President Donald Ramotar and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh engage Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and another official of the just concluded BRICS Summit in Brazil
Ramotar holds talks with BRICS Leaders
... as Summit ends with gathering of South American leaders
The group of five emerging market countries known as the BRICS wrapped up its annual summit Wednesday with a gathering of South American leaders, including Guyanese Leader Donald Ramotar, a day after the group launched its own development bank and reserve fund.
Leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) are scheduled to meet again in Russia in July 2015, and it is unclear whether the institutions agreed upon Tuesday will be up and running by then. “It is hard to say” how long it will take before the bank is operational, said Luciano Coutinho, Chief Executive of Brazil’s large development bank, the BNDES, the Wall Street Journal reported. He noted that congressional approval will be needed in some countries to free up the funds to capitalise the new institution, but after that “the structure can be set up within a fairly short timeframe if there isn’t much bureaucracy.”
Coutinho said there are hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure
projects in the developing world that cannot find long-term, low-rate financing. Although Brazil may not need the bank, since BNDES already finances infrastructure projects locally, the new institution could benefit other countries, within and maybe outside the BRICS, he said to reporters on the sidelines of the summit Tuesday.
The bank, dubbed New Development Bank, will start with US$50 billion in capital, which is planned to expand to US$100 billion over time. All five countries will have equal share and jointly manage the bank. They also planned for a US$100 billion contingency fund – which also requires approval from local legislatures – that will be used if a country needs access to foreign reserves. When it is operational – something a Brazilian official said would not happen until 2016 – the fund could be tapped by countries in financial trouble.
After meeting in the coastal city of Fortaleza in Brazil’s northeast on Tuesday, the heads of government and their entourages travelled to Brasilia,
where they met with Latin American leaders at the Itamaraty Palace, the headquarters of Brazil’s Foreign Ministry.
Among the Latin American leaders was Argentina’s President Cristina Kirchner, who is fighting to avoid a debt payment that she has called “extortion”. Argentina’s trouble come from an order from a US District Judge for the Government to pay what could now amount to more than US$1.5 billion to holdout bondholders. The Government has appealed to the US Supreme Court, which declined to hear Argentina’s case, opening the possibility of a sovereign-debt default – the second by Argentina in 13 years – if the bill is not paid by the end of this month.
The situation was discussed at the BRICS summit during a closed-door event at Itamaraty. “We are under a massive speculative attack,” Kirchner said in her remarks, broadcast by Argentina’s official YouTube channel. She did not say whether the BRICS will take any action to aid Argentina.
The Government leaders at the meeting started to disperse by midafternoon Wednesday, when China’s President Xi Jinping crossed the street from the Itamaraty to the Congress, where he started a state visit that will continue today, the Wall Journal said. Xi is scheduled to meet privately with President Rousseff this morning. China is Brazil’s top trading partner, buying mostly raw materials such as iron ore and soybeans. But Brazil wants to export more higher-valued products, including airplanes. Brazilian Trade Minister Mauro Borges told The Wall Street Journal last week that Chinese airlines will sign orders for 60 airplanes made in Brazil by Embraer SA. An aide to Borges said that other announcements are expected during President Xi’s visit, but declined to give details.
Miner murdered at Mowasi Landing
The mining community of Mowasi Landing, Potaro, Region Eight, was on Wednesday evening thrown in a state of shock following the stabbing and shooting to death of a miner there.
The incident occurred about 20:00h.
The dead miner was identified as Quacy Thompson, 31, of Linden, Region 10. According to information gathered, Thompson was in
the company of two men at Mowasi Landing when an argument ensued over gold.
It was during the argument, one of the men pulled out a knife and dealt Thompson several blows to the body while the other whipped out a handgun and discharged a round at the injured man, hitting him in the abdomen.
The victim died almost immediately. The two perpetrators were seen leaving
the area on an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) immediately after committing the crime. The two men are popularly known in the area.
A team of Policemen has been dispatched to the area to investigate the incident. Thomson’s body was transported the Bartica Hospital Mortuary and is awaiting a post-mortem examination. No one was arrested.
President Donald Ramotar being greeted by Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff on his arrival at the BRICS summit in Brazil. He was accompanied by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh (GINA)
BRIDGE OPENINGS
Govt to clinch deal with 3 major mining firms
BY JOMO PAUL
mid tumbling gold prices internationally and a virtual standoff between the Government and local miners over low declaration, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud on Wednesday announced that three new companies are expected to join the sector.
He said the Government is currently in the process of finalising arrangements with the three “major companies” which will soon be looking to commence operations in Guyana’s mining sector.
Persaud, who was at the time speaking at a Land Reclamation consultation on mining and the forest sectors, reinforced the importance for expansion and new investments in the mining sector.
“We made it quite clear; we have no intention, absolutely none... of curtailing mining activities. In fact, the opposite is true, that is, we want to see an expanded mining sector... we are not in the business of slowing down, clamping down, or reducing mining activities,” said Persaud.
This sentiment by the Natural Resources Minister comes at a time when gold prices and declaration have seen a marked decline while miners are complaining of other issues affecting the sector, such as the withdrawal
from the use of mercury in the mining process.
But against this backdrop, the Minister reinforced the need for expansion in the sector. He contended that the resources are there to be “exploited” and this is what should be done.
He noted that while there are some sections of society that are opposed to the idea of expansion of the mining sector, Government is registering its call for expansion.
Environmentally-friendly methods
It also wants the miners to adopt more environmentally-friendly methods to mining and practice land reclamation.
In this regard, he contended that the Government will be working side by side with the miners to ensure that responsible farming techniques are developed.
He plugged the need for Guyana’s
ing.”
Recently, the Minister had revealed that the Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated (BMGGI) US$100 million expansion project is still on stream and recent discussions with BMGGI have indicated that the company is still proceeding with its expansion project.
Minister Persaud said the Natural Resources and the Environment Ministry is in the process of finalising the licence which will pave way for the company to have access to Block 37.
“They have applied for prospective licence for a number of areas to open up new mines and we are currently considering those in the context of the strategic plan for the bauxite industry,” the Minister explained. He said too that the Natural Resources Ministry is in constant dialogue with the company about the possibility of additional value added products that will further diversify the industry.
natural resources to the harnessed in a way that will not leave any permanent scars on the country or the economy. The Minister urged that the miners practise “sensible, sustainable and responsible mining”.
He said: “We don’t want more mining, just for the sake of more mining, but we want better mining, we want mining that takes into account the responsibility that all of us should have, whether we are miners or not... it is about having more responsible min-
In March 2012, the bauxite company announced that it was in the process of securing an additional area for the mining of ore and the erection of a third kiln. The additional area, Block 37, will allow the company to have access to more ore, hence, the investment in a third kiln, kiln 15. With the initiation of these two mega projects, the company will be moving to market two new products: multite and proppants, products that will rapidly increase the company’s revenues.
A section of the stakeholders at the consultation on Wednesday
Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud
Editor: Nigel Williams
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Editorial
Youth development
The area of youth development has been receiving considerable attention from Government, mainly because it sees investment in youth as an investment for the future, but notwithstanding the good effort, some serious problems still abound in society.
The prevailing situation points to the need for all stakeholders to see youth development not only from the perspective of individual families, but as a collective community effort, with the country at heart.
The Administration no doubt has been doing its part, as this is evident in the national budget where the education sector receives the largest slice of the pie year after year.
Naturally, the chief policymakers recognise the transformative impact education can have on the lives of young people and national development in not only bridging the gap in poverty, but also helping to create a society where peace, harmony and cultural understanding flourish.
And in a multi-racial, multi-cultural society as Guyana, where symptoms of ethnic fractures still exist, this level of investment which includes free education from nursery to secondary, examination subsidies, a variety of skills training programmes and low-income housing, cannot be overstated.
The performance of the education sector in terms of desirable outcome is a different matter, but overall, Government’s investment in youth development cannot objectively speaking be deemed inadequate.
After all, investments in youth development should be a partnership approach involving the family, society, the state and the private sector. Family in the sense of being the nurturer of the child; society, which include religious institutions, as the moulder of the child; the state as the provider of avenues for the child’s overall development; and the private sector as an agent that rewards excellence and innovation, supports skills development and provide opportunities not provided by the State.
This is not a perfect but a basic model of the support structures to foster youth development, and from all indications, every step of the layer is weak.
And it is manifested in the high number of teenage pregnancies, drug abuse and youth involvement in crime. In fact, the majority of criminals are between the ages of 18 and 25.
This problem can be attributed mainly to poor parenting, peer pressure, an unresponsive school system, and the failure of religious establishments to successfully transmit the view that a crime is not only an act punishable by the law, but is a sin against God.
Therefore, the failures of youth should not be viewed as a failure on the part of the family or the State alone, but rather a shortcoming of all relevant stakeholders, and should be addressed through a collective approach.
It was highly encouraging to see the Guyana Police Force reaching out to vulnerable youths of the depressed community of Albouystown, and one hopes, that the Force will keep its promise, and expand the programme to other communities where it is most needed and the business community would maintain their support.
On the corporate side, the NEW GPC INC is the sponsor of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League. The deal, apart from reviving the passion of West Indies cricket, serves as inspiration for youth with an interest in sport, provides an avenue for positive enjoyment, the bringing together of families and the creation of an atmosphere where friends and foes can hug and shake hands indiscriminately.
NEW GPC has traditionally been an avid supporter of sport, which automatically translates to fervent supporter of youth development.
What the country now needs is the streamlining of its vision for youth development in policy documents that reflect the input of all stakeholders.
And to its credit, the Government has started work in this regard, but it is woeful to say the least that the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry has been working on the document for more than six years and cannot complete it.
Perhaps it would require a caesarean for the National Youth Policy to be born.
The role of BRICS and emerging markets
Dear Editor,
With the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa coming together for the Sixth BRICS Summit, it is worth touching once again upon the significant role these countries and other emerging markets play in the global economy.
As the modern world is naturally becoming more multi-polar and complex, it is clear that a model of international relations with a single decision-making “centre of gravity” is prone to malfunction and is ultimately ineffective. The BRICS format, actively supported by Russia, is helping to enhance predictability and sustainability of international relations.
There are no plans to create any military-political alliance on the basis of the format, but a certain political element of cooperation is necessary. It is high time BRICS’ role is raised to a new level to make it an integral part of the global system, which is truly geared for achieving sustainable growth.
In our view, that can be done, among other things, by cooperating closer with the United Nations (UN) and its institutions; creating mechanisms for consultations between foreign ministries on conflict resolution (for example, on such topical issues as Syria, Iraq and Ukraine); and coordinating our approaches and actions in areas like counter-terrorism and drug control.
An important topic is international information security in terms of agreeing to a set of rules for responsible behaviour in the glob-
al information space, and a possible joint information policy which could help present a more unbiased picture of the world. Other key subjects that are discussed within the BRICS format are the necessary but unreasonably delayed IMF reform, as well as the use by some countries of unilateral sanctions.
Apart from the search for common ground in relation to other global forces and trends, mutual cooperation between our economies remains a key item on our agenda. Development of trade and economic ties between member states is both an intention and a fact. BRICS’ mutual trade is now well over US$300 billion and has a strong prospect for further growth, considering almost three billion consumers; unique natural resources; substantial technological, financial and industrial opportunities; as well as the need for new infrastructure. Established and planned instruments, such as the BRICS Economic Cooperation Strategy, the BRICS Business Council, a development bank, and a foreign currency reserve pool will help realise this potential.
It is clear that the BRICS is a unique and modern format. Most of its member states do not have a common border, it is transcontinental, but they have strategic interests and challenges in common. By working together and coordinating approaches, the BRICS countries can better deal with modern challenges and achieve sustainable development.
The signing of the agreement establishing the New Development Bank (NDB) was announced at the forum, with the purpose of mobilising resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging and developing economies. Based on sound banking principles, the NDB will strengthen the cooperation among our countries and will supplement the efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global development, thus contributing to the organisation of collective commitments for achieving the goal of strong, sustainable and balanced growth.
The Bank shall have an initial authorised capital of US$100 billion. The initial subscribed capital shall be of US$50 billion, equally shared among founding members.
While bearing in mind that fossil fuel remains one of the major sources of energy, the belief that renewable and clean energy, research and development of new technologies, and energy efficiency can constitute an important driver to promote sustainable development, create new economic growth, reduce energy costs, and increase the efficiency in the use of natural resources were welcomed.
Considering the dynamic link between renewable and clean energy and sustainable development, five countries reaffirmed the importance of continuing international efforts aimed at promoting the deployment of renewable and clean energy and energy efficiency tech-
nologies, taking into account national policies, priorities and resources. BRICS stand for strengthening international cooperation to promote renewable and clean energy and to universalise energy access, which is of great importance to improving the standard of living of all the people.
At the same time, Russia proposed establishment of the BRICS Energy Association, creation of a Fuel Reserve Bank and a BRICS Energy Policy Institute that would allow five countries to strengthen national energy security and prepare BRICS to trade energy resources.
The increasing cases of unilateral sanctions were discussed at the summit. Recently, Russia has been exposed to a sanction attack from the United States and its allies. Russia is grateful to BRICS partners who have criticised such practices in different forms. At the same time, substantive conclusions should be drawn from the current situation. Together, BRICS countries will mount a system of measures that will help to prevent the harassment of countries that do not agree with some foreign policy decisions made by the United States and their allies, but would promote a civilised dialogue on all points at issue based on mutual respect.
Russia will host the Seventh BRICS Summit in 2015 in the city of Ufa.
Sincerely, Dennis Kopyl, Press Attaché Russian Embassy
President Donald Ramotar observes the courtesies during his attendance of the BRICS Summit in Brazil (Tony Jadoopat/OP photo)
An analysis of human life (Part One)
Dear Editor,
On May 1, 2014, the Maranatha Ministries International Inc hosted a conference with a dynamic theme, “Making a difference in a world that is indifferent”.
For the launch, the National Library was the ideal venue for such a conference, thereafter the next two days saw the conference at Moray House on Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown.
This conference sought to define the C.R.O.W. concept/analysis, which was the brainchild of Apostle Vanrick Beresford – presenter/facilitator. Those in attendance tapped into a unique teaching and training that all were delighted to be a part of.
It is our belief that some of our citizens, if not most; more so, leaders will benefit from this concept/analysis. Therefore, below is a shortened version of the material. The scheme of life presents four elements: C.R.O.W. – Challenges, Rewards, Opportunities, and Work.
The reality of challenges……. Challenges make up life, because in today’s world, we are faced with insurmountable challenges, whether these challenges are in the home or at work; they are real.
Let’s start in the home; this is where we are faced with some of the greatest challenges. These challenges can be found in 10 areas within the home, namely family, marriage, finances, fun, cooking, abuse, crises, choices, cleaning, and laundry. Some people explode in the home because of challenges. Because of a lack of coordination, cooperation, and cohesion at home, many persons underperform at work. If a crisis situation arises at home, something that we seldom expect to happen, then we would be at a loss knowing how to deal with it.
Is it not amazing that governments are sponsoring programmes entitled ‘DISASTER PREPAREDNESS’. While disaster comes knocking at our front door, there is no
known and proven system to deal with such crisis.
At work, there are over 13 areas of challenges, namely deadlines; people [more people at work than home]; discrimination; victimisation; assignments; friends; enemies; relationships; betrayals; bosses; punctuality; reliability; performance; and other elements that you may not yet have considered. Regardless of whether you are a Policeman, businessman, trader, housewife or teller in a Bank, you will be faced with challenges at home and at work. The big question, therefore, is how do I cope with all the challenges both at home and at work? There must be an excellent way to make a difference.
The C.R.O.W. concept/ analysis, if followed, will only do one thing, and, that is, help you to overcome many, if not all, of your challenges both at home and work, while developing one’s self.
One of the greatest areas of challenges in the scheme of life is human/self-development. Mental, physical, social and spiritual development are vital or necessary for a rounded and balanced life.
Mental development: From the womb, we are challenged to develop basic skills in learning; hearing and knowing. Cognitive skills are ongoing, whether we are five or 55. Some people allow their mental development to be on a go-low after they reached the age of 50 or 60. Your mental development ranges from basic memory to thinking and learning new things. The brain is the most amazing organ in our body. There are millions of thoughts that are stored in the brain, just like a computer that stores information. Names, places, events, incidents, information, faces, animals, people, family, friends, and many other things are all kept in the brain. These things are literally locked away in the brain; they are only released when energy is fed to the brain. There is a real challenge to keep the brain alive. One sure way of maintaining a healthy and active brain is
10-point
Dear Editor, Both the Opposition and Government have laid out their 10-point demands of each other.
Below is a list of demands that the Blue CAPS would like from our political policymakers on both sides of the isle.
* Local Government Elections
reading, yes read, and, I say again, read. Therein lies the greatest challenge in keeping the brain alive and well. The brain needs energy/oxygen. Reading provides that energy. Reading of a poem enhances and develops the brain and sharpens the memory. Reading puts you ahead of others and takes you to places you may never go; reading a biography of a prominent person gives you tremendous insight into life beyond yourself. Reading helps your thinking power; you are better able to analyse a situation that is intriguing.
Your brain can work for you even better in the time of advanced age, particularly between 70 and 80 years. It is believed that at the end of an average person’s life only 13 per cent to 20 per cent of the brain has been used. The other percentage has been dormant.
Physical development: A challenge many would want to avoid, mainly because of their busy schedules. But our time is designed in such a way that we don’t need to go running or walking in the park to exercise. There are numerous ways we can all tap into, when it comes to physical development. The human body is not designed to sit for long hours. However, we sit at an office desk for the entire work day, again we anchor ourselves in front of the television and would never for one moment realise that such practice is working against our physical well-being. Movements are necessary for the proper functioning of the body and that is where the greatest challenge lies. Dancing provides an excellent means of maintaining sound physical health. Some of us need to dance! There are many systems within the working of the body; these systems will only function how you, the individual, want them to function. There is always a challenge to know not only these systems, but to understand the way they work for maximum benefits. Simple stretching, first thing in the morning, right on your bed is designed to enhance your health in a way that
demand
* Put Guyana above party interest
* End to racial politics
* Engage and incorporate civil society views in national decision making
* Politicians to compromise and negotiate on important issues
* Respect for Parliamentary procedures and decisions
you probably never considered. So the next time you open your eyes early in the morning, take the liberty to stretch. Ever seen a baby stretch, they possess knowledge on the importance of stretching.
Physical development is vital for healthy living. It would take many hours and several sessions to cover all the systems of the body, and to teach on how they work to achieve maximum benefits.
What about the foods we consume on a daily and regular basis? Are we taking good care of this temple? I don’t think so. For a healthy way of life, we need to educate ourselves in maintaining our physical well-being. This is a real challenge for many people. Don’t worry, that’s about to change. Firstly, we need to know the nutritional value of the food or drink we consume. Check every item you purchase from the supermarkets, especially tin stuff, even the Pepsi and Coca-Cola. They all have a due date or an expiry date. Biscuits, chocolates, bread, and many other items have due dates.
Respectfully, Maranatha Ministries International Inc
May the suffering of the oppressed cease
Dear Sir/Madam,
Today is the 19th day in the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan was given by God Almighty to Muslims to seek perfection of the heart, purity of the human body, and purification of one’s wealth (Zakaat).
Today, as we, Muslims in the west and Europe, enjoy the rights and rituals of Ramadan under the protection of our respective Constitutional Laws in a liberal and free world within the comfort of our homes, mosques, and multicultural society, Muslims in many parts of the world are being oppressed and killed in their indigenous lands as the indiscriminate killing spree continues unchecked by some world leaders.
In other parts of the world, like China and Burma, they are being prevented from fasting with brutal force.
Today, the people of Gaza are pleading for help. The super power “Israel” has declared a full- scale air strike bombardment on a defenceless set of people; people with bricks and handmade rockets as our world is lamentably slow in making an intervention or condemnation.
The killing of the three Jewish kids cannot be con-
doned and I join with others to condemn that heinous act and the atrocities of all unjustified killings, but that does not give Israel justification to engage in a widespread killing spree. Oh superpowers of the world, oh supporters of Israel, please stop this war! The suffering is beyond our imagination. Oh Hamas, please stop the firing of rockets! Oh just people of the world please voice your condemnation! I know that my voice will be a voice in the wilderness, but it is recorded with God Almighty for I have done the least of Islamic faith, which is to speak out against the injustice and to hate it with my heart.
In conclusion, I wish to say that revenge seems to lead to contentment for those who are involved in the darkness of passion but when the violence of passion is abandoned, and the mildness of forgiveness is restored, then it seems that revenge leads to unbearable suffering.
May Almighty God cause the inhabitants of this world to be just people and cause the suffering of the oppressed to cease.
Respectfully, Nazar Mohamed
* Show equality and respect for young leaders
* Respect human rights of all citizens
* End ‘cuss out’ culture, and
* Establish institutions to increase transparency and accountability.
Respectfully submitted, Blue CAPS
Page Foundation
Some children need to repeat a grade in school. This means that a child who’s in third grade would have to do third grade again next year, instead of moving on to fourth grade.
No one wants to repeat a grade, but if this happens to you, you’re not the only one. Repeating a grade can be the right thing, though, because you get another chance to complete the work and learn what you need to know to do well when you do move up to the next grade.
Why some children have to repeat
Most children need to repeat a grade because they are having trouble with the work or other stuff they need to do in that grade. Some children might have learning disabilities. For instance, a child might have trouble reading. Other children might have been ill or absent for a long time, so
they didn’t get a chance to learn everything they needed to learn.
Who decides if you should repeat a grade? It’s often a team, including your parents, your teacher, counsellor, and principal. Teachers and parents aren’t trying to be mean when they decide a child should repeat a grade. Everyone is trying to do the right thing so that the child will learn what he or she needs to know before moving on.
You probably know that the stuff you learn is like building blocks. First, you learn your numbers. Then you learn how to add, then subtract. Later, you’ll learn how to multiply and divide. If you didn’t learn your numbers, how could you do other math?
Sometimes a child might understand the schoolwork, but is having trouble with other stuff, like behaving in class and sitting still while the teacher is teaching. Sometimes, an extra year
gives the child and his or her family a chance to work through problems like that. If a child is just refusing to do the work, that problem needs to be solved.
If you have to repeat If you have to repeat a grade, you might be thinking: “Is everyone really moving on without me?”
Repeating a grade might make you sad, angry, or both. It can be stressful. You might be upset because you won’t be in class with all of your friends.
Try talking with your mom or dad, a teacher, or a school counsellor if you’re having these feelings. If you are worried about missing your friends, try to set up play dates or other times when you can play together. Ask for a parent’s help with this.
You might feel embarrassed or ashamed about repeating a grade. You may think that people are talking about you or making fun of you. These feelings
are normal. It can really hurt if someone teases you about repeating a grade. You might want to think about what you could say to someone who teases you. Maybe you could say, “I needed to get better at some stuff. It’s not a big deal.” If you are teased, be sure to tell a parent, teacher, or counsellor. Find a grownup who can help you figure out what to do.
If your friend has to repeat
Try to be kind if a friend needs to repeat a grade. Let him or her know you will still be friends. Try to get together after school, on the weekends, and during vacations. Support your friend and never tease him or her. Sticking by him or her in this tough time might make you even better friends.
Can you avoid repeating?
Sometimes, there’s no way to avoid having to repeat a grade. If you have
learning trouble or you missed a lot of school, there may be no way around it. But you might be able to make up work during summer school or with a tutor who comes to your house.
If you’re struggling with school, be sure to tell a parent. Work with your teacher and the school counsellor to figure out what the problems are and how to solve them. Try to handle problems right away, instead of just hoping things will get better. It’s easier to catch up if you get help quickly.
School can be hard work – there’s no denying it. But you can learn some strategies to help it go a little better for you. For instance, if you study a little bit each night, that can make it easier – and less scary – than having to learn everything the night before a test.
With school, set a goal for yourself and keep working toward it bit by bit. Ask for help if you need it, and you’ll get there! (Kidshealth.org)
Family structure and children’s education
(Continued from Wednesday)
Special needs classes. On average, a greater proportion of children who are in special education classes come from single-parent households. Children in special-education classes were more likely to come from single-parent households (58 per cent) than from two-parent households (31 per cent) and were somewhat more likely to be of an ethnic minority. Black children in special-education classes were the least likely to have intact families; 70 per cent lived with a single parent while 16 per cent lived with two parents.
Preschoolers’ cognitive development. Family structure is related to preschool children’s verbal reasoning skills. Children of single mothers had lower scores than children from two parent families.
Parental marital disruption and academic achievement. Parental divorce or separation is related to youths’ academic performance and educational expectations. Compared with their peers from intact families, students who had experienced parental marital disruptions scored lower on academic tests and had lower educational aspirations both before and after the disruptions.
Parental involvement in education. Family structure was associated with parents’ educational expectations and involvement with their children’s schoolwork. Children of single or stepparents reported that their parents had lower educational expectations for them compared to reports from children in intact families. The former group also reported that their parents are less likely to monitor schoolwork and provide “less overall supervision of social activities” compared to reports from children in intact families.
Divorce and school attendance. Compared with peers in intact families, adolescents from divorced single-parent households tend to have greater levels of absenteeism, tardiness, and truancy in school. Parental divorce altered daily routines and work schedules while imposing additional demands on both adults and children living in single-parent households. Most adolescents had to assume extra domestic and childcare responsibilities; financial conditions required some adolescents to work part-time. These burdens resulted in children from single parent households having greater levels of absenteeism, tardiness, and truancy in school. (familyfacts.org)
Aviators urge speedy completion of CJIA Expansion Project
Leading agencies in the aviation industry are pushing for the US$155 million Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project to be completed without further hindrance.
The Opposition in the National Assembly, primarily the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), has been up in arms against Government’s decision to proceed with the Project.
However, during a highprofile meeting with Public Works Minister Robeson Benn last Thursday, key stakeholders within the aviation sector reaffirmed their commitment to the expansion of the industry, but said the airport must be expanded to mitigate the challenges currently faced.
“We recognise that the
No
By Bhisham mohamed
Eight days after a Guyanese vessel was allegedly attacked and robbed in Surinamese waters, four of the five crew members remain missing and relatives are fearful that they may be dead.
The men: Andrew Goppie, of Lusignan; Vinesh Drunarine, also known as Monkey Brain, of Uitvlugt; Raymond Gomes, 37, and Chandrapaul Jallim, 19, of Recht-Door-Zee, West Bank Demerara were reportedly chopped, beaten and thrown overboard last Tuesday evening. The captain of the boat, Feroze, of Double Road, Lusignan, braved the deep waters and reached shore after spending some 19 hours in rough waters. He immediately contacted the owner of the boat, Deochand Bharat, relating the horrific experience.
Speaking with Guyana Times on Wednesday, Bharat said Feroze used his more than 20 years’ experience at sea to his advantage on the night of the pirate attack. Bharat told this newspaper on Wednesday that the captain remained in custody in Suriname, but was given the opportunity to seek medical
Expansion Project is the appropriate response to the dire safety, security and efficiency challenges faced at the existing facility and pledge to fully lend our support and expertise to advance the progress
attention.
Curiously, the boat owner said while he remained optimistic that the missing men were alive, he was bracing himself for the worst, claiming that they could not survive the rough waters. “Even if they are on land, they will not make it…, he argued. He pointed out that he was in contact with the captain of the vessel and law enforcement officers in Suriname who told him that they searched the area on Tuesday and Wednesday, but they came up empty-handed.
Guyana Times understands that a group of local Police ranks travelled to Suriname to assist in the investigation. However, Bharat is claiming the men who carried out the attack are
Guyanese.
He said that after speaking with the injured captain, he has concluded that Guyanese were involved in the attack.
“The captain said that based on their voices, you will know they are Guyanese… if bin a different people, they accent woulda be Dutch… You must know since the language is Guyanese,” the man added.
During the attack, the pi-
of the multimillion-dollar national endeavour,” the stakeholders said in a joint statement issued on Wednesday.
It was explained that the existing runway creates many limitations in safety due to
rates were wearing pieces of black cloth around their faces and had toques on their heads. In this case, he said the sea bandits were armed with cutlasses and upon getting onto his vessel, they ordered the crew members to lie face down and bound them with a coarse rope which the men managed to untie after they were thrown overboard.
Bharat went on to say that by this time, all the fishing equipment and catch for the day were removed from the boat and it was cut loose.
Pulled by the current, the boat drifted quite rapidly away, he was reportedly told. The boat was later found at De Hoop, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara.
Upon realising that the men were loose, the pirates went after them, causing the separation. The captain claimed that he swam from 02:00h last Tuesday to 23:00h until he reached land at Copenaam.
Bharat said the captain told him that the young fishermen were begging for their lives, but the pirates did not have mercy upon them. He said the men were new to the fishing business and that might have worked to their disadvantage.
the absence of the Runway Extension Safety Area (RESA) and its inability to accommodate larger wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and 777 aircraft. The congested terminal and parking
Pamela Maikoo, the mother of Raymond Gomes, told Guyana Times that she met with the owner of the boat who was only complaining about the amount of money he lost as a result of the incident. She said her son has been working with the man for the past two months and was fairly new to the job.
In addition, she claimed that she went to the Police Station where she was told that the captain of the boat was held in Suriname and was assisting with the search. They are of the opinion that the captain might have had a hand in the attack, questioning his survival.
The local Police are in constant contact with their counterparts in Suriname, but
they have exhausted every avenue in searching for the missing men. A Police source related that they are now focusing their attention on recovering the bodies and not rescuing the men.
Meanwhile, the owner of the boat, is calling on the law enforcement bodies to look into piracy in Guyana, claiming that it has increased over the years. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)
space constraints for aircraft were among other issues laid on the table when the meeting was convened. The airlines said that insufficient parking space for aircraft adversely affects their on-time performance.
“International air travel plays a critical role in the economic and social development of Guyana; hence there is an urgent need for the continued expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) facility,” the stakeholders posited.
As partners in the industry, the stakeholders have pledged to maintain close ties with the Public Works Ministry and CJIA’s Board and Management. Caribbean Airlines, Roraima Airways, Insel Air, Dynamic Airways, CONVIASA, Copa, Fly Jamaica, LIAT, Surinam Airways and TravelSpan were the airlines present during the meeting last week. Other agencies included the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU); New Timehri Handling Service; Guyana
Tourism Authority; GUYOIL; Guyana Civil Aviation Authority; and CJIA. According to the Government, CJIA’s expansion is a national project engineered to modernise the CJIA into a hub for international and regional travel. This is in keeping with its vision to develop the CJIA into a world-class airport with high standards of hospitality and service.
In June, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh presented to the National Assembly a “Statement of Excess on the Current and Capital Estimates” totalling $4.5 billion for the period ending June 16, 2014. The sum included $1.5 billion which was spent on CJIA’s Expansion Project despite strong objections by Opposition during the consideration of the 2014 National Budget. In response, the Opposition had said that the “controversial project” continues to be funded using taxpayers’ monies although the initial $6.7 billion allocated was disapproved by the House earlier this year.
The stakeholders’ meeting with Public Works Minister Robeson Benn in progress
Vinesh Drunarine
Andrew Goppie
Chandrapaul Jallim
Raymond Gomes
Cousin in rejected incestuous relationship commits suicide
The love relationship shared by two cousins on the Essequibo Coast on Wednesday ended tragically with one relative ingesting a poisonous substance after family members rebuffed their relationship.
Dead is Rawle Cornelius, 23, of Charity, Essequibo Coast, who apparently “could not see life” without his 17-year-old cousin. According to reports, the couple had a secretive affair until
family members got wind of the relationship.
Cornelius drank the poison at his lover’s home one week ago after he was rejected and warned by the girl’s parents that the affair was forbidden.
After ingesting the poison, Cornelius was rushed to the Charity Hospital, where he was admitted, but only managed to cling to life for six days.
Many persons are shocked by the
young man’s action, and the young woman is said to be depressed and is receiving counselling.
Only recently, two cousin lovebirds at Bush Lot on the Essequibo Coast who were madly in love decided to kill themselves, after their parents rejected their relationship.
Both of them drank poison and were rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital but one succumbed and the other survived.
Eyew tness
Different beat...
...in Linden
The site of resistance to David Granger continuing as leader of the PNC is Linden. It was named after Burnham – LINDEN Forbes Sampson Burnham, remember? – But that’s never stopped the community from marching to its own beat.
Before it became “Linden”, it was actually three separate communities – Wismar, Mackenzie and Williamsburg. But even after they accepted the name, they rose up in open rebellion against Burnham when he tried to hustle them during his “nationalisation” of the Bauxite Industry. That nationalisation, of course, was all a sham. Burnham backed down when his US paymasters cracked their whip. Guyana had to cough up whatever they demanded – and still retain the South African firm Philips as our marketing agent.
Then Burnham tried to play around with the bauxite workers’ pension plan – RILA. This riled them up so much, they not only went on a strike against the PNC’s nationalised company – but came out in violent protest!! Burnham couldn’t believe his eyes. He was so embarrassed, he unleashed the Police and tear gas on what up to then were his staunchest supporters! And threw the leaders in jail. But he had to back down.
Burnham arrogantly put a mathematician named Haslyn Parris to head the company. To show his nationalisation was a “success”, Burnham had Parris spend nothing on maintenance so as to boost production and “profits”. When the physical plant literally and inevitably fell apart, Burnham blamed the sullen workers for being “lazy”.
Kwayana’s ASCRIA had a big influence on the community, which had driven out all 3000 Indian residents in 1964. So when Rodney entered the scene a decade later in 1974, he and the WPA found fertile ground. If the Founder Leader faced quite a rebellion in that community -- Granger shouldn’t feel picked upon. But that’s the whole point, isn’t it??
Granger just doesn’t know the PNC from the ground up. While he was (and is) a faithful follower of the Kabaka, his role was to keep the Army from being further infiltrated from 1979 when Burnham made him the head honcho. As a general, he expects PNCites to jump to attention when he passes by. You have to understand his rage when a mere slip of a “girl” like Kissoon doesn’t salute.
Norton, on the other hand, doesn’t just KNOW Linden – he IS from Linden. It’s said that “all politics is local politics”. During the last elections, Norton showed Granger he understood that lesson. Granger has been pissed since. Maybe Norton will teach him another lesson at the upcoming PNC election.
...for some youths
It’s also been said that “it takes a village to raise a child”. Now we know the times are changing, and “this time nalang time”. But still, what do you say when a “youth man” is draped with so much bling, he’s developed a stoop – yet nobody asked where he got all that loot. We’re talking about the youth from Agricola who was shot dead after he tried to rob a businessman as the fella exited a store.
A couple of months ago there was the identical robbery attempt, followed by the identical killing of an identical youth – in Agricola’s doppelgänger community of Tiger Bay. What’s going on here??? Making it even worse is that the Agricola kid strutted his stuff and paraphernalia openly on Facebook without any of his “friends” making untoward comments.
So what’s the motto?? Live fast and die young?? If that were all, no one would care but the tragedy is that they take so many of the innocent with them.
...for some political leaders
Now that even Marxist politicians like Ramkarran swear all voting in Guyana is “race”, what do you say to politicians who’re “leaders” of the communities from which these young men originated, who refuse to tell their constituents some home truths?
Isn’t it time for some “tough love”??
Get to the stadium early!
– tickets available at Middle St Office and National Stadium
The Guyana leg of this year’s Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) opens at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara this evening and organisers are urging fans to get to the game early to avoid last-minute rush and traffic jam.
The Guyana Amazon Warriors face off with the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel from 19:00h. But up to late Wednesday afternoon
Some $12.3 million in awards were distributed to approximately 1300 Police officers by the Guyana Police Force as part its bi-annual celebrations –to mark its founding anniversary and in December.
The Police Force rolled out its 175th anniversary celebrations last week with a series of events, including the Police Force’s Anniversary Awards and Incentives ceremony. The awards ceremony, which was first introduced in 1990, was held on Wednesday morning at the Tactical Services Unit Square, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown.
Hundreds of Police officers with various rankings were eligible for the award; however, not all of them were present. Groups of officers were rewarded with monetary prize for their investigative works, discovery of unlicensed firearms and narcotics, solving cases, among others.
Speaking at the ceremony, acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud said the Force is recognising the efforts of its ranks beyond the call of duty.
“A motivation that impacted positively on the services we provide to the people we serve, has indicated that this ceremony remained relevant,” the Police Commissioner said.
He noted that the Force is
ticketing centres were jammed with crowds of people - some of whom would have to return early today to complete their purchases.
“We are encouraging fans to get their tickets early...already some of the stands have been sold out, so we are encouraging those who are yet to purchase their tickets to do so early today,” an official at the Limacol CPL Operations Office said.
Last year, all of the games here
were sold out, with thousands left without tickets.
To facilitate the rush, organizers, announced on Wednesday that tickets for this evening’s match will also be available at the Guyana National Stadium, all day.
Fans can go to the ticket booth stationed there from 08:00h to purchase tickets. Ticket sales continue at the Limacol CPL OPCO Office, Middle Street. Tickets for
the Palm Court Party (Orange) Stand are also available at both locations and at Palm Court all day. Crowds of people were seen at the office on Middle Street, Georgetown late Wednesday afternoon. “I was here about half an hour ago, but the line is very long. I have to wait,” Ramesh Singh of Lusignan told Guyana Times. He, along with several other colleagues, was purchasing tickets
for all three games. “We decide today to buy tickets for all the games, because we don’t want to be without come Sunday,” Singh said.
Jacquelyn Daniels, of South Ruimveldt, was also in the line purchasing tickets for all three of the games. “I came here about one hour ago. The line is moving, but a lot of people are here,” said Daniels, whose her entire family will be going to the games.
Some 1300 Police officers awarded for outstanding work
currently at a unique time in its history, particularly with the implementation of the Force’s Strategic Plan, which is expected to transform the organisation. Seelall explained that in a society that is disrupted with youth gangs and organised crimes such as narco and firearms trafficking, money laundering and trafficking in person, it is absolutely necessary to have a Police Force that is proactive.
Persaud went on to applaud the Force for their sustained efforts in intelligence collaboration, which led to the dismantling of the Hot Skull Gang in Albouystown and the prosecution of the perpetrators from the Meten-Meer-Zorg robbery/murder.
He praised the Force for retrieving the stolen gold from Port Kaituma with-
Nero charged for embezzlement and assault
South Ruimveldt, Greater Georgetown resident Clive Nero was released on bail on charges of embezzlement and assault on Wednesday when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.
The first charge alleges that between August 26, 2013 and July 2, 2014, at Cuyuni, Essequibo while Nero worked as an employee of Vickram Singh, he embezzled over $1 million.
in 48 hours and the apprehension of the four prisoners who escaped from the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts compound.
Additionally, the Police Commissioner mentioned several community projects being executed by the Force, including the popular Project Impact Albouystown. Persaud stated that the Force will also be working with the COPS and Faith Community Network, to launch three projects. They are a suicide hotline, the
appointment of a Guyana Police Force Chaplain, and a liaison project with victims of serious crimes.
Health insurance
As it relates to the welfare of ranks, the Commissioner explained that the Force is currently in talks with an insurance company to implement a Group Health Insurance system.
“This is linked to a programme that will see the annual medical check-up by each rank, annual physi-
cal assessment by each rank under the age of 45 years and an education/awareness package on healthy lifestyles and lifestyles diseases, all working towards an objective of maintaining a healthy Force,” he disclosed.
On the other hand, Persaud also highlighted some of the downfalls of the Force, such as Police harassment, which the Force is not taking lightly and have implemented several initiatives to curb this errant behaviour. The acting
Commissioner, reflecting on the Sparendaam incident, where several Police officers burnt a teenager’s hands while he was in custody, said the ranks involved were charged with obstructing the course of justice and a number of departmental charges are expected to be instituted against them.
“This snapshot of the performance of our ranks, apart from the abuses, is certainly deserving of the awards, they are receiving and like before, contribute to constructive competition, teamwork and an overall improvement of the service we provide to the public,” the acting Police Commissioner stated. Meanwhile, Assistant Police Commissioner (Administration) Balram Persaud, in delivering the opening remarks, reminded the ranks of their Oath of Office and encouraged them to uphold it.
“At our 175th anniversary, it is important to remember our mandate and remember of our Oath of Office and strive to uphold the tenets in the oath we have taken,” he urged.
Nero was represented by Attorney Adrian Thompson, who told the court that there was a mix-up at the call centre where his client worked and some monies were unaccounted for, so Nero was given one year to pay back the sum. The call centre owner reported the matter to the Police after Nero failed to fulfil his end of the bargain.
The 32-year-old was also charged for assaulting Eric Jordon on April 13. It was alleged that Nero unlawfully assaulted Jordon, so as to cause him actual bodily harm at Tiger Creek, Essequibo. The defendant was released on $250,000 bail for the first charge and on self-bail for the second.
The matter was transferred to Bartica Magistrate’s Court for July 24. Limacol CPL ticket mania…
The Police officers who were rewarded on Wednesday
Two dead in Linden Highway crash
Two persons are now dead and several injured after a minibus suffered a blow-out on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway on Wednesday evening, causing the vehicle to flip several times before coming to a halt.
The accident occurred shortly after 18:00h. Dead are Roger Hutson, 29, of Retrieve, Mackenzie, who was the driver of the minibus at the time and Cathleen “Cathy” Marks, 36, of Wisroc Housing Scheme, Mackenzie.
They were pronounced dead upon arrival at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC).
Those injured and admitted to the LHC include Kerry Fraser, 35, of 331 Berbice Road, Mackenzie; Yuannie Robinson, 26, of 48 D’Urban Street, Georgetown; Telisha Scott and Marlon Washington of 183 Wisroc Housing Scheme, Wismar; Ceon Anthony, also of Wisroc Housing Scheme; Marlyn
Alley, 29, of 626 West Bank, Demerara; Mark Nurse of 92 Half Mile, Wismar; Seon Lamazon and Shondell Chand, 45, of 527 East
According to reports, a Pit Bull minibus heading to Linden at the time, suffered a blow-out in the vicinity of Long Creek, Linden, Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
At the LHC, large crowds gathered, some to get a glimpse of the injured while family and friends wept. Many were also in shock and wailed as the dead and injured were being transported. Relatives of Marks said that it was her son’s birthday, noting how saddened they were at the incident.
“She just build she house, she ain’t even get to enjoy it,” one relative remarked. She is survived by her four children and a grandchild. The driver was said to be the only child for his mother, Barbara Hutson. The wom-
Ruimveldt, Georgetown; Marvin Luckerish, 30, and Jenelle Gordon, 25, of 114 First Alley Hill, Wismar.
Duo charged for milliondollar larceny
Two men jointly charged with larceny of articles worth over $1 million were each granted $150,000 bail on Tuesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
Nigel Boosar, 42, of Lot 345 Block X Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, and Sean Pertab, 25, appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.
The charge alleges that on July 12 at Water Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, the duo stole a propeller shaft, drill pipes, and iron materials, property of Yoresh Bhola.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge. Boosar was represented by Attorney Paul Fung-AFat, who told the court that his client works as a cartman and was hired by the Virtual Complainant (VC) to remove the items and that bail should be granted in a reasonable sum since all of the items were recov-
Sean Pertab
ered. However, Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru stated that only nine pieces were recovered.
The men will return to court on August 4 for the commencement of their trial.
‘Green’ ambassadors trained to support environment clubs in schools
Athree-day environment camp hosted by Global Youth Movement (Guyana) (GYM) concluded on Tuesday at the Weldaad Youth Friendly Space, West Coast Berbice for 25 students from seven secondary schools in Region Five.
The camp is part of a $23 million community health, environment and recycling project funded by the United Nations Development Programme/ Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme, a release from GYM said.
The camp was supported by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), the Natural Resources and the Environment Ministry and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
In providing an overview of the camp, Executive Director of the local NGO Mark Ross explained that the camp was designed to provide basic information to students on environmental issues as well as explore the solutions to these.
The camp, he said, was delivered in a fun and simple way so that students can learn easily and return to their schools and share the information. The main goal of the camp was to strengthen student’s ability to manage their school environment clubs while sharing information so that environment issues are addressed.
The facilitators of the sessions included Vanessa Williams and Candacie
Brower-Thompson of the EPA; Taku Yoshida from the Japan International Cooperation Agency; and Aretha Forde from the Natural Resources and the Environment Ministry.
Ross is hopeful that the students will contribute positively to the enhancement of their schools and the communities in which they live so that the re-education and change in behaviours begin.
Berbice Shines Project
The youth organisation is also implementing the Berbice Shines Project in both regions, which seeks to enhance public spaces and raise awareness on environment issues with the aim of applying community solutions.
The students were provided with information on the natural environment; the 3Rs reduce, reuse and recycle; composting, mangroves, leadership, advocacy and communication, club management, materials and work plan development.
The students will benefit from additional trainings in book-keeping, public relations, photography, videography, fundraising, community mobilisation and tours to the Mangrove Restoration Project on East Coast Demerara and to have exchange visits with environment clubs from other schools in other regions.
They will be expected to conduct community and school enhancement activ-
ities; tree planting, clean ups, conservation activities; as well as playing a key role in the implementation of the Berbice Shines Project. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is a partnership of various sectors in 183 countries to address global environmental issues. Since 1991, the GEF has provided $12.5 billion in grants and leveraged $58 billion in cofinancing for over 15,000 projects. The funds are used to support activities related to biodiversity, climate change, international waters, land degradation and chemicals and waste in the context of development projects and programmes.
The Small Grants Programme (SGP) is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and executed by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). GEF SGP works with communities and civil society around the world to grapple with critical global environmental problems.
GYM – Guyana is a registered organisation which was formed in 2011 by youth and works with young people in various communities across the country. The organisation is also currently undertaking a backpack project and is urging businesses and individuals to sponsor a backpack filled with supplies for a primary school child. The backpacks will be distributed during the August holidays.
The 19-year-old remand prisoner who –in court – beat unconscious the 50-year-old man who brought a complaint of robbery against him was on Wednesday further remanded.
Wesley Griffith appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Geeta ChandanEdmond.
The charge read that on June 20 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Griffith jumped out of the prisoners’ dock and attacked the Virtual
Complainant (VC) Derrick Halley, whom he is accused of robbing of $200,000 in cash and $77,000 in electronics at his Sophia, Greater Georgetown residence almost one year ago.
Halley was dealt several punches and kicks about his face and body by Griffith who was not in handcuffs, and was subsequently treated by paramedics who were called to the scene. He later told reporters that it was not the first time Griffith had attacked him and he was fearful for his life.
The defendant was pulled off Halley, according to Police, by ranks who were present within the courtroom.
Griffith, who is facing charges for several robberies, including the January 31 $5 million Amelia Ward’s armed robbery, told the court that on the day in question, he was stressed and he was sorry for what happened.
The defendant will return to the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts on July 30 for a probation report.
The environment ambassadors (green t-shirts) with project staff (left) and facilitators (right) during the camp
Nigel Boosar
an was admitted to the LHC due to shock upon learning of her son’s death.
One of the injured being escorted to the LHC
The ill-fated minibus involved in the accident
Edghill shrugs off resignation call
Minister within the Finance Ministry Juan Edghill has strongly rejected calls made by the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) for his removal from his governmental position.
This call was made close to a month after the Minister spoke as a guest on the INews Radio programme “Hard Talk”, and voiced his disapproval from a religious perspective of the gay lifestyle.
Minister Edghill said he does not intend to give attention to a matter that is undeserving, noting that his attitude to the matter will be guided by a scripture from the Bible; Mathews 5:11: “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. [12] Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Minister Edghill said the facts will show that he was invited in his capacity a Christian leader, thus his opinion, to which he is entitled like anyone else, was expressed in that context.
“It’s strange that they didn’t attack my theology,” he stated. Speaking to the media, the Minister reiterated the fact that Guyana is a secular state, and while he may not share the same ideology as many others, he was not about to force his views on anyone.
Dismissing SASOD’s statement that his comments were tantamount to “hate speech”, he challenged anyone to listen to the programme and point out where any such facet of his remarks were indicative of the accusation.
“Let Guyana judge me, Let the tape roll,” he stated, adding that SASOD should have the decency to be accurate in reporting what he said.
Describing the homosexual lifestyle as “un-natural”, Minister Edghill said his words should not be twisted by a group that is seeking to move from being a nongovernmental organisation to one with political aspirations. The church, he said, has always maintained its belief of the sanctity of marriage as a union between a male and a female, hence, the unwavering view that homosexuality is un-natural, given the fact that, in the case of humans, two of the same sex are unable to reproduce. “It is biologically impossible.”
Notwithstanding his
Minister within the Finance Ministry Juan Edghill
views, the Minister said that he will never be one to pry into persons’ personal lives and the church is not about to do any such thing.
“Whatsoever two consenting adults do in the privacy of their homes or otherwise is their own business,” he added, explaining that while it may be against his religious beliefs, and he may not like it, that does not mean those persons would not engage in such practices. He cited the case where he also preaches against corruption and fraud yet persons still persist with these practices.
Further refuting claims that he was promoting discrimination against the minority community; the Minister said nothing could be further from the truth as the church has always welcomed persons with alternative lifestyles, whether gay or otherwise, and as a religious leader, he has even
counselled many of those who sought his guidance and advice on various matters.
He said while he has never witnessed nor had evidence of any discrimination or abuse against gays in Guyana, he has personally been abused by a homosexual for simply expressing his views. “I want to know what name you would give to those persons, they call us homophobic, but I want to know what you call a homosexual that abuses a heterosexual.”
Those who make the claim about him promoting discrimination are either ultra-sensitive or mischievous, he added. He has hired, and knows persons who are practicing alternative lifestyles and have never shown any ill-will or harsh feelings towards them. His public life, in this regard, is an open book and his tolerance to all persons regardless or faith, belief, race or lifestyle, is well known. The Minister explained that having travelled to more than 90 countries, many of which have stringent laws against hate speech, and having spoken on various issues overseas, not once has any such accusation ever been made against him.
Minister Edghill said that it was unfortunate that in advocating for their rights, SASOD is seeking to take away his right to freely practice his religion, exercise his conscience and freedom of expression, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported him as saying.
NAMILCO says fake ‘Thunderbolt’ flour being sold in Linden
The National Milling Company (NAMILCO) has reported that it has found a shopkeeper in the mining town of Linden retailing counterfeit flour packaged in NAMILCO’s bags.
The discovery was made in April and the company immediately alerted the Food and Drug Analyst Department (GFDAD). NAMILCO simultaneously conducted a comprehensive analysis in its own laboratory and found that the flour was of a substantially poorer quality.
In a release, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) said NAMILCO discovered that even though the bags carried the NAMILCO brand name, Thunderbolt, they showed evidence of excessive handling.
genuine Thunderbolt bags.
NAMILCO was alerted by complaints from residents of Linden – both bakers and householders – who informed the company that their flour-based products were not “cooking properly”. Their bread and pastries were “discoloured and heavy” and the taste was not acceptable.
NAMILCO conducted a search soon after receiving the reports and found one errant shopkeeper located on one of the town’s
“The top edges were frayed and the thread used to re-stitch the bags was of inferior quality,” the GMSA release said.
NAMILCO also confirmed, according to the GMSA that the twine (not thread) the company uses is colour-coded and made of quality material consistent with international food hazard control standards. NAMILCO’s flour bags are also double-stitched.
In addition, the bags of flour sold by the counterfeiter weighed 39 kilograms instead of 45 kilograms contained in
main thoroughfares. The GFDAD subsequently conducted its first investigation and confirmed NAMILCO’s complaint. The department is expected to carry out a full investigation shortly.
In the meantime, the flour company is urging its customers, especially those in Linden, to purchase flour that is white and not grey, and to inspect the stitching on the 45 kg bags to confirm that white and coloured twine were used in the weaving to close the bags. NAMILCO’s Chief Executive Officer Bert Sukhai pointed out that “consumers get robbed on
weight, quality and price since most shopkeepers sell in pounds and equate one kilogram to two pounds instead of 2.2 pounds, and two kilograms as four pounds instead of 4.4 pounds. We have found (consumers) to be very forgiving in this regard”. He said that NAMILCO has been encouraging the Food and Drug Analyst Department to promote the health benefits of factory-packaged products, particularly milk, sugar, flour and other consumables that cannot be “washed” before use.
The GMSA is urging the department to conduct a nationwide campaign to determine whether consumers in other parts of Region 10 and indeed other regions across Guyana, have been sold counterfeit flour. The Association is concerned that the counterfeit flour, which most likely was not subjected to quality tests, could pose a health hazard to unsuspecting consumers.
GMSA President Clinton Williams stated: “We will continue to do everything we possibly could to raise consumer awareness of sub-standard products that are flooding the local market and the dangers these products pose to their health and well-being. Our consumers have to understand that ‘cheaper’ is not necessarily better.”
Linden to remember slain trio
The July 18 Commemoration Committee, which was set up following the shooting to death of three Linden protesters in the community in July 2012, is in the process of executing several commemorative activities.
The protesters, Allan Lewis, Ron Sommerset and Shemroy Bouyea were shot dead while numerous others were injured on the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge during the wave of protests brought on by a Government proposed increase in electricity tariff.
Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon has referred to the month of July as a “very significant” one for Lindeners, since it marked two tragic incidents – the deadly Son Chapman launch and the killing of the three protesters. He said residents
should understand the important role they must play to ensure that events such as these are not forgotten.
“It is to have in focus, those families of the persons who would have suffered tremendously at the loss of their loved ones and those who were injured. Let us not forget
also that persons were injured on the 12th and 13th of August (2012),” he said.
Among the activities planned as part of the second annual commemorative event are an essay writing competition by Linden students, based on the events surrounding the July 18 protests; media discussions with relatives of the deceased as well as those injured; a photographic exhibition; a wreath-laying ceremony at the Bamia burial site; and a public symposium and candle-light vigil on Friday.
Emotional session
“Those persons (families of the deceased) were also involved in a session yesterday (Tuesday), a very emotional and touching session where we had some psychologists and sociologists from Jamaica
and we had local representatives who interacted with those families. Some of those families confessed that they are now being allowed the opportunity to seek some healing and move on with their lives. Nevertheless, those are painful moments. So what we are trying to do with this second commemoration is to allow the residents and those who are benefiting from the sacrifices that were made, to have a deeper and better appreciation of those who would have lost their lives,” Solomon said. He said while the community would have achieved some successes two years on, it will not forget the families who are still suffering, including those who were injured and are yet to overcome the tragedy.
Solomon said this year
the Committee intends to maintain a trend of reflection on the incident as well as to take a look at what state the community is in two years on. The aim of the essay writing competition, according to Solomon, is for young people to be able to put the July 18 events into perspective, through writing. He added that the photographic exhibition on Thursday scheduled to be held at the Mackenzie Market Square is intended to showcase the achievements of the community two years after the protests.
“We hope that as a collective, as a people, we can continue to lend the families of those who suffered, the sort of support to help them to overcome... as a people, our constitutional rights which we struggled for, we will ensure that they are achieved,” he said.
Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon
UG to decide today on tuition hike – Registrar
BY GOMATIE GANGADIN
University of Guyana (UG) students will know today whether the administration will go ahead with its proposed hiking in tuition fees.
Speaking to Guyana Times on Wednesday afternoon, UG Registrar Vincent Alexander related that consultations with all stakeholders have been completed and the recommendations have been submitted to the institution’s Council.
He noted that the Council will meet this afternoon and will be making a public pronouncement on the matter.
In March, UG Vice Chancellor, Dr Jacob Opadeyi signalled his intention to increase tuition fees, noting that it costs the institution $345,000 each year to maintain a single student who pays $127,000 annually for four years.
In an effort to gain widespread support, the Vice Chancellor had explained that the university in its quest to attract and retain qualified lecturers, it must be able to sustain them.
He had also pointed out that the university’s tuition fees are equivalent to lesson fees in other parts of the world, noting that tuition is as much as US$9000 in other countries.
Dr Opadeyi noted that the
UG Registrar Vincent Alexander
tuition fee was set at US$1000 in 1994, which was equivalent to G$127,000 at that time. However, he continued that as a result of the Guyanese dollar depreciating, US$1000 would now be around G$210,000, but UG still charges G$127,000 as annual fees.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the university must be a self-sustained one so as to avoid political interferences. As a result, the increase in tuition would aid in assisting all these developmental strategies and provide better services to its students. One such visible improvement seen by Dr Opadeyi is the need for the rehabilitation of the football field which he described as a “fish pond” following heavy showers.
The development of programmes which are limited due to the lack of funding and high fees required by researchers from global markets are also issues which require a substantial amount of funding. These needs, therefore, must be met so as to foster development at the institution, Dr Opadeyi noted.
New future
“We need to create a new future for the university,” he said, while noting that the challenges faced by UG are enormous, and as a result, growth is stifled.
However, head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon had said that the Donald Ramotar Administration has not arrived at a consensus on the proposed increase in tuition fees at the university. According to Dr Luncheon, the issue of a hike in tuition fees at the university dates back to October 1992, noting that the matter is still before Cabinet.
Members of the Public Sector and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) have signalled their intentions to support UG proposed increase in tuition fees, because they believe higher fees will prove beneficial to the institution, the staff, and the students.
It was disclosed that in the years 2007-2008, the university’s income was some $1.4 billion while its expenditure was $1.5 billion. In 2013, both the income and expenditure increased to $1.7 billion and $2 billion respectively, a deficit of some $300 million.
This situation has left the university financially crippled, since it has no surplus, no reserve funding, and insufficient funds to pay gross salaries to staff and facilitate needed repairs and amenities for some faculties.
“If we do not increase our tuition, I don’t think we can survive. You cannot get a good education; high-quality education with $127,000,” Dr Opadeyi said.
He stressed that under his administration and with the proposed increase in tuition, the university can once again return to and even surpass its glory days.
The Vice Chancellor explained that with the increases, the university will be looking to not only facilitate repairs to all faculties, but have medical insurance for students, provide Internet access to all faculties, upgrade all laboratories, and rehabilitate dormitories on campus so that additional revenue can be earned and the institution can be on par with other universities in the Region.
Police record increase in murders
The Guyana Police Force has recorded a nine per cent reduction in serious crimes in July compared to the corresponding period last year, but noted that the number of murder cases jumped by nine per cent.
This is according to acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, who made the announcement at the Police Force’s recent anniversary awards and incentives ceremony.
He disclosed that while there is an overall reduction in serious crimes; a nine per cent increase was recorded in the number of murders, along with a 25 per cent in gun-related robberies.
Persaud went on to say that “all divisions are showing overall decreases with the exception of F Division that is showing an increase; however, A Division, even though it is showing a two per cent reduction overall, it has a 25 per cent increase in gun-related robberies”.
On Monday, one of two bandits was killed by their robbery victim. Kevin Fields, 21, of Agricola, Greater Georgetown, and his accomplice went to Ramchand’s Auto Spares on Sheriff Street, Georgetown where Fields grabbed a bag contained $1.7 million from a businessman.
He ran outside, where the accomplice was waiting on a motorcycle, however,
the businessman, who is a licensed firearm holder, gave chase. Fields reportedly discharge a shot at the businessman, who then returned fire, hitting the bandit, causing him to fall off the bike. As it relates to road deaths, the acting Police Commissioner revealed that the statistics show an increase of three cases in fatal accidents in July compared to 53 during the corresponding period last year. However, road fatalities increased by nine per cent with 61 when compared to 56 last year.
The acting Police Commissioner said the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force will continue efforts in traffic education and enforcement.
The last fatal accident occurred on Tuesday, resulting in the death of 73-yearold pedestrian Rajmattie Ram of Triumph, East Coast Demerara.
According to reports, the elderly woman was in the company of her seven-yearold grandson when she was struck down by a beverage truck. The injured woman was picked up by publicspirited citizens and rushed to the Geogetown Public Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Ram reportedly sustained severe injuries to her head and other parts of her body since she ended up under the truck and was dragged a short distance away.
Pakistani teenage activist Malala Yousafzai to visit Trinidad and Tobago
Seventeen-year-old
Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai will visit the twin island republic on July 31.
This was confirmed on Monday in a statement from the Tertiary Education and Skills Training Ministry. Yousafzai gained worldwide attention in 2012, when a Taliban gunman, who opposed the teenager’s advocacy for women’s rights to education, entered the school bus in which she was travelling and shot her in the head.
She survived the attack and went on to continue her advocacy work, most recently campaigning for the release of more than 200 schoolgirls kidnapped by Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram.
Malala has received numerous awards for her work
as an activist, including the National Youth Peace Prize, the Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice and International Prize for Equality and NonDiscrimination among others.
Her birthday, July 12, has been named “Malala Day”. Praising Malala’s initiative, Tertiary Education Minister Fazal Karim said, “We in Trinidad and Tobago are extremely fortunate to live in a country where all of our citizens are offered universal, free access to education from the pre-school to tertiary levels and as such we can be seen as a model of what this young lady is advocating for across the world.” (Excerpt from Caribbean360)
St Vincent PM pleased with Caricom progress during his term as chairman
Aperiod of consolidation and progress, that’s how St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, describes his six-month stint as Chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) from January to June.
“Consolidation on a range of matters related to the Caricom central purposes… functional cooperation, coordination of foreign policy, economic integration, and initiatives regarding coordi -
nating and strengthening security. I think in each of the areas we have seen the consolidation and progress,” Gonsalves told WINN FM’s the Bigger Picture.
“If you take the economic integration area, we have noted that the matters like the right of establishment for businesses from one place to another, they’re well-established, and people don’t really question them anymore… we didn’t really have any challenges with that during this period,” he said.
Call for probe into abuses at boys’ home in TT
Attorney General
Anand Ramlogan wants a Police investigation into the April 8 death of Brandon Hargreaves, a 14-year-old who lived at St Michael’s School for Boys in Diego Martin. The boy was allegedly killed during a fight at the institution. At a news conference at the Parliament on Tuesday, Ramlogan reported his decision after a probe by the Gender, Youth and Child Development Ministry and said he had written to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the acting Commissioner of Police (CoP) Stephen Williams.
Ramlogan said the investigators submitted their report to Minister Clifton De Coteau, who subsequently presented it to the AG for consideration and
action. He said he decided to write to the DPP and the acting CoP to call for an immediate investigation based on the several allegations “and the kind of serious acts of negligence and abuse that had been highlighted in the report.” He will also ask De Coteau to do an audit of the operations of the home.
Ramlogan told the DPP there had been conflicting reports on how the teenager died. He said the allegation was that two supervisors were sitting on a bench close to where a fight was taking place and “apparently ignored this fight,” adding the report indicated that supervisors ignored most fights at the home. The report had caused him “the greatest distress, alarm and concern”, the AG said. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
In relation to freedom of movement, Gonsalves said that the Shanique Myrie case has “assisted immensely”.
“They are still challenges, but governments now know, and regional citizens do know that they can be held to account by the CCJ in its original… jurisdiction. Occasionally you’ll find hiccups, but I think the governments have fallen in line with the decisions, some more so than others, some moving faster than others,” he explained.
(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)
Abused children rescued in Mexico
Mexican Police have rescued more than 450 children they believe were abused at a children’s home in Zamora in the western state of Michoacan.
They were allegedly subject to sexual abuse and forced to beg on the streets. The owner, Rosa del Carmen Verduzco, and eight employees at the House of the Big Family have been arrested.
Correspondents say it is one of Mexico’s worst incidents of alleged child abuse at a children’s institution in many years. The Government said the building was home to 278 boys, 174 girls and six infants under the age of three.
Also rescued were 138 adults aged up to 40, the Government said. Reports
say the residents were forced to live in terrible conditions. “I’m in utter dismay because we weren’t expecting the conditions we found at the group home,” local Governor Salvador Jara said.
The House of the Big Family has been operating for 40 years and was known locally as Mama Rosa’s Home. The authorities began to investigate the home after parents complained that they were denied access to their children.
One woman, who grew up at the home herself, gave birth to two children who were registered in the name of Verduzco. When the mother left the home, aged 31, she was not allowed to take her children with her, investigators said. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Horrific killings: Missing children found dead in Trelawny pond
Aheavy pall of grief hung over Trelawny on Tuesday night after Police confirmed that the bodies found floating in a pond in the Martha Brae area of Trelawny early Tuesday were those of the two St James children who were reported missing on Sunday after they went on a beach trip in Montego Bay.
They have been identified as 10-year-old Meleeka Mitchell, otherwise called “Jody”, and 12-year-old Omari Sterling, both of Paradise Norwood, St James.
The result of an on-thespot autopsy could not be ascertained up to press time. However, a Police source close to the investigation told the Jamaica Observer that the boy, who was found in the water with his hands bound behind him, had a stab wound to the chest,
while the girl, who was found in the nude, is believed to have drowned. The bodies were found in one of several ponds situated near a section of the Martha Brae River by two men who went crab hunting. The Police were then called to the scene. Among the many onlookers were the distraught parents and family members of the two slain children.
According to Meleeka’s mother, Devona Kerr, her daughter was among a number of community members who were at the ‘One Man Beach’ in Montego Bay when she and Omari were lured away by a man whose hands and feet were heavily tattooed.
After doling out cash to the rest of the group to purchase hamburgers, the man allegedly made off with Meleeka and Omari. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Crippling drought forces Jamaica to contemplate importing produce
The Portia Simpson Miller-led Administration will be taking steps to prevent a food shortage as the country continues to experience an extended dry spell.
Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke says a decision will be made this week on whether permits will be issued for the importation of some agricultural products.
According to Clarke, the record decline in rainfall is taking its toll on the crucial areas of agricultural production.
He said the southern parish of St Elizabeth – the “bread basket” of the country, is having a “severe, severe” dry spell. “We’re trying to ascertain where the shortages are, and then we go from there.”
He said any decision to import additional food items will be data driven, “and our people are out there,” gathering the re-
quired information.
The crippling drought has also had an impact on the multibillion-dollar sugar industry with the Sugar Industry Authority (SIA), stating that the industry is under major threat due to the lack of water.
In an effort to ease the water shortage, Clarke says J$34 million (One Jamaica dollar = US$0.004 cents) has been set aside to assist in trucking water to some affected areas. The water is to come from facilities operated by the National Water Commission (NWC) and National Irrigation Commission stations. But the Agriculture Minister said that the money can only assist for a few more weeks and it will be necessary to go back to the Finance Ministry for further assistance through the Contingency Fund. (Excerpt from
Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai
The record decline in rainfall is taking its toll on the crucial areas of agricultural production
St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves
Dutch state liable over 300 Srebrenica deaths
ADutch court has ruled that the Netherlands is liable over the killings of more than 300 Bosniak (Bosnian Muslim) men and boys at Srebrenica in BosniaHercegovina in July 1995.
The men and boys were among 5000 Bosniaks, mostly women and children, sheltering with Dutch UN peacekeepers. But the Dutch state was cleared over the deaths of more than 7000 other men killed in and around Srebrenica.
The Srebrenica massacre is considered Europe’s worst since World War Two. The case was launched by relatives of the victims under the name “Mothers of Srebrenica”.
The Hague District Court said that the Dutch peacekeeping forces, Dutchbat, did not do enough to protect more than 300 of the Bosniaks and should have been aware of the potential for genocide to be committed.
It said the state should have known they would be killed by Bosnian Serbs when they handed them over from the UN compound of Potocari.
“It can be said with sufficient certainty that, had Dutchbat allowed them to stay at the compound, these men would have remained alive. By cooperating in the deportation of these men, Dutchbat acted unlawfully,” the court added. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Indian states seek easier land sales in reform challenge for Modi
Indian states eager to kick-start major infrastructure projects have proposed radical changes to land acquisition laws that are blamed for stalling billions of dollars’ worth of roads, railways, ports and power installations.
According to a confidential Government paper seen by Reuters, several states want to do away with obtaining landowners’ consent altogether in some cases and to cut through red tape which they say holds up development.
Restrictions to buying land, strengthened under the last Congress Government, are among the biggest barriers to projects that include a proposed high-speed rail network championed by incoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The 63-year-old leader won India’s strongest mandate in 30 years in a general election in May, but lacks a majority in the upper house of Parliament that represents India’s 29 states.
That will force him to strike a bargain to implement his ambitious economic growth agenda. “We have to find an equilibrium, we have discussed the land acquisition law with the states and I have taken the suggestions to the Prime Minister,” Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari told an industry conference on Tuesday. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Typhoon kills 10 in Philippines but eases before heading for China
Atyphoon killed at least 10 people as it churned across the Philippines and shut down the capital, cutting power and prompting the evacuation of more than 400,000 residents, rescue officials said.
The eye of Typhoon Rammasun, the strongest storm to hit the country this year, passed South of Manila after cutting a path across the main island of Luzon, toppling trees and power lines and causing electrocutions
and widespread blackouts.
By Wednesday evening, the storm was easing in the capital and markets and public offices were due to reopen on Thursday. Some schools were to remain closed.
Manila Electric Company (MER.PS) said 76 per cent of the area it serves was without power, compared with 86 per cent earlier in the day.
“Our weather is improving as the typhoon is moving further away,” Rene Paciente of the weather bureau said,
adding storm alerts in various part of the country were lifted or lowered.
The number of evacuated residents had reached 409,000, Wilma Cabrera, the Social Welfare Assistant Secretary, told Reuters. Many of those forced from their homes were in the eastern province of Albay, the first to be hit by the typhoon, the disaster agency said. They were taken to schools, gymnasiums and town halls for shelter.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Seven Egyptian men sentenced to life for sex attacks, harassment
Seven Egyptian men were jailed for life on Wednesday for attacking and sexually harassing women during rallies and celebrations in Cairo’s
The sentences were the longest since the President vowed to crack down on sexual assaults in June and the Government criminalised sexual harassment, amid widespread criticism from activists and lawyers on its record on tackling such abuse.
Five men were jailed for
life for attacking and harassing women during celebrations of President Abdel Fattah alSisi’s inauguration in June. Another defendant, aged 16, was jailed for 20 years and a 19-year-old was given two 20year jail terms, though it was not immediately clear if they would run at the same time. All seven were convicted of sexual harassment, under the new law, and of attempted rape, attempted murder and torture.
One of the five men along with two other men were also
sentenced to life on separate charges of attacking a woman as she celebrated the anniversary of the 2011 revolt that toppled autocratic president Hosni Mubarak.
A woman involved in one of the cases cried in relief in the courtroom after the verdicts were announced. “This verdict is pure justice and the least that those people can get for the crimes they committed,” said Nashaat Agha, a lawyer for one of the victims. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Hundreds of Bosniaks returned to Srebrenica last week for the 19th anniversary of the massacre
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacts during a meeting with Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff (not pictured) on the sidelines of the 6th BRICS summit at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, July 16
Tahrir Square.
thursday, July 17, 2014 |
Sooba fearful for life after death threats
Acting Town Clerk of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council Carol Sooba has expressed fear for her life amid several anonymous calls and death threats she has received in the past weeks.
Speaking to media operatives on Tuesday, Sooba related that her social life has now become cramped due to the fact that she cannot venture out in public with her family, as she fears the worse.
Sooba claimed that she was told by an anonymous caller that if she does not vacate her seat, she will regret it. She believes the persons making the calls are out to intimidate her into surrendering her position.
“I received a call last week with the person telling me that the Town Clerk must leave, vacate this chair or else they will take my neck off as well as that of my bodyguard and that they will throw our bodies under the big tree where they had
found the businessman,” Sooba related to the media.
She said too that she has also received several other calls on many occasions telling her that she must demit the office as soon as possible or herself and family will suffer.
Sooba remains adamant, however, that while she is concerned, she will not be
giving up her fight against corruption at the Council and will continue to occupy her Town Clerk Office.
It was just some months ago that Sooba disclosed that she has learnt of plans to disfigure her through the use of corrosive acid and to fire bomb her house when she is not at home.
She had noted too that her vehicle has been trailed while on her way home since the verbal attacks began and is it a matter of her safety that she had hired Sean Hinds as her body guard.
Sooba said that she has no reason to doubt her source of information since her neighbours and other observers have also informed her that strange and unknown characters have been lurking around her premises while she was out.
She has since lodged several complaints with the Police for them to initiate an investigation into the matter.
PAHO, UNAIDS convene meeting in Georgetown
The prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in adolescents and youth across the Region was a major agenda item when the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) convened a threeday meeting in Georgetown last week.
The meeting also examined plans to move the Region towards the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV and congenital syphilis.
Globally, young adults under 25 years of age account for the highest rates of new infections of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including HIV. Reaching members of this vulnerable population in the Caribbean, especially adolescents aged 10-17 years, of age is challenging. This is due to many factors, including laws requiring parental consent for young people to seek sexual reproductive health care and counselling, obtain birth control and be tested for HIV.
Attendees shared best practices of successful youth programmes in their countries and discussed challenges they face. Programmes aimed at encouraging teens to wait before they become sexually active, to protect themselves when they do become sexually active and to reduce the number of sexual partners they have to reduce the risk to these young people.
The meeting identified a number of activities to
PAHO, UNAIDS and UNICEF convened a three-day meeting in Georgetown last week to examined plans to move the Region towards the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV and congenital syphilis
move the Region towards lower infection rates, including advocating for legislation changes and protecting youth from stigma and discrimination, which puts their health at risk.
In order to be validated for EMTCT, countries will need to submit reports demonstrating less than two per cent of children born with HIV for two consecutive years. While different countries across the Region have different programmes, they are all guided by the same overall goal and will be measured under the same criteria. A technical working group is being reconvened to provide technical support as the Region moves forward with the EMTCT initiative.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines work on a four-pronged approach toward the elimination of mother-to-child transmission. These are: prevention of HIV in young women; prevention of unintended pregnancies; prevention of mother-to-child transmission; and support
Guyanese movie “Forgotten Promise” premieres on July 26
The latest Guyanese movie, “Forgotten Promise – A Story of Redemption” is set for an official launch on July 26, at the National Cultural Centre and would continue at the same venue the next day at 19:00h each night.
According to a release, the movie is another effort to contribute to the development of a local film industry.
Patrons will be afforded the opportunity to experience the red-carpet walk, which is generally associated with movie launches overseas and which has been in place for similar endeavours in the past under the auspices of Mahadeo Shivraj Productions and the Dramatic Arts Academy.
“Forgotten Promise” follows “Till I Find A Place”, “A Jasmine For A Gardener”, “83 Million Gees” and “Brown Sugar Too Bitter For Me” released in 2010, 2012 and 2013 respectively, all produced, directed and starring Mahadeo Shivraj.
This new venture provides a launching platform for many new budding actors, including Yanitra Raghubir, Tonya Singh, Anand Persaud and Lakshmee Singh. They are supported by Nazim Hussain, Margret Lawrence, Neaz Subhan, Nadeer Bacchus and Paul Budnah, who together, bring many decades of experience.
Written by Guyanese, Somnauth Narine, “Forgotten Promise” chronicles a seemingly forced trip to examine one’s past following an unfortunate development in the present. How the future would eventually evolve seems to be pivoted on the outcome of what
for families affected.
Elimination will be accomplished by providing pregnant women with antiretroviral therapy during their pregnancy (Option B), and for life in some cases (Option B+) and by providing the newborn babies with preventative drugs. Women are also counselled on their options for early feeding and are supported in healthy feeding practices whether they choose to breastfeed or to administer formula.
Attendees of the meeting included representatives from PAHO, UNAIDS, UNICEF, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), the Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV (PANCAP), and the countries of Barbados, Belize, British Virgin Islands, The Dominican Republic, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Among the attendees were members of the youth community who shared their views and stressed the importance of psycho-social support for teens.
venturing into the past may reveal, making it a story of utmost redemption. Sometimes what may be forgotten can become a haunting reality.
“Forgotten Promise” features a number of popular Bollywood songs, all of which were redone by Guyanese residing in the New York. Renowned singer Devindra Pooran leads in this regard and is melodiously complemented by Seeta Panday-Pooran, Michael Muneshwar, Princess Anisa and Shiva Nayan. The background score and the musical accompaniment are the result of the artistry of Avinash Singh of the Supertones Band.
“Guyanese from all walks of society have supported the four previous movies and the
producers would like to encourage such support for this latest venture and remain humbled by the kind words of congratulations and well wishes. The producers would like to take this opportunity to express profound gratitude for the responses and for the kind support of Mr Geroge Subraj of the Zara Foundation of the US. The movie will be screened at the Anna Regina Multilateral School on August 2 and the Aurora Primary on August 3. On August 9, it will be screened at the University of Guyana, Tain Campus and on August 10, at the Bath Settlement Primary School. Tickets for the two screenings at the National Cultural Centre are available at the venue.
Rohee sets new requirement for travel documents
The Home Affairs Ministry has announced that with immediate effect, applicants for passports and other travel documents will be required to present original birth certificates.
According to the Ministry, these should be issued no less than two years prior to the date of submission of the applications, instead of six months.
The Ministry last month had said that following the introduction of the machine-readable passport system in 2007, plans are in train to have a new category of passports that would be less susceptible to forgery.
The Clement Rohee-led Ministry had explained that built into that ar-
rangement was a requirement by the Ministry that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) would ensure that the birth certificates for first time applicants for
passports were issued not more than six months prior to the date of application.
“The Ministry in an effort to preserve the integrity of the system is now reinforcing its policy directive originally given to the GPF.
“This process is necessary to enable Guyana to comply with international best practices and prevent the illegal use of travel documents.
“The Ministry is conscious of the temporary inconvenience members of the public will suffer and expects that the Guyana Police Force will take all necessary steps to negate any difficulties that members of the public, especially those who need special assistance, may experience,” the release had said.
Acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba
Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee
GCCI to do survey on impact of blacklisting
BY SVETLANA MARSHALL
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) will soon be conducting a survey to measure the impact the country’s blacklisting is having on its membership.
The Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) has referred Guyana to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) after it failed to pass the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill of 2013, within a specified timeframe.
Many have argued that the impact would be far reaching; affecting those at the realm of the financial sector, down to the regular man in the street.
Speaking to Guyana Times, GCCI President Lance Hinds said the chamber will make a public statement on the impact after conducting a survey. GCCI has a membership of 118, ranging from micro to macro entities.
Leading financial institutions and businesses form part of its membership, including ANSA McAL Trading Limited, Banks DIH, the Bank of Nova Scotia, Caribbean Airlines, Caribbean Containers Inc, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T), John Fernandez Limited, the Machinery Corporation of Guyana (MACORP) and Republic Bank, among others.
According to Hinds, the GCCI will be “polling” members to determine whether they are facing challenges in the execution of the business due to the country’s blacklisting status. In November, Guyana was blacklisted on
the regional level by CFATF while it has been referred to FATF in May.
He explained that members will be asked whether procedures at the commercial banks have been changed or whether there have request for additional information and reporting.
GCCI’s member, First Global Money had said there is a high possibility that money transfer agencies will experience significant challenges due to public statements made by CFATF on Guyana.
It was explained that licensed money transfer companies or parent companies in the US, Canada or the United Kingdom may rescind their decisions to conduct business with agents or pair companies in Guyana following a risk assessment.
Stark reality
If money transfer agencies are forced to scale down operations, or even closure, it therefore means workers would have to down tools.
In 2012, Guyana received approximately US$400 mil-
lion in remittances, accounting for 17 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). By 2013, it accounted for 15.7 per cent of the GDP after reducing to US$353.2 million.
With heightened or limited money transfer agencies, First Global Money said the regular man in the street would feel the consequences; they will be unable to transfer monies to their families and friends in Guyana. It was opined that blacklisting can also lead to Guyana developing a black market or the illegal transfer of money within the financial system.
Cognisant of the challenges being faced at the level of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee that is considering the AML/CFT Bill, the GCCI maintains the view that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) should not cease negotiations, but should continue to work towards striking a compromise.
In May, the work of the committee led by Government’s Chief Whip Gail Teixeira came to an abrupt end after the political representative expressed fundamental differences on the amendments to the principal act – the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act of 2009.
GCCI, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Insurance Association of Guyana and the Government of Guyana are among institutions that have made public statement calling for the AML Bill to be passed. (svetlanatimesgy.com)
Williams backs out of PNC leadership race
Although he has been nominated for the position of Leader of the Peoples National Congress Reform (PNCR), Deputy Speaker and party Chairman Basil Williams said he is not interested in challenging Granger for the post.
Five persons have been named as candidates for the upcoming election. Among those are Williams, Carl Greenidge, Aubrey Norton and Granger. Williams, speaking to Guyana Times on Tuesday, noted that while he is not interested in the leadership post, he will be contesting the elections with the aim of being returned as party Chairman.
Williams explained that he thinks Granger has been a stellar leader of the party and he sees no reason why he should be replaced.
The party’s General Secretary Oscar Clarke told this publication on Monday that letters have been dispatched to all those who have been nominated, with the aim
of first informing them and ascertaining whether they will accept or decline.
“We are giving all those who were nominated up to Saturday, July 19 to respond… they are being given enough time and if they fail to respond, then their names will not appear on the ballot at the Congress,” Clarke related.
He said that a lot of documentation and verification of information is being
Migrant awareness raising sessions held in Guyana
The first of a series of training sessions intended to heighten awareness of risk factors affecting mobile and migrant populations in Guyana was held in Georgetown on June 24 and 25.
The participants of these sessions include those who interface with migrant populations –healthcare workers, immigration officers, members of the Police Force and military, staff of key Government Ministries and representatives of non-governmental organisations.
Participants were provided with knowledge of
cultural diversity, stigma and discrimination, human rights and migration as social determinants of health.
This activity forms part of the project undertaken by the German International Cooperation (GIZ) in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat/Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) to improve access to HIV services for mobile and migrant populations in the Caribbean.
Guyana is one of the pilot countries for the project,
and the training activity is being conducted in partnership with the National AIDS Programme (NAPS/ Ministry of Health) and Artists in Direct Support. A module titled stigma, discrimination, cultural sensitivity and human rights related to health and migration, developed by the technical experts at the IOM, was used as a tool in these sessions. Some participants will be selected for further training on how to use the manual to conduct similar awareness and training activities in their own organisations. The training is expected to continue through November (Caribbean
Granger wants more money to run his office
Opposition Leader David Granger said his office is being starved for resources to function at full capacity.
Granger, who was supported by A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) Co-Chair, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, made the remarks at a news conference to mark the third anniversary of the coalition on Tuesday.
Granger highlighted that while the office may be deficient in some vital areas, members of the Shadow Cabinet despite the circumstances, have been able to execute their mandate.
Alluding to the deficiencies, Granger said that the Office of the Opposition Leader is not “properly staffed to fulfil the function of the Opposition Leader in the National Assembly”.
my in the different branches of Government.
Roopnaraine. He also called for more resources so that the Shadow Ministers can do their work in a proper manner.
“We don’t have armies of technicians at our disposal... we don’t have the resources we need to properly shadow these Ministries... if you want to have an effective Opposition, you have to fund the office, you have to fund this office,” Dr Roopnaraine said. He urged his parliamentary colleagues not to be discouraged by the lack of resources, but strive to “deepen and intensify” their work.
done in the lead up to the Congress. Clarke declined to name those persons who have been nominated for the party’s top leadership post, but promised to make an official declaration ahead of the Congress. However, this newspaper understands that David Granger, Aubrey Norton, Carl Greenidge and Basil Williams have been nominated. When contacted on Monday, Greenidge would neither confirm nor deny that he was running for the post.
Norton has also kicked off a campaign to rally support at the grassroots level to relieve Granger of the added responsibility of managing the affairs of the party and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). He has already expressed the view that there is need for urgent changes to be made to the party with the interest of bringing it closer to grassroots support base. He managed to get one group nomination, along with Williams and Volda Lawrence.
Granger also lamented that the Shadow Ministers have been unable to execute their duties because of some reluctance on the part of the Executive to allow it to happen.
“I do not have any accommodation for Shadow Ministers... what you see here is what you get, all we have here are table and chairs,” said Granger, referring to the conference room of the Office of the Leader of the Opposition.
On this note, the retired Brigadier opined that “the National Assembly is not sufficiently independent” of the Office of the President, as he related that the Executive seemingly wants control of the National Assembly.
“There is a war going in which the Executive is still trying to undermine the Legislative branch,” Granger said as he underscored the need for autono-
“Right now there’s a big romp going on between GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission) and the Executive... this should not be,” said Granger.
He pointed out that while the Opposition has been working to change the way the country is being governed, there is still a lot more work to be done.
“The APNU has built a new foundation... when you’re building a foundation, you can’t expect to see the roof in a hurry,” the Opposition Leader said.
Dedicated to work
Meanwhile, Dr Roopnaraine pointed out that despite these challenges, the Opposition parliamentarians have been performing very astutely in the discharge of their remits.
Like Granger, he said the Office of the Opposition Leader should be given more priority in terms of funding and the resources allocated to the facility.
“The office is very under resourced,” said Dr
As Opposition Leader, Granger is assured of a range of benefits, along with a healthy salary and a pension, following the passage in 2010 of the Leader of the Opposition (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill 2009.
According to the legislation, the holder of the office shall be entitled at Government expense to rent-free furnished office accommodation; medical attention, including medical treatment or reimbursement of medical expenses incurred by him for himself and the dependent members of his family; full-time security service at his official place of residence and at his office to be provided by the Guyana Police Force; the services of a research assistant, an executive assistant/secretary, a clerical/office assistant, a chauffeur, a personal security officer, a gardener and two domestic servants; and salary, vacation allowance and parliamentary benefits equivalent to those of a Cabinet Minister.
GCCI President Lance Hinds
Opposition Leader David Granger
PNCR Chairman Basil Williams
Tallawahs heading to Antigua for CPL grudge match
Hawksbills to face defending champions today at 15:30h
The stage is set in Antigua for a mouthwatering clash between two Caribbean cricketing superstars, as Marlon Samuels and the Antigua Hawksbills face Chris Gayle and the defending Limacol Caribbean Premier League champions, the Jamaica Tallawahs, today at 15.30h at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
The hotly-anticipated grudge match will see the Hawksbills looking to bounce back from a narrow two-wicket defeat to the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the season’s opening game. Despite the defeat, there were encouraging performances for the Hawksbills, with Australian pair, Ben Dunk and Ben Laughlin both impressing, along with pace bowler, Sheldon Cottrell, who picked up three wickets.
Marlon Samuels’ team will be reliant on a passionate home crowd for the grudge match, particularly as the Tallawahs will travel to North Sound in confident mood after starting the defence of the title in emphatic form with a seven-wicket win over the St Lucia Zouks.
Captain, Chris Gayle, looks to have his swagger
well and truly back after blasting the first ever CPL century to finish with 111* from 63 balls, with ten sixes and five fours. Gayle will be
joined by a host of T20 stars, including Andre Russell, Jerome Taylor, Jermaine Blackwood, Daniel Vettori, Adam Voges, Rusty Theron
and Owais Shah.
The only way to catch the game live will be at the stadium, and the atmosphere is set to be buzzing as these two dynamic teams go head to head.
Sir Viv Richards, Antigua Hawksbills mentor, said; “It’s going to be a tough game, no doubt, but with home advantage and the backing of our passionate fans, we feel we can overcome the Tallawahs. Coach Nielsen and the team have been working hard in the build-up to the tournament, and fans can expect to see a good team performance on Thursday.”
Marlon Samuels, Antigua Hawksbills captain, said: “We had amazing support last year, and the fans created an awesome atmosphere, so we’re asking as many supporters as possible to get to the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and get behind the Hawksbills.”
The Tallawahs match is the first of three home games for the Hawksbills. On Saturday July 19, the visitors will be meeting Kieron Pollard’s Barbados Tridents, while Dwayne Bravo will bring the Red Steel to the island on Sunday July 20.
‘Get outrageous, get
extreme’ at Limacol CPL
‘Get outrageous, get extreme’ at Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2014, and be a winner! That’s the message the Limacol brand is sending to the cricket-crazy fans ahead of the Guyana leg of the Limacol CPL.
To win, fans simply have to don something “extreme and outrageous”, depicting the Limacol brand or any of the two teams playing on any given day.
Lavasti Bhooplall, the
Marketing Associate of NEW GPC Inc., the producers of Limacol, said the aim of the Limacol Cool Fan award is to get fans intricately involved in the whole excitement that is associated with the Limacol CPL.
“We will have our local management team at the ground and they will be looking for the fan with the most extreme and outrageous outfit or costume that portrays one of the two teams playing or the Limacol brand,” she
pointed out.
The fans who is judged to have best portrayed what the panel is looking for will be US$100 richer and will also have his/her claim to fame by being displayed on the massive screens that will be erected around the venues.
Andrew McKend, the Media and Marketing Officer of the Limacol CPL, highlighted that the promotion will not just take place in Guyana, but all the
Newcomer Neesham enjoying Limacol CPL experience
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
Anewcomer to the Limacol Caribbean Premier League, New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham says he is enjoying the experience of playing in the ‘Biggest Party in Sport.’
The Black Caps player, who featured in the recently concluded Test series against the West Indies, is wearing the colours of the Guyana Amazon Warriors this year.
The left-handed middle-order batsman and seamer had a decent outing in the first match against the Antigua Hawksbills, capturing 3-33 and scoring a brisk 11 in the Guyana Amazon Warriors two-wicket win in Grenada.
venues earmarked to host matches during the tournament.
“At every venue that is a match is being played Limacol will make available US$100 for the Limacol Cool Fan so we will have at the end of the tournament 30 Limacol Cool Fans,” McKend said.
So fans, be creative, be innovative, be outrageous, be extreme and become a winner in Limacol CPL 2014!
The performance launched Neesham into the Limacol Caribbean Premier League after he came in as a late replacement for fellow countryman, Corey Anderson.
“It’s been good so far; obviously to come away with a win in the first game of the season was what we were aiming for and [we’re] just trying to keep the momentum going to those next three games,” the 23-year-old said of his experience so far in the League.
Neesham did not have the best of starts in the League, being hammered for 29 runs
from 2.1 overs before pulling it back nicely during the last 1.5 overs, conceding just four runs and snapping up three wickets.
“There were a few balls from that spell that I would love to pull back, but I was a little bit rusty off not a whole lot of bowling so the rust sort of blew out and I got back into my work in the last two overs,” he explained.
Despite a tense two-wicket victory in the opening game against the Antigua Hawksbills in Grenada last Friday, Neesham is confident the Guyana Amazon Warriors will rebound with better performances during the sixteam franchise tournament.
“I think we’ve got a very good chance; the key will be to take it one game at a time, but saying that there’s a couple of strong team, but I think every team has players who can win games on their own…so it’s just a case of taking each individual game and hopefully that can take us into the business end of the tournament,” the all-rounder reasoned.
Given his experience and comeback performance in the first match, Neesham is sure to be among the starting XI today against Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel from 19:30h. It will be Neesham’s maiden match in Guyana, and he was questioned on his approach playing at the venue for the first time.
“I think just stick to the basics; we’ve had reasonably limited practice over the last couple of days because of the weather so it’s just a case of staying excited mentally and sticking to the same routine you have going into any game,” he said.
The powerfully-built Neesham has enjoyed success in the T20 format. After 38 games, he has a phenomenal strike rate of 146.91 and a decent average of 27.52. He has also picked up 30 wickets at an economy rate of 8.26. Neesham said he is looking to enjoy the Limacol CPL experience, but more importantly play his part in ensuring the Guyana Amazon Warriors go one step further and win the title this year, after finishing runner-up to the Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013.
Chris Gayle broke another cricket record in the shortest version of the game, when he smashed an unbeaten century in the Limacol Caribbean Premier League on July 12.
James Neesham came in as a late replacement for fellow countyman, Corey Anderson (Photo: CPLT20)
Limacol CPL tickets, Amazon Warriors merchandise in demand
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
Limacol Caribbean Premier League tickets and Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise were in high demand on Wednesday ahead of this weekend’s three games at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.
With the Amazon Warriors, Red Steel clash set to kick off the Guyana leg this evening, Guyanese flocked the OPCO CPL office to get hold of their tickets for the games here.
Persons have been constantly going to the venue ever since ticket sales started earlier this month, but Thursday’s build-up was a clear indication that
Guyanese were not going to miss out on the ‘Biggest Party in Sport.’
As news got around that limited tickets were now available, a line developed outside the OPCO office on Middle Street as patrons braved the hot sunshine just to ensure a valid form of entry for the games in Guyana.
“I was in the interior so I didn’t get a chance to come earlier and get tickets. I’m thankful that tickets are still available and I can go see all the games,” one patron told this publication.
Another fan, who was strong in his support of the Denesh Ramdin-led Guyana Amazon Warriors, said,
“I going to the Stadium to shout for one team and that is my own Guyana Amazon Warriors. We miss out last year, but this year we going all the way and win the title.”
Ticketing Officer of the Guyana leg, Natasha Khan, told this publication that a substantial amount of tickets have been sold for all three days.
She urged patrons not to wait on the last minute rush, as that does not guarantee them seats of their choice or the possibility of being grouped together with family and friends.
The prices for tickets are $2000 for Grass Mound, $4000 for the Red and
Green Stands and $5000 for the Orange Stand, renamed the Palm Court VIP Party Stand.
Meanwhile, as patrons got their tickets on Wednesday, they also used the opportunity to purchase their Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise, making it abundantly clear which team they will be rooting for on match days.
When Guyana Times visited the upper flat of the OPCO building, staff members were busy ensuring customers’ requests were met and they were adequately prepared to cheer on the Amazon Warriors.
Items on sale at very affordable prizes are replica Guyana Amazon Warriors jerseys, as well as branded caps, ladies and gents
shirts, limited edition coins, illuminated flags, drinking glasses, pins, back packs, whistles, bats and balls.
A female fan, who had just acquired her branded shirt and cap, was excited about T20 cricket coming to Guyana.
“We ain’t had any cricket here in a long time so it’s time we go out and celebrate. It’s 20/20 cricket so you could imagine what the atmosphere would be like because I’m sure the whole Stadium will be backing our boys to win all three games.”
During 2013, the Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise were a huge hit with the fans as the Guyana National Stadium was transformed to a sea of green and yellow.
Much of the same is anticipated during the three matches here this week, as fans have been taking full advantage of the opportunities being afforded to them to get their merchandise.
During the three days here, Guyana Amazon Warriors will take on Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel at 19:30h today, the St Lucia Zouks at 16:00h on Saturday and defending champions Jamaica Tallawahs at 16:00h on Sunday.
Ticket sales continue at the Limacol CPL OPCO Office, Middle Street. Tickets for the Palm Court Party (Orange) Stand are also available at both locations and at Palm Court all day.
Sunburst boost for karateka Nathalie Gibson
It is common knowledge that athletes leaving these shores for overseas competition have always found it difficult to raise funds to facilitate their ambitions of representing the Golden Arrowhead.
This, however, will not be the case with karateka Nathalie Gibson, who is destined to represent Guyana at the Caribbean Karate Diagaku set for Trinidad and Tobago on August 14-17.
Continental Group of Companies, through its Sunburst Orange Juice, is making it possible for Gibson, a seasoned high performer for Guyana to seek more glory for Guyana.
At the company’s Industrial site location earlier this week, Office Manager Ravi Brignandan handed over a cheque to Gibson that will cover her
airfare to the championship that will see eight countries participating.
Gibson, a member of the YMCA Dojo, disclosed that they are aiming to send at least 30 members to Trinidad.
Sunburst is no stranger to supporting sports in a sustained way. Football, table tennis and motor racing are some of the disciplines that have been benefitting over the years. Brignandan wished Gibson the best, noting that Sunburst has always been backing her and will continue to do so.
Gibson extended gratitude to Brignandan, Rakesh Puri (Managing Director, Continental Group of Companies), Percival Boyce (Company Secretary) and Khemraj Dhanraj (Sales/Marketing) for their continued support.
Guyanese braved the hot sunshine on Wednesday to get hold of their Limacol Caribbean Premier League tickets at the OPCO office on Middle Street (Photo: Carl Croker)
An Amazon Warriors fan ensure he gets the right size at the merchandise shop on Middle Street on Wednesday (Photo: Marceano Narine)
Office Manager of Continental Group of Companies, Ravi Brignandan, hands over the cheque to Nathalie Gibson in the presence of Percival Boyce (left) and Khemraj Dhanraj
Showdown at Providence!
‒ Guyana Amazon Warriors vs T&T Red Steel
By Rajiv Bisnauth
Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago have one of the best and most famous rivalries in regional cricket, despite the make-up of the teams and the format of the game.
Both countries, with matching firepower, will come face to face in game five of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League when Guyana Amazon Warriors take on Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel in what promises to be a high-voltage game tonight from 19:00h.
The Guyana National Stadium provides the neutral setting for a match that will really whet the appetite of the purist, despite neither side enjoying particularly good form despite having won their respective opening encounter.
Last year’s runnersup, the Amazon Warriors, saw off the spirited challenge of Antigua Hawksbills by two wickets last Friday in Grenada while the Red Steel easily disposed of the Barbados Tridents the following day.
In their three meetings from last year’s tournament, it is the Warriors who hold the upper-hand, winning two out the three games.
The last time these two arch-rivals met in such a tournament, the Warriors emerged triumphant by seven wickets. That game was played at the Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad on August 22, 2013.
The two sides met in two other games during that tournament, with both teams winning a game apiece. The Warriors drew first blood, winning handsomely at home by 19 runs, before the Red Steel scraped home by three runs in the return game.
Although history favours
the Warriors, on paper, there is very little to separate the teams. However, what makes the clash even more interesting is the emotion attached to it.
The Warriors lineup is boosted with four Trinidadians which could be the difference but despite that, it is expected that these two franchises will continue the tradition of intense rivalry as was the case when the countries met in last year’s tournament.
Conditions should play a key role in the contest and the amount of dew on the Providence sward tonight is likely to dictate how T20 mystery spinner Sunil Narine performs for the Warriors against the team representing the country of his birth.
Narine – not unexpectedly – is the most potent weapon against the Trinidadians. Narine has come in at various stages of an innings and has invariably delivered every single time – both through penetration and economy.
He is the undisputed leader of the bowling pack, but around him is a bunch of exceptionally driven and gifted individuals who are stars in their own right, so no matter what total their batsmen put up, they have the resources to successfully defend that score.
The local team’s fast bowling artillery consists of debutant Ronsford Beaton, New Zealand’s James Neesham, Jamaican Krishmar Santokie, along with the seam bowling pair of Christopher Barnwell, Lendl Simmons and Navin Stewart.
Test left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul, offspinners Mohammed Hafeez and Steven Jacobs are expected to play key roles. The Warriors’ batting strength is
Eformidable, with seven players from the squad with international game experience.
But looking to the opposing side, despite the presence of spinners Samuel Badree and Suleiman Benn, the visitors have arguably more fire power in the fast bowling department.
Captain of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Denesh Ramdin told media operatives on Wednesday at a press conference that the game will be an interesting battle, expecially the type of players both teams have at their disposal.
“Both teams won their first game, the mood has
“We were happy to won our first game, knowing that we didn’t play as well as we are capable of playing, we will be looking to execute much better and playing as well as we know the Warriors can play,” Harper stressed.
Captain of the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel,
Fidel Edwards and Shannon Gabriel will lead that department. Kevin Cooper, left-arm-seamer Delorn Johnson and Ireland’s Kevin O’Brian are all capable of seam bowling support.
The Red Steel batting line-up includes the Bravo siblings (Dwayne and Darren), Ross Taylor, Pakistan’s Nasir Jamshed, Nicolas Pooran, Jason Mohammed and Kevin O’Brien.
been good leading up to this game. Hopefully once we get it right tomorrow (today) it will be a very interesting game knowing the type of players both teams have; both teams are well balanced so the team that handles the pressure the best will come out on top,” Ramdin said.
Head coach, Roger Harper revealed that the Warriors will be looking to execute much better this time around.
Dwayne Bravo acknowledged that the Amazon Warriors will pose a big challenge for his team, but said his charges are confident and comfortable ahead of the clash.
“Both countries know the importance of the game. Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago always have mutual respect for each other. Both teams have very good players, both international and locals as well, so it will be a good game.”
“Yes the stats show that Guyana beat us 2-1, but at the same time it’s a new year, new season so at the moment both of us at some point in time tomorrow night (tonight) one of us will lose. It will be a good game; the people will see a contest between two very good cricketing nations”.
Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel, Head coach Simon Helmot acknowledged that playing Guyana at home is always a challenge but his charges are fully prepared and is looking forward to the contest.
Aggression aside, the key to the contest of equals would lie in how quickly both teams adapt to the pitch.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Palm Court, Ravindra Prashad, will present the Man of the Match award following the game. Palm Court has acquired full rights over the Orange Stand at the Guyana National Stadium and has since rebranded it the “Palm Court VIP Party Stand”. Guyana Amazon Warriors squad: Denesh Ramdin (captain), Sunil Narine, Robin Bacchus, Christopher Barnwell, Ronsford Beaton, Trevon Griffith, Martin Guptill, Steven Jacobs, Leon Johnson, Mohammad Hafeez, James Neesham, Veerasammy Permaul, Krishmar Santokie, Lendl Simmons and Navin Stewart.
Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel squad: Dwayne Bravo (captain), Samuel Badree, Sulieman Benn, Darren Bravo, Kevon Cooper, Fidel Edwards, Shannon Gabriel, Delorn Johnson, Kennar Lewis, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Nasir Jamshed, Kevin O’Brien, Nicolas Pooran and Ross Taylor.
Cook questions India as Jadeja charged Barcelona sign luis suarez
ngland captain Alastair Cook says India’s claim that James Anderson abused and pushed Ravindra Jadeja is designed to unsettle the bowler.
Anderson, 31, has been charged with misconduct following the alleged incident during the drawn first Test. “It’s probably a bit of a tactic by India,” Cook said. “We are surprised, but we can’t let it be a distraction.”
Jadeja, 25, has also been charged with an offence under the International Cricket Council’s code of conduct.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has sent a level two counter-allegation against Jadeja to the ICC. A level two offence carries a fine of 50-100% of the player’s match fee and/or a
potential ban of one Test or two one-day internationals.
Anderson is clear to play in the second Test at Lord’s as his case will not be heard before the match begins on Thursday. However, he faces a potential four-Test ban when he becomes the first England cricketer to go before an ICC judicial commission for his level three charge.
Asked if he thought India were trying to get Anderson banned, Cook said: “I think so. I think that’s pretty much where it’s come from.”
An ECB statement said Lancashire’s Anderson “categorically denies the accusations”.
Cook said: “No-one knew about it until after the game. It does seem a bit of a surprise that I got a text message and a phone call
on Monday afternoon. I literally hadn’t heard anything about it.” Cook added he would be “extremely surprised” if Anderson, second in the list of all-time England Test wicket-takers, was banned.
“In my eyes, he has never gone over the top on the field,” he said. “He’s an aggressive bowler who uses a bit of verbal to get him going and to make batting as uncomfortable as possible.
“Jimmy might have had one or two little minor incidents but, on the whole, he has been fantastic and I like to see that competitive edge.”
India captain Mahendra Dhoni dismissed the suggestion the complaint against Anderson had been tactical. “You can be aggressive, you can be vocal, but there are
certain guidelines and we should be following them,” he said.
The pitch for the first Test at Trent Bridge was criticised for being too slow and unhelpful to the bowlers. Only 29 wickets fell in five days as Anderson and England team-mate Joe Root set a new 10th-wicket world record with a partnership of 198.
Asked for his early impressions of the Lord’s wicket, Cook said: “It looks good. It has a nice cover of grass on. But it looked very similar 24 hours out from last month’s Sri Lanka game and turned out to be pretty flat. We’re hoping for a pitch that has a bit more bounce so we can have a bit more exciting cricket than Trent Bridge produced.”
Luis Suarez is now
“100%” a Barcelona player, the Spanish club has said. A £75m deal was agreed last week for the Liverpool striker.
The La Liga runnersup are not able to present Suarez to their fans as the Uruguayan, 27, is serving a four-month ban from football-related activity for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup. “He is 100% a member of the club,” Barca director of sport Andoni Zubizarreta told a news conference.
The striker will be ineligible to play for the La Liga runners-up or even to train
with his team-mates until late October, unless the appeal lodged with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) is successful.
Zubizarreta believes the former Ajax forward will be a “positive” acquisition. “We accept people here, imperfections and all,” he said. “I am sure Luis Suarez will be someone positive for us in the future.”
Suarez’s ban was the biggest in World Cup history, eclipsing the eight-game suspension given to Italy’s Mauro Tassotti for elbowing Spain’s Luis Enrique - now Barca boss - in 1994.
From left: Trinidad and Tobago’s Red Steel captain, Dwayne Bravo, Head coach Simon Helmot, Head coach and captain of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Roger Harper and Denesh Ramdin
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Tony Gallopin wins Tour de France stage 11
Frenchman Tony Gallopin, of LottoBelisol, won stage 11 of the Tour de France from Besancon to Oyonnax. Gallopin broke away with about 1.5km to go and stayed clear with German John Degenkolb claiming second place in a sprint ahead of Italian Matteo Trentin.
The top of the general classification leaderboard remained unchanged.
Astana’s Vincenzo Nibali
Dauphine last month and had been considered an outside contender for the Tour before its start, came close to being eliminated however. The American, suffering with an injured back, was left behind by the peloton with about 80km to go and stopped by the roadside for several minutes to discuss the possibility of abandoning with Garmin-Sharp manager Robbie Hunter.
Talansky continued in
five seconds after the victorious Gallopin. He is now more than 47 minutes adrift of Nibali overall.
Cannondale’s Peter Sagan had seemed well set as the day’s racing reached its final kilometres, but a stage win, to add to his huge lead in the green jersey standings, continues to elude the Slovakian. After a game attack by Irish Tinkoff-Saxo rider Nicolas Roche had been swallowed up, Sagan was in a threeman group that caught leader Gallopin with less than five kilometres to go.
Tinkoff-Saxo’s Michael Rogers and Omega PharmaQuick Step’s Michal Kwiatkowski both eased off the pace however, allowing Gallopin to attack again, reestablish his lead and claim his first Tour de France stage win.
Porte, Team Sky’s leader after 2013 champion Chris
keeps the yellow jersey as the overall leader - two minutes and 23 seconds ahead of Team Sky’s Richie Porte.
Garmin-Sharp team leader Andrew Talansky, who won the Criterium du
tears and, encouraged by shouts from the team car and spectators, completed the rest of the 187.5km (116.5 miles) course alone, finishing inside the time limit, but 32 minutes and
Froome’s withdrawal on stage five, said that it was a day in which he had “a lot to lose and not much to gain”, adding that he was looking forward to the first mountain stage on Friday.
Manny Pacquiao announces WBO welterweight fight with Chris Algieri
MPacquiao has announced that his next fight will be against undefeated American Chris Algieri. The bout, for the WBO welterweight title that
holds, has been scheduled for 22 November in the
anny
Pacquiao
Chinese enclave of Macau.
Former kick-boxer Algieri earned the fight by winning a split decision over
Ruslan Provodnikov in the WBO light-welterweight title fight last month. Pacquiao last fought in April when he defeated Timothy Bradley in Las Vegas.
The town of Oyonnax was hosting a stage of the Tour for the first time
Gallopin is one of four French riders in the top 10 of the general classification
Manny Pacquiao (right) will fight American Chris Algieri in November
All corners covered!
– Vyphuis on security arrangements for today’s Limacol CPL match
Security Manager of the Guyana leg of Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2014 George Vyphuis, DSM, speaking about security arrangements on the eve of the first match between Guyana Amazon Warriors and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, was adamant all corners were covered and it was now just a matter of execution.
Vyphuis said the support of the Guyana Police Force and private security has been critical in setting up a security network that includes traffic and stadium management. The former Commander of ‘A’ Division pointed out that the plan can only be effective if fans adhere to the guidelines that have been set out to offer a smooth and incident-free passage to and from the venue.
“From a security perspective, we’re set. However,
I want to advise persons to come to the ground early, get your seats and be comfortable. When you get there early you can find your seats more easily. What we want to avoid is people arriving late and making other people uncomfortable by passing in front of them and blocking them seeing,” Vyphuis advised.
Earlier this week the Guyana Police Force announced that special traffic arrangements have been
put in place, as seen necessary, between Houston and Providence, East Bank Demerara, in order to facilitate the smooth flow of traffic for the games.
Games will be played on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. The cricket matches are scheduled to commence at 19:00h on Thursday and 16:00h on Saturday and Sunday.
The special traffic arrangements will cater for three lanes of traffic going south towards the stadium – two lanes on the eastern carriageway and the eastern lane of the western carriageway. The western lane of the western carriage way will be used, as normal, by vehicles proceeding north towards Georgetown.
Traffic ranks will be in place to direct the flow of traffic during the periods when the special traffic arrangements are in effect and motorists are asked to cooperate.
Female Inter-County Tournament…. Demerara humble Essequibo by 374 runs
Acommanding century from captain June Ogle and incisive bowling propelled Demerara to a convincing 347-run victory over Essequibo in the opening round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Senior Female Inter County 50- over
tournament on Wednesday at the Everest Cricket Club, ground.
Set a mammoth target of 348, Essequibo crumbled for 17 in 11.5 overs, as Akaze Thompson (3-11), Leema Harris (3-5) and two wickets each for Hema Singh and
Latoya Smith ripped apart the innings with testing line and length bowling.
Daveena Gooberdan (4), Latoya Elexy (3) and Amrita Mohabir (1) were the batters to get off the mark.
Earlier, a stunning assault from Ogle and a half century from Kavita Yadram helped piled up Demerara’s huge total of 347-2.
Ogle slammed an unbeaten 162 in which she belted 14 fours from a mere 137 deliveries, while Yadram’s 52 came off 50 deliveries. Latoya Smith and Odessa Oneil supported with 45 and 42 respectively.
Sheneigh Calvan and Mayon Boson were the successful bowlers for Essequibo. The tournament continues today with Essequibo playing Berbice at the same venue. Following a rest day on Friday, Demerara will play Berbice in Round Three.
GMR&SC International Drag Race Meet… Ramchand aiming for
more success Sunday
The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) International Drag Race
Meet is set for Sunday at the South Dakota Circuit and reigning drag race champion
Anand Ramchand is looking to continue his dominance on the track.
The champ revealed that he will be powering four cars, including a Toyota Supra, Mitsubishi Evolution, Toyota Vitz and a Toyota Celica.
He said that while he expects the opposition to be better prepared this time, he too has done quite a lot of work on his machines to ensure that they perform to the maximum to guarantee his reign is not interrupted.
According to an official of the GMR&SC, Sunday’s programme will be attended by drag racers from Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago and patrons could expect exhilarating ac-
tion throughout the day as the locals attempt to represent home turf against the strong foreign invasion.
Ramchand promised the fans a day when existing records could be challenged and possibly bettered.
The Superbikers are also expected to add to the excitement and Stephen Vieira, Carlos Rodrigues and Carey Griffith will be looking to outdo each other as they battle for outright supremacy.
Additionally, race fans will have the opportunity to witness the Porta Tree Timing System which is equipped with specialised starting lights that allow quarter mile speeds to be recorded.
The day’s activities will commence at 09:00h and admission for adults is $1000, while children are $500 and vehicles free. Banks DIH Limited is the main sponsor.
George Vyphuis, DSM
June Ogle (left) and Kavita Yadram leaving the playing area after their unbeaten innings
Reigning Drag champion Anand Ramchand (right) with members of Team Ramchand
Port Kaituma are new Region One champions
In a bruising encounter between two evenly matched teams, the price for erring could be extremely costly as was experienced by defending Region
One champions Santa Rosa Secondary School (SRSS) in their zone final on Tuesday as a goal-keeper blunder resulted in their undoing.
As a result, Port Kaituma are now sport-
ing the title of Region One champions and have qualified for the national playoff after edging SRSS 1-nil at the Kumacka Playfield in Moruca.
Port Kaituma’s goal
came in the dying minutes of the game to silence the home crowd. SRSS did press on and looked capable of pulling off an equalizer but time was not on their side.
The goal came when the hero in the penalty kickout win against Marabuma, goal-keeper Imran James, fumbled the ball, causing an opposing player to tuck it in the back of the net.
The Port Kaituma players were ecstatic after their hard fought victory and now have the responsibility of shouldering Region One hopes in the national playoff.
van Gaal's reign as Manchester United Manager begins
Louis van Gaal’s reign as Manchester United manager began on Wednesday as he arrived at the club’s training ground for the first time. The Dutchman was appointed in May but has been in Brazil throughout the summer, guiding the Netherlands to a thirdplaced finish at the World Cup.
United returned for pre-season training on 4 July, with assistant Ryan Giggs taking charge in Van Gaal’s absence.
The 62-year-old, who was pictured at Carrington - where he met players and other staff, has been asked to rejuvenate United fol -
lowing last season’s disappointing campaign under David Moyes.
And Van Gaal has said he is aiming to instil the same team unity at Old Trafford as the Dutch side displayed in Brazil. “I hope the group in Manchester will become like this one,” said Van Gaal after the Dutch ended their World Cup with a 3-0 victory over the host nation in the third-place play-off game.
“We have to sing from the same hymn sheet.”
A United squad containing new signings Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw, bought in at a combined cost of £56m, head to the United States on Friday
for a five-match tour.
Van Gaal, who has won titles with Ajax, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and AZ Alkmaar, will take charge of a United match for the first time on 23 July against Los Angeles Galaxy, captained by Robbie Keane. United then face AS Roma, Inter Milan and Real Madrid in the International Champions Cup, which also features Liverpool and Manchester City. They play a fifth game in the US on Monday, 4 August.
Giggs, 40, took charge for four games at the end of last season following Moyes’ dismissal.
New champions of Region One- Port Kaituma Secondary School
Moyes was sacked 10 months into his six-year contract at Old Trafford.
The club were seventh in the table when he left and guaranteed to record their lowest points tally since the Premier League began.
Louis van Gaal (left) has held talks with Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward
Showdown at Providence! VS
Palm Court set to rock National Stadium
Cricket enthusiasts can not only look forward to being able to experience exciting cricket matches at the Guyana National Stadium but they can also look forward to the excellent and friendly services Palm Court is known for, providing they have tickets
for the Palm Court VIP Party Stand.
Palm Court on Friday June 27 signed an agreement with Limacol CPL OPCO (Guyana) Inc, to have the stand rebranded the Palm Court VIP Party Stand.
Tickets for the stand, where patrons can experience quality enter -
tainment, cost $5000 per person on each day.
In addition to the cricket, ticket holders can expect first class entertainment from the likes of Guyanese star Timeka Marshal and the “Rolly Polly” man, Mr Killa tonight, while James Bond and Five Star Akilo is on board
for Saturday. Reigning Soca Monarch, Kwace “Ace” Edmondson and Ola Kungi are set to take the stage on Sunday, the final game in Guyana.
In addition to excellent food and drinks, fans in the Palm Court VIP Party Stand can also expect to be treat -
ed to performances before the game, during the breaks, and also for a full hour after the games would have finished.
Ticket holders to the Palm Court VIP Party Stand are also entitled entry to the “All Out Party” at Palm Court on Main Street.
Patrons are being urged to grasp the opportunity to have exciting cricket and quality entertainment. Tickets can be purchased at Palm Court, Main Street, the Limacol CPL OPCO office on Middle Street, and the National Stadium all day.