Caribbean Times International by Gytimes

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ISSUE NO. 139

CANADA EDITION

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WEEK ENDING March 19, 2015

US President Barack Obama

See story on page 6

Heads of Government of CARICOM at the recently concluded 26th Intersessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government which was held in Nassau, The Bahamas

"Most important elections in Guyana ahead since 1964" Page 13

…Guyanese must give PPP/C majority – Ramotar

OAS urges Caribbean to 'decisively' combat corruption, defend Page 7 democracy

Sandals Group eyes possible Tobago resort

Page 15

2 NEWS Guyana’s Opposition Leader touts education as driver of economic transformation G www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Presidential Candidate, David Granger on Tuesday promised to transform Guyana’s economical landscape through education, if he is elected into office following the May 11 General and Regional Elections. At the time, he was addressing members of the business community during the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Business Luncheon at the Pegasus Hotel. In an effort to overcome the scourge of pov-

erty, Granger said major emphasis will be placed on repairing the “broken education system,” noting that an APNU+AFC Government would invest heavily in the development of five-star universities starting with the ailing University of Guyana, and not five star hotels. “Under the APNU+AFC, every single region, will have a regional technical institute and a regional agricultural institute,” he added, stating too that the young generation will be guided along paths that will allow them to be experts in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

A section of the attendees during the business luncheon

(STEM). “It is time to move our indigenous citizens and residents of the hinterland and our population as a whole out of poverty and ignorance, by building more and more educational institutes, not drop-in centres.” The PPP/C Government over the

years has plugged billions into the education system, virtually subsidising university education and also implemented a range of programmes catering for students at all levels. For last year government committed Gy$32.3 billion into the sector to carry out infrastructural and other improvements. The allocation was

Gy$3.8 billion more than what was expended in 2013 (Gy$28.5 billion), and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh had told Members of Parliament during the budget presentation that the funds are to be used to implement the first year of a “new Education Strategic Plan.” As part of the plan

Gy$2.9 billion was used “towards the construction, rehabilitation, extension and maintenance of education facilities including a new and expanded Zeeburg Secondary School and the Kato Secondary complex.” Granger told the gathering that every month 500 children are dropping out of school. But this he said is just a tip of the iceberg, explaining that within days, 16, 000 children will be writing the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) Examination of which 8000 will fail everything. Most of the failures he said will be from the hinterland. (Guyana Times)

"Next generation of Jamaican artists, step forward" – Hanna urges

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Minister of Youth and Culture, Hon. Lisa Hanna, is calling on young Jamaicans to come forward to take their place as the next generation of artists and cultural icons. “We have to spawn the next generation of artists and cultural icons in this country. We want to see more young persons stepping forward to take their place at the table,” she said. The Minister was speaking at the launch of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (JCDC) arts exhibition on Sunday, at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston. Minister Hanna said the programmes of the JCDC, an agency of the Ministry of Youth and Culture, are now specifically designed to produce cultural icons. The Minister commended the artists for their contributions to the art industry and for “keeping art and culture alive in the country.”

Director of Development and Training at the JCDC, Dorrett Thaxter, told Jamaican media that the JCDC has been encouraging “young, new and upcoming artists to expose their talents” through the agency’s Arts Development and Training Programme. The art exhibition features award-winning entries from the JCDC’s 2014 Jamaica Visual Arts Competition. It will run until March 29, where the public will be able to view the over 100 pieces free of charge. Carlton Lewis, whose painting titled: ‘Portrait of Nelson’ is part of the impressive display, told Jamaican media that his piece is in tribute to the late human rights activist and former President of South Africa. Mr. Lewis, who is no newcomer to the JCDC’s Visual Arts Competition, told the Jamaican media that over the years, he has received 11 medals, including gold, silver and bronze. He is encouraging more young peo-

ple to enter the annual contest. “It will help them to expose their work to the wider public. Persons show more interest in your work when they know you’ve been to this exhibition,” he pointed out. Eighteen-year-old Jordon Morris is proud of his silver medal work titled: ‘Set Free 1 & 2,’ which comprises two pieces depicting the subject experiencing pain, hardships and negative influences, then breaking free of the negativity to reveal his true self. The first-year student of the Edna Manley College of the Visual & Performing Arts is the recipient of a bronze medal in the 2013 competition for his piece: ‘Don’t Touch Me There’. “There is so much that I want to say and I try to communicate visually with people. This is something that I am still trying to work on. It is a really long thought process and I want to narrow things down so people can understand what I am trying to portray,” Jordan told the Jamaican media. (JIS)

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EDITORIAL

Transformations in housing

he Government recently announced that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has committed to releasing more lands to the Ministry of Housing’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) in an effort to meet the growing demands for housing across the country. This is testimony to the fact that more and more Guyanese, especially young professionals, are applying for lands to begin constructing their homes. This forces the Government to look at alternative means in helping every Guyanese achieve their dream of home ownership. Prior to 1992, this level of optimism among young people, and citizens in general, to own their own home was unheard of, as it was very difficult to acquire a plot of land. In addition to having to deal with a very difficult bureaucracy, there was simply a lack of vision on the part of the then government in relation to housing development. This has now changed as the present administration’s policies on housing development make it much easier for one to own their own home. The transformation currently being experienced in the housing sector is one that every Guyanese citizen can boast of. Nowhere else in the Caricom region is this level of development being experienced in housing. While there were tremendous achievements made in the areas of education, health care delivery, improving social services, etc, the gains made in Guyana’s housing sector have surpassed all others. The incumbent Government has every right to highlight these achievements as they face the electorate to ask for another term to continue along this path. Voters no doubt will be looking closely to see which of the parties have the best policies for Guyana’s development; and housing is a key concern for many. About 100,000 Guyanese families have received house lots across the country. A number of new housing schemes have been (and are being) developed. The Government has spent huge amounts of money for infrastructural works. These house lots that are being awarded are highly subsidized as the intention is to ensure that lands are made available for every single category of individuals. It is worthwhile to highlight some of the useful initiatives undertaken by the Housing Ministry which resulted in the level of success we are currently experiencing. The Ministry hosted a number of “one stop shops” where applications for house lots were fast-tracked. This served to cut through all the red tape that one faces when an application for a plot of land is made. Also, the criteria for land ownership were greatly relaxed. Now there is provision for every citizen, irrespective of social class or political or religious affiliation, once he/she satisfies the basic criteria to be given a houselot. The banks have also made it easier for persons to access loans for construction. Prior to the housing boom one had to satisfy a number of criteria before they could have accessed a loan to build a house. Today, this has changed as the banks offer loans at very affordable interest rates to low and moderate income earners. This was as a result of the Public-Private Partnership developed between the Government and the commercial banks to make it easier for persons to own their own homes. Every Guyanese desires to become a home-owner and we are pleased that the Government is making the necessary investments in the housing sector to make this a reality. The vision for housing development in this country is indeed extraordinary and commendations must go to the key players – the Government and the private sector – for helping to transform the lives of thousands of Guyanese citizens. There are many challenges to overcome as there are quite a number of applicants who are still awaiting word from the Ministry as to the status of their applications. But an objective analysis will prove that Guyana has indeed travelled a long road since 1992, especially as it relates to gains made in housing development.

Students of St Margaret’s Primary School in Guyana had a blast commemorating Commonwealth Day, which is usually celebrated on the second Monday of March each year. In this Carl Croker photograph, the children celebrated the Commonwealth country of Jamaica with some dressing in the nation’s colours and as its famous personalities

Developing the 2015 manifesto for mental health in TT G

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: It is 2015, the year of manifestos that few will remember even though these documents supposedly map the trajectory of political parties and should guide every individual’s decision to support one party/candidate versus another. More than any other election, 2015’s manifestos are under the greatest threat of being subsumed in vitriol about conduct or misconduct that are already taking over every quiet thought you have, if you allow it. Manifestos are traditionally a public declaration of intent, principles, policy, aims, etc, issued by a political party, government, or movement. In more modern scenarios, manifestos range from individual declaration to organisational affirmation. Mine is a manifesto for a cause that is only a few wellthought-out recommendations. Its scope will be limited to the particular issue of mental illness and funding/ care for TT’s mentally ill. I’ve learned that what’s different is almost always feared by those who have no knowledge of the difference. Mental health scares people, even those who have an issue/ illness and need intervention. And, mental illness has long been the world’s greatest beneficiary of discrimination, overtly by uninformed people and covertly by governments (made up of people also fearful and are ignorant). In formulating this manifesto, I’m inviting input/support for my cause from local practitioners, families with mental health issues, policy makers or political party members. There have been a few groups (or maybe just social media constructs) recent-

ly and I also encourage you to participate. But know this, I’m an alliance of one or as I declared previously, I am a POO—party of one—and since anyone can write a personal manifesto I’m writing one to challenge the next government to take opportunity to improve our nation’s mental health, thereby improving the lives of hundred of thousands of Trinbagonians families living with mental illness. For over ten years, I’ve been studying mental health research papers, position documents, country reports, and World Health Organization/ PAHO documents and more. Living in TT increases my anxiety because in so many areas there is very little sign of valid advancement in anything (apart from criminal activities) in keeping with global trends. Yet, we manage budgets that suggest we are wealthy. Only last Sunday my heart sunk while reading Minister of Health, Dr Fuad Khan’s expressed satisfaction in the results of the TT Guardian’s opinion poll conducted by UWI Ansa McAl Psychological Research Centre, on health delivery in TT. The poll was said to be a nationwide survey to assess popular opinion on a number of major issues. Regarding healthcare, almost 65 per cent of respondents (combination of 27 per cent “totally unsatisfied,” and 38 per cent “unsatisfied,) were unhappy with the Government’s management of healthcare. Saying there’s room for improvement, Dr Khan is reported to be “happy with the 32 per cent that said the health care was being managed well.” And in usual electionspeak the minister patted his

back as he asked us to measure the growth of the health sector and find satisfaction, not in a reasonable improvement but entreated us to “look to see what it was before” a reference to previous administration of healthcare under other political regimes. It’s worrisome more, because usually that 65 per cent refers to general healthcare and if general dissatisfaction is so high in TT where mental wellbeing is only pappy showed when there’s a United Nations observation, we are in trouble. Meanwhile, reading the PAHO Latin America/ Caribbean regions strategy and plan of action for mental health (2009) and its observations on major studies on mental health, the narrative is dismal. Looking at the prevalence of mental illness for 20 years, the statistics show treatment gaps (the proportion of sick people who need care and do not receive it) are 59 per cent for major disorders, 71 per cent for alcohol abuse and dependence, 64 per cent for bipolar disorder, 63 per cent for anxiety disorder, 60 per cent for obsessive compulsive disorder, to name a few. “More people are becoming more ill and are unable to access support when they most need it. Without a clear commitment to action, we will store up problems for the future, both in terms of our public finances and the lives of future generations (www. mentalhealth.org.uk).” It’s my hope that there’s sufficient time to present statistics, scenarios and reasonable arguments to impact the main political players to edit/ improve their manifestos before the election date comes flying out of a pocket. (TT Guardian)

News WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

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CGX issues final common shares to Prospector

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company CGX Inc has announced the issuance of the final common shares to the marine seismic service company, Prospector PTE Limited, giving the Singapore Corporation some 15,534,310 common shares or approximately 16.6 per cent of the issued and outstanding common shares. CGX had in September, 2014 entered into a seismic contract with Prospector to conduct a 3,116.74 km 3D seismic survey on the company’s 100 per cent owned Demerara Block, offshore Guyana. According to CGX’s General Counsel and Secretary, Michael Galego, the contract terms represented one of the most extensive 3D

seismic studies to have ever been conducted in that area. He said the issuance of the remaining 6,254,245 common shares in the capital of the company’s shares to Prospector, was pursuant to the terms of the binding proposal previously announced in September last year. “These common shares were issued at Gy$0.49 per common share as partial payment for the acquisition of more than 3,100 km2 on its Demerara Block, offshore Guyana.” He said the common shares are subjected to a four month and one day period from the date of their respective issuance. According the company, the aggregate cost of the seismic survey will be approximately US$17.9 million with 40 per cent of the cost or some US$7 mil-

CGX’s Co-Chairman Suresh Narine

lion that will be paid to Prospector by way of issuance of the 15,534,310 common shares in the capital of CGX Energy. The remainder will be paid in cash some twelve months after the conclusion of the survey. CGX’s Chief Executive Officer Dewi Jones said his company was pleased to have Prospector as a significant equity partner in

Jamaican Education Ministry to address male learning trend

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Local and international partnerships are being utilized by the Ministry of Education to address the continuing trend of females outperforming males in the classroom. Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Grace McLean, in an interview with journalist, said the Ministry has partnered with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Commonwealth Secretariat to implement strategies that will help to correct the issue. “We have developed a gender based manual through USAID…. and that manual gives a number of different tips as to how you treat with boys as against girls and how those methods are used and implemented,” she said. Dr. McLean added that coupled with the efforts of USAID, a three-year study tracking eight high schools is being undertaken by the Commonwealth

Secretariat. It is expected that the results from the study will inform strategies that can be used in the classroom. A partnership has also been forged with the Institute of Education at the University of the West Indies (UWI) as a means of training teachers to meet the needs of students. “They are coordinating a programme where we are using our lecturers as well as our third and fourth year student teachers in our tertiary institutions to coach and mentor teachers in the classroom in terms of meeting the direct needs of the students,” the Chief Education Officer noted. She pointed out that a major challenge which the Ministry is working to adjust is the teaching technique that is being used, adding that the methods that may prove successful for girls may not yield the same results for boys. “[While] the girls will try to sit and learn, the boys become distracted. [Therefore] it is by using the methodology of dif-

ferentiated instruction, where the teachers plan specifically for the needs of the students, that we can treat with those needs accordingly,” Dr. McLean pointed out. “The Ministry continues to encourage research where the boys are separated from the girls in those primary schools that are together, and teachers track the performance of the boys separate from the girls,” she added. It is expected that with these initiatives there will be gradual improvement in the performances of male students over a period of time. Dr. McLean noted that according to research done on the trend, females tend to outperform their male counterparts at the primary level. However, at the secondary level males and females tend to perform equally. “If you look closely and you speak to some of our principals they will tell you that in most cases at the CSEC level, the boys are doing a lot better than the girls,” she said. (JIS)

the company. He said the transaction offers the company the opportunity to engage a worldclass geophysical service firm while also preserving cash in the shortterm. “The GuyanaSuriname Basin is an exciting new frontier that has increasingly demonstrated the potential for hydrocarbons and is gaining significant international exploration attention. By bringing together CGX Energy and Prospector, two companies with extensive experience in frontier basins, we believe we are creating an opportunity for success in this demanding region,” Jones said recently. Prospector limited will deploy its modern 12-streamer 3D seismic vessel, known as the R/V BGP Prospector that was specifically con-

structed for serving the high-end 3D, 4D and wide azimuth marine seismic survey market. The vessel is outfitted with ION’s DigiSTREAMER seismic data acquisition system. It has a solid gel design that reduces the risk and noise during broad bandwidth data recording. The Demerara Block is comprised of an area spanning 3,953 km2 in the highly prospective Guyana-Suriname Basin. The initial phase one work commitments are comprised of a 3D seismic survey consisting of a minimum of 1,000 km2 and the associated processing and interpretation. The 3D seismic survey will cover substantially all of the Demerara Block and will provide detailed information on the reservoir distribu-

tion and structural integrity of the current leads. Ultimately, the 3D seismic survey will allow CGX Energy to better rank its prospects in the Guyana-Suriname Basin and define future drilling locations. CGX’s Co-Chairman Suresh Narine said his company has an extensive exploration track record in Guyana and has once again illustrated its loyalty to Guyana by significantly exceeding the minimum work commitment on the Demerara Block. The common shares issued to Prospector will be subject to a four month hold period and 6,254,245 of such common shares will only be issued to Prospector pending receipt of the final approval of the transaction from the TSX Venture Exchange. (Guyana Times)

News

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

GAWU backs Guyana’s President call for more funds for GuySuCo G

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : G u y a n a Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) President Komal Chand has said he was in full agreement with President Donald Ramotar that more funds needed to be pumped into the sugar industry for it to become more viable. However, according to Chand, if any money should be injected into the operations of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), then a greater percentage should go towards the acceleration of the mechanisation process. President Ramotar, meeting with journalists last Thursday, and speaking directly on Guyana’s economic standing, had indicated that his Administration would be seeking to, among other things, put more money into the country’s ailing sugar industry. But Chand, speaking to the Guyana Times on Monday, said because the mechanisaton process has not yet taken full effect, there remained a continuous decline in the Corporation’s yearly production target. The mechanisation of the sugar industry was introduced by Government through the Agriculture Ministry to lessen the burden on sugar workers, particularly the bell loaders in the field. Already, GuySuCo has taken a decision to utilise the majority of the Gy$6 billion subvention

GAWU President Komal Chand

approved in the National Assembly to facilitate its ongoing mechanisation programme. But Chand said more needed to be done to improve the process. The GAWU President said while there were machines for this purpose, they were not sufficient. This inadequacy is preventing the cane harvesters from cutting more sugar cane, thus forcing a continuous decline in the yearly production. He reiterated that the soil in Guyana was incompatible with the machines being used. According to him, a much lighter machine is needed for the work to be carried. Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy had already indicated that the conversion of land was critical to the mechanisation process. In a prior interview with this publication, he had said the Corporation

would be utilising some Gy$1.3 billion to convert 2500 acres of land to accommodate mechanised operations. That move, he said, would pave the way for the increased use of bell cane loaders in the harvesting of sugar cane and other machinery. The Agriculture Minister had further pointed out that an additional Gy$2.5 billion had been set aside to improve the operations of the seven sugar factories including Uitvlugt, Wales, Enmore, Blairmont, Albion, and Skeldon in this regard. Meanwhile, Chand said he could not say what else specifically would need improvement in the industry with the additional funds, as he was not at the helm of operations there. The Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rajendra Singh, had said high operational costs, among other things, have always been a major stumbling block for the sugar industry. He is, however, hoping that the industry’s efficiency rate will increase this year with the injection of the US$7.5 million provided by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). He said the loan, which was approved on December 11, will be completely utilised in the area of mechanisation. According to the CDB, the loan will be used to reduce operational costs and simultaneously improve mechanisation. (Guyana Times)

Retired judge heads Warner Tribunal in TT

TT’s President Anthony Carmona, centre, poses with members of a tribunal appointed to investigate ILP Leader, Jack Warner. Standing from left are: Dr Shelly-Anne Lalchan, Justice Sebastian Ventour, chairman; President Carmona; Deonarine Jaggernauth, and Pete London.

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Retired Justice Sebastien Ventour, said on Tuesday the tribunal sworn in by President Anthony Carmona to investigate and verify the contents of declarations made to the Integrity Commission by Member of Parliament, Jack Warner, will conduct its investigations in secret. He said under the Integrity in Public Life Act, the tribunal will not be divulging any information in the course of its work, and the report of its findings will be presented to the President. Ventour was named head of the tribunal when the members were sworn in at the President’s office. The other members of the tribunal are Dr ShellyAnne Lalchan, a medical doctor; Deonarine Jaggernauth, a petroleum engineer, and Pete London, an accountant. In an interview with journalist Ventour said the purpose of the tribunal is to go deeper into the declarations made by Warner for the years ended December 31 in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011. Warner is currently Member of Parliament for Chaguanas West

and Political Leader of the Independent Liberal Party (ILP). Ventour said, “As you probably all are aware, under the Integrity in Public Life Act there is an issue about secrecy, so we cannot be divulging information. The tribunal will be conducted in privacy. It is not like the ordinary Commission of Inquiry, although the powers are the same. It will be conducting its investigations in privacy, not a public issue at all.” He said the President had given the tribunal nine months to complete its work, but indicated he had the power to give them more time if they wished. “But I hardly think that will happen,” Ventour said, referring to the extension of time. He said the appointment of a chartered accountant to the inquiry is a welcome addition to the team. “Being qualified as he is, he will play a major role because as you are probably aware the declaration of assets and liabilities and interests is more in the accounting field than anything else. So the addition of Mr London as a member of the tribunal is an asset in terms of our inves-

tigation.” In a brief comment on the appointment of the tribunal, Warner was quoted in Tuesday’s media as saying “I am not trembling in my shoes.” He could not be reached on Tuesday for comment. The Integrity Commission said last January it had invoked this section of the Integrity in Public Life Act to investigate Warner’s declarations of assets, income and liabilities and statements of registrable interests because of the findings of a Concacaf report in 2013. The Integrity Commission said it noted the report of the Integrity Committee of Concacaf, released in April, 2013, which alleged Warner committed fraud against Concacaf and FIFA in connection with the Centre of Excellence, and in respect of financial statements of Concacaf. According to a statement from the President’s Office, the three-member tribunal was scheduled to be sworn in on March 12, 2015 but the ceremony was postponed because the President felt that a chartered accountant should be added to the tribunal. (TT Newsday)

CARICOM heads to meet US President in Jamaica

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, speaking in Parliament a short while ago, said the Government is pleased to welcome the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, to the shores of Jamaica. “The Government of Jamaica is delighted that President Obama will be visiting Jamaica at this time. The visit of President Obama will take place on the eve of the Summit of the Americas to be held in Panama from the 10th to

the 11th (of) April 2015." "It is expected that the president will be proceeding from Jamaica to Panama for this hemispheric encounter, which will welcome for the first time the participation of our closest neighbour the Republic of Cuba," the prime minister said. She added that: "As a member of the hemispheric family of nations…during this historic visit, Jamaica will also host an encounter between President Obama and the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community

Portia Simpson Miller - Prime Minister of Jamaica

(Caricom) for discussions on issues of Caricom/USA relations including security and trade. "Heads of Government will also exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. As is the regional interest, the Caricom/US summit will be co-chaired by the US president and the current Chairman of Caricom Perry Christie, prime minister of the Bahamas," she said. In response to the news of President Obama’s visit, Leader of the Opposition Andrew Holness said

the Opposition was extremely happy to know that a serving US President would be visiting Jamaica. “The Opposition will play its role when President Obama visits Jamaica and would like to place on record our appreciation for the chill in relations between the United States and Cuba. We the Opposition have always stated that the economic embargo against Cuba should be lifted. We welcome President Obama to Jamaica,” Holness said. (Jamaica Observer)

News WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

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TT mom flings child Jamaica Health Ministry opens dialogue through window as on fast-tracking AIDS response house burns down

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: In an effort to save her four-year-old daughter from being burned in a fire at her home, Roxanna Khan flung her through a window. The infant was unhurt as she played in the ruins of her home at Chester Street, Debe. Khan, 23, said around 9 p.m. on Sunday, her husband, Kelvin Balroop, came home and the couple had an argument. During the argument, Balroop accidentally knocked over the kerosene lamp that was on the table and it fell onto the bed which immediately caught fire. The couple had no electricity or pipe-borne water in their one-bedroom wooden home. Khan was at home with her daughter, Sylviana, and six-yearold son Kevon at the time of the fire. She said Balroop, 45, tried to extinguish the fire using clothing but that did not help. There was no water in the barrels nearby. She said: “The house was already on fire. I couldn’t save anything so I just told my son to come outside. And I threw her out from the window and I jumped out. By the time he (Balroop) took to come out, there was already

too much heat and he got burned badly. He was able to jump out and he is currently in the hospital at San Fernando General Hospital. Fire officers came but when they arrived everything was burnt down already.” The window from which the mother flung the child was approximately one-and-a-half metres from the ground, and she landed on dirt. Balroop was taken to the hospital by police officers because the ambulance was taking too long to arrive, Khan said. He remained warded at the San Fernando General Hospital. Khan who assists a doubles vendor near her home said she would be grateful for any assistance the family could get since nothing was saved in the fire. Her son attends Debe Presbyterian Primary School and her daughter attends the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Centre in Wellington, Debe. Councillor for Debe West, Vijay Rampersad, said he will get in contact with the family to lend some assistance. Anyone willing to assist can also call 868 290-3651. (TT Express)

OAS urges Caribbean to 'decisively' combat corruption, defend democracy

ASHINGTON, USA: The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), José Miguel Insulza, has called on Caribbean countries to “decisively” combat corruption and defend democracy. Insulza urged regional governments to “stand strong against the scourge of corruption,” saying that “governments and public authorities have the obligation and the legal mandate to be accountable for their actions, and citizens have the right to demand detailed accounts of them. The OAS leader said that this “requires, of course, strong institutions and clear rules, because an issue as sensitive as corruption can always be used by demagogues to harm democracy. Addressing the opening session of the 25th Session of the Committee of Experts of the Follow-

up Mechanism for the Implementation of the Inter-American Convention against Corruption (MESICIC) on Monday, Insulza said “our governments are making efforts to address this responsibility,” but warned that “if we are to actually strengthen democracy in our Hemisphere, the crucial problem of corruption and the improper influence of money in politics must be addressed much more decisively”. Insulza said allegations of corruption have increased the separation and distrust of citizens toward politics and, at the same time, have weakened democratic systems. The OAS leader said that with the strengthening of democratic systems and the expansion of freedoms that the region has experienced in recent years, citizens have increased their demands for greater transparency. (CMC)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson on Monday opened dialogue on “Getting to Zero: How will we fast-track the AIDS response” at the UNAIDS Regional Consultation at Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. According to a release from the Health Ministry, Dr Ferguson explained that Jamaica has taken measures to accelerate its response. “There is now country ownership of the HIV/AIDS response in Jamaica. We have undertaken a sustainability study of the programme, projecting as far as 2030. Additionally, the merger

Jamaica’s Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson

of the Family Planning Board and the National HIV/STI programme into one Sexual Reproductive Health Authority has broadened their initial scope while looking at integration into primary health care,” he said. The minister noted

that “in Jamaica, there resides significant expertise and experience on the AIDS epidemic”. Dr Ferguson posited that together, with the strong bipartisan, regional and international support, the AIDS response going forward can only be

strengthened. The regional consultation, which was hosted by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/ AIDS (UNAIDS) was attended by 40 Caribbean and International delegates representing private and public sector as well as civil society. The aim of the consultation was to shape regional priorities in fast-tracking the AIDS response based on the gains and the lessons learnt from individual countries. The outcome of the consultation will guide the UNAIDS Strategy 2016-2021, the health ministry said. (Jamaica Observer)

LAPOP poll contradicts Granger’s claim Guyanese are unhappy

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: As the world prepares to celebrate International Day of Happiness, on Friday, March 20, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee says that under that Party’s administration, the citizens of Guyana have become happier. Speaking to media operatives at the Party’s weekly press conference on Monday, Rohee stated that the Party was proud of the role it has played in contributing to the happiness of the Guyanese society by reducing poverty and strongly advocating for a better and just society. He noted that the happiness which was pervaded the land is as a result of the PPP/C Administration. “This mood of happiness is as a result of hard and painstaking work by the PPP/C Government to empower our people, in particular our young people through the creating of a knowledge-based society where Guyanese from all walks of life are in a much better position to realise their dreams of a good and satisfying life,” Rohee told media operatives. The General Secretary further sought to debunk claims made by Opposition Leader and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU+AFC) Presidential Candidate David Granger, at the media launch of the coalition’s campaign two weeks ago, that Guyana was an ‘unhappy’ coun-

People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee

try. Granger had stated that Guyana was an unhappy country and this was reflected in the number of suicide cases it has recorded over the years, noting that “happy people do not kill themselves’’. Guyana has one of the highest rates of suicide, according to the World health Organisation (WHO). According to Rohee, the statements made by Granger are unfounded and baseless. “The PPP/C has strong objections to the statements made by Leader of the APNU, David Granger that Guyana is an unhappy country. The statement by Granger is not only unfounded, but is a stark contradiction to the findings of the Latin American Public Opinion Poll (LAPOP), which in a recent survey found that the happiness levels of all Guyanese have risen significantly within recent years… whatever ‘unhappiness’ exist can only be a figment of Granger’s biased and jaundiced imagination and is at completely

at odds with the true reality,” Rohee shared. “The polls found that three quarters of Guyanese are happy, with 73 per cent happy with their life.” Rohee said According to him, this is due to the number of opportunities the Government was creating for the young people “to create that good life to which they do not only aspire but to which they are entitled”. “Three quarters of Guyanese feel that the government is on the right path in creating a high quality of life for all. The findings are applicable to Guyanese as a whole, but especially to the young people who are today the main beneficiaries of new development paradigms…,” the General Secretary expressed. He noted that this wave of prosperity can be measured by the increased number of Guyanese who are able to own their own homes, personal vehicles and other consumer durables which he said, could only be a “distant dream” un-

der the People’s National Congress (PNC). According to Rohee, the happiness level of the country has also led to an increase in number of re-migrants to Guyana after being forced by the PNC regime to look for a better life elsewhere. Rohee, however, could not comment on the nexus between all of the ‘happy’ Guyanese and the fact that Guyana also has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. The General Secretary said that he did not see any “comparison” and as such, could not comment on that link, if there was one, without being provided with documentation to this effect. This is even as the information was released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on September 4, 2014. According to him, everything that is said about Guyana especially by those outside of the country cannot be taken for granted, since the majority of the times, it did not represent the true reality of what was taking place in the country. The United Nations General Assembly established International Day of Happiness in 2012 to acknowledge that “the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human goal” and to recognise “the need for a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness and the well-being of all peoples”. (Guyana Times)

News

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

MMU in Guyana launches probe into racial incitement by Kaieteur News

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : G u y a n a Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally said the Media Monitoring Unit (MMU) has launched its investigation into the claims that the Kaieteur News and DTV Channel 8 violated the Racial Hostility Act. The Chairman stated that the MMU has been consistently recording data about similar infringements and will subsequently be conducting investigations into the incidents. The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Executive Secretary Zulfikar

Mustapha recently informed the MMU about two instances where the media, particularly the Kaieteur News and DTV Channel 8, blatantly violated the Racial Hostility Act. When questioned about the consequences those media entities can face as a result of their actions, Surujbally expressed his preference not to speculate on the topic. Instead, he affirmed that once it was found that the Racial Hostility Act was violated, then the law should take precedence. Meanwhile, as highlighted by Mustapha, DTV Channel 8 had aired a programme on

February 28 entitled “Alliance on the Move”, during which Alliance For Change (AFC) Executive Member Veerasammy Ramayya made statements labelling the PPP/C as an “Indo-Guyanese Party” and indicated that it was conducting a campaign against “AfroGuyanese”. Furthermore, Mustapha said Ramayya then proceeded to make statements that peddled untrue information of a racist nature. Similarly, the Kaieteur News, in its March 10 edition, carried a headline which Mustapha deemed as one of the “most glaring

infringements” in the local media. On the date mentioned, the publication had as its headline “Rohee endorses Jagdeo statement that PPP/C is a ‘coolie people’ party”. According to Mustapha, there was no corresponding article to that headline. He also stated that the former President Bharrat Jagdeo then complained to Kaieteur News Editor Adam Harris about the situation. Reports indicate that Harris then replied that the published headline was the doing of Kaieteur News owner Glenn Lall. The Racial Hostility Act Chapter 23:01 states

that “a person shall be guilty of an offence if he wilfully excites or attempts or excite hostility or ill-will against any section of the public or against any person on the ground of their or his race – (a) by means of words spoken by him in a public place or spoken by him and transmitted for general reception by wireless telegraphy or telegraph; (b) by causing words spoken by him or by some other person to be reproduced in a public place from a record; (c) by means of written (including printed) matter or pictorial matter published by him…

(4) For the purpose of this section, the proprietor, printer, publisher or editor of any newspaper, or the printer of any other printed document, in which any particular matter has been published, shall be presumed himself to have so published that matter unless he proves that such publication was made without his authority, consent or knowledge and did not arise from want of due care on his part.” According to the Act, any person guilty of an offence shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of Gy$65,000 and to imprisonment for two years. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica among 6 C’bean 9,000 more TT families countries to benefit from can access cheaper land energy statistics initiative

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaica is among six Caribbean countries set to benefit from an energy statistical capacity building initiative that is being spearheaded by the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) at a cost of US$500,000. The other territories are: Belize, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti and Suriname. The initiative seeks to provide reliable and up-to-date data for the energy planning process as well as allow for analysis of the energy sector in an integral and strategic way. Speaking to Jamaican media during the official launch of the initiative recently, OLADE’s Information Management and Training Coordinator Paola Carrera, said the programme is part of the support OLADE is providing to countries within the region. “Within this initiative, we are trying to promote not only capacity building in terms of the Ministries of Energy but also the stakeholders, to create a culture of delivering energy statistics on a regular basis in order to identify the gaps, harness the information and load all of that information from the renewable and nonrenewable sources into an energy information system,” she informed. She noted that each country will be responsible for tabulating the information and keeping it up-to-date. “This

Information Management and Training Coordinator, Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), Paola Carrera (left), converses with Chief Technical Director, Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Michelle Forbes, during the official launch of the energy statistical capacity building initiative at the Courtleigh Hotel in St Andrew recently.

energy information system will be a national system,” she said. Carrera encouraged the participating countries to ensure that the data they are entering into the system are accurate and reliable so that the policymakers can make better decisions based on the information provided. “(This will assist) in developing new energy policies and projects (as well as to have) information,” she said, adding that this can be used to source and acquire new funding from donor agencies. The initiative is being funded by the World Bank and is slated for 18 months. Other benefits of the system include: official, standardised, reliable and updated information; the enabling of studies and analysis on a national and regional level; the provision of the basis for energy planning; facilitation

of decision-making for the adoption of energy policies; generation of comparative analysis among countries; delivery of the most important indicators of the energy sector in terms of sustainable development. The OLADE is an international public entity of cooperation, coordination and advising. Its fundamental purpose is integration, protection, conservation, defence and rational use of energy resources of the region. Member countries of OLADE are: Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Dominican Republic, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay and Venezuela. (JIS)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Land and Marine Resources Minister Jairam Seemungal on Friday defended the proposed changes to the Land for the Landless programme, saying the category of people who could access it was widened because the price of land was no longer affordable to the average citizen. The cost of private lands has skyrocketed over the past few years making it impossi- An aerial photograph of a low-income government housing settlement in south Trinidad. ble for young professionals to with a Master’s degree earns TT$8,000 afford land, he said. On Thursday, Seemungal an- monthly. Seemungal said the new income nounced at a post-Cabinet briefing that couples earning a joint income of bracket came about because the maup to TT$30,000 can now apply for sub- jority of public servants earned over sidised land, developed by the State, TT$8,000 and so did not qualify for the under the Land for the Landless pro- two per cent interest rate being offered gramme. Previously only people who to low-income households by the TT had an earning power of between Mortgage Finance Company (TTMF). Asked how many potential houseTT$8,000 and TT$10,000 could apply hold applicants in TT would benefit for land under the programme. The announcement follows an- from this new arrangement, Seemungal other initiative announced by the said between 8,000 and 9,000 families. He said under the programme 16 Government to distribute 100 government-subsidised houses every week for sites had been developed for firsttime land owners using funds from the the rest of the year. Since that announcement, hordes of Inter-American Development Bank. Based on information obtained from people have been visiting the Housing Development Corporation to update the TTMF Web-site, a first time home owner could qualify for a two per cent their applications. In a radio interview, Seemungal interest rate if the household income is said the working class were now un- TT$8,000 or less to purchase any propable to buy land privately. For exam- erty valued up to TT$625,000. The company offers no downpayple, he said, police officers, soldiers and public servants were being un- ment, up to 100 per cent financing of fairly treated since they were barred the purchase price and a re-payment from applying to the programme due term of up to 25 years. The mortgage may be extended to age 70 and is incluto their earnings. He also questioned the availabil- sive of TT$15,000 for major appliances. A check in the real estate classiity of private land for sale, saying Government was the single largest fieds shows that land is being sold at land owner, with 60 per cent of lands exorbitant prices. Terra Caribbean’s Web site http://www.terracaribbean. in its possession. Seemungal said under the TT$1 bil- com listed 11,808 square feet of land at lion programme, which is yet to be fi- Westvale Park, Glencoe, being offered nanced, the land would be leased to the for sale at US$147,140 or TT$10.3 milpotential home owner, who had to be- lion. At Graceland Heights in Santa gin construction within two years and Cruz, 9,943 square feet was priced at could not sell it but could pass it on to US$155,763. Land was advertised at a cheaprelatives by way of a will. He explained that an On-the-Job er rate in Enterprise, Chaguanas, (OJT) trainee with a first degree earns where two lots of land were priced at TT$6,200 per month while an OJT TT$850,000. (TT Guardian)

News WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

"Global investors should unearth Jamaica's hidden treasures" — Bowen

The Montego Bay Convention Centre

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Senior VicePresident of Scotia Group Bruce Bowen has called on global investors to 'unearth the hidden treasures in Jamaica' during the hosting of Jamaica Investment Forum earlier this week. The Forum, which was led by the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), hopes to pull investment of over US$1 billion (Ja$115 billion) into the economy over the next few years. The event saw global investors from North America, Pakistan, Turkey, China, India, Spain, France and the United Kingdom attending what is termed as "Jamaica's premier international and business conference" at the Montego Bay Convention Centre over a two-day period. "I would point to some specific sectors -- hidden treasures if you will -- that are ripe for further investments and which have great potential for growth," Bowen stated. "These areas are tourism, agriculture and agro-processing, ICT, business process out-

sourcing (BPO), export and manufacturing." JAMPRO has indicated that it will be focusing on these marketable and bankable sectors during the Forum to assist in delivering jobs and GDP growth. It says that these sectors will help to create the desired logistics-centred economy. "There can be no doubt that the development of the ICT sector has transformed life in Jamaica in many ways over the past two decades," Bowen stated. "Our very own contact centre is a Scotiabank BPO success story, and it continues to grow and provide a range of services, including Internet, telephone and mobile banking support. We also maintain one of our three regional processing hubs in Jamaica, leveraging the quality and efficiency of our workforce, and the tax efficiency of exporting services within the region," Bowen added. In 1889, the Canadian-owned Bank of Nova Scotia opened its first office in Kingston. Jamaica was the first branch of a Canadian bank to open outside of the US or UK, and

formed the basis of what would become a thriving network spanning some 21 countries throughout the Caribbean, according to Bowen. "We saw great opportunities based on the existing salt fish and lumber for rum and sugar trade between Jamaica and Canada. There were of course other larger territories in the same vicinity, namely Cuba and Hispaniola, with whom we could have developed connections, but language, legal traditions and trade links were different," he added. Bowen listed the Jamaican people, infrastructure, access to and from the US, political stability and the continued political commitment to prudent fiscal policy and control of inflation as Jamaica's advantages and what made it attractive for Scotia to do business with Jamaica. "In Jamaica, we have grown from our humble beginnings in 1889 to a full-service financial institution offering banking, wealth and insurance services to a dedicated team of committed professionals in Jamaica now numbering over 6,000 across the Caribbean serving almost two million customers," he said. "Clearly, our relatively small investment in Jamaica 125 years ago has proven to be one our most successful investments and today Jamaica continues to be a great place to invest and do business." (Jamaica Observer)

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Real estate agents say

Not enough private land in TT to satisfy demand

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: There is not enough land in TT to satisfy the high demand, said a spokesperson for Kanhai Real Estate. Speaking on condition of anonymity, he said there had been instances where members of the public had to be turned away because land was not available for sale. He was commenting on a new initiative announced by the Government to provide subsidised developed land to potential homeowners for people earning as much as TT$30,000 a month. At Thursday’s postcabinet news conference, Minister of Land and Marine Resources Jairam Seemungal said the Government was trying to expand the Land for Landless programme so that middle-income earners could benefit. “We are not seeing too much land becoming available. A lot of people want land and we hardly have land available. “It is difficult to find land now. People are looking for land and they still can’t find land and when they get it, it is for a pound and a crown. It is a supply and demand situation,” said the real estate agent. Despite the high demand for land by members of the public, Kanhai Real Estate does not see the Government as a main competitor because the Government

Flashback: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar draws the first chit for the Land for the Landless residential lots by the Housing Development Corporation at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts, San Fernando, in May 2013. At left is Ernst & Young's Nicole Hosein

owns state lands. Price of land differed depending on where the land was located, he said. “If you are talking about Valsayn, there are usually half acre in those areas costing about TT$4 million. That is the figure you could be looking at if someone is prepared to sell in North Valsayn.” If, however, the customer wanted to buy one acre of land in Tunapuna, depending on the part of Tunapuna the cost on average would be TT$160,000. “If there are rundown properties around, the prices would drop. If there are nice properties around it the price would be even greater.” Kanhai Real Estate’s customer base is mainly commercial customers who specifically want a particular location. Adisa Kamuzu, chief executive, Nation Builders

Real Estate, said the price of land was determined on the basis of location as well as whether the area was perceived to be a safe area. He added that the price of land could be as low as TT$2.3 million or as high as TT$5 million depending on the location. Kamuzu said for a location like Belmont, the price for land would be high due to its proximity to the capital, “but at the same time you are not going to get value for money because of the stigma attached to Belmont, since it is close to Laventille.” A customer who wants land in Chaguanas “stands a better chance,” because the area is developing and the areas are nearby. Land in Chaguanas can start from TT$65 per sq foot and can increase to TT$135 per sq foot. (TT Guardian)

"Barbados economy beginning to show signs of growth" – Sinckler Caribbean animator to produce

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: The Barbados government says the economy is showing signs of growth and that the sacrifices made by nationals over the past months have not been in vain. Finance Minister Chris Sinckler delivering the 2015-16 estimates of expenditure and revenue in Parliament Monday, said that the home grown fiscal adjustment and stabilisation programme has started to bear fruit with the economy growth recorded in 2014 being 0.3 per cent and that the economy should grow between one and two per cent this year. “At the end of this current financial year the primary balance will improve from negative 385 million dollars (One BDSs dollar =US$0.50

cents) to a surplus of 56 million dollars,” Sinckler said as he led off the week long debate on the fiscal package. He told legislators it would mean that for the first time since 2011, Barbados is running a primary surplus “and we are on our way to restoring the fiscal well being of Barbadoes. Sinckler said the island’s fiscal challenges are not over despite the encouraging situation, warning Barbadians that they would have to stay the course as outlined by the Freundel Stuart government for reviving the ailing economy. He said the measures also protected the Barbados dollar from devaluation. “The fiscal adjustment programme has already shown success in

attaining the preeminent objective of protecting the Barbados dollar and stabilising the foreign exchange market,” he said, adding “that is an empirical fact. “The value of the dollar has been protected by the measures that contain spending in line with foreign exchange availability. The fiscal measures today have achieved that most important objective to reduce the demand for foreign exchange in line with our ability to supply,” Sinckler said. Government’s total expenditure for the financial year 2015-2016 is expected to be within the vicinity of BDS$4.3 billion with BDS$3.02 billion going towards current expenditure while BDS$1.2 billion represents capital expenditure and amortisation. (Caribbean360)

new children's TV series

ORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD: T r i n i d a d and Tobago animator, Camille SelvonAbrahams, will produce a children’s series as part of the Caribbean Tales Worldwide Distribution Production Support Programme. The series, called ‘Magnificent Maggie’, exposes grade-schoolers to close up inspection of how things work, both in the technical super world and the biological. Lessons include definitions and explanations of terminologies and gadgets all woven into stories of adventure and excitement as Maggie delves into the magic world of microorganism and technology.

Trinidad and Tobago animator, Camille Selvon-Abrahams

Maggie is a positive role model for children especially young girls as she makes new technology less scary. Research shows that boys are more drawn to technology and

engineering so this is a way to balance this challenge. Caribbean Tales Worldwide Distribution, launched in 2010, is a distribution platform for Caribbean film and television content. The production support programme builds on Caribbean Tales’ vision of creating strong, original, sustainable Caribbean film and television content for the international market. C a r i b b e a n B r o a d c a s t i n g Corporation (CBC) content developer and producer Nick Davis will be joining the Magnificent Maggie Project as Caribbean Tales executive producer. (Caribbeannewsnow)

News

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WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

Latest data shows TT’s middle class growing P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: More people are now in TT’s middle class, according to Dr Roger Hosein, senior lecturer at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine. He said according to the latest available data, in 2012 less than half of the population worked for less than the average monthly income of TT$4,955. However, he added: “A closer inspection is required as the inflation rate in the same time period would have escalated the cost of living. Also there is a catch—a country’s wealth includes its assets below the ground

and above the ground. We need to ask for all the oil taken out of the ground, and gas taken out of the ground, in that time period 2001 to 2012, did we sufficiently replace it with an adequate improvement in the stock of skills that our people have or did we fritter too much away on consumption, lowering our long run productive capacity,” he told the TT media on Sunday. “By 2012, the most up to date continuous sample survey of Population (CSSP) 42.9 per cent of the population worked for an income below the average and 8.5 per cent of the population worked

Dr Roger Hosein, senior lecturer at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine

for more than twice the average income. This means that the middle class roughly defined as people with an income

above the average level and below high income (defined as twice the average) expanded from 0.35 of the employed labour force to 0.48 of the employed labour force,” he said. He compared this to the early 2000s when over half of the population earned less than the average wage. “In 2001, the average income in TT was TT$2,405. The employed labour force was 514,100 people and of this, 56.7 per cent of the labour force worked for a salary below the average and 7.8 per cent worked for an income two times the average wage rate,” he said.

Rohee notes drop in piracy attacks across Guyana

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said that there has been a marked drop in the incidence of sea piracy across Guyana. Rohee’s comments were made in response to statements made by Opposition Leader David Granger, who recently unveiled plans to improve security in the Corentyne. Granger had alluded to the piracy situation, saying that the APNU+AFC coalition would guarantee stricter protection for all with special emphasis placed on reducing piracy. “I will tell them that I will make the country safer from piracy which affects the Corentyne more seriously than the others. I would make sure that the residents are safe from banditry,” Granger said. However, Rohee said “it is a well-established fact that a Guyana Police Force marine floating base was commissioned to operate collaboratively with ranks of other Law Enforcement Agencies, and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) which has

a similar floating base located at the mouth of the Pomeroon River.” He said this Gy$49.9 million capital investment was complemented by the procurement of a boat imported from the US costing Gy$71.4 million, in addition to four new vessels built at a cost of Gy$4.9 million. According to him, Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to public safety and security and this is evident in capacity-building by way of training provided to the marine wing of the Force. “It should also be noted that incidence of piracy has dropped significantly within the past months,” Rohee said. He said Guyana’s collaborative efforts with those of Suriname have contributed significantly to the reduction in instances of piracy on the Corentyne River. Last year, Surinamese authorities had criticised Guyana’s anti-piracy fight, saying that Guyana could have done more to curb the increasing cases of piracy at sea. Last year four fishermen, the youngest 19

and the oldest 41, were thrown into the sea with tied hands and feet. A fifth victim, Feroze Hack, captain of the boat, survived the incident which took place on July 8, 2014 off the Surinamese coast. The body of 41-year-old Andre Gopie washed ashore 10 days later in Guyana. No trace of the other victims, Vinesh Drunarain, 24; Raymond Gomez, 37; and Chandrapaul Jallim, 19, has been found. The authorities assume these men, all Guyanese, are dead. Suriname had said that the pirates are Guyanese and they deliberately targeted their countrymen knowing that they would not report their case to the Surinamese officials. Meanwhile, regarding the strategic plans for the security sector, which Granger also criticised, Rohee said the public should be aware of the fact that all previous strategic plans developed during Government’s engagement with local and overseas consultants have been subsumed in the current strategic

class services offered on other major airlines flying to the Caribbean. According to BizJournal, the “Kennedy-Aruba and Kennedy-Barbados flights outfitted with Mint will operate on Saturdays between November 7, 2015 and April 30, 2016. There will also be daily flights with Mint service during the hectic, high-volume holiday period between December 19, 2015 and

January 4, 2016″. The decision by JetBlue to add Aruba and Barbados to its list of destinations featuring its premium Mint service is a shot in the arm for the tiny Caribbean islands which depend so heavily on tourism. As a point of reference, a roundtrip airfare on JetBlue Mint for one person travelling from John F Kennedy Airport to Barbados departing Sunday December

class in Latin America and the Caribbean is between US$10 and US$50 a day. That works out between TT$64 and TT$320 a day in local currency. Before that in 2011, the Government increased TT’s minimum wage to TT$12.50 an hour which worked out to be TT$100 per day or US$15.62 a day. This means that even a worker earning the minimum wage in TT’s formal employment sector qualified to be included in Trinidad’s middle class or the lower spectrum of the middle income group, according to the World Bank metric. (TT Guardian)

Jamaica’s Oppoition Leader begins appeal against Constitutional Court ruling

Guyana’s Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

plan. He said the Home Affairs Ministry is awaiting resources to further engage the UKbased Capita Symonds Consultancy to implement four additional areas which are critical to building the institutional capacity of the Guyana Police Force. Thirdly, Rohee said that recommendations of the Disciplined Services Commission are being implemented. “Recent presentations by the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire Service, and the Guyana Prison Service gave status updates on the progress each agency is making towards the full realisation of those recommendations. The progress report was circulated to members of the National Assembly in June, 2014. (Guyana Times)

JetBlue Mint service targets first-class vacation travelers to Aruba, Barbados EW YORK, U N I T E D STATES: New York-based JetBlue Airways has announced that its Mint Service will operate from John F Kennedy Airport next winter to two Caribbean destinations, Aruba and Barbados. JetBlue Mint service offers travelers a premium experience – lie-flat beds, big at-seat monitors and lavish in-flight meals – similar to first-

Speaking about the 2012 period, Hosein said the economy declined around this time because of the oil and gas environment. “However, in the same interval of time the economy has decreased its stock of crude oil and natural gas considerably and so the transfer of below the ground wealth to this change in above the ground wealth has to be balanced against this associated decline in natural capital.” According to a November 2012 World Bank Report on Economic Mobility and the Rise of the Latin American Middle Class, the income definition of the middle

20, 2015 and returning Friday December 25, 2015 would currently put you out of pocket US$2,413.20 inclusive of all taxes and fees. Barbados has traditionally found more success with the British luxury traveler compared with the US market.It will be interesting to see whether additional flights are offered to other Caribbean destinations in the coming months. (Caribbean360)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Opposition Leader Andrew Holness on Monday kicked off his appeal against a court decision in February stating that he acted in an "unconstitutional" and "unlawful" way in the manner in which he dismissed Arthur Williams from the Senate in November 2013. Holness's lead attorney, Ransford Braham, QC, asked a panel of three justices in the Court of Appeal -President Seymour Panton, Mahaved Dukharan and Patrick Brooks -- that the ruling should be dismissed as Williams used the wrong procedure to mount his case in the Constitutional Court to challenge his dismissal from the Senate. He said that Williams should have brought the matter by way of a petition in keeping with the requirement of the Parliament (Membership Question) Act. He argued that the issue, canvassed by the Full Court of the Supreme Court, was canvassed in a manner contrary to the Constitution of Jamaica and on, that basis alone, Holness's appeal should be allowed. Braham made the submissions as Dr Christopher Tufton -- the other senator dismissed by Holness from the Senate using undated, pre-signed letters made upon their appointment -- looked on from the back of the courtroom reserved for spectators.

Jamaica’s Opposition Leader Andrew Holness

Holness was, however, absent from Monday's sitting, a fact that triggered whispered speculations. Attorney Georgia Gibson Henlin, who also appears for Holness, argued that the letter of resignation was in keeping with the constitution. Dr Lloyd Barnett, who leads the team representing Williams, in his argument for the dismissal of the appeal said: "There is no case either in public or private law in which the courts have approved an appointer or employer taking a letter of resignation at the time of appointment or employment to be used at will at any time." He said there is no legal basis for such an action. Additionally, Barnett said that Williams had told Holness, before the letter of resignation was dated and sent to the governor general by him (Holness), that he didn't intend to resign. (Jamaica Observer)

WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

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St Lucia to host CaribNOG 9 - Caribbean tech community to converge next month

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: The picturesque Eastern Caribbean island of Saint Lucia will be the backdrop to the highly anticipated gathering of the men and women responsible for securing and administering computer networks across the Caribbean. From April 27 to May 1, the Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG) will hold their ninth regional meeting, a significant forum that has been a key role in coordinating and equipping the region’s technical community. "CaribNOG plays a unique role in the region’s technology ecosystem. It is a volunteer-based community dedicated to strengthening the Caribbean indigenous capacity to address the rapid-

ly evolving technology landscape," explained Bevil Wooding, one of the CaribNOG founders and a main organiser of the event. “Computer network engineers and technology specialists from across the region and around the world take the time to share their knowledge and experience with the colleagues at CaribNOG,” he added. Founded in 2010, CaribNOG has been steadily building its reputation as the Caribbean’s most influential and solutions-oriented forum for network engineers and computer technology professionals. The group has also built strong connections with other Network Operator Groups from around the world, including Latin America, North America and as far as the Pacific.

Google IT Expert, Arturo Servin speaking at CaribNOG event in Trinidad. Source: Caribbean Network Operators Group

“CaribNOG members benefit immensely from exposure to experts from around the region and across the globe,” says Jamaican-born Stephen Lee, another CaribNOG founding member and CEO of ArkiTechs Inc., a US-based technology firm. “Topics range from protecting local networks from hackers and cyber-criminals to deploying broadband

and the future of the Internet,” he added. Network security, Internet exchange points, cloud computing and global network trends are among the topics to be addressed at CaribNOG’s 9th regional meeting. “Saint Lucia is really looking forward to hosting this important meeting,” said Simon Alexander, local organiser and IT Manager at the

Organisation for Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission. “The previous CaribNOG gathering in Curacao drew over 100 persons from more than 15 countries. The international nature of gathering affords us the opportunity to showcase Saint Lucia and the OECS to the world as a significant technologyenabled destination.” The CaribNOG 9 meeting is being cohosted by the Internet Corporation of Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), and is also supported by the regional and global Internet community, including the Amsterdam Internet Exchange (Ams-IX), the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN), the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, Columbus Communications,

Google, the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (LACNIC), the Internet Society, the Brazilian Network Information Center (NIC.br), ArkiTechs Inc, Akamai Inc., Microsoft and Packet Clearing House. CaribNOG 9 will feature a slate of experts, including Arturo Servin (Google Inc.); Carlos Martínez and Alejandro Acosta (LACNIC); Bevil Wooding (PCH); Mark Kosters (ARIN); Claire Craig (UWI); Albert Daniels (ICANN); Shernon Osepa (ISOC); Steve Spence and Stephen Lee (Arkitechs). This ninth event comes on the heels of 2014 meetings in Dominica and Curacao. More information is available on the official event website. (TT Guardian)

"Guyana Gov’t has always created level playing field for local and foreign investors" - President Operations at Bauxite Company of Guyana's Kurubuka mine

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Over recent times, there has been an attack on investors by the combined opposition, particularly Chinese investors, but the concessions granted to this set of investors in no more than what is given to other foreign investors. This is according to President Donald Ramotar, who has underscored that all investors, local and foreign, are critical to Guyana’s development. The Head of State in a recent interview said there is a level playing field for all foreign investors, as well as local investors. “Particularly, Chinese investments are targeted and being criticised, let me say that we have not given any Chinese company one more benefit or one more priority than that we would have given to any foreign company that comes to this country.” President Ramotar reiterated that there is one

policy for all investors as he debunked suggestions that one group of investors enjoy more benefits than another. “… the impression is being created differently in our society by the spin doctors in Guyana, there is absolutely no extra benefit given to (Chinese) investors. All (investors) have the same benefit.” Pointing to other companies including from Canada, Australia, and the United States of America, the President reiterated that they all have benefited from the same concessions given to the Chinese. “It is totally untrue, the attacks against the Chinese, I don’t know why, because the Chinese are now one of the most important developmental partners for many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is the Chinese investors that are bringing in the capital than probably any country at this point in time.” President Ramotar

added that the criticisms and comments coming from the opposition about Chinese investors all fall into their pattern of what they have been playing out in the 10th parliament. “I don’t know if this attack falls into the general pattern of what I have had to deal with over the last three years, of the opposition trying to frustrate any kind of developmental initiatives to prevent them from taking place…this seems to be geared in that direction to try to discourage investment in our country.” The President also called on citizens not to fall into this thinking as they must become aware that Guyana’s further development depends on all investments both local and foreign. It is a fact that these types of investments continue to create jobs for Guyanese and propel Guyana into a modern state. However, even in the face of these attacks in-

vestors continue to show confidence in the local economy as more businesses are expanding and new businesses are coming to every region in Guyana. On March 11, Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated’s (BCGI’s) Kurubuka Mining and Production Complex was commissioned in Region Ten. The mine is located immediately adjacent to the Berbice River. BCGI, a subsidiary of the Russian company, RUSAL has invested

over Gy$4.6Billion on the mine. Surrounding communities stand to benefit as hundreds of Guyanese are currently employed by the company. In the recent past, several investments have evolved both local and internationally. Among these is Popeye’s branch in the vicinity of the Stabroek market, the Caribbean’s largest conglomerate formerly Neal and Massy, now Massy, invested US$ 10M into a distribution centre at Montrose, East Coast

Demerara, Unicomer, the parent company of Courts, injected US$6M in a distribution centre at Eccles, East Bank Demerara, Republic Bank opened a new branch at D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice, built at a cost of Gy$508M, and the Guyana Bank For Trade and Industry injected Gy$60M into a branch in Bartica, Region Seven. Additionally, numerous businesses have opened their doors in the city and across Guyana. (GINA)

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WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

Jamaican Gov’t rolling Out National Customer Service Scorecard

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Government is in the process of implementing a National Customer Service Scorecard, a new initiative to assess the performance of public sector organisations. Addressing a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank, Modernisation Specialist in the Office of the Cabinet, Michele Gordon-Somers, explained that the scorecard is an evaluation system for monitoring and evaluating service delivery by Government entities. “It sets out how the organisations are performing and it would give us comparative information, in terms of how different organisations are performing against other organisations,” she in-

Modernisation Specialist, Office of the Cabinet, Michele Gordon-Somers, speaking at a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank held at the agency’s head office in Kingston.

formed. Mrs. Gordon-Somers said a key aspect of the scorecard is providing “evidence- based data” on the extent to which the Government’s priorities are being satisfied. She informed that

eight organisations are utilising the scorecard and the aim is to eventually have the majority of public bodies under the initiative. “It is being rolled out on a phased basis but we expect that within the

next three to four years, the majority of organisations should be utilising this scorecard, which will give us valuable information as we try to manage our customer service programme,” she said. The new initiative is being implemented under the Customer Service Monitoring and Evaluation System, a critical component in the Public Sector Transformation and Modernisation Programme. Mrs. Gordon-Somers said it is also intended to promote the proactive management of service performance within individual public sector entities as well as to strengthen and identify service offerings to meet the needs of customers. (JIS)

Guyana’s Litter Unit to tackle Georgetown’s commercial zone

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The commercial zone of Central Georgetown will be the primary focus of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Litter Enforcement Unit for the next two weeks. According to a release by the EPA, wardens from the Unit will be monitoring the area from Church Street to Lombard Street to ensure that members of the public comply with the Litter Regulations and keep the heavily traversed commercial zone free of litter. The Unit believes that focus on single areas will prove to be more effective than spreading resources across the city. With assistance from the City Engineers Department and the Georgetown Solid

Waste Management Department, works have already commenced, with sanitation workers clearing garbage from the canal next to the Non Aligned Monument on Church Street last Wednesday. Persons using this area are reminded that litter not only makes our city look like an open dumping ground but prolongs flooding, provides a breeding ground for disease carrying pests, and creates numerous other social, environmental, and economic problems, the cost of which is felt by all. While the majority of officers from the Unit will be in the area, the Roving Response Team will continue to investigate complaints, and patrol areas outside of the commercial district. (Guyana Times)

‘Obeah’ or prank? As human skull found outside TT home

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The fear of witchcraft and 'Obeah' overcame a San Fernando community on Monday after a human skull and a red candle was placed in front a

family’s home. Police are investigating the discovery of what appeared to be a male skull but like Springvale residents, they believe it might be a case of Obeah or a horrible prank. According to

reports, Samuel Oudit, 27, of Hubert Rance Street, awoke for work around 5 am and when he opened his front door saw a skull with a lit candle on a stairway. Further up a hill, just

outside the San Fernando Methodist Primary School, a muddy white crocus bag was found. Oudit said: “I got up this morning around 5.05 am, opened the gate and saw the skull on the step. I thought a cat was watching me and when I went outside and watched it again, I saw it was a human skull. “ I was going to touch it but I didn’t because I realised it still had teeth. There was a red candle on top of it but it was an old skull. There was no skin or hair on it and it was like whoever had it, had it for a while. “Either it is some people trying to do some kind of witchcraft busi-

ness or 'Obeah' but whoever that skull belonged to, they were trying to be wicked.” Oudit’s younger brother Joseph, 19, said he could not attend work after seeing the skull. He said his 14-year-old brother Orlando could not even attend school at Marabella West Secondary. “Nobody sells drugs here. Everybody is working hard. Who would do a thing like that? They dropped the skull, they walked up again and they dropped the bag right up there. “They brought it in a little white crocus bag. There was mud and flies on the bag. They dug up that skull from some-

where,” Joseph said. The men’s father Dexter Oudit, 50, an employee at the San Fernando City Corporation, said no one in his family had gone missing or had any disputes that would warrant an attack. Despite that, he said he was not afraid of evil. San Fernando CID and Southern Homicide Bureau, led ASP Ali Mohammed and Insp Don Gajadhar, visited the scene and took the skull to the Forensic Science Centre. Investigators are trying to determine who the skull belongs to and whether it was dug from a cemetery. (TT Guardian)

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"Most important elections in Guyana ahead since 1964" …Guyanese must give PPP/C majority – Ramotar

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : President Donald Ramotar on Sunday told a State House fun day that the upcoming elections would be the most important ever held in Guyana. He also warned supporters at the fun day, which was held in honour of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan, that winning the presidency was not enough as his party needed to secure a majority of the votes to continue progress for the country. As has been the tradition, hundreds of persons turned up at State House to be part of the fun day, which enabled families and friends to celebrate the life and work

of the late President. Attendees were treated to live performances from the Shakti Strings Orchestra and several dance groups. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) release, in all corners of the State House lawns children were seen enjoying the different fun activities, including the bouncy castle, and the merry goround. Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee took time out to interact with the gathering. Among other dignitaries who attended the event were Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General

President Donald Ramotar

Secretary Clement Rohee, PPP/Civic Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper and former President Bharrat Jagdeo. President Ramotar encouraged the gathering to take this current period seriously. He

noted that as Guyanese celebrate the life and work of Dr Jagan, they should remain cognisant of the fact that it was a very important time in Guyana’s history. “The election that we are about to have on May 11 will be one of

the most important elections ever fought in this country. It is so because over the last three years you’ve seen the attempts by the Opposition to stymie every project, every developmental effort of the Government.” The Amaila Falls Hydro Project, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion and the Specialty Hospital were identified as critical projects that were blocked by the Opposition.These, the President said, show clearly that the Opposition did not have Guyana’s and its people’s interest at heart because many of these projects would have created highly paid jobs for

thousands of Guyanese. President Ramotar pointed out, that in spite of these frustrating moves by the Opposition, the Guyana’s economy grew by almost five per cent every year for the past three years. The Head of State reminded the large gathering that the upcoming elections were about Guyana’s future, the future of every citizen, and their children. He also urged the constituents to play their role and be educated on every aspect of voting so as to ensure that this time around, the incumbent Government was returned to power as a majority Government. (Guyana Times)

"No evidence of Jamaicans joining Sky phones terrorists groups" – Security Ministry coming to TT

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Ministry of National Security has rejected claims that Jamaicans have gone to fight with Islamic extremists in Syria. In a release on Saturday, the ministry noted reports of a statement made to the United States Senate Armed Services Committee by General John Kelly, commander of the United States Southern Command. The reports listed Jamaica as one of several countries in the region from which recruits have departed for Syria. However, the ministry said it has been monitoring the emerging situation with respect to the recruiting efforts of terrorists groups and

Jamaica’s Minister of National Security Peter Bunting (JIS file photo)

there is no information of any Jamaican being involved. "Jamaica enjoys high levels of cooperation

with the United States of America on security matters. To date, we have not received any information to indicate that

Jamaicans have departed our shores to join terrorists groups," said the security ministry. "Consequently, the Government of Jamaica has initiated dialogue with our United States counterparts, in order to ascertain the source of the reported claim and the extent of any potential concerns that may require our intervention," added the ministry. "The fact is that, the actual prepared text of the speech delivered by General Kelly did not name Jamaica, and as such, it is possible that the reported comment may be the result of a misunderstanding. As soon as that situation has been clarified, an update will be provided." (Jamaica Gleaner)

Senator urges TT to expand its trade scope

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Independent Senator Dr Dhanayshar Mahabir says when it comes to trade, Trinidad and Tobago must look beyond Caricom and expand its scope to Central America. “We have been confined by history to the English-speaking Caribbean, and the English-speaking Caribbean—since 1961—has proven itself to be a nonviable economic entity,” he said during his contribution to the debate on the Trinidad and Tobago Panama Partial Scope Trade Agreement Bill

Independent Senator Dr Dhanayshar Mahabir

(2014), in the Senate on Monday. He pointed out that excluding Trinidad, only five per cent of the goods consumed in Caricom

came from another Caricom country. “Once we look at the Central American region, starting all the way up North from Guatemala down to Panama, I think we would be in a position now where our current grouping called Caricom will now have to include all the countries washed by the Caribbean Sea, independent of colonial history. Once we do that we have 25 countries as a middle power in our hemisphere,” he said. Mahabir added: “If 25 of us can come together, I see in the future the potential of a huge grouping speaking with one voice, not only trading amongst themselves, but

getting out of the history of the triangular trade and now engaging in a circular trade. We are going nowhere now by confining ourselves to the English-speaking world now in our region. It is too small, it is too narrow, it is too undiversified.” The TT Panama Partial Scope Trade Agreement, signed in 2013, provides preferential treatment that exporters from Trinidad and Tobago will enjoy in the Panamanian market and the reciprocal preferential treatment that Panamanian exporters will receive in the Trinidad and Tobago market. (TT Express)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: In two months time, TT consumers will have the opportunity to purchase smart phones from Sky Devices of the United States. Loaded on these phones will be the first ever Caribbean App Store, which offers great opportunities for local business persons to promote their business on the World Wide Web. This was disclosed by CEO of Coldwater Limited, Aldwyn Wayne, at the launch of Sky Devices at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel in Invaders Bay on Tuesday. Explaining that Coldwater Limited, a local software company, has been in discussions with Sky Devices on this initiative, Wayne said, “We are about to ship 100,000 phones to the Caribbean, starting in Trinidad.” “We are looking to have the first 100,000 by the beginning of May and its going to come with the Caribbean App Store loaded on it,” he disclosed. Wayne added this was a benefit consumers would get “once you buy a Sky Phone.” Asked about the cost of these phones, Wayne said their price range would be between TT$200 to TT$2,000. He said the Sky Devices smart phones could be available through dealers such as TSTT , Digicel or even “mom and pop” stores. Wayne stated consumers could even purchase the phones online. Elaborating on the

Caribbean App Store, Wayne explained, “The importance of partnering with Sky is that we have developed the first Caribbean App Store just like the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.” However he explained the difference between the Caribbean App Store and its Google and Apple counterparts, “ is that our app store is going to be centric to the Caribbean.” “From Jamaica come down, if you have an app it is going to be stored on Caribbean App Store,” Wayne said. He further stated that compared to Google or Apple, it would be easier to find apps such as Newsday, Massy or even a “Mom and Pop store on the corner in Diego Martin,” on the Caribbean App Store. Wayne said the Caribbean App Store also offers local business persons the opportunity to promote their business via the store. He said they could go online , register, open their account and put it on there. Based in Miami, Florida, Sky Devices is described as “a fastgrowing, mobile phone manufacturer developing smartphones with premium quality, modern designs and robust performance, at prices that any user can afford.” On its website, Sky Devices states, “Our specialty is manufacturing unlocked GSM smartphones to improve our consumer’s daily routine, without the high costs.” (TT Newsday)

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Jamaica's Cultural Commission to unveil TT$2B for public activities for 50th anniversary in July servants in TT

INGSTON, JAMAICA: In July, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) will unveil the activities to mark its 50th anniversary. Under the theme “Celebrating Cultural Excellence Through Preservation and Innovation”, the agency is planning to include the 2015 Emancipation and Independence observances. “There is a slate of events that we are going to be showcasing and ac-

tivities in which we are going to be participating to commemorate the celebrations, which will run until December,” the acting executive director, Delroy Gordon, said. The Festival Song Contest, which is the flagship programme of the agency, will take on a new twist this year. Jamaicans will be asked

to select a song of their choice from the 47 winning festival songs between 1966 and 2012, as opposed to having a traditional stage show in which artistes compete for honours. “We will allow Jamaicans to participate in the process by selecting the song that they think is their favourite song of all times,” Gordon said, noting that the intention is to “create that feeling of nostalgia, while at the same time celebrating excellence”. Persons will be able

to vote by calling, texting or by emailing. Further details will be outlined at the unveiling of the JCDC programme of activities. The winning song will be announced on Friday, August 2, at a massive concert, featuring former festival song winners. “It is our hope that by the end of the year, we will be able to do a commemorative album featuring the top 20 songs that would have been selected by the public,” Gordon said. (Jamaica Observer)

Rare Caribbean ‘pillar coral’ species bred and raised in lab

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: A rare and threatened Caribbean coral species has for the first time been successfully bred and raised in the lab. A study by the Curacao-based CARMABI Foundation has provided the first photos and documentation of juveniles of this species and could provide information to help bolster local coral reef conservation. The three-member team also plans to ‘outplant’ the lab-grown juveniles in the wild which could help populations become more resilient to climate change. Team leader Kristen Marhaver said the Caribbean Pillar Coral Dendrogyra cylindrus is rare and understudied, and small juveniles of this species have never been seen in over 30 years of

surveys in the Caribbean. She said the species is one of very few corals in the Caribbean that forms large branches, which can provide shelter for important fish species and reduce the energy of storm surge as it approaches shore. “Strangely enough, pillar corals happen to spawn just half an hour before another threatened coral that is far better studied – the elkhorn corals. “So the reason why for so many years we’ve never witnessed spawning pillar corals is that, while they were spawning, virtually all coral spawning researchers and photographers in the Caribbean were on their boats doing final preparations on their dive gear for elkhorn coral spawning. It was literally right under our noses for years,” Marhaver said.

Pillar Corals form a unique ‘smoke stack’ shape like no other coral species, and they display unusual mating behaviour compared to most spawning coral species. Most spawning corals are hermaphrodites that release large bundles of eggs and sperm. Pillar corals, which only spawn on a few specific nights of the year, build colonies that are either all-male or all-female. The males first release sperm into the seawater, shortly followed by the females releasing their individual eggs. This makes collection and breeding research extremely difficult. “Now that we’ve successfully reared juvenile Pillar Corals in the lab, not only can we study them in more detail to find out what factors could be threatening their survival in the wild, but it also

means that we can try to out-plant a small number back to the reef. “We don’t know if this will work and it is certainly not a cure-all for the reef. But especially in such a rare coral species, a tiny boost of a few new individuals could make a big difference in their genetic diversity, allowing their populations to adapt and become more resilient to the changing environment in the oceans,” said Marhaver. The research team included Mark Vermeij from the CARMABI Foundation and the University of Amsterdam, and Mónica Medina from Pennsylvania State University. The research was funded by the US National Science Foundation with permissions from the Curacao government. (Caribbean360)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Government will spend more than TT$2 billion to cover the 14 percent settlement for the nation’s 40,000 public servants. The bulk of it will be spent to cover backpay which will cost TT$1.9 billion while TT$325 million will be spent per annum as recurrent expenditure.This disclosure was made by Minister in the Ministry of Finance Rudy Indarsingh at Monday’s signing of the agreement between the Chief Personnel Officer, Stephanie Lewis and the Public Services Association (PSA) at Cascadia Hotel, St Ann’s. Indarsingh commended the CPO and her team for completing negotiations after 14 meetings. The settlement covers the period 2011 to 2013. “We have an agreement today, an agreement that will impact positively on the quality of life and standard of living of all public officers throughout Trinidad and Tobago,” he said. The minister told PSA members that they have a sense of duty to Trinidad to ensure that there was productivity to meet the demands of the population. “At the end of the day you are an important component in the delivery of services to the citizenry of this country. You will be judged on your sense of commitment to duty and your sense of customer care and in that regard, I urge you to understand that you have a responsibility to your union, to

yourself, to your family and foremost responsibility to citizens of TT,” he said. On the negotiating process, Lewis said when at the table she has to remind unions that the employer has to be responsible because whatever agreement is made, the employer has to be in a position to honour the agreement. She said every association comes to the Personnel Department to negotiate with her for their interests while she has to look after the interests of the State and the country. Speaking after the signing, PSA president Watson Duke said public servants can expect their backpay and salary increase within the next three months. He said he expects public officers to be more productive and to live by the words of Jesus, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Duke also shared advice to his comrades in the protective services who are still in negotiations with the CPO. “Stay focused, keep talking, be persistent and be patient. In the long run, you would be able to persuade someone with the strength of your arguments once you keep saying it long enough,” he said. The CPO also agreed to a 14 percent salary increase for the Public Transport Service Corporation. The agreement was made on Thursday and the signing ceremony is expected to take place next week. (TT Newsday)

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Chancellor maintains judicial backlog not unique to Guyana

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Carl Singh is maintaining that the judicial backlog of cases, which continues to be an area of concern for rights groups and legal practitioners, is not unique to Guyana but is a phenomenon that is faced in several parts of the Caribbean, Latin America and further afield. Singh, speaking during an interview with the Guyana Times on Friday, said efforts are continuing to address the problems caused by the backlog and the backlog itself within the local justice system.He declared that there is no judicial system in the world without a backlog of cases. According to Justice Singh, there is nothing unusual about having cases waiting to be heard. He explained that the cases waiting to be heard, constitutes the backlog. In October last year, University of London Law Professor Jenny Hamilton had expressed similar views, stating that the challenges which arise as a result of having to deal with a

backlog of cases in the judiciary and a relatively slow justice system are not unique to Guyana or the wider Caribbean. Speaking exclusively with this newspaper, Dr Hamilton said “I think this is an issue that is not peculiar to Guyana. It affects just about every other country in the world. In the United Kingdom, there are similar issues about access to justice, the speed of the courts and there was a very influential reforms programme which commenced in the UK to address these”. But the acting Chancellor pointed out that Guyana has made significant inroads over the years as it relates to the rate of hearings and disposal, especially for criminal matters. He noted that judges work at a level pace according to their performance and capabilities but some display greater capacity to complete cases in record time than others. The backlog of criminal cases number hundreds. On the other hand, the Chancellor outlined that the backlog of civil cases stands somewhere around 3000 to 4000. (Guyana Times)

Sandals Group eyes possible Tobago resort

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Chief Executive Officer of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, says if he is to establish a property in Trinidad and Tobago, the Sister Island would be his most likely choice. He said he had visited Tobago some years ago and liked it. He said, “Tobago would probably make more sense because of the natural sun, sand and the sea that the man above gave Tobago.” However, he said a Sandals in Tobago would definitely not happen before the next five years because the group was “maxed out” at the moment after a number of new developments in several Caribbean islands. He was speaking with reporters following his feature address guests attending the President’s Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, Wrightson Road, Portof-Spain, last Thursday night. During his address, he told local business executives of the importance of having vision and remaining true to

Chief Executive Officer of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart

their vision if they wanted to succeed in business. Stewart traced the establishment of Sandals to his father’s vision and tenaciousness in pursuing his dream in spite of many detractors eager to tell him that it was impossible to establish a world-leading resort company in the Caribbean. He said his family went into the hospitality business to earn foreign exchange for its distribution and manufacturing businesses. The family had established and still owns a company called Appliance Traders Limited, but, he said, as Jamaica went through the difficulties of the 1970s and a lot of people fled the country, his father looked around

and assessed the assets available in Jamaica. What he saw were rivers, mountains, culture, music, sun, sand and sea. “And that was our asset to monetise and capitalise on.” He declared his father bought a 99-room hotel on a beach in Montego Bay and while he confessed that he had no idea what he was doing, he said his father said, “I believed in our people, I believed in our beach, I saw the real estate in front of me and I lost more money than I could make in my primary business by going into a new business.” He added Sandals Resorts started in Jamaica in 1981 with a belief that customers deserve more in a virgin in-

dustry which they called “all inclusive.” He said the “all inclusive” industry is limited to the Caribbean. Stewart said tourism today is simply an export product with less than one per cent of the company’s revenues coming from the local economies. Observing that the company was in the service industry, he said Sandals Resorts International employs 13,000 Caribbean nationals. “We put our customers at the centre of everything that we do. We have never heard of a customer saying to us that ‘We would like less luxury.’ We have never had a customer check into one of our hotels and say ‘This is far too nice for me, we would like to downgrade to a lesser room category.’ ” He said that in 1991 the company began to grow and expand and left Jamaica and established another hotel in Antigua, then to St. Lucia in 1993 and the Bahamas in 1995 the same year it set up operations in the Turks and Caicos Islands. In 2013, it established in Grenada and in January 2015 opened its latest hotel in Barbados. (TT Newsday)

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External public debt plummets in Caribbean – ECLAC

Boost for tourism

Carnival Cruise Line adds Tobago to list P P

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise ship company, has announced that starting next year Tobago will be featured in its itinerary for the first time. The announcement came as part of a series of new longer voyages the cruise line will be offering. According to a media release from the Tobago House of Assembly’s Division of Tourism and Transport, this is expected to bring 10,642 Carnival Cruise Line passengers to the sister isle and will increase the number of passengers visiting Tobago during the 2015/2016 cruising season to 81,050. Tobago will be part of an itinerary that includes St Maarten, Dominica, Barbados, Scarborough, Grenada, Martinique, St Kitts and St Thomas. Secretary of Tourism and Transportation Tracy DavidsonCelestine described the

news as being good for Tobago’s growing cruise industry. “This year we saw a 200 per cent growth in cruise ship guests coming to Tobago and next cruise season we are again going to see double digit growth. This is testimony to the hard work that we are doing as a Division and as the THA and what we really want to see is Tobagonians taking advantage of the opportunities this presents,” she said in the media release. “We have to prepare for more passengers, we need to ensure that when the guests come here we have enough activities for them, whether that means tours, craft, food, water sports etc, we need our people to be entrepreneurs. Look at what is possible and plan for the next season. We can only create the opportunities it’s for the people of Tobago to now take advantage of them,” she added. The Division of Tourism and Transport stated that other ships-

-the Carnival Miracle, Dream and Glory— will also offer the longer itineraries and will be visiting ports like Bonaire, Martinique, Dominica, Grenada and Scarborough. “Scarborough, Tobago, will be visited by the Carnival Sunshine ship beginning in February 2015,” the division added. Also commenting on the news was Carnival’s senior vice-president of itinerary planning and revenue development Terry Thornton who noted that longer cruises have been in demand with Carnival guests and travel agents. “Based on feedback from our guests and travel agent partners, we’re delighted to offer these longer length voyages which provide vacationers an opportunity to visit some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations while enjoying all the wonderful onboard innovations and features found aboard Carnival’s ships,” he said. (TT Express)

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: In its annual fiscal report on Latin America and the Caribbean, the United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) highlights that in the last 25 years, external public debt has fallen from 70 per cent to 16 per cent of the Region’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Projects financed with public or publicprivate resources can increase economic activity, especially when the economy is going through a period of idle capacity and when infrastructure investment needs are clearly identified, which is true of the Region today, ECLAC said in “Fiscal Panorama of Latin America and the Caribbean 2015: Policy space and dilemmas”. Latin America and the Caribbean has used fiscal policy to reactivate investment and confront the current context of economic deceleration, although with variations among countries, according to the document, which was presented during the XXVII Regional Seminar on Fiscal Policy last week at ECLAC’s headquarters in Santiago, Chile. In the study, the United Nations organisation warns that the decline in commodities prices implies a reduction in the income derived from non-renewable natural resources, which will weaken the public finances of countries that export these products. This could be com-

Blue line equals external debt; yellow domestic debt over external debt

pensated by recent tax reforms, the report says, especially by the strengthening of direct taxation. Taking a longterm view with regard to the proportion of public debt versus GDP, Latin America (considering the average of 19 countries) experienced a long period of rising debt levels (1970-1989), followed by phases in which they fell (1990-1997 and 2004-2008, after a brief period of increases between 1998 and 2003), and they ultimately stabilised between 2009 and 2014. Between 2003 and 2008, the level of public debt fell considerably and its composition also changed in a significant way, with longer maturities, greater participation of fixed-rate debt, a greater proportion of resident debt holders and the growing importance of debt denominated in the local currency. In this sense, in the last 25 years the reduction of external public debt has been notable in the Region: in the early 1990s, it represented more than 70 per cent of GDP, compared with 16 per cent in 2014. Indebtedness levels vary widely among

countries. Brazil has the highest public debt in Latin America (63.5 per cent of GDP in 2014), although the amount of its net debt is much lower (37 per cent). Other countries in South America (Uruguay, Colombia and Argentina) and some in Central America (El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, the Dominican Republic and Panama), as well as Mexico, have moderate levels of indebtedness (between 36 per cent and 44 per cent of GDP). On the other extreme, with debt levels below 22 per cent of GDP, stand Chile, Peru and Paraguay. According to the “Fiscal Panorama of Latin America and the Caribbean 2015”, the tax burden rose five points of GDP between 2000 and 2013 in the Region, with a structure of regressive taxes. This explains why the impact of fiscal policy on income distribution is not significant. For that reason, ECLAC urges countries to continue taking action to fight fiscal evasion and circumvention, reduce preferential treatment and generally strengthen taxation on capital gains. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica State Minister apologises for suffering caused by Riverton fire

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, Colin Fagan, has tendered a public apology to citizens affected by the smoke emanating from the Riverton City Landfill. Speaking at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) press briefing on Sunday, Fagan said he understood the frustration of the citizens and apologised for the frustration they are experiencing. “I know you are hurting and angry because of what is happening and you want us to deal with this problem now. I want

Jamaica’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development Colin Fagan (file photo)

to apologise for the suffering that you have experienced and I want to let you know we are doing everything to contain this crisis quickly,” Fagan said.

Reports from the Jamaica Fire Brigade are that the blaze at the 120-acre landfill is under control, though not extinguished. (Jamaica Observer)

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Jamaica’s Duncan-Price among 187 named as Young Global Leaders

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaica’s Imani Duncan-Price has been named among 187 professionals selected to become the 2015 Young Global Leaders (YGL) of the World Economic Forum. Each year a group of individuals under the age of forty are chosen from diverse backgrounds to participate in a community that directly impacts the global agenda. Duncan-Price is the only professional selected from the Caribbean region as a YGL this

year. “I am so excited to be a part of this group,” she said. “This is a great chance for me to further improve my leadership skills while meeting other likeminded people who want to help change the world. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am honoured to be a part of something that has the potential to create an incredible impact on the global agenda. I am looking forward to gaining as much as I can from this experience so that I can continue to contribute to Jamaica’s

Imani Duncan-Price

development and growth in the best way possible,” the Government senator said. This year’s selection of YGLs will engage with a community that has grown considerably since it was first established ten years ago. The 2015 group of YGLs will include 23 individuals from East Asia, 17 from Greater China, 13 from Latin America (including Duncan-Price from the Caribbean), 39 from Europe, 15 from the Middle East and North Africa, 17 from sub-Saharan Africa, 19 from South Asia and 44 from

North America. The 187 honorees were chosen from a pool of over 2000 distinguished professionals who were evaluated by a committee chaired by HM Queen Rania Al Abdullah of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Over the course of five years Duncan-Price is expected to participate in annual seminars and summits which will promote her development as a YGL and allow her to use her platform to encourage positive change in Jamaica and on a global scale.(Jamaica Observer)

Guyanese amputees aiming to Two foreigners in TT court on cocaine charges compete in Boston Marathon

O R T - O F SPAIN,TRINIDAD: Two foreign nationals appeared before an Arima magistrate on Monday charged with trafficking in cocaine, arising out of two separate instances. In the first case Nigerian national Christopher Odikabue was denied bail after he appeared before Senior Magistrate Indrani Cedeno charged with trafficking 715 grammes of cocaine which was allegedly found hidden in mascara bottles. Odikabue was charged with local PH driver Shawn Campbell with trafficking the drugs on Friday in La Horquetta. Odikabue was represented by Lal Krishna Doodnath while his co-accused was represented by Hugh Jacobs. Both men pleaded not guilty. Odikabue, the court heard, has a pending matter for a similar nature and was recently granted bail in that matter. His attorney denied his client was recently granted bail as suggested by arresting officer Cpl Manswell of the La Horquetta Police Station. Odikabue said he was granted bail in 2010 and has been on the outside since then. Doodnath said his client lived at Mc Carthy Street, Sangre Grande. After listening to both the defence and prosecution Cedeno denied bail, saying the matter was serious. She adjourned the case to April 13. Campbell, who was also charged with possession of .77 grammess of marijuana, to which he pleaded guilty. Campbell told the court he was a PH driver and wanted a fine as he has to care for his ailing mother. Jacobs told Cedeno his client was a 29-year-old father of two who lived at Chinapoo Village, Morvant. After hearing Campbell was a PH driver and that the cocaine he is jointly charged with Odikabue for being in possession of, Cedeno reduced his bail from TT$500,000 to TT$250,000. On the marijuana charge he was fined TT$1,500. In the second case German na-

William “The Conqueror” France tries for record of oldest man in marathon

German national Christopher Gegenheimer leaves the Arima Magistrates court after appearing on drug charges on Monday

tional Christopher Gegenheimer was ordered to pay TT$30,000 by the end of the working day of the Arima Magistrate’s Court or spend two years in jail. The ruling was made by Cedeno after Gegenheimer pleaded guilty to trafficking 1.92 kilograms of cocaine. The drugs, Cedeno heard, was found in his crotch and in the soles of his Saucony sneakers. According to police the drugs were found during a search at the Organised Crime Narcotics and Firearms Bureau (OCNFB) branch in Piarco on February 24, after Gegenheimer failed to answer simple questions when approached by customs officials. At the time he was heading to Barbados aboard Liat flight LI 362. Gegenheimer’s attorney Hugh Jacobs told the magistrate his client was a student studying airport operations and management. The 21-year-old, he said, had come for Carnival and overstayed his time in Trinidad due to the festivities. Jacobs said attempts to get money from his relatives abroad to pay for the change in ticket was unsuccessful and he was in need of cash. (TT Guardian)

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Three men stopped traffic on Saturday as they stood in the middle of the roadway, clutching their crutches to balance on their three legs. These men were appealing to the public for financial assistance as it is their aim to be part of the 2015 Boston Marathon. Guyana Times had the opportunity to speak to these men while they stood on the public road of Montrose to get the attention of commuters. Surprisingly, people were very supportive, as cars stopped to donate what little they could to the men’s hopes for an experience of a lifetime. William France, a well known amputee, who thrives on giving back and fighting against enormous odds, was found to be the man behind these men’s efforts. France said that it cost a total of Gy$1.23 million for three amputees to go to the marathon. However, what they need at this point is Gy$184,000. France had taken part in the Boston Marathon before, the last time being eight years ago. This time, he said he has a specific purpose as it will be his last time and he wants to be the oldest man in the world to compete in the marathon. He stated that winning is not a must but it would be great to hold that record. The oldest man currently holding the record for competing in the Boston Marathon is Dick Shoe, who was 56 years old when he last competed in the marathon. France is 58 years old. Terry Roopnarine – one of the tree men soliciting support from the public – is quite happy that France went down the road he did as he told this publication that France encouraged him a lot, lending unwavering support when he lost his leg four years ago. The 33-year-old said he lost the use of his right leg in an accident in the interior when a tree fell on him. Roopnarine said at the time of the accident, he was working as a Pork knocker and said he was quite lucky to be alive, even without a leg. He told this publication that at first that he felt quite helpless, as he was married with a son and a daughter and there was not much he could have done for himself. However, Roopnarine said that he fell in with some other amputees and found that it was not as bad as he thought. He began to teach himself how to do things for himself and now he can even drive without help. However, Roopnarine stated that they still need a lot of money to be able to make the trip to the United States for the marathon. The last of the three man team, Garvin

Terry Roopnarine said that it is important that persons with disabilities have hope

Jeffers said that the marathon is a chance for him to show the world that amputees can still be part of life. He reminisced on that time when there used to be persons in wheelchairs paying basketball at the park and at sports centres in Georgetown. He said that there is “nuff thing we could do.” He said that he has even spoken to a cycling coach about encouraging young boys and girls to take part in cycling, as it is a sport that persons with disabilities can be a part of. He said this gives people hope and an independence that goes a long way. (Guyana Times)

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Former Guyana President warns about Opposition’s whisper campaign – stands by commitment to fight racism BY MICHAEL YOUNGE

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: “We have no apology to make for fighting racism. I am a son of this soil and I will fight racism every single day. I made it clear at Babu Jaan that this country cannot develop if its benefits are felt by only one group of people. It cannot have a long term future and I believe in that.” Those were sentiments of former President Bharrat Jagdeo as he addressed a press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown to respond to a report in the Kaieteur Newspapers, deemed “sensational and scandalous” about statements he made at the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Ceremony held in Berbice. Jagdeo said that that

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

newspaper was probably being paid by the Opposition to carry the report under the headline, “Rohee endorses Jagdeo statement that PPP/C [People's Progressive Party/Civic] is a ‘coolie people’ party”. But the PPP/C Executive dismissed the

Woman leaves TT$600,000 for Presbyterian Church in TT

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: A schoolteacher, who passed away six years, has left TT$600,000 for the Presbyterian Church to Home to help fund a home for the aged in Tunapuna. Violet Vilna Bharath, who died in 2009, specified in her will that the money was to be given to the church to build a home for elderly Presbyterians who need housing and someone to care for them. Violet was a vice principal of the Tacarigua Presbyterian Primary School and had attended the Armalaya Presbyterian Church for all her life along with her parents and siblings. Accountant Claude Bharath, of Lange Park, Chaguanas, said his aunt never married and had no children and he was executor of her will. Claude said the idea of building a home was first raised by his uncle Ralph, Violet’s brother. He had observed members would serve the church and when they became elderly there was no one to look after them. He decided a home should be built and so he passed on a piece

of land to his sister and told her that she should sell the land and use the money to donate to the Presbyterian Church to construct a home. Ralph died in 2008 and his sister Violet followed one year later. Following the probate of the will and sale of the land, Claude honoured his aunt’s wishes and handed over the cheque, last Thursday, to Presbyterian Church Moderator Reverend Brenda Bullock and Presbyterian Synodical Council officials at the church’s office at Paradise Pasture, San Fernando. In presenting the cheque to Bullock, Claude said he was so pleased at the idea to build the home that he donated TT$100,000 of his own money to the project. He said he would make the money available as soon as construction starts. Bullock said she was grateful for the “unexpected” contribution and assured it would be used to build the home. She said a plot of land in Tunapuna opposite the Armalaya Presbyterian Church was available and details for construction would be discussed. (TT Newsday)

newspaper and its financial backers’ attempt to twist and distort the content, context and spirit of his presentation to thousands of PPP/C supported at Babu Jaan. He argued that these claims are “absolutely untrue” as he reminded reporters that he has

continuously encouraged PPP/C supporters and Guyanese by extension to take a stance against racism and its perpetuation in political campaigns. Jagdeo said he was raised to respect and execute the philosophy of the PPP/C’s founding leader Cheddi Jagan which dictated that members should not pay attention to people’s gender, religion or race. He said if any member of the PPP/C acted in such a manner they would be kicked out because the party is committed to fighting racism. Responding to what some have described as the theatrics of the Opposition and their opportunism, Jagdeo said that no attempt to stir up controversy or spread misinformation about the statements he made would go unchal-

lenged. Jagdeo said that he has noticed that the Opposition parties were slowly embarking on their old whisper campaigns which were used to spew lies about the Government and paint it as racist, labeling the tactic “spent” and “weary”. “I raised the issue of race because it is the only tool that the opposition used in the last elections and they are back at using it again. I want Granger to go to platform where he has a PNC [People's National Congress] crowd where they have one of their rallies and say what I have said. Say we will depart from Burnham’s vision if we do not fight racism…. It would send mixed signals to the people because what they say publicly often differs from what they say privately”, he alleged further.

He told the media that “they (Opposition) use the whisper campaign well. I am proud of what I did; raising the issue…I do not sweep it under the carpet”. He opined that the whisper campaign usually starts on Facebook and then spills over to others including the mass media. Asked what evidence he had to support his accusations, Jagdeo said that he was willing to provide people who witnessed the execution of the campaign during the last elections and he was willing to stand by their accounts of the beating of the drums and racist remarks made by some during the 2011 elections. “I am not coolie and so I take offence at some saying let’s get these coolie people out,” he said. (Guyana Times)

Jamaican Gov't allocates Ja$7m to fight farm theft K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Government has injected Ja$7 million into the Praedial Larceny Prevention Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries as it moves to intensify efforts to address agricultural theft. Agriculture Minister Derrick Kellier said that the money has been used to employ additional staff to bolster the work of the unit, which includes the services of two members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). The policemen, Deputy Superintendent Kevin Francis and Sergeant Damian Harry, will head the Ministry's praedial larceny prevention operational activities and will mobilise members of the JCF across the island to curb praedial larceny. "Having the JCF leading the anti-praedial larceny charge, we now expect an intensification of operations on the ground," Kellier said, while emphasising that praedial larceny is a crime, and as such, should be dealt with by the police. He was addressing journalists at a media conference, held at his

Jamaica’s Agriculture Minister Derrick Kellier

Hope Gardens offices in St Andrew last week Thursday. Additional staff at the unit will include a Praedial Larceny Coordinator, to provide administrative and policy support; and an administrative assistant. To further boost the work of the unit, LASCO Distributors has also donated Ja$4 million for the purchase of a Toyota Hilux motor vehicle. It is estimated that some Ja$5 billion is lost annually due to praedial larceny and farm theft, amounting to about $50

billion over the last decade. In the meantime, National Security Minister, Peter Bunting, pledged the support of the police in assisting the Agriculture Ministry and farmers across the island to tackle praedial larceny. Bunting said the scourge has, over the years, moved from petty theft to major organised crime and, as such, deserves the full attention of law enforcers. Bunting said he is therefore pleased to be a part of this initiative which, he believes, will

put a major dent in agricultural theft across the island. M e a n w h i l e Commissioner of Police, Dr Carl Williams, said the JCF is well aware of the scope of praedial larceny in Jamaica, and so, will be "going all out" to curb the problem. He noted that Deputy Superintendent Francis and Sergeant Harry will have full command over all the resources of the Community Safety and Security Branch, which has also been mobilised in the larger anti-praedial larceny campaign. (Jamaica Observer)

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Jamaicans to pay less income tax Phillips unveils raft of revenue measures for 2015/2016

INGSTON, JAMAICA: E f f e c t i v e January 1, 2016, the threshold on Personal Income Tax will be increased from Ja$557,232 to Ja$592,800 per annum. "For all PAYE persons, this will mean an additional Ja$35,568 per year of tax free income, but the impact in terms of lower effective tax rates will be greater for the lower income PAYE tax payers," Minister of Finance and Planning Peter Phillips said. Opening the 2015/16 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives last Thursday, the minister said the proposed increase in the threshold would relieve another 9,000 households from income tax and bring the total number free of tax to 129,000. The revenue loss from this adjustment is Ja$644 million. There will also be a removal of duties on racehorse breeding stock in order to facilitate the continued viability of the racehorse industry. The category of horses which presently attracts a tariff of 40 per cent will be subject to a lower tariff of

five per cent. "This will result in a minimal revenue loss for the fiscal year of Ja$1 million and will help stabilise conditions in the sector and support the divestment exercise. The effective date for this measure is April 1, 2015," Dr Phillips said. Meanwhile, the government has proposed new revenue measures which are expected to raise some Ja$10.4 billion needed to fully finance the 2015/16 budget. The minister explained that when the budgeted expenditures for the 2015/16 are compared to projections for total revenues, there is a revenue gap of Ja$22.7 billion, if the government is to attain the 7.5 per cent primary surplus target. The minister pointed out that of the Ja$22.7 billion in revenue gap, it is expected that tax compliance efforts are to provide some Ja$12.3 billion this financial year, leaving a gap of Ja$10.4 billion. Dr Phillips told the House that the revenue measures are being proposed bearing in mind

Phillips... revenue measures are being proposed bearing in mind Jamaica's revenue needs and its commitment to protect the most vulnerable

Jamaica's revenue needs and its commitment to protect the most vulnerable. There is a proposed increase in the Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on cigarettes. The finance minister said the government is proposing that the SCT be increased from Ja$10.50 per stick to Ja$12 per stick, effective March 13, 2015. An adjustment of the asset tax of the insurance sector is also being proposed. Dr Phillips explained that after con-

sultations with the Life Insurance sector, the 1.0 per cent asset tax rate be reduced to 0.25 per cent; the gross premium tax and the net investment income tax be removed; and a corporate income tax (on total income) be levied at the standard rate of 25 per cent. The government is expected to earn some Ja$962 million in revenue from an environmental levy which is to come into effect, April 1, 2015. Dr Phillips explained that the levy will be placed on domestic pro-

duction to mirror that on imports. It is being proposed that a 0.5 per cent environmental levy be applied to all qualifying domestic supplies of goods as exist currently, but now including Caricom imports and domestic supply of goods, excluding the services sector, charitable organisations, exempt organisations, international organisations and mining. The government is also proposing to raise some Ja$6.4 billion in tax revenues with a proposed increase in the SCT rate of Ja$7 per litre on petrol, effective March 18, 2015. There is also a proposal that the current one per cent petroleum cess paid by Petrojam to the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica be replaced by a specific SCT of Ja$2 per litre on specified petroleum products. "The base of the proposed Ja$2 SCT would be all petroleum products with the exception of crude oil, jet fuel, Bunker C fuel, and fuel used by the Jamaica Public Service Company for energy generation, the independent power

providers as regulated by the Office of Utilities Regulation and the bauxite industry," Dr Phillips said. This measure, to be effective March 18, 2015, is projected to yield gross revenues of approximately Ja$1.8 billion. In addition, there is also to be the re-introduction of General Consumption Tax at the standard rate on monthly residential electricity consumption above 350 kilowatt hours. This is estimated to yield revenue of Ja$807 million and is effective April 1, 2015. Other proposed tax measures include rationalisation of outdated selected user fees, fines and penalties in respect of excises. This measure is expected to earn revenue of Ja$500 million, with the date for the revised fee structure being April 1, 2015. In terms of the bauxite levy, Dr Phillips told the House that there have been positives in the international environment, among them the increase in the price of bauxite and alumina. (JIS)

April 7 is Nomination Day in Guyana

TT school maxis want TT$1.25 more per seat

– GECOM calls for decorum from political parties while campaigning

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Association of Maxi Taxi School Transport Concessionaires (AMTSTC) has been promised by officials in the Education Ministry that a note would be taken to Cabinet on Thursday to request an official increase in rates of TT$1.25 per seat. This followed a decision by more than 100 of the 350-strong AMTSTC to stage a peaceful protest outside the ministry’s St Clair head office. Upon learning of this, an official from the ministry called AMTSTC president Rodney Ramlogan, requesting a meeting with the association’s executive. Ramlogan and five other executive members then met last Friday for about an hour with the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Angela Siew and Chief Education Officer Harrilal Seecharan. While the group met, the AMTSTC members gathered outside on Hayes Street, St Clair and began marching along the sidewalk while holding placards with messages such as “Taken for a ride on our own maxis” and “Mister Minister, one month = four weeks. Seven weeks gone! Broken promises.” Michael James, an AMTSTC member for more than 20 years, lamented the small and sporadic rate increases over the past 55 years, even as the cost of living has increased. (TT Newsday)

E O R G E T O W N , GUYANA: Political parties desirous of contesting the May 11 General and Regional Elections will be given an opportunity to cement this intent when they present their List of Candidates to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on April 7, Nomination Day. This was revealed on Wednesday when several of these parties met GECOM officials to discuss procedures and expectations for that day and during the election season. Speaking at the event, GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally revealed that the Code of Conduct for political parties will be immediately available after Nomination Day for endorsement. On this day, the parties through their respective Representative and Deputy Representative will present their List of Candidates. According to a GECOM advisory, the Representative or the Deputy in submitting the list to the Chief Elections Officer must ensure that it is submitted in the prescribed form, ascertain that the list is accompanied by a Statutory Declaration for each candidate and for the President named in the National Top-List. GECOM says no person on

GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally in conversation with representative of political parties

the list could be on more than one Geographical Constituencies’ List. The Representative must also ensure that the necessary corrections are made and submitted to the Chief Elections Officer not later than the 29th day before Election Day if the List of Candidates is in any way defective; make an application in writing to the Chief Elections Officer for the allocation of a symbol not later than the 32nd day before Election

Day. This symbol must be approved by the Elections Commission. “Every activity that GECOM undertakes, it is within the consonance and the spirit of the Constitution…” expressed Dr Surujbally in an attempt to inspire the trust of the political parties in the work of the Commission. He noted that the Commission executed its mandate within the spirit of the Constitution. (Guyana Times)

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TT leads race for Hollick Arvon Prize

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Bocas Lit Fest has announced the list of finalists for the region’s only prize for emerging writers, the Hollick Arvon Caribbean Writers Prize. Five emerging writers from Trinidad and Tobago are among the ten finalists for the much-coveted 2015 Prize, now in its third and final year. Writers from three other Caribbean countries are in the running - Jamaica, Bahamas and Puerto Rico, said a media release from the Bocas Lit Fest. The prize, co-founded and administered by The Bocas Lit Fest and worth over US$15,000, will give the winning Caribbean-based writer time to advance a poetry collection. In previous years the prize was open to writers of fiction and non-fiction. It includes a year’s mentoring by an established author and travel to the United Kingdom to attend a one-week intensive creative writing course of their choice

at Arvon. The winning writer will also receive a cash award of US $4,500, have three days in London to network with literary professionals, hosted by the UK’s leading creative writing organisation, Arvon, in association with Free Word Centre and agents Rogers, Coleridge & White who have first option of agenting the winning writer. A total of 53 writers from 12 Caribbean countries submitted entries for the prize – Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Grenada, Guyana, Dominica, British Virgin Islands and Bermuda, the release said. A statement from the judges says, “The longlist for the 2015 Hollick Arvon Prize can boast of poets who shuttle an ability to manipulate language to create poetry that is narratively fluent and thematically current and engaging,” the release said. It was a blind competition between 16 men and 37 wom-

‘Angels of Hope’ a success among Guyana’s orphans

en.

The media release stated: “The judges did not know who they were judging, female or male, but we commend the sensitive and subtle handling of subject matters which range from submerged family histories through domestic abuse to sexual self-discovery and the loss of memory”, says Funso Aiyejina, chair of the international judging panel of five that comprises Caroline Hollick - sponsors of the award, Prof Edward Baugh, Jamaican Ruth Borthwick of Arvon, and London literary agent, Jennifer Hewson. The winner will be announced at the 2015 NGC Bocas Lit Fest, which runs from April 29 to 3 May in Port- of- Spain at the National Library, Abercromby Street. NGC is the title sponsor of the annual literary festival. First Citizens is the lead sponsor, OCM and the Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Planning are main sponsors. See www.bocaslitfest. com for more information. (TT Newsday)

Wayne Hamilton (right) receiving a plaque from Dr Jeetendra Mohanlall, Programme Manager, National Tuberculosis Programme, Ministry of Health, in appreciation of FFTP’s contribution to the programme

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Food for the Poor’s ‘Angels of Hope’ mission is to help underprivileged children reach their highest potential. Speaking with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine Wayne Hamilton, FFTP’s public relations officer, revealed that the Angels of Hope programme, started about ten years ago, provides for more than 250 children from eight homes/orphanages across Guyana. “The programme is mainly sponsored by residents in the U.S. who would normally send supplies and financial support for birthdays, Christmas parties, and our annual gettogether and fun day, where all the children meet up and interact. From the supplies we receive at Food For The Poor, we are able to provide clothing, food, toiletries, school supplies, and much more,” Hamilton explained. Noting the effectiveness of the programme, Hamilton pointed out the children, whom the programme caters for, are attending school more regularly because they now have needed supplies. Additionally, their grades have improved. “Our Angels of Hope coordinator also makes regular visits to check up on the children’s progress. This information is then sent to our U.S. donors. Although they are thousands of miles away, the donors keep track of the children’s progress via the information sent from the coordinator,” Hamilton noted. Last year, 35 children from the orphanages were sent to Burrowes School of Art during their ‘summer’ holiday, in a collaborative effort with the arts school. Consequently, FFTP hopes to expand its efforts to include scholarships, and provide opportuni-

ties for the children to succeed academically. FFTP would also like to collaborate with other entities, so that the children can be exposed to various academic areas. July 24 has been scheduled as FFTP’s Angels of Hope Day of Celebration and so the organisation is urging corporate Guyana to donate to make this event possible for the many children it will bring happiness to. “Many have come forward to donate to our programme. We continue to urge local donors to donate food items, school supplies, clothing; anything that is suitable for the children. FFTP also provides home supplies and does infrastructural work on the orphanages. There is always a need for funding and we encourage the general public to help us so that we can help our underprivileged children,” Hamilton declared. In 1982, Jamaica-born Ferdinand Mahfood, who had inherited a successful import business from his father and then moved the business to Miami, USA, received a Christmas present from his wife. It was a book called “Something More”, written by Catherine Marshall. As he turned the pages of the book while on a flight to Chicago, Ferdy (as he is properly known) was moved by the writer’s call to serve God in a more intimate and committed way. He wanted to have a closer relationship with God and to experience the fullness of his love. Since boyhood, he had given donations to the poor and continued to do so as his business flourished. In 1982, after rededicating his life to God, he decided to use his business expertise to serve the poor. He has already seen the gut wrenching poverty in the slums of Jamaica, and increased his donations to the poor in that country. But business expertise alone could not alleviate the suffering and poverty of millions in Haiti, Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador. So Mahfood became a beggar for the poor, combining his business expertise with the donations he received, to start a chain of giving that today results in relief projects and programmes in more than two dozen countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Food For The Poor (FFTP) was established as a vehicle for Mahfood to give back to the world. For more information on this programme visit Food For The Poor on Facebook or call 592 2181553. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

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I N G S T O N , JAMAICA: Jamaicaborn, Canadian reggae artiste Exco Levi created history by winning his fourth-consecutive Juno Award on Saturday. The announcement was made ahead of Sunday's live show at the from Hamilton's FirstOntario Centre in Ontario. The Juno Awards are Canada's version of the Grammys. Exco Levi copped the award for Best Reggae Recording for his project Welcome the King. He won in this same category in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Speaking to the Jamaican media from his Toronto base, Exco Levi whose given name

Another Juno for Exco

is Wayne Ford Levy, said he is

taking the win in stride and is

really greateful. "My feeling for this win is the same as others, because for a person who was born in the country, Manchester, Jamaica, to be written down in the history of Canadian music, I am truly blessed," he said. "All of them [the Juno wins] are special, even just a nomination, because I know I had to work hard, sacrifice a lot to accomplish all of them. I never prepare a speech for the Juno Awards, because win or lose, I still give Jah the glory," he continued. Canada's Juno Awards is celebrating 40 years. However, the reggae category was only introduced a dozen years ago. Exco Levi's win saw him

topping one of Canada's biggest musical exports for 2014, the reggae-rock band Magic! who had one of the major hits for this past year in 'Rude'. There is no letting up for the artiste, as come Wednesday he releases his latest album -- an autobiographical concept set entitled Country Man. Produced by Donovan Germain on his Penthouse Records, the project traces his earliest years living in Manchester. Exco Levi said he plans to hit the road to promote it. "To all my supporters and well wishers, I just want to say thanks for all the support that you have given me," he said. (Jamaica Observer)

Honouring a hardworking and generous Guyanese

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Located at the Iwokrama River Lodge, a building tells a story of a notable man. The Fred Allicock building, built 2000 - 2001, is not just a tourist’s oasis but an edifice celebrating an honourable man. Fred Allicock, who presently resides in Surama, is an Amerindian expert who selflessly shares his local knowledge on managing the natural environment. The upstairs of the building with his name houses a restaurant and bar, and a dining hall for both staff and tourists. The offices are housed downstairs: tourism office, administration office, monitoring office, conference room, medical centre, shop and patio. The building is also used for meetings, conferences and workshops. Speaking with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine Kevin Edwards, tourism coordinator at Iwokrama River Lodge, stated that the building was dedicated to Allicock because of his diligent work at Iwokrama.

Fred Allicock

Edwards also mentioned that Allicock served as the first field station manager with the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development, and was successful in accomplishing all of his tasks in the field. From the building, tourists enjoy a scenic view of the Essequibo River. It is where, after an exciting day of discovery and exploration, they can enjoy traditional Guyanese cuisine at the restaurant.

A computer with internet access is available in the tourism office, and the entire building is covered by Wi-Fi internet access. A gift shop and a shop selling cold drinks, snacks and general items, such as toiletries, are available in the lower level. Not far away are two science laboratories, and a conference room with air conditioning, which is wired for digital equipment such as computers and LCD projectors. There is also a beautiful mural on the building’s walls. It was done by Guyanese artists George Simon and his brother; Anil Roberts; visual arts students from Annai Secondary, and others. The mural showcases the biodiversity of Iwokrama. A visit to Iwokrama directly contributes to the communities in and surrounding the Iwokrama forest. Tourism there supports the development of an eco-friendly sustainable model that is being shared locally and internationally. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Fred Allicock building (Photo by Raquel Thomas-Caesar)

Terry Noel receiving his MBE from Queen Elizabeth at the Windsor Castle on March 6.

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Terry Noel, the longtime Leader of the Melodians Steel Orchestra UK went to Windsor Castle on March 6 this year where Queen Elizabeth II awarded him with an MBE, Member of the Order of the British Empire, for his contribution to steelbands in the UK. It was a fitting honor for a leader in the globalisation of pan. In December last year, the band also issued their third album, Melodians Magic, the first album in many years. Both serve to recognise a long career in pan education. Terry and the Queen had a brief conversation and discussed the fact that the Melodians had played for the Queen at her Diamond Jubilee in 2012 as well as three garden parties at Buckingham Palace and eight years ago at the Commonwealth Day Services in Westminster Abbey. For Terry Noel, it was the best. “It was a fantastic and memorable day. It was nice to know the Queen remembered the Melodians and enjoyed their playing.” The Melodians had a big celebration with friends, family and supporters the next evening and Terry wore his special outfit to play the basses with the band. From Coryal Village to Arima to London. Terry Noel left Trinidad after being a police officer in the mounted branch and travelled to England to become first a psychiatric nurse and later a youth social worker. He retired

after serving over 15 years as a magistrate. But he never was far from pan. He played in the police steel band in Trinidad and in Esso Tripoli. In England he first formed a group called the Groovers and later after a spell in Trinidad returned to the UK. Noel founded Melodians, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2012. He took the name of the Arima band he had just been playing in when he founded the band in London and ever since he has been the one connection between the two bands. All along, he taught pan in public schools in addition to his day job. Formed in October 1987, the band has received two Performing Rights Society Enterprise Awards, a Royal Anniversary Challenge Award and a BT (British Telecom) Innovation Award. As part of the Making Music Adopt a Composer program, they worked with innovative young composer Neil Luck on a new composition Acirema that was played on BBC Radio 3 in early 2012 and available on Youtube as are several other cuts by the band. For the last four years, the band has stored its steel drums at Henry Cavendish Primary School in Balham in South London and rehearsed there twice a week. In exchange for housing the drums, Melodians lets the students at the school play the instruments and provides a tutor. The result has been two new members of Melodians who are only 11-yearsold.(TT Guardian)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

One of Guyana’s most prominent landmarks

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Stabroek Market, designed by Nathaniel McKay, an American engineer, has stood over the heart of the capital city of Georgetown since it was constructed by Edgemoor Iron Company of Delaware, USA in 1880-1881, on land partly reclaimed from the nearby Demerara River. The market was named by the Dutch in honour of then Dutch director of the Dutch West India Company, Nicholas Van Gleenisnk: Lord of Castricum, Bahim and Stabroek, and said to cover approximately 80,000 square feet (7,000 m2). However, it is not the original market of

the area. It is in fact the third market, and second structure to be built. It is claimed that as early as 1792, African slaves, on Sundays, would sell their produce just west of the present St Andrews church site. The market was moved in 1793, near to another church, and would be moved several times along the riverbank some researchers suggesting because the noise of the vendors interfered with church services before permanently settling at its present site. The first structure was erected after the Mayor and Town Council passed regulations on April 23, 1843 to erect a proper market at its current Water Street lo-

cation, since the then present market was becoming too “congested and unsightly”. The market then was made from local hardwoods and described as “the best in the West Indies”. However, by 1870, the market was overcrowded and inadequate for the number of vendors and hucksters plying their trade, so the council began accepting designs for a new market. On July 31, 1879, McKay’s wrought iron design, submitted through Edgemoor Iron Company, was accepted, due in part to “its foundation and ornamental appearance and very perfect system of ventilation in the roof, the latter be-

ing especially suited for the tropical climate”, as well as a precaution after the devastating fires of 1828 and 1864. Construction works began Aug 17, 1879 with the reclamation of 50, 000 square feet (4,646 m2) of the Demerara River’s foreshore. At the start of construction, a ‘time capsule’ was deposited under the foundation stone, which was laid by the then governor’s wife. The new market was opened Nov 1, 1880, though it was not completed until 1881. The year 1881 is etched into the metalwork over its name at the entrance. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

The bell was manufactured in Sheffield, England. The clock, some sixty feet above the ground, was ordered from the E. Howard Company of Boston, Massachusetts in 1880. It would be over 100 years later – sometime in the 1990s – that the clock would be rehabilitated with the assistance of the Smithsonian Institution (Wikipedia photo)

A Tasty Chill Out in Jamaica

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: By the time saxophonist, Yevgeny Dokshansky, and pianist Eunmi Choi had reached Sergei Rachmaninoff’s passion-filled Vocalise, the Theatre 2 NAPA audience was in no doubt about the musical excellence on display courtesy the UTT Musicians ensemble of faculty artistes. The occasion was a Faculty Recital hosted by the University of Trinidad & Tobago (UTT) Academy of Performing Arts on March 1 featuring Belarusian born, American conductor, Dokshansky; Choi, who is a music lecturer attached to the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC); and trombonist, Aidan Chamberlain who lectures in music theory and history at UTT. To reference Dokshansky and Choi’s moving rendition of Vocalise, followed by their interpretation of Paul Genin’s Variations on a Spanish Theme as arguably the high points of the evening’s programme, would not be to diminish the value of a musical treat which opened with Inez McComas’ three movements of Descending into Light. Later noting Dokshansky’s “astonishing (and exhausting) technique,” Chamberlain treated the audience to an unscheduled performance of Leonard Bernstein’s foot-tapping Elegy for Mippy II between sets,

Yevgeny Dokshansky and pianist Eunmi Choi.

while the saxophonist caught his breath. The mix of 20th century and 18th and 19th century common practice classical music on the programme brought to the untutored in the audience a rich sampling of contrasting styles. For example, Canada-born McComas’ Descending into Light was composed just three years ago and is often performed against a backdrop of visual enhancements. This was followed by 20th century French composer Paule Maurice’s Tableaux de Provence, all five movements of which were played by Dokshansky and Choi. Then came Chamberlain and Choi’s rendition of French composer Alexandre Guilmant’s Morceaux Symphonique which was written with the trombone in mind. The brief evening closed with Dokshansky and Chamberlain playing jazz musician Ralph Martin’s arrangements of Johan Sebastian Bach’s

Inventions 2 and 3 which were said to have been composed by the famous German composer as challenging exercises for his students. Chamberlain joined the UTT Academy for the Performing Arts in 2009. He teaches individual brass lessons and co-directs the Academy Brass Ensemble and Big Band. Dokshansky is an assistant professor of music at UTT and has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician and conductor throughout Europe and North America. Choi is South Korean and teaches piano at USC. The UTT Musicians ensemble was founded in 2010 and has performed in scores of concerts across Trinidad. Its mission, according to the programme circulated at the Napa recital is to “contribute to the cultural life of TT by presenting regular performances of a wide variety of repertoire that encompasses a broad range of musical genres.” (TT Guardian)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Chill Out Hut is true to its name; with the beautiful Caribbean Sea as its backdrop, easy-going and relaxed vibe, it is just a mere turn-off from a very busy thoroughfare... not that you would even notice. Added to the mix are appetising dishes from Head Chef Ingrid RoweMorgan, making it quite the 'chill spot' you may just want to visit on your next road trip. This tranquil retreat boasts a fully stocked bar, huts and cabanas, and is perfect for a day out with friends and family or for a romantic meal. What further sweetens the deal is the affordable price point. (Jamaica Observer)

Chicken with Parmesan cheese

Head Chef Ingrid Rowe-Morgan (left) with souschefs Camoy Cooke (centre) and Ashana Haynes.

Jamaican Deejay Peter Ranking is dead

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Peter Ranking, a popular sound system deejay from Greenwich Town, died March 9 in Toronto, Canada. His wife Carol told the Jamaican media that Ranking (given name Lanford Peter Legore) succumbed to cancer at Scarborough General Hospital. He was 53 years old. Peter Ranking came out of the vibrant 'Greenwich Farm' music scene of the late 1970s alongside singers Rod Taylor, Phillip Fraser and Sammy Dread. Several of his songs were 'combinations': 'True History' (with Taylor),

Peter Ranking (left) and Phillip Fraser.

'African Girl' (with Sammy Dread) and 'Black Am I' which was done with deejay General Luckey, a regular collaborator. Peter Ranking's best known song was Eases and Squeezes, a combination with General Luckey. He moved to Toronto 18 years ago after living in the United States since the

mid-1980s. Lanford Peter 'Peter Ranking' Legore is also survived by seven children, three sisters and two brothers. The thanksgiving service for his life takes place March 21 at Global Kingdom Ministry in Toronto. (Jamaica Observer)

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WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

UWI students in TT exhibit ‘First Resort’ by designer photographic, baking skills Sonia Noel of Guyana

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: The UWI Open Campus hosted an exhibition for its Photography Level One (basic), Photography Level Two (advance) and Advance Cake Baking classes. Students showcased their best work which made up 60 per cent of their final grade for the courses. The final pieces were judged by UWI examiners. The basic and advanced photography courses started in September 2014 and finished on March 7, with the final exhibition. Students of both classes spent 60 contact hours learning the theory and practical areas of photography. Photography One was taught by Joe Francis-Lau and Austin Sheppard the students learnt the basics of photography, including

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Doyenne of fashion, Sonia Noel, is constantly adding new concepts to her chic collection ‘First Resort’. The collection is perfect for a distinct look, especially with Easter around the corner and many all-white events, boat cruises, rodeo, Bartica

Regatta and other entertainment events. These jumpers, featured this week, are racy yet elegant for any entertainment event. Currently, there is an exciting Easter sale at Noel’s studio. Call 592 226-3099 for more info. (Photos by Sean Charles)

Nicola Henry, left, took one week to make this cake display, The Royal Wedding. Tutor Maria Charles looks impressed at the result.

equipment/accessories, film characteristics and photograph composition. The students also had to apply their knowledge at much welcomed field trips. The advanced course was taught by Desmond Clarke and took the budding photographers a step further with elements like self-evaluation, characteristics of a good pho-

tograph, creating with light and composition, studio lighting and theories in the art of photography. Maria Charles was the tutor for Cake Decor Level II and her course gave students the practice and knowledge of making and wiring flowers and decorations for special occasions. (TT Guardian)

Dancing with Metamorphosis

Metamorphosis Dance Co celebrates its 20th anniversary this year in TT

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Metamorphosis Dance Co celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. To celebrate, and in retrospect, Metamorphosis will be staging its 2015 Season performance of both signature and new works at Queen’s Hall from April 13-19, with a fund-raiser on April 18, and an exhibition on its creative history. Lisa Beharry Gift is one of the longest dancing members of the company, as she writes in this piece. I’ve been dancing since I was four years old. I’m originally trained in ballet at the Caribbean School of Dancing, the oldest ballet school in TT. However, I only took a keen interest in dance as a teenager when I started performing more often and training in other dance techniques such as jazz, modern, contemporary and AfroCaribbean folk. In my late teens I joined the Metamorphosis Dance Co and remained a member for 14 years, in the last three of which I became a teacher, choreographer and rehearsal director. In 2009 I left Trinidad to pursue other dreams; still, all those years of performing helped to drive my love and passion for dance

and encouraged me to explore other forms of dance and movement such as hip hop, Middle Eastern dance, Latin, Capoeira, Indian, AfroBrazilian and Zumba. I see dance as a means of expression through the body. One of the most rewarding things for me is to be on stage performing and to engage an audience solely through movement. It’s a unique way to tell a story, convey an emotion or tap into the imagination. In fact, my dance mantra is, “Dance is a means of expression through movement to make up for what I can't say in words.” Dance has always played a significant role in my life and I don’t expect that would change anytime soon. For the last three years I’ve been back in Trinidad, dancing and performing regularly with the Continuum Dance Project and the Astor Johnson Repertory Dance Theatre. Even with the challenges of managing a busy daily schedule—which comes with the territory of working in advertising—dancing and performing will always be a permanent fixture in my life. Metamorphosis’ 20th anniversary season is a very exciting one for me. I’m pretty nostalgic being involved with

the company again and dancing alongside my former cohort from as far back as 1995. Even after so many years I still see the love everyone has for dance. For a dance company to survive and grow for 20 years is such a remarkable achievement. I’m incredibly proud that I was part of the journey and even more honoured that I can be a part of this 20th anniversary. This year’s show will definitely be a big one and there will certainly be some surprises in store for the audience. Rehearsals for 20 are directed by Bridgette Wilson, who has choreographed a grand finale piece comprising over 30 past and present Metamorphosis dancers. Old and new pieces will be showcased, including those choreographed by artistic director Nancy Herrera, Patricia Roe, Sonja Dumas, Reggie Wilson and Joyce Kirton. Tickets are priced at TT$100 (April 16 Student show), TT$200 (April 17 and 19) and TT$400 (April 18 fundraiser). Tickets are available from the Caribbean School of Dancing, Monday–Friday from 10 am – 6 pm, and at the Queen’s Hall Box Office during the week of the show from noon. (TT Guardian)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Dominican government is seeking an amicable settlement regarding the deportation of dancehall artiste Tommy Lee Sparta from that country, last February. The 26-year-old entertainer, whose given name is Leroy Russell, along with three members of his team, Tiasha Oralie Russell, Junior Fraser and Mario Christopher Wallace, were deported from that Caribbean territory a day after their arrival. In a letter dated March 3, 2015, Dr Kathy-Ann Brown, Jamaica's Deputy Solicitor Deneral and Director -- International Affairs Division, indicated her Dominican counterpart expressed a desire for a friendly resolution to the matter. "We have received a formal indication from the Hon Attorney General of Dominica of his Government's desire to pursue an amicable settlement of the dispute utilising the good offices of the Hon Attorney General of Jamaica with your concurrence. We are, therefore, seeking an indication of your willingness to pursue an amicable resolution and, if you are agreeable thereto, the provision of

Tommy Lee Sparta

further details of your clients' claims," a section Dr Brown's letter stated. "We would propose that should you favour an amicable settlement, once we have had an opportunity to review any additional materials which you may submit for our consideration, that we schedule a meeting to address our clients' concerns," the letter continued. Tommy Lee Sparta is being represented by attorney Bert Samuels from the law firm Knight, Junor and Samuels. Last May, Samuels told the Jamaican media he would be filing a claim with the Trinidad and Tobago-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) if the Dominican Government did not start compensation ne-

gotiations. However, instead of filing the claim, he sought the assistance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. Tommy Lee Sparta and his team had journeyed to Dominica to perform at a concert in Portsmouth. They were, however, denied entry and placed in custody before being deported. Prior to their arrival, the Dominica Association of Evangelical Churches called for a boycott of the artiste's concert. The group said its concern was based on the entertainer's glorification of Satan and his promotion of violence. Tommy Lee Sparta is known for tracks including 'Psycho', 'Nuh Fear Dem', 'Crow', and 'Spartan Solidier'. (Jamaica Observer)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

‘Words of Wisdom’ tops Enlightenment schools calypso in TT

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Kwam Joseph is the winner of the recent Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) Claxton Bay and Environs Primary School Calypso competition. Joseph, 12, of Cedar Hill Road, Claxton Bay, copped first place with his rendition of “Words of Wisdom” composed by Codrington Winchester who is the father of soca artiste Shurwayne Winchester. The Standard Five pupil of the Claxton Bay Anglican Senior Primary School beat competitors from other schools including St Margaret’s Government Primary School and Union Presbyterian Government Primary School. The competition was held recently at the Macaulay Community Centre. Pupils eight to 12 years old were judged on lyrical content, melody, stage performance. This was the first year the competition was hosted.

TCL said the event is one of the many ways in which the company continues to play a role in the empowerment of communities. In an interview Joseph’s mother Nicole Joseph said she was elated that her son copped the first place title. She said Kwam has always had a passion about singing calypso. The third-born of four children, he entered past competitions in his school but jumped at the opportunity to compete outside that arena. “He was very nervous but he did not give up and would be heard practising sometimes 15 times a day just to get it right,” said the joyful mother who sees a great calypso future ahead for Kwam. “Words of Wisdom”, encourages people to pursue their passion and not give up. The chorus says, “What is for you is for you until you die don’t give up at all.”. Joseph said many times people have dreams but fail to pursue

their dreams which was the story line in the calypso. Kwam’s elder brother Stephan is also a calypsonian and a source of inspiration to him. Kwam is currently the reigning Mr Claxton Bay. School principal Monica Gopaul said that Kwam’s win was expected as he is a talented student. Gopaul said that she expects great things from Kwam in the future. The show also featured an extempo competition hosted by TCL employee and veteran extempo champion, Hezekiah Joseph. Pupils also participated in a “sing along” segment. Also present at the event was TCL’s Ag General Manager Jinda Maharaj, Claxton Bay/Point-aPierre Councillor Shazeeda Nadia Mohammed, and president of the Macaulay/Hermitage Village Council Wayne Bharath. (TT Newsday)

US-based Guyanese exhibits artwork for US Black History Month

E O R G E T O W N , GUYANA: For Black History Month,observed last month, applauded artwork of US-based Guyanese artist Victor Davson was on display at the 1978 Arts Centre in New Jersey, U.S.A. Davson, who was born in Georgetown, Guyana, immigrated to the United States in 1973. He holds a BFA degree from Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New York, has co-founded Aljira, a Centre for contemporary art, and established himself in his practice as an artist. His work is heavily influenced by the anti-colonial politics of the Caribbean and by the intellectual powerhouses of that period. These include extraordinary writers and activists like Martin Carter, Frantz Fanon and Walter Rodney. Since 1996, his series of paintings and drawings, which include the “Limbo/Anansi” drawings, “Bad Cow Comin”’ paintings, and his paintings on long playing vinyl record album covers, are his attempt as an artist to negotiate the roots of identity in a terrain of loss and desire. Davson as executive director of Aljira, a Centre for contemporary art, leads a vital hub for cre-

Davson with one of his artworks in the background

ative excellence in Newark New Jersey’s downtown arts district. Notable highlights in the Aljira organisation’s history include the founding of Emerge, a professional development programme for visual artists. The founding of Aljira Design, a graphic design studio that for 18 years earned revenue to support the organisation’s exhibitions and public programmes. It has received an invitation to organise U.S. representation at the IV Biennale International

"Dear Guyana" (1998)

de Pintura in Ecuador, as well as a major award from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts—becoming one of only eight institutions nationwide selected to participate in the foundation’s second year stabilisation initiative for small to midsize organisations. The organisation has been designated a major arts institution by The New Jersey State Council on the Arts every year since 2003. Davsonis a past trustee of Art Pride New Jersey and a current member of the Advisory Council of the Brodsky Centre for Innovative Editions. He has been honoured by the Newark Arts Council as well as the Brodsky Centre for Innovative Editions, for both his work as a visual artist and his leadership in the arts. He received a leadership award from Prudential Foundation for his contribution to the Newark community. He was one of 15 non-profit leaders in the arts, nationwide, selected to participate in Leadership 2000, a programme of arts and economic development training for outstanding community leaders, sponsored by the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Fund and Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, and run by faculty from the Harvard Business School. He has served on panels for the National Endowment for the Arts and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. He is a graduate of The Getty Museum Management Institute and has done graduate work in museum management at New York University Gallatin. His work is in the permanent collections of the Newark Museum, The Montclair Art Museum, the New Jersey State Museum, and the National Collection, Guyana. The exhibition celebrating the “Dub Factor Redux” series by Davson closes March 15 with a lively discussion at the 1978 Arts Centre, where persons can meet the artist, hear his thoughts, his process and his aesthetic on art. (Guyana Times Sunday magazine)

By Narine Dat Sookram

f we cannot find enlightenment where we are right now, then where else can we expect to find it? Many of us tend to believe that we have to go through some sort of suffering in order to gain freedom. I don’t’ think this is true in this case, because we are the key to complete freedom. Some people may argue that enlightenment is always there and how we achieve it isn’t as important as getting there. However I would think that it has to be some sort of steps that we need to follow to take us to the right direction. By no means am I trying to say that enlightenment is an easy thing, because it sure takes a lot of time and dedication. Having said that there are plenty of ways we can find enlightenment, but they sure require lots of dedication and sometimes more to the spiritual path for those who believe in a higher power for example. I am sure though that it will probably worth the effort at the end of it all. It will be foolish for us to actually believe that enlightenment will come our way without any real effort, this is not however true. The thing that is true though is that there are many things we can do to enlighten ourselves. For example we can connect with others around us. This can be done by signing up to volunteer for an organization or project or even meet face to face with a friend or family member. The idea is to get outside of ourselves and have an open mind. Another thing we need to do is to be gentle with ourselves. For example it’s a good idea to do something nice for our own selves once in a while. In other words we need to give ourselves the tenderness we need by taking a nap or even visit a friend if need be. There are so many other things that are coming to mind that we can do to enlighten ourselves, some of which include and probably the most important is to love ourselves. In other words, treating ourselves as we would for someone else. We have to remind ourselves too that we are not alone, because the thing is we all go through challenges in life at times which is ok, because the reality is without failures in life we wouldn’t know what it is like to be human. Let’s not forget that it’s ok to express our feelings in an acceptable manner, because it’s not worth it to suffer in silence. In other words it’s okay to cry if we need to do so, because it’s a way to check in with ourselves. The key again for enlightenment is to have an open mind. I am sure this is not the first time we are hearing of this, because it will allow us to become creative about the solutions to our problems. And last but not lease it’s okay to ask someone we trust for advice and never stop smiling, because it’s ok to laugh, be silly and practice being happy so that we can enlighten our lives and those around us. For questions, comments, feedback or question, send them to mcnarine@rogers.com.

25 Manav Kaul is enjoying his stint in Bollywood A Bollywood

WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Audiences' claps for NH10 makes Anushka Sharma happy

ctress Anushka Sharma says she didn't expect anything from her offbeat debut production film NH10 in terms of numbers, but what has made her joyous is watching the audience clap towards the end of the movie. NH10, directed by Navdeep Singh, also stars Neil Bhoopalam. It is about a couple on a road journey. Anushka is glad that it has not just managed to find critical acclaim, but also the audiences' appreciation. "It feels great that such films are being appreciated. I expected nothing from this film because that's how I am....you should just do your work, and then numbers will follow you." "We didn't expect anything, didn't put any mark (for profits), so it's been great," Anushka said here. The actress says the one point she felt victorious was while watching the film with the audience.

"I've seen the film with the audience and they clapped towards the end. That has never happened...so, to see people clapping at the end of the film is very satisfying," she added. (TOI)

Big B distressed after fan's outburst

ollywood icon A m i t a b h Bachchan was disheartened after a teenager complained that he didn't greet her on her birthday, saying the actor's claims of being in touch with fans was false. The 72-year-old makes it a point to wish his fans, or as he prefers to call his Extended Family, on their special days. But when he missed one fan's birth-

day, he faced her outburst. The versatile actor, with over 40 years in the film world, also mentioned that his dedication to the social media would continue. "What I have received from it and from all that come here, cannot be described in words... it has been magical... You may all decide to leave me and this platform, BUT...I will not... I shall continue to write, even if there is NO ONE

to respond or read it," the actor said. Big B, who unveiled a bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi here last week, noted that he picks all his events after scrutinising ways to stay updated because he finds joy through the union. "My first concern is whether, where I travel or move, has connectivity or not. I challenge all offices to provide me those facilities or else I refrain from going there or accepting invitation. ALL BECAUSE I AM UNABLE TO CONNECT TO MY (Extended Family)," he posted. Meanwhile, after garnering appreciation for his role in 'Shamitabh', the actor will be seen in 'Piku' and 'Wazir' this year. (TOI)

atrina Kaif has lived in London a major part of her life before being a superstar in Bollywood. And so, it comes as no surprise that having her own statue is something that would be extra special for her. Bollywood celebrities, who already have their statues there so far, are Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Madhuri Dixit-Nene. We have exclusively learnt that Katrina's statue will be unveiled on March 27 in London. What is unique about Katrina's statue is that while the others are normally posed standing ones, Katrina will be in an Indian traditional folk dance pose, with her body at an angle and arms stretched. So we guess, her statue will require more space than the others as typically Madame Tussauds leaves space next to each celebrity, such that their fans can pose with them in the same pose as the celebrity has done in the statue. Also, while usually in the past, Madame

playwright, director, writer, an actor and also an occasional painter, Manav says he's enjoying his stint in Bollywood. Originally hailing from Kashmir from Khojabad, a small village in Baramulla district of the state, Kaul still remembers his time spent there. "Recently I travelled to Kashmir and went to see my old house. I was very sad to see it half fallen. Although I was very young I have wonderful memories of the place. We left the place because my father's office was bombed by the terrorists," recalls Manav. Now a very popular actor, Manav says acting was never on his mind when he came to Mumbai. "Because I never enjoyed acting as much before 'Kai Po Che'. The roles I played were good ones, but of late the ones being offered to me didn't seem as interesting to me. I'm a very idealistic person. If I get into something, I do it completely. I don't do

n Sunday, Hrithik Roshan was spotted outside a suburban restaurant, smiling cheerily for the gathered photographers. Mirror has learnt the reason for the actor's chirpy air. Says a source close to the actor, "Hrithik is flying off to Maldives for a five-day vacation on Wednesday. Besides his sons, Hrehaan and Hridaan, his mother Pinky and sister Sunaina will also accompany him. His dad too should join them.Rakeshji is trying

anything halfway. I put my heart and soul into it. And the roles I was being offered weren't ones I could have done full justice too," says Kaul who's acting in Bejoy Nambiar's 'Wazir' along with Amitabh Bachchan and Farhan Akhtar. "I'm enjoying the shooting thoroughly. I've also signed another film. So, now I'm doing a couple of big films and only ones in which I can do something different and interesting," he says with a smile. "In fact I'm travelling to Kashmir next month to shoot Wazir." The director says there's little chance of him directing a full-

fledged Bollywood commercial film. "I'm waiting to get old. I know I will make fantastic films. I won't make a typically masala Bollywood film because I know as a director I can change a lot of things. A typical masala pot boiler will not be in which I can say what I want to say. So, like my theatre, it's going to be an extension of my ideas, ideals and my thoughts. But as I said, yeh sab tab jab main boodha ho jaunga. But one thing I can be sure of, I'll be a hot old man. Tab bhi meri utni hi fans hongi, shouting Manav Manav," he says with a laugh. (TOI)

to wrap up some last minute work so that he can fly with the family." The source adds that as Hrithik was busy shooting for Mohenjo for MohenjoDaro in Bhuj for the past couple of months, he was unable to spend much time with the family. So he planned a family holiday to coincide with his sons' spring break. Quiz the source on his choice of destination and the reply comes, "He loves the sea. And plans to indulge in a lot of water sports and surfing, even under-

water diving. Three years ago, he had gone to Maldives during the children's summer vacation and after that they had gone to Bali. He had to cut short his vacation in Bali by a week so that he could join his grandparents, parents and sister in Dubai where they'd flown out for an impromptu vacation. This time there's no chance of that happening because his whole family will be with him and he's hoping it'll be as much fun, if not more." (TOI)

Ekta Kapoor launches her fashion label 'EK'

Tussauds chooses whose wax statue they would create, this was amongst the few times that they selected Katrina through an online poll contest, where she won by a huge margin over her two contemporaries (both of which surprisingly are big on the social media). (TOI)

he Television Czarina launches her signature line 'EK', comprising Indian ethnic wear and exquisite jewellery. Balaji headhoncho, Ekta Kapoor, who pioneered the

way for female producers and continues to remain the Czarina of Indian Television, now ventures into the fashion segment with her signature label 'EK' The power player made a formal announcement on Tuesday at a press conference in Mumbai, launching the label that features women's clothes and accessories, with lead actors from her top shows, namely Sakshi Tanwar, Anita Hanandani, Divyanka Tripathi, Paridhi Sharma, Sriti Jha & Karan Patel. Ekta Kapoor's signature line will be available on Best Deal TV, India's first celebrity-driven 24/7 Home Shopping Channel, that will be aired nationwide from March 18 onwards. (TOI)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

in Diesel has welcomed his third child with girlfriend Paloma Jimenez and also shared baby's picture on social media. The 'Fast and Furious' star posted the first picture of his third child on Facebook and wrote with it that he heard babies crying and watched them growing, and added the lyrics of Louis Armstrong and Kenny G's popular single "They'll learn much more, than I'll ever know. And I think to myself, what a wonderful world", E! Online reported.

Robert Downey Jr. presents 'Iron Man' arm to disabled boy

A source informed that, when the 47-yearold actor's model girlfriend was about to give birth to their third child, the actor wanted to be with his family at

the birth, so he backed out of a few promotional stops for 'Furious 7' and the premiere had been moved from Abu Dhabi to Los Angeles. (TOI)

Sofia Vergara finally picks date to tie the knot

ctor Robert Downey Jr. became a real life superhero after he gifted a 3D bionic "Iron Man" arm to a little boy who was born with a partially developed right arm. In a video posted on Facebook on Thursday, Downey Jr. dressed up as his fictional character Tony Stark to deliver a robotic "Iron Man" arm to Alex, who loves superheroes, reports aceshowbiz.com. Alex was told he was meeting a bionic expert in a hotel room, but he had no idea it would be one of his favourite superhero characters "Iron Man". "Nice bow tie, by the way. How were your travels?" Robert told Alex. Alex replied: "It's

ofia Vergara has revealed that she and her fiance Joe Manganiello have already fixed their wedding date, but the planning procedure is still under process. The 'Chef' actress said while promoting her hit TV show 'Modern Family' at Paleyfest 2015, that choosing the right day wasn't that difficult as she and her 38-year-old actor fiance knew since the beginning that which date would it be, E! Online reported. The 42-year-old actress added that her marriage with the 'Magic Mike' actor would obviously going to be the most important thing in her life, that's why she had been trying to make every thing right. (TOI)

upermodel Irina Shayk says she felt "insecure and ugly" when she was in a relationship with Real Madrid star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. The 29-year-old model recently split from the soccer star after five years of dating and admitted she previously thought she had found the "ideal man" but things didn't turn out the way she'd hoped, reports femalefirst.co.uk. "My ideal man is faithful, honest and a gentleman who knows how to treat women. I don't be-

eality TV star Scott Disick has checked in to the luxury Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Costa Rica in a bid to tackle his drinking habits. The 'Keeping Up

lieve in men who make us feel unhappy, because they're boys not men," she added. Cristiano and Shayk split over the Christmas period last year and he is rumoured to have already moved

on with Spanish TV presenter Lucia Villalon. The Portuguese star recently released a statement confirming their split, saying: "I wish Irina the greatest happiness." (TOI)

Vanessa Hudgens gets new bob hairdo

ctress Vanessa Hudgens, who sports one of the most ever-changing manes in Hollywood, has now cut short her hair. "Who needs a bob when you can have a bb (blunt bob)!! Thanks to my boo @kristinabarricelli @gemini14salon," she wrote on Instagram, alongside a photograph of her chinlength locks, reports people.com. She's also left the bangs behind for a slightly off-center part and isn't experimenting with colour. (TOI)

very good." Robert then opened two cases, written Stark Industries, with one containing Alex's new arm and another one containing a larger arm for the actor. Downey Jr. wrote alongside the video: "Had the absolute privilege of presenting a brand spanking new 3D-printed bionic Iron Man arm to Alex, the

most dapper 7-year-old I've ever met." The "Avengers: Age of Ultron" actor also shared on Twitter some photographs from his meeting with Alex. "Can't resist more pics from the #CollectiveProject. Special thx to Albert Manero, @MSOneNote, & @Marvel. #Limbitless," he captioned it. (TOI)

With the Kardashians' star, 31, is allegedly seeking treatment at the luxury Rythmia Life Advancement Center after he admitted his issues are "bigger" than him, reported E!Online. "I realise my issues

are bigger than me and I'm ready to truly remedy this struggle I continue to battle," he said in a statement. The father-of-three, who has Mason, five, Penelope, two, and twomonth-old son Reign with his long-term love Kourtney Kardashian, will undergo a treatment involving roots from a small African tree that supposedly helps people battle addiction. Disick's decision to seek professional help came after reports emerged that he was seen stumbling around shoe-less in his hotel lobby after a night out in Atlantic City over the weekend. (TOI)

Michael Douglas writes about son experiencing 'anti-Semitism'

ichael Douglas has opened up about his son, who is experiencing anti-Semitism, in a hope that this hate ends sooner rather than later. The 'Wall Street' actor wrote an oped in the Los Angeles Times stating that last summer on a holiday his son, Dylan Michael Douglas went to the swimming pool, but in a short time later he came running back to the room, upset as a man insulted him, E! Online reported. The 70 year-old actor added that when he confronted that man he got to know that man's outrage that came because the actor's son was wearing a 'Star of David'. He later on explained the meaning of the term, anti-Semitism that his actor son just tasted, which was like a disease that goes dormant, flaring up with the political trigger. The American actor mentioned that if anyone confront anti-Semitism

whenever they see it, and combat it individually and as a society, then it can be uprooted, also his son was strong, and was fortunate enough to live in a country where anti-Semitism was rare. Douglas wished that he didn't have to teach his son any lesson, but now he has learned to handle these dangers, but hoped that his grand children would never face this hatred. (TOI)

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WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Adventure Hike in Guyana

EORGETOWN,GUYANA: Tukiet Falls is an eight-hour hike from Waratuk Falls, on the Potaro River in Essequibo. At Tukiet, adventurers enjoy an enthralling overnight camp and swimming in the Potaro River, which includes spectacular sightseeing of the Kaieteur Gorge. It is one of the serene locations covered when trekking to Kaieteur. From Tukiet, adventurers climb to the top of Kaieteur Falls, a fourhour hike that winds through the mountains and mountain streams to the final destination known as ‘Oh My God’, because of its steep ascent. Tukiet Falls offers an incredible adventure for all those seeking one. (Nicholas Laughlin photos)

Stone Creek Falls, near Tukiet, on the Potaro River

Early morning mist streaming down the Potaro past Tukiet

Pakistan meets Trinidad in a hit musical collaboration

O R T - O F - S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Pakistani Pop/ Rock Aficionado, Elvis Elick has done it once again! The highly-acclaimed celebrity singer who is professionally trained in semi-classical music and singing recently teamed up with Trinidadian Desi Girl, Shirvani Sookhai, also known as “The Sunshine Girl” of Win Tv and Win Radio 101.1FM, to produce a collaboration that has stolen the hearts of fans worldwide. This most anticipated project was conceptualized by Elick after his second concert held in Trinidad - Perfect Sunset II at The Naparima Bowl in April of 2014. According to Elick, he was

Elvis Elick

stunned by Sookhai’s performance in a duet rendition with him and so, approached her to do a recording with him, in a bid to fuse both cultures of Pakistan and Trinidad. Sookhai agreed and according to Elick, that is when the magic began. The olden goldie “Ek Pyaar Ka Nagma Hai” from the 1972 Bollywood Film “Shor” was mutually agreed upon and the cover version containing the sensational voices of Elvis and Shirvani was brought to life by popular musician/producer, Kishore “Wizzy” Ramdath. Since its release on several frequencies both in Trinidad and Pakistan, many fans claim that it’s the best cover version of any Bollywood

Chronixx delivers at Jamaican College

INGSTON, JAMAICA: In 2003, her story sent the modelling world on both sides of the Atlantic in a tailspin. Fast forward a dozen years later and the story of Nadine Willis, the Jamaican supermodel, who was an exotic dancer who made it from the ghetto to Gucci model, is set to make it to the big screen. According to a highly placed source, negotiations are currently underway to bring the modern-day Cinderella, rags-to-riches story to life. The Jamaican media could not ascertain whether or not the interest in making a film version of Willis' meteoric rise up the modelling ladder was local or international. "Once the paperwork is completed, an announcement will follow," said the tightlipped source. Kingsley Cooper, chairman of Pulse, declined to comment when the media questioned him about the project. Willis, who no longer models and lives in New York, walked into local modelling agency Pulse

song they’ve heard in years. Elick’s soft Sufi voice embraced by the sweet, melodious harmonies and vocals of Sookhai provides for easy listening and continues to captivate audiences locally, regionally and internationally. Elick says he’s most elated that the collaboration is doing extremely well and exceeding expectations and promises many more in the near future in a bid to strengthen the musical ties between Pakistan and Trinidad. He also hopes to introduce chutney and soca music in his birth country while promoting all genres from the Indo-Pak subcontinent in Trinidad and Tobago. (TT Express)

Nadine Willis in a Gucci advert.

back in the summer of 2002 during their annual model search. Prior to that, she was a regular performer at a number of clubs including the renowned Gemini Club, which was located along Half-Way-Tree Road in St Andrew. Her sass and can-do attitude earned her a spot with the batch of Pulse hopefuls selected by Pulse boss Kingsley Cooper to head to London for gosees with the agencies in that market. But not even Cooper could have foreseen the full-blown category five hurricane that Willis would cause, not only in

that United Kingdom fashion capital but other global cities. Within weeks, she was booking editorial spreads in major glossies in Paris, Milan, and across the pond the American markets of New York, Miami and Los Angeles would soon get wind of Hurricane Nadine. Her coup de foudre would come in 2003 when designer Tom Ford and his team at the power brand Gucci selected Willis as the face of their fall/winter campaign. Her look for this campaign saw her being compared to Jamaican supermodel and entertainer

Grace Jones. She is listed in the history book of modelling for making the fastest climb in the industry. For many insiders, this success was not only phenomenal but also unsustainable. Pregnancy and weight gain would halt the ride for Willis. This year, Pulse celebrates its 35th anniversary and the 15th staging of its flagship event Caribbean Fashionweek. At the launch of the event this week, Cooper advised that Willis will be a special guest during the celebrations in June. (Jamaica Observer)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Chronixx delivered a proper dose of roots, rock, reggae to a full house at Jamaica College in St Andrew on Saturday. The singer's performance was a part of his Captureland Tour, which had previous stagings in Negril and St Elizabeth. The Portland leg was completed on Sunday. Backed by his Zinc Fence Redemption band, Chronixx won his audience by singing the first line of his single ‘Alpha’ and ‘Omega’. Minutes later, he warmed up the auditorium with ‘Start a Fyah’. This was followed by other hits from his lengthy collections including ‘Never Give Up’, ‘Walk with the Saviour’, and ‘Thanks and Praise’. His fans obviously enjoyed each song and this was evident through the flashing of lighters, waves and dancing. The singer soon shared stage space with reggae acts Kelissa and Kabaka Pyramid. The sole female per-

former of the night, Kelissa thrilled her fans with a her single ‘Slow Down’ and a rendition of Tessanne Chin's ‘Don't Waste Your Time’. Pyramid got a section of the audience wild with his controversial single ‘Mr Politician Man’. Chronixx then diverted his attention to the women and thrilled them with ‘Smile Jamaica’, ballads like ‘Don't Take My Love for Granted’, and ‘Somewhere’. Proving that he was not only talented in the recording studios but also on stage, Chronixx threw in energetic performances with tracks including ‘Behind Curtain’, ‘Spirulina’ and ‘Warrior’. Between songs like ‘Captureland’, ‘Who Knows’ and ‘Here Comes Trouble’, Chronixx interacted with the audience and gave explanations and stories which improved the overall experience. Other performances also came from Keznamdi and Dre Island. (Jamaica Observer)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

Deaf Association of Guyana produces sign language booklet Especially targets parents of deaf children

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: All over the world, deaf persons use sign language to communicate, sharing the same conversationsthose with hearing have. In Guyana, communicating with the deaf has now been made simple, through an easyto-follow sign language booklet, ‘Start Signing’. Produced by the Deaf Association of Guyana (DAG), the booklet is one of the many positive plans DAG has for the deaf. With ‘Start Signing’, persons can learn the basics of sign language. Sign language follows different rules from spoken and written languages. Most importantly, it conveys the essentials of a message through signs, eye con-

tact, facial expression and body posture. For instance, asking, “Do you want something to drink?” may be signed just as “drink”. The “you” is expressed through eye contact and the question through facial expression. “DAG wanted to do this for a long time because we get requests from parents who have deaf children, and others who would like to communicate with the deaf. The booklet provides a basic vocabulary for the general public.” DAG member Sabine McIntosh revealed in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine. McIntosh added that the booklet especially targets parents. She stated that when deaf children learn sign lan-

The booklet, 'Start Signing'

guage in school, parents are left behind. With this booklet, they can now expand their communication beyond the mun-

dane questions of hunger and sleep, and have meaningful conversations with their children. Notably, DAG has

been a pioneer in caring for our deaf children. In 2014, it sent the very first two deaf students to the Sophia Training Centre, who then successfully graduated from the Centre. “That is why the booklet is so important. Although [trained sign language instructors] are there to provide communication, the programmes’ lecturers can have an opportunity to learn about signing and be better able to communicate with deaf students,” McIntosh pointed out. DAG has expanded its programmes to include quizzes and various sports events, in addition to its regular hosting of visual and performing arts events, and establishing sign language programmes in all schools. Last year, DAG was instrumental in the opening of Tuschen Deaf Academy, which aims to help deaf children in the West Coast area. According to McIntosh, the academy is a bottomhouse school, housed under the home of a parent

of a deaf child. DAG’s vision is that “members of the deaf community play a positive and integral role in national development” and are challenged by its mission “to help deaf youths achieve their full potential and to improve the socioeconomic wellbeing of members of the deaf community”. The association is a non-governmental organisation registered under the Friendly Societies Act in 2010. DAG's network with members of the deaf community stretches across several regions. It works closely with special needs schools in Guyana and is engaged in the visual and performing arts, education, sign language research, sports, among others. The booklet is currently being sold for GYD$500. Money received from the sale of the booklets would be invested in the expansion of DAG’s programmes. This project was done with sponsorship from Scotiabank. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

TT’s Nolana wins C’wealth youth award

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Nolana Lynch, 27, is winner of the prestigious 2015 Commonwealth Youth Award for Excellence in Development Work for the Caribbean region. In total, 12 young people from across the 53 nations of the Commonwealth were shortlisted for the 2015 Awards. Designed to help celebrate the role of young people as nation builders and partners in development, the awards offer young people under 30 an opportunity to inspire others and gain international recognition for their development work. Lynch, aged 27, is a climate change and environmental sustainability advocate, whose work has impacted 1520 non-profit organisations. She has helped to provide aid to impoverished communities and led sustainable agriculture projects in several Caribbean countries. Nolana is a National Youth Award

winner and her ecofriendly, all-natural skin and hair care line Eco-Truffles uses sustainable raw materials from rural women producers throughout the Caribbean. Lynch served as the national coordinator of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network, and was awarded the Trinidad and Tobago National Youth Award in 2013. On winning the award Lynch said: “I am so honoured to receive this award on behalf of young people from Africa who are working extremely hard, day and night, to better the lives of people living in their communities. I would like to dedicate this award to these young people, because each day we see ourselves moving this continent forward. Whenever there is collaboration among young people there is a higher chance of bringing about positive development. Now I will think about all the possible ways to expand our work to other countries in the region.” (TT Express)

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WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Guyana win series with comprehensive performance Guyana-Bermuda 3-game basketball tournament…

By Treiston Joseph

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Pace and defence allowed Guyana to win their second straight game in their threematch series against Bermuda on Thursday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. With Guyana pulling away for a 66-55 win, whether the local team win or lose the third game, the series is already won. Coach Darcel Harris is looking to have some of the younger players such as Linden’s Terron

The successful Guyanese team after the series clinching win (Treiston Joseph photos)

Welch and Plaisance’s Nikkoloi Smith suit up for the final game. “This was a great

win for us and it shows that our style of basketball can compete with some of the best in the

Caribbean so what we really want to do on Saturday is to see how some of the younger

guys play,” Harris stated. Meanwhile, Guyana’s win was thanks in large to their defensive wizardry in the third period as they only allowed Bermuda to score five points in the 10-minute period, after the half ended with Bermuda leading 30-29. Guyana’s up-tempo style and ability to hit 3s as well as jumpers helped them pull away for the double-digit advantage that they never relinquished in the final stanza of the game. Travis Burnett, as he did in the first game,

led Guyana with a teamhigh 16 points, while Captain Akeem “The Dream” Kanhai made his presence felt after a quiet first game with 14 points and seven rebounds. Shelroy Thomas continued his form with 13 points. Scoring for Bermuda was Jason Lowe with a game-high 21 points, while Captain Sullivan Phillips had 14 points and Dean Jones 11. The final game between the two nations will be on Saturday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. (Guyana Times)

Blake serves Bolt eases to 400m win in Jamaica for three STETHS, Edwin Allen seem set to capture Ja$1m Digicel Grand Prix prizes TT titles

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Seedings stood for little as the biggest names were sent tumbling out at the semi-final stage of the National Badminton Championships on Saturday evening at the Central Regional Indoor Sporting Arena, Chaguanas. The hardest hit was Kamasha Robertson; the Women’s Singles’ top seed, poised for a possible triple-crown was stunningly knocked out of all three competitions, as the lesser-ranked players raised their respective games and reaped the rewards. In the Women’s Singles, Robertson fell to former champ Nekeisha Blake in straight sets, 21-8, 21-17; Blake thus advanced to face Leanna Castanada in Sunday's final, after the second-seed outlasted Jada Renales, 21-18, 15-21, 22-20. There were no surviving seeds in the Men’s Singles final four. Nicholas Bonkowsky out-fought a game Naim Mohammed, 21-16, 21-19. Meeting Bonkowsky in the final on Sunday evening was former champion Anil Seepaul who overcame Sheraz Nabbie 21-17, 2113. Seepaul, however, had no answer in the Men’s Doubles semis, where he and Naim Mohammed fell to number two seeds Will Lee and Alistair Espinoza with the latter pair winning it 21-17, 2422. In the final they were scheduled to play Bonkowsky and Jason Ramjass, who ousted the top-seeded pair of Justin Siu and Rahul Rampersad, 21-18, 21-18. Meanwhile, Kamasha Robertson’s problems on court continued when she and Avril Marcelle fell in the Women’s Doubles semis. Nekeisha Blake and Kerian Quan Chee made short work of them, winning 21-12, 21-10. Meeting them on Sunday were Leanna Castanada and Jada Renales, who defeated Reba Fleary and Arielle Gomez 21-13, 21-12. Being the top seeds, Robertson and Naim Mohammed must have fancied their chances in the Mixed Doubles, but Blake and Bonkowsky stopped them in a close contest 22-20, 21-18. There was no mercy shown to the second seeds, either; Renales and Alistair Espinoza downed Gomez and Adrian Nicholson comfortably 21-14, 21-17. (TT Newsday)

I N G S T O N , JAMAICA: Doublesprint record holder Usain Bolt clocked a modest 46.38 seconds to win the men's clubs and institution 400-metre run when he made a surprise appearance at the Digicel/ Lucozade Sport GC Foster Classic at the National Stadium on Sunday. Running out of lane four in heat one, Bolt was comfortable along the back straight and came of the curve ahead of the field to win ahead of his Racers Track Club teammate Edino Steele, who clocked 46.80 seconds. Former Calabar sensation Javon 'Donkey man' Francis, who clocked 46.49 seconds to win his heat, was second overall with Steele finishing third. The 28-year-old Bolt, who was running the event for the first time in almost two years, told reporters that he was happy with the run. "Overall it was a good run; I haven't run it in the past two seasons, so for me to be actually competing again and getting a lot more running in is a positive thing (where) I can get back into shape, so I am happy with myself," he said. The Olympic and World Championships multiplegold medallist added that he is looking forward to competing more this season ahead of the World Championships in Beijing, China, in August. "The first thing is always the championship, that is always the key....to defend my titles ,and then the times. I want to run fast this season and if the world record comes I would be very happy, but it is always about the championship and I will

World superstar Usain Bolt cruises towards the end of his 400m race ahead of Racers Track Club teammate Edino Steele at the GC Foster Classic inside the National Stadium on Sunday. Bolt clocked 46.38 seconds

be taking my time and work my way up to a fast time." Meanwhile, the Digicel Grand Prix Championship series was brought to an exciting end with the 4x400metre relays as St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) and Edwin Allen High were both on the verge of taking home the top prize of Ja$1 million each in gym equipment. At press time it was STETHS leading the boys' standings with 210 points, 74 points ahead of Calabar (136), with Jamaica College (122) and Kingston College (96), rounding off the top four. The girls' section was more closely contested as Central Champions Edwin Allen (111) were just ahead of Vere Technical (110). Wolmer's Girls (101) and STETHS (96) completed the top four. It was a ding-dong battle in the girls' 4X400-metre open event, before Edwin Allen showed their class to pull away from the field to win in 3:36.67 minutes.

Vere Technical were second in 3:37.04 minutes, while Holmwood Technical finished third in 3:40.10 minutes. The boys' equivalent was won by STETHS in 3:11.02 minutes, ahead of Jamaica College (3:12.50) and Holmwood Technical (3:15.61). Earlier in the day, Twayne Crooks of Kingston College clocked a fast 45.93 seconds to win the boys' 19 and under 400-metre Grand Prix final, ahead of Shawndail McLaren (47.77sec) of Jamaica College and Rogay Granston (47.99sec) of Holmwood Technical. The girls' 19 and under final was won by Alesha Kelly of Hydel High, who redeemed herself following a disappointing disqualification at the Carifta Trials for a lane infringement. Kelly won in 53.95 seconds ahead of Dawnalee Lonely (54.38sec) of Camperdown and DerriAnn Hill (54.84secs) of Vere Technical.

Calabar's prodigy Christopher Taylor was smooth in victory in the boys' 17 and under category in 49.61 seconds, followed by Leonardo Ledgister (50.10secs) of St Elizabeth Technical and Achebe Thompson (50.12secs) of Excelsior High. The girls' 16 and under event was won by Shanice Walker of Vere Technical in 55.77 seconds with Satanya Wright (57.80sec) of St Elizabeth Technical and Janielle Josephs (58.49secs) of St Andrew Technical finishing second and third, respectively. St Elizabeth Technical's Nigel Ellis clocked a fast 21.07 seconds on his way to victory in the boys' 19 and under 200-metre Grand Prix final ahead of teammate Hujaye Cornwall (21.12sec) and Shivanarine Small (21.42secs) of Kingston College. Sabrina Mason of Rusea's High produced a late burst of speed to win the girls' section in 24.02 seconds, overtaking Britney Hew (24.77sec) of Holmwood Technical and Toni-Ann Nelson (24.90sec) of St Hugh's. The outstanding Dejour Russell of Calabar won the boys' 17 and under event in an eye-catching 21.16 seconds, ahead of Tyreke Bryan (22.02sec) of Kingston College and Herbert Morrison's Jadeja Reynolds (22.05sec). Kashekia Cameron of Edwin Allen won the girls' 16 and under category in 23.95 seconds, with Edwin Allen's Khamoy Farquharson (24.27sec) and Shaunelle Riley (24.63sec) of Immaculate Conception taking the runners-up spots. (Jamaica Observer)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

Windies to meet NZ in quarter-finals after defeating UAE

APIER, NEW ZEALAND: West Indies put to rest the anxiety over their participation in the next round of the ICC Cricket World Cup by brushing aside United Arab Emirates (UAE) by six wickets to set up a quarter-final clash with red-hot New Zealand next Saturday. After routing UAE for a paltry 175 at McLean Park on Sunday, West Indies survived a few stutters to reach their target in the 31st over, and ensure their progression in the tournament. Opener Johnson Charles, in for his first match of the World Cup at the expense of the injured Chris Gayle, top-scored with 55 from 40 balls, while the left-handed Jonathan Carter stroked

West Indies batsman Johnson Charles hits the ball during the Pool B 2015 Cricket World Cup match against United Arab Emirates at McLean Park in Napier, New Zealand. West Indies won by six wickets

a classy unbeaten 50 from 58 balls. Wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin was 33 not out off 50

deliveries at the end, adding 58 with Carter in an unbroken fifth-wicket stand. Medium pacer Amjad

Javed (2-29) and left-arm seamer Manjula Guruge (240) finished with two wickets apiece. Earlier, captain Jason Holder ripped apart the top order of UAE's innings, to send the minnows crashing to 46 for six in the 14th over. The lanky seamer claimed four for 27 to earn Man-of-theMatch honours, with new-ball partner Jerome Taylor picking up three for 36 and pacer Andre Russell two for 20. In danger of being dismissed for under 100, UAE were rallied by brave half-centuries from Nasir Aziz, who hammered 60 from 86 balls with eight fours, and Amjad whose 56 came from 99 deliveries and included seven fours and a six. They put on 107 runs for

the seventh wicket to frustrate West Indies. The victory carried West Indies to six points, level in fourth spot in Group B with Ireland who went down to Pakistan by seven wickets in Adelaide. However, the Windies nipped the Irish for a spot in the next round by virtue of a better net run rate. The Caribbean side will now take on unbeaten New Zealand -- who topped Group A -- at the Wespac Stadium in Wellington. With Tropical Storm Pam swirling in the distance and the threat of a rain disruption hanging over the game, West Indies won the toss and quite sensibly chose to bowl first, and wiped out the UAE top order in quick time. (CMC)

NSC salutes Guyanese sportsmen, women in style – Guyana Times/TVG/RGI’s Avenash Ramzan is 5-time Sports Journalist of the year (non-print) By Treiston Joseph

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The National Sports Commission (NSC) pulled out all the stops in honouring their sportsmen and women of 2014 with a classy ceremony on Friday Rugby, after the ceremony can be deemed as the most successful sport of 2014, capping the most improved as well as the best association of the year. The coach of the year in Theodore Henry also came from Rugby while the male sports official of the year was awarded to the President of the Guyana Football Rugby Union (GRFU), Peter Green. To add to Rugby’s success they were also named as the 2014 sports team of the year. While track ath-

lete Cassey George and cricketer Veerasammy Permaul were named sports woman and man of the year, Evening News anchor and Guyana Times sports journalist, Avenash Ramzan capped the non print Sports Journalist of the year award. Meanwhile, Director of the Sport Neil Kumar during his address noted that it was the investment by the Government in facilities that allowed Guyana’s athletes to perform. “Ladies and gentlemen there is no doubt that all of us are aware that since the government has facilitated all these facilities and more our athletes have shown unprecedented development. “This has manifested itself in the form of outstanding performances on the international scene

All the awardees along with a number of Government officials pose after the conclusion of the award ceremony (Treiston Joseph photo)

and will continue to do so,” Kumar stated. Minister of Sport Dr Frank Anthony who noted the benefits sports can have on a community with relation to a healthy lifestyle as well as the government’s significant investment in sport, revealed the aim of the Government going forward. “The government wants to work with all national and regional

bodies to ensure the development of sport and to ensure everyone is involved in sport, that every child is involved in sport. “We want the parents get their children involved and more the community and I cannot emphasize any more on how important this is,” Anthony stated. President of the Guyana Sports Shooting Federation, Vidushi Persaud who was named

the female official of the year made the response on behalf of the awardees and thanked the government and the NSC for their continued support. Other awardees were, Emmerson Campbell Sports Journalist of the year (print), Orlando Charles, Sports photographer of the year, Jason Yaw male junior athlete of the year, George female junior athlete of the year, outstanding athlete

with disability, Calvin Thomas, runner-up male junior athlete of the year, Shemron Hetmyer, runner-up female junior athlete of the year, Akeila Wiltshire, runner-up male athlete of the year, Kristian Jeffrey and runner-up female athlete of the year, Alisha Fortune. The night ended with the awardees’ mingling with guests as well as Government. (Guyana Times)

TT Warriors seek strong show in Gold Cup ….as TT prepares to tackle Panama March 27

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: With National Senior team head coach Stephen Hart expected to announce his final squad on Monday for the March 27 friendly international against Panama in Couva, the focus is already being placed on Trinidad’s readiness for the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup in the United States. Hart has hinted that his team to face Panama will be made up largely of homebased professionals with a few overseas pros in the mix. This is all in an effort to expand the national pool as the team prepares for the 2018 World Cup qualifiers and the Gold Cup campaign. Team captain Kenwyne Jones gave his reactions to

Kenwyne Jones ...looking for strong performance from TT

TT’s Gold Cup grouping, saying TT would be pressing for one of the two spots up for grabs for the quarter finals. “We are happy to be in the

Gold Cup again, We have got a decent Group draw and we’ve played these teams before. We’ve been up against them in recent times and we know what they can give, moreso for us having the experience from the squad we had at the last Gold Cup, it should auger well for us. We may have a few new players but I think our preparations would be good and we will be able to give a good showing at the Gold Cup,” Jones said. He wants to see TT aim for a spot in the semi-finals, going a step further than the quarter finals in 2013 where TT lost 1-0 to Mexico, after defeating Honduras 2-0 in its final group match to advance to the knockout phase. “I think we will be look-

ing to do better than we did last time. Since that last Gold Cup we’ve been through quite a few growing experiences like the games against Argentina, Iran and the Caribbean Cup. I think the team now has grown stronger. We will be at least looking to get into the quarter finals again and try to get to the semifinals. We have a good bunch and I know this is what the team will aspire towards,” added the Cardiff City forward. Jones believes TT’s preparations and appearance at the 2015 Gold Cup will play a significant part in the team’s readiness for the Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers which commences in November at the semi-final stage for the “Soca Warriors.

“From the time Mr Hart took over the team, we have been building and growing since then with focus on the World Cup campaign. Every game we have played since then counts as experience, no matter who the opponent is. These games coming up will be another step in preparation for us for the World Cup qualifiers because it’s against similar teams we will play in the qualifiers also. “It’s a long way through the qualifiers and you need a decent group of players, fit and in form, for the qualifiers. It’s also the first time a lot of the players will be playing in World Cup qualifying and every bit of preparation will serve them well,” Jones concluded.(TT Guardian)

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WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Guyana secure PCL 4-day title

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Guyana Jaguars clinched the WICB Professional Cricket League four-day title despite being held to a draw by the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in their penultimate round match at Providence Stadium in Guyana, on Monday. The Jaguars entered the penultimate round with a 23-point lead over second placed, now dethroned champions Barbados Pride, and earned seven from their draw against the Red Force to reach 130 points with one match to play. The Pride, who started the round with 100 points, earned eight after their match against the Windward Islands Volcanoes also ended in a draw at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Monday. The Pride are now on 108 points and even with one match to play, they have no hope of catching the leaders. A maximum of 20 points are on offer per match meaning the Bajans, can only reach a maximum 128 points if they get full points in the final round match against Jamaica starting Friday. At Providence on Monday, veteran West Indies left-hander Shiv Chanderpaul inched closer to yet another landmark in his illustrious career as leaders Jaguars and the Red Force played to a tame draw. Set 218 to win, Red Force finished the day on

99 for three when both captains decided to call it quits at 4:30 p.m. with the contest going nowhere at the National Stadium. Opener Imran Khan top scored with 40 off 60 balls with seven fours while captain Rayad Emrit entertained himself with three fours and a six in an unbeaten 24 off 42 deliveries. Khan, and Jeremy Solozano who hit 21, put on 49 for the first wicket but the total was always outside of Red Force’s reach. Earlier, Chanderpaul stroked an unbeaten 69 and Vishaul Singh, an unbeaten 41, to help push the home side up to 266 for five declared. Chanderpaul hit seven fours off 144 balls in just over 3-1/2 hours while Vishaul faced 86 balls in 107 minutes and counted four fours. The pair put on 83 in an unbroken sixth wicket stand, after Guyana resumed the day on 120 for three. Left-hander Narsingh Deonarine converted his overnight six not out into 41 off 86 balls with five fours. With the half-century, Chanderpaul moved to within sight of 25 000 first class runs, with just 38 required to reach the landmark. Meanwhile, off-spinner Jason Mohammed (2-38) and Imran Khan (2-67) finished with two wickets apiece for Jaguars. (TT Express)

Barbadian swimmers ready for the pool

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Twenty-one of Barbados best junior swimmers will represent the island at the 2015 CARIFTA Swimming Championships to be held at the Aquatic Centre, Wildey, from April 4 to 9. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the championships and it holds great meaning for Barbadian swimming as the first championships were also held in Barbados in 1986 at the Ursuline Convent pool. The Aquatic Centre will also be celebrating its 25th anniversary in September. More than 365 athletes are expected to compete at the championships. Experienced swimmers Christian Selby and Kimberley Willoughby will be competing in their final CARIFTA championships and hope to end with more hard-

ware to contribute to the Barbados tally as they have consistently done over the years. Willoughby will be joined in the 15-17 age group by team captain Alexis Clarke, Hannah Gill and Sariyah Sherry and the four of them should combine to be a powerful force in the age group. Selby will be joined by Alex Sobers the male team captain and between them dominance is expected in the freestyle events. These six swimmers have represented Barbados at CARIFTA in previous years and are looking to return to the podium as in the past. Manager of the team is Andrea Titus and she will be joined by chaperone Samantha Clarke while the coaches will be led by Antonio Petrolanda who will be assisted by Abdul Sharif, Darny Olalde Hernandez and Aisha Norville. (Barbadostoday)

Premier League record-holder to join Guyana Golden Jaguars

E O R G E T O W N , GUYANA: The Golden Jaguars’ quest for a berth in the 2018 World Cup has been given a major boost with a commitment from Matthew Briggs, the youngest player ever to feature in the Premier League, to join the squad. A left-back, Briggs is currently on loan at Colchester United from Millwall. The 24-year-old is expected to link up with the Golden Jaguars this month and will be considered for selection for the March 29 international friendly against Grenada. Also joining the squad is Bolton Wanderers midfielder Neil Danns, as Guyana gears up to contest the World Cup Qualifiers, set to commence in June. Briggs made Premier League history back in May 2007 by playing for Fulham against Middlesbrough at the tender age of 16 years, 65 days, a record that still stands to this day. Capped for England at the Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 levels, Briggs has now decided to play for Guyana. He qualifies to wear the Golden Jaguars colours through his grandmother, who is Guyanese. “Playing for Guyana would be an honour,” Briggs said. The news of Briggs and Danns joining the squad comes a day after it was announced that two promising Under-23 players have been drafted into the squad ahead of the international friendly against St Lucia this Sunday at the Guyana National Stadium. They are Jermine “Panky” Junior of Fruta Conquerors and Delano Mentore, originally from Port Kaituma, of Slingerz FC. In drafting the two youngsters, Head Coach Jamaal

Matthew Briggs

Shabazz said, “”Panky” is quite a character; he is quick and explosive and is a pretty fast learner. Delano has a touch of gold – it may be early days yet, but he can be the future Shawn “Fatso” Bishop that our football needs.” Shabazz added that the youngsters have talent, but need international exposure for them to materialise into ‘real’ players. “And I am very eager to throw these young Jags into the wild world of international football,” Shabazz said.

Foreign-based players Brandon Beresford and Jamaal Smith have also linked up with the Golden Jaguars squad and have participated in training sessions. Beresford is a skilful midfielder, who plays for Graceland College in the USA and has played with the Jaguars before. Smith is the six-footer centre back, who has been involved with the Jaguars since the 2012 World Cup Qualifiers. (Guyana Times)

Jamaican Gonzales determined to resurrect athletics career

INGSTON, JAMAICA: "I'm still here, I'm still training; and once I'm fit and healthy, I'm still one of the best in the world, so look out." Strong words from Jermaine Gonzales, a man who has not competed since pulling up during the 4x400m final at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. It has certainly been a tough two-and-a-half years for the quartermiler; a period which saw him undergo two knee surgeries, including the removal of a bone tumour and multiple operations over a six-month spell. It sort of makes his caveat - 'once fit and healthy' - seem more like a fleeting wish than a promise. Now 30, Gonzales, the national record holder over 400m with a 44.40 personal best, has carried his cross. But with

a greater appreciation for his career, patience and determination, the sprinter is focused on carefully resurrecting his once-promising career. The World Youth (2001) and World Junior (2002) bronze-medal winner has been training steadily since September last year, and is looking to return to competitive action in April, with a spot on Jamaica's team to the 2016 Olympic Games being his ultimate ambition. "First of all, it's good to be back. It's a been a long two-and-a-half years. I'm happy with where I am. It's been tough, and I thank God that I am here again. This is my life," Gonzales told the Jamaican media, shortly after a training session with his coach, Bert Cameron, at Stadium East. "I'm not rushing it; my main focus is stay-

ing healthy this year and trying to run a respectable time. I'm not rushing to push my body to go too fast too soon. Injury is always the problem with me. But once I'm healthy, I know I will perform at a high level, so my main focus is to stay healthy throughout the season." Gonzales, a bronze medallist at the 2006 Commonwealth Games, admitted, though, that his outlook hadn't always been this positive. "Honestly, at times I feel like giving up, but when you believe in your talent and you have strong support, you have to continue. I believe I still have a lot more. Over the years, I have had a lot of injuries, so my body isn't as burned out as other people, and based on what is happening in training right now, I am positive, and I am looking forward to com-

peting and finishing the season, and looking forward to pushing for Rio 2016," Gonzales added. Since posting his 44.40 in July 2010 - a year when he registered seven sub-45 seconds marks in 12 finishes - Gonzales went on to run an additional seven 44+ seconds times before breaking down in London. "After my surgery, I had to learn to creep again - literally like a baby. I learned to stride again all over; to sprint. There were times when I came out to training just to walk around or do some core work because I couldn't run," Gonzales remarked on his long way back. "I kept going because I believe in myself, and I know that once I'm healthy, there aren't a lot of people out there who can beat me." (Jamaica Gleaner)

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

INTERNATIONAL WEEK ENDING MARCH 19, 2015

Guyanese cricketers cop awards at Enmore Sports Club presentation B y R avendra M adholall

O R O N T O , C A N A D A : Several prominent Guyanese cricketers were recognized for their individual, outstanding performances from Enmore Sports

Club on Saturday evening at Timerhi Restaurant and Bar in Scarborough. The patrons were entertained by Trinidadian-born international comedian Jean Paul. President of the

club, Shiv Persaud, a Canadian-based Guyanese quickly reiterated the importance of recognizing these players in his feature address. He also took the opportunity to thank everyone who attended to support the club. “We [are] very thankful for the incredible support of our guests as it was a sold out event which was packed to capacity; it was a great measurement of all the hard work being done on and off of the field by our dedicated members,” Persaud highlighted.

Persaud, a veteran all-rounder, stated he and his fellow players are eagerly looking forward to make a greater impact in the forthcoming Ontario Softball Cricket League tournament. Former Guyana Under-19 skipper Eugene LaFluer along with others were the recipient of trophies and plaques. According to Persaud, these cricketers, inclusive of ex-Guyana youth player Anthony D’Andrade, played well in the 2014 season and deserved the honours. LaFluer and De’Andrade repre-

sented Victoria Park Cricket Club, a club that is managed by Persaud. Victoria regularly features in the annual Toronto and District Cricket Association limitedover tournament. They were successful last year with LaFluer producing another fine effort to be one of the instrumental players while his compatriot Trevon Garraway, who played at the first-class level for Guyana, was part of Victoria’s triumph too. Other awardees were: Dharmendra Kumar for his team

spirit and Keenan Tinto who represented Canada Under-19 team at World Cup. The fastbowler was born in Trinidad and Tobago. Treasurer Zakeer Yusuf also came in for high praise in being one of the livewires of the club. Meanwhile, a large number of established cricketers from the Caribbean countries continued to make an impression when vying their trade annually in the various cricket association competitions with a great degree of success. The tournament is set to bowl off in May.

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