Guyana Times Daily

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds on Sunday joined Managing Director of Courts, Guyana Inc Clyde De Haas and his staff for their 21st anniversary celebrations on Main Street, Georgetown

mondAY, september 22, 2014 | guYAnAtimesgY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

WEATHER TODAY

Hague woman stabbed to death – accused killer attempts

BY BHISHAM MOHAMED

Amother of one was on Sunday stabbed to death by her reputed husband following a domestic dispute at their Hague, West Coast Demerara home. The perpetrator later tried to commit suicide by ingesting “carbon tablets”.

Rajkumarie Persaud also called Astie, 23, of Lot 64 Hague Back, West Coast Demerara was stabbed at least eight times about her body by the suspect, Amit Makeram. He was subsequently admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Makeram was reportedly handed over to Police at th e Providence Police Station by his employer whom he had confided in after committing the act. He also admitted to ingesting the poisonous tablets.

According to information received, the woman and her husband separated a few years ago. He now resides in the United States of America. Persaud and the dental technician reportedly started to see each other and eventually, he moved in with her.

She occupied the lower flat of the house with her two-year-old son and Makeram while her aunt occupies the upper flat with her husband.

Guyana Times understands the couple were living happily until neighbours intervened about three weeks ago. The neighbours reportedly told the suspect that the woman was in a relationship with a taxi driver.

This would have resulted in the man’s change in attitude. He never questioned the woman about the allegation, but he would from time to time “nag” about the issue. The “nagging” was overwhelming, hence, the woman asked him to leave.

However, on the day of the incident, Makeram had gone to the house upon the request of the woman’s un-

suicide

cle who had agreed to counsel them with the intention of reconciling the relationship. Earlier in the morning, the woman and her child were with the aunt in the upper-flat while the young man was asleep under the shed when the child requested a special dish.

Persaud subsequently left the child and went downstairs to prepare the meal, but as she was doing so, an argument ensued. The man reportedly collected a kitchen knife and began to stab the woman. She was stabbed twice under her breast, once to her chest and several times to her abdomen.

Upon hearing the screams, the aunt rushed to her rescue and held onto the suspect’s hand. Eventually,

he ran out of the yard and went to his employer’s home at Peter’s Hall.

At the house, Swami Sookhoo told Guyana Times that he had encouraged the young man to visit his home so that he could have spoken to both of them about their relationship.

He explained that during the week, he and his wife would be at Yarrowkabra at his business, but they usually returned home on weekends and thought that it was the best time to have the discussion.

“After he called me… I told him to come and we will sit and talk things over and they can make up back. He is a disciplined young man… always respectful and he had to be pushed to the edge be-

fore to do something like this,” Sookhoo added. He said on Sunday morning, he saw the man sleeping in the hammock, but did not bother to wake him and left for church.

It was while at the place of worship, he received the dreaded news. He said that he rushed home only to find Persaud drenched in blood and already dead. The Police arrived shortly after and cordoned off the area.

The man related that he is still in shock and cannot believe the young man committed such an act.

Nehaul Persaud, father of the murder victim, told Guyana Times that he does not live at Hague, but would have received the news of his daughter’s death from a relative. By the time he arrived at the scene, the Police had already cordoned off the area. The father said he was aware of the problems that the couple were having, but always thought that they would work things out. The grieving father added that the couple have been together for the past year. The woman’s body was taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home and is awaiting a postmortem examination. She leaves to mourn her parents, child and four siblings. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy. com)

Rajkumarie Persaud and her son in happier times

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

Poetic justice?

Today, we are sure the newspapers will be replete with reports of the alleged sexual abuse of a young man by Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman. In a statement (made in the name of the “Speaker”), Mr Trotman announced: “A malicious and unfounded allegation of sexual molestation has been made against me by an unstable young man who, sadly, appears to have a troubled mind. I categorically deny his wicked assertions.”

It would appear that the “young man” in question made the allegations against not only Speaker Trotman, whom he described as a “close friend” of his father, but also against another friend of the father and the father himself. The individual claimed he was raped when he was a child. We are sure that in the coming weeks, these allegations will be investigated and pursued and even more so because of the political element.

The Speaker himself alluded to a political nexus with the allegation by claiming, “Unfortunately, he seems to have been conveniently encouraged by manipulative and diabolic political forces.” Mr Trotman’s party, the AFC, also issued a statement in which it described the revelation of the young man “as another desperate and reprehensible attempt to disrupt the tabling of the No-Confidence Motion when Parliament resumes in October.”

In Guyana, as in every other country that conducts elections to choose leaders, it has become commonplace for hard-ball political tactics to be deployed against opponents. But of recent, in Guyana, this has descended into all-out “smear campaigns”.

Research has confirmed that “negative campaigning” works, since most people are predisposed to accept information casting others in a bad light – especially others seen as different from themselves. In most cases, the allegations are aimed against the opponent’s most valuable asset – his/her reputation.

While neither the AFC nor Mr Trotman has come out openly and named any party as “manipulating” the young man, there are enough innuendos in their releases for the public to draw their conclusion. The early and extremely categorical rejection of the allegation is also redolent of the public relations advice that negative information must be countered immediately and that a negative motive must be imputed.

But even if this is not an instance of a “smear campaign” against the AFC, many would say that it is only a case of poetic justice being done. This is because that party has connived with the sensationalistic Kaieteur News to conduct the longest running smear campaign in the world against the PPP/C Government, starting with the administration of Bharrat Jagdeo in 2008.

There is not a single edition of that newspaper in which there is not something scandalous being alleged against either former President Jagdeo or others associated with him.

The approach soon became transparent: a most outlandish allegation would be made against the individual which would invariably be attributed to “unnamed sources”. The following day, a representative of the AFC (generally its leader Khemraj Ramjattan) or the APNU (generally Joseph Harmon) would be quoted as commenting on the allegation. It did not matter that the maligned individuals would issue rebuttals: research shows that the damage would already be done since the new information would be seen as self-serving denials.

Yesterday’s Kaieteur News was the latest case in point. In a blaring front-page headline, the newspaper screamed: “Jagdeo/Sattaur plot to destroy Kaieteur News unearthed”. Referring to the ongoing investigation by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) into the “remigrant vehicle scam” that implicated the publisher of the Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall, the article claimed it had “incontrovertible evidence” to support its claim. Yet it did not, because it could not produce a shred of that purported “evidence”. The paper claimed it was “confidential”.

It is almost certain that the usual political suspects in the Opposition will be quoted this morning. But maybe not, since some chickens have come home to roost.

Ramjattan believes he can one day wake up and be President

Dear Editor, When Khemraj Ramjattan submitted the No-Confidence Motion, it was his delusional summation that there would have been automatic General Elections, possibly the very next day, and the immediate end of the PPP/C Government.

This is Ramjattan’s honest belief. I mean this is what this guy has conjured up in that mind of his. He believes that you can one day wake up to the bright idea that you can be the leader of a country, so call a No-Confidence Vote on the legitimate Government, get them out and in turn set yourself up in power.

This is his thesis, this is what it boils down to; this is his firm belief. Strangely enough, this is not the way any democratic or civilised society operates. Civilisation dictates that a  No-Confidence Motion is submitted, then that Motion is tabled in Parliament for a debate.

This discussion goes back and forth with the Opposition putting forward its case why the No-

Confidence Motion should be upheld. Then, it would be the Government’s turn to respond to the proposal tabled by the Opposition, something akin to a court case.

Discussions can take a very long time before a final vote is taken. Like the Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon said, this can go on for months on end. So, I do not know what is all this hype about a NoConfidence Motion.

This is not an overnight thing; we definitely have a long way to go. Amidst all of this, there will be other pressing matters for the State to deal with. So this is the situation we are faced with: a long drawn-out confusion, which, in most cases, will lead us to nowhere.

Now, before we consider Ramjattan’s NoConfidence nonsense, let us take a look into the Opposition’s camp to see their readiness for an election. As it stands, the two major comedians are at a zero position, because they are in disarray as to which road to take.

Ramjattan is demand-

ing that General Elections be on the table, while David Granger is calling for Local Government Elections. Contrary partners – each asking for separate things, each dancing on separate platforms. Which is it? Is it Ramjattan’s or Granger’s song?

To unravel their pathetic  position, I would ask my readers to consider the following.  Firstly, Ramjattan is utterly mistaken if he thinks he can act or speak with any authority than his erstwhile partner who commands four times the number of seats than himself.

To have a mere six seats and be speaking like a dragon is utter foolishness. The truth of the whole affair is Ramjattan is going nowhere with that arrogant attitude of his and Granger rightfully clipped his wings on that note. Granger is saying that ‘with only six seats, you cannot dictate anything here, this is my show’.

The PNC/APNU Leader is also considering its seaworthiness where an election is concerned.  Granger has carefully consid-

ered  their flagging public relations among their own supporters after that fiasco at Congress Place, hence his backpedalling off that No-Confidence General Election bandwagon. He knows that the party’s chances are slim, even among its own constituents, so do the about thing.  Meanwhile, the PPP/C is deliberately consolidating its stronghold on the populace by opening up new avenues for jobs while pressing ahead with major infrastructural works that have been long overdue. Excellent political tactics in light of what is going on in the Opposition camp. They are taking full advantage of the confusion that presently rages in the Opposition. So let me sum up our discussion today by saying there will be no General Elections anytime soon, because the combined Opposition cannot agree on a common strategy to oust the PPC/C. A house divided cannot stand.

Sincerely, Neil Adams

Part of the cityscape of Georgetown by night (Carl Croker photo)

President’s second response to Opposition Leader (Sept 20) Teach our children how to think

Dear Mr Granger, I write to reiterate our continued commitment to meet with the Opposition on matters of importance to the Guyanese people.

On September 11, I responded to your letter of September 9, and requested clarification about your insistence on matters pertaining to the Local Government Elections.

While awaiting your response, the Office of the President has noted your resort to the media, where you have been reported to have agreed to commence protests in support of your demands for Local Government Elections.

At the same time, the media reports your calls for meetings with my Administration on oth-

er critical issues affecting Guyana.

I must, for the record, express my deep reservation about this media-based communication style you have recently adopted in dealing with my Office.

There is nothing that my team and I have done to prompt you to disregard our usual format.

As such, I again extend

to you an opportunity at your convenience to meet on these critical issues.

I would be overseas at the annual United Nations General Assembly from September 20-30, during which time my team will remain on standby.

Yours sincerely, Donald Ramotar President

President’s first response to Opposition Leader (Sept 11)

Dear Mr Granger,

I acknowledge receipt of your letter dated September 9, the content of which I have duly noted.

Please be assured that there is no need to remind me about upholding the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana and about the importance of democracy, as the

track record of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration is one that has always defended, advocated and promoted constitutionality, the rule of law and democracy at every level in our country.

I note your recognition of the fact that all matters relating to the fixing of the date for

Elections, both Local as well as National, remain within the preserve and prerogative of the Executive.

However, I consider your views as important in our nation’s democratic equation. Unfortunately, the position represented in your letter and the positions expressed by your party after my receipt

of your letter are both ambiguous and contradictory.

In the circumstances, before I can properly respond to your letter, I wish for you to clarify what precisely is your party’s position.

Yours sincerely,

Donald Ramotar President

Opposition Leader’s letter to the President

Your Excellency,

We remind you that the Local Authorities (Elections) (Amendment) Bill, at its Second Reading on February 10, was debated and passed as amended directing that elections be held on or before August 1.

We remind you also, that, in accordance with the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, local government is a vital aspect of democracy. Local Government Elections, last held in 1994, are a constitutional obligation and a democratic en-

titlement of the Guyanese people. It is not an option of the Executive branch of Government.

We remind you, further, that you had promised in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Manifesto, “Working Together for a Better Tomorrow”, to ensure that within one year of the 2011 General Elections, Local Government Elections will be held.

We now call on you to respect the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, to respect the

decision of the National Assembly with regard to the Local Authorities (Elections) (Amendment) Bill 2014, and to respect your Manifesto.

We call on you, therefore, on or before September 15, to announce the date for Local Government Elections to be held countrywide, to issue the Commencement Order to operationalise the Local Government Commission, and to initiate a process by which the Local Government (Amendment) Bill could be returned for

your assent.

We wish to advise that, failing an announcement by you that Local Government Elections will be held and that these legitimate democratic conditions are met, we shall be obliged to take any lawful action to mobilise national and international support in defence of local democracy, the Constitution and the rights of the Guyanese people.

With highest regard,

David Granger, Leader of the Opposition

Letter to Speaker of the House

Dear Mr Speaker,

The Government and the PPP/C Members of Parliament (MPs) are shocked and very disturbed by public pronouncements at an AFC Press Conference on September 18 by AFC Leader and MP Khemraj Ramjattan which have been broadcast and published in all the media.

Ramjattan was quoted as saying that “we have gotten reliable information that the PPP/C’s answer to the No-Confidence Motion is not what is said , but at least by buying off three parliamentarians at $30M each to vote no rather than

yes, and that’s the only way … and that’s the only option they have”. He even went on further to say “… but, we can never know, probably the price can jump higher”.

The Government and the PPP/C immediately and separately publicly disassociated themselves from these slanderous pronouncements by Ramjattan and called on the AFC to provide the evidence of this allegation.

However, these pronouncements by Ramjattan should not be treated solely in the realm of “political turf wars” of political parties – which the Government

and the PPP/C are capable of handling – but more importantly, these accusations bring all MPs in Guyana in to disrepute, and, in doing so, damage the image and integrity of the entire Guyanese Legislature, including you, as the Speaker.

Clearly, the image portrayed in this world of rapid communications is that Guyana’s MPs are “corrupt and buyable”, an image now created in Guyana and globally which we can never erase.

It appears that in Ramjattan’s blind haste to besmirch the Government and the PPP/C, he broad-

sided the entire Legislature and all MPs.

This, l have no doubt, must have disturbed you as the Speaker of the National Assembly.

I am, therefore, calling on you, sir, as Speaker, to call on Ramjattan to publicly retract his statement or provide proof of which MPs were offered bribes and by whom.

Failing which, the Government MPs will call on him to be taken to the Privileges Committee for besmirching and denigrating the image and integrity of all MPs and the entire National Assembly.

Dear Editor,

In a recent discussion with one of my staff about the academic level of her son and his accomplishments at school, it was appalling how our views were widely different in some regards and in others we had opinions that were so closely mirrored.

Several points came out of the discussion that I am persuaded should be highlighted and emphasised to the entire population of Guyana

Our education standards are too low. Our standards are so low that secondary education is the norm. Looking at the performance of our students at the CSEC Examinations last held and the standard boasted of as acceptable by our educators, I am always appalled.

When I encounter applicants for vacancies at any of my companies they bring their CXC certificates and my first question is, “What are you good at?” Besides that, we don’t see good grades for English, which is our first language, while research has proven that a strong command of a language or two is one of the strong points of successful people.

We need to teach our children to be creative. It is widely known that education is the foundation element for success in any industry we choose to pursue

Sincerely yours,

Gail Teixeira, MP Chief Whip (Government) Presidential Advisor on Governance Office of the President

Copied: Leader of the House, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds Leader of the Opposition, David Granger Opposition Whip, Amna Ally Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs

a career in, but there is a very important factor that is lacking. I suspect it is deliberately done to keep the levels of our success rate at a bare minimum.

Our children are being taught by the school system very useful elements of thinking according to patterns and principles. For example, how to be in uniform, how to organise and perform assignments. But how about how to be creative and really apply the knowledge?

This can be taught subliminally through several means. Example, storytelling, constructive criticism, and active problem solving, etc, by the students. This way, they would be better equipped to deal with the real problems of life they are guaranteed to encounter.

We over-praise underperformance. I took careful note of the analysis of one of our national athletes who were interviewed on television a few months ago. He rightly emphasized that in the past, you had to perform exceptionally to receive accolades, whereas now you can just make an attempt and get a trophy.

The major issue with that is that we are not driven to excellence, while that should be our only standard.

Thrift is no longer promoted. I don’t blame young people anymore for spending unnecessarily what they

don’t have and making the hire purchase companies rich.

I blame the parents and teachers, or more inclusively the educators for not ensuring their children are schooled on how money works to your advantage if it is respected and its use is honed properly.

My strong suggestion is for our leaders and educators to reassess these areas and work toward making our population a more formidable force.

Sincerely,

Ranfred Williams

Glenn Lall’s rants aimed at influencing tax fraud case – Sattaur

Commission -

er General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Khurshid Sattuar has again raised concerns over allegations being made by Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall, referring to his most recent ploy as an attempt to influence the judgment of the acting Chief Justice in the ongoing legal proceedings involving vehicles imported by two remigrants.

Lall and a GRA employee are currently implicated in a scam, allegedly robbing Government of millions of dollars in import duty on two 2013 Lexus Suburban L57 SUVs brought into the country by remigrants. Lall is listed as the closest relative of the remigrant on documents submitted.

Sattaur, in a letter to the media on Sunday, said the Kaieteur News owner is using his publication to undermine the work that the GRA is bounded by law to execute.

The Commissioner General was referring to a publication in the newspaper’s Sunday, September 21 edition which accused him (Sattaur) of carrying out a plot with former

President Bharrat Jagdeo to “bring down Kaieteur News”.

“This supposed revelation of a plot to destroy the Kaieteur News is nothing but an apparent attempt by the newspaper’s publisher to forestall any audit the GRA may wish to undertake of the tax affairs of the Kaieteur News which may uncover irregularities, tax evasion, tax avoidance, fraud, etc.

“It is an attempt to intimidate the GRA and its officers from discharging their statutory duties and functions by suggesting that any audit of the Kaieteur News is malicious and vindictive,”

Sattuar’s letter stated, continuing that that the

GRA cannot abandon its statutory mandate in light of “spurious and baseless conjecture”.

“Indeed, it compels the GRA to action since these actions believe the fact the Kaieteur News has an interest in preventing an audit by the revenue body, a clear indicator of fraud and the need for an investigation,” he said.

Sattuar said the move can be construed as an apparent and continuing effort to influence the learned acting Chief Justice in his impending decision. He said this is confirmed from the most naive reference made by the Editor of the publication that "this matter is before the court and I am sure it will go nowhere".

“Perhaps the Editor of Kaieteur News can enlighten the public what is meant by this statement and if he is privy to information that is not in the public domain. The GRA is still of the firm belief that the matter will be heard and determined expeditiously and justice will prevail,” said Sattaur.

Exceptions

Sattaur said “whilst the Income Tax laws make provision for cer-

tain tax information to be treated as confidential, there are several exceptions to this general rule.

Specifically, under S4 of the Income Tax Act, a disclosure to the State is not prohibited, a disclosure for the purposes of the administration of the Act is allowed, and a disclosure to any person with the authorisation of the President is permitted under the law, he explained.

Sattaur said these exceptions are further extended by the Revenue Authority Act, Act No 13 of 1996. Under Section 23 of this Act, disclosure

is further allowed in four instances:

a. Disclosure in the course of the person’s duties

b. With the consent in writing by or on behalf of the Authority

c. When lawfully required to do so by an order of court

d. When required to do so under any law

S4 (2) of the Income Tax Act provides as follows:

“Every person having possession of, or control over any documents, information, returns, or assessment lists or copies of those lists, relating

to the income or items of income of anyone who at any time communicates or attempts to communicate that information, or anything contained in the documents, returns, lists or copies, to any person –(a) other than a person to whom he is authorised by the President to communicate it; or (b) otherwise than for the purposes of this Act, shall be guilty of an offence.”

Sattaur said the law clearly provides that the President and the State are legally entitled to receive information on any taxpayer and empowers the President to authorise the disclosure of any such information to any person(s). This privilege has been enshrined in the statutes.

“I can assure the Kaieteur News and the general public that all taxpayer information is treated with the strictest confidence and any disclosure is made lawfully in keeping with the laws of Guyana,” he said.

“In the circumstances, the Kaieteur News, its Editor and Publisher would be well advised to acquaint themselves with the provisions of the tax laws, particularly the provisions that prohibit the disclosure of confidential taxpayer information and the exceptions to this general rule; familiarise themselves with the provisions and process relating to the grant of remigrant status/duty concessions and the conditions attendant thereto, particularly the numerous potential sources the information allegedly ‘leaked’ could have originated from; be informed that the Kaieteur News and its Publisher are subject to the laws of Guyana like any other citizen; and be reminded that the Commissioner General or the GRA cannot be intimidated into abandoning a statutorily empowered audit and will not be so intimidated,” he added.

Sattaur said despite the “unfounded attacks, threats, attempts at manipulation and intimidation, the GRA, myself and officers will remain professional in our conduct and execution of our duties towards all citizens of Guyana”.

GRA Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur

Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall

Speaker Trotman accused of sexually molesting 13-year-old boy

… accuser claims he was pampered

B y B hisham m ohamed

In one of the most shocking scandals here in recent times, Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman was on Friday accused of sexually molesting a little boy when he was 13 years old. The now 22-year-old said he decided to speak out, after trying valiantly for a settlement to no avail.

Trotman has dismissed the allegations as scurrilous and tied them to the impending No-Confidence Vote. However, the young man has maintained that the accusations have no political motivation and has since filed a report with the Police.

He also vowed to seek a protection order “just in case I am targeted”. In addition to Trotman, the young man has also named two other persons, including a close relative, as his alleged abusers. “I have waited long enough for justice and now is my time…,” the young man told Guyana Times on Sunday.

Damning

The allegations were first made on the young man’s Facebook Page on Friday evening after he reportedly became frustrated and wanted to expose the persons who had taken away his “innocence”.

The Speaker, in his statement denying the allegations, described them as “wicked assertions”. He also said that the allegations were malicious and were being peddled by “an unstable young man, who appears to have a troubled mind”.

Trotman also said that the allegations might have been politically influenced. “Conveniently, such scandalous assertions are obviously intended to provide a timely distraction from the serious prevailing political situation in Guyana, which imminently requires me as Speaker of the National Assembly to guide the ship of the nation’s Parliament through the strongest test to Guyana’s constitutional democracy: the debate of a No-Confidence Motion,” Trotman said in a release. He said he would not

allow the Office of Speaker of the National Assembly to be compromised or be denigrated by false accusations for political expediency.

“There is absolutely no truth in the allegation, and I am confident that the masterminds and supporters of this dastardly plot will soon be exposed,” said Trotman, who is also one of the founders of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and a former Presidential Candidate. He called for a thorough and professional investigation into the allegations.

No political forces

However, the young man told Guyana Times that he was not in any way manipulated by political forces, as the time had come for him to expose the three men who are responsible for what he has become.

He explained that at the time he was sexually molested, his father and Trotman were close friends. He named his father and another close friend of his who resides in Yarrowkabra on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway as among his abusers.

The young man added that it was while he was attending the St Agnes Primary School that he was formally introduced to Trotman as his father’s close associate. After school, he reminisced, he and his brother would visit the Attorney-at-Law at his South Road office, but after a while his brother stopped, while he continued visiting Trotman.

He recalled the first day that Trotman allegedly made him perform oral sex on him and the second time, he reportedly penetrated him. That incident reportedly occurred in a house in the vicinity of the Palms on Brickdam.

He said during the time he was allegedly molested, he was pampered with clothes, boots, school items, watches and other expensive gifts to keep quiet. The assault in his childhood resulted in him suffering from a severe case of depression, which led him to seek counselling while in Trinidad and Tobago. It was while there he was advised by his

counsellor that true healing would occur if he confronts the individuals who sexually abused him as a child.

The alleged victim returned to Guyana in July with the intention of confronting his abusers, including Trotman, in a civil manner. According to him, he visited Trotman’s office one week after arriving in Guyana, informing him that he was in need of a place to live, a job and money.

He was reportedly informed by Trotman that there was a vacancy at the Home Affairs Ministry, but when that did not suit him, the Speaker of the House wrote him a recommendation for a supervisor’s position at the Pegasus Hotel, but this too fell through.

The recommendation, which was dated August 13, 2014 and signed by the Speaker, was seen by this newspaper.

Threats to expose

It was during this period that the alleged victim threatened to expose Trotman if he did not pay him GY$20 million and provide a written apology. After seeking legal advice, the alleged victim was told that the figure was “unreasonable”, and it was then he agreed that the least he would collect would be GY$5 million.

By this time, he had sought the assistance of an attorney who negotiated on behalf of him. Initially, it is alleged that Trotman offered him $1.75 million, but he refused. He then of-

fered to pay him $2.5 million, but this did not reach his $5 million mark. The last round of negotiations between the lawyer and Trotman reportedly took place on Saturday night, but ended on a sour note.

“The time for negotiations and compromise has long ended. I don’t want money anymore… I want justice and I will make sure that my father, his

friend and Uncle Raphael pay,” the young man stated. He reiterated that due to the molestation, he had to receive counselling.

He is presently ill and claims that he might not live to see justice being served, but at least, he is happy that the three men were exposed for their wrongdoings. “Uncle Trotman should stop hiding behind that post, Speaker of the National Assembly. He should come out and confess what he has done to me as a child; he took away my innocence,” he alleged.

The young man said his father left Guyana and is now residing in Brazil. His entire family, he noted, went against his father after the disclosure was made. He said too that the AFC should distance itself from Trotman, warning that he would unearth that which has been hidden, if the party does not.

AFC response

Meanwhile, the AFC said that the accusations are directly intended to

besmirch and tarnish the party and its leaders. “The Guyanese public is well aware of the campaign of attacks and vilifications of its leaders which has been waged openly perpetuated by known political elements and provocateurs acting on behalf of those to whom they are beholden,” the party said in a release.

The AFC, the statement said, is now in receipt of information that the allegations against Trotman are completely fabricated. The party said that the allegations are an attempt to create mischief by manufacturing a falsified public impression of the party and its officials, and condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the reprehensible exploitation of this, such a heinous crime against minors, for political purposes. The party added that the accusations are another “desperate and reprehensible attempt” to disrupt the tabling of the No-Confidence Motion when Parliament resumes in October.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman

Canadian investments in Guyana worth CD$3B

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

Total Canadian investments in Guyana is estimated over CD$3 billion (G$ 563,831,023,574), Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Nicole Giles has disclosed.

She said in a quest to strengthen commercial and investment ties; Guyana and Canada have been working closely to increase mutual economic prosperity. In 2013, Canadian imports from Guyana totalled CD$486.4 million, after importing precious stones and metals (mostly gold), bauxite, beverages, and fish and seafood).

On the flip side, Canadian exports to Guyana in 2013 total CD$19.4 million. Guyana imported mainly cereals, machinery, paper and paperboard, vegetables and printed books.

According to Dr Giles, Canada is the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Guyana. In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times, she disclosed that Canada is the leading player in Guyana’s extractive sector, comprising over 90 per cent of the sector’s international investment. Currently, there are 32 Canadian exploration companies operating in Guyana’s extractive sector working in sectors such as gold, bauxite, oil and gas, manganese, uranium and other precious metals.

Reference was made to the Guyana Goldfields which officially launched its Aurora Gold Mine Operations in December 2013. The Guyana Goldfields Aurora Project represents a 4.8 million ounce deposit. When it kicks into operations next year, it will become the country’s largest ever gold mine operation with over 1500 employees.

However, even as the mine is being constructed,

700 persons are employed, with over 80 per cent being Guyanese. According to the Canadian High Commissioner, the establishment of the Guyana Goldfields Project is creating a domino effect. She explained that when Guyanese are hired, they are encouraged to invest a per cent of their earnings.

“We expect that there should be a force multiplier effect of five times… we expect that you take your money and buy a car or invest in your child’s education or the development of a business,” Dr Giles explained. She said too that the Canadian company has been investing heavily in the local economy. “Guyana Goldfield buys local whenever it can and I think large machinery businessmen in this country would tell you that they have been doing very well from the large scale purchases,” she boasted.

Additionally, through the Canadian High Commission, the company has been supporting the development of small and medium-scale en-

terprises in the area of agriculture. Dr Giles explained that agricultural producers in Guyana have secured a high valued market in the form of the Guyana Goldfield, with all agricultural produced bought from local farmers.

She explained that this forms part of the Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce through Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL). This project has been designed to increase the quality and quantity of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables sold to companies through small and medium-sized producers.

Large-scale operations

Other Canadian companies that are poised to embark on large-scale operations here include CGX Energy Inc, Sand-spring Resources ETK, Reunion Minerals and First Bauxite. It was explained that CGX is slated to commence its drilling programme in the final quarter of 2014, as well as a plethora of mineral mining companies.

“Throughout all of Guyana’s mineral rich regions, Canadian companies can be found working in tandem with local communities to support and develop sustainable extractive sector operations as good corporate citizens.”

Canada has been strongly endorsing legislative reform and the implementation of effective policies and legislation to manage Guyana’s extractive sectors.

“Canada’s engagement ensures sustainable development of all gains from the oil and gas sector for all of the nation’s peoples. Canada is also supporting Guyana in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat in developing an oil and gas policy, extractive sector legislation based on Canadian models.”

It was explained that the development of effective legislation would result in greater accountability, allowing for the sector to develop in a sustainable manner which will ensure poverty alleviation and its associated socio-economic hardships.

But besides the extractive sectors, the Canadian High Commissioner emphasised that the Canada’s investment in Guyana goes beyond mining.

“Canada-Guyana business relations have ranged from support for the development of the local mining sector through GENCAP projects, support for the machine readable passport project, support for trade through assistance provided by the Trade Facilitation Office of Canada to the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, new Guyana Marketing Corporation as well as development support assistance for the Office of Trade Negotiations, among a plethora of other trade initiatives.”

Canje Hospital staff complain about snakes, no water

No water, not working kitchen stoves and snakes in the compound of the National Psychiatric Hospital at Fort Canje head the list of concerns of staff at that institution.

However, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA), Dr Vishwa Mahadeo had reported that all of the issues at the Fort Canje hospital are currently being addressed.

Issues affecting both patients and hospital staff including nurses have been hampering the smooth running of the institution. The issues were raised with the CEO at a recent meeting of the Region Six Regional Health Committee.

Among the issues raised at the meet was the lack of proper security at the hospital. Recently, a pump was stolen and according to reports, it was removed when there was no security in place. According to Mahadeo, the mat-

ter is being investigated.

Concerns have also been raised that there is not adequate space in the dietary stores. This claim, the CEO has refused, saying that there is adequate space, but the store needs to be packed properly.

Responding to reports that the phones at the institution are not working, he said that they are in the process of being fixed.

“The PBX systems are old and what we need is specific modifications,” Dr Mahadeo noted.

He added that the kitchen stoves need to be serviced when he was told that those at the hospital are not working. There have also been reports that the institution is not getting water.

According to Dr Mahadeo, the system is currently being fixed.

There are also reports of rodents and snakes in the hospital buildings.

To this complaint, the BRHA head told members of the Health Committee that bushes is close to buildings in the compound, but it is being cleared.

He explained that patients are in the habit of throwing food into the bushes and drains. This, he said attracts snakes and rodents. The CEO is suggesting that nurses direct patients to “throw waste food” in bins, which are placed in each of the wards at the hospital.

Mahadeo also refuted claims that there is a shortage of laundry soap, but agreed that the item is not kept on storage.

Staff had also voiced their concerns saying that the laundry department has been out of laundry gloves for some time. This, Mahadeo said is untrue. He claimed that the item is available.

“The staff has gloves but they are not used to it because it is a special type of gloves,” Mahadeo responded.

Eyew tness

The trouble with being...

...Clive

No, not Clive Lloyd. He’s doing quite well, thank you. The new mandarins at the WICB seem to’ve recognised the worth and integrity of this regional cricketing genius. They’ve evidently tasked him with reviving our fortunes in the one thing we used to do better than anyone else in the world: cricket. No. We’re talking about Clive Thomas – unquestionably the most prolific economist in the modern Caribbean.

Thomas is as indigenous an economist as you can get and while he’s accepted a host of “visiting professorships” across the globe, the good doctor has always called Guyana “home”. Just out of grad school, “The Dynamics of West Indian Economic Integration”, he produced in collaboration with Havelock Brewster back in 1967, stands as a testimony of “what could have been” if it hadn’t been ignored as a template for all subsequent integration movements.

But unlike what he and other social “scientists” would have us believe, Thomas’s claim to “objectivity” in his writings crumbles into dust when examined even cursorily. We’ve already pointed out the cognitive dissonances he’s obviously subjected to as he tries to project this “objectivity” in his weekly column in the Stabber News.

Knowing that most folks just glance at his headlines –or, at best, skim though his articles (let’s face it – economic analyses filled with tables and stuff aren’t seen as exactly “sexy”, are they?) he buries findings that contradict his newfound ethnic bias. And trumpets his bias in the headline.

This week, his headline screams: “Inequality, poverty and the flaunting opulence of the newly-rich”. Can’t miss the “flaunting opulence”, can you?? He “explains”: “to the poor struggling masses, the perception of an inexorable rise in the flaunting opulence of the newly-rich amongst us leads not only to resentment, but also to feelings of societal marginalisation and exclusion.”

Trouble is, the “perception” – to use his word – is formed by fellas like him writing slanted articles like the instant one! And this gets picked up and exploited by the provocateurs out there.

Before 1992, as a staunch Marxist, “ethnicity/race” was just an “epiphenomenon” to Thomas. Now, as a member of ACDA, “ethnic” disparities in wealth and poverty are his métier. Yet it’s only as a throwaway last line he mentions that after the PNC’s 28 years, the ethnic breakdown in poverty was Indians 33.7 per cent, Africans 43 per cent and Mixed 44.7 per cent.

By 2006, under the PPP/C, it was Indians 30 per cent, Africans 31.6 per cent and Mixed 33.7 per cent!!! Where’s the “objectivity” in hiding that now there’s no ethnic disparity in poverty??

...weak

David Granger just called Clement Rohee “distracted and weak”. Talk about the pot calling the kettle “black”!!! Sigmund Freud had this theory about “projection” as a defence mechanism in some people. Fella reportedly has secret feelings about being a homosexual but is ashamed because he’s taught it’s an abomination. So he “projects” these homosexual desires to others – whom he dislikes. In fact, he may become a champion AGAINST homosexuality!

Now Granger’s been dogged by accusations of being “weak” ever since Burnham catapulted him over a dozen senior officers to make him the head of the GDF. He was always seen as a desk-bound officer, commanding very little respect from the troops. He was just slavishly loyal to Burnham. Hoyte refused to appoint him as his Chief of Staff.

Right now the “weak” taunts dog him wherever he goes. Even the Stabber News - where he used (?) to write editorials, had an editorial yesterday about his weakness. And he’s now so “distracted” by the challenge from the AFC.

So the wanker projects “distracted and weak” to Rohee!!

...nice

Prezzie is one heck of a nice fella. Remember how he started the Tripartite Talks after the last elections? Well, we hope he remembers how he was kicked in the teeth by Granger and Ramjattan afterwards.

So with the new olive branch to Granger – forewarned should be forearmed.

Canadian High Commissioner, Dr Nicole Giles and President Donald Ramotar during a recent visit to the Guyana Goldfields Aurora Project

Simply the Truth

More of the story

Last week, we told you the story of this woman from Bush Lot, West Berbice, who has endured unspeakable hardships and abuse. She still does. To lift herself out of the muck in which she was put, she enrolled at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus.

We spoke of the two jobs she has to carry, and after the two jobs, the journey from Bush Lot to Rosignol, the two-hour wait, the crossing of the bridge, the getting off at the bridge road, getting a car, and to the Tain Campus for classes, only to find that the class has been cancelled.

We spoke of the perilous return trip late at night, the terror of molestation and worse. And then they raised tuition at UG...including UGBC, the bastard child of Turkeyen – not a thing that Dr Cheddi Jagan nor Bharrat Jagdeo intended at all.

The story nah done deh! The next week, she discovers that she is not registered. She calls UGBC and is told to go in. Long journey again. She goes and asks someone who is paid to know about registration and such things. She is sent to someone else. Nothing. She goes to see the Director. He sends her to the Coordinator. The Coordinator is

not there. Trip and money and time wasted again. She goes another day and gets it sort of solved.

Days after, she makes the same sacrifice, makes the same trips, and goes again to UGBC. The lecturer turned up! It is the usual bullying attitude from people who imagine themselves to be scholars, who are there to make students beg instead of learn (not all lecturers are like that, you know!).

But then our lady/mother/ student/worker discovers that her cell phone is “red”. She attempts to plug it into the wall to charge a bit for the return journey late at night. She knows there are many predators out there – inside too. So her life is on the line.

It is not much to ask to charge a phone under these circumstances. And for years (since 2009), students have had the privilege to charge up when their phone batteries were low. This time, however, she is halted by the lecturer (part-time from Turkeyen!).

She is told in no uncertain terms by the lecturer that the hike in tuition does NOT cover cell phone recharge! Our lady freezes, sits back down, ashamed. But now instead

of concentrating on what information is being spilled out, she is worrying about the return trip without the lifeline that is her phone.

This is the kind of heartlessness that has overtaken the Berbice Campus. This gross and unwarranted thoughtlessness. The sheer pity of it!

Partially charging a cell phone would cost no more than 20 dollars. Apart from the sheer bullying attitude of this lecturer and the foolishness of it, a life could be thrown away. This is not the way to treat our tuitionpaying students! This is not the way to treat the citizens of the Republic of Guyana.

A pox on those who think like this and act like this!

PYARG celebrating 16th anniversary

The Guyana’s National Award Scheme now called the President’s Youth Award: Republic of Guyana (PYARG) is celebrating 16 years of existence.

Launched by its first Patron, President Janet Jagan on October 3, 1998, since that time, teens and young adults form across Guyana have and continue to benefit greatly from the life-changing experiences and services the programme offers.

Over the years, the programme has taken into account the diversity among youths and provided them with numerous opportunities to be developed and engaged in avenues such as, developmental and character-building programmes, skills training, adventurous journeys, community services, physical recreational and other interest activities offered by the programme, a release stated.

Through these activities, the award aims at developing and instilling life skills among its participants that would stand them in good stead in their future endeavuors. The award has an important role to play in ensuring that youths are empowered to cope with and are able to overcome challenges that may threaten their development.

According to the group, they find it necessary to constantly stimulate new interests or improve existing ones, among participants.

“These interests may be hobbies, vocational/ job-related skills, social or individual activities, cultural activities and life skills. It is hoped that by being engaged in these types of activities, youths will be better prepared to make that important transition into adult life, and be-

come responsible adults who would make valuable contributions to their communities/ country,” the PYARG said in its statement.

It noted that “The award concept is one of individual challenge”. It presents young people with a balanced, noncompetitive programme of voluntary activities which encourages personal discovery and growth through self-reliance, perseverance, responsibility to themselves and service to their community.

According to PYARG, it continually strives to ensure that this concept is maintained while at the same time, ensuring that the activities provided are relevant and in-keeping with the developmental needs of young people.

“Over the years, this was achieved through a number of successful collaborations with a number of governmental and non-governmental agencies. There is a critical need for safe and positive environments for youth when they are out of school and we at the award provide that environment where participants are involved in after school programmes. Most of our partic-

Mother disputes Police account of son’s killing

Police in statement said that about 20:00h on Saturday evening last, ranks of a mobile Police patrol responded to a report received from a Policewoman that a suspect who was wanted for robbery under arms had assaulted her in Albouystown, Georgetown.

The Police, accompanied by a reporter, went to Hill Street, Albouystown, where Adrian Bishop was pointed out to them. He was informed of the allegation against him and was arrested and placed into the Police vehicle.

The Police added that while being transported to the Police station, he held on to a Policeman and attempted to release his shotgun, resulting in a struggle during which he was shot to his neck.

However, Adrine Mc Almont, the mother of the 28-year-old Bishop, believes that her son was murdered.

Mc Almont told Guyana Times that from information she received, the young man was shot once to his neck while he was sitting in a silver grey “Pitbull” 4X4 used by the Police.

His mother revealed that her son was at a party in Albouystown where several of his ex-girl friends were present, including the Policewoman who contacted the Police after they had an argument. The Policewoman and Bishop shared a relationship for a while but they

broke off after he started to see another woman in “Globe Yard”.

Mc Almont is contending that the entire shooting incident stemmed from jealousy. The mother said she was home about 19:30h when she received a telephone call from one of her son’s ex-girlfriends, who related the devastating news.

“The woman told me that after the Policewoman saw my son and another woman, she started an argument... as he was advancing to her, the Policewoman was seen on her telephone and after a few minutes, the Police come… They grab he and push him in the minibus to take him to the station but soon after they heard ‘pow’,” the woman said.

Everyone dispersed, even the Policewoman who called her colleagues. The young man was reportedly shot at close range to his neck and died almost immediately.

Mc Almont further stat-

ed that the driver of the bus reportedly walked to the crowd and told them “You’all ain’t see nothing”. After the incident, one of the ranks was on his phone talking to someone, telling them “he (Bishop) dead”.

Rap sheet

The mother is holding out that the Police have implicated her son in several crime related activities to which he is innocent. She recalled that her son was placed on $100,000 bail for an offence of carjacking. He came out of the lock ups on September 5 after he would have posted bail. On September 7, he was reportedly riding to his mother’s house on Garnett Street where Police intercepted him and was taken into custody after he did not have a license to ride the motorcycle.

“That charge moved from a traffic one to armed robbery charge… they took him to Leonora Station, then to Vreed-en-Hoop and to Sparendaam and was eventually released on September 16 without being charged,” Mc Almont stated. She said they even accused him of robbing a Chinese woman.

After several identification parades, he was not chosen for any crimes but the Police “just like to harass him”, the mother added. She went on to say that her son repaired motorcycles for a living and was not involved in crime.

ipants exhibit fewer behavioural problems, better ability to handle conflicts, and improved self-confidence; some of the benefits derived from participating in the PYARG.”

According to the group, at any given time, youths are learning, having fun and celebrating one another’s achievements and milestones.

PYARG said it also assists with the building of confidence by, giving youth the opportunity to succeed. Through the award youths realise how much they are capable of and that they can ‘go places’ if they work hard and follow their dreams, the group stated.

“PYARG would like to appeal to all the award participants to make good use of and seek and find positive experiences through healthy activities provided by the PYARG and other avenues. At PYARG, youths are also encouraged to give useful service to others through community service. We seek to instill in our participants a sense of responsibility to their community and to help them become better citizens.”

Professor Daizal Samad

Dead: Adrian Bishop

PYARG participants at work at Almond Beach

Courts welcomes hire purchase legislation

… as store celebrates 21 years in Guyana

BY JOMO PAUL

With the general public and consumer associations signalling their support for the much anticipated hire purchase legislation, Court’s Guyana Incorporated, one of Guyana’s largest hire purchase merchandisers, said it is eagerly awaiting the passage of the Bill in the National Assembly.

This is according to Managing Director of Courts, Clyde De Haas, who in a brief interview with Guyana Times on Sunday, said while the system has gone unregulated for some time without much turmoil, the legislation will bring positive change for the sector.

The Hire Purchase Bill is currently before Cabinet for review and is expected to be tabled at the resumption of the National Assembly.

De Hass was at the time speaking at the 21st anniversary celebrations of Courts, held at its Main Street branch. At the function, customers were treated to a wide array of delicacies

and deals at the store. There were also several prize winners.

De Hass contended that “anything that can bring about a regulation into the sector, we welcome it and we

support it”.

He explained that while the legislation is still to be introduced, Courts has still been working within the “ambit” of the law and by following best practices introduced in other Caribbean countries and set by the Bank of Guyana.

The Managing Director explained to Guyana Times that if or when the Bill is passed in the National Assembly and made into law, not a lot of modifications will have to be made to the store’s modus operandi since the same laws have been introduced in other Caricom states.

He said that Courts, being a multinational franchise, was able to pattern and adopt postures that are used in regulated territories.

He also noted that this approach has enabled the company to keep defaulters, that is, persons who are unable to make payments or make late payments, under a three per cent margin.

Disadvantageous

Earlier this year, acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali had said when this legislation comes into force, consumers will no longer be at the mercy of hire purchase schemes, noting that the current system that prevails is disadvantageous to consumers.

“We are working on having the hire purchase legislation laid in Parliament before the recess,” he said, adding: “I know we have been having a lot of problems with the repossession in the automobile industry and now also with the gold miners… we have persons paying as much as 80 per cent and just because of the remainder not being paid, they lose the items and the money they would have already paid.”

Ali also added that the

More mad people outside than inside

Sometimes people does rightfully wonder if it got more mad people outside of de mad house than inside. Indeed, some people does look mad, like Rum Jhaat, but it ain’t really got nutten to do wid how peope look. It got more to do wid whah people seh, again, like Rum Jhaat.

Rum Jhaat start out wid a no-confidence motion that only had one line, but it tek a whole month to finish. It had to be that Rum Jhaat got a hole in he head. Then Rum Jhaat tek another whole month to show de no-confidence motion to Green Jah after he beg fuh support from de Harmy man. All this time Rum Jhaat seh he was wukkin pun de motion, but wid a man who got a hole in he head, is no wonder it tek so long to write lil bit. After all, it wasn’t a large bottle that he had to get and fetch to Green Jah.

Rum Jhaat is a man who does mek a large look small three times day, and when ever he get vex, which is every day, another one does look small before he sleep. But a lil gyal by de court seh every ting fuh Rum Jhaat small anyway. So is no wonder Rum Jhaat does fall shaat of every ting whah de do. Right now, Rum Jhaat shaat a friends, shaat a support and shaat a sense. He tell a Minister to haul he a** and de other day he tell reporter to tell de Pee-Pee-Pee to haul dem a**.

It only now leff to wonder whah is Rum Jhaat obsession wid a**. Well, is de same lil gyal who had to explain that since Rum Jhaat shaat in front, he decide to move to de back, which is why he talkin so much bout a**.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! After all, she seh, Rum Jhaat is a real a**, so whah else yuh expect? So look out fuh Rum Jhaat mek he self a bigger a** next time.

Courts Managing Director Clyde De Haas

Bill is not only being drafted with the protection of the consumer in mind, but also that of the companies which offer hire purchase plans to consumers. As it stands right now, consumers who would have failed to complete payments on items bought on hire purchase would have their items repossessed by the stores they made the purchase.

This would be done even though the consumers have paid a large part of the total amount of monies owed for the item. Meanwhile, Prime

Minister Samuel Hinds, who delivered the key note address at the anniversary celebrations, pointed out that Courts has over the past 21 years managed to establish itself as one of Guyana’s premium merchandisers.

Hinds lauded the company for investment in Guyana’s economy by providing jobs and by helping to complete homes throughout Guyana. He challenged the merchandiser to make Guyanese produced furniture available within the Caribbean.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds joins in celebration with Courts Managing Director Clyde De Haas and staff at its Main Street branch

Times Notebook

Lies, fabrications part of AFC’s DNA

Khemraj Ramjattan and the AFC recklessly announced that they have evidence that the PPP/C has approached three MPs in a bribery scheme to ensure that the proposed NoConfidence Motion of the AFC would be defeated.

He also announced that he knows for sure that no AFC MP was approached by the PPP/C.

David Granger, the APNU Leader, confidently announced that no MP from his party was approached by the PPP/C.

The PPP/C dubbed the allegation reckless and without merit, and were it not such a blatant lie peddled by a political leader, it would be amusing. The unfortunate truth is that Ramjattan and his colleagues in the AFC have a propensity to make up the most outlandish stories, just to gain attention.

Instead of discussing sound alternatives for the development of Guyana, Ramjattan made up a story wildly without an iota of evidence. He just threw it out there, hoping to get attention and hoping that some people would believe him. It has become the AFC’s modus operandi.

Made-up allegations

The media has given widespread coverage of the allegations. The media did not bother to press Ramjattan and his colleagues to provide evidence. As far as the media was concerned, the onus is on the PPP/C to prove it did not engage in such criminal activities.

Some of the political commentators and the social media have also taken up the story, even without any supporting evidence. There is an orgasmic frenzy in promot-

ing the story as if it is factual and Government is guilty. No one in any way seems interested in holding Ramjattan and the AFC accountable for a story that clearly is built on fabrication. Unfortunately, this

has become the norm in Guyana. The Opposition parties, their supporters and certain media houses simply make a statement that is then picked up by the social media and these often made-up allegations become hot topics in the country.

The Opposition parties bank on the premise that there are enough gullible people that will genuinely believe their lies. It is the same Ramjattan that also this past week said he knows the real reason for the cancellation of the contract for the Specialty Hospital.

According to him, he has been told by his contacts with MPs in the Parliament of India that the Indian Government has cancelled the funding for the Specialty Hospital. The Government has set out clearly the reasons for cancelling the contract

CJIA staff donate 28 units of blood to NBTS

Several Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) staff braved the needle to give 28 units of blood to help the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) replenish its blood bank’s supply.

and is presently establishing the process to replace the contactor. The original funding arrangements are still in place.

Yet Ramjattan tells his story and does not at any time feel compelled to support his allegations with even an iota of evidence. He glibly tells his fabrications with a straight face, knowing that the media would allow him the space and freedom to do so.

Lest anyone believe we are blaming the media for Ramjattan’s and the AFC’s propensity to tell tall stories, we hasten to add that we are not questioning the media’s responsibility to inform the public what a political party and its leaders have to say.

The fact that Ramjattan made the remarks about alleged bribery of APNU MPs and that the Government of India has allegedly ended the funding for the Specialty Hospital is not in dispute and the media has a responsibility to tell the people exactly what Ramjattan said.

No evidence

But the media has a responsibility to also inform the public that Ramjattan has no evidence to support his allegations. It is the

media’s responsibility to hold Ramjattan accountable for what he tells them and for the stories they report to the nation.

It is the media’s responsibility to tell the people also that while Ramjattan did make the allegations, he was not able to back up his story with any evidence. The media itself joins in the recklessness and misleads the people of Guyana when it fails to pursue the truth.

We live in a democratic country with at least four daily newspapers, Internet news services, more than 20 different daily TV newscasts, and about 10 radio stations. Media houses in Guyana cannot seriously make a case that they are suppressed by Government restrictions. But media freedom has two sides to it. One – allowing full freedom of expression – is strongly upheld in Guyana. The other – media being responsible in reporting – is sadly poorly practised in our country. Ramjattan may be guilty of fabricating a story, but the media is guilty of giving life and impetus to the lie.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email or Facebook to times. notebook@gmail.com.

The blood donation drive was held on September 17 at the airport’s Greeters Hall. The initiative was coordinated by Dacia Samaroo, CJIA’s Commercial Officer, Commercial and Administration Division (CAM).

unteer,” Samaroo said.

“We (CJIA) realised that blood is very much in demand. One pint of blood has the capacity to save three lives, so we encouraged all staff to vol-

This is the first time CJIA has undertaken such a project, and Samaroo is optimistic that it will be an annual event. One of CJIA’s mandates is to give back to the community. Members of the public, Immigration and floor care staff also donated blood.

Two staffers of the CJIA donating blood

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

monDAY, september 22, 2014 | guYAnAtimesgY.com

APNU Council endorses street action for LGE

APartnership for National Unity

– an amalgamation of several parties said its Leadership Council on Saturday endorsed the plan to take the city streets by storm in forcing Government to hold Local Government Elections.

The Council met at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition. According to a statement by the party, partners discussed and endorsed the plan of action to highlight the importance of Local Government Elections and called on President Donald Ramotar to announce a date for Local Government Elections.

The APNU Leadership Council also endorsed the demand for the President to issue the ‘commencement order’ to operationalise the Local Government Commission and for the President to assent to the Local Government (Amendment) Bill. Attending the meeting were representatives from the Bakja Peoples Movement; The Guyana Association of Local Authorities (GALA); The National Front Alliance(NFA); The National Democratic Front (NDF); The National Emancipation Trust (NET); the People's National Congress Reform(PNCR); Pan African Movement; The United Force (TUF); and the Working Peoples Alliance (WPA).

Already the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has, in another section of the media, questioned the timing of APNU’s call for public protests to push for the holding of Local Government Elections. Chairman of the body was quoted in another newspaper saying: “I am not sure if the protest is well timed to add that pressure in the call for Local Government Elections…” he said. “We would love to have Local Government Elections as soon as practical. However, taking into consideration the no-confidence motion and so forth, we are not sure of now.”

However, the Guyana Trades Union Congress in a statement said the PSC has

to stop thinking and acting as though it possesses the authority on people’s rights. According to TUC, the call made for years by sections of society to have the constitutionally guaranteed Local Government Elections, is a matter of right. “Rights are non-negotiable. This society is being conditioned to think that some can enjoy their rights at will, while others can only enjoy them with the permission or approval of another. This wrong outlook will not secure and respect universal principles which are underpinned in the Guyana Constitution. What this outlook has done is created a dual society that has allowed the administration and its cohorts to run roughshod over the masses and plunder the nation’s resources. In this environment might has replaced right, and the rule of the lawless

has replaced the rule of law.”

According to the TUC, the PSC cannot straddle the fence on matters of rights or cherry-pick rights. “You are either for rights or against rights. When the PSC along with others, including the Guyana Trades Union Congress and the Western Diplomatic Community signed petitions calling on the administration to hold Local Government Elections, these calls were underpinned by what the Constitution guarantees to the people...”

The union said there are some in society who are using their position of influence/power to create an uneven playing field and establish double standards as the norm. “For this society to function effectively and efficiently all must be held to the same standards and play by the same rules. It must never be by chance the people in the urban areas cannot enjoy what’s rightly theirs (i.e. the right to public assembly/protest as outlined in Article 146 of the Constitution) because a section (i.e. the urban-based business) feels their economic well-being is threatened. The Constitution guarantees the economic well-being

of every individual and business equally, as it guarantees the rights of every citizen and group. None must be allowed to violate another. “

The TUC said nothing in life has ever been won or achieved without a struggle. “Nothing. The business community did not evolve on the landscape and secure laws to protect its interest without a struggle. And if the present corps within this community has found measures to protect its interest without having to resort to public assembly, it gives this group no right to deny those who believe that their wellbeing can only be advanced and protected through such measure,” the umbrella union said. According to the TUC, if the PSC is genuine in its call for Local Government Elections, respect for the Constitution and the rights of the people regardless of whom they are or are represented by, then they must work with the Police to ensure any public assembly is insulated from those who seek such events to engage in dastardly acts. “The PSC, like other progressive business entities around the world, must also call on the administration to ensure the safety, security and protection of those who seek to exercise their right as guaranteed by the Constitution and which ought to be protected by the state.”

Police train 202 youths in Information Technology

The Guyana Police Force in collaboration with the Zara Group of Companies on Saturday evening graduated 202 persons in the field of Information Technology (IT).

The simple graduation ceremony was held at the Richard Faikal Police Station at Suddie, Region Two.

The training was conducted by hired personnel as well as those within the Force. According to IT trainer attached to the Force Gladwin Hanover, this year the Zara Computer Centre at Suddie has managed to improve their production by training four adults in foundation programmes, one advanced programme and four summer programmes.

Hanover said for the remainder of 2014, the centre

will focus on conducting two more adult foundation programmes and one advanced programme.

G Division Commander Kevin Adonis said the graduation is the second for the centre, pointing out that it is a way for the Force to build partnership with the community. Adonis said the Information Technology programme focuses on building relationship with the community.

“This is a foundation, from here you will build more things. I urge everyone with this certificate, you have to move on...” Adonis told the graduating class.

Senior Superintendent and Force Training Officer

Paul Williams lauded the partnership between Zara Group of Companies and the Guyana Police Force, noting

that it has been making a positive impact. The group has contributed to the Force by building three state-of-the-art IT laboratories.

Williams said each class has a capacity to accommodate 30 persons and the courses offered are free.

He noted that from June 2012, a total of approximately 800 persons have been trained. He said new recruits of the Force were also trained.

“We have seen that with the use of computer, it has helped us to fight crime, it helped us to see essential things, it helped us to see the areas that have the most crime,” Williams said. He urged the graduates to make the most out of the knowledge garnered and fight to further themselves.

Composting catching on as Clean and Green Guyana campaign heats up

Residents of Mocha Arcadia and Marfriends Cooperative Society in Friendship, were able to recently reap the rewards of their labour under the community composting project being carried out by the Clean Green Guyana Campaign.

This initiative is part of the Community Participation and Public Awareness Programme being administered by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development and funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank, a release from Guyenterprise has said.

According to the release, composting may be described as nature’s way of recycling. It is a process in which organic waste, or waste derived from living things – such as leaves, yard trimmings and kitchen waste like vegetable skins, among other things – is broken down or biodegraded by micro-organisms into compost, a substance that resembles a dark-coloured soil. Compost is a rich soil-enhancer that can be applied to the soil to add the nutrients that may encourage healthy plant growth.

As organic waste constitutes roughly about half of the waste produced by a typical household in Guyana, by choosing to compost their household organic waste, citizens can effectively reduce the amount of waste collected

from their households and disposed of in the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill.

According to the release, participating residents were happy to engage in an activity that was good for the environment and entire community and have already put the compost they produced to good use in their kitchen gardens.

Many residents will now work with the Clean and Green Guyana Campaign to start composting in their own back-

yards. In this new phase, the Clean and Green Guyana Campaign will supply interested residents with composting structures in which residents will compost their organic waste.

The Clean and Green Guyana Campaign is also about to commence a similar community composting project in various communities within the La Reconnaissance-Mon Repos NDC (Neighbourhood Democratic Council).

President Donald Ramotar

APNU Leader David Granger

The senior Police officers with the youths who are now equipped with Information Technology skills

Residents of Friendship collecting compost

Bamia residents tell Edghill of water, employment blues

Residents of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway community of Bamia last Friday told Minister in the Ministry of Finance Juan Edghill of the many problems they face ranging from poor water and electricity supply to unemployment.

Edghill was in the community to address various developmental issues affecting them. The visit to the small, remote community was among the first of nineteen such meetings planned by the Minister, to be conducted across Region 10 over the next eight days or so. He first met with the head teacher, students and teachers of the Bamia Primary School, as well as residents, at the Bamia Multi-purpose facility, which currently houses the Bamia Nursery and Primary Schools.

In relating to the Junior Finance Minister, challeng-

in outlying areas.

“We are at a big disadvantage as a school: telephone communication is difficult, in terms of making contact with the Education Department,” she said, in relation to not having landline telephone service at the school. Piggott also related that there are issues surrounding the school’s use of the two-storied multi-purpose facility bottom flat.

She said a request was made for a permanent school to be built, noting that she had been informed by the Regional Education Officer that such has been budgeted for.

After making inquiries from Piggott, the Minister was informed by the headteacher that the school has an ongoing feeding programme for students. She noted too that since many parents are unemployed, this poses some difficulty

es to the remote community, they are not constant. This issue was also presented to some of the Region’s doctors and medical personnel who were present at the meeting.

The Minister, however told residents not to look for-

es faced by the school, headmistress Denise Piggott highlighted that problems range from no access to potable water and electricity, unemployed parents, telephone services to transportation woes for students coming from some outlying areas. She said although the school caters for students from the nursery to Grade 6 level, there is need for a secondary department in the community. Piggott said many students who sit the National Grade 6 Assessment (NGSA) Exams become drop-outs, due to difficulties in getting to schools

for students. She called for more job creation in the area and for residents to become involved in community road (highway) projects.

Residents in voicing their concerns complained about not having readily available access to health services at Bamia and called for the establishment of a health centre in the community.

A female resident indicated that pre-natal and postnatal services, for example, are only made accessible by travelling to Amelia’s Ward, Linden. It was noted that although there are scheduled regional medical out-reach-

ward to the establishment of a health centre in the community due to several issues, and advised them to utilise the centre at Amelia’s Ward since it is the closest to the area.

Also among concerns noted by residents are unemployment issues. Apart from farming, residents said many would seek employment opportunities in interior locations due to the unavailability of jobs in the area.

The issue of land ownership was also brought to the forefront by residents and farmers who allege not

Bowman hospitalised after being chopped by uncle

Abowman from Adventure Village on the Essequibo Coast is thanking God for his life after he narrowly escaped death.

Delroy Stephens, 24, allegedly sustained a 14 inch chop wound from his wife’s uncle Uroy Chapell.

Chapell is in custody at the Suddie Police Station.

The chopper reportedly used in the incident was recovered.

According to Delroy Stephens, speaking from

his hospital bed, he had no grievance with his wife’s uncle and is baffled as to why the act was committed.

He said he was sitting in the hall of his house when his wife’s uncle approached and chopped him.

According to the bowman, he and the man had a conversation earlier in the day and he asked him if he was not working.

Stephen said he asked his common-law wife for money to buy oil and as he turned his back, he received

the chop.

Stephens said he was surprised at what happened and ran for his life.

He was rescued by his cousin Adel Stephens, who took him to the hospital.

Relatives said when the Police asked Chappell why he chopped Stephens, he reportedly said “nothing”.

Only recently, Delon Bejamin from Onderneeming was robbed and stabbed several times during a heated argument.

being given equal opportunities in some instances.

“We need documents for our lands,” a community farmer remarked. Appeals were also made for more drains and outlets in the area, in addition to regular cleaning and clearing of those present currently. Residents noted that during rains, they are affected by water gushing into the community. After listening to residents’ concerns, Minister Edghill appealed to them to cooperate and make good use of readily available facilities, in addition to encouraging the spirit of community togetherness, noting that it is in

the best interest of development. He added that the management committee of the school and the current Community Development Council should work together and negotiate in the best interest of the residents.

“Development comes in waves...what we need now is cooperation and everybody putting their hands together to work...Government is doing its best. Don’t sit and expect Government to do everything. We are creating an enabling environment for development. There are opportunities that exist here for leadership. Whenever there is what we call a crisis, we must see it as an opportunity for investment. You are important to us. The residents of Bamia are not forgotten,” the Junior Finance Minister noted. He also promised to make representation on all the issues discussed, at the level of Cabinet and wherever necessary. In relation to the issue of the community not receiving electricity, the Minister noted that he will discuss same with Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. “The matter of electricity is one that will be addressed. We want to ensure that there is electricity coverage throughout the length and breadth of Guyana,” he noted.

The Minister added that Government is presently procuring some 6000 solar panels to be distributed across Region 10, 3000 for Amerindian communities and 3000 for residents in riverine areas. Edghill said while there are no guarantees, the Bamia community should be considered to benefit under the distribution. He also made a promise to continue visits to the community and make representations. In relation to telephone landline service, the Junior Finance Minister said he will write GT&T.

“We want to ensure that wherever people are located, their issues are being addressed.”

A similar meeting was also held with residents at North Amelia’s Ward on Friday and Central Amelia’s Ward on Saturday. Other areas in Region 10 included under the Minister’s meeting schedule are Block 22/Wisroc, West Watooka, Three Friends and Coomacka Mines, Old England/ Siberian, Nottinghamshire, Retrieve/Redwood Crescent, Constabulary Compound, Wismar Housing Scheme, Christiansburg/Dallawalla, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Alley and Kara Kara and Rainbow City.

Residents of Bamia pay rapt attention during the meeting at the Multi-purpose Hall

Minister Juan Edghill greets students of Bamia Primary School

Govt to launch Mental Health Council to tackle suicide

The launching of a Mental Health Council, comprising members from recognised religious communities, and other stakeholders, will soon “up the ante” against suicide.

This was disclosed by Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran at a walk organised by the Health Ministry in collaboration with the Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) on Sunday that started at Lamaha and Light Streets and ended at the Square of the Revolution. The IAC had earlier called for suicide prevention to be a national priority.

Minister Ramsaran also disclosed that, earlier this year, over 200 nurses received specialist training via a UK trained specialist mental health nurse.

One hundred and fifty persons drawn from the

al behaviour, studies have shown that certain groups within society are more prone to commit the act.

“For example, a recent study showed that East Indians tend to be, and especially male East Indians, more susceptible.”

Health Ministry, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Prison Service and the Social Services Ministry, have also been trained to address those who need assistance to cope with issues that may lead to suicide. Participants were also urged by the Health Minister to “reach out and stay connected” with those who may be depressed,

Minister Ramsaran said the campaign will “stretch across several ministries” to ensure more participation. He stated that while all Guyanese are potential victims of suicide and suicid-

He added that the Ministry will be working with the IAC and other stakeholders in suicide prevention efforts. Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud also expressed similar sentiments, calling on stakeholders to reach out to others and make a difference, noting that while medical professionals have a role to play, others have a role in helping to prevent persons from committing suicide. A call was made by the Pan American Health Organisation Resident Representative, Dr William Adu-Krow to reduce access

to the commonly used pesticides, employed by many to commit suicide.

This can be done in partnership with the Agriculture Ministry, along with the Education Ministry to educate high-risk groups between ages 20 to 45. Those above 60 years old are also at risk, he added as he gave PAHO’s commitment to work with the Health Ministry and all stakeholders in the suicide prevention fight.

IAC Executive Member Neaz Subhan in brief remarks expressed appreciation to those who participated in the early morning event, especially the students.

There was a large contingent from the Sarswattie Vidya Niketan School in Region Three. He said that, based on the numbers of those who commit suicide, it was not something that anyone should be proud of.

“All of us, community groups, religious groups, non-governmental organisations or others, we need to ensure that we do our part, that we can be able to say that, in a very short time Guyana is not the suicide capital of the world. We must be able to work towards that.”

National priority

Subhan added that the IAC wants suicide to be declared a national priority, with the resultant discussions and planned strategy to provide help and a mechanism to assist those with the tendencies. Describing the incidence of suicide

as a “painful experience”, Caribbean Voice representative, Dr Faith Harding said everyone must be part of the effort to stop the scourge. “It is everybody’s business and this partnership between the Government, all the organisations and the communities is of great importance, so that we remove the scourge and help each and everyone in our nation to avoid suicide, or see suicide as an option.”

In brief remarks, National Psychiatrist, Dr Bhiro Harry made a passionate plea to the youths, in particular, calling on them to help and inform older persons if their friends seem troubled in any way, “Go to your relatives, go to any adult, whoever you have, talk to that person. Let that person know what you have seen, what you have heard, what you think. It is very, very important.”

He stressed that is there is effective treatment for depression and persons should seek to talk with those who seem “down” and get them the help they may need.

Guyana was recently declared as the country with the population most at most risk of committing suicides after studies found that it had the most suicides per capita in the world. The Health Ministry is embarking on a number of programmes and initiatives to address this issue, described by the sector Minister as a national health emergency, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

TT: Work on controversial billion-dollar project being outsourced

Super Industrial Services Ltd (SISL) is now seeking to outsource the construction work on the TT$1.6 billion Beetham Water Recycling Project. A confidential tender document, obtained by the Sunday Guardian, showed the Couva-based SISL was seeking to retain other companies to begin the hefty project. The bid documents carry a deadline date of September 5, 2014, for all submissions. The contentious project has started even as the Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) has called for

a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the project and its award to SISL. The Joint Consultative Committee also called for the project to be halted.

The project was awarded to SISL on February 28, just before the long Carnival weekend.

In the seven-page Instruction to Bid document, SISL detailed a 10-point scope of works which included everything from a bulk chemical storage area to external works and landscaping. While questions have been raised about SISL’s ability to handle the range and scope of the

massive project, new information reveals that SISL is currently seeking to outsource the contract, becoming instead the project manager for the TT$1.6 billion project.

“In accordance with its contract with the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC), SISL is required to design and build a water recycling facility adjacent to the existing Beetham Waste Water Treatment Plant (BWWTP), together with the associated pipelines and water storage facilities,” the bid contract stated. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Rice farmers should

insist

on early payments, not higher prices – Ramsammy

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy said that rice farmers should be more concerned about being paid on time this crop, rather than looking forward to an increase in the price of paddy.

Local rice farmers have been clamouring for an increase in the payments they receive for paddy sold to millers, noting that the rate has dropped considerably when compared to what was received a few years ago. The current rate per bag of paddy stands between $3100 and $3300. Farmers say they are severely distressed by the prices and are hoping that they increase since production has skyrocketed this crop.

But the Agriculture minister said that while everyone would want the best price for their commodity, “prices are not determined by what we want, prices are determined by what the market offers and because we produce a lot of rice, we have to enter a market of what people are willing to pay, not what we would like them to pay”, he told Guyana Times in an exclusive interview recently.

Ramsammy said it is always better for the market to “dictate” the price, declaring that if the Government of a small country decides that it is going to set prices, it will always be to the disadvantage of the farmers. “Because what we will do, is set a low price for them and take a low chance at the market”.

The rice farmers have also raised concerns over the availability of markets to cushion the rise in production. According to the Agriculture Minister, Guyana has been able to expand its markets. Traditionally, rice was sold only to the Caribbean and Europe. However, in 2010, Venezuela was added to the list which includes Portugal, Spain, Holland, and Italy and more recently, Panama. Guyana is also making arrangements to enter the African market, Ramsammy revealed.

More markets, more competition

He further noted that prices for rice locally are dictated by the 70 per cent exportation to these countries. Neighbouring Venezuela, he said, represents a smaller portion of the rice exported.

“And this is something we’ll have to address as we go, because, as our production increases, we will have to go into the lower price market and, therefore, you

can’t judge the current price with a time when all our rice went to a high price source. Now that we are producing more, we have to go into this other market,” he explained. He stressed that it is something Government wants farmers and millers to understand, that if they are going to be competitive, they have to also take into consideration what prices are being paid on the world market.

He said Government has taken steps to reduce the cost of production. According to him, if production costs go down, the country would be able to compete in a larger market. “We have been successful in increasing yield where farmers get more acres; it means they will be able to compete at the lower price market. We are looking at other ways to reduce cost and I am glad that farmers have recognised that they are getting more yields.”

Ramsammy said that while the Venezuelan market remains the same in terms of volume and price, it only makes up about 30 per cent of the market for Guyana’s rice. He said it is important to note that Guyana has never dealt with a world market price. What is being sold to the Venezuelan market is priced at approximately US$400 per ton, Ramsammy noted. Last year, Guyana exported some 393,000 tons and with the contracts already signed, Guyana should have no difficulty reaching 475,000 tons for the year, some 80,000 more than last year. “We even believe that we can meet 500,000 tons,” the Minister said. “When we look at the numbers, we found that we are selling more rice internationally. There is no destination for Guyana’s rice that is sold at world market prices, which is a much lower price.”

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Students of the Saraswati Vidya Niketan Secondary School displaying their banners during the Suicide Prevention Walk through Georgetown

PAHO Representative, Dr William Adu-Krow, IAC Executive Member Neaz Subhan and Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran leading the Suicide Prevention Walk through Georgetown

Around the world

Climate change summit: Global rallies demand action

Street protests demand-

ing urgent action on climate change have attracted hundreds of thousands of marchers in more than 2000 locations worldwide.

The People’s Climate March is campaigning for curbs on carbon emissions, ahead of the United Nations climate summit in New York this week.

In Manhattan, organisers said some 310,000 people joined a march that was also attended by UN Chief Ban Ki-moon.

Earlier, huge demonstrations took place in Australia and Europe.

“This is the planet where our subsequent generations will live,” Ban told reporters. “There is no ‘Plan B’, because we do not have ‘Planet B’.”

The UN Secretary

General was accompanied by primatologist Jane Goodall and the French Ecology Minister, Segolene Royal.

New York hosted the largest of Sunday’s protests, drawing more than half of the 600,000 marchers estimated by organisers to have taken part in rallies around

One year after Westgate, Kenyans still in anguish

Charity Irungu’s life

has been filled with gloom since her husband left home never to return. Poignant memories of the bullet-riddled body of the husband, Paul Mureithi, lying in a cold storage room at a morgue in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, are permanently etched in her mind.

It all started when AlShabab, the armed group in neighbouring Somalia, laid siege to the upscale Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi on September 21, 2013, embarking on execution-style shootings.

“I tried to call his phone as soon as I heard there was an attack at Westgate. He did not answer. In the wee hours ... he called and told me he was fine. He was hiding

somewhere in the mall. Then he hung up,” said the 43-yearold mother of two.

The desire to know Mureithi’s fate was too strong after that conversation. And it marked the beginning of a long and sad wait.

“I could not sleep. I spent much of my time around the mall to see if I will [sic] see him being carried out in a stretcher or being led to where the rescue workers were stationed. There was nothing coming,” Irungu told Al Jazeera.

At home, everything was cold and gloomy, said Irungu. The two children had lost a father; the family had been robbed of a breadwinner. The warmth, laughter and love from their father were gone.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

the world.

Manhattan echoed to the sound of chants, horns and drums as the colourful protest progressed through the streets.

Organisers of the Manhattan event said it surpassed the largest previous protest on climate change. They said the massive

mobilisation was aimed at transforming climate change “from an environmental concern to an everybody issue”.

Business leaders, environmentalists and celebrities joined the demonstration.

Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio also took part, having been appointed as a UN representative on climate change last week.

The New York rally was part of a global protest that included events in 156 countries – Afghanistan, the UK, Italy and Brazil among them.

On Tuesday, the UN will host a climate summit at its headquarters in New York with 125 Heads of State and Government – the first such gathering since the unsuccessful climate conference in Copenhagen in 2009. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Yemen rivals sign peace agreement

AUnited Nationsbrokered peace deal between Houthi rebels and Yemen’s Government has been signed while the Houthis have taken control of Government buildings and a state radio and TV station in the capital, Sanaa.

Al Jazeera’s Mohamed Vall, reporting from Sanaa, said Sunday’s deal called for the current Government to rule in a caretaker role until a new administration is formed next month

He said the most important point is a ceasefire but the deal was “still short on details”. Yemeni President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi urged all sides to abide by the deal.

Journalist Peter Salisbury said the agreement aimed to get the Houthis to leave the capital. However, a section which was not

signed by the Houthis stipulated that they were to withdraw from Sanaa, Jawf and Amran within 45 days.

“The fighting didn’t stop because of the deal, but because the Houthis had achieved their military aims in Sanaa.”

He said clashes were ongoing in other parts of the country, including Maarib to east of the capital.

On Sunday, the rebels took over Government buildings in the capital, including the Defence Ministry, the Army headquarters, the Parliament, the Central Bank and the national radio station.

Our correspondent Mohamed Vall said that most were taken over without fighting, which he referred to as a “capitulation of sorts” by the Army. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Ghani named Afghan President-elect after deal to end election dispute

Former Finance Minister Ashraf Ghani was named Afghanistan’s Presidentelect on Sunday after he signed a deal to share power with his opponent, ending months of turmoil over a disputed election that destabilised the country as most foreign troops prepare to leave.

The announcement withheld the final election numbers, apparently as part of the political deal between Ghani and rival Abdullah Abdullah, a former foreign minister who claimed the process was rigged against him.

“The Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan declares Dr Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai

as the President of Afghanistan,” Commission Chief Ahmad Yousuf Nuristani said.

China’s per capita carbon emissions overtake EU’s

New data on carbon shows that China’s emissions per head of population have surpassed the EU for the first time.

The researchers say that India is also forecast to beat Europe’s CO2 output in 2019.

Scientists say that global totals are increasing fast and will likely exceed the limit for dangerous climate change within 30 years.

The world has already used up two thirds of the warming gases researchers calculate will breach two degrees C.

The Global Carbon Project involves researchers from several different institutes around the world and it provides objective details on the scale of annual emissions.

The latest data shows that a record 36 billion tonnes of carbon from all human sources were emitted in 2013.

The biggest emitters were China, which produced 29 per cent of the total, followed by the US at 15 per cent, the EU at 10 per cent and India at 7.1 per cent.

While the per capita average for the world as a whole is five tonnes of carbon dioxide, China is now producing 7.2 tonnes per person, to the EU’s 6.8 tonnes. The US is still far ahead on 16.5 tonnes per person.

“We now see China’s per capita emissions surpassing the EU,” said Dr Robbie Andrew, who was

involved in the research.

This development will shine an interesting light on global climate negotiations where China has often used its relatively low per capita emissions to argue that it is on the same page as other developing countries, and that restrictions on its use of carbon were not justified.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Under the terms of the unity deal, Ghani will share power with a chief executive proposed by Abdullah.

The two will share control over who leads key institutions such as the Afghan Army and other executive decisions.

Nuristani acknowledged deep flaws in the June 14 run-off vote and said that a United Nationssupervised audit was not adequate to weed out all the vote-rigging. The audit was organised at a cost of US$10 million to be paid for by US aid money, according to the UN.

The final sticking point in the negotiations to form a unity government was Abdullah’s insistence that the official final vote tally not be released, his aides have said. Abdullah was widely believed to be far behind in the official results.

Modi: Al-Qaeda’s South Asia plan “delusional”

India’s Prime Minister has dismissed Al-Qaeda’s plan to set up a South Asian branch, saying it was “delusional” to think the country’s Muslim minority would follow orders to wage a struggle based on religion against their country.

It was Narendra Modi’s first reaction to Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri’s announcement this month that the group would set up a new operation to take the fight to India, which has a large but traditionally moderate Muslim population, as well as to Myanmar and Bangladesh.

“They are doing injustice towards the Muslims of our country,” Modi, 64, who led his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to a landslide victory in India’s General Elections in May, said

in an interview with broadcaster CNN on Friday.

“If anyone thinks Indian Muslims will dance to their tune, they are delusional. Indian Muslims will live for India, they will die for India – they will not want anything bad for India.”

There have been relatively few reports of young Indian men leaving to fight causes abroad, which experts say is because local grievances have kept them at home.

He said the threat from armed groups was “a crisis against humanity, not a crisis against one country or one race”.

“We have to frame this as a fight between humanity and inhumanity, nothing else,” Modi told CNN’s Fareed Zakaria.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Many of the marchers in New York wore costumes associated with indigenous people, who have long protected the Earth

Afghan rival Presidential Candidates Abdullah Abdullah (left) and Ashraf Ghani exchange signed agreements for the country’s unity government in Kabul September 21, 2014

Ramsammy, delegation tour Ontario Dairy Industry

... as Guyana seeks help to set up its own

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy recently led a delegation to Ontario, Canada to learn from the experiences of the highly successful Ontario dairy industry.

The Guyana delegation focused primarily on leveraging Ontario’s significant knowledge and experience in the dairy industry. Guyana is preparing to establish a local dairy plant operation that will supply its dairy needs in part. The mission was organised by the High Commission of Canada and included a consortium of Government, regional agencies and private sector leaders. All are critical players in the development of a dairy production facility in Guyana.

Minister Ramsammy and team were welcomed by Ontario dairy leaders, many of whom had met with the Minister on the margins of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture October 2013. The Guyana team visited Grasshill Dairy Farms; Summitholm farm; Caledon Jersey; Kawartha dairy; Mariposa dairy; Maryland Farms; Eastgen and Via Pax ET Led.

The Guyana Delegation was hosted by the Ontario Ministry for Agriculture Farm and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and Kawartha Lakes Economic Development office. The high level delegation was exposed to the full range of Canadian technologies including: genetics; dairy cattle traceability; precision dairy management; feed and forage and varying dairy farm operations. These technologies will be instrumental as Guyana establishes a large scale dairy operation.

Ontario dairy industry operations feature the best in class operations. There are over 4000 dairy farm operations in rural Ontario that boast both environmentally sustainable techniques and precision management technologies for improved efficiency.

During the visit, Minister Ramsammy took the opportunity to meet with members of the Ontario dairy community, regulatory associations and the University of Trent. Discussions were held on broadening technical exchange and educa-

tional programmes between Ontario and Canada. The Guyana delegation also included top brass of the Guyana Livestock Development Dr Dindyal Permaul and Dr Dwight Waldron, head of IICA Guyana Wilmot Garnett and Guyana’s Private Sector dairy leader Sterling Products represented by Quality Assurance Manager, Anthony Ross. Canadian private sector company Amanitas Group that is currently partnering with Guyanese company D&S Construction, joined the mission as the company explores opportunities for investment in Guyana.

Minister Ramsammy and the

ence on dairy imports. In discussing Guyana’s need to set up a dairy plant, Minister Ramsammy pointed out that the Caribbean’s food import bill is $5 billion per year, and this situation provides an opportunity for Guyana to reclaim its role as the breadbasket of the Caribbean whilst also contributing to a reduced regional food import reliance.

In discussions with Trent and Guelph Universities, Minister Ramsammy called for the establishment of a consortium among the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture, Trent University, the High Commission of Canada, the Ontario Ministry of

Guyana delegation also met with Canadian education leaders including Dr Arnold Doobay and Professor Suresh Narine. Discussions were held to explore the opportunities for skills transfer, vertical integration and leveraging the expertise of diverse stakeholders towards the development of a viable Guyanese dairy plant facility. Minister Ramsammy noted that Guyana could learn much from the Ontario dairy experience as the country prepares to reduce its depend-

Trio caught with house breaking tools granted bail

Three men were placed on $20,000 bail each by Berbice Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus when they appeared at a New Amsterdam Magistrate Court last Thursday on a charge of possession of house breaking equipment in the night.

The men who have all had encounters with the law on robbery related charges before are accused of having in their possession during the night of September 16th at Springlands Corentyne one steel cutter without lawful excuse.

Annand Jaget, 27, of Williamsburg, Corentyne; Junior Moore, 32, of Rose Hall Town and Avzal Rojan of Port Mourant were not represented and also could not post bail. Police Prosecutor, Sergeant Godfrey Playter told the court that on the night in question the trio was seen in a car by a party of Police officers on patrol when the article was discovered in the car which Jaget was driving at the time.

Rojan, who said he is a horse trainer, told the court that he was a passenger at the time as he had asked the driver for a drop. Moore, said he was a fisherman and displayed visible injuries sustained when the gun he was carrying went off and hit him on his leg during a robbery at Good Banana Land, East Canje in 2008. He told the court that the Police found the items in the car and not on him.

Referring to the charge, Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus told the prosecution that they should take note of a ruling by Justice Ian Chang on a matter of a similar nature. Justice Chang in the High Court had ruled that such a charge is bad in law. The Judge did make suggestions of the charges that can be used for successful prosecution. Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus transferred the case to the Springlands Magistrate’s Court. She said the act is a very serious offence. The case comes up again on September 25th.

Caricom, El Salvador enter new era of cooperation

What was described as a “new era” of diplomatic relations between the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and El Salvador began Friday when Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, Caricom Secretary-General accredited a new envoy from the Central American country.

His Excellency Raymundo Ernesto Rodriguez Diaz, Plenipotentiary Representative of San Salvador to Caricom presented his Letters of Credence to the Secretary-General at the Georgetown, Guyana Headquarters of Caricom.

Ambassador LaRocque said that while direct relations between the Community and El Salvador were still in their formative years, through the country’s membership of the Central American Integration System (SICA) and the ACS, the Community has had the opportunity to engage with it on issues that spawn regional security, disaster mitigation and management, renewable energy, health and disaster management.

continuing global climate change negotiations and the fight against the scourge of Non Communicable Diseases,” the SecretaryGeneral said.

In response, the newly accredited Ambassador said: “The priority of my government is to strengthen diplomatic ties and cordial relations with the organisation and all of the countries of the Caribbean Region. Undoubtedly, the Caribbean Community has set its own standard of liberty and union with an unimpeachable tradition of social and moral standards.”

Adding that his accreditation was symbolic of “the beginning of a new and promissory stage” in relations between the two parties, the Salvadoran Plenipotentiary Representative said his government was keen on the resumption of talks between Caricom and SICA towards a free trade agreement.

Agriculture Farm and Rural Affairs, University of Guelph, IICA, and Grasshill Farms. This partnership would help Guyana set up a National Soil Laboratory that would offer support between the agriculture and extractive sectors. The establishing of a multi-sectoral grouping would allow for Guyana to influence the expertise of the partners and will facilitate access to laboratory funding through the Export Development Bank of Canada and private investors. (Canadian High Commission)

He told the Ambassador that he was anticipating the meeting of Caricom and SICA on the margins of the 69th UN General Assembly later this month, as an opportunity to deepen the relationship.

“Ambassador, going forward, the Community looks forward to working with your government on key issues which I strongly believe Caricom and El Salvador can successfully engage in order to find common ground and to facilitate advances within the international community. These include the definition of the Post 2015 Development Agenda, the

He noted that El Salvador was also interested in developing “a new and promissory agenda” with Caricom through cooperation arrangements which include joint action for the development of a common bilateral agenda for strengthening relations between the two parties.

On this basis, he said, his country was placing at the disposition of Caricom, its national catalogue of southsouth cooperation which comprises the experiences El Salvador has had in areas spawning social protection, education, environment and climate change, and security. Deepening foreign policy coordination has been identified as an enabling strategic priority in the Community Strategic Plan (2015-2019) which was approved July 2014.

Minister Ramsammy talks to Lloyd Wicks of Grasshill Farms (Canadian High Commission)

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy and delegation with Canadian officials in front Maryland farms (Canadian High Commission)

The Ebola outbreak in West Africa is exacting an acute human and economic toll that requires rapid action by the international community.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff has prepared a prospective institutional response and is recommending to the Fund’s Executive Board to extend additional financial support to Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone of about US$127 million.

“The Ebola outbreak is a severe human, social and economic crisis that requires a resolute response from the international community,” said IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde. “The governments of the three countries have requested additional IMF support to help cover the acute financing needs they are facing as a result of the outbreak. We are working very closely with them to help address these needs as quickly as possible.”

Beyond the human toll, the Ebola outbreak is having a significant eco-

Environmental experts say developing societies in the Caribbean are the most vulnerable economies in the Americas to climate change because the majority of the population reside in coastal areas. According to the Spanish international news agency (EFE), rising sea levels, coastal erosion and the spread of tropical diseases are among the signs of climate change. “Atlantic Ocean temperatures have been increasing in recent years, and the water’s pH imbalance has been harming marine

Executive Secretary, of the Economic Commission For Latin American and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Alicia Bárcena, will present the Indigenous Peoples in Latin America this week at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The document will be presented at a press briefing, where Barcena will also explain the latest contributions of the

nomic and social impact on the three countries.

Preliminary IMF staff estimates show that growth is likely to slow sharply in all three countries as key economic sectors such as agriculture, mining, and services are being disrupted. Food and labour supply disruptions are hitting the poor and vulnerable groups hardest. Significant financing gaps have emerged as export and tax revenue

have fallen, and governments try to meet additional needs to finance their healthcare systems and food and fuel imports.

Contingent on the IMF Executive Board’s approval, the proposed IMF financing will immediately be made available to the governments. It will help cover a sizeable share of the total financing gap of some US$300 million estimated over the next 6 to

species,” said Ernesto Diaz, director of the Coastal Zone Management Program at the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources, during a news conference organized by El Puente Latino Climate Action Network.

“We are losing our beaches and that not only affects tourism but also our people,” added Diaz, predicting more intense hurricanes. He urged Caribbean governments to maximize the protection of ecosystems and inhabitants. Diaz said it is understandable that the Caribbean calls for more international cooperation on

the issue and that he expects the region’s representatives to call for action once again at this week’s UN Climate Summit in New York.

“We are the first ones to experience climate change,” he said, noting that populations of coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to rising sea level and hurricanes. Cecilio Ortiz, associate professor in Public Administration from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, said governments must learn about the issue in order to prevent or lessen the impact of climate change on their territories,

regional organization to the debate on climate change. The document, entitled Guaranteeing indigenous people’s rights in Latin America: progress in the past decade and remaining challenges, is a contribution to the debates on the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples that will take place September 22-23 in New York.

The study contains updated figures on de -

Spirituality

Spirituality is being used very frequently these days. However, the thing that comes to mind is, what exactly does it mean, and most importantly, how does it relate to our daily life?

9 months by staff for the three countries. Additional and prompt balance of payments and budget support from the countries’ bilateral and multilateral development partners will be important to support macroeconomic stability through this challenging period. The IMF Executive Board will consider the proposed additional financing in early October.

according to EFE.

Meanwhile, in the leadup to UN’s Climate Summit, the United Nations on Saturday lit up its iconic Headquarters complex in New York with a spectacular 30-story architectural projection show aimed to inspire global citizens to take climate action. The Climate Summit aims to catalyze ambitious action on the ground to reduce emissions, strengthen climate resilience and mobilize political action toward a “meaningful, robust, universal, and legal climate agreement by 2015.” (CMC)

IMF commits US$127M to fight Ebola Caribbean among most vulnerable regions to climate change ECLAC

mographics and access to health care and education, among other indicators.

In addition, it analyzes progress and remaining challenges related to political participation and recognition of the collective rights of these peoples. At this briefing, the UN senior official will also explain the latest contributions of ECLAC to the global debate on the climate change.

There are people who like to brag to others that they are very spiritual, mainly because they want others to know that they are not the materialistic type, which is okay if we all understand what spirituality really means.

I am sure it means different things to different people. Generally speaking, people know of spirituality to be a form of attachment to religion, or matters of the spirit, rather than things of materialistic interest.

However, more recently, it is now becoming a means of reaching a much higher level of awareness using yoga and similar practices. For me, spirituality is a way to connect to God, each other, and ourselves.

Spirituality is important in our lives, because it helps us to function and have a balance in life. In other words, it is important for our mind, body and soul to be in harmony with each other.

We cannot focus only on the material things and neglect spirituality. It’s not actually difficult to be spiritual. One can experience being spiritual when listening to a beautiful song or reading a book.

Some may question, how can this be spiritual? However, it is spiritual in the sense when people are able to connect with the author, it touches their soul and connects them to the artist.

People can even experience spirituality when they walk through the parks and connect with nature. Spirituality can also be experienced when connecting with other people to reach a common goal.

A good example would be something like raising awareness for a good cause. When we are in tune with God, nature, and each other, it is a form of spirituality. This goes to show that there are so many ways that we can take the time to “connect” with our inner self. For example, we can take time to refresh our spirit by listening to relaxing music as mentioned.

Helping those in need is another thing we can do, because this way we automatically connect better with humanity. For example, volunteering in a local church, donating to the poor, etc are all things that can help.

Practising gratitude is a beautiful thing. There are lots of things in life to be grateful for. Even taking the time to acknowledge how fortunate we are for family and friends is a start.

Being aware of ourselves within our environment and enjoying nature’s natural beauty, like taking the time to enjoy the feel of rain falling on our skin and the wind blowing on our faces will put us in a fresh state of awareness.

Taking the time to express ourselves and engaging in artistic activities such as dancing and singing will put us in touch with our creative self, because we all need balance and linear aspects of ourselves to be in touch with our spirituality.

For questions, comment, and feedback, send them to mcnarine@rogers.com.

Narine Dat Sookram

ECLAC Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena

The Ebola virus is affecting multiple countries, including Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER

A spontaneous decision will lead to regret. Your resourcefulness will bring bigger and better opportunities your way. You will have the ability to efficiently add innovative final touches to incomplete projects.

You will have plenty of energy today. If you tackle the responsibilities that have been weighing you down, you will have more than enough time left over for some entertainment with friends.

Don’t go out of your way to impress others. Your personality, knowledge and abilities speak volumes about what you have to offer. Clear up outstanding debts or bills.

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LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Splurging on unnecessary items will take a toll on your bank account. You can make many attractive and practical changes to your living space if you are resourceful.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Neglecting legal or money matters will have unpleasant consequences. Take control before these issues become too hard to handle. Avoid lending or borrowing. Cutting corners will be easier than you anticipated.

You can improve your status among your peers by being assertive and self-assured. Be vocal about the contributions you can make, and highlight your abilities and insights.

Your hard work and discipline will bring promising results. Hasty decisions will be your downfall. Give yourself time to weigh the pros and cons before you make a choice.

Be considerate of the people you love and care about. Your compassion and empathy will be necessary if those around you are oversensitive or emotional. Listen to complaints, and offer solutions.

Revitalise your appearance. Updates to your current residence, in addition to personal enhancement, will give you a new lease on life and allow others to see firsthand what you have to offer.

Strive to be open and accepting. Fluctuating circumstances are a fact of life. How you react to changes in your routine will be the test of how flexible and adaptable you are. Make whatever changes you feel are necessary. You will likely face disapproval, but don’t be dissuaded from doing what you know is best for you.

PeanutS

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AQUARIUS

Bollers is new sprint champion

Royal Youth Movement

athlete Elton Bollers is the new sprint champion of Guyana, when the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) completed their 2014 championships at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary on Sunday.

Bollers ran away with both the men’s 100 and 200 metres, besting transitioning junior athlete Tevin Garraway who was second in both events.

Bollers clocked 10.9s and 22.0s to win both events while Garraway was second in 11.1s and 22.1s in the 100 and 200 metres respectfully.

Meanwhile the top stars from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) did not participate in the event because of orders handed down by their superiors.

Such a development hampered the productivity of the meet as a number of other athletes were able to produce wins.

With the absence of Alisha Fortune due to body building commitments, Natrena Hooper Running Brave Athletics starred, winning a triple sprint crown in the women’s 100, 200 and

400 metres respectively. Cleveland Thomas in the absence of, Cleveland Forde, easily ran away with the men’s 800 and 1500 metres as Kevin Bayley another leading middle distance athlete was also absent from the race.

In addition, while the meet was expected to be conducted under the new automatic time system, the AAG had to resort to hand times due to the inability to set the time system correctly.

Further the event was labeled as the track meet that will select Guyana’s top athletes for the upcoming South American Championships.

Serb Ana Ivanovic won her fourth WTA title of the year with a 6-2 7-6 (7-2) victory against Caroline Wozniacki in the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.

It is the first time the 26-year-old world number ten has won four events in the same year and she is expected to move up to fifth in the rankings.

The opening set between the two former world number ones saw third seed Ivanovic win 17 successive points.

US Open finalist Wozniacki rallied but was beaten in one hour 39 minutes.

"The key for me was coming forward to the net," said Ivanovic, seeded three for the tournament.

"Wozniacki is a great offensive player and gets a lot of balls back so it was important for me to come forward and play well at the net."

It was the 52nd match win of the year for Ivanovic, surpassing the 51 she recorded in 2007.

Having been broken three times in the first set, world number nine Wozniacki started building some momentum.

The Danish player, seeded two, broke serve for 3-1 in the second set and was up 30-15 in that game, just two points from a 4-1 lead.

Road World Championships: Team Sky fourth, BMC take gold

TGeraint Thomas fell off the pace, Team Sky were down to four men but were only narrowly beaten by Omega Pharma-Quick Step.

"The four guys did an amazing job," sports director Nicolas Portal said.

With Puccio and Thomas gone in the early stages, it was left to Dario Cataldo, Vasil Kiryienka, Kanstantsin Siutsou and Sir Bradley Wiggins to complete the course.

"Our plan was to ride hard from the start and we averaged 60kph during the first 11km," Portal added.

"That showed a huge statement of intent but the effort meant Salvatore was dropped after the first checkpoint and Geraint fell off the pace shortly before the second."

Joost Luiten hangs on to take Wales Open

Dutchman Joost Luiten clung on through a turbulent final round to win the Wales Open at Celtic Manor.

Bogeys on the opening two holes caused the 28-year-old to lose his twostroke advantage and, at one stage, he was in a fiveway tie for the lead.

However, a birdie on 15 put Luiten one ahead of the

field going down the last.

Despite missing the fairway, two putts secured a 71, leaving him 14 under and one ahead of England's Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry of Ireland.

"It was tough, it was hard work down the last," said Luiten, who claimed his fourth European Tour title after back-to-back topfive finishes.

Pan Pacific Open: Ana Ivanovic beats Caroline Wozniacki in final

Ivanovic could move up to world number five after

Caroline Wozniacki to lift the Pan Pacific Open title

But Ivanovic won five of the next eight games to push the set to a tie-break, which she played almost flawlessly, sealing the match with a powerfully struck forehand winner.

The win increases Ivanovic's chances of a place in the WTA Finals, with the top eight players qualifying for Singapore from 17-26 October, and improves her record against 24-year-old Wozniacki to 5-2.

Meanwhile in the WTA Korean Open, second seed Karolina Pliskova beat fifth seed Varvara Lepchenko in the final 6-3 6-7 (5-7) 6-2. Lepchenko had beaten top seed Agnieszka Radwanska in the quarter-finals. (BBCSport)

"I didn't get the start that I wanted. I knew it was going to be a tough day and I just tried to hang in there and a good par down the last was enough."

Luiten needed several minutes to find his ball in dense rough beside the final fairway but, when he finally reached the green of the par five in three, his first putt from distance was good enough to leave him a tap-in for the title.

Had he dropped a stroke, he would have entered a three-way play-off with Fleetwood, who picked up four birdies and an eagle on the final five holes for a 67, and Lowry, who birdied the last for a round of 70.

Behind that pair came a five-man group on 12 under, including Jamie Donaldson, playing his final round before joining up

with the Europe Ryder Cup team. The Welshman, eight under overnight, went round in 67, with bogeys on the second and 13th ultimately costing him the chance to challenge Luiten. Donaldson ended alongside Eddie Pepperall, Marc Warren, Edoardo Molinari and Nicolas Colsaerts.

Colsaerts also carded a 67 to set the early clubhouse target of 12 under before being overhauled by Fleetwood. The Belgian, a Ryder Cup winner in 2012, will be part of BBC Radio 5 live's commentary team next week at Gleneagles.

Denmark's Thomas Bjorn and England's Lee Westwood, also part of the European team, were three over and five over for the day respectively, ending well down the field.

(BBCSport)

Tevin Garraway

Ana

beating

Dutchman Joost Luiten survives a turbulent final round to win the Wales Open ahead of Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry

Team Sky miss out on a medal by two seconds in the team time trial at the Road World Championships as BMC Racing take gold

Knight Riders v Lahore Lions, CLT20, Group A, Hyderabad...

Spinners stretch Knight Riders' streak to 11

Kolkata Knight Riders' four-wicket victory over Lahore Lions followed the template that has largely been the ba-

sis of their 11-game winning run: bowl first to allow Sunil Narine and the other spinners to smother the opposition, before Robin Uthappa

and the rest of the top order click to set up the chase of a lightweight target.

This match was blighted by abysmal fielding. The number of catches put down, stumpings missed and regulation stops messed up was astonishing. Narine, though, turned in another world-class performance that underlined his reputation as the best in the Twenty20 business, and 19-year-old chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav added to the buzz about him with a stirring effort to stifle Lions.

Lions' best phase of the game was the opening Powerplay, when Ahmed Shehzad struck some big hits down the ground to push the score to 47 for 0. This despite Narine bowling a maiden in the fifth over. A stunning direct hit from Andre Russell broke the opening stand in the seventh over, by when the wicketkeeper Manvinder Bisla had already mucked up two straightforward stumpings.

The Knight Riders' spinners took charge in the middle overs, with Kuldeep showing solid control for a wrist-spinner, getting his stock ball to turn plenty and using the wrong 'un to confuse the batsmen.

Mohammad Hafeez spent much of his short innings trying to heave the ball to midwicket before he became Kuldeep's first victim, holing out for 9.

When Shehzad found Uthappa at long-off in the 13th over to finish on a chancy 59, Lions' top-heavy batting was in trouble, especially with three Narine overs to come. The trepidation of the lesser lights in the batting line-up was obvious when they faced Narine: Saad Nasim missed his first ball and edged his second to short cover, Umar Siddiq lasted one more before being done in by the quicker one, and Asif Raza was bowled first ball. Narine nearly had a hattrick, but Wahab Riaz had his boot back in the crease before Bisla could break the stumps.

Umar Akmal was still there, though, and he clobbered Piyush Chawla and Pat Cummins to lift Lions past 150.

Gautam Gambhir and Uthappa, aided by some comically inept fielding, put on a century stand to set Knight Riders on course for victory. They were coasting for a large part of the chase before a slew of wick-

Cobras v Hurricanes, CLT20, Group B, Hyderabad...

ets towards the end briefly made things tight, only for Suryakumar Yadav to fin-

SCOREBOARD

Lahore Lions innings (20 overs maximum)

Nasir Jamshed run out (Russell) 10

Ahmed Shehzad c Uthappa b Chawla 59

Mohammad Hafeez* c Russell b Kuldeep Yadav 9 Umar Akmal† c Gambhir b Cummins 40

Saad Nasim c Yadav b Narine 0 Umar Siddiq lbw b Narine 2

Asif Raza b Narine 0 Wahab Riaz not out 14

Extras (b 5, lb 5, w 7) 17

Total (7 wickets; 20 overs) 151 (7.55 runs per over)

Did not batMustafa Iqbal, Adnan Rasool, Aizaz Cheema Fall of wickets 1-50 (Nasir Jamshed, 6.4 ov), 2-75 (Mohammad Hafeez, 10.6 ov), 3-91 (Ahmed Shehzad, 12.4 ov), 4-98 (Saad Nasim, 13.5 ov), 5-103 (Umar Siddiq, 15.2 ov), 6-103 (Asif Raza, 15.3 ov), 7-151 (Umar Akmal, 19.6 ov) Bowling O M R W PJ Cummins 4 0 38 1

Blizzard onslaught stuns Cape Cobras

The romance of T20 cricket is that one ball can change the game. Cobras were reminded of it in gruesome fashion in the 18th over. Their lead bowler Vernon Philander had routed Hobart Hurricanes' final hope when he had Aiden Blizzard caught on the long-on boundary, and it did not augur well for the chase that a new batsman had to come in with an equation of 38 off 17 balls. Blizzard was walking off the field when he was asked to wait; the umpires wanted to double-check the legality of the ball. The replay gutted Cobras - Philander had overstepped.

Blizzard had reached his fifty off the previous delivery, and he feasted on the freehit - that monstrous six over square leg was part of a 24run over. A match that had slowly been tipping into the Cobras' hands was wrested away and Hurricanes hurtled to victory with one over to spare.

Philander was completely thrown. He dished out length balls and worse full tosses to be carted for two fours and two sixes in seven deliveries. Philander had caused confusion among the Hurricanes' bowlers when Cobras batted, and had been a vital cog in a seventh-wicket partnership

that razed 52 runs in four overs and inflated the target to 185. Memories of his 32 off 14 evaporated, however, as Blizzard reaped his luck to take 26 runs off eight balls to finish unbeaten on 78 off 48.

Both teams were pleased with the pitch at the start of the game. Hurricanes captain Tim Paine said it looked "terrific"; his Cobras counterpart Justin Ontong foresaw some turn and loaded his side with an extra spinner. Dane Piedt's impact was minimal though as he injured his right arm but the other change, Sybrand Engelbrecht, thrived. The slower he bowled, the more

difficult it got for Hurricanes. By the end of Engelbrecht's spell - 4-0-20-3 - the equation was 60 off 30 balls. Charl Langeveldt, who reversed his retirement for this tournament, compounded that with a terrific 17th over that yielded only six runs - one of which was a tight wide call.

Blizzard was saddled with a required rate that was inching to 15. He had used pure power to fuel his innings and the ploy hadn't been as effective when the bowlers opted to change their pace. His tally against spin was 29 off 27. But the situation empowered him to continue and Cobras helped him by feeding him pace and worse, at the exact length a batsman would like. His innings overshadowed another half-century at the top of the order. Ben Dunk had accumulated 41 of the 51run opening stand.

At that stage, the chase looked perfectly on course. Cobras' 62 runs in their Powerplay was the best in this CLT20. Hurricanes missed that by only three runs. Cobras edged ahead during a tight middle-overs period in the Hurricanes' innings - only 47 runs came between the ninth and the 15th and there were three wickets as well.

But in the end they were disconsolate and in disbelief. They were still without points despite a blitz from Richard Levi, who offset the early dismissal of Hashim Amla with

a typically muscular 42 off 30. The Hurricanes' bowlers took their time recognising the impact of changing their pace. They had tested the pitch with Xavier Doherty in the third over. In the fifth, he beat Levi's outside edge but the batsman hit back with two successive fours.

Eventually they caught on with Ben Laughlin showing

off different variations of his slower ball to pick up 2 for 31. Levi's dismissal in the 10th over helped, but just as the innings seemed to be meandering, Robin Peterson's unorthodoxy and Philander peppering the straight boundary revived them. However, Philander's luck ran out when it was time to bowl. (Cricinfo)

Cape Cobras innings (20 overs maximum)

RE Levi c Mennie b Laughlin 42

HM Amla b Hilfenhaus 8

OA Ramela b Bollinger 21

DJ Vilas† b Hilfenhaus 25

JL Ontong* b Mennie 10

SA Engelbrecht c †Paine b Laughlin 12

RJ Peterson not out 25

VD Philander not out 32

Extras (lb 1, w 8) 9

Total (6 wickets; 20 overs) 184

(9.20 runs per over)

Did not bat DL Piedt, A Mgijima, CK Langeveldt

Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Amla, 1.5 ov), 2-39 (Ramela, 3.5 ov), 3-87 (Levi, 9.1 ov), 4-106 (Ontong, 11.5 ov), 5-119 (Vilas, 13.4 ov), 6-132 (Engelbrecht, 15.6 ov)

Bowling O M R W

DE Bollinger 4 0 39 1

BW Hilfenhaus 4 0 49 2

XJ Doherty 4 0 29 0

JM Mennie 2 0 20 1 B Laughlin 4 0 31 2

Shoaib Malik 2 0 15 0

Hobart Hurricanes innings (target: 185 runs from 20 overs)

Dunk c Ontong b Engelbrecht 54 TD Paine*† b Langeveldt 7 AC Blizzard not out 78

Shoaib Malik c Philander b Engelbrecht 8 TR Birt c Ramela b Engelbrecht 7 JW Wells not out 17

Extras (lb 3, w 10, nb 2) 15

Total (4 wickets; 19 overs) 186 (9.78 runs per over)

Did not bat JM Mennie, BW Hilfenhaus, XJ Doherty, DE Bollinger, B Laughlin

Fall of wickets: 1-51 (Paine, 4.4 ov), 2-91 (Dunk, 10.2 ov), 3-109 (Shoaib Malik, 12.4 ov), 4-121 (Birt, 14.2 ov)

Piedt 1.5

Langeveldt

Sunil Narine bamboozled the Lahore Lions batsmen

Aiden Blizzard hammered 78 off 48 to steal a victory

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"I don't want to analyse Chelsea. What the other teams do, it is not my duty to analyse."

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Andre Schurrle put Chelsea ahead before Frank Lampard levelled for 10man City.

Pellegrini, 61, said: "It think we played 90 minutes against a small team trying to defend.

"I would not be happy to play that way. Ten players defended their own half, they scored a counter attack and they continued to defend until the end."

Pellegrini likened Chelsea's style to that of Stoke's, who beat the Premier League champions 1-0 at the Etihad in August."I think we played against exactly the same team we played against

"I am happy because our team played in one way, we continued playing with 11 players, trying to score, and with one player less trying not to have another counter attack and concede a goal," said Pellegrini.

"We continue with the same ambition, teams will find it hard to beat us. The team performance was very good."

Responding to Pellegrini's criticisms, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said: "Many times he says he doesn't speak about me or my team but he

Pellegrini said he knew the former England international, who scored 211 goals in 648 appearances for the London club, would score.

"I was sure that if Frank Lampard plays he will score, things like that happen in football," he said.

"He will be a very important player for us. From the beginning he has been involved 100% in every day.

"I think that maybe he was not happy to score against such an important team for him, but he is very professional." (BBCSport)

Lewis Hamilton not thinking about title after winning Singapore GP

Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton insisted the World Championship was not on his mind, despite taking the lead for the first time in four months.

The Briton moved three points ahead by winning the Singapore Grand Prix after team-mate Nico Rosberg retired.

"I'm not really thinking about it. I feel like I'm still hunting, still catching up," he said.

This is the third time this season Hamilton has had to close a lead of more than a victory's worth of points.

"I'm not sitting here thinking I'm relieved because all year I've had that gap and I've had to be catching it up and then it's gone again. I know what could happen," he added.

Hamilton admitted that to have such a large turnaround in one race was "a bonus - those extra points are a huge help".

He added: "I just feel relaxed at the moment. I came here to do a job and we managed to get through

the weekend without any issues on our side of the garage, which was a real blessing.

"I came here thinking 'Nico's going to be quick and consistent; if I can get at least those seven points [the difference between first and second place] and keep chipping away... but getting 25 has changed things a little bit.

"In my mind I'm still wanting to get those next seven next time out and that's the mindset I'm continuing with."

Singapore was the second consecutive race in which Hamilton has won from pole, but he rejected suggestions that the championship momentum was now with him.

"Maybe it's the start. But momentum is not something I generally think about because it can be snatched straight away," he said.

"Look at Nico, he has had good results and momentum from that but one DNF and it changes things. You don't know what's coming up.

"I'm happy that I'm back to being at my best, getting those poles, maximising those races.

"I want to make sure these next five races, if I don't do any more races in my whole life as good, these next five have to be the ones."

Rosberg stayed at the track until after the race hoping to learn something from watching Hamilton's telemetry information.

Nico Rosberg watches from pit wall after retiring from Singapore Grand prix The German said: "I'm split in two. On one side I'm pleased that, even though one car stopped, the team was able to win with the other car.

"It means a lot to me when the team can have something to cheer for. And for the constructors' it's important that Red Bull didn't catch up too many points today.

"On the other hand, I'm disappointed that I wasn't the one to finish because I wanted to have a shot at the win today." (BBCSport)

Frank Lampard was applauded by the fans of both Manchester City and Chelsea

Junior Hockey action heating up on second day of tournament

The fourth Annual Hikers Hockey Club Junior Indoor Tournament saw champions being crowned in two of the six categories on Saturday at the National Gymnasium.

The much anticipated under 13 category was made even more interesting with the inclusion of debutants Kingston Hockey. The Eve Leary based side, is the brain child of hockey enthusiast Trevor Wharton and was a welcomed addi -

tion to Saturday’s tournament.

In group X titleholders Marian academy proved their strength in depth by coming out on top the group despite the loss of a number of their talented players to the higher age groups.

They would prove too strong for group Y runners-up Saints in the semifinal, dominating the encounter 5-0. The other semifinal featured group Y winners Old Fort against group X runners-

up GCC, with Old Fort playing solid defense to edge the game 2-1.

Although the finals was filled with exciting play, both teams put up solid defensive displays and the match ended 0-0. In the penalty shootout Marian’s Makeda Harding was the only player to score giving her school the title for the second straight year.

In the round robin phase of the Global technology Inter Schools category Christ Church was

Heart of Oak targets new High School intakes

The Heart of Oak Masters Football Club together with the Guyana Teachers Union has planned to run off a developmental football programme for first formers (grade 7) in the New Amsterdam East Canje area.

The schools invited to participate are; New Amsterdam Multilateral, Vryman’s Ervin Secondary, Berbice High, Canje

Secondary, Tutorial Academy and Berbice Educational Institute. Each school will field a list of fifteen players.

Organiser of the programme Neil ‘Grizzly’ Humphrey said the objective is to introduce the game of football to the new high school students. “The main objective is to develop players’ technique.” He said. If an effort to promote

the game amongst schools in the new Amsterdam/ Canje area schools have benefited from shin pads.

“Each of these schools received twelve pairs of shin pads which were donated through the club by former National Basketball Player Sean Semple and Denzel Peters who has been supporting Heart of Oak over the years,” Humphrey added.

clicking on all cylinders, winning all but one of their matches, while at the other end of the table Queens College struggled without the presence of their national women’s team star Aliyah Gordon.

Christ Church’s momentum would carry over into the final where they prevailed against a confident St Stanislaus College team.

Saturday’s action also saw the training of several young umpires who refereed matches under

the supervision of FIH umpire Devin Hooper.

Meanwhile on Sunday defending champions GCC will be going after a repeat sweep of the iNet Communication under 16 categories, while the GCC girls and Hikers boys have already taken the lead in the preliminary rounds in defense of their respective Woodpecker Products Under 21 titles.

The tournament is being run by the junior players of the Hikers and Saints Hockey Clubs as

part of their junior development programs, where youngsters learn all the intricacies of pulling off a tournament of this magnitude.

In addition to playing in the tournament, junior players are responsible for performing the duties of judges and umpires for all the games in addition to organizing and staffing the food and drinks bars. The presentation ceremony will take place on Sunday evening at 18:00h.

Victoria Azarenka injured, out for season

Victoria Azarenka will miss the remainder of the season because of the foot injury that has blighted her year.

The two-time Australian Open champion has already missed five months in 2014 and slipped from second to 25th in the world rankings.

Azarenka, 25, reached the US Open quarter-finals earlier this month and had been scheduled to return to action at the Wuhan Open in China.

"It has been a very tough year for me," said the Belarusian.

"I have been trying my best to improve day in and day out by pushing and pushing, but that does not appear to be the best approach for me right now.

"I will use this time to work on making a full recovery and take care of my body to compete at my best next season.

"I always believe that everything happens for a reason, but it is up to you to make the best out of it, and that is exactly what I am go-

ing to do."

Azarenka and the recently retired Li Na are the only top20 players absent in Wuhan, where Venus Williams suffered a narrow defeat by France's Caroline Garcia in the first round on Sunday. Williams, 34, led 5-2 in the final set but Garcia responded to come through 6-4 4-6 7-6 (8-6).

British number one Heather Watson takes on Italian 11th seed Sara Errani in her opening match on Monday. (BBCSport)

Teams participating in the tournament

Teachers and coaches representing the six schools display the shin pads they received

Victoria Azarenka to miss rest of 2014 season through injury

GSSF’s Inaugural Steel Challenge Match...

Ryan Mckinnon smokes his way to overall 1st place

This morning, the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation (GSSF) hosted their Inaugural Steel Challenge Tier 1 Match at the GDF Timehri Range.

The GSSF as an affiliate of the Steel Challenge Shooting Association (SCSA) is seeking to promote this completely new type of sport shooting to all local competitive pistol shooters by organising such matches on a regular basis.

In her opening remarks

GSSF President Vidushi Persaud paid tribute to the members who came out to take part in the event and praised the outstanding effort put in by the match committee to ensure that everything was well organised for this Inaugural Match.

She noted that the success of the events of sporting organisations depends primarily on commitment and co-operation: there is no substitute for good relations and teamwork.

She then introduced the designated match officials and asked the GSSF Vice President Michael Blake to give his remarks. Blake noted that strict safety rules will be observed and wished all the shooters best of luck and to put firearm safety first while having fun. Steel Challenge is considered to be one of the fastest shooting competitions in the world.

The competition today consisted of two stages where competitors were

required to shoot five different steel targets set out at various angles and distances, one of which is designated as a “stop plate.” Registering a hit on the plate stops the time. The total time it takes to hit all five plates is used for the score. Misses and penalties add 3 seconds to the time for each. Competitors are scored using an electronic timing device which records the time that every shot is fired.

The shooter with lowest

surujnarine scores ton in heated draw

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Berbice kept their composure through a barrage of monotonous sledging from Demerara to earn a hard fought draw on the final day on Sunday in round one of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Senior InterCounty 4-day game at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda.

Opener Kandasammy Surujnarine smashed a brilliant unbeaten century while Royston Crandon cracked a flamboyant 88 to helped Berbice to 304-5 in 89 overs when play was suspended, chasing a victory target of 411. While, bad judgment from Demerara not to enforce the followon the penultimate day may have work against them, the right-hander Surujnarine led the resistance for the entire day’s play, hitting 132 not out from 273 balls faced in 358 minutes of batting, decorated with 12 fours and two sixes He shared in two important partnerships and resisted a Demerara attack which sensed dominance.

Resuming at 33-2, still in search of 378 runs with eight wickets remaining, Kandasammy Surujnarine and night watchman Keon Joseph remained unconquered at the crease for 75 minutes into the day’s play to forged a healthy 64-run partnership for the third wicket to have their side slither out of a potentially precarious situation. The resistance, however, was cut short at 89, when Joseph was removed by Paul Wintz for a 59-ball 27. The righthander Surujnarine continued to bat with skill and brought up his half-century off 73 balls, decorated with seven fours and two sixes. Royston Crandon joined Surujnarine and took Berbice safely to the interval at 128, with Surujnarine on 60 and Crandon on 13.

Prematurely

However, the session ended on a very sour note, amid sledging from Demerara fielders, especially Shemroy Barrington and Trevon Griffith. In fact, Barrington waited near the stumps when Royston Crandon came into bat and gave him a 'warm reception'

with some mindless sledging. The sledging resulted in Crandon and Barrington becoming involved in a finger-wagging exchange with the two umpires hardly being able to control the proceedings. The situation further escalate with Crandon physically abusing Barrington; this all felt a little unnecessary, resulted in the session ended prematurely. After lunch the pair frustrated Demerara even more. They defended resolutely and seldom tried any agricultural slogs. But when the bad ball presented itself, it was usually put away.

Unveiling some of the more belligerent strokes in his repertoire, Crandon, the former West Indies ODI player reached his half-century with a straight-drive for two down the ground which he soon followed by a flurry of boundaries before rain stopped play . Upon resumption Barrington dropped Crandon at slip before another stoppage due to rain. After stranded on 192 balls on 99, the 21 year-old drove leg-spinner Raj Nannan through the covers to bring up his cen-

time wins. Shooting was done from a stationary position for the two stages. The shooter would assume his/ her position in the shooting box, upon the beep of the timer, draw their firearm and shoot at the targets, timer stops when the shooter hits what is designated to be the stop plate.

The competitor’s best four scores out of five strings of fire on each stage will then be added together for collective score. The lowest total time/score for all stages wins the overall match.

Stage 1 Accelerator:

1st Ryan McKinnon - 25.12

2nd David Dharry - 36.27

3rd Ray Beharry - 38.44

Stage 2 Smoke and Hope:

1st Ryan McKinnon - 14.92

2nd David Dharry - 19.90

3rd Sadiq Rahat - 21.83

Overall Winners

1st Ryan McKinnon - 40.04

2nd David Dharry - 56.17

3rd Ray Beharry - 60.63

In delivering the Vote of Thanks, Vidushi Persaud conveyed thanks to Managing Director of Doc.com, Pravesh Harry, Messrs. Ken and Kevin Jaikaran of Ken’s Mufflers, the Chief of Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Mark Phillips, the National Sports Commission, Neil Kumar, sport Director and the Sport Ministry for their support. She went on to convey thanks to the Match Officials for today’s hard work in ensuring the staging of a smooth and efficient Match and to the Range Officers that ensured the overall safety of all. She also thanked the competitors for their participation. Acknowledgment was given to the SCSA Match Committee –thanks to Roul Bhudu, Pravesh Harry, Michael Blake and lastly but by no means least, the hardworking and tireless Ryan McKinnon who on a personal note, she noted was her pillar of strength and one of the main reasons she was standing there today as they were all about to embark on an exciting journey with GSSF to take sport shooting in Guyana to a whole new level. Thanks to the media houses for the support and coverage. Competitors and spectators at the end of the Match all declared it was a lot of fun and that the instant audio feedback of a miss or hit from a round connecting with the steel plate was certainly what appealed to them. Needless to say, a lot of extra rounds were needed and as competitors relentlessly strove to secure the ‘ping’.

tury off 195 balls. Crandon, on the other hand was put down twice on 80 and 82 by substitute fielder Randy Knights and Paul Wintz off consecutive deliveries off Zaheer Mohamed. However, Mohamed removed Crandon the very next ball, caught by Vishal Singh inside the 30 yard circle, an innings inclusive of eight fours and three sixes. Shortly after, Jonathan Foo (9) was back in the pavilion. As the match meandered to its inevitable conclusion, the two captains’ agreed to call off the game after four overs bowled in the final hour of play. Anthony Bramble was left unbeaten on 14.

All-rounder Zaheer Mohamed was the best of the bowlers with 2-58, while Chris Barnwell (169) and Paul Wintz (1-40) capped off a hard-working bowling performance. The second round will begin on September 24 when Essequibo take on Berbice at DCC, and the GCB Development X1 go up against Demerara at the Everest Cricket Club ground.

Anthony wins Victor Macedo Memorial cycling

Rising star Michael Anthony continued his climb up the ladder with another first place finish, this time in the 12th annual Victor Macedo Memorial Road Race on Sunday.

Bubbling with confidence following his runnerup finish in the Bigi- Bergi 4-stage race in neighbouring Suriname, the youngsters clocked three hours,

14 minutes, 19 seconds to win the 80-mile race, which started in Georgetown, proceeded to Linden and returned to Homestretch Avenue in the city for the finish.

Anthony prevailed in a sprint finish, leaving the consistent and ever-proving Hamzah Eastman of Team Coco's to settle for second and Paul DeNobrega of Team Alanis third. The experienced Robin Persaud along with Alonzo Ambrose, Kravitz Jeffrey, Jamal John and Team United's Albert Philander completed the top eight paying positions. With the exception of Persaud and Philander, the event was dominated by young riders 20 years old or younger. Anthony, by virtue of winning the overall title, was also adjudged the leading junior, while Raphael Leung and Ian Jackson won the Juveniles and Veterans races respectively. Keon Thomas was the leading Mountain Bike rider.

In photo (front row), prize winners from (left to right), Sadiq Rahat, David Dharry, Ryan McKinnon and Ryan Beharry surrounded by competitors

Michael Anthony

Surujnarine scores

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Berbice hold their composure together from a barrage of monotonous sledging from Demerara to earn a hard fought draw on the final day on Sunday in round one of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Senior Inter-County Four-day game at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda. Opener Kandasammy Surujnarine smashed a brilliant unbeaten century while Royston Crandon cracked a flamboyant 88 to helped Berbice to 304-5 in 89 overs when play was suspended, chasing a victory target of 411.

sprint champion

Opener Kandasammy Surujnarine acknowledges the applause on reaching his century

Elton Bollers