony to the fact that what Nagamootoo deems as “fly by night” PPP/C Government projects result in solid, viable, enduring projects, on solid ground, benefitting all Guyanese.

On the question of the seeming uptake of additional public debt, Mr Nagamootoo should recall when, as a Minister of the first PPP/C government in 1992, he was amongst those at the Cheddi Jagan Cabinet who wrestled with the seemingly hopeless problem of having to spend 93 percent plus of all revenues to service debts for which he even argued there was little to show for.

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh is the expert on these matters – on which he may wish to further elucidate – but I would be bold to venture that there is no unsustainable taking on of debt by the Donald Ramotar Administration. The initiatives of the kind being undertaken are designed to energize the national economy. Nagamootoo should not turn his back on the only certifiable successes he has had in politics – the period when he was a PPP/C stalwart.

Robeson Benn Minister of Public Works

We Guyanese do like our football and these lads took the opportunity to have an exciting game in Albouystown, Georgetown on Saturday (Marceano Narine photo)

Issues of Region 8 are conveniently ignored by Councillors

Dear Editor,

I usually do, to my detriment and that of my Administration, allow the many attacks on the Regional Administration to go unabated by not sharing with the public the facts on those stories.

This is done for the main fact that the stories and accusation are so absurd and so devoid of truth and reasoning, that I did not see the need to respond.

However, it was brought to my attention that there are those who, like the Councillor, would have a difficulty with reasoning and rational and those that are gullible. Of course, those few birds of a feather, like the Councillor, that find pleasure in boosting their political egos by peddling innuendo and deception.

I refer to a headline appearing in another section of the media.

Not only is this headline designed to be devious, misleading, disparaging and libellous to the Regional Executive Officer, the story also reeks of lies, deceit and fanciful notions. These aspersions are levelled by a well known character that thrives

on a pseudo crusade of being a representative of the people.

The Regional Councillor is no stranger to deceptive and concocted stories for the press, or as he aptly admits and describes his actions as a cheap attempt at gaining political mileage.

This Regional Councillor was the same Councillor that shamelessly made the students of the Kato Primary School pose as if they were fetching logs, the same councillor that incited an unlawful protest in the district, one day after being appraised of the road works which would have commenced a few days hence.

This protest saw the destruction of state assets, including the burning of a bridge. This Councillor is same Councillor, who went unlawfully into the Girl Dormitory of the Mahdia Secondary School at 02:30h under the pretext of keeping a meeting with the girls.

This was the Councillor that verbally assaulted the Regional Education Officer at a public forum. And the list continues. Surprisingly, this Regional Councillor is the one that makes the least

or should I say the most vacuous contribution to any Regional Democratic Council meetings or such like.

I ventured to shed some light on to the psyche of this councillor to show, while some issues may need genuine attention, he is the first to add a political spin to it, without having or ever offering, or being capable of offering a solution to those issues, as his role as a Councillor befits of him.

The story, which was published was so fallacious, I often wonder what ever happened to fairness and balance. The Councillor asserts issues of roads, water and of course being ignored by the Regional Administration.

The private residence referred by the Councillor, is the residence of the contracted Heavy Duty Mechanic and that of two contracted Machine Operators. The Regional Administration does not have the requisite workforce for in house operation and maintenance.

The photograph as submitted by the Councillor was taken in July of 2014. This was during the time the mini excavator, single bull dozer and truck was used to dig sev-

eral ponds and springs in the community of Campbelltown, as requested by residents. The same machines were use to clear and excavate a spring at the Mahdia Secondary School Dormitory.

The machines became inoperable on separate occasions, and were unable to be moved to Administration’s compound, thus were left for repairs at the heavy duty mechanic.

The machines were at no point engaged in any private work, especially carrying water for the neither the Regional Executive Officer’s office nor his residence.

The machines while operable were engaged in work for the Campbelltown Village Council, which provided fuel and operators, the Mahdia and Princeville Roads, as requested by commuters and Vendors of the Arcade at Mahdia for the delivery of sand owed to them by the previous Administration.

The truck and excavator will be fully operable shortly, as major repairs were done in November and December 2014 to the assets.

The Regional Administration, residents along with myself eager-

ly await the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE), for the funding of two major projects which will see the construction of roads on Mahdia and the construction of a new water system.

These projects are expected to commence shortly. Bills of Quantities for both projects were prepared by the Public Works Department and submitted. The Administration continues to pursue the MNRE.

This Councillor has never used his office, to engage the Regional Administration in any form to provide any proposals or suggestions whether orally or in writing or to pin point any issues of regional importance. I am happy that others still do.

While, I appreciate that the Councillor or any resident as a matter of fact, has a right to bring issues to the forefront, I would hope that is done in a factual and balanced way.

Little or no mention was made by the Councillor about the $42 million the Administration spent in 2014 on Roads in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), or the hundreds of millions

spent by the MNRE and the Ministry of Public Works and Communications to bring the Linden Mahdia route to the best state that it s has ever been to date. Travel time has been significantly reduced. No mention is made by the councillor, about the continued vandalism and destruction of our water supply system by rogue miners, within the last 10 days. Repairs were done four times to the distribution line due to vandalism. The water network is used to propel jets that are used to mine the access roads in the area. These are all issues that the Administration would like the Councillors to pay attention to and voice their concerns, but to no avail. Once the Regional Executive Officer’s name is not involved, the issue has no media or political merit or expediency to them. The concern and issues of the residents of Region 8 are then conveniently ignored.

Ronald Harsawack Regional Executive Officer

Potaro Siparuni, Region Eight

IAST has never claimed briquetting technology is new

Dear Editor,

Your kind permission to respond to Tony Vieira’s latest missive in another section of the media is again sought.

Whilst it is tiring to keep reminding your readers of simple points already articulated, I respond to ensure that technical solutions do not acquire political baggage or encumbrances due to anyone’s need to posture or save face.

It is my hope that the effort to reiterate myself helps make pellucid the justification for this technology to be employed.

Briquetting technology is certainly not new, and IAST has never claimed that it is –but it has never been used in Guyana.

It took us two demonstrations to convince GuySuCo to utilize this ‘old’ technology. This ‘old’ technology is still not utilized to consume the waste wood and rice hulls that abound in Guyana.

I am loathe to contemplate how long it would take to convince Mr Vieira, the general public and existing companies to utilize truly ‘new’ technologies and approaches, if the application of this ‘old’ technology presents such significant hurdles and creates as much entropy in the letter columns of the dailies.

Simply because some technology exists, does not mean that it is facile to employ them in Guyana.

Think of the multitude of technologies that are used elsewhere and are not employed here and one begins to appreciate that there are many hurdles – cultural, capital availability, energy costs, policy, taxation, avail-

ability of highly qualified personnel, etc, and perhaps most importantly – the absolute conviction by some that anything done here cannot work and should attract the most vitriolic of criticism on that basis.

My job does not entail functioning as a tour guide for Mr Vieira, so I shall not be accompanying him anywhere. I am making a factual statement here: Mr Vieira is wrong to say that excess bagasse do not exist at some sugar estates.

I will not allow him to make this statement without comment as he is misinformed and misleading and I have the photographic and video proof of this – but since Mr Vieira seems to want to comment rather than verifying his facts, then I encourage the newspapers to take a picture of the giant pile of unused, wasted bagasse that exists at Albion estate.

It is strange that without availing himself of any of the reports we freely offered to share, or the details of the financial plan, and on the basis of his erroneous assumption that there is no excess bagasse, Mr Vieira feels it is acceptable to criticize.

I have agreed with his assertion that GuySuCo does not produce enough cane, and that with an adequate production, it would not need firewood (and therefore briquettes) to power its furnaces.

But I have also pointed out that if briquetting is used now to alleviate the obvious issues with cane supply, leading to savings in operational costs to purchase firewood, that it can then be used to co-generate electricity when GuySuCo hopeful-

ly addresses its cane supply problem. This clearly would increase its revenues.

Mr Vieira is also disingenious when he claims that it will take a capital investment of Guyana $50 million to establish the briquetting plant, when I clearly pointed out that the capital investment is less than US$100, 000, which at today’s exchange rates amounts to Guyana $21 million.

Interesting, since Mr Vieira in the same letter complains that the IAST saves Guyana $35 million annually in fuel costs by converting waste oil into biodiesel. Strange logic – to criticize a process which saves $35 million annually in costs, but create a mountain of a molehill to criticize a $21 million investment which GuySuCo’s business plan suggests will generate multiple tens of millions in savings.

I am completely frustrated that every time someone puts forward a potential technical solution in Guyana, it is first met with derision and then with made-up facts. Employment of any process attracts risks.

I am certainly open to discussion of risk management on points that we have not considered. But I grow weary of our national pastime of criticizing all and sundry from the comfort of our soapboxes.

I cannot tell your readers when and how efficiently GuySuCo will employ this technical solution. That is up to GuySuCo, and it is not within my jurisdiction to dictate that schedule.

I have done my job – present a detailed technological solutions and demonstrated

its suitability to the problem at hand.

Professor Suresh S Narine, Director, IAST

Page Foundation

Head injuries in children: when to rush to the ER

BY CHRISTINE COPPA

“My baby fell off the bed – onto the hardwood floor,” I still remember getting this call from a girlfriend and I could hear the fear in her voice. She took her daughter to the ER and thankfully, the baby was fine. A few years ago, my own son who is now seven, tripped and rammed his head into the wooden frame of our couch. We went to the ER and he was fine, too.

Every parent has a my-childhit-their-head story and now a new study conducted by Wayne State University Division of Research has pinpointed several causes of major head injuries.

Children’s Hospital of Michigan Division Chief and Research Director of Emergency Medicine Prashant V Mahajan, MD, who is also one of the study authors, concluded that falls from bicycles are the major cause of brain trauma in children under age 12 (among adolescents, sports, car accidents, and assault commonly cause injury).

“Knowing that, we’re now better able to help educate parents and policymakers alike about the great value of safety helmets for this population of kids,” Mahajan said in a press release.

The doctor has treated children that were both protected by safety equipment and those who were not. He noted in the study that the

ones wearing helmets or seat belts sustained less severe injuries.

Of course, parents want to prevent head injuries –any injuries! But let’s face it, when my little speedster smacked his head in the living room, there was really nothing I could have done to prevent it – he was playing LEGOs one minute and the next – BOOM. The real question is, how do you know when an injury should be treated at the ER?

Yahoo Parenting reached out to Emil L Matarese MD, a board certified Neurologist and the Director of the Aria Health concussion programme (who is not associated with the study) for answers.

First thing to know: Falling forward or backward can be equally problematic. “When someone falls forward and hits their head, the front portion of the brain strikes the inner surface of the skull and then ricochets back, causing impact to the back of the skull. Direct trauma to the base of the brain can be very serious if injured,” Matarese tells Yahoo Parenting. He says any direct injuries to the back of the brain can be more serious if the brain stem is affected because this portion of the brain is our “computer centre.”

their brains are still developing, so any injury can be serious and recovery can be prolonged. If your child is involved in an accident that has compromised his head, follow Matares’s advice to determine whether you need to head to the ER.

Always go with your gut

“Trust your instincts. If you feel as though the injury your child has experienced

have a headache, feel dizzy or nauseous. “Vomiting, feeling in a fog or confused are signs something might be wrong,” says Matarese.

Note the way your child reacts to surroundings “Sensitivity to light and noise are warning signs of a concussion,” he says. If your child usually doesn’t mind hearing his little brother banging on the drum set and

says Matarese. Playing question-and-answer is a good place to start: What did you have for lunch? What was the best part of your day? Remind me our phone number. Start a dialogue.

Your child seems clumsy

“Balance or coordination problems, loss of consciousness – no matter for how long (seconds or minutes) is not to be ignored,” says Matarese.

could result in a concussion or other serious injury, regardless of major signs (bleeding, egg on the head, disorientation) just go to the ER. You can also monitor your child and limit them from sports and other activities for up to 24 hours.”

Check to see if your child is sick

Additionally, Matarese warns that children are at a higher risk of injury because

If your child is old enough to answer, ask him if they

is now bothered by it, take note. Sunshine or lamps that seem to irritate your child’s eyes aren’t a reason to draw the blinds or shut off the light for some quiet time.

Your child is out of it

“If your child appears confused, dazed, and is unable to recall things prior to being injured or after being injured, get him checked,”

An egg swelled up on the head

“This indicates bruising and or bleeding under the scalp, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate a concussion. Ice it and monitor your child for additional symptoms that could indicate a concussion,” says Matarese. “If your child is experiencing pain, it is okay to give Tylenol after head trauma. However, Anti-inflammatory medication, like Motrin, Aleve, or Ibuprofen, is not recommended.” If addition

al symptoms arise that indicate a concussion, take your child to the emergency room.

There’s a manageable laceration or cut on the head

“Clean and bandage the wound,” says Dr Matares. Then begin the monitoring process for additional symptoms. (Yahoo! News)

Do

your children respect you? 9 ways to change their attitude

BY JANET LEHMAN, MSW

We often forget that children aren’t born with a builtin sense of respect for others. While each child has a different personality, all children need to be taught to be respectful. From birth, children learn to manipulate their world to get their needs met – this is natural. But it’s our job as parents to teach them respectful ways of doing this. People wonder why children have gotten so much more disrespectful these days – we see children and teens arguing with adults (or ignoring them outright), using foul language, copping an attitude, and not using manners or respecting those in authority. Sadly, this has become the norm for many children and teens. In my opinion, it really is a different world right now than the one we grew up in. Movies, music, video games and television all seem to glorify a disrespectful, angry, rude way of dealing with others. This means that in some ways we have to work harder as parents to teach our children to be respectful. Added to this is the fact that parents are also busier than ever before, which makes it much harder to respond immediately to our children. Let’s face it, it’s easier to let things slide when you’re worn out and stressed from working so hard.

Another phenomenon that has increased over time: Many parents have a hard time looking at their children in a realistic light. In some ways, our own parents were less defensive and more open to the fact that their children were not “perfect.” I can’t overstate how important it is to be willing to look at your children realistically, noting both their strengths and their areas of weakness. This allows you to see inappropriate behaviour as it happens and address it – and not make excuses or ignore it. So how can you change the culture in your own house if disrespectful behaviour is starting – or is already a way of life? Here are nine things you can do as a parent today to start getting respect back from your children. (Empowering Parents)

TO BE CONTINUED

Prorogation

of Parliament:

UK warns of Commonwealth sanctions

…PPP/C says Guyana does not have to listen to UK

By Jomo Paul

he continued sus-

Tpension of Guyana’s Parliament without any date being named for the hosting of General and Regional Elections by the executive could result in sanctions as stipulated in the Commonwealth Charter being imposed on Guyana.

People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary and Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, in a swift reaction, said that the Guyana Government did not need the UK to tell it about prorogation, insisting that this country gained its independence from Britain decades ago. (See other story on page 2)

These sanctions could take the form of suspension from the Commonwealth as was seen when Zimbabwe and Fiji violated the Commonwealth Charter. This is according to outgoing British High

Commissioner Andrew Ayre who on Monday reiterated the United Kingdom’s concern of the prorogation of Guyana’s Parliament. Ayre was at the time addressing members of the media fraternity at a press conference on Monday morning at Cara Lodge on Quamina Street. Ayre, in his remarks, underscored the importance of parliamentary democracy, pointing out that it was not only a “domestic” issue but one of concern for the broader international community.

The National Assembly has not met since its recess in August 2014. It was supposed to be resumed on November 10, but was instead prorogued by President Donald Ramotar using a constitutional power granted to him under Guyana’s Constitution.

Commonwealth Charter

The Commonwealth Charter, which was agreed

AFC/APNU coalition:

at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting [CHOGM] in Perth in 2011, is a single document which sets out the Commonwealth’s 16 core values and reflects the aspiration of Commonwealth members. It identifies development for poorer countries

“It will not happen,” says AFC Consultant Daizal Samad …insists AFC will form next Govt

By Jomo Paul

Recently-inaugurated member of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and literature scholar, Professor Daizal Samad said while talks between the AFC and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) should take place, he did not believe they would be fruitful.

Samad told the Guyana Times in an interview on Monday that while he saw no problem with the two parties engaging in talks to form a coalition, he did not foresee such a coalition coming to be.

The AFC and APNU are scheduled to engage each other in secret talks over the possibility of the two parties coalescing to contest the next general elections.

This move has been met with generally mixed views from stakeholders and political commentators in Guyana, with some saying that it should not happen while others were for the two parties coalescing.

APNU Leader David Granger has already said that the prospects for talks between the AFC and APNU were good. Specific details on the way forward for the proposed coalition will be unveiled after the party meets for its shadow Cabinet. He could not reveal the details of the AFC‘s tabled non-disclosure agreement, which was presented for review and signature by the APNU.

But, according to Samad who holds a Bachelors of Arts, Master of Arts, and a Doctorate in Philosophy and is the former Director of the University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC), the coalition will not come into being.

“I do not see it happening,” he said when questioned by

the Guyana Times on Monday afternoon adding that “as far as we are concerned, especially in Region Six, there’s no such thing…we are focused on winning.”

No harm in talking

The Professor explained that he believed the AFC would form Guyana’s next Government and would do so without the critical support of APNU, but pointed out that there was no harm in talking. He said: “I don’t think there is ever any harm in Guyanese speaking to Guyanese, whether those talks are about cooperation after winning service (or before elections), we still need to talk.”

Despite his nay on the coalition between the two political parties, Samad is adamant that the AFC remains willing to join forces with any progressive individual in an effort to catapult Guyana forward.

“We as a nation cannot afford to sideline anyone … especially people with talents,” Samad said, as he pointed out

that as part of AFC’s “evolutionary” political culture, it was important that the “best and brightest” come forth to serve the nation.

“The AFC is going to win the next General Election, that’s my conviction,” the Professor declared.

The former UGBC head was introduced as a member of the AFC on December 6, 2014 during the party’s biennial National Conference in Georgetown.

APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon and his AFC counterpart, David Patterson, had held discussions last week and had decided that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) from the AFC would be presented to APNU. The AFC had also called for “secret talks” on the way forward for the proposed coalition.

At his last press briefing at the beginning of the year, Granger had confirmed that talks between the coalition and the AFC on a possible coalition had not commenced.

He had said that the AFC had yet to state clearly what exactly its proposal for a prodemocracy alliance entailed.

He noted that while APNU remained open to dialogue between the two parties and civil society, it would like to know what exactly would be on the agenda when the parties did meet for dialogue.

Granger was adamant that as it stood what was being proposed by the AFC was something that would have already been part of APNU’s charter. This charter was published since 2011 when the APNU coalition was formed with five political parties. Among the other invitees to talks were members of civil society and trade unions.

and improving human rights and democracy, as the key priorities for the Commonwealth.

“Parliamentary democracy is not just required by Guyana’s Constitution, it is also required under the Commonwealth Charter. Recently, Heads of State/ Governments at their Sri Lanka CHOGM meeting outlined the centrality of democracy in Commonwealth Member States,” Ayre said. He pointed to several key fundamentals outlined in this Charter and called on the President to honour the obligations and either resume Parliament or announce a date for General and Regional Elections.

“The suspension of Parliament in November and the fact that it has not been resumed since then is a clear breach of the Commonwealth Charter, clear breach of Guyana’s Constitution … the UK and these Governments don’t sign things like the Commonwealth Charter and don’t sign the Sri Lanka CHOGM declaration and just put them to bed,” the High Commissioner declared.

When asked about the UK lobbying for sanctions to be imposed on Guyana among Commonwealth Member States, Ayre posited that at present there are “discussions” among Commonwealth countries with respect to the prevailing situation in Guyana. He pointed out that “Guyana is moving towards a category of concern for the Commonwealth that is quite clear from discussions that are taking place among them.”

He pointed out that presently with Guyana in breach of the Commonwealth Charter, it was possible that sanctions may be imposed, but made it clear that those sanctions were not going to be immediate. Ayre noted that besides a possible suspension, Guyana could be subjected to a critical review or could be referred to the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG).

CMAG is a group of representatives of members of the Commonwealth of Nations that is responsible for upholding the Harare Declaration. That Declaration dictates the Commonwealth’s fundamental political values, and sets the core membership criteria of the organisation. Its remit is to evaluate the Harare Declaration lapses every two years; the remit must be renewed and its membership reviewed by the biennial CHOGM.

According to Ayre, UK’s representatives have held meetings with the Government on the issue of prorogation, but have not received any positive response.

“We made our views quite clear both in private meeting with the Government and in public statements … the reality is we have a Guyanese problem and we need a Guyanese

solution … let’s be clear the President is the one that can end this impasse,” the British High Commissioner said. When asked about funding for several projects underway in which the UK played the critical role of donor, it was noted that these projects may be in jeopardy, with some “reluctance” to provide developmental funds to Guyana from the UK.

“Without the Parliament, there is no parliamentary oversight … clearly the appetite to send money to a country that has no parliamentary oversight is much reduced … there’s a reluctance to send development funds, how can we justify that to our own taxpayers?” Ayre questioned. It was also noted that the UK was making its position on the matter very pellucid given the amount of investment that the country has in Guyana’s economy. “It’s not just a domestic matter, the UK has invested significant sums in helping to promote a developed Guyana through, for example, bilateral development assistance, both local and regional … the UK has significant business interests here which benefit not just UK companies but Guyanese people too. All this is at risk as is the notable progress made by Guyana in recent years,” Ayre said in his statement. The United Kingdom in the last weeks has been very vocal about its position on the matter, calling for Parliament to be restored or a date named for the hosting of General and Regional Elections. This included a statement from Foreign Office Minister Tobias Ellwood, who said the suspension of Parliament means that an “essential element of a functioning democracy has been put on hold”.

British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre

Professor Daizal Samad

Single mother busted with cocaine sentenced to 3 years in jail

Twenty-four-year-old, Althia Timmerman of Lot 1255 Cane View Avenue, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was sentenced to three years imprisonment after pleading guilty to a trafficking in narcotics.

The mother of one appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Monday morning.

It was alleged that on January 10, at Ogle International Airport, East Coast Demerara, she had in her possession 1.134kg of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

The unrepresented defendant accepted the charge. The City Magistrate explained that such a charge is accompanied with a mandatory penalty with is a minimum of three years imprisonment. The woman stood

Althia Timmerman

firm with the plea she initially entered.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor Oswald Massiah related the fact of the case to the court. He started by telling the court that the accused previously resided in Bartica and was em-

ployed at a city hotel at a Receptionist.

One day at Demico, she got to know a man of mixed race (no name given), whose address was unknown to her. A relationship soon developed and she was asked if she was prepared to take the illegal substance to Barbados to which she consented.

On January 9, she was contacted by the male and told where to meet him, where she collected a suitcase. She was knowledgeable that the suitcase contained the drug but was unaware as to which part of the suitcase the narcotic was concealed.

She then took the suitcase home where she placed her personal travelling belongings inside.

The following day, she went to the Ogle International Airport with the said suitcase in an at-

tempt to board a flight destined for Barbados. An undisclosed fee was promised to her after the execution of the plan but this never materialised.

As she was proceeding through the scanner, CANU ranks conducted a search on her suitcase and unearthed the drug. The defendant was subsequently arrested and taken to CANU headquarters for further questioning. Prosecutor Massiah told the court that she cooperated with the investigating ranks “to some extent”.

The tearful woman told the court that she is a single parent with a five-yearold daughter and begged the Chief Magistrate to be merciful.

Timmerman was then slapped with the three-year sentence along with a fine of $30,000.

Son-in-law burglarises mother-in-law’s house

Khemraj Ramcharran of Anna Regina, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) was placed on $200,000 after pleading not guilty to a break and enter charge and two counts of larceny.

The rice farmer appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday.

It was alleged that on January 8, at Cotton Field Village, Essequibo, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Lynette Nipaul and stole the following: 11 gold hand bands, two gold finger rings, four gold chains and

pendants and six gold earrings, which amounted to the sum of $2.5 million.

On the same day, he was also accused of robbing Serogenie Seokumarie of the following items: two pairs of rings valued $240,000, one gold chain valued $40,000, one flat gold chain valued $80,000, one small gold band worth $7000 and one pair of gold earrings valued $2500 – which totalled a value of $2.9 million.

Before the facts were read to the court, it was heard that Nipaul is the mother-in-law of the defendant and that none of the jewellery was recov-

ered. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant told the court that on the day in question, at around 11:00h, Ramcharran visited Nipaul’s house for some time before leaving.

At around 03:00h, the defendant awoke upon hearing strange noises. She got up and saw someone jumping through a window. Nipaul raised an alarm and began to check around the house. While doing so, she discovered the abovementioned articles missing. The Police was then contacted.

The Police acting on information received apprehended the defendant. He

was told of the offence, arrested and charged. While in Police custody, Ramcharran admitted to being in the house but denied stealing anything.

There were no objections to bail being granted to the defendant, however, the prosecution requested that conditions be applied.

The Chief Magistrate then granted the defendant bail and imposed the condition that he report to the Anna Regina Police Station every Friday at 09:00h. The matter was transferred to the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court for January 20.

Masked gunmen shoot Linden resident

By Sheldon FraSer-Sealey

Forty-three-year-old Goddfrey

Marks, a father of six, is in critical condition after gunmen entered his home in Lower Kara Kara, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) early Monday morning and shot him while he was asleep.

According to reports, four masked gunmen entered the home along the Demerara River while the carpenter, his wife and children were sleeping.

“They entered the house round 3 am and shot my father in his hand. All of us were sleeping in the house. There were four gunmen who entered the house while my father was sleeping in the chair at the front of the house,” his daughter, Sasha Marks, related.

The gunmen reportedly did not take anything.

When the Guyana Times contacted Marks’ wife, Sandra, who was at the Linden Hospital Complex at the time, she said: “Well, he is in critical condition. The bullet moved from his shoulder and is now in his spine. He is on life support and they are preparing to take him to Georgetown Hospital.”

Meanwhile, a source who wished

Goddfrey Marks’ residence

to remain anonymous said it was time the Police did something to curb illegal activity in the area. He said it seemed as though the men travelled by boat, since one of his friends told him that his boat was stolen Monday night. According to the source, it was likely that the men would have used this same boat to get to the house.

“They had to know where Goddfrey lives. It is very difficult to get to the

home; you would have to know the tract and the area. It is evident that these bandits came by boat. There needs to be river patrol done by the Guyana Police Force, because a lot of the illegal activity which is currently taking place.”

Police, who arrived at the scene around 09:00h Monday morning, are investigating the incident.

Eyew tness

O... and off the cuff Nagamootoo

ne of the problems to those who speak English as a second language is the number of idioms you’ve to get used to!!

Unlike born and bred English speakers who gradually absorb what idioms mean (osmosis?) - they can really expose the pretensions of wannabe “educated” wankers like Nagamootoo. Out of sight for the holidays, he finally surfaced from his prolonged inebriated stupor.

And the first words out of his mouth were to criticise President Ramotar for the “fly by night ideas” leading to loans from India for the alternate East Bank Road and the ferry for the Northwest District. To emphasis his criticism, he cited another “fly by night” idea - the Chinese-funded airport expansion.

He ended portentously: “Proper conceptualization, consultations and feasibility studies are needed” for such projects.

Now the idiom “fly by night” refers to someone or some outfit that’s so TOTALLY unreliable, you just can’t depend on them. Like, for instance, Nagamootoo’s law firm, when NICIL had to step in and chastise him.

They’d paid his fly by night firm $7 million for filling out some forms for persons displaced by the Berbice Bridge.Yet a year later, the folks had to picket Nagamootoo’s office for their titles.

Is the airport “fly by night”?? It’s being built! Are the Chinese “fly by night”?? They coughed up the dough!! What Nagamootoo meant to say in his pathetic attempt to criticise Ramotar and the PPP/C government - but for his unfamiliarity with the English language (a fatal defect in a lawyer) - was they were making “off the cuff” decisions. That is, they were doing stuff without adequate preparation.

But isn’t this a case of Nagamootoo taking his own “doodoo” and rubbing it on Prezzie’s bamsie? If there’s anyone who’s famous for doing things “off the cuff” or “by the seat of his pants”, it’s Nagamootoo!!

Every one of his erstwhile comrades in the PPP/C would tell you that he’s just full of hot air. But the final irony is that Nagamootoo had to be speaking “off the cuff” when he made his ignorant criticism.

Planning?? Hasn’t he heard of the “sufferation” of the people of Northwest for decades because of the poor ferry service brought on by an old decrepit ferry??

And since he was in Parliament for decades and doesn’t know about the very detailed plans submitted for the parallel road connecting East Coast and the airport, was he sleeping??

Off the cuff?? What Nagamootoo needs is a good cuff on the back of his head!!

...critic

Arif Bulkan’s one of those Guyanese who’d rather live in Barbados. But unlike some of those those who’re allegedly supportive of the PPP/C (Rickey Singh), or even neutral (Sonny Ramphal) and are regularly cussed out for being “unpatriotic”, Arif gets a free pass.

After all, he’s a Government critic. That other family members are officially part of the Opposition doesn’t hurt filling gaps in patriotic fervour.

Anyhow, Arif has penned a long (very, very long - almost of Greenidge-like proportions) missive about the PPP/C’s “record with respect to press freedom”. That record, not surprisingly is adjudged by Arif to be “abysmal”. ]

One wonders what’s Arif using as his standard of comparison. Freeing up the radio spectrum, ditto for TV and the licensing of another private newspaper looksthe record of the PPP/C Government - pretty good to this Eyewitness.

But what’s most troubling is Arif’s blatant twisting and misrepresentation of the facts on the PPP/C’s record on press freedom. He claimed the GRA released “private tax information” on Kaieteur News to squeeze the latter!!

Could Arif tell us where he got this from? In just two lines, please,

...lawyer

Lalloo Ram was thrown out by the Stabber because he plays fast and loose with facts. But they’re still keep quoting his blog - this time pronouncing on Public (Constitutional) Law.

Public Law’s different from “Pubic Hair” Law!

Rohee concerned PNCR wrangling could harm electoral process

The ongoing internal conflict of the A partnership for National Unity (APNU) and its mother party, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), could not only harm the parties themselves, but the electoral process.

APNU and PNCR Leader David Granger has reportedly come under severe criticism from grassroot supporters for imposing a militarised structure on the leadership of the coalition, drawing a wide crosssection of former military personnel to serve at its helm. Concerns grew also over the alleged increasing isolation of party stalwarts from leadership within the APNU.

These among other issues, including the recent announcement by the party leader that he was foregoing a previous decision to use the primaries model for the selection of a Presidential Candidate for the party, have reportedly stirred up trouble within the PNCR, the major player within the APNU coalition.

General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Clement Rohee on Monday said that his party is very much concerned about these issues. “We are not like the others, we operate differently, we believe in multi party democracy and the

PNCR has been one of the main players in the democratic and electoral processes since 1992. We are firm believers and adherers to political stability… we don’t want the kind of instability that will flow from the wrangling we see taking place in the PNCR. If there is political stability that means that we will go to the elections in good stead and that is what we would like to see,” Rohee told reporters on Monday.

The General Secretary cited the recent clash in Linden reportedly between supporters of Granger and one time leadership contender Sharma Solomon.

That clash saw Solomon’s supporters confronting supporters of the party leader, in matters relating to the PNCR’s Linden Office. That matter is seemingly unresolved. Rohee opined too that the decision by APNU to enter secret talks with the AFC on moves toward a coalition, without consulting with the electorate, puts the party at a desperate point at the political crossroad.

Party faithful are fearful that in a horse trading and bargaining process between the PNCR and the AFC, the PNCR could very well end up sealing the Presidential Candidate and key positions to outsiders, who, according to party faithful, made no contribution to the struggles nor strengthening of the PNCR.

Rohee said many party stalwarts have indicated that there is a growing sense of alienation, dissolution and demoralisation among the PNCR/APNU membership. According to him, all these could prove harmful to the political fortune for the party at the upcoming General and Regional Elections.

Rohee said as the country approaches the upcoming General and Regional Elections, which he maintains must be free and fair; his party will work hard to

ensure that despite the social and political impact that will emerge from the “internal wrangling within the ranks of the political Opposition”, Guyana’s democracy will continue to grow from “strength to strength” with the working people always at the centre of an “exciting journey ahead as we work uncompromising towards another PPP/C victory at the polls”.

The party is prepared to struggle for the maintenance of political stability and the constant improvement of the well being of

APNU and PNCR Leader David Granger

all Guyanese, the General Secretary said. The PPP/ C’s concern over these developments, Rohee noted, is further compounded by the alarming expose’ which finds that the financing the AFC/APNU combination is being mobilised by a gathering similar to the “Desmond Hoyte’s CREEP under the guise of the FUCOP”.

“The PPP/C has learnt that the funding for that party’s election campaign is flowing from the coffers from well established printing houses and obviously made no bones about their preferences on the Opposition front. That begs the question why the Opposition has not supported the passage of the Anti Money Laundering Bill”.

Market vendor stabbed by bag seller

Bloodshed was the result of a verbal exchange between two Stabroek Market vendors last Saturday evening while at the Sophia Bus Park, in the vicinity of Demico House, Georgetown.

Julia Hinds, a mother of three, is currently nursing injuries after being stabbed twice with a broken beer bottle. Hinds told Guyana Times that she was stabbed by a woman she knows as “Nicky”. Nicky sells market bags in Stabroek Market.

According to the victim, her 15-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son were selling for her on Saturday at the market when Nicky allegedly started to verbal-

ly abuse them about their mother, stating that the children should not “watch me (but) go and watch yuh mother and father.”

Hinds said when she arrived at the market later that day, she confronted Nicky about the manner in which she spoke to her children and was stabbed with the broken beer bottle in her right shoulder and under her right ear.

The traumatised woman stated that she was not expecting such violent behaviour, stating that Nicky always “throwing hints” but the women have never had any previous physical altercations. “I guh up to her peacefully”, Hinds posited,

as she winced in pain from the stab wounds.

Hinds told this publication that she has been selling at Stabroek Market for over 12 years and has also been living in Sophia for about the same time. She says both she and Nicky work at the market and reside in the Spohia area. She further explained that the woman seems to have something against her though she is unable to state what that may be, since they were never friends and do not share the same social company, even though they are from the same community. Police are investigating the matter.

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

Ministry blames contractors for slow pace of East Bank road construction

Acknowledging there were issues that caused delays, Coordinator of the Work Services Group (WSG) of the Ministry of Public Works, Geoffrey Vaughn, said the ministry is not satisfied with the pace of construction on the East Bank Demerara four-lane extension.

Vaughn said the onus is on the contractors to put in extra hours to ensure the completion of the road. Speaking to the Government Information Agency (GINA) today, he said, “We know that they had a lot of delays, but still we expected to see a little more in terms of the project management, working double shift, day and night but that did not happen.”

He noted that it is not a case where the ministry can push ‘fully’ to have the contractors work in the

the main issues that have posed delays to the projects. The ministry has had several talks with GT&T pertaining to the issue and signed contracts with the utility

much as you want to blame the contactors on one hand in terms of not being able to work effectively and in a faster manner, we still have to look at some of the oth-

night. He explained that it is a contractual obligation, which the government can only propose. It is for the contractor to determine if he or she wants to work in the night, he said. “If they need to, and they want to, they can work night time, it does not take away anything from the contract, but it is for them to make that call,” he said. The Ministry has to however, ensure that the work is carried out and the contract is completed within the specified time or the penalty clause can be applied, he pointed out.

Funded under InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) loan financing to the tune of US $22M, the upgrading of the two traffic lanes to four, along the East Bank Demerara road from Providence to Diamond is being executed in three lots; Providence to Prospect, Prospect to Little Diamond, and Little Diamond to Diamond Intersection. To date, lot one is approximately 56 percent completed, lot two, is 90 percent completed and lot three, 60 percent completed. The relocation of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) utilities continue to be one of

company toward the removal of the utilities. “Most of it is that they are not too sure that they have cables… so we have to wait until they

er issues that we had on the contract,” he said.

Lots 1 and 2 of the project were supposed to be completed by December

up very soon. Most persons driving along the East Bank would have realised this, as the area has now been opened up to traffic. Lot three’s contractor, BK International is expected to complete his part by March 2015, which is the time extended to him for its conclusion. The extension of lot three, like lot two, basically was granted due to delays in the removal of utilities. This lot also suffered from poor organising skills, construction methodology and lack of human resources.

Vaughn explained that BK International has completed some of its road works and a lot of concentration is now on the high bridge, next to Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). “Once that is completed we know that work will be pushed faster,” he said.

Vaughn said that the ministry will be monitoring and ensuring that the project comes to an end before March 2015. He explained that the issue with the utility would not take away from the ministry applying liquidated damages to contractors because of lateness in completion of work. With lot two, though far ahead, he said there are a few aspects that need to be done and some corrected. He identified that some areas are not smooth enough, so those will be marked, and the correction will be done.

The East Bank Demerara four-lane extension, when completed is expected to contribute to increased mobility and accessibility to Georgetown for the population in the south along one of the most heavily trafficked section

acquire these things and they have to do designs,”

Vaughn said. He explained that the build-ups are causing extended delays. “When we would have gone into the contract with GT&T, then they would have been pushing to get y, get z, so you find that itself caused some amount of delays, so as

31, 2014. Lot One is now extended to March 2015, due to the utility issue. Lot two’s delay is due to rainfall in 2013 and for the reason that the contractor; Dipcon has also recently been suffering from a cash flow problem, which has affected the project negatively. Lot two, being farthest along will basically be wrapping

of the country’s main road network. The road at present links Georgetown and the new housing and industrial developments on the East Bank corridor. It also provides access to natural sources of sand used extensively in local construction and leads to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

Old Clive wanna be in de room too

Some people like to hide and do tings. Dem like de dark and dem like to do tings in the dead of night. Dem also like deh behind closed doors. But is a good ting de good book seh whah ever is done in secret gon get expose in plain day light.

Is de same as sayin who ever come thru yuh back door does got to run out de front door at some time. And every day bucket goin good, but some day de bottom does fall out.

So every ting in life does come to light at some time. Yuh can fool some people some of de time, but yuh can never fool all de people all de time.

One man used to plant a lotta pumpkins night time. Even though he used to buss de pumkins before dem pick, de pumpkins used to grow real big. People still ketch he and buss he back. And he got more of that to come.

As fuh NoGel Hugly, he believe he coulda move in de dark all de time wid de Sight Global money whah he used to collect every month. But just like how moon does run till day ketch up, NoGel run till he pants drop down.

Wasn’t much to see, except de money though. Definitely, Lil Johnny woulda never friken NoGel like how he friken Uncle Rafeel.

Rum Jhaat got dutty secrets and also like to do he dutty wuk in secret. He is a man who like to go in de back door every where he go. Except pun Station Street wheh dem places ain’t got no back door fuh rummies.

And whenever a large in de scheme of tings, Rum Jhaat don’t give a dam which door he use. In fact, he ain’t gotta problem collectin it through a window.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Now Rum Jhaat wanna lock up in a room wid Green Jah alone. De problem is, Old Clive who tink he still alive wanna go in too!

Young bandits held after Ruimveldt blitz

Three men were apprehended moments after they allegedly robbed a Ruimveldt resident in the wee hours of Monday morning. The incident reportedly took place at Lot 6 Public Road Ruimveldt, Georgetown at about 06:00h as the owner of the house went to check on an unusual sound that was coming from the yard. According to information received, the three men, one of whom was armed with a handgun accosted the occupant of the house and took him inside.

In the house, they reportedly demanded money and valuables from the man but he insisted that he did not have any money at home.

The men proceeded to ransack the house and after they did not get any money, they took away the man’s laptop and mobile phone before making good their escape. Moments after the rob-

bery, the victim contacted the Ruimveldt Police Station which is a stone’s throw away. The Police ranks reportedly contacted a mobile patrol unit that was in the area and due to the quick response, the men were arrested as they made their way through Alexander Village. A senior Police rank confirmed that the laptop and mobile phone were recovered but the gun was not found in their possession. He added that two of the men are known characters in the Albouystown area while the other resides in Charlestown and he is also known to the Police. They were reportedly fingered in several armed robberies in the neighbourhood and surrounding communities. The Police are continuing their investigations with the hope of locating the firearm that was used in the robbery. Charges are expected to be laid shortly.

Head, Work Services Group, Geoffrey Vaughn

A completed section of the road in the vicinity of Diamond

A section of lot three (in the vicinity of Demerara Distillers Ltd.) that is yet to be completed

Govt spending more on citizens’ welfare – Cabinet Secretary

Cabinet Secretary

Dr Roger Luncheon said that because of work done by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration, in stabilising and sustaining a growing economy, Guyanese have been able to enjoy several welfare interventions.

During an interview with the Government Information Agency, Neaz Subhan on Sunday, Dr Luncheon said that many of the interventions have been taken for granted, but these are different elements of welfare practices that occupy much of the Government’s attention. “It is actually a response to social reality, and in many developing countries, and Guyana is no different, the social reality harkens on the past.”

The Cabinet Secretary stated that Guyana’s current day social reality has changed from what it was before 1992. “(In) 2015 Guyana’s social reality is quite different from what it

grammes to deal with those aspects of the social reality.”

Speaking of some of the social realities which face the society, Dr Luncheon said that one simply needs to examine poverty and its origin, its perpetuations, and the culture of poverty and what it breeds.

The Cabinet Secretary said Guyana’s economy caters more for the interests that have been preserved in the economy than those that deal with the modern demands of the people and the society.

Notwithstanding all this, Dr Luncheon said that there is no question that when it comes to welfare, the state of the country’s economy therefore matters. “If your economy has grown at a good clip, there exists lesser chance that you will not have enough money to make aggressive interventions in implementing welfare interventions, if economic growth is anaemic or in the reversal and the growth of the econo-

was at the time of emancipation … or even at the time of independence, but still they are lasting …”

He said poverty and the kind of social ills warrant and legitimise the interventions that are captured in the rubric of welfare interventions. While noting that in today’s society there is the reality, which he blames on the past, he did not shy away from the fact that there may still be current factors contributing.

“I’m not saying that contributions are not currently being made, but fundamentally it is a persistence of what we inherited, what we have not yet adequately built with, but is our social reality today and that is what legitimises.”

Dr Luncheon added that “… any caring government would have great difficulty if it does not embark on programmes … aggressive pro-

my is constrained like what happened in the financial crisis in 2008.”

Noting the importance of a stable economy in rolling out welfare interventions Dr Luncheon said a country’s social policy also depends on tax revenue collection, the wealth that a growing economy creates. He added that it would then be fair to say that it is not common practice for any government to offer welfare interventions that are not supported by a buoyant economy.

“In other words, were I to be a government that is fundamentally attracted to economic principles and development along sustainable levels, I would have a difficulty in offering welfare interventions that I can’t sustain.” To this end, he added that while the needs may very well exist, and may be carefully and authentically demonstrated, the ques-

PPP/C meets GECOM on election readiness

Ation that should be asked is whether the interventions can be sustained.

Citing an example of one such intervention, which the PPP/C administration has been able to sustain over the years, Dr Luncheon pointed to the non-contributory old age pension.“Now if you go back to where we were in 1992 and go back to today and look at the difference at what was offered then and what is being offered now, this is because the economy today could sustain the payment of over $13,000 a month non-contributory to Guyanese over 65 (years).”

While acknowledging that after assuming office in 1992 it was no easy task to recreate wealth and the country’s social fabric at large, there is still more to be done, “But 1992 we had the zeal and the conviction and the ideological clarity of what needed to be done, and I must say that with the support of external and internal stakeholders, we were able to turn the situation around.”

He noted that from the inception, social policies were high on the agenda of the PPP/C administration.

“The economy had to be attended to … it had to grow … one had to collect revenue and from the wealth that was being recreated and properly redistributed, and that is why, the modicum of successes that we have had in addressing welfare and welfare interventions.”

Further the Cabinet Secretary said that many of the interventions were also made possible by constitutional provisions that speak to the welfare orientation of the society. “…The government imposes on the administration, the executive, certain norms that address welfare, so yes we have been better at instituting that constitutional provision.”

He said when it comes to the law, there have been crafted in almost every sector, more particular in the social sector, legislative provisions that secure the state’s commitment to these welfare interventions.

“So what we have brought together is an amalgam; you have constitution, the law and the executive, all collaborating in ensuring that what is done in terms of intervention is indeed appropriate and is suitable, responsive to the situation that actually existed at the time an intervention is made.” Even more evident that the country’s social welfare is being catered to is the yearly budgetary allocations of which the social sector takes the largest chunk.

delegation of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), led by its General Secretary, Clement Rohee, on Monday paid a visit to the office of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) as the Party had some “pressing issues” to raise with the election body.

Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha, PPP Member of Parliament Manzoor Nadir and Junior Minister of Finance Bishop Juan Edghill were also part of the team. Over the past couple of months, the Party has been raising issues that it said the Election Commission needed to pay attention to. Some of these issues were again raised at the Party’s press conference on Monday.

“PPP has singlehandedly advocated for a voters list that will not disenfranchise any eligible Guyanese and one that is free of discrepancies, thereby eliminating the threat of confusion on Election Day,” Rohee said.

He added that the elections body must now do everything possible to ensure a clean list, which would edify voters of Election Day practices and procedures.

“Significantly too, GECOM must be cognisant of the fact that there were many flaws in the practices and behaviour of polling day staff at the 2011 Regional and General Elections. The Party is wary of these inflated acts, which the Party strongly believes were well-calculated and mostly against its interest,

recalled the Herstelling case where 19 ballots were rejected with the official stamp.”

Strong actions should have been taken against that person who took away the democratic right of simple hardworking Guyanese, the Party’s General Secretary said. “It is expected that these persons will never be considered to work with GECOM again.”

The Party also called on GECOM to ensure that competent and qualified persons were recruited to work on Polling Day and that the requisite training and simulations be conducted to avoid what occurred in 2011.

He said the Party had already raised the issue of the information clerks, noting that it had serious reserva-

tions about the use of these persons in future elections since they were ineffective in their roles and served to create much confusion among voters on Election Day.

“GECOM must revisit the roles of this position and should the decision be taken to continue with these information clerks, they must be trained to act in a neutral manner at all times.”

The Party called on all Guyanese in and out of Guyana to call on GECOM to deliver on its mandate and conduct a fair and transparent election, and ensure that the proper mechanisms were put in place to deliver accurate and speedy results to the nation so as to reduce anxiety and speculation.

Police still to obtain statement from

gang-raped teen

Asenior rank within the Guyana Police Force told this newspaper that investigating ranks were yet to obtain a statement from the 18-year-old supermarket worker gang-raped allegedly by several men, including his best friend, on Old Year’s Night.

The rank stated that the mother of the traumatised teenager, who remains hospitalised, made a report to the Police and that report was being investigated, but he stressed on the importance of getting a statement from the victim.

He added that two ranks visited the patient at the hospital on Saturday afternoon, but due to the condition of the teenager, they were unable to get anything out of him. Nevertheless, they would have reportedly spoken to the doctor who is treating the teenager to gather some information.

“We have to find out from the hospital what they are treating the young man for and to get an update on his condition… we were told that the young man might have

been partially ill … no one has the right to commit such an act on him,” the rank stated.

He also confirmed that a teenager was arrested, but was subsequently placed on bail after the 72-hour detention period expired.

The teenager who was in custody has denied being involved in the act. Since there was no evidence against the young man, the Police had no alternative but to release him. However, the family of the hospitalised teen are holding out that he played a major part in the entire ordeal.

The mother of the injured teen on Monday told the Guyana Times that her son was being fed through tubes and his condition remained the same.

She added that they were hoping for a miracle. She disclosed that the Police ranks who visited her son at his bedside told her that without a statement from the victim, they could not investigate the matter to the fullest.

She also said that after seeing his condition, one of the ranks told her “you’all better pray for he to live, so

that he can give the Police the name of the people who did that to him”.

Based on his condition, the teenager was sent to the psychiatric ward for an evaluation, hospital officials confirmed.

Meanwhile, the family is calling on the relevant authorities to look into the matter so that justice can be served. The Police in D Division (West Demerara) said that the matter was a very sensitive one and was being investigated with caution.

The teenager who hails from a West Bank Demerara (WBD) village left home on Old Year’s Night to attend a party that was organised by his best friend at Vreed-enHoop, WBD. After the party, the friend reportedly took the teenager to his house where they continued the party which was subsequently taken to the ‘jetty’ where the incident allegedly took place.

The young man, before losing his voice, revealed the names of at least three men who were part of a gang that raped him to his sister who in turn informed the Police.

Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee and other members of his delegation in front of GECOM’s office

Nandlall, CIOG condemn terrorist attacks in name of Islam

President of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) Fazil Ferouz, during a ceremonial activity to commemorate the great Prophet Mohamed, spoke of the need for every Muslim to emulate the teachings of the Prophet Mohamed, acquaint them-

selves with his teachings and develop that love for him and His message.

Ferouz also used the opportunity to speak of the atrocities being committed by extremist in the name of Islam and sent strong condemnations against such acts of terrorism, while entirely disassociating true Islam from it.

Also addressing the gathering was Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall who reiterated the point made by the President of the CIOG concerning the amount of misinformation that is being internationally peddled about Islam and Muslims. “It is deplorable; persons having different agendas are pursuing activities that are violent, murderous and are associating the great religion of Islam with those types of atrocities, when the Prophet and Islam itself speak directly to the opposite.”

GGMC’s strike is illegal – Labour Ministry

The Ministry of Labour has deemed as ‘illegal’, ‘unethical’ and ‘improper’ the current ‘strike action’ at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

In a strongly worded letter to Ms. Deborah Murphy, General Secretary (ag), Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), Charles Ogle, Chief Labour Occupational Safety and Health Officer declared that the ministry “concluded that the current (GGMC’s) industrial action, may not be in accord with known and acceptable principles of good labour-management relations.”

The ministry’s response is in relation to a dispute and a strike action, which were initiated by the GGMC’s workers’ union, on 6th January, 2015, even though this was ill-advised at the time. Ogle explained that at a meeting, under her chairmanship, on January 9, 2015, when the current strike action was discussed, the union was urged to take immediate steps to have the said strike called off.

However, the union’s response to the pleadings of the ministry was that the strike would not be called off unless a favourable offer was made by the management of the GGMC to the Union. Ogle explained that the purpose of this meeting was to possibly pave the way for a return of normalcy in negotiations, between the management of the commission and union management relations. He offered that this was the way to go as the “ … extant Collective Labour Agreement provides, inter alia, that after a joint meeting/conference, as provided for in Clause 7 thereof, an unresolved dispute may be referred to conciliation for possible resolution. Failing resolution at conciliation, provision is made for a referral to arbitration.”

In this regard, he firm-

He further contested that the Prophet promoted brotherhood, love and the highest form of Jihad (conquering oneself) and nothing about violence and killings, as what was justified by those who were behind the recent assassination in Paris.

“There is a deliberate and concerted effort to associate Islam with those types of proclivities and tendencies. Muslim leaders have a responsibility, and of course all Muslims have a responsibility to ensure that we condemn in the strongest possible terms, those types of actions; for example, that which took place in Paris recently. No one has a right to do what was done there and I wish to take this opportunity to condemn what took place in Paris in the strongest possible terms, it has nothing to do with Islam. We have to ensure that as practitioners of Islam, we in the conduct of our daily lives, and indeed,

as we propagate the ideals of Islam, we ensure that we send the messages of peace, love, brotherhood, unity and charity, important aspects of the Prophets work.”

Legacy lives on

Fourteen hundred years after Prophet Mohamed passed, his legacy lives on in his teachings and his followers. During his remarks at the ceremony, Nandlall acknowledged that the Prophet was one of the greatest human beings to have graced Planet Earth.

“He was born in the year 570 but so many centuries after, his teachings, his work, his life is still so relevant to today’s society and indeed, in a Guyanese context. We live in a country where we have diverse religions, we have persons of different ethnic backgrounds and it is important that we practice and perpetuate religious tolerance and respect

for all. One of the fundamental tenants of the Prophet’s teachings was compassion, love and unity and that is so important in our country,” Nandlall stated.

“The Prophet was an orphan and grew up that way but became one of greatest human beings on planet earth, if we just look at that aspect of his life; it tells us that Islam embraces the concept that recognises the importance of every single citizen on planet Earth, regardless of their station when they enter this world.

That is the type of virtue that Islam represents and those are the type of virtues that we speak of when we speak about the glories of the Prophet and indeed, the glories of Islam,” the Attorney General continued.

It is because of his great legacy, Ferouz noted that it is not enough that the Prophet Mohamed is remembered just upon his birth an-

niversary. Also speaking at the event was Sheik Hassan of Saudi Arabia who made a rendition from the Holy Quran and translated its meaning. He spoke of the importance of prayers, Prophet Mohamed, and Islam which he affirmed is not a religion but a way of life that teaches one how to live the ideal life.

Sattaur Gafoor also attended the proceedings which featured beautiful renditions of quaseedas that were performed by very talented brothers and sisters from various Mosques. The ceremony was held at the old Mosque in Alexander Village, where many Guyanese including Muslim leaders, followers of Islam from Jammats and nonMuslims such as the members of the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO), such as Pastor McGarrell and others were in attendance to celebrate the belated birth anniversary of the Prophet.

Land is life for Amerindians – Sukhai

merindian Affairs

Aly highlighted the breach as his “… Ministry is not in receipt of any such application, which for all intent and purpose, must preface any contemplated industrial action. “As a matter of fact, I do believe that Clause 12 of the aforementioned extant Collective Labour Agreement prohibits withdrawal of labour, during the negotiation process, which prohibition was disregarded.”

Ogle, in his missive, noted that upon examination of all the facts and details known, the union’s decision to take strike action, effective January 6, 2015, may be in breach of the extant Collective Labour Agreement and would therefore be illegal. In this regard, he sought to impress upon Ms. Murphy to take all possible steps, to bring the strike action to an immediate end. Ogle added that the Ministry of Labour, Human Services & Social Security, in the process thus far, received copies of correspondences between GGMC and the union, and that these were carefully perused. The conclusion thus emanating is that the “… extant Collective Labour Agreement, subsisting between the union and the GGMC, along with certain media reports, attributed to representatives/agents of the union, the current industrial action, may not be in accord with known and acceptable principles of good labour-management relations.” Taking into consideration the circumstances thus far developed, he requested that the union take the necessary steps, to ensure that the strike be called off “… with immediate effect, thereby paving the way for a return of normalcy in negotiations, the management of the Commission, and union management relations.”

Minister Pauline Sukhai, has described land as “life” for Amerindians, explaining that it’s a strong asset base, which they would be able to manage, protect by themselves and so improve their chances of expanding their economic activities.

This point was made during an interview on the National Communications Network’s “Political Scope” programme last week. The minister was joined by Adviser, Yvonne Pearson and General Manager of the Amerindian Land Titling Project, Anna Correia.

This description of the land was reinforced by Pearson who said that, “You cannot take the Amerindians from the land. We depend on the land … our whole livelihood depends on the land….spiritually, we are also connected to the land”.

The fact that there are cadastral plans to prove the geographical location of lands also adds to the sense of ownership, according to Correia, who explained that four communities are currently undergoing the process, with 20 more due to start soon. In 2016, another 20 communities are due to have their lands demarcated and titled.

Addressing the issue of land titling, Minister Sukhai said that this process, which began three years ago, should be completed by the end of 2016. The Land Titling programme, the minister noted will give Amerindians “tenured security” as it replaces the “ad hoc” arrangement which existed previously. She opined that there is no other country which has achieved the milestones made annually by Government, with regards to Amerindian and Hinterland development. It was pointed out that Guyana’s economic performance and Government’s political will have helped in the provision of more financial resources, to ensure that all the policy di-

rections be adopted to improve the lot of Amerindians.

On the international front, Guyana is seen as doing “very well” with regards to indigenous matters, she added. Locally, there have been several critics, the minister acknowledged, but explained that “Land is being addressed, economic interventions are being addressed, social improvement, cultural aspects are being taken into consideration, and actions and projects are being attached to each one of these major concerns, particularly the international mechanism the UN (United Nations) raises with respect to countries where Indigenous populations reside.”

Minister Sukhai said it was important to note that the Amerindian Act has a “cut off” point for Amerindians to claim ownership of lands, since they too like many others are wont to speculate on ownership. The minister explained that history and its various interventions have proven that Guyana is a “land of six peoples,” and the rights of all must be considered and taken into consideration.

Forestry concession

The granting of mining and forestry concessions was also addressed by the panelists. These concerns are being sorted by a joint board of the Guyana Forestry Commission

(GFC), Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Guyana Land and Surveys Commission (GL&SC), Amerindians and Ministry officials. There were several cases such as Rivers View, which had forestry concession in the proposed area of demarcation, Minister Sukhai revealed. This was resolved when representatives and stakeholders met at the community level.

The meeting included officials from the GFC and the ministry. The end of the discussions saw the concessionaires agreeing, with the GFC not to have the leased lands fall within the village’s boundaries and the villagers’ agreeing to shift their prior claim to another area, a move which also freed up more areas for potential concessionaires. For resolution of issues, there must be “reasonable” discussions, the minister stressed, along with respect for all titles. With respect to small and large scale mining, the Natural Resources and Environment Minister ultimately makes a decision, especially if any exploitation of minerals is deemed to be in the national interest, in accordance with the Amerindian Act, the minister said.For the naysayers, Minister Sukhai advised that they look at what has been achieved, the transparency of the titling exercises, and the resolution of issues and challenges thus far. Some US$10 million has been set aside for this programme through the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF), a multi-contributor trust fund for the financing of activities identified under the Government of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The GRIF was established in October 2010, with the World Bank as Trustee, following an agreement signed between Guyana and Norway in November 2009, in which Norway agreed to provide Guyana up to US$250 million by 2015, in performancebased payments for avoided deforestation in support of

Guyana’s LCDS.

Funding from GRIF, totalling some US$8.1M has been allocated towards the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). This fund is being used to finance various projects in 187 hinterland communities. Minister Sukhai described these projects as being in areas such as tourism, farming, mining or forestry. Twenty five of 27 communities, selected randomly with regards to sectors and regions, have already benefitted from this programme and 161 others are due to have their projects come on stream over the next two years. The ADF offers $5 million to each community which shortlists up to five projects and the villagers determine which they would like to execute. The funds are administered via the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to ensure transparency and accountability. Villagers are happy to participate in this project, particularly as it is to their community’s economic benefit, the Minister stated. One example given was that of Barabina, which has successfully set up a chicken rearing operation and started selling. Previously the community imported chicken to meet their needs. Santa Aratack has also opened a guest house which is also bringing in money to the community.

The move by the Joint Political Opposition earlier this year, to cut funding for the Amerindians, was described as “a big mistake” by the minister. Amerindians were previously marginalised and now they receive positive attention in terms of opportunities, it was noted, as the present PPP/C Government has always sought to enhance their development. The delay was unfortunate and Government’s commitment is not going to be daunted and it will persevere as it continues to make major headway in the quest for Amerindian development, she said. (GINA)

AG and Legal Affairs

Minister Anil Nandlall

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai

Sexual harassment in Guyana underreported

… some victims fear dismissal

BY DEVINA SAMAROO

Within the last decade, more women have entered the workforce. As their numbers increase, so does their vulnerability to harassment.

There are literally millions of documents defining what sexual harassment is and what sexual harassment in the workplace is.

There is no single definition of what constitutes the prohibited behaviour. Generally, international instruments define sexual harassment as a form of violence against women and as discriminatory treatment, while national laws focus more closely on aspect the illegal conduct. All definitions, however, are in agreement that the prohibited behaviour is unwanted and causes harm to the victim, or makes the victim feel uncomfortable, particularly in a sexual way.

Many officials indicate that victims of sexual harassment in the workplace refrain from reporting such incidents as they fear losing their jobs and/or being victimised.

Sometimes, some are unaware that they are being sexually harassed because, quite often, these acts are considered a joke or treated as a mistake.

Rarely reports are made on such issues because of the sensitivity of the issue

and the reputations that can be ruined as a result.

In 2008, the Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) conducted a survey to address this issue. Their study on 500 respondents reveal that 54 per cent had experienced some form of workplace sexual harassment, of which 27 per cent experienced harassment by their colleague and 17 per cent by their superior. Sixty-six per cent were not aware of any policies in the company that addressed these issues. Seventy-nine per cent were women while 21 per cent were men. Twelve per cent had received threats of termination if they did not comply with the requests of sexual harassers.

Here in Guyana, Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indra Chandarpal encourages victims to come forward to the Commission to make a report. If situations worsen, she explained that victims sometimes leave their jobs, but rarely do they take the matter to court.

She further noted that there are other avenues which can be explored before the matter is taken before to court; for example, addressing the issue at the workplace beforehand. Meanwhile, representative

of Help and Shelter Danuta Radzik explained that most times, victims do not know what their options are in such situations.

Implementing policies

She stated that companies need to implement a policy that deals with these situations and educate their workforce on the grounds of sexual harassment. “I think it needs to be addressed and workplaces need to agree on a definition of sexual harassment… anything that has sexual innuendo should not be done or said, even if it’s meant as a joke.” Radzik explained that ground rules need to be set and workers should be aware of them, therefore, if there is a breach, the matter can be dealt with accordingly, as employees will clearly know their options as described in the policy.

However, she noted that since companies in Guyana do not have policies against sexual harassment, victims should seek advice from various authorities on their course of action, especially if the situation of sexual harassment is one that is physical. Radzik said these occurrences create a poisoned work environment that no one, men or women, should endure.

Recently, in February

2014, an 18-year old Princess Hotel and Casino employee filed a report against the multimilliondollar entity. The teenager alleged that while serving the overseas based Principal in the casino, he touched her breast and attempted to kiss her. She claimed she was later instructed to “specially” take care of the man. The young lady said she was then taken to the room of the accused and was ordered to do whatever she was told. She stated that she quickly thought of using the washroom in an attempt to escape the situation. The matter was reported to the Human Resources Manager and then to the Police. However, the Hotel has categorically denies the allegations. Another incident that made the news in Guyana was the allegations against Region Three (Essequibo-Islands West Demerara) Regional Executive Officer Donald Gajraj by a former female employee who claimed that the man sexually harassed her. However, Gajraj denied the allegations as he disclosed that the woman has been frequently absent which negatively impacted her department. He stated that the allegations were likely made after the woman discovered she was going to be transferred.

Stray bullets continue to disturb WBD residents

Another series of gunshots rang out last night in CatherinaSophia Rust, West Bank Demerara around 21:00h, much to the displeasure and unease of residents in the area.

According to one resident, Daniel Sarjoo, the gunfire lasted approximately 20 minutes. Sarjoo related that moments after the gunshots went off; he heard a loud impact in his yard. “I don’t know where it hit; it’s a loud sound like when a bullet hit a barrel or zinc.”

He said he searched the area in the morning but failed to find the warhead or even the area/object where the bullet might have struck.

“We looked but we didn’t find anything but I know it

was a bullet that hit something outside because you could have heard it.”

Sarjoo said he is extremely concerned about the situation and wonders why the Police are not placing much effort in finding the perpetrators.

“To me, they ain’t doing nothing as yet.” He said he related the incident to his neighbour Terrence Segoram who recently endured a similar experience.

Segoram, who had already made a report to the Wales Police Station several days ago, then contacted the police Sergeant in charge of the investigations to inform him that gunfire went off again.

“I called him this morning and he take the information but I ain’t hear back anything on the investigation.”

On January 7, a stray bullet pierced the roof and entered the home of Segoram around 18:45h.

It is believed that these bullets come from high powered rifles that are being discharged from the other side of the Demerara River or from vessels that are an-

chored on the waterways.

Sarjoo questioned why the Police are unable to eliminate these disturbing occurrences, which usually takes place on holidays and weekends.

“I don’t know why they don’t work with the Police over deh and let them go out and check the wharfs or something. We just want this thing to stop because it could end badly one of these days.”

In fact, two years ago, 14-year old Ryan Persaud of Vive la Force, a village approximately four miles from Catherina-Sophia Rust, was struck by a stray bullet which resulted in his death.

Patrol boats

Meanwhile, Commander of D Division Ian Amsterdam told Guyana Times that on many occasions, land and river patrol Police were sent out to investigate the matter, but never caught anyone in the act.

He further noted that residents hardly ever make reports to the station but instead they seemingly opt to complain among themselves

US stocks fall as oil prices drag

US stocks lost ground on Monday, extending a two-week decline for equities, as the weakness in oil prices weighed on the energy sector ahead of the start of corporate earnings season.

Oil prices continued their downward march and were a drag on equities.

Brent LCOc1 was down more than five per cent to US$47.44 and US crude CLc1 down 4.6 per cent at US$46.13, as Goldman Sachs slashed its shortterm price forecasts and Gulf producers showed no signs of curbing output.

The S&P energy index was down 2.9 per cent, easily the worst performer of the 10 major S&P sectors. “People are truly becoming concerned about global growth stories here,” said Keith Bliss, Senior Vice President at Cuttone and Co in New York. “People are getting a little bit ahead of this selloff in anticipation of fourth quarter earnings announcements and more worry about the large multinationals and what they are going to say about demand globally, as well as the impact of the dollar.”

Alcoa is scheduled to post quarterly earnings after the closing bell, with financials JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs and Citigroup due to report later in the week.

Dow component Intel Corp is expected to post earnings on Thursday. Fourthquarter earnings are expected to grow by four per cent over the year ago period, according to Thomson Reuters data.

or reach out to the media houses.

Nevertheless, Amsterdam explained that even up to last month, units were discharged in power patrol boats to the suspected area but no such incident occurred on their watch.

Amsterdam pointed out that there are many possible areas where these shots could originate from, which make it difficult to locate the perpetrators.

Moreover, both Sarjoo and Segoram continue to urge the persons guilty of this practice to desist from doing so as they are putting people’s lives in unnecessary danger.

“You might see bush when you watch from the wharf, you mightn’t see houses but people living on the West Bank and people could lose their lives innocently,” Segoram pleaded.

“We just want to notify them that people live here, we don’t want to cause trouble or anything but they need to stop because it could end bad, one person already dead, a child at that,” Sarjoo reiterated.

The Dow Jones industrial average fell 81.33 points, or 0.46 per cent,

to 17,656.04; the S&P 500 lost 14.59 points, or 0.71 per cent, to 2,030.22 and the Nasdaq Composite dropped 32.61 points, or 0.69 per cent, to 4,671.46. Since hitting a record high on December 29, 2014, the S&P 500 has fallen about 2.6 per cent on concerns about global growth, Greece’s potential exit from the euro zone, and falling oil prices. Tiffany slumped 11.6 per cent to US$91.42 after the upscale jeweller cut its full-year profit forecast, citing a disappointing holiday shopping season. NPS Pharmaceuticals jumped 8.2 per cent to US$45.35 after Shire Plc agreed to acquire the company for US$5.2 billion. US-listed shares of Shire slipped 1.5 per cent to US$214.23.

Foundation Medicine surged 100.4 per cent to US$47.90 after Roche Holding agreed to take a majority stake in the company for up to US$1.18 billion. Bristol-Myers Squibb climbed 3.8 per cent to US$62.64 as the best performer on the S&P 500 after the company said the independent data monitoring committee concluded a late stage study evaluating its Opdivo lung cancer drug met its endpoint. Declining issues outnumbered advancing ones on the New York Stock Exchange by 2037 to 882, for a 2.31-to-1 ratio; on the Nasdaq, 1688 issues fell and 847 advanced for a 1.99-to-1 ratio. The S&P 500 was posting 25 new 52-week highs and 20 new lows; the Nasdaq Composite was recording 53 new highs and 70 new lows. (Reuters)

Nepalese fined

$30,000 for illegal entry into Guyana

Keshab Prashad Bastola, 27, of Suriname, was on Monday afternoon fined $30,000 after accepting the charge of illegal entry. The Nepalese national who resides in Suriname appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnaine-Beharry.

The charge read that on January 7, at Springlands, Corentyne, Berbice, he entered Guyana by sea and disembarked without presenting himself to an immigration officer.

The Chief Magistrate then asked the defendant what he was doing in the country when Bastola replied that he was on vacation but upon his arrival, he did not see any Immigration Officer. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant said that defendant disembarked at the backtrack area but Immigration Officers are stationed at the Ferry Stelling at Moleson Creek. Bastola is expected to pay a fine of $30,000 and a default of payment would result in one month imprisonment.

The stray bullet discovered by Terrence Segoram

Regional 7 dead as bus plunges into sea in St Vincent

At least seven people, mainly students, died after a minibus plunged into the sea in Rockgutter, an area between Owia and Fancy on the North-eastern tip of St Vincent early Monday.

Police and Government officials say that five bodies have so far been recovered from the sea, and one person died in hospital. Another person died on the way to the medical institution.

Police are still trying to verify how many persons were in the minibus when it plunged into the sea sometime between 07:00h and 08:00h (local time). Initial reports said that as many as 20 people, including 14 students from the North Union and Georgetown Secondary Schools respectively.

One police source has said that officials were told that the minibus, which is licensed to carry 18 passengers, was “full” when it left Fancy, the northernmost community in St Vincent.

Residents say that min-

ibus was packed with students from the two communities further south in this North Windward constituency. They said that the conductor was standing, suggesting that the minibus was carrying more people than it was licensed to carry, a common practice in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

A large crowd has gathered at the scene where two Coast Guard patrol boats have been searching for bodies or survivors. The efforts are being affected by especially large waves characteristic of the Atlantic side of St Vincent, where the terrain is an alternation of steep inclines and deep gorges and winding roads.

Among the bodies recovered from the water is that of a female student. Health authorities said the body showed signed of trauma, presumable inflicted as it knocked against the large rocks that line the shore. It is not yet clear what caused the incident, but police say that villagers were notified

by persons who jumped out of the vehicle before impact.

A grief stricken Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, speaking on national radio, said the “entire nation of St Vincent and the Grenadines… has been touched by this tragedy of national proportion.

“We all grieve and ask God for guidance and strength as well as we lean on one another,” he said, noting that the recovery of bodies from the sea is ongoing.

“Some of the questions you have are not fully answered, that will come in due time, right now it is the task of making sure that everyone is accounted for. We cannot yet give up hope because there are hope we can find additional survivors as inhospitable as the conditions are, we have to hope… and we have to put the pieces back together and to see what we can do to try to ensure that this… tragedy does not happen again,” Gonsalves said. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Cuba releases all 53 prisoners agreed as part of US deal

US officials say Cuba has completed the release of 53 political prisoners agreed as part of last month’s historic deal between the two countries. The US said it had verified the release of the 53, which it welcomed as a “very positive development”. However, the US said the release did “not resolve the larger human rights problems on the island”. Last month, the two countries said they would restore diplomatic relations severed since 1961.

The thaw was announced in simultaneous televised speeches by President Barack Obama and his Cuban counterpart, Raul Castro. The deal also included the release of US contractor Alan Gross from a Cuban jail, and the freeing of three Cuban secret agents from prison in the US.

The US has not yet disclosed the identities of the 53 Cuban prisoners released over the past days. But US officials told Reuters news agency the White House

would provide the names of all 53 to Congress and expects lawmakers to make them public.

They are believed to be activists who were detained by the Cuban authorities for promoting social and political reforms on the Communist-run island.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Powers said that “welcome as that step is, and heartening as it is for their families, [it] does not resolve the larger human rights problem on the island”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

EDF to provide close to EC$10M for Antigua

Public Sector projects

The Government is set to receive EC$9.8 million to fund public sector initiatives.

The money comes through the Antigua and Barbuda National Indicative Programme under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF).

Head of the European Union Delegation to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Ambassador, Mikael Barfod said the overall objective of the grant support, to be launched in 2016, is to improve governance of the Public Sector by further strengthening

the country’s public finance management system.

“Public finance management was the focus for the 10th EDF, but it was chosen again to support the governments in response to the identified public finance management weakness that remain and to modernise the country’s fiscal institution and systems,” Barfod said during a press conference last Friday.

Barfod also explained another objective of the initiative is to adopt and implement, in a structured manner, international Public Sector standards, systems

and controls, particularly with regards to fiscal policy including tax and customs systems, public financial management systems, public expenditure, and financial accountability. An additional sum of 150,000 Euros will go to civil society, and another 360,000 will be made available to the National Authorisation Office (NAO).

Prime Minister Gaston Browne, on Friday, expressed gratitude to the EU for the grant, which he said will be used to fund critical areas of the Government. (Excerpt from

No bail for gun crimes proposed in TT

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan on Tuesday was expected to propose to Cabinet a Bill to restrict the right to bail for anyone charged with a crime committed with a firearm.

As he pointed out that more than 75 per cent of murders were committed using a firearm, he said, “I there-

fore propose to take a Bill to the Parliament, if Cabinet approves it next week, that will see anyone using a firearm to commit a crime, being denied bail by law automatically.”

Magistrates, as a result of this bill, will not be allowed to use their discretion, he said, adding that accused persons will be held for 120 days.

According to the provisions of the proposed legislation, if the prosecution begins the case within 120 days, the accused will remain behind bars. However, if after 120 days, the prosecution has not started the case, the accused may apply for bail, “but that does not necessarily mean he will get it,” Ramlogan added.

The Attorney General

made the statement on Saturday at the official launch of the Hanuman Mission of Trinidad and Tobago at the Temple in the Sea, Waterloo. Sending a message to those who oppose such measures, he said, “I want them to visit the mother in Penal who pulled over on the Beetham Highway to change her baby’s pamper, and became a victim of gun violence. To those who will cry out against this measure, for the rights of the accused and the rights of the bandit, I want to ask them to go and visit the parents of the 19-year-old girl who spent her last dying moments gasping for breath as she was held face down and dirt in her nostrils being inhaled. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

St Vincent embarks on renewable energy path

For decades, the fertile slopes of La Soufriere volcano, which occupies the northern third of this 344-kilometre-square island, has produced illegally grown marijuana that fuels the local underground economy, and the trade in that illicit drug across the astern Caribbean.

But now the 1234-metre-high mountain, which last erupted in 1979, is now being explored for something very different – its geothermal energy potential. The Ralph Gonsalves

Government believes that geothermal energy will be a “game changer” for the local economy.

In this country, where tourism is the mainstay, the cost of electricity ranges from 40 to 50 cents per kilowatt-hour – several times what consumers pay in the United States.

Householders and manufacturers are hoping that the geothermal energy exploration, which has been underway for more than a year, will in fact produce the 10 to 15 megawatts of elec-

tricity that the country desperately needs to relieve its dependence on high-cost fossil fuels and give new life to the manufacturing and agro-processing sectors. The geothermal energy exploration is a partnership between the Unity Labour Party Government, the Icelandic Firm Reykjavik Geothermal Ltd, and Emera Inc, an international energy company with roots in Nova Scotia, Canada that also owns power stations in the Caribbean. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Upbeat St Kitts-Nevis Opposition calls for elections

Members of the St Kitts and Nevis Opposition alliance Team Unity in their first public meeting for 2015 were in an upbeat mood last Thursday night, with music, live performances from calypsonians and addresses from Team Unity candidates for the upcoming general elections.

The meeting also saw public speeches from Nevisian ministers in Government, Deputy Premier Mark Brantley, Alexis Jeffers and Troy Liburd. In his address, Brantley took St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Denzil Douglas to task over attempts to change the constituency boundaries, a major point of contention for

the Opposition. Jeffers charged supporters to be ready for elections. People’s Action Movement leader Shawn Richards, Team Unity leader Dr Timothy Harris, former Deputy Prime Minister Sam Condor, Ian Patches Liburd and Jonel Powell also spoke at the meeting. (Caribbean News Now)

Vincentians took to various social media channels including Twitter to express their concern for the safety of the passengers and offer prayers of hope for the families

Dozens of dissidents have been released over the past days but the US has yet to release the list of names it provided to the Cuban Government

TT’s Attorney General Anand Ramlogan

France mobilises 10,000 troops at home after Paris shootings

France will deploy 10,000 soldiers on home soil by Tuesday and post almost 5000 extra Police Officers to protect Jewish sites after the killing of 17 people by Islamist militants in Paris last week, officials said.

Speaking a day after the biggest French public demonstration ever recorded, in honour of the victims,

Defence Minister JeanYves Le Drian said the country remained at risk of further attacks. Soldiers would guard transport hubs, tourism sites and key buildings and mount general street patrols. “The threats remain and we have to protect ourselves from them. It is an internal operation that will mobilise almost as many

men as we have in our overseas operations,” Le Drian told reporters after a Cabinet meeting.

The victims, including journalists and Police, died in three days of violence that began on Wednesday with a shooting attack on the political weekly Charlie Hebdo, known for its satirical attacks on Islam and other religions. Many at Sunday’s march wore badges and carried placards declaring “I Am Charlie”.

The Charlie Hebdo attackers, two French-born brothers of Algerian origin, singled out the weekly for its publication of cartoons depicting and ridiculing the Prophet Mohammad.

Charlie Hebdo’s remaining members are working on an eight page issue due to come out on Wednesday with a one-million copy print run. Its lawyer, Richard Malka, told France Info radio there would be caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Interpol notice for Ukraine’s Yanukovich

The international Police cooperation agency Interpol has issued a global wanted “red notice” for deposed Ukrainian leader Viktor Yanukovich.

The red notice for Yanukovich, 64, was issued on Monday, with Interpol saying he is wanted for misappropriation of funds and embezzlement in Ukraine, which he fled in February after a pro-Western revolution toppled his regime.

Yanukovich has been living in Russia since his overthrow. He and members of his family are accused of accumulating vast fortunes during his time in office.

One of Yanukovich’s sons, Oleksandr, managed to build a fortune from coal estimated at US$500 mil-

tries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index.

Al Jazeera’s Paul Brennan, reporting from Ukraine’s capital Kiev, said up until December Interpol had refused to put Yanukovich on a red notice.

“So to have it [red notice] granted just a month later would seem to suggest that the Ukrainian prosecutors have ... persuaded Interpol that this is not a politically motivated case, something Interpol would not touch as a result of its constitution,” he said.

Around the world

Boko Haram crisis: Nigerian archbishop accuses West

The Catholic Archbishop of Jos, in central Nigeria, has accused the West of ignoring the threat of the militant Islamist group, Boko Haram.

Ignatius Kaigama said the world had to show more determination to halt the group’s advance in Nigeria.

He said the international community had to show the same spirit and resolve it had done after the attacks in France.

His warning came after 23 people were killed by three female suicide bombers, one reported to be 10 years old.

The weekend attacks come after reports that hundreds of people were killed last week during the capture by Boko Haram of the town of Baga in Borno state.

In the neighbouring country of Cameroon, the military said it had repelled an attack by Boko Haram insurgents on one of its northern bases.

A military source told the BBC that the insurgents had come in over the Nigerian border. In the exchange of gunfire, the army says one soldier and several insurgents were killed.

Archbishop Kaigama told the BBC’s Newsday pro-

gramme that the slaughter in Baga had shown that the Nigerian military was unable to tackle Boko Haram.

“It is a monumental tragedy. It has saddened all of Nigeria. But... we seem to be helpless. Because if we could stop Boko Haram, we would have done it right away. But they continue to attack, and kill and capture territories... with such impunity,” he said.

The UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, said he was appalled by reports of the killings in Baga and condemned what he called “the depraved acts of Boko Haram terrorists”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

US Centcom’s Twitter page hacked

The Twitter site of the US military’s Central Command has been compromised by hackers claiming to be working on behalf of fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

Hackers filled the Centcom social media site on Monday with threats that said “American soldiers, we are coming, watch your back”.

Other postings appeared to list names and phone numbers of military personnel as well as PowerPoint slides and maps.

The attack comes as a US-led military campaign

against ISIL continues in Iraq and Syria. US military officials said they had no comment yet.

The BBC News reported some internal military documents also appeared on the Centcom Twitter feed.

US Centcom said it was taking “appropriate measures”. The Twitter account was later taken down so no tweets could be viewed.

The hack happened as President Barack Obama was preparing a major speech on cybersecurity.

His spokesman Josh Earnest said the US is looking into the Centcom hacking.

He said they were investigating the extent of the incident, and that there was a significant difference between a large data breach and the hacking of a twitter account.

An unnamed Pentagon official told Reuters the hacking was an embarrassment, but did not appear to be a security threat. And Professor Alan Woodward, from the University of Surrey, said he did not consider the attack to be a major breach of security.

“I wouldn’t say it’s trivial, but it’s just a slip,” he told the BBC.(Excerpts from Al Jazeera and BBC News)

AirAsia jet’s flight data recorder retrieved

lion despite being a dentist by profession.

There was no immediate reaction from Yanukovich or his family about these charges.

Ukraine is ranked 144th out of 177 coun-

Yarosha, who is Ukrainian, is wanted by Russia for “organising an armed gang” that allegedly fought against Russian 76th Guards Air Assault Division in the Chechen war. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Pegida marchers in Dresden defy German politicians

Thousands of protesters have gathered in Dresden for an anti-Islamisation rally called in the wake of the Paris terror attacks. It came despite calls from senior German politicians for marchers to stay at home.

Justice Minister Heiko Maas had appealed for people not to attend the Pegida organisation’s rally.

And Chancellor Angela Merkel has said she will attend a protest in Berlin by Muslim organisations on Tuesday.

Maas was one of several leading politicians to urge the Pegida march organisers not to “misuse”

the deadly attacks on Charlie Hebdo magazine and a Jewish supermarket.

However, the rally went ahead despite the calls for it to be cancelled.

Marchers in the eastern city carried banners expressing solidarity with the French cartoonists killed by Islamists in Paris.

A minute’s silence in memory of the dead was also expected to be held.

In a series of interviews, Maas accused the anti-Islamist group of hypocrisy.

“In Dresden, people want to remember with a black ribbon the victims in Paris – those same

people whom a week ago they were calling the ‘lying press’,” he said.

Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere also criticised the organisers while Bavarian leader Horst Seehofer called on them to stop the marches for the foreseeable future.

The chancellor, who was meeting Turkish PM Ahmet Davutoglu on Monday, was set to take part in a demonstration against the French murders in Berlin planned by Muslim groups on Tuesday, her spokesman said. Vice-Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel and other Ministers were also expected to be there. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Indonesian divers have retrieved the flight data recorder and located the voice recorder of the AirAsia plane that crashed in the Java Sea two weeks ago with 162 people aboard, officials have said.

The data recorder was brought to the surface early in the morning, said National Search and Rescue chief Bambang Soelistyo, after a fortnight-long frustrating search often hampered by bad weather.

“We succeeded in lifting the part of the black box known as the flight data recorder,” Soelistyo, told re-

porters at a news conference on Monday.

Divers began to zero in on the site a day earlier after picking up intense pings from its beacons, but they were unable to get a visual on it due to strong currents and poor visibility.

The cockpit voice and flight data recorders are vital to understanding what brought Flight 8501 down on December 28, killing all on board.

The Indonesian meteorological agency has said stormy weather likely caused the Airbus A320-200 to crash as it flew from the

Indonesian city of Surabaya to Singapore.

But a definitive answer is impossible without the black box, which should contain the pilots’ final words as well as various flight data.

SB Supriyadi, a director with the National Search and Rescue Agency, told reporters on Sunday that an object believed to be the plane’s main body had also been detected near the source of the pings.

The search, which has involved US, Chinese and other international naval ships, has recovered 48 bodies so far. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

French soldiers patrol near the Eiffel Tower as part of the highest level of ‘Vigipirate’ security plan after a shooting at the Paris offices of Charlie Hebdo on January 12

Ukrainian leader Viktor Yanukovich’s family has been accused of accumulating vast fortunes during his time in office (AFP)

Investigators are checking the tail section for indications of what went wrong

PUBLIC OPINION

POPULI I SAY...

Do you think teenagers should be allowed to date?

Akeem Thomas

“Well, I think the idea of teenagers and dating is quite cool, but I think it depends: you have to know the persons first before you go on a date, know their background and families and both families agree, it shouldn’t be behind parents’ back.”

Mark Warner – Father

“Well, teenagers and dating…I think when it’s the appropriate time for teenagers to date, they will date, like 18 or so, but even if so you can’t stop them from dating, because the more you look is the less you see and the least you can do is instil proper decency and discipline to them. Show them that you trust them to do the right thing and exercise proper judgment. They have to learn; you can’t stop them from doing what they want to do, time will come when they will indulge in these things, but you have to trust when the time come, they will do the appropriate thing.”

Malacia Brown – Nurse “It depends on what age, but below 18, with all the pressure out there, there are so many risks with getting STDs and teenage pregnancy. They are not old enough to make wise and right decisions.”

Davendra Persaud

“They should be allowed to go and see the world, and they need to have their own control and that comes from their parents and what the parents teach them. Teenagers below 18, you know, should be allowed to date, but parents need to have a role in that relationship, you know.”

Matthew Johnson “Yes, of course, everybody must get free will to get more experience, and they will learn, but, of course, they have to learn at a particular level. But I don’t see anything wrong, that’s how they will learn and develop.”

Amanda Daniels – Student “Yes, I think so, because I think it opens them to experiences they need to face and if they wait until an older age to face these experiences, they might not know how to handle it and cope with the situation. But I’m not saying it’s all a good thing, because it can be a bad thing. This is where parents should intervene, seeing they’re the parents and the adults, then they should advise their children on making better choices in their early dating life.”

Carlos Persaud – Student

“Yes, I think so, because everyone entitled to their own free will, but like with the age of 16 or around that, because remember they’re getting older and they have to make their own decision and exercise their free rights, so that’s just my opinion.”

“I don’t think so. I don’t think they will be fit, because they might want to do adult stuff and they are not ready.”

Davendra Kissoon

“Yes, I think teenagers should be allowed to date. I believe experimentation should come before application and teenagers dating would better prepare them for an adult life.”

Consultation on draft plan for Kanuku Mountains Protected Area on today

The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) will be hosting a Public Meeting on the Draft Management Plan for the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area (KMPA), located in Region 9 (Upper Takutu, Upper Essequibo) with support from the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) will be held today.

The event will take place at the Protected Areas Commission, National Park, Thomas Lands, Georgetown,l the ministry said in an advisory. The objectives of the Meeting are: to present the Draft Management Plan for the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area; to seek stakeholders’ feedback based on their review of the draft Management Plan and to seek stakeholder inputs on the implementation of the Management Plan.

The KMPA was first proposed as a potential Protected Area in 1999 as part of establishing a Protected Area System for Guyana. The designation of Kanuku Mountains followed an extensive delineation and con-

sultation process which began in 2007. Subsequently, with funding support from the Government of Ger many, the Guyana Protected Areas System (GPAS) Project was established, with activities focused on building and supporting a Protected Areas System in Guyana. Following the enactment of the Protected Areas Act in 2011, the legal

mechanism for the recognition and declaration of the KMPA as one of Guyana’s national protected areas was provided. The draft Management Plan outlines the principles and strategies for the 5-year development and management of the KMPA.

The KMPA falls within IUCN Category VI – Managed Resource Protected Area (MRPA), as are

the other protected areas of the GPAS. A MRPA serves to address a combination of conservation goals and social, cultural, and economic goals of communities and resource users. Such a protected area is expected to be large enough to maintain viable populations of key species with significant portions of the area in a natural condition. It includes

areas where stricter protection is mandated and zones where natural resources are managed and used in a sustainable manner.

The vision for the KMPA is that “The KMPA demonstrates sustainable resource utilisation while ensuring the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services. It promotes collaboration with stakeholders for management and decision making, generates benefits which improve human well-being, and serves as a model to the world.” The development of this Management Plan would not have been possible without the funding from the German Development Bank (KfW) and Conservation International, as well as the enthusiasm, participation, feedback, and support of communities and various national stakeholders. Meanwhile, the document is still available for the public to review and make comments at www.nre.gov.gy; comments on the document can be submitted to pac.guyana@gmail. com or to the Protected Areas Commission by Tuesday.

Bonita Mohan –Employee at Avon

Guyana: Kanuku Mountains

TUESDAY JANUARY 13, 2015 |

Businesswoman gunned down ...in front of Atlantic Gardens residence

By Vahnu Manikchand

In a dramatic turn of events the wife of a businessman was executed Monday night at her Atlantic Gardens, East Coast Demerara home months after she was accused of paying a “hit man” $6M to take out her husband.

Dead is 45-year-old Patricia Sanasie. She was shot several times in front of her residence. She was the wife of city businessman, Deokaran Sanasie who owns an auto dealership in Alberttown, Georgetown. The shooting occurred sometime around 07:15h. The woman was reportedly shot about four times to her head by a lone gunman. According to information Mrs Sanasie had just arrived home and got out of the car to open the gate when she was confronted by her shooter, who held her in his arms before pumping four bullets in her head. The shooter was described as a “big built man.” A neighbour who requested anonymity told this newspaper that shortly before the shooting, silver- Toyota Noah had passed a corner away from the dead woman’s house. The car was heavily tinted and had no number plate. “I saw the car passed and it slowed down by the corner that leads to her house but it didn’t turn then it drove off with a lot of speed and went around the other corner. The lady and her daughter then passed; the daughter was driving and she came out to open the gate. Then I heard the car again; it came around the other corner and stopped in front their car and a man came out,” the neighbour related.

Shot in the air

He recounted that the man fired a shot in the air which caused the woman to jump and turned around. The daughter tried to get out of the car but the shooter grabbed Sanasie, hugged her and shot her four times in her head. The nieghbour said that one of the gunshots hit the woman in her neck.

This newspaper was told that just before the shooting, another vehicle, a silver Avensis, had passed by. “It seems as though the Avensis was on the lookout because the Noah passed and it went around the next corner then the woman came in and the Avensis came in behind her but it did not come out back through this corner. Only the Noah with the shooter inside, and a driver perhaps, came out back this street; the other vehicle, the Avensis, might have drove out from the another corner,” he stated.

The neighbour recalled

that the police came about five minutes after the shooting but the woman had already lost a lot blood. She was then picked up and placed in a villager’s car and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital. The woman reportedly died on her way to the medical institution and was pronounced dead on arrival (DOA). The neighbour and other persons on the scene were adamant that from the series of events, the incident does not appear to be a robbery but a successful hit on the woman.

Failed execution

Back in February 2014, Mr Sanasie had accused the woman and her brother of plotting to kill him after attempts were made to kill him. He was shot three times outside of his business place at Light and Fourth streets, Alberttown. He survived the injuries. Mr Sanasie also called “Monkey Ram”, was shot on February 15 last year while outside of his business place. The 58-year-old had said that a man walked up to him and discharged three shots at him; one to his leg and two to his abdomen. Two warheads, which likely came from a revolver of unknown calibre, were recovered from the scene. It was reported that after the businessman was shot, he attempted to run for cover.

Deokaran had claimed that his wife and her brother may have been behind the attempt on his life. He said that the woman reportedly paid someone $6 million to do the job. However, Patricia Sanasie had proclaimed her innocence in the presence of her daughters from her union with Deokaran. “He holding innocent people, I’m his wife I live with him for 29 years, since I was the age of 16, what am I suppose to do, why would you, the media or anybody would want to feel that I am involved in

Baby Dwayne’s family mend fences after charges laid

After a fight at his funeral and resultant Police charges, feuding family members of little Dwayne Wright, who died on New Year’s Day at the Georgetown Public Hospital, has finally taken steps to settle their dispute over his death.

Last Thursday, as little Dwayne was laid to rest, harsh words and physical blows were exchanged between the Carters, his mother’s relatives, and the Wrights, his father’s, over how the two-week-old infant died and what needed to be done about it.

His maternal grandmother, Phyllis Carter, who blamed the hospital and wanted $50 million in compensation, stated that she made a Police report against her daughter’s in-laws, the Wrights. At the same time, his paternal grandmoth-

this. When I come live with this man, he had nothing and I worked with him wholly and solely,” the woman had said. Patricia said that she had nothing to do with the shooting and refuted all the allegations her husband levelled against her and her brother. She said she had proof to show her innocence, while rejecting claims that she had stolen from her husband. She clarified that money and property transactions were done with the two of them since they are in business together. The businessman had accused his wife of trying to kill him for US$100,000, which he got from selling a property. He had further alleged that his jewellery and other properties had been disappearing from his home. But, the woman said her husband went out of the country a few months prior to the February incident and did not leave any money, so she sold a generator.

Asked whether she had ever threatened to leave her husband prior to the shooting, the woman replied in the negative. However, her husband had said that she had told him two days prior to the shooting that she wants to separate since they are not happy. The woman had also alleged that her husband constantly abuses her, their children, the maid and even neighbours. “I think he need to go to the doctor and check himself out,” she had stated. Deokaran had alleged that his wife and her brother planned his death about a month before the alleged hit. He alleged that the man returned to the US and sold all of his properties in order to pay off for the hit. The couple was married for some 29-years but separated after the incident last year. Guyana Times was made to understand that Deokaran “Ram” Sanasie had since moved to the United States.

er, Cheryl Wright, who said that the hospital was not to be blamed, disclosed that the Carter family damaged her husband’s car at the funeral. They had all made their relevant reports at the Leonora Police Station after Dwayne’s burial.

Carter had told this newspaper that she wished to safeguard her daughter’s future; hence, her push for compensation. However, Wright told this publication that Carter had had nothing to do with her daughter since it became known that she was pregnant – a claim Carter denied. Wright informed that the hospital had nothing to do with the death of little Dwayne as he was born with a lung infection. Sentiments the baby’s mother concurred with.

After the unpleasant scene at the burial and the subsequent charges, both

sides recognised their folly and have decided to stop fighting.

Carter shared that both families went together to the Leonora Police Station to retract the charges they had made against each other; however, an Officer there stated that it could not be done as the charges were already made out.

Both families were quite upset about this development as they had no desire to go to court.

D Division (West Demerara) Commander, Senior Superintendent Ian Amsterdam told the Guyana Times that the families had to go to court as the charges had already been made. However, he stated, since the families did not wish for the matter to go any further, the charges would be dismissed at court.

Women leaders driving success in businesses – ILO study

While women are still under-represented in top management, the number of women in senior and middle management positions has increased over the last 20 years, a new study by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Bureau for Employers’ Activities finds.

According to Women in Business and Management: Gaining Momentum *, in 80 of the 108 countries for which ILO data is available, the proportion of women managers has increased during this period. “Our research is showing that women’s ever increasing participation in the labour market has been the biggest engine of global growth and competitiveness,” says Deborah France-Massin, Director of the ILO Bureau for Employers’ Activities. “An increasing number of studies are also demonstrating positive links between women’s participation in top decision making teams and structures and business performance. But there is a long way to go before we achieve true gender equality in the workplace, especially when it comes to top management positions.”

Only 5 per cent or less of the CEOs of the world’s largest corporations are women. The larger the company, the less likely the head will be a woman.

All-male company boards are still common but are decreasing in number, with women attaining 20 per cent or more of all board seats in a handful of countries. A global survey quoted in the study shows that Norway has the highest global proportion of companies (13.3 per cent) with a woman as company board chairperson, followed by Turkey (11.1 per cent). “It is critical for more women to reach senior man-

agement positions in strategic areas to build a pool of potential candidates for top jobs such as CEO or company presidents,” explained France-Massin. “However, ‘glass walls’ still exist with the concentration of women in certain types of management functions like HR, communications and administration,” she added.

Today, women own and manage over 30 per cent of all businesses, but they are more likely to be found in micro and small enterprises. Getting more women to grow their businesses is not only critical for equality but also for national development, underlines the report. The report provides statistics on women in management and in business for most countries from all regions and at all levels of development. It also contains data on the gender pay gap at management and lower levels, as well as statistics on women’s achievements in education. It identifies the growing momentum building around the world to advance women to higher levels of management and lists a selection of the numerous initiatives from various sectors.

The report also provides the following recommendations to close the remaining gender gap: seeking “flexible solutions” to manage work and family time commitments as an alternative to being subject to special treatment or quotas; providing maternity protection coverage and childcare support can bring added value to the company through the recruitment and retention of talented women; “changing mind-sets” to break cultural barriers and fight sexual harassment; addressing the so-called “leaky pipeline” whereby women fall behind despite their high level of education; implementing

gender-sensitive human resources policies and measures and making sure women are given as challenging tasks as men from the very beginning of their career.

The authors underline that women and girls receive almost half of all educational resources, thus representing a significant proportion of the available talent pool. Therefore, companies’ investment in attracting, retaining and promoting skilled women is likely to be good for business.

Finally, the report says national employers’ organizations can play a major role in increasing awareness of the business case for appointing women in leadership roles. “Unless action is taken, it could take 100 to 200 years to achieve parity at the top. It is time to smash the glass ceiling for good to avoid controversial mandatory quotas that are not always necessary or effective. Having women in top positions is simply good for business,” concluded France-Massin.

According to the report, Jamaica has the highest proportion of women managers at 59.3 per cent, while Yemen has the least with 2.1 per cent. The US is 15th in the list of 108 countries with 42.7 per cent women managers, the UK 41st (34.2 per cent) and the Russian Federation holds the 25th place (39.1 per cent). In Africa, Ghana occupies 26th place with 39 per cent, followed by Botswana ranking 28th (38.6 per cent). In Asia, the highest ranking country is the Philippines in 4th place (47.6 per cent), followed by Mongolia with 41.9 per cent in 17th place. With 53.1 per cent, Colombia holds the second place at the global level and ranks first in Latin America, followed by Panama in fifth place (47.4 per cent).

Deokaran Sanasie and Patricia Sanasie in happier times

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

(May 21June 20)

CANCER

Shake up your routine and participate in a community event. Stimulate your imagination and make personal changes. Romance is amplified, and sharing your experience with someone special will bring you closer together.

Flashing large amounts of cash will give someone the wrong impression. Pay your own way, but don’t try to convince people that you are something you’re not.

Don’t be shy; you should discuss your dreams. Unnecessary and costly delays are likely if you are unprepared or disorganized. The suggestions that people offer you will help you cut corners and succeed.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Make sure you receive all the required information before you offer your opinion or advice. Don’t allow a minor letdown to escalate into a major incident that could leave you in a precarious position. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to let loose and have a little fun. Plan a surprise and shower the people you love with your affection.

Self-improvement plans will bring good results. Feeling fit and healthy will boost your confidence and give you a positive mindset. It’s time to put your needs first.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

on’t let personal issues lead to indulgence. Excess will end up contributing to your troubles, not eliminating them. Ask for help or draw on your inner strength to help you overcome negative influences.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

A decision you are toying with will be easier if you investigate the pros and cons first. Confrontations will not turn out in your favor. Remain an observer, not a participant.

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Don’t fall for a sob story. Being too trusting will end up costing you physically, emotionally or financially. Don’t offer your time, opinion or money.

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

You should take care of responsibilities that you’ve been neglecting in order to avoid an emotional confrontation. Getting your duties out of the way will be appreciated by others and will give you a sense of accomplishment.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Make the most of your time by being helpful and showing concern for others. Join forces with an organization that reflects your values and offer your services.

Don’t feel guilty turning down invitations or requests if you need some time to yourself. You do so much for everyone else, at the expense of your health and well-being.

GEMINI

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

dilbert

arCHie

Third coming!

–

Jamaal Shabazz appointed Head Coach for Barbados clash

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

The charismatic Jamaal Shabazz has been appointed by the Normalisation Committee of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) as Head Coach of the Golden Jaguars for the February 1 clash with hosts Barbados. It represents a third coming for the Trinidadian, who has enjoyed tremendous success with Guyana’s national team over the years.

Proudly displaying the Golden Arrowhead and inviting each member of the Normalisation Committee, Technical Team and GFF staff to place a hand on the flag with a football placed in the centre, Shabazz sent a strong message to all concerned with the development of Guyana’s football.

“And I appeal to all the factions in Guyana’s football that this is about the players … and the game has got to stop the fighting and the animosity and the war for who tournament, and who this, and who is Coach and who is President … time to stop,” he stressed. “FIFA has come

in and made a decision and they have brought a leader [Normalisation Committee Chairman Clinton Urling] to settle and place Guyana’s football in the rightful place.”

Shabazz served in the capacity of Technical Director of the Golden Jaguars from 2005 to 2008 and then from 2011 to 2012.

He guided the national team to an unprecedented 13 straight victories in his first stint, resulting in a rise up the FIFA rankings, and then led the Jaguars to the CONCACAF semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers for the first time in history.

Shabazz’s third coming, however, is set to be the most challenging yet, with off-field troubles rendering the Golden Jaguars inactive since November 2012.

“Guyana’s football is at a stage where it’s at its most… animosity, and it’s a difficult period, not unlike some other sports in Guyana, and politics in Guyana,” Shabazz observed.

Chairman of the Normalisation Committee,

Ronaldo wins...

Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper

Manuel Neuer was marginally behind in third, polling 15.72 percent in the annual poll run jointly by soccer’s governing body and France Football magazine. The votes are cast by the captains and coaches of each national team plus one journalist from each country.

Joachim Loew was voted Coach of the Year after leading Germany to the World Cup title in Brazil.

Clinton Urling, in his remarks, stated that Shabazz has been appointed solely for the Barbados game, and a decision on the longterm Head Coach will subsequently be made.

“I think our focus at the moment is to focus on the Barbados game and then we sit down with the Technical Team – Shabazz is now part of that Technical Team – and will decide on the most appropriate steps, until June for the World Cup Qualifiers: who will be the Head Coach for the team moving forward,” Urling explained.

Newly-appointed Technical Director Claude Bolton expressed elation about forming a strong alliance with Shabazz as they work to lift Guyana’s football out of the misery that has pervaded the game.

“I mentioned at my press conference [on Saturday] that it’s the players that take us [to another level], and we have the privilege of being part of them, and I think I can hear that again from Mr Shabazz,” Bolton remarked.

Meanwhile, the squad

from page 22

He finished ahead of Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti and Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone in the poll.

Ronaldo netted 51 goals in 47 appearances last season as Real secured a record-extending 10th Champions League title and won the King’s Cup.

His tally included 17 goals in the Champions League, a record for a single edition of a Europe’s elite club competition

Since then, he has added the Club World Cup title

to his collection, has scored a stunning 26 goals in 17

La Liga matches and looks set to looks set to smash the biggest total for a season in Spain’s top flight of 50 scored by Messi in 2011-12.

All that was enough to overlook a disappointing World Cup where Portugal went out in the first round and Ronaldo mustered only one goal.

However, he still became Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and his goal haul for his country stands

for the Barbados game will be encamped from January 22 under Shabazz, Bolton and Assistant Coach Wayne Dover.

Other members of the Technical Team include Trevor Burnett (Manager – Equipment); Faizal Khan (Manager – Commercial and Administrative); Mark Xavier (Manager –Operations); Anson Ambrose (Trainer); Andrew Hazel (Goalkeeping Coach); and Debita Harriprashad (Physiotherapist).

The 26-member preliminary squad reads: O’Neil Carter, Oswald Cornett, Omallo Williams, Travis Henry, Solomon Austin, Kris Camacho, Quincy Madramootoo, Trevon Lithcott, Dwain Jacobs, Amos Ramsey, Daniel Wilson, Keron Solomon, Sheldon Holder, Clive DeNobrega, Colin Nelson, Dwight Peters, Tishard Joseph, Dwayne Lawrence, Domini Garnett, Travis Hillman, Rawle Gittins, Denver Dennis, Calvin Sheppard, Joshua Brown, Eusi Phillips and Vurlon Mills.

Powell to try new regime to win elusive gold

Jamaica’s Asafa Powell, who has struggled to produce form his best at major championships, believes a change in coach and a new approach to training will improve his fortunes.

The sprinter who held the 100m world record between 2005 and 2008 before compatriot Usain Bolt lowered it to 9.58 seconds believes he can rediscover his form and improve his personal best of 9.72.

“Anything is possible. Justin Gatlin surprised me last year… he ran his personal best times of (9.77 & 19.68) at age 32,” said Powell, who ended 2014 as the fastest Jamaican with 9.87 seconds after serving a six-month drug suspension for using the banned stimulant Oxilofrine.

at 52 in 117 appearances.

Messi, by contrast, inspired Argentina as they reached the World Cup final, where they lost to Neuer’s Germany.

Ronaldo first won the award in 2008, when it was run solely by FIFA, and he finished ahead of Messi.

Messi won the award four times in a row from 2009 to 2012, with Ronaldo finishing as runner-up on three occasions, before the Portuguese reversed the trend last year. (Reuters)

“I think I’m capable of doing a lot more than most of the sprinters out there… My best is yet to come, so it’s just to be patient,” said Powell who is eyeing gold at this year’s world championships in Beijing.

“I feel a lot stronger, I’m a lot more focused and I think I’m smarter now, so I know what it takes to do it. It’s just to put myself out there and do what I’m supposed to do,” added the man who has run a worldrecord 84 times under 10 seconds.

Powell’s brother Donovan, a 100m quarterfinalist at the 1997 world championships, is backing his 32-year-old sibling to add gold to his two bronze medals from 2007 and 2009.

“Nothing is impossible, 32 is the year you really get to put everything together,” he told Reuters.

“We are doing different things… He’s really working hard to achieve the 9.72 he ran a few years ago and I personally think if he keeps focused and remains healthy, he can do it,” he said.

The fifth fastest man in history is set to run three 60m indoors before bidding for the elusive 100m world title.

“The main focus is the trials first because that is like a world championships by itself and then the world championships in China,” said Powell, in reference to the glut of Jamaican sprinters with sub-10 credentials.

They include Bolt, Yohan Blake, Nesta Carter, Kemar Bailey-Cole and Nickel Ashmeade.

“I’m just trying to stay healthy, put in all the hard work and make sure that I stay focused and just win the gold (in Beijing),” Powell added. (Reuters)

Asafa Powell

Members of the Normalisation Committee and the Golden Jaguars’ Technical Team pose for a photo

Foster steps down as BCB official

Long-serving Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) and 2010 National Sports Commission’s Personalityof-the-Year, Hilbert Foster, has stepped down as Chairman of the highly successful Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Special Events Committee.

Foster has decided to concentrate on his duties at the RHTY&SC, which undertakes over 200 programmes/activities on an annual basis, and which in 2015, would be observing its Silver Jubilee Anniversary.

The BCB, in 2008 under the leadership of the then acting President Keith Foster, established the Special Events Committee and the younger Foster was asked to head it.

“The Committee over the last seven years has undertaken over 700 activities/ programmes for Berbice Cricket, and is primarily responsible for the huge respect Berbicians have developed for the Berbice Cricket Board over the years,” the BCB said in a press release.

The BCB, over the last seven years, has successfully transformed itself from being a mere cricketing body into a highly respected Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO). Foster stated that he was very proud of his many achievements over the last seven years, but felt that the time had come for others to contribute as leaders and must only serve for a while before moving on to allow new ideas to come on board.

Under Foster’s visionary leadership, the BCB

was able to host numerous new programmes, including BCB Educational Awards Scheme, Tribute to Retired Cricketers, Tribute to Heroes, Tribute to Coaches, Annual Awards Ceremony, Annual Cricket Academy, Guyoil countywide coaching programme, Annual Review Magazine, Mother and Father-of-theYear, Berbice Hall of Fame, Countywide cricket exhibition, Senior Players Charity Programme, School bags for cricketers project, numerous cricketing clinics, Tribute to Groundsmen, Inter-county MVP, Christmas Charity Programme and Tribute to Journalists.

“While most of the Special Events Committee programmes were his ideas, Foster’s most cherished visionary ideas were the Berbice All-Time Cricket XI teams, Inter-zone Cricket Tournaments, Hall of Fame, Independence Day 20/20 Cup, Role Model/Mentor programme, Internal Interzone Tournament for village teams, first aid kits for clubs, cricketers anti-HIV/AIDS March and

Rally, Berbice Inter-county Cap System, Personal Development Skills Clinic, Test Cricketers Billboard, Elite Training Programmes and Educational Cricket Posters,” the BCB statement highlighted.

The hardworking Foster also headed the BCB’s 70th Anniversary Committee in 2009 and Golden Jubilee Celebration in 2014, both celebrations comprising a total of 60 activities.

Special memories

He stated that he has special memories of raising close to $300,000 for a child from West Berbice in one hour on behalf of the BCB to allow her to undertake an emergency medical operation and assisting over 50 clubs in Berbice with millions of dollars worth of items to fulfil their mandates.

Foster also singlehandedly raised over $20 million worth of financial and material sponsorship for the BCB by using his vast influence with sponsors and donors.

He stated that his love and respect for his elder brother Keith inspired him to make sure that his brother’s presidency of the BCB would always be remembered as a memorable period in the history of Berbice Cricket.

“With the Special Events Committee raising the sponsorship, Berbice cricketers were able to play cricket at the Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, Inter-zone, internal zone, Under-21, Under-23, Intermediate, Second Division and First Division levels. As Public Relations Officer of the Berbice

Cricket Board, Foster also worked overtime to make sure that Berbicians were kept abreast of the activities of the Board, via the electronic and printed media,” the BCB revealed.

He would like to express gratitude to Carl Moore; his brother Keith; Anil Beharry; Hubern Evans; Gregory Rambarran; Angela Haniff; Romash Munna, alias Moonsee; Shabeer Baksh; Leslie Solomon; Julian Cambridge; David Black; Carol Nurse; and Rabindranauth Saywack for their support over the years, while special mention was made of Malcolm Peters, Bishwa Panday, Bissoondyal Singh, Chetram Singh, Mortimer George, Albert Smith, Vickram Seubarran, Dhieranidranauth Somwaru and Alfred Mentore for their support and timely advice.

Foster also expressed gratitude to members of the media for their coverage of the Special Events Committee activities and special mention was made of Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, Stabroek News, Guyana Times, National Communications Network, TVG, DTV-8 and LRTVS CH10.

The long-serving cricket administrator wished the newly elected BCB Executives all the best in the future and expressed great confidence in the leadership ability of the new President, Anil Beharry.

“His service to Berbice cricket would, however, not be lost totally as he says he would be available to share his vast experience with others and to assist with some special events if required,” the BCB release concluded.

Lady Secret prevails at Budhan Memorial Turf Club

Lady Secret had thousands of fans see her win the feature event on Sunday at the Budhan Memorial Turf Club one-day horse race meet.

Mounted by Jockey Colin Ross, the animal stayed at the back for most of the race as Little and Red Jet exchanged places at the top of the race.

Into the final turn, Ross spurred the animal on as she went past the entire field to win by five lengths to the jubilation of the fans.

Little finished ahead of Red Jet while Sunny Silence took fourth place.

The win was worth $130,000 for the D McKenzie Stable.

Meanwhile, Its My Time chalked up two wins, triumphing in both K Class races. Each win was worth $70,000.

In other results from the one-day meet, Magnum won the L1 race with Map Head and Sudden Star finishing in that order, while Sophia’s Choice took the L2 race with Brown Boy, This Day, and Forgiven Kid bringing up in the rear. (Andrew Carmichael)

India’s bowling a big letdown – Dravid

In the wake of India's 2-0 series defeat in Australia and their slide to No. 7 in the Test rankings, Rahul Dravid has urged a long-term approach to improving their overseas performances.

"I'm not a big one for rankings," Dravid told ESPNcricinfo. "Whether we're seventh or fifth, for me that doesn't really make a huge difference. We are not going to be playing overseas for a long time, so our rankings will definitely improve.

"We will perform well in India. We've got the batting line-up now, we've got some very good spinners who can bowl well in these conditions, so if we were having this conversation in 24 months and we haven't played a lot overseas, then I might be talking about 'oh, great, we're up there in numbers one and two'.

"So that's not the point. The point for me is, how well we do when we go overseas from now, and what are the steps that we're taking to address some of the issues that have become pretty evident over the last 12-14 months."

India, Dravid said, were close to building a batting

bowler somewhere or a super spinner somewhere, that happens. But the reality is that we were all excited, before the Australia tour. We had got 2-3 guys, Umesh Yadav, Varun Aaron, all bowling 140-plus; there's always Ishant Sharma; Bhuvi [Bhuvneshwar Kumar] has come along a long way.

"So I'm not saying that these guys are finished. There are clearly lessons that they need to learn, areas that they need to work on. You could have the same set of bowlers, but if they improve and get better, I think that's the ideal situation, because when I look around the place, I don't necessarily see many bowlers shouting out or banging the door open at the moment to say, look, pick me, I will do the job for you in Test cricket."

Virat Kohli, Dravid said, was the ideal captain for India to plan their Test future around.

"I think it's early days for Virat. But he's shown that he can lead. One of the biggest pluses for me was his own performance in this series. The worst thing would have been, for someone like Virat, who was the obvi-

line-up that would be competitive in all conditions, but they would need a big improvement in the bowling to be able to win abroad consistently.

"The bowling has been a big let-down, and I think if you are not consistently bowling well, if you don't have world-class bowlers in both pace and spin, then you're going to slide down the rankings because you're not going to produce results."

The current crop of bowlers have failed on several overseas tours, but Dravid hinted that they may still be the best options India have at the moment, with no standout performers in domestic cricket.

"It's a tough one. I follow Ranji Trophy cricket and cricket in India, and there's not a lot of talent. The cupboard, unfortunately in the bowling department, is not as well stocked as we would like it to be.

"Hopefully it can change and things like this can change in six months, eight months, sometimes you can find a young, exciting fast

ous successor to Mahendra Singh Dhoni, to have not performed and not been sure of his own place, which was one of the concerns after the tour of England.

"But that's not the case, now we know that Virat's a shoo-in candidate for the captaincy, he's someone whom Indian cricket can plan long-term with, and that's what they should do. Results will take care of themselves, with the right plans you're making, right noises you're making to go out and find bowlers and plan long-term, and sit down and think about how are we playing these tours, are we preparing well enough, are we going there well in advance, playing the practice games, what are the kind of skills required.

"These are the kind of things that need to be done behind the scenes. If Virat can do that process, he'll find that the results will follow, because in a country like India, with the number of people playing, talent's got to be there. It's just a question of finding it."

Hilbert Foster

Rahul Dravid

Jockey Colin Ross and Lady Secret celebrate with their fans

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Obama hosts Spurs at White House

President Barack Obama praised the sportsmanship of the San Antonio Spurs as “a great metaphor for what America should be all about.”

Obama hosted the Spurs at the White House on Monday to celebrate their victory in the 2014 NBA Finals.

“Let’s face it, just a little while back, people were saying that the Spurs were past their prime, not just old but kind of boring,” Obama said, according to The Hill. “Now they’re fresh and exciting, which is basically the exact opposite of what happens to presidents.”

“For an old guy, it makes me feel good to see, you know, where’s Tim?” Obama said, pointing out power forward Tim Duncan, 38.

“It makes me feel good to see that folks in advancing years can succeed in a young man’s sport,” Obama joked.

Obama said the Spurs have become the United

Nations of basketball due to the team’s diversity.

“It shows the way that this wonderful sport has become an international sport,” Obama said.

NBA Roundup…

“As somebody who’s got two daughters, one of who is a baller, it makes me feel good when excellence is recognized regardless of gender,” Obama said.

Obama noted the Spurs’ hiring of WNBA star Becky Hammon last year. She is the first full-time paid female assistant on an NBA coaching staff.

The

Grizzlies top Suns in OT behind Zbo’s double-double

Marc Gasol scored the first seven points in the second overtime, Zach Randolph had 27 points and 17 rebounds and the Memphis Grizzlies outlasted the Phoenix Suns 122-110 on Sunday night.

Gasol finished with 12 points to help Memphis snap a two-game losing streak. Mike Conley added 25 points and eight assists and Courtney Lee had 18 points.

Isaiah Thomas led Phoenix with 20 points, but had a costly turnover trying to get the ball into the front court with the Suns leading late in the first overtime.

Markieff Morris added 17 points, Alex Len had 14 points and 13 rebounds, and P.J. Tucker, Eric Bledsoe and Marcus Morris had 11 points apiece.

Tucker’s layup tied it 101 with 5.9 left in regulation. The Grizzlies begged

for basket interference, saying Bledsoe pulled the net as the ball was bouncing on the rim.

Bledsoe’s 3-pointer with 33.3 seconds left in the first overtime gave the Suns a 108-106 lead. The Suns stopped the Grizzlies on the next possession, but Thomas gave away the ball and Lee — fouled by Dragic — made two free throws with 16.2 left. Bledsoe then missed at the buzzer, forcing the second extra period.

The Suns trailed by 16 in the second half and 14 early in the fourth quarter.

Trail Blazers 106, Lakers 94

Damian Lillard scored 17 of his 34 points in the fourth quarter, leading Portland past Los Angeles.

LaMarcus Aldridge had 15 points and nine rebounds, and Chris Kaman added 12 rebounds and nine assists in his fourth start of the sea-

son and second against his former team. The Blazers have won 27 of their last 32 games and are a season-best 22 over .500 at 30-8.

Kobe Bryant was rested by Lakers coach Byron Scott for the sixth time in 11 games and second game in a row. The NBA’s third-leading career scorer, playing in his 19th season at age 36, played in only six games last season due to a torn Achilles and a fracture in his left knee.

Wesley Johnson returned to the Lakers’ lineup and scored 17 points after missing three games because of a strained hip flexor.

Kings 103, Cavaliers 84

DeMarcus Cousins had 26 points and 13 rebounds and Sacramento handed Cleveland its seventh loss in eight games with LeBron James out with a strained back and sore left knee.

Rudy Gay added 23 points for Sacramento.

Darren Collison had 16, and Carl Landry 11. Kevin Love led the Cavaliers with 25 points and 10 rebounds, and Kyrie Irving scored 14 of his 21 points in the first quarter and had seven assists.

Timofey Mozgov, acquired from Denver last week, had 14 points and 12 rebounds.

JR Smith struggled after scoring 27 points in his second game since joining Cleveland in a trade with New York. He had four points on 2-of-10 shooting in 30 minutes. Cleveland is 1-8 in its

last nine games to drop to 19-19.

Hawks 120, Wizards 89

Kyle Korver scored 19 points and DeMarre Carroll had 16 to help Eastern Conference-leading Atlanta beat Washington for its eighth straight victory. Korver was 5 for 7 from 3-point range, improving his NBA-leading percentage to 50.2. His smoothest move, however, was a behind-theback pass to Carroll for a layup and a 64-54 lead in the third.

Improving to 16-3 at home and 29-8 overall, the Hawks got 15 points from Al Horford and 11 each from Paul Millsap, Jeff Teague and Mike Scott. Atlanta has won 13 of 14 and 22 of 24. John Wall had 15 points for Washington and Nene added 14. The Wizards were outscored 33-12 in the fourth quarter. They won their previous three games.

Heat 104, Clippers 90

Chris Bosh scored 34 points, Hassan Whiteside had career highs of 23 points and 16 rebounds off the bench and Miami beat Los Angeles to end a three-game road skid.

Whiteside was 10 of 13 from the field and 3 of 4 from the line in 28 minutes. Dwayne Wade added 17 points and 10 assists. Blake Griffin scored 26 points and Chris Paul had 23 points and nine assists for the Clippers. They had won two straight and six of their previous eight. (Vancouver Sun)

Obama also praised the Spurs for their public service efforts on literacy and community development in San Antonio.

Spurs defeated the Miami Heat last year to win their fifth NBA championship. (ESPN)

President Barack Obama shares a photo with the current NBA champions

Zach Randolph

Ronaldo wins Ballon d’Or award for second consecutive year

Cristiano Ronaldo won the FIFA Ballon d’Or award for the second year running and the third overall on Monday after a prolific, trophy-filled year with Real Madrid.

T20, ODI and Test can all survive in the WI

Blaming the T20 format for messing up West Indies cricket is very simplistic and fails to acknowledge the need to adjust and adapt to the changing face of cricket.

History will show the West Indies have responded positively to every format of the game to dominate at some point in time. They were world test champions from 1980-1995, they were winners of the ICC World Cup in 1975, and 1979 and they were world T20 champions in 2012.

Likewise, when the constant stock of natural talented players began to dwindle, the developmental systems were not in place to ensure that the replacement players were up to the standard required to not only compete at the international level but also dominate.

decline of West Indies cricket. The administrators have to connect the economic and socio-historical meaning of cricket so as to produce an identity that is understanding of the game’s true meaning to West Indian people and approach it likewise.

Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and India have been doing it.

“I would like to thank all of those who voted for me,” said the 29-year-old as he accepted the trophy.

“It has been an incredible year. I would like to continue the work that I have done so far. I want to try to

The Portuguese forward won 37.66 percent of the vote to finish well ahead of Lionel Messi, his bitter rival, who won 15.76 per cent.

improve, to become better as each day goes by.

“I never thought that I would bring this trophy back home on three occasions and I want to win it again. I want to become one of the greatest players of all time,” before bellowing “Sim” (yes) into the microphone.

ECB elections held...

Dr Winston McGowan

Meanwhile, Holder told Guyana Times Sport on Monday that the official complaint regarding the issues surrounding the ECB elections will be forwarded to Cricket Ombudsman, Dr Winston McGowan.

On Saturday, Dr McGowan stated that he had no problem with the ECB going ahead

with its elections, but indicated that should there be any objections coming out from the process, he will intervene.

However, according to information received, Holder reportedly came to the meeting with a cutlass and attempted to disrupt the meeting and threatened to physically assault the GCB President.

Guyana Times Sport reported yesterday that Bacchus was returned unopposed as ECB President in “controversial fashion”.

However, GCB officials confirmed that the Executive Committee of the GCB was formally invited to the elections by letter from ECB’s Executive Committee. Sanasie was nominated unopposed by the delegates to perform the duties of Returning Officer.

Contrary to the report, the Constitution of the ECB does not provide for all Area Committees to have their elections prior to the ECB’s

Jaguars depart...

Meanwhile, Assistant Coach Rayon Griffith said the aim was to play good cricket throughout the tournament.

“We have a big chance; as a team, the way the boys have performed recently: they are very confident. So, I think we have a chance and if we remain focused we can do it.

“Our focus is to play good cricket and that is what we would be looking to do,” Griffith said.

Guyana have not won a 50-over title since 2005 when they beat Barbados.

The Jaguars have been placed in Group A alongside defending champions Barbados Pride, Windward Islands Volcanoes, and CCC.

Biennial General Meeting and Elections, as each area is governed by its individual Constitution. At the elections, only one candidate was nominated for each of the executive positions.

In addition, the Cricket Ombudsman in not responsible for the calling of County Boards’ Elections.

T20 is a contemporary product that appeals to a cross section of stakeholders- players, sponsors, administrators and the general public some of whom may not have any interest in the game but the festive atmosphere.

T20 fits nicely into the modern fast-paced world where time maximization and determined outcomes are valued. Additionally, T20 also offers entertainment which helps to relieve the stresses and strains of the hectic modern world.

T20 is here to stay and instead of making it culpable for the current state of decline because of a lack of administrative foresight and repeated blunders it should be treated fairly as one of the products through which West Indian cricketers can exhibit their talents and skills. When West Indies was crowned World T20 Champions in 2012, wasn’t that another proud moment in West Indies history for both the players and the West Indian public?

Theoretically, the decline of West Indies cricket started not after losing the Sir Frank Worrell Trophy to Australia in 1995 in the Caribbean but before. Any economy that strives on natural resources and fails to diversify, when the natural resources are no more and or are uncompetitive, the economy will suffer for extended periods.

The question of a truly determined West Indian identity is commonly bandied about by many commentators as missing by the current crop of players when compared to players of the years gone by. And while this may be true, it is important to be reminded of CLR James classic 1963 work, Beyond a Boundary, where he pointed out that cricket reflected the socio-economic structure of society and the same holds today.

The fundamental difference between the contemporary and past is that cricket today is an economic product.

In the past cricket was deeply connected to the social/political psyche of not only the players but the spectators. Anyone who have looked at and analyzed Fire in Babylon would understand that cricket was more than a game.

This was best epitomized when England’s South African born captain the late Tony Grieg said he would make “those West Indians grovel.” Winning became important as it revealed the strength and dignity of a “Third World” people.

Global capitalism through market forces and neo-classical economics have been breaking down the nation-state barriers and redefining national and international identities. This is more obvious in small developing societies like those of the Caribbean. Economics or more aptly money is the order of the day.

Cricket has become incorporated into the capitalists system and have become commodified. A practical and realistic approach has to be undertaken to arrest the

Once this can done, then each format can be viewed as a product that will have its own brand managers. Each product will be viewed as being important to the WICB, players, sponsors and the general public.

Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and India have been doing it. As the Australians tend to say, pick horses for courses. Therefore, T20 players should not be expected to shore up the test team and vice versa.

The purist may jump up and down arguing that test cricket is the ultimate form, to which there may be no denying, however, once the team continues losing in this format it will fail to attract support.

Large emotive crowds were common when the West Indies dominated the world as they had developed a winning culture. Caribbean crowds are bandwagonist and so loyalty to a losing culture will not be appealing especially if the festive atmosphere that is common in T20 is absent. Large crowds at test cricket is possible as was seen in recent test series between West Indies and South Africa, Australia and India and even New Zealand and Sri Lanka.

History has shown that West Indian players have been able to adjust and adapt to different formats. Administrators have to manage the different formats smartly. Then there will be no need to blame T20 or any format for any decline. (Trinidad Guardian)

Juventus rule out selling France midfielder

Midfielder Paul Pogba will not be sold despite interest from a host of European clubs, according to Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta.

Manchester United are reported to be preparing a £77m bid to bring the 21-year-old Frenchman back to the club.

“Every European club is watching him and been in contact,” Marotta said.

All three games are day/ night matches, which will commence at 13:30h at the Queen’s Park Oval. The 14-member squad reads: Rajendra Chandrika; Trevon Griffith;

The Jaguars will play the Windward Islands Volcanoes on January 15, Barbados Pride on January 17 and CCC on January 19 in their three preliminary round games.

Shivnarine Chanderpaul; Vishaul Singh; Christopher Barnwell (Captain); Raymon Reifer; Anthony Bramble; Veerasammy

and Jonathan Foo.

“However, we want to have a strong team made up of champions. We have an important player in Pogba and we don’t have a need to sell him.”

The France international played a key role in helping

up

appearances.

“What was a promising player has become a reality,” Marotta added on Sky

Permaul (Vice Captain); Devendra Bishoo; Ronsford Beaton; Paul Wintz; Steven Jacobs; Royston Crandon;

Veerasammy Permaul Rayon Griffith

Juve clinch their third successive Serie A title last season, scoring seven goals and setting

seven more in 36

Italia. Pogba, who joined Juve from United on a free transfer in 2012 and recently signed a contract extension until June 2019, is also a reported target of Chelsea and Manchester City. (BBC Sport)

Paul Pogba

Cristiano Ronaldo holds his Player of the year trophy while standing next to FIFA President Sepp Blatter

Anand Sanasie

GSCL to host second Republic Cup month-end

Having successfully organised the inaugural Republic Cup tournament last year which Wolf’s Warriors won by defeating Trophy Stall in the final, the Organising Committee of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc (GSCL) will host its second Guyana Republic Cup.

The tournament is set for January 31 to February 1, with the finals being held on February 8.

The tournament will be played in the Open and Over-40 categories, with both divisions doing battle for 20 overs to win a firstplace prize of $300,000 with the runner-up in both cat-

egories pocketing $100,000, along with trophies and medallions.

Teams desirous of competing in the tournament for which matches will be played at the Demerara Cricket Club, Everest Cricket Club, and Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) grounds respectively, are asked to submit their registration fee of $60,000 for both categories. Registration can be done through Treasurer Russell Jadbeer on 626-8228 or 226-4205 or at 69 Seaforth Street, Campbellville.

The closing date for registration is January 27, the same day the tournament will be launched and

the drawing of fixtures will be done in a fair and transparent manner at the GNIC Sports Club on Woolford Avenue.

The first eight teams who complete the registration process in full, including payment of registration fees for both categories, will be allowed to compete in the tournament for which Regal Masters are the defending champions in the Over-40 category.

It is expected that teams such as Wolf’s Warriors, Berbice Titans, Regal XI, Memorex, Speedboat and Trophy Stall will seek to capture the first place prize in the Open category, while Regal XI, Savage Masters and

Industry Super Kings will be among the list of competitors in the Over-40 category.

All teams are responsible for the provision of their own balls, meals and water, with the Open teams competing with the regular softball while the Over-40 teams will be doing battle using the big ball. The GSCL Inc will provide meals and water for the umpires only.

Admission to all venues, including Everest which will host the final on February 8, is free and all teams are asked to adhere to the rules, regulations and playing conditions of the tournament which will be distributed on the day of the launch or at the time of registration.

Sammy backs Holder

Former West Indies one-day skipper

Darren Sammy has pledged his full support for new captain Jason Holder as the team prepares for the prestigious ICC Cricket World Cup.

However, senior opening batsman Chris Gayle has publicly expressed his disappointment at the omission of Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard from the squad.

“To be honest, I’m so glad we actually won the series… this morning. I woke up and saw the World Cup squad, and there was no [Kieron] Pollard and no [Dwayne] Bravo. It really hurts deeply inside, and that’s the reason I actually wanted to win the series,” Gayle said before the television cameras in accepting his Man-of-theMatch award after setting up the West Indies’ record run chase in the second T20 International at the New Wanderers Stadium yesterday.

“We have the best team here, and to see those two

guys excluded is sad for West Indies cricket. If you really believe in our ability, those two guys should be in West Indies cricket, both in South Africa for the 50over tournament, and in the World Cup squad,” the outspoken Gayle said,

However, Sammy, who led the West Indies at the 2011 World Cup, and described the job as “one of the toughest in the game”, committed himself to ensuring Holder had a smooth transition at the helm.

“It’s not an easy job, I think everyone knows that.

It’s probably one of the most difficult jobs—captaining the West Indies... you carry the hopes and aspirations of all the people of the West Indies and millions more who support us all over the world,” the 31-year-old St Lucia noted.

“But it is a great job, a wonderful opportunity to serve your people and do something very special on the cricket field and make a positive impact on the lives of so many people,” added Sammy, who led the West Indies to the ICC World T20 title in Sri Lanka in 2012.

“Champion of the Roof” starts tonight at SVT

The South View Tavern, commonly known as SVT, presents its weekly games night with a Table Tennis Competition dubbed “Champion of the Roof” starting this evening at the entity’s Aubrey Barker Road location.

The table tennis challenge will be a part of several other sporting activities that include domino and beverage games, as SVT seeks to evolve its weekly games’ night from tonight and every Tuesday night that follows.

The table tennis challenge will be a knockout competition with the winner on each night receiving

a sum of $20,000 and a case of beverage of their choice, compliments of August Beverages. A total of 14 persons have been registered and interested persons can gain entry at a cost of $500. Supporters or fans of table tennis will be entertained by Super Ray and a popular sound system during competition and after, while enjoying the ecstatic atmosphere of SVT. Beverages will also be on sale at an affordable cost. Registration will close at 18:45h today with the event set to start at 19:30h. More information can be had by calling SVT’s office on 2180013.

James Rodriguez beats Stephanie Roche for goal of the year

Holder was a surprising choice as the new one-day captain last month, controversially replacing Dwayne Bravo who took over from Sammy in May, 2013.

The 23-year-old has played only three Tests and 21 ODIs but has been widely regarded as a future leader.

“Jason is a great young man and a very smart and intelligent cricketer and I know he is ready to take on the role,” Sammy said.

“He is a student of the game and always looking to learn and bring new ideas to the group. He’s imaginative, creative and a very good listener and this is very good.

“When his time comes to lead the ODI team I will make sure I support him and make sure the team rallies around him and give their full support. Hopefully he will take the ODI side forward.”

The West Indies will play five ODIs against South Africa before they head to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. (Trinidad Express)

Colombia’s James Rodriguez has won the Fifa goal of the year award for his World Cup strike against Uruguay, beating Irishwoman Stephanie Roche.

Netherlands striker Robin van Persie was third for his diving header against Spain in the World Cup.

Roche, who scored a stunner for Peamount against Wexford in the Irish top flight, had hoped to be the first female winner of the Puskas Award.

But she only landed 33% of the public vote to Rodriguez’s 42%.

Roche’s spectacular effort in the Bus Eireann Women’s National League was in front of an estimated 95 people on 13 October 2013.

She received the ball with her back to goal, took a touch on her right foot, flicked the ball over a defender’s head with her left foot and then swivelled and volleyed home from outside the box.

Manchester United striker Van Persie was shortlisted for his stunning equaliser during the Netherland’s 5-1 rout over Spain in Brazil last summer. He met Daley Blind’s crossfield pass with a 15-yard header that looped over a despairing Iker Casillas. (BBC Sport)

Rodriguez’s control and volley from 25 yards in the last-16 tie was enough to win the award. The 23-yearold, then at Monaco, was the top scorer in the World Cup and joined Real Madrid after the tournament.

Reigning Guyana Softball Cup champions Wolf’s Warriors are also the current Republic Cup winners

Darren Sammy Jason Holder

James Rodriguez

Third coming!

Jamaal Shabazz appointed Head Coach for Barbados clash

ECB elections held within Constitution – Bacchus

...dismisses allegations by Holder as “totally false”

Newly re-elected

Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) President Fizul Bacchus has dismissed claims that Sunday’s Biennial General Meeting and Elections were held outside the Board’s Constitution.

Bacchus was re-elected unopposed, but his sole challenger Prince Holder at the conclusion of the elections had complained about the manner

in which Bacchus was re-elected.

“The claims by Holder are totally false,” Bacchus said.

Jaguars depart today for Super50 tourney

– Shiv Chanderpaul joins squad; focus on playing good cricket – Assistant Coach

By Rajiv Bisnauth

He added: “The Constitution never says that each Area Committee must complete their respective internal elections before the ECB holds their elections. Each Area Committee is governed by its own Constitution, so it’s not mandatory that they must have their elections before the

ECB.”

Bacchus also expressed shock regarding the allegations made by Treasurer of the North Essequibo Cricket Committee Hakim Khan.

“Khan’s allegations against Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) President Drubahadur and Secretary Anand Sanasie of verbally assaulting him prior to the start of the elections are not true. Nobody assaulted him,” Bacchus stated.

TURN TO PAGE 22

The Guyana Jaguars will depart these shores today for Trinidad and Tobago where they will participate in this year’s West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) NAGICO Regional Super 50 tournament.

The 50-over tournament will be played from January 15 to 25.

All-rounder Christopher Barnwell will lead the local side, which includes veteran batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who has 12 tons in his 398 List A matches, and is the most experienced player in the entire tournament. He is one of three Test players in the Jaguars team.

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul, who was recently named in the

West Indies 30-man provisional squad for the 2015 World Cup, was appointed Vice Captain.

Vishaul Singh and Raymond Reifer are set to make his regional 50-over debuts for Guyana, while Steven Jacobs makes a return to Guyana colours after leading Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) in the same tournament last year.

Also making a comeback to national duty is middle-order batsman Royston Crandon and Jonathan Foo, who gets a recall after a four-year absence.

Shivnarine ChanderpaulChristopher Barnwell

Jamaal Shabazz delivering his message to stakeholders in football as they display the Golden Arrowhead

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Drubahadur

Fizul Bacchus

Prince Holder