Guyana Times Daily

Passengers disembark from the inaugural flight of Copa Airlines at CJIA on Friday (Carl Croker photo)

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, July 12 from 16:25h-17:55h

WEATHER TODAY

and 16:40h reaching maximum heights of 2.79 metres and 2.70 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 10:11h and 22:29h reaching minimum heights of 0.40 metre and 0.51 metre respectively.

saturday, july 12, 2014|

GuySuCo battling spiralling production costs

By Svetlana MarShall

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) continues to operate at a loss, despite more than 15 years of billions of dollars in investments.

Back in 1995, GuySuCo was producing sugar at a relatively high cost; today, the situation remains the same. From 1995-1996, the cost of production was US$0.23 per pound with the figures dropping to US$0.22 by 1997. When compared with production costs in Guatemala, the United States, NorthEast Brazil and India, the cost of producing sugar in Guyana is most unfavourable.

On Friday, when GuySuCo appeared before the Economic Services Committee at the Parliament Buildings,

chaired by

The high cost of production coupled with a history of poor profitability is linked to the Corporation’s inabil-

Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rajendra Singh disclosed that the cost of production stood at US$0.34 per pound of sugar. Recognising the high cost of productivity, Dr Singh assured the Committee that mechanisms are in place in the 2013-2017 Strategic Plan to reduce the cost of production to US$0.26 per pound.

But before reeling out the ambitious plans of the corporation, the CEO told

Greenidge, that the industry has a history of poor profitability. With the exception of 2006 and 2007, GuySuCo has operated at a loss for the past 10 years. After investing approximately $9 billion into the industry in 2005, GuySuCo recorded a profit of $476 million in 2006. In that same year, an additional $12.5 billion was pumped into the industry, raking in a profit of $630 million in 2007.

ity to meet its production targets. For the past three years, GuySuCo has failed miserably to achieve its annual targets.

Target surpassed Initially in 2013, GuySuCo had set an ambitious target of 240, 000 tonnes of sugar, but this figure was subsequently revised to 190,000 tonnes.

Despite this significant reduction, the industry fell

short in achieving the target. But according to the newly appointed CEO, 2014 will be the turnaround point for the industry. Dr Singh said GuySuCo will be breaking the tradition of reducing the initial targets, noting that this year the revised target will move from 216, 000 tonnes to 219, 000 tonnes.

In the presence of the Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, Dr Singh pointed out that the industry has surpassed the target set for the first crop by 5000 tonnes. During the first crop, the industry produced 79,995 tonnes of sugar with 139, 049 tonnes expected to be produced by the end of the second crop, taking the total tonnage to 219,045.

It was indicated that the production target for 2014 has been revised, but the other strategies laid out in the 2013-2017 Strategic Plan have remained intact. Similar charges are expected to be made for 2015 and 2016 when the Board of Directors comes into operation shortly.

the Committee

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Shadow Finance Minister Carl

APNU Shadow Finance Minister Carl Greenidge pays keen attention in the presence of other members of the Committee

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy delivers opening remarks during the Economic Services Committee in the presence of GuySuCo CEO, Dr Rajendra Singh (right) and General Manager of Agriculture Services, Raymond Sangster

Editor: Nigel Williams

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

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Editorial

Hassle-free movement

Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett was quoted in a June 1 article in Guyana Times as saying that free movement within the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has improved over the years, with more people reportedly migrating intra-regionally to find better opportunities.

Rodrigues-Birkett even went further to state that the free movement initiative in Caricom has been one of the “highlights” of the Community and offered clarity regarding the difference between free movement and hassle-free movement. We are not unmindful of the fact that as Foreign Affairs Minister, Rodrigues-Birkett automatically becomes a key officer within the Caricom structure, and perhaps she feels the need to defend the initiative of this institution.

But we in Guyana and those of our countrymen who have had to travel from time to time across the Caribbean would have a different view from that of the Minister. Caricom was founded upon the principle of integration, of which free and hassle-free movements ought to be key components. Fortyone years after the Treaty of Chaguaramas was signed in Trinidad and Tobago to bring into effect this body, the average Guyanese citizen is hardly ever able to travel hassle-free to some of our Caricom countries. The constant humiliation Guyanese and Jamaicans, in particular, have had to face when travelling to countries such as Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago has made a mockery of what the regional leaders had hoped to achieve with the implementation of the free movement mechanism.

Hassle-free travel refers to the freedom of Caricom nationals to travel “into and within the jurisdiction of any Member State without harassment or the imposition of impediment”. This is intended to foster a greater sense of community. It is also designed to encourage greater intra-Caricom tourism. Caricom has acknowledged that implementing hassle-free travel has not proven as easy as might be expected, but not much has been done to improve the system and make it work, except for the usual platitudes the long speeches on integration.

Only recently, this country at the highest level had had to take the fight to Barbados for its stance on free movement. Though there has been a softening up by the authorities in Bridgetown, largely due to the fact that not many of our citizens have been seeking employment in that country, owing to its weak economy, there still exist numerous cases that go unreported of Caricom citizens being hassled at these jurisdictions.

If nothing else, the landmark decision by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in the Shanique Myrie case delivered on October 4, 2013 should serve as a awake-up call to countries that preach free movement but do not practise it.

As the CCJ powerfully pronounced in its decision in favour of Jamaican Myrie, “If binding regional decisions can be invalidated at the Community level by the failure on the part of a particular State to incorporate those decisions locally, the efficacy of the entire Caricom regime is jeopardised and effectively the States would not have progressed beyond the pre-2001 voluntary system that was in force.”

If Caricom nationals in many of the Community’s states were to leave, the economies of these states would decline in myriad ways. Not only would they lose skilled and unskilled labour that they need, they would lose the taxes these people pay, the services they use such as rented houses, and the money they spend in the economy on items such as food, clothing, transportation, utilities, and medical care.

It is high time that we wake up out of our sleep and let that 1989 Grand Anse Declaration we often speak of begin to take root, that in “these critical times at every level of our society, in every area of endeavour, we enlarge our vision beyond our individual countries and assume the habit of thinking in regional terms”.

Former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister ANR Robinson said at that meeting, and we say now, “the time is propitious for major reexamination of where we have reached in our efforts at integration and of where we want to go”.

Power-sharing makes matters worse for black self-sufficiency (Part Two)

Dear Editor,

All threats from the AFC’s Moses Nagamotooo of a no-confidence motion only exposes and magnify his naiveté why he is no leader. The PNC only humours the AFC with more talks, it’s all show-off talk to gauge their plans. That no-confidence motion has died in the womb and the abortion of the confirmed douglah foetus is adding to the smell in Georgetown.

For power-sharing to work, it must be very clear what is being brought to the table by all sides. What does the trade unionist bring except needs and indeeds. Always in need, and with little to offer, we are sure to get the usual grandiose discharge. He will huff and puff and threaten “Ah going on strike soon because the damn PPP/C Government thieving out all the money, and none left for we”. Say what, brother?

Say what? Tell it like it is! Nothing can ever increase production than a good “make law, break law” garrulous gaffing under the banner of shape shifting trade unionism most anxious to point out what’s bad in Guyana. Condemning discrimination and violations of this and that proto-

col especially racial marginalisation most detestable, is sweet loud music from the huge stationary talking drums.

The TUC has forever failed to admit, and correct, its own misdeeds and racism directed at IndoGuyanese workers. Could some wise brother advance to be recognised by explaining why the GAWU, with the largest confirmed membership in Guyana and the entire Caribbean, has yet to be elected to the TUC Presidency in its entire history? In our democracy, no representative Indian trade unionist has ever been found to be qualified for that job.

Power-sharing is just an engineered sham to “get some” from whomever under threat to sanitise “dependency as fulsome equality” most fair; failing which the usual charges of racism most foul will be heard. That vaccine has long ago lost its potency.

In fact, any power-sharing Cabinet would definitely seek to legitimise forever entitlement dependency as priority. Furthermore, since all races would, out of obligatory necessity, get equal representation in the larger than life cabinet, Everyone

will be workers when everyone is also the boss.

The current nightmare gridlock in Parliament would become most geometrically tormenting. Everyone in the Cabinet will transform the utopia into the combined Executive and Legislature with Speaker Raphael Trotman “good for nothing”.

Should the PNC elect the good man as their leader –he is a familiar face among Indo-Guyanese despite all his faults – they can sharpen their image of reconciliation, demonstrate inclusiveness and exhibit a new PNC face to the electorate.

It is so obvious that the trade unionist himself does not believe that power-sharing will be effective, but rather it will only make Guyana worse. Mr Lewis must be reminded that the quest to win elections is no entitlement or guarantee to shared power in victory.

Since “power does corrupt and absolute power does corrupt absolutely,” no government can last forever in a democracy with guaranteed free and fair elections. We know who will be out sooner or later.

Those who believe they are quite capable of doing better must serious-

ly consider the fruitful route of federalism within a united Guyana. Mr Eusi Kwayana’s partition is still possible as the original preferred route of black magnificience. Runaway parallel progress as one people, one nation, one destiny in the same country will provide the impetus to become most successful, productive and self-sufficient for all. Even though we are now more culturally miscegenated with bigger diversity than our original six races, it will work because it has to. When the Constitution is again changed for the fourth time to accommodate federalism, the national anthem will also have to be adjusted. It must reflect the country’s reality that we are more than six races today. Within a federated Guyana, progress and individual successes will be set on a trajectory to end race acrimony because the four provinces will generate their own internal solutions better than the bequeathment of Britain’s banished bwanas. No to shared governance, yes to federalism or giddy up to partition, Kwayana style.

Sincerely, Sultan Mohamed

Wishes for a full recovery to Navin Chandarpal

Dear Editor,

The Alliance For Change (AFC) wishes Presidential Adviser on Sustainable Development, Science and Technology Navin Chandarpal a speedy recovery. The party prays that he be granted the strength to fight

against the ravages of cancer.

Mr Chandarpal has played a dignified role in the development of our country and his knowledge and political astuteness, his willingness to work with persons across the political divide is needed, especially at this time of our country’s development.

The AFC also prays for Mr Chandarpal’s family, especially for his wife Indra. May they be granted the strength to face the present challenge.

Sincerely, Alliance For Change

School children show their hands decorated with henna paste during a henna competition to mark World Population Day in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad, India, July 11 (Yahoo! News)

Divisions can be linked to outside intervention (Part One)

Dear Editor, Guyana has a long and painful history of outside interference that has drastically altered the political, social, and economic landscape of our beautiful country. Guyanese are still suffering from the adverse effects of this.

The continuous division of our people along racial lines, and the struggle for prosperity in a country with abundant natural resources, can be directly linked to outside intervention from governments that feel they know what’s best for us.

I was amused while reading a letter as the writer took a shot at columnist Peeping Tom, for agreeing with the Administration that the US Ambassador Brent Hardt crossed the “red line”.

The letter gave several examples of interference over the years to justify the US Ambassador’s meddling in our domestic affairs. While the writer’s knowledge of history is truly commendable, he cannot be trusted to give an honest, unbiased account of our political history in public, for fear of evoking the wrath of the PNC/APNU and his political base, that is, what’s left of it. For a former Prime Minister to declare that the Ambassador broke no rule and violated no protocol is downright dishonest and unpatriotic like all the others who chastised the acting Foreign Affairs Minister for standing up to outside aggression.

The biggest mistake

Desmond Hoyte has ever made, according to the writer, was to agree with Cheddi Jagan to allow former US President Jimmy Carter and his team to observe the 1992 General Election.

He expressed this opinion with the full knowledge that the PNC has never won a General Election in Guyana without rigging the votes. He knew the odds of the PNC, now calling themselves APNU, winning a free and fair election here are either slim or none.

But I wish the writer had done some research on CIA and British Intelligence declassified documents that clearly reveal how these great democracies collaborate to deny the constitutional rights of citizens of other countries that they are opposed to ideologically.

The former PNC Leaders Forbes Burnham and Desmond Hoyte were beneficiaries of this policy. The following transcripts were taken from declassified documents:

281. Memorandum From the President’s Special Assistant for National Security Affairs (Bundy) to US President John F Kennedy, Washington, July 13, 1962, Subject: British Guiana. Here is a paper from Dean Rusk, which comes out hard for a policy of getting rid of Jagan:

“[1]. It is a careful and thorough argument of one side. It has more energy than most State Department papers. These documents seem to me to demonstrate that

Jagan will indeed go the way of Castro, if he is not prevented. He would be weaker than Castro, because he is even more inefficient, but he would also probably be more easily controlled from Moscow.

“But while the papers make a clear case against supporting Jagan, or even trying to sustain peaceful coexistence with him, the case for the proposed tactics to be used in opposing him is not so clear.

“In particular, I think it is unproven that CIA knows how to manipulate an election in British Guiana without a backfire. My immediate suggestion is that when you have read this, we should have a pretty searching meeting on the details of the tactical plans, in which you can cross-examine those who are really responsible for their development.

“I do not think the Secretary of State should go to the British Ambassador with the proposed talking paper until we are a little more sure of our own capabilities and intentions. There is also a real question whether Dean Rusk is the man to talk with the British on this.

“The last time he told Home ‘we could not put up with Jagan’, the British simply dug in their heels. Since British support for an anti-Jagan policy would be the most powerful single force for its success, I think you may want to go all out with David yourself on this one.” McG. B.

282. Memorandum From the President’s Special Assistant (Schlesinger) to the

AFC silent on many issues involving party members

Dear Editor,

The Alliance For Change (AFC) in its usual wildness has said that Gail Teixeira should not speak of the AFC’s sexist remarks until she speaks of an allegation made by the former first lady. If we are to use the AFC’s logic that Gail Teixeira, having not spoken of the First Lady’s allegations cannot speak of the AFC’s blatantly sexist remarks, then the AFC would be denying itself the right to speak on many issues thus.

A High Court Judge held that there was a relationship between the Foreman of the jury and the AFC Chairman Nigel Hughes, who was the lawyer for the accused in the Lusignan Massacre that the AFC Chairman failed to disclose to the judge. In fact, that foreman has been banned from jury service but the AFC Chairman walks free. Therefore, the AFC should never again speak of corruption in the judiciary or indeed anywhere.

There were also major problems when the AFC Chairman sold a property to the owner of a popular city school. Then he also had problems with an insurance company. He was eventual-

ly forced to pass the property over to the school owner. Therefore, the AFC should never speak of robbery or theft by any other person.

In the case of the boy Twyon Thomas who was accused of murder of a Region Three resident, who was burnt on his genitals by the Police, Ramjattan led the people of Guyana to believe that out of the goodness of his heart and because of his love for human rights, he represented the boy in court.

However, it is now being alleged that Ramjattan de-

manded from the boy and his family more than one third of the money the court ordered to the boy. The AFC leader has never addressed these allegations. It, therefore, must never speak of greed.

I could go on and on. Because here is a party, the Alliance For Change, who hold themselves out to be pious but who have their own history and record of selfishness, greed and corruption.

Regards, Attiya Baksh

President’s Special Assistant (Dungan), Washington, July 19,1962, Subject: British Guiana. I return herewith the BG dossier.

“[1]. I agree with Mac’s memorandum and with my earlier memorandum [2] on the initial version of the plan (which I think you have). In short, I agree that there is no future in Jagan; and that the Burnham risk is less than the Jagan risk; but the CIA plan makes me nervous; [1 line of source text not declassified]. I also share Mac’s doubts as to whether the Secretary is the man to talk to Ormsby Gore on the subject. I would suggest that you bear down hard on two points:

“1) Does CIA think that they can carry out a really covert operation – i.e., an operation which, whatever suspicions Jagan might have, will leave no visible traces which he can cite before the world, whether he wins or loses, as evidence of US intervention?

“2) If we lose, what then? The present suggestions are pretty bleak – especially when our chances of winning are probably less than 50-50.” Arthur Schlesinger, Jr [3]. (Source: Kennedy Library, National Security Files, William H Brubeck Series, British Guiana, June 1-August 15, 1962. Top Secret).

Sincerely, Harry Gill

Editor’s Note: To be continued in Part Two.

Cricket mania provides opportunity to get nationwideinformation

Dear Editor, The Limacol Caribbean Premiere League (CPL) is here. And since the Caribbean Voice strongly believes in the multi sectoral approach to dealing with suicide and related issues, we strongly urge the Limacol CPL organizers, Limacol, cricketing authorities, and the Minister of Sports Dr Frank Anthony, to capitalize on this sports festival to get the messages out there.

There are so many ways in which this can be done: banners around the stadium, intermittent taped messages from sports stars and other Guyanese VIPs and celebrities interspersing the commentary, arm bands worn by the Guyanese team with an explanation provided by commentators, and sale of car stickers with anti suicide, anti domestic abuse and other related messages. Each set of sticker can carry a photo of a Guyanese team member.

There can be 30-second PSA’s by members of the Guyana cricket team to be played by local radio and

TV stations as a public service and team memberscan do media interviews talking about suicide, domestic abuse, teenage pregnancy and related issues. We are certain that the relevant authorities can come up with other measures. The point is that cricket mania provides a perfect opportunity to get the right information and messages out nationwide.

Sincerely Norkah Carter Devv-Ramdas Daniel Judy Deveaux Annan Boodram Bibi Ahamad Collis Nicholson

School’s out, exercise is in GuySuCo battling...

BY STEPHANIE CAJIGAL

For most children, there’s really nothing quite like the end of the school year. Classes, homework, and any formal schedule are pretty much done, and the biggest concern is figuring out what to do with all that free time. Though lazing around in front of the computer or television is a common free time activity, studies show that sedentary children are likely to experience unhealthy summer weight gain. Getting your children to exercise may be a challenge, but you can motivate them to get moving with these expert tips.

Dangers of sedentary summer activities

guidelines issued by the Federal Government last year recommend that children and young adults get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day.

it on, and go outside for a walk, play catch, shoot some baskets, take your dog for walk – that’s always a good breath of fresh air that helps everybody,” Dr Fulton says. Create structure

Paediatricians, physical educators, and health experts say too many children choose to fill up their lazy summer days with sedentary activities like playing video games and watching TV rather than with activities that force them to exercise. In fact, a study published in 2007 in the American Journal of Public Health reported that the body mass indexes (BMI) of more than 5000 kindergartners and first graders increased by almost twice as much during summer break as compared with the school year. Weight gain and increased BMI can lead to health problems for your children in youth as well as into adulthood.

Experts recommend 60 minutes of exercise every day

But helping your children stay fit doesn’t mean subjecting them to tedious treadmill workouts. “One of the things we try to emphasise is instead of having physical activity looked at as this thing you have to do, make it a reward,” says Janet E Fulton, PhD. “Use it as an incentive to say, ‘Okay, if you do this thing I want you to do, then ok lets go for a swim or let’s go for a walk or for a bike ride.’”

Dr Fulton points out that health

pretty good example of moderate intensity,” she explains, “whereas jogging might be more indicative of vigorous activity.”

Seven ways to keep your children active this summer

Granted, getting your children to do anything for a full hour can be a challenge. But experts say you can motivate them to get moving with the following tips. Turn off the tube

Limit your children’s television viewing to only about two hours a day. Then incorporate physical activity during their television time. Joanna Faerber, who won the 2009 National Elementary Teach of the Year award from the National Association for Sport and Physical Education for her work at the LSU Laboratory School in Baton Rouge, LA, suggests another way to sneak activity into your children’ day: Tell them to do jumping jacks during commercials.

(Make it a game or a contest.)

Make exercise a family affair

Does most of your family time involve watching American Idol or cartoons? Set a new routine. After all, children learn by example. “When you’re finished eating dinner, instead of sitting around and watching TV, turn it off, or don’t even turn

Obviously, you don’t want to burden to your children with too much rigidity during summer break, but planning some activities ahead of time can prevent them from being tempted to sit around the house all day, says Mary Lou Gavin, MD, medical editor for ChildrenHealth.org and a paediatrician at the duPont Hospital for Children. Dr Gavin recommends enrolling children in summer camp or just setting a time each day for when they should go outside and play. Being outdoors can be a burden on really hot days so Dr Gavin suggests planning your children’ downtime when the sun is at its peak.

Check out free day camps

Lots of community organisations offer day camps during the August holidays r that keep children active for little or no cost. Faerber and Dr Gavin recommend looking into programmes offered through local churches or non-governmental organisations. Day camps also offer children who don’t have the luxury of a yard a safe place to play with friends.

Make it fun

“When you ask children why they’re physically active or what they like about it. They’ll say ‘I like it because it’s fun,’” Dr Fulton explains. She recommends offering children a variety of activities so that they learn skills they can use to compete in organised sports when they grow older. “There’s also a lot of other things you could learn about the cognitive aspects of keeping score and strategy, and that comes much more into play as children get older,” Dr Fulton says. Try swimming and bike riding for younger children and summer sports like baseball and tennis for older ones.

Keep toys handy

Dr Gavin recommends keeping a stash of balls, racquets, jump ropes, hula hoops and such in your garage to guarantee your children will always find something to do.

(www.sheknows.com)

Greenidge, with support from his Committee members, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament (MP) Manzoor Nadir and APNU’s Desmond Trotman, said GuySuCo before appearing before the Economic Services Committee, should have submitted the revised Strategic Plan.

Nevertheless, the CEO reiterated that the changes being made to the targets would be a step in the right direction. He said while production and operation costs appear unfavourable at the moment, steps are being made to reduce costs.

Mechanisation

In keeping with the 20132017 Strategic Plan, Dr Singh said GuySuCo is accelerating its Mechanisation Programme to cushion the impact of a dwindling labour force. Gradually, sugar workers are downing their tools as they seek to capitalise on emerging commercial activities that are transforming Guyana’s economic landscape. Back in September 1995, GuySuCo’s labour force stood at 24, 000, but today is has dropped to 16, 000. The worrying situation in the labour market has left the Corporation no other choice than to find alternative means of producing sugar. It has already moved to mechanise 30 per cent of the 48,000 hectares of fields. “In 2014, we have approximately 14, 000 hectares of land that we can reap mechanically. The strategic plan calls for us to reap mechanically, an additional 8 000 hectares until 2017.”

It was pointed out that for the first time in the history of sugar production in Guyana, the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate will operate partially via a mechanised process. Dr Singh explained that for the first crop of 2014, less than 50 per cent of the labour force turned out for work, with the majority turning to agricultural, mining and the construction sector for employment. In addition to mechanisation, he said the corporation has been working closely with private farmers, explaining that GuySuCo has leased 1000 hectares of land to private farmers, who for the first time delivered cane to the factory. The CEO further disclosed that the corporation is hoping to lease another 500 hectares of land before the end of this year.

“Now what does that mean, it relieves us of investing some of our capital for conversion, for cultivation, for harvesting and in the meantime, we are getting revenues from the lease… but most importantly, we are getting additional cane,” he added.

This model, he explained, has been successfully implemented for a number of years at the Wales Estate, where private farmers are working closely with the corporation. At that estate, 40 per cent of the sugar is provided by private farmers.

Biofertilisers

In its pursuit to reach the production cost, the CEO disclosed that come this second crop, GuySuCo will introduce the use of biofertilisers.

“It is a process that we would use biofertilisers mix with filter mud which comes out of our factories and we will apply that. We have purchased enough bio-fertilisers to use on every estate of 50 hectares,” he said.

Bio-fertiliser is a substance which contains living micro-organisms, which when applied to seed, plant surfaces, or soil, colonises the rhizosphere and promotes growth by increasing the supply or availability of primary nutrients to the host plant.

However, when mixed with the filtered mud, the combination would produce nitrogen. This combination would be used alongside the traditional mineral fertiliser for a comparative analysis. But according to the CEO, the use of bio-fertiliser will bring the cost spent on fertiliser down by 50 per cent, pointing out that $15 million is spent annually on fertiliser. If the pilot project reaps favourable results, GuySuCo will be looking to establish a laboratory here to produce bio-fertiliser to avoid importation. It will cost the Corporation approximately US$2.5 million to set up the lab. Biofertiliser is widely used in the US and India, among other developed and developing nations.

Water sector to fulfil Govt's Manifesto promises – Ali

Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali said Government has made significant investments in the water sector to ensure that all Guyanese have access to an acceptable supply of potable water.

This, he said, is being achieved through the upgrade of distribution systems, installation of transmission mains, improved service connections, metering, and the construction of new boreholes and new networks.

Ali said, in a statement, that these are the tangible results of promises made in the 2011 Manifesto of the

ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

He added that more water treatment plants would be constructed along coastal regions, while boreholes and wells would also be installed where needed, the hours of access will be increased in those areas with less than 24 hours coverage, and the solar-driven water systems in the hinterland would be expanded.

In the area of sanitation, he said the Georgetown Sewer System is being upgraded with increased support for solid waste disposal systems, particularly at the community level. The

John Street mechanic charged for dumping old cars on roadways

AJohn and Milton Streets mechanic was earlier this week charged for allegedly dumping a number of derelict vehicles along the roadways between May and June this year.

Mark Chester appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday and was placed on $10,000 bail after pleading not guilty. Guyana Times was told that the Litter

hicles on the Government’s reserves at the said location. According to reports, he was made aware of the litter regulations of the Environmental Protection Act and the various fines if not complied with. Guyana Times was told that Chester between May 16 and June 13 was issued two clean-up orders and one litter removal order as a result of not fully complying with the former.

More so, photograph-

Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had received a formal complaint from a concerned citizen residing in John Street with regard to derelict vehicles being improperly disposed along the street. Chester is a mechanic by profession and operates a business at John and Milton Streets.

On May 16, Chester was contacted and allegedly took full responsibility of having placed four derelict ve-

most recent intervention is the US$31,676,500 Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure Improvement Programme, which is being funded by the Inte-American Development Bank (IDB) and the European Union (EU).

The general objective of the programme is to improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability of the potable water services in Regions Three, Four and Six, and improve sanitation infrastructure in Georgetown and areas stretching from Cornelia Ida to De Kinderen, inclusive of villages such as Leonora, Uitvlugt, Stewartville; from Diamond to Herstelling and from Good Banana Land/ Sheet Anchor to Number 19 Village in Region Six.

Improved quality, pressure

The specific objectives are to: improve pressure, quality and continuity of the water supply service; and reduce the level of NonRevenue Water (NRW) in the programme areas, which

will ultimately result in improved level of service. Presently, the NRW level is above 60 per cent in the coastal areas and above 70 per cent in Georgetown. The programme targets include reducing NRW to 50 per cent in the programme areas, improving access to adequate sanitation in the programme areas and strengthening GWI’s operational performance and infrastructure management.

The programme is expected to benefit in excess of 55,000 households, 38,000 of them in Georgetown, 6440 in Region Three, 6756 in the greater Region Four, and 4580 in Region Six, with a per capita investment of nearly $30,000 per person.

The specific outputs are: construction of three new water treatment plants at Uitvlugt, Diamond, and Sheet Anchor; expan-

sion of two existing water treatment plants in Georgetown (Sophia and Central Ruimveldt); rehabilitation of one existing treatment plant in Georgetown at the Shelter belt; upgrade of nearly 20,000 service connections; upgrade of 1000 pit latrines to efficient septic tanks, and the replacement and installation of 70 kilometres of transmission and distribution mains in the programme areas.

The Water Minister said the completion of this programme will increase access to treated water in Guyana to 60 per cent in terms of coverage, which is part of the GWI Strategic Plan and Government’s commitment within the 2011 manifesto for the construction of new water treatment plants along coastal regions in addition to the expansion of the solar-driven water systems in the hinterland which is ongoing; and an upgrading of the Georgetown Sewer System, which is in its completion phase.

ic shots of the location and derelict vehicles were taken.

On June 27, Chester’s business place was revisited and it was observed the said notices were not fully complied with, as a consequence he was charged for failing to comply with a clean-up order under section 24 (5) and failing to comply with a litter removal order under section 9 (4) of the Environmental Protection Act of 1996. He will return to court on July 29 for trial.

Vehicles allegedly belonging to Mark Chester stored on Government’s reserve

Auto parts on the reserve

Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali

Guyanese nabbed in mega cocaine bust

AGuyanese woman was among two persons arrested following the discovery of 480 kilograms (1050 pounds) of cocaine in Antigua earlier in the week.

The identity of the Guyanese woman was not immediately released to the media, but according to reports from the Caricom country, it is the biggest bust in recent times.

According to information received, the 41-yearold woman and an Antiguan national were taken into custody following the bust made by the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP). The seizure was made earlier in the week.

The total cost of the cocaine is estimated at Eastern Caribbean (EC) $17 million, or G$1.2 billion. The couple was expected to make a court appearance earlier today.

Additional news coming out of Antigua stated that

the bust follows the seizure of approximately 2300 pounds of cannabis with an estimated street value of EC$37 million and the arrest of six Jamaicans. They are awaiting trial in the Antiguan High Court.

It was also stated that this seizure was the largest by Caribbean law enforcement agencies in recent times.

In 2010, the ONDCP seized over 900 kilos of cocaine from three Columbians and a Venezuelan.

At the conclusion of the trial, the Captain of the vessel received 14 years imprisonment and a record fine of EC$385.6 million.

In congratulating the agency on the latest seizure, Prime Minister Gaston

Brown has reaffirmed his new administration’s zero tolerance policy as it relates to issues of drug trafficking, and related crimes.

Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy Director Edward Croft said he was pleased with the agency’s work, particularly over the past six months.

Eccles man wanted for Diamond drug bust

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) on Thursday evening issued a wanted bulletin for 44-year-old Reginald “Reggie” Brown of 269 “BB” Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD) for ques-

tioning into the recent drug bust at Diamond, EBD on Monday.

Thus far, one man, Dexter Daniels, 45, of Kara Kara, Linden was charged with possession of narcotics following the discovery

of over one tonne of cannabis in a vehicle in yard in Diamond.

CANU during an operation in Diamond New Housing Scheme, EBD, unearthed 1227 kilograms of Jamaican marijuana in a

Canter truck. The street value of the find was estimated at $216 million.

Based on information received, CANU acting upon information, conducted a search on the house in the vicinity of the third bridge where several bags of dried marijuana were found in a vehicle wrapped with black plastic.

Initially, the ranks thought it was garden soil used for farming purposes, but upon checking, the large quantity of cannabis was discovered.

Meanwhile, CANU also discovered 4.2 kilograms of cocaine in another house in the said area. During the operation, the CANU ranks also seized over $1 million in cash.

CANU at the time was working on the theory that the two seizures might be connected as they continue their investigations.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Brown is asked to contact CANU on telephone number 227-3507. All information will be treated with confidentiality.

Eyew tness

A...AFC on women

week ago, the AFC Councillor of Region Two, after imbibing for about six hours – according to the Police and other eyewitnesses – stripped himself to the BONE in front of hundreds of men, women and children on the Public Road in Essequibo. This was not just “indecent exposure”; this was an affront to all decent-minded citizens of this country. The public nakedness took the call for “transparency” in politics to grotesque levels.

But not only was this reprobate not reprimanded, but AFC’s leader, Khemraj Ramjattan actually COMPLIMENTED the wanker. Compare this to their hysterical condemnation of Minister Mancikchand for daring to tell the US Ambassador some home truths about poking his nose in our internal affairs. And traducing all the norms and rules of diplomacy. But the AFC’s tirade in defence of the US Ambassador overstepped a red line with their comparison of Manickchand to “Sitira Gyal”. (It’s not “Sitara Gyal”, wankers!!)

The old ditty, of course, is known to one and all: “Wan day me bin a Bamboo Dam/ And me see Sitira lay down deh/ And me ask Sitira wha she do deh/ Sitira lif up she clothes and wine like a Buxton boar./ Oh Sitira mo man deh, Sitira mo man deh.” So unlike their Councillor, who literally dropped his pants (and bukta), Manickchand’s defence of Guyana’s honour is compared to that of a wild pig in heat, wining on the ground as she lifts her skirt, seeking “maan”.

Now in all fairness to the AFC, let’s ask once again: in which part of Manickchand’s 10-minute speech from a prepared text, did she behave like a “boar in heat”? Was it when she reminded the Ambassador of their destabilisation of the PPP Government in the 1960s as proven by their own declassified documentation??

So the AFC would want to pretend the CIA incited riots resulting in this country irretrievably split down the middle, never happened?? Especially when all the signs point to their proxies preparing for a sequel in the present?? That the Ambassador didn’t insult the President? The AFC’s response doesn’t just expose what everyone always knew – that they’d sell their mother and their motherland to serve the interests of anyone –once they get their 30 pieces of silver.

It exposes also their misogynistic attitude. They’d given short shrift to the late Sheila Holder, abused Gomattie Singh, belittled a female doctor in Berbice and kept the top tier leadership reserved for men who drop their pants at the drop of a hat.

But aren’t like pigs in heat!!

...ex-AFC on PNC

There’s no stopping the wild-eyed enthusiasm of the new convert. Take the ex-AFC troglodytes Flower Boy Ramsaroop and Donkey Cart Economist Khemraj. They’re so besotted with Granger and the PNC, they’ve taken on the task of rehabilitating Hoyte and Burnham, a task that would’ve even daunted old Hercules, who cleaned a 100 years of accumulated horse-sh*t from the Augean Stables.

But with all the bull-sh*t the dyspeptic duo’s spreading, we think Hoyte and Burnham’s names will remain mud for a very long time. Take their denigration of Dr Jagan – so that their new heroes can appear less nauseating – that the great man didn’t bring Clive Thomas into the Government after 1992. So even though it was the WPA that vetoed the Jagan invitation to Thomas means Jagan’s to blame??

And as for Constitutional reform...what the hell was the Constitutional Reform Commission of 2000 all about???

Hell, even their beloved PNC participated. They got the insulting “Minority leader” designation decreed by Burnham, changed to “Opposition Leader”. Where they’ll remain till “thy kingdom come”.

...Granger on women Granger isn’t one to let the AFC beat him on defending the US Ambassador. He said Minister Manickchand was “crass and vulgar”. Not so his General Secretary, who violently wrenched a key from Vanessa Kissoon’s hands??

A Guyanese woman was among two persons arrested following the discovery of 480 kilogrammes of cocaine in Antigua earlier in the week

Reginald “Reggie” Brown

Motive a mystery in Lusignan teen’s murder

Police of C Division are working on a few leads as they continue their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of 18-year-old Ashminie Hariram of Lot 9, B Lusignan Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara.

Initially, the matter was being treated as a robbery/murder, but a Police source explained that they have shifted gears and is treating it as a cold-blooded murder.

He explained that based on information received during their investigation, the car from which the shooter fired was reportedly parked some distance away from the teenager’s home.

The source further stated that it was established that the shooter would have had possession of Hariram’s mobile phone when he shot her. While they are still working on the motives for the shooting, he said that mistaken identity was definitely ruled out.

“This person knew his target… he apparently took away the phone as a distraction…

why would someone kill someone for a cheap phone,” he questioned.

He also stated that relatives of the dead teen need to furnish them with the correct information, claiming that one time the car was described as burgundy and the other time it was red.

In additional, he said information received revealed that the teenager was due to tie the knot later in the year, and this might have sparked some conflicts.

Hariram’s mother Khemwattie Somwaru explained that her daughter was seeing someone from her son’s place of employment about a month ago. She explained that the young man would visit his relatives who reside in the area and her daughter would meet him from time to time.

Baffled

The woman said that both parties were in love, but a decision was not taken with respect to marriage and more so, she was not sure that her daughter had a previous relationship. In tears, she too stated that the manner in which her daughter met her demise is still baffling.

She recalled seeing her daughter’s motionless body on the roadway with a single gunshot wound in the neck. Since the incident, she has been trying to get information from the person who was with her, but to no avail.

“She tell us that she nah get to see the man (shooter) … that she get confuse after the shooting.”

However, the person has given a description to the Police about the shooter. “Manisha”, a cosmetologist, who operates from home, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital around noon on Thursday after she was shot once by an unknown man.

She was reportedly returning home from Georgetown with a cousin when a man emerged from a car parked along the railway embankment, snatched her mobile phone and then shot her once. A glimpse of the registration number of the car driven by the perpetrator was not possible.

CAL is official airline for Limacol CPL 2014

Caribbean Airlines (CAL) is the official airline of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2014 cricket tournament which commenced on Friday.

The event is expected to be hosted throughout the Region and will see six exciting Caribbean-based teams battle for supremacy. The tournament is expected to be played at the various stadium grounds in Grenada, Antigua, Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad, St Lucia, St Kitts and Jamaica.

The airline in a release stated that this is the first year it has come on board as the official airline of the tournament. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael DiLollo said the relationship between Limacol CPL and Caribbean Airlines will be a strong one, as they provide airlift for the teams and fans.

As the official airline of the tournament, players and sport enthusiasts alike will be able to connect to any match location, via key Caribbean destinations, the CEO added.

“When you look at the challenges of holding a major international sports league across the Caribbean islands,

it becomes obvious that the most strategic partner for any such event is the airline. With that in mind we are delighted to have Caribbean Airlines onboard as official airline of the [Limacol] CPL,” Limacol CPL Commercial Director Jamie Stewart said. He added that whether it be in terms of getting the players across the region as part of their hectic playing schedule, or making sure that fans can follow their teams as they progress, Caribbean Airlines has a important role to play and Limacol CPL is delighted to have their support. CAL encourages all cricket fans to book their travel early either through its website www.caribbean-airlines. com or via its reservations call centre at 1-800- 744-2225 (toll free within the Caribbean) or 868-625-7200 (Trinidad and Tobago).

Two on the lam after marijuana, ammo find in Berbice

Two men are on the lam following the discovery of a quantity of ammunition and cannabis on Friday at Sheet Anchor, East Canje, Berbice.

According to information received, Police acting on information went to a camp in the area mentioned above where they found a 178 12 gauge shotgun cartridges and 5.5 kilograms of marijuana.

Based on reports received, the men escaped upon seeing Police approaching the area. The cannabis and the ammu-

Ashminie “Manisha” Hariram

nition were collected and taken to the New Amsterdam Police Station where it was weighed.

The Police are on the lookout for the men as they continue their investigations.

The find unearthed at Sheet Anchor, East Canje, Berbice

Airlines Chief Executive Officer Michael DiLollo

Digicel plugs $2M into Guyana Festival

As the countdown to the inaugural Guyana Festival continues, more corporate entities continue to come on board to support the event. Digicel Guyana on Friday donated the sum of $2M to the Ministry of Tourism in support of this promising event.

The Guyana FestivalSound, Soul and Taste, is slated for August 8 to 10 at the Guyana National Stadium, and is expected to offer a mixture of the country’s traditional music and dance, along with the exhibition of local food, art and craft.

This exciting event is aimed at bringing optimum awareness to the country’s diverse cultural heritage along with advertising the country’s tourism products locally, re-

gionally and internationally.

Minister of Tourism (ag) Irfaan Ali during his brief remarks welcomed the company on board, while highlighting that the Ministry has always received tremendous support from the entity. Minister Ali also highlighted that this festival is aimed at bringing the country and its people together. “This is exactly what we expect the festival to do, bringing our country together, celebrating together, dancing together, singing together, eating together, playing together, drumming together ...”

Advertising and Sales Manager, of Digicel Guyana, Alexis Longhorn said that the company is very pleased to be on board with the Ministry as it is always looking at

ways of giving back. She added that this is the opportunity for Guyanese to come out and support their local talent and explore their culture. The opening ceremony on Friday, August 8, will feature a fusion of Guyanese cultures comprising various dramatic performances highlighting dramatic groups, and craft, dance, poetry and painting.

On Saturday, August 9, there will be the spectacular Night of Legends Concert which will feature renowned local artistes who will be entertaining the gathering with classic oldies. Another interesting aspect of this event is the Guyana Festival cricket match, which will see the Masters Team come up against the President’s XI. (GINA)

More hell from G-Pee-Hell

Every time de weather change lil bit, G-Pee-Hell does start to give people hell. High, low or no voltage is de same hell wid G-Pee-Hell. Finally, de G-Pee-Hell Boss Man admit that dem got problems… serious problems…serious pole problems. And is not fuh de first time. So this Boss Man accustom to pole problems.

But he is also not de first or only Boss Man who got pole problems. Another Boss Man who does insist that he House Slave call he Boss Man also got pole problems a long time now. In fact, he pole outta power so long that one time he try to huff a transformer to mek it wuk.

Well, de huffin was from de same G-PeeHell that got pole problems, so is no wonder that Boss Man still got pole problems. And all of that huffin and pole problems was happenin right in de same street in GT.

De other day, de G-Pee-Hell Boss Man seh that de company got five different kinda pole problems: poles in some places too

short, poles in some places not strong, some poles fallin down, some poles not goin in de holes (that is, in de ground, in case yuh tinkin warp), and some places ain’t got no poles at all. And that is a terrible ting; just ask another Boss Man, de Cee-Hen-S Boss Man.

That sound very much like de man (or so he does look) from Essequibo who drop he pants in front of a whole crowd of people. G-Pee-Hell shoulda start usin he fuh dem mascot because he got all de same pole problems like dem. De very minute he pull down he pants, de whole crowd realise he got problems with shortness and strongness.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend… mattie tell mattie! Plus people seh it look like every ting was fallin down. So that means he gon always get problems wid holes. And when any body get dem kinda problems, is just like if dem ain’t got any pole. Which is why de crowd was askin if he real name is Nate or Natalie.

Sharma, Kissoon seen as PNCR upstarts ...new Region 10 Coordinator says

BY UTAMU BELLE

Amid the deepening leadership rift in the People’s National Congress Reform’s (PNCR) heartland, newly-appointed Coordinator of the party’s Region 10 activities Sandra Adams has accused Parliamentarian Vanessa Kissoon and Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon of stirring up tension and misleading members.

Kissoon is in a fight with the party’s Leader David Granger over her suspension due to an alleged confrontation with General Secretary Oscar Clarke. Observers believe the real fight is between Granger and Aubrey Norton who will challenge him for the leadership post at the upcoming Congress. Both Kissoon and Solomon are loyal to Norton who has been sidelined by Granger.

Meanwhile, Adams, whose recent appointment has been met with resentment by some of the party officials in Linden, said she was appointed following a decision by the Central Executive Committee.

In an effort to clear the air over the issue involving Kissoon and party General Secretary Oscar Clarke, Adams claimed that Kissoon

and some members of her team were very vocal and had verbally abused Clarke when he visited the Region 10 party office in Linden on March 26, to hand over the said office to her.

The Coordinator noted that there is only a small fraction of party members who object to her elected position as Coordinator. Adams, who noted that she has been working with the party for the past 29 years, said she had also served as Regional Party Chairman.

“A few of the members, a little fraction are the ones who object (to her position as Co-ordinator). They were personally misled by the Regional Chairman and Vanessa Kissoon. They’re in ignorance of party structure and procedure. The RDC Chairman does not know his position. I was appointed by the Central Executive Committee of my party to serve as Regional Coordinator. Region 10 has been out of a party structure for the last eight years, whether interim or full structure,” Adams said.

Solomon unaware

She said Sharma seems not to understand the difference between Regional Party Chairman and RDC Chairman. “Nobody knows of Kissoon’s appointment as Coordinator. I can say that all positions we are serving are elected and selected. I am selected for my position,” she noted.

A PNCR press release issued on July 10 stated that the appointment of Adams, a former member of the National Assembly and former Chairperson of the Party’s Upper Demerara-Berbice region as Co-ordinator was discussed and determined at several meetings and was approved and authorised by a meeting of the Central

Executive Committee. The party said Solomon was invited to attend the meetings although he is not an elected party officer of the region. The release also stated that it was evident from the outset that certain persons resented Adams’ appointment and resisted attempts to allow the Coordinator to be given access to the party’s office. Adams noted that she had a meeting with Solomon some time ago in which she had offered assistance for Region 10, but such was refused by the RDC Chairman. Adams said she had also engaged the Region 10 Chairman to establish a Regional Committee, but to no avail. Adams refuted claims that she is Granger sympathiser, noting that she has always been close to leaders of the party.

“I just want people to understand that the party has a Constitution because in any organisation, you must be governed. Linden is my heart. People are being misled, they need to have accurate information and not follow propaganda,” she noted. Meanwhile, Kissoon on Friday said that she will release an official statement regarding the issue today.

Advertising and Sales Manager, of Digicel Guyana, Alexis Longhorn handing over the $2M sponsorship cheque to Minister of Tourism (ag) Irfaan Ali for the inaugural Guyana Festival

APNU MP Vanessa Kissoon

Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon

No sign of missing Brooklyn woman Region Two to name, shame tax defaulters

Dale Browne, husband of missing Brooklyn, New York woman, Chinelle Latoya Browne on Friday said the body of the dismembered female found at Long Island is not that of his wife, but confirmed that investigators are continuing their search for the missing woman.

The man said he was surprised with the irresponsible journalism that is being practised by certain sections of the media, claiming that the matter is a sensitive one and should be respected.

Browne explained that he has been in constant contact with detectives in the US who are frequently updating him on any developments.

As of today (Friday), he stated that there is no trace of his missing wife, but the Police are questioning several persons, including the landlady. It is believed that the landlady and Browne’s wife were involved in an altercation not long before she went missing.

The worried husband also noted that his sisters-in-law are making checks at all the popular spots his wife would

visit, but to no avail. Browne went on to say that while finding his wife alive seemed dim at this point, he is hoping to find her body.

The 27-year-old mother of four of 346 Sumpter Street, Brooklyn, New York was last seen on Saturday evening, leaving her apartment to visit the laundry room.

A few days after her disappearance, the body of a partially dismembered female was found in a parking lot in downtown Bay Shore by two people, who were walking to the Fire Island ferry terminal on Maple Avenue.

The relatives of the missing woman have since con-

Mother pleads for daughter’s safe return

Carol Goodman, the mother of missing school teacher Nyozi Goodman, who disappeared on Sunday evening after a basketball game at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, is pleading for her safe return.

The woman in a solemn voice told Guyana Times that ever since Carol’s disappeared; she has been hoping and praying for her safety.

This publication was reliably informed that a Sergeant of the Guyana Defence Force was held for questioning, but was subsequently released after he produced an alibi.

Nikita Greene, a sister of the missing woman revealed that the Police are hunting for a young man who goes by the name "Kemo Fight" of Georgetown.

He reportedly approached the woman sometime back and requested a relationship with her, but he was shunned.

“To date, our eyes are out

for him… we feel that he has something to do with my sister’s disappearance,” the young woman said, adding: “We are not getting the feeling that the worse has happened to her. We are just hoping that she is out there somewhere and we are hoping for her return soon.”

The 36-year-old St Stanislaus teacher was last seen on Sunday, June 3 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown, where she had accompanied her school’s basketball team to the National Schools Basketball Championships.

Goodman of William Street, Kitty was last seen sending off the basketball team with another teacher. Relatives are holding out that the teacher will not disappear just like that. All her personal belongings are intact, except for her two mobile phones and her iPad.

The last time she used her mobile phone was about 23:00h on Sunday, her sister Nestor Thompson told Guyana Times. This information, she said, would have been received from Digicel. The telephone company also said that the sim card was either destroyed or removed from the handset. Anyone with information that can help in finding Nyozi Goodman is asked to contact her sister Nikita Greene on 689 8981, Nestor Thompson on 692-4526 or the nearest Police station.

tacted the relevant authorities with details about visible tattoos on the woman’s body, which is at Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s office, where an autopsy is still to be conducted to determine the identity and cause of death.

However, Browne said his wife is not someone who would suddenly disappear even if she is facing challenges.

Browne, formerly of Lot 431 Baramita Street, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, left Guyana on May 29, 2013 after securing her citizenship in 2008. She returned to Guyana in April this year and again left in May. She has never had issues with her landlady until last Friday evening following the fluctuation of electricity supply to her building and that might have been the turning point in their relationship.

The Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Anna Regina Town Council has commenced house to house campaign to collect some $21.5 million outstanding in rates and taxes in the Town of Anna Regina.

According to reports presented to Councillors at their statutory meeting for the month of July, some $21,514,592 is outstanding in rates and taxes.

IMC Councillor Rajendra Prabhulall in addressing the matter, called on officers to be more active in the fields and make it their duties to ensure the money is recovered.

Prabhulall said the collection process is poor, and requested a list of the names of defaulters, which

he said will be posted at every village in the town.

To date, he noted that the Council only managed to collect a mere 22 per cent or $6,220,394 of a budgeted sum of $21,514,592 for 2014.

The poor collection has resulted into financial difficulties at the Town Council, and according to Prabhulall, the IMC will no longer habour the practice.

Councillors were asked to help in the collection process.

He said employees of the Council, especially those in the office, should not sit and wait for taxpayers to come in and pay when they feel like, but should go out and meet them.

The Councillor called on residents to make prompt

payments, explaining that it allows for development works to be executed.

Meanwhile, Town Clerk Diana Critchlow said employees from her office have already started collection exercises.

She said since the implementation of the house to house collection, the results have been overwhelming.

Some Councillors have also pointed out that some huge buildings and new modern homes were erected in the Town, and as such, a revaluation of buildings is needed.

With the collection of the monies, better services can be offered by the Council to residents such as drainage, garbage disposal and streets maintenance among others.

Chinelle Latoya Browne

Missing: Nyozi Goodman

Copa says the “sky’s the limit”

By Gomatie GanGadin

anama-based air car-

Prier, Copa Airlines on Friday graced the tarmac of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on its inaugural flight to Guyana with some 100 passengers and promises of stress-free and hasslefree services.

The Boeing 737-700 flight touched down at the CJIA around 14:15h and was welcomed by a proud and elated Regional Sales Manager for North and South America, Diego Bermudez; Guyana Civil Aviation Authority Chairman Hugh Denbow; CJIA Chief Executive Officer Ramesh Ghir; and Transport and Public Works Minister Robeson Benn.

Speaking at a simple ceremony which was organised

was overwhelmed and extremely pleased that Copa Airlines has chosen to operate in Guyana.

“When Mr Ramesh Ghir told me that Copa Airlines was coming to Guyana, I told him “no way”. I said, “Do you know who Copa is? What Copa does?” and he said “Yes, they are coming here”. “Since British Airways left this county around 1978, I have not been so excited. People who know Copa and who know about Copa should be very excited. Welcome to Copa and we hope that they will be here for quite a long time to come,” Denbow said.

Bermudez for his part said the airline was indeed privileged and pleased to be operating in Guyana. Bermudez related that the high expectations of the airline held by Guyanese will at no time be lowered, since

which make it preferable for all of their passengers.

Meanwhile, Minister Benn expressed his elation on the new airline coming to Guyana. He related that when discussions began last year, the question was asked as to whether Copa would have been able to operate in Guyana by July of this year.

“During that discussion, the chances of them coming to Guyana in JuneJuly was only 20 per cent. It was that low and so it is extremely pleasing to see that despite that initial 20 per cent, they are here in Guyana in the month of July,” Benn said.

The Minister reiterated the call for the expansion of the airport, noting that given the fact that several new air carriers have entered the Guyanese market, there is an urgent need for

for the inaugural touchdown, CJIA CEO Ramesh Ghir told the gathering that it was indeed a pleasure to bear witness to not just another airline touching the shores of Guyana, but one of such magnitude.

“Anybody who knows Copa knows that such an airline is world renowned. It is a part of the Star Alliance Group among the likes of Air India and Air Canada and so we are extremely pleased to have this airline in Guyana,” Ghir said.

Ghir also stated that Copa and the other new airlines are bringing additional seating capacity to the airline business in Guyana. He noted that compared to last year, seating capacity has increased by more than 25 per cent for local passengers.

Denbow related that he

it is not only a world-class service provider, but it is also here for the long haul.

“We are here to stay and to provide you with our world- class, award-winning service. This is our 67th destination and we are happy to be here. This is a starting of a new and promising partnership and it is a milestone for us. We are happy to be here and we assure you that we are here for the long haul. We are here to explore possibilities for Guyana and Copa Airlines, we want to ensure that wherever you want to connect, it is possible,” Bermudez said.

He further noted that the carrier has over the years experienced success and it will not be any different in Guyana, while pointing out the many qualities

the airport to be upgraded and expanded to accommodate this development.

While the success of the airline coming to Guyana has been attributed to the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Transport, it was noted too that now deceased Guyanese migrant, Captain Chris Indra Persaud played an integral role in the airline beginning its operations here since he had trained more than 60 per cent of Copa’s pilots while his daughter, Geeta Marie Persaud, was instrumental in assisting in the promotion and marketing.

The airline subsequently took off from the CJIA at 15:30h as was scheduled with a full 124 passengers on board.

Mason remanded for break-and-enter

A23-year-old mason is facing jail time after admitting to breaking into his cousin’s home and stealing several articles on Friday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Ramesh Harripersaud appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry charged for breaking and entering, and pleaded guilty to the charge.

According to the charge, read in the court

by Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru, at Timehri, the defendant broke and entered the dwelling house of Abdul Hakeem and stole one $25,000 in cash, DVD player among other household items, and footwear, a total of $85,000 in value.

The defendant offered to pay for the mentioned articles and told the court that on the day in question, he was consuming alcohol with some

Guyana calls for immediate ceasefire in Israeli/ Palestinian conflict

The Government of Guyana has expressed grave concern over the attacks which have resulted in injury and the loss of life of a growing number of Palestinians civilians, including women and children, as well as widespread destruction of infrastructure.

The Government is of the view that the continued indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas will not resolve the long standing and complex issues at stake between Israel and the State of Palestine, and calls for an immediate halt to the destruction being inflicted and the toll that is being taken on innocent lives.

Guyana firmly believes that it is time for all parties concerned to take urgent steps to ensure the security and well-being of their civilian population.

A military solution to the crisis in Gaza or to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict should not be a first resort. Peace becomes harder to achieve with each military confrontation, each loss of life, and the creation of further mayhem on the ground. As a member of the UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, and as the first Caricom country to recognise Palestine as a sover-

eign state based on its 1967 borders, Guyana supports the Palestinians’ aspiration to the full realisation of their inalienable rights.

A negotiated settlement is the best way to give the Palestinian people the state that they need and deserve and the Israeli people the security and peace to which they are entitled.

The Government supports the efforts of the United Nations Secretary General to bring about a cessation of the current violence and for the international community to act in a decisive manner to forestall an escalation of the present situation.

“Once again the Government implores the Israelis and Palestinians to return to negotiations, to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further civilian casualties and overall destabilisation.

Death toll

“We reiterate our call to the international community to intensify efforts to urgently push the peace process forward and for steps to be taken for a twostate solution in accordance with the relevant UN Resolutions,” the release said.

Meanwhile, the BBC has reported that the death toll from Israeli air strikes

on Gaza has risen to 100, Palestinian sources say. The latest deaths were of two people in a car in the Bureij area on Friday, they said.

Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes since launching its operation on Tuesday to stop rocket fire from Gaza. Militants there continue to fire on Israel, causing damage and injuries.

The US earlier offered to help with a truce in a call to Israel’s Prime Minister. Egypt and Turkey have both criticised Israel’s use of force.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said in addition to those killed, 675 people – mainly civilians – have been injured in Israel’s Operation Protective Edge. Israel said “dozens of terrorists” are among the dead.

Overnight in Gaza, an Israeli air strike on a house in Rafah killed five people – three men and two women – the Health Ministry said.

A second strike, it added, killed a girl in Rafah, while one militant was killed when his motorcycle was hit north of Gaza City. In Israel, one person was seriously injured when a rocket hit a petrol station in Ashdod on Friday morning, Israeli officials said.

Surinamese dies after falling off truck

A

Surinamese national has died after falling off a truck on the Corentyne Highway Friday afternoon.

Police said in a statement that about 16:15h

a local bar and he was high when he visited his cousin’s house. The defendant stated that his cousin was not at home, so he broke the window and entered the house, adding that since no one was there, he saw the opportunity to take the items.

He was remanded to prison and was ordered to return to the Georgetown Magistrates Court on July 31.

Richie Debideen, 25 years, of Nickerie, was a passenger in a motor lorry transporting equipment along the roadway at No. 51 Village, Corentyne, when he came into contact with a wire across the road and fell out of the vehicle. He was taken to the Skeldon Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Investigations are in progress, the police release said.

Woman gets four years for possession of cocaine

Judy Moriah of Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast has been sentenced to four years in prison after she was found guilty of possession of cocaine.

The sentence was handed down to her when she appeared be -

fore Magistrate Sunil Scarce on July 6 at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court.

On February 21, Moriah was charged for the possession of narcotic. She pleaded not guilty to the charge.

According to Police re -

port, on February 21, during a search of her home, some seven grams of the drug was found in her possession.

Following the testimony of several witnesses, she was found guilty, fined $30,000 and sentenced to four years imprisonment.

Israel has continued its air strikes on targets in Gaza

friends at

From left to right: GCAA’s Chairman, Hugh Denbow; Director General of the GCAA, Zulficar Mohamed; Minister of Transport, Robeson Benn; Regional Sales Rep of Copa Airlines, Diego Bermudez; and CEO of CJIA, Ramesh Ghir look on as the Boeing 737-700 touches down

Amid growing tension… Granger claims Kissoon’s MP seat “safe”

The tussle between the leadership of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Region 10 Member of Parliament (MP) Vanessa Kissoon is being seen as a proxy or ‘backdoor’ battle between the party’s Leader, David Granger and former General Secretary Aubrey Norton – a charge the Retired Brigadier has denied.

By Jomo Paul PNCR

Norton has thrown his hat into the ring to contest for the post of Leader of the PNCR at its Congress later this month. He is seen as a key mobiliser in the Linden/ Region 10 community and has close links with Kissoon and Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon who wield tremendous influence in the Region.

Sources have told this newspaper that the recent appointment of former MP Sandra Adams to coordinate activities in the Region just ahead of the Congress is an attempt by the leadership to blunt whatever influence Norton might have among the Region 10 membership and allegedly further undermine Kissoon’s standing as one of the parliamentarians representing that geographic constituency.

But, on Friday, the PNCR Leader said Kissoon’s suspension is not even remotely linked to her close alliance with Norton. “There are no grounds for such a suspension... that has nothing to do with what will happen at Congress,” said the PNCR Leader.

Granger, responding to questions posed by Guyana Times at the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) weekly press conference, said Kissoon cannot say he did not suspend her. “I can’t?... I did,” the Opposition Leader said, “I have operated always with advice in accordance with the constitution of the People’s National Congress (Reform)... any decision has to be ratified by the Central Executive Committee, I have never behaved outside of the constitution.”

Consequences

In a release on Thursday, Kissoon challenged the decision of the party’s leadership to suspend her. She said: “I am a member of the PNCR and not an employee. The leader of the party did not appoint me and, respectfully, has no power to suspend me. If I am to be made the sacrificial lamb to uphold the Party Constitution, I am prepared to face the consequences.”

But, Granger said he was cognisant of the powers vested in his office as Leader of the PNCR. He said at no time were his actions with respect to Kissoon’s suspension ultra vires of those

powers. “I know what my powers are and I have always behaved in accordance with the constitution of the PNCR,” he said in a sombre tone.

The party leader also explained that the public defiance of Kissoon over the decision made by the Central Executive Committee does not warrant her being recalled from Parliament.

Asked specifically whether he was considering recalling the MP, Granger said: “I have not made such a consideration, I do not believe the issue warrants such an extreme measure... There is no hint, there is no suggestion, there is no threat that her status as a Member of Parliament would be in jeopardy.”

There has been a gradual rebellion against the decision by the party’s Region 10 members who have since written at least two letters protesting Kissoon’s suspension.

Internal affairs

Granger noted, however, that the issue was one of an internal one of the party and should not be settled by way of the media. He said it was “imprudent” of Kissoon to make available to the media communiqués between herself and members of the party.

Granger also dismissed reports that the party is falling apart as a result of the issue between Kissoon and the Party’s General Secretary Oscar Clarke, and other problems. In fact, he contended that the issue has made the party stronger, declaring that the “issue has strengthened the party and discipline will be maintained”.

In her release, Kissoon had also criticised the party for disregarding protocol in its appointment of Adams, saying that as a sitting MP for the region, she was not consulted. Kissoon said it was not for her to collaborate with Adams, but for the Central Executive to respect the elected party leadership of Region 10 and resist the urge to disrespect the will of the people, which is protected in the party’s constitution.

But, Granger said the decision was made by the Central Executive of the party and did not warrant

Residents to be consulted on City cleanup campaign

AKissoon’s screening. He stressed that he was satisfied with Kissoon’s work in the party for the two terms that she has served.

The PNCR Leader stressed that he was confident that Kissoon was “capable of discharging those functions” that were extended to her by the party.

three-week long consultation process has been planned by the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry to update city residents on the cleanup project.

Speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon noted that Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker has given Cabinet a positive update on the project.

He noted that the Minister has outlined that the outreach planned for the 11 wards of Georgetown will be to identify the uses of the resources which are to be made available.

He said residents would be educated on the main features of the plan and spending. The features would include the desilting of canals, drains and work on internal roads.

Meanwhile, Dr Luncheon also attacked the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, stating that it is highly incapable

of managing monies, especially in large amounts.

He noted that this was one of the major factors as to why the $500 million for the cleanup works around the capital city of Georgetown, was not given to them, but rather to the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry.

No doubt

“We have absolutely no doubt in our minds that the worst possible alternative to the Ministry of Local Government leading this effort, is to repose the money into the hands of the City Council. This City Council is a nonstarter… while their involvement is necessary because they are the statutory elected body in charge of works in the Capital City, they do not have the environment, the Council does not have the environment to cause any of us [in the Government] to be confident that the $500 million would have ended up where it is now,

ending up under the management of the Minister of Local Government Ministry,” the Cabinet Secretary related.

Dr Luncheon has charged the media and the citizen to scrutinise and monitor the project and to ensure that it is not only successful for the first few months, but will last for quite a while.

“Spending $500 million in less than six months is a tall order and indicative of the Central Government in addressing the problems in Georgetown, we must not be dismayed by the challenges. The way to hell is paved with good intentions and so indeed it is the community and its members that must keep under their scrutiny, how this project evolves and the way in which the money would have been spent to ensure that the sustainability and the environment of the city of Georgetown is protected…. This should not be a project which is done and couple months down the line, is comes back to the same thing,” Dr Luncheon implored.

Leader, David Granger Aubrey Norton

Russia’s Vladimir Putin begins Americas visit in Cuba

ussian President

RVladimir Putin has begun a trip to Latin America, in an apparent bid to seek allies to counter US and Western influence. His choice of first stop, Cuba, is seen as an attempt to further boost friendly ties with the one-time Soviet ally.

Russia confirmed cancellation of 90 per cent of Cuba’s debt two days before the visit. Putin will also travel to Argentina and Brazil, where he will attend the football World Cup final on Sunday as leader of the next host nation. Later he will attend a summit of the BRICS emerging economies – also including India, China and South Africa – in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza.

In an interview on the eve of the trip, the Russian President said Brazil was

one of a group of emerging countries who should play a greater role on the world stage.

“This powerful and fastdeveloping country is destined to play an important role in the emerging polycentric world order,” he said, adding that Russia would back Brazil’s bid for a permanent seat on the

United Nations Security Council.

Analysts say Putin is trying to encourage Latin American countries to challenge Western dominance in the world at a time when Russia is isolated by sanctions over Ukraine and relations with the West are at their lowest since the Cold War. (Excerpt from BBC News)

UWI, China partner to construct Confucius Institute in Barbados

The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, on Friday held a “turningof-the-sod” ceremony for the construction of a Confucius Institute.

Confucius Institutes are non-profit public teaching organisations aimed at promoting Chinese language and culture, and facilitating cultural exchanges.

According to the Barbados Government Information Service, the establishment of the institute, “follows a series of discussions, between China, Barbados and the UWI since 2009, and as recent as March of this year, when Education Minister Ronald Jones, met with representatives of China University of Political Science and Law,

partners in the establishment of the institute here on the island”.

During those discussions Jones said, “We, in Barbados, try to pay a lot of attention to education, for it is one of the leading social indicators for the country”. This year marks China’s 10th anniversary of establishing 400 Confucius Institutes worldwide. (Caribbean360)

St Lucia denies receiving report

from J’can investigators

National Security

Minister Victor La Corbiniere has denied rumours that members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have submitted a report on their investigation into alleged extra-judicial killings by members of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF).

Last year, the Government of St Lucia enlisted the help of the Jamaican Police to investigate the RSLPF, coming on the heels of the United States’ withdrawal of secu-

rity-related assistance after claims of human rights violations.

On Wednesday, La Corbiniere dismissed suggestions that the JCF report – which some say is long overdue – has been tendered as “absolutely untrue”.

“When the report is received, at the appropriate time it will go to the appropriate places and there will be appropriate disclosure, but I can say to you that the report is not here... The report is just not in St Lucia,” the

Minister declared.

In August 2013, the United States suspended all forms of assistance to the RSLPF, citing allegations of serious human rights violations.

“The Department of State has made a policy decision to withdraw training and material assistance to the Royal St Lucia Police Force due to credible allegations of gross human rights violations,” the US State Department said in a statement at that time. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

IDB gives thumbs up to PATH’s achievements

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) says it is pleased with the achievements of the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), to which the organisation has contributed US$145 million of loan financing over the past six years. PATH – a conditional cash transfer Government programme which delivers social assistance benefits to the most needy in the society in Jamaica – is administered by

the Labour and Social Security Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Education and other agencies and funded by the IDB, the World Bank and other development partners.

“PATH remains aligned to one of the strategic priorities of the IDB that seeks to increase effectiveness of social policies, increase equality and reduce poverty and in parallel, improve productivity of member countries,” said Donna Harris, Social Protection Health Specialist at the IDB.

Harris was addressing a PATH Top Achievers Award ceremony, celebrating beneficiaries’ achievements in the Grade Six Achievement Test and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations.

The IDB, she said, will this year, celebrate 45 years of partnership with Jamaica and is proud to support projects that will protect the poor and vulnerable, promote human capital development and ultimately reduce poverty. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

St Kitts investigating ‘large sum’ of money coming from Iraq – Douglas

Prime Minister, Dr Denzil Douglas has confirmed that investigations have started as to how EC$1.5 million (One EC dollar =US$0.37 cents) had found its way into an account in a bank in St Kitts, even though the money had been returned to the source of origin in Iraq.

Dr Douglas, who is also Finance Minister, said he had become aware that “a large sum of money arrived in the Federation from Iraq for the purpose of purchasing lands in Nevis owned by the Nevis Island Administration (NIA).

“I am aware that the banking system in St Kitts in particular refused to accept the money and refused to lodge the money into the account that was supposed to be owned by

a company whose ownership is jointly by a high official in the Nevis Island

Administration and his wife.”

He said that that even though the money was returned to the place of origin “we have been further informed that what appears to be the very same money – but with an increased amount to it, over $1.5 million – then appeared in the banking system again this time in Nevis and in fact entered into a personal account of persons who were deemed to be ordinary persons who may not have had good reason to have such large sums of money deposited in their account”.

“I understand that some action has been taken by the management of the bank with regard to the staff that might have been involved,” Dr Douglas said without elaborating.

(Caribbean360)

US and Cuba hold migration talks in Washington

On Wednesday, US and Cuban officials met in Washington to discuss the implementation of the 1994 and 1995 US-Cuba migration accords. These talks are held semiannually.

The US delegation was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Alex Lee and the Cuban delegation was led by the Foreign Ministry’s Director General for US Affairs, Josefina Vidal Ferreiro.

Under the accords, both governments pledged to promote safe, legal, and orderly migration between Cuba and the United States. The agenda for the talks reflected longstanding US priorities on US-Cuba migration issues, as well as certain areas where cooperation is in the US national interest, including aviation security, search and rescue at sea, and visa processing.

The US delegation also highlighted other areas of ongoing cooperation rele-

vant to migration, including the exchange of information on the interdiction of undocumented migrants, and related issues.

The US delegation reiterated its call for the release of Alan Gross, who was arrested by Cuban authorities on December 3, 2009, and later sentenced to 15 years in prison for facilitating uncensored Internet contact between a small, religious community on the island and the rest of the world.

(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

World Bank praises Haiti’s recovery progress and calls for opportunities for all

At the end of a threeday trip, World Bank Managing Girector and Chief Operating Officer, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, commended the Government of Haiti for the progress in the country’s recovery and called for broadening economic and social opportunities for all Haitians especially in rural areas.

“The Haiti I saw over the last days is very different from the country I saw during my visit in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. I am encouraged by the visible progress. More than 1.3 million people moved from camps to neighbourhoods. Many now live in safer homes,” she said.

“Extreme poverty has declined and access to some basic services has improved over the last 12 years. This is good news, but rural

Haitians have yet to benefit from these gains.”

According to the 2012

household survey, which was developed by the National Observatory on Poverty and Social Exclusion (ONPES), with support from the World Bank, extreme poverty declined from 31 to 24 per cent between 2000 and 2012. Most of these gains have been in urban areas with little progress in rural areas, where four out of 10 Haitians remain extremely poor.

Haitians have also benefited from better access to some services. The biggest success has been in education, where participation rates of school-age children rose from 78 to 90 per cent. However, the quality of education remains low. Only one-third of all children aged 14 are in the appropriate grade for their age. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is looking for allies in the Region amid worsening relations with the West

St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Denzil Douglas

World Bank Managing Girector and Chief Operating Officer, Sri Mulyani Indrawati

Netanyahu resists international pressure to stop air strikes on Gaza

Despite international criticism of Israel’s recent air strikes on the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that he would not bow to international pressure to end the offensive, pledging instead to carry on.

In remarks to reporters, Netanyahu brushed off the question of a possible ceasefire in the four-day old conflict, which has claimed the lives of more than 100 people.

“I will end it when our goals are realised. And the overriding goal is to restore the peace and quiet,” he said.

Israel has said it launched the offensive on Tuesday in response to weeks of heavy rocket fire out of Gaza. The Israeli military says it has hit more than 1100 targets, mostly what it identified as rocket-

launching sites, bombarding the territory an average of every five minutes.

At least 106 Palestinians, many of whom are civilians, have been killed by the strikes, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza. Twenty-one people were reported to have been killed on Friday alone.

Meanwhile, Palestinian militants have fired more

than 600 rockets at Israel. One rocket fired from the Gaza Strip struck a gas station and set it ablaze in southern Israel earlier on Friday, seriously wounding one man. The Israeli army also said that the condition of a soldier wounded by shrapnel on Thursday had worsened. Otherwise, there have been no deaths on the Israeli side, in large part because of its “Iron dome” defence system, which has intercepted more than 100 incoming projectiles.

Netanyahu said he has been in touch with numerous world leaders, including US President Barack Obama and the leaders of Britain, France, Germany and Canada.

He said he had “good discussions” with his counterparts, telling them that no other country would tolerate repeated fire on its citizens.

(Excerpt from France24)

India’s Modi accepts invitation to meet Obama

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted an invitation to meet US President Barack Obama in September, as Washington seeks to court the Asian giant’s new Government and revive strained relations between the world’s two largest democracies.

The Obama Administration has been working to boost ties since Modi’s thumping election victory, seeing India as an important counterweight to an increasingly assertive China and a prospective export market.

Deputy Secretary of State William Burns delivered a written invitation from Obama to Modi on Friday, the Indian Government said in a statement. Obama’s letter reiterated earlier invitations.

“We recognise the very strong mandate that he’s

23 Ukrainian troops killed in clashes with separatists

Ukraine’s military has said 23 servicemen have died in clashes with pro-Russia separatists across the east, a development that threatens to shatter slim western hopes of a truce in the three-month insurgency.

“In the past 24 hours, while performing special assignments in various regions where the active phase of anti-terrorist operations is un-

der way, 23 servicemen from the Ukrainian armed forces and state border service were killed,” the military spokesman Vladyslav Seleznyov wrote in a Facebook post.

The official spokesman of Ukraine’s intensifying campaign against the rebel movement added that 93 troops had sustained “wounds and contusions of varying severity”. Ukraine’s Defence Ministry said in a separate state-

ment that the toll included 19 troops who were killed early on Friday in a multiple rocket attack staged by insurgents near the Russian border.

In a phone call on Thursday evening, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel, advised the Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, to “maintain a sense of proportion” in his actions against separatists.

Steffen Seibert, a German

Government spokesman, said: “The Chancellor urged President Poroshenko to maintain a sense of proportion in his legitimate actions against the separatists and to protect the civilian population. “Both agreed that talks of the contact group… are urgently needed now in order to begin the implementation of Poroshenko’s peace plan and a mutual ceasefire.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Overloaded China kindergarten bus crash kills 11

An overloaded minivan ferrying children home from kindergarten in China’s Hunan province has crashed into a pond, killing all 11 people on board.

The van was carrying eight kindergarten pupils and two teachers, as well as the driver. It was meant to carry only seven people, according to Xinhua. The crash happened in the late afternoon near the province’s capital of Changsha, in a mountainous area.

Local media reported it was travelling on a narrow road that had no barrier.

The victims’ family members told Xinhua that school buses in the region

are often overloaded.

School transport is a particularly sensitive issue in China, where a series of accidents have heightened concern. A shortage of education funds has seen school closures and children, especially those from rural villages, are often forced to travel far to get an education, according to agencies. They often have to take overcrowded buses.

In 2011, 18 children and two adults were killed when an overloaded school bus collided with a coal truck in foggy conditions. That bus had only nine seats but was packed with 64 people at the time of the accident. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Ebola claims more victims in West Africa

Ebola continues to spread in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea, with a combined 44 new cases and 21 deaths between July 6 and 8, the World Health Organisation has said.

This brought the total in West Africa’s first outbreak of the deadly disease to 888 cases, including 539 deaths since February. It is the

largest and deadliest so far, the UN agency said.

“The epidemic trend in Liberia and Sierra Leone remains precarious with high numbers of new cases and deaths being reported,” the WHO said on Friday.

Just one confirmed new case had been reported during the past week in Guinea. The Economic Community of West African

States set up an Ebola solidarity fund at a summit in the capital of Ghana on Thursday in a bid to back a regional approach to the epidemic. Nigeria committed US$3.5 million to affected states.

“We must do everything within our means and power to defeat this deadly disease. We must exercise vigilance and caution and avoid

any panic or misinformation,” Ghanaian President John Mahama, the group’s chairman, said in a speech in Accra.

Ebola causes fever, vomiting, bleeding and diarrhoea and kills up to 90 per cent of those infected. It is highly contagious and is transmitted through contact with blood and other fluids.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

won and we have a deep interest and stake in his success, in India’s success,” Burns told Indian news channel NDTV, adding that the meeting with Obama was likely to take place on September 30.

Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won

an outright majority in India’s Parliament in May, something no party has managed for three decades, ousting the Congress party that has long dominated politics. India and the United States set great store by the economic potential of their ties, but their relationship has been fraught in recent years. Washington has set a strategic goal of expanding their US$100 billion annual trade by five times. In its statement, the Indian Government said Modi was “looking forward to a result-oriented visit with concrete outcomes that impart new energy to (the) India-US strategic partnership”.

A spokesman for the External Affairs Ministry confirmed that Modi had formally accepted Obama’s invitation. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Texas mass murder suspect collapses in court as crime recounted

The man accused of killing four children aged four to 14 and their parents after entering their suburban Houston, Texas home while looking for his former wife collapsed when details of the crime were read aloud in court on Friday.

Ronald Lee Haskell, 33, who is being held without bond, was in court for a hearing after being charged on Thursday with capital murder and multiple murders of his former wife’s relatives.

Haskell, wearing orange prison attire, said “Yes, sir” to the judge after his rights were read and then fainted as details of the crime were read. Bailiffs had to pick him up and wheel him out in an office chair.

Haskell is accused of fatally shooting two boys ages four and 14, two girls ages seven and nine, and their parents Stephen Stay, 39, and Katie Stay, 33. Five of them were dead when found and one of the children died after being air-lifted to a hospital for treatment.

Cassidy Stay, 15, survived the attack on Wednesday afternoon, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Haskell, who suffers from mental illness according to his attorney, was expected to face a hearing on his mental capacity and will eventually face a grand jury that will decide whether he will be tried for capital murder, which carries the possibility of the death penalty.

Indian village council ‘ordered revenge rape’

A14-year-old girl was dragged into a forest and raped on the orders of a village council in remote eastern India in retaliation for a sex assault blamed on her brother, according to her family and Police.

The attack took place after midnight on Sunday in a small village in Jharkhand state’s Bokaro district.

Jitendra Singh, a top local Police official, said on Friday that two men have been arrested in the rape case.

They include the head of the village and the main suspect, identified as the husband of the woman who was allegedly molested by the victim’s brother. The victim’s brother has also been

arrested on charges of molestation.

“They attacked her in retaliation and we are taking this case very seriously,’’ Singh said, adding that Police expect to complete the investigation and file charges in the next few days. The girl’s mother told CNN-IBN news channel that she pleaded with the council and other villagers when they ordered the rape but no one listened.

“We kept begging them. We begged with folded hands but they would not listen. They dragged her away to the forest,’’ she said. Across much of rural India, deeply conservative local councils wield great power.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

The scene of the incident in which eight toddlers died

saturday, July 12, 2014 | guyanatimesgy.com

Health Ministry to review nursing programme entry requirements

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran said with the mass failure of students at the recent Professional Nursing Examination, the Health Ministry has to closely examine the possibility that students are getting into the programme without the necessary requirements.

Ramsaran told Guyana Times on Thursday at the Ministry’s Brickdam Headquarters that the 20 students who failed outright at the last examination and were given another opportunity to resit again failed the entire programme.

He said he will now be seeking to ascertain whether there was an infringement of the strict rules and requirements for entry to the programme. “I have ordered my Permanent Secretary to look at the entry requirements. Are people getting into the programme that are borderline? Because there is a criterion which is published, we have to see if the entry requirement is being reduced just to satisfy their entry,” Dr Ramsaran said.

Analysis

The Minister explained he, along with the nursing council, has conducted a rigorous analysis of the results, and while some students were to be blamed to some extent, fingers could be pointed in the direction of the tutors as well. He said the tutors have not been very pragmatic in their delivery of the programme.

The new curriculum, Dr Ramsaran reminded, was introduced some four years

ago, and tutors were still unable to practically deliver the programme. According to him, the Ministry is seeking to address this. “There is a suspicion that the faculty that is delivering the curriculum might not be adequately tasked,” he told Guyana Times, adding that “the Ministry is now looking at the possibility of maybe we have made a mistake. Not because you are a nurse, you can deliver the nursing programme to every single person.”

Students continue to battle with the Practical Nursing Examination, which, because of its low pass rate, has shed a dark light on the entire nursing programme. The pass rate at that examination remains less than 22 per cent, while the other four examinations see pass rates of 65 per cent to 88 per cent.

The Ministry has turned to the University of Guyana through its Pro Chancellor for assistance. Help has also been sought from the Regional Nursing Body (RNB).

Dr Ramsaran stressed

that the problem occurred with one exam only – the Practical Nursing Examination. “Maybe the tutors may need to be upgraded, or we may need to look for other faculty members. So, probably we have not been putting in the classroom the relevant faculty for that paper. That is the only paper pulling us down. It is mathematically correct to say that if you have five papers and four with high marks and only one with those very low marks, the overall can be very embarrassing.”

Measures

The Health Minister said the Ministry may have to utilise other measures to address the problem. He said it may be wise to encourage persons who continually fail to seek other areas of study, since the Ministry has over 25 other areas of study that may be of interest. “The question is, do we allow repeaters, do we screen the students who are likely to fail or do we say we are an administration and we are reaching out to you? Or do we invite them to be trained in another field if they cannot make it as a nurse, be trained in another field?”

The latest sitting of the Professional Nursing Examination took place several weeks ago. The alarming results have again left the country in a state of shock, as members of the public were hoping for an improved performance from the last sitting, which took place several months earlier. At that sitting, a large number of students were unsuccessful.

Cocaine-in-Canter-truck man jailed for three years

The man charged in connection with the huge cocainein-Canter-truck bust was jailed for three years and fined $30,000 by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Friday.

Dexter Daniels, 44, of Kara Kara, Linden, who pleaded not guilty earlier this week to two counts of possession of narcotics for

the purpose of trafficking, with the second count relating to the cannabis also found, charged his plea to guilty and was sentenced to concurrent prison terms of three years per offence. The drugs were discovered after Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) ranks, acting upon information received, went to Lot 922 Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara where a

Canter truck was parked on a bridge and forcefully opened the vehicle. They found it filled with packets which contained cocaine that amounted to 4.222 kilos. A search was also carried out at the house located at the aforementioned address and 213 kilos of marijuana were also found. Further investigation led the agents to arrest Daniels.

Albouystown men charged with ammunition possession

Twenty-year-old Travis Ashby and 22-year-old Troy Bynoe of Lot 145 James and Victoria Streets, Albouystown, Georgetown appeared before the Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday after they were charged with the unlawful possession of ammunition; that is to say four AK47 magazines.

The brothers, who were

jointly charged, both pleaded not guilty to the charge laid against them. The charge alleged that on July 6, Police ranks acting on information received carried out a search on the home of the defendants and the aforementioned items were found in a red and black shoulder bag.

The brothers were represented by Attorney Mark Waldron, who in making an application for bail told the court that on the day in ques-

$67.3M spent to upgrade hinterland airstrips last year

– Public Works Ministry

The Public Works Ministry on Thursday confirmed that Government has spent $67.320 million for the maintenance of hinterland airstrips for 2013.

One of the airstrips that benefited from the allotted sum was the Kurupung Airstrip which was upgraded in 2013 to the tune of $640,000.

The airstrip is 1365 feet long and 43 feet wide, but is bordered by a deep valley on the eastern end and a creek on the western side, which hinders the possibility of expansion.

The Ministry in response to questions posed by A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) Parliamentarian, Dr Karen Cummings, related that the maintenance of the airstrip happens all year round, and is being overseen by a resident contractor.

The hinterland airstrips are periodically examined by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and aviation inspectors within the Public Works Ministry.

Questioned about the accident involving a commercial plane at the Region Seven Airstrip, the Ministry said contrary to the possible reason given as “hard landing”, the mishap occurred as a result of short landing by the Pilot.

The contributing factors of the incident were given as wind share and down draught.

In a document circulated in the National Assembly on Thursday, it was stated that the accident involving the Trans Guyana Airways BN2A-27 Islander, with registration 8R-GHM took place on May 16 about 13:57h. The crew and four passengers were not injured.

In giving a synopsis of the crash, it stated that the Pilot landed before the threshold, which resulted in damages to the left landing gear. The landing gear reportedly moved rearward by 39 inches, tearing the nacelle. There were also wrinkles to both surfaces of the

wing and flaps.

However, to minimise the event of hard landing, it was suggested that training and experience must be the main focus by the relevant companies and must include airman proficiency checks every six months, and route and aerodrome checks must be done within every 12 months in accordance with the requirements of the GCCA.

As recent as Sunday last, a twin-engine aircraft skidded off the Monkey Mountain Airstrip, seconds after touching down. At the time of the accident, the Pilot and a lone passenger were onboard. None of the men were injured. Investigation revealed that the pilot involved in the mishap would have landed short of the runway.

As a result, the aircraft suffered severe damage to the landing gears and it was difficult from thereon to control the 10-seater Islander aircraft with registration number 8R-GGY.

The aircraft subsequently veered off the airstrip, causing extensive damages. It was reported that the aircraft left the Ogle International Airport on Sunday morning, made two stops at Omai and Mahdia, and it was while landing at Monkey Mountain, it ran off the runway.

Mother and son remanded for cocaine at CJIA

Nineteen-yearold Anand Gokul and his 50-yearold mother Esarbai Gokul of Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Thursday after they were charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

The charge alleges that on July 8, the duo were outgoing passengers on a Caribbean Airlines

Man

tion, the brothers had a conflict and the mother of the men called the Police to intervene. It is when the Police arrived, the mentioned ammunition was found.

Troy Bynoe, an employee of Banks DIH was granted bail at a sum of $20,000 while his brother, Guyana Defence Force member Travis Ashbywas remanded to prison.

They will make their next appearance on July 14.

TFlight destined for Toronto, Canada. Police ranks carried out procedural checks on the defendants’ luggage and found the bottoms of the suitcases to be false.

Anand Gokul was found to have 5.282 kilos of cocaine while his mother Esarbai Gokul had 5.221 kilos of cocaine; all which were found in the false bottoms of their suitcases. According to the Prosecutor, it is alleged that the duo admitted that they were to receive payment for trying to smuggle the narcotics to Canada.

charged

ony Marcus was refused bail when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry on Thursday after he was slapped with a charge of attempted murder. According to the facts as read in court by Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru, it is alleged that on Sunday, July 6 at Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara, the complainant

for

However they both pleaded not guilty to the charge and were represented by Attorney Gordon Gilhuys who told the court that the statements given to the Police officials were not done voluntarily.

The Prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that no special reasons were given for the defendants to receive bail, hence bail was refused and both defendants will make their next court appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on July 14.

attempted murder

Etwaroo Narine and the defendant were consuming alcohol when Marcus, who hails from Linden asked Narine for money. The complainant refused and an argument ensued between the two which resulted in the accused chopping the complainant to his shoulder.

Narine made an attempt to escape, but was pursued by the accused who continued to chop him about his body. Passersby intervened

and assisted the injured man and a report was filed at the Police station. The defendant was then apprehended by ranks. Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness and prevalence of the matter, further telling the court that the victim is still hospitalised and his condition is critical. The case was adjourned to July 28.

APNU Parliamentarian, Dr Karen Cummings

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran

Opposition votes down Customs Bill again

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) with support from the Alliance For Change (AFC) has voted down amendments to the Customs Bill, contending that they will not endorse a legislation that will impose greater taxation on the citizenry.

The Opposition rejected the Bill even before it was presented to the National Assembly for a second and third reading. In its quest to avoid further sanctions, the Government had retabled the Customs (Amendment) Bill, which would have seen both local and foreign companies paying taxes on nonreturnable containers of alcoholic or non-alcoholic items, if passed.

Currently, the tax applies only to imported items, but according to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), it is in violation of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) and is therefore discriminatory.

In the National Assembly

on Thursday, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds moved a motion to “Suspend Standing Orders Number 69 and 26E”, to allow the House to proceed with the second and third readings of the Customs Amendment Bill of 2014, but the motion was overturned by the joint parliamentary Opposition.

From the onset, Shadow Finance Minister Carl Greenidge cautioned the Prime Minister that the Bill will not be supported when it comes up for consideration,

hence, the Opposition would not support the suspension of the Standing Orders.

“This Bill before us is one that ought not to engage our attention at this point in time,” Greenidge told the House under the stewardship of Speaker Raphael Trotman.

According to Greenidge, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has never called on Guyana to impose additional taxes on its people. “Caricom has said the taxes imposed are discriminatory and illegal. What they need to do according to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas is impose a tax that is not discriminatory,” he suggested.

He further opined that the Valued Added Tax (VAT) yielded more income than it should have; hence, there is no excuse for imposing more taxes on the Guyanese people. “We oppose it! We oppose it!”

Not in support

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan in making his contribution to the debate, said based on consultation with manufacturers; they are not in support of increased taxation. He said a hike in taxes would result in the regular man in the street having to pay more for beverages, particularly school children. Referencing Article 9 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, the AFC Leader said the tax paid by Caricom member states should be repealed.

Article 9 said: “Member states shall take all appropriate measures, whether general or particular, to ensure the carrying out of ob-

ligations arising out of this treaty or resulting from decisions taken by the organs and bodies of the community. They shall facilitate the achievement of the objectives of community. They shall abstain from any measures which would jeopardise the attainment of the objectives of this treaty.”

Ramjattan said the Article clearly requires the state to take the appropriate measures to prevent discrimination; hence, Government should take the appropriate steps to repeal its decision to tax Caricom countries as against imposing greater taxation on the people of Guyana. “It should be disqualified,” he told the House.

In defence of the Government, Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall said the Opposition spokesmen have omitted key points in their debates. He told the House that it was the Opposition’s decision to defeat the Customs (Amendment) Bill of 2013 that resulted in the CCJ ruling that Guyana repay Suriname-based company Rudisa Beverages US$6 million. The Legal Affairs Minister said the CCJ took stock of the developments in Parliament when it crafted its ruling.

Overruled

Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett suggested that the Customs (Amendment) Bill of 2014 be sent to a Parliamentary Special Select Committee, where the Opposition could make the necessary changes, but this proposal was also overruled by the Opposition.

In May, the CCJ said the RTC guarantees Caricom states exemption from such duties. He said by Section seven of the Customs Act of Guyana, an environmental levy was imposed on the importation of non-returnable beverage containers, which Rudisa Beverages was required to pay. The legislation does not contain any exemption in relation to the Caricom Single Economy and Market (CSME) goods. This Environmental Tax which has been imposed on Rudisa has the effect of rais-

ing the cost price on each imported container by G$10. No similar tax is imposed on local producers of non-returnable beverage containers and, by the definition of “Import Duties” laid down in the RTC; the levy must be regarded as an import duty.

According to the CCJ, the effect of the Environmental Tax was first raised with the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) by the Government of Suriname in a series of meetings spanning the period 2001-2012. COTED concluded that in so far as it applied to Caricom goods, the levy was in breach of the RTC. Guyana, in turn, committed itself to taking the necessary action to eliminate the discriminatory effect of the Environmental Tax. Thus, in 2013, the Government took to the National Assembly amendments to the Customs Act, but they were rejected by the Opposition, who argued that the measures would have affected local companies competing with Rudisa and there was need for consultations.

According to the CCJ ruling, Guyana admitted that the tax is inconsistent with its obligations under the RTC, but noted that the Government had proposed legislation to rectify the discriminatory effect of the Environmental Tax, which was rejected by the National Assembly. The Government also submitted that the aim of the legislation was environmental protection, which is a fundamental right under the Constitution of Guyana. (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy.com)

Govt working to contain spread of Chikungunya virus – Dr Ramsaran

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran on Thursday declared that Government is doing all it can to reduce the impact and spread of the Chikungunya virus here.

With just 31 confirmed cases of the virus in Guyana, the Minister said that many other Caribbean countries continue to record hundreds of cases with a handful of deaths among the weakened and elderly.

So far there have been no death related cases in Guyana. Dr Ramsaran said the virus, which was first identified in the East Canje Village, Cumberland, remains in the Berbice County.

And while persons continue to visit the regional hospital in New Amsterdam with symptoms of Chikungunya, Government is raising the bar in sensitisation and prevention, and is taking all necessary steps to keep the virus at bay. However, except for the one reported case coming out from south Georgetown, the virus remains confined to the Berbice district.

Dr Ramsaran cautioned; however, that a person being diagnosed with Chikungunya in a certain part of the country does not suggest that the virus is prevalent in that area.

“For example, I may go to Kurumpong and get malaria, but I am living in Campbellville, it does not mean that Campbellville has malaria,” Dr Ramsaran explained.

Health Ministry presents Canter truck to Linden Hospital

Days after rating the Linden Hospital Complex the best managed health institution in Guyana, Health Minster, Dr Bheri Ramsaran on Thursday delivered a spanking new Canter to representatives of the medical facility.

Dr Ramsaran said the $3.2 million Canter has come at an opportune time since the region needs to help itself in obtaining supplies from the Diamond Pharmaceutical Warehouse.

To a small gathering of Ministry officials and regional representatives, the Health Minister said Government has been placing much emphasis on the Region 10 districts, while citing the recent provision of an ambulance to the Linden Hospital Complex.

The vehicle was made available from funds from last year’s budget.

Deputy Permanent Secretary Trevor Thomas

spoke of the work being done in Linden. He said major repairs have begun on the dental units at the Kwakwani Hospital, while renovations at the Nurses Hostel in Linden are also ongoing. The finance for that project has been provided by the Basic Needs Trust Fund.

“Its part of the ongoing work in the region. We're working closely with the regional administration to make sure proper maintenance is in place,” Thomas said at the simple handing over ceremony.

He explained that there are other activities planned for the district, including the construction of a Nurses’ Hostel in Kwakwani. The canter, he said, is just another investment in the region by the Government

Last month, the Minister had publicly announced that the Linden Hospital Complex was the best managed health facility in Guyana. According to Dr Ramsaran, the facility continues to perform exceptionally, outshining the other Government-managed hospitals in the country.

Using statistics, the Minister reported that in 2013, the hospital achieved a target of zero maternal deaths. While there were 100 per cent safe deliveries at LHC in 2013, Guyana recorded 18 maternal deaths that year as against 25 the previous year.

From the total maternal deaths in 2013, 10 occurred at the Georgetown Public Hospital, while the other eight occurred at the Suddie, Diamond, New Amsterdam

and West Demerara Regional hospitals, in addition to a maternal death at the Dr Balwant Singh Hospital.

In the area of tuberculosis, the Linden Hospital has been outstanding. In March, Dr Roscoe McDonald received the Dr Moti Lall Award for his dedication and commitment in the fight against (tuberculosis) TB at the regional level.

Dr McDonald and his team have been working earnestly to prevent the spread of TB.

Dr McDonald was recognised months after Region 10 was awarded for recording a 77 per cent completion rate for Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS) for 2013. At the time, 77 per cent of the patients who started their treatment in the region completed it and were cured.

Meanwhile, Minister Ramsaran reported that the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) based in Atlanta, US, has positively responded to an appeal to have a medical technologist trained to identify the Chikungunya virus. In a few weeks, that person will begin training. He will be travelling shortly under the umbrella of the CDC.

The Minister maintains too that the virus is an environmental degradation, and persons should be protective of their surroundings.

The Ministry, Dr Ramsaran divulged is currently awaiting the last report from Trinidad on other samples that were recently sent there. He said Guyanese are somewhat fortunate, if a comparison is to be made with other countries.

“At the beginning of this month, there were reports coming out of the US, we need to look and see what they have been doing as well.”

Symptoms

Transmitted by mosquito bites, Chikungunya is not usually fatal. According to the CDC, symptoms which include joint pain can be severe and disabling. The Chickungunya virus first showed up in the Western Hemisphere last year, with cases reported in St Martin.

Since then, it has sickened over quarter of a million people in the Caribbean. So far, travellers in the Region have taken 112 cases to the US.

According to the latest figures released by the Pan American Heath Organisation (PAHO), almost 265,000 suspected and confirmed cases have been recorded since the outbreak began in December.

More than half of those have been in The Dominican Republic, which has stepped up its fumigation efforts in an attempt to reduce the number of mosquitoes.

Health officials warn that the true numbers may be much higher as some countries have been slow in testing and reporting cases.

Chikungunya is rarely fatal, but according to the PAHO, 21 people have died in the Caribbean after contracting the virus.

There have also been cases in Central America, with El Salvador the hardest hit with 1300 suspected incidences.

The Chikungunya virus is being spread by the aedes aegypti mosquito

Health Minster, Dr Bheri Ramsaran

APNU MP Carl Greenidge

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

SUDOKU

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

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Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

arCHie

dilbert

Danza Hyatt and fellow Jamaican, Shacaya Thomas, put on a 60 run partnership to take the Hawksbills to the 100 mark, before the Amazon Warriors turned the screw. Some tidy bowling from Krishmar Santokie and Veerasammy Permaul frustrated the Hawksbills batsmen in the middle overs as they lost four wickets for 15 runs, leaving them at 1155, with just a few overs remaining. Despite this stagnant spell, Sheldon Cottrell and Devon Thomas helped propel Antigua to a respectable 136/8. The Amazon Warriors got off to the worst possible start, with Sheldon Cottrell clean bowling Lendl Simmons. New Zealand opener, Martin Guptill, played a nice shot to get the score board ticking; however, he was smartly removed by Miguel Cummins, thanks to a good catch from Carlos Brathwaite. With the Amazon Warriors 8-2, there was tension around and as Denesh Ramdin came in to bat, the

Narine star as Guyana Amazon

captain knew he had a big task on his hands. He delivered, playing a sensible knock of 51 from 36 balls, which included six fours and one six. However, with the required run-rate down to just six runs per over, they lost five wickets for only 33 runs to bring the match down to the last over, leaving Sunil Narine and Krishmar Santokie to get four runs.

Narine, cool as a cucumber, hit the third ball of the over for four to give the Amazon Warriors the first win of this season’s CPL. The Amazon Warriors now sit at the top of the table with two points and head to Guyana, to face the Red Steel, the St. Lucia Zouks and defending champions, the Jamaica Tallawahs.

Man of the Match, Denesh Ramdin, said; “I am delighted with the win and happy how we pulled things back with the ball, Sunil Narine is world class.”

The Antigua Hawksbills also head home to play the

and

SCOREBOARD

Mohammad Hafeez 2-0-21-0,

much excitement and with 29 matches to go, we can expect plenty more as the

SP Narine 4 -1-3-0, RR Beaton 2-0-21-1, V Permaul 4-0-241, JDS Neesham 4-0-33-3 Guyana Amazon Warriors innings (target: 137 runs from 20 overs)

LMP Simmons b Cottrell 0 MJ Guptill c Brathwaite b Cummins 4 Mohammad Hafeez c †DC Thomas b Samuels 35 D Ramdin*† b Brathwaite 51 JDS Neesham c Brathwaite b Cottrell 11

CD Barnwell c Hyatt b Laughlin 5

ND Stewart c Hyatt b Laughlin 1

SP Narine not out 11

V Permaul c Hyatt b Cottrell 15 K Santokie not out 0

Extras (lb 1, w 6) 7

Total (8 wickets; 19.3 overs)

140 (7.17 runs per over)

Bowling: SS Cottrell 4-024-3, ML Cummins 4-0 -24-1, CR Brathwaite 2.3 -0-24-1, B Laughlin 4-0-27-2 , JJ Athanaze 2-0-20-0, MN Samuels 3-0-20-1

TV Guyana (TVG)

Channel 28 is among the leading broadcasters in the Caribbean that have signed up to provide cricket loving fans with high-octane, thrilling Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20 which kicked off in Grenada on July 11.

Broadcasters, including ABS TV, CBC, GBN TV, Radio St. Lucia, TV Guyana, TVJ and Vibes Radio and have all signed deals to carry live coverage of this year’s tournament, which is set to be bigger than ever, featuring global cricketing superstars Chris Gayle, Kevin Pietersen, Dwayne Bravo,

Taylor, Mohammad

and

Damien O’Donohoe, CEO Limacol Caribbean Premier League, said: “We know stadiums across the Caribbean were full to bursting last year, so by having a comprehensive local broadcasting presence we can ensure that nobody in the region will be missing out on the Biggest Party in Sport.”

The CPL, which thrilled sell-out crowds across the Caribbean in 2013, is once again looking to excite fans with high intensity T20 cricket with an even bigger and better tournament in 2014. Grenada, known for its vibrant culture and hospitality, will serve as the opening venue on July 11th, when the Guyana Amazon Warriors will take on the Antigua Hawksbills at the National Cricket Stadium.

Guyana Amazon Warriors' performance at a glance...

The comeback, the spell and the cameos

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

With last year’s finalist Guyana Amazon Warriors making a winning start to this year’s campaign in the hugely popular Limacol Caribbean Premier League, the stage has been set for the South America-based franchise to take one step further and lift the title come August 16. Our senior journalist Avenash Ramzan reviews briefly the Warriors performance in the opening game against the Antigua Hawksbills in Grenada on Friday.

Late comback

After two overs, Jimmy Neesham had leaked 23 runs, including three successive fours by Danza Hyatt in the 13th over. A six by David Hussey off the first ball of Nesham’s third over spelled a disastrous start for the New Zealand all-rounder. For a moment it seemed

like Neesham might have been a bad pick. However, the 23-year-old, who came in as a late replacement for compatriot Corey Anderson, turned his performance on its head, conceding a mere four runs from 1.5 overs, while claiming three wickets. Final figures of 3-33 from four overs are more than useful in this format and Neesham had removed all doubts of his place in the side.

Miserly as ever

When it comes to T20 cricket, Sunil Narine needs no introduction. It was business as usual for the mystery spinner, sending down a jaw-dropping 21 dot deliveries, and believe it or not, conceding just three runs, all singles, in his completed four-over spell (4-1-3-0). It was the most miserly bowling figures in a completed spell, as his economy rate was an extraordinary 0.75. In last year’s Limacol CPL,

4-2-3-1 against Antigua Hawksbills, while Tigers’ Zulfiqar Babar had 4-2-32 against Quetta Bears in 2012.

Unfortunate start

Coming off a terrific Indian Premier League, much was expected of Guyana Amazon Warriors’ leading runscorer in the Limacol CPL 2013, Lendl Simmons. It was not to happen on Friday. A charge down the track to Sheldon Cottrell off the third delivery of the match ended the Trinidadian’s first outing in this year’s tournament, bowled for nought. Was it complacency, was it rush of blood, was it an eagerness to once again stamp his name on the ‘Biggest Party in Sport?’ Whatever it was, Simmons would be keen to make amends when the Warriors face his countrymen on Thursday in Guyana.

Promotion

Denesh Ramdin gained a promotion in the ill-fated final of 2013, a decision that backfired. With the added responsibility of captaincy this year, the Trinidadian came in as early as number four and seemed intent on righting the wrongs of that game. At 8-2 with Simmons and Martin Guptill back in the dugout, Ramdin and Mohammad Hafeez repaired the damage with a partnership of 59. With wickets falling around him, the wicketkeeper/batsman continued to be positive, striking the first 50 of Limacol CPL 2014 to ensure the Warriors were on the right side of the results sheet this time around. Not surprisingly he was named Man-of-the-Match.

Cameos of the day

Ramdin’s dismissal however, sparked a few jitters in the camp as it was left

to the bowlers to get the required 21 runs from 18 balls. Veerasammy Permaul used his long handle to good effect, smashing Ben Laughlin for a six and four of consecutive deliveries to reduce the equation to a far more manageable eight from 12. However, his dismissal by Cottrell in the penultimate over, which yielded just four runs, swung the momentum back in favour of the Hawksbills. Carlos Brathwaite produced a dot ball first up, followed by a wide in the final over, before Narine picked up two runs off the second legitimate delivery to ease some nerves by levelling the scores. With the field in, Narine, exuding the confidence of a top-order batsman, calmly hoisted the medium-pacer straight back over his head to seal the win with a boundary. Narine had once again turned up at another T20 tournament with ball…and bat!

Barbados Tridents’ Shoaib Malik returned figures of

Jamaica Tallawahs, the Barbados Tridents

the Red Steel next week. Game one brought so

Limacol CPL gathers momentum.

Ross

Hafeez

Kieron Pollard.

‘Teach Them Young’ cycling starts Monday

With schools nationwide now closed for the August holiday, several camps will be held across the country, affording youngsters the opportunity to exert their energies in a meaningful way.

One such camp is the annual ‘Teach Them Young’ cycling programme, which is usually hosted on the inner circuit of the National Park.

Dubbed the nursery for cycling in Guyana, the eightweek programme, now in its 38th year, will commence on Monday and conclude on August 31.

National coach Hassan Mohamed was at the helm when the programme was initiated by the National Sports Commission in 1977, and in 2014 he will again be at the National Park to administer the basics of the

sport to the youngsters. Sessions will be held on Mondays to Fridays from 09:00h to 11:30 hours, and according to Mohamed, the participants will be given an introductory course on cycling, which will involve both theory and practical.

“I’m expecting a very good turnout again this year because a lot of parents have been enquiring about the programme. This programme is absolutely free so I’m encouraging youngsters out there to come and be part of it,” Mohamed said during an exclusive interview with this publication.

Last year’s ‘Teach Them Young’ programme attracted over 40 riders.

According to Mohamed, youngsters desirous of attending the sessions can just turn up at the venue during the programme or register by calling his office on 226-0703.

Participants are not required to pay an entrance fee to attend the programme, but must be in possession of a bicycle and protective gear.

In reviewing the past 37 years, Mohamed reflected that the ‘Teach Them Young’ programme has played a significant role in helping to consistently churn out champion cyclists at all levels.

“Almost all of our champion riders have passed through the ‘Teach Them Young’ and I’m proud to say that. What this programme is doing is keeping the sport alive by bringing in new blood into the sport,” Mohamed reckoned.

While the youngsters will be educated on the basics of the game, they will also be afforded an opportunity to test their skills in a competitive environment as there will be several 11-race

programmes hosted during the eight weeks.

The first champion to emerge from the programme in 1977 was former president of the Guyana Cycling Federation and lecturer at the University of Guyana, Hector Edwards. He was followed by Leo Ramalho, who has since ventured into the sport of rifle-shooting.

Some of the other notable names whose foundation came as a result of the programme were the Fiedtkou brothers- Noel and Marcus, Byron and Bertram James, Dwayne “Road Hogg” Gibbs, Godfrey Pollydore, the late Troy Humphrey, Linden Dowridge, Eric Sankar, Warren McKay, Daniel Ramchurjee, Shane Boodram, Alanzo Greaves, Geron Williams, Robin Persaud and Enzo Matthews among others.

Neymar wants Argentina to win World Cup

Brazil’s Neymar has revealed he will be supporting arch-rivals Argentina in Sunday’s World Cup final.

The injured star, who was left with a broken vertebra following Camilo Zuniga’s challenge in the Seleção’s quarter-final win over Colombia, missed his country’s 7-1 humiliation at the hands of the Germans.

But in a tearful interview which was screened across the nation, the Barcelona striker controversially told fans: “I wish good luck to Germany but I want my two friends Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano to win it. Messi deserves to win this World Cup for all he has done for football. I’ll be supporting him as a friend and as a colleague.”

The 22-year-old, who scored four goals for his country at the tournament they hosted, plays alongside the

tinue his recovery from the back injury that, he claims, could have left him wheelchair-bound - had it been 2cm lower.

The striker was flown to Sao Paulo by helicopter fol-

Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise going fast

Judging from the buildup at the Limacol Caribbean Premier League office on Middle Street on Friday, the Guyana National Stadium would no doubt be painted with the colours of the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise, as Guyanese have been flocking the venue to get hold of their merchandise.

When Guyana Times paid a visit to the upper flat of the Middle Street office, patrons were busy acquiring their Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise.

According to information reaching this newscast, the items have been going at a fast rate and fans are encouraged to have their collectables early and avoid the last minute rush.

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, balls and bats. The office is opened from 08:00h to 18:00h daily.

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 next week, as fans have been taking full advantage of the opportunities being afforded to them to get their merchandise. Last Friday, the Guyana Amazon Warriors officials and three players- Martin Guptill, Leon Johnson and Tagenarine Chanderpaulwere at Courts Main Street branch, offering Guyanese merchandise at a reduced cost.

Like last year, the Guyana Amazon Warriors would no doubt look forward to sold out crowds at the National Stadium, as they attempt to go one step further and win the title after faltering at the final hurdle against the Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013.

During the three days here, Guyana Amazon Warriors will take on Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel at 19:30 hours on July 17, the St Lucia Zouks at 16:00 hours on July 19 and defending champions Jamaica Tallawahs at 16:00 hours on July 20. (Avenash Ramzan)

Preparation for Police sports kicking into gear

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) will be celebrating 175 years with their annual Police Athletics Championships set to run off on July 20 with the Road Relay event.

Deputy Superintendant and Police Sports Officer Colin Boyce told Guyana Times Sport that the meet is still on despite the weather as the organizers aim to ensure the game is successful.

“Now that there appears to be a bit of break in the weather, we will fast track the preparation of the ground but the games is still on,” Boyce told this publication.

lowing the Colombia game, but returned to visit the squad - and give a reassuring hug to under-fire boss

Boyce also indicated that while all teams are in training, he believes that Headquarters holds a small edge over ‘A’ Division.

“A Division has been sending a warning to take

the championship form Headquarters but I think Headquarters has the slight advantage even though they are a bit depleted without the services of Alita More and (Winston) George who will be absent because of National duty at the Commonwealth Games,” Boyce noted.

Meanwhile ‘A’ Division will be boosted with the long distance talent of junior distance champion Grivon Grant and Tisha Grimes. However, the difference maker at least according to Boyce might just be the fact that Headquarters houses the Police Training School which always has surprise and natural talent hiding away.

The track and field championship will begin on July 21 with the final day being on July 25. (Treiston Joseph)

pair at Barcelona. He is due to return to the Catalan club on August 5, to con-

Luiz Felipe Scolari - ahead of Saturday’s third-place playoff against the Netherlands.

Neymar’s support of Messi, and by extension Argentina, is unlikely to be shared by many of his compatriots. Photo: AFP

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

A group of riders from a previous ‘Teach Them Young’ cycling programme (Avenash Ramzan file photo)

Guyana Amazon Warriors fans browse through the merchandise items available at the top flat of the OPCO building on Middle Street (Photo: Avenash Ramzan)

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Rutherford hits 79 as Guyana U-17 beat T&T

Sherfane Rutherford inspired Guyana to a 62 run-win with an unbeaten half century against Trinidad and Tobago in the Regional Under-17 Tournament at Shaw Park in Tobago on Friday. Ruthrford retired hurt on 79 but helped Guyana post 245 for 8 from their 50 overs.

Opening batsman Adrian Sukwah made 56, Kemo Paul 33 and Ronaldo Ali Mohamed 29 to ensure Guyana a solid score to defend.

It was then up to the bowlers to do their part and they did not disappoint as the hosts were dismissed for 183 from 43.2 overs. The lone resistance came from

Brandon Maharaj who made an even half century. There were 3 wickets each for Paul and Ronaldo Ali Mohamed. In other results, Barbados defeated Leeward Islands by 68 runs and Jamaica beat Windward Islands won by 6 wickets.

Yadram wants to dominate regional U-15

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Aconfident Bhaskar Yadram is looking to produce good performances for Guyana at the imminent West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) regional Under-15 tournament in Jamaica.

The right-hand batsman has expressed firm optimism of dominating with the bat after declaring that his form has been great of recent.

The national Under-15 captain was in top form recently, hitting four half-centuries during a seven-match tour by the Enterprise Busta Sports Club (EBSC) to Trinidad and Tobago in May.

The EBSC won just two and lost five of their games, but the diminutive Yadram was outstanding throughout, scoring 348 runs from five innings at an average of 69.6 with a highest score of 83.

He was also a dominant force during the recent Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Inter-County tournament.

“Definitely, I want to perform to the best of my ability and come out with a good average; I am in good form of recent, I am in good shape with my fitness so I really looking forward to do well for my country,” Yadram told this publication during an exclusive interview on

Thursday.

Having shown great potential as a batsman and great leadership qualities, Yadram promised to return home with the regional under-15 title, which has eluded Guyana since 1999.

“I’m confident we can win, because we have a very balanced team,” the righthanded Yadram, who can also double as wicketkeeper said.

This is Yadram’s third year at this level.

Meanwhile,the competition bowls off on July 22.

This year, the tournament – in its 19th season – will

be contested under a roundrobin format, featuring five rounds of 50 overs-a-side matches with the team accumulating the most points being declared champions.

Trinidad and Tobago captured the title for the seventh time last year, when it was staged in the southwestern Jamaican parish of St. Elizabeth, by topping the points table following victories over Windward Islands, Leeward Islands, Guyana and the home team. Their only loss came against traditional sporting rivals Barbados.

The twin-island republic’s side narrowly edged out the Windward Islands for the top spot, with Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica and the Leeward Islands following.

The Guyana under-15 team reads: Bhaskar Yadram (captain), Joshua Persaud (vice captain/ W/k), Kevin Sinclair, Christopher Campbell, Alphius Bookie, Kurt Lovell, Steve Deonaraine, Ashmead Nedd, Sagar Hetheramani, Orlando Jailall, Stephen Kamaladeen, Colin Barlow, Bhojnarine Singh, Kris Ramnarine

The four reserves are: Junior Philips, Mark Ramsammy, Robin Williams and Khemchand Hardyal. (Manager) Andy Ramnarine, (Coach) Julian Moore.

England slump give India control

England suffered another spectacular batting collapse as India cemented their advantage in the first Test in Trent Bridge. Having reached 134-1 on a pitch that remains docile, the hosts lost six wickets for 68 runs after lunch to a combination of fine seam bowling, poor shot selection and umpiring errors.

Stuart Broad led a recovery with a brisk 47 and a spirited unbroken last-wicket stand of 54 between Joe Root and James Anderson frustrated the tourists, but England still closed on an underwhelming 352-9, 105 behind.

Root top-scored with 78 not out, Gary Ballance made 71 and Sam Robson scored 59 before he was controversially given out lbw when umpire Bruce Oxenford failed to spot an inside edge.

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Bhaskar Yadram

Stuart Broad initiated England’s partial recovery from 202-7 with a 42-ball 47

Commonwealth team an investment for future – GOA – athletes set to depart July 18

By TreisTon Joseph

All systems are a go for Guyana to participate in the upcoming 20th edition of the Commonwealth Games scheduled for Glasgow, Scotland from July 23.

The bulk of the team, according to President of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) KA Juman Yassin, will travel to Suriname by bus on July 18 before leaving for London on July 19 with an expected date of arrival at the games on July 20.

Treasurer of the GOA, Garfield Wiltshire, noted that sending the team to Glasgow is “an investment in the future and hopefully we can build on it; I think sending a women’s team for the first time in table tennis is good. We have five riders that are closest to [the] team, something that has never been done going to the games.

“This type of exposure will only help them to be

better at minor games and maybe they can grow so it’s an investment,” Wiltshire highlighted.

The move to have the team travel overland for the first part of their journey, according to Yassin, was in order to save money which amounted to US $12,000.

While all the managers and administrators are hoping for medals, they also know that the task of Guyana hauling in hardware is difficult with the level of competition at the Commonwealth Games.

“We have been investing, we have been giving financial contributions and we have been sending our best teams and if they do their best, then we can’t complain.

“When you look at our athletes, they are only parttime when compared to most other countries that have full-time athletes… our coaches and athletes are part-time and that is something that we should appreciate,” Yassin stated.

Secretary General Hector Edwards was also optimistic that the games will help in the developmental process of the athletes, as he hopes that within the next “4-5 years” the benefits can be reaped.

The various managers of the team were also hoping for a good showing from their athletes, especially President of the Guyana Table Tennis Association, Godfrey Munroe, who pointed out that expectations must be measured against who the athletes come up against at the games.

Further, Swimming is looking to make a change to their two-member team as Olympian Niall Roberts has suffered an injury and may be replaced by Jamila Sammoogan.

Meanwhile, the team is made up of 37 athletes spread across seven disciplines in Swimming, Athletics, Rifle-Shooting, Table Tennis, Boxing, Cycling and Squash.

Limacol CPL 2014…

Guyanese avoiding last-minute rush for tickets

By AvenAsh rAmzAn

With the Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) off to a thrilling start in Grenada on Friday, Guyanese fans have been turning up in droves at the OPCO Middle Street Ticking Office to purchase their tickets for the local leg next week.

It seems like the cricket starved populace is leaving nothing to chance, using the chance to acquire their tickets early and avoid the lastminute rush.

According to Ticketing Officer, Natasha Khan, while there has not been a build-up, mainly due to the swiftness of CPL staff in dealing with patrons, there has been a consistent flow of persons turning up at the venue.

Unlike the other territories, tickets are not available online in Guyana, and as such, Khan is expecting increased activity at the Middle Street office this weekend.

With all the tickets for the three match days available only at Middle Street, Palm Court and selected Courts and Digicel outlets, Khan is urging spectators to get their tickets early and avoid missing out on the ‘Biggest Party in Sport.’

One patron who spoke with this publication said given the excitement he experienced during the inaugural tournament last year he was determined to get his tickets early, thereby ensuring he is part of the action in 2014.

“I really enjoyed the games here last year, and

Bocce competition set for today

Senior citizens will be showing off their skills today when a senior citizens’ team

Bocce competition gets underway at 09:00h at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue. The competition is being sponsored by the National Sport Commission. Hibiscus,

Buttercup, Sunflower and Lilly are the teams that will be competing in the knockout format.

Hibiscus will meet Buttercup in the first game, while Lilly will challenge Sunflower in game two. The two winning teams will compete for the Champion of Champions title. The champion and runner-up will be awarded medals and trophies.

The day’s activities are being organised by Sports Officer, Wilton Spencer.

What is Bocce?

According to internet side wikipedia, Bocce is a ball sport belonging to the boules sport family, closely related to bowls and pétanque, with a common ancestry from ancient games played in the Roman Empire.

Bocce is traditionally played on natural soil and asphalt courts 27.5 metres (90 ft) in length and 2.5 to 4 metres (8.2 to

13.1 ft) wide.

Bocce balls can be made of metal or various kinds of plastic. Unlike lawn bowls, bocce balls are spherical and have no inbuilt bias. A game can be conducted between two players, or two teams of two, three, or four.

A match is started by a randomly chosen side being given the opportunity to throw a smaller ball, the jack (called a boccino or pallino in some areas), from one end of the court into a zone 5 metres (16 ft) in length, ending 2.5 metres (8.2 ft) from the far end of the court.

If the first team misses twice, the other team is awarded the opportunity to place the jack anywhere they choose within the prescribed zone.

The side that first attempted to place the jack is given the opportunity to bowl first. Once the first bowl has taken place, the other side has the opportunity to bowl. From then

definitely I am going back again this year to cheer on the Guyana Amazon Warriors. Hopefully they will win it this time,” he said.

Another fan, who made use of his quota of 10 tickets per match day, was enthusiastic to once again welcome the Limacol CPL on local shores.

“Last year I went with some friends, but this year I’m taking my family members because this is the Biggest Party in Sport and I don’t want them to miss it live,” the fan remarked.

The Middle Street office is opened from 08:00h to 18:00 daily, including Sundays and holidays, and according to Khan, each person is allowed up to 10 tickets per match and where possible they may be allowed to purchase tickets with the seats of their choice in their preferred stand, de-

on, the side which does not have the ball closest to the jack has a chance to bowl, up until one side or the other has used their four balls. At that point, the other side bowls its remaining balls.

The team with the closest ball to the jack is the only team that can score points in any frame. The scoring team receives one point for each of their balls that is closer to the jack than the closest ball of the other team. The length of a game varies by region, but is typically from seven to 13 points.

Players are permitted to throw the ball in the air using an underarm action. This is generally used to knock either the jack or another ball away to attain a more favorable position. Tactics can get quite complex when players have sufficient control over the ball to throw or roll it accurately.

pending on availability.

Tickets for the Red and Green Stands cost $4,000 each, while tickets for the Orange Stand, renamed the Palm Court VIP Party Stand, cost $5,000. Entry to the Party Mound will be $2,000, while parking tickets are available at a cost of $1,000 each. Tickets for the Palm Court VIP Party Stand are also available at Middle Street.

This year the organisers have put in place many security features to prevent counterfeiting, and unlike other venues, tickets for the Guyana National Stadium are numbered to matches the seat number, which will eliminate the possibility of overcrowding.

Meanwhile, fans wishing to purchase Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise can also do so at the top flat of the Middle Street office.

Digicel Schools football...

IBE, Annandale Secondary win

The Region Four zone of the fourth annual Digicel Schools Football Championship continued on Wednesday last with the Institute of Business Education (IBE) and Annandale Secondary School chalking up victories at the Beterverwagting Community Centre ground, East Coast Demerara.

In the first match of a double-header, IBE emerged comfortable 3-0 victors over Buxton. Indebted to a double strike from Jason Cromwell, who found the back of the net in the 26th and 66th minutes of play, IBE made an easy passge to the next stage of the competition with a comprehensive win. Deshawn Trotz scored the other goal in the 39th minute.

In the second match of the day, Annandale, through an Ian Docker goal that was

scored in the 32nd minute, held a 1-0 advantage over Bygeval Secondary until the final minute of play. With Annandale getting ever closer to advancing to the next round at the end of full time, Shafeer Sanichar equalised in the 70th minute, forcing the game to be decided by penalties. Docker, Jeremiah Thorne, Kristoff Stool and Keon Gooding buried their spot kick for Annandale, while watching their teammate Sven Anthony missing his own, while on the other side of the center circle, Sanichar proved that his last minute goal was no fluke, when he scored his spot kick, followed by Raphael Bovell and Orette Forde as Annandale won 4-3.

Kelvin James and Stephen Petrie missed their penalties for Bygeval.

Wilton Spencer

Members of the head table during the press conference

This fan smiles as he collects his tickets, while others eagerly await their turn (Photo: Marceano Narine)

Cricket Admin Bill to be assented to by next week – Attorney General

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister

Anil Nandlall,has revealed that the 2012 Cricket Administration Bill, which was unanimously passed by the National Assembly, will be assented to by President Donald Ramotar next week.

Nandlall, speaking with Guyana Times Sport during an exclusive interview on Friday afternoon, explained that the Bill left his office on Wednesday last and arrived at the Office of the President for Ramotar’s consideration and assent.

He explained that the legislation was not contentious in nature and therefore it is more than likely to be favoured by President Ramotar, having been tabled by the ruling administration in parliament.

Asked about the objections raised by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), the Attorney General advised that they are being “resolved with dispatch”.

Concerns

He reminded this publication that the President of the West Indies Cricket Board and former Jamaican Prime Minister PJ Patterson had asked that the President hold his assent until there were discussions to clarify concerns. “We have met with [the] WICB and we are working on a MoU to put the matters raised to rest,” he advised.

Nandlall explained that in that Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), is a condition that the bill will be assented to at the earliest possible date and time.

“We are continuing to iron out the terms of the MoA. In a matter of days, it is Government’s expectation that these matters outstanding will be reconciled,” he stated.

The Attorney General also explained that the MoA outlines a course of action to be embarked upon. “This

course of action includes the vexed question of establishing an electoral process and system and the holding of elections.”

The Bill seeks to provide legal, administrative guidelines for cricket, which over the years has become a national sport.

Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony, who presented the Bill to the National Assembly, had said it was drafted after extensive consultations with all stakeholders, and moreso, following recommendations in a ruling made by the High Court.

The Bill makes it legal for the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) to be established as a corporate body comprising the Demerara, Essequibo and the Berbice Cricket Boards, all of which will also be made corporate entities.

A section of the Bill will address the issue of phantom voting for the election of persons for administrative positions.

Accountability

The National Assembly was also told that the Bill provides for better financial accountability. As such, the GCB, under this new legislation will be required to present timely audited financial reports to the National Assembly, as well as the National Sports Commission.

To this end, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) had expressed serious reservations that the Cricket Administration Bill, which was passed in the National Assembly on May 15, would thrust the administration of cricket in Guyana from an independent body to the Government of Guyana. This the WICB had viewed as undesirable and inconsistent with International Cricket Council tenets.

Further, the WICB sought an undertaking from His Excellency President Donald Ramotar that the Bill be not signed into law until these matters had been resolved. However, the parties were unable to find a mutually agreeable resolution and as a consequence, the WICB relocated the Third Test between the West Indies and New Zealand from Guyana.

Late last month top officials of the WICB visited Guyana and engaged Government on the Bill, after which the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was reached.

Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony had expressed dur-

ing an exclusive interview that the closed- door talks were fruitful and was optimistic that a bright future awaits Guyana’s cricket following the decision to establish a MoA among the various cricket stakeholders during the WICB’s two-day visit.

The MoA serves to iron out the contentious issues regarding the Cricket Administration Bill. “We had very fruitful discussions with the WICB and I think

some of the things, maybe the misconceptions that people might have had, we were able to discuss and clarify those issues.

“At the end of it we are working on developing an agreement and right now the legal people will put that agreement in place and once we have the text of that agreement and agree on that text, I think we will be able to move forward,” Minister Anthony had told Guyana Times Sport.

President Donald Ramotar

Anil Nandlall

Dr Frank Anthony