Guyana Times Daily

TravelSpan commits to CJIA as airline hub

Limacol CPL fever! Guyanese cricket fans were out in their thousands to show support for the Guyana Amazon Warriors who were edged out in the last over in a thrilling encounter against the Jamaica Tallawahs at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara on Sunday (Carl Croker photo)

monday, july 21, 2014|

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, July 21 from 13:30h-15:00h

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, July 21 from 12:25h-13:55h

WEATHER TODAY

Countrywide: Thundery showers can be expected in the morning with heavy rain showers in the early afternoon. Sunny weather is expected in the late afternoon with thundery showers in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between zero and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 01:12h and 13:33h reaching maximum heights of 2.18 metres and 2.30 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 06:41h and 19:02h reaching minimum heights of 0.94 metre and 1.03 metres respectively.

Rohee pleased with pace of Police reforms

BY VAHNU MANIKCHAND

Despite a nine per cent increase in serious crimes, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said he is pleased with the ongoing reformation of the Guyana Police Force.

Late 2012, Rohee had announced several sweeping reforms aimed at changing the security landscape in Guyana for years to come and create more professional law enforcement agencies.

Among these reforms are the rebranding of the Guyana Police Force to the Guyana Police Service in 2013, the operationalisation of new multimilliondollar strategic plans for the Force, and an increased budgetary allocation for ranks of security services to access training while pursuing higher education, both locally and internationally.

Plans were also unveiled to operationalise the National Forensic Laboratory, implement changes within the internal structure of both the Police and Home Affairs Ministry, and establishment of Houses of Justice in Regions Two and Three.

Security

Rohee said during the launch that his tenure has been a period of strategic planning and policy formulation, as he familiarised himself with the operational and logistical aspects of the security sector, which he deemed crucial, before implementing major changes and reforms.

The Strategic Plan was prepared by the UKbased Capita Symonds Consultancy in 2010, while the implementation plan was drawn up by the US-based Julian Laite Consultancy in February 2012. It is geared at tackling issues related to the Force’s administration, succession planning, integrity and professionalisation, and public relations enhancement.

Speaking to Guyana Times last week, Rohee said he has been pushing for the

reforms, which have resulted in greater cooperation with communities and new intelligence structures being established.

The Minister noted that despite the Opposition had voted down key bills to enable the reform process, including the Security Reform Bills, which he presented in the National Assembly in 2012, he did not allow that to distract him from strengthening and improving the law enforcement agencies under his stewardship.

The Minister explained that a lot of changes are being done administratively in the various law enforcement agencies such as the Guyana Fire Service. He said the Ministry has also provided the Fire Service with ambulances to expand their line of work. However, he noted that they is much more work to be done regarding promptness of the Fire Service, since there are always complaints of lateness. On the other hand, Rohee stressed that persons should remain cognisant of the fact that firefighters cannot foresee a fire and can only act when they are informed.

“When the Fire Service received the first call that a building is on fire, that is when they moved into action and sometimes when the first call is made, the burning building would have already been engulfed…. Persons also have to take into consideration that the firefighters have to travel a distance to get

to the location, so obviously the issue of promptness will arise,” the Minister explained.

According to the Home Affairs Minister, no law enforcement agency around is perfect and they are often criticised. “Police Force in any part of the world will come under criticism from time to time and there will be good days and bad days for law enforcement agencies, especially when it is brought into disrepute by the actions of its officers… but I think the Police Force is a much better place now when compared to before, and these reforms we are carrying out now will certainly help to make the Force an even better law enforcement agency,” the Minister said.

Hypocritical

Rohee pointed out that those persons who often criticise the Guyana Police Force are making a mistake since the institution has been around for some 175 years. He specifically named the Opposition, whom he noted worked with the same agency when they were in power. “I believe it is hypocritical on their part to condemn the same Police Force they worked with and which is doing a much better job now than it did when it was under their control,” he stated.

However, despite many harsh criticisms, the Home Affairs Minister said the agency has time and again proved themselves with

their excellent and hard work. On this note, Rohee urged members of the various law enforcement agencies to uphold the Standard Operating Procedures and Standing Orders, which the respective agencies operate under.

This, he explained, would help to prevent any further damages to the image of the law enforcement agencies.

He also charged the ranks to maintain respect for the public, noting that respect due is respect gained.

“I think that one of the fundamental ways of successful policing at anytime, whether it is for a Constable or Commissioner, is close collaboration with the communities wherever they are stationed and I am happy to see a lot of this happening these days,” Rohee mentioned. (vahnum@guyanatimesgy.com)

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

Acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com, letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Traducing the law

In Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist”, the court advises Mr Bumble, “... the law supposes that your wife acts under your direction”. The henpecked husband then blurted out, “If the law supposes that, the law is a ass.” The point being, of course, that sometimes there are people who apply the law contrary to all common sense. With its complaint to the Police about the Minister of Finance on spending “unauthorised monies” the Alliance For Change (AFC) is determined to make the law in Guyana, “an ass”.

This move on their part is very unfortunate since ordinary citizens can easily develop a cynicism about our system of law and order, as they have already done with the political system, after the gymnastics routinely practised, by the Opposition. If the AFC were ignorant, unlettered denizens of the forest – feral or otherwise – they may be excused. But with several aspiring “Senior Counsels” in their leadership corps, their behaviour begs the question as to their motives.

The underlying facts are simple and undisputed. The Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Government of Guyana as specified by the Constitution, brought the Budget known as the “Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure” for the current year, to Parliament at the end of March. These “Estimates of Expenditure” represented the Executive’s projected spending for the year in pursuit of its programme on which it was elected to office.

After the Opposition excised a whopping $37.4 billion from the original allocation of $220 billion, the Minister of Finance immediately signalled that as was done in the previous two years, monies for critical areas that were excised would have to be found. “I can assure that action is imminent… we intend to be guided by the Constitution and statutory provision and by the Acting Chief Justice’s ruling to address the budget cuts and any instance of appropriations being inadequate to meet a public purpose.”

Under Article 218(3) of the Constitution, the Minister has the authority to spend “in excess” of what had been appropriated to meet the aforementioned “public purpose”. In both 2012 and 2013, the Minister had returned to Parliament, spelled out the additional spending and received approval. As the Minister pointed out, “The instrument of the Statement of Excess has been used in the Parliament before, in fact the same Opposition that is now speaking about disrespect for the Parliament and speaking about wanting to make a report to the Police… What they are not saying is that they themselves, in the Parliament controlled by them, have approved previous Statement of Excess; this Statement of Excess going to Parliament is not the first Statement of Excess that has gone to the Parliament, is not the second or third, it is the fourth Statement of Excess to be considered by this Parliament in 2012.”

In addition to the authority conferred by precedence to the Government on “excess spending”, Article 220:1 of the Constitution explicitly provides for the Finance Minister to make advances from the Contingencies Fund if there is an urgent need for expenditure for which no other provision exists. Section 41 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act of 2003 gives the Finance Minister the “sole authority” to release monies from the Contingencies Fund.

Even though Latin is no longer taught in Guyana, Guyanese have become familiar with the distinction between “casus belli” – the “occasion for the war” – and “causa belli” – the “real reason for the war”. The AFC and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) are using the $4.5 billion spent to fund the Government programmes chopped by them from the Budget to simply justify the declaration of war to oust the Government through their threatened “noconfidence” motion.

But they did not have to go through all this rigmarole: they always had that option. They are simply trying to justify their politics of expedience, even if it makes the highest law of the land, “an ass”.

Crucial cost-free components of basic human resource development

Dear Editor, Our newspapers kindly published my recent letter which contained rhetorical questions about the depressing “negativity” in our society with particular reference to the development of children whose share of Guyana’s population is increasing while the development of their potential appears to be decreasing.

Having had encouraging feedback from some readers and in keeping with my usually simple approach to problem-solving, I now wish to mention the following basic, virtually cost-free starting points: Prayers, devotional ac-

tivities, motivational talks, role models:

When I was in primary school we had to say prayers four times daily, ie at the beginning and end of each morning and afternoon session. At high school we prayed at the beginning of each day and at least once per week, there was some devotional/motivational talk/ discussion led by a teacher or societal role model.

To what extent are these activities in vogue these days? My casual inquiries reveal practices that vary from indifference or infrequency to some or optional initiatives. Is there a case for standardisation or man-

dating minimal characterbuilding programmes?

A reliable contact in a UK jurisdiction responded to me this week as follows:

“I have spoken to colleagues in primary and secondary education; I am informed, that there is an assembly each morning at which time, hymns are sung, The Lord’s prayer is chanted and this is accompanied by a topical presentation, delivered by a member of staff or a designated student. And as part of the curriculum, educational visits to mandirs, mosques, gurudwaras and Christian churches are promoted. Multifaith practitioners are invited as part of the

assembly’s programme, to input about his or her religion”

Also, I think the following extract from a recent inspiring article by our own popular and respected Dr Joyce Jonas is also instructive:

“If we want our children to be decent citizens, why are we tolerating the presence of teachers who are verbally and physically abusive and why are we not up in arms about the environment of bullying, stealing, cheating, cursing and disrespect for authority that our children have to contend with when we send them to school each day?

Continued on page 5

An analysis of human life (Conclusion)

Dear Editor,

The dynamics of opportunities….. Opportunities are the defining factors in our lives that will determine where we will be in the year to come, and what progress/status we will attain.

An opportunity is a set of circumstances that presents itself in a timely fashion, making it possible to do something. Therefore, it could be said that in the scheme of life there are timely circumstances that arise in our lives when we can do something significant and meaningful that can make a difference and impact our lives in a positive way.

On the other hand, a set of circumstances could suddenly present itself making it possible to betray a friend or carry out a robbery on a bank. A thief will seek the opportunity to break into someone’s home or car when the occupants are out.

We all want a chance for success or advancement in a particular field, and we look forward with a clean heart and a clear conscience to suc-

ceed in life without cheating. I love football and I would look at the game on the television, but sometimes it comes across to me, that regardless of how skilful or talented a player may be, there are times in the course of the game, when the best of players would seek an opportunity to do something on the field, to find favour with the referee in granting a penalty kick, with the hope of scoring a goal in the closing stages of the game. Politicians, whenever debating a bill, are noted for seeking the opportunity, whenever a set of circumstances arise, to make the opposing side look bad, so that they would look good in the eyes of the nation.

That is not the nature of the CROW concept/analysis. Rather we use opportunities to realise our goals and establish our dreams, in a manner that is void of deception or the use of cunning devices.

There are golden opportunities, windows of opportunities, or glorious opportunities, whichever of these terms is applicable to your belief system that come along our path

and without being conscientious, we spurn those and lose a chance to prosper.

Golden opportunities are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, they come our way only once, and we must be able to recognise them, and tap into our destiny. A perfect example we can all learn from is found in the history of the Laparkan Group [Guyana].

Window of opportunities are what happen on a regular basis such as this conference, a new job.

Glorious opportunities are God’s gracious move in our lives to change our eternal destiny. Opportunities are the hallmark of a true believer in God.

The third element in the scheme of life: Opportunities.

The pleasure of work……

There is a certain joy and fulfilment that engulf your life when you are engaged in a particular kind of work; whether a farmer, trader, a banker, a pastor or a carpenter, that pleasure only you know of, will be experienced.

Work could either be labori-

ous or pleasurable depending on several factors prevailing at the time. If a man is institutionalised in a prison system and he has to plough a field, such work could be regarded as laborious, but for a man to plough his own field, it is pleasurable for him because of the rewards and harvest he will reap.

Now, working in a prison environment is not the only scenario that speaks of a laborious work. Someone may be a manager in an organisation, but because of the various challenge, they feel inferior and incompetent in performing their duties, then gradually the job becomes laborious. We are exposed to a world where man is constantly looking for work to ensure a living and because of geographical location; man has to confine himself to a certain boundary to work, while others move away from certain communities in order to facilitate a job. Nevertheless, there are instances when work requires you to travel: whether over regions or nations, your work demands that you travel.

President Donald Ramotar presents the winner’s cheque to the Jamaica Tallawahs Captain Chris Gayle after Sunday's game against the Guyana Amazon Warriors at the National Stadium, Providence (Sandra Prince photo)

PPP demands AFC put nation first over its self-interest

Dear Editor,

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has noted the recent 10-point demand on the President and the Government by the Alliance For Change (AFC). It appears as if the AFC is developing a penchant for such brazen demands on the Executive under the guise of having the interest of Guyana and Guyanese at heart.

Our Party remains cognisant of the terror that was unleashed on innocent Guyanese along part of the East Bank corridor following a previous demand/ultimatum by the AFC. During that fateful afternoon, many were beaten and robbed and denied their constitutional right to freedom of movement. Law enforcement officers were also subjected to the wanton abuse that ensued. Such actions, and those that continue to be taken in the National Assembly, are demonstrative of the scant regard the AFC has shown for the welfare of Guyanese. Our Party must, there-

fore, remain concerned over what this new set of demands by the AFC may precipitate. If the AFC’s utterances were to be believed as having the interest of Guyanese at heart as it claims, then it must endeavour to unconditionally support Government’s policy and programme. It is this context that the PPP demand of the AFC that if it is indeed genuinely concerned about improving the lives of Guyanese then it must forthrightly put national interest over its own blatant partisan self-interest in which it wallows. This self-interest was very evident with regard to the construction of the Marriott Hotel and the Specialty Hospital. It is no secret that the owner of a major hotel in Guyana is a lead financier of the AFC.

This was made public by the financier himself. There is, therefore, no ambiguity in comprehending the resulting natural propensity of the AFC to demonise the Marriott to save the interest of its financier. Their contin-

uous opposition to this project remains unsurprising. Ironically, the AFC has been vehement in its support for competition in other areas, but is conveniently opposed to the same in the hospitality sector.

This ingrained proclivity for self-interest by the AFC and use of its parliamentary position to protect its self-interest was demonstrated with regard to the Specialty Hospital. Again, it is no secret that the Leader of the AFC was part of the team of a bidding company which was not awarded the contract.

The PPP, therefore, demands of the AFC that if it wants to remain truthful to the development of Guyana and Guyanese, then it must meaningfully use its parliamentary position to ensure the following are realised:

1. The Specialty Hospital 2. The Amaila Falls Hydro Project

3. The CJIA Expansion Project

4. The passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and the Countering of Financing

of Terrorism Bill

5. The Customs Amendment Bill

6. The restoration of the budget cuts

7. The Amerindian Development Fund

8. Support for reforms in the Security Sector

9. Cabinet no-objection

10. Support for Government’s developmental policies

Our Party calls on the AFC to meet these demands in the interest of our country and its people since the benefits that would be derived are known to all. The AFC cannot escape being responsible for denying Guyanese such benefits. More so, the PPP demands that the AFC cease playing games with the welfare of our people and that of the nation and we reiterate our demand that if the AFC has the country and Guyanese at heart, then it must immediately put the nation first over it politics of self-interest.

Sincerely, People’s Progressive Party/Civic

Open letter to the President

Dear Mr President,

I write to you out of deep concern over the unauthorised and unconstitutional withdrawals made from our nation’s Consolidated Fund by the Finance Minister.

It is my Party’s belief that such withdrawals as reported in Financial Paper 1 of 2014 are in clear contravention of Article 217 of the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana and Section 16 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act.

In addition, we believe that this action taken by your Government greatly exceeds the mandate given by the people of Guyana in the elections of 2011, in which your party received 48 per cent of the vote. I wish to emphasise that the

Alliance For Change has always respected the results of those elections, the supremacy of the Constitution of Guyana, and the rule of law which are the bases on which your party ought to govern.

I wish also to emphasise that the will of the Guyanese people is reflected in the composition of the National Assembly, and that one of the key roles played by that body is the authorisation of all public spending.

My party, therefore, finds it wholly unacceptable that your Government is now spending from the Consolidated Fund beyond the provisions of the Appropriations Act of 2014 or any other approved by the National Assembly. We cannot condone participation or lend any sup-

Crucial cost-free...

We allow our children to spend their formative years in shabby buildings with unpainted, damaged furniture, filthy toilets, litter-filled yards – hoping that from these beginnings they will become civic minded, taking care of the environment. We allow our children to buy their SBAs and photocopy ad lib and still hope that they will turn out to be honest adults! What are we thinking?!” (ref.wwwInsight.com, vol2 Edition 2 p49).

Initiatives being implemented in Canada of which I am aware include:

* A particular characterbuilding topic is designated for each month within which to ‘frame’ active discussion, events and initiatives among students, example September

= RESPECT; October = RESPONSIBILITY; November = EMPATHY; December = KINDNESS; January = TEAMWORK; February = FAIRNESS; March = HONESTY; April = COOPERATION etc, etc.

* They also conduct slogan competitions whereby students are encouraged to submit crisp, motivational character-building slogans. Winners are selected each term.

Locally, I can also recall that in my early days as the first ‘principal/teacher’ of Hindu College, Cove and John, we initiated a nationally competitive Inter-High School Essay Competition for the best essay on the topic: “Knowledge is better than silver and gold, but good

port to such a serious breach of the Constitution and laws of Guyana, and we find it necessary in the light of the clear and present danger to the Constitution and the rule of law to explore all options necessary for safeguarding the public purse against further lawless spending.

I am aware that Article 106 (6) of our Constitution provides an option that is currently being discussed nationwide, ie the forced resignation of the Cabinet including the President following a defeat in the National Assembly on a vote of noconfidence.

In the light of what has occurred, I wish to formally clarify that my party has, indeed, been actively considering this option and, currently, is of the view that the options for law-

From page 4

character is better than both knowledge and silver and gold”. I can still recall a Ms Maureen Birkett of Bishops’ High School winning the competition which was given nation-wide publicity just as is given to top-performing CXC students these days.

I humbly suggest that while it is necessary that we focus on passing examinations and publicising the academic excellence of a few, it is equally important that we celebrate those whose ABC (Attitude, Behaviour, Character) are exemplary and critical foundational elements of effective human resource development.

Sincerely, Nowrang Persaud

Some people spend their entire life working at one location and never consider moving on, yet they find satisfaction in the work they do. They would say, it’s not about the money but it’s about the satisfaction they get from the job. Some categories of workers in that kind of mould are teachers, policemen, Government workers, nurses, fishermen, carpenters, etc.

The CROW concept/analysis would want to look at work from a more unique and pleasurable position. Firstly, it is the desire for all men and women to connect to some form of work that may earn them a living. The desire for food is evident for sustenance and health. While it would not be natural for one not to want food, it is the same principle that applies to work.

Work entails challenges, rewards and opportunities to really provide satisfaction. If there is no challenge on the job, innovativeness and creativity is lost. If there are no significant rewards on the job, then you are reduced to being a slave. If no opportunities are presented, then you might as well quit the job.

ful and constitutional alternatives have rapidly decreased. Our party sees no other alternative than to proceed with this constitutional mechanism for removal of an unpopular Government that has ceased to enjoy the confidence of the National Assembly and who, by its actions, has demonstrated an unlawful and contemptuous disregard for the Supreme Law of the Country.

Respectfully, Khemraj Ramjattan AFC Leader

Cc: Brigadier (Ret’d) David Granger – Leader of the Opposition

Every institution/organisation in every country of the world, except in communist states, that employs workers is structured to engage their staff, with challenges, rewards and opportunities; whether it’s the National Army, Government Ministries, hospitals, supermarkets, trading complex, or civic organisations. Your job is just one aspect of your work; you can always change your job but, your work never changes. Your work is extended to the many things you find yourself doing with joy. For instance gardening, taking care of pets, visiting the sick, shopping, walking in the park, fishing, bird watching. You have 24 hours in one day, what we do within that timeframe is important to our work. For instance, some form of work provides a type of therapy for some people, and if they are deprived of the opportunity of functioning in that particular type of work, it affects their health. If a man of 80 years of age has been planting a kitchen garden for over 15 years, then suddenly he is ushered into a new environment where there is no gardening opportunity, he will die faster than if he was left in his natural habitat. Then again, we have an opportunity to take up responsibilities in various areas of earnings apart from our normal job. We must all seek ways and means of spending time doing other things that could earn us monetary rewards. There are up to seven means and ways in which we can earn. The fourth element in the scheme of life: Work.

Sincerely, Maranatha Ministries International Inc

Two gays killed by spurned lover

– suspect found dead

BY GOMATIE GANGADIN AND JOMO PAUL

Tragedy struck for three families in the wee hours of Sunday morning when a young man who was spurned by his lover went in search of vengeance. The East Coast Demerara resident fatally stabbed two commercial sex workers before allegedly turning himself into a human torch.

Dead are Carlyle Sinclair, 24, also known as “Tyra Banks” of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo; Jason

John, 23, also known as “Jada” of Lamaha Street, Alberttown, Georgetown; and Samuel Bristol, 31, of 16 Section ‘C’ Nabaclis.

Bristol attacked and stabbed Sinclair and John on Leopold Street about 01:45h on Sunday morning. Sinclair, however, ran a few blocks away to Lombard Street, in the vicinity of ARK Enterprises, where he succumbed to his injuries.

When Guyana Times arrived at the scene of the stabbing on Lombard Street around 02:00h on Sunday morning, scores of residents had already flocked the scene of the incident, where the body of John was found.

Speaking with Guyana Times at the scene on Sunday, Romario Lovell

also known as “Thin Slice”, related that he was the initial target of the attack by Bristol.

Bristol allegedly stabbed John and Sinclair after he learned that they had encouraged him(Lovell) to work as a commercial sex worker.

Lovell explained to Guyana Times that he had shared a relationship with Bristol for some five years, but had left him because he was abusive.

He said that from time to time Bristol would show up at his “work place” on King Street and physically abuse him.

“He used to come and try to get me off the streets, but I told him I am a street man. I like the faring,” said Lovell said.

He said on this occasion when Bristol turned up at King Street, the other sex workers were not very welcoming. He explained that before Bristol took out a bottle that contained what was suspected to be gasoline mixed with acid, the men converged on him and gave him a thrashing.

Subsequently, however, a MMC Security

Service vehicle was passing and saved Bristol from the beating, dropping him off at Hadfield and High Streets in front of Ashmins Store.

It was when he was dropped off at Ashmins that Bristol allegedly made his way to Leopold Street where he saw John and

GuySuCo to expand training programme – CEO

TSinclair, whom he attacked and dealt several stabs to their chests before making good his escape on foot.

Another eyewitness “Isabelle” told Guyana Times that the 31-yearold Bristol appeared to be a person of unsound mind. Isabelle said Bristol would

usually go where the sex workers ply their trade and make trouble if he did not establish contact with Lovell.

Tensions flared at the scene of the incident as news spread of the man’s death.

Meanwhile, Bristol who had fled the scene made his way to an empty lot on the corner of Regent Street and Orange Walk and proceeded to set himself afire.

Persons in the area said they remember being awoken by the screams and saw the human torch in the empty lot. Publicspirited citizens threw water on him to extinguish the flames.

Reports are that before Bristol succumbed at the hospital, he told attendants that he was sorry he did not get to kill more sex workers.

At Bristol’s home in Nabaclis, his father Dunston Bristol said his son was a devout Christian. The elder Bristol explained that he last saw his son on Saturday before he left home.

he Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is moving to expand the Port Mourant Training Centre as it seeks to train more persons to meet the needs of the industry, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Raj Singh indicated.

According to him, the Port Mourant Training Centre is one of the primary sources of attracting apprentices to the sugar industry, with many elevating themselves into senior managerial positions in the sector.

Addressing the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Economic

Services recently, Dr Singh disclosed that GuySuCo is in the process of formalising a strategic plan that would allow for the expansion of the Port Mourant Training Centre. It was explained that prior to 2014, the centre graduated 319 apprentices over the last five years, but only managed to retain 201; reflecting a 71 per cent retention rate.

While many of these apprentices remain in Guyana, others have migrated to the Caribbean, the US and Canada in search of greater opportunities. Based on the retention rate, the CEO said the programme will be ex-

panded to draw in more apprentices.

“We will be graduating more than we need and we will be doing this very scientifically based on the number of persons we actually need,” he told the committee. Additionally, GuySuCo will be placing major emphasis of meeting the technological needs of the industry. “Naturally, our industry is changing, the technology is changing, the methodology is changing… so we have to continuously change the curriculum, changes to meet the skills required,” the CEO posited.

Govt, Opposition power struggle hurting populace – GCCI President

Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI)

President Lance Hinds is calling on parliamentarians to adhere to the cries of the electorate, saying that it is time political leaders work to address the core issues affecting Guyana.

November 28, 2014 will mark three years since the Government was voted into power with the Opposition gaining a one-seat majority in National Assembly. It is no secret that since then, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) have been engaged in a battle for power.

Currently, snap election is possible as the AFC threatens to move a “noconfidence motion” against the Donald Ramotar Government. But the GCCI President opined that another election could result in a similar configuration in the

National Assembly, arguing that there is “no evidence on the ground” that a majority Government would return to power anytime soon.

Referencing to the 2011 Elections, the GCCI President maintained that the people of Guyana are advocating for improved governance through meaning consultations.

“It is the voters who in their wisdom contributed to that configuration… the political leaders must find a way to respect the decision of the voters,” he further opined. Reinforcing the position of the chamber, Hinds said political policymakers must engage in constructive dialogue on issues affecting the economy and social development.

Costly

According to the GCCI, general elections are costly and time-consuming.

“The citizens of Guyana deserve no less an effort. This process of negotiation and agreement occurs in many comparative jurisdictions and it is therefore up to our political leaders to demonstrate resolve and maturity that leads to win-win outcomes,” the GCCI had said in an earlier statement.

The body said discussions on elections should instead be focussed on the hosting of Local Government Elections (LGE).

“In this regard, we echo the sentiments of the Private Sector Commission that the absence of LGE has made (and continues) to make it

difficult for our businesses to operate. We also note that all discussions about constitutional reform seem to have fallen off the map.

“The chamber looks forward to a new level of political cooperation that ensures a prosperous and sustainable economic and social infrastructure,” the business representative body said.

But while GCCI is up in arms against snap election, the AFC days ago indicated that it has completed a draft no-confidence motion, which it intends to move against the PPP Government. The AFC is contending that the ruling party has serious issues with accountability. According to the alliance, the PPP through its Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh has illegally spent $4.5 billion which was used to finance a string of controversial projects that did not garner the support of the Opposition during the consideration of the 2014 National Budget.

The Government and the Opposition during the past three years have expressed fundamental differences on the national budgets, the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, the Local Government Elections, the construction of the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project and the Marriot International Projects, in addition to other controversial projects and initiatives that have sparked nationwide debates.

A section of the graduates during the graduation ceremony on Wednesday (GINA Photo)

GCCI President Lance Hinds

Carlyle Sinclair

Jason John

Samuel Bristol

Persons at the murder scene on Leopold Street, Georgetown

TravelSpan commits to CJIA as airline hub

…application for certification submitted

BY BHISHAM MOHAMED

Since the introduction of several new airlines to the Guyanese market, there has been talk about the country becoming a hub that will connect passengers from around the world as they arrive at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport(CJIA),Timehri.

But not many have taken the talk further as was TravelSpan which recently applied to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for permission to operate a scheduled service, moving away from the charger service it is licenced to provide. Officials at the airline told Guyana Times that the move to acquire such a licence basically indicates that TravelSpan is here for the long haul. “A charger service is basically to operate seasonal, but with this Scheduled Licence we have applied for is indicating that we are here for the long haul,” the airline official said.

Contacted on the issue GCAA acting Director General Ankar Doobay told Guyana Times on Friday that the airline has indeed submitted the application and it is presently being

looked at. He said he was certain that the request will be granted once all the documentations and infrastructure are in order.

Most international airports serve as hubs, or places where non-direct flights may land and passengers switch planes. International airports often have many airlines represented, and many of these are often foreign. Passengers connecting to domestic flights from an international flight generally must take their checked luggage through Customs and re-check their luggage at the domestic airline counter, requiring extra-time in the process. In some cases in Europe, luggage can be transferred to the final destination even if it is a domestic connection.

In some cases, travellers and the aircraft can clear Customs and Immigration at the departure airport. One example of this is the pre-clearance facilities airports in Canada have at the US border. This allows flights from those airports to fly into US airports that do not have Customs and Immigration facilities. Luggage from such flights can also be transferred to a

artist’s impression of the

final destination in the US through the airport of entry.

Expansion project

Observers believe that this should ultimately be the goal of the authorities here with the multibillion-dollar airport expansion project.

“It makes no sense you invest so much into expanding the facilities at CJIA and we only have flights dropping off and picking up people. We must be able to have connections and operate truly as a hub,” a top local aviator said.

TravelSpan Chief Executive Officer Nohar Singh explained that in or-

TravelSpan keeps eyes on high fuel costs

BY BHISHAM MOHAMED

Faced with a high fuel bill and the largely seasonal travelling of a bulk of its passengers, TravelSpan Chief Executive Officer Nohar Singh said the airline has been forced to start selling its meals and blankets, previously offered free to customers.

This, he noted, is not going down well with some customers “but at the same time they have to understand the dilemma of the airline industry”. Less than six months when it re-entered operations here, TravelSpan Airlines had complained about high operational costs for flights into Guyana due to high fuel prices, among other costs, which remain a challenge.

A number of other airlines, including US-based Delta Airlines, had cited high fuel costs as a major challenge in servicing the Guyana-New York route. At the time when Delta had pulled out of operating here, they had also complained about Caribbean Airlines which was enjoying Government subsidies from Trinidad and Tobago (TT), thereby creating an uneven playing field for other carriers. However, the TT Government has since cut the subsidy, effective from October 1, 2013. At the time when the TT Government announced the discontinuation of the subsidy, it said Caribbean

Airlines Limited must move towards the adoption of a financially sound business model for positioning the airline in targeted segments of the global tourism market. He added that “the new Board of Caribbean Airlines Limited has completed the first phase of a revised Business Plan for the airline to achieve financial viability”.

Competition good Meanwhile, Singh said the recent influx of several new airlines operating out of Guyana is good news for the aviation sector as it increases competition, which will aid in business growth.

“We need to have competition in the aviation sector since it is a healthy thing, hence, TravelSpan’s re-en-

try into the Guyanese market,” Singh told Guyana Times on Thursday in an interview.

The CEO disclosed that after the pullout of Delta Airlines, it created a vacuum which forced passengers to pay in excess of US$1300 for a return flight to and from the US, which was indeed unfortunate. He recalled one passenger migrated to the US and after two months, her mother passed away and had to make a trip home and after two months upon her return to the US, her husband passed away but due to the high fares, she could not have afforded another trip. Another scenario, he recollected involved a construction worker who had to travel to Guyana for a funeral and had to pay close to US$6000 for a family of four.

“The basis of us re-entering is due to the lack of competition,” Singh added.

He stated that in the aviation business, it is highly regulated whereby airlines were assigned specific routes to operate, owing to the fact it is a costly business.

“The purpose behind that is because it is such a costly business…. The fuel alone between New York and Guyana is about US$60,000…. So the reason for those things was that you regulate an industry that helps to build a country’s economy and serve the people,” he added.

International Airport’s new terminal der for Guyana to be a hub, the airport expansion is a necessity, noting that hundreds of passengers will be passing through the airport and there must be modernised facilities to cater for this development.

He added that they would not have been in discussion about hub operation, if they were not sure the Government is committed to the expansion project.

“The airport expansion project is absolutely necessary in a hub operation,” he reiterated.

Only last week, leading agencies in the aviation industry called for the speedy completion of the US$155 million expansion project.

During a high-profile meeting with Public Works Minister Robeson Benn last Thursday, key stakeholders within the aviation sector reaffirmed their commitment to the expansion of the industry, but said the airport must be expanded to mitigate the

challenges currently faced.

“We recognise that the expansion project is the appropriate response to the dire safety, security and efficiency challenges faced at the existing facility and pledge to fully lend our support and expertise to advance the progress of the multimillion-dollar national endeavour,” the stakeholders said in a joint statement issued on Wednesday.

It was explained that the existing runway creates many limitations in safety due to the absence of the Runway Extension Safety Area (RESA) and its inability to accommodate larger wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and 777 aircraft. The congested terminal and parking space constraints for aircraft were among other issues laid on the table when the meeting was convened. The airlines said that insufficient parking space for aircraft adversely affects their on-time performance.

Meanwhile, TravelSpan Board member Rob Binns said the airline has commenced preparation for the expansion, which will see Guyana becoming a hub in the near future. He said that as talks continue about a “hub”, TravelSpan will increase its presence here by investing in Guyanese. In so doing, they have hired the first batch of Guyanese flight attendants who can relate more to Guyanese passengers travelling from JFK to Georgetown.

Guyanese hospitality

“Our aim to present that warm Guyanese hospitality onboard our flights and with the flight attendants, we are sure that passengers will relate better with their own.” Binns added that with the hub operation, the idea is to hire Guyanese pilots, Guyanese mechanics and engineers so that their flights can actually be based in Guyana.

Vision Airlines Executive David Ray explained that the hub will see TravelSpan bringing passengers to Guyana who will then board connecting flights. This, he added, would need better infrastructure. Ray added that this can and will tremendously boost the county’s economy and provide job opportunities. He said at present, bigger aircraft cannot land at the current runway at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)

TravelSpan Chief Executive Officer Nohar Singh

An

Cheddi Jagan

Commonwealth launches women entrepreneurs award

Women entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the Commonwealth are to be recognised with the launch of the Commonwealth Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

This will celebrate their achievement and beneficial impact on societies across the world.

The award is not just to do with finance but also about those women who have made a real difference in any area of business across the Commonwealth. In addition to the financial success of the business, the judging criteria will take into account the entrant’s journey overcoming adversity, inspiring others, making a difference to their community, social impact and in-

ternational reach.

“The Commonwealth is home to a billion women and we are delighted to celebrate women entrepreneurs

in the Commonwealth with these awards. While women in business is an area of increased policy focus, which we welcome, these awards will also highlight the innovation and initiative from women in business in varied contexts. We expect that entrants will be role models for everyone from school children to business people and policy-makers in the Commonwealth and beyond,” Commonwealth Business Council (CBC) Director General Peter Callaghan.

The winner, who will be announced on August 1 in Sri Lanka, will hold the title until the next Commonwealth Business Forum being held in Malta in late 2015.

The prize will not only provide well deserved recog-

nition but also an all expenses trip to Sri Lanka when the announcement is made. During the tenure of the award, the winner will act as Brand Ambassador for Commonwealth businesswomen. The award has been made possible by the Sri Lanka Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) working with CBC. Nominations, which can come from an individual or be for someone who inspires, must be received via awards.cwbusinesswomen.org. The only restriction is that entrants must be either a national or resident in one of the 53 Commonwealth countries. A shortlist of six outstanding women will be announced during the Commonwealth Games Business Conference in Glasgow in late July.

Eyew tness

By any means necessary...

...get Jagdeo!

Led by the MuckrakerKN and its owner Mohan “Mook” Lall, the rest of his Opposition cronies are having a feeding frenzy, once again, on the “pension” of former President Jagdeo. As we’ve said before, hell hath no fury like a venal publisher scorned. “Why, oh why, couldn’t Jagdeo have helped him with his sweetie factory,” some of you dear readers might be sighing. But hey!!! As President Ramotar’s finding out, you don’t negotiate with blackmailers.

Remember how the “Mook” had threatened his main hatchetman with dismissal (or worse. You don’t mess around with people who the US Embassy says have links with the underworld!) when Ramotar emerged as the PPP’s candidate for the presidency?? Ramotar was the Mook’s “friend”. Now Prezzie’s routinely called an “idiot” not just by the hatchetman, but by the Mook himself in his “Dem boys Seh” penned by his house slave editor. (The Mook only went up to Lil ABC.)

The reason?? Just that Ramotar has the good sense not to fix something if it ain’t broken. Meaning he’s not messing with the successful economic programme bequeathed by Jagdeo. The Opposition’s strategy is simple – just pelt whatever mud is handy at Jagdeo, hoping it’ll stick with the ordinary folks. So for a while, they carried on at a rate as to how the Government paid for flying Jagdeo to Florida in a “Lear Jet” when he was ill.

Now that’s been revealed to be a blatant and despicable lie, they haven’t even apologised, but they’ve blithely gone on to regurgitate all the other lies about the quantum of the Presidential pension and benefits. They compare the pension with all sorts of people from across the globe – but studiously avoid mentioning those of other state pensioners right here in Guyana!! The President of Guyana receives a pension that is IDENTICAL to that of the Chancellor of the Judiciary and the Attorney General. That’s OK...but not for Jagdeo!!

They don’t mention this because the fella who established the salary was their GOD Burnham. So what else is new? But you’d think they’d stop with the blatant lies that can be checked with a click of the mouse on Google. Take the Muckraker yesterday blaring Ms Maxwell’s charge, “Jagdeo’s pension is US$180,000 per year; Obama’s is US$127,109”. Firstly, the US President’s pension is US$201,000 (Bill Clinton’s). Secondly, Maxwell combined Jagdeo’s presidential “pension” with all his stipulated “benefits”. If we do this for the US President, using Clinton’s figures, we get US $1.1 million!!!

But then you can sell anything to a fella from Lil ABC!!

...attract better public servants

But the whole concocted brouhaha over Jagdeo’s pension brings up the larger question of salaries in general that might be necessary to attract our best minds into politics. Like a Jagdeo. In business, the principle of executive compensation related to job description and job performance is totally accepted. Why not the same to attract high performers to run the country – who’ll determine the success of the said country??

Some idiots brought up the incredible income gap Singapore created between us after independence. Well, one of the first things Singaporean leader Lee Kwan Yu did was to ensure that the salaries of his Ministers and top Public Servants were comparable to top business executives. When they sit across a table, the Minister or PM must be “equal” to the business – so he won’t be swayed (or bribed) by the latter.

This policy is one of the primary reasons for Singapore’s success. Today, their PM gets over four times the salary of the US President – and pension. Remember, “You get what you pay for.”

...let’s keep winning!!

Looks like in every game, our Warriors come up with new ways to win. This is the way it should be!! Once again, your Eyewitness is going out on a limb: we’ll trounce those Tallawahs!!

CBC Director General Peter Callaghan

Guyana looks to increase trade relations with France

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds extended congratulations to the French Government and people at a reception last week to mark Bastille Day, an auspicious occasion in France.

Bastille Day, the Prime Minister said, is significant in many ways as it marked the beginning of the French Revolution and was a symbol of liberty, fraternity, equality and the fight against oppression for all French citizens.

The Prime Minister, who was performing the duties of President, joined France’s Ambassador to Guyana Michael Prom, other French and Guyanese officials, parliamentarians, and members of the Diplomatic Corps at a reception to commemorate France’s National holiday at Cara Lodge, Georgetown.

“Our friendly relations, which were formally established on June 27, 1976, have grown and deepened over the years. As a testament we have been collaborating on many fronts at the multilateral level, at the

UN and the EU and sought to draw closer to French Guiana to take advantage of our similar interests.”

PM Hinds stated that the process to facilitate the full functioning of the Honorary Consul’s Office will be concluded soon. He added that there is much potential to improve the country’s relations with French Guiana through increased trade, investment, people-to-people contact and the protection of Guyanese in French territo-

ries.

He said that Guyana was appreciative of the many initiatives undertaken over the years to assist the country in its development process. Guyana has acknowledged France’s strong support and partnership for the United Nations REDD programme.

He said that Guyana looks forward to France’s continued cooperation with other partners and non- governmental stakeholders to achieve their shared ob-

Local workers union outraged over Gaza conflict

The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has expressed outrage at the latest Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people living in the Gaza area.

In a statement, the umbrella trade union condemned what it described as “the murderous and sustained bombing of civilians and the wanton destruction perpetuated by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF).”

The union said the killing of the three Israeli youths was indeed tragic and deplorable and is being used as a pretext for the indiscriminate bombing of the people.

“However, we in FITUG subscribe to the view that the Israeli reaction is utterly disproportionate and unjustified. In just over a week, we understand, that scores of civilians have been killed, homes levelled and, in general, the bombings have been merciless.”

The FITUG also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people, to the political and trade union organisations of the liberation movement and to the families of the victims.

“We join in the worldwide condemnation of the Israeli regime which, in blatant disregard of international public opinion, opposed in several UN resolutions, hold the Palestinian people in colonial and apartheid bondage. FITUG recognises that Israel’s aggressive behaviour over the years is rooted in the support – financial and military – it

has been receiving from a few countries but mainly from the USA.”

Inhuman military adventure

According to FITUG, the latest inhuman military adventure of Israel can only serve to pour fuel in a region, torn, fragmented and set aflame by imperialist forces with the help of their vassals.

“In the obtaining circumstances, FITUG extends unwavering solidarity with the people of Gaza and all Palestine. Not only must Israeli crimes cease, but the UN has a duty to ensure that today’s crimes as well as those committed previously by Israel do not go unpunished.”

On Sunday, the BBC reported that Gaza has suffered the highest death toll since Israel’s offensive began, with at least 87 people reported killed on Sunday – 67 of them in one area. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said the deaths in

jectives under the REDD+ partnership, while also supporting sustainable livelihoods, providing biodiversity benefits and promoting sustainable development.

“The Government of Guyana also welcomes the operational programme Amazonia, from which Guyana for the first time will benefit. Such ventures will truly allow for deepening the relations between Guyana and France and by extension, the Region.”

He urged that as, “We approach the Millennium Development Goals as the frameworks for the post2015 development agenda are laid, opportunities for collaboration and cooperation between the two countries should not be overlooked”.

Climate change

Climate change, which is one of the burning issues in both the elaboration of sustainable developmental goals, and the broader post-

2015 development agenda must be addressed, the Prime Minister stressed. As France prepares to hold the 21st Party of Conference in 2015, Guyana is extending its full support for the outcome of a binding agreement applicable to all and ambitious enough to limit global warming.

Guyana has also welcomed companies to invest in the country’s economy. Ambassador Prom said that he was pleased with the Guyana Government for appointing an Honorary Consul with the French authorities who are open to facilitating meetings. He thanked the Government for supporting projects that they have initiated. “We can generally mention the enabling of development, protection of our environment and the fight against climate change while Guyana is biologically reserved and is vulnerable to consequences of climate change…that is why it is important for the con-

tribution of your country to the Meeting of Parties which will take place in Paris in December 2015.” Bastille Day is officially celebrated on July 14. It was commemorates July 14, 1789, when a massive crowd of Frenchmen rose up and invaded the prison of Bastille. Bastille Day is considered the beginning of the French Revolution. Capturing this prison, a symbol of the Ancien Regime, marked the end of King Louis XVI’s absolute and arbitrary power and led France to the three ideals of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. There are popular celebrations in the streets of France along with political events, military parades, public speeches and fireworks. Every town in France and its colonies commemorate Bastille Day with excitement and pride as the national day represents for the country the first step to the French Revolution which eventually led France to become a Republic. (GINA)

the Shejaiya District east of Gaza City were a “massacre”. Witnesses spoke of bodies lying in the streets.

A humanitarian truce was agreed in the area, but lasted less than an hour. Israel said that 13 of its soldiers had been killed since Saturday night. The soldiers were all from the Golani Brigade, the IDF said. It brings to 18 the number of Israeli soldiers who have been killed in the offensive. The ceasefire in Shejaiya was meant to last from 13:30 to 15:30 local time (10:30-12:30 GMT), according to an Israeli military spokesman.

Israel earlier said it had expanded its operation – launched 13 days ago – against Hamas militants. In an interview with BBC Arabic, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Shejaiya district as a “terror stronghold” and a launch pad for rockets fired at Israel.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds interacting with French officials at the Bastille Day celebration, held at Cara Lodge, Georgetown

Heavy Israeli bombardment of Shejaiya started Saturday night, Palestinians say

FITUG welcomes launch of BRICS Development Bank

The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has welcomed the decision of the Sixth BRICS Summit held in Fortaleza, Brazil to launch a development bank.

In a statement, FITUG said those countries –Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – together represent an important segment of the developing world and their Bank, will contribute greatly to increased South-South co-operation and collaboration.

“Certainly, it will assist greatly, countries especially of the developing world in their modest, at this time,

in several countries experiencing economic/financial distress. This Bank, which will be headquartered in Shanghai, China, holds out the promise that a first step is being taken that will lead to a new world financial architecture. FITUG views this development in a positive light.”

Leaders of the BRICS launched the US$100 billion Development Bank and a currency reserve pool last Tuesday in their first concrete step toward reshaping the Western-dominated international financial system. The Bank, aimed at funding infrastructural projects in developing nations,

Minister, Dr Ashni Singh attended the summit.

The bloc also set up a US$100 billion currency reserves pool to help countries forestall short-term liquidity pressures. The long-awaited bank is the first major achievement of the BRICS countries since they got together in 2009 to press for a bigger say in the global financial order created by Western powers after World War Two and centred on the IMF and the World Bank.

The BRICS were prompted to seek coordinated action following an exodus of capital from emerging markets last year, triggered by

vided equally between its five founders, with an initial total of US$10 billion in cash put in over seven years and US$40 billion in guarantees. It is scheduled to start lending in 2016 and will be open to membership by other countries, but the capital share of the BRICS cannot drop below 55 per cent.

The contingency currency pool will be held in the reserves of each BRICS country and can be shifted to another member to cushion balance-of-payments difficulties. This initiative gathered momentum after the reverse in the flow of cheap dollars that fuelled

modernisation and developmental thrusts and provide an alternative, to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which have come under severe criticism over the years for imposing harsh prescriptions and conditionalities through their intervention

will be based in Shanghai and India will preside over its operations for the first five years, followed by Brazil and then Russia, leaders of the five-country group announced at a summit, Reuters reported. Guyana’s President Donald Ramotar and Finance

the scaling back of the US's monetary stimulus. The new bank reflects the growing influence of the BRICS, which account for almost half the world’s population and about one-fifth of global economic output. The Bank will begin with a subscribed capital of US$50 billion di-

a boom in emerging markets for a decade. “It will help contain the volatility faced by diverse economies as a result of the tapering of the United States’ policy of monetary expansion,” Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff said.

Regional Investment Promotion Strategy for CARIFORUM is validated

Regional investment promotion stakeholders convened in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago recently to discuss the progress towards the development of a Regional Investment Promotion Strategy and Implementation Plan for the CARIFORUM Region.

The initiative led by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) with the guidance of the Regional Investment Promotion Steering Committee (RIPSC) and the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA), is the culmination of two years of work under the 10th European Development Fund Regional Private Sector Development Programme. The main objective of this project is to increase the awareness of the Caribbean as a destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as well as to change the perceptions of investors who may see the Caribbean only as a place for leisure and not necessarily investment.

Additionally, this Strategy identifies the value proposition of the Region and the priority sectors for promotion, while and proposing an effective communication plan to position the Caribbean as a destination that is ready for investment.

The meeting, chaired by Professor

Alvin Wint, Chairman of the RIPSC, had a total of 29 representatives participating in the review of the proposed Strategy and providing valuable feedback that will inform the final plan of action. Participants included the OECS Secretariat, the Caricom Secretariat, the Caribbean Congress of Labour and the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange. Other participants included representatives of CAIPA from Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Belize, Dominica, The Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname. Private investors (local and foreign) from Barbados, St Lucia, Belize and Dominica also participated in the review process.

The Strategy will be finalised by September 2014, with a defined implementation plan and funding guidelines to safeguard its implementation. Additionally, a two- day training session was conducted on July 10-11, 2014, to provide CAIPA members with information on good practices in the design and implementation of national investment promotion strategies. The capacity- building exercise is one in a series of initiatives led by Caribbean Export in

collaboration with CAIPA to increase the capability of IPAs in the Region to attract increasing levels of sustainable FDI.

The training drew on some of the lessons learnt, while developing the Regional Investment Promotion Strategy and focused on the need to align the investment promotion strategies developed by the IPAs to their respective national development goals. Twelve IPAs from the Region participated in the workshop. Caribbean Export hopes to capture and publish these good practices in the first of a series of handbooks on investment promotion that will be made available later this year.

Caribbean Export is a regional export development and trade and investment promotion organisation of the Forum of Caribbean States (CARIFORUM) currently executing the Regional Private Sector Development Programme (RPSDP) funded by the European Union under the 10th European Development Fund (EDF) Caribbean Export’s mission is to increase the competitiveness of Caribbean countries by providing quality export development and trade and investment promotion services through effective programme execution and strategic alliances.

IDB, Earth University call for proposals from youth on climate change projects

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the EARTH University of Costa Rica invite young innovators to participate in a session in which 30 projects selected to combat climate change in Latin America and the Caribbean could receive seed capital of up to US$15,000 per project.

Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years from the date of enrolment and must present a project with an innovative approach, which can be from a new idea or already in operation.

Projects should fit in one of the following categories: Education and Awareness; Energy Efficiency; Renewable Energy; Sustainable Transport; Sustainable Business; Resilient Agriculture and Water Resources.

Interested youths can submit their proposals be-

tween July 17, 2014 and August 14, 2014 at 11:59 pm (EST) on the website www. iadb.org/greenovators. The selection of the winning projects will be conducted by a panel of experts and the winners will be notified by mail in mid-September.

Winners will also be invited to participate in a youth event at EARTH University in Costa Rica in November of this year. The competition – created in collaboration with the Ibero-American General Secretariat and the Government of the Republic of Costa Rica through its Ministry of Environment and Energy – is open to entrepreneurs who have discovered a business opportunity or who identified a need in their community and find a scalable solution whose bid, apart from the competition, adds innovative elements for the Region.

TravelSpan keeps eyes...

He explained that the airline is about more than just moving passengers to and from their destinations, but rather it also moves goods, services and money. “For every Guyanese retuning to Guyana, the average expenditure income is US$1500 and when you take that and trickle it into the economy is a significant contribution.”

He added that in the context of Guyana, after Delta pulled out of the market, it left one major carrier, but due to the high airfares and the monopoly, TravelSpan made a decision to re-enter the market, and as such, prices have stabilised.

He said too that as a result of the monopoly, there were other entrants into the market within a short period of time, who made a number of false promises.

“US$500 including taxes will never work… we as Guyanese have seen this over and over… we have seen the cheap carriers coming in… we have seen the false promises and the cheap fare, but they do not last.”

Singh said while they encourage competition from an aviation standpoint, the carriers need to also be careful, but suggested that competition, is the only way the airlines will perform better, but more importantly, passengers will have choices. At the same time, he noted that competition must be done with the market in mind, explaining that if there are 100,000 people travelling,

then there should be about 110,000 seats with the expectation of growth in the aviation business.

Profitability

On the issue of TravelSpan’s viability, Singh said the travelling public has to realise that “it just can’t be cheap flights all the time… you have to be realistic, you have to be viable”. He added, that the profitability in the airline market in the past has been 3.5 per cent. The margins, he disclosed, are very small. Singh further stated that a major factor in profitability is the seasonal travelling of passengers. He explained that everyone wants to travel in December and July, noting that there is a reduction in the other months.

He said in order for TravelSpan to be in Guyana on a long-term basis, they have to be reasonable and sensible to remain viable. TravelSpan has been in the aviation industry for 19 years, operating in the US, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

Under the stewardship of Singh, TravelSpan has grown over the years and continues to be the “largest producer of air transport passengers from the US to both Trinidad and Guyana”. With a repeat rate of 70 per cent, the airline has established a strong revenue structure, which is complemented by a strong core route structure.

From left: Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Jacob Zuma talk at a group photo session during the Sixth BRICS summit in Fortaleza on July 15

A merciless civilian war

Guyana today must raise its voice in condemnation against the Israeli invasion and bombing of Gaza. It is the right thing to do and it is consistent with our foreign historical policy position.

The bombing of civilian targets and now the invasion with ground troops is a heinous and unjust war.

Make no mistake about it – the launching of missiles into Israel by Palestinians is wrong. But what is presently going on in the Gaza Strip cannot go without resolute global condemnation. The Jewish response has escalated the Gaza situation from a conflict with two sides to a global criminal scene.

If the real reason for ground troops invading Gaza was the launching of missiles from Gaza into Israel, there are many other options Israel could have exercised. The real reason for this war is that it is intended to prevent the political unity between Gaza and the West Bank. It is a war against striving towards a Palestinian state. It is a war against, not for, peace.

Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territory is at the heart of the problem. The global family must not ignore this long-standing problem. Until and unless we solve the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory by the Jewish State with support from countries like the US, the constant IsraeliPalestinian war will not end.

The world must, however, view the present situation as a global emergency that must be stopped immediately. Israel’s bombing

of civilians is unjustifiable and constitute a war crime. Gazans live in an already immensely difficult humanitarian crisis.

Crime of immeasurable horror

What is worse about the present war is that Israel is trying to argue that the civilians brought their calamity unto themselves by allowing themselves to be used as human shields.

The truth is innocent civilians are being killed, maimed and deprived by Israel’s determination to prevent a Palestinian State from being realised.

The world must not forget that the land that many citizens of Israel now enjoy as their own was once the home of many of the Gazans. The Gazans who live in the Gaza Strip are subjected to Jewish violations of numerous accords. Those violations include the illegal imprisonment of hundreds of Palestinian civilians without charge and the continued building of illegal settlements, which has been addressed by United Nations Resolutions 446, 452, 465. The UN has passed more than 45 resolutions since its inception that condemn Israel’s oppressive actions in the Gaza Strip.

Israel has stated that the present war was initiated by Hamas who they accused of kidnapping three Jewish teenagers. That kidnapping must be condemned and globally, we should be in solidarity to ensure that the criminals are brought to justice. But to exercise an option for “collective punishment” is unacceptable.

Labourer killed by suspected “drunk” speeding Policeman

The family of a young labourer has plunged into mourning following the death of one of their sons, who was killed by a speeding motor car allegedly driven by an ex-Policeman along the Colombia Public Road, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara just after midnight on Saturday.

Christopher Naranpaul Hookumchand, 21, of Lot 5 South Prospect, Mahaicony, ECD, received severe injuries and reportedly died on the spot, but was taken to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital where he was confirmed dead.

According to information received, the young man, also called “Paul” was on his way home on his pedal cycle after taking a few drinks with a visiting friend from the

United Kingdom when he was struck down.

Additional information revealed that due to the impact, the young man was flung several feet into a clump of bushes. His bicycle was beyond repair.

Guyana Times understands that the driver of the car, who was a member of the Guyana Police Force, has been arrested. He was reportedly under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred.

This newspaper was told that after hitting the young man, the driver allegedly drove from the scene, stopped a short distance away and reportedly threw out a quantity of beer bottles from his car.

We should not ignore that a Palestinian teenager was also kidnapped by Jewish elements. Even though some

persons were arrested, what if Hamas uses the same argument of collective punishment?

Unethical collective punishment

The collective punishment of Gazans will not help bring peace to the region.

Israel’s collective punishment of Palestinians is not just unjustified, it’s unethical, and largely ineffective.

Guyana must voice its position now. Political parties must be in solidarity with the people of Palestine at this time. For a start, the global family at the UN must demand that Israel remove its armed forces from the Gaza now. This must be followed by a serious review of the UN resolutions, calling for an end to Israeli occupation and building of set-

tlements.

The global effort to bring peace in Palestine and in Israel will never bear fruit if countries like the US and the Europeans do not take a humanitarian position now: the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians cannot end unless a Palestinian State is realised. The longer the world takes to recognise this reality, the longer is peace deferred in favour of war.

The war being waged on the Gaza Strip today must end now.

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

An explosion from an Israeli forces strike in Gaza City on Saturday (AP photo)

WGuyana Amazon Warriors performance

The Jamaican invasion, Beaton’s prized

ith the Guyana Warriors narrowly out on beating the Tallawahs, losing by four Sunday evening at the National Stadium, our Avenash Ramzan takes a look highlights of the game.

Jamaican invasion

The Limacol Caribbean League, like all the other T20 around the globe, has brought ers from various nationalities ing the various franchises. During first over, however, it was Jamaica. The man running ball in hand was Krishmar with compatriots Chadwick and Chris Gayle being the Umpire Patrick Gustard, another izen of the Land of Wood and was the man calling play. Talk Jamaican invasion.

The prized wicket Ronsford Beaton may be he is fearsome. Given the ball ly as the fourth over, the Essequibian took some stick in his first but rebounded in fine fashion third, bringing the capacity their feet. The fiery fast bowler out the prized wicket of Chris brilliantly caught on the mid-wicket boundary by a diving Leon and three deliveries later, Owais Shah, whose stumps mantled as he chopped on. It significant achievement for Beaton sonally, as Gayle and Shah bined for more than 375 T20 and over 11,000 runs.

The promotion James Neesham promised with the bat at the start of the CPL, but found the going tough. fellow countryman Martin forced to bat down the order spending a significant period field, Neesham was asked to responded with some crisp cluding three sweetly timed ies. He didn’t last long, however, for 16, but at least he did show that his batting is coming together.

Ouch, that hurts Denesh Ramdin, in partnership with Lendl Simmons, was tough to hit boundaries in stages as the run-rate swelled, ing in some risky strokeplay. couldn’t believe his luck when Taylor delivered a juicy full 19th over, but as the Warriors attempted to smash it out the the ball flew off the egde of the canooned onto his helmet. um was thrown into silence walked away in pain, retired

The six As Ramdin walked off, Christopher Barnwell ran on to the field cheers with the Warriors needing seven deliveries. Known for hitting, the right-hander smashed first delivery high into the clearing the mid-wicket boundary duce the equation to 11 from The simple matter of two more mums and it would have been over. However, it wasn’t going fairytale ending for Barnwell Russell conceded just six runs, which were singles, from the

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo, Presidential Adviser on Youth Empowerment Odinga Lumumba and President Donald Ramotar seem riveted by a passage of play

Guyana Amazon Warriors Franchise Owner, Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop shakes hands with one of the franchise owners of the Jamaica Tallawahs Manish Patel at the start of the game

A proud newlywed couple tells it to the world

President Donald Ramotar is caught up in the excitement of a thrilling game as he urges the Warriors to victory, along with other frenzied fans

It was an exciting day of cricket

The faces of these Amazon Warriors fans tell all who they are backing

Scores unable to get a ticket were unfortunately left out of the action

21, 2014 |

Warriors performance at a glance…

prized double and Barnwell’s six

the Guyana Amazon Warriors narrowly missing out on beating the Jamaica losing by four runs on evening at the Guyana Stadium, our reporter Ramzan takes a look at some of the game.

Jamaican invasion

Limacol Caribbean Premier like all the other T20 Leagues globe, has brought playvarious nationalities comprisvarious franchises. During the however, it was all about The man running in with the hand was Krishmar Santokie compatriots Chadwick Walton Gayle being the batsmen. Patrick Gustard, another citLand of Wood and Water, man calling play. Talk about a invasion.

prized wicket

Ronsford Beaton may be young, but fearsome. Given the ball as earfourth over, the Essequibian stick in his first two overs, rebounded in fine fashion in his bringing the capacity crowd to The fiery fast bowler plucked prized wicket of Chris Gayle, caught on the mid-wicket by a diving Leon Johnson, deliveries later, dismissed Shah, whose stumps were dishe chopped on. It must be a achievement for Beaton perGayle and Shah have commore than 375 T20 matches 11,000 runs.

The promotion

Neesham promised much bat at the start of the Limacol found the going tough. With countryman Martin Guptill bat down the order after significant period off the Neesham was asked to open and with some crisp shots, inthree sweetly timed boundardidn’t last long, however, falling at least he did show signs batting is coming together.

Ouch, that hurts Ramdin, in partnership Simmons, was finding it hit boundaries in the dying the run-rate swelled, resultrisky strokeplay. Ramdin believe his luck when Jerome delivered a juicy full toss in the but as the Warriors skipper to smash it out the ground, flew off the egde of the bat and onto his helmet. The stadithrown into silence as Ramdin away in pain, retired hurt.

The six Ramdin walked off, Christopher ran on to the field to massive the Warriors needing 17 off deliveries. Known for his clean right-hander smashed his delivery high into the night sky, mid-wicket boundary to reequation to 11 from six balls. matter of two more maxiit would have been match However, it wasn’t going to be a ending for Barnwell as Andre conceded just six runs, four of singles, from the final over.

Guyana Amazon Warriors supporters try to will their team over the finish line

Guyanese packed the Stadium for the “Biggest Party in Sport”

Stunned. A disappointed supporter cannot believe the Amazon Warriors did not win

The supporters of the Jamaica Tallwahs, though lost among the jungle of Guyanese supporters, saw their team to victory

Limacol Cool Fan winner Damion Da Silva collects his cheque from NEW GPC INC Human Resources Manager Faye Smartt-Scott

BK Group entering aviation sector

– as Ali reiterates need for airport expansion

After years of dominat-

ing the mining and construction sectors, the BK Group of Companies is expanding its services in an area out of their comfort zone, the aviation sector, and will be introducing a new domestic airline.

BK Group of Companies Public Relations Consultant Alex Graham said the local aviation sector has been busy, particularly with heavy traffic in the domestic flights; hence, the reason for the investment.

He disclosed that over the past two weeks, the company acquired ownership of a domestic company, Jags Aviation, and is currently processing the necessary documents to begin flights.

The new company is expected to have seven aircraft in its fleet, some of which will operate from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) because of their size.

The company will commence operations by providing domestic services, but will move to include regional flights.

“Once people want to fly, we will fly them. The whole idea is to provide expanded capacity… a lot of our interest is expanding infrastructure to explore Guyana so we want to provide services to people who are visiting Guyana to see its tourism products,” Graham stated.

The PR Consultant went on to say that the new company is mostly driven by the new generation of Tiwaries

who have joined the BK Group, and have considerably enhanced its operations.

“The new generation has brought an energy of dynamism. For a long time, we have stayed in construction, now we have been able to convince the Directors to expand so this is just a careful examination of what the opportunities are and what the company’s resources are, and aligning our resources with those opportunities so that we will provide better service and grow the company,” he explained.

While Graham declined to say how soon the company will commence operations, he reiterated that efforts are being made to get it into operation.

Investors’ confidence

Meanwhile, acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali lauded the BK Group for investing in the local aviation sector. He noted that the investment shows investors’ confidence in the local market. The Minister noted that Government is working to continue improving the aviation sector and is calling on businesses to do the same.

Ali also pointed out that his Ministry has observed an unwelcome increase in fares and has spoken to some of the airlines. He pledged his full support to models that have economic returns and ensures profitability, but said he will not support one that seeks to exploit the market, especially

at a time when demand is high and capacity is low.

Nevertheless, the acting Tourism Minister said that there has been a tremendous development in Guyana’s airlift sector, adding that the travelling population is growing; hence, the need for more airlines to work the local scene.

He explained that while Government welcomes such development and wants to see more, their hands are tied since they are experiencing difficulties with space at the CJIA.

“Our ability to manage effectively and efficiently and with less hassle as possible the movement of people and the movement of bags and luggage and safety and security is as a result of our inability to expand the airport and this is because of the Opposition’s continued nonsensical position in not

supporting the expansion of this airport,” Ali vented.

The acting Tourism Minister opined that expansion of the airport is no longer a question of whether it should be done, since it is one of the most important projects for the country.

He added that Guyana’s aviation sector would not grow without the expansion of its main airport to facilitate all the new airlines that have joined the market and those planning to join.

Ali called on the Opposition to fulfil their moral, national and ethical responsibilities to ensure that the project is carried out. The acting Tourism Minister said he would go to whatever lengths it takes to ensure that the project is done

The Minister went on to say that most of the major carriers are changing their equipment to operate on larger facilities; hence, they would not want to land on the present facility. “Get it out of your head; get it out of the Opposition’s head. Unless we are able to expand that airstrip and expand that facility we have, we are going to stagnate the sector…. I have no apologies in saying that the hassle passengers are facing, lining up in the sun is a direct result of some nonsensical, non-thinking persons in the political landscape in our country, who do not have the interest of the country at heart,” Ali stated.

Teen reportedly confesses to murder of GuySuCo foreman

Ateenager who reportedly confessed to killing GuySuCo foreman Ravendranauth Thirkha a few days ago is expected to make a court appearance today at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court. He is expected to be charged with murder.

Vishal Michael Edwards, 19, called “Uncle Roy” of Number 77 Village Housing Scheme and of Church Street, Number 78 Village, Corriverton, was arrested a few days after the man’s body was discovered along the Number 68 Foreshore, Line Path, Skeldon.

According to information received, the young man, along with another was arrested and during the interrogation, he reportedly told the Police that he had murdered Thirkha. He also admitted to robbing him of his personal belongings.

Guyana Times was told that the victim was on his way home from a get together when the suspects confronted him and demanded that he hand over his personal items.

The suspect reportedly admitted that he had used a piece of cloth to strangle the 52-year-old man.

The teen is reportedly a known character to the Police, as he had been questioned before in connection with several robberies.

Thirkha of Lot 485 Block 19, Line Path, Skeldon was found on Tuesday morning lying face down at the Number 68 Foreshore with blood oozing from his mouth. A postmortem performed on the body of the man proved that he was strangled.

At the time of the discovery, the man was lying face down with his garments intact. The fishermen raised an alarm and the Police were contacted. Upon arrival at the scene, ranks from the Springlands Police Station examined the body which did not have any visible marks of violence.

Thirkha’s widow, Mala, said she last saw her husband alive on Monday last about 16:30h when he left home to attend a get-together. She telephoned him about 18:00h

Labourer killed by...

After doing so, he turned around and went back to the scene where he reportedly received a sound thrashing from residents. His former colleagues were reportedly more concerned with the injuries inflicted on him than investigating the accident.

The dead man’s father Frankie Hukumchand told this publication that he was at home when he received a telephone call from relatives informing him of the accident.

He said that he along with his two other sons and other family members rushed to the scene, where they found

the young man in a clump of bushes.

He explained that there was a huge gash to his abdomen and right hand.

“He was already dead… I saw he and he had no life… meh nah know what really happen but the driver, the Police tek he way,” the man said.

The aggrieved father went on to say that his son’s body was taken to hospital but doctors said it was too late.

“This accident happen not far from meh niece… they say that they does know when Paul ah go home be-

and was told that he was leaving at 19:00h.

The grieving woman said she made several efforts to contact her husband after 19:00h, but her calls went unanswered.

The woman said she thought that he was still at the party; hence, she retired to bed. When she awoke the following morning, she did not see her husband and immediately informed her son, who in turn suggested that they contact his workplace and call in sick for him.

The widow said she then left home and went to the hospital to receive medical treatment, since she was not feeling well. While there, she received a call from a Police rank who informed her that he was at her house and requested that she returned home.

Upon inquiring, she was told that her husband was found dead at the Number 68 Foreshore. She was later taken to the scene where she saw his body in the mud.

After a while, she added, the body was removed and taken to the hospital mortuary where the post-mortem was conducted.

He leaves to mourn his wife and two children.

No one has been arrested, but the Police are continuing their investigation.

From page 11

cause he got a lil boom box that he does carry round and dem say that they hear when he passed them house and then a sudden impact,” Deika Hukumchand, mother of the dead man recalled. She went on to say that after her relatives heard the music stop, they became curious and went out to inquire and saw her son’s bicycle and the car some distance away.

The young man is survived by his parents and two brothers. His body was taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Home and is awaiting a post-mortem.

Dead: Ravendranauth Thirkha

Acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali

Public Relations Consultant Alex Graham

Granger defends calls for CoIs

APartnership For National Unity (APNU) Leader David Granger has defended his call for Commissions of Inquiry (CoIs) into several matters, contending that they are needed to bring closure to issues affecting Guyanese.

Since his election as Opposition Leader, the retired Brigadier has mounted calls for CoIs to be convened into the assassination of former Agriculture Minister Satyadeow Sawh; the education system, extrajudicial killings by the Guyana Police Force; torture allegations; shooting of protesters by Police and the sugar industry.

Recently, Granger successfully piloted a motion in the National Assembly to convene a CoI into the shooting of protestors by Police following a demonstration at Hadfield

Street, Georgetown, soon after the 2011 elections.

Two current APNU parliamentarians, among others were injured in the incident.

The Opposition Leader said it would appear by the action of the Police subsequent to the shooting and other similar incidents that they were in fact not afraid of being investigated for their wrong doings.

“Police Forces, which are not afraid of being investigated…. Policemen who are not afraid of their position will shoot and shoot again… shooting people in certain communities as if they have no rights... who is really in charge.... We must separate the sheep from the goats… the Police shooting is following a pattern… it seems that people who look like APNU supporters are being shot at,”

said Granger, who explained that without the investigation into these human rights violations, “the habit of Police brutality will become embedded”.

In a recent interview with Guyana Times, Granger pointed out that if a CoI were

Fly Jamaica says flight delays not unusual in industry ...denies being “rocked” by resignations

Fly Jamaica Airways Director have rubbished media reports, saying that delays in its flights are not unusual to the airline industry and that the company has not been rocked by resignations.

Insisting that the safety of their passengers and crew is their top priority, Captain Paul Reece, Chairman and CEO; his wife Roxanne Reece, a Director; and Captain Patrick Cousins, also a Director, said the information in a Jamaica Observer story was wrong.

“No one in this company must have any apprehension or any thought that we’re flying an aeroplane that is not safe. So that’s why we have a maintenance delay,” Captain Reece said in response to the report of a number of delays experienced by the airline in recent weeks.

“If we have a light go on in the cockpit, we are not going to fly with it. We have to be safe. No one must say that any of our pilots or engineers let the plane take off with a fault,” Captain Reece insisted.

“So when we have a delay, and we say we’re grounded for maintenance, we are grounded for maintenance, because we want to fix it so when we fly, the aeroplane is safe,” he added. In a news release on Saturday, the company noted that in the airline industry, passenger safety requires that pilots and engineers are trained not to allow any aircraft to be operated with any malfunction.

“Therefore, when there is any indication of any abnormal situation, the aircraft will be grounded and thoroughly checked and repaired to ensure the safety of the travelling public. This is the reason airlines maintain such a high safety record,” the company said in its news release.

“All of our passengers whose travel plans were recently disrupted as a result of our irregular operation for a period of two days were contacted, were re-accommodated in hotels, and travelled to their final destination on

other airlines at the expense of Fly Jamaica Airways,” the company added.

To emphasise his point that delays are occupational hazards of the industry, Reece related his experience of travelling from Los Angeles to Miami on an American carrier which was delayed for 12 hours.

Taking things in stride

“This happens to any airline, and you have to take these things in stride. It’s a standard thing in the industry,” Captain Reece said.

Captain Cousins noted that Fly Jamaica is being overseen for safety by both the Federal Aviation Authority and Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority because the company has an Americanregistered aeroplane. “We have two authorities continuously monitoring us for safety, so we have to ensure all safety standards are met,” Captain Cousins said.

In relation to the resignations reported by the Observer, Reece said that Captain Lloyd Tai and Christine Steele, who were both Directors of the airline, resigned as Directors after their contracts had expired. “Captain Lloyd Tai, who had recently retired, and had formed his own aviation consultancy firm, had kindly agreed to provide our newlyformed airline with two years of his expertise in order to assist Fly Jamaica Airways achieve its start-up objectives. His contract expired and he

convened into the rice or sugar sector, it is not likely to have the same outcome.

But he contended that the Rodney CoI was established with purely political motives.

From the onset, the Peoples National Congress Reform (PNCR) has been vocal against the setting up of the CoI and has stated its objections about the Terms of Reference governing the inquiry.

“The Walter Rodney CoI has been highly politicised... the way the Terms of Reference were framed indicates that the greatest desire was to attempt to embarrass the Peoples National Congress Reform and certain individuals.”

Further, Granger related

that with respect to the rice sector, “it is necessary to get sufficient information before determining a course of action and this is what a CoI is supposed to do”.

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy had dismissed calls for a CoI into the rice sector, but Granger said there are many issues plaguing the sector.

He said that the State must act proactively, and in doing so, must first seek to find out what are the issues affecting paddy farmers.

He said once an inquiry is conducted, the Government can use the findings to improve the sector.

“It is not only a question of payments to rice farmers, it is a question of providing

markets, it is also a question of flooding, it’s a question of making pesticides available... it’s a question of ensuring that in any given area, there are facilities to support those industries and this has not been happening to our satisfaction.”

When questioned by Guyana Times if his call for a CoI into the November 2011 shooting of protesters was driven by politics, Granger responded in the negative.

“Most of the persons shot were members of the APNU, so it’s not politicised, these are citizens and we are talking about the citizens human rights, civil rights, that’s what we are talking about, regardless [of] which party they came from.”

OAS SG says Parliaments are “the greatest institution of democracy”

Organisation of American States (OAS) Secretary General José Miguel Insulza last week stressed that legislative power is the key piece in democratic systems and noted that Parliaments should play a central role in articulating solid answers to the problems that are common to most countries.

He made the comments while addressing the inauguration of the First Inter-American Meeting of Presidents of Legislative Powers, held at the headquarters of the Peruvian Congress in Lima. Speaker of the National Assembly here, Raphael Trotman represented Guyana at the forum.

has returned to his private consultancy,” the company reiterated in its news release.

“Two other Jamaicans, Mrs Christine Steele and Ms Shaun Lawson-Laing, were added to the Board of Directors in 2011. Captain Tai and Mrs Christine Steele resigned in January 2014,” the airline added. “Professor Hilton McDavid and Captain Patrick Cousins have replaced Mrs Christine Steele and Captain Lloyd Tai on the Board of Directors of Fly Jamaica Airways,” the release said.

The airline also said that Nadine Silvera, who was reported to have been a founding member of the airline, resigned from the company last year. Pointing out that the airline has 20 managers worldwide, Reece said “for the three years that we’ve been operational, one manager has resigned and one, we had to let go and only two Directors have left, so I think that is a good ratio.”

She added: “We don’t have loads of resignations. We have such good staff here.” In its release, the airline said it has been “back on schedule since Tuesday, July 15, 2014, and we take this opportunity to reassure the travel agents and the travelling public that we shall continue to operate for many more years to come. Our objectives have always been, and remain, the safety and security of our passengers”.

(Jamaica Observer)

Secretary General Insulza welcomed the event that brought the Parliaments of the region together to exchange their experiences and discuss issues of common interest, and praised Peru’s initiative in this regard. “We have always thought it very important to have a body where the Parliaments of the Americas meet, and particularly their Presidents, because their common and coordinated action is a central factor in the development of the international relations of our countries.”

The OAS leader said that legislatures are “the linchpin in the system of checks and balances that ensures separation, independence, balance and exercise of political power, which are the fundamental principles of any representative democracy.”

“A Parliament that works and takes charge of the fundamental problems of society is the greatest institution of democracy,” Insulza said, while emphasising the fundamental value of the executive and judicial powers. He added that “the body that most represents representative democracy is Parliament.”

regional and global interdependence, most of the problems, challenges, and threats facing societies and democracies in the Hemisphere cannot be handled or solved by a single country,” he said. In this regard, he noted that issues such as the environment, drug trafficking, corruption, terrorism, trade, health and migration, “will bring together and engage the governments and societies of the region in a network of increasingly complex and deep interdependence.”

At another point in his speech, he said today, “the challenges are transnational and ‘intermestic’, – ie partly international and partly domestic – because they are similar and even common to most countries in the region. Therefore, a regional response that requires cooperation and coordination is increasingly important.”

President, Marisol Espinoza, said the First Inter-American Meeting of Presidents of Legislative Powers “is a source of pride and satisfaction,” and “an opportunity to continue to build the Latin American fraternity.” She said the meeting took place “in a globalised society with fundamental issues to which we are all committed, such as the fight against corruption and the development of our countries, but mainly it is about seeking to strengthen democracy, understood as the capacity of the people to be represented and to be heard.”

Vice President Espinoza also noted the importance of bringing Parliaments closer to citizens, so that “legislatures have the confidence of the people and listen to the demands of the population.”

Meanwhile, the President of the Congress of Peru, Fredy Otárola said t this first meeting of heads of the legislative powers of the Region constitutes an endorsement of democracy as a system, and stressed the importance of “parliamentary diplomacy”.

He argued that the legislature power is called on to make a decisive contribution to the search for effective solutions to the challenges facing every nation, and its institutional obligation requires it to be a protagonist, to be involved, and to even to lead these processes.

Insulza also recalled in his speech, the efforts of the OAS to promote the universalisation of the Inter-American normative legacy, in which the Parliaments play the key role in ratification. As an example, he noted, not all OAS member states have ratified the American Convention on Human Rights, nor the Conventions relating to the fight against corruption or to protect disabled people from discrimination.

“We can work together,” he said, adding that “we need to deepen relationships with legislative powers.”

“In a context of growing

For her part, Peru’s Vice

The President of the Council of Ministers of Peru, René Cornejo said in the current “globalisation process, in this information age we live in, our countries should be at the forefront of modernisation and the creation of opportunities to achieve consensus and credibility of the legislative powers through dialogue.” These, he said, are the main objectives sought by the event held July 18-19 in Lima.

OAS Secretary General Jose Miguel Insulza (right), held a meeting with Peru’s Congress leader, Fredy Otárola , in the nation’s capital Lima

APNU Leader David Granger

Under the motto “With Skills and Confidence”, the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc Training Centre at Port Mourant celebrated its 53rd Apprentice Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday.

The event was held in the auditorium of the facility where 68 apprentices, including a lone female, graduated in Motor Vehicle Service and Repairs, instrumental repair (mechanics), Supervisory Management among other areas.

In delivering the feature address, Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy alluded to the fact that GuySuCo and sugar remain the lifeblood of our country and the main source of employment on which the majority of citizens depends heavily for a livelihood.

Every sugar estate in operation today, he noted, is mechanised. “The tractors that we utilise today are very different from the ones we used in 1961... in 1957 when the Port Mourant Training Centre first commenced, the goal was to provide a technical staff for the sugar industry.” Today, he said, the centre is very different, providing not only technical staff for the industry but many graduates “are now working in the mining and rice industries and other industries of our country”.

He dispelled the notion that there was mass migration of the school’s graduates. At this time, 71 per cent of graduates from five years ago are still in the industry. “The fact is we train for economic and social development in our country and if some are moving to other industry, that’s fine,” he stated. GuySuCo is engaging other industries, so it can continue to produce graduates for all of the different sectors. To do that, “we have to keep up with the changing times – new technologies and

new techniques so our graduates are up to the task”, the Agriculture Minister said. This direction “we will not be weary of and we will pursue with vigour and with investment”.

The school, Dr Ramsammy posited, no longer attracts only young people, but now admits applicants of various age groups. The industry, he added, continues to provide upward mobility to its staff, “and we will always continue to do so.”

Graduates must take rightful place

He charged the apprentices to take their rightful place in the sugar industry and enunciated that the Port Mourant Training Centre have contributed significantly to producing exceptional technical support staff for GuySuCo.

Port Mourant Training Centre graduates can be found throughout the Caribbean, North America, Europe and Africa, and that is a testimony to the suc-

cess of this institution, Ramsammy boasted.

In brief remarks, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GuySuCo, Raj Singh, congratulated the apprentices on this milestone and encouraged them to take a leaf out of the book of those who preceded them.

He stated that although the industry is going through a challenging time, they can make a difference by working hard to gain success, as the industry will be here for a long time despite speculations of failure.

In delivering the manager’s report, Jagnarine Sookpaul said the institution is also working collaboratively with the National Accreditation Council to gain accreditation.

“Members of staff at this institution continue towards the future development of their professional and academic skills … three are currently pursuing their Bachelor’s Degree in Public Management at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus, while another is studying at the Cyril Potter College of Education,” he boasted.

The Valedictorian of this batch was Joel Ramprashad of Blairmont Estate who gained three distinctions in the Agricultural Mechanics programme. Awards were also distributed to the firstand second-year apprentices. Among those awarded were Shannon Tangcap of Wales Estate, who copped the best overall performance for the first-year apprentice group A, and best first-year logbook; while Naresh Singh was adjudged the graduate with the best overall performance and Esmond Anderson, best overall performance in for instrumental repair (mechanics).

Simply the

Truth

For several years now, most Berbicians to whom we have spoken have expressed great frustration at the way the business of the nation is being run. The greatest disenchantment is with the PPP, and the reason for this is that Berbicians hold Cheddi Jagan close to their hearts and see every promise broken as promises broken to Dr Jagan. The deepest disenchantment is born from the deepest affection.

The same disenchantment goes for the other two parties, although Berbicians no longer expect much of them. They gave a chance to the AFC, but little good has come from that except the usual fistthumping, acrimony and shrillness. Nothing constructive at all.

The PNC has almost become a non-topic, while the PPP is perceived as a major letdown because of too many broken promises and what appears to be political haplessness and paralysis.

Professor Daizal Samad

Young people are angry at or dismissive of this whole current crop of politicos, but older folk are just as fed-up. The young see no plans that would make their futures brighter. To be sure, there are many reasons to complain about the conduct of some of our young people. However, no one has seriously explored the reasons for rebellious or inappropriate behaviour from a small but growing number of our young.

One of the reasons is that they do not see their own potential, and adults or “leaders” are too preoccupied with other things to show them what they can do. And they follow our ugly examples. When hope dies, suicide or suicidal tendencies are born. When our leaders point the way, our young are smart enough to know that the pointing finger is crooked.

In the clamour about the poor conduct of our young –please notice that we pay lots of attention to truancy and bad behaviour and forget those that are punctual and attentive—we forget that the majority of our young people are fundamentally good and very bright. They know more than people of my generation ever knew at 10 or 12 years old.

We fail to take note of young men like Damian Simon and so many others that I can name in Berbice. Kind, good, talented kids who should see or be shown a bright future in which their talents are used fruitfully and profitably.

Damian is a talented boxer. He has had to give up his dreams of a boxing career. His talent is burning away every day in the cane fields. He sees no hope, and I have had to look at the light of hope being extinguished in his eyes with each passing day. Once gentle of tone, there is now an impatient edge in his voice. His spirit is provoked, because it is not fed by hope. There is a boy in Cotton Tree named Anand Tirbine. He attended a youth activity conducted by one of the few truly concerned community leaders in the area. The community leader was stricken by the flu and was coughing badly, losing her voice. This young Anand asked for an excuse, left, walked a good distance away to a shop, got “strepsils” for the community leader and presented it. No flair about it. No thought of thanks, though thanks were given. He spent his last few dollars for those sweets.

Are we ready to give hope to the many like Damian and Anand?

The 53rd batch of graduates of the Guyana Sugar Corporation Training Centre at Port Mourant strike a Graduation Day pose

A student addresses the gathering

“More adolescents entering the adult world in the 21st Century will read and write more than at any other time in human history. They will need advanced levels of literacy to perform their jobs, run their households, act as citizens, and conduct their personal live. They will need literacy to feed their imaginations so they can create the world of the future. In a complex and sometimes even dangerous world, their ability to read will be crucial,” these were the opening words of Education Officer attached to the Region Six

be given this valuable opportunity, reiterating that literacy plays a significant role in developing any country’s most valuable resource – its people.

“Our human resource is our most valuable asset and the fundamental importance of literacy is vital, since we can improve and develop our people through the spilloff effect of education,” she stressed, noting that reading can be fun and stimulating.

Evaluation

Speaking on behalf of UGBC Director Dr Subramanian Gomathinayagam, Faculty of

he highlighted, is a vital aspect of development, for “to educate someone is teaching someone to float on the tide” and in the modern era of science and technology, students need to be able to cope with the changing tides of life.

“ To educate a population is like sowing a seed and watching it grow and bear fruit… when one is educated, you are giving them what they need to grow, to germinate, to imagine, to create things.....” he quoted.

In an invited comment, Travis Chintombee, of Bush Lot Farm, whose daughter attends the Tain Primary School

Department of Education, Bhagmattie La Cruz, in the keynote address at the launch of the University of Guyana’s Berbice Campus (UGBC) 10th annual reading programme.

The event, which is being spearheaded by the UGBC library staff, commenced last Monday and will last for three weeks. It will benefit approximately 60 Grade Five pupils, 30 each from the McGowan and Tain Primary Schools on the Corentyne.

La Cruz encouraged the selected students to make much of the opportunity, as there are more than 12,000 pupils in the primary schools in the region who would have been grateful to

Agriculture Coordinator, Dr Grayson Halley, explained that there will be an evaluation at the beginning of the programme to determine if children are improving in their reading and writing abilities and upon conclusion, another evaluation will be carried out to ascertain if strides have been made.

“We have to know if we have succeeded or if the students have learnt to read. The University will make additional visits to the schools where the students are located … we need to see how they are performing and garner feedback and find ways to improve our strategies if the need arises,” Dr Halley noted. Education,

It sucks to think that racism still exists, but the reality is, it does. People fail to remember that all people are inherently equal. It is important to realise that we all have a role to play when it comes to eliminating racism and let us not forget that there are lots of things we can do to get the ball rolling.

For example, those of us who are reading this article right now should consider reading books and listening to music that promote an anti-racist point of view. This will broaden our understanding about the issue. And for those of us who do not like to read much or if we know of friends who do not like to read, try to get them involved in an antiracism group or a human rights campaign.

This will give them the same effect in understanding the racism issues that exist as well. And if this seems to be too complicated, try to hang out with friends who are non-racists. And speaking of friends, one of the best things to do is to have friends that are different from your racial or ethnic background. There are lots of opportunities everywhere regardless of where you live, take advantage of it and cherish it.

and respect them. And if we can, try your very best to integrate different aspects of them into our own lives.

There is no reason to be afraid to ask someone of a different race a question about race. We need to keep in mind though that we have to be very respectful about it. We must be able to have open communication and remember not to be judgemental; this will help to decrease racism. However, keep in mind though, that we may be asked for an opinion about a certain race, and when that time comes, do not be offensive, but be respectful in answering.

We all have an obligation regardless of our status in society. If anyone you know is a racist, encourage them to think differently and do not be afraid to let them know that you do not approve of their opinions and hateful activities.

It is crucial that we break the silence in a situation of such. Guyana is a beautiful place to promote diversity. We should take the time to learn about the cultures of others

If you are the one asking the question, make sure it is phrased appropriately, meaning instead of asking someone, “What is it like being an African student at a mostly East Indian school?” Ask them, “what is it like for you to be an African student at a mostly East Indian school?” The key is to keep the questions personal, because it is not fair to make someone answer a question for their entire race.

Keep in mind that we are human beings and it would not be uncommon to get into an argument with someone of another race; however, if and when you do, do not use racial hatred to make your point.

If we do that, it is clearly racist, and if antiracism was supported in the past, it would make one look like a hypocrite. Do not be one of those, be open and be a champion instead, we are all one people, one nation, one destiny, after all.

For questions, comments, and feedback, email them to mcnarine@rogers.com.

and will benefit from the programme, opined that this exercise would assist his young daughter tremendously.

“ She don’t know to read and understand them questions that come for test and she does do bad and me think this will help she plenty and me glad that she can get the opportunity to learn ,” he said.

Saskia Buenons, a student from the McGowan Primary, said she was happy to be part of this year’s programme and will make full use of the opportunity. This annual programme aims to develop the reading skills of the slow learners from various schools across the region.

Narine Dat Sookram

Students and volunteers

A section of the gathering

By Avenash Ramzan

Amassive and colourful flag-waving crowd left the Guyana National Stadium on Sunday night pleased with the fighting spirit shown once again by the Guyana Amazon Warriors, but disappointed that defending champi-

with a thrilling four-run win.

Lendl Simmons’s strokefilled, unbeaten half-century could not take the Warriors over the line, finishing on 144-2, in response to the Tallawahs 148-6, a total built on an attacking half-century from Chadwick Walton and a breezy 48 from

ons Jamaica Tallawahs ended the home team’s winning streak in this year’s Limacol Caribbean Premier League

Adam Voges. With 18 required from seven balls, the Warriors lost skipper Denesh Ramdin

Tallawahs pip Amazon Warriors in thriller

to a nasty delivery to the face, as an edge off a full toss from Jerome Taylor cannoned into the helmet. The standing umpire deemed it a no-ball, and after some initial on-field treatment, Ramdin retired hurt on 32 with the equation reading 17 from seven.

Christopher Barnwell came in and whacked his first ball over the mid-wicket boundary to leave the Warriors needing 11 from the final over bowled by Andre Russell. As it turned out Barnwell and Simmons were limited to four singles and a double as the Warriors failed to exact revenge after losing to the same opponent in last year’s final.

The run-chase had started at a brisk rate with Simmons and makeshift opener James Neesham posting 41 in 5.4 overs before the latter was dismissed by Rusty Theron for 16. Neesham was used at the top, since regular opener Martin Guptill had spent a significant time off the field and under the rules could not open the batting.

Mohammad Hafeez, who hasn’t been at his best with the bat this season, fell soon after for nine making it 54-2 in the ninth over.

Simmons, who was growing in confidence as the innings progressed, and Ramdin then proceeded to add 78 for the third wicket. Although they spent valuable time at the crease, the Tallawahs did a fine job in limiting the boundaries, forcing the pair to work for their runs.

GUYANA SCOREBOARD

That resulted in the run-rate swelling with each passing over, reaching its peak at 10.33 with four overs remaining. Despite the best efforts of Simmons and Ramdin, and the crucial little cameo from Barnwell, the Warriors fell agonisingly close of finishing the Guyana leg of their campaign with a clean slate.

Earlier, sent to take first strike after Ramdin maintained his unblemished record at the toss and opted to bowl first for the fourth time in succession, the Tallawahs were off to a breezy start with Walton being the aggressor and danger man

Chris Gayle playing the supporting hand.

The ploy worked well for the visitors as Ramdin chopped and changed his bowlers with the aim of breaking the partnership, but to no avail. After a quiet first over by Krishmar Santokie, Walton opened up in the second over, smashing off-spinner Hafeez for a six and a four off the first two deliveries.

Santokie leaked two boundaries in the third over as Gayle got going by flicking the final delivery- a full toss- for four. Beaton was brought on as early as the fourth over and he was also dispatched by Walton for a boundary, before he suffered the same treatment, this time twice in the sixth over, as the Tallawahs raced to 46-0 at the end of the Powerplay.

Despite leaking runs, Ramdin persisted with Beaton and the young man from Essequibo delivered in the eighth over, plucking out the prized wicket of Gayle for 11, brilliantly caught on the mid-wicket boundary by a diving Leon Johnson at 491.

Three deliveries later, England’s Owais Shah was bowled, chopping on without addition to the score as the Warriors clawed back into the game courtesy of Beaton’s double-wicket over.

Walton was joined by

Australian Voges and the two proceeded to add 55 before Walton was caught on the long-on boundary by Simmons off the bowling of Sunil Narine for 53.

Voges and Russell then put together a brisk 40 for the fourth wicket before three wickets fell in the final over by Neesham. Voges was caught on the long-off boundary by Johnson for 48 off 43 balls, while Russell, who started the over with a six, attempted to repeat the effort and was bowled.

Jamaica Tallawahs innings (20 overs maximum)

CAK Walton c Simmons b Narine 53

CH Gayle* c Johnson

b Beaton 11

OA Shah b Beaton 0

AC Voges c Johnson b Neesham 48 View dismissal AD Russell b Neesham 15

J Blackwood not out 0

CS Baugh† run out (Neesham) 3

Extras: (b 4, lb 6, w 8) 18

Total: (6 wickets; 20 overs) 148

Carlton Baugh was run out by Neesham, backing up off the final ball as the Tallawahs closed on 148-6. Neesham finished with 2-21, Beaton 2-27 and Narine was again miserly, ending with 1-14 from his four overs. The Guyana Amazon Warriors now head to Trinidad and Tobago where they take on the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel on Thursday at the Queen’s Park Oval from 20:00h.

Did not bat:J Theron, DL Vettori, NO Miller, JE Taylor Fall of wickets: 1-49 (Gayle, 7.2 ov), 2-50 (Shah, 7.5 ov), 3-105 (Walton, 15.5 ov), 4-145 (Voges, 19.3 ov), 5-145 (Russell, 19.4 ov), 6-148 (Baugh, 19.6 ov) Bowling: K Santokie 4-0-38-0, Mohammad Hafeez 2-0-19-0, RR Beaton 4-0-27-2, SP Narine 4-014-1, JDS Neesham 3-0-21-2, V Permaul 3-0-19-0 Guyana Amazon Warriors innings (target:

Ronsford Beaton goes aerial in his celebration of a wicket

Denesh Ramdin and Chris Gayle at the spinning of the toss

Chadwick Walton was explosive against the Warriors as Chris Gayle failed to deliver

Red Steel hand Antigua Hawksbills 4th straight defeat

The Antigua Hawksbills losing streak extended to four matches as they lost to the Red Steel in the Limacol Caribbean Premier League match at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Regular wickets throughout the home side’s

began as it did in the last match, with Danza Hyatt struggling to find scoring options against spin bowling. His tormentor-in-chief in this game was Red Steel’s leg spinner Samuel Badree who went for just 21 runs off his four overs. Hyatt lost his

SCOREBOARD

not out 1

GB Hogg not out 2

Extras: (lb 3) 3

Total: (8 wickets; 20 overs) 151

Did not bat: B Laughlin

Fall of wickets: 1-30 (Hyatt, 3.4 ov), 2-46 (Samuels, 5.5 ov), 3-48 (Dunk, 6.1 ov), 4-114 (Hussey, 16.5 ov), 5-119 (Thomas, 17.2

innings prevented them from building any telling momentum setting 152 runs to win. Red Steel overseas stars Kevin O’Brien and Ross Taylor made light work of the target, both register-

ov), 6-130 (Brathwaite, 18.1 ov), 7-140 (Cottrell, 18.6 ov), 8-148 (Cornwall, 19.4 ov)

Bowling: S Badree 4-0-21-0, FH Edwards 2-0-16-1, SJ Benn 4-0-38-1, KK Cooper 4-0-34-3, DJ Bravo 4-0-292, JN Mohammed 2-0-10-0

Red Steel innings (target: 152 runs from 20 overs)

K Lewis c Laughlin b Cornwall 2 KJ O’Brien not out 90 LRPL Taylor not out 51

Extras: (b 1, lb 5, w 3) 9 Total: (1 wicket; 17.1 overs) 152 Did not batDM Bravo, DJ Bravo*, JN Mohammed, N Pooran†, KK Cooper, SJ Benn, S Badree, FH Edwards Fall of wickets 1-7 (Lewis, 1.4 ov)

Bowling : SS Cottrell 4-0-180, RRS Cornwall 3-0-38-1, CR Brathwaite 4-0-31-0, B Laughlin 3-0-26-0, GB Hogg 2.1-0-230, MN Samuels 1-0-10-0

wicket to the bowling of Fidel Edwards, scooping a short ball into the waiting gloves of wicket keeper Nicolas Pooran as the Hawksbills innings again failed to fire in the Powerplay.

ing undefeated half centuries in a partnership off 145 the highest of the tournament so far.

The Hawksbills innings

Hyatt’s departure brought skipper Marlon Samuels to the crease, and he started where he had left off in the last game. He hit

his fourth ball for six but he could not replicate the stellar performance from yesterday falling to a slower ball bouncer from Kevon Cooper that was dollied up to Dwayne Bravo.

While the loss of Samuels was a massive blow for the home side, with Ben Dunk still at the crease, there was hope. The Australian was the player of the tournament in the Big Bash this winter and he was looking well set to go big here. It was not to be as he was involved in his second run out in four innings as he came back for a second run that was never there.

With the two big guns at the top of the order gone, there was a rebuilding job

rest of the Hawksbills lower order swished hard to try and get their team up to a decent total the biggest cheer of the innings reserved for crowd favourite Rahkeem Cornwall when he cleared the boundary with a steepling six.

With only one significant partnership in their innings it became clear very soon that Hawksbills did not have enough runs. Kevin O’Brien was brutal on anything wide inside the Powerplay and while he swung and missed regularly he also kept the scoreboard ticking over. Ross Taylor showed all of his class cutting and driving the bad balls to the boundary. As O’Brien attacked Taylor worked the ball around to give strike back to the Irishman.

to be done for the Antigua Hawksbills. The man who had that responsibility thrust upon him was David Hussey. As the player second on the list of most T20 appearances he certainly

had the experience. He took his side from 48 for three to 114 for four before he was caught at long off by Kevin O’Brien in an excellent partnership with Devon Thomas. When Hussey went it brought Sheldon Cottrell to

the crease, promoted up the order to add some impetus to proceedings.

From his very first ball his stay at the crease was eventful. He took off for a quick single off Cooper and the bowler removed the bails with Cottrell short of his ground. The umpire did not refer it to the TV official. When the Red Steel bench saw the pictures they brought this to the attention of their team but the umpire said that no one had appealed and refused to go upstairs for the replay.

The very next ball Thomas was out caught behind for 38 the highest score of the innings.

Cottrell went for a quick fire 16 runs that included two sixes one of which was almost spectacularly taken by Kennar Lewis who dived full length but was over the rope when he took off for the catch. The

By the halfway stage they had reached 75 for one, almost halfway to the target with nine wickets in hand. Samuels brought back Cottrell, his most economical bowler in the 11th over in a last ditch attempt to find a wicket to bring them back into the game but it was not forthcoming.

O’Brien’s fifty came up off just 29 balls as the decision by the Red Steel to move him up the order to open paid off spectacularly. He finished on 90 not out with Taylor undefeated on 51. The winning runs came from a bye as the ball evaded the Hawksbills wicket keeper Thomas. With this most recent defeat the Hawksbills find themselves well adrift from the qualification spots. They will need a serious turnaround of fortunes to secure a semi-final berth.

Devon Thomas made 38 for Antigua Hawksbills

Nicholas Pooran (left) of Red Steel tries to run out Danza Hyatt (right) of Antigua Hawksbills

Umpire Gregory Brathwaite (centre) signals 4 for Devon Thomas off the bowling of Sulieman Benn

Captain Marlon Samuels (left) of Antigua Hawksbills tosses the coin as captain Dwayne Bravo (right) of Red Steel looks on

Warriors’ edging fails to stop the party!

By Treiston Joseph

f the Jamaica Tallawahs

Ithought they were going to dampen spirits by beating Guyana Amazon Warriors they were wrong as, apart from the home team expressing that many positives came out from the game, the home fans continued to show their excitement for Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches here and their resounding support for their team-even in defeat.

It was the most electric and capacity crowd the Limacol CPL has attracted so far and with Guyana

setting such an exciting tone for the tournament, it is expected that crowds will only continue to grow as the tournament moves to different venues across the Caribbean.

For Guyana, however, the three matches here thrilled and united Guyanese from all across the country who made it to the Guyana National Stadium to cheer on the home franchise team that includes Guyanese Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton and Leon Johnson.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport on the Grass

Mound, a fan who gave his name as Jaisingh from Corentyne, highlighted what cricket means to him and his country.

“I love cricket and to see Jamaica face Guyana, how can I miss that, cricket is a Guyanese thing and this is what I like so I would never miss a game,” Jaisingh stated.

Another hyped-up fan in the mound belted out that “Guyana is the best team in the tournament.”

“Amazon Warriors all the way, I mean I like Chris Gayle but Warriors to the world, who can stop us not even Gayle” the fan shouted.

With the stadium at full capacity, Tremayne

Williams spoke about the atmosphere that the Limacol CPL had brought to Guyana.

“This is crazy in here, we are just enjoying it, we are loving it, only in Guyana you can see this and me and my friends are soaking this up. We are not big fans of the game but we love the vibes,” Williams stated.

Meanwhile, even as the Guyana Amazon Warriors were edged by the Jamaica Tallawahs, the fans of the Warriors proved to be loyal ones as they were still cheering at the top of their lungs and gyrating in satisfaction at the team’s performance on home soil over the three match days.

India close in on Lord’s Test victory

England are on the verge of defeat after India put in a superb performance with the bat and ball in the second Test at Lord’s. Set 319 to win, England lost three wickets for two runs, including beleaguered captain Alastair Cook for 22, to end the day staring into the abyss on 105-4.

Earlier Murali Vijay hit 95, Ravi Jadeja a swashbuckling 68 off 57 balls and Bhuvneshwar Kumar 52 to help the tourists progress quickly from their overnight 169-4 to 342 all out.

Defeat on Monday would put England 1-0 down in the series with three matches to play and extend their winless run to 10 Tests. It was a riveting day of cricket in which England gave themselves openings, only for India to return their efforts with interest.

After three wickets in the morning session had reduced India to 235-7, Jadeja tore into James Anderson and Stuart Broad in a counter-attacking eighth-wicket stand of 99 with Kumar in 16.3 overs either side of lunch. Late in the day, after the inspired Jadeja had dismissed Sam

Robson with his first delivery, Cook and Gary Ballance steered England to 70-1. But their 58run partnership was broken when Ballance nicked Mohammed Shami behind, and the out-of-form Ian Bell played inside a ball from Ishant Sharma that held its line down the slope and was bowled. Amid almost unbearable tension, Cook lasted 93 balls of mostly dogged defence before he was tempted into playing at a ball from Sharma and edged to wicketkeeper Mahendra Dhoni.

It extended his run without a century to 27 innings and left England staring at defeat. On a pitch taking spin, Moeen Ali survived a dropped catch and two huge lbw shouts to finish 15 not out, alongside Joe Root, who has 14.

After resuming on 1694, India sprinted out of the blocks with 12 runs off the first over, but England pegged them back with two quick wickets. Liam Plunkett, who revived England’s challenge with two scalps in two balls on Saturday evening, had captain Dhoni poking at a full ball and Bell took a sharp

Ian Bell

catch above his shoulder at second slip.

Moments later, Stuart Binny was lured into an early slog at Moeen. Cook, sprinting back from midoff, clung on to a fine running catch in front of the pavilion. Vijay was out in the third over with the second new ball five runs short of his second century of the series when he nicked a ball from an otherwise outof-sorts Anderson through to Matt Prior.

Jadeja, the villain of the English crowd because

of his allegation that he was pushed and verbally abused by James Anderson at Trent Bridge, thrilled a large India-supporting contingent with a scintillating innings. Darting out of his crease, he turned a regulation Anderson delivery into a half-volley and clattered it through the covers before crashing Broad over his head for a one-bounce four. Five more fours followed as he brought up his fifty off 42 balls.

Kumar was given a reprieve on two when he was

put down by Root, who was standing very close at fourth slip and could only parry the ball as it flashed above his head.

It was a costly error as Kumar continued a dazzling series with bat and ball by becoming only the third player to score a halfcentury and five wickets in successive Test matches after Ian Botham and

Richard Hadlee. Jadeja’s scintillating innings finally ended when he top-edged a pull shot at Ben Stokes and Cook took another skier. India’s last two wickets followed quickly as Mohammed Shami feathered Moeen behind and Stokes had Kumar caught in the slips - but from an England perspective the damage had been done.

SCOREBOARD

India 2nd Innings 342 all out (103.1 overs)

Vijay c Prior b Anderson 95

Dhawan c Root b Stokes 31

Pujara c Prior b Plunkett 43

Kohli b Plunkett 0

Rahane c Prior b Broad 5

Dhoni c Bell b Plunkett 19

Binny c Cook b Moeen 0

Jadeja c Cook b Stokes 68 B Kumar c Bell b Stokes 52

Shami c Prior b Moeen 0 I Sharma not out 0

Extras: 0nb 1w 19b 9lb

Total:

(103.1 ovs)

Bowlers: Anderson 29.0-11-

23.0-6-93- 1,

Plunkett 22.0-6-65-3, Moeen 11.0-3-28-2 Fall of Wicket: 40 Dhawan, 118 Pujara, 118 Kohli, 123 Rahane, 202 Dhoni, 203 Binny, 235 Vijay, 334 Jadeja, 338 Shami, 342 B Kumar

England 2nd innings (target:

Party mound fans celebrate the fall of Chris Gayle’s wicket (Treiston Joseph photos)

Limacol Cool Fan during the game earlier in the day

Fans in the party mound sporting Amazon Warriors face paint

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He caught Williams’ Valtteri Bottas in the final laps but could not pass. Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel beat

Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso for fourth with team-mate Daniel Ricciardo sixth.

Rosberg’s victory on home soil leaves him 14 points clear of fellow Mercedes driver Hamilton at the head of the championship with nine races remaining.

“I had great fun,” said Hamilton. “I did as good as I could today. It was very hard to get through the field safely. I had a little collision with Jenson. I really thought he was open -

ing the door for me; he has been very good like that in recent races. So my bad on judgement there.”

The race in Hockenheim began with high drama as Williams’ Felipe Massa and McLaren’s Kevin Magnussen collided at the first corner, tipping the Brazilian’s car upside down.

The Williams skated into the run-off area, triggering the safety car while officials confirmed Massa was unhurt. (BBC Sport)

Mcilroy wins open championship

Rory McIlroy clinched his first Open Championship and third major title with a twoshot victory over Sergio Garcia and Rickie Fowler on a thrilling final day at Hoylake.

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The Northern Irishman joined Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus as the only players to win three of golf’s modern majors by the age of 25.

McIlroy, 25, now just has the Masters left to complete a career Grand Slam.

Starting six clear, McIlroy fired a final-round 71 to finish 17 under as Garcia, who three times got to within two strokes, shot 66 and US Open runner-up Fowler 67.

American Jim Furyk, 44, matched his fourth place in 2006 with a 65 to end 13 under. (BBC Sport)

Rory McIlroy says he feels ‘incredible’ after winning the 2014 Open

Alexander Kristoff sprints to victory on Tour de France stage 15

Norway’s Alexander Kristoff sprinted to victory on stage 15 of the Tour de France.

The 27-year-old chased down New Zealand’s Jack Bauer, who had led a break for the majority of the 222km stage from Tallard to Nimes.

Australia’s Heinrich Haussler finished second, with Slovakia’s Peter Sagan in third.

Italy’s

WaNteD

Vincenzo Nibali retains the yellow jersey ahead of Spain’s Alejandro Valverde. (BBC Sport)

Nico Rosberg celebrates after winning the German Grand Prix

Alexander Kristoff

Positive signs despite defeat, says Ramdin

...game plan worked out excellently – Mickey Arthur

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Guyana Amazon Warriors captain

Denesh Ramdin said he was not discour-

“Simmons batted well and the young bowlers came through,” Ramdin said at the post-match press conference. He added: “I think in

aged by his side’s loss to the Jamaica Tallawahs last evening in game nine of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20 tournament.

In fact, Ramdin said, despite the defeat, there were a lot of positives that came out of the game.

the bowling department we gave away some boundaries unnecessarily, the fielding was not up to the standard we would like it to be, we could have saved 10 to 15 runs and that could have made a difference but at the end the better team won”.

Meanwhile, head coach Roger Harper indicated that despite the defeat, he is happy with the performances shown by his players.

“Well I want to congratulate Jamaica for winning the game, I thought they played well, the hardest thing for us is that even though they beat us there were areas that we could have improved on, but we got pretty close and that is very encouraging.”

“Our batsmen had to adjust at the top, we see Simmons coming through, the captain getting some runs, so there are things that we can build on, so we are happy how the guys played, the effort and we will be looking at the areas where we will have to finetune on and move forward,” Harper pointed out.

Execution

On the other hand, Jamaica Tallawahs, head coach Mickey Arthur disclosed that execution of their game plan was one of the key reasons for the team’s success.

“We target to set ourselves up, the whole game

plan was to get wickets in hand so we can go at the end, because history has shown that a lot of teams come out and lose wickets very early and they couldn’t accelerate at the end so our game plan was to go hard during

GCB holds wide-ranging discussions with Essequibo cricket officials

Continuing their outreach to cricket clubs and cricket committees in the counties, a few Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) executives met with representatives of the Area Committees of Essequibo on Saturday and assisted them with $50,000 each and a quantity of balls.

Representatives from Leguan, South Essequibo, Central Essequibo and East Bank Essequibo were present at the meeting held at the Travellers Lodge Hotel in Parika. The GCB used the opportunity to update the representatives on the present status of cricket administration at the national level and also fielded questions from those present.

GCB President, Drubahadur, Secretary Anand Sanasie and Marketing Manager, Raj Singh also engaged the representatives of the attending Area Committees in a two-hour long discussion on burning issues and major concerns regarding cricket and its development in Essequibo.

The discussions mainly surrounded the constraints of travelling to various islands and inland areas; fund-raising; strengthening

the administrative structure of the Area Committees; relationships with the county boards; coaching and development of grounds. The GCB is currently completing some rehabilitative works at the Anna Regina hostel and the completion of a practice facility at that location. Suggestions and recommendations were made and both the GCB and the Area Committees committed to pursue them.

In closing,the repre-

sentative of East Bank Essequibo, Alvin Johnson, said he was very much embarrassed with the continued poor performance of Essequibo at all levels and as an executive of the Essequibo Cricket Board, he takes what was discussed at the Meeting very seriously and urged the other areas to renew their commitment towards the overall development of cricket in Essequibo.

Whilst thanking the GCB for the initiative, Johnson

stated that he believes this move by the GCB has set the tone for a turn-around and to get the ball rolling for a positive outcome in the future.

Late last month the GCB conducted a similar exercise in Berbice, where executives of the GCB met with firstdivision clubs and assisted them with $100,000 and practice nets. The Board will next meet with clubs on the East Bank of Demerara and Linden.

the power play which is the best time and then to go five or six an over up to 15, but I think they bowled well at the end. Our target was 160 but we managed close to 150 so I think that was defendable,” Arthur said.

Steyn and Morkel inspire South Africa to win

PDale Steyn and Morne Morkel took four second innings wickets apiece to help South Africa beat Sri Lanka in the first Test of a two-match series. Sri Lanka were set 370 to win in Galle but they struggled with the bat, with South Africa winning by 153 runs.

Steyn removed the two openers and, despite 76 from Kumar Sangakkara, the hosts were dismissed for 216. Morkel finished with 4-29 and Steyn with 4-45 as South Africa took a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The victory provided

Hashim Amla - the first permanent non-white captain of the Proteas - with a win in his first Test as skipper. Sri Lanka had started the final day on 110-1 but were reduced to 161-6 at lunch as the visitors took control. The hosts’ captain Angelo Mathews remained unbeaten on 27 but ran out of partners as South Africa wrapped up the win.

South Africa are bidding to win the series 2-0 to usurp Australia at the top of the Test rankings. The second Test begins on Thursday at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo.

The Jamaica Tallawahs won by four runs. Meanwhile, the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ next game is against Red Steel at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad on July 24.

Guyana Amazon Warriors skipper Denesh Ramdin (right) and head coach Roger Harper at the postmatch press conference

Jamaica Tallawahs head coach Mickey Arthur

GCB President Drubahadur is flanked by Secretary Anand Sanasie (right) and Marketing Manager, Raj Singh. Standing are representatives of Area Committees in Essequibo

acemen

Guyana win 10th consecutive overall junior squash title

Guyana continued their dominating ways on the squash circuit throughout the Caribbean Region, winning their 10th consecutive overall title on Saturday at the Junior Caribbean Squash Championships in Hamilton, Bermuda.

Both the male and female teams won their respective finals to ensure Guyana retain their title.

The girls took the court first and came out with a very intense 3-2 victory over Trinidad and Tobago who had beaten the Guyanese girls earlier in the group stage of the tournament.

Taylor Fernandes took the court first in place of Larissa Wiltshire who had a slight injury, to defeat Marion Gillezeau easily in three straight sets at 11-9, 11-5 and 11-3 to give Guyana the early

advantage in the match.

Victoria Arjoon would take the court next in her last match as a junior against

Marie Claire Barcant and would perform to her optimum to give Guyana a commanding 2-0 lead with the

game ending 11-5, 11-2 and 11-7.

Charlotte Knaggs would prevent the Guyanese girls from sweeping the finals after defeating Akeila Wiltshire in three straight sets at 118, 11-8 and 11-9 to bring Trinidad and Tobago back in the match that stood at 2-1 in favour of Guyana.

Rebecca Low would be up next for Guyana, but would fail to stop the momentum of the Trinidadians, losing to Alexandria Yearwood 1-3 at 7-11, 11-9, 5-11 and 5-11.

Guyana’s Makeda Harding then took to the court and completely outplayed Jinan Al Rawi to win 3-0 at 11-4, 11-3 and 11-0 to give the Guyanese girls their ninth consecutive female ti-

tle.

The win by the girls’ team at this point also meant that Guyana, whether the boys won or lost, won their 10th overall title.

However, the boys took the court high-spirited after watching the females celebrate and it was evident that the energy of the females winning boosted the performance of the boys early in their eventual 3-2 win over Jamaica.

Benjamin Mekdeci took the court first and blazed to a 3-0 win over Jahjia Lumley that ended 11-3, 11-9 and 11-3 to put Guyana ahead 1-0.

National under-19 champion Nyron Joseph gritted out a tough 3-2 win against Jake

Mahfood as he came from two down to win the game that ended 8-11, 3-11, 11-9, 13-11 and 14-12.

Canada- based Jean Claude Jeffrey would lose to the current Under-19 Caribbean champion Julian Morrison in three straight sets at 7-11, 10-12 and 2-11.

Guyana’s Alex Cheeks would suffer the harshest defeat as Jamaica’s Jonathan Walker would tie the match at 2-2 with a 3-0 win over Cheeks that ended 5-11, 3-11 and 2-11.

However, Shomari Wiltshire would completely dominate his Jamaican opponent to end the game and win the boys’ title for Guyana with a 3-0 win that ended 110, 11-0 and 11-1.

Braithwaite places creditable 40th in UK

Guyana and the Caribbean’s top marksman Lennox Braithwaite placed a creditable 40th place in the prestigious Her Majesty Queen’s final at Bisley Ranges in the United Kingdom on Saturday.

Braithwaite, the reigning two-time West Indies Individual shooting champion, recorded 291 points with 26 V-bulls out of a possible 300 points following a shootout of the top 100 shooters in the match.

Over 1200 shooters from around the world, including riflemen who will be competing in the upcoming Commonwealth Games, battled for supremacy for the coveted Queen’s Prize, the most coveted prize in Target Rifle shooting.

Braithwaite has received glowing tributes from members of the rifle shooting fraternity in Guyana and around the world.

Former national captain Canadian-based Paul Archer said it was a great achievement for Braithwaite and he encouraged him to carry his success to the Commonwealth Games. Vice-President of the West Indies Fullbore

Rifle Shooting Council (WIFSC), Paul Slowe, was also in high praise for Braithwaite. The Queen’s Prize was won by R. Jeens with a score of 297 with 44 V-bulls.

Braithwaite, who retained the regional individual shooting championship title two months ago in Jamaica, was selected along with national captain Mahendra Persaud to represent Guyana at the XX Commonwealth Games from July 23 to August 3 in Glasgow, Scotland.

They will be accompanied by veteran marksman Ransford Goodluck, who is manager/coach.

Braithwaite and Persaud will compete in the pairs and individual competition at the Games.

Braithwaite’s accomplishment followed Guyana’s quartet victory in the Junior Overseas Team match on Friday.

The four shooters, Braithwaite, Persaud, Goodluck and Dylan Fields were coached to victory by United States-based Guyanese Sigmund Douglas.

Lennox Braithwaite with his replica Queen’s Finals targets at the Bisley Ranges, United Kingdom

Both the male and female teams pose after their victories to celebrate their 10th straight win

The male team pose with their Guyana flag after their hard- fought victory against Jamaica

The female junior team celebrate their win against Trinidad, after taking their ninth straight title

Kevin O’Brien fights off a short ball during his unbeaten innings of 90 Photo: LatinContent/Getty Images

Guyana’s pace bowler Ronsford Beaton (right) accounted for the prized wickets of Chris Gayle and Owais Shah