Caribbean Times International

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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ISSUE NO. 89

CANADA EDITION

CN $1.00

WEEK ENDING February 20, 2014

CCJ concludes historic sitting in Guyana See story on Page 7

Jamaica passes anti-gang bill T Jamaica’s Security Minister Peter Bunting

TT’s AG apologises over statements made against opposition legislator

he political divide in Jamaica’s Gordon House Tuesday coalesced as parliamentarians signalled their unanimous support for The Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) Act 2014 (anti-gang bill), which the government has crafted to dismantle criminal organisations.

Members of the House of Representatives passed the far-reaching piece of legislation with 22 amendments af-

ter a spirited debate.

In an impassioned plea to his colleagues and the country to rally behind the tough new statute, Attorney General Patrick Atkinson declared: "This society is tired of gangsters…It is not just any informal group of young persons; it is this criminal organisation."

He said the disruption and suppression of criminal organisations is fundamental to solving the country's violence problem. "If we do not

do it, we are lost as a people," he added.

The attorney general made it clear that the proposed law would not exist in isolation as it was subject to the supremacy of the Constitution and the supervision of the court.

Delroy Chuck, former justice minister, in his contribution to the debate, challenged his parliamentary colleagues to dispense with political capital in order to dismantle criminal gangs. (see full story on page 2)

First Rupununi music festival attracts worldwide performers including Canadian Page 21

Page 12

TT’s Attorney General Anand Ramlogan, right, and Minister of Justice Emmanuel George look over a document during the Senate sitting Tuesday. (Maryann Auguste/TT Guardian photo)

Roll the drum: Guyana’s acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali trying his hand at drumming during the first ever Rupununi Music and Arts Festival, which concluded Sunday at the Rock View Lodge in the Annai community of Region Nine. Local artistes were joined by a number of international performers from Canada, the UK, U.S., Ukraine and Czech Republic.

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NEWS

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Cops raid cops in Trinidad

TT’s police finds ganja, cocaine, ammo in ceiling at Fyzabad station

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n a case of police raiding police in Trinidad, senior South Western Division officers on Monday afternoon executed a search warrant at the Fyzabad Police Station where during a search, they discovered a quantity of marijuana, cocaine and several rounds of ammunition of various calibre, hidden in the ceiling above the male bathroom and inside a filing cabinet in the dormitory.

Discovery of the contraband items at the police station on Monday sent shock waves throughout the length and breadth of the Police Service in TT. According to reports, Insp Anderson Parriman, head of the Fyzabad Police Station,

acting on information, stunned colleagues at the station when he ordered a lockdown of the building and a thorough search to be carried out of the male dormitory and male bathroom. The search began at about 3 pm.

Insp Parriman, assisted by several senior officers and sniffer dogs, first went to the male dormitory and searched a filing cabinet where they found marijuana and cocaine packaged in sealed packets. The marijuana weighed 560 grammes while the cocaine weighed 36 grammes.

Officers then went to the bathroom and removed ceiling tiles where they found 130 rounds of ammunition of varying

The Fyzabad Police Station in Trinidad, which was raided on Monday. (TT Newsday photo)

calibre.

TT’s acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams Tuesday confirmed the raid.

“There have been certain discoveries made by the Inspector in charge

of that police station and he is to submit an urgent report to me. I will be assigning officers from the Professional Standards Bureau to do a priority investigation into this matter. Anything which points to improper con-

duct by police officers will be of grave concern to me and this matter will be urgently addressed,” Williams said.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Donald Denoon said Tuesday “an investi-

gation is ongoing into the matter and I am awaiting a thorough report from Insp Parriman before the investigation can go any further.”

He revealed that the items seized are to be packaged with special markings, which will then be sent to the Forensic Science Centre, St James, for certain tests to be carried out.

The results of these tests will form part of the final report.

Denoon said based on what is contained in the report, a decision will then be taken on the next move with respect to finding out who was responsible for placing the items in these hiding spots. (Excerpted from TT Newsday)

Jamaica passes anti-gang bill Guyana’s airport lowers terror threat level T he political divide in Jamaica’s Gordon House Tuesday coalesced as parliamentarians signalled their unanimous support for The Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) Act 2014 (anti-gang bill), which the government has crafted to dismantle criminal organisations.

Members of the House of Representatives passed the far-reaching piece of legislation with 22 amendments after a spirited debate.

In an impassioned plea to his colleagues and the country to rally behind the tough new statute, Attorney General Patrick Atkinson declared: "This society is tired of gangsters…It is not just any informal group of young persons; it is this criminal organisation."

He said the disruption and suppression of criminal organisations is fundamental to solving the country's violence problem. "If we do not do it, we are lost as a people," he added.

The attorney general made it clear that the proposed law would not exist in isolation as it was subject to the supremacy of the Constitution and the supervision of the court.

Delroy Chuck, former justice minister, in his contribution to the debate, challenged his parliamentary colleagues to dispense with political capital in order to dismantle criminal gangs.

"In this Parliament, some of us, all of us, will have to be prepared to give up some politi-

cal capital to dismantle some of these garrisons.

I think that we are never going to fully break up the gangs until we agree, between us, both sides and all politicians, that we must free the minds of our members in our communities so that they respect how others exercise their vote."

He warned against the "fostering" of corner crews, noting that these are the same persons who "come back after the election to demand of us, and it is very difficult for us to say, 'Go about your business'".

Minister Peter Bunting, who piloted the legislation, to tackle the importation of drugs and guns, which, he said, helped to fuel gang activities in the country.

Both McKenzie and Dr Horace Chang want the administration to create greater opportunities for young people and to increase social programmes in the inner city.

Chang also urged the government to quickly complete the justice reform programme.

"We have to find a way to ensure that justice can

- Caribbean Airlines says all flights successful

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Formerly Jamaica’s most wanted, Joel Andem, being escorted by a policeman before his appearance at the Gun Court in downtown Kingston on June 17, 2004. (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

While Chuck addressed his colleagues, some disagreed, saying, "Speak for yourself."

Chuck noted that even though the criminal gangs were not created by politicians, they thrived in political garrisons.

He urged the security forces not to go net-fishing when implementing this law, but to use intelligence to target criminal organisations.

Create greater opportunities for youth

West Kingston Member of Parliament Desmond McKenzie urged National Security

be attainable. It must not be perceived now, as it is in the inner city, that you have to have big money to find justice. We have to change that. If we do not change that, we will be coming here in three years' time to look at how we can toughen the law," he said.

In closing the debate, Bunting addressed detractors of the anti-gang law, saying that many changes had been made since the bill was first promulgated.

"This bill is not a panacea, but it is a significant step forward."

(Jamaica Gleaner)

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Guyana

he threat level at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in Guyana has lowered, according to the entity’s Public Relations Officer Anneka Edwards.

The CJIA in a release on Monday evening explained that despite the threat level being lowered, stringent security measures still remain in place to ensure the safety of passengers.

Last week, a call was received at the Barbados office of Caribbean Airlines (CAL) where the threat was delivered against a specific Caribbean Airlines flight scheduled for departure from Guyana on February 10.

CAL Country Manager Carl Stewart said Tuesday all flights that were scheduled for departure from the CJIA, after the threat was received, have been successful, with no re-

port of any incidents.

The Barbados security forces are currently piloting the investigations into the threats CAL received, the airline’s Corporate Communications Manager Clint William stated last Friday.

Williams indicated he was optimistic that the person or persons responsible for the threats will be brought to justice.

Once the findings are known, the media will be advised accordingly, Williams indicated, but reiterated that additional security measures are still in place.

The U.S. embassy in Guyana in an advisory had warned all American citizens not to travel on CAL flights from Guyana to the U.S. on Monday, February 10, citing an unconfirmed security threat.

“Out of an abundance of caution”, the embassy advised all U.S. citi-

zens in Guyana travelling on CAL to the U.S. from Monday, February 10 through Wednesday, February 12, 2014, to make alternate travel arrangements.

It was reported that the call originated out of Barbados and while the airline was not sure if it was a hoax or a ploy, it took precautionary measures in order to keep its passengers safe.

The local authorities also implemented measures to ensure passengers’ safety, by placing the CJIA under heightened security alert for several days.

Investigations were subsequently launched into the incident. The investigation involved officials from Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana, and U.S. With respect to passengers travelling out of Guyana, the response has been overwhelming, despite the negative publicity. (Guyana Times)

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EDITORIAL

Venezuelans living and working in Barbados took to the street Monday in a peaceful protest to show solidarity with their countrymen back home, who are demonstrating against “a lack of” peace, security and democracy.

A group of about 30 placard-bearing persons picketed outside the Venezuelan Embassy in Hastings, Christ Church, for more than an hour, calling on their government to restore the country to democracy.

Private and public sector A new stakeholders outline plans multilateralism to boost Guyana’s tourism

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n a very pointed lecture focusing on the challenges of the world’s economy and what are possible solutions to addressing these challenges, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde was quoted as saying that responding to current and future economic trends requires a renewed commitment to international cooperation. She referred to this concept as “a new multilateralism”.

Lagarde was at the time delivering the 2014 Dimbleby Lecture in London where she pointed to “two broad currents” that would dominate the coming decades. These are increasing tensions in global interconnections and increasing tensions in economic sustainability.

To address these emerging global tensions, she proposed a solution that builds on the past and is fit for the future–that is, a strengthened framework for international cooperation. In short, a new multilateralism for the 21st century.

The major elements of this reinvigorated multilateralism would include a renewed commitment to economic openness and to the mutual benefits of trade and foreign investment; managing an increasingly complex international monetary system; and building a global financial sector for the post-crisis era that serves the productive economy rather than its own purposes.

Lagarde noted that this new multilateralism would demand a stronger sense of global responsibility if major issues such as climate change and inequality are to be tackled effectively. She noted that there are already specific, working, forms of cooperation at hand, citing the United Nations (UN), the World Bank, the World Trade Organisation and the IMF. These institutions might be termed concrete, or “hard” forms of global governance.

There are also a number of “soft” instruments that include such groupings as the G20, as well as networks of non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The IMF head said that these “hard” and “soft” forms of cooperation can complement each other. In her view, the new multilateralism must be made more inclusive–encompassing not only the emerging powers across the globe, but also the expanding networks and coalitions that are now deeply embedded in the global economy.

The new multilateralism must have the capacity to listen and respond to these new voices.

She suggested that there is a need to get beyond the financial crisis, which began six years ago and is not yet over. She reasoned that this requires a sustained and coordinated effort to deal with problems that still linger – a legacy of high private and public debt, weak banking systems, and structural impediments to competitiveness and growth, which have left us with unacceptably high levels of unemployment.

Lagarde set the current crisis in the context of major long-term challenges facing the world in the coming decades. These include demographics, which is both a challenge of aging populations in the advanced economies, and the “youth bulge” in many emerging and developing countries. Almost three billion people–half the global population–are under 25. A great deal depends on generating enough growth and jobs to satisfy the aspirations of this rising generation.

Environmental degradation, as more people with more prosperity stretch natural resources to the limit. Phasing out energy subsidies that mostly benefit the relatively affluent and not the poor must be part of the solution. Reducing these subsidies and properly taxing energy use can be “a win-win prospect for people and for the planet”.

And income inequality, as skewed income distribution harms the pace and sustainability of growth over the longer term. Fiscal systems can help to reduce inequality through careful design of tax and spending policies.

Part of the solution also lies in ensuring greater equality and empowerment for women. She said enabling women to participate on an equal footing with men–can be a global economic game-changer.

Lagarde said that the risk is of a world that is more integrated– economically, financially, and technologically–but more fragmented in terms of power, influence, and decision-making. She warned that this can lead to more indecision, impasse, and insecurity, which requires new solutions; chief of them being strengthened cooperation among key players.

It is hoped that the post-2015 development agenda currently being finalised by the UN and other development partners will take into consideration these critical issues raised by Lagarde.

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uyana’s acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali strongly believes that the tourism sector has the capacity to become the largest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as becoming the largest source of employment in Guyana.

Speaking at the 11th meeting of the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) held at the Office of the President last Thursday, the minister said tourism crosscuts every other sector and all Guyanese need to embrace it as a source of national pride and patriotism.

He added that the government fully supports the sector and work will begin shortly on a state-of-the-art, internationally accredited Hospitality Institute at the University of Guyana, where individuals from across the world can access high quality training in order to launch careers in the service and hospitality sectors.

Package deals

He also challenged the private sector to offer package deals and all-inclusive type events which would simultaneously benefit the local hotel, airline and entertainment sectors.

The meeting, the first for the year, was addressed by both government and private sector officials.

Finance Ministry, Project Cycle Management Division head Tarachand Balgobin; Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) Director, Professor Suresh Narine; and University of Guyana (UG) Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi made presentations on behalf of the government. They spoke on infrastructure, human resources and energy respectively.

Presenting on behalf of the private sector were Private Sector Commission (PSC) members Ramesh Dookoo, who spoke on non-Caribbean trade; Michael Correia, who spoke on aviation; and Captain Gerry Gouveia, who touched on tour-

ism.

Gouveia highlighted several areas that priority should be given to including marketing, accessibility, nation branding, product development, pricing and safety and security.

His private sector colleague Dookhoo said the small size of Guyana’s domestic economy and the importance of trade as a major source of economic growth and employment make trade a critical policy area.

Dookhoo outlined some of the challenges in the sector, including weak public-private dialogue on international trade negotiations, significant non-tariff barriers from trade partners, poor infrastructure, outdated import/export procedures and weak institutional structures.

Among the recommendations highlighted were the strengthening of trade agreements, introduction of the single window system, a certification laboratory for sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, improved monitoring of ports for illegal drugs, investments in infrastructure, particularly the road to Lethem and the deep water harbour, re-engineering of Go-Invest and challenging consulates and embassies/high commissions overseas to identify opportunities for trade.

Aviation policy

Correia recommended the drafting of a national aviation policy which should address inter alia airspace, the regulatory framework, market access for foreign carriers, efficient and user-friendly airports, international safety standards and regulations governing fuel and lubricants and systems for crisis and disaster management, including search and rescue.

Professor Opadeyi highlighted some of the challenges to human resources development, including the low level of adult literacy and numeracy, inadequate levels of performance in STEM subjects (science, technology, English language and mathematics),

undertrained teachers and trainers and low Internet and information technology (IT) penetration due to high costs.

He outlined some of the proposed initiatives which included establishment of a National Education Planning Secretariat, support for online and distance education programmes, a strategic IT penetration programme, resuscitation of the National Science Council, increasing the minimum qualification for a high school teacher to be a first degree and inclusion of more foreign languages and exchange programmes in schools, particularly in Spanish and Portuguese.

He added that the University of Guyana (UG) plans to launch four online degree programmes by March 2014 so that prospective students do not have to physically attend the university.

Professor Narine noted that all of the issues related to energy are well documented in the public domain. These included high costs for energy and the need to develop alternative sources of power generation.

Taskforce

Balgobin, the other government representative, outlined urgent short-term actions (within two years) and longterm actions (10 years).

The key short-term actions included upgrading of the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, the Bartica/Issano Road, the East Bank Essequibo Road and the Parika Backdam Road, which is to benefit from a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) grant.

The longer-term actions include the Kurupukari/Mora Road, paving of the Linden/ Lethem Road, developing an alternative road between the East Coast and West Coast of Demerara (WCD), reconstruction of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, dredging of the Demerara River, establishment of a container terminal on the WCD and a deep water harbour.

5 Sandals Foundation reaffirms partnership with SickKids-Caribbean initiative T News

week ending February 20, 2014

he Sandals Foundation has recommitted to its partnership with the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) by contributing Cdn$200,000 to the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative (SCI).

This contribution will help in the renovation of a telemedicine facility at Victoria Hospital in St. Lucia, which will be used for real time interactive conferences and medical consultation regarding patient files. Already as part of the SCI, telemedicine rooms have been opened in The Bahamas and Barbados.

Over the next six months, three more will open in Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Lucia. The aim is for medical professionals in the Caribbean to connect with SickKids oncologists and hematologists in Canada to collaborate on files and treatment options.

The SickKidsCaribbean Initiative–of which the president of the Sandals Foundation, Adam Stewart, was named Ambassador alongside Paul LeeChin–is a key focus for the SickKids Centre for Global Child Health. The objective is to improve outcomes for children affected by cancers and serious blood disorders in the Caribbean.

Caribbean Initiative is a great example of colloboration on so many levels and showcases donors like Sandals Foundation’s commitment to childrens’ health,” said Ted Garrard, President

President of the Sandals Foundation Adam Stewart. (Jamaica Observer file photo)

President and CEO of SickKids Foundation Ted Garrard.

(SickKids photo)

“We are pleased to continue supporting this very important initiative, which will save the lives of many children living in the Caribbean,” Stewart said.

Indies; a two-year fellowship at SickKids for Dr. Sharon McLean of the Bustamante Hospital for Children in the Division of Haematology/ Oncology; observational training in flow cytometry and cytogenetics for seven laboratory staff from the Caribbean; the opening of two telemedicine facilites in The Bahamas and Barbados; and formal monthly patient case consultations via telemedicine rounds.

In 2013, SickKids announced its commitment to raising Cdn$8 million over five years in support of the Initiative, which currently operates in Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia, The Bahamas and Jamaica. To date, Cdn$6.8 million has been raised towards that goal from donors in the Caribbean and Canada.

“The SickKids-

Community development

The SCI is helping to build sustainable healthcare capacity by training health professionals; providing consultation and diagnostic expertise; and developing and expanding access to treatment and supportive care.

Over the next four years, the Initiative will see to the construction of telemedicine facilities; the development of a nursing training curriculum and the establishment of patient management tracking tools among other goals.

Within the past year, the SCI has seen to the training of Dr. Michelle Reece-Mills from the University Hospital, University of the West

Quake shakes Caribbean islands a rumbling and hearing the effects of the tremor.

(TT Newsday)

Barbadian disaster response agencies met Tuesday with members of the press to provide an update on an earthquake, magnitude 6.7, felt in Barbados and throughout the Eastern Caribbean. (Barbados Advocate photo)

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n early morning earthquake Tuesday shook several Caribbean islands including Trinidad.

According to UWI’s Seismic Research Unit in St Augustine, the quake hit at 5.27 am and occurred in the sea east of Martinique and north east of Barbados.

The tremor was located at 14.78 degrees north and 59.03 degrees west with a magnitude was 6.5 on the richter scale and a focal depth of 40 km. The quake was felt as far north as Dominica

and also in St Vincent, St Lucia, Grenada, Barbados, Trinidad and as far south as Guyana.

The Seismic Centre noted that these are preliminary results and “may vary slightly when additional data is processed”.

There was no damage or injuries reported in Martinique. According to reports from the Barbados’ Emergency Management Department, the quake was felt by thousands, but did not last very long.

A number of people in North Western Guyana Tuesday reported feeling

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and CEO of SickKids Foundation. “We are so thankful of such generous contributions and we are pleased to say that this programme will immediately improve the outlook and outcome for children living in all of

the countries.”

The Sandals Foundation, upon the launch of the SickKidsCaribbean Initiative in February 2013, committed Cdn$50,000 to the endeavour.

(Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

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CCJ concludes historic sitting in Guyana T

he Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) wrapped up its historic three-day sitting in Guyana on Wednesday after hearing several cases that were on the schedule.

The panel of judges on the CCJ itinerant sitting on Tuesday heard two cases, bringing an end to all the matters scheduled for hearing in Guyana. Tuesday’s hearing was before a packed room at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

Students from the St Joseph High School, University of Guyana law students and members of the legal fraternity were among those who sat in the session.

The matters heard on day two were Amin Lumber Enterprise versus the Guyana Oil Company and Daniel Ramlagan substituted by Ramkumarie Ramlagan

party’s case.

Video conference

The panel of CCJ judges led by its president, Sir Charles Michael Dennis Byron, heads to their inaugural hearing in Guyana on Monday

versus Narine Singh substituted by Saiojini Singh.

However, before the commencement of these two matters, the CCJ panel delivered a ruling on a matter which engaged its attention on Monday. Attorneys Sanjeev Datadin and Charles Ramson Jr filed an application for special leave on behalf of their clients Paul Lashley and John Campayne, who

were convicted to four years each on a joint break and enter and larceny charge.

The court heard submissions on Monday from the applicants’ side and from the respondent, who was represented by Attorney Sonia Joseph.

On Tuesday morning, the panel granted special leave to the applicants for their appeal against their sentencing to be heard. CCJ President,

Justice Dennis Byron, fixed the commencement of the appeal proceedings for April 10 in Trinidad and Tobago.

He informed the parties that they will have to file their written submissions on or before March 18, while adding that on the day of the hearing, each party will be allotted 45 minutes to present oral submissions and an additional 10 minutes for response to the other

The attorneys for the applicants indicated to the court that they will be present for the hearing; however, Attorney Joseph said she prefers a video conference.

After several minutes of back and forth inquiries, Justice Byron granted the attorney leave to attend the sitting via video conference.

Meanwhile, the first matter of Amin Lumber Enterprise versus the Guyana Oil Company engaged the court’s attention for further amplification on their submissions.

Attorney Juman Yassin had represented the appellant, Amin Lumber Enterprise, while Attorney Ralph Ramkarran represented the respondent.

Guyoil had sued Amin Lumber Enterprise for the sum of Gy$101 million and the latter was

successful at the High Court; however, the fuel company subsequently appealed the matter at the Court of Appeal and won. This decision was then appealed by Amin Lumber Enterprise at the CCJ. The other case heard by the panel was an application for special leave in a land dispute matter.

Attorneys Roopnarine Satrohan and CV Satrohan presented arguments on behalf of the applicant on why the appeal should be heard.

Submissions for the respondents were presented by Attorney Khemraj Ramjattan in association with attorneys Neil Parsram and Juman Yassin.

The CCJ continued its third and final sitting in Guyana Wednesday, with a special session in honour of outgoing CCJ judge, Justice Desiree Bernard.

(Excerpted from Guyana Times)

TravelSpan looks to hire Guyanese flight attendants

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ravelSpan Airline on Monday interviewed 54 Guyanese to fill the post of flight attendant, but only 30 will be selected following intense training both in Guyana and in the United States.

The attendants are to service the airline’s Georgetown to New York route. The interviews were conducted at the Princess International Hotel.

According to TravelSpan Director Rob Binns, when the applicants are shortlisted, they will commence training in April for a period of three weeks

and then proceed to Las Vegas, Nevada for another training session.

Asked what credentials the company is looking for, Binns related that applicants must be honest, very enthusiastic, University of Guyana graduates, and willing to learn.

He elaborated that the company made the decision to replace its American flight attendants with Guyanese flight attendants, because most of its passengers are Guyanese visiting their friends and family and it would be fitting to have Guyanese flight attendants. By so

A young woman being interviewed by TravelSpan Director Rob Binns

doing, the passengers will have individuals who understand them and provide them with excellent customer service.

Meanwhile, Binns also stated that the air-

Canada-Guyana Medical Partnerships Coalition hosts fundraiser in Georgetown

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he GuyanaCanada Medical Partnerships Coalition on Wednesday evening hosted a reception and fundraising activity at the residence of Canadian High Commissioner in Georgetown, Guyana.

The Coalition is an informal grouping of the numerous GuyaneseCanadian medical outreach groups working to address and indentify healthcare needs in Guyana.

Recently established by the Canadian High Commission with support from Guyana’s Health Ministry, the Coalition is intended to promote a culture of working together to explore and benefit from

synergies among the different medical programmes to ensure coordination and force maximisation of resources.

One of the key features of the Coalition is an annual fundraiser to support the work of one of the partners in the group.

This year, funds accumulated through the fundraiser and silent auction hosted by the Canadian High Commission will go the Guyana Help The Kids (GHTK) foundation.

GHTK is a CanadianGuyanese charity that aims to decrease neonatal and infant mortality rate in Guyana. In its initial phase, GHTK supported the opening

of a new neonatal intensive care unit and the development of a paediatric residency programme and neonatal nursing programme at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Monies raised through the event will support the shared agenda of expanding the programme to regional hospitals in New Amsterdam, Suddie, Linden and West Demerara.

The occasion was addressed by GHTK’s President Dr Narendra Singh, Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Nicole Giles and Guyana’s Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran.

line is committed to helping the development of Guyana. He said since the airline recommenced operations, business and the reception from the Guyanese people have been overwhelming.

“We are here to offer services to the Guyanese public and in return, they are supporting us, and we are grateful for this,” Binns noted.

After closing operations in Guyana in 2008,

TravelSpan Incorporated returned with a flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on December 14 last year.

The Boeing 767 aircraft landed with 180 passengers onboard, along with 10 crew members.

TravelSpan presently offers direct flights between New York and Georgetown, Georgetown and Port-of-Spain, New York and Port-of-Spain, and in the summer, Trinidad and Tobago and The Dominican Republic.

TravelSpan and Venezuela’s CONVIASA are the most recent airlines to enter the Guyana market. (Guyana Times)

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Barbados’ hotels full Guyana’s Budget 2014 for despite the recession House reading in March

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espite the ongoing economic recession, Barbados’ tourism industry appears to be on the rebound with most hotels reporting occupancy levels in the region of 7590 per cent.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport Richard Sealy, expressed renewed optimism in the industry’s future while addressing the official opening ceremony of the Infinity on the Beach Hotel in St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church, on Saturday.

He said: “From the polling that we have done, all of the hotels that we spoke to had occupancy in the 90’s except for one property, which reported occupancy of 75 per cent. So, we are doing pretty well right now and…let me congratulate you [hoteliers] because the hotels are full and it is a credit to you that the hotels are full.”

He said the Infinity on the Beach Hotel project had come at a time

Barbados’ Tourism Minister Richard Sealy. (BGIS photo)

when there were other projects in progress on the popular party strip, including upgrades to Pisces Restaurant, Reggae Lounge night club and the opening of The Beach Restaurant at the Divi Southwinds Beach Resort.

Minister Sealy said attempts to revitalise St. Lawrence Gap showed that: “The confidence level is very high and it is important that we see St. Lawrence Gap fight to come back.”

The tourism minister also alluded to other ongoing investments in the Gap including repairs to the board walk at the entrance to the Gap–a

project being undertaken in collaboration with the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. “We are fixing that at the moment, but the plan is to come to the global market area as well– the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. We had a nice tour of the area and we have decided that with so much happening in this area...I mentioned the Reggae Lounge and what used to be the Ship, Infintity on the Beach and going right across to as far as Sandals. With that level of investment coming from the private sector, large and small, I think that the development must also step up to the mark,” Minister Sealy added.

He further stated: “We have to get the street lighting in order, we have to get the Dover market fixed and what is going on at the front of the Gap is not intended to be a one off [situation].

But, we are going to find the resources to do the simple things to make the difference.” (BGIS)

Jamaica’s population not likely to exceed 3 million, says PIOJ

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Manager of the Population and Health Unit at the Planning Institute of Jamaica Toni-Shae Freckleton. (JIS photo)

he Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) says that Jamaica’s population is not likely to exceed three million, based on reduction in current fertility rates, high external migration, and declining mortality.

“There has been discussion about Jamaica’s population growing out of control and that is not the case,” said PIOJ’s manager, Population and Health Unit, Toni-Shae Freckleton.

“Data from the Population and Housing Census and projections coming out of the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin) indicate this on all levels” she stated.

Freckleton was speaking at a recent JIS Think Tank in observance of Safer Sex Week, which was observed from

February 10-14.

She noted that Jamaica’s population is ageing, with a decline in fertility rates causing the 0-14 segment of the population to fall below 30 per cent. “The last Housing and Population Census indicates that this particular age group is shrinking,” she stated.

Concomitant with this, is an increase in the working age population (15-64) and an increase in the over 60 age group, which is the fastest growing segment of the population, and this is a direct result of improvements in life expectancy and health care.

Freckleton told the JIS Think Tank that total fertility rates have declined from an average high of six children per woman in the 1960’s to 2.4 children per woman in the last Reproductive

Health Survey of 2008.

“When this is superimposed on replacement level fertility, which is an average of 2.1 children per woman, we have seen, over time, the vast improvements that Jamaica has made in the area of fertility and we are fast approaching replacement level fertility. Once we get to that point, this is where we are seeing the possibility of a declining population if it goes unchecked,” she stated.

Freckleton indicated that the country has reaped the benefits of the 'Two is Better Than Too Many' campaign in the 1980’s, noting that the drive has impacted current declining fertility rates. Chairman of the National Family Planning Board, Dr Sandra Knight, explained that “with that campaign, we had encouraged and advocated for one woman to have two children based on the population analysis data that we had coming in and the probability of the population being too great for the resources that were present at the time.”

In the Population Sector Plan of Vision 2030, the goal is to achieve replacement level fertility (2.1 children per woman) by 2010 and maintained thereafter.

(JIS)

T

he final touches are now being made to Guyana’s Budget 2014, which is expected to be completed and presented for reading in the National Assembly by the end of March, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh has said.

Dr Singh told Guyanese media last week that the budget was well on stream, especially since the technical work began a few months back.

That process, he said, is almost near completion and as soon as it is completed, some finetuning will be done before this year’s budget is presented to the National Assembly.

Dr Singh explained that the process of policy formation and project identification is an ongoing one that had started since last year. His ministry, he said, has now refined certain strategies of the various sectors.

“It’s progressing well.

We’ve had the benefit of excellent engagements with a number of stakeholder groups, including the PSC [Private Sector Commission]; the labour unions. Those meetings provided us an opportunity to get a sense of what their priorities are and we got to share with them our perspective on issues,” he added.

However, the minister said it was unfortunate that the opposition did not avail themselves

Guyana’s Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

of an open invitation from government.

The invitation remains open and the government is still willing to meet with the opposition at any time, Dr Singh said.

“I hope that is not the precursor of some adverse stance they intend to take in relation to the Budget 2014. The budget should really be evaluated on its merit and voted on the basis of its merit,” he said.

Optimist

Asked whether he is at all concerned about the opposition again cutting funding for various projects, Dr Singh said: “I remain eternally an optimist. So I’m hopeful that we would see smooth passage of the 2014 budget. I would like to think that we would secure unanimous support for the passage of the budget.”

Dr Singh added that he was hoping that the opposition will use its

one-seat majority more wisely.

“I hope that the oneseat majority is not used by the opposition to display might, but instead that it is used responsible. And responsible means that the opposition would vote in favour of initiatives good for Guyana,” Dr Singh asserted.

The finance minister noted that the people will also hear the budget presentation and should be able to judge for themselves whether the budget is one of substance and will benefit them and the country.

Threats

However, the Alliance For Change (AFC) has already stated its position on Budget 2014.

AFC Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan had threatened that massive cuts will be inflicted to the budget when it is presented to the National Assembly.

Ramjattan told Guyanese media previously that despite a promise by Dr Singh that Budget 2014 would have been discussed with all parties, no discussion was held with his party or the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

However, Minister Singh said he had extended an invitation to the opposition to meet since July 2013, but had received no response.

(Excerpted from Guyana Times)

British nationals jailed over fake Sandy Lane Barbados robbery

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magistrate in Barbados last Friday sentenced to jail two British nationals, a woman in her twenties and a man in his forties, for falsely claiming they had been robbed of Bds$35 million in jewellery and cash from their home in the posh Sandy Lane district, about six miles north of the capital.

Tululla Salvatori, 27, was jailed for 18 months while 41-yearold Edward Denney had been sentenced to nine months in prison.

Salvatori had also been sentenced for issuing a bounced cheque to rent a vehicle.

They were charged jointly with wilfully wasting police time.

The two had reported that on February 5, they were assaulted and robbed by two armed intruders of a gold Rolex watch val-

Two British nationals, a woman and a man, were sentenced to jail in Barbados last Friday for falsely claiming they had been robbed of Bds$35 million in jewellery and cash

ued at Bds$17,000, an engagement ring valued at Bds$12.8 million, a platinum necklace valued at Bds$3.2 million, a Cartier platinum ladies watch valued at Bds$19.2 million and Bds$2,000 in cash.

However, police said when they interviewed the Britons about the crime in the upscale dur-

ing their investigations, they recanted their stories.

Sandy Lane, on the island's upscale west coast corridor, is an exclusive luxury community that is home to wealthy expatriates and an iconic five-star beachfront resort that shares its name. (Caribbean News)

News week ending February 20, 2014

UWI goes commercial

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| www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

University’s move to produce cassava flour can save Jamaica $1 billion annually

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he University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus, says it has forged a partnership with Continental Baking Company Limited and the Jamaican government to produce cassava flour, a move that will save Jamaica billions of dollars over time.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Archibald McDonald said that the project will hopefully encourage investors to partner with the UWI on other ventures.

“We feel that once manufacturers see that this is not just the University of the West Indies talking, this is not something theoretical, this is something which can be converted into commercial activity, many of them will come on board,” he told Jamaican media Monday.

Professor McDonald, as well as Professor

Professor Archibald McDonald (second left), UWI pro-vice-chancellor and principal, addressing Jamaican media Monday. Also photographed are (from left) Professor Denise Eldemire-Shearer, campus co-ordinator graduate studies and research; Professor Ishenkumba Kahwa, deputy principal; and Professor Densil Williams, executive director Mona School of Business and Management. (Kenyon Kemans/Jamaica Observer photo)

Ishenkumba Kahwa, deputy principal; Professor Denise Eldemire- Shearer, campus co-ordinator, graduate studies and research; and Professor Densil Williams, executive director Mona School of Business and Management, pointed to the cassava flour project as they highlighted the UWI’s intention to use this year’s Research Days to focus on the impact that research can

have on the economy.

“We need to improve our communications, we need to put our research out there more in simplified form for all to understand. But we are going a step further, we are going to produce cassava flour and we are going to have one of the large bakeries which will produce cassava bread from this flour,” Professor McDonald said.

Significant

The gains to the coun-

try, he noted, could be significant. “We estimate that if we contract farmers and so on, we are going to save, by replacing the flour that we import…(Ja) $1 billion per year,” McDonald indicated.

Based on Professor McDonald’s statements, the project is far past the conception stage.

“We already have the cassava bread, I have had a sample. We are very close, we had coop-

erated with the Ministry of Education and we have access to land owned by the government of Jamaica in St Elizabeth, we are collaborating with them on this project,” he told the media.

A cassava processing plant donated to the university by the Colombian government, through the Jamaican government, is en route to the island.

“We are working through the Ministry of Agriculture and they

have decided that the university is the entity that will initiate [the project]. To be honest, we are behind schedule with the plant, it should have been delivered the end of February and we have now set the deadline for the end of March, so it’s not long from now.

We need a building to house the plant and that is being constructed,” Professor McDonald stated.

He also said that the university will soon start producing other consumer products from the vast range of research taking place on the campus.

“So, for example… very soon we will be drinking UWI Blue Mountain Teas, because we are about to go on a very large project in collaboration with government entities,” he said, adding that “We hope private entities will come on board.” (Jamaica Observer)

Ganga Persaud’s MP position in Guyana not guaranteed – Rohee

I

t is unclear whether Guyana’s former Local Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persuad will return to the National Assembly in the capacity of a Member of Parliament (MP), People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee said.

Rohee said the party is considering his replacement. Persuad tendered his resignation as a government minister in January amid allegations of misconduct.

Speaking at a news conference at Freedom House on Monday, Rohee said “Up to this point in time, we have discussed the matter…but we have not come to any formal decision on it.”

However, he told reporters that the party in the not so distant future will make a public announcement on the matter.

“The comrade has

Guyana’s former Local Government Minister Ganga Persuad. (Guyana Times file photo)

taken positions on a voluntary basis,” Rohee indicated.

Currently, junior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker is acting in the substantive post.

It was Whittaker who presented for a second reading the Local Authorities (elections amendment) Bill 2014, which was amended

by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) for the much anticipated Local Government Elections to be staged by August 1, 2014.

The bill was originally presented in the National Assembly for the postponement of the elections.

But, Rohee on Monday made it clear that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) cannot facilitate local government elections by August 1.

“The opposition keeps shouting that we are ready and they want local government elections by August 1, 2014 the latest, but this is not about readiness of the opposition only, the timing of the holding of local government elections is (dependent on) the readiness of GECOM to execute the duties and responsibilities relative to fair and efficient preparation and conduct of these elections.”

ILP elections by June

I

ndependent Liberal Party (ILP) deputy leader Lyndira Oudit told TT media on Monday that the party will hold its first ever internal election, “within the first half of this year”, which translates to a deadline of June by the latest. “We have not decided a date as yet,” she said.

“We are formalising our membership list. So

far there is no set convention date.”

She said the matter had been broached at last Sunday’s statutory monthly meeting of the ILP national executive held at the party’s new headquarters at Edward Street, Port-ofSpain. “The matter came up, but it was not a full discussion,” Oudit said.

“There will be far more details at the next meet-

ing.”

The next meeting is due in mid March. As a party formed in the heat of the bid of leader, Jack Warner, to win the Chaguanas West byelection on July 29 2013, the ILP has never had a formal convention/congress to elect its executive officers who have all merely been named as “interim” officials. (TT Newsday)

He further explained that it also depends on the readiness of other political parties and the education of the populace

on the reform system.

“We at the PPP/C have been engaging our members; hence, we are best placed to assert that

we cannot support the opposition’s demands that the elections be held by August 1, 2014.”

(Guyana Times)

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News

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending February 20, 2014

Guyana gov’t partners with NGOs to tackle teen pregnancy

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ith Guyana recording the second highest rate of adolescent pregnancy in the Caribbean and South America, the Health Ministry is pushing for greater partnership with non-governmental organisations to bring the numbers down.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) “State of the World Population 2013” Report, issued in November, indicated that 97 out of every 1000 girls between the ages of 15 and 19 are giving birth in Guyana. In South America, Guyana followed Ecuador, which recorded the highest rate with 100 out of every 1000 within the age range of 15-19 years giv-

ing birth. The Dominican Republic was cited as having the highest rate in the Caribbean, with 98 teens out of every 1000 getting pregnant.

Speaking with Guyanese media on Sunday, Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran said the ministry is looking to partner with a vibrant group that has made its name across the globe– the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO). Dr Ramsaran noted that the GWMO, over the past two years, has been very instrumental in rescuing victims of human trafficking, primarily women, in interior locations. He said the Health Ministry could capitalise on the vigour of the organisa-

St Lucia shedding jobs, but PM Anthony predicts turnaround

St Lucia’s Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony

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rime Minister of St Lucia Dr Kenny Anthony says his administration will now focus on reducing the island's debt burden, which is estimated at 77 per cent of GDP. In his first public response to the recent disclosure by the Department of Statistics that unemployment now stood at 25 per cent, Anthony said the situation could "get a little worse before it gets better".

Private-sector interests have been lobbying government to revisit the newly-introduced 15 per cent Value Added Tax, saying it has impacted expansion-plans and job creation.

"I have said before that it would get a little worse before it gets better, and I believe that the worst is over for the private sector. The problem now lies on the government's side, given the fiscal adjustments that we have to make,"

Anthony said.

"Over the last year, several St Lucians have lost their jobs, and some of the island's major retailers such as Minville and Chastanet and a number of regional banks have been forced to reduce employees prematurely by inviting them to accept severance packages," he added.

The prime minister also noted that the recent decision by telecommunications company, LIME, to terminate several employees had prompted him to write the company.

However, he said he remained convinced that the island's job situation was stabilising and that had it not been for the National Initiative to Create Employment programme (NICE), unemployment would have been higher.

"In a sense, the NICE programme is helping to contain the numbers at the moment. But while it is true that people are getting jobs, it is an artificial containment in the sense that it is employment that is not nationally created by growth in the economy," Anthony indicated.

The opposition United Workers Party (UWP) has accused the prime minister of being clueless on how to deal with the economy, but Anthony has brushed aside the criticism, saying that the unemployment rate was as high as what the former government had left behind.

(Excerpted from CMC)

Guyana’s Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran (Guyana Times file photo)

tion, headed by U.S. State Department 2013 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Hero Simona Broomes.

According to the health minister, teenage

pregnancy in the hinterland is becoming more and more alarming, with teenagers indulging in sexual activity at a very tender age. He stressed that partnership with or-

ganisations such as the GWMO can reduce the numbers.

At the Health Ministry, major emphasis is being placed on teenage pregnancy and its complications.

Meanwhile, prior to the release of the UNFPA’s “State of the World Population 2013” Report, the government of Guyana had informed the United Nations Rights of the Child Committee that approximately 3000 girls become pregnant on a yearly basis.

In the UNFPA report, it was stated that impoverished, uneducated girls living in rural areas are more likely to become pregnant than other girls who are educated and wealthy. “Girls

from ethnic minorities or marginalised groups and those who have limited or no access to sexual and reproductive health are also at great risk,” the UNFPA pointed out.

According to the report, approximately seven million girls in poor countries give birth before reaching the age of 18 every year, with two million of them being 14 years old or younger.

Every day in developing countries, 20,000 girls below age 18 give birth, while girls under the age of 15 account for two million of the annual total of 7.3 million new adolescent mothers. If this trend continues, three million girls under the age of 15 will give birth every year by 2030.

Hanover couple invests Ja$54 million in UK patty chain

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amaican-born Brit Theresa Roberts and husband Andrew have invested US$500,000 (Ja$53.7 million) to start a Jamaican patty franchise in the UK with an aim to open up to 50 retail stores in the European country.

Jamaica Patty Co (JPC) will launch its first store in leased property at 26 New Row, Covent Garden, in the heart of London's entertainment and retail district, on March 15. Along with seven different patty flavours, JPC will offer Blue Mountain Coffee, rum cake, soups, juices such as coconut water and soursop, and other Jamaican food items, Andrew told Jamaican media Monday from the Roberts' Tryall Country Club home in Hanover, Jamaica.

"The model is designed to tap into the growing UK trend for fast casual dining and has been designed to allow rapid expansion once the first store is producing an acceptable sustainable profit margin," said Andrew, noting that JPC is Theresa's brainchild.

Patties are arguably the most popular pastry in Jamaica.

While the UK is generally seen as an attractive market for local businesses because of its relatively large Jamaican Diaspora and growing West Indian population, JPC's target market is mainstream UK consumers. The

Theresa and Andrew Roberts

plan is to initially expand to about 15 stores in London and then roll out throughout the UK with the ultimate goal to create a chain of around 50 stores, according to Andrew.

"Whilst we very much hope the brand will become a favourite with the Diaspora this is not the market we are targeting," Andrew said.

Promoting Jamaica

“Theresa is passionate about promoting Jamaica and its people in the UK and Europe, and wanted to showcase the country's food in a way that has not been done before," he explained.

"We considered various ways of doing this, but decided on this format as it gives us the best chance of potential

rapid expansion thus exposing JPC and modern Jamaica to the largest number of UK consumers possible in the shortest possible time," he added.

The Roberts have employed four full-time staff and one part-time administrator for the first store in Covent Garden. They have invested US$500,000 in acquiring and fitting out the property and a "high profile" public relations and marketing campaign, Andrew said.

Internationally acclaimed chef Collin Brown, who is originally from Trelawny, is behind the recipes of the patties that will be produced by JPC. "Patties are made to recipes created by Collin

Brown, but produced for us in the UK," Andrew said. "The important differentiating feature of our offering is that each patty is freshly baked in store in a bank of patty ovens."

A private equity lawyer, Andrew Roberts spent 25 years doing leveraged buy outs in the UK, but said he now divides his time between the JPC project, his family's privately-owned property interests and a couple of non-executive board positions with other companies.

Theresa is working full-time in the JPC business and the family's property business while also promoting Jamaican Art in Europe.

(Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

week ending February 20, 2014

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Church launches Ja$100 million housing development in Jamaica

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church group in Jamaica last week officially launched a Ja$100 million town house complex in Barbican, having sold all but one of the twobedroom units priced at Ja$21 million each.

King's Manor T o w n h o u s e Development, a gated community on just over half-an-acre or approximately 2,018 square-metres of land at 15 King's Drive in Barbican, is the product of a joint venture---Kings Manor Development Company Limited (KMDC)--between Boulevard Baptist Church and Jamaica Baptist Union.

Construction work began on July 22, 2013, and practical completion is scheduled for the third week of February.

The development is comprised of five twobedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom townhouse units situated on 1,630 square-foot lots. Features include a guard house, an enchanting front garden, a back patio, internal laundry area, solid surface kitchen counter tops and ceramic tiles.

Each unit has two parking bays assigned.

Earl Jarrett (left), general manager of Jamaica National Building Society, makes a point in discussion with Boulevard Baptist Church Pastor Reverend Dr Devon Dick (right) while Jamaica's Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing, Dr Morais Guy, looks on.

KMDC hosted a tour and blessing of the complex Sunday. The ceremony featured a keynote address by Earl Jarrett, general manager of Jamaica National Building Society, and remarks by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing, Dr Morais Guy.

Vision

KMDC chairman Hugh Reid, who presented a project overview,

noted that the visionary behind the project is Boulevard Baptist Church Pastor Reverend Dr Devon Dick.

"The project vision was to make a contribution to the housing needs of Jamaicans and also to provide an income generating asset for the church by converting property situated at 15 King's Drive, the former Boulevard Baptist church manse, into a townhouse devel-

opment," Reid explained.

He noted that the original design was for three-bedroom units but the project was redesigned to two-bedroom units based on cost considerations. Funding for the housing development was provided by the church and the National Housing Trust, which approved an interim construction loan in June 2012, Reid said.

The construction project team is comprised of Taylor Architects, Burrowes & Wallace, Quantity Surveyors, Surrey Paving & Aggregates Co Ltd., land surveyor Ainsworth Dick and structural engineer Carl Chin.

It's the first such proj-

ect for the Boulevard Baptist Church. Reid, who is a member of the church, told the media last year that the success of King's Manor world determine whether the church would explore further development projects.

"What you will find is that the extent of our involvement would be based on the success of this particular venture.

We will see how that goes," he said.

Reverend Dick last Friday revealed that there is only one more unit available for sale, having received subscriptions for three already.

One unit will be retained by the church. (Jamaica Observer)

The King's Manor Townhouse Development in Barbican, Jamaica. (Jamaica Observer photos)

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TT’s AG apologises over statements made against opposition legislator

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lthough TT’s Attorney General Anand Ramlogan Tuesday apologised for statements he made last Friday concerning People’s National Movement (PNM) MP Terrence Deyalsingh and animal behaviourist Kristel Marie Ramnath, he maintained it was just “good political picong”. Ramlogan delivered the apology while piloting the Libel and Defamation Act amendment seeking to abolish malicious defamation libel as a criminal offence.

However, picong by PNM senator Camille

Robinson-Regis prompted Ramlogan to comment on the issue concerning Deyalsingh and Ramnath.

The Opposition PNM walked out of Parliament last Friday during debate on the amendment after Ramlogan reportedly attacked Deyalsingh about a woman described as the MP’s former girlfriend “Kristel”.

Ramlogan reportedly said “Kristel” was deprived of Deyalsingh’s services on Valentine’s night.

PNM MPs called on Ramlogan to apologise.

The deputy Speaker

TT’s Attorney General Anand Ramlogan. (TT Newsday file photo)

also called on Ramlogan to apologise for his remarks on Ramnath, an animal behaviour-

ist who gave written views on the drafting of the Dangerous Dogs Bill. The PNM subsequently stormed out of Parliament in protest.

In Tuesday’s debate, after RobinsonRegis tossed picong at Ramlogan about the United National Congress (UNC), Ramlogan acknowledged that this was picong.

He explained that last Friday’s House debate on Valentine’s Day included picong about everyone wanting to go home as they really wanted to be with loved ones on Valentine’s night.

He added on the Deyalsingh/Ramnath issue: “... So you have to take some fatigue... and then the media said ‘girlfriend’ and a man said ‘my wife and children suffering,’ but what does the Hansard (Parliament) record show, two things. I want to correct the media on that.

“First the Hansard shows it wasn’t ‘girlfriend’, it was ‘ex-girlfriend’ and secondly, it also showed when called upon to apologise, I did.

It was good political picong and I do hope it wasn’t taken out of con-

text (but)...it probably was.”

Ramlogan added: “But to the extent that was misunderstood, misrepresented and inaccurately reported and portrayed...that’s the kind of thing one has to live with as part of a free and functioning, or dysfunctioning, or malfunctioning democratic society. But the apology is there. I humbly apologise, you never too big to apologise.”

He said political picong was part and parcel of “who we are in TT.” (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

Anti-Money Laundering legislation…

Guyana spared from full blacklisting, has until May to get house in order

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last

he Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Thursday ac-

cepted the recommendation of Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) to hold

on blacklisting Guyana, pointing out that a decision will be made when CFATF meets again in May. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) release, the pronouncement is the substance of the CFATF public statement made in November 2013, when the National Assembly defeated the government’s AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill.

The government is advised that neither the FATF nor the CFATF will be issuing any statements emanating from the Paris meeting on Guyana. The decisions of the 2013 November CFATF meeting and plan of action remain un-

changed.

“Further, Guyana has to file a report by February 28, 2014 to the CFATF for their review and report to plenary members in May 2014.

This report will include Guyana’s plan of action to correct its deficiencies as part of the ongoing process.

“Guyana is expected to attach to that report the conclusions on the AML/CFT (amendment) Bill, bill number 22, 2013, which is before the parliamentary special select committee and a copy of the said enacted bill to be analysed, correlated to the deficiencies to provide the report to plenary in May 2014.

“Between February and May, it is expected that there will be dialogue and discussions

with CFATF with regards to the preparation of the report for CFATF plenary,” the release said.

The government said if the May plenary is dissatisfied with Guyana’s progress, the 2013 November statement already provides the decision for the country’s referral to FATF, which is meeting in June 2014.

“The government wishes to go on record to thank Guyanese citizens, civil society bodies with particular reference to the business community and their organisations, the labour movement, the diplomatic community, the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (Caricom), all who publicly lent support to the govern-

ment of Guyana’s efforts in what were and continue to be ‘unique and unprecedented circumstances. The government calls once again on the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) leaders that the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill must be passed in the National Assembly as urgently as possible before the end of February, 2014,” the release concluded.

CFATF had blacklisted Guyana in November last year. There have been intensified efforts on the part of government to pass the bill, but the parliamentary committee has made several last minute amendments which the government deems unreasonable and flawed.

Caribbean moves to protect spiny lobster

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he executive committee of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries

A recent two-day regional meeting deliberated on matters such as coral reef management and the lobster fishery

Mechanism (CRFM) says it is working on “legal instruments” to strengthen regional cooperation for the conservation, management and sustainable use of the spiny lobster and the protection of its habitat.

The 22nd meeting of the (CRFM) executive, which concluded last Friday in Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines, saw a twoday deliberation on matters such as coral reef management, the lobster

fishery, and cooperation between Caricom States and the French Islands in fisheries.

“The Committee addressed a number of important regional initiatives designed to ensure sustainable use of our fisheries resources and protect the marine ecosystems,” said Milton Haughton, CRFM Executive Director.

The CRFM executive committee consists of representatives of six member states of the regional inter-governmental fisheries organisation.

The membership of the committee is drawn from the Caribbean Fisheries Forum, a group of government officials, fishers and representatives of private companies from Caricom states tasked with providing technical support to the CRFM. (Jamaica Observer)

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week ending February 20, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Trinidad’s opposition leader wins TT$.5 million in defamation case

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abour leader in Trinidad Michael Annisette has been ordered to pay Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley close to half a million dollars in damages for defamation.

He will also pay TT$160,000 to cover the cost of the lawsuit filed

by Rowley in 2010.

Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh last week ruled in favour of the opposition leader, saying the allegations made

by Annisette in an article published in the TT Newsday in October, 2009, were defamatory.

The newspaper was not sued and the judge found that the reporter was not at fault in his reporting.

“In my view, the words complained of in their totality and context inevitably, conveyed an imputation of impropriety or misconduct on the part of the claimant in his public office,” the judge said.

In an immediate response, Rowley said he welcomed the court’s ruling.

“I’m a firm believer in the impartiality and competence of our courts, and whenever I think my rights are infringed, or

TT’s Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley. (TT Newsday file photo)

I have been wronged, I can go to court, and I will go to court and seek redress. That’s what I do all the time. I’ve done that on more than one occasion, and it demonstrates my abiding faith in the judicial system,” he said last week.

He also warned persons against making comments about serious matters and cast aspersions about things they did not know.

Annisette, a former president of National Trade Union Centre (Natuc) and a former Independent Senator, is the current president of the Seamen and Waterfront Workers

Trade Union.

The defamatory comments arose from statements made by Annisette accusing the Diego Martin West MP of wrongdoing in the Landate/Scarborough/ HNIC affair. His statements were made in Parliament and were expanded in an interview with Newsday’s reporter Clint Chan Tack.

The Landate matter was subject to commissions of inquiry, and an Integrity Commission investigation, which found no basis to support the allegations that were made.

Rowley claimed the allegations made by the former Independent Senator were a stain on his political life, and affected his personal and family life as well.

Boodoosingh said the attack on Rowley must have damaged his reputation especially as it came at a time when he had been removed as a member of Cabinet when he raised questions about oversight of Udecott. In his 28-page ruling, Boodoosingh also advised persons in public life to be cautious of what they say. (Excerpted from TT Newsday)

PM Spencer blames Antigua’s opposition for delay in naming date for polls

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rime Minister Baldwin Spencer has blamed the main Antigua Labour Party (ALP) of engineering the delay in the calling of the general elections, saying that it has taken to the courts to tie up the process.

In a recent interview, Prime Minister Spencer made reference to the cases before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court regarding the constituency boundaries and the registration of electors.

Asked whether or not the polls would be held before the end of April, Prime Minister Spencer, who is seeking a third consecutive term in office, said “I don’t want to stick my neck out and say that...but let me put it this way…we would like to have the elections as soon as it is possible and practical”.

But he acknowledged that there were still “issues to be resolved with respect to court cases… matters engineered by the opposition and they are the ones creating issues that could very well lead to an unacceptable delay in the election.”

Prime Minister

Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer

Spencer highlighted that the government was now “fighting two very critical and important issues in the courts engineered by the opposition,” and that while the matter relating to the boundaries had been heard during the court sitting in St. Kitts last week, there had been no ruling. “…..whichever way it goes, it simply means that the Electoral Commission that is charged with the responsibility of having free and fair elections in a manner that is transparent will have a job to do thereafter,” he indicated.

The other case was expected to be heard in court in St Lucia Wednesday.

Last week, Prime Minister Spencer told voters that they should regard March 15 as an important date although he stopped short of indicating whether or not this would be the date for the poll.

He later told the media that the March 15 was intended to get people sensitised to the fact that an election was imminent. “…and in the planning process, I just wanted to set the stage for the people of Antigua and Barbuda to place certain dates in mind. The 15th of March is the date something will certainly happen in Antigua and Barbuda,” he said, adding that the announcement with respect to the actual election day “is still in my back pocket”.

Spencer said he was confident that the electorate would return his United Progressive Party (UPP) back into office, saying “we believe we have kept faith with the people of Antigua and Barbuda and we have done the greatest good for the greatest number since we took office in 2004.” (Excerpted from CMC)

Chinese may build luxury hotel in TT Animation outsourcing to attract

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he Chinese government is being asked to consider building a new hotel in Trinidad and/or renovating the Magdalena Grand Beach and Gold Resort hotel in Lowlands, Tobago.

Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar made the request to China’s Ambassador to TT, Huang Xingyuan, during a meeting last Friday afternoon at the Parliament Building, Tower D, International Waterfront Centre, Portof-Spain.

“I have asked His Excellency to explore three areas for partnership between the government of the People’s Republic of China and TT. In relation to tourism, to explore the possibility of partnering with the Chinese government to build a hotel in TT, and/or to consider partnering with us for the development and further expansion and modernisation of the Magdalena

Grand hotel in Tobago,” she stated.

Noting that the Chinese government is currently building a 2,200room hotel in the Bahamas, the PM said Trinidad and Tobago already has a hotel, the Magdalena Grand, “which can be upgraded and expanded.”

“This will of course increase tourism into Tobago, create jobs in Tobago, and I see that as a project that will be worthy of partnering with the government of China,” Persad-Bissessar stated.

Ambassador Huang was also asked to convey, in advance of the PM’s visit, the topics of TT’s development as an innovative technology hub, and a student exchange programme “whereby Chinese students can come to Trinidad to learn English, and of course TT students can learn Mandarin” in China.

(TT Newsday

Trinidadian radio announcer fined for drunk driving

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decision to take two drinks of rum and then drive earned a radio announcer at a radio station in Trinidad a TT$4,000 fine Monday.

Anand Buchoon, of 102.7 FM Radio Jaagriti, pleaded guilty before San Fernando Traffic Court Magistrate Rehanna Hosein to driving under the influence. He was above the legal limit by 48 microgrammes. When Buchoon was stopped on Sunday around 2.30 am at Cipero Road, San Fernando, the police detected a strong odor of alcohol on his breath. Buchoon, the court heard, told the police he had a drink of rum by his cousin who was visiting from abroad.

Buchoon, the police claimed, also said: “I have to go run the radio station

otherwise it will shut down.”

However, Buchoon denied telling the police those things. He admitted he had two drinks by his cousin. Buchoon explained he had just came from work, visited his cousin and was going to put gas in his car because he had to get to work early next morning. Buchoon said he did not realise his level would reach that amount with two drinks.

The magistrate told him he might not think the alcohol was affecting him, but it did scientifically. She said alcohol affects the body and one should not drive under those conditions. He was fined TT$4,000 or nine months’ hard labour. He paid the fine forthwith. (TT Guardian)

$$$ and jobs for Jamaicans

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nimation experts will use the outsourcing model to attract millions of U.S. dollars and create jobs for scores of Jamaicans.

It is a model practised by the local-based call centres which attract Fortune 500 outsourcing contracts and employ thousands. The difference is that animation outsourcing earns more at some US$68 billion compared with US$43 billion for call centres, according to local experts and an industry survey from audit firm KPMG respectively.

"Just give me one per cent," reasoned Wayne Sinclair, head of GSW Studios, in reference to earning generated by the known cartoon series ‘The Simpsons’.

He addressed the three-day Regional Conference on IP and Creative Industries 2014 last Wednesday at the University of the West Indies, Mona.

"As individual territories we cannot compete against the 1.7 billion people in China, 2 billion from India and so on. But we can offer specialised services higher up the value chain given the technology that

Head of GSW Studios in Jamaica Wayne Sinclair.

(Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

exists, we can make an impact in carving out a piece of the pie in the global animation industry," Sinclair said.

The profile of the local animation sector rocketed in the last year following the opening of studios, academic programmes and government facilitation services. In essence, stakeholders view cartoons as serious business.

The island's lack of scale and experience is balanced by the common language with North America and UK producers; proximity and time zone similarity; and competitive pricing.

Caribbean jobs

"This expansion is expected to provide 5,000 jobs in the Caribbean

over the next few years," stated Robert Scott, head of exporting at JAMPRO, at the conference.

The global animation industry earns some US$250 billion annually with roughly one-quarter outsourced mainly to India, South Korea and Philippines, according to industry estimates. The opportunity for Jamaica comes when these markets are buckling from excess work.

In the short-term, JAMPRO wants to drive job creation by taking advantage of outsourcing opportunities in animation. Then transition to more content ownership of animations for export.

The medium term is the creation of locally-owned shows exported globally. Currently 'Cabbie Chronicles' developed locally is exported to seven countries, said Scott.

Regionally, the Caribbean Animation Cluster Project was established. It's a programme sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) which involves studios from a select number of Caribbean territories. (Excerpted Jamaica Observer)

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‘Judge me not on gender’ - PNM leadership contender Beckles-Robinson

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NM leadership contender Pennelope Beckles-Robinson is not buying the argument that if one woman, such as the prime minister, is perceived to have failed, all women also will fail at the job. “I find (that) amazing,” BecklesRobinson said last week of such criticism against her.

She asked: “If you are married and it fails, does it mean all marriages will fail? How is it when a man fails in a position, they don’t say all men also will fail? In the media you have wom-

en doing very well. If one woman writes a bad story, does it mean all women will write a bad story? I‘m a leader who happens to be a woman.

The Honourable Kamla Persad- Bissessar is Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Pennelope BecklesRobinson is Pennelope Beckles-Robinson.

“I will like to think people vote on issues not on gender. As much as I have advocated women’s advancement I believe people vote for what you offer them and because you are bringing something different.”

She was speaking

Pennelope Beckles-Robinson embraces her father, Lionel Beckles, 84, after her news conference at Balisier House, Port-of-Spain, last Thursday. Beckles declared his support for his daughter in the upcoming contest for the PNM leadership. (Kristian De Silva/TT Guardian photo)

at a news conference at PNM’s Balisier House headquarters, Port-ofSpain, last Thursday.

She said when people voted for Persad-

Bissessar it was the first time a women offered herself, but she did not believe that was the reason the PP won the election.

Beckles-Robinson said the PNM has had women at all levels, including being the party’s backbone and responsible for winning its elections but never as its leader. But, she added, she was not seeking to be elected simply because she was a woman.

Dismissing perceived “quietness”, BecklesRobinson said: “The fact you have a different tone and style does not mean you cannot be aggressive. Quietness does not mean you cannot be firm.

Some of the most productive people cannot even speak.”

On fears she could not pull punches with the government, she noted she had been in criminal courts for 26 years and studied under Theodore Guerra, SC, (now deceased).

Rejecting rumours of an ILP interest, she said: “This is an election and stakes are high so I expect all sorts of things, but when I was rejected for PNM candidacy I remained with PNM. One does not have a Godgiven right to a seat or ministry. I have worked hard for every post I have obtained.” (TT Guardian)

Guyana’s new Ombudsman holds talks with EU Delegation

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ewly-appointed Ombudsman, Justice Winston Moore on Monday met with the Head of Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, Ambassador Robert Kopecký and other top officials of the EU. During the courtesy call, Ombudsman Moore explained the function and working methods of the office of the Ombudsman, and various matters of common

interest were discussed.

Ambassador Kopecký congratulated him on being appointed to the position which was vacant for the past eight years, and commended the act of appointment as a very valuable contribution to core values of the EU– good governance and the rights of citizenry.

In a statement, the EU added that Kopecký further highlighted the importance of the office of the Ombudsman lik-

ening it to the role of the European Ombudsman in ensuring the preservation of democracy and human rights. He also assured Ombudsman Moore that the EU is ready, via its delegation in Georgetown, to support his office in terms of capacity building and logistics enhancement if the Guyanese side requests such.

Cooperation

“Ombudsman Moore acknowledged receiving

Ombudsman Winston Moore briefing Head of Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, Ambassador Robert Kopecký and other officials during a visit to the ambassador’s office on Monday

an earlier letter from the EU ambassador indicating the readiness of the EU Delegation to cooperate with his office and suggested several areas in which this could be achieved,” the EU statement said.

On January 13, Moore was sworn in as Guyana’s Ombudsman

by President Donald Ramotar. Ombudsmanlike officials have been around since ancient times and may have flourished in China and Korea in the BC era and in Ancient Rome and the Turkish Empire in the early AD period. An indigenous joint Swedish/ Danish/Norwegian term, Ombudsman essentially

means “representative”, someone who is authorised to act for someone else and has been in use since the 13th century.

Kopecký was joined at the meeting by Political Officer Derek Lambe; Head of Cooperation, Ewout Sandker; Head of Bilateral Section, Benedikt Madl; and Programme Officer Yohann Chaigneau.

In a recent interview with this newspaper, Moore said his office had begun addressing the 15 reports received so far from members of the public. He said in instances where his office has no jurisdiction, he would point the complainant to the courts,

the chief justice, or the chancellor of the judiciary.

The new Ombudsman sought to clear up a few issues surrounding his office with regard to staffing and resources.

He has been working closely with the Public Service Ministry, and has since submitted a list of requirements for the office to function effectively. He also stated that staff members who had worked at the office in the past were given the option to return and many of them have agreed. Moore said, “I have no qualms or misgivings about personnel or resources that will be provided.”

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Jamaica’s police deny mass burial site claim

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amaica’s police on Saturday denied the existence of a mass burial site in East Kingston, saying that its "intensive investigations" and "days of thorough searches" yielded no human remains.

However, the Jamaica Observer newspaper reported that the police went to the area only one day and they were not equipped to dig deep to determine the veracity of the claims made by a former gangster.

According to the police force's Corporate Communications Unit, the police high command ordered the investigation in response to a January 26 Jamaican newspaper lead story that reported the claims of the former gang member.

The ex-gangster had told the newspaper that gunmen, assisted by rogue policemen, have been killing people and burying their bodies in the vicinity of a sand mine in Eastern Kingston.

The gunmen, he said, are based between the East Kingston community of Rockfort, and the adjoining Harbour View in East Rural St Andrew.

The former gangster took reporters to the area, called 'Crusher', and pointed to the general area where, he said, bodies were buried.

However, on Saturday, the police said they were "refuting the existence of any such site".

Allegations

"After the article was

Jamaican police and soldiers head to the site in East Kingston last Friday where a former gang member said the bodies of murdered people are buried. (Jamaica Observer photos)

published, the Police High Command instructed senior detectives of the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) to carry out an intensive investigation into the allegations, employing assets from the Forensic Scenes of Crime and the Canine

Divisions," the Corporate Communications Unit said. "With the assistance of the 'former gang member', the police were able to locate the 'sites'.

And after days of thorough searches, assisted by highly trained cadaver dogs, the lawmen

were only able to find the body of a decomposing dog that was recently dumped in the area," the police release said.

"It should also be noted that the sites where it is claimed that several bodies are buried is one of the busiest areas in

East Kingston. A quarry, which employs several people, is located in that area. If claims were true, it is very likely that at some point the employees would have stumbled on some bodies," the police release added.

"Although we are certain that what was said in the article about this story is not true, we are willing to act on any future information provided to us," deputy commissioner of police in charge of the crime portfolio, Carl Williams, was quoted in the release.

The former gangster had also told the police in a meeting that bodies were buried deep in the sand, with the use of heavy-duty equipment.

(Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

Barbados Fertility Centre awarded best IVF clinic in the Caribbean

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arbados Fertility Centre (BFC) has again been awarded the Gold Seal of approval from the Joint Commission International, after continuing to excel in the highest standards of patient care. This is the third time that BFC has achieved this prestigious award.

Joint Commission International (JCI) is the U.S. health facility accreditation programme that set stringent health care standards across the world, to give patients assurance that medical establishments have undergone vigorous testing so that patients can rest assured in the high standard of treatment they will receive.

BFC is now listed under the very elite group of clinics worldwide because they have such high standards of patient care. This is excellent news for the

Caribbean as BFC continues to boost medical tourism and maintains their position as the leading medical tourism facility for Barbados.

With the JCI gold seal, this assures patients that the quality of care they will receive when deciding on BFC for IVF treatment is world-class and simply the best patient care they can receive anywhere in the world.

The accreditation process is considered

by BFC to be essential in improving the quality of care given to patients, and that by investing in new and improved quality measurement systems, resources and staff training they are providing the best treatment for continued high success rates in IVF cycles.

These quality standards also ensure continuous improvement with the continual monitoring.

With this constant im-

provement, BFC pledges to remain current in every possible area that could improve the service they offer to both the Barbadian public and to the world.

Since opening in 2002, they have year on year increased the number of couples conceiving through the creation of a stress-reduced environment for couples undergoing IVF treatment.

BFC is one of the first IVF units in the world to offer a combination of medical tradition and a holistic approach by treating couples both mentally and physically at their on-site wellness centre–The Life Wellness Centre.

Success rates

Dr Juliet Skinner, head clinician at BFC said, “We believe our high clinical and laboratory standards, our commitment to JCI accreditation, the relax-

ing environment of our beautiful island and our onsite spa contribute to our high success rates– of which we are very proud. This unique high combination is helping couples get pregnant.

We encourage anyone how has been struggling to conceive to please call us as our success is

proven and we can help you have the family you desire.”

BFC saw brilliant success rates in 2013 with their excellent donor egg programme, where they saw a pregnancy rate of 73%. And with continued improvement in their cutting edge medical pro-

cedures, they are seeing an impressive 50% pregnancy rate using frozen embryos.

Couples from Barbados, the Caribbean, USA, UK, Canada and other European countries are now proud parents after successful treatment at BFC. (Caribbean News)

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Canada expands chikungunya travel health warning for the Caribbean

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he Public Health Agency in Canada has issued an updated travel health notice following a reported increase in the number of cases of chikungunya disease in the Caribbean.

ness are more common with chikungunya than with dengue. The symptoms appear between four to seven days after the bite of an infected mosquito. The majority of clinical signs and symptoms last

US$5.9 million to kickstart Guyana’s airport modernisation project

Canada's Public Health Agency has expanded its list of countries in the Caribbean with confirmed cases of chickungunya and warns visitors to take precautions against the mosquito-borne virus. (CMC file photo)

According to the latest advisory from the agency, "there have been confirmed cases of chikungunya on the Caribbean islands of St Martin/ St. Maarten, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint-Barthélemy and the British Virgin Islands.

These cases mark the first time that locally acquired transmission of chikungunya has been detected in the Region of the Americas."

Symptoms include a sudden high fever, severe pain in the wrists, ankles or knuckles, muscle pain, headache, nausea, and rash. Joint pain and stiff-

three to 10 days, but joint pain may persist longer.

Severe cases requiring hospitalisation are rare.

There is no vaccine or treatment for chikungunya, which has infected millions of people in Africa and Asia since the disease was first recorded in 1952.

The Canadian health agency recommends that travellers protect themsleves from mosquito bites, "particularly during peak mosquito biting times around sunrise and sunset" and to see a health care provider if symptoms similar to chikungunya develop after returning to Canada. (CMC)

TT seals partnership with Khan Academy

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he University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and the world-renowned Khan Academy, a nonprofit teaching resource with over ten million users, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last week.

TT’s Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, Fazal Karim hailed the signing of the MOU, saying it represented a historic event for Trinidad and Tobago and the region.

TT is the first Caribbean nation to partner with the Khan Academy. The academy’s Paulette Altamaier congratulated the TT government for partnering with the academy as part of its national E-Learning strategy.

The partnership will evolve in the coming months through the ministry’s Learn.tt initiative which is aimed at providing free tutorials.

“We will partner with Khan Academy to provide videos and exercises through Learn. tt,” Karim said. He added that Learn.tt would align its courses with the local curriculum and

would be assisted by UTT instructors.

The ministry’s elearning initiative would also partner with YTEPP. The minister said Learn.tt is expected to provide an online gateway to the resources offered by YTEPP and UTT. “We will use Learn. tt to bring an added dimension of training by partnering with the Onthe-Job-Training programme.” Karim added. The minister expects the partnership with Khan Academy to transform the way persons learn by taking the resources to their homes.

Khan Academy is also expected to provide detailed reports to show how persons accessing their tutorials are progressing.

It is Karim’s hope that primary school students will be able to use the online resource, so too adults, as they seek to improve on their skills.

S t a t e - o w n e d G o v e r n m e n t Information Services Limited will also be televising interactive exercises and instructional videos. (TT Newsday)

The Donald Ramotar administration has granted its no-objection for the release of US$5.9 million to facilitate aspects of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion and Modernisation Project

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he Donald Ramotar administration has granted its no-objection for the release of US$5.9 million to facilitate aspects of Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion and Modernisation Project.

Transport Minister Robeson Benn said the US$5.9 million will facilitate the acquisition of supervision consultancy services for the expansion project.

Despite political opposition, the CJIA Expansion and Modernisation Project is progressing smoothly and is on target.

Currently, work is ongoing on the runway. When completed, the runway will be able to facilitate Boeing 747-400 aircraft, expanding by 3500 feet to a final length of 10,500 feet.

In addition to extending the runway, a new terminal building measuring 16,000 square

metres is incorporated into the design of the modernisation project. The terminal will be equipped with eight passenger boarding bridges, two elevators and CCTV and departures control systems.

The drafting of the final design for the terminal building has commenced. This is slated to be completed by March.

The project also includes the erection of eight international parking positions, including a dedicated position for cargo aircraft.

On October 31, 2012, Guyana and China signed an agreement for the facilitation of the US$130 million (RMB 825 million) loan from the Chinese Exim Bank to fund the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion and Modernisation Project.

Setback

However, during the consideration of the 2013 national budget in

the National Assembly, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) used their one-seat majority to cut the entire Gy$5.6 billion, which was set aside for the project. The cut was made despite pleas by the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, which stated that the state-of-art facility, when completed would be able to facilitate a larger influx of passengers.

M e a n w h i l e , Presidential Advisor on Governance Gail Teixeira, who sat in the place of the head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon during the post-Cabinet media briefing last Thursday, said Cabinet also granted its no-objection for other projects ranging in the millions.

In the area of education, US$368,000 was approved for the design and supervision of civil

works under the government of Guyana-World Bank funded Science and Technology Project at the University of Guyana.

Other projects

Meanwhile, Gy$19 million was released for the provision of a vehicle for the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU) and Gy$21.5 million for the provision of security services for the Agriculture Ministry’s head office and the Hydromet department.

Under the Local Government Ministry, Gy$691.8 million has been approved for the rehabilitation of community miscellaneous roads in Regions Four and Six, while US$103,100 will be used for consultancy services for the revision of the national biodiversity strategy and action plan in preparation of the fifth national report to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

(Excerpted from Guyana Times)

Jamaican dancehall artiste charged in lottery scam probe

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amaican dancehall deejay Tommy Lee Sparta was last Friday charged for breaches under the Anti-Lottery Act. The deejay's attorney, Bert Samuels said the artiste will appear in Half-Way-Tree Court, but could not yet confirm a date.

"He has been charged and he has been granted bail for the sum of Ja$400,000," Samuels told Jamaican reporters.

Tommy Lee Sparta, whose given name is Leroy Russell, has been in police custody since February 3 on suspected breaches of the Law Reform (Fraudulent Transaction) (Special Provisions) Act, 2013.

Four other persons who were held with him along Knutsford Boulevard in New Kingston have also been charged.

Tommy Lee Sparta. (Jamaica Observer photo)

The Jamaica Constabulary Force's Corporate Communications Unit reported that a motorist was stopped by the police in New Kingston after breaching the Road Traffic Act. The driver, who did not have a driver's licence in his possession, gave an identity which turned out to be fictitious.

Investigations led to a house in the Kingston 5 area and lottery scam paraphernalia were seized.

Hailing from the community of Flanker in Montego Bay, St James, Tommy Lee Sparta appeared on the music scene in 2011.

He is known for songs including ‘Warn Dem’, ‘Grave Yard’, ‘Uncle Demon’, ‘Nuh Fear Dem’, ‘Daddy Devil’ and ‘Psycho’.

(Jamaica Observer)

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Rodney Commission of Inquiry to be launched soon in Guyana– President Ramotar

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resident Donald Ramotar said the long awaited establishment of the Walter Rodney Comission of Inquiry will soon be launched.

The head of state, when contacted, recently was unable to relay any information at that point, but said a lot of work has already been done, and the body responsible for the commission still has a few minor matters to deal with.

He, however, stressed that those issues will soon be worked out, making way for the setting up of the commission.

Last week, Working People’s Alliance member (WPA), Dr Rupert Roopnaraine had said the party was still awaiting action from the head of state with regards to the establishment of the inquiry commission.

Dr Roopnaraine said since the revelation was made last year in New York by the head of state, the WPA is yet to hear from the government.

Rodney was killed on June 13, 1980, while he was in a car outside the Georgetown prison. It is alleged that ex-army Sergeant Gregory Smith planted the bomb that killed the political activist.

It is also alleged that officials from the then Forbes Burnham government was responsible for his death, a claim that has been denied by his party, the People’s National Congress (PNC).

Former Foreign Minister Rashleigh Jackson in a recent letter in the press had also joined forces with others calling for the speedy establishment of the com-

Guyana's President Donald Ramotar

mission.

Jackson said he supports the call made by Rohee to “move expeditiously to establish the commission of inquiry”.

Stain

People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee made the call a few weeks ago at

Walter Rodney

the party’s weekly press briefing. He had said that the circumstances surrounding the death of the politician had left a stain on the shores of Guyana’s political landscape and the nation.

On June 13, 1980, Dr Walter Rodney, along with his brother Donald, was sitting in a car outside the Georgetown

Prison, when a bomb in a walkie-talkie exploded in his lap.

He had gone there, upon the request of former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) electronics expert, Sergeant Gregory Smith, to test the device near the jail’s metal fence.

After the tragedy, Smith fled to French Guiana where he lived under the pseudonym Cyril Johnson until his death several years ago.

Twenty-five years after the incident, Smith was charged with murder in absentia.

Smith had said he would have returned to Guyana for a trial or inquiry only if amnesty would have been granted. However, France does not extradite persons to their native countries where there is a possible death penalty in

the case of a conviction The current administration believes that the matter of how exactly Rodney was killed, and by whom, needs to be settled once and for all since his family has come up with information that fueled the decision of the president to set up the international commission of inquiry.

The impending commission of inquiry will invite contributions from family members of the deceased, former political allies in the PPP/C, the WPA and international colleagues.

After his assassination, Rodney received several honours. He was posthumously bestowed the Order of Excellence in 1993 and subsequently, the Walter Rodney Chair in History was established at the University of Guyana.

Jamaicans promised 300 new jobs under JEEP

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he Jamaican government announced last week that 300 of the jobs to be created under the just-launched Recycle Now Jamaica project will go to participants of the Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP).

The posts will include collectors, a general manager, a factory manager and staffing for six depots which will be set up island wide to facilitate the collection of PET bottles— plastic bottles made from nonbiodegradable materials.

The Ja$200-million recycling project is a three-year public/private partnership to be financed to the tune of Ja$50 million per year by the Ministry of Finance, while a consortium of private sector entities will contribute Ja$23.75 million annually over the period. It is set to begin in May of this year.

JEEP was conceptualised to provide short-term employment for persons at the lower socio-economic level, with execution staggered in four phases—March 22, 2012-June 30,

Jamaica’s Transport, Works and Housing Minister Dr Omar Davies (left ) in light conversation with Diana McCaulay, chief executive officer of Jamaica Environment Trust, at last Wednesday’s launch of Recycle Now Jamaica, at the Knutsford Court Hotel. In background is Andrew Mahfood, chief executive officer of Wisynco Group, which is a partner of the programme. (Michael Gordon/Jamaica Observer photo)

2012; July 1-June 30, 2013, July 1, 2013-March 31, 2014 and financial year 2014/2015.

The secretariat told Jamaican media last Thursday that to date, 40,000 persons have been employed under the programme.

JEEP has attracted much criticism since it was rolled out in 2012, particularly from the

Opposition Jamaica Labour Party, which argued that the People's National Party was merely rebranding an initiative it conceptualised while it was in government.

Recycle project

Views from the general public were that JEEP was never properly thought

through and was merely election gimmickry, especially in light of the bungling regarding sources of finance for the project.

At the Recycle Now launch, Project Director Lucille Brodber said the programme was healthy and on-track.

"We haven't run out of gas," she said.

Minister of Transport, Works and Housing Dr Omar Davies said he expects that the depots, locations for which have not yet been confirmed, will receive just under a million bottles per day, which is the amount needed to meet the target of reducing the country's solid waste by 15 per cent during the first year of the project.

CEO of Jamaica Environment Trust Diana McCaulay agreed that the programme will go a far way in mitigating the country's solid waste management problem.

But the benefits to be gained are not limited to the environment and employment, according to Davies, who said the baled plastic reaped from

the national recycling inititative will be exported to markets in the United States and China to earn foreign exchange.

Davies also mentioned that financial incentives will be provided to independent collectors in order to increase the rate at which the bottles are collected and stimulate the growth of the small business sector in the area of processing and manufacturing recycled plastic.

Among the incentives offered to investors under JEEP are tax exemption for new investments which create jobs, and a five-year tax holiday for all start-ups.

The Recycle Now consortium includes Wisynco Group, Pepsi-Cola Jamaica, GraceKennedy Foods and Services, Jamaica Beverages, Lasco, Trade Winds Citrus, and Seprod. They will be responsible for creating a consolidation and logistics hub which will be used to house the bailing line and act as a storage facility for finished products. (Jamaica Observer)

OAS corruption commission to visit Grenada, Jamaica

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commission from the Organisation of American States (OAS) is to visit Grenada in April as part of the follow-up process of the Inter American Convention against Corruption.

The Commission from the OAS Mechanism for Follow-Up on the Implementation of the Inter-American Convention against Corruption (MESICIC) says it will conduct

an on-site visit to the Caribbean island from April 22-24.

The Commission will meet with representatives from the main oversight bodies of Grenada.

“The purpose of the visit is to collect information in the field about how these organs perform their functions, which serve as inputs for the preparation of the report to be drawn up by the MESICIC on Grenada in its

September 2014 meeting,” the Commission said in a statement.

“It is anticipated that the Commission will meet with Grenadian civil society organisations, private sector representatives, professional associations and academics, in order to address topics related to the issues being analysed in the Fourth Round of the MESICIC. “Within the framework of the Fourth

Round of evaluations, the OAS Anticorruption Mechanism is also expected to visit Belize, Haiti, Jamaica, St.Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname in April,” the statement added.

The MESICIC is a cooperation mechanism between states, with the participation of civil society organisations, established within the framework of the OAS, in which the legal/institutional frame-

The Commission will meet with representatives from the main oversight bodies of Grenada and Jamaica. (Jamaica Observer photo)

work of each country is reviewed for suitability with the Inter-American

Convention Corruption.

Observer)

against (Jamaica

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Inexperienced judges, magistrates causing backlog of cases in Guyana– Justice Kennard

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ormer Chancellor of the Judiciary in Guyana, retired Justice Cecil Kennard said the appointment of too many young magistrates and judges to the bench can be blamed for the current backlog of cases and slothfulness of the justice system Speaking with Guyanese media in a recent interview, Kennard said bluntly: “We are appointing members of the judicial system when they lack the necessary experience,” pointing out that some of the magistrates and judges are somewhat tardy in their work.

According to Kennard, some magistrates are intimidated by the possibility of an appeal of their decision, and as such, take long to make a decision.

This, he said is creating a major accumulation of cases in the judicial system.

This comment by the former chancellor of the judiciary comes mere days after legislation was passed in court to allow for the proceedings to be recorded using electrical recorders.

This bill paves the way for the electronic verbatim recording of proceedings, moving away from a conventional system of manual note taking, which is time consuming.

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh had previously expressed similar sentiments regarding the work of senior judicial officers.

Justice Singh in October said more judges were urgently required.

If the judges needed were hired, then they would

Islandwide road show to sensitise Jamaicans on logistics hub

P

Retired Justice Cecil Kennard

be able to deal with the increasing backlog of cases and the sluggishness linked with the dispensation of justice in Guyana.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall had said the executive had recognised the need for more appointments to be made to assist in improving the delivery of justice.

Singh is of the opinion that with the appointment of more judges, the backlog could be further addressed and possibly eradicated, giving rise to the rebirth of an effective judicial system.

He added that even as consideration is given to the appointment of more judges, stricter measures and action will have to be taken to get them to perform with some level of efficiency.

Nandlall said while government endorses the view that more judges need to be appointed to assist in fast-tracking the delivery of justice, there are other factors that must be considered, which will not allow for an immediate intervention, unless they are addressed. (Guyana Times)

resident of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) Francis Kennedy says discussions are now underway with the government for the staging of a 'Road Show,' geared at sensitising the public about the benefits and opportunities that can be derived for the much-touted Logistics Hub. "We need to take the issues all across Jamaica, and to inform and educate Jamaicans from all walks of life just what it is that we are saying when we talk about the island of Jamaica as a logistics centre," Kennedy said.

He explained that under the planned initiative, his organisation would be working alongside a number of public sector entities and the parish chambers, in taking the message islandwide.

"If we want to have the buy-in of all Jamaicans, we must do this and do it well," Kennedy emphasised.

"So what we are thinking is that we will have a mobile unit that will travel parish by parish, city by city, town by town to bring out the message to the people about what

President of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce Francis Kennedy.

(Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

the logistics hub is all about."

Kennedy was speaking Saturday at the Parish Chamber Quarterly Luncheon Forum at the Royalton White Sands Hotel in the parish.

He later told Jamaican reporters that he expects the road show--which should last for about seven months- to get underway in May, adding that funding for the initiative would be provided by "the multi-laterals."

Earlier, Kennedy told the business leaders that the logistics hub

initiative could be the single most important move to revolutionise the country's otherwise stagnant economy.

"At the JCC, we embraced the idea that successfully re-positioning Jamaica as a leading logistics centre is a potent economic gamechanger. We believe it is one of our last, best hopes," he stressed.

He warned, however, that the project will only be successful if "some very definite actions that we need to take" are done on a timely basis.

These, he said, include: Identifying, through focussed research, the most advantageous industry segments; developing partial-scope trade agreements with target countries; introducing of legislation that will facilitate activities, planned for the hub; establishing a resolution to the uncertainty surrounding the timing of the introduction of competitive energy rates, and organising and co-ordinating public sector and private sector resources to ensure that the country's human resource can take the jobs that will be created in the hub. (Jamaica Observer)

Grenada launches new destination brand

G

renada unveiled a new destination brand last Friday, in a significant move aimed at repositioning the country as a major tourist destination.

More than 100 invited guests from the island’s tourism, diplomatic, corporate, and media circles gathered to witness the unveiling of the island’s new brand identity at a cocktail reception hosted at the Ministry of Tourism’s offices.

The event was also attended by members of the foreign press.

Highlights of the evening included live cultural performances and a special rendition of the locallywritten song “Welcome Home,” which was used as the sound track for the introductory video that revealed the new brand.

“We know you are going to love it,” declared Alexandra Otway-Noel, the island’s Minister

of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation, when asked why she chose February 14 --Valentine’s Day--for the launch.

The new brand tag-line “Pure Grenada” will form the underpinning for the island’s new marketing focus, positioning the island as “off-the-beaten path,” and a haven for the discerning travel explorer.

The new logo also reflects the island’s deep Amerindian roots and its proud ancestral heritage; while still encapsulating the “heart of the nutmeg”--which has been the backbone of the island’s trade and exports.

“We struggled to find the one word that encapsulated everything that is beautiful, unspoiled and undiscovered about these three islands–and it took the eyes of a child to see it in its true form–Pure,” explained Russ Jarman Price, chair-

man, Inglefield, Ogilvie & Mather, the Caribbean arm of the global advertising giant.

Speaking at the launch, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Rudy W. Grant indicated that the new brand will be the signature calling-card of the destination going forward, and will be implemented in a phased-rollout across the island and on the Authority’s brand collateral in local and overseas markets. Only six weeks ago, Grenada restructured its marketing and promotion arm into the newly formed Grenada Tourism Authority.

The new mandate includes better positioning to seize new marketing opportunities and to be more adaptable to the dynamic commercial realities of today’s new global tourism and hospitality environment. (GIS)

TT Embassy for China P

rime Minister Kamla PersadBissesar will open a new Trinidad and Tobago Embassy during her official visit to China between February 23 and February 28, TT’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Dookeran said.

In a statement to Parliament, Dookeran said Persad-Bissessar will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Several agreements proposed to be signed following bilateral discussions include a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the General Administration of Sport of the People’s Republic

of China and the Ministry of Sport for cooperation in the field of sport.

Also included is a MOU on cooperation in energy and energy-related matters; a bilateral air services agreement and the protocol between Trinidad and Tobago and China concerning the posting of a Chinese medical team to work in Trinidad and Tobago.

Dookeran also said, “On the agenda of this official visit is the expansion of cooperation in international affairs. Of particular importance will be discussions surrounding: development and sustainable development issues; reform of the inter-

national economic institutions and United Nations Security Council Reform.”

The official delegation is to include representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment; Udecott; Ministry of National Security; Ministry of Energy and Energy Affairs; National Gas Company; Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago; the University of the West Indies; University of Trinidad and Tobago and members of local media under the Ministry of Communications.

A group of business-

men also is expected to be part of a delegation.

The business delegation is to include representatives from the following organisations: InvestTT Limited; Eteck Limited; ExporTT Limited; Premium Products Limited; International Marine and Industrial Inspection; Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards and the Trinidad Import and Export Company Limited.

“It should be noted that such a level of interest has been generated by this Official visit that the business delegations are joining the honourable Prime Minister at their own cost,” Dookeran said.

TT’s Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Dookeran. (TT Guardian file photo)

“They are eager to explore and capitalise on the many opportunities and to have face-time with potential partners in trade and industry.”

He said further details of the visit would be brought to the pub-

lic. “Both nations can feel confident of substantial social and economic benefit, underlined by a continued tradition of warm diplomatic relations and growing mutual respect,” Dookeran said.

(TT Newsday)

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T

he spectacular showcase of costumes on Mashramani day is certainly a highlight of this national celebration. “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44”, this year’s Mash’ theme, is what the minds behind the costumes are working feverishly with to create their masterpieces.

Two such designers are Dorian Obermullar and Surida Nagreadi. In an interview the designers outlined their plans for the upcoming Mash celebrations and how they intend to create excitement on the roads.

Dorian Obermullar

Designing comes naturally for Dorian. His career in designing started while in high school, where he was designing costumes for students.

“I started costume designing in school and was very involved in the arts. After graduating

Dazzling pieces by Surida

from high school, I decided I want to make de-

signing a career. I went to Burrowes School of Art

and did various workshops with renowned cos-

tume designers from the Caribbean. I learnt about the basics of costumes designs and developed my skills over the years,” he recalled.

The designer’s first major costume design was “Green Dynasty” for Miss Mash International 2006. He received accolades for the design, he noted, and many were impressed with his talents as a young designer.

“As I garnered more experience, I kept designing creative costumes for pageantries and Mash. A highlight of my career was competing in a designing event in Trinidad, and placing fourth out of twelve persons. I also took the opportunity to do workshops there, which really helped to sharpen my talent,” Dorian reminisced.

Although Dorian enjoys designing for adults, he prefers to create costumes for children. He disclosed that working with children is more manageable, which gives him scope to fully express himself as a designer.

“For adults’ costumes, entities usually do not have sufficient funds.

This somewhat stifles my

Additionally, he has designed a stunning piece for a Carib Soca Monarch competition contestant.

Other than designing Mash costumes, Dorian is a fashion designer. He enjoys designing fashionable clothing for those who prefer a distinct look.

“My future plan is to pursue studies in designing abroad and get all the training and experience I can get. I also want to come back to Guyana too impart my knowledge to those who share my passion for designing,” Dorian declared.

Surida Nagreadi

Sharing a similar passion for designing is 24-year-old Surida Nagreadi. Surida is a costume designer and the founder of Mash band, Xcite Gy. “I have always been into designing but decided to do so professionally last year. I have been getting excellent responses from the public since I launched my Mash band last year. I love fashion, and it motivates me to be a good designer. I also love a project, and seeing the desired end results inspire me to be better,”

Dorian (right) on the catwalk with his model presenting one of his pieces

concepts because I cannot get to express myself the way I want to because I am confined to a strict budget. However, with the children’s costumes it is a much smaller band and although I do not do as much, it is still grand,” he declared.

He noted that for two years he designed costumes for Diamond Secondary and they won both years. These achievements have motivated Dorian to continue to work with children.

This year, Dorian is designing costumes for the Department of Education, Region Four, and for various schools countrywide.

Surida disclosed.

Surida noted her aim is to enhance the Mash fete experience. She believes Mash is a “stepping stone” for encouraging tourists into the country, which will ultimately help to develop the economy.

“My plan is to hold Mash-related events throughout the year in order to build anticipation for the celebration.

The party will start midyear with the launching of my costumes in August. Although it is a fairly new band, my aim is to make Mash an exciting experience for all,” the designer declared.

(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

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T

he three-day Rupununi Music and Arts Festival in Guyana concluded Sunday evening with organisers hailing it as a great success.

The festival had an auspicious start at the Rock View Lodge in the Annai community of Region Nine last Friday.

It was formally opened by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who commended the organisers for launching an event that brought performers from across the world to Guyana’s interior. He said tourism has been identified as a sector that can foster development by attracting overseas visitors to experience Guyana’s unique flora and fauna.

To this end, new airlines and the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport are in train to take advantage of the new opportunities available, along with the construction of the soon-tobe-opened Marriott Hotel, the prime minister said.

The fact that Guyana has been listed as one of the top 21 places to visit in 2014, by the prestigious National Geographic Traveler Magazine, was also noted.

The prime minister also took the opportunity to present a Gy$5 million cheque to the organisers as a show of government’s support for the inaugural event.

For acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, the event was about being able to experience global music.

“Music is one of the most beautiful forms of bringing people together, culture together and having humanity embracing each other.”

Minister Ali, observing the large influx of overseas guests and performers, reminded them that they could always extend their stay in what he described as the cleanest and most beautiful area in Guyana. The minister also commended the organisers for initiating the programme and

A section of the crowd at the Rupununi Music and Arts Festival being entertained

George also welcomed the hundreds of visitors and urged them to enjoy what he termed “the most beautiful part of Guyana”. He asked them to encourage others to come and experience what the community has to offer.

The performers included Marc Mathews (spoken word); Keith Waithe (jazz & world flautist); Chuckie (Marlon Adams) and the Buxton Children’s Group; Fusion African drumming; Raghu’s Indian Tassa drummers; Ras Camo; Indus Voices and Dance Worqs; Trevor Rogers; Desmond Atherly; Desmond Atiwell; and the Surama Cultural Group.

Guyana’s Prime Minister Samuel Hinds presents a Gy$5 million cheque to Colin Edwards as support from the Tourism Ministry for the event

using local talent and skills to ensure its success.

The event was also described by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett as a unique way to showcase the interior of Guyana to many who believe that Guyana basically starts and ends on the coastal region.

It will also benefit surrounding indigenous communities, she noted, and they will learn from it.

Coordinator and Rock View owner Colin Edwards said the event was not easy to organise, and while he acknowledged that some mistakes may have been made inadvertently, next year’s festival would build on

Tassa drummers at the festival

and improve on what was described by many who attended as a wonderful event.

Edwards thanked all the entities that made the event possible. These include government, the tourism and Amerindian affairs ministries, embassies, local banks, and a myriad of private sponsors.

Annai’s Toshao Mark

The international performers were Zambian Namvula, Filligar (U.S.A.); Iryna Muha (UK/Ukraine); Ramon Goose (UK); Pavel Ván? (Czech Republic); Aref Durvesh (UK); and Drew Gonsalves (Canada via Trinidad), the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

J

amaica was still experiencing the teething pains of a new nation when singers Freddie McGregor and Marcia Griffiths started their careers in the early 1960s.

On Saturday, it was pure pleasure as they were lauded for their endurance by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), at its sixth awards ceremony.

Griffiths and McGregor turned in outstanding performances at the Courtleigh Auditorium in St Andrew, giving no hint they were scheduled to catch an early morning flight to Atlanta Sunday.

The exuberant Griffiths was in her element, performing ‘Dreamland’ and ‘I Wanna Be With You’ before addressing the audience which included a number of her contemporaries.

“I made it through the broken glass because of you. And I truly love you,” she said.

McGregor, dapper in a shiny-grey suit, made his mark with a number of hits like ‘I See it in You’, ‘If You Wanna Go’ and ‘Let Them Try.’ Hedley Jones, a musician/engineer whose contribution to the music business is largely understated, was recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Popular music

Most of JaRIA’s Class of 2014 got their start in the 1950s and 1960s when Jamaica’s popular music was taking shape.

Among them, the gifted trombonist Don Drummond of the Skatalites who died in 1969; singer/songwriter Joe Higgs; drummer Winston ‘Sparrow’ Martin; dub visionary Osbourne ‘King Tubby’ Ruddock; the Zap Pow band; musician Mikey Chung of Now Generation and In Crowd fame; percussionist Herman ‘Bongo Herman’ Davis; rock steady group the Heptones and the revered drum-and-bass team, Sly and Robbie.

Freddie McGregor admiring his trophy at the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association’s (JaRIA) sixth awards ceremony held at the Courtleigh Auditorium in St Andrew on Saturday. (Karl McLarty/Jamaica Observer photos)

Singer Johnny Clarke, who came of age during the roots-reggae explosion of the 1970s, showed why he is known as the ‘Hit Machine’ with a robust set.

Shortly after accepting his Iconic Artiste award, Clarke had the housing jumping to ‘None Shall Escape the Judgement’, ‘Rock With Me Baby’ and ‘Move Outa Babylon’. He also did an acapella version of ‘Left With a Broken Award.’

Carlene Davis also received an Iconic Artiste trophy. Not as flamboyant as Clarke, she was effective on a well-received version of ‘Like Old Friends Do.’ Asley ‘Grub’ Cooper, whose prolific work is responsible for the success of numerous acts, most notably the Fabulous Five band, was recognised for his work as a composer.

Similar recognition went to musician/producer Paul ‘Computer Paul’ Henton and engineer Mervyn Williams.

Marcia Griffiths and Johnny Clarke

The Grace Thrillers and Adina Edwards, were cited for their achievements in the field of gospel.

Edwards, a blind accordion player and singer, died in 2008. Led by the impressive singer Sarnia Constantine, students from the Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts, delivered a heartfelt rendition of her song ‘Lay Down Those Guns.’

Members of Nexxus and Las Voces Melodiosas from the Mico University, performed ‘Can’t Even Walk’, the Thrillers hit that took gospel into the mainstream almost 30 years ago.

Other awardees were Alfonso Walker for his work in media; Reggae Sumfest for Outstanding Contribution to the music industry and the Bass Odyssey and Stone Love sound systems.

Singer Jah Bouks’ 'Call Angola' was selected Song of The Year, while Kabaka Pyramid won Breakthrough Artiste of The Year.

Singer Tessanne Chin received a special award for winning NBC’s talent show, The Voice. (Jamaica Observer)

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K

ris ‘KI’ PERSAD has again taken home the Chutney Soca Monarch title.

It was a night of fierce competition, but in the end Persad, performing at the second-to-last position of 19, took home the 2014 title.

It was the second win for Persad, who in 2012, was the youngest competitor to win the Chutney Soca Monarch title.

The event was held at Skinner Park, San Fernando.

Persad who won with ‘Single Forever’ in 2012, proved he had what it took to take back the crown with his 2014 hit ‘Meh Wife Runaway.’

Last year’s winner Raymond Ramnarine opted not to defend his title this year.

An excited KI said, “It was a tough fight going up against the best in Chutney Soca and I am just thankful to everyone for putting me first this year. I promised never to ‘let down’ the people, but to keep the flag of Chutney Soca flying high.”

Speaking Sunday from the Trinidad Hilton, where he was carded to perform hours after his win at the Chutney Soca Monarch finals, Persad said a combination of factors contributed to his

Chutney Soca Kind Kris 'KI' Persad during his performance of ‘Meh Wife Runaway’ at the Chutney Soca Monarch competition at Skinner Park, San Fernando on Saturday night. (TT Newsday photos)

success—the fans, his family and the music.

Persad, 28, won a TT$2 million first prize and he plans to use the money to invest in better equipment while trying to open up the Chutney Soca market in Europe.

He said his band 3Veni had developed a brand throughout the years and he hopes to keep improving on the standard of the music for everyone to enjoy.

International brand

The

young

winner

who wants Chutney Soca to become an international brand also composed the songs which saw him take the Chutney Soca Monarch crown in 2012 and this year.

He thanked his band, which is led by his father Varendra Persad, for the love and support through the years.

Six-time winner, Samraj ‘Rikki Jai’ Jaimungal and former Chutney Soca Monarch Ravi ‘Ravi B’ Bissambhar tied for second position.

Ravi B

The two will receive TT$400,000.

Kenneth Supersad placed fourth taking home TT$100,000 and Nishard Mayroo came in fifth also winning TT$100,000.

Jai, who has been in Chutney Soca for 25 years, paid tribute to legends Drupatie Ramgoonai and Sundar Popo.

Ramgoonai was presented with a bouquet of flowers during his performance and he also brought on stage a Sundar Popo impersonator.

Jai collaborated with

G

uyana’s two-time Carib Soca Monarch Jumo Primo had dreamt of defending his title for another year, but his dream was shattered after a “tongue-licking” performance by Kwasi ‘Ace’ Edmondson early Sunday morning at the National Park arena in Georgetown.

Edmonson performed his song ‘Still In the Game’, and sealed the deal with his creative and poetic skills. Outshining 13 other artistes in this year’s competition, Edmondson’s “hip hop/hard talk” presentation had the audience in a frenzy as he bashed several of his colleagues.

He did not spare Primo indicating to him that his reign was over, since he was there to take over. He then turned his attention to Orlando ‘Bonesman’ Johashen who sang ‘Blow’.

He also had a few words for ‘Shelly G’ who he said is back “in the game” but ‘Mr Limpy’ cannot help her to win the monarchy. His tremendous impromptu talent on stage definitely did justice to his performance, adding the spice and humour the crowd was starved of.

Coming in at second spot was Primo who dished out ‘On The Road’. The overconfident soca sensation thought that he had the title in his pocket, but his performance lacked certain elements. His stage performance was undoubtedly one of the best for the evening which saw his fans waving and jumping, but clearly it was not enough for the judges.

In third spot was ‘Bonesman’ who

Nigel Rojas, lead singer of the rock band Orange Sky, for his presentation.

He congratulated both Persad and Ravi B and felt proud of his own achievement since he has consistently placed in the top three in as many years.

Judges votes

Chutney Soca Monarch 2010 Ravi B was pleased with his performance of ‘Bread’ and he too congratulated Persad on his win.

Seepersad who again placed fourth for a second consecutive year, performed ‘Raging Bull’

and said he was happy with his high score in the competition.

He expressed the hope that the competition would return to the system of “judges’ vote” instead of “text voting” which determines the winner by the number of text votes received from the public.

“You see the young people will vote for the youngsters in this competition and this is why they stand a better chance at winning,” Seepersad said.

This year’s event, which is in its 19th year, featured guest performances by Bunji Garlin and his wife Fay Ann Lyons-Alvarez.

Organisers of the competition also paid tribute to the late singer, Rajin Dhanraj.

Chairman of Southex, George Singh said this year’s production was the best that he has ever done.

“It was laced with what I would call the best performances we have ever seen in the history of the competition,” Singh said.

He said it was obvious that the performers stepped up their game and it showed with the quality of the performances in this year’s final competition. (TT Newsday)

Winer’ and was the first to start the competition, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Some of the other performances that were outstanding, but did not place were Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts with ‘Yada Yada’, Clinton ‘Passion’ Adolphus with ‘Cost of Living’, and that of Abigail AJ James who made her way to the front of the stage on a CBR. Roger Bowen performed satisfactorily before the audience, but there was another unimpressive performance by Quacy ‘Avalanche’ Coates.

As the judges made their decision, guest artiste Kes the Band, specifically lead singer Kees, had the audience in the palm of his hand with his excellent stage performance. (Excerpted from Guyana Times)

Kwasi "Ace" Edmondson makes his way on stage early Sunday morning at the National Park to deliver the knockout blow to Jumo Primo to claim the Soca Monarch title with his song: “Still In the Game” (Carl Croker photo)

was the first to launch attacks on fellow artistes as he dished out his popular song. Copping the fourth place was Jonathan ‘Lil Red’ King with his song, ‘Who We Are’, as he invaded the National Park arena in grand style, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.

His entire costume and set was, appropriately enough, red with a touch of gold. He had the audience gyrating to his vibes and was very creative, with a truck that elevated him into the

air. He performed to the delight of his audience but the judges had their own criteria.

Best newcomer

The best newcomer prize of Gy$100,000 went to ‘Kemmy’ who performed ‘Designated

Jumo Primo performing at the National Park on Saturday evening

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Guyanese-born curator to present “Modern Guyana” at NY exhibition

L

H

Shirley Pryce.

(Jamaica Observer photo)

er work with championing the cause of domestic workers is well documented, and now president of the Jamaica Household Workers Association Shirley Pryce is looking forward to pleading the cause for women all over as one of the newest elected members of the Association for Women's Rights in Development (AWID).

Pryce was one of two members who were nominated and then elected to the AWID international board of directors earlier this year. The other newly elected member is Alice Odingo, who is the chairperson of the Women and Climate Change Project of the Soroptimist International Union of Denmark and Kenya. Both women are expected to join the group of other women policymakers, academics, researchers, activists, business leaders and gender advocates to strengthen the voice of women worldwide and to advance their rights.

As the only Caribbean representative on the board of directors, Pryce said she hopes to help to bring more visibility to issues affecting women in the region.

"We will work to eliminate violence and poverty. I want to see a world where we can smell, taste, live in freedom and where we all can enjoy our rights free from discrimination," she said.

Pryce said she was pleased to learn of her nomination and is now looking forward to what this opportunity affords.

"I am honoured to serve on this outstanding international board. I look forward to working with the other board members as this can only enrich our organisation and those with whom we work.

And at the same time I am sure that in turn I will also be able to offer something new to the network," she said.

Pryce, who is a former domestic worker, also chairs the Caribbean Domestic Workers Network and has been a human rights advocate for over 20 years. She sits on several other boards and committees including the International Domestic Workers Federation, the Association of Women's Organisation of Jamaica, the 51 per cent Coalition and the Consumer Affairs Commission.

The humanitarian was also one of two Caribbean representatives who participated in the International Labour Conference to develop and adopt the Domestic Workers Convention in 2011 which was aimed at adopting the historic set of international standards geared towards improving the working conditions of an estimated 53 million domestic workers worldwide. However, despite agreeing to adopt the convention, Jamaica is yet to ratify it. Nontheless Pryce remains hopeful that laws regarding the treatment of domestic workers will be passed soon.

"I am hopeful that the government will ratify the convention from early, because we have been working real hard with that. The Ministry of Labour, the International Labour Organisation and UN Women gave funding and we are going around the island sensitising domestic workers and employers alike," she said. (Jamaica Observer)

ast month Guyanese-born curator Grace Ali was awarded a landmark curatorial fellowship by the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, to research and present “Modern Guyana”, the first major New York City exhibition featuring Guyanese contemporary photography, in 2015.

This April, at New York Public Library’s Schomburg Centre for Research in Black Culture, she will host a discussion with some of the participating photographers. She will return to Guyana as part of her research for the project.

Over the past several years, Ali has been collecting and sharing scholarship about Guyana. In 2003, she leveraged a Fulbright scholarship to travel to India, excavating the transplanted roots of her Indian background.

As a “Young Global Shaper” at World

Guyanese-born curator Grace Ali

Economic Forum’s 2013 annual meeting, she participated in high-level conversations focused on raising awareness of Guyana’s art and culture.

That same year, she

wrote the cover story and curated a landmark issue of the Nueva Luz Journal featuring Guyanese photographers. She is, perhaps, the only individual doing this work, looking

at the artistic and cultural production from Guyana, a nation stereotyped by poverty and the People’s Temple suicide tragedy decades ago.

Ali is also the founder and editorial director of OF NOTE, one of the first online magazines focused on global artists using the arts as catalysts for activism and social change. She is an adjunct professor of literature for the City University of New York.

Ali currently hosts the Visually Speaking series at the Schomburg Centre, which examines the state of photojournalism through the lens of contemporary photographers and image-makers.

Ali was born in Guyana and immigrated to the U.S. when she was 14 years old.

Guyana continues to inform and influence her worldview. The artist can be reached on telephone number (646)4214283 or via e-mail at havelockn@gmail.com.

L

ocal mas band Dream Team is scheduled to take Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival into the homes of millions of Americans this summer.

The Picton Streetbased band will have its 2014 presentation ‘I Am’ recorded by U.S.Television, an independent production company specialising in business features, for inclusion in a 30-minute documentary on investment opportunities in TT. A release said the video package is scheduled to air on the New York based Fox-5 station at the start of the U.S. Summer. Fox-5 currently broadcasts to over 20 million households in the tri-state area: New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

“The goal is really to promote Trinidad as an investment destination. But the thing is while it’s great to know about returns on investment, if the country is not a good place to live then it’s not going to get you very far. That’s why we include a tourism focus and the bulk of that focus for Trinidad will be on Carnival this year,” explained Carleen Krug, U.S.-Television regional manager.

Krug and her project co-ordinator Leah Smith

Dream Team bandleader Paul Singh, centre, shows off the band’s 2014 presentation ‘I Am’ to U.S.-Television regional manager Carleen Krug, left, and project co-ordinator Leah Smith at the band’s mas camp on Picton Street, Port-of-Spain on Monday. (TT Guardian photo)

are in Trinidad on the behest of TT ambassador to the U.S. Dr Neil Parsan and are effectively holding preliminary interviews with public and private sector energy players, as well as, scouting shooting locations.

Dream Team bandleader Paul Singh said he is excited about welcoming the U.S. camera crew on the road Carnival Monday and Tuesday not only because of the visibility it provides his band, but also for the exposure it guarantees for TT cul-

ture on the whole.

“We have a product that the world needs to see and every opportunity to showcase our creativity to virgin markets should be embraced,” Singh said.

Krugg said in the U.S. Carnival is synonymous with Rio de Janeiro’s display and hope their work in TT could help change that perspective and position the twin-island republic as the premier carnival destination.

“Every Trini you talk to just assumes that the world is aware of this

magical event that takes place every year. I think that aspect of country branding has been missing for a long time and I think the government is working to change that and we’re really excited to be able to play a role.”

“Personally I’m excited to be a part of Dream Team and everybody letting their hair down and having a good time.

It’s going to be incredible I have nothing but high expectations. I’m sure after this experience I’m going to be a lifer,” she concluded. (TT Guardian)

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Jamaican women groups come together for national expo on March 1

W

omen’s organisations have traditionally hosted separate events to commemorate International Women's Day on March 8, however, this year will see the coming together of several groups to host a women's expo at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus.

The Women's Resource and Outreach Centre Limited (WROC) in partnership with the Institute for Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), Mona Unit, as well as the Bureau of Women's Affairs will be collaborating to host the expo under the theme, 'Celebrating Women'. The event's opening ceremony is expected to begin at 10 o'clock at the university's Undercroft, while the expo will be on the lawns adjacent to the Assembly Hall.

Executive director for WROC Dorothy Whyte believes the event will help to showcase the work being done by the various women's organisations and entrepreneurs.

"The goal is to show how women are empowering themselves and really developing and making really serious contributions to the growth of our country," she said.

"We are going to be having a number of booths from different companies; the focus is going to be on

From left, Melissa McNeil-Barrett, assistant representative for the UNFPA sub-regional office for the Caribbean; Dorothy Whyte, executive director of WROC; Dr Leith Dunn, head of the Institute for Gender and Development Studies, Mona; Shelly-Ann Harris, Digicel’s senior communications manager and Anna- Kaye Rowe from WROC during the launch of activities to celebrate International Women’s Day. (Joseph Wellington/Jamaica Observer photo)

women-related activities.

We are catering to university students, not just UWI, but all the universities and the wider public."

Whyte said they are hoping to have about 20 booths on display showcasing the products and services offered by individuals or companies in the public and private sector. Free HIV testing will be carried out while representatives will also be present from the Jamaica Cancer Society.

Meanwhile, special guest speaker for the event will be Jacqueline Sharp who is the first female president and CEO of the Scotia Group.

Dr Leith Dunn, who heads the IGDS, Mona unit, said she sees the collaboration as a partnership for national devel-

opment, as it will help to put some focus on the issue of women's economic empowerment.

"We want to expose our students who are graduating to a number of these organisations so they too can benefit from and see opportunities for their own development.

It is also about career development for our men because at the institute, gender relations is about both males and females," she said.

Also partnering with the women's groups is the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Assistant representative for the organisation's sub-regional office for the Caribbean Melissa McNeil-Barrett noted that the theme

of the women's expo is in line with the focus of the 58th session of the Commission on the Status of Women which was centred on equality for women being progress for all.

"We wanted to use the opportunity to highlight the achievements that have been made in terms of gender equality, but also to highlight the gaps that still remain. Among them is the issue having to do with access to sexual and reproductive health services for women and for young people as well, particularly young girls," she said.

Whyte said booth registration is still taking place and implored organisations to make contact to secure their spot.

(Jamaica Observer)

Guyanese films to screen at U.S. arts event

T

he screening of four Guyanese films in the U.S., at the upcoming, prestigious arts event CaFA, is expected to be a showcase of imaginative talent.

Films scheduled for screening are “The Seawall”, “Beached”, “Tin City Voices” and “Rebecca’s Story”.

“The Seawall”, by U.S.-based Guyanese filmmaker Mason Richards, is a narrative short film shot entirely on location in Georgetown and centers around Marjorie, a Guyanese woman, as she prepares for her 10-year old grandson’s move to America to be with his mother. Struggling with loneliness, and abandonment, Marjorie sacrifices her happiness for her grandson’s future. The film debuted at the Cannes Film Festival’s Short Film Corner in 2011.

“Beached”, a 2012 film by Guyanese Kojo McPherson, tells of Nyoike (‘Nyo’) who, in an attempt to get back into the rhythm of his life, returns to his bar after spreading the ashes of his wife, Hope, on the Georgetown seawall. Still reeling from the loss he is not in a hospitable mood when his long-time friend and photographer, Fargus, shows up uninvited. Fargus fails to engage Nyo and leaves a picture he had taken of Nyo and Hope on the counter. Nyo’s wedding ring and the picture are all that he has left of his wife.

“Tin City Voices”, by Elijah Marchand, is a documentary filmed in Guyana last year. It is a story of survival in a slum. Marchand explores a shantytown in Georgetown with the purpose of finding hope among the struggles of an unnoticed population. The film is based on the story of an abused woman, a pregnant mother, and a man struggling to find redemption for his violent life. Their stories do not intersect but run parallel. The film uncovers the psychological environment that confines each of the characters. As Elijah searches, camera in hand, through alleys that form the puzzle pieces of the ghetto, he takes his au-

'Tin city voices' poster dience through a stirring story of rebirth and forgiveness among despair and violence.

“Rebecca’s Story”, a 2014 film by youths of the Guyanese group Witness Project, is a dramatic short film of an orphaned young reader who yearns to escape from her grandmother’s punitive custody. It gets more interesting when a sudden visit from a neighbour reveals a better way out.

For more information on CaFA and the films, visit cinecaribes.com

Republic Day!

By Anu Dev A return to first principles in a republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man.

His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example. – Niccolo Machiavelli

W

ell, Republic Day’s coming up Sunday and it really is an important day. I certainly wasn’t around way back in 1970, to know personally what it must have been like to live in a country still under the rule of another. Or even nominally under a governor general. But I do know that it feels better to be in control than to be controlled. And we won that right on Republic Day–to chart our own destiny. It’s like an ultimate version of becoming an adult.

My favourite hero in WI history was Toussaint L’Ouverture. To be a man–born a slave–take on the full might of one of the greatest European powers of the day, for the right to be free, was awe inspiring. He was indeed an “Opening”: the eventual independence of Haiti showed the path that every other colony had to walk.

So on Republic Day at least, we should make a point of being proud to be Guyanese. On that day we commemorate the earlier rebellion of our own Cuffy, in our own Berbice, for that same struggle to be free.

Before l’Overture.

I know some people try to raise some Guyanese pride on Republic Day, but unfortunately for most, it’s just about the Mashramani parade.

Granted, everyone has different ways of celebrating, of showing joy. Some people express themselves by parading down the streets in various states of undress in honour of Republic Day. Other people have more demure gatherings to celebrate the day.

But the problematic thing about it all is that most people don’t parade because of national pride. They parade to dress up (or undress) in costumes and ride on floats. Because it’s all about Mashramani – the jump-up and wine-down.

We’ve gotten so caught up with the festivities, that we’ve completely forgotten why we’re celebrating in the first place. Who thinks of the meaning of Cuffy or Toussaint in the definition of what ‘freedom’ means?

One of the aspects of being free means that we’re a democracy–we can elect our own government. I know I’m thrilled that I’m finally 18, so I can vote in the next election. Even though I just get one vote out of the thousands that are cast on Election’s Day, it still makes me feel like I have a say in who’ll be in charge of running our country.

And I’ll be thinking long and hard about which party has the best interests of the country at the top of their agenda before I cast my vote. Who’ll ensure most UG graduates don’t emigrate? A healthy nation is a productive nation–which party will implement the best health-care programme for the country?

Our kids are the future of our country and they need to have a sound education to ensure that they can have successful careers to continue the development of Guyana. We still have so few scholarships that kids have to write over 20 subjects at CXC to try to grab either the regional prize or the two scholarships that Guyana gives out.

Why aren’t we giving out scholarships to children for the different streams, example, science, arts and business? That’ll encourage children to be the best in their chosen field, instead of having to spread themselves too thin to write subjects from all of the streams.

So don’t just wait until it’s close to election’s time to think about whom you’ll vote for: start this Republic Day. Look at their actions during the year–what bills are they pushing (or holding up) in Parliament? Are they the type of people you’d want representing you?

We’re a republic now. We have the right (and obligation) to vote for who governs our country. So let’s think long and hard and make the decision that’ll be best for Guyana. That’s us.

Bollywood

25

week ending February 20, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

I

n over 25 years that she has dedicated to the Hindi film industry, Juhi Chawla has witnessed several trends. But she believes the current generation of actors has too much pressure to handle as far as competition and visibility are concerned.

"I thank god that I was there (at the peak of my career). I think there's too much pressure now," Juhi told media during a recent chat.

"There are so many newcomers...

Earlier once you made a mark, at least you had a chance of getting ahead. I think today you really have to stand your ground to be able to sustain.

There is so much noise around like size zero, public relations, marketing...I hope these girls are also enjoying themselves," added the 46-year-old, as she shared how she is "not really happy" about this aspect of Hindi filmdom today.

2

During her prime, the entertainer charmed moviegoers with her milliondollar smile, innocence and charm. A former Miss India Universe, she made her cinematic debut with 1986 film ‘Sultanat’. (TOI)

Vidya Balan finds Shah Rukh Khan very charming

V

idya Balan unabashedly admits that she finds Shah Rukh Khan very charming.

"Amongst the married men, Shah Rukh is so charming," she said recently, adding: "He's not been a co-star, but there's something about Shah Rukh. Also, he and my husband Siddharth Roy Kapur have the same initials and I get away with a lot because of that. When I went for the screening of 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' and he puts out his arms in the song ‘Mitwa’, for a minute I saw myself running to him! I remember I was young when the television show ‘Fauji’ released, but I knew my sister and her friends were crazy about him. At that point, I was going through the I-don't-likeboys phase, so I didn't

unit said that the growing proximity between the lead pair is evident during the shoot in Manali.

While Katrina was one of those who tried to boost his morale when he broke up with his wife, Hrithik responded by offering her a comforting shoulder following her New Year's tiff with Ranbir Kapoor on the subject of marriage.

"Both are recovering from recent heartbreaks and have found an anchor in each other," added the source, pointing

out that when Hrithik was hospitalised, Katrina went straight to meet him after returning from her famous Ibiza trip with Ranbir.

"His injury delayed ‘Bang Bang’ and Katrina's schedule was knocked for a six. But she stood by his side and accommodated all the date changes without complaining. On the contrary, she was always trying to cheer him up by calling him up or sending his text messages,” the source said.

(TOI)

‘Ash didn't marry me because I am star or I am a Bachchan’- Abhishek Bachchan

like him. I actually fell in love with him when I saw ‘Dil Se’ and that's not a film, a lot of people mention in context to SRK." The actress is sure SRK knows about her liking for him. "Of

course, he knows. I think he has read about it and he keeps saying, 'Tum galat SRK ke saath chali gayi', to which I say, 'Par aap toh kahaan ghaas daal rahe the'. All of this is a joke," she concluded laughing. (TOI)

A

bhishek Bachchan says that his actress wife Aishwarya did not marry him because he is a film star or the son of megastar Amitabh

M

adhuri Dixit does not buy into the myth that Bollywood actresses have a short shelf-life or they can't get work post marriage.

"Age is just a number according to me, talent is the same whether you are 10, 20 or 100. I think it gets better with age. I also don't believe in the myth about married actresses. I think it is crazy. Sharmila Tagore worked after marriage, Rakhiji worked after marriage...Yes, some of them quit but that was their own decision. There were so many who did work. There are no hard and fast rules," Madhuri said.

013 was not a year Hrithik Roshan will remember with a smile. The actor was knocked out of action by a freak accident on the sets of ‘Bang Bang’.

The surgery that followed went smoothly, but Hrithik landed another hard knock when his marriage of 13 years came apart following irrevocable differences.

Hrithik took off on a holiday alone and returned rejuvenated.

Earlier this month, he flew down to Shimla to resume work on ‘Bang Bang’, determined that the film would keep its October 2, 2014 date with the theatres. Towards the end of the schedule, which wrapped up on February 12, Katrina Kaif joined the unit and Hrithik, who has been trying valiantly to come to terms with his separation from childhood sweetheart Sussanne, has found a good friend in her.

A source from the

Bachchan.

In an upcoming episode of ‘Koffee with Karan’, when asked by the host Karan Johar about the "insecurity" coming from being married to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, "the most beautiful woman on the face of earth", Abhishek said there was none.

"I believe she is and to me she is the most beautiful thing on earth. I see myself in the mirror every day and it is a horrific sight. So I am not competing, I can't. The reason why we got together wasn't cosmetic," Abhishek said.

"She is one of the most down to earth….normal people you will ever meet. She hasn't married me because I am a film star or I am a Bachchan and I haven't married her because she is the most beautiful woman on earth or one of the biggest stars on earth, so that never comes in the equation," he said. (TOI)

D

Madhuri ruled Bollywood in the '80s and '90s as one of the top stars, but she shifted to

the U.S. post her marriage to Sriram Nene only to return in 2011.

(TOI)

eepika Padukone is known for her professional conduct and all her directors and producers have always had good things to say about her. She is extremely punctual and pushes herself to her utmost capacity.

Last week, the actress worked for 30 hours straight. After shooting for ‘Happy New Year’ for 16 odd hours, Deepika rushed for her dance performance at an awards function. Not only did she perform, she also did a thorough rehearsal with the team before that.

However, the young actress had a sudden bout of ill health over the weekend. Deepika was shooting into the wee hours last Friday and almost fainted.

She woke up with running high temperature on Saturday and felt extremely weak. A doctor, who was rushed home, advised strict bed rest for the ac-

tress.

Deepika's spokesperson confirmed that, "Deepika's health has taken a toll. The doctor has strictly advised her complete rest for couple of days." (TOI)

26

hollywood

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending February 20, 2014

Bullock nervous of meeting ex-boyfriend Ryan Gosling?

Kit Harington learnt his real name at 11

A 11.

A

ctress Sandra Bullock is reportedly nervous and uneasy about bumping into her former boyfriend Ryan Gosling during the 86th Academy Awards.

The 49-year-old actress, who has earned an Oscar nomination this year in the best actress category, had dated Gosling, 33, for a year in 2002, reported Radar Online.

"She is nervous about coming faceto-face with Ryan this awards season because he really broke her heart years ago. Sandra is totally mortified about being around Ryan, even though she's

the one who helped launch his career more than ten years ago," a source said.

"Sandra has her fingers crossed that Ryan is a no-show on Oscar night, even though everyone on her team has told her to relax and that no one can even remember their romance," the source added.

The actress reportedly takes time in getting over heartbreaks.

"Everyone's moved on, but Sandy's the type to take things really to heart.

If anyone hurts her, it's very hard for her to forgive and forget," the source added. (TOI)

Reynolds sells house for $1.4 million

A

ctor Ryan Reynolds sold his Hollywood Hills house last month for $1.405 million, lesser than what he expected to fetch.

The 37-year-old had put the two-bedroom home on the market three times.

But he had to settle for $495,000 less than he had first hoped for when he first listed it for sale

back in 2009, reported dailymail.co.uk.

According to real estate website Truila, the actor purchased the property in October 2007 for $1.715 million.

The very private, over 1,700 square home, is located on a cul-de-sac and has high walls all around it. It features rustic wooden floors, a cook's kitchen, working fireplace and two and half bathrooms.

(TOI)

ctor Kit Harington says he found out that his real name is Christopher only when he was

Ellen Page confesses she's gay

A

ctress Ellen Page has come out of the closet and said that she is gay.

She made the revelation at the Human Rights Campaign's Time to Thrive event held recently.

Page, who has been seen in films like 'Juno', 'Smart People' and 'Inception', said that she did this to make this confession easier for others as well, reported contactmusic.com.

"I'm here today because I'm gay...and because maybe I can make a difference--to help others have an easier and more hopeful time," Page said.

"Regardless, for me, I feel a personal obligation and a social responsibility. I also do it selfishly, because I am tired of hiding and I am tired

of lying by omission. I suffered for years because I was scared to be out.

"My spirit suffered, my mental health suf-

S C

ing. It's just like, glue and chunks of sponge would stay on his face...''

While she told this to talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, she played a prank on her, as a man dressed up as The Mask crept up on Cameron and surprised her, leaving her in fits of giggles.

The beauty-now 41also reminisced about coming of age on the set of the movie.

She said: ''What an amazing first experience in film to do that movie with Jim Carrey. ''I turned 21 on the set of that film, and I'll never forget it, because obviously you turn 21 and you're like 'Wooo, 21!' ''And we were working nights, so Jim kind of helped me celebrate, the whole crew helped me celebrate that night,” she stated.

(TOI)

fered and my relationships suffered. And I'm standing here today, with all of you, on the other side of all that pain," she added. (TOI)

Kim Kardashian 'surprised' by marriage proposal

ocialite Kim Kardashian says rapper-fiancé Kanye West's marriage proposal was the "surprise of a lifetime".

ameron Diaz was ''horrified'' when Jim Carrey took his face off after a day's filming on 'The Mask'.

The actress' first ever film role saw her appear opposite the funnyman in the titular role as the green-faced, sharp-suited cartoon hero brought to life.

Asked if Jim had scared her on the set of the film, Cameron replied: ''The process of taking it off is terrify-

However, he said he was called Kit from day one.

"It was very strange, I went to school, and I remember that you had to do these tests to find out what set you're in-how clever you are. I put down Kit Harington, and they looked at me like I was completely stupid, and they said, 'No, you're Christopher Harington, I'm afraid'," Harington said in a statement.

"It was only then I learnt my actual name. That was kind of a bizarre existential crisis for an 11-year-old to have, but in the end I always stuck with Kit, because I felt that's who I was. I'm not really a Chris," added the actor, who will be seen in ‘Pompeii’. (TOI)

N

icholas Hoult has confessed that he feels a bit awkward while filming sex scenes in a

movie.

The 24-year-old actor claimed that it's all very technical and the actors are quite exposed naturally, Metro.co.uk reported.

Hoult, however, asserted that being a gentleman in such situations, he has to try and be polite and not do anything that could be misinterpreted.

He added that it doesn't matter how bad he feels as a guy in a room full of guys who are shooting and filming the scene, the actress is definitely going to feel a lot worse. (TOI)

The ‘Stronger’ hitmaker asked the brunette beauty to be his wife in front of all her loved ones at AT&T Park in San Francisco on her 33rd birthday and Kim, who has eight-month-old daughter North with Kanye, later admitted she had no idea what was going to happen.

"I'm, like, shaking. It is so crazy to me that this is all happening. Kanye really outdid himself. It feels like I'm in a dream. It's just the most amazing experience. I am the biggest investigator, so the fact that I didn't see one sign of this happening is the surprise of a lifetime," contactmusic.com quoted Kim as saying. (TOI)

27 Percy Sledge to headline Old Hope Road thriller in Jamaica I feature

week ending February 20, 2014

nternationally acclaimed rhythm and blues vocalist, Percy Sledge, will be the headline act for the R&B Reggae Concert scheduled for March 1 on the grounds of Jamaica College, Old Hope Road, Kingston.

Staged by R&B Reggae Promotions, the concert seeks to combine two of the genres that are most loved and appreciated by Jamaicans---reggae and R&B. A cadre of talented reggae acts is slated to join Sledge in concert and thrill the audience with a plethora of hits starting from the 1980s through to the present.

Among the reggae artistes scheduled to perform on this exciting line-up are the incomparable John Holt, George Nooks, Gem Myers, A.J. Brown, Bagga Case (Home T) and Breezy McKenley, along with Digicel Rising Stars alums Noddy Virtue, Jodi-Ann Pantry and Nickeisha Barnes.

To take the musical appreciation up a notch, Winston Blake, the maestro of Merritone Music, will set the turntables in motion. All artistes will be backed by one of the most enduring and sought after bands in reggae music---Fab Five.

According to the promoters, the R&B Reggae Concert is a special treat designed as the ultimate family showcase and they guarantee an evening full of memorable moments.

Stellar line-up

Frankie Campbell of Fab 5, who is involved with the project, puts it best when he says, "Can you imagine Percy Sledge, John Holt, Gem Myers, A.J. Brown, George Nooks and Merritone in one venue? That will be a package that I surely would not miss for the world".

Sledge is best known in Jamaica for songs such as ‘Cover Me’, ‘When A Man Loves A Woman’, ‘Take Time To Know

T

he much-criticised swimming pool on the Greens in Trinidad was empty of bathers at 4.30 pm Sunday, but hundreds of patrons were still streaming into the already-crowded alternative venue for the semi-final round of competition in the Medium and Large Bands category of the 2014 National Steelband Panorama at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-ofSpain.

On stage in position 13, performing before a packed North Stand and three-quarterfilled Grand Stand, was Carib Dixieland Steel Orchestra, one of four qualifying bands from Tobago in the Medium band category. Their tune of choice was Clive Telemaque’s 2014 composition ‘Dis Is It’, ar-

Percy Sledge

Her’, ‘Try A Little Tenderness’, ‘Dock of The Bay’, ‘Warm & Tender Love’, ‘Whiter Shade of Pale’ and ‘My Girl’.

He has had his songs covered by both reggae and dancehall acts and

Goddard composition ‘Dus In Dey Face’, from 1992, arranged by Arddin Herbert.

Adjudicating the competition was a panel comprising Laurel M Broomes-Rogers, Michelle Dowrich, Ezra Joseph, Damian Phillip, Martin Albino, and Lorna

is undoubtedly a favourite among Jamaicans, both the young and not-soyoung.

According to his biography, the Alabama-born Sledge had a somewhat unusual introduction to the music business.

Working as an orderly in a local hospital, Sledge toured with a local band called the Esquires Combo on weekends and a former patient at the hospital who knew both Sledge and local record producer Quin Ivy introduced them to each other.

Ivy was impressed with Sledge's emotional style of singing and signed him to a recording contract. Sledge hit it big with his first record, the classic ‘When A Man Loves a Woman’, released by Atlantic Records, which went on to become a worldwide hit (and, incidentally, the first Atlantic record to go gold). (Excerpted from Jamaica Gleaner)

Conyette.

Fifteen bands were listed to appear in the Large Bands Category from which ten will advance to the final.

They were: Caribbean Airline Invaders, TTEC Tropical Angel Harps, Witco Desperadoes, Bp Renegades, Skiffle, Solo

Harmonites, Birdsong, Neal & Massy Trinidad All Stars, PCS Nitrogen Silver Stars, White Oak Starlift, NLCB Fonclaire, Republic Bank Exodus, NGC La Brea Nightingales, Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove, and RBC Redemption Sound Setters. (TT Guardian)

Jubilant members of the Melodians Steel Orchestra perform David Rudder’s 'Hammer' in the Medium band category in PanTrinbago’s National Panorama semifinals at Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-ofSpain, Sunday. (Noel Saldenha/TT Guardian photo)

monitors coupled with a near perfect sound system in the Greens silenced all activity there, as patrons stood looking and listening calmly to the steelband performance on the

This pannist from Fascinators Pan Symphony shows off her dexterity during while performing Anslem Douglas' ‘Big in the Dance’ in the small bands category. (TT Newsday photo)

ranged by Leon “Smooth” Edwards.

Large, high-resolution

| www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

stage.

Competition got underway in the Medium Bands category 20 min-

utes later than the advertised starting time of 12 noon. The first band on stage was Courts Sound Specialists of Laventille playing Russell Cadogan’s 1991 composition ‘Poison’, arranged by Ken “Professor” Philmore.

It was followed by Pan Elders of Carib Street, San Fernando, with dancing girls complementing the musicians, offering a Duvonne Stewart arrangement of Clive Bradley’s ‘All Ah We Is One Family’, sung

by Lord Nelson in 1981.

Among the 14 orchestras seeking to qualify for the ten places in the final carded for Carnival Saturday night at the same venue was the defending category champion NLCB Buccooneers of Tobago doing a Sieon Gomez arrangement of David Rudder’s ‘Madness’, sung in 1986.

The other Tobago qualifiers were Petrotrin Katzenjammers of Black Rock and NGC Steel Xplosion of Carnbee.

Katzenjammers played SuperBlue’s ‘Spankin’, arranged by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, while Steel Xplosion chose the David Rudder/Pelham

The Children’s and Mash Costume Parade was well attended at the National Park

T

he atmosphere was filled with excitement as scores of Guyanese lined the streets of Georgetown on Saturday to support the Annual Children’s Mash Parade.

The parade was a scene to behold–children of all ages, decked out in colourful costumes– danced, covered in glitter and having lots of fun.

Caribbean Times International was at the parade and felt the excitement and joy as the children danced to popular soca and dancehall songs.

Some of the teachers who spoke with this newspaper said they were delighted to be part of the parade, more so, seeing the children enjoy themselves.

The parade com-

Proud Guyanese: This young lady proudly waves a flag of Guyana during the Children’s Mashramani and Costume Parade which started at the Parade Ground and culminated at the National Park on Saturday (Carl Croker photo)

menced at the Promenade Gardens, heading north along Camp Street, then proceeding east up Lamaha Street, turning north on Albert Street, and then to the National Park, where the schools and regions were judged on the costumes, creativity and performance.

The children’s Mash parade is one of many activities leading up to February 23, Mashramani Day, where hundreds of persons from across the country will gather to have a grand time, celebrating unity and birth of the republic.

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feature

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending February 20, 2014

‘Monster Fish’ documentary filmed in Guyana coming soon

T

he National Geographic Channel has completed filming a segment of “Monster Fish” during a two weeks expedition in Guyana’s hinterland waterways.

The documentary was based on the Hoplias Aimara fish, locally known as the Hymara or Wolf Fish.

The team began filming on January 30 and completed its work last Thursday. Monster Fish is a programme on the National Geographic Channel.

It was premiered in 2007 and is in its fifth season. This documentary that was filmed in Guyana will be the show’s 30th episode.

At a press conference last Friday at the Tourism Ministry, the team related their experience in Guyana and talked about the documentary.

Producer and director of the documentary, Erin Buxton, said the time was too short to really do the film justice; however, they completed their work. She noted that Guyana exceeded her initial expectations.

“I had high hopes coming here. I heard a lot about Guyana’s species, diversity and the fact that so much of its rain forest is still intact,” she stated.

Buxton said the team had the opportunity to see various species of

birds and fish. She added that it is sometimes hard to locate the fish, but they did not have many difficulties in the areas they explored. “It was easy to make a show here,” she said.

Fish biologist and presenter of the documentary Zen Hogan pointed out that while he did a lot of work in many countries, filming in Guyana was his best so far.

“I think of the 30 shows we’ve done, this was the best fishing that we’ve had; the highest diversity of fish that we have seen. We saw a lot of large fish and I think that’s largely because the areas where we went were pristine,” he said.

He added that he is working on a project studying the world’s largest fresh water fish and as part of the project and the show, he has travel a lot over the last 15 years and some the areas in Guyana are as of impressive as anywhere else.

Ground tour operator, Duane DeFreitas, who did the logistics work on the documentary, said the team was looking for the biggest Hymara fish they could find in different parts of the Essequibo River.

He noted that they explored areas such as Gunns in the Wai Wai territory, Apoteri, Iwokrama and the Buro Buro River. (Guyana Times)

T

he University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus hosted its annual Homecoming celebrations last week, keeping alive a tradition that began more than 60 years ago.

According to the UWI, the celebrations, which ran February 9-14, "provided an opportunity to celebrate the founding of the university, to acknowledge its unique position as the only higher education institution

Current UWI students from Elsa Leo-Rhynie Hall are in a jubilant mood as they participate in the university’s parade of students, staff and alumni last Thursday on the university’s Mona campus in Kingston. (Aston Spaulding photo)

with a presence throughout the English-speaking Caribbean, while assisting to engender a greater sense of belonging and develop a feeling of camaraderie among staff, students and alumni".

On February 16, 1950, the then University College of the West Indies installed its first chancellor. Since that time, the date February 16 has been used to commemorate that initial step which marked the beginning of the journey to a full-fledged university.

"In the beginning, the date was marked by a commemoration service held on the Sunday clos-

est to February 16," the UWI explained in a news release.

Since 2001, the celebrations have been expanded to include a church service, flag raising ceremony, university parade, and Caribbean Day. Highpoint of this year's celebrations was the parade of students, staff and alumni last Thursday which featured as special guests, doctors Keith McKenzie and Owen Minott, members of the Class of 1948.

They were among the first 33 students accepted to study medicine at the University College of the West Indies.

Star of the Week

Alexander Arjoon

A

lexander Arjoon is a national squash player who has represented Guyana at both junior and senior levels. As a junior, he was part of a win streak of seven consecutive junior Caribbean titles, capturing two individual Caribbean titles of his own. In 2013, he led the national senior team to their first Caribbean Senior title since 1996. His accomplishments include multiple junior national squash titles in every age group, as well as three consecutive senior national titles over the past three years. He currently attends Franklin and Marshall College in the United States and represents their squash team, which is ranked sixth in that country. Squash has been a huge part of Alexander’s life, and it has not only taken him to different parts of the world and fostered many cherished relationships, but in the process, he has seen benefits of hard work and commitment. As a young athlete, he has developed a passion for the game of squash, and as he matures he is becoming aware of the range of opportunities, direct and indirect, that the sport offers. After a significant improvement in his game over the past few years, he is keen to explore competing on the professional squash circuit. Fortunately, he has been blessed with world class coach Gavin Jones; a relentless fitness trainer Kezqweyah Yisrael, and the unconditional support of his family. He feels that he would be wasting the opportunity of a lifetime to represent his country at the highest level if he does not pursue his passion towards a professional squash career. Consequently, in 2014 he plans to launch his professional career by competing in a series of upcoming tournaments in Australia.

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week ending February 20, 2014| www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Smith looking to revive Windies career W

hile dynamic Barbadian all-rounder Dwayne Smith is hoping to resuscitate his international career against Ireland, Twenty20 captain Darren Sammy says West Indies won’t be taking the unfancied visitors lightly in their three-match series bowling off at Sabina Park this week.

The two teams arrived in Jamaica on Sunday and are slated to face off in two Twenty20 Internationals and a one-off One-day International.

“As a West Indian team we always respect our opponents, no matter what. The Irish have not done well in the just-concluded NAGICO

Super50, but no doubt we won’t be underestimating them as that could be a recipe for failure,” Sammy said.

The series, one of two before West Indies depart next month to defend their ICC World Twenty20 title in Bangladesh, bowled off Wednesday with the Twenty20s. The second is set for Friday.

The two teams are due to meet in the OneDay International on Sunday.

Keep focus

“We will just have to go out there, keep our focus and try to execute as best as we can,” said Sammy.

Meanwhile, Smith, who has been recalled for the two T20

George named AAG’s athlete of the year in Guyana

By Treiston Joseph

T

he Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) held their award ceremony on Saturday evening at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), where Olympian Winston George was named male athlete of the year.

Before the awardees received their trophies for their hard work during 2013, the AAG received a stern warning from Senior Vice President of the GOA Charles Corbin.

The warning came about due to local distance athlete Alika Morgan withdrawing from the South American team, citing that she was given short notice and was inadequately prepared, despite being shortlisted for the event since last year.

“It will mean that, when we have recommendations coming from the AAG, which have to be considered where I’m a member of the panel, the position of whether that person should be on the panel will become questionable. Because, if at the time after selection, the athlete is saying I’m not prepared. Did the AAG not know this before the person was included on the list?”

Corbin questioned.

However, earlier, President of the AAG Aubrey Hutson, who explained the rigours of 2013, was positive that the association will produce good athletes.

“This council is committed to producing the caliber of athletes

Winston George

that the nation could be proud of. For 2013 we had a good–but as I said at the congress¬–we did not have a great year, but it was a good year,” Hutson stressed.

The event concluded with the athletes receiving their awards before interacting informally with their other athletes and officials.

List of award winners: Male Athlete of the Year (Winston George), runner-up (Stephan James), Female Athlete of the Year (Alika Morgan), runner up (Jevina Strake), Junior Male Athlete of the Year (Kevin Abbensettes), runner up (Clarence Green), Junior Female Athlete of the Year (Jevina Straker), runner up (Alita Moore), Youth Male Athlete of the Year (Jason Yaw), Youth Female Athlete of the Year (Cassey George), runner up (Tirana Mitchell), Coach of the Year (Julian Edmonds), Official of the Year (Kendra Squires-Rose), runner-up (Nigel Hope).

(Excerpted from Guyana Times)

Top batsman

Dwayne Smith

Internationals, is delighted to gain selection after being named the Most Valuable Player in the Nagico Super50.

“I’m excited to link up with the West Indies team again. I worked myself very hard to get back into the team,” Smith said.

He added that he hoped his performances against the Irish would propel him into West Indies’ limited-overs squad for the home series against England, as the team prepare to defend their World T20 title in Bangladesh.

Smith finished as the top batsman in the Super50 with 232 runs at an average of 58, and credited his opening role with the Mumbai Indians in the Champions League T20 as a crucial element to his resurgence.

He admitted the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave him stability in his role as an opener after floating around between the top three spots.

“I’m enjoying the role as opener once more.

It’s a position I get to play and score freely.

I showed it in the IPL and in the Champions League.

“The selectors and coaches who backed me

for this position, I’m repaying them. Also, for Mumbai, I got to bowl more than expected. I’m always willing and up to do the best job I can, as an all-rounder.”

With Chennai Super Kings snapping him up for the 2014 IPL, Smith said that he was excited to test new pastures, especially as he feels at 30 he needs to be maximising on his playing opportunities.

“Mumbai was quite an experience.

The Champions League was too. But The MVP title was one of the biggest highlights ever. Now, it’s onto newer things and I’m looking forward,” the cricketer stated,.

(Excerpted from Nation News)

Fraser Pryce second in 60m indoor

J

amaica’s Shelly-Ann FraserPryce, in her only indoor race before the World Indoor championships, finished second in the 60 metres at the Sainbury’s Indoor Grand Prix in Birmingham on Saturday.

Fraser-Pryce, who had an explosive start and finished in 7.10 seconds, was given the same time as Ivorian Murielle Ahoure.

Asha Phillip of Great Britain finished third (7.12) and Tahesia Harrigan-Scott of the British Virgin Islands was seventh (7.23).

“When I came here and I heard the cheer from the crowd I couldn’t help but smile and I think that helped me to relax,” said FraserPryce.

“I love coming here and I’m looking to coming here again.”

“One thing like about ladies– we never hide, we always come facing each other and I think that’s good for the sport and it helps to just bring out the best in us,” she added.

In the men’s version, James Desaolu of Great Britain maintains his impressive form this season to win in 6.50, ahead of Jamaica’s Nesta Carter (6.53)

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. (Jamaica Observer file photo)

and Kim Collins of St Kitts/Nevis (6.55).

Jamaica’s Kaliese Spencer posted an indoor 400m personal best of 52.14 to finish behind Nigeria’s Regina George (51.78).

Edino Steele of Jamaica was

fourth place in the men’s 400m in 46.43. Nigel Levine of Great Britain (45.71), Luguelin Santos of the Dominican Republic (46.08) and Luke Lennon-Ford of Great Britain (46.16) took the top three positions. (Jamaica Observer)

TT’s cyclist Kwesi Browne joins Njisane for training in LA

A

rima Wheelers cyclist, Kwesi Browne, has joined Trinidad and Tobago Olympian Njisane Phillip in Los Angeles, California, to train in preparation for the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) and Commonwealth Games later this year.

Browne arrived in Los Angeles on Monday and revealed that he will be undergoing special developmental programmes under the watchful eyes of Phillip’s manager Peter Maharaj and American cycle coach, Travis Smith.

Speaking to the Browne earlier this week, he indicated that he is intent on improving his consistency as an upcoming national representative. He will be primarily focusing his training on the Sprint and Keirin events.

“The goal right now is to get ready and in good form for the

coming CAC and Commonwealth trials in May. I hope to be training with Njisane and his team until 2016. I am certain to learn a lot with these experienced tutors guiding me and with the support of Njisane,” he explained.

Last year, Browne was specially chosen by Phillip to join him in Germany to train with world renowned German rider, Robert Forstemann. However, after a few weeks of gruelling training in frigid temperatures, Phillip returned to his base in California while Browne headed back to TT. After only his first week of training last week, Browne noted that the technical aspects of training varied significantly as compared to Germany.

“I’m enjoying it so far. It’s a really different training style when comparing it to Germany, but it’s good and I know I’m in good hands

at this point. Njisane plays a good brotherly role for us younger national cyclists and I’m definitely pleased to be here with his wellequipped managerial team,” he added.

Additionally, Phillip’s Rigtech Sonics club-mate, Varun Maharajh, began his challenging six to eight-week long training regime in Bogota, Colombia, last week. He, along with 2012 Tobago International Cycling Classic winner, Darren Matthews of Barbados, has opted to visit the South American continent to better prepare themselves ahead of yet another hectic year of endurance and criterium competition.

The Commonwealth Games is scheduled to ride off in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 3 and the 22nd CAC pedals off in Veracruz, Mexico, from November 15-30. (TT Newsday)

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Limacol CPL bearing fruit

Thomas, London named best boxers in Goodwill tourney in Guyana

- Santokie among eight West Indians picked for IPL

T

he inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has been hailed by organisers and players as a “massive success”.

The players have used the platform to make their presence felt, not only at the regional level, but also at the international stage. However, at least one player has had his presence felt on the international platform.

Guyana’s Amazon Warriors and Jamaican medium fast bowler Krishmar Santokie is the only first-timer on a list of eight West Indians to be part of this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament.

Santokie was selected by defending champions Mumbai Indians on the second auction day of two, last Thursday, for US$50,000.

Widely regarded as one of the best Twenty20 bowlers in

Krishmar Santokie

the region, given his ability to swing the ball and vary his pace, Santokie entered the IPL auction on the back of an outstand-

ing season last year in the inaugural Limacol CPL. He guided Guyana Amazon Warriors to the final against Jamaica Tallawahs, before going on to cop the Most Valuable Player award, after finishing with a tournament-high 16 wickets from nine games.

The other West Indians drafted during the auction were seam bowlers Ravi Rampaul (US$150,000–Royal Challengers Bangalore), Jason Holder (Sun Risers Hyderbad– US$125,000) and Kevon Cooper (Rajasthan Royals–US$50,000); all-rounders Darren Sammy (US$583,000 – Sun Risers Hyderbad) and André Russell (US$100,000–Kolkata Knight Riders); leg-spinner Samuel Badree (Chennai Super Kings– US$50,000); and batsman Dwayne Smith (Chennai Super Kings–US$750,000).

Jamaica's bobsledders end Sochi dream

J

amaica's two-man bobsled team saved their best for last, but still finished at the foot of the ladder as the two-day competition concluded at the Sochi Winter Games in Russia Monday.

In their third and final heat, 46-year-old Winston Watts and Marvin Dixon, 30, clocked 58.17 seconds to follow up the 58.42 and 58.81 they did in the first two heats on Sunday.

With only the top-20 teams allowed to complete the fourth run, Jamaica ended 29th of the 29 teams which finished the event. Serbia had withdrawn after Sunday's first two heats.

Jamaica's Watts and Dixon were always big outsiders entering the event. They qualified for the competition for the first time since 2002, making it without racing in any World Cup events, but accumulating enough points in lower-tier races in North America.

Russia's pair, Alexey

The team from Jamaica JAM-1, piloted by Winston Watts (right) and brakesman Marvin Dixon, take a curve during the men's two-man bobsled competition at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Krasnaya Polyana, Russia. (AP photo)

Voevoda and Alexander Zubkov, were the gold medal winners with a final combined time of 3:45.39.

Switzerland's Alex Baumann and Beat Hefti were second with 3:46.05, while the bronze medal went to Americans Steven Holcomb and Steven Langton, 3:46.27.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday Prime Minister and Minister of Sports Portia Simpson Miller congratulated the bobsled team "on their valiant effort” at the Winter Olympics.

“Your contribution to brand Jamaica is in-

valuable. Your valiant effort at the highest level of competition has captivated the world and brought pride to your fellow Jamaicans,” the prime minister said.

“Our people have always been resilient fighters and the team’s performance was a true testament to this. We salute their demonstration of spirit and determination,” Simpson Miller added.

The prime minister noted that even though the team placed 29th overall, Jamaica is still beaming with pride and

joy.

“Qualifying for the Winter Olympics was a victory in itself and sends a strong message to the world that for us nothing is impossible.

Jamaica continues to celebrate that astounding achievement and we wish the team members, coaching and other support staff all the best as they continue to work hard and build on their accomplishments.

We look forward to cheering you on in 2018,” she said. (Excerpted from Jamaica Gleaner and Jamaica Observer)

Theresa London (blue) plugs away during her bout (Photo: Treiston Joseph)

By Treiston Joseph

T

he Goodwill Boxing Tournament, organized by the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) and the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), was filled with exhilarating action at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Georgetown.

Dennis Thomas boxed like a stalwart in the ring on Sunday evening, when he locked horns with Jamaica’s Michael Gardner in the 75kg bout.

Thomas always looked balanced in the ring, as he picked his spots to attack in the bout. Gardner advanced on a few occasions and pinned Thomas to the ropes on more than one occasion, unleashing some wild shots, but Thomas was able to keep his composure, and box his way out of the jam, before unleashing his fury as well.

In the end, Thomas won by way of a split decision, as the fight was one of the more well paced bouts of the evening.

Imran ‘Majic’ Khan was also in action, picking up a unanimous decision over Clairmont Gibson, as the two boxers fought to the end of their 60kg three-round bout.

Khan was a menace on the attack, as he looked to use his jab to

set up his right hook that Gibson had trouble with the entire fight.

However, midway through the second round, Khan appeared to hurt his left hand, as he hardly threw any left punches for the remainder of the bout.

The third round was filled with action between the two, as Gibson connected to the body and head of Khan, looking to capitalize on a visibly hurt opponent.

However, Khan dropped a few combinations of his own, while sparingly using his left hand, as both boxers seemed visibly exhausted when the bout ended.

Meanwhile, Theresa London won by way of a unanimous decision against Trinidad’s Chimere Taylor in the (75kg) category.

London used her jab well against Taylor, who tried to get the knockout that London evaded easily on course to her victory, as she displayed some superior boxing skills against the Trinidadian.

In other results Michael April (52kg) topped Junior Henry by unanimous decision, Delon Charles (56kg) defeated Stephan Nedd, Eon Bancroft (69kg) beat Jamaican Kestna Davis by unanimous decision, and Bert Braithwaite (64kg) defeated Lindell Marcellin of St Lucia by split decision. (Guyana Times)

‘Bigman In Town’ fails on the turf in Trinidad

‘N

ominee’ proved that he is the big man on the turf when horse racing continued last Saturday at Santa Rosa Park, Arima, in Trinidad.

The American-bred five-year-old maintained his unbeaten record on the surface after he prevailed in the Eric “Colt” Durant Memorial, feature attraction of the 10race card.

‘Nominee’ was overtaken in the race for favouritism just before the start by ‘Bigman In Town’, but he did not al-

low the same thing to happen on the track.

The Trinidad Derby Stakes winner was breathing down his neck when they turned for home in the 1,700-metre contest. But ‘Nominee’ started to pull away in the stretch and coasted home by 3 _ lengths and became the third of four winners during the afternoon for Emile Ramsammy.

Gold Cup runnerup ‘Bigman In Town’ was actually nosed out for second by ‘Kidz Ro’, while ‘Buffalo Soldier’

was fourth and ‘Crime Of Passion’, fifth, in the 1,700-metre contest.

Both ‘Bigman In Town’, the 8/5 favourite who won four of his five starts in Trinidad to be crowned Horse of the Year last season, and ‘Crime Of Passion’ were racing for the first time on turf.

The Kenneth De Silva Jr-trained ‘Nominee’, sent off at odds of 2/1, stopped the clock in a very good time of 1:41.20 seconds as he completed his hat-trick on the turf.

‘Nominee’ and ‘Bigman In Town’ are both nominated for the Sandy Lane Gold Cup in Barbados, but after his Jamaican-bred chestnut finished third Monday, owner Baskaran Bassawh stated that he will not be competing at the Garrison Savannah on March 8.

‘Nominee’ and Ramsammy had to share the spotlight with the Jamaican-bred threeyear-old ‘Momentum’, who put his Americanbred contemporaries in their place in the sev-

‘Big Man In Town.’ (Jamaica Observer photo)

enth event.

With champion jockey Brian Boodramsingh in the saddle, last year's St James Stakes hero completed a hat-trick

of victories and kept his unbeaten record intact with a smooth 3 _-length triumph in the 1,200-metre contest.

(Jamaica Observer)

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Twenty-one schools to compete at Milo Games in TT

A

total of 21 schools across Trinidad and Tobago will be competing at the 27th edition of the Milo Track and Field Games, which will take place at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo on March 11.

The participating schools have been separated in two groups— West A and West B. The West A schools are Carenage Boys Government, Carenage Girls Government, Cocorite Government, Dunross Private School, International School of Port-of-Spain, La Seiva RC, Maraval RC, Paramin RC, Point Cumana Government, Point Cumana RC and

Students from schools in Port-of -Spain pose with officials at Tuesday’s launch of the Milo Track and Field Games. The officials are (background, left to right) Kelvin Nancoo, chairman of the Organising Committee; Stacyann Charles, consumer marketing manager of Nestle; Brian Lewis, TT Olympic Committee president; and Zhada Nathai- Baboolal of the Ministry of Education. (TT Newsday photo)

St Michael’s School for Boys.

Guyana Cricket Board selects regional four-day first round squad

G

uyana has named a 13man squad for the upcoming West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) regional four-day first round matches, which begins later this month.

In preparation for the tournament, the national team will be engaged in a warm-up match Thursday against a Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) reserve team at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

The Guyana squad for the regional four day first round matches reads: Sewnarine Chattergoon, Assad Fudadin, Leon Johnson (captain), Ramnaresh Sarwan, Narsingh Deonarine, Shivnarine Chanderpaul (vice captain), Anthony Bramble, Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Keon Joseph and Vishaul Singh. Manager is Alvin Johnson and Coach is Esuan Crandon.

The reserve team reads: Rajindra Chandrika, Trevon Griffith, Robin Bacchus, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Royston Crandon, Rajiv Ivan, Jonathan Foo, Zaheer Mohamed, Anthony Adams, Jason Sinclair, Paul Wintz, Raun Johnson, Rayon Fredricks, Collis Butts, Andre Stoll and Ricardo Adams The Guyana squad will depart on February 25 for Jamaica, where they will take on the defending champions in the first round on February 28.

Prior to the warm-up match, the players on the squad who were not a part of the NAGICO Super50 squad in Trinidad and Tobago, were in encampment from February 5-7, which gave the selectors an opportunity to look at their fitness levels.

Chairman of GCB Senior Selection Panel Reyon Griffith advised that players not selected for the first round must continue to practice and stay fit for possible selection in future rounds of this year’s competition. (Guyana Times)

And, in West B, the entrants are Crystal

Stream Diamond

Government, Vale

Government, Diego Martin Boys RC, Diego Martin Girls RC, Diego Martin Government, Four Roads Government, La Puerta Government, Patna River Estate Government, Petit Valley Boys RC and Petit Valley Girls RC. The Games were launched Tuesday at the Harvard Sports Club in St James with a number of speakers, including Kelvin Nancoo, chairman of the West Zones Organising Committee and chairman of the Port-of-Spain and Environs Sports Council; Brian Lewis, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC);

Stacy Ann Charles, consumer marketing manager of Nestle Trinidad and Tobago; and Zhada Nathai-Baboolal, schools supervisor at the Ministry of Education.

Over the past 26 years, the Games have provided an opportunity for potential athletic talent from the North West region of Trinidad to flourish.

World 400-metre hurdles king Jehue Gordon is the most illustrious name to compete at the Milo Games, while a number of national athletes also shown at the Games, including Michelle Lee Ahye, Simon Pierre, Fana Ashby and Cleavon Dillon. (TT Newsday)

Chris Gayle back in the game

C

hris Gayle says he is “99 percent” fit and ready to take on Ireland this week. The big left-hander has been out of the game since an injury in India last November. He returned to intense training as the Windies assembled on Monday at Sabina Park.

“I’m 99% fit,” he said with a laugh. The big-hitting left-hander had just come off the field after entertaining a few fans with some massive shots into the stand.

“As everyone knows I had an injury last year, but I have done my work and I’m hap-

py to be back in the set-up,” he told local journalists. “This is just my first training session back at the ‘peak’ level so I will see overnight how the body come through and I will gradually ease back into the team after assessing the body.

“It's good to be back again and I’m looking forward to the first game and getting that feeling back out there in the middle again.

I haven't trained this intensely for a couple months so I hope to get a kick-start and get back into the groove of things as soon as possible.”

West Indies start-

ed the series with a T20 International on Wednesday. The second match is on Friday.

Gayle said he expected the locallyborn players to step up in front of the home crowd as he saw the series as a “special occasion”.

“We have a few Jamaicans in the team.

We have Santokie, Marlon's back and Russell too. Santokie’s did pretty well and he was the best bowler in the CPL so it's good for him to be given a crack at it in front his home-crowd,” Gayle noted.

Chris Gayle and teammates

“This is a big boost for us going into the World T20s. West Indies have a lot of cricket to play lead-

ing into this tournament so we're just looking to get past this (Ireland) series,” he said. (WICB)

Victorious Bajans dedicate NAGICO Super50 to Kirk

T

he Barbados Cricket Association might currently have issues with middle-order batsman Kirk Edwards.

But not so his teammates.

In an interview with Barbadian media, the talented 29-year-old right-hander expressed his delight at Barbados’ victory in the regional 50-over tournament, which has just concluded in Trinidad and Tobago. Edwards also stated he was touched by the sentiments of his teammates after being expelled from the squad in the twin-island republic by the team’s management.

“I felt good for the team. I was happy to see the team ethos that I was trying to build during my tenure as captain come true. Despite not being there I was overcome with joy for the fellows,” Edwards said.

He added: “I heard the captain say this victory is for Kirk, but each time the team wins a regional competition it is a victory for the people of Barbados and the fellows. That is why I enjoyed leading them.”

Edwards said he was very touched by a message he received from fast bowler Jason Holder on Sunday which stated:”You were not here, but we did it for you.”

“It was very humbling”, Edwards said.

Barbados

Win

captured

the

WICB

TT’s team members celebrate the loss of a wicket in the finals which they eventually lost to Barbados

NAGICO Super50 title with a 17-run win over TT in the day/night final at Queen’s Park Oval Saturday.

Chasing 253 to win, TT were bowled out for 235 in 45.5 overs.

Denesh Ramdin topscored for TT with 68 off 76 balls. He hit six fours and two sixes.

Pacer Carlos Brathwaite was the top wicket-taker with four for 41 off ten overs. Left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn took two for 29 off nine overs and medium-fast Jason Holder, two for 30 off eight overs.

Barbados made 252 off 48.4 overs af-

Guyana’s Chris Barnwell strikes a shot during the semi-final match against Barbados last Friday. (WICB Media Photos)

ter winning the toss.

Man-of-the-Match Dwayne Smith topscored with 83 off 77 balls with ten fours and two sixes. He and Kraigg Brathwaite (36) added 127 for the first wicket in 22.3 overs).

Medium-pacer Kevon Cooper was the leading wicket-taker with four for 62 off 9.4 overs.

Off-spinner Sunil Narine took two for 18 off ten overs and medium-pacer Lendl Simmons, two for 23 off five overs.

It was the sixth time Barbados had won the regional 50-over championship with one shared in a record 18 finals.

(Barbados Advocate)

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

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

INTERNATIONAL WEEK ENDING FEBRUARY 20, 2014

Young Chanderpaul stars again in Under-19 win against Canada

W

est Indies entered the quarter-finals of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2014, beating Canada by 63 runs in a Group C fixture at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium Nursery 1 in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday (February 18).

This was West Indies’s second win of the tour-

nament, and it finished second behind South Africa in Group C. It was led by Tagenarine Chanderpaul, who followed his 84 not out in a 167run win over Zimbabwe with a 127-ball 93 that laid the platform for an eventual total of 289 for 4 in 50 overs.

Chanderpaul shared in a 62-run opening stand with Shimron Hetmyer (39), and then added 95 with Jeremy Solozano (50) before Solozano was trapped lbw by Nitish Kumar.

Nicolas Pooran then built on the foundation and attacked Canada's bowling, smashing 67 not out off 41 balls, including three fours and four sixes, to take West Indies to a daunting total.

Canada started its chase reasonably, but fell away at the end, losing seven wickets for just 29 runs to be all out for 226 in 49.3 overs. Canada was 56 for 2 in the 14th over when Nikhil Dutta shared in two good stands to revive the innings. Dutta put on 53 with Nitish Kumar and then 88 off 104 balls with Talha Shaikh. But when Shaikh fell, Canada slipped from 197 for 3 to 226 all out.

Jerome Jones, Ray Jordan and Ramaal Lewis took two wickets each for West Indies.

West Indies will now head to Dubai to play in its quater-final on February 23 against the team that tops Group B. (WICB)

TT’s cyclist Kwesi Browne joins Njisane for training in LA Page 29

Tagenarine Chanderpaul

Victorious Bajans dedicate NAGICO Super50 win to Kirk Page 31

TT’s national cyclist Kwesi Browne. (Sport-tt photo)

Barbados’ players celebrate winning the WICB NAGICO Super50 cricket competition, following a 17-run victory over Trinidad and Tobago in the final at Queen's Park Oval on Saturday night. (WICB Media Photo)

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