Guyana Times Daily

P10 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 2322

GBTI opens $60M branch at Bartica

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, November 22, 2014

APNU rejects GECOM’s independence Page 5

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

GECOM to start 7th P5 Continuous Registration Cycle

... demands elections with outdated Voters’ List Police

Central Govt considering flood relief strategy Page 17

P9

destroy ganja field in Canje 69 soldiers AWOL thus far P14 – domestic, personal issues cited for high number

Beaten miner remains P14 unconscious

– robust emergency response kicks into gear An excavator removing debris from the Sussex Street canal on Friday. The build-up of garbage in the drains and canals in the city has affected the smooth drainage of water following heavy downpours on Wednesday and Thursday (Marceano Narine photo)

Security guard killed in Land of Canaan accident Page 15

Berbice P17 Bridge back in operation after malfunction

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saturDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

NEWS

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saturday, november 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, November 22 from 14:30h-16:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, November 22 from 16:10h-17:40h

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: The morning will see overcast conditions over coastal to inland areas. These conditions are expected to be accompanied by moderate to heavy showers and thundershowers. The afternoon will see a decrease in intensity and frequency in the showers, but the cloudy to overcast conditions are expected to continue. It is also expected that precipitation will recommence during the early morning hours. The 24-hour accumulation is expected to be between 80 mm and 120 mm. Other areas can expect varying cloudiness with light to moderate scattered showers and possible thundershowers. Rainfall is likely to be between trace and 15 mm.

Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius along the coast and between 20 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius in the hinterland.

Georgetown residents defeating “Clean Up My Country Campaign” – Sooba

Winds: Easterly at 6 to 12 metres per second.

High Tide: 16:18h reaching a maximum height of 2.79 metres.

Low Tide: 09:53h and 22:18h reaching minimum heights of 0.57 metre and 0.40 metre.

The above-normal high tide warning is in effect until Thursday, November 27. Residents of low-lying, riverine, and flood-prone areas are advised to take necessary precautions against possible flooding.

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Acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba

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itizens within the Capital City, Georgetown are defeating the purpose of the “Clean Up My Country Campaign”, acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba said.

Sooba explained that though the Government of Guyana is investing heavily to enhance the landscape of the city, some residents remain bent in their ways, dumping garbage indiscriminately.

According to the acting Town Clerk, she was moved with disappointment after visiting some of the communities that would have benefited from the campaign in recent weeks.

It was explained that huge piles of garbage lined some communities that were once cleared.

This level of irresponsible behaviour, the acting Town Clerk said, is contributing to flooding, which continues to plague the city in light of the rainy season.

She explained that despite the efforts of the Local Government Ministry and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), some drains and canals are clogged due to a buildup of plastic bottles, paper bags and other debris.

She said the City Council’s Waste Management and Engineering Teams with support from the Local Government and Public Works Ministries will con-

tinue to monitor drainage infrastructures.

Additionally, clogged drains will be cleared. “I am appealing to citizens, do not participate in the illegal dumping of garbage,” she admonished.

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Norman Whittaker said a decision would have to be made to return to those communities that have been cleaned, but are still affected by garbage pollution.

He reported that the "Clean Up My Country Campaign" is moving a pace. According to him, it is 70 per cent complete in Georgetown, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) while consultations are continuing with local authorities in the other regions.

Albouystown, West Ruimveldt, East La Penitence, Stevedore Scheme and Lamaha Park are among communities that have benefited from

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Norman Whittaker

the campaign.

The ministerial team has engaged in a bulk exercise where household wastes were removed from premises.

In addition to the removal of garbage, alleyways and parapets have been de-bushed while drains and canals are desilted.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, november 22, 2014

Views 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

The Rome Declaration

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he World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that over 170 countries made a number of concrete commitments and adopted a series of recommendations on policies and investments aimed at ensuring that citizens all over the world have access to healthier and more sustainable diets.

This effort is considered a major step towards eradicating malnutrition worldwide and once the necessary follow-up action is taken by the various countries in keeping their commitment, the world will make some progress in ending hunger, achieving food security and improving nutrition.

According to WHO, Government Ministers and senior officials responsible for health, food or agriculture and other aspects of nutrition adopted the Rome Declaration on Nutrition, and a Framework for Action a few days ago, which set out recommendations for policies and programmes to address nutrition across multiple sectors. The move came at the opening, in Rome, of the Second International Conference on Nutrition (ICN2), organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and WHO. The Rome Declaration on Nutrition enshrines the right of everyone to have access to safe, sufficient and nutritious food, and commits Governments to preventing malnutrition in all its forms, including hunger, micronutrient deficiencies and obesity.

The WHO has stated that the Framework for Action recognizes that Governments have the primary role and responsibility for addressing nutrition issues and challenges, in dialogue with a wide range of stakeholders-including civil society, the private sector and affected communities.

Building on the Declaration’s commitments, goals and targets, the Framework sets out 60 recommended actions that Governments may incorporate into their national nutrition, health, agriculture, education, development and investment plans, and which they may consider when negotiating international agreements to achieve better nutrition for all.

The Framework lays out effective accountability mechanisms, including monitoring frameworks to track progress as well as nutrition targets and milestones based on internationally agreed indicators.

Signatory countries should achieve specific results by 2025, including existing targets for improving maternal, infant and young child nutrition, and for reducing nutrition-related risk factors for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.

WHO is reminding all stakeholders that sustainable food systems are key to promoting healthy diets. Hence, Governments are encouraged to promote nutrition-enhancing agriculture, by integrating nutrition objectives into the design and implementation of agricultural programmes, ensure food security and enable healthy diets. The role of food systems – the way food is produced, processed, distributed, marketed and prepared for human consumption – is crucial in the fight against malnutrition. Many of the recommendations adopted by Ministers focus on ensuring that food systems become more sustainable and promote diverse and healthy diets.

To this end, WHO is urging Governments to strengthen local food production and processing, especially by smallholders and family farmers, giving special attention to the empowerment of women.

The organization is also urging Governments to educate and inform their citizens about healthier eating practices, and to introduce social protection measures, such as school-feeding programmes, to provide nutritious diets to the most vulnerable.

Initiatives to combat obesity should be reinforced by the creation of healthy environments that also promote physical activity from a young age.

WHO has recommended that to provide universal access to healthy diets, Governments should encourage a reduction in trans fats, saturated fats, sugars and salt in foods and drinks, and improve the nutrient content of foods through regulatory and voluntary instruments.

The Rome Declaration also called on Governments to regulate the marketing of infant formula and to protect consumers, especially children, from marketing and publicity of unhealthy foods and drinks.

As stated by WHO, global nutrition problems require global solutions. Nutrition deserves much greater attention on the international development agenda. The ICN2 Framework for Action sets out the strategies, policies and programmes that need to be implemented to “end hunger, achieve food security and improve nutrition” in line with the likely post-2015 UN development agenda.

Countries recommended that the UN General Assembly endorse the Rome Declaration and Framework for Action and consider declaring a Decade of Action on Nutrition for 2016-2025.

Teams of engineers and officials yesterday checked on kokers and sluices in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica). Here, President Donald Ramotar and Public Works Minister Robeson Benn with a large gathering of residents of Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara (Sandra Prince photo)

Excellence in community, humanitarian work

Dear Editor, The past week ended with one of the most beautiful days of Fall. The sun was shining in all its glory, while the temperature was tantalizing at 62 degrees.

Organizers of the NYGM Gala Event, could have not asked for nicer weather conditions for their variety concert that was held at the Fairfield Pavilion.

The event was held to raise funds for their annual mission to Guyana and to promote awareness of NYGM’s medical and humanitarian work in Guyana.

One of the highlights of the programme was the grant of Citations to two distinguished individuals of the community, Guyanese-born Dr Acklema Mohammad and Vishnu Kallicharran of the Fairfield Pavilion.

Dr Mohammad works at the Urban Health Plan (UHP) in the Bronx as a Pediatric Asthma Physician. Her dream of becoming a medical doctor was instilled by her parents. She was not only able to fulfill that dream, but also, was instrumental in contributing to improved health disparities on major health issues of children in the South Bronx, New York City.

Dr Mohammad holds leadership roles in many projects, some of which include the prevention of childhood obesity, increasing patient adherence to cancer screenings and pediatric preventive care.

Last week she received another promotion to man-

age all the offsite clinics of UHP. Dr Acklema was featured for her work on pediatric asthma on the national TV (Channel 4) Dateline.

Marcus Bisram making a donation to NYGM’s Vice President Holly Persaud Dr Mohammad says that despite her professional success, she regards her humanitarian work to Guyana as foremost: “To serve in the country where one was born is both a privilege and an honor.”

Accompanying her on stage were her three beautiful daughters and husband, Dr Vyas Persaud.

Dr Acklema received the NYGM award for Professional, Humanitarian and Community Development from her sister Holly Persaud, who is the Vice President of NYGM. The other person who was honored by NYGM for his outstanding cultural, artistic and humanitarian work is the well-known singer and humanitarian and community worker, Lallchand Kallicharran (Kalli).

Kalli received the Award of Excellence in Cultural, Artistic and Humanitarian Work from NYGM Vice President on centre stage with his wife, Vedo, and his daughter, who spoke eloquently about her dad’s contribution to community and artistic development.

Kalli is originally from Fairfield, East Coast Demerara. He is an entrepreneur who established a Mechanic Shop in Richmond Hill, as well as,

a Transport Service. Over a decade ago, he built the famous Fairfield Pavilion in Richmond Hill.

Apart from donating Fairfield Pavilion to numerous organizations for charitable and community events, Kalli also makes generous contributions to other worthy causes.

Perhaps his most impressive contribution is his willingness to utilize his extra-ordinary talent, as a singer and musician, to bring comfort especially to people who have lost loved ones.

Kalli was visibly moved by the award and was literally speechless. He was congratulated by several community leaders who had graced the occasion. Among the special guests were at least seven “Yatrans” (travelers to India).

NYGM appreciates the strong support received from Yatrans, family members and friends, as well as, from the performing artistes: Seeta Panday, Son Son, Randy, Rasheed, Premo, Ricky, Pam, Tina, Christine, Dheeraj and the Ghungaroo Dancers, and Ashwini of the Tandav Dance School.

NYGM is grateful to Son Son, Randy and Roy B for being a part of the event’s planning committee. NYGM also thanks Lallchand Kallicharran who donated the Fairfield Pavilion for this cause, along with his Manager, George Harricharran.

How can NYGM not express its deepest gratitude to youthful Philanthropist

Marcus Bisram for the tremendous support he has been giving to various community projects. NYGM thanks Marcus from the bottom of their hearts for his generous donation.

There were several friends and family members who worked tirelessly to make the event a huge success. We would like to thank Ahailya Valcarcel; Romanie Singh; Vedo Kallicharran; Jean Khan, Sherry, Bobby, Randy and Chris Jaglall; Acklema, Vyas, Priya, Tara and Divya Persaud; Samantha, Sarah and Shana Persaud; Omar Amador, Jai Shivram, Mike, Jason and Deshaun.

The Programme’s Emcee, Roy Brijlall did an excellent job, as well as his co-emcee Son Son. Roy B captured the respective contributions as well as academic and community credentials of both NYGM’s President Dr Tara Singh, and NYGM’s Vice President Holly Persaud.

NYGM’s sincerest thanks go out to Kaieteur, Legend, Bamboo Gardens, Hibiscus and Players Restaurants, Harry Nepal, Drupattie, Shew, Usha, Romanie Singh and Jai Shivram for their donation of food.

NYGM expresses its deep gratitude to Marcus Bisram, Jean Khan, Leila Singh, Chait and Ahilya Surjnarine, Roy Brijlall and Aunty Hexie for their monetary donations. The audience had a great time.

Submitted by Vishnu Bisram

NEWS

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saturDAY, November 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

APNU rejects GECOM’s independence ... demands elections with outdated Voters’ List

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he A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) on Friday sounded its call for President Donald Ramotar to name a date for General and Regional Elections and for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to begin preparations in this regard.

In a release, the coalition objected to a decision

by GECOM to embark on a 7th Cycle of Continuous Registration as requested by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

“It is very clear that GECOM, supposedly an independent body has responded to the PPP/C call for a 7th Cycle of Registration. APNU vehemently rejects this call and calls on the Government to stop the quest for buying time and hold General

Opposition Leader David Granger

Elections now,” said the coalition.

APNU contended that the present Official List of Electors (OLE) that was re-

cently released by GECOM is sufficient to proceed to elections. “APNU calls on GECOM to establish its readiness for elections.

APNU also wish to call on the Government to use the present OLE and let us go to the polls,” the release said.

Meanwhile, APNU

Leader David Granger at a press conference on Friday reiterated that his party will not be engaged in extra parliamentary dialogue with the Executive.

This is despite the President sending an invitation for dialogue to the political opposition – APNU and Alliance For Change (AFC) on Monday.

The offer has since been rejected by both parties.

However, when asked if he has officially responded to the President with respect to the invitation, Granger responded in the negative.

In fact, the Opposition Leader said he had not decided when he was going to reply to the invitation letter.

“I am considering a response” he said, adding that “I don’t have a time frame” in response to questions from

reporters on the matter.

When asked whether any other member of the coalition would be in talks with the President during the prorogation period, Granger responded that the coalition had taken a stance.

He admitted that he could not stop the AFC, Working People’s Alliance (WPA) or any other party within the coalition from engaging the President.

“What I am saying is that David Granger and Donald Ramotar will not be talking until and unless Parliament is reconvened,” said Granger.

In wake of these revelations with respect to dialogue between the President and the Opposition Leaders, General Elections may not be such a distant reality for Guyanese.

GECOM to start 7th Continuous Registration Cycle T

he Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has signalled its preparedness to commence the Seventh Cycle of Continuous Registration as it aims to further sanitise the Official List of Electors (OLE).

This comes some weeks after the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) would have made calls for GECOM to commence another cycle of continuous registration.

The PPP/C has raised sev-

to be prescribed by GECOM may get registered at the closest GECOM registration office in their area,” said the release.

In fact, the release from the Commission contended that PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee was aware of the decision taken by the Commission prior to the statement being made at the PPP/C press conference.

“It is quite amusing that Mr Rohee on learning that GECOM was about to com-

istered during the upcoming Seventh Cycle of Continuous Registration.

Further, GECOM said that it notes with deep concern the inexorable sermonising by the PPP/C, through its General Secretary Rohee, as it relates to the way they believe the GECOM’s Secretariat should function.

GECOM reiterated that over the last six weeks, it has embarked on a rigorous train-

GECOM has signalled its preparedness to commence the Seventh Cycle of Continuous Registration as it aims to further sanitise the Official List of Electors

eral other concerns with respect to the affairs and conduct of GECOM; all of which was dealt with by the Commission in the release to the media on Friday morning.

However, GECOM is insisting that the two are not related, contending that the decision was taken at a recent statutory meeting.

“GECOM had a statutory meeting weeks ago and decided that a new continuous registration exercise should be undertaken. GECOM is fully prepared to start the Seventh Cycle of Continuous Registration on Monday, December 1, 2014, where persons 14 years or older on a date

mence another continuous registration exercise should use his press conference to ‘demand’ that we embark on a new Cycle of Continuous Registration, when such decision was already made and of which he has knowledge.”

Eligibility

In this new Cycle of Continuous Registration, Guyanese, by place of birth, descent, naturalisation or Certificate of Registration, as well as citizens of Commonwealth countries who are legally resident in Guyana for a period of no less than one year preceding the qualifying date, are also eligible to be reg-

ing exercise nationwide, in an effort to establish a reservoir of competent Election Day staff that it can mobilise on short notice; this is given the current political climate of Guyana.

It said that numerous advertisements for the various levels of polling day staff were published in the media prior to the commencement of training, and suitably qualified persons satisfying the requirements outlined by GECOM, were encouraged to apply for the positions for which they are best qualified.

“The best and most appropriate candidates were selected and informed of the precise date, time and venue at

which training would occur and were invited to attend” the Commission contended.

It was noted that currently, GECOM is engaged in training the remainder of the required Election Day staff which consist of Presiding Officers, Assistant Presiding Officers, Poll Clerks, Ballot Attendants and Information Clerks.

Voter education

In response to the ruling party’s call for a voters education programme, GECOM said it is “acutely aware of the need to conduct civic and voter education campaigns before, during and after a new Cycle of Continuous Registration, and more so before an election.

This component forms a critical part of the GECOM’s election plan and will commence at the opportune time” It noted too that a number of communication channels will be employed by GECOM to ensure that the key messages enshrined in its civic and voter education programme are communicated efficiently and effectively to all key stakeholders, resulting in greater voter intelligence and understanding.

“Further, it is at best speculation and at worst spurious to make the quantum leap by asserting that spoilt and rejected ballots are due to a lack of voter education,” the release said.

It added: “GECOM stridently disagrees with the PPP/ C’s stated position as it relates to the Chairman’s reaction to issues raised by that party.

The Chairman of GECOM has repeatedly welcomed the ideas raised by political parties as it relates to the enhancement of the efficacy of the Commission’s work, and will continue to welcome and treat with the concerns raised by political parties, appropriately.”

The Commission said it takes umbrage to such statements and calls for “the PPP/C to withdraw that statement as it inaccurately represents the unequivocal professionalism of its Chairman and the Commission he represents”.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, november 22, 2014

Page

Foundation

By Dulce Zamora

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n any emergency, you need real-time information. You need to know where to get help, how to act and who to contact. Responding to the Ebola emergency is no different: how do people obtain the vital information they need?

UNICEF’s U-report system enables young people to access vital information and services using a simple mobile phone.

A simple solution to connect young people to resources can be a vital tool in a country like

Liberia, where infrastructure problems prevent information from moving.

U-report gives young people access to basic information on Ebola prevention and on services available near them. It also allows youth groups or others at a national level can see the trends most important to their peers.

But in order to be effective, systems like U-report need to resonate with local communities, which means they need to be adapted locally. The technology is the easy part – the hard part is

making a system like this work the way people do.

In Liberia, U-report has been adapted and built up with the support of some of the greatest and most persistent problem solvers in the country – a group of adolescent girls in the West Point neighbourhood of Monrovia. Together, they’ve helped UNICEF customise and deploy the tool to help fight against Ebola in Liberia.

The initial launch of UNICEF’S U-Report in November relied on adolescents recruiting other young people to use the technology.

UNICEF is working with young people to customise the U-Report technology to reach their peers more effectively. This includes rewriting questions so they resonate with a younger audience.

By November 2014, more than 400 people had registered to become U-Reporters in Liberia, and the number continues to grow. The technology allows them to speak out about what is happening in their communities and provides them with useful information so they are empowered to work for change. (UNICEF)

The bribes Brat-building response: “Parents often try to buy good behaviour by getting their kids expensive gifts,” says Berman. “And then they say, ‘I don’t understand why she isn’t better behaved? I get her everything she wants!’” These cool gifts lose their meaning and the child feels entitled and less well behaved.”

Angel-building response: “Allow the child the opportunity to earn what you give them, and set limits around their expectations,” says Berman. “Tell them, ‘You can get one pair of shoes within this amount of money.’

Teach them early on how to make choices.”

The Party Her bags are packed and she’s ready to go to the party, except for one thing: She forgot to ask for your permission.

Brat-building behaviour: Even though she’s screaming bloody murder, if you let her get away with it once, she’ll do it again, and again and again. “You’ve taught your child that screaming long enough will get her what she wants, and now you’ve created your own private hell,”

Berman tells WebMD. Angel-building behaviour: “As a parent, it is always considerate and helpful to let a child know your thinking, so your child knows why you don’t want her to go to the party, so it doesn’t seem like you are being unreasonable,” says Berman. “But if you shared your reasoning, and she keeps yelling, you have to stand your ground.”

conquer,” says Berman. “They learn that they can divide their parents and fool them, and if they are manipulative enough, they can get what they want.”

Angel-building behaviour: “Enforce in advance,” says Berman. “Tell a child that if you ask mom and get ‘no,’ and then you ask dad and get ‘yes,’ the ‘no’ still stands, and your punishment for asking us both is xyz.”

The Divide and Conquer You’ve been very clear and given your son a decisive NO when he asked, “Can I go to the birthday party, puhlease?” His tactic? To ask dad.

Brat-building behaviour: “When a child gets ‘no’ from mom, and ‘yes’ from dad, it teaches them they can divide and

The Screaming in the Store We’ve all seen it: The screaming child in the toy store. He wants the latest video game, and he’s not shutting up until he has it.

Brat-building response: “If you give in, you teach your child that when he acts like a brat he can get what he wants,” says Dan Kindlon, author of Too Much of a Good Thing: Raising Children of Character in an Indulgent Age. “You’re reinforcing his bratty behaviour.” *Angel-building response: “There are two ways to approach it,” says Kindlon, who teaches child psychology at Harvard University.

First, plan ahead, and second, plan a response.

“Make a deal with them beforehand – you are going to buy them something and it’s only going to cost US$5,” says Kindlon. “Or tell them, ‘I’m going shopping for your cousin and this is not for you.’ Give them structure beforehand so they’re not caught off guard.

Then, if they still explode in the store, ignore them, say you are not going to listen anymore. Then you leave the store and take them with you.”

The Car Ride You have 300 miles in front of you when your youngest explodes in a temper tantrum that rivals the eruption of Mt Vesuvius.

Brat-building response: “If you just start yelling and screaming at her, it’s not going to help,” Kindlon tells WebMD. “And a major mistake most parents make is to give the child an ultimatum, like ‘If you keep this up, you’re not going to watch TV when you get home.’”

But even though their tantrum continues ad nauseam, the TV goes on when the family gets home because the parent is beaten down.

“This teaches a child that the best way to get what they want is to behave like a brat,” says Kindlon. (Excerpt from WebMD) To be continued

NEWS

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saturDAY, november 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

team expected in Guyana PSC meets GECOM on Trinidadian to finalise agriculture land deal elections preparation T

Members of the Private Sector Commission (left) at their recent meeting with GECOM officials

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enior representatives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) have expressed satisfaction pertaining to the state of preparedness of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) relative to the conduct of General and Regional or Local Government Elections, should a date be set for either at short notice.

This sentiment was expressed collectively by the PSC representatives at the conclusion of a meeting between these two entities on Wednesday at the GECOM Boardroom.

According to a release, the meeting was arranged

by GECOM in response to a request from the PSC for a meeting to be held to discuss several germane issues.

With regards to the probable conduct of Local Government Elections, GECOM emphasised that the President’s non-assent to outstanding legislation relative to Local

Government, which were approved by the National Assembly, has no bearing on the Commission insofar as the conduct of these elections are concerned.

The PSC representatives were also provided an update on the demarcation of boundaries, and plans for the implementation of a comprehensive Voter Education Programme.

With regard to General and Regional Elections, GECOM underscored its readiness to efficiently and effectively manage elections should they be announced at short notice.

The other issues discussed at the meeting were Continuous Registration, the Preliminary and Revised List of Electors 2014, the integrity of the Official List of Electors, the resuscitation of the Media Monitoring Unit, and Elections Observers (International and Local) The PSC had sought the

meeting to get clarity on these specific issues which were subjects of public and political discourse that were published in the media.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the PSC representatives were pleased with the explanations and information provided. They departed with the sense of confidence that GECOM was indeed in a position to successfully hold any of the two sets of elections, should the Commission be required to so do at short notice.

Representing GECOM at this meeting was Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally; Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield; Deputy Chief Election Officer Vishnu Persaud; and GECOM’s Legal Officer Juanita Barker.

The PSC was represented by its President Ramesh Persaud, Captain Gerald Gouveia, Kit Nascimento, Elizabeth Alleyne and Ornetta Dophin.

Harris brightens Christmas with “Colour of Money” Promotion

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he Caribbean Champions of Colour is offering Guyanese greater incentive to brighten their homes with a fresh coat of paint this Christmas.

During the yuletide season, Harris Paints will be providing consumers with a wide variety of rewards and cash prizes as part of its “Colour of Money” campaign in partnership with Digicel and Courts.

“Everyone knows that a fresh coat of paint, both inside and out, is the best way to breathe fresh life into your home at Christmas. A change in colour brings with it a fresh outlook on how you perceive your home and your life,” said Harris Paints Chief Executive Officer Ian Kenyon.

“Additionally, a new coat of paint helps protect both interior and exterior walls from wear and tear, water damage and various damag-

es from inclement weather.

Because of this added protection and the appealing new look, fresh paint typically increases the overall real estate value of a home for a fraction of the cost of a larger renovation.”

During the months of November and December, Harris will continue to offer customers the chance to Dip and Win discounts of up to 20 per cent and specials on a range of products including the popular Ulttima Plus, Woodcare and Troweltex coatings.

Along with in-store activities, shoppers will also be entered in the “Colour of Money” sweepstakes which carries a US$5000 grand prize, in addition to prizes of US$3000, US$2000 and US$1000, plus weekly Harris hamper draws, partner prizes and a special “Contractors” gift.

“Our customers are the

lifeblood of our company, and as the yuletide season rolls around each year, we want to reward them with exactly what they want. It’s a great feeling to know that you have helped to make someone’s Christmas and New Year a little brighter with the ‘Colour of Money’,” said Kenyon.

As part of its Christmas campaign and in keeping with the company’s tradition of community support, Harris Paints will also be making a significant contribution to a charitable organisation.

“Harris is committed to being a good neighbour by ensuring that we give back to the communities we serve. We all want to look our best at Christmas and it is our intention to join forces with a local charity so that everyone can benefit from the Caribbean Champions of Colour,” added Kenyon.

rinidad and Tobago’s Agriculture Minister is expected to lead a delegation to Guyana before the end of this month, with the hope of finalising the agriculture land deal between the two Caribbean nations.

According to Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, his Ministry is currently working out the dates for the delegation to travel and meet.

During that meeting, it is expected that the two Ministers will conclude where the visiting team’s interests are, and will allow for both countries to decide on the locations for the land.

“The land will most likely not be at one location, given the fact that the location of land will depend on the crops they are interested in,” Dr Ramsammy said.

He said he was happy to see that very critical steps were being concluded now under this deal.

“It is important for people to realise that while these two Governments made that agreement under the Jagdeo Initiative, we are strong in ensuring that the two Governments play a facilitating and accommodating role for the private sector,” Dr Ramsammy said.

The Minister pointed out that the economy of Guyana at this time is driven by the private sector.

“All of our Governments

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

have persisted with the notion of the private sector driving the economy. Agriculture has always been almost in control of the private sector… and therefore this agreement is focused on utilising the private sector to take advantage of the initiative for us to advance Guyana and Caricom’s agriculture,” he said.

The Minister pointed out that this project will pattern the Santa Fe rice project in Region Nine, which can be considered the first and largest agriculture project under the Jagdeo initiative.

In the interim, the Minister said, he has been advised that the Trinidadian partners have already sought to mobilise investors to utilise the 10,000 acres of land that Guyana had agreed and continue to have interest for Trinidad to develop.

The two Ministers have been meeting over a period of time that resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in early 2013.

“This MoU has been featured in the budget debates in Trinidad in 2013 and 2014.

There are a number of things we have done as part of that agreement,” Dr Ramsammy said.

Further, the Trinidadian Government undertook to mobilise its private sector to come to Guyana and make use of the land provided as it was partly intended to produce crops for products which that country at present imports from outside the Caribbean.

“The intention is to use Guyana as an export base to Trinidad and Tobago, so whilst technically it will still be importing, it would be doing so from businesses owned

by Trinidadians, and therefore retain the regional movement of integrating the economy,” Dr Ramsammy explained.

Last September, Guyana and Trinidad signed an MoU for the release of land to investors and farmers of the twin island republic. The agreement addresses several areas including programmes and activities, core areas of cooperation, monitoring and coordinating mechanism, mutual responsibility, commitments and rights and obligations.

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saturDAY, november 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Man gets one week in jail for assaulting mother of child T

hirty-eight-year-old Nigel Reid was sentenced to seven days’ imprisonment for assaulting the mother of his child at the Georgetown Magistrate Courts on Thursday afternoon.

Nigel Reid, of North Sophia, Greater Georgetown, pleaded guilty with an explanation to the charge, which stated that on Monday, November 17 at North Sophia, Greater Georgetown, he unlawfully assaulted Simone Craig, the Virtual Complainant (VC).

Police Prosecutor Dinero

Nigel Reid

Jones said on the day in question at around 22:00h, Reid went home in a drunken state and an argument ensued between the couple.

It escalated into a physical altercation when Reid grabbed Craig, who was on her bed, by the neck and punched her to the face and body.

The court also heard that the defendant threatened to kill the VC and her three children. According to the Prosecutor, this is a regular occurrence whenever Reid consumes alcohol.

Craig related to the

court that she was a security guard, while the defendant did not have a stable job.

She noted that she also has a child for another man who would normally look after the children and Reid “does not like it”. Breaking down in tears, she expressed her frustration, stating that she was “fed up” with the recurring problem.

The unrepresented man was sentenced and also placed on a bond to keep the peace for 12 months; if the bond is defaulted upon, he will spend three months in prison.

18-year-old granted bail on unlawful wounding charge

E

ighteen-year-old Keith Semple, of Lot 157 West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was placed on $5000 bail when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before

Magistrate Ann McLennan, to face an unlawful wounding charge on Thursday afternoon.

The charge read that on September 11 at North Ruimveldt, he unlawfully

and maliciously wounded Troyon Ben, which he denied.

There were no facts read for the case nor were there any objections to bail by Police Prosecutor Dinero

Jones.

The defendant was then granted bail. The matter was transferred to Magistrate Geeta Chandan- Edmond for November 26.

Trio accused of unlawful assault released on $5000 bail each A trio who were allegedly embroiled in an altercation on November 11 at Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara were each granted $5000 bail for unlawful assault on Thursday morning.

Steven Collins,36, of Lot 410 Block X, Diamond Housing Scheme, East

Bank Demerara; Shane Dazil, 17, of Lot 17 Eighth Street, Meadow Bank, East Bank Demerara; and Danesh Moonsar,40, of Lot 52 Middle Street, Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Ann McLennan.

The first charge alleged

that Collins unlawfully assaulted Dazil to which he pleaded not guilty. The second charge read that on the day in question, Dazil unlawfully assaulted Collins; however, he denied this.

Lastly, it was alleged that Moonsar unlawfully assaulted Collins causing him bodily harm, an allegation to

which he pleaded guilty.

There were no objections to bail against the first two men, while Moonsar was fined $5000 with an alternative sentence of one week’s imprisonment.

Collins and Dazil will make their second court appearance on December 2.

Eyew tness When it rains...

W

...it floods in Georgetown

e note everybody and their uncle are blaming the “authorities” for the inundation that’s hit our sorry Land of Many Waters once again.

We guess the unnamed “authorities” are the Central Government and the Mayor and City Council. The former has been cleaning right, left and centre on their $500 million mission. And it looks like they’re going to have to start all over again.

The latter, on the other hand, has been collecting garbage for one location and just dumping it in another.

But folks conveniently forget that “Central Government” includes the Parliamentarians on the Opposition side of the House also. How come these bounders only talk about their “critical role” in “governance” when it comes to flexing their muscles and threatening the Government about slashing the Budget and throwing them out of office??

Wasn’t it the Opposition APNU just a while back volunteered to work “hand in hand” with the Government to clean up the City – including, we would hope, all those clogged drains?

This is the problem of Guyanese politics...the focus is only on seizing Executive power and not for using whatever power they have to help the country develop. But you know what?? Let’s call a spade a spade. Don’t we - the ordinary citizens have a role in this sad state of affairs also??

I know we all like to beat up on “the authorities” but that just let us off the hook, doesn’t it?? So though we don’t know what happened to that ban on Styrofoam – while that young entrepreneur’s getting his biodegradable act together - this Eyewitness has to report he’s had it up to the gills with all the dumping of garbage by ordinary citizens.

And let’s face it. We live in a trench, don’t we?? The conservancy forms one bank, the sea walls form another – so when we get the kinda rainfall like we did, what do you think’s gonna happen? Flooding, that’s what.

Compounding matters is the fact that we’ve all chopped down our trees, concreted our yards, covered up our drains – and still expect for the waters to drain!! Last time we checked, the law of gravity still doesn’t push things uphill!

Our last pet peeve on this subject is that with all the floods we’ve had, and with us taking a LEADING ROLE IN THE WORLD on climate change and global warming, we’re still throwing up buildings in Georgetown as if we believe a rising tectonic plate will suddenly push the Coast upwards. This Eyewitness, on the other hand, is moving South to the hilly sand and clay belt!!

...it pours on AFC/PNC = APNU

Poor Opposition. They haven’t had it their way for quite a while. Like Wile E Coyote, everything they try to make the Government into rabbit stew, backfires in their face. And it’s not even that the Government might be that smart – it’s just that the Opposition’s so inept.

Look at their gambit (gamble?) on the No-Confidence Motion. They (the AFC in particular) were so pleased with themselves that they’d cornered the Government, they never noticed the pen the latter gave them was actually a lighted stick of dynamite. It was the President’s “prorogation power”!! Kaboom!!

Then APNU threw a protest (party?) at Square of the Revolution, invited the AFC but nobody came. Well, actually Hughes and Patterson came, but there were so many brothers there...they were superfluous. Ramjattan and Nagamootoo who were supposed to prove it was a “national” protest, finked out.

Lots of weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth. And now comes GECOM announcing a new registration cycle in December.!! Oy vey!! Are we talking about 2016 elections??

...old lawyers should retire

Brynn Pollard says the President should’ve been advised that prorogation “kills bills”. But has he forgotten about precedent? The Government and Opposition can agree to “bring them to life” when Parliament reconvenes.

news

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saturday, november 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Prevention, awareness Essequibo Ferry back in operation central to Mental T Health Strategy – Chief Medical Officer

C

hief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Shamdeo Persaud believes that prevention and health promotion should be at the top of the implementation plan of the new Mental Health Strategy.

He expressed the view at the latest consultation on mental health on Wednesday.

The session hosted by the Health Ministry in collaboration with the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) at the Ocean View International Hotel, Liliendaal sought to further strengthen the indentified areas for the crafting of the new National Mental Health strategy.

Dr Persaud noted that a previous strategy had focused mainly on stigma and discrimination, which still remains a key area even as he pointed out that a group of adolescents was engaged in a recent workshop, and came up with some very good ideas to address mental health as it relates to stigma and discrimination, and disadvantages.

This included peer education and education at all levels.

The CMO pointed out that stigma and discrimination which are portrayed to persons with psychiatric conditions are usually the cause for their violent behaviour which sometimes results in suicide.

He further added that the strategy also addresses substance abuse and the

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud

Health Ministry is working along with the Home Affairs Ministry to address this issue.

Substance abuse is also emphasised in the strategy, along with implementation to allow these persons to be reintegrated into their communities.

He noted that the issue of human resource is still unaddressed so in the instance of psychiatrics, the Ministry plans to establish a neuropsychiatric postgraduate programme under the Institute of Health Science Education at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and to develop a nurses’ mental health training programme, which would include training for community health workers, and medex among others.

PAHO’ representative in Guyana, Dr William AduKrow expressed hope that these consultations result in the establishment of solutions for each area of con-

19-year-old woman accused of phone theft

N

Monika Gilbert

ineteen-year-old Monika Gilbert, of Block E Bent Street, Georgetown, was arraigned on a charge of simple larceny on Thursday morning at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate

Ann McLennan.

It is alleged that on November 1 at Block E Bent Street, she stole an LG cellphone valued $50,000 from Shonnel Crandon.

Gilbert denied the charge laid against her.

She was represented by Attorney-at-Law Paul Fung-A-Fat, who told the court that many persons would normally use the phone, and requested reasonable bail for his client.

Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones had no objections to bail.

The defendant was then granted bail in a sum of $5000. She will make her second court appearance on December 8 before Magistrate Geeta Chandan-Edmond.

cern in the strategy.

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran noted that there have been several consultations on mental health during the course of the year, along with a series of training for health care workers.

He added that emphasis has been on the implementation of mental health training at the community level. In addition, several overseas based mental health practitioners have also visited Guyana.

He added that emphasis is also being placed on training for individuals in this regard and the Ministry is now working towards launching this strategy in mid- December.

he Essequibo Ferry MV Sabanto, which ran aground on November 17 on Wakenaam Island en route to Supenaam from Parika, was back in water late Thursday afternoon.

Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) General Manager Marclene Merchant confirmed that the vessel came off on its own power around 16:00h.

“The tide was high [2.88 meters], so the vessel was able to come off without us having to utilise tugs,” she stated.

Provisions were in place by the Public Works Ministry to remove the vessel by week-end.

According to Merchant,

The Essequibo Ferry MV Sabanto

checks indicate there was no damage to the vessel.

In light of this, the MV Sabanto resumed operation under the command of another crew on Friday morning, at its scheduled time.

Around 00:35h on November 17, the vessel ran aground. No injuries were reported and passengers

disembarked at first light by water taxis.

The following day, nine of the 10 vehicles aboard the vessel were removed. The other came off Thursday when the vessel docked at Supenaam.

Investigations into the incident are still ongoing, the THD said.

Police destroy ganja field in Canje

P

olice ranks on Thursday destroyed approximately 10,000 marijuana plants along with four wooden camps during a drug eradication exercise in Canje Creek, Berbice.

Police confirmed that five fields of marijuana plants ranging from one foot to eight feet in height were found and burnt.

The plants were cultivated on approximately nine acres in size.

Also at Tacoba, an unoccupied house was searched during which an improvised shotgun and the barrel of a shotgun were found. No one was arrested. Police are continuing their investigations.

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saturday, november 22, 2014

News

GBTI opens $60M branch at Bartica T

he Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has commissioned its 12th branch that will seek to offer quality service to Guyanese citizens.

On Wednesday evening, President Donald Ramotar joined the bank’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Tracey, Board Chairman Robin Stoby and other officials for the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The new $60 million facility, which is located at Second Avenue, Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) opened for business four weeks ago.

The Head of State noted that yet again this investment “demonstrates the confidence that the business sector has in our economy because they see the changes that have occurred over the years, they see they have a partner for development”.

Further, the President reiterated his administration’s preparedness to partner with investors, to make concessions towards boosting the productive sector of the economy.

While GBTI has demonstrated confidence in Bartica, with its latest initiative, the administration is convinced that the bank will

President Donald Ramotar watches on as a student of the St John the Baptist Primary School cuts the ribbon to commission the new GBTI branch. Also witnessing the event are Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, the Bank’s CEO John Tracey, Board Chairman Robin Stoby, students and other officials

continue to carry out its civic duty in terms of holding up to its corporate responsibilities.

“We have partnered with GBTI on many projects -- the Women of Worth (one example), and we found them to be a good corporate citizen and we hope by establishing here that they will continue to demonstrate the civic mindedness to contribute to other areas of development in Bartica.”

President Ramotar added that the administration has confidence in its citizens and it business community that they will work hand-inhand in order to build a better Guyana.

He noted that while investors continue to play their role in the country’s development, the Government is also doing its part.

Government’s role

“We are also investing a lot in Bartica, and the region as a whole, only yesterday (Tuesday) at Cabinet, we took the decision to fix the airstrip… this is needed for many economic and emergency reasons. This infrastructure is very important to ensure that we can have good services.”

Looking forward, the Head of State said he believes that it was a wise decision to invest in a commu-

nity such as Bartica, since like the rest of the country, that community has a bright future ahead.

Further, with collaborative efforts, the President said he believes that in his lifetime, Guyana can achieve the status of being a developed country as it has all the necessary ingredients. He noted that in order to move Guyana to this status, the administration has been making investments that will ensure this happens.

“We have all the ingredients for that, we have the natural resources and talented people, and we have been investing in our people.”

One of the administration’s main policies, which it has been working on over

Guyana need less of More O

ld people seh too much of one ting does never be good.

That is why old people does advise young people to be satisified with a lil bit of every ting and not to want too much of any ting. Is only de scraven kinda people who don’t listen to this kinda advice.

But a lotta people don’t listen to old people, so dem belly does be full, but dem eye does never be full. So some people always want more of some ting. And Guyana gettin more of every ting these days.

More rain and more floods in de whole country. More garbage floatin up in GT. More schools closin every time a lil drizzle fall in GT. More students runnin around de place when it ain’t got school.

More public servants ain’t wukkin. More duty free scam.

More remigrants who don’t even turn up to court when dem get charge fuh crookishness. More lawsuits against de Kocheur paper. More threats to de Gee-RA boss man. And more frustration fuh Lil Johnny from Trotman.

More fuel tax. More protest from AP-NOO. More fast food.

More supermarkets. More people thiefin. More people tryin to put drugs in dem suitcase when dem goin away. More road accidents and more people gettin killed pun de roads. More gramoxone and more suicides.

More Police men tekking bribes and more animals pun de road, including dem mini bus and taxi drivers, who drivin just like how wild animals does run in de jungle. More fake driver’s licence givin away fuh a price and more people who can’t drive.

Now it gotta More who mek a deal not to send a En-More man to jail and it gotta another More who trying to defend a man who supposed to end up in jail. That’s de man who had want more money than whah de bank used to pay he, so he tek $69.9 million more.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! At this stage, Guyana ain’t need more of any ting. In fact, if any ting, Guyana need less of More.

The $60 million Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry branch, which was commissioned at Second Avenue, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)

the past two decades, is investing in the country’s human capital.

He pointed out that each year; the national budget clearly reflects this as a significant portion goes into the social sector, more importantly the education sector. “… we have a sweeping Education Bill to modernise and revolutionise our education system. We are going to lay the social and physical infrastructure to ensure that our people are second to none, that they would be capable of taking our country to achieve the potential that we all know it has,” he asserted.

The President again spoke of the administration’s continuous effort to realise the plan to bring cheap and reliable energy to all Guyanese as this is seen as

the biggest impediment in the country’s development.

He noted that while Guyana has made significant strides in the midst of an atmosphere which has not been conducive to economic growth, it is the administration’s sound governance policies that have made these possible.

The President further lauded GBTI for the initiative, as he noted that their focus on diversification ties it perfectly with the Government’s policies.

Meanwhile, the bank’s CEO, John Tracey in his remarks, expressed his admiration for developments in Bartica and its surroundings, and the growing role it is playing in national development.

Tracey pointed out that Bartica is situated at the confluence of two of the

mightiest rivers of Guyana, Essequibo and Mazaruni, and the fact that they are the most travelled rivers in Guyana.

“And from time gone back, Bartica has been described as the gateway to the interior and that interior as we know is vastly rich in natural resources below the ground and therefore its strategic geographic and logistical importance cannot be overlooked.”

The bank’s CEO said he is of the belief that Bartica is at the juncture of its history when it needs to engage in more broad-based economic activities.

“GBTI with its wide suite of products and banking services is ready to support this diversification.”

Tracey said the bank would be focusing on small business loans, loans to single mothers, low-income mortgage loans that can help in expanding the economic base of the mining community.

During the first month of operation, the bank has facilitated the opening of 242 savings accounts, three current accounts, one loan and 71 loan enquiries, rented 12 safe deposit boxes and distributed VISA debit cards.

This facility will offer all of its modern services, including a 24-hour ATM service, international transfer, visa debit cards, and safe deposit box, among others.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, november 22, 2014

News

69 soldiers AWOL thus far – domestic, personal issues cited for high number

G

uyana Defence Force (GDF) Lieutenant Colonel Nazrul Hussain said some 69 soldiers have Absent Without Leave (AWOL) thus far in the year, crediting the high number to domestic and other personal issues.

He estimated that some 1000 soldiers have left the Army illegally.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Hussain said 12 of the 69 were recaptured and placed in their respective unit.

The Lieutenant Colonel explained that when AWOL ranks are recaptured before 21 days, they are court martialled and sent back to their respective units, where their unit’s Commanding Officer will set out appropriate punishments.

He noted that there are no rehabilitation facilities for such ranks; however, those who are in need of counselling or other special attention are directed to the Army’s Welfare Department.

On the other hand, Lieutenant Colonel Hussain explained that those ranks who AWOL for more than 21 days are considered “deserters” and are not accept-

Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Lieutenant Colonel Nazrul Hussain said some 69 soldiers have Absent Without Leave (AWOL) thus far in the year

ed back into the Army as they are Struck Off Service (SOS).

Questioned about the reasons for the high number of officers Absenting Without Leave, Hussain pointed out that while each case may be different, common reasons cited are domestic and other personal issues.

He also stated that there are some officers who are unable to confirm to military standards while others cannot handle the training

and the early morning flagrising.

The Lieutenant Colonel stated that while there may be some persons who join the Army just to gain training to serve the criminal community, there are processes in place to zero-in on them.

He outlined that the Army vets and does background checks on all recruits, adding that interviews are even done with their neighbours and other persons in their respective communities.

Hussain said the Army receives over 400 applications during the recruitment period, and as such, it is difficult for checks to be done all at once.

He said the applicants are accepted into the Army while the vetting process continues and if any of the recruits are found to be less of military standards, they are dismissed.

Earlier this week, a former GDF rank was severely injured in an accident while attempting to escape from a robbery at La Bonne Intention, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

On Tuesday, Kevin David of Agricola, Greater Georgetown, a former GDF Coast Guard, along with his accomplice Trelon Munroe of Tucber Park, New Amsterdam, Berbice were ran over by a car after robbing Jasdai Persaud of Cherry Field, LBI, of $750,000.

After committing the robbery, the men tried to escape; however, they were pursued by relatives of the victim during which the relative slammed into their CG motorcycle, causing both of them to sustain injuries.

Munroe was reportedly stuck under the motor car while David received injuries and was lying a short distance away.

Both men were picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where Munroe succumbed to his injuries. David has since been admitted under guard.

According to Police, a quantity of the stolen cash along with a .32 revolver and four live rounds with a spent shell were recovered.

Speaking on David’s status within the GDF, Lieutenant Colonel Hussain explained that the man has not been in the Army for two years, and as such, he is considered to be a “deserter”.

Hussain further noted that now David is caught in an illegal act, he will be dismissed forthwith and necessary action will be taken against him.

Beaten miner remains unconscious

An injured Jerry Francis at the Georgetown Public Hospital

D

ays after being admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital with several bodily injuries, 17-year-old Jerry Francis of Yakarinta, North Rupununi has shown no sign of improvement.

He remains unresponsive in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the medical facility.

The teenager was alleged beaten by a group of men at Puruni Backdam, Region Seven (Cuyuni Mazaruni) last Saturday evening. He suffered severe head injuries and lacerations to the body.

A relative told Guyana Times that the young man regained consciousness for a few minutes on Thursday but slipped right back into unconsciousness and had been so since.

The relative said his family is hoping that Francis will make a full recovery.

Another relative stated that while they are trying to get some answers, they have met a dead end, claiming that something “fishy” is going on.

“We try to get the guy who claimed he found him, but he now making excuses and cannot meet us,” the man stated.

He is holding out that someone in the camp has to know about the incident.

“We are suggesting that his employers have something to do with his beating.”

However, the Police confirmed that no one has been arrested in connection was the incident. Several statements were taken from per-

sons who were at the party that the young man had attended prior to his discovery along the Puruni Backdam Road. In addition, statements were taken from the men who found Francis on the roadway as well as from members of the camp where the young man stayed for a few months.

According to reports received, the young man left his mining camp to attend a party in the area.

He was later found along the Puruni trail in a pool of blood with his head bashedin. Information about the attack is sketchy. After the discovery, he was picked up and taken to his mining camp where he was cleaned before being taken to the Bartica Hospital.

Due to the severity of his injuries, the young man was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he remains in an unconscious state.

A colleague of the injured man who travelled with him to the city had told Guyana Times that they all went to the party and it was while they were on their way back to the camp; they saw Francis lying in the corner of the road.

While he cannot say what might have occurred or who might have committed the act, he revealed that the young man was badly beaten.

Francis left his village in June to work in the mining area. A hospital official confirmed that most of the injuries were inflicted on Francis’s head.

LIAT launches "Early Bird" special fares

L

IAT, the Caribbean Airline, has launched its "Early Bird" promotion, which enables passengers to enjoy big savings when they make early bookings on a variety of flights booked between November 21-28 for travel between January 12 and March 28, 2015 inclusive.

According to a release, passengers need to use the Promo Code EB2015 when making a booking to be able to access the reduced rates.

Tickets can be booked on the website – liat.com,

through the call centre, Seats are subject to availaairport ticketing offices or bility and promotional terms through local travel agent. and conditions apply.

saturday, november 22, 2014

guyanatimesgy.com

15

News

Masjid An-Najm hosts medical outreach T

Man jailed for causing Chief Librarian’s death

Masjid An-Najm continues to touch the lives of Albouystown residents

T

he An-Najm Masjid and Social Centre on Wednesday held its fourth annual medical outreach programme on the lawns of the Albouystown Masjid, Georgetown.

Speaking to Guyana Times, Director of the Masjid Naheem Muhammad said the exercise was part of a bigger

mandate in meeting the social obligation of the people of Albouystown.

Muhammad said since there is only one medical centre in the area, the Masjid decided to take up a position to enhance and assist in bringing medical needs to the people.

The outreach programme

Security guard killed in Land of Canaan accident

A

security guard attached to the Rambarran Shipyard, Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, was on Friday afternoon struck down and killed by a speeding motorcycle while attempting to cross the Public Road.

The dead man has been identified as Mr Powers (only name given), 62, of Land of Canaan. According to information gathered, the man was reportedly under the influence of alcohol and was returning home from a nearby drinking spot when he met with the accident.

The motorcyclist was reportedly travelling at a fast pace when he collided with Powers in the vicinity of the Five Door Sluice, as it was raining. One of Powers’ legs was almost severed by the impact of the crash and he sustained other injuries to his body.

An eyewitness told the Guyana Times that Powers was consuming alcohol at a shop at “Koker Dam” and had just left to return home.

She added that after the accident, the motorcycle rider was rushed to the Diamond

Diagnostic Centre to receive medical treatment, as he too sustained injuries, but to his head.

The now dead man, the eyewitness said, had collected his wages earlier in the day.

She claimed that it was a habit for him to take his “drinks” whenever he received his money. Powers, who had been a driver, but, owing to his age, got a job at the Rambarran Shipyard, was described as a pleasant person.

Just Sunday last, Ramdoolar “Eddy” Dhanraj, 60, of Lot 8 Public Road, Pearl, East Bank Demerara, was crushed to death by a laden-lumber truck on the East Bank Highway. He was one of two persons killed that day, as Guyana’s road accident death toll spirals out of control.

As Guyana observes National Road Safety Month, Police have released statistics revealing that for the first 10 months of the year, 113 persons lost their lives on the country’s roadways as a result of 104 traffic accidents, a whopping 33 per cent increase in road deaths over the corresponding period last year.

Body of unidentified man found in Puruni River

T

he body of an unidentified decomposed man of African descent was on Friday found in the Puruni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

According to a Police re-

lease, on the right hand of the deceased, there is a tattoo “Death Before” and on the left hand, another “No Guts No Glory”.

Investigations are in progress.

saw persons benefiting from general checkups, dental care and cervical cancer screening.

The An-Najm Masjid was commissioned in 2012 to the tune of $44 million dollars. The money was raised through the generosity of the Muslim community under the auspices of the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT).

The occasion was witnessed by President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and other top Government officials.

The Masjid has also been involved in a number of other activities such as feeding pro-

grammes, sports, caring for the elderly and making donations to charitable organisations across Guyana.

The building is also an Information Communication Technology (ICT) hub under the One Laptop per Family (OLPF) Programme. Further, the social centre provides Muslim with education and training, family guidance and counselling, women education and development, skills training, literary classes, social relief and welfare, medical clinic and care for the elderly and differently-able.

wenty-four-year-old Odida Underwood was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment for causing the death of Chief Librarian Gillian Thompson on Christmas Eve last year due to dangerous driving.

The unlicensed defendant, of Lot 197 Guyhoc Park, Georgetown, made his first court appearance on December 27, 2013. He pleaded not guilty to the charge before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine- Beharry.

The first charge read that on Tuesday, December 24, at North Road and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, he drove motor car PPP 8655 in a dangerous manner, which resulted in the death of Thompson.

He faced three other charges and pleaded guilty to all, that is, he drove the same vehicle without being the holder of a driver’s licence, the vehicle was not covered for third-party risk, and he had taken and driven it without the consent of the owner.

Underwood was subsequently sentenced by Magistrate Fabayo Azore to pay fines of $20,000, $35,000, and $30,000 respectively for the second, third and final charge, with alternative sentences of two weeks in jail for the second charge, one month imprisonment for the third charge and one month imprisonment for the final charge.

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saturDAY, november 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Flood Advisories

T

Weather

oday: The morning will see overcast conditions over coastal to inland areas. These conditions are expected to be accompanied by moderate to heavy showers and thundershowers. The afternoon will see a decrease in intensity and frequency in the showers, but the cloudy to overcast conditions are expected to continue. It is also expected that precipitation will recommence during the early morning hours. The 24-hour accumulation is expected to be between 80 mm and 120 mm. Other areas can expect varying cloudiness with light to moderate scattered showers and possible thundershowers. Rainfall is likely to be between trace and 15 mm.

Sunday: Morning hours will see overcast conditions over coastal to inland areas. These conditions are expected to be accompanied by moderate to heavy showers and thundershowers.

The afternoon will see a decrease in intensity and frequency in the showers, but the cloudy to overcast conditions are expected to continue. It is also expected that the precipitations will recommence during the early morning hours. **The 24hour accumulation is expected to be between 80 mm and 100 mm**. Other areas can expect mostly cloudy conditions with light to moderate showers and possible thundershowers.

Rainfall is likely to be between trace and 20 mm.

Health

In light of the increased rainfall and the flooding along the coastal belt, the Health Ministry is advising the general public to pay special attention to your health, personal hygiene, water safety and vector control.

The Ministry advises: · If you are living in flooded areas, stay out of the water as much as possible, as it can greatly reduce your chances of contracting diseases such as skin infections, Leptospirosis, diarrhoeal diseases and other water-borne diseases. Direct contact with floodwaters can expose you to several germs that can lead to any of these diseases.

Keep children out of the water as they are most at risk of contracting diseases. · If you must go into the water, use protective footwear such as long boots.

Prepare a foot bath of half cup of bleach to one bucket of water and wash your feet before entering the house.

Then apply Vaseline or oil to your skin as it forms a barrier and provides some protection from the dirty water. · During rainfall you may notice an increase in mosquitoes. Protect yourself and family against mosquitoes by sleeping under mosquito nets, using mosquito repellents and coils and covering storage containers as to reduce the breeding

of mosquitoes. Remember, the mosquito that spreads Chikungunya virus breeds in fresh still water around your home. · Use safe water for drinking, cooking and brushing your teeth, and for making ice and drinks. Safe water is water that is treated with bleach or boiled for five minutes or bottled water. · Keep food separate, protected from the floodwater. · Discard all food that has been in contact with floodwaters safely by placing it in a plastic bag and depositing it in covered bins. · Wash all fruits and vegetables with treated safe water and peel before eating. · Keep all food items and drinking water in sealed containers · Cook food thoroughly and consume within one hour of preparation. Store all remaining food safely in a refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before consuming. · Wash hands thoroughly with soap and safe water or use hand sanitisers, especially before and after eating meals, after going to the toilet or latrine and taking care of the children. · Use the toilet or latrine and dispose of baby’s diapers in your covered bins. Do not mess or let faeces get into the water. · Keep garbage bins closed · Watch out for animals.

Rats, roaches, snakes and centipedes and other pests that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or a stick to poke and turn items over and scare them away. · If your home was seriously affected by floodwater and you suspect electrical wiring have been damaged, have it checked by a qualified person before turning the main electrical switch. · Know the location of the main electrical breakers and the gas and water valves in your home and ensure a path is clear to accessing them easily so that you can shut them off in emergencies. · Turn off the main electrical switch and unplug all appliances if your home is under water. · Place important documents and valuables in plastic and store them in a safe place. · If you or any family member experiences any fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rash, cuts, sticks, bruises or other conditions, please seek medical attention immediately. The Georgetown Public Hospital and other hospital outpatient departments in the affected regions are all fully operational and equipped to provide adequate care. Health centres around Georgetown will be open for extended periods and mobile sites in affected areas will be established and publicised soon.

Anna Regina dazzled with lights – as Courts ushers in Christmas spirit at Cinderella Country

By Indrawattie Natram

T

he Town of Anna Regina on Thursday evening came alive as many gathered at the Courts Richmond branch to witness the company’s annual Christmas Tree light up.

The light up was done around 18:30h by the staff of Courts at their Essequibo location.

The occasion ushered in the good will of the

the Essequibo Coast.

The crowd also joined in singing Christmas carols such as “Little Drummer Boy”, “Here Comes Santa Claus” and “Do You Hear What I Hear”, along with many others.

Courts Richmond Branch Manager Twidale Barton said the company wishes everyone a Merry Xmas and welcomes everyone to the occasion.

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud conSome of the children at the Christmas Tree light up at Anna Regina

Apart from the road show and Christmas Tree Light Up, staff of the company also visited the Community Base Rehabilitation Centre at Queenstown to spread the Christmas cheers.

Gifts were given to the differently-able persons and a television set and chairs were donated.

The children had the opportunity to interact with

popular characters such as “Mickey Mouse”, “Sponge Bob” and “Dora”, among others.

The crowd was also entertained by comedian “Radika” and local performing artiste “Ravi D”.

The occasion was also attended by Credits Director Kenneth Scrubb and Marketing Manager Pernell Cummings.

Santa Claus in action at the Christmas Tree Light Up party

Christmas season as Courts brought cheers to many children, whose faces were lit up when they were introduced to Santa Claus and his helpers.

It was a scene to behold, as some of the children cried while some were overjoyed to touch Santa’s hands.

The helpers were around spreading the joy of the season to the children. The annual event fosters togetherness and brings the joy of Christmas to the people on

gratulated the furniture giant for once again hosting the spectacular event, noting that Christmas is a celebration for all Guyanese.

Courts Operations Director Lavern Barker said the road show and light up are the company’s unique way of spreading the joy of Christmas.

Children were treated to goodies, while customers were introduced to the “Spin the wheel” promotion where a number of amazing prizes are up for grabs.

The popular cartoon characters were at hand to entertain the gathering

CSM KI endorses Carlsberg; promises to explode this evening at 704 Lounge

From left: Chief Financial Officer Gavin Ramsoondar, Chief Executive Officer Irzad Zamal, Chutney King Kris Persad (KI) and DJ Sheriff at the press conference at Princess Hotel on Friday

I

nternational Chutney Soca Monarch (CSM) Kris “KI” Persad has arrived in Guyana for the official launch of Carlsberg Beer at the 704 Lounge, Albert and Lamaha Streets, Georgetown this evening, to put his stamp of approval on the renowned beer.

At a press conference at the Princess Hotel on Friday, the popular singer noted that since his emergence five years ago, he has been associated with various brands, and his success has been due in part to the tremendous support that he has garnered from them.

At the official party to launch the beer this evening, he says, he plans to create a whirlwind and promises that his performance will be one that his fans cannot miss.

It has been six months since KI per-

formed in Guyana and his fans are already storming ticket locations in order to secure their spot in the 704 Lounge, which has limited capacity. KI says that he is all hyped and ready to hit the stage.

“It will be a performance that will leave you spellbound… I will be one that is full of energy and I have to encourage my fans to be there to experience it,” he noted, reassuring patrons that they will get their money’s worth. He also took the opportunity to thank Southland International for inviting him to celebrate with them on this momentous occasion.

Also travelling with the superstar is DJ Sheriff, his co-manager who also encouraged patrons to come out and have a blast this evening, since KI is ready to thrill the audience.

It is the first time that an international artiste will be performing at the 704 Lounge. DJ Sheriff also promised to heat up the audience and put them in the right mood for the live performance by the Chutney King.

Southland International Chief Executive Officer Irzad Zamal explained that all security arrangements are in place for the big event, while noting that due to the limited capacity of the club, tickets will be sold on a first-come firstserve basis. He added too that due to the inclement weather, the official launch ceremony has been pushed back, but this will not stop the versatile KI from performing before his fans.

The CEO revealed that he has been a fan of KI for some time and was quite familiar with his tunes.

In further confirmation that KI was the perfect artiste to perform at the launch, Chief Financial Officer Gavin Ramsoondar stated that from the inception he had KI in mind, but waited on the planning committee to recommend an artiste to perform. “When they selected KI, I laughed because I am a fan of KI and I have seen his performances and know that he will do well with his versatile performance.”

Both Zamal and Ramsoondar encouraged the public to pick up their tickets for the launch party at 704 Lounge or Southland International Office, Brickdam, Georgetown.

Tickets for the event cost $2000. KI will be performing from about 22:00h.

news

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saturday, november 22, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Review of CJIA Expansion Berbice Bridge back in operation Project to be completed soon after malfunction

P

rime Minister Samuel Hinds has said that the US$155 million Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project is still under review and is expected to be completed soon.

The project which aims at enhancing the country’s ability to accommodate larger categories of aircraft is expected to be completed in August next year. But with the rate of ongoing works, it could be completed much sooner.

Hinds, speaking with Guyana Times recently, said the project is currently under review and will see major improvements in operations at the country’s largest flight terminal.

Public Works Ministry Chief Roads and Bridges Officer Ron Rahaman, who is also Manager of the Airport Expansion Project, told Guyana Times that although there have been some minor setbacks, work has been progressing smoothly.

The setback was based on the fact that there had been a remodelling of the original design of a part of the project.

He explained that initially, the decision was the runway was to only be extended to the northern end. However, a de-

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project is still under review and is expected to be completed soon

cision was taken to have the runways be extended to both north and south.

The project’s contractor China Harbour Engineering Company is still to submit the proposal for this, Rahaman told Guyana Times.

He said officials from the Public Works Ministry are in consultations and going through the legal process with three families who will have to be relocated to facilitate the expansion of the runway.

The design of the terminal, Rahaman explained is about 80 per cent complete. He said the existing terminal was also

initially set to be replaced.

However, a new terminal will be built to the south of the existing terminal building.

The expansion will see Guyana’s main port boasting a runway of 10,800 feet to accommodate large transatlantic aircraft, a new terminal building, eight boarding bridges, elevators, escalators, three dimensional X-ray scanners, and flight information and security monitoring systems.

Leading agencies in the aviation industry have already begun pushing for the early completion of the project.

Stakeholders have said the expansion is the appropriate response to the dire safety, security and efficiency challenges faced at the facility, and have pledged their full support and expertise to advance the progress of the multimilliondollar national endeavour.

It was explained that the existing runway creates many safety limitations due to the absence of the Runway Extension Safety Area (RESA) and its inability to accommodate larger wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and 777 aircraft.

The congested terminal and parking space constraints for aircraft were among other issues laid on the table when the meeting was convened.

The airlines said insufficient parking space for aircraft adversely affects their on-time performance.

According to the Government, the CJIA’s expansion is a national project engineered to modernise the airport into a hub for international and regional travel.

This is in keeping with its vision to develop the CJIA into a world-class airport with high standards of hospitality and service.

Central Govt considering flood relief strategy – robust emergency response kicks into gear

T

he Ministries of Agriculture, Local Government and Public Works have teamed up to provide the Mayor and City Council with much-needed resources to ensure efficient drainage of water accumulated in the City following heavy downpours on Thursday.

When this newspaper visited the Sussex Street Canal, on Friday afternoon, acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba was seen overlooking the works of persons attached to the various ministries as they de-silted the channel.

This was done to drain floodwaters from the Albouystown, West and East La Penitence areas, along with some sections of the Le Repentir Cemetery.

Following heavy downpours, certain sections of the City became flooded on Thursday, but waters began to recede by Friday.

Areas such as South Ruimveldt and Albouystown were severely affected.

Sooba said the City Council was working on relocating one of its excavators to the South Ruimveldt areas.

The Sussex Street Canal was filled with debris, which got into the koker, restricting the smooth flow of water. As a result, the Public Works Ministry chose to temporarily replace the single large pump with two smaller ones to speed up drainage in Albouystown and surrounding areas, while the large pump is being repaired.

Works on the canal were expected to be completed by Friday.

Sooba told this newspaper that most of the pumps around the City are in working order with the exception of the one at Muneshwers and the Lamaha Street pump. However, there are temporary measures in place to reduce flooding in these areas, Sooba said.

“A lot of persons are out from the City Solid Waste Department and they are clearing markets, canals and drains.

The City Engineer is clearing all internal drains and removing blockages,” Sooba

The Management of the bridge had apologised for the inconvenience

T

he Berbice River Bridge on Friday suffered a malfunction, which resulted in passengers and vehicles being stranded on both sides of the river, but by press time was back in operation.

According to a release from the company, the bridge's Retractor Span was experiencing “technical issues", which caused an unexpected delay in the scheduled reopening of the bridge to vehicles.

The incident occurred around 16:00h when the bridge, the main traffic artery between West and East Bank of Berbice, was scheduled to be reopened to vehicular traffic.

Minibus Union promises to not raise fares

I

Men at work to speed up drainage in the City on Friday

explained.

She further stated that the Council was monitoring areas as far as Liliendaal and Turkeyen on the East Coast of Demerara. The Kitty Pump is also in working order, and works are also being done on the Downer Canal to facilitate drainage in the Sophia area.

The rains over the past few days have been intense. On Thursday, some 7 3/4 inches of rainfall was recorded, the highest amount of rainfall recorded in a decade.

Sooba lauded the success of the “Clean Up My Country” campaign for significantly reducing the impact of the heavy rains.

“Had it not been for the cleanup programme, I don’t know what would have happened to us. It would have been worse than the 2005 floods.”

She appealed to citizens to desist from dumping garbage in canals and along the roadways, and to dispose of their refuse in a responsible manner.

Sooba also called on businessmen to be more responsible when constructing big buildings.

“A lot of these business people build

their parapets over the drains and the ... manholes, obstructing the free flow of water. This must stop. We are pleading with them to be responsible; all of us need to be responsible to reduce the impact of natural disasters,” Sooba said.

Schools and businesses were closed in affected areas and residents of areas such as Albouystown have been counting their losses.

Meanwhile, the Agriculture Ministry, in a release, said that overcast conditions over coastal to inland areas are expected this morning.

These conditions are expected to be accompanied by moderate to heavy showers and thundershowers. The afternoon will see a decrease in intensity and frequency in the showers, but the cloudy to overcast conditions are expected to continue.

“It is also expected that the precipitations will recommence during the early morning hours. The 24 hours’ accumulation is expected to be between 80 mm and 120 mm. Other areas can expect varying cloudiness with light to moderate scattered showers and possible thundershowers,” the release concluded.

The company’s technicians worked non-stop to reolve the problem.

Arrangements had been made for the ferry service to be operational during this period for passengers. The Management of the bridge had also apologised for the inconvenience caused.

The bridge, which was opened on December 23, 2008, consists of 39 pontoons from its base as well as 78 anchors.

It is owned and managed by the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI) and following a concessionary period of 21 years, will be transferred to the Government.

n response to speculation about an increase in minibus fares after the United Minibus Union lamented an increase in the excise tax on fuel, Union President Eon Andrews reassured stakeholders that the entity would not raise fares.

However, he said, there may be a few minibus operators who would seek to do such.

On Thursday, the Union had issued a release hinting that the public may have to shoulder the burden of the recent increase in excise tax on fuel. On November 5, Government increased the excise tax from 20 per cent to 40 per cent on gasoline and from 15 per cent to 35 per cent on diesel.

“The travelling public may well have to bear the brunt of such increases,” the release from the Minibus Union had said.

In an interview with the Guyana Times, Andrews stated that the Union was responsible for protecting the best interest of the minibus sector, which also includes the passengers.

He hopes to negotiate with the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry (under which the transportation subsector falls) to find a way for the sector to benefit from the global decrease in fuel prices.

Andrews said while he understood that the excise

tax was increased to maintain a stable fuel price in Guyana, it was unreasonable that the transportation sector would not be able to enjoy the advantages of reduced fuel prices like the rest of the world.

Currently, the minibus operators and the Ministry have an agreement that once gas prices at the Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) stations, which the Government controls, are less than $1000, bus fares would not be increased.

Reports indicate that it was a common policy of the Government to increase the excise tax on fuel when there is a decrease in prices on the global market and to decrease it when there is an increase in the price of fuel worldwide to ensure stable prices locally. This prevents consumers from feeling the pressure of any rapid increase in fuel prices on the world market.

This year has been a contentious one for the minibus sector, as some bus operators have repeatedly arbitrarily raised fares, causing commuters to complain to the authorities of exploitation.

The disputes were eventually resolved but not before Government had cause to deploy ‘big buses’ to transport members of the public, free of cost or at a minimal charge.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, november 22, 2014

ARCHIE

ARIES

Make an appointment with

(March 21- a financial adviser to look April 19) over investment possibilities.

There are ways to improve your monetary situation, and now is an opportune time to alter your financial outlook.

Stubbornness will be your TAURUS downfall. Insistence on doing (April 20- things your way will have a detMay 20) rimental effect on your personal and professional partnerships.

If you cannot agree, you’d be better off moving forward alone.

dilbert

GEMINI Your dreams of promotion (May 21- will diminish if you get inJune 20) volved in office politics or gossip. You may not agree with some rules and regulations, but you need to follow them.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Frivolous spending can damage your financial security. Before you spend, question whether you really need to make the purchase. You’ll feel better with less stuff and more money in the bank.

Someone will not reLEO alise the advice they’re of(July 23- fering isn’t what you need.

Aug. 22) Don’t take offence; just make it very clear that you don’t want anyone interfering in your personal life.

Put your house in order.

VIRGO Gather up instruction manu(Aug. 23- als and related warranties or Sept. 22) guarantees. Reorganise your important papers and discard possessions or records that are no longer relevant.

Calvin and Hobbes

Friction and hostility between LIBRA family members will prey on your (Sept. 23mind. Scrutinise your own acOct. 23) tions before putting blame elsewhere. Criticising is irritating, whereas finding a solution and fixing the problem is thoughtful.

SUDOKU

A misunderstanding or SCORPIO miscommunication between (Oct. 24you and a partner will have to Nov. 22) be remedied if you are going to move forward. A calm discussion will clear the air.

A disagreeable attitude SAGITTARIUS will compromise your posi(Nov. 23- tion. Be known for your talDec. 21) ents, not your irritability.

Dependability and consistency will bring personal and financial rewards your way.

WEDNESDAY'S WORD

Wednesday's solution

No matter whom you are CAPRICORN dealing with, if an agreement (Dec. 22is drawn up, you must read Jan. 19) the fine print. Don’t make impulsive deals that might cause personal or family setbacks.

AQUARIUS

Compromise will be called (Jan. 20- for when dealing with partFeb. 19) ners. Go out of your way to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Get whatever you agree on in writing to avoid future problems.

PISCES Household matters will (Feb. 20- take precedence. Make home March 20) improvements that will increase your comfort, convenience and family enjoyment.

Host a gathering of friends and family at your place.

saturday, november 22, 2014

19

focused Al Hasan breaks13-match Pacquiao on Algieri, still wants winless streak Mayweather bout

Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan added 148 for the fifth wicket

N

ew ODI captain Mashrafe Mortaza smartly taking charge, Shakib Al Hasan hitting his first ODI century in four years and picking up four wickets, former ODI captain Mushfiqur Rahim contributing a fifty and a spectacular catch behind the stumps. Bangladesh needed this blend to win an ODI after 383 days and break their 13-game hoodoo. They defended 281 on a blanket of dew, cleverly, causing Zimbabwe to fall 87 short.

Shakib’s 101 off 99 balls had 10 fours played all around the wicket as he, at times, toyed with the Zimbabwe attack. The visitors’ ordinary fielding helped too, as Shakib found easy gaps to pick up 51 singles. There were overs when he and Mushfiqur also raked up plenty of twos, while the boundaries came through no particular arc.

Shakib wasn’t done yet, and contributed by removing the first two Zimbabwe wickets - Sikandar Raza and Vusi Sibanda - in the eighth over, and later bowling Solomon Mire and having John Nyumbu caught at slip. The delivery to remove Raza was classic Shakib: the batsman was drawn forward but got duped by the turn. Shakib, in the process, became the 12th cricketer to take four wickets and score a century in the same ODI. Mahmudullah, Arafat Sunny and Mortaza took two scalps each, bowling tight spells and bring-

ing important breakthroughs for the team.

For Zimbabwe, Brendan Taylor top scored with 54 off 72 balls with four fours and a huge six over midwicket.

He also survived a chance on 51, when Arafat Sunny dropped him running in from deep square-leg, but had to depart after hitting an off-cutter from Mortaza towards Mushfiqur, who did well to dive to his right and pouch a difficult grab.

Hamilton Masakadza made 42 off 48 balls with seven fours before Mahmudullah trapped him leg-before.

But it was really the Shakib show all the way, with both bat and ball. In the first innings, he found boundaries through fineleg and third man, and also belted the ball through covers, mid-off and midwicket at every opportunity. He reached his first fifty off 56 balls and the hundred came off 95 deliveries. He chanced his arm a couple of times and the ball went past a gully and a cover, but largely, it was an innings that took Bangladesh from a slippery slide to a position from where they could dictate.

The shot that would define Shakib’s innings came in the 37th over - a turn of the wrist that took the ball squeakily past the midwicket fielder and sped past the player at long-on. He added 148 for the fifth wicket with Mushfiqur, breaking the Bangladesh record set by himself and Raqibul Hasan against South Africa in 2008. Bangladesh were

70 for 4 when the pair were brought to the crease; courtesy Mominul Haque playing an unnecessary scoop off Nyumbu. The hosts had compiled 218 by the time Shakib departed.

Mushfiqur was far luckier than Shakib, getting three lives- dropped on 16 by Chigumbura at cover, caught off a no-ball on 56, and dropped at 60 by Taylor at point. He connected twice with his slogsweep fully, collecting two sixes, apart from two fours.

Shakib reached his century in the 43rd over and he celebrated by playing some air shots around the ground. The pair added 78 between the 30th and 40th over, and more tellingly, 48 in the second Powerplay.

The final thrust was provided by Sabbir Rahman’s 25-ball 44 that had three fours and three sixes, the last two coming off the last

two balls of the Bangladesh innings.

Bangladesh’s start with the bat, however, was not up to the mark. Tamim Iqbal played all around a straightish delivery while Anamul slogged and gave a simple catch to mid-off.

Mahmudullah made no use of his second appearance as Bangladesh’s No 4, giving mid-on a simple grab.

Out of Zimbabwe’s eight bowlers used, Panyangara took 3 for 66, while Tendai Chatara took two wickets. There was not much discipline as they conceded 17 wides and couple of no-balls. Neither Nyumbu nor Tafadzwa Kamungozi bowled their quote of 10 overs, although they took a wicket each.

As it turned out, it wasn’t nearly enough to cause Bangladesh any more ODI woes in 2014. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Bangladesh innings (50 overs maximum) Tamim Iqbal b Panyangara 5 Anamul Haque c Chigumbura b 12 Chatara Mominul Haque b Nyumbu 31 Mahmudullah c Kamungozi b Chatara

1 Shakib Al Hasan c Panyangara b Kamungozi 101 Mushfiqur Rahim† c Mire b Panyangara 65 Sabbir Rahman not out 44 Mashrafe Mortaza* b Panyangara 1 Arafat Sunny not out 1 Extras (lb 1, w 17, nb 2) 20 Total (7 wickets; 50 overs; 226 mins) 281 (5.62 runs per over) Did not: batAl-Amin Hossain, Rubel Hossain Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Tamim Iqbal, 4.3 ov), 2-26 (Anamul Haque, 9.5 ov), 3-31 (Mahmudullah, 11.4 ov), 4-70 (Mominul Haque, 19.4 ov), 5-218 (Shakib Al Hasan, 43.2 ov), 6-246 (Mushfiqur Rahim, 47.2 ov), 7-264 (Mashrafe Mortaza, 49.2 ov) O M R W Bowling T Panyangara 10 1 66 3 TL Chatara 10 1 48 2 E Chigumbura 8 0 37 0 SF Mire 4 0 22 0 J Nyumbu 7 0 40 1 H Masakadza 1 0 8 0 T Kamungozi 8 0 40 1 Sikandar Raza 2 0 19 0 Zimbabwe innings (target: 282 runs from 50 overs) H Masakadza lbw b

Mahmudullah 42 Sikandar Raza st †Mushfiqur Rahim b Shakib Al Hasan 15 V Sibanda c Rubel Hossain b 0 Shakib Al Hasan BRM Taylor c †Mushfiqur Rahim b Mashrafe Mortaza 54 RW Chakabva† 9 b Mahmudullah E Chigumbura* c Sabbir Rahman b Mashrafe Mortaza 15 SF Mire b Shakib Al Hasan 11 T Panyangara b Arafat Sunny 7 J Nyumbu c Mahmudullah b Shakib Al Hasan 4 TL Chatara b Arafat Sunny 10 T Kamungozi not out 12 15 Extras (lb 6, w 9) Total (all out; 42.1 overs; 187 mins) 194 (4.60 runs per over) Fall of wickets: 1-47 (Sikandar Raza, 7.3 ov), 2-47 (Sibanda, 7.5 ov), 3-92 (Masakadza, 16.3 ov), 4-124 (Chakabva, 24.4 ov), 5-146 (Taylor, 29.4 ov), 6-153 (Chigumbura, 33.1 ov), 7-168 (Mire, 35.4 ov), 8-170 (Panyangara, 36.2 ov), 9-180 (Nyumbu, 39.4 ov), 10-194 (Chatara, 42.1 ov) Bowling O M R W M Mortaza 6 1 33 2 A-A Hossain 2 0 21 0 Arafat Sunny 9.1 2 22 2 S Al Hasan 10 0 41 4 M Haque 1 0 11 0 Rubel Hossain 3 0 14 0 Mahmudullah 10 0 40 2 Sabbir Rahman 1 0 6 0

Manny Pacquiao

M

anny Pacquiao has again expressed his desire to fight Floyd Mayweather ahead of defending his WBO welterweight title against Chris Algieri on Saturday.

Eight-weight world champion Pacquiao, 36, faces undefeated light welterweight champion Algieri, 30, in Macau.

He told BBC Sport: “My killer instinct is back and victory will be ours.”

On the prospect of fighting Mayweather, Pacquiao added: “I would like it to happen. I’ve told him my phone line is open 24 hours, seven days a week.”

Filipino fighter Pacquiao, who has won 56 of his 63 fights, with five defeats, and American Mayweather, 37, are generally considered the best fighters of their generation.

But their camps have never been able to agree a deal over a bout, with one stumbling block being Mayweather’s insistence on a strict blood-testing programme during training.

Saturday’s bout is being contested at a catchweight of 144 pounds, three fewer than the welterweight limit, with Pacquiao considering a future return to the 140-pound light welterweight division if the fight with Mayweather does not materialise.

Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach has predicted his man will end

the contest in the opening round, believing Algieri is “in over his head” before adding: “They’re trying to make out like Algieri is the next Rocky. But this isn’t a movie.”

Pacquiao, whose last knockout was against Miguel Cotto to win his first welterweight title in 2009, was not as bullish.

“I’m motivated to make a statement by actions, not my words,” he said.

“I’m not predicting the fight but want to entertain people and make it a wonderful fight for the fans.

“He’s young, never experienced a loss and that’s why I’m excited because I love to fight undefeated fighters.

“I’m not underestimating him, he’s a world champion and I have to focus but the advantage I have is my experience, power and quickness.”

Algieri has won all 20 of his paid fights and claimed the WBO light welterweight belt in June despite being knocked down twice in the first round by Russia’s Ruslan Provodnikov.

The former kickboxer, who also has a master’s degree and ambitions to become a doctor, claims he has the ability to win at the slightly heavier weight.

“We’re not worried about what Manny’s going to do, we’re focused on what I’m going to do,” he said. “And if I fight my fight, I win.” (BBC Sport)

20

guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, november 22, 2014

Pakistan v New Zealand, 2nd Test, Dubai, 5th day...

Pakistan recover to bat out draw P

akistan lost three wickets for five runs after lunch but recovered to bat out a draw to retain their 1-0 lead over New Zealand going into the final Test in Sharjah. Pakistan went from 70 for 1 to 75 for 4 before Asad Shafiq, in partnerships with Younis Khan and Sarfraz Ahmed, dug in to earn the stalemate.

Shafiq batted 116 deliveries for his unbeaten 41, and

his 74-run stand with Younis took 23.4 overs out of the game. The in-form Sarfraz came in and hit a quick 24 as he and Shafiq played out 11.3 overs before both sides decided to call off the match around 30 minutes into the final hour. Play was unlikely to have lasted much longer with light fading, with an hourlong lunch break having being taken on account of Friday prayers.

SCOREBOARD New Zealand 1st innings 403 Pakistan 1st innings 393 New Zealand 2nd innings TWM Latham c Asad Shafiq b Yasir Shah 9 BB McCullum* lbw b Zulfiqar Babar 45 KS Williamson c Taufeeq Umar b Zulfiqar Babar 11 LRPL Taylor st †Sarfraz Ahmed b Yasir Shah 104 CJ Anderson b Yasir Shah 0 JDS Neesham b Zulfiqar Babar 11 BJ Watling† c Asad Shafiq b Yasir Shah 11 MD Craig c Rahat Ali b Yasir Shah 34 TG Southee c Azhar Ali b Zulfiqar Babar 20 IS Sodhi not out 2 Extras (lb 3) 3 Total (9 wickets dec; 64.5 overs; 298 mins) 250 Did not bat TA Boult Fall of wickets: 1-42 (Latham, 10.6 ov), 2-63 (Williamson, 19.6 ov), 3-78 (McCullum, 21.3 ov), 4-79 (Anderson, 22.4 ov), 5-125 (Neesham, 34.3 ov), 6-166 (Watling, 47.6 ov), 7-226 (Craig, 63.2 ov), 8-228 (Taylor, 63.4 ov), 9-250 (Southee, 64.5 ov)

Bowling: Rahat Ali 8-039-0, Ehsan Adil 8-1-33-0, Zulfiqar Babar 27.5-5-964, Yasir Shah 21-1-79-5 Pakistan 2nd innings (target: 261 runs) Shan Masood lbw b Boult 40 Taufeeq Umar c †Watling b Southee 4 Azhar Ali c Neesham b Craig 24 Younis Khan c Taylor b Craig 44 Misbah-ul-Haq* c †Watling b Boult 0 41 Asad Shafiq not out Sarfraz Ahmed† not out 24 Extras (b 15, lb 2, w 1, nb 1) 19 Total (5 wickets; 67 overs; 261 mins) 196 Did not bat Yasir Shah, Zulfiqar Babar, Ehsan Adil, Rahat Ali Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Taufeeq Umar, 1.6 ov), 2-70 (Azhar Ali, 27.3 ov), 3-73 (Shan Masood, 29.6 ov), 4-75 (Misbah-ul-Haq, 31.5 ov), 5-149 (Younis Khan, 55.3 ov) Bowling: TA Boult 10-6-122, TG Southee 11-3-21-1, MD Craig 17-3-66-2, IS Sodhi 21-5-63-0, CJ Anderson 3-14-0, JDS Neesham 2-1-10, BB McCullum 3-0-12-0

Ross Taylor

Pakistan were set 261 to win in 72 overs as New Zealand declared an hour before lunch. They lost Taufeeq Umar in the second over of the chase when he nicked Tim Southee behind. Shan Masood and Azhar Ali dug in against the spinners, but Azhar provided New Zealand an opening when he cracked a Mark Craig full toss straight to extra cover on 24.

Trent Boult was brought back and he immediately found some reverse swing.

Masood missed an incoming full delivery and went leg-before for 40. Considering that

the ball was angled in and had swung in further, Masood reviewed. However, replays showed the ball straightening almost like an offbreak to hit the inside of leg stump.

Masood was struck on the back heel and the ball did not have a long way to travel. It may well have been clipping leg stump and the on-field decision might have stood, but the predictive path shown by ball-tracking brought smiles even from the New Zealand camp.

Masood walked off shaking his head, but there was little doubt about what happened in Boult's next over.

Misbah-ul-Haq took his eyes off a bouncer and was hit on the left arm. Boult went round the stumps next ball and delivered a ripper, angling it in, making Misbah play and reversing it away to take a thin edge to the wicketkeeper.

Younis and Shafiq calmed Pakistan nerves.

Shafiq pulled Ish Sodhi for four to get off the mark, and left the fast bowlers safely. Younis was in command in both defence and attack. He stepped out to hit Craig for three sixes, not holding back even in the last over before tea, and exchanging smiles with Brendon McCullum after the third effort. He came down again to the offspinner on 44 but the ball kicked out of the rough and a surprised Younis fended it to slip.

Ish Sodhi, who had bowled some beauties throughout the match, could not summon consistency when it mattered the most on a day five pitch.

Sarfraz came out sweeping and driving, and even Shafiq put away the regular boundary balls given by the New Zealand spinners to seal the draw.

Masood and Azhar had been were tested the most by the spinners in a 62-run second-wicket stand in 25.3 overs. Masood padded up to Sodhi's first ball, a big legbreak jagging in from the rough outside off. (ESPN Cricinfo)

from back page

Smith ton wins series...

James Faulkner had played a key role after Wade fell for 52 late in the chase. Faulkner struck six boundaries in his unbeaten 34 from 19 balls and made sure the pressure did not build once the 121-run Smith-Wade partnership was broken. That occurred when Wade - who entered the series having scored only 101 runs at 16.83 in the recent Matador Cup - hooked a catch into the deep off Wayne Parnell.

He had struck four boundaries and one six, also off Parnell, and provided valuable assistance for Smith. After the previous game in Canberra, AB de Villiers described Smith as a nightmare for opposing captains. It was not a nightmare de Villiers could shake. Smith knocked the ball around and stayed at the crease, bringing up his 50 from 63 balls. He played a few of his adventurous Smith-style strokes, notably a tennis smash over mid-off for four off Kyle Abbott, but he took few real risks.

Smith scored his runs all around the wicket and his hundred came from 109 deliveries to show why he is viewed with such excitement as a likely future leader of this side. In front of 14,177 Melbourne spectators, Smith not only delivered a series win but also ensured he will be a permanent member of this ODI outfit after starting the series out of the side.

He came to the crease with early wickets having hurt. South Africa had drastically altered their attack from the previous game and the changes initially paid off. Abbott struck early by having David Warner lbw for 4 and his first spell was brilliantly miserly - four

overs for five runs. Ryan McLaren, down on confidence after struggling in Perth, perked up after having Shane Watson caught behind flashing at a wide ball for 19.

Then came the big blow - Aaron Finch, who had made a century in that similar chase against England earlier this year, pulled a catch to deep square leg off Parnell for 22 off 37 balls. When captain George Bailey battled to rotate the strike and was caught behind trying to smash one outside off from Dale Steyn for 16 off 29, things looked grim for Australia. Another flash without footwork ended in Glenn Maxwell edging to slip off Steyn for 2.

Not until Smith settled in did Australia enter de Villiers-style batting mode. Having promoted himself to No.4, de Villiers milked runs and struck only six boundaries during the course of his 91 from 88 balls. Only once did he face three consecutive dots and by ensuring the pressure did not build, he allowed Miller to build an innings without feeling he had to go hard.

They combined for a 122-run stand that ended when Miller’s patience did in fact desert him, and during the batting Powerplay he tried to clear cover off Faulkner but was caught in the deep for 45.

Faulkner, who was yet to play in the series, was one of Australia’s better bowlers and finished with 2 for 45 after he bowled Robin Peterson during the dying stages.

But the big wicket was that of de Villiers, who now has 271 runs in the series at 67.75 and seemed destined for his first hundred of the tour. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD South Africa innings (50 overs maximum) Q de Kock† c & b Maxwell 17 HM Amla c Cummins b CoulterNile 18 F du Plessis c †Wade b Cummins 28 AB de Villiers* c Smith b Cummins 91 DA Miller c Smith b Faulkner 45 F Behardien run out (Warner) 22 R McLaren c †Wade b Starc 13 RJ Peterson b Faulkner 11 WD Parnell not out 3 DW Steyn not out 0 Extras (b 5, lb 5, w 9) 19 Total (8 wickets; 50 overs) 267 (5.34 runs per over) Did not batKJ Abbott Fall of wickets: 1-28 (Amla, 5.3 ov), 2-70 (de Kock, 15.1 ov), 3-77 (du Plessis, 16.4 ov), 4-199 (Miller, 36.5 ov), 5-230 (de Villiers, 42.6 ov), 6-246 (McLaren, 45.5 ov), 7-261 (Peterson, 48.4 ov), 8-262 (Behardien, 48.6 ov) O M R W Bowling MA Starc 10 0 40 1 NM Coulter-Nile 3 0 16 1 PJ Cummins 10 0 61 2 GJ Maxwell 9 0 43 1 SR Watson 5 0 25 0 JP Faulkner 10 0 45 2

SPD Smith 3 0 27 0 Australia innings (target: 268 runs from 50 overs) AJ Finch c du Plessis b Parnell 22 4 DA Warner lbw b Abbott SR Watson c †de Kock b McLaren 19 SPD Smith b Peterson 104 GJ Bailey* c †de Kock b Steyn 16 GJ Maxwell c Amla b Steyn 2 MS Wade† c McLaren b 52 Parnell JP Faulkner not out 34 PJ Cummins not out

1 Extras (b 5, lb 2, w 6, nb 1) 14 Total (7 wickets; 49 overs) 268 (5.46 runs per over) Did not batNM CoulterNile, MA Starc Fall of wickets 1-8 (Warner, 3.2 ov), 2-43 (Watson, 10.5 ov), 3-48 (Finch, 13.2 ov), 4-86 (Bailey, 22.3 ov), 5-98 (Maxwell, 24.1 ov), 6-219 (Wade, 44.2 ov), 7-267 (Smith, 48.5 ov) Bowling O M R W DW Steyn 9 0 47 2 KJ Abbott 10 0 43 1 R McLaren 10 0 62 1 WD Parnell 9 0 52 2 RJ Peterson 8 0 44 1 F Behardien 3 0 13 0

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WICB PCL 4-Day Tournament...

saturday, november 22, 2014

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Narsingh Deonarine will look for his second successive hundred when play resumes today

O

n a day affected by the heavy rainfall battering Guyana’s coast, Narsingh Deonarine fashioned an unbeaten half-century to lead a solid batting effort

by Guyana Jaguars on day one against the Windward Islands Volcanoes at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

At stumps on the first day of the second round of the West Indies Cricket Board’s Professional Cricket League Fourday competition, Guyana Jaguars, winning the toss and electing to bat, reached 168-3.

Deonarine, fresh off an unbeaten hundred against the Leeward Islands in the first round last weekend, is unbeaten on a classy 79,

and will resume this morning in the company of fellow left-hander and West Indies ace batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who closed the day on a typically cautious 26.

Despite all the rainfall and subsequent flooding along Guyana’s coastland over the past few days, play got underway at 12:30h, a testimony to the remarkable drainage system at the country’s premier sports facility.

Guyana Jaguars skipper Leon Johnson called correctly at the toss and elected to bat, but the hosts were soon reduced to 39-2 with opener Rajendra Chandrika (5) and Johnson (19) back in the hut.

Assad Fudadin, who has been drafted in as a replace-

ment for Darren Bravo on the West Indies upcoming tour to South Africa, and Deonarine joined forces and brought up Guyana’s 100 before the former fell for 34.

Deonarine brought up his half-century off 94 balls and would resumed today 21 runs short of an 11th First-Class ton.

So far, the former Test batsman has faced 157 balls and counted nine delightful fours.

Nelon Pascal, Mervin Mathews and Kenroy Peters were the wickettakers for the Windward Islands Volcanoes on day one.

SCOREBOARD JAGUARS 1st Innings R. Chandrika b Pascal 5 A. Fudadin lbw b Matthews 34 *L. Johnson c (sub) Lesporis b Peters 19 N. Deonarine not out 79 S. Chanderpaul not out 26 Extras (b2, nb3) 5 TOTAL (3 wkts, 64 overs) 168 R. Reifer, C. Barnwell, +A. Bramble, V. Permaul, D. Bishoo, R. Beaton to bat Fall of wickets: 1-5(Chandrika, 1.4 overs); 2-39 (Johnson, 14.2); 3-110 (Fudadin, 40.5) Bowling: Matthews 9-2-141; Pascal 8-2-24-1 (nb1); Peters 9-4-18-1; Bobb 181-48-0; Sebastien 16-451-0 (nb2); Fletcher 1-06-0; Theophile 3-1-5-0 VOLCANOES: D.S. Smith, T. Theophile, A. Fletcher, S. Ambris, R. Currency, *L. Sebastien, +L. James, A. Bobb, M. Matthew, K. Peters, N. Pascal

Stenson leads McIlroy in DP World Tour D

efending champion Henrik Stenson fired a six-underpar 66 to take the halfway lead on 10 under at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

The Swede leads by two from world number one Rory McIlroy, who carded a two-under 70, England’s Danny Willett (67) and Scotland’s Richie Ramsay (69).

Ireland’s Shane Lowry, who led overnight with McIlroy, made a hole-inone on the par-three 13th in his 71.

England’s Justin Rose bogeyed the last for a 66 to join Lowry on seven under.

Rose, who was four over after six holes in round one, finished with five birdies in eight holes and continued that form with three birdies in his opening seven on Friday.

“I won the US Open (in 2013) from four over after 11 holes as well,” said Rose.

“My caddie and I were joking about putting an extra club in my bag for the first two holes (earning a fourshot penalty) just to get it over with.”

Stenson, who won the

Henrik Stenson

Race to Dubai by winning this tournament with a record 25-under aggregate last year, managed three birdies in his final six holes despite admitting to “hitting the wall” from the 12th.

“I felt like I was running out of steam,” said the 38-year-old. “It was difficult mentally. I had to really focus hard and drag myself over the finish line.

“I just felt like I hit the wall on 12. If it’s one or two holes left, you normally feel like, ‘OK, I can hang on’.

But it was a bit of an uphill struggle from there.”

McIlroy, who has already won the Race to

Dubai, mixed four birdies with two bogeys in his round, which also included a mis-hit five wood that he described as “a fat, low, duck-hook runner that was not intentional”.

The Northern Irishman also drove into the water on the par-five 18th but escaped with a par after a deft chip from greenside rough to six inches.

“It could have been worse but it probably could have been a little better,” said McIlroy.

“I’m in a good position and there is a lot of golf left.

I’ve definitely been in worse positions after two rounds and still won.” (BBC Sport)

22

guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, november 22, 2014

Four cycles at stake during ‘Big Ride’

P

ersons wishing to participate in Sunday’s annual ‘Big Ride’ have more reasons to turn out in their numbers, following the announcement that special prizes will be on offer.

Those actively involved in a healthy lifestyle and others wishing to pursue such a course are being encouraged to join the ‘Big Ride’, and four lucky participants will become proud owners of a brand new bicycle, compliments of Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony.

This was confirmed

by Director of Sport Neil Kumar on Friday afternoon.

The event, in its fifth year, is once again a collaborative effort of the Ministries and Sport and Health and the National Sports Commission. The race will commence at the University of Guyana access road and proceed to the Carifesta Sports Complex on Carifesta Avenue, covering an approximate distance

The event has attracted mass participation over the past four years

of three and a half miles.

National cycling coach Hassan Mohamed, who is the chief organiser of the activity, said it is geared at giving health conscious persons an opportunity to use cycling as a means of exercise. Mohamed said over 50 schools and organisations

have been invited to participate in the ride.

“We have invited several entities to participate in this event and we want to make it bigger and better than last year,” Mohamed said.

According to Mohamed, the outstanding groups,

schools, organisations and individuals will be rewarded with trophies at the conclusion.

Prizes will be given to the Village with most riders, Organisation with the most riders, Best uniformed group, Government ministry with the most rid-

ers, School with the largest group of participants, Largest youth group, Largest female group, Youngest rider, Oldest rider, Most innovative and creative rider, Oldest cycle in terms of manufacturing

Red Force lose Sarwan for rest of PCL campaign

Diamond Mineral Water cycling set for Sunday T

T

he West Demerara roadways will be transformed in a hunting ground on Sunday when local riders line up for the 15th annual Diamond Mineral Water 50-mile road race sponsored by Demerara Distillers Limited.

The action will pedal off at 08:00 hours in front of the Wales Police Station, proceed to Bushy Park, Parika, before returning to the Demerara Harbour Bridge’s Schoonard entrance for the finish. While the Senior and Junior riders will cover that distance, the Veterans, Mountain Bikers and Females will turn at the Uitvlugt Community Centre on the upward journey and finish at the Harbour Bridge.

Set to defend his title in the Senior category is the experienced Warren McKay, who clocked one hour, 54 minutes, 08 seconds (01h: 54m: 08s) to win the 2013 edition of the

race. Hamzah Eastman, who has since graduated to the Senior division, won the Junior race last year, while Ozia McUally (Mountain Bikes), Esau O’Selmo (Veterans), Jamal John (Mixed) and Walter Isaacs (Veterans Over-40) were the other category winners.

Chief organiser of the event, Hassan Mohamed, said he is expecting a highly competitive day of racing featuring the country’s leading wheelers battling for supremacy.

Demerara Distillers Limited’s Brand Manager, Larry Wills, earlier this week presented the company’s sponsorship package to Mohamed, noting that the entity is once again pleased to align itself with the sport of cycling. He pledged Diamond Mineral Water’s continued sponsorship of the annual race, adding that he is expecting keenly contested rivalry among the local cyclists.

Demerara Distillers Limited’s Brand Manager, Larry Wills (left), presents the sponsorship to national coach Hassan Mohamed

date and Youngest female.

Persons interested in participating in the ‘Big Ride’ are asked to report to the start point at 15:00 hours. They will need to be in possession of a bicycle and protective gear.

he Trinidad and Tobago Red Force suffered a major setback on the eve of their second match of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League four-day campaign after experienced middleorder batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan withdrew from the squad due to personal reasons.

The Red Force tackle the Leeward Islands franchise in the second round of the tournament, which started on Friday at Warner Park in St Kitts and Sarwan was expected to sit out that match due to injury.

Guyanese Sarwan, who is the only non-national in the Red Force lineup, was not picked in the home team’s first match of the tournament last weekend against Barbados at Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain which ended in a draw after rain washed out most of the final day’s play.

He was selected by T&T in the second round of the first WICB draft which was organised to achieve an equitable distribution of the available player talent in the regional four-day and limited-overs competitions for the 2015 season.

“We felt having a player of the calibre of Sarwan in our side would be invaluable to our squad which includes a number of young players,” said national team coach Gus Logie after the draft which was held in early October in Barbados.

According to a media release by the T&T Cricket Board (TTCB) on Thursday, “as a result of the latest developments Sarwan will take no further part in the newly branded Professional Cricket League four-day

competition.”

The 34-year-old righthanded has since returned to Guyana and TTCB CEO Suruj Ragoonath confirmed that no replacement has been named.

The TTCB said it is their “sincerest hope that the former West Indies Test player can resolve the issues he currently faces with a view to his possible return for T&T in the Nagico Super50 limited-overs regional tournament in January.”

Wicket-keeper batsman Nicholas Pooran replaced the former Test cricketer in the Red Force team that left for St Kitts on Wednesday to try and get their campaign back on track after being wounded by the Barbados Pride. The Red Force were dismissed for 96 in their first innings against the Bajans who made 360 in their first innings. T&T were 213 for five following on when rain intervened.

All-rounder Akeal Hosein scored his maiden first-class century against the Leewards in Port of Spain earlier this year and will be a key part of the Red Force’s batting line-up which also includes experienced players in Denesh Ramdin, Lendl Simmons and Jason Mohammed. The Red Force have dominated the Leewards over the past three seasons and coach Gus Logie will want his team to continue that trend this weekend.

The Leewards are at the bottom of the six-team standings on two points following their innings and ten run loss to the Guyana Jaguars in the first round.

They will be hoping to better that showing starting today. (Trinidad Express)

guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, november 22, 2014

Massy Gas renews alliance with Invaders Cricket Club

Invaders Captain Vaickesh Dhaniram receives the uniforms from Massy Gas Products Customer Services Officer Elicia Chapman, while some members of the team look on

M

assy Gas Products has renewed its sponsorship of Invaders Cricket Club following the presentation of a set of uniforms, during a simple ceremony at the Company’s head office at Eccles, East Bank Demerara.

Shameer Hoosein, Chief Executive Officer of Massy Gas Products, said this has been the third time that the Company has provided sponsorship to Invaders Cricket Club, one of the leading cricket teams in West Demerara.

Elicia Chapman, Customer Services Officer,

made the presentation on behalf of the company to Vaickesh Dhaniram, captain of the Cricket Club.

Dhaniram said the Club was extremely grateful to Massy Gas Products for its generous support and the team looks forward to closer collaboration with the Company in the future.

Invaders Cricket Club has been outstanding in recent competitions in Region Three. Last month the team won the West Demerara/ Independence Cricket Club’s 20/20 cricket competition and has earned a quarter-final place in the current West Demerara 40-

over cricket tournament.

The multi-talented team also secured the runnerup position in the Kares Construction countrywide 10/10 tapeball competition two years ago.

The team comprises several several national junior and Intercounty players including Harrinarine Bissoondyal, Shawn Jairaj, Mark Jeffers, Avenash Dhaniram, Lincoln Leander, Kemraj Ramsundar and Ganesh Narine among others who are residing between the villages of Cornelia Ida to Zeeburg.

Alpha, Riddim Squash to clash in Stag Futsal final tonight

A

lpha United and Riddim Squad will face off in a much anticipated final of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Stag Beer Futsal Championship at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall tonight Alpha known for their outdoor exploits has seemingly made the transition to the hardwood and is entering the final as the emphatic favourites to win the $400,000 first place prize.

Their tournament leading 33 goals is a testament to their adaption to the different format of play and will be a force to reckon with in the final when they play Riddim Squad.

Further, Alpha will rely on Travis Grant, Aldair Paredes, Dwight Peters and Daniel Wilson to win them yet another title.

However, Riddim Squad are no slouches and will aim to use their well built team chemistry to get the win over Alpha.

Riddim squad is also a goal search team with 24 goals so far in game and plays a physical brand of futsal that has so far been unmatched in the tournament.

Amos Ramsay and Sceyon Hope is expected to lead from the from with attacking the defence of Alpha while Lyliton and Steffon Ramsay will look to hold

the defensive line stable to give them a chance of winning against the high scoring Alpha team.

It will definitely be two teams searching for goals with probably little defence being played during the encounter.

Meanwhile there will also be a number of exhibition games being played before the final.

In addition, the third place playoff will see West Ruimveldt giants (Western Tigers) tackling Santos FC. Second place in the tournament will be walking away with $200,000 while third will receive $125,000.

The games are expected to start from 19:00h.

Pepsi Sonics to host 5-on-5 Basketball Tournament today

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he Pepsi Sonics Basketball Club will be hosting the 2014 edition of their Under-23 5-on-5 basketball tournament as well as threepoint shootout today at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

The competition is open to all teams ranging from schools to institutions,

clubs and event street ballers.

The top prize for the winner will be $50,000 while the second place finisher will receive $35,000.

Third place will receive $20,000.

All participants will be allowed to enter more than one team.

Meanwhile there will

also be a three point shootout contest with the winner receiving $10,000 for their efforts from beyond the arc. The competition will also be open to all the persons that believe they have a smooth shooting stroke form downtown.

The tournament is expected to tip off from 11:00h today.

23

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

saturday, november 22, 2014

CAC Games hockey...

Guyana women draw match with favourites Trinidad

Samantha Fernandes surrounded by Trinidad’s defenders in red

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fter severe winds shut down the hockey centre in Vera Cruz, Mexico last Monday, the Guyana versus Trinidad scheduled match had to be postponed to Friday, and in the cool of the early morning, the two familiar sides took the field to determine who would secure the final spot in the Women’s semifinal.

With Trinidad having greater success in previous matches of the competition, the Guyanese needed a win to make the semi-finals while a draw would suffice for the islanders. The last time the two teams met on the hockey pitch was one

year ago in the PAHF Cup in Mendoza, Argentina. Pool rounds results resulted in Guyana and Trinidad having to face each other twice in the competition with Trinidad enjoying victories on both occasions, each by a single goal margin.

Despite the mismatch in their records, Guyana began in an attacking mode as they moved the ball swiftly around the pitch with much more poise and control than they appeared to have in their opening match against the Dominican Republic.

Trinidad however, soon stamped their authority on the game, creating several penalty corners and op-

portunities to score. Pan American All Star goalkeeper, Guyanese Alysa Xavier, seemed untroubled by the Trinidadian raids however, and calmly organised her troops and dispelled all attempts at goal with relative ease. Xavier’s older sister, Gabriella, made several forays into the Trinidadian scoring circle up the right wing to keep the Guyanese threat alive.

With both teams unable to score before the half-time whistle, Guyana would need to press harder for the win in the second half. It was the Trinidadians however, who came the closest in the opening ten minutes when

a hard cross from the right found Trinidadian Captain, Patricia Wright-Alexis unmarked on the far post.

Wright-Alexis however, swung her first-time shot wide much to the relief of the Guyanese.

Sweeper Ulrica Sutherland was her usual dynamic self throughout the match, providing good cover for goalkeeper Xavier with her unmatched speed and fearless tackles. While the Trinidadians held the edge in possession, Guyanese striker Samantha Fernandes excited the morning crowd with her pace and deception, creating a few promising attacks.

The clock would have the final say on the match as both teams failed to make a mark on the score sheet, ending in a 0-0 draw. It was a tacit victory for the Guyanese as, although they failed to make the semi-finals, they played above expectations and drew with the defending champions who were leaps and bounds ahead of them at the last Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games.

The result leaves Guyana to face Jamaica today at 11:00 hours for the placements of fifth through eighth. The other teams vying for these spots are Barbados and Bermuda.

The semi-finals will see host Mexico playing the Dominican Republic, while Trinidad will go on to face Cuba. The ladies hockey competition of the games continues until Sunday.

Smith ton wins series for Australia

Steven Smith pulls gloriously on his way to a century

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teven Smith started this series in form but out of the side.

Matthew Wade started it out of form but in the side.

Together, they set up a series victory by plotting one of Australia’s most remarkable one-day international chases, in front of one of the MCG’s most remarkably small international crowds.

Smith’s 104 was reminiscent of Michael Bevan’s heroics at the SCG on New Year’s Day 1996, delivering victory from a position where defeat seemed inevitable.

Smith and Wade came together with Australia’s score at 5 for 98 in pursuit of 268. Effectively, they were 6 for 98, for Nathan Coulter-Nile’s hamstring injury meant he was unlikely to bat. But instead of pan-

icking, the pair summed up the situation sensibly. There was plenty of time and nothing silly was required. Tick the score along at a run a ball, don’t get out, and blast it home at the end. Smith was skilled enough to make it happen.

Almost. With two runs required, he was bowled trying to slog sweep Robin Peterson, but there were still seven balls remaining, and the victory arrived with a single next ball from Pat Cummins when his shot to mid-on was picked up on the bounce by David Miller; the third umpire checked for a clean catch and found it had bounced. Australia had pulled off victory by three wickets with six balls to spare.

Fudadin named for South Africa Test tour

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he West Indies Cricket Board’s Selection Committee today named Assad Fudadin to the West Indies Test tour to South Africa.

Darren Bravo, who had been offered a contract for the series, wrote to the Chairman of Selectors, Clive Lloyd, and citing personal reasons, requested that he not be considered for selection for the Test series.

The 29 year old Fudadin has been named to replace Bravo.

A left handed batsman from Guyana, Fudadin played 3 Tests in 2012 against England and New Zealand.

In addition, the Selection Panel has requested that fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell play for Jamaica in the third round of the Professional Cricket League in order that the selectors have

an opportunity to evaluate his match readiness.

Cottrell will therefore not depart the Caribbean with the rest of the squad for South Africa on November 30th.

Cottrell, a left arm fast bowler from Jamaica, recently returned from the West Indies A Team tour of Sri Lanka with a hamstring injury. (WICB Release)

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