Guyana Times Daily

Hopetown man on way to wake house killed Granger reaches out to Lusignan, Mon Repos residents

Construction ongoing on new Region Seven schools Police could have saved victims’ lives – residents

Miss Guyana Universe Franchise holder Odinga Lumumba presents a gift to the reigning Miss Guyana Universe (2013) Katherina Roshana at a cocktail and appreciation dinner hosted by the queen at the New Thriving Event Centre, Camp Street, Georgetown

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, March 17 from 05:30h-07:00h

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, March 15 from 16:50h-18:20h

WEATHER TODAY

Countrywide: Thundery shower can be expected during the day with heavy showers in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Wind: East north easterly between zero and 3.33 metres per second.

High Tide: 04:55h and 17:14h reaching maximum heights of 2.73 metres and 2.76 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 10:49h and 23:05h reaching minimum heights of 0.44 metre and 0.48 metre respectively.

Customs broker perishes in early morning accident

Less than two weeks shy of his 21st birthday, a custom broker met his demise early Sunday morning after he lost control of his motor car and slammed into a utility pole in the vicinity of Industrial Site, Georgetown.

Adrian “AD” Hoosain of 133 Meadow Brook Gardens, Georgetown, sustained severe head injuries and had to be pulled from the wreckage by members of the Guyana Fire Service. His vehicle, a Toyota Corolla AE 110 motor car bearing registration number PEE 2564 was beyond repair.

According to information reaching Guyana Times, the young man left a friend’s house at Eccles,

East Bank Demerara after attending a get together about 04:00h and was on his way home when he met in the accident.

From reports gathered, Hoosain was seen consuming alcohol at the party but as he was about to leave, his friends realised that he was too drunk to drive, thus they attempted to relieved him of his car keys, but he assured them that he was capable of driving

home.

Aliye Crighton, the dead man’s girlfriend, when contacted told Guyana Times that they spent most of Saturday night together and about 23:30h, he dropped her home at Den Amstel, West Coast Demerara.

The young woman said after he dropped her home, he left for Georgetown, but she received a call from him informing her

that he was at a friend’s house in Eccles, East Bank Demerara. He also told her that the battery of his mobile phone was dead and he would call her when he reached home.

Crighton said after a while, she made several attempts to contact him, but to no avail. “It was after 04:30h, I called back and a woman answered the phone claiming to be a nurse at the GPHC so she started to ask me who I was and after I told her my relation with him, she advised me to come down to the hospital.”

Crighton added that in a panic, she rushed to the medical facility where she saw Hoosein lying motionless on a stretcher, bleeding from the head. There were no signs of broken bones, she added. In tears, the young woman posited that he would have been celebrating his 21st birthday on March 28 and he had a lot planned.

Still in a state of shock, she added that they have been together for the past

four years. At the home of the dead man, his friends gathered as the news spread. His mother was too distraught to speak with the media, but his father told media operatives that his son left home on Saturday evening to meet his girlfriend.

After their meeting, the man, who was still devastated, said his son dropped his girlfriend home on the West Coast of Demerara, and upon his return to the city, he was liming with some friends.

He was not sure what transpired, but recalled receiving a telephone call from the hospital requesting his presence.

Upon his arrival, he saw his son’s bloodied body on a stretcher. He was already dead, the father said. Hoosein was described by his parents as a good son. He leaves to mourn his parents and two siblings. His body is at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Dead: Adrian “AD” Hoosain

The mangled car being towed away to the Ruimveldt Police Station

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

Editorial

Holi and struggle

Today, the nation will pour exuberantly into the streets to celebrate the festival of Holi or Phagwah. But a mere four days ago, President Donald Ramotar unveiled a memorial at Rose Hall Estate, East Canje in Berbice to the 15 sugar workers who had been gunned down by the colonial authorities back in 1913. The two events are not unrelated and their nexus bears a retelling for us in the present who have forgotten the sacrifices by our foreparents so that our culture and heritage could be retained.

Holi recapitulates the eternal cycle of birth, death and regeneration and reminds us, through the symbolism of Spring, that even the darkest night will end. In Guyana, we have the folk saying summarising this truth: “time longer than twine”. But Holi also reminds us, through the story of the heroic boy Prahalad, that there is no inevitability to the triumph of good over evil. Because of the inherent proclivity of mankind to slide into oppressive behaviour, whether in the home, village or country, we have to be eternally vigilant to take action to extirpate its several manifestations.

The colonial order was maintained more by its insistence on subverting the narratives of the colonised peoples that taught them to reject oppression, than in the use of naked force – which was their last resort. During slavery, the cultures of the African peoples were literally beaten out of them and today it has to be painfully recreated from the embers heroically preserved.

In the Muslim community, the Tazia or Hossay Festival, which re-created the martyrdom of Hassan and Hussein, was explicitly banned because the authorities claimed they encouraged “riotous behaviour”. Hossay was the “Holi” festival of its time, and all groups and ethnicities participated in the procession.

Holi was not banned, but it was encouraged as another “sport” that would take the people’s minds off their oppressive conditions. The subversion of the core message of Holi – that even the children must rise up and oppose evil – occurred in the dominant educational system dismissing such accounts as “myths” and “Nancy” stories.

Today, even though it is now universally accepted that in all ancient societies myths were used to transmit messages that would keep the society more harmonious and functional, the story of Prahalad and his arrogant father is still defined dismissively as “myth”. Stripped of its moral exhortations, Holi slowly began to be associated with rum drinking and meat eating on the day after the event.

Back in 1913, the sugar workers were protesting a benefit won from the plantation bosses through dint of their hard labour, but which was arbitrarily withdrawn. A century later, these practices have not yet been completely eliminated. They protested and were killed like flies. When the news reached India, it was one of the events that persuaded Mahatma Gandhi, newly returned to his motherland, to agitate for the end of indentureship.

The 1913 Rose Hall Massacre occurred during the leadup to Holi: the Holika would already have been planted. It is quite possible that the participants were inspired by the bravery of young Prahalad and they followed in his path. Today, there are elements in our society that are still determined to keep sugar workers in thrall to plantation labour for a mere pittance. Only a week ago, one political party even called for the sugar industry to be closed down.

In recanting, they claimed they were suggesting alternative employment in tilapia farming, pretending to forget this route was tried by the PNC regime and failed ignominiously. So, as we celebrate Holi in 2014, let us do so in full consciousness that our ancestors introduced these festivals not merely as a “sport”, but also as lessons to guide our behaviour in the real world.

Holi means building a united society in which no one individual or group should try to grab all power.

Happy Holi 2014!!

Everyone in the Opposition knows the importance of the AML/CFT Bill

Dear Editor, March 6, 2014 will remain a memorable day in my life. It was such a day when I was convinced that some people only give lip service to our National Pledge.

It was a day when Councillors from the Opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) were bestowed with an opportunity to show their leaders that they can think independently when it comes to issues of national development.

But they squandered that golden opportunity. It was such a day that what Mahatma Gandhi said took on a new dimension and assumed more relevance in my life. He said that “even if you are a minority of one, the truth is the truth”. Some people love to quote this saying, but when it comes to making it a part of their lives they shamelessly fall short.

For more than two years, I have sat at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) meetings in Berbice as an AFC Councillor and I have heard Councillors from the combined Opposition making immense efforts in airing personal issues and grievances. Their personal interests would take priority, then the “other issues” would follow. However, I

thought that on that day they would put country first. But I was so mistaken!

On that day, I moved a motion in favour of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill. In my introduction in presenting this vital motion, I made reference to our National Pledge which states that we must be “loyal to our country and that we must dedicate our energies towards the happiness and prosperity of our country – Guyana”.

I presented that motion as a loyal citizen of Guyana, as a patriot who placed my country above petty partisan politics. Being an AFC Councillor took second place on that day. I thought that if we in the Opposition can unanimously pass this motion at RDC level, then our leaders in Parliament would have to come to their senses. Sometimes, it is necessary for the ‘bottom’ to direct the ‘top’; it should not always be the opposite. It was a matter of sending a message to our leaders, but they were unwilling to do that.

What we need to understand in a ‘new dispensation’ is that we need a ‘new political culture’ where our

Councillors and members need to be able to think independently, especially when issues of paramount national interest such as the AML/CFT Bill are at stake.

Every person in the Opposition knows the importance of this Bill, but they are willing to sacrifice this nation in their quest for political power.

During the debate of this motion, my colleagues from the AFC were quick to point out that “Yusuf does not represent the views of the AFC”. However, what is not comprehensible to them was that Yusuf represented the views of the masses and the views of many who voted for the AFC!

I am proud of what I have done. It was the proudest moment of my life and I will do it again and again if necessary. If the AFC leaders want to expel me, I have no problem with that; I have done good service to my country!

Members of the Opposition need to have the testicular appendages to think for themselves and must attack issues in an objective manner. A prime example is Moses Nagamootoo. He fully supported the President’s Pension Bill when he was a Member of Parliament of the People’s Progressive Party/

Civic (PPP/C), Government, but, as soon as he did not get nominated as the presidential candidate, he defected to the AFC and condemned the very Bill he supported.

Is this the political culture we need in this country? I have the courage to speak out against cronyism, fraud and corruption within my party without fear or inhibition.

I have the courage to speak out against the anti-national developmental stance taken by the combined Opposition. Members of APNU and AFC need to act in the interest of the country even if it means incurring the wrath of their egocentric leaders.

I, therefore, want to reiterate my position at this point in time. I was extremely proud to present that motion in support of the AML/ CFT Amendment Bill at the RDC meeting.

The great Mahatma Gandhi once said, “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.” Some advice to Khemraj Ramjattan: the AFC should stop piggybacking on the People’s National Congress (PNC) to achieve political relevance! Get your head out of David Granger’s posterior!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

The burning of the Holika, symbolising the triumph of good over evil, and ushering in the Festival of Colours, Phagwah, was held at the Campton Ground, Campbellville, Georgetown on Sunday

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana

238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Continue to entertain us in London

Dear Editor, I am very much enthusiastic about Radio Guyana

Inc 89.3, 89.5, 89.7 FM. I have made it my duty to listen to live streaming every single day and at all hours.

I want to say how much I am enjoying Radio

Guyana. This is a remarkable achievement by the entrepreneur who has set up this station. I want to say many thanks to all the producers and announcers for having such entertaining programmes, especially Mr Seegobin and all the

others.

Continue to entertain us in London. We love it

Sincerely, Zam Baksh

Guyanese law student does us proud

Dear Editor,

I feel so happy that we have genuine scholastic material residing right here in our country. I join in congratulating the second-year University of London Law student Gabriella Edwards, who has done Guyana proud.

Currently a student at the Nations University, Gabriella was recently awarded the Oxford University Press Prize for achieving one of the best results in the world in the May 2013 Year One Law Examinations. This is no mean feat at all.

In fact, this student excelled at her Caribbean Secondary Education

Certificate (CSEC) and Advanced Level examinations, and so she is merely carrying on her good work. I like how we are celebrating her success so far, as sometimes, we are so prone to just focus on sporting and film celebrities.

Now, in this success, I have a little fear. It is that the law programme at our University of Guyana (UG) is not really getting expected positive reviews. Many students are choosing to take their Law Programme at Nations University. As for some of our Medical Programmes, I know that quite a few students have

opted for the Texila American University (TAU), a kind of parallel to Nations.

I see all of this as good, but it means that we must wake up too. Soon, it can have some terrible repercussions, where UG may only offer things like Sociology and Social Work. Already, we are having a surfeit in this general area.

I think of the statement made by the current Vice Chancellor, Dr Jacob Obadeyi that says how UG is failing its people, particularly those who are preparing to teach by going through the Education Degree. He was referring to the lack of consultation and

student input. What I do know of Nations is that it has a strong team in administration and its communication is always timely. Maybe UG has to tighten up on a few things, since we have the academic potential. I suggest the following among many others: a more orderly campus, better student discipline, less noisy atmosphere, removal of animals from the campus, and adequate student services such as snackettes and photocopying, among others.

Sincerely, Third-Year UG Student Name withheld by request

Derelict vehicles are more than eyesores

Dear Editor, Members and friends of the St Agnes Church in Grove, East Bank Demerara are most upset that old, derelict vehicles and sundry parts are being heaped on the parapet of their church. The perpetrators are known and their practice is most illegal and disrespectful, and I hope that proper legal action can be taken against them.

This particular problem continues to plague Guyana, since just about everywhere, there is a business that has waste materials to dispose of, whether it be foodstuff or brico-

lage from construction sites or old vehicles.

If one is to take a visit to the canal that separates Annandale and Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, on the eastern bank, south of the Main Road, it is the same. There is a junkyard that deals with old vehicles, and the common and established practice is to dump the unwanted segments of these vehicles right alongside the canal.

It is at a stage where it is almost hindering the flow of the canal and it is just a matter of time before it is blocked

and dumping escalates onto the street. I have read more than one complaint in this regard, and, so far, nothing has been done.

The situation in Annandale/ Lusignan is overbearing and needs to be addressed urgently. The street in Annandale West that leads to this dumping site and which is where the junk-yard operates is the very one that houses a branch of Freedom House.

The house is so prominent that no one can miss it. I am amazed that no one from this office is moved to speak up.

Good sense should prevail with all police work

Dear Editor, I read with grief and pity the treatment that Ali Williams received from traffic ranks at the Providence Police Station, East Bank Demerara. I wonder how much is being taught at the Guyana Police Force Training College about their pledge and motto upon swearing to become a Police Officer.

When I look at the motto and I reminisce about the architect of the motto, “Service and Protection”, joy reverberates in my mind. But when I look at the dispensation of the motto by many ranks as they exercise their professional responsibilities in our society, anger and frustration overtake me.

Don’t get me wrong, the Police Force has many good officers, but the outlaw few are really tarnishing the integrity of the force, and for this very reason, the Officers-In-Charge of the Police Stations and Outposts must be proactive.

This is all about environmental concerns and it has implications for tourism and the image of Guyana.

I make a plea for the authorities to swoop down on all who contribute to the development of these eyesores countrywide. Moreover, I hope they address the current situation at the St Agnes Church in Grove, in addition to any businesses operating in Annandale.

All for a better kept Guyana.

Sincerely,

Asif Hussein

They must be knowledgeable of the activities and conduct of all ranks under their charge and command. The master of this is Commissioner Leroy Brumell, Crime Chief Seelall Persaud and Divisional Commander George Vyphuis.

What I have found over the years is whenever someone enters a police station, immediately the perception is he/she is a criminal or someone who committed a crime, and some ranks become very aggressive and intimidating, as was demonstrated to Williams. I sympathise with

her and I know that she will be given justice.

The other point I would like to highlight, and which I hope those in authority will address with seriousness, is the uncalled-for traffic woes in the evenings from Monday to Friday at Providence Police Station, and probably caused by the very same traffic rank(s).

It has become the rule of the day that at the peak hours in the afternoon after 15:00h that is when about four traffic ranks will start working. They will stop most vehicles proceeding in a southerly direction for “routine” checks of documents, which they probably checked a dozen times before.

They really don’t exercise any consideration for the working-class people, schoolchildren, sick and elderly persons, people proceeding to the airport, or in an emergency. This is a ritual that has been going on for a very long time. As a result, the traffic jams sometimes would be as far as the Demerara Harbour Bridge. By the time commuters get to their homes at Grove or in the New Diamond Housing Scheme, it is around 19:00h.

This is really a great injustice. I hope that the relevant authority can look into these matters and I trust that good sense will prevail and our Police Officers can live up to their motto and mission statement.

Yours truly, Nazar Mohamed

Times,

Page Foundation

Children losing steam?

By Janet Lehman

Is your child or teen

fighting with you every step of the way lately, from refusing to get up on time in the morning, to complaining about homework at night? For so many families out there, this time of year is really tough. Your children are tired, their teachers are tired, and the end of the school year seems nowhere in sight.

When you yell at your child for lack of motivation, you’re giving the resisting behaviour power.

A parallel process

If you’re trying to attend to homework and other school expectations in the midst of all the millions of other things you’re doing, and your children continue to be unmotivated, it’s easy to get frustrated and feel defeated. If you don’t see good results from all the work you put in with your child, this lack of success just feeds the stress and anxiety – and the feeling as a parent that your responsibilities are neverending.

Three causes for lack of motivation in school: Here are three major reasons why your child may

lose motivation in school:

If your child seems less motivated than in the past, it may be due to a dip in interest. Maybe there’s an overly challenging subject (let’s say your child has a hard time writing, or doing algebra), or they really don’t jive with this year’s maths teacher. I think it’s helpful to realise that many of these kinds of challenges will pass naturally, and your child will be back on track. For other children, there may be social problems at play, including friends who are no longer interested in hanging out with your child, bullying, or break-ups with a boyfriend or girlfriend. Consider your child’s peer group. Are they all skipping school, drinking and/or smoking marijuana or getting detention? There may be peer pressure to underperform in school, as well.

Understand that there are times when your teen is more moody or ornery than usual. This is actually tied to normal adolescent development. My husband James and I found that it was important to “expect (and accept) bad moods and bad days” with our child, and with the teens we worked with. Just like us, children can wake up on the wrong

side of the bed or go through tough times in their lives. For your older adolescent, problems at school could be connected to the struggle of becoming more independent, and the uncertainty of what life will be like after high school has ended. This doesn’t mean that you ignore rude behaviour or let them slide when they’re not performing at school; rather, it’s an acknowledgement that these moods and behaviours happen and that you should not take it personally as a parent.

The important thing for you to watch for, is how long the lack of motivation lasts and how pervasive it is. Try to understand what may be contributing to your child’s under-performance at school. This will be helpful when you sit down with them to assist in problemsolving the situation.

Note: If your child seems distressed, despondent or sad for a prolonged period of time, or if you suspect they are abusing substances, have them seen by someone with diagnostic skills. Be sure to have a paediatrician rule out any underlying issues that might be causing anxiety or depression.

How to keep them motivated at school

There are things that all parents can do to help keep their children motivated in school. Here are several suggestions that can help get your child back on track and across the finish line.

Don’t give the behaviour power: When you yell at your child for lack of motivation, you’re giving the resisting behaviour power. As a parent myself, I understand that we all get frustrated and yell sometimes. But understand that it won’t solve the problem. If you’re yelling or arguing with your child over

of “you” words:

“I want you to get out of bed and get ready for school.”

“I want you to do your homework now.”

Then leave the bedroom. If your child doesn’t do it, then there should be consequences and accountability. If he says he doesn’t care, don’t get into a power struggle with him over it. Children will tell you they don’t care even when they do, because it gives them a sense of being in control.

Talk to your child in terms of “problem solving”. Focus on what your

schoolwork, you’re giving him more power in the struggle, and you don’t want to do that. Leave the choices really clear to him. Use “I” words instead

child needs to do to get through the problem situation. (For example, is he failing maths, does he owe three writing assignments, or is

he failing to pass in homework?) You can help him by first naming what’s going on: “You didn’t finish your writing assignment that was due last week.” Then, ask him about how he’ll handle it. You can say, “How are you going to solve the problem of having work missing?” If he can’t come up with an answer, you can help: “Finish the assignment, and take it in to your teacher after school. Maybe he’ll be able to give you some credit, and at least you’ve shown him you can do the work.”

You may have to play the “Coach”, encouraging him by telling him that he can handle it and the work can be made up, the “Limit Setter” who reminds him that he can’t use the computer if he has failing grades, or the “Teacher” who sits with him and helps him find the right solution to the problem. In fact, it’s important for you to play all of three roles as a parent. Your approach may change depending on the seriousness and type of situation; be flexible in order to match your child’s need.

Don’t take it personally: Try to remove the emotionalism from your reaction to your child’s poor school performance. Your approach with your child should be objective and neutral. Remind your child that his responsibility is to go to school and try his best. You can offer him a reality check that includes suggestions and encouragement to keep moving forward, one task at a time. Keep the communication about school flowing between you and your child. Talking about school can just become a normal part of your family life. Your caring and involvement may be that extra spark of motivation your child needs to get the work done. Talk with your child, tell her what you see and ask her about what’s happening at school. It’s your job as a parent to try to help your child through the situation, and it’s your child’s job to do what she needs to do (homework, class time, tutoring), to get it done and move on. It’s important to be in communication with your child about how school is going – to stay involved as much as possible.

Find a way for your child to be active and involved outside of the classroom. It may not be the first thing you think of, but helping your child be active is going to help him manage his more sedentary time like sitting at a desk all day. This can be through sports, outdoor time with the family, or just being able to take a walk or play with friends outside. Activities can also work as motivators. (Excerpt from empoweringparents.com)

Hopetown man on way to wake house killed

One person is dead and two others are injured following a motorcycle accident at St John Village Public Road, West Coast Berbice on Saturday evening.

Ted James Da Silva, 44, of Lot 1 James Street, Hopetown, West Coast Berbice, succumbed to his injuries while he was being transferred from the Fort Wellington Hospital to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The injured persons are motorists Morlon Mentore and pillion rider Roxanne Mc Kenzie, both of Hopetown Village.

Police, in a release said they are investigating the accident, which occurred about 20:00h on Saturday evening. Investigations revealed that Da Silva allegedly attempted to cross the St John Public Road when he was struck down by a motor cycle.

Pillion rider

In addition, the police stated that the pillion rider, Roxanne McKenzie received injuries and was treated at the hospital and sent away. The rider of the motorcycle is in police custody assisting with investigations.

Guyana Times was told that Da Silva was about to cross the Hopetown Public Road when he was struck down by the speeding motorcycle. The man was heading to a wake when he met with the accident.

Mark Da Silva, a brother of the dead man, told this publication that after the accident, his injured brother was placed in a minibus and taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was treated and transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for further medical attention.

He explained that on their way to the city and in the vicinity of Hope Bridge, Hope, East Coast Demerara, his brother took his last breath. Upon realising that his brother was dead, the ambulance turned around and went back to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was pronounced dead by a

Youth coalition on sexual, reproductive health launched

doctor.

Mark told Guyana Times that his now dead brother, who was mentally challenged, left home on Saturday afternoon about 12:30h to attend the Seventh-day Adventist Church, after which he went to visit a friend a few streets away.

The man added that he was not at home, but received the news of his brother’s demise about 21:00h and rushed to the scene. He stated that based on reports gathered, his brother was walking on the right side of the road when he was struck by the motorist, who happens to be a relative.

He said while his brother was mentally ill, he would attend all the churches in the area. Mark recalled his brother as someone who would wake up in the mornings, sweep the yard, get dressed and off to a relative's home he would go.

He would also make doormats to sell. The man leaves to mourn his two brothers and a sister. A post-mortem examination is expected to be performed on the man’s body during the week.

Recently, the police stated that there have been 19 road fatalities from 18 accidents at the end of February 2014, compared to 19 deaths from 17 accidents for the same period in 2013.

Pedestrians continue to be the main road users affected, with eight of them losing their lives at the end of February 2014. In addition, six motorcyclists, four pedal cyclists, and one passenger of a motor vehicle have also met their demise.

Speeding continues to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents and was the cause of 12 of the 18 fatal accidents recorded at the end of February 2014.

Traffic enforcement by the police during January 2014 resulted in a total of 13,321 cases being made against errant motorists by the end of February, of which 3418 cases were for speeding.

Several youth serving organisations and their leaders met on Saturday at the President Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG) building to launch the first Youth Coalition on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights in Guyana.

The launch was a follow up to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) hosted Youth Forum on the International Conference on Population Development (IPCD), which was held on June 22, 2013 at School of the Nations and a subsequent meeting to discuss the formation of the coalition.

The launch was attended by young people from the UNFPA Youth Advisory Group; One World Youth Project; Come Alive Network Inc; Global Youth Movement Guyana; Caribbean Youth Environment Network; the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA); and Artistes In Direct Support (A.I.D.S.).

UNFPA Assistant Representative in Guyana, Patrice La Fleur gave the agency’s support to the coalition, reiterating the importance the coalition has in national development, especially in reducing adolescent pregnancy, genderbased violence, and ensur-

ing equal opportunities for girls and women.

In congratulating the group, La Fleur noted that there is important work to be done to achieve the unfinished agenda of the ICPD, which will observe its 20 anniversary at the UN General Assembly in New York in September this year.

She urged them to continue working in their communities to empower young women, especially with information on sexual and reproductive health and comprehensive sexuality education so as to prevent and reduce adolescent pregnancy.

Appeal

The UNFPA Assistant Representative appealed to all youth organisations to mainstream sexual and reproductive health into their programmes.

The coalition’s aim is to provide young people with sexual and reproductive health information by first educating young people on their rights to basic health services.

Meanwhile, a public education campaign which will focus on basic human rights such as the rights to education, health, protection, access to sexual and reproductive health

information and services and commodities is slated to commence shortly under the theme “Youth Have Rights”.

Coalition members will soon undergo capacity building sessions so that organisations can begin to mainstream sexual and reproductive health and rights into their work pro-

grammes. Already some organisations are conducting outreaches, training and distribution of reproductive health commodities; the coalition will support these activities so that they become more broad-based and reach underserved and vulnerable communities.

Coalition members in discussion on Saturday

Granger reaches out to Lusignan, Mon Repos residents

The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is once again calling for the hosting of early Local Government Elections as the coalition continues its national outreaches to promote and educate citizens in preparation for the elections.

Eyew tness Fun and frolic...

...for Holi

We notice that lots of people who talk unabashedly about their kids having “summer holidays” are at pains to point out that Holi is a “Spring” festival and Guyana doesn’t have a “Spring Season”. Guess they’ll have to throw away the spring coats that have become so popular with the in-crowd. But even a Philistine, like your humble Eyewitness, who’s never seen rice sprouting from his city verandah, can appreciate Holi’s symbolism of Spring and renewal.

Region Four councilors Ramrattie Jagdeo and Shondel Hope were also with the APNU team.

The APNU members toured the village, including the market as they interact ed with residents and distrib-

On Friday last, the coalition continued its outreach campaign in Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, where members, APNU Chairman David Granger, Opposition Chief Whip Amna Ally, along with fellow members of Parliament, Dr George Norton, Ronald Bulkan, Annette Ferguson and Christopher Jones interacted with residents.

ute educational materials on Local Government Elections.

They also spoke about the coalition’s position on the Anti-Money Laundering and the Countering of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) legislation.

A similar exercise was also conducted on Saturday in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. The outreach team was led by the coalition’s leader, Brigadier (retired) David Granger.

According to an APNU statement, the coalition took into account the “appalling” infrastructural conditions of the villages.

“APNU noted the deplorable condition of the public infrastructure in both Mon Repos and Lusignan, especially the clogged drains and irrigation canals and the potholed, unpaved roads,” the statement said.

The coalition blames these conditions on the lack of a coherent infrastructure policy and a comprehensive plan. It added too that the failure of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government to develop such a plan is contributing to the deterioration.

APNU further stated that it strongly believes that with the absence of such a plan, along with a “strong democratically-elected” Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) has stifled the economic development in local government constituencies such as Mon Repos and Lusignan.

On this note, it renewed calls for early Local Government Elections.

Earlier this month, the coalition visited the East Berbice area where Granger listened to residents, who complained about the lack of jobs in the region.

The APNU leader has responded to their cries, noting that employment can be created by municipalities through microenterprise rather than focusing primarily on solid waste management and drainage and irrigation.

“By strengthening the municipalities, the people of the communities themselves will have a greater voice in their well-being,” he had stated.

But apart from the other reasons offered for Holi, your Eyewitness supposes that all societies must have a safety valve for the occasional letting off of steam. Way back, that old Frenchie philosopher Rousseau pointed out a simple truth – to live in society is to follow rules. And no matter how law-abiding you are, rules can be suffocating after a while. Hence, socially sanctioned safety valves like Holi.

On this day, it’s accepted, for instance, that “boy can meet girl” – which is quite a big thing in traditional Hindu society. Sequestered from each other for most of the year, it’s the occasion for a level of intimacy between the sexes that would’ve shocked everyday sensibilities. Ditto in the crossing of boundaries, was the contact between the classes – or castes as it might’ve been in India. Some of the water thrown at a few of the “big ones” today, might’ve been given an extra vigour – in the spirit of getting even rather than bonhomie!

So, it might be asked, why all the hullaballoo about the safety valve of “back-balling” at Mash time? And it’s a very good question that has a very good answer: at Holi, there aren’t only lines drawn to protect propriety, but there’re all the stories to remind revellers about the need to do the right thing.

Remember that little fella Prahalad? His Dad, the evil King, did get his comeuppance, didn’t he? Unfortunately, at Mash time, we draw no lines and every year we sink into further depraved animalistic behaviour. Cuffy and his pals’ sacrifices are never invoked, much less remembered.

So your Eyewitness will accept his dousing and the powder and the abrac and all the other smearings with a grin. His sinus problems will just have to cope. The goodies to be handed out by his neighbours will help to salve his sniffles.

And he wishes his dear readers a Happy Holi!!

...from the AFC

As your Eyewitness was getting ready to jump into the Holi fray after he finished this column, he was struck by the AFC’s column in the Muckraker this Sunday. The authors Moses Nagamootoo and Sasenarine Singh asserted they possessed “the key” to solving Guyana’s woes. Well, after picking ourselves up from the floor, at the chutzpah of the claim, we looked at the bright side. We’re happy that Nagamootoo is still with the AFC and that Sasenarine has found a new sidekick in him.

Here it was, Nagamootoo was certain that he and Nigel Hughes were going to be the new couple leading the AFC into the next elections, and Hughes goes and blows it with his sordid financial entanglements. What’s a 70-year-old presidential candidate to do now? “Shut ‘e so-and-so mouth?”

Must’ve also been tough when Asquith Rose dumped Singh for some Chandra Deolall in the letter-to-the-press publicity sweepstakes. We expect lots of letters from this new duo that’ll keep us entertained in the coming months.

After all, it’s not going to be Holi every day of the year.

...from the Insurance Industry

Just as the waters of Holi have doused the body politic of our dear land, up comes the Insurance Industry to remind us that the next rainy season is nigh upon us. And with the garbage mess not fixed, all bets are off flood insurance.

But isn’t this precisely why we take out insurance? What a bunch of jokers.

APNU member Annette Ferguson interacting with a vendor A resident reading one of the materials distributed by APNU

Port Kaituma fire

Police could have saved victims’ lives – residents

Port Kaituma residents are calling on the relevant authorities to investigate the conduct of the police officers on duty at the Port Kaituma Police Station when the deadly fire occurred in the sub-district on Friday evening.

The fire reportedly set by Linus La Cruz claimed the lives of his wife and four children.

One resident and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) member, Richard Alleyne stated that the woman’s second daughter, Lisa La Cruz, 12, survived as she left home while her mother and father were arguing.

During the argument,

to find the house on fire with her mother and siblings trapped inside.

Another villager who requested anonymity, said contrary to some media reports, the police did not respond until a fire alarm was raised by a woman who went to the police station, screaming “fire” to get the attention of the officers.

Not so

He dismissed reports which stated that the police had followed the child back to the home when she went to report the matter.

The man told this publication that Lisa told villagers that had the police listened to her complaints, her

the child reportedly left the home and made a report at the Port Kaituma Police Station.

He stated that the child recounted to villagers that as she entered the station, she told officers on duty that her father and mother were having an argument and her father had threatened to kill her mother and her siblings.

Alleyne told Guyana Times that villagers were told by the child that the policemen paid her no heed, and in fact, asked her to leave the police station, saying that they “finishing working”. She subsequently left and returned home, only

Construction ongoing on new Region Seven schools

Construction is currently ongoing on two new schools in Region Seven, at 72 Miles and Itabali while several others have been given a facelift, Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford said.

Bradford explained that as a result of inclement weather, work was delayed, but will be completed early this year.

“We continue to strive for improvement in education… we hope to achieve even more this year once our budget is approved,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Region Seven Administration has completed approximately 99 per cent of its 2013 work programme, both capital and current, and is eagerly awaiting its 2014 budgetary allocation.

Bradford said that rehabilitation of roads have been completed at Bamford Point, West Indian Housing Scheme, Agatash, and

Caribese Hill. In terms of health care delivery, extension works were carried out at the Kamarang Hospital and a new nurses’ hostel was constructed.

The region has developed a mechanism to facilitate residents who are in need of surgery, especially those in the outlying communities,

to do so in Bartica.

In this regard, health workers are deployed to the various communities to make house calls and diagnose patients.

Those who are recommended for surgery are transported to Bartica where the medical procedures are done. After the post-surgery treatment, patients are transported back to their respective communities. This is done on a monthly basis.

Teacher shortage

However, the region is not without its challenges. Bradford said that there is a shortage of teachers in some of the remote areas such as Kurupung. This is as a result of teachers not wanting to be posted in those areas.

He noted that while the efforts being made to train more teachers is recognised, the region will be making efforts to provide furnished

living quarters for teachers and health staff, which will hopefully be an incentive for them to take up jobs in those areas.

He expressed the hope that miners and the business community will get onboard and offer additional assistance in this regard, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported. Over the last 20 years, Guyana has moved from a place where only 30 per cent of teachers were trained to 70 per cent today. Additionally, there are more schools for children to be placed, and, having achieved universal primary education, the Education Ministry is moving aggressively towards achieving universal secondary education by 2016. While the latter has already been achieved in some regions, there is still some ground to cover in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine.

mother, brothers and sister would have probably been alive today.

He said the entire village is in deep shock and mourning and are upset at the conduct of the police officers, whose duty is to serve and protect.

Meanwhile, Fire Chief Marlon Gentle had told this publication that a team, inclusive of a pathologist, forensic investigators, fire officials and police ranks from Georgetown are currently making their way to Port Kaituma to conduct autopsies on the fire victims, and to conduct investigations into the matter.

Region Seven Chairman Gordon Bradford

The suspect with his now dead wife Lurlene La Cruz (pink), daughter Lea La Cruz (brown) and son Labron La Cruz (stripes), with his surviving daughter Lisa La Cruz (white) in happier times

The La Cruzs’ house on fire on Friday evening

Visitors get Phagwah welcome

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Saturday ushered in the spirit of Phagwah as it welcomed visitors to the country.

Visitors were presented with packets of coloured powders and sweet meats.

Visitors from the U.S., Canada, Trinidad and Tobago and other Caribbean islands were warmly welcomed as they entered the arrival terminal by GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh and other staff members of the Tourism Ministry.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Haralsingh said the aim of the exercise was to spread Guyanese hospitality to the visitors.

With the country about to celebrate Phagwah, a major Hindu festival, he noted that the authority was seeking to give a glimpse of the celebration to those who did not know about it.

“We want to share joy and goodwill and convey our hospitality while celebrating one of our main festivals which plays an important part in our culture and tourism,” he said.

Visitors, who spoke with this publica-

tion, said the initiative was a welcoming surprise as it gives them a positive view of the country.

One overjoyed Trinidadian, Anil Ramdat said he is here to celebrate Phagwah, noting that he heard the celebrations here are always an unforgettable experience.

Ramdat said he intends to fully indulge himself before journeying back to the twin island republic.

The GTA is inviting all Guyanese to come out in their numbers and participate in the Holi celebrations across the country as it promotes national unity and goodwill.

Phagwah is a time fuh love and celebration

Alotta people gon be playin Phagwah fuh de whole day today. Who skin ain’t wet gon be fulla all kinda colour and powder – all in de spirit of de celebration. No matter whah religion or race people is, dem does play at least a lil bit a Phagwah.

Long ago under Burnt Ham and de Heights Man people used to tek all kinda nasty water and throw pun people. That was because dem never used to get water from de pipe. Some people never even used to bother to put pipe in dem yard because it never had water. That was how bad tings used to be.

Wid Burnt Ham, yuh never know whah was in de pipeline fuh de country, but it was definitely not water. Some body had seh Burnt Ham was even plannin to ban Phagwah. And talkin bout bannin tings, that man was de ban specialist. Burnt Ham was so much of a ban specialist that he even ban some Guyanese from Guyana. Who he couldn’t ban from Guyana, he ban from leavin Guyana. Then he ban some people from gettin certain kinda wuk. He ban dem from ownin certain tings. And he ban dem from eatin whah dem like to eat.

Then who he couldn’t ban, he had other ways to deal wid. Long live Dr Rodknee and all dem other people who restin in peace. Now that people livin in better peace, dem can enjoy de Phagwah celebrations no matter who dem is or wheh dem come from.

Prezzi Donald plan to put powder pun Green Jah face like last year. De two short men Ashni and Green Bridge got de perfect height fuh wet one another skin. Is only de Mayorfuh-Life who mekkin styles to play wid de Sober woman.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! And de Mook and de Headitor ain’t got time to play Phagwah. Dem too busy schemin whah is de next lie dem gon tell de nation! Look out fuh that tomorrow.

Police could have saved...

Further, it has been speculated by sources that the woman may have been killed by Linus even before he set the house alight.

With respect to assistance being provided to the family, head of the Amerindian Peoples Association, Jean La Rose said since the incident took place over the weekend, little could have been done. However, she promised that on Tuesday, the association will be holding talks to find out how best it can provide assistance.

Saddened

Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster when contacted told Guyana Times that she was deeply saddened by the incident.

The Minister further stated that despite the fact the Ministry has been strengthening its fight against gender-based violence, there is only so much it can do. Victims have a role to play in accessing the Ministry’s programmes, she said.

Webster, who is out of the jurisdiction, said she has contacted the Social

Services Director and the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, noting that they will be working hand-inhand to assist the aggrieved family the best way possible.

Tragedy struck the La Cruz family on Friday evening when Linus La Cruz, a father of five reportedly set his house on fire, burning to death his wife, Lurlene La Cruz,39; and four of their children. They were identified as Lea La Cruz, 14; Lavette La Cruz, three; Labron La Cruz, eight; and Levon La Cruz, one. Lisa La Cruz, the second eldest child and her father Linus are the lone survivors.

Guyana Times understands that the man was a teacher at the Matthew’s Ridge Primary School and was previously married. In the face of revelations by relatives and neighbours that Lurlene and her children were constantly abused, this publication investigated the man’s background and found that he had also frequently abused his ex wife.

As a result of the abuse, the woman was forced to end their relationship.

This little visitor collects his packets of colours from a Guyana Tourism Authority staffer as he enters the arrival terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Saturday

Times Notebook

Ban Bossy? How does this fix the problem?

Anew campaign, originating out of America headed by prominent women such as Sheryl Sandberg, Chief Operating Officer of Facebook; Michelle Obama, the U.S. First Lady; Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, a world-class entertainer; Jennifer Gardner, a rich Hollywood star; Condelezza Rice, former U.S. Secretary of State; and many others. These are bossy women, leaders and role models.

“Ban Bossy” campaign

The “Ban Bossy” campaign, launched on March 10, says that the word “bossy” is a toxic adjective that is used to deflate young women’s self-esteem and discourage them from becoming leaders.

Times Notebook rejects this notion. What about “tattletale”? “Bitch” is even worse. Let us help girls around the world overcome adversity. Michelle, Sandberg, Beyoncé and Rice overcame bossy and soldiered on.

The campaign highlights a genuine problem of gender and women equity. Banning the word bossy cannot end gender inequality. The “Ban Bossy” campaign comes on the heels of observing International Women’s Day (March 8).

In 2014, there was genuine progress in advancing the rights of women and in creating an empowering milieu for women and girls. But there is much more to do in concretising an environment of equity for girls and women.

Banning bossy would not eradicate the root problem that causes words like bossy, catty and bitchy to spread –mainly, that it’s common for leadership to be seen as a solely male quality.

The campaign focuses on policing language rather than bringing attention to important issues that have

real impact on women and girls: the lack of affordable childcare; sexual assault; domestic abuse; access to education, textbooks and health care; child health; genital mutilation; trafficking; and the gender pay gap, to name just a few.

Tackling these issues takes money, influence and access, and Sandberg and her team are rich in all these. Telling people not to call each other bossy seems like a cop-out for someone who’s made a name for herself, doling out leadership advice to women.

These women admit that

they were called bossy as girls and this did not stop them from becoming global leaders in their areas. We cannot want girls to be assertive and then say we want to ban bossy.

Assertive boys and girls are called names, depending on who is doing the namecalling. Telling girls that they should be hurt if someone calls them bossy is sub-

mitting to the notion that being bossy is a bad thing.

If it takes a woman being bossy to become president or to face issues affecting women, then the risk of being called bossy seems to be a good thing.

This should be the campaign. Times Notebook would like to see Sandberg and the line-up of powerful women use their influence to promote equity around the world.

Today, several women and girls will be genitally mutilated, will die because of a lack of maternal health services, go to bed hungry, and many girls will not be able to do homework because they lack textbooks. Which one of these women will dare stand up to say copyright laws that deprive girls of textbooks and universal access to education is wrong?

Perhaps we should teach girls to embrace being bossy and to channel their bossiness into productive methods of leadership, instead of being hurt when someone calls them bossy.

We should encourage

girls to accept themselves for who they are, to be proud of their strengths, even if the boys in the classroom or the men in the boardroom try to undermine by spinning these strengths into something negative.

The campaign tells girls that being bossy is just another thing that women should not be, alongside outspoken and opinionated and tough.

Times Notebook highlights a silent tsunami –leaving boys behind. For most countries in the world, girls are out-achieving boys by quite a wide margin, asserting themselves in sports, volunteer work and student government, and are flooding the medical, law and business schools.

In some of the developed countries, women are outearning their husbands. It’s time we recognise that a crisis is emerging and it’s a tsunami waiting to flood the world with problems: boys are now being left behind.

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

One of the “Ban Bossy” campaign posters. Perhaps we should teach girls to embrace being bossy and to channel their bossiness into productive methods of leadership, instead of being hurt when someone calls them bossy

monday, march 17, 2014

Guyanese celebrate Holi in New York

Guyanese-Americans and their friends came out in large numbers to celebrate Phagwah in Richmond Hill. Unlike in Guyana, Phagwah or Holi is not a holiday.

Unlike in Guyana, celebrants do not go house to house or street to street to play Phagwah. The celebration takes the form of a parade and a congregation at a park. The 26th Annual Parade began at the Dr Cheddi Jagan Square on 133rd Street and Liberty Avenue, culminating a mile away at Smokey Park.

There was much enthusiasm and revelry for the celebration from the sizeable crowd. The parade began with prayers from the dharmacharya of the Sanatanists, Pandit Rishi Misir and Arya Samajaists, Pandit Ramlall. Several politicians also marched in the parade just behind the two dharmacharyas. There were two dozen floats and marchers on foot.

The parade was organised by the Hindu Parades and Festival Committee, comprising mostly Guyanese, but the revellers also included persons from other Caribbean territories.

The parade was founded by Ramesh Kalicharran and pandits Ramlall and Satish and a few other community and spiritual leaders in 1989. Many groups came with

dholaks, cymbals or jaals and majeeras with followers clapping, dancing and singing chowtals on the floats and along the route. The floats made their way down the avenue with groups singing and dancing behind to the accompaniment of loud chowtaal music and, or traditional Holi songs from Bollywood movies.

Merriment

“O Rang A Bar Sey” was popular among the floats. People of all ages clapped and danced while throwing abeer and multicoloured powder on each other. The spectators cheered the beautifully designed floats that were sponsored by mandirs, businesses, and cultural organisations. Many marched behind the floats of their organisations, proudly displaying their national identity with flags of the U.S., Guyana, Suriname, India,

Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica fluttering in the wind. Many had national bandanas around their neck. Revellers on the route and at the park also waved the flags of their home country. Many danced to tassa while waving their national flags.

The celebration has become popular since it was started in 1989 as Hindus

and non-Hindus joined in the joy of throwing abeer, talc powder and various colours of abrack and gulal on each other to mark this festival. The celebration draws the largest gathering of Guyanese anywhere in the world.

The cold weather may have had an effect on the size of the crowd. It was freezing and very windy at this time of the year, a departure from the warn weather the day earlier. Some revellers were clothed lightly and danced to keep warm. Other wore heavy coats as they thronged the parade route and the park smearing faces with coloured powder and sprayed abeer on each other.

People hugged each other and said “Shubh Holi”, “Holi Rei”, and “Happy Holi”.

A variety of coloured of abeer, gulal, and abrack brightened up the parade

route and the park discolouring the streets as well as the parade ground. Clouds of talc powder rose above and beyond the huge crowd in the park.

All embracing

The festival transcended all social, religious and ethnic barriers with non-Hindus participating with equal zest as Hindus. Africans, Muslims, whites and Hispanics also partook in the parade and the mela in the park, clapping and dancing to the rhythmic tunes.

Some of them also brought their children who were bathed in colours and who also joined in the celebration smearing abrack on others.

The faces, hair and clothing of revellers were dyed with the colours of the rainbow and hues of a spectrum of other colours.

At the park was a cultur-

al variety show. Politicians and community leaders also delivered speeches and Phagwah greetings. Many prominent singers and dancers performed on stage. Hugs and embraces were exchanged with the message of “Shubh Holi!” Most celebrants were dressed in traditional garb. The youths were running around at the park, spurting abeer on everyone.

Several organisations prepared snacks and hot drinks which were distributed free to the thousands at the park as well as along the parade route. A businessman also distributed canned coconut soft drinks and cream soda to revellers at the park.

Several television channels filmed the celebration that was also covered by newspaper reporters.

A section of the gathering at the park

A Guyanese-American Councilman from Schnectady (left) with a reveller at the Phagwah celebration

Children smear each other with powder

Police, teachers’ co-ops on ‘hit list’

– to be rendered defunct by May

By Vahnu Manikchand

The Guyana Police Force Consumers Cooperative Society Ltd and the Guyana Prison Officers Consumers Cooperative have been listed among some 220 co-ops identified as being defunct by the Labour, Human Service and Social Security Ministry after they failed to comply with the Cooperative Societies Act.

In a notice published in the local newspapers by the Ministry’s Department of Cooperatives, it was revealed that the cancellations will take effect from May 18, 2014.

According to the Chief Cooperative Development Officer, Carol Valz, these co-ops have failed to comply with Sections 38 and 39 of the Cooperative Societies Act, Chapter 88:01 and Section 23(1) of the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act.

The Ministry noted that the cancellations can be appealed to the Labour

Minister; however, the notice added, after the cancellation takes effect, no business should be transacted on behalf of the societies unless permitted by the Chief Cooperative Development Officer via a public notice.

Guyana Times contacted several officials from the various institutions for which these co-ops were established; however, most of them stated that while the co-ops have their names, they are operated independently.

One of such co-ops is the Mayor and City Council Workers Cooperative Credit Union and according to Mayor Hamilton Green and Town Clerk Carol Sooba, this co-op society is being run as an independent body. Sooba, however, noted that several members of the Council are a part of the co-op and she could not give details about its operations.

Not a good idea

On the other hand, Green stated that it is an old institution; hence, Government should not have dissolved it. This sentiment was shared by Guyana Teachers Union General Secretary Coretta McDonald. She was speaking on the cancellation of the Guyana Teachers Cooperative Credit Union. McDonald disclosed that the co-op was being run by former teachers, and, as such, it was not a good idea to shut it down. She stated that the credit union provided mainly for the ‘small man’ and has helped teachers meet various needs. “I

hope good sense prevails and Government looks closely at why they (co-ops) were established,” she added.

McDonald went on to say that it was good on Government’s part to try to curb corruption in society; however, it cannot do so by closing down co-ops since corruption was also prevalent in banks also. McDonald believes that consultation is very important and if Government had met and discussed the situation with these co-ops, they could have arrived at some sort of consensus.

Meanwhile, Davis Memorial Hospital Director Beverley Chan noted that she was not aware of the Davis Memorial Hospital Cooperative Credit Union Ltd until she saw the notice in the newspaper on Sunday.

Chan noted that she has only been at the hospital for two years now and most of the staff are also new. She said she will have to make enquires about the co-op.

Efforts to contact officials of the other co-ops slated to

become defunct, including the Guyana Police Service Consumers Cooperative Society Ltd, proved futile. However, a former senior official of the Guyana Prison Service noted that the Prison Officers Consumers Cooperative has been in existence for almost half a century and there has never been any matters raised to be concerned about the operations of the union.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times last month, Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul had disclosed that the verification process, which began in September 2013, revealed that many co-ops are in violation of the Cooperative Society Act. He noted that accountability, illegal sale of land, and financial discrepancies were the major problems identified.

Dr Gopaul had stated that while the Ministry’s cooperative department was working to resuscitate some defunct co-ops, they had no choice but to shut down some societies.

“Some societies have shown the willingness to work and so, we will be working along with them. Currently, they are being audited but those who cannot find records, or officials, or proper accountability, these will be dissolved and we are talking in excess of 200 coops,” he had explained.

There are currently in excess of 1800 cooperative societies, and the entire cooperative movement owns in excess of $15 billion in assets. (vahnum@guyanatimesgy.com)

Insurance companies to restructure flood coverage

The Insurance Association of Guyana (IAG) said it will soon make public its new structure of underwriting measures applicable to flood coverage, contending that the risk of loss by flooding could soon become uninsurable.

In a press statement, the IAG said, “The severe flooding that was experienced mainly in Georgetown and its environs on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 essentially on the heels of the flood of November 27, 2013 is a matter of serious concern to the insurance industry.”

It explained that the poor drainage system, coupled with the culture of disposing of garbage in drains and canals, is contributing significantly to the frequent flooding in Georgetown and neighbouring communities.

“What was especially disturbing about this latest round of flooding was the admission that some pumps necessary to drain the city, were not working. Of even greater concern was the absence of any assurance as to when they might be repaired,” the statement read.

With more showers expected and the country’s weather “forecast capabilities virtually non-existent”, the insurance industry has

to gear itself for more flood damage claims.

It was, however, pointed out that insurable risks are subject to fortuitous occurrences; hence when an event leading to a loss is inevitable, then the risk becomes uninsurable.

It is on this ground that the decision is made to restructure the measures applicable to flood coverage. The new system will impact businesses and homeowners. The IAG said the new system when implemented will be upheld until it is satisfied that meaningful action is being taken by the relevant authorities and the citizenry to correct the deficiencies which have resulted in severe flash floods across the city.

The statement was adopted by Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society; Demerara Fire and General Insurance; Caricom General Insurance Inc; GCIS Inc; Guyana Trinidad Mutual (GTM) Group of Insurance Companies Limited; Handin-Hand Life; Hand-inHand Fire; John Fernandes Insurance Services Limited; North American Life Insurance (NALICO); North American Fire Insurance (NAFICO); Assuria Life and General (Gy) Inc; and Guyana Insurance Brokers.

Buxton Mash Tramp attracts hundreds

The ninth annual Buxton/Foulis Mash Tramp saw a small amount of costumed revellers taking to the streets in the most colourful and skimpy outfits as hundreds lined the roadway to get a glimpse when the event was held on Sunday. With hot sunshine, residents of Buxton and surrounding villages gyrated to

the sweet soca vibes as perspiration dripped from their bodies in what was deemed a poor turnout compared to the previous years.

From all indications, the entire parade was disorganised, which saw about four elevated music systems on trucks accompanied by a large number of youths, either wining on someone or with a beer bottle in their

hands. In the past, people lined the streets to get a glimpse of the floats, but this year, it was definitely not the case, rather it was more or less a road jam for the young.

Evidently, there were some young people decked in Digicel’s costumes titled “Arabian Night” and some in spray painted jerseys cut to fit.

However, there were a number of snow cone carts as well as vendors’ carts which moved through the crowd, supplying the revellers with cold beverages of their choice.

Some of the selections that boomed through the music systems were accompanied by chattering deejays, with some of the most vulgar remarks.

On the flip side of the

coin, there were a large number of foreigners who returned to be part of the event. Some were seen with buckets of coloured waters in their hand doing it J’ouvert style and were undoubtedly having a grand time.

In addition, some were seen standing next to their vehicles sipping on a beverage with their coolers nearby. There was also the sweet aroma of bar-be-que and

chips.

As the revellers passed, the onlookers joined in, making the contingent bigger. The police did a fantastic job by lining the route, maintaining traffic control.

The bands made their way to the community centre ground where the concert was held with some of the most versatile local and regional artistes taking to the stage.

GTU General Secretary Coretta McDonald

Town Clerk Carol Sooba

Revellers decked out in Digicel’s costume

A scene from the Buxton/Foulis Mash Tramp

Venezuelan President urges U.S. to join “peace commission”

enezuela’s

VPresident Nicolas Maduro has urged the United States to discuss “peace and sovereignty” in a high-level commission mediated by the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR).

Maduro also asked U.S. President Barack Obama not to heed U.S. factions that he says want to kill the Venezuelan leader.

Venezuela blames the U.S. for the anti-government protests that have left 28 people dead in the past month. The U.S. says Venezuela is using it as a scapegoat for its internal problems.

Earlier, thousands of government supporters marched through

the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, to thank the country’s security forces for their policing of the recent unrest.

Maduro and several military leaders held speeches praising the “civic-military” partnership.

He also proposed the creation of a “high-level commission” to discuss “peace and respect to the sovereignty” in Venezuela.

The Venezuelan President said he wanted the head of the National Assembly, Diosdado Cabello, to negotiate with a “high-level officer” of the U.S. administration under the auspices of UNASUR.

“President Obama: give peace, and respect, a chance and let’s set the

foundation for a new type of relations between the U.S., Venezuela and if possible, Latin America and the Caribbean,” he told the crowd in a speech broadcast on radio and TV.

Maduro also warned Obama against agreeing to alleged plans to kill him, put forward by “extremists” in the U.S. administration.

“It would be the worst mistake in your life to authorise the assassination of President Nicolas Maduro and fill [Venezuela] with violence,” he told the crowd, adding he was a “humble president and bus driver” who like Obama also had “African grandparents”.

Popularity of Peru’s Humala tumbles as political crisis balloons

Peruvian President

Ollanta Humala’s approval rating in March dove back down to the lowest levels of his presidency, stung by a political crisis and amid discontent over income distribution, a poll showed on Sunday.

Humala’s popularity shed eight percentage points to fall to 25 per cent, accord-

ing to the Ipsos Peru poll published in newspaper El Comercio. His approval rate had risen from 25 per cent in December to 33 per cent in February, buoyed by an international court’s ruling on a maritime dispute with neighbouring Chile.

But the boost appears to have been short-lived, and Humala’s slumping popular-

ity comes at a particularly thorny moment for the leader who took power in 2011.

Congress failed to ratify his new Cabinet on Friday as some lawmakers complained it reflected meddling by powerful First Lady Nadine Heredia in the government, effectively leaving the Government in limbo. Humala has urged Congress to approve his new Ministers when it meets again today.

First Lady Heredia also suffered a sharp tumble in popularity, slipping to 27 per cent in March from February’s 40 per cent, which Ipsos linked to her role in the resignation of former Prime Minister Cesar Villanueva.

The majority of Peruvians do not think Heredia has a positive influence on her husband and would rather she abstain from involving herself in governance, the poll showed. (Excerpt from Reuters)

The Opposition has called for further protests on Sunday against “Cuban repression” in the country and criticised the Government’s march.

“We know soldiers and officials are against this act ordered by Cuba,” Maria Corina Machado, an opposition leader, wrote on Twitter.

On Saturday, there were renewed clashes in the Caracas neighbourhood of Altamira, where protesters have been occupying a square for days.

Earlier, Maduro had vowed to disperse the crowd even if that took the use of force.

On Friday, Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Elias Jaua accused U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry of inciting violence and called him a “murderer”.

Jaua was reacting to comments by Kerry, who accused Venezuela of waging a “terror campaign against its own people” in its response to protests.

The American Congress is considering sanctions on the oil-rich nation.

The current wave of protests started in the western states of Merida and Tachira at the beginning of February by students demanding more security in the region.

The Opposition says it will continue to protest against Venezuela’s high inflation, food shortages and violence levels until there is a change of government. (BBC News)

NACTA: Rowley has the edge

The latest North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA) poll released Saturday, gave People’s National Movement leader Dr Keith Rowley the edge over contender Pennelope Beckles-Robinson. The poll interviewed 490 voters – 44 per cent Indians, 37 per cent Africans, 18 per cent mixed and one per cent other.

The poll questioned people of all parties “not PNMites alone” and found that 52 per cent of the respondents believed Rowley would win the May 18 internal election, while 34 per cent thought BecklesRobinson would be successful. Fourteen per cent had “no response”. “But when asked whom they prefer to win the leadership, it was a much closer contest with Rowley leading Penny by only four per cent,” the poll said.

When that four per cent is matched up against the

margin of error in such polls, it puts Rowley and BecklesRobinson in a statistical tie. The poll also found that Beckles-Robinson drew much of her support from among Indo-Trinidadians “with Indo-Trinidadians overwhelmingly preferring her over Rowley”. The poll was narrowed to just PNM supporters and found that Rowley earned 57 per cent, while Beckles-Robinson got 30 per cent and 13 per cent preferred not to respond.

“Afro-Trinidadians overwhelmingly prefer Rowley over Penny,” the report stated. The poll also asked voters who among Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Rowley and BecklesRobinson they believe could “unite all of T&T”. The results of that poll showed that Persad-Bissessar held the lead with 45 per cent, Rowley at 28 per cent, and Penny at 16 per cent, while 11 per cent did not offer a response. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Magnitude 7.0 quake hits off Chile’s North coast, no damage

Astrong quake struck off northern Chile on Sunday evening, triggering a preventive evacuation of part of the coastal area, but apparently not causing any injuries or damage.

The magnitude 7.0 earthquake was centred 40 miles northwest of Iquique and hit at a depth of 21 miles, the U.S. Geological Survey said.

The Pacific Tsunami

Warning Centre said there was no tsunami expected.

But Chile’s navy said there was a possibility of a minor tsunami between the northern towns of Arica and Tocopilla, so authorities ordered a preventive evacuation of part of the coastline after the quake.

The ONEMI emergency office said that preliminarily no damage or injuries had been reported. (Reuters)

Grenada defends amending Economic Citizenship legislation

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Mitchell

The Grenada Government has defended its decision to amend legislation allowing for persons who apply for cit-

izenship under the island’s Citizenship by Investment Programme not to have their names made public.

The Government, which controls all 15 seats in the Parliament, amended the existing legislation deleting the section which required that the information be included in the biannual report of the programme which is presented to Parliament no later than September every year.

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Mitchell, speaking to reporters during the just concluded Caribbean Community (Caricom) intersessional summit, said while his administration had not yet granted citizenship to anyone since coming to power in February last year, it was necessary to amend the legislation.

“If you look at economic citizenship no matter what country, no one puts out the

name of every single person it gives citizenship, they don’t do that.

“That clearly was a nonstarter, it was an error on our part and we corrected it,” he said, adding “if you look around the globe you don’t see anyone including the United States doing this… and, therefore, we did the right thing in correcting that weakness.”

Mitchell said that his administration as taking a very cautious approach towards the citizenship programme, saying “we are making sure we dot the “i’s” (and) cross the “t’s”

“We don’t want to make the mistakes we made when we implemented it years ago and we did not have the infrastructure in place or the administrative mechanism and the background checks that were necessary to make sure we do not compromise our country.” (Excerpt from CMC)

President Nicolas Maduro warned he could send his forces to dislodge protesters

Peru’s President Ollanta Humala (right) and Peruvian Congress President Fredy Otarola at the Peruvian Congress in Lima, in this January 31 picture provided by the Peruvian Presidency

Crimeans vote over 90 per cent to quit Ukraine for Russia

Russian state media said Crimeans voted overwhelmingly to break with Ukraine and join Russia on Sunday, as Kiev accused Moscow of pouring forces into the peninsula and warned separatist leaders “the ground will burn under their feet”.

With over half the votes counted, 95.5 per cent had chosen the option of annexation by Moscow, the head of the referendum commission, Mikhail Malyshev, said two hours after polls closed. Turnout was 83 per cent, he added – a high figure given that many who opposed the move had said they would boycott the vote.

Western powers and leaders in Kiev denounced it as a sham.

Underlining how Moscow’s military takeover of the peninsula two weeks ago has driven Russia and the West into a crisis with echoes of the Cold War, Vladimir Putin and Barack Obama spoke by telephone and, according to the Kremlin, the Russian and

U.S. Presidents agreed on a need to cooperate to stabilise Ukraine.

“This referendum is contrary to Ukraine’s Constitution,” a White House spokesman said. “The international community will not recognise the results of a poll administered under threats of violence and intimidation from a Russian military intervention that violates international law.”

Scores killed in central Nigeria attacks

Gunmen have killed at least 100 people in attacks on three villages in central Nigeria, an area where long-standing disputes over land, religion, and ethnicity often erupt into violence, two local government officials have said.

Police confirmed on Sunday the raids by Fulani herdsman late on Friday on the villages of Ugwar Sankwai, Ungwan Gata and Chenshyi, in Kaduna state, but declined to give a death toll, the Reuters news agency said.

“Fulani gunmen came across from neighbouring Plateau state and just opened fire on the villagers at around 11pm,” said Daniel Anyip, Vice Chairman of the Kaura local government authority.

“We are still picking bod-

ies out of the bush, but, so far, there are more than 100 killed.”

Andrew Kazah, another local Councillor, said at least 96 had been killed, but that the toll was likely to go up, Reuters reported.

Chenshyi village was the worst affected with at least 50 people killed, Adamu Marshall, a Spokesman for the Southern Kaduna Peoples’ Union, a regional political and cultural body, told the AFP news agency.

Scores of residents were also injured when about 40 assailants, armed with guns and machetes, stormed the villages and attacked locals in their sleep and torching their homes, said Yakubu Bitiyong, a legislator at the Kaduna state parliament. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Police hunt for motive as search for Malaysian jet spans hemispheres

Malaysian investigators are trawling through the backgrounds of the pilots, crew and ground staff who worked on a missing jetliner for clues as to why someone on board flew it perhaps thousands of miles off course, the country’s police chief said.

Background checks of passengers on Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370 have drawn a blank, but not every country whose nationals were on board has responded to requests for information, Police Chief Khalid Abu Bakar told a news conference on Sunday.

national help in the search for the plane along two arcs stretching from the shores of Caspian Sea to the far south of the Indian Ocean.

“The search area has been significantly expanded,” said Acting Transport Minister Hishammuddin Hussein. “From focusing mainly on shallow seas, we are now looking at large tracts of land, crossing 11 countries, as well as deep and remote oceans.”

The plane’s disappearance has baffled investigators and aviation experts. It vanished from civilian air traffic control screens off Malaysia’s east coast less than an hour after taking off from Kuala Lumpur en route to Beijing.

It said Putin suggested European monitors should be sent to all parts of Ukraine because of the violence. (Excerpt from Reuters)

The Kremlin said Putin told Obama the referendum was legitimate and he expressed concern about the Ukrainian Government’s failure to stamp out violence against Russian speakers in the country.

No trace of the Boeing 777-200ER has been found since it vanished on March 8 with 239 people on board, but investigators believe it was diverted by someone who knew how to switch off its communications and tracking systems.

Malaysia briefed envoys from nearly two dozen nations and appealed for inter-

Malaysian authorities believe that as the plane crossed the country’s northeast coast and flew across the Gulf of Thailand, someone on board shut off its communications systems and turned sharply to the west. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Syrian army captures strategic border town

Syrian forces, backed by Lebanese Hezbollah fighters, are in full control of Yabroud after clearing out rebels holed up in the strategic Syrian town for months, Syrian state media and Opposition activists have reported.

Capturing Yabroud, the last major rebel bastion near the Lebanese border north of Damascus, will help President Bashar alAssad secure the land route linking his Mediterranean coastal stronghold with the capital Damascus, and choke off a cross-border rebel supply line from Lebanon.

“The Syrian army is now in full control of the town of Yabroud in Damascus [province] and are now combing through the city and dismantling the roadside bombs planted by ter-

Delhi gang rape: Death penalty for two men put on hold

India’s Supreme Court has put on hold the death sentence of two of the four men convicted of the gang rape and murder of a student in Delhi.

The court suspended the execution of Mukesh Singh and Pawan Gupta while their appeal is heard. The other two men are also expected to appeal.

The appeals follow the High Court’s decision this week to uphold the death penalty handed down last September.

The brutal gang rape in December 2012 led to pro-

tests and new anti-rape laws.

The 23-year-old physiotherapy student was attacked on a bus that she had boarded with her male friend as they returned home from watching a film. Her friend was also beaten up.

The woman, who has never been officially named because of legal restrictions, died from injuries 13 days later.

Six men were arrested. One of them, a juvenile, was sentenced to three years in a reform facility

last August. Another suspect, Ram Singh, was found dead in his jail last March, having apparently taken his own life. The remaining four men deny the charges. Their appeal against the death sentence to Delhi’s High Court earlier this week was rejected.

In response, the lawyers for Singh and Gupta filed a petition to the Supreme Court saying their defence had been completely ignored by the High Court judges. The supreme court is due to hear their appeal on March 31. (Excerpt from

rorists,” SANA news agency reported on Sunday.

“We took total control of the town at 10:00h (0800 GMT),” an army officer confirmed to the AFP news agency as visibly exhausted soldiers rested on pavements lining the streets.

“This was the most difficult battle we have fought

because the rebels were in mountains surrounding the town, and in buildings in Yabrud,” the officer said.

“First we had to occupy the hills, and then on Saturday we entered the town through the east, up to the sports centre. Today we finished the work.”

A military source told the Reuters news agency that most of the rebels had pulled out of Yabroud around dawn on Sunday, a day after pro-government forces had entered eastern districts of the town and captured several strategic hilltops in the surrounding Qalamoun mountains. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Malaysia’s handling of lost plane irritates China

The search for a missing jetliner with Chinese travellers aboard has revealed the limits of Beijing’s influence in its own backyard and left the leaders facing outrage from their public.

Beijing has demanded Malaysia do more to find the missing Malaysia Airlines jetliner. But despite sending nine ships to help in the search, China appears to have little leverage over its far smaller Southeast Asian neighbour.

The situation is especially uncomfortable for Chinese

leaders because part of the ruling Communist Party’s claim that it is best qualified to look after the public’s interests. The rise of social media and the increased willingness of China’s public to assert its rights add to the pressure to find the 154 Chinese among the 227 missing passengers.

Anxious relatives have thronged a temporary Malaysia Airlines office set up in a Beijing hotel and accuse Malaysian officials and the carrier of withholding information.

“Some of the information

released by the Malaysian Government and airline turns out to be true, some turns out to be false,” said Nan Jinyan, a woman from Shanghai whose brother-inlaw was aboard the flight. “I believe they are still deciding which information to release and which isn’t convenient to release right now.”

Beijing has resorted to taking the unusual step of publicly haranguing Malaysia’s Government, a sign that whatever pressure it is applying in private is failing to produce results.

(Excerpt from The Hindu)

People celebrate and wave Russian flags as the preliminary results of Sunday’s referendum are announced in the Crimean city of Sevastopol on March 16

A soldier (left) loyal to Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad looks on as members of the media stand at Yabroud town in the Damascus countryside, March 16, in this handout photograph released by Syria’s national news agency SANA

Africa

In a January 21 address in Trinidad, Barbados

Industry Minister Donville Inniss had expressed strong optimism that Barbados’ economy was on an upward climb.

He told business people, including local investors, at the first quarterly business luncheon hosted by TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce that Barbados had enjoyed a good 2013 winter tourism season.

One banker has hailed the slowdown in the Barbados economy as an opportunity and not a loss to his business.

Last Friday, Mark St Hill, FirstCaribbean International’s (FCIB) Managing Director of Retail, Business and International Banking, said the declining economy in Barbados was an opportunity to improve its operations. Overall, the bank is undergoing restructuring as a result of the tough economic conditions in Caribbean economies.

FirstCaribbean is majorityowned by Canada’s CIBC, with operations in 18 territories, including Belize and Curacao.

According to its web-

site, the bank has a presence in: Anguilla, Antigua, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St Eustatius, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Maarten, St Vincent, Turks and Caicos, and TT.

St Hill said: “If you look at other large companies that are operating here (in Barbados), you will see they have also been renewing their plant and machinery. You need to invest….”

(TT Gaurdian)

Investments in other African countries are starting to pay off handsomely for some South African companies, such as banks, which earned R5.1 billion from operations on the rest of the continent in 2013, up 27.5 per cent from the previous year, while return on equity beat that from local operations.

And, according to consultancy EY, earnings from the rest of Africa operations are growing much faster than here.

The big four banks’ Africa

North America Asia

Bargain store chains are flooding into North American malls and shopping centres like never before, upstaging old mainstays like JC Penney and Sears that are reeling from the one-two punch of an ailing economy and competition from online stores.

“We’re seeing a seismic shift in retail shopping centres,” said Garrick Brown, Director of research at real

Europe

AU.S. regulator has sued 16 banks for allegedly manipulating the London interbank offered rate (Libor).

The Libor rate is used to set trillions of dollars of financial contracts, including mortgages and financial transactions around the world.

The regulator said the manipulation caused substantial losses to 38 U.S. banks which were shut down during and after the 2008 financial crisis.

The sued banks include

estate firm Cassidy Turley. “The challenges of the weak economy are being replaced by the challenges of e-commerce.”

The shift may reflect some consumer pain, but it has brought plenty of winners, too. Commercial real estate rents are rising, and many retailers, especially bargain chains, are in better shape than they have been since the Great Recession in 2008, analysts

say. Shopping centre vacancy rates in 60 major U.S. markets fell to 8.6 per cent at the end of last year from 9.5 per cent a year earlier, reflecting 38 million square feet of occupancy growth, according to Cassidy Turley research.

As a result, price appreciation among retail assets led all commercial property types in 2013, rising 23 per cent, according to Moodys/ RCA CPPI. (Reuters)

The Chinese Central Bank’s decision to relax its grip on the yuan has been welcomed as a sign of financial liberalisation, but it is aggravating concerns among foreign executives and investors about their exposure to China in the near term.

The doubling of the trading band from today points to much greater downside risk in a currency that many investors have treated as a one-way apprecia-

Middle East

ABarclays, HSBC, Citigroup and Royal Bank of Scotland.

The British Bankers’ Association (BBA) has also been sued by the regulator – the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

“BBA participated in the alleged scheme to protect the revenue stream it generated from selling Libor licences and to appease the Panel Bank Defendants that were members of the BBA,” it was quoted as saying by the AFP news

agency.

The FDIC alleged that the banks mentioned in its lawsuit rigged the rate from August 2007 to at least mid-2011.

Other banks named in the lawsuit include Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Deutsche Bank, Lloyds Bank, Credit Suisse, UBS, and Rabobank.

Libor is the average rate at which London banks lend money to one another and is decided on a daily basis. (BBC News)

bu Dhabi and the central bank of the United Arab Emirates have agreed to refinance US$20 billion of debt that was extended to the Dubai Government as emergency aid during its financial crisis and comes due this year, the state news agency said on Sunday.

The debt is being rolled over for five years at a one per cent annual interest rate, WAM said in an official statement.

expansion strategies are at different stages, and will be beneficial to the groups, according to EY’s Lead Financial Services Director, Emilio Pera. He said the banks’ offerings have to be relevant because they compete with strong international and regional players.

Standard Bank, Africa’s largest bank by assets, reported in its recent annual financial results that return on equity from its operations outside South Africa grew from 16.6 per cent to 19.7 per

cent. Despite losses increasing in the personal and business banking portfolio, overall headline earnings from the rest of Africa rose 44 per cent during 2013, driven by the bank’s strong corporate and investment banking focus. Over the past two years, the Johannesburg-based lender has increased its exposure to African countries other than South Africa from 17 to 20 while reducing its exposure outside the continent.

(BusinessDay)

tion bet for years, even when the yuan’s daily trading range was expanded in the past.

But it adds to a combination of factors that had already made these investors cautious.

The Central Bank had engineered a slide in the yuan’s value, adding to jitters in a market already anxious over the country’s first default on a domestic bond, and signs of slowing economic growth, highlighted by a dramatic 18 per cent fall in ex-

The roll-over covers a US$10 billion, five-year loan which was offered to Dubai by the Abu Dhabi Government through two state-owned banks, and US$10 billion of five-year bonds which Dubai issued to the UAE Central Bank.

The agreement, which had been expected by financial markets, will enable Dubai to continue spending heavily to develop itself as a regional centre for finance, trade and

ports in February and sluggish manufacturing.

“The foreign investors who we spoke with before this announcement were already becoming cautious,” said Brian Ingram, Chief Investment Officer at Ping An Russell Investment Management in Shanghai. “I think this announcement adds to the shortterm or near-term bear case for those investors.” (BBC News)

tourism.

Dubai, one of seven emirates in the UAE, obtained the aid in 2009 after the global credit crisis caused its real estate market to crash, threatening to force some of its state-linked firms to default on billions of dollars of debt. The neighbouring emirate of Abu Dhabi, which is the capital of the UAE and has vast oil wealth, stepped in to bail Dubai out. (Arabianbusiness)

Markets on edge as Crimea votes to quit Ukraine

U.S. stock investors will start the week on edge as markets worldwide react to the referendum that appears to back Russia’s claim to Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula, even if the vote result is not internationally recognised.

U.S. stocks closed on Friday with their largest weekly drop in the last seven weeks as the worst confrontation between Russia and the West since the end of the Cold War continues to unfold. Markets were also haunted by concerns over a slowdown in China’s economy.

Dozens of Russians involved in Moscow’s gradual takeover of Crimea face U.S. and European Union travel bans and asset freezes today. Russian state media quoted an exit poll as saying 93 per cent of voters supported union with

Illegal

Russia.

The White House rejected the referendum and called Russia’s actions “dangerous and destabilising”.

“There’s an open question as to who suffers most,” said Sam Wardwell, Investment Strategist at Pioneer Investments in Boston, about the planned economic sanctions.

“The EU is dependent on Russian natural gas; it’s an economic mutually assured destruction.”

Last week’s record decline in foreign holdings of U.S. Treasuries has led some to speculate that Russia has been cutting its dollar reserves ahead of possible sanctions from the West.

“It will be harder to make a new high (on the S&P 500)

with these global and geopolitical effects overhanging,” said Andre Bakhos, Managing Director at Janlyn Capital in Bernardsville, New Jersey.

“I don’t know if these warnings signs result in dire results, but they are certainly to be considered when making a macro bet.”

The S&P 500 closed last week down two per cent after hitting a record close on March 7. The decline in U.S. stocks was smaller than in other major markets, but investors have been protecting their bets with other instruments.

The CBOE Volatility index VIX jumped near 10 per cent to 17.82 on Friday, its highest level since early February, as investors were willing to pay more for protection against a drop in the S&P 500. (Reuters)

Miss Guyana Universe 2014 to receive $2M cash

Franchise holder of Miss Guyana Universe, Odinga Lumumba on Saturday evening said that this year’s winner of the pageant will receive a cash prize of $2 million.

Lumumba was speaking at an appreciation dinner hosted by reigning queen Katherina Roshana at the New Thriving Event Centre, Camp Street, Georgetown.

Roshana was acknowledged for her outstanding performance at the Miss Universe Pageant in Malaysia last year by officials, family and friends.

The cocktail was executed with a level of elegance and glamour. Persons who helped coordinate the event all showed their apprecia-

tion for Roshana’s performance.

Lumumba congratulated Roshana for her excellent performance at the pageant.

He thanked some of the sponsors who catapulted Roshana to the Miss Universe Pageant, namely New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (Limacol) and the Government of Guyana.

The event was spiced with musical renditions by Charmaine Blackman and others.

Also speaking at the event, Russian Ambassador to Guyana, Nikolay Simonov said Katherina has done Guyana proud as she stood

among 83 other contestants.

He also noted that more than two billion viewers worldwide saw the rich cultures of Guyana through Roshana when she represented the country in the costume round, wearing the beautiful Cock of the Rock dress, created by local fashion designer Dereck Moore. Next on the agenda was a multimedia presentation which showed Katherina’s road to becoming Miss Guyana Universe.

An finally, the moment everyone waited for arrived, Miss Guyana Universe Katherina Roashana’s speech. Roshana thanked President Donald Ramotar

for his words of wisdom and for making her trip to Russia possible. Additionally, she thanked her parents and Lumumba for their continued support.

Prevailed

She spoke about her passion for autistic children and hopes to start her own charity for disabled children soon. Roshan Khan, Roshana’s father, said his daughter prevailed despite all the disadvantages on the part of Guyana as compared to other countries that support their contestant for the pageant.

Khan urged businesses and other organisations to get onboard and sponsor

Guyanese women as this could see a major growth in Guyana’s tourism sector.

Roshana was born on March 29, 1990, in Brooklyn, New York, but moved to Georgetown, Guyana at age two. Brought up in a closeknit family, Roshana carries strong family values of humility.

As the reigning Miss Guyana India Worldwide queen, Katherina represented Guyana at the Miss India Worldwide Pageant in 2013 in Malaysia, where she won the Miss Beautiful Skin title.

With personal interests in yoga, tai chi, and meditation, she is planning to open a high-end medical spa in Guyana. This will cater to all needs, using both age-old wisdom of ayurveda and modern-day science and technology.

Katherina has dedicated a large amount of her time to children with special needs, placing primary focus on those with autism. She is currently the spokesperson for Step by Step –School for the Autistic.

Katherina was appointed the international ambassador of peace for the Universal Peace Federation.

“The law of attraction is a powerful force, but so is the soul. And until a soul has found peace with itself, only then can it reach its goal,” Roshana said.

“Mr Peabody” top dog at U.S. box office, revs past “Speed”, “300”

“Mr Peabody & Sherman” won the weekend box office derby with US$21.2 million in ticket sales, outpacing both last week’s winner “300: Rise of An Empire” and video game turned car racing movie “Need for Speed”.

The animated “Mr Peabody & Sherman,” which opened a week earlier in the number two spot, overtook last week’s winner, the Greek-era action film “300: Rise of an Empire” which collected US$19.1 million from Friday to Sunday, according to studio estimates.

“Need for Speed” settled for third place on its opening weekend with ticket sales of US$17.8 million at U.S. and

Canadian theatres.

“Tyler Perry’s The Single Moms Club”, the weekend’s other new movie, was fifth behind “Non-Stop”, selling US$8.3 million worth of tickets. The Liam Neeson airliner thriller made US$10.6 million.

The stunt-filled “Need for Speed”, starring Aaron Paul of the AMC television series

“Breaking Bad”, had hoped to capitalise on the video game franchise’s appeal to a young audience, but fell short of Hollywood’s forecast of a US$22 million-to- US$25 million opening weekend. Paul stars as a street racer who seeks revenge after being framed for the death of a close friend.

“The tracking had shown

the younger audience was as hot as could be,” said Dave Hollis, Executive Vice President of film distribution at Walt Disney Studios, which released the film produced by Steven Spielberg’s Dreamworks studio.

“So when they didn’t show, yes it leaves us disappointed,” said Hollis. “But the good news is the folks who did come really liked it,” he noted, citing moviegoer polls, and adding that the studio was hopeful that strong word of mouth with approaching school and Easter holidays would stoke the box office.

The film, which cost about US$66 million, took in about US$63 million globally during its opening, Hollis said.

“Mr Peabody & Sherman,” which features the talking dog Mr Peabody and his adopted boy, Sherman, is the latest animated film from Hollywood to enjoy a strong audience reception following Disney’s “Frozen” and “The Lego Movie” from Warner Brothers.

The film, based on the “Peabody’s Improbable History” segments in the 1960s animated TV show starring the characters Rocky and Bullwinkle, has taken in more than US$63 million since its opening on March 7 and had the relatively unusual experience of moving up into the top box office spot on a weekend other than its opening one.

(Excerpt

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has extended Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese, particularly the Hindu community on the auspicious occasion.

The party in a statement said Phagwah symbolises the triumph of good over evil, which is a concept that resonated not only with Hindus, but with humanity as a whole.

The PPP/C is calling on all Guyanese to use this occasion to reflect on the great teachings of Hinduism and its global impact in terms of the spiritual upliftment of humanity, especially in the context of an unjust world order where there is so much suffering inflicted on the poor by the rich and the mighty.

“One important lesson to be derived from the Phagwah message is that might can never be right and that regardless of how strong or powerful the forces of evil may be, justice will ultimately prevail.

“The PPP/C hopes that even as we celebrate this joyous and colourful festival, we spare some thoughts of the difficult challenges facing us as a nation and our own roles in fighting those forces of evil and backwardness that seem bent on destroying our country in the pursuit of a good life for all,” the party said.

The PPP/C said it remains convinced that those dark clouds that overshadow the nation will soon dissipate and the full potential of this nation shall be realised.

“Once again, a happy and joyous Phagwah to all our Hindu brothers and sisters,” the statement concluded.

Minister Sukhai awarded Medal of Merit

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai has been conferred with the Medal of Merit by the Republic of Congo, the highest order within its category.

The Minister also was confirmed as the Commander of the Indigenous People within Central Africa for the role played in the International Forum on Indigenous Peoples of Central Africa (FIPAC 3) and in Guyana.

According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), the Amerindian Affairs Minister said that she was commended for her role and work in indigenous development in Guyana and for the contribution which she made to FIPAC.

“I was awarded the highest honour for those achievements, and thought it was significant to Guyana’s success story of where women have arrived,” she said. Minister Sukhai noted that there is still a lot of work to be done and challenges to face but, “I believe we have overcome the hardship of women working in realms which were never before explored by women,” she added.

Katherina Roshana with close family members at the appreciation dinner

Roshana interacts with attendees at the event

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai is flanked by leaders of African nations shortly after being bestowed with the prestigious award

The Order of Merit received Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai

SUDOKU

An issue that you thought was settled will resurface. Do whatever it takes to improve on your past performance and make a favourable impression on those involved.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Diligence, not speed, will be the order of the day. Despite your enthusiasm for the task ahead, you should proceed slowly and carefully to avoid a costly mistake.

It’s good to have strong opinions, but don’t force your will on others. Accentuate the positive and offer people a little kindness, consideration and hands-on help.

You will have to take bold steps if you want to move forward. You might need to enlist your friends and relatives to aid you. Their assistance will help you excel.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

(July 23Aug. 22) (Feb. 20-March 20)

Don’t feel overwhelmed by recent events. Take a step back from all the commotion in order to focus. Avoid taking your frustration out on those you love. Reassess a partnership if you have reservations.

(March 21-April 19)

It’s a good day to finish a project you’ve left dangling. Bypass personality problems so that you can keep moving forward. Working as a team player will be in your best interest.

(April 20-May 20)

A promising career opportunity is apparent, although it may require a shift in vocation. Your past achievements have not gone unnoticed. Don’t let a lack of confidence hold you back.

(May 21June 20)

You need to stop romanticising the past. The future can be just as rewarding if you think and act progressively. Take advantage of the new and exciting experiences awaiting you.

You are in a terrific upswing right now. Hesitation at this point will only hold you back. If you keep a positive attitude, you will be able to accomplish everything you set out to do.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

It’s a great day to try something new. Shake out the cobwebs, step out of your comfort zone and investigate some different yet appealing activities. Take on a physical or mental challenge.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

You may be reluctant to take on a new project, even though you have all the skills and resources necessary for success. Believe in yourself, and you will come out on top.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Being too outspoken will lead to trouble. Take extra care when dealing with colleagues. An innocuous comment on your part may be seen as an insult.

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World Twenty20: Mitchell Johnson ruled out for Australia

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The left-armer will be replaced by Doug Bollinger, also 32, who last appeared for Australia in October 2011.

Johnson was instrumental in Australia’s Ashes whitewash of England and the 2-1 Test win over South Africa.

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“It was anticipated that Mitch would have a significant impact with his pace and menace,” said Australia chief selector John Inverarity.

“Doug has had significant experience in the subcontinent and in international white-ball cricket and

his ability to bowl with good pace was a factor in his selection.”

Johnson’s 37 wickets in the 5-0 victory over England saw him named Australia’s cricketer of the year in January, and he followed that up by taking

Australian GP: Rosberg wins after Lewis Hamilton and Vettel retire

Nico Rosberg delivered on Mercedes’ promise with a dominant victory in the seasonopening Australian Grand Prix, as Lewis Hamilton retired on lap three.

Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo was second, but was later disqualified for a fuel-flow rate infringement.

The decision promoted Dane Kevin Magnussen, who made a stellar debut for McLaren, to second.

He beat team-mate Jenson Button into third, with Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso fourth from Williams’ Valtteri Bottas.

Polesitter Hamilton had a cylinder failing to fire from the very start of the race, and was down to fourth behind Rosberg and Ricciardo by the first corner.

The 2008 world champion dropped to fifth by the end of the first lap and was called into the pits shortly afterwards.

World champion

Sebastian Vettel also hit early power-unit trouble in his Red Bull, retiring a lap later than Hamilton with an engine failure.

Eight cars failed to finish as F1 started a new era with high-tech turbo hybrid engines and a limit of no more than 100kg of fuel for a race distance.

Hamilton’s retirement left Rosberg unopposed out front and the German drove a controlled race in what is clearly a dominant car to lead until the end. (BBC Sport)

Schumacher condition shows ‘encouraging signs’

Injured Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher has been showing “small, encouraging signs” in his fight for recovery, his family says.

“We are and remain confident that Michael will pull through and will wake up,” the relatives said in a statement.

Doctors in France have been working to bring the seven-time champion out of a medically induced coma.

The 45-year-old German suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident in the French Alps on 29 December.

He has been kept in a coma to help reduce the swelling in his brain

‘Hard fight’

On Wednesday, Schumacher’s manager, Sabine Kehm, released a statement on behalf of his family because of “an increasing interest in [his] condition in light of the start of the Formula 1 season”.

The family praised the efforts of the French doctors at Grenoble hospital, but also warned that “it was clear from the start that this will be a long and hard fight for Michael.”

“We are and remain confident that Michael will pull through and will wake up. There sometimes are small, encouraging signs, but we also know that this is the time to be very patient,” the statement added.

Investigators probing the accident said Schumacher had been going at the speed of “a very good skier” at the time of his crash in the resort of Meribel. (BBC Sport)

22 wickets in the 2-1 Test series win in South Africa. Injury sustained in the third and final Test in Cape Town saw Johnson miss the 2-0 Twenty20 series win. (BBC Sport)

Mitchell Johnson

Nico Rosberg

Michael Schumacher

Indian Wells: Flavia Pennetta beats Agnieszka Radwanska

Italian Flavia Pennetta

overcame injured Agnieszka Radwanska 6-2 6-1 in the final of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

The 20th seed was aided by the Pole’s knee injury that required a lengthy medical time-out in the second set.

Pennetta, who will climb to 12th in the rankings, wrapped it up with six games in a row after an hour and 13 minutes.

“It’s incredible, something amazing,” said Pennetta, on her first WTA title since 2010.

“The first set was I think pretty good. I tried to go for winners. Second set, I see she has a physical problem and I started thinking too much.”

Pennetta, who had beaten world number two Li Na in the semi-finals, struggled with both a back and wrist injury after 2010, dropping as low as 166th in the world.

She was considering retirement before reaching the semi-finals of the US Open last year.

“The feeling and everything was so bad,” she added. “And now, after one year, we have the trophy.”

World number three Radwanska, 25, fought to hold back tears at the trophy presentation.

She said: “I think it’s just the worst thing for a player to not give the 100%, especially in the final of the big event.

“And I just couldn’t run as much as I normally do. Just bad luck.” (BBC Sport)

Carmel Secondary lights it up with 16 goals

By Treiston Joseph

Carmel Secondary School should be disqualified for humiliating David Rose Secondary 16-0 when the final day of the Milo Schools under-20 tournament continued on Sunday at the Ministry of Education ground.

Marlon Nedd and Mosses Gritten combined for 10 of the 16 goals, with Nedd starting the goals fest in the second minute with an easy finish in front of the goal before going on to score in the fifth, 22nd, 46th and 48th minutes, while Gritten got his first goal in the 13th minute before scoring in the 15th, 20th, 29th and 40th minutes.

Carmel Secondary never stopped attacking David Rose, who played with just seven players due to the rest

of their players being found illegal in the tournament.

The other goal scorers in the game for Carmel Secondary were Tevin Curry in the 23rd and the 54th minutes; Jovian Glen in the 26th and 34th minutes; Nicholas Kirton in the 26th minute and Shivanah Persaud in the 44th minute.

St. Winifride’s Secondary held a 2-1 lead over Tutorial High school before the match was abandoned due to a punch out in the field between two players.

Andrew Holder drew first blood for St. Winifride’s in the seventh minute after Tutorial missed several opportunities to score first in the earlier minutes of the game.

However, the game would end as high paced as it started before the halftime whistle with Edward

Pereira equalizing in the 32nd minute to conclude the first half of action.

Holder doubled in the 47th minute before the game was abandoned due to the scuffle caused by the indisciplined players.

Kingston High School kept their undefeated streak alive with a 3-1 win over Richard Ishmael Secondary in the group stage matchup.

Both teams seem to have lacked fluidity in the opening minutes of the game as players just knocked the ball around and losing possession due to poor passes in the midfield.

Kingston got their breakthrough first from the boot of Shawn Grovesor in the 22nd minute before an immediate equalizing goal in the 25th minute from Ike Padmore.

Grovesor would double to put Kingston up 2-1 before halftime with a goal in the 32nd minute to end the half on a high note.

A Vincent Thomas goal in the 40th minute would seal the deal for Kingston, who are now their group leaders through to the top 16 round set for next weekend.

Queen’s College would down Chase Academy 2-0 to tack on more points to make it to the top 16.

Queen’s would open the score sheets with a goal from Michael DaSilva in the 21st minute to see the first half end 1-0.

The second half would be much of the same, with both teams sharing possession before a goal from Jaydev Mona in the 51st minute that would guarantee the win for Queen’s.

Mo Farah ‘feeling good’ after New York half-marathon collapse

Britain’s Mo Farah says he is “feeling good” despite collapsing when he finished the New York half-marathon.

Farah, who is preparing to make his full marathon debut in London in April, was taken away in a wheelchair shortly after completing the race.

The double Olympic champion, who had earlier fallen before finishing second to Kenyan Geoffrey Mutai, said: “I just tried so hard. It’s not a big deal”.

Sally Kipyego of Kenya won the women’s event from Ethiopian Bizunesh Deba. Farah was treated by medics after collapsing moments after crossing the finish line

and 10,000m gold at the 2012 Olympics in London, had said he was targeting his own British half-marathon record of one hour 59 seconds set in New Orleans in 2013.

Five miles into the race the 30-year-old was in a leading group of eight but he was accidentally tripped from behind and tumbled to the ground.

That allowed Mutai and his compatriot Stephen Sambu to break clear, and although Farah overtook Sambu with metres to spare, the 30-year-old could not catch Mutai, finishing 18 seconds behind the winner in a time of 61 minutes and eight seconds. (BBC Sport)

English Premier League

Liverpool down Man Utd 3-0

Steven Gerrard scored two penalties and missed a third as Liverpool emphasised their title credentials with a resounding win over reigning Premier League champions Manchester United at Old Trafford.

In what was seen as the biggest test of their ability to claim their first crown since 1990, Liverpool passed the examination in emphatic fashion against an abject United to move to within four points of leaders Chelsea, with a game in hand.

Liverpool captain Gerrard demonstrated their superiority with penalties either side of the interval as Brendan Rodgers’s side exerted almost complete domination over a home team

looking in need of a drastic overhaul.

Gerrard missed another spot-kick after Daniel Sturridge went to ground under a Nemanja Vidic challenge - the United captain picking up his fourth red card against Liverpool in the process - but there was no stopping Luis Suarez as he added a third.

At this stage last season there was a 29-point gap between these sides in United’s favour as they beat Rodgers’s team 2-1 at home.

But Liverpool’s dominance here underscored the scale of the turnaround, their improvement and the collapse in fortunes at Old Trafford since manager David Moyes succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson.

Arsenal edge Tottenham 1-0

Arsenal kept themselves in strong contention for the Premier League title as Tomas Rosicky’s early goal secured victory at rivals Tottenham.

Rosicky rifled in a sublime angled drive just minutes into the game after leading a swift break for the visitors.

Tottenham’s Emmanuel Adebayor flicked a shot just wide in the first half, and they dominated after the break.

Arsenal, who head to Chelsea next Saturday in manager Arsene Wenger’s 1,000th game in charge, have a game in hand on the table toppers.

Tottenham remain in fifth but the defeat dented their chances of finishing in the top four this season. They trail fourth-placed Manchester City by seven points. (BBC Sport)

Nacer Chadli’s low shot was blocked on the line and Adebayor headed narrowly off target, but Arsenal held on. The win means Arsenal are third in the standings but crucially now just four points off leaders Chelsea, who lost 1-0 to Aston Villa on Saturday.

(BBC Sport)

Steven Gerrard

Tomas Rosicky

Flavia Pennetta

Kipyego set a new event record with a time of 68 minutes and 31 seconds, finishing 29 seconds clear of Deba,

with Molly Huddle of the United States third, 34 seconds behind the Kenyan. Farah, who won 5,000m

Mo Farah was treated by medics after collapsing moments after crossing the finish line

Sangakkara to quit T20Is after World T20

Kumar Sangakkara has announced he will retire from Twenty20 internationals following the World T20 in Bangladesh. Sangakkara, 36, has played 50 T20Is for Sri Lanka, hitting 1311 runs at an average of 32.77 and a strike rate of 120.

“Definitely, without a doubt, this is my last World T20. I won’t be playing any T20 internationals after this,” he told Sunday Island. “It’s sad, but that’s the truth. It’s not the end of my T20 career, though. I would like to play franchise based T20s. Once your World Cup prospects are over, you should give the next crop of players an opportunity. It’s a natural progression.”

A patient, accumulative batsman for much of his career, Sangakkara has been a considerably improved limited-overs batsman over the past 18 months. Though a more belligerent outlook has paid most obvious dividends in ODIs, he has also contributed heavily to Sri Lanka’s consistency in T20s.

“Improving is the whole purpose of playing. When you reach a goal you lift that goal and try to achieve something new. Whether you are young or older, the motivation has to be there. The day that motivation goes and you are just trying to hold on to your place in the side, that’s the time that you have to decide that the time is right to go. When you play for a team, the main thing is to win. If you can do it there is a huge feeling of satisfaction. Those are the things that really motivate me.”

Sangakkara captained his team to the final of the 2009 World Twenty20, and had also been integral to Sri Lanka’s charge to the 2012 final - both of which were lost. Now top-ranked in the shortest format,

Kumar Sangakkara

Sangakkara hoped his team would omit the mistakes that scuppered them in previous tournaments. (Cricinfo)

SL hope for advantage in familiar conditions

Sri Lanka coach Paul Farbrace believes the experience of having played in Bangladesh over the past six weeks could work in favour of his team during the World T20.

Sri Lanka have been in Bangladesh since the last week of January, winning across all three formats in a bilateral series with the hosts, before claiming the Asia Cup title there this month. That victory was the result of many players putting in good performances and being on top of their game, going into the World T20.

“The advantage we have is we play our four group

Bangladesh v Afghanistan, World T20, Group A, Mirpur

Spinners give Bangladesh important win

Shakib Al Hasan

Everything came together for Bangladesh, on the day it really had to be just right. By beating Afghanistan by nine wickets in the World T20 opener, they took a big step towards entering the main draw of their home tournament, and avoided the discomfort of losing to an Associate nation twice in the space of 16 days.

Mushfiqur Rahim’s decision to bowl first was slightly strange given that he felt

the day before that chasing was hard in T20s. But his decision was vindicated by Bangladesh’s best bowling performance in this format. Skittling Afghanistan out for just 72 runs in 17.1 overs was the first time they had bowled out an opposition in T20s. Bangladesh enjoyed their best Powerplay overs as a bowling unit, sending down 24 dot balls in the first six overs and taking three wickets. Abdur Razzak got his arm-ball groove back, nail-

ing Mohammad Nabi and Samiullah Shenwari, two batsmen who could have taken it away for Afghanistan.

Mahmudullah bowled the most economical com-

pleted spell in T20s for Bangladesh, giving away just eight runs in his four overs, and Shakib Al Hasan picked up three cheap wickets. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Afghanistan innings (20 overs maximum)

Mohammad Shahzad† c Mahmudullah b Mashrafe Mortaza 0

Najeeb Tarakai c Nasir Hossain b Shakib Al Hasan 7

Gulbadin Naib c Sabbir Rahman

b Shakib Al Hasan 21

Nawroz Mangal run out

(Sabbir Rahman) 0

Mohammad Nabi* lbw

b Abdur Razzak 3

Karim Sadiq run out (Farhad Reza) 10

Shafiqullah c †Mushfiqur Rahim

b Mahmudullah 16

Samiullah Shenwari lbw b Abdur

Razzak 1

Dawlat Zadran c Mahmudullah

b Farhad Reza 1

Shapoor Zadran b Shakib Al Hasan 1

Aftab Alam not out 0

Extras: (b 2, lb 5, w 3, nb 2) 12

Total: (all out; 17.1 overs) 72

Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Mohammad Shahzad, 0.1 ov), 2-36 (Gulbadin Naib, 5.2 ov), 3-36 (Najeeb Tarakai, 5.3 ov), 4-36 (Nawroz Mangal, 6.1 ov), 5-49 (Mohammad Nabi, 9.3 ov), 6-58

(Karim Sadiq, 11.6 ov), 7-69

(Samiullah Shenwari, 13.6 ov),

8-69 (Shafiqullah, 14.1 ov), 9-71 (Dawlat Zadran, 16.2 ov), 1072 (Shapoor Zadran, 17.1 ov)

Bowling: Mashrafe Mortaza

2-0-8-1, Al-Amin Hossain 2-018-0, Shakib Al Hasan 3.1-0-83, Mahmudullah 4-1-8-1, Abdur Razzak 4-0-20-2, Sabbir Rahman 1-0-1-0, Farhad Reza 1-0-2-1

Bangladesh innings (target: 73 runs from 20 overs)

Tamim Iqbal lbw b Samiullah Shenwari 21

Anamul Haque not out 44

Shakib Al Hasan not out 10

Extras: (lb 1, w 2) 3

Total: (1 wicket; 12 overs) 78

Did not bat: Mushfiqur Rahim*†, Sabbir Rahman, Nasir Hossain, Mahmudullah, Farhad Reza, Mashrafe Mortaza, Al-Amin Hossain, Abdur Razzak

Fall of wickets 1-45

(Tamim Iqbal, 7.4 ov)

Bowling: Mohammad Nabi 3-0-11-0, Shapoor Zadran 1-0-7-0, Karim Sadiq 2-0-170, Dawlat Zadran 2-0-13-0, Samiullah Shenwari 3-0-141, Aftab Alam 1-0-15-0

matches in Chittagong, where we played our two T20 matches against Bangladesh,” Farbrace said.

“We know the conditions and we got good balance in our squad, that’s a great thing. We give ourselves a good chance if we are focussed and we practice properly”

However, it was important to not let complacency set in, given the team’s recent record, Farbrace said.

“The key is we don’t get too overly carried away by the success we had on that Bangladesh tour. When we get back to Bangladesh we just need to make sure we are switched on and we are

ready.”

Having turned it around from some difficult positions of late, Sri Lanka go into the tournament with a good amount of self-belief, Fabrace said. “We would have to say that we are one of the teams going there thinking that we have got a good chance of doing well in the competition. The belief within the squad is such that we can win games from any position.”

Sri Lanka recovered from 50 for 6, chasing 121, in the second T20 against Bangladesh, and then went from 67 for 8 to a matchwinning 180 in the first ODI. (Cricinfo)

Ireland hope to make “big statement”

Ireland have earned such a reputation over the years that whenever they play now, especially in a big tournament or against a Full Member, they are expected to be making statements with their performances about themselves, about Associate cricket and about the apparently narrowing gap between them and the lower-ranked Full Members.

Should they be able to make it to the main round of the World T20, their captain William Porterfield thinks they will be making a “big” statement, especially given the shake-up that the ICC, and the world cricket order, are undergoing. Porterfield wants Ireland to not only qualify for the Super 10, but move on from there by causing the odd upset.

At the same time, he also wants his side to not trip over lofty goals such as making statements, and focus on the job immediately at hand, which is to beat Full Member Zimbabwe.

“There has been a lot of talk in the ICC and world cricket about restructuring. Anytime we have got a World Cup, we have to perform,” Porterfield said. “It is not just about winning one or two games, it is about doing more than that. The last few World Cups we have been to, we have beaten sides but not been as consistent as we

would like. Tomorrow is another great opportunity for us, to try and get a win and set ourselves up for the next game and then we will be in a good position to move forward.

“The intention is not just to qualify but to go on and beat teams in the Super 10. It will mean a lot for Irish cricket. With restructuring and everything going on, it will be a big statement for us to make but we cannot look too farther than tomorrow’s game…” (Cricinfo)

Team Sri Lanka

William Porterfield

WICB Regional Four-day tournament…

Chattergoon, Singh make way for Johnson, Hemraj

Opener Sewnarine Chattergoon and middle-order batsman Vishaul Singh have been dropped from the Guyana squad for the fourth-round match of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Regional Four-day tournament, set to start Friday.

The duo has been replaced by fellow left-handed pair, Leon Johnson and Chanderpaul Hemraj, for the match against the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC), set to start on Friday in Barbados.

The day/night contest will start at 15:00 hrs each day.

Johnson was initially named Guyana’s captain prior to the start of the competition, but had to sit out the first three games due to a recurring knee injury.

All-rounder Christopher Barnwell led the side in the first two rounds against Jamaica and Barbados, while veteran batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, playing his first game of the tournament, took over the leadership reins for the third-round against the Windward Islands, which

concluded on Sunday.

Both Chattergoon and Singh have struggled for consistency in the three matches they played.

Chattergoon, a former Test opener, accumulated 87 runs from six innings with a highest score of 50 in the second round against Barbados.

The diminutive Singh, who started with an attractive 73 in the second innings against Jamaica, has been ordinary since, with scores of five, one, 14 and nought. His returns from six innings have been 111 runs.

Their performances have certainly not helped Guyana’s cause as the South Americans are yet to taste victory after heavy defeats to Jamaica and Barbados and a tame draw against the Windward Islands.

US soccer coach to host EBFA coaching programme

Coaches attached to clubs in the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) will benefit from a coaching programme organised by the EBFA and facilitated by United States-based US Soccer Federation B licensed coach, Ralph Green.

The programme, which is set for today at the Grove Community Centre commencing at 09:00 hrs, will see Green touching on the fundamentals of coaching; what makes a good coach (speaking to players, portraying a positive image, being a mentor to your players, role model).

A practical session will be held on Wednesday from 16:00 hrs at the Grove Playfield and will see the coaches being taken through the paces on the following areas; working on defence, midfield, attack and goalkeeping among other areas.

Green, who arrived in Guyana on Saturday, was approached by EBFA Secretary Franklin Wilson to lend his expertise to the association and readily agreed to assist.

The former Camptown defensive player is an accredited United States Soccer Federation ‘B’ Licensed Coach, having also completed the C and D licences. He had represented Camptown in the early 1970s. Green migrated to the USA in 1979 where he played in the Amateur League (Bankers Athletic League) in New York, which was made up of ex-professional players working in the financial industry and was Manager for European American Bank team.

His coaching career commenced after the Camptown New York chapter was formed in 1992 and Green is the current president.

His career in coaching at the youth level kicked off in 1998 with Woodhaven Soccer Club in the Long Island Junior Soccer League, where he currently still coaches.

Trophy Stall/EBFA U-15 League…

Grove Hi Tech, Diamond take full points

Grove Hi Tech continued their winning form, while Diamond United sealed the biggest win of their fledgling existence when play in the Trophy Stall/East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-15 League continued at the Grove Playfield on Saturday last.

Hosts Grove, playing the feature game, were 4-0 victors over Herstelling Football Club, thanks to a double strike from Randy Smartt in the 37th and 44th minute. Denzil Crawford had opened the scoring in the second minute, while the deal was sealed in the 53rd minute when Threvon Pluck rocked the nets.

The defeat was Herstelling’s third in as many matches, while the victory maintained Grove’s flawless showing with three wins from the same number of games. Diamond, coming off a win against Herstelling in their previous match, continued their winning ways with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Soesdyke Falcons.

Ixios Da Silva put Diamond in the lead in the sixth minute, a lead which they enjoyed until the 28th minute when the Soesdyke lads neutralised proceedings, thanks to a well taken shot by Shane Meusa.

The score read 1-1 at halftime, but six minutes after the break, the Diamond boys were again in the lead, this time through Teon Forde, who found the back

of the nets to hand his team the win with the deciding goal.

Second round action will start on Saturday with all the teams aiming to improve on their first-round showing. The first to fourth-placed team will be rewarded with trophies compliments of sponsor, Trophy Stall, while gold, silver and bronze med-

als will be presented to the first, second and thirdplaced teams.

The highest goal scorer will receive the Golden Boot Trophy, MVP the Golden Ball trophy, best goalkeeper the Golden Glove trophy, while the most disciplined team will receive the Fair Play trophy. The best coach will also be rewarded.

Rain frustrates players at Three Ws Oval

Unexpected steady rain delayed Kraigg Brathwaite from chasing his sixth first-class hundred and Barbados from advancing against Combined Campuses & Colleges in the Regional 4-Day Tournament on Sunday here.

Brathwaite remained unbeaten on 85 and Shane Dowrich was not out on eight, as Barbados progressed only a leg bye to reach 249 for four, replying to CCC’s first innings total of 269, when rain brought play to a close on the third day of the third round match at the Three Ws Oval.

Only 14 deliveries in nine minutes were possible, after play started 7 hours and 20 minutes later than scheduled due to the weather and Barbados resumed from their overnight total of 248 for four.

The lights were turned on to assist with play proceeding, but the weather interrupted well before the rescheduled close of 6 p.m. East Caribbean Time.

Play on the final day on

Monday is scheduled to start half-hour earlier than scheduled at 9:30 a.m. EC Time.

Barbados, who hold a 4-3 edge in this head-tohead battle, are fourth on 19 points and CCC are bottom of the seven-team table on four points.

The Barbadians have lost three of the four matches they have contested at the Three Ws Oval – only breaking the sequence of losing at this venue last year with a resounding innings and 185run victory. (CMC)

SCOREBOARD

Sewnarine Chattergoon

Vishaul Singh Leon Johnson

Chanderpaul Hemraj

Ralph Green

Grove scorers! From left: Threvon Pluck, Randy Smartt and Denzil Crawford

WICB Regional Four-day tournament…

Guyana, Windwards play to draw on see-saw final day

By Avenash Ramzan

On a day when the pendulum swung from team to team with every wicket taken or partnership built, Guyana and the Windward Islands played to what turned out to be a hard-fought draw at the end of round three of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Regional Four-day tournament at the National Stadium, Providence.

While the result may have disappointed the few hundred spectators who cheered on the Guyanese all day, it was, by quite a distance, Guyana’s most competitive performance this season, coming on the heels of heavy back-to-back defeats against Jamaica and Barbados in the first two rounds.

Chasing 209 runs for an outright win after dropping first innings points, Guyana finished on 171-7 in fading light with four overs remaining and 38 overs required for victory. At 17:13 hrs, umpires Leslie Reifer and Nandkumar Shivsankar offered light to the batsmen, Anthony Bramble and Veerasammy Permaul, who readily accepted, signalling the end of the contest.

Final scores in the match: Windward Islands 307 and 114; Guyana 213 and 171-7.

See-saw battle

Faced with a tricky target and the looming threat of rain, Guyana began the run chase in solid fashion with former Test opener Sewnarine Chattergoon (14) unleashing three boundaries within the first seven overs before he disturbed the stumps, chopping on a delivery from ex-West Indies fast bowler Nelon Pascal.

With the score reading 19-1, West Indies Under-19 opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul was joined by Assad Fudadin, who topscored with 82 in the first innings, and the duo proceeded to build a foundation for victory.

Fudadin was particularly fluent, timing the ball sweetly, as the 17-year-old T. Chanderpaul was more content on grafting and capitalising on the ‘bad balls.’

As both grew in confidence with each passing over, the boundaries became frequent, with the highlight of the partnership being a six over mid-wicket by T. Chanderpaul to bring up the 50.

The left-handers were starting to bat the islanders out of the game, looking relatively untroubled, before skipper and off-spinner

Tagenarine Chanderpaul again showed a penchant for long innings, spending close to four hours at the crease during his topscore of 40

Liam Sebastian produced a double blow to swing the match Windward Islands’ way.

Fudadin (22) seemed unfortunate to be given out leg before by umpire Reifer with the ball slanting down leg at 68-2, but the very next delivery was spot on, trapping Vishaul Singh plumb in front, offering no shot to a straight delivery to make it 68-3.

Narsingh Deonarine, without a run in his last three innings, walked out to face the hat-trick ball, and he prevented the feat by moving down the track and lifting Sebastian over longon for four.

Sensible batting from Deonarine and T. Chanderpaul saw a revival in fortunes for the Guyanese, as they added 49 for the fourth wicket, before the latter was deceived by the swing of left-arm seamer Kenroy Peters at 117-4.

Playing back to a delivery that swung back at the last moment, T. Chanderpaul’s off-stump was knocked back, ending a 224-minute, 154-ball vigil that produced a top score of 40.

With just a run added to the score, Peters brought the visitors right back into the game with a lifting delivery to Deonarine, who succeeded only in finding the safe hands of Tyrone Theophile at first slip at 118-5. Nine runs later, Peters was again on the mon-

ey, removing Christopher Barnwell for five to leave the Guyanese struggling at 127-6 and the possibility of victory now wearing thin.

However, with the experienced Shivnarine Chanderpaul at the crease, the Guyanese were not going to go down without a fight.

But so too were the Windward Islands players, moreso Peters. Working up some pace and maintaining an immaculate line and length, the diminutive leftarmer found the leading edge of S. Chanderpaul’s bat to hand Theophile, stationed at point, his second catch of the innings at 1537.

Chanderpaul’s demise effectively ended the drive for victory, as Bramble (16*) and Permaul (14*) played out the remaining time, even as Peters and company tried desperately to prise out the final three wickets in the dying stages of the day.

Peters, who ended with impressive figures of 4-38, finished with 8-80 in the match, while Sebastian claimed 2-39.

Permaul the star

Earlier, resuming on a shaky 96-8, the Windward Islands succumbed for 114 in their second innings early in the opening session, with Permaul adding another wicket to his overnight tally to finish with a career-

best 7-49.

The left-arm spinner from Albion also completed his maiden 10-wicket match haul at this level, returning figures of 10-118. Permaul is now Guyana’s leading wicket-taker this season with 22 scalps from three games.

Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo claimed the other wicket to finish with 1-21, while Deonarine was the other wicket-taker with 2-35. Romel Currency, who held up the islanders’ innings on day three, remained unbeaten on an obdurate 48.

The Guyanese will play the Combined Campuses and Colleges in their fourthround match starting on Friday in Barbados. The day/night contest will begin at 15:00 hrs each day.

SCOREBOARD

Windward Islands 1st innings 307 Guyana 1st innings 213

Windward Islands 2nd innings (overnight 96-8)

D Smith lbw Deonarine 0

T Theophile c wkp Bramble

b Permaul 0

S Ambris c Fudadin b Permaul 8

K Lesporis c & b Deonarine 6

R Currency not out 48

L Sebastian c Fudadin

1-lb) 9

Total: (all out; 48.4 overs) 114

Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-0, 3-7, 4-23, 5-37, 6-43, 7-81, 8-95, 9-109, 10-114

Icon players return for the 2014 Limacol Caribbean Premier League

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Gayle, Pollard, Bravo, Narine, Sammy and Samuels to spearhead franchises again

The Limacol Caribbean Premier League (Limacol CPL) has announced the return of the six West Indies icon players who will spearhead their franchise teams in this year’s competition.

Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo, Sunil Narine, Darren Sammy and Marlon Samuels will all return for what promises to be another hugely exciting tournament. After thrilling fans of their newly adopted teams last summer, the six stars will be hoping to bring home CPL glory in August.

Gayle, T20’s most destructive batsman, will return to the Jamaica Tallawahs, whom he led to Limacol CPL triumph in 2013, while Kieron Pollard will once again join the Barbados Tridents, after winning over local fans with some inspirational performances last year.

Dwayne Bravo, will lead

his native Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel, where fans will be hoping he can build on last year’s semi-final appearance, while top spinner, Sunil Narine, will once again be the jewel in the crown of the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

Proud St. Lucian, Darren Sammy. will spearhead the Zouks’ title challenge, while explosive batsman Marlon Samuels will be back to mastermind the Antigua Hawksbills campaign.

Tom Moody, Director of Cricket, Caribbean Premier League, said:

“We’re delighted to be welcoming back our icon players to the Limacol CPL this season. After flying the flag for their franchises in 2013, we’re glad to announce their return to what promises to be an exhilarating six weeks of cricket.”

Guyana Amazon Warriors Franchise Player Sunil Narine, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed

playing for the Amazon Warriors last year in what was a hugely competitive and fun tournament. I hope we can go one better than last year and give the people of Guyana something to celebrate.”

The Limacol CPL launched last year to sellout crowds, with over 250,000 spectators attending matches across Antigua, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and St Lucia, whilst a global TV audience of 36 million were entertained by the skills of international stars including Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Ricky Ponting and Muttiah Muralitharan.

The tournament returns in July and August 2014 where Jamaica Tallawahs will defend their title against the St. Lucia Zouks, Trinidad & Tobago Red Steel, Antigua Hawksbills, Guyana Amazon Warriors and Barbados Tridents.(CPLT20)

Guyana, Windwards play to draw on see-saw

By Avenash Ramzan

On a day when the pendulum swung from team to team with every wicket taken or

partnership built, Guyana and the Windward Islands played to what turned out to be a hard-fought draw at the end of round three of the West Indies Cricket

Board (WICB) Regional Four-day tournament at the National Stadium, Providence.

Left-arm seamer Kenroy Peters (backing camera) turned in a lion-hearted performance on the final day. Here he bowls to Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who steers the ball through the off-side

Chris Gayle Dwayne Bravo Sunil Narine