Guyana Times Daily

Mining sector hampered by crime, poor infrastructure – GGMC P13

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 2152 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Rodney CoI hears…

Thursday, June 5, 2014

PRICE

See story on page 3

How the PNC rigged elections

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Fake products undermining ANSA McAL’s originals P2

– witness testifies to voting multiple times Police to be tried in batonrape saga

General Manager of TravelSpan Vanita Jagnarain (seated centre) with the 14 individuals who will wing out to Las Vegas, Nevada, USA to undergo training to become Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified flight attendants (See story on page 7)

Govt to crack Jonestown man down on illegal gunned down at Blackwater Landing gold trading See story on page 2

See story on page 9

P7

Police dog handler remanded P10 on cocaine trafficking charge 15 cases of chikungunya confirmed P13 thus far

2 news

thursday, june 5, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

Fake products undermining ANSA McAL’s originals

ANSA McAL Managing Director Beverly Harper holding the original Ariel Soap Power in her left hand with the bogus in her right

A

NSA McAL Trading Limited on Wednesday disclosed that new counterfeit products have surfaced since the first set was discovered approximately three months ago.

During a news conference on Wednesday, the Trinidadian conglomerate disclosed that counterfeit “Always Sanitary Pads” and Ariel Soap Powder have been unearthed, adding to the batch of bogus Head and

Shoulders, Pantene and Olay products discovered by the Government Analyst Food

and Drug Department in March.

Managing Director of the company, Beverly Harper told reporters this new discovery will no doubt affect ongoing promotions. It was explained that a number of persons have submitted the bogus Ariel packets to participate in the “Bring the Games Closer Promotion”, but these have been and will continue to be rejected.

In an effort to vie for one of the 42 inch flat screen televisions sets that are up for grabs weekly, persons are required to submit the original packets which have text written in English. Though slightly similar, the bogus Ariel Soap Powder is packaged in a Spanish packet.

In addition to Ariel Soap Powder, there are bogus Always Sanitary Pads on the market, carrying the name Alwags and Always. Persons are advised to scrutinise the products before purchasing. The products are be-

ing produced by Proctor and Gamble, with ANSA McAL being the authorised distributor.

There is also parallel Lucozade that is larger than the one imported by ANSA McAL, as a result, the corks of these parallel Lucozade will be discarded during the ongoing Lucozade Drive Your Dreams Promotion.

According to Harper, the company continues to work closely with the Food and Drug Department and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to bring a halt to the invasion.

Sold to unsuspecting customers

ANSA McAL said products often remain with importers longer than recommended and after becoming aged and expired, these products with questionable ingredients are sold to unsuspecting customers at a heavily discounted price.

“What is also disturbing

The original Always Sanitary Napkins in the deep blue packet on the left with the two bogus products on the right

The Lucozade that is imported by ANSA McAL on the left in the smaller bottle with the parallel on the right

is that there are those who manufacture and distribute counterfeit goods/drugs without any reservations; this shows that apart from ignoring the health risk, they are defrauding consumers, as well as preventing consumers from receiving a safe, effective product that was supposed to help them; whether it be pharmaceutical to improve their health or a shampoo to keep their hair clean,” the company had said in a

statement last month.

Despite the challenges faced, the company said it is determined to raise awareness on the issue by edifying consumers on the dangers of using bogus products.

It is unclear how many of these illegal products are in circulation, but based on information, importers and distributors have been named.

Investigations are continuing by the Food and Drug Department.

Jonestown man gunned down at Blackwater Landing

A

Jonestown, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara man was on Tuesday gunned down during an argument with another man at Blackwater Landing, Konawaruk, Potaro, Region Seven.

Bevaun “Saka” Anderson, 30, was reportedly shot twice to the back by his assailant who is now on the lam.

According to information received, the young man and a group of men were conversing when the suspect intervened, resulting in an exchange of words. It was at this time that the suspect pulled a gun from his waist and discharged two rounds, hitting Anderson in the process.

He reportedly fell to the ground and died almost immediately. The Police were summoned and a manhunt has been launched for the suspect.

At the home of the dead man, a group of relatives converged and were still in shock upon learning of his demise.

His mother, Mayleen Anderson explained that she was at home on Tuesday when a young man who worked with her son contacted her family, relaying the tragic news. The grieving mother said that she

was only told that her son was shot during an argument.

Her daughter, she added visited the Police headquarters, Eve Leary, to make arrangements for her son’s body to be transported to Georgetown. The woman added that it has been close to three years since she heard from her son.

Disbelief

She attempted to contact him on several occasions, but the phone went to voice mail. She is still in disbelief that her son is dead. “It is hard to see meh son after three year, dead… I don’t know how I go able look at he body,” she cried.

Swevia Anderson, a sister of the deceased, said the Police are making all arrangements to transport her brother’s body to the city today.

The body is at the Mahdia Hospital Mortuary. She too said that the news of her brother’s death is shocking, even though she has not seen him in over two years.

She recalled receiving the dreaded news from his friend, who told her that Anderson was shot twice to the back. She added that they subsequently received a call from the Police, who confirmed that her brother was

Dead: Bevaun Anderson

dead.

Anderson said her brother was not someone who would pick a fight with anyone and was a very loving and caring brother. Immediately after leaving the Helena Primary School, he started to work in the interior.

The last time he came out, she related was a few years ago, but he spent a few weeks with the family and went back.

“That was the last time I saw him… I called him a few times but after that we never hear from him again,” the woman said.

The family is calling on the Police to make every effort to apprehend the culprit so that he can be prosecuted for the crime. Anderson leaves to mourn his mother and six siblings.

NEWS

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thursDAY, june 5, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, June 4 from 09:30h-11:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, June 4 from 08:45h-10:15h

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Thundery showers can be expected in the morning hours with light rain showers in the early afternoon. Light cloud cover to partly cloudy conditions are expected to prevail into 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 6.25 metres and 6.70 metres per second.

High Tide: 09:33h and 22:10h reaching maximum heights of 2.25 metres and 2.22 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 03:04h and 15:36h reaching minimum heights of 1.01 metres and 0.95 metre respectively.

Wednesday, june 4, 2014

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Rodney CoI hears…

How the PNC rigged elections – witness testifies to voting multiple times

By Alexis Rodney

T

he Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry on Wednesday heard how the party of the late Forbes Burnham allegedly practised vote -rigging during elections, with a former executive of the People’s National Congress revealing that he and others were transported by bus to various polling stations to vote multiple times.

Joseph Hamilton,a former priest of the House of Israel- a notorious religious cult allegedly used by the PNC back in the 1980s to beat up political opponents-testified that the Government then had frequently been involved in rigged elections.

He said he could give evidence in this regard because he, along with other members of the House of Israel, were transported by bus to various polling stations around the country to vote, although they were legally required to do so only once.

“The methodology of the PNC would make transportation available for persons involved in voting more than once”, he confirmed.

Asked if there was no distinguishing marking for persons who had already voted, Hamilton pointed out that that was not an issue since it was PNC members who were managing the polling stations. Moreover, he confessed that the government was able to devise a plan to remove the stains from the voters’ fingers. He said too that he knew of persons who were not members of

Former President and PNC Leader Forbes Burnham

the House of Israel, who had also voted multiple times.

Under cross- examination, Hamilton spoke of the role of the military in the alleged rigging of elections, making reference to the 1973 elections when two protesters were killed in Corentyne during attempts by soldiers to steal ballot boxes. It was on the evening of July 16, 1973 at the close of polling when members of the GDF stormed into the polling place and attempted to cart away ballot boxes to an undisclosed location. Scores of people, the vast majority of whom were known supporters of the PPP, had gathered in front of the polling station to protest against the removal of the ballot boxes by the military. The soldiers fired live bullets at the protesters, killing Bholanauth and Ramessar in the process.

Back then,the counting of ballots was not done at the place of poll as is currently

the case. All the boxes were taken under military escort to a central polling place. It was reported back then that invariably, ballots cast in favour of the PPP were replaced and stuffed by ballots in favour of the PNC. It was this knowledge and fear that the results of the elections would be changed in favour of the PNC that led to such large gatherings of people at polling stations at the end of polling. Under normal situations, eligible voters would cast their ballots and peacefully make their way home until the results were announced hours later.

Meanwhile, Hamilton also under cross- examination, agreed that the government of the day had perpetrated corruption by giving lands to the House of Israel organization; the abuse of the Judiciary; direct suppression by violent means; the advancing of the concept of Party Paramountcy; and the suppression and

non-investigation of serious crimes, including murder.

He spoke of 1980 Constitution Referendum and the public outcry that prevailed. At that point WPA Lawyer Christopher Ram explained that the country was looking forward to the constitutionally due general election in 1978.

However, the government using its power had decided that the country was going to go through a referendum instead. Hamilton recalled that a large percentage of the population had opposed the move and had become agitated, since according to them it was oppressive and dictatorial. “And so there was agitation from what was considered as civil society”

Hoyte changed things

Hamilton also spoke about the change in leadership of the PNC at the death of Burnham, noting that his successor, Hugh Desmond Hoyte, had adopted a “no nonsense” approach to the House of Israel organisation, which according to him, had been weaned under the ruling government and had become “Burnham Church”, to many Guyanese, he noted.

He noted that President Hoyte, taking over the reins of leadership, had indicated that he was going to expunge all persons who were seriously affecting the development of democracy at the time.

It was under the Hoyte administration that Rabbi Washington was charged for his crimes, Hamilton related.

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, june 5, 2014

Views 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

Identity and national unity

L

ast month, Prime Minister Sam Hinds broached the subject of “national unity” in which he connected Dr Cheddi Jagan’s project towards that goal with his own proposal to focus also on building a shared “national identity”.

While Dr Jagan proposed coalitions and alliances and various modes of collaboration in the political realm – including “critical support” – Mr Hinds suggested that we can also work on creating a “shared narrative” in which “our new Guyanese generations would have a common framework in which they might find significance and by which they might live”.

Dr Henry Jeffrey, Mr Hinds' erstwhile colleagues for almost two decades as a member of the Civic group which coalesced with the PPP to form the Government in 1992, however, finds this suggestion risible. He dubs Mr Hinds’ stress on identity, a consequence of the latter’s “pusillanimity” as opposed to the “courage” of Dr Jagan for stressing the exclusivity of the political.

Dr Jeffrey, however, is on very shaky ground since one could simply ask: of what success has been this primacy of “political institutions” to forge national unity in any of the numerous other plural societies in the world? Not to mention Guyana.

But rather than simply scoffing at Dr Jeffrey’s summary dismissal of PM Hinds’ proposal, we will present the argument from a South African whose society faced an immeasurably greater polarisation among its peoples. Vasu Gounden is the Founder and Executive Director of the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) and he proposes the following on “national unity”, which conflates the political with the question of identity.

“There are always competing configurations of what constitutes national identity in a multiracial, multiethnic nation-state in the mould of South Africa. Following the end of apartheid in 1994, there have been attempts by successive African National Congress (ANC) governments to forge national unity through civic nationalism.

“The first President of post-apartheid South Africa, Nelson Mandela, initially led the process to mobilise people behind a vision of a single nation guided by common values and symbols. Inspired and guided by his ideas, I, therefore, seek, through this article, to advance the idea that it is possible to establish a shared identity in South Africa. Arguments in this article are guided by the concept of civic nationalism.

The concept of civic nationalism fosters loyalty to a political community, usually the nation state, and is tolerant and inclusive.

“Furthermore, the concept propounds an allegiance to political institutions and principles rather than a community.

In this context, political institutions refer to the constitution and democracy; and principles refer to common citizenship rights and obligations. In highlighting the dynamics of the formation of national identity in post-1994 South Africa, I posit a supranational identity ahead of communal ethnicbased identities.

“To this end, efforts aimed at creating a single national identity in South Africa have largely hinged on cultural and sporting events. National sporting and cultural events provide an arena for a shared public culture. Key national and cultural events such as the 1995 Rugby World Cup, 1996 soccer Africa Cup of Nations, 2003 Cricket World Cup, the 2010 Soccer World Cup, and successive South African Music Awards have mobilised South Africans around a common cultural experience.

“The quest to create a common national identity in South Africa is also played out through discursive texts, particularly the media. The national broadcaster, South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has adopted an inclusive policy which gives space to all available identities in South Africa. For instance, SABC 1 broadcasts in Zulu and Xhosa, SABC 2 in Afrikaans and SABC 3 in English.

“In summary, identity should be defined by participation in a common national culture. This does not amount to a sort of cultural reductionism for communal cultures. By their nature national cultures are hybrid as they comprise elements from all constituent cultures.”

This is all we understand Mr Hinds to be proposing for Guyana.

British D-Day veteran Paul Butler, 88, from Oxfordshire walks away from a wall mural at Arromanches-lesBains on the Normandy coast (Reuters)

David Cort’s letter seems empty and self-serving Dear Editor, Please allow me space in your letters column to voice my opinions about the University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) and the manner in which it is now being run into the ground. I have read, with much interest, the comments made by Professor Daizal Samad and Dr Patsy Francis about Turkeyen and Berbice campuses. They are both right, and I am happy that the truth is being told to our taxpayers.

I am a student at UGBC and I speak from first-hand experience of what is going on there. Like thousands of Berbicians, I am in a position to compare the state of UGBC while Professor Samad was Director and what now prevails.

During Samad’s tenure, UGBC opened itself up to Berbice and Guyana. People from every sector of the community found a place where they could go for assistance of all sorts.

There were seminars for farmers and fishermen; workshops addressing domestic violence and child abuse; women and children who were abused were seen immediately and helped by the Professor; and many batches from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were trained in multiple areas on the campus.

Members of the Community Policing Group were trained; research and publications flourished; numerous scholarships were received by needy and bright Berbician students

who could not afford tuition – because Samad went and asked; and the health and health care sector were engaged.

Too many politicians to count visited and were in praise, including the President of Suriname and the former President of Guyana; the Diaspora came forward to help; the private sector came on board; young boxers and cricketers were assisted; new buildings went up; lecturers had nice air-conditioned offices; and the library grew by leaps and bounds.

Modern computer centres were built – there were few instances of theft, and these were dealt with promptly – enrolment grew by almost 400 per cent; there were new academic programmes; the physical surroundings sparkled with new trees, well kept lawns, and sitting and study areas; and the campus was in good financial shape.

Qualified lecturers from the USA came on board to serve; world-renowned scholars visited, contributed, and were in great praise; all religious, social and cultural groups were welcomed and facilitated on the campus and students had someone to whom they could turn for academic, emotional, and financial help. Teachers and teacher-trainees found a new home, all schools that came and asked for help received help immediately; and there were many acts of charity.

These are just a few things that we all know to be

true, not because Professor Samad told us so, but because we all saw them.

We Berbicians honour this son of the soil. He had a no-nonsense attitude, but tempered by compassion and a love for this place. We all gained because Professor Samad was here. The GPF has honoured Samad. UG has thrown him away and the Government has sat idly by and let it happen. This is what happens when we throw pearls to swine.

I also know that there were plans to mount large protests to keep the Professor here, but it was Samad himself who stopped it all. Samad has complained that he has no authority. He is wrong! Professor Samad had moral authority.

In fact, even while this Government had one of our most talented people sitting at home, he was still helping people: jobs were found for some; health care was sought for others; and people struck by tragedy were helped. Even while this brilliant Guyanese was unemployed.

Professor Samad was harsh in his criticism, but if we do not recognise the truth of his statements, then we will never correct the wrongs at this rotten place they call a “university”. Only a few days ago, the time for a scheduled final exam was changed without notification.

Many students had no idea of the change; we went and complained to the current Director who sent us to some clerk/typist who told

us angrily that the exam time was not changed; we insisted that it was. This woman then told us to fill a re-write form and to lie by getting medical certifications saying we were ill; one lecturer told us to take three days off from our jobs by submitting to our employers medical certificates – lie again. This is what we learn at UG – to lie.

Given these facts, David Cort’s letter seems empty and self-serving. It is ironic that Cort identifies improvements and developments made under Professor Samad’s tenure to say what is going on now! The place is falling apart, and the kinds of childish analysis, by such as Cort are part of the problem.

For one thing, the social work degree programme was being pushed by the former Director for years! New lecturers were attracted under Samad. The raise of publications and research was under Samad (the most published person at UG, period).

Someone should ask the current Director who encouraged him. I am paying hard-earned money to attend this “smooth-running campus!” There was a time when we were all proud of UGBC. Now there is only shame, fear, and deep disappointment.

I agree with the writer who said, “FREE TAIN NOW!” Very concerned student, Name withheld by request

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, june 5, 2014

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Medical outreach in Albouystown

Dear Editor The Medical Corps of the Guyana Defence Force in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force will be conducting a medical outreach in the Albouystown community on Saturday.

The medical outreach will be held between 08:30h and15:30h on the Basketball

Court at the corner of Hunter Street and Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, and general medical, general dental, prescription, and HIV counselling and testing services will be offered to residents.

The medical outreach is part of the activities relating to the implementation

of the Police Force’s “Impact Albouystown Project” that was launched in the community on April 11, and which involves law enforcement services and social intervention activities.

Ivelaw Whittaker Public Relations and Press Officer

Blairmont crematorium gets more help from the Diaspora Dear Editor, Guyanese in Canada recently gave additional tangible support to the Blairmont Crematorium and Memorial Garden. The picture shows Leader of the crematorium project Nowrang Persaud, receiving a cheques of Cdn$1500 from Trevor Subryan on behalf of his ATS Company; he also received another of similar amount and from Swami Bhajananda, on behalf of the Pranav Mandir Cultural Centre.

A group of Guyanese from the Kitchener area of Ontario, Canada also presented another donation of Cdn$1500. These welcomed gestures are in addition to other significant contributions from the abovementioned sources.

The management group of the Crematorium at Blairmont is naturally thankful for these acts of generosity and public spiritedness by our fellow Guyanese in the Diaspora and trust that other Guyanese in and out of Guyana will continue to provide support for this essential community-­ wide nonsectarian project serving the

Dear Editor, All of Guyana seems to be on the edge of concern as it relates to the combined Opposition’s unwillingness to pass the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorrism (AML/CFT) Bill in Parliament if their demands are not met.

We all have a right to be on the edge, simply because of the negative effect that the non-passage of this Bill will have on all Guyanese, regardless of which political party one is affiliated with.

Should Guyana be blacklisted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), it would mean hardship

and difficulty for this entire nation.

It seems to me that the MPs of the Opposition have allowed their egos to get bigger than the needs of the people in this country.

I would like to appeal to the combined Opposition, who has the power in their hands, to do the honourable, right, responsible, and moral thing and put Guyana first by passing this Bill, because this nation is paying much

attent i o n to this whole scenario.

Yours Sincerely, Mark Constantine, PhD

Rice farmers in Region Two facing water shortages

The picture shows Nowrang Persaud receiving one of two cheques of Cdn$1500 each from Trevor Subryan

needs of Berbicians.

Currently, the management committee of the Crematorium is pursuing the construction of a spacious car park to provide better accommodation for patrons and more so, to avoid blocking the access road to

the Blairmont Estate cultivation, which happens often, especially when there are large funerals.

Yours sincerely, Management of the Blairmont Crematorium

A victim of circumstances Dear Editor, I hereby declare that the views expressed in this letter are not in any way the views of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), nor are they the views of myself as a Policeman.

This is my personal expression as a citizen of this country who has the right to freedom of speech as empowered by the Constitution of Guyana. The Colwyn Harding fiasco is now engaging the attention of the court of law which commenced on June 3. I am a lawabiding citizen.

I am a serving member of the GPF, with over 12 years' experience and never in the history of my service, was I being discredited as a mem-

Not passing this Bill will affect all of Guyana

ber in any way. I have trust and confidence in the judicial system and the potential results of a trial should be the declaration of my future.

I have been making myself available to the Police at all times, assisting with investigations into Harding’s allegations. It is also my view that some political personnel have exploited the matter to a high extent, so as to tarnish the image of the GPF and by extension, the Government of the day.

I am only obligated to express my honest opinions as it relates to this matter in question. I am being put on trial by some sections of the media which is being done to demoralise me. The media

ought to know that a person is innocent until proven guilty and that an investigation must first be conducted in its entirety to gather information to place before the court of law for a trial to be conducted to ascertain a person’s innocence.

While I received several threats by several means, it is a reflection of how easily ignorant persons can be influenced. I am only a victim of circumstances and my life can be cheaply snuffed out.

I am optimistic that divine guidance and continued protection of God Almighty remains with me for the rest of my life.

Sincerely, D Singh

Dear Editor, Water management has always been crucial for Essequibo rice farmers to help them decide when to sow or to harvest their crops. These observations were based on the present low water level in the main canal, where a number of rice farmers cannot access water to cultivate their crops. Climate change and poor water management by the regional administration means that they can no longer rely on when to sow their crops which have become too irregular.

Weather forecasting by the hydro-meteorological office has never been accurate based on the rains which have now also become too irregular – technology offers a solution but with no weather monitoring network in the region, it's 100 times weaker than the minimum level recommended. The assessment of the affected acreage is not known at the moment, but an indication that 15,000 acres are expected to be af-

fected by water shortage.

Farmers who have no access to irrigation water will feel the consequences if they have to pump water, since this will be an additional cost on the declining prices for paddy. Over the past year, there has been a general decline of paddy price by millers. This trend of pumping water in the fields has become a norm – a practice which was non-uniform and has had more serious consequences for some rice farmers than others who received gravity feed into their lands.

There is no major ongoing schemes like Mahaica/ Mahaicony/Abary/Tapacuma and Black Bush which are examples of principles. Not a single hectare of cultivable land should be allowed to be uncultivated or to give low yields because of the absence of some small facility for proper drainage and irrigation. With the current trend of no irrigation water, it is expected that at some point farmers’ prices will level off.

The implications for these

farmers can be quite serious indeed.

Dawa Pumping Stations is either not being used at all or is producing water below capacity because of a fuel shortage. These pumps have been for the past few years either idle or inefficiently utilised, hence the malfunctions and operating inefficiencies of drainage and irrigation systems because of inadequate maintenance or failure to monitor the regulators.

A visiting El Nino expert in 1998 presented a report to the Agriculture Minister in which ways to combat the water crisis were suggested.

The document contained recommendations and findings relating to water for agricultural purposes. He identified areas where help could be sought, such as funds to purchased items like pumps to provide relief to farmers who have no access to water to irrigate their fields.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

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thursday, june 5, 2014

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O

ne of the main parent pitfalls Supernanny Jo Frost tackles in her sessions with families on the show is failing to set rules because you don’t want to be too tough on your children. Trouble is, this often means parents end up losing control because they’re too soft to enforce boundaries and follow up bad behaviour with consequences.

Few aspects of parenting are as important as discipline. The bottom line is that it helps your child feel secure and determines what kind of person he’ll grow up to be.

Discipline or punishment?

So many parents confuse discipline with punishment and part of Supernanny’s mission is to show parents that managing their children’s behaviour needn’t be a negative experience. See discipline as a way of teaching your child self-control instead of a way of controlling your child, and you’re well on the way to appreciating that it can be a positive learning experience. Once you’ve helped build that sense of self-control you’ve effectively taught your child the skill of disciplining himself.

Why children need rules

Your house rules set limits and boundaries for your child that help him think in an orderly way and get along with other kids and adults. They impact on his academic success – think about how the discipline he learns from you is

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

(continued from Wednesday)

the basis for his behaviour at school – demonstrate that there are consequences to his actions and keep him safe. Helping him stick to the rules will make him way more pleasant to have around and be around and his sense of self-control is a vital skill he can fall back on during his teen years, when making wise decisions may run counter to his desire to rebel.

Keeping it positive

If discipline isn’t the same as punishment, that definitely rules out spanking. Although some parents see it as the ideal short, sharp shock, especially if their child is engaging in behaviour that risks his safety, using it for dayto-day punishment risks teaching your child that physical aggression is OK. Always keep in mind that you’re aiming to teach your child what behaviour is acceptable – not punish him for being bad.

How to discipline when you really don’t want to

Some parents just don’t want to be the bad guy; others let their children get away with doing what they like when and where they like because they’re afraid saying no will result in a tantrum. Others had harsh discipline meted out to them when they were young and don’t want their children to feel the way they did. What you have to remem-

BY CHRISTINA FRANK

ber is that you owe it to your child to raise him to be a responsible adult – and teaching him how to behave is a big part of that. How do you do it?

Be flexible

Don’t see your child as bad

Instead of coming at discipline from the angle that your child has intentionally done something naughty, try to see his acting up as a lapse in judgment.

This makes it easier for you to discipline him in a positive way because you’ll be more inclined to focus on teaching him what’s acceptable.

Make his routine consistent Set regular times for meals, homework and bedtime. If he knows it’s set in stone that he does something at a particular time, he’s less likely to act up when you tell him to go do it.

Don’t make rules he can’t keep

Be reasonable when it comes to the house rules. Involve your child as much as possible in compiling them and before making each rule, think about whether it’s really necessary and whether you might be effectively setting traps for him by laying down laws he can’t possibly stick to. Make sure your rules are appropriate for his age and accept that you might need to be more flexible as he gets older and needs more independence.

Consistently enforce consequences

One of Supernanny’s top rules of discipline is to follow through with

consequences for bad behaviour.

One of the best ways to deter your child from acting up is to show him you – and all his carers – mean business when it comes to consequences – if he thinks you’re a soft touch he won’t have any incentive to follow the rules.

Remove temptation

Young children have very little self-control, so don’t leave temptation in his way. Let’s face it: if he can reach the snack jar he’s sure to raid it half an hour before his dinner is ready! Avoid having to discipline him for it by not leaving behaviour booby traps in his path – instead create an environment that promotes good behaviour.

Watch the dos and don’ts

Reframe your discipline vocabulary. For example, instead of saying, “Josh, don’t snatch that toy from Cody”, say “It’s Cody’s turn to play with that toy now, Josh”. In this way you’re telling your child what to do instead of constantly telling him what not to do. (Supernanny.co.uk)

If you decide to change a rule – whether you’re making it firmer or more lenient – you should explain why. (“I know I’ve let you eat in the living room before, but since we had the accident with the grape juice, I’ve decided that it’s not a good idea.”) “You can sympathise with your child’s disappointment and still stand firm in your decision,” says Virginia Shiller, PhD, author of Rewards for Kids! Ready-to-Use Charts and Activities for Positive Parenting.

Older children, who’ve come to realise that not all rules are written in stone, are likely to lobby for changes. Hear them out: Learning how to negotiate is a valuable skill. Let them explain why they disagree; sometimes they’ll convince you that a rule doesn’t, in fact, make a whole lot of sense.

“I encourage negotiation because it makes my children think about the reason for the rules,” says one mom in Virginia. “We have a ‘no food can be taken upstairs’ rule, but recently my daughter, who’s nine, was having her friend sleep over, and she asked if they could eat upstairs if they spread towels on the floor. I said yes, since it addresses the problem that caused me to make the rule in the first place.”

Of course, though, you don’t want to go totally overboard on negotiation – if a rule is set in stone, say so; don’t be afraid to say “enough” at a certain point in the arguments against it.

Do as they do

To be a good role model and avoid looking like a hypocrite, practise what you preach (though clearly adults are allowed certain privileges, like late-night TV watching, simply because they are adults).

Jennifer Maciejewski recalls the time she and her husband were caught talking with their mouths full by their daughter, Katie, age five, who knows that the family’s dinner-table rules prohibit such uncouth behaviour. “We’ve transgressed in other ways from time to time, too, and have fessed up and freely admitted that we were wrong,” says the Marietta, Georgia, mom. “I think it’s extremely helpful for our children to be assured that the house rules apply to everyone in the family.”

Josh and I are pretty careful to follow the new rules we’ve set for the girls, especially after Lucy caught me sliding down the banister. Trust me: Being busted by a smug four-year-old isn’t fun. (Parenting.com)

NEWS

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thursDay, june 5, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

TravelSpan not intimidated by increasing competition

– sends 14 to Las Vegas to be trained as flight attendants

By Reuben Stoby

G

uyanese-owned airline TravelSpan is not intimidated by increasing competition and is confident nationals will continue to support the airline which they can consider their own.

This is according to TravelSpan General Manager Vanita Jagnarain at a press conference on Wednesday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) where it was announced that TravelSpan will be sending 14 Guyanese to Las Vegas, Nevada to be trained as flight attendants.

Caribbean Airlines, Fly Jamaica and TravelSpan are the three carriers plying the Georgetown-New York route with Dynamic Airlines set to launch its service in Guyana later this week.

Jagnarain stressed that TravelSpan has been receiving good support from Guyanese travellers ever since its return to service to Guyana in December. New scheduled flights from New York and Toronto are to be announced soon.

Jagnarain explained that the airline’s incoming and outgoing flights have been 80 to 90 per cent and 100 per cent filled for certain holidays such as Easter and Mashramani.

“It goes to show that the people want an alternative carrier, nobody wants to stop in the other destinations. People want to go non-stop. So no, we don’t feel threatened because we know the Guyanese people will support the carrier.”

The General Manager also made the point that TravelSpan is basically a

Guyanese carrier, since it is owned by a Guyanese although the company is USbased.

“And especially now that they have these beautiful and talented young individuals working, why would they not want to support these young individuals?”

Committed

Fourteen of the 30 individuals set to join that crew after being shortlisted for training in Las Vegas were introduced to the media before winging out to the US to start their three-week training today.

The training will enable the participants to become certified flight attendants by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The final batch is expected to receive their training by the end of this month.

TravelSpan General Manager Vanita Jagnarain

TravelSpan declined to give a figure on the cost of the overseas training for the 30 individuals, only saying that the initiative was a costly one.

On the question of preventing their flight attendants from being lured by other airlines once they are certified, Jagnarain noted that the flight attendants for other airlines are not based in Guyana. She also said she was “confident that these individuals are committed to TravelSpan and we have received their assurance that they are committed”.

Notably making up the 14-member group was former Miss Guyana Universe and Miss Guyana World Ruqayyah Boyer who told Guyana Times that her new pursuit will help her to continue being an ambassador for Guyana.

Three males are also part of the group, including Yannick December, who said he is keen on proving that males can also make

good flight attendants.

The airline said it received hundreds of applications from across the country and that those shortlisted hail from Bartica, Linden, Berbice and other areas.

TravelSpan noted that this is not the first time it is training Guyanese to become FAA certified attendants, since it did so in 2007 before pulling out of Guyana in 2008.

The airline returned in December with nonstop service between New York and Georgetown at a time when passengers were demanding an alternative carrier on the route after Delta pulled out and EZjet went out of business last year, following the demise of REDjet in 2012.

TravelSpan recently added a new aircraft to its service.

Police to be tried in baton-rape saga

T

he two police officers, Roslyn Tilbury and Devin Singh accused and charged for assaulting and causing actual bodily harm to Colwyn Harding made their second court appearance before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Providence Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday morning.

Speaking to Guyana Times via telephone, the defendants’ lawyer, Attorney Leslie Sobers (he represented the number one accused Devin Singh in the absence of his lawyer), related that the Police Prosecutor assigned to the case, Sergeant Shelon Daniels informed the Court that she wished to recuse herself from prosecuting her colleagues.

“The Prosecutor indicated to the court that she did not wish to prosecute the matter because she was asked to give some statements... so the chances are that another person will be called to prosecute. And to

ensure that there is no likelihood of biasness, it will be fair for her to not prosecute the matter,” Sobers said.

Sobers disclosed too that Singh confided in him that he had felt threatened and fearful for his life and this prompted his jumping of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts fence after being released on bail on Tuesday.

“It was reported to me by Mr Singh because I acted as his lawyer, as his lawyer was absent and the two are charged jointly on one charge; he mentioned that as he was about to emerge from the chute of the court, someone who was holding a camera to his face; that person drew a knife. Upon seeing that, he ran back into the chute, back up the steps and into the court before he made his way out of the court and was caught on camera by the media,” the attorney disclosed.

Asked whether he believes Singh’s statement, Sobers stated that he was

Colwyn Harding

not there at the time and he can only believe what was related to him. “I don’t know whether what Mr Singh is saying is true or not. I was walking with my client coming down the stairs because females do not go through the chute and as we were leaving I saw the journalists

running so I was left wondering what had happened, so I made it my duty to find out from Mr Singh what had transpired and that is what he disclosed to me. So I do not know what transpired,” he responded.

The lawyer explained that the trial will commence on June 24 for the statements to be presented and the Prosecution has its work cut out, since he has requested that they make available to him all the witnesses’ statements which were submitted in the case so that they can be studied, including the statements of those persons who will not be called upon to testify.

“The Prosecutor requested some time since she has a lot of statements to be photocopied and filed. The statements are usually filed

and given to the defence team and those involved in the case so that it can be studied and then after seven days, the matter will be sent to trial. They lost a lot of the statements and so this has not been done. I have made an application for the statements to be made available and I’m sure the other lawyer will do the same. The Prosecutor will have to decide who they are going to call to testify,” Sobers communicated. The two police officers first made their court appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya

Sewnarine-Beharry but were released on bail.

Tilbury and Singh were jointly charged with causing actual bodily harm, while Officer Singh was charged with common assault.

Harding had alleged that he was raped by Singh with a condom-covered baton while he was in custody at the Timehri Police Station in November 2013.

The officers will make their next court appearance at the Providence Magistrates’ Court on June 24 for the statements to be presented and examined.

8 News

thursday, june 5, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

More community support needed to fight child abuse E

ven as the world celebrated World Children’s Day on Sunday, Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) Director Ann Greene said that more could be done for abused children, only if citizens can play an integral role in the prevention and reporting of child abuse in their communities.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times, Greene stated that it was one of the major challenges which the agency continues to fight on a daily basis, since communities are not willing to cooperate and seem to operate on a “minding my own business” disposition.

She noted that this type of behaviour affects not only the work and mandate of the agency, but it put many lives on the risk line.

Using the example of the Port Kaituma fire which claimed the lives of four children, Greene stated that it was widely known that the perpetrator on numerous occasions had made threats, but no one from the community had taken the step to get involved or to report the matter.

Attitude

She opined that the lives of the children and their mother could have been saved if just maybe someone had stopped living with the “minding my own business” attitude, and had reported the matter to the agency or the Police.

On this note, she underscored the importance of the Police having the understanding of the urgency and depth of violence and abuse which are practised on children.

Citing a case which the agency is currently dealing with, the woman stated that the girl was being sexually molested by a close relative of hers. Upon the discovery, the matter was reported to the Police and the man was subsequently arrested but released after 72 hours despite the serious nature of the case.

Greene disclosed that she has spoken to the Director of Public Prosecutors to have him re arrested and charged so that he can stay in Police custody as given the rate of spouse and children killings, he may follow the trend once

CPA Director Ann Greene

released.

Asked what the statistics of the child abuse cases reported and the number of children rescued appeared to be, the Director noted that while she was not at liberty to discuss the statistics until the Minister would have examined it and made a public release, numbers mean nothing when tackling child abuse cases.

In saying this, she explained that the cases reported this year or the number of children rescued does not reflect a true light of the situation in Guyana, as persons who were not bold enough to report a case last year may have done so this year.

Numbers say nothing

“Numbers say nothing. It reflects nothing. I say this because when you look at last year and the years before and you look at this year, so many changes would have taken place in our society. Before, sex and child abuse were taboo subjects. Nobody wanted to talk about it. They were kept as family secrets and so on. However, with the technological age, education and awareness sessions, persons are now more comfortable to talk about it, to report cases of it, albeit not as many as we would like to have reported,” Greene articulated.

The Director stated that many times also persons do not report matters to the agency, since they are of the

view that the agency is all about taking the children away from their parents and guardians. She put this misunderstanding to rest, noting that the agency only takes children out of their own home as a last resort after every other avenue would have failed.

The first resort, she noted is the offer of counselling to the family members who are found to be in need. She noted that if this fails, the child is then taken out of the home temporarily for a month or two at most to facilitate advanced counselling and talks with the agency and its officers.

If this proves to be successful, the child is then returned to his original home.

However, if all fails, the child is then permanently removed from the home and placed in one of the safe houses of the agency, or placed in a foster family.

The Director disclosed that this is done under three conditions: the mental states of the parents; the prevalence of domestic abuse in the home; and the practise of substance abuse.

Greene related that while the agency understands the need for a child to be with his or her own family, the agency ensures that every care is being given to the children at the safe houses so that the absence of the biological family is not felt. To assist in this process, the foster care pro-

gramme is also pushed so that children can be placed in real families and receive the same love and support.

“Institutional care is not the best care for kids.

Sometimes, we cannot give them all individual attention, then there is the bulk food cooking. It has its disadvantages yes, but at the same time it’s the best place for them to be. But to counter that, we have our foster care programme. With the foster care, they are placed in a real family, they can get all the love and support they need and they can have a healthy, normal life,” the woman said.

Greene stressed the need for religious and non-governmental organisations to also get involved in the fight against domestic abuse and child abuse.

She noted that it does not have to be in the form of finance, but they can be the link between the family and the agency as families and communities generally see the agency as one which is “bad” and does not have the child’s best interests at heart.

Major challenge

“Engaging the community is a major challenge. They do not trust the CPA. They seem to have this thinking that once we get involved, we just go and take the child away.

And that is why we need the religious organisations to get involved. Once they get involved, they can serve as links from the family to us. It will benefit all parties if this can be achieved”, she said.

The woman is calling on every Guyanese to get involved, stating that it can go a long way in saving a child’s life.

“Child protection is everyone’s business. We all need to get involved. If you have the slightest suspicion of inclination [sic] that a child is being abused, you call the hotline on 2270979. You do not have to give your name, nothing; and it will go a long way in saving a life or even lives.

And despite what people say about the Child Protection Agency, we will continue to smile and take all the punches that they keep jabbing. At the end of the day, we aren’t the important ones; the children are,” Greene concluded.

Charlestown teacher charged for girlfriend assault A 22-year-old teacher of Charlestown Secondary School ended up in court on Wednesday after his girlfriend of six years accused him of assaulting her during an argument.

It is alleged that on

Sunday, June 2, Ranole Bourne visited the home of his 19-year-old girlfriend, Arianna Caesar, in Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Greater Georgetown and the couple had a misunderstanding.

An argument then en-

sued which resulted in the accused assaulting his partner with whom he has a one- year-old child.

The defendant, of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge when he appeared

before Magistrate Geeta Chandan-Edmond.

The defendant, who was unrepresented by an attorney, was granted bail in the sum of $10,000 and ordered to return to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on June 11.

Eyew tness Smoking guns... ...at Rodney CoI ne thing about Guyana: there’s never a dull moment...with all the goings on by the Opposition politicians. If it’s not Green over at City Hall taking control of the tarmac, or Granger and Ramjattan holding the country to ransom to get their pound of flesh, there’s now the Rodney CoI to keep us on the edge of our chairs. Tuesday’s testimony was a doozy!

On the stand was Joe Hamilton, who used to be with the PNC and with the House of Israel – as he freely admitted. Here’s a fella who clearly demonstrated that no matter how divided we may seem to be – we can work together. Hamilton’s now a PPP MP. But as he showed others in the PNC, if we’re ever going to work together to build this country to what it can be – we have to come clean about the past.

Not like David Granger, for instance. The present PNC leader bluntly refused to concede that the PNC committed any wrongdoing between 1964-1992 – and for which they should apologise. As revealed by one of the participants of the tête-à-tête in Queens NY, Granger feels that youths don’t know about what happened back then, so why should he apologise?

So if youths don’t remember the depravities the PNC committed, they never happened?

And this is where men like Joe Hamilton come in.

And we hope there are many more like him. They hold the key to a Guyana free from hate and malice between Guyanese, simply because of different political beliefs. Hamilton revealed how the PNC used the House of Israel (HOI) to intimidate – through beatings and murder – the political opposition.

It seems Burnham had a special hatred for Rodney.

Burnham could be very petty. While Burnham was said to be “bright”, Rodney blazed like a star in the firmament – and Burnham suffered by comparison.

Rodney had to go!! The House of Israel was given guns – both small arms and automatic rifles. It had long been alleged that 19 G3 rifles – the standard army stock issue – had been passed from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to the House of Israel.

Well, the smoking gun was produced (no pun intended) when the file containing the arms requisition/delivery form was tendered. This is explosive since it bore the signatures of then former GDF Major Mc Pherson and an un-identified HOI official. In all the years, the GDF, including when now Opposition Leader David Granger was at its helm, has always denied this gunrunning to HOI? What says he now?

O

...and whistle blowing PNC’s Basil Williams – in full damage control mode for the PNC – snidely suggested that Hamilton was a “snitch” to reveal the PNC-HOI’s modus operandi. But Hamilton put the PNC Chairman in his place when he retorted that he was merely a “whistleblower”. Not that Williams would know the difference. To wit – that a snitch betrays his friends to feather his own nest.

The archetypical snitch, of course, being the now sweetie-magnate Mook Lall, who sold his friends down the river to the US Embassy – because he wanted his visa reinstated. It was all revealed on the WikiLeaks cables, as you dear readers would well remember.

As Hamilton explained to Williams, a whistleblower takes a moral position on an injustice and reveals information that will bring truth to the surface.

And the truth, of course, is necessary, in this case for any national reconciliation and healing. The killing of Walter Rodney is a litmus test as to the state of readiness of the PNC to walk the walk on this issue.

Hats off to Joe Hamilton for taking a stand on the stand. ...and McPherson Funny how Colonel Godwin McPherson’s name keeps popping up – like a bad penny. Remember the WikiLeaks cable that tied him to a hit list that included the then US ambassador and Donald Ramotar?

news

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thursDay, june 5, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

Govt to crack down on illegal gold trading

Agri Export Diversification Project’s implementation phase ends

…measures to be implemented to increase gold declarations

Participants at the exit workshop of the Agriculture Export Diversification Project (ADP) at the Guyana International Conference Centre

T

GGDMA President Patrick Harding (right) makes a point to Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud (second from right) during the meeting with the Guyana Gold Board and other stakeholders in the gold mining industry

A

crackdown on illegal gold trading entities across the country with the assistance of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is one of the measures to be pursued immediately as Government seeks to increase the level of gold declarations.

This follows a meeting on Wednesday at the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment with Minister Robert Persaud; Chairman of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), Dr. Gobind Ganga; President and executives of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and private dealers.

The GGB data indicates that declarations are below the recorded level for the corresponding period for 2013.

Approximately 136,240 ounces of gold were declared between January and April, while during the same period last year, some 151,758 ounces were declared. The GGDMA and licensed gold dealers were encouraged to support Government’s effort to increase gold declarations. According to a press release from the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, measures were discussed and agreed to improve the level of gold declarations.

Government remains uncompromising It said other measures to be pursued immediately include public sensitization; proactive monitoring and enforcement drive by the GGB regarding undeclared gold transactions; enhanced inter-agency coordination including law enforcement agencies and the Guyana Revenue Authority; stringent enforcement of reporting obligations by miners to be carried by the

Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

The release further stated that Minister Persaud emphasised that Government remains uncompromising in its efforts to ensure full compliance with the laws to deal with the issue of undeclared gold and reports of smuggling, and stakeholders have pledged their support for the measures to be taken.

GGDMA President Patrick Harding recently indicated to Guyana Times that the closure of the suboffice of the GGB in Bartica could be one of the reasons for the reported drop in the declaration of gold here. “That is just part of the reason and, while we always encourage our members to do the right thing, so that Government can get its royalties, the closure of the sub-office has become a real inconvenience to miners wishing to declare their production,” Harding had said.

Unregistered buyers

The GGB’s sub-office in Bartica was closed last month following allegations of staff tampering with gold bought from miners. It is believed that millions of dollars in diverted taxes and royalties were being lost due to the alleged scheme. The Natural Resources Ministry has since launched an investigation into the matter.

Harding said Bartica is the hub of mining activities and closing the sub-office posed many problems for miners, including security concerns.

He added that miners may feel the need to sell their gold to the closest buyer, rather than taking the risk of travelling all the way to Georgetown to declare it It was noted, too, by Harding that it may be tempting for miners to sell their gold to unregistered buyers. “The registered buy-

ers have to pay a two per cent tax and so their buying price would be lesser so as to recover that tax,” he said.

But according to the GGB, the closure of its suboffice in Bartica should not be seen as the main reason for the decline in declarations. It further said the GGB has allowed for a steady increase in the levels of gold declarations over the last 10 years due to its offices in Georgetown, Charity and Bartica, in addition to the assistance of the licensed gold dealers across the country.

“It must be emphasised that the closure of the suboffice in Bartica should not be seen as the main reason for the lower levels of declarations that have been reported for Guyana for the comparative period of 2013 and 2014. The closure of the Region Seven sub-office was necessary to facilitate a transparent investigation by the Guyana Police Force,” the GGB stated in a release on Tuesday. It further said the operations of the licensed dealers are complementary to its undertakings. “The granting of licences to private firms was done to ensure that better levels of declaration can be achieved in the geographic areas where the GGB does not have an office.”

he Agriculture Ministry on Wednesday convened a project exit workshop on behalf of the Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank-funded (IDB) Agriculture Export Diversification Project (ADP).

The workshop, which was held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown engaged a number of relevant stakeholders, and brought to a formal end, a six-year long project, which was being executed by the Ministry’s Agriculture Sector Development Unit (ASDU) in collaboration with technical experts from the bank.

IDB’s Chief Operations Officer, Leslie AnnEdwards, in her remarks, said, “As the developmental partner of choice for many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, the IDB was honoured to have been chosen by the Government of Guyana to undertake with you this very important project. It was an area where we were able to share our technical expertise and those of the sector leaders in Guyana.”

Meanwhile, Minister within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill expressed the hope that through this project, Guyana can set standards and best practices other countries in the region can follow, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported. He said the Government has been con-

tinuously investing in agriculture, as it is seen as the “lifeblood” of many rural families across the country. Over the past six years, under this programme, the Government has spent close to $4.6 billion.

This programme focuses on: promotion of private sector entrepreneurship in agro-businesses; improving the capabilities of agro-businesses export and facilitation services; strengthening and consolidating agricultural health and food-safety services as well as drainage and irrigation rehabilitation.

Business facilitation centres

The Minister reminded that “the benefits of this programme must be carefully examined and not just be seen as another programme that was executed and completed”. He said the state-of-the-art Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, which was one of the major achievements under the ADP, can service the entire livestock sector and expressed the hope that very soon Guyana would become a major meat exporter to the Caribbean Region and even farther afield.

Through this programme, business facilitation centres were established in Regions Two, Three, Five, Six and 10.

These centres are designed to assist farmers in research and identification of market opportunities.

Minister Edghill also spoke of the legislative framework that was put in place by the Government to further consolidate the gains

of this programme. These include the Plant, Animal and Seeds Act and the Food Safety Act. Training was also conducted in areas such as: safe use and management of pesticides, agro-businesses, marketing and post-harvest management, and sustainable agriculturalpractices.

Minister Edghill said while the Government will continue to provide the infrastructure, the enabling environment while creating the opportunities, the beneficiaries must make maximum use of these investments.

In 2008, the Government undertook a loan agreement with the IDB to the value of US $20M, with the overarching goal of increasing Guyana’s export growth rate and reducing volatility with respect to the agriculture sector.

In addition to the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, some of the other achievements include: establishment of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA); National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI); artificial insemination laboratory at Mon Repos; importation of animals for the breeding enhancing programme; construction of quarantine outposts at St Ignatius and Mabura; rehabilitation of Canals Polder drainage and irrigation structures; and the provision of loans and grants to farmers under cluster groups among others.

Mexico announces scholarships for international students

T

he Embassy of Mexico in Guyana is pleased to announce the posting of the 2015 Call for Mexican Government Scholarships for International Students, which will remain open until July 31.

Seventy-five top

Mexican universities are offering academic programmes, and Guyanese candidates can benefit from a six-month Spanish immersion course in Mexico before the beginning of the academic year.

The 2015 Scholarships

Programme is opened for students interested in studying at the masters or doctoral level, in graduate or post-doctoral research programmes, or medical specialties. Studies not eligible for the scholarship include business management, plas-

tic surgery, accounting, marketing, dentistry and advertising.

Interested persons can contact the Mexican Embassy, Cultural Affairs Section on telephone number 226-3987 through 90, extension 233.

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guyanatimesgy.com

t hursday, june 5, 2014

News

Police Dog handler remanded on cocaine trafficking charge

T

he Police dog handler implicated by an accused cocaine trafficker in the attempted smuggling of more than three kilos of cocaine through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was remanded to prison on Wednesday.

Twenty-eight-yearold Javon David, of Hyde Park, Timehri, East Bank Demerara, was arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-

Beharry on the charge of trafficking narcotics.

The court was told that on Friday, May 23, at the CJIA where the defendant was stationed as a dog handler in the Narcotics Branch of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), he procured baggage handler Eon Persaud to traffic 3.498 kilograms of cocaine.

Persaud and 20-year-old Alex Seymour, who are currently on remand, were intercepted with the illicit drug on

the day in question.

The defendant was represented by Attorney Peter Hugh who stated that Persaud was already charged for the matter and there is no evidence against his client except for the allegations made by Persaud.

He further made an application for reasonable bail for David, claiming his client was detained for 12 days and ill-treated.

However, Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU)

Prosecutor Oswald Massiah successfully objected to bail on the grounds that no special reason was provided and refuted the charge of mistreatment.

The defendant is scheduled to appear at the Providence Magistrate’s Court on June 6 for statements to be made.

David is the second narcotics Police dog handler arrested in less than one month in connection with narcotrafficking.

Taxi driver accused of property damage, simple larceny, and fraud

T

axi driver Eon Thompson who allegedly damaged the car

he was renting and then stole several auto parts and accessories after misappro-

priating an insurance payment was arraigned in the Georgetown Magistrates’

Courts on Wednesday.

Thompson was slapped with three charges: damage to property, simple larceny, and fraudulent conversion.

It is alleged that between Friday, April 4 and Tuesday, April 29, the Virtual Complainant Troy Alstrom gave his car to the defendant for the purpose of working it as a taxi. The VC also gave to the defendant the sum of $60,000 to pay to Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire and Life Insurance Companies (GTM); however, he fraudulently converted the money for his own personal use.

Thompson is also accused of damaging one visor valued $15,000 and stealing one 21’’ pioneer speaker valued $30,000, two seat coverings valued $6000, one log spanner valued $3000 and a jack valued $9000.

Magistrate Faith McGusty granted the defendant bail in the sum of $125,000 under the condition that he reports regularly to the Brickdam Police Station. He is to return to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on June 27.

Will Yam bitchin bout snitchin

O

ld people seh when mouth open, story does jump out. Fuh some people, it does even be a mek up story just because dem like to mek up tings...just like how a man de other day mek he house slave mek up a story bout how guvament stop he from bringin people in to look after he business.

Is a good ting Rohee shut he up. And now every body know that mek up story begin wid ‘once upon a time’ and it end wid ‘happily ever after’, which even lil pickney know is a fairy tale story.

Well, talkin bout story jump out, plenty people mouth open at de Rodney CoI and plenty story jump out. And dem story that jump out is not no mek up story. Dem story that jump out got a lotta people jumpin in dem underwear.

In fact, this is a CoI that had people jumpin even before it start. And now that it start, it got Will Yam jumpin up from he seat every time a witness talk bout de Pee-N-Cee skalliwags. De other day, Will Yam was quick to jump up every time Joe Ham talk bout Burnt Ham and Green Ham. Will Yam end up behavin like a bitch and he call Joe Ham a snitch. Well, if any body wanna know bout a snitch, just look at de same man who mek he house slave tell de once upon a time story and yuh gotta perfect picture.

But Will Yam only bitchin because he tink Joe Ham snitchin. That sound like Will Yam admittin that de Pee-N-Cee got some ting in hidin fuh de Rodney killin. And now dem jumpin because people talkin.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Well, Will Yam was also hopin that Joe Ham don’t blow any whistle. That is because Will Yam only like when Rum Jhaat blow whistle. Was only de other day Rum Jhaat had blow some body whistle at de bank pun Water Street. And Will Yam had really like Rum Jhaat blowin!

School of the Nations offering Art classes for Cambridge certification

S lic.

chool of the Nations has announced the commencement of its first session of Art Classes being offered to the pub-

The classes which are scheduled to start on June 10th, 2014 at the school’s 41-42 New Market & Main Streets, Georgetown location will run for six weeks. The classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 15:00h to 17:00h in the school’s Art Room.

According to the school, the comprehensive six week art programme has been created to provide both practical and theoretical Art Classes to individuals who are interested in developing their artistic skills and or pursuing a Cambridge certification in Art. The sessions will be conducted in a relaxed working environment with studentshaving the opportunity to explore several mediums and investigate their own creative ideas and techniques. Subjects will range from exploring various types of art, drawing techniques, landscapes, perspective, shading, portraits and composition, to the colour wheel and how to mix colours.

Each student will work on his/her own exciting art projects as well as participate in group activities which will challenge the students’ creative minds. Individual attention will be provided in an atmosphere of fun

and discovery.

Students should be prepared to meet new friends with creative minds and have fun learning important principles of modern art. The cost for the classes is $12,000 and registration will be done at the school’s front office.

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thursday, june 5, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

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Skeldon Estate surpasses first crop target Action needed to safeguard T world’s forest genetic diversity

he Skeldon Estate has surpassed its target of 13,795 tonnes of sugar for the first crop this year by 40 tonnes, comparing more than favourably with the actual production of 4994 and 6633 tonnes in 2013 and 2012, first crops, respectively.

The cane yield recorded in the first crop this year is 60.5 tonnes cane per hectare (TCH) against a budget of 42.4 TCH. It is the highest actual TCH compared to the yields recorded in the first crop of 2013 and 2012 of 41.5 TCH and 55.3 TCH, respectively.

The tonnes of cane per tonnes of sugar (TC/TS) is17.39 this year, having outperformed those of 2013 and 2012 when 17.86 and 19.69 were recorded, respectively.

In the period January to May this year, the estate has supplied 26,431 MW/ HR or an average of 5,286

President Donald Ramotar at the Skeldon factory in the control area. The President is being shown how the factory operates by staff of the estate (file photo)

MW/HR to the national grid that extends from Skeldon via the 69KV lines to Number 53 sub-station onwards to Mahaica on the East Coast of Demerara.

The monthly average for 2013 and 2012 was 4390 and 2996, respectively.

In the second crop this

year, which is anticipated to commence on August 2 and run for 14 weeks, Skeldon Estate is targeted to process 363,284 tonnes of cane to produce 26,969 tonnes sugar with TC/TS of 13.47. Total sugar production this year should be approximately 40,800; com-

pared to 33,309 and 25,380 in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Between the conclusion of the first crop and the commencement of the second crop, the estate is scheduled to undergo extensive engineering work in the factory. There will be the replacement of hydraulic components on both punt dumpers such as control valves and lifting/tilting cylinders so as to improve the reliability of the dumpers to sustain an hourly throughput of 220 tonnes cane.

Modification of the outboard punt dumper was awarded to an external contractor, and this project is anticipated to be completed in January 2015. Additional works include replacement of process pumps, isolation valves to evaporators and continuous vacuum pans and air heater tubes on number two boiler.

Farfan and Mendes employees excel at London exams

An official with persons who completed the Award in Customer Service D elivery programme

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he City and Guilds of London approved centre, JTW & Associates Management Institute Inc recently completed training their third batch of students in the Award in Customer Service Delivery course.

Nine students were presented with certificates last week in the training room of the Private Sector Commission. Three students from Farfan and Mendes (Melissa Craig, Wilford Machado and Tiffany

Marshall) and another private student (Jenel Thompson) secured distinctions in the London certified qualification.

According to a release, the Award in Customer Service Delivery is designed for candidates involved in the delivery of customer service.

It said the course is designed principally for employed people, many of whom have not had the opportunity to have their skills accredited.

“It is also appropriate for those

entering customer service delivery roles as a first job, or those moving into customer service roles from other areas of employment.

“It serves as a stepping stone to further qualifications and as freestanding evidence of awareness and attainment in customer service delivery.

“JTW Management Institute Inc, the local approved Centre of City and Guilds of London, extends congratulations to all nine students who passed the examination,” the release said.

JTW Management Institute will be introducing a shorter seven-hour City and Guilds customer service course from July 2014, intended for school leavers and entry level positions in companies, or for those on the job who need a short certified course.

The modules will be in hospitality service, conflict handling and selling. A Certificate in Business Skills is also being planned for September 2014. Persons of all ages (over 16) are encouraged to contact the institute to enroll. No previous qualifications are required.

Region Two Administration to consult more with residents – to ensure greater accountability and transparency on public projects

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he Region Two Administration will be holding public meetings to garner residents’ views on Government’s projects and programmes as it seeks to provide greater accountability and transparency.

This disclosure was made by Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud, who said the first meeting will be held on June 12 in the boardroom of Regional Democratic Council, Anna Regina, Region Two. The Chairman explained that the meeting will focus on Government’s programmes and gives residents an opportunity to share their input with re-

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud

gional officials.

The meeting

will

be

attended by the various heads of department of the

region and officials will be required to provide on the spot responses to queries raised.

There have been reports of residents expressing dissatisfaction with works undertaken on public projects, and according to the Chairman; the meetings will serve the purpose of reaching out to residents to ally their concerns.

He called on residents to make full use of the opportunity, pointing out that public consultations are the way forward in addressing residents’ concerns.

Regional officials also will use the opportunity to discuss current and future plans of the region.

Women raising seedlings in a tree nursery at the Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding, India

F

AO on Wednesday urged countries to improve data gathering and research to promote the conservation and sustainable management of the world’s forest genetic resources, which are coming under increasing pressure.

According to the first-ever edition of “The State of the World’s Forest Genetic Resources” report, half of the forest species reported as regularly utilised by countries are threatened by the conversion of forests to pastures and farmland, overexploitation, and the impacts of climate change.

“Forests provide food, goods and services which are essential to the survival and well-being of all humanity. These benefits all rely on safeguarding the rich store of the world’s forest genetic diversity – which is increasingly at risk,” said FAO Assistant Director General for Forestry Eduardo RojasBriales.

“This report constitutes a major step in building the information and knowledge base required for action towards better conservation and sustainable management of the planet’s precious forest genetic resources,” he added.

Linda Collette, Secretary of the FAO Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA), said: “Data from 86 countries illustrate that insufficient awareness of the importance of forest genetic resources in improving forest production and enhancing ecosystems, often translate into national policies that are partial, ineffective, or non-existent.”

Genetic diversity critical

Collette added: “Only about three per cent of the world’s tree species are actively managed.

Governments need to act and implement the Global Plan of Action for Forest Genetic Resources and FAO and its Commission stand ready to guide, support and assist countries in the conservation and sustainable use of forest genetic re-

sources.”

The contribution of forests and trees to boosting food security, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development depends on the availability of a rich diversity of tree species.

Biodiversity in forest genetic resources is essential to improving both forest species’ productivity and the nutritional value of the foods they produce – which includes leafy vegetables, honey, fruits, seeds, nuts, roots, tubers and mushrooms.

Genetic diversity allows breeders to increase their production in quality and quantity. A wide variability in desirable traits, such as fruit size, growing speed, oil composition and pulp proportion is a prerequisite for breeding and domesticating improved tree species.

At the same time, genetic diversity is needed to ensure that forests can adapt to changing environmental conditions, including those stemming from climate change, and also strengthens their resilience to stresses such as pests and disease.

Additionally, the inclusion of diverse tree varieties in agro-forestry systems can reduce farmers’ production risks and provide nutrients to consumers all year round, the report stressed.

Today’s report covers 8000 species of trees, shrubs, palms and bamboo that are among the most utilised by humans.

However, overall the number of existing tree species in the world is estimated at between 80,000 and 100,000, it notes.

Of that total, around 2400 (around three per cent) are actively managed for the products and services they provide.

Just around 700 species are actively improved through selection or breeding, meaning that less than one per cent of all existing tree species are being assessed for improved production and adaptability in different planting site conditions or under selection or breeding programmes.

news

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thursday, june 5, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Mining sector hampered by crime, poor infrastructure – GGMC

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oor physical, and in some cases non-existent infrastructure, insufficient enforcement of forestry and mining regulations, ineffective security measure and the impending cessation of the use of mercury in gold recovery continue to bedevil the mining sector of Guyana.

Nevertheless, several plans to avert a crisis are currently being implemented by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), with the intention of boosting the sector and increasing gold production.

These projects are going to be implemented under the stewardship of recently installed GGMC Chairman Clinton Williams, who in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, said this course of action would be taken to catapult the mining sector into the future.

Williams explained that one of the most prevalent issues affecting the mining sector was the intended termination in the use of mercury to extract gold.

The announcement had created a stir in the industry.

Miners had objected to the move, citing that mercury was a cheaper way to extract gold, but the GGMC had maintained that mercury is dangerous to human health and the ecology system.

Williams during the interview highlighted that as a part of a $1 billion project, the GGMC would be working with the miners and manufacturers to develop machine prototypes that would render mercury useless in the recovery process, and at the same time be affordable to the miners.

Poor security

Another factor that has severe impacted the mining sector, Williams pointed out was the apparent “ineffective security measures for the protection of mines and prevention of incidents such as trafficking in persons”.

Persons working in the mines are now fearful for their lives, possibly due to the inaction of the Guyana Police Force

GGMC Chairman Clinton Williams

in the discharge of their mandate in those areas.

“People are getting killed over an ounce of gold, bandits raiding camps when it is time for wash down,” Williams said even though there is Police presence.

He also called for more physical and social infrastructures in mining districts, pointing out that the road from Parika to Goshen is a great project.

“Our mandate, decrees us to among other things, develop the mining sector... this particular road is intended to open up a lot of mining areas... we are doing it on the basis that it will assist in that regard, directly and indirectly,” said Williams.

He pointed out that the GGMC is currently reviewing the design and supervisory tenders that would have been submitted by prospective contractors of the project.

Commencement of project

When questioned on a prospective date for the completion of works on the road project, Williams said the project is set to commence in the “third or fourth quarter” of this year, pointing out that there is a lengthy statutory process be-

fore money is approved for the road.

When questions were raised in the National Assembly on the execution of the project, Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud had stated that the initiative was a mining project; hence, it was possible for the GGMC to provide funding.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) Joe Harmon, who had raised the question, had also enquired about the basis of the project and what role the Public Works Ministry would play in its undertaking.

Persaud had said that the design, execution and maintenance of hinterland roads have long been supported by the Ministry’s regulatory agency, the GGMC. He further explained that with fluctuation in gold prices, miners have been forced to find means of reducing cost.

Under the Government’s programme of support for miners, a number of initiatives have been explored with relevant stakeholders, one of which was a more direct route into mining communities; hence, the movement to construct the road.

Minister Persaud had said that to ensure coordination of hinterland road works, the Hinterland Infrastructural Committee (HIC) for mining areas was established in 2012.

The committee has been involved in reviewing and making recommendations for improving institutional arrangements for hinterland infrastructure management and development.

The HIC also reviews and makes recommendations for improving operational and procedural arrangements for the management and development of hinterland infrastructure, and the development of a national infrastructure plan with emphasis on forestry and mining.

15 cases of chikungunya confirmed thus far

H

earth Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran on Wednesday reported that 15 cases of chikungunya has been confirmed thus far.

Dr Ramsaran said the discovery was made after 130 blood samples were sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), in Trinidad, for testing. The samples were sent after individuals showed signs of the illness.

He said Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Shamdeo Persaud has established a case definition for the illness based on which the hospitals took samples of individuals who fit the case definition, and sent them to the institute to be tested.

An additional 82 suspected cases have been identified by the New Amsterdam Hospital as they suit the case definition.

The 11 cases reported earlier from New Amsterdam and Port Mourant, indicated that the disease has now spread even further across the region.

Prior to this confirmation, two cases were found, one in a toddler, and another in a woman who is said to be in her forties, from Cumberland and Canefield, Canje, Region Six. This resulted in the Ministry heightening its Vector Control Services (VCS) in the region, placing emphasis on fogging and spraying. These efforts will now be further enhanced, through an expansion in the team and more work done with regards to spraying and fogging.

Working closely

Vector Control Services Director, Dr Reyaud Rahman said the team which is currently in Region Six is fully equipped and has also been involved in mist blowing and abatement in the region.

More so, the Ministry also has a very strong public awareness campaign, as representatives of the Ministry have been doing a lot of sensitisation on the disease countrywide.

Minister Ramsaran added that the Ministry has been working closely with the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) and the Regional Executive Officers (REO)

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud

in a collaborative effort to help to curtail the spread of the disease.

The Ministry has already identified the ports of entry for strict monitoring. Health centres have been alerted and have available medication for the effective treatment of any vector borne disease.

Dr Ramsaran said no trace of the disease has yet been observed in West Berbice, but Region Five is on alert and has shown great cooperation in the fight.

Fogging exercises are currently ongoing in the capital city. Chikungunya is an arthropod-borne virus that is transmitted to humans by the virus-carrying Aedes Aegypti mosquito. It is transmitted similarly to dengue fever and causes an illness with an acute febrile phase lasting two to five days.

It can result in some long-term effects, primarily joint pain, and causes moderate to severe illness.

Depending on an individual’s body reaction after the incubation period, persons may experience pain even after seeking medical attention. This period can last from two to six days with symptoms lasting four to seven days after infection.

Individuals experiencing any such symptoms are asked to visit a health facility as soon as possible. Individuals are also asked to remove all containers that may retain water and breed mosquitoes.

Argentina celebrates 204th anniversary of May Revolution

Argentina’s Ambassador Luis Martino toasts with Prime Minister Samuels Hinds at the 204th anniversary event (Treiston Joseph photo)

A section of the gathering at the event

n a display of class and elegance, the Argentine Embassy held a cultural event at the Pegasus Hotel to commemorate the 204th anniversary of their May 1810 revolution.

The great revolution eventually resulted in Argentine’s independence, which was formally issued on July 9, 1816.

With the reopening of

initiatives that we were able to implement throughout the past year, which I think are a good starting point for the development of a very fruitful bilateral relationship between Guyana and Argentina,” Martino noted.

Martino was very optimistic about the future of the Argentina/Guyana relationship.

I

the Argentine Embassy here in 2013, Argentina’s Ambassador to Guyana Luis Martino was quick to note to the well attended event, that his country is proud to be partners with the Government of Guyana.

“I would also like to highlight that in July 2013, Guyana, together with Suriname, have become as-

sociate members of the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) and the offer of the Argentine Government to facilitate the establishment of a Caricom regional office in Buenos Aires is yet another example of Argentina’s commitment to further develop relations and integration within the Caribbean region.

These are just a few of the

“Negotiations are currently under way to conclude cooperation agreements in agriculture, culture, sport and the establishment of a permanent consultative mechanism on matters of mutual interest and we are exploring the possibility to cooperate in other areas such as health, tourism and protected areas,” Martino stated.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who was present at the event, congratulated Argentina on the achievement of the revolution, noting that Guyana faced similar struggles.

The event concluded with a number of high ranking officials and guests meeting and greeting each other.

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thursday, june 5, 2014

Regional

Media making pornography Haiti plans to extend literacy to over 700,000 by 2016 out of crime – British High Commissioner H

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he media in TT could be a voice for change but instead they make pornography out of crime, says British High Commissioner Arthur Snell.

Snell, a member of the Rotary Club, was delivering the feature address at the club’s luncheon at Goodwill Industries, Fitz Blackman Drive, Port of Spain, on Tuesday. Focusing on the topic, Taking Responsibility, Snell also zeroed in on the issue of childhood.

He referred to nine-yearold Jadel Holder, who was murdered with his brother, Jamal Brathwaite, 15, at their home at Coconut Drive, Morvant, on Sunday.

Holder and Brathwaite were made to lie down and shot in the head at point-blank

British High Commissioner Arthur Snell

range. Snell said: “What does it mean to be a nineyear-old boy? “That’s a transitional age. You are a little child but you are now becoming aware of the adult

world. Maybe you are just discovering that your parents are not always right.

“Sometimes you ask them a question and they don’t have an answer. The nine-year-old boys that I know still like a really cool toy that does something clever.” Before shock, outrage and horror could be expressed over the incident, he said, it was important to note how it was reported.

He quoted media reports in which people who were interviewed shortly after the murders said sooner or later they were bound to happen. One neighbour reported the boys kept bad company while another described Holder and Brathwaite as “terrors.” (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

aiti’s Government has launched an aggressive literacy campaign targeting nearly half a million Haitians, following a programme which has already helped over 282,000 illiterate to learn how to write and read since the President Michel Martelly took office in 2011.

The Haitian Secretary of State for Literacy, Oswald Thimoleon, said since Martelly’s inauguration of about three years ago, 149,300 people were taught to write and read up to April 2013 and from March of the same year to present, an additional 133,000 Haitian adults have become literate.

The Haitian Government has launched this year an aggressive literacy campaign to reach 450,000 people over the next two year, 225,000 each annually, according to Thimoleon.

“Our goal is to eliminate analphabetism throughout the country and we have already done significant efforts in that direction,” Thimoleon told the Haitian-Caribbean News Network (HCNN) on Tuesday.

Haitian Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe announced recently a special plan to speed and expand literacy programme in some particularly vulnerable communi-

Haiti’s Secretary of State for Literacy Oswald Thimoleon

ties in several parts of the country, where the Government wants illiteracy completely eliminated within the next two years.

These small communities include the Bernard Gousse neighbourhoods in the Southern Grand’Anse region, where nearly 5000 are to be taught how to write and read.

(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Bob Marley copyright FBI in St Kitts-Nevis Donnie McClurkin to train not investigate, donates J$60M in medical trial: Company loses supplies to Jamaica bid to win back rights says Police chief

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aw enforcement officials in St Kitts and Nevis have stated that personnel from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are there to conduct training of security personnel and not investigations of any sort.

Police Commissioner Celvin G Walwyn said that St Kitts and Nevis is a sovereign country and, if any external agencies wish to conduct inquiries, his office would have to be informed.

“As of date, I have not been notified of any investigation by any external agency and there are no FBI agents here [in St Kitts and Nevis] conducting any investigations,” he stated categorically.

“We do have FBI agents here but they were in-

vited by me, through the United States Department of Justice [Regional Legal Advisor for the Caribbean] Major Coleman to conduct some much needed training which is what we are doing this week. With reference to the allegations they are nil, they are void. There is no such investigation happening in the Federation,” he explained.

Reports were recently published in local media that the US Justice Department (of which the FBI is part) “is concerned about several Federation citizens who have bank accounts containing funds of up to eight figures – many times more than they could earn by working at their trade or profession.” (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

T

he public health sector received a gift of medical supplies valued at more than J$60 million from well-known American gospel singer Donnie McClurkin on Monday afternoon.

Health Minister, Dr Fenton Ferguson accepted the donation of syringes, medication, surgical tools and equipment which, he said, will be supplied on a demand basis to hospitals and health centres across the island.

Addressing the presentation ceremony at The Courtleigh Hotel and Suites in New Kingston, Ferguson said that donations amount to 20 to 30 per cent of the Health Ministry’s overall budget, down from about 80 per cent three years ago.

“This year we have a cur-

rent budget somewhere in the region of J$34.7 billion.

But, even as we have that budget, there are still significant gaps in our ability to respond to the needs of our people,” the Minister said.

McClurkin said he made the donation because of his love for Jamaica and its culture, adding that one of his albums contains tracks that were inspired by Jamaican gospel songs.

Over the last 15 years, the Ministry has received external assistance on several occasions; 560 wheelchairs in 2002, J$75 million in supplies in 2005, and more than J$16 million in supplies last year. The Ministry also receives donations from the World Bank and Global Fund. (Jamaica Observer)

A

music company has lost its bid to win back the rights to 13 Bob Marley songs after a court battle in London. Cayman Music had attempted to retrieve the rights to songs including “No Woman”, No Cry”.

It claimed they were not included when it sold some of its rights in 1992 to Blue Mountain Music, as Marley, who died in 1981, had penned them under other people’s names.

However the judge agreed the copyright had “passed” under the 1992 agreement.

Lawyers for Blue Mountain, who administer royalties for Marley’s works, said they accepted the singer had “falsely claimed” the tracks – written between 1973 and 1976 – had been composed by other people in an attempt

to “escape the automatic assignment of their copyright to Cayman”.

But they said the “plain intention” of the two companies’ agreement was to “transfer all rights”, arguing on the “straightforward application of ordinary principles of contract law” the claim had to be dismissed.

In his written ruling, deputy High Court judge Richard Meade concluded Cayman had no rights to the songs because “Marley did not publicly describe himself as the author”.

“He deliberately misattributed their authorship to various friends and associates. It is clear that his object in doing so was to gain control of the copyrights in the works and gain remuneration from them.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Non-national is first confirmed case UWI Economist Dr Roger Hosein: TT needs to leverage of chikungunya virus in Barbados China’s presence in region

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rade is imperative for small developing island economies like TT, said Dr Roger Hosein, senior lecturer, University of the West Indies (UWI). This conclusion is also the thrust of his new book, Applications of International Trade Theory: The Caribbean Perspective.

“Small economies are connected to the world via trade. Trade is the umbilical cord that drives their growth. When I started to teach the course, all the material available was foreign, based on a foreign culture with foreign examples and foreign data sets. I found

that unacceptable. This book explores the main ideas, concepts and theories from the trade literature against the backdrop of a Caribbean setting,” Hosein told the Business Guardian last Thursday by email. On May 20, two books were launched at the Office of the Principal, UWI, St Augustine.

One of the themes Hosein explored in book is the rise of China and trade with the Caribbean. “Globalisation will not be easily reversed.

China presents both opportunities and threats for TT and the Caricom. The challenge is to make use of the opportunities while mini-

mising the threats. For example, the rapidly growing Chinese economy requires vast amounts of raw materials and is also making significant foreign direct investment (FDI) excursions abroad. Their tourism outflow has been rapidly increasing and there are opportunities here. We need to tap into them. At the same time, some economists have argued about the downgrading of labour standards that are associated with the Chinese work ethic and along these lines, host economies would need to be careful,” he said. (Excerpt from Trinidad

Guardian)

B

arbados on Wednesday confirmed a case of the chikungunya virus on the island with Health Minister John Boyce, saying the infected patient is a non-national, who has since re-

turned home.

The nationality of the person has not been disclosed. Boyce told a news conference that the sample was one of seven sent to the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency

(CARPHA) last week.

Boyce said, “Our public health officials will continue to undertake all corrective measures as are needed at this time to address the situation, including fogging, enhanced surveillance of ports of entry, collection and analysis of data from the various public healthcare facilities, education and other source reduction activities.

He added, “I want to again encourage all Barbadians to cooperate with the Ministry of Health by following the public health guidance which is given by us and the officers who are placed in the position of leadership in this regard”. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

15 Around the world thursday, june 5, 2014

guyanatimesgy.com

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad wins third term

President Bashar al-Assad’s win was seen by many as a foregone conclusion

S

yrian President Bashar al-Assad has won a third term in office after securing 88.7 per cent of votes in Tuesday’s presidential election, the parliamentary speaker has announced.

Earlier, Syria’s constitutional court put the voter turnout at 73.47 per cent. Voting took place in

Government-controlled areas, but not in parts of the north and east held by rebels. Tens of thousands of people have died in three years of civil war in Syria, with millions more displaced.

President Assad’s key challengers; Hassan al-Nouri and Maher Hajjar, received 4.3 per cent and 3.2 per cent of the vote respectively. It

was the first time in decades that more than one person – outside of the Assad family – had been allowed to stand as presidential candidate.

But Assad’s critics and the Syrian Opposition in rebel-held areas have dismissed the election as a farce, arguing that it has no credibility in the midst of a civil war.

The Opposition’s allies in the West also denounced the ballot, with US Secretary of State John Kerry, on a visit to neighbouring Lebanon, describing it as “meaningless”.

The results of the election were announced by parliamentary speaker Mohammad al-Laham on Wednesday. “I declare the victory of Dr Bashar Hafez al-Assad as President of the Syrian Arab Republic with an absolute majority of the votes cast in the election,” he announced in a televised address. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Narendra Modi, Barack Obama will meet in Washington in September

I

n what is probably the most significant foreign policy decision taken since he became Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has confirmed to US President Barack Obama that he will have a bilateral meeting with him in Washington in the last week of September this year.

Obama had invited Modi to the US when he called up the PM to congratulate him.

Significantly, the meeting won’t happen on the sidelines of the United Nations general assembly in New York but in the form of a full-fledged bilateral summit in Washington.

The two sides are finalising the date for the meeting which will be in the last week of September, Times of India has learnt.

The Modi-Obama summit promises to be one of the foremost international events of the year and will

The meeting between PM Narendra Modi (right) and US President Barack Obama won’t happen on the sidelines of the United Nations general assembly in New York, but in the form of a fullfledged bilateral summit in Washington

overshadow Modi’s presence at UNGA, if he decides to go to New York too.

In taking the decision, Modi has shown that his own predilections, if any, won’t come in the way of ties with the US. He has, in fact, acted with alacrity and decisive-

ness on what many believe is going to be one of the biggest immediate challenges for India’s foreign policy – that of mending India-US ties which had tapered off under UPA-2 and then nosedived with l’affaire Khobragade. (Excerpt

from Times of India)

Ebola death toll US unveils ambitious Hong Kong vigil marks Tiananmen hits 208 in Guinea plan to fight

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ome 208 people have now died from the Ebola virus in Guinea after a deadly spike in recent days, world health officials say.

At least 21 people died and 37 new cases of suspected Ebola were found between May 29 and June 1, bringing the total number of cases in the West African country to 328.

Of these, 193 have been confirmed by laboratory tests. There is no cure or vaccine for Ebola – one of the world’s deadliest viruses.

More than half of the new deaths were in the southern Guekedou region, where the outbreak is centred. Three confirmed and 10 suspected new cases were recorded in neighbouring Sierra Leone over the same period.

Six people are believed

to have died there, as well as 10 in Liberia.

Medical charities say one reason for the increase is that some people are refusing to go to hospital for treatment, preferring to seek help from traditional healers.

Ebola, a haemorrhagic fever, can kill up to 90 per cent of those infected and is passed on through contact with the fluids of infected people or animals, such as urine, sweat and blood.

But people have a better chance of surviving if it is identified early and they receive medical attention.

Experts from the World Health Organisation and the Doctors Without Borders charity are in the region, and about 600 people are under observation after having possible contact with Ebola. (Excerpt from

BBC News)

climate change

U

S President Barack Obama’s Administration announced an ambitious plan on Monday to introduce a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation ordering the nation’s power plants to cut carbon emissions by 30 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030.

The proposal is one of the most significant actions ever taken by the United States Government to fight against climate change. Power plants account for some 40 per cent of US emissions of carbon dioxide, the most common greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Cuts are a politically sensitive issue because coal, a major polluter, remains an important industry in the country.

The move comes amid

mounting signs of climate change around the world.

A UN panel of scientists warned in April that countries needed to act urgently to avoid worst-case scenarios, which could include increased droughts, storms and coastline destruction.

The Obama Administration sought to cast the decision as primarily focused on public health. The environmental regulator said that the cuts would prevent up to 6600 premature deaths and up to 150,000 asthma attacks in children.

“By leveraging cleaner energy sources and cutting energy waste, this plan will clean the air we breathe while helping slow climate change so we can leave a safe and healthy future for our kids,” said Gina McCarthy, the agency’s administrator. (Excerpt from France24)

Ireland considers inquiry into children’s mass grave

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he Irish Government is considering an inquiry after the remains of nearly 800 children were discovered in an unmarked grave at a former home for unmarried mothers run by the Catholic Church.

The remains were interred in a concrete septic tank in the grounds of the home in Tuam, County

Galway. The children, aged between two days and nine years, died between 1925 and 1961.

The grave was found nearly 40 years ago, but the remains were initially believed to be from the 1850s famine. However, local historian Catherine Corless found that the register of deaths and burials in the town did not match.

“I went to the births, deaths, marriages registration office in Galway and I asked them would they have records of the children who died at the home,” she told the BBC. “When she came back to me, she said, ‘We have the records... but there’s quite a number.’ I was staggered and I was shocked because there’s a total number of 796 ba-

bies, children and toddlers buried in one mass grave there on that site.”

Funds are now being raised to erect a permanent memorial to the dead children.

Ireland’s Catholic Church has recently been affected by a series of allegations of abuse and neglect of children who were in its care. (Excerpt from BBC News)

anniversary

A Chinese man stood up alone to block a line of tanks from entering Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989

T

ens of thousands of people held a candlelight vigil in Hong Kong to mark the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters 25 years ago in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, while mainland China sought to censor any mention of the 1989 event.

Demonstrators holding candles and clad mainly in black, gathered in a downtown park in Hong Kong on Wednesday, and called on Beijing to atone for the killings.

Organisers said some 180,000 people took part of the event in the former British colony, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997 but remains a freewheeling, capitalist hub.

People bowed to pay their respects as footage of the clampdown was shown

on large screens. “This event must be instilled in everyone’s heart. We can’t let time dilute this,” said 19-year-old student Anna Lau. A large number of mainland Chinese also flocked to commemorate the crackdown in the city-state territory, where a vigil has been held every year since the massacre.

“Hong Kong is a free society where you can speak out.

In China, the Communist Party dictates everything,” said Chen Jing Gen, in his 60s, who travelled from the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen to attend the vigil.

“People in mainland China are mostly aware of June 4, but due to the control of the party no one dares to talk about it,” Chen added. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

16 news

Thursday, june 5, 2014 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Albouystown to benefit Govt still to approve Linden IMC $115M Budget from medical outreach L this Saturday A lmost three months after the launch of Impact Albouystown, there has been overwhelming support for the project which is aimed at creating positive change in the community.

As the project intensifies, the Medical Corps of the Guyana Defence Force, in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force, will be conducting a medical outreach in the community on Saturday.

The medical outreach will be held between 08:30h and 15:30h on the Basketball Court at the corner of Hunter Street and Independence Boulevard, Albouystown. Residents will be provided with general medical, general dental, prescription, and HIV counselling and testing services.

The Police-initiated project was launched in the community on April 11, and incorporates law enforcement services and social intervention activities. The Police Force maintained that a significant part of its efforts in the initiative is aimed at empowering Albouystown youths to develop skills

Acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

to become productive and meaningful contributors to society.

So far, 60 youths have commenced a Foundation Course in Information Communication Technology at the Guyana Defence Force Zara Computer Centre at Eve Leary.

Arrangements were put in place to collect the youths between the ages of seven and 16 from a strategic location in Albouystown and take them to the centre and drop them home after the training sessions. A cosmetology training pro-

gramme was also introduced at the Heavenly Light World Outreach Fellowship for a number of females, the Force announced.

Several businessmen have pledged their support in the form of monetary contributions to enhance the programme that is expected to bear fruit in the near future.

Other businessmen have donated cosmetics to support the cosmetology training programme and other activities. Project Impact Albouystown was made possible through the Guyana Police Force in partnership with a number of stakeholders, including the religious and community leaders of Albouystown.

The project seeks to make the community a safer environment.

One of the main focuses outlined by acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud at the launch was to address crime and disorder, with heavy emphasis on gun crimes. This is being done through foot patrols and stop-and-search operations, among other activities.

IDB warns of financial burden from demand for health care services in Latin America

D

emand for health care services in Latin America will overwhelm the financial capacity of the region’s governments to provide coverage and services in an equitable and effective manner over the next decade, according to a study released today by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB).

Rapid epidemiological transition, marked by a greater prevalence of chronic illnesses and the aging of populations, as well as new health care technologies, are raising medical costs and creating more pressure on public health care spending in Latin American countries.

In 2010, 68 percent of deaths in the region were caused by chronic diseases, which are increasingly affecting productivity in the workplace. A study carried out in Brazil, Mexico, Colombia and Argentina concluded that heart attacks, strokes and diabetes caused accumulated losses of more than US$13.5 billion in the period 2006-2015.

However, growth in resources for health care has not kept pace with demand.

In the region, spending on health care as a proportion of GDP rose moderately

from 3.4 percent to 4.1 percent in the past 15 years.

Looking ahead to the fiscal scenarios of the future, it is projected that public health care spending will rise between 1 and 1.5 percentage points of GDP in the next 20 years.

Public resources earmarked for health, as a percentage of GDP, are on average double in the countries of the OECD (7.9 percent of output) compared to Latin America and the Caribbean.

“The growing gaps between available financial resources and what it would cost governments to ensure health care services that benefit people the most, and how to do so, is one of the biggest challenges of public policy,” said Ferdinando Regalia, head of the IDB’s Division of Social Protection and Health.

The IDB analyzed Health Benefit Plans in seven countries: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Honduras, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay.

The plans spell out explicitly what services are covered and they feature the advantage that people know their rights. They also allow better financial planning and greater efficiency in management of the system by determining which servic-

es will be sought from providers and the human resources and infrastructure required to close inequality gaps.

“The study analyzes what motivated these countries to adopt them, the criteria and processes they used to define and adjust these plans and the challenges they faced in implementing them,” said Úrsula Giedion, the study’s main author.

For the first time, the plans were studied in terms of target population, scope, financial coverage and the public resources earmarked for financing those plans.

For instance, Uruguay offers a plan that covers nearly its entire population and covers all levels of services for an average annual cost of US$650 per beneficiary, while Honduras has a maternal-infant health care plan for poor, rural people that costs around US$25.

The study found that there is a great variety of plans, but concluded that a country’s having a health benefits plan is an important step toward narrowing inequality gaps and advancing toward universal health care coverage, which is a major goal for all the countries of the region.

inden Interim M a n a g e m e n t Committee (IMC) Chairman Orrin Gordon disclosed that the Municipality’s most recent budget of $115 million is yet to be approved by the Local Government Ministry.

According to Gordon, the budget which should have been approved since November 15 of last year is yet to be approved. He said the administration’s budget remains on the outstanding list to be approved, along with those of New Amsterdam and Georgetown. “...we did not have the budget approved by the Ministry of Local Government, so we are actually acting or performing illegally,” Gordon said.

He added that the situation is causing additional setbacks with the already cashstrapped Municipality which has been plagued by financial woes in the past. Explaining that the municipality would have exhausted all avenues in an effort to secure additional revenue to perform its core duties, the IMC Chairman said it has found itself in a “tight financial bunch”.

Making matters worse for the Municipality, Gordon said the subvention granted to the IMC last year was a mere $9 million. The figure was approved by Cabinet to pay the municipality workers’ salaries up to the end of 2013.

“At the end of that, the Minister (Local Government) said that he didn’t give all the money for wages and so on, and millions have been coming out of that for works in the community. So we allocated a $1 million to Block 22 (community).”

Two roads in the Block 22 community were recently identified for upgrade works to be carried out under the subvention spending.

“So come 2014, our budget should have been approved in November... we did not get that, there’s a part of the budget which is deficient by $33 million,” he added.

Gordon said the Local Government Ministry was then given the option by the Municipality to grant the deficit as a municipal subsidy, but such was denied, despite the move being supported by some members of Cabinet. He stressed that the move to reinstate payment at the Kara

Kara toll booth in Linden last year was an effort to boost the Municipality’s revenue; however, the toll booth was ordered close by the Local Government Ministry after being rendered “illegal.” Following the closure of the booth in November last year, the IMC chairman indicated during a meeting with Junior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker that it would be a difficult task for the cash-strapped municipality to pay workers’ salaries this year following the five per cent country-wide increase for public servants. Gordon had indicated that the monies garnered from the Kara Kara toll booth would have provided a temporary solution to the problem.

“To date, I have been writing the Minister... I’ve been sending messages... I’ve been behind this matter from day one, we have brought the Ministry’s representatives to sit and we want them to show us documents as to how we will be able to balance this budget.” Gordon added that the fiscal transfer from taxes which amount to $1.8 million paid to municipalities is inappropriate, a waste of time, and a “joke.”

BV duo in hospital after football chopping

T

wo young men are now hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital with chop wounds after a violent confrontation during a football game at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

Guyana Times understands that David Mccullum, 24, and William Hendricks, 20, were participating in a game of football when one of them accidentally ran into the other and

an altercation ensued. The argument then got physical and a friend of one of the young men approached the pair from behind and began firing chops; another friend subsequently began firing chops too.

Hendricks received chops about his body and his right arm was almost severed, while Mccullum received wounds about his body and face, particularly near his right eye. Up to press time,

both men were in the operating theatre of the hospital being prepped for surgery.

Mccullum is said to be a welder at the Guyana Sugar Corporation, while Hendricks is said to be a miner. When this publication visited the hospital, Mccullum’s mother and grandmother were there awaiting an update on his condition, while no family members had arrived for Hendricks as yet.

ECLAC, Mexico want universal rights for Older People

E

xecutive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Alicia Bárcena, and the Head of Mexico’s Federal District Government, Miguel Ángel Mancera on Wednesday called for universalizing the rights of older persons during the inauguration of an international forum on this topic, which is being held through June 6 in the Mexican capital.

The opening session of the meeting, called 2nd International Forum on the Rights of Older Persons, was also attended by Rosa Icela Rodríguez, Social Development Secretary for the Federal District Government, in charge of organizing the event along with the Latin American and Caribbean Demographic Centre (CELADE)-Population Division of ECLAC. Alicia Bárcena stressed that the notion of universality of older people’s rights has been present since 2001 in Mexico City, where the government makes public transfers to tend to the needs of this social group. “There must be ways of redistributing so-

ciety’s wealth. One of them is through public transfers to households to increase their income. Another very important way is via employment with rights, which ECLAC sees as the master key to equality,” the organization’s highest official emphasized.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Federal District Government said that 60 % of that administration’s budget is allocated to social matters. He explained that, among other benefits, the government offers pensions for older persons, a health care mechanism that provided 50,782 home health visits in 2013, free access to the public transportation system, a special registry for birth certificates and a program that enables 14,000 older persons to travel around their country each year.

“There should be no place here for discrimination or discretion. The fight here is for universality,” said the Social Development Secretary, who noted that one in every three Mexico City households is home to a person 60 years or older and that in 20 years’ time there will be more older

people than children in that metropolis.

“In light of this challenge, it is pertinent to hear the objective analysis of international and regional organizations about how to prevent and deal with inequality, poverty and discrimination against older persons and participate in the exchange of experiences with other places of the world,” said Rosa Icela Rodríguez.

This meeting is part of the process of implementation and follow-up to the San Jose Charter on the Rights of Older Persons in Latin America and the Caribbean, which was adopted at the Third Regional Intergovernmental Conference on Ageing in Latin America and the Caribbean in 2012. Participants in this forum will analyze the protection of the rights and dignity of older persons in areas such as social protection, pension systems, mobility and accessibility in big cities and health challenges. They will also discuss, among other issues, the international progress made on this front and will share good practices implemented within the region and outside it.

news

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thursday, JUNE 5, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ex-House of Israel Priest apologises for beating PNC opponents

By Alexis Rodney

F

ormer Priest of the House of Israel, Joseph Hamilton on Thursday publicly apologised for the mass attacks he helped carry out on persons standing in opposition to the People’s National Congress (PNC) Government during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Hamilton, during his testimony to the Commission of Inquiry into the death of Dr Walter Rodney, had informed the commission that his participation in the cult movement had found him and other members being involved in violent acts against persons who opposed the Government of the day.

He said the PNC had infiltrated the organisation through its leader David “Rabbi Washington” Hill, a fugitive from the United States who had found himself in Guyana during that period.

Standing resolutely after his cross-examination before the three-member commission, Hamilton said he

was sorry for all the pain he had inflicted on individuals during the time. “Over time I have worked politically with many of the Working People’s Alliance [WPA] members, but it is the first time I’m saying how profoundly sorry I am to engage in those activities in the specific period,” Hamilton, a former PNC executive and now Parliamentary Secretary for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) said.

its sympathy and forgiveness. Hamilton’s testimony at the Commission, implicated former Leader of the PNC Reform Robert Corbin, alleging that he had been actively involved in the distribution of weapons to the House of Israel. Hamilton had also implicated then Government Minister Hamilton Green, noting that both he and Corbin were carrying out executive duties with the use of walkie-talkies at a massive rally in July 1979.

Profoundly sorry

“As we dwell on the WPA, I would say all other political parties that were harassed, terrorised, brutalised, armed, put in danger at the specific time. Any citizen whom we would have dealt with in this abusive and violent way. I would say to the Guyanese people at large, how profoundly sorry I am,” he told the Commission.

He revealed that he holds an interest in the lives of Guyana’s youth, having two sons himself, and that is also another reason for him stepping forward. “I wanted young people to get an

Penance

Former priest of the House of Israel, Joseph Hamilton

opportunity to understand and so that in their sojourn, would ensure that this country of ours never return to that place”. He continued, “As much as you try, I would say respectfully, you would be unable to grasp the time.

“As I said, it is only those who lived the time will have a full understanding, an appreciation for the time. As I said only the oppressor, the oppressed and the victims,

only they can only understand the time. Reading a book can only give you snippets.”

He pointed out that he was quite aware of the consequences that his testimony would incur. He is, however, prepared to live with these consequences.

Hamilton said he was now depending on the compassionate nature of the Guyanese public, to offer

The revelations, however, did not sit well with the PNC leadership, as its lawyer at the inquiry, Basil Williams seemed enraged over the allegations which incriminated the two senior members of the political party. Williams had suggested to Hamilton that the true reason for his testimony was to get back at the officials, whose fallingout with him had led him to leave the party.

During his penance, Hamilton said: “I appear before the Commission, not on the House of Israel’s be-

half, I have no such mandate to speak on the House of Israel’s behalf. I came here as Joseph Hamilton, Citizen, to speak to the Guyanese people.

There was no coercion, there was no master, and there was no one who contacted me, indicated to me.

It was all Joseph Hamilton who by his own conscience came to this Commission to speak the truth as I know it. Whatever is said adverse of me, it matters not because I would have done my bit, cleared my conscience, freed myself and let me say finally, Mr Chairman, like Dr Martin Luther King “Free at last, free at last, thank God, I am free at last”.

Chairman of the Commission, Sir Richard Cheltenham congratulated Hamilton on his bold step.

He noted that the promise laid out in the terms of reference about an absolute pardon is still in place and urged Guyanese to come forward with their statements, which may assist the Commission in reaching its objectives.

NAMILCO hosts baking seminar Air Traffic controllers

still to be certified A

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy addressing participants at the NAMILCO Baking Seminar

I

n an effort to give local bakers an opportunity to learn new techniques to enhance their baking skills, the management of the National Milling Company Guyana Inc (NAMILCO), hosted an all-day Baking Seminar on Wednesday, at Parc Rayne, Rahaman’s Park, East Bank Demerara.

Under the theme, “Taking Guyana’s Bakeries to the Next Level”, the event, held in collaboration with Seaboard Corporation USA and Engrain LLC USA, presented local bakers with the occasion to learn about the latest developments in the global bread industry and to learn about creating niche products to bring variety to the consumers.

Minister of Agriculture, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, speaking at the opening ceremony, expressed deep appreciation at how far

Guyana had come as it relates to the manufacturing process, but said the country still had a long way to go.

Minister Ramsammy related that unless Guyana adopts and embraces good manufacturing practices in everyday businesses, the country will be left out of the global business environment and global trade. He said Guyana must not just stand on the sidelines, and must join the global effort to make sure food, including all bakery items, is healthy and safe.

Next level

The Agriculture Minister noted that the seminar was not just about taking bakeries to the next level, but it is also another step in Guyana’s journey in becoming a serious partner and a serious player in the global business and trade environment.

He urged the people to work hard so that Guyana can compete against nations of Latin America, the rest of the Caribbean, and other countries around the world.

The seminar concluded with a series of presentations from Miguel Galdos and Keith Clemens. Galdos is based in Chile, South America, and provides services in nearly all countries of this continent; and Clemens is a graduate of the American Institute of Baking, who has over 25 years of experience in the baking industry, covering Africa, North America and the Caribbean.

The presentations included a review of the baking process with emphasis on the relation of good manufacturing practices and final baking results, mixing and fermentation, preferment, sweet goods, and bakery item trends.

lthough the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has confirmed that eight certified Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs) were introduced into the system, these young people are still to receive their certification and revised remunerations.

The eight young professionals have taken up positions at Timehri and Ogle Control Towers with effect from January, 2014 but to date they have not received any additional monies to their salaries and are still being paid as trainees.

Guyana Times also understands that they have not received their certificates to prove that they are certified air traffic controllers and despite their numerous attempts to solicit answers about the certificates, their enquiries had failed to elicit constructive responses.

They were reportedly given a document giving permission to operate.

As a result, they wrote to the authority in March applying for their certificates and were promised that the matter will be addressed by April 30, but again this was swept under the carpet.

A senior member of staff reportedly replied to the application, claiming that a verbal request was made to the SATCO ANS Training to submit the necessary information for the certificates.

The official further stated that the issue was subsequently followed up with a written request to make

Director General of the GCAA, Zulficar Mohamed

same information available

by April 4. “Your certificates will be prepared and issued before the end of April, 2014”, a document stated.

With respect to appointments, remuneration and benefits, the official said that a meeting will be convened at the earliest with the Director General to address the issues. A date has not been confirmed as yet.

Being persistent, the new batch of ATCOs again wrote to the authority but to no avail. The young people are contending that after six months of performing duties as Air Traffic Controllers, they are still awaiting their appointment letters and more so the full benefits that come with the position.

Guyana Times was told that the young people would have been evaluated in December of 2013, and that after three months they would have been licensed

to operate- a process that takes 14 days after training has been successfully completed.

With respect to their appointments, the eight young people have been in the system since 2009 and are still to be appointed.

This new batch of staff are given the responsibility of controlling aircraft that are about 30 miles from its destination and those that are up to 10,000 feet high.

The GCAA on Tuesday stated that in addition to the eight, four seasoned ATCOs have completed the theoretical training and are now undergoing on-the-job training as part of the aviation watchdog’s move to promote them and increase the staff level of the Area Control Centre.

Meanwhile, Zulficar Mohamed, Director General of the GCAA in an invited comment told Guyana Times that the issue with respect to the appointment of the individuals are presently been looked at by the board of directors and a decision will be taken shortly.

He added that training is a necessity before appointments are made.

Addressing the certification issue, Mohamed stated that the successful batch of ATCOs will be given their certificates when training for the four ATCOs has been completed. He noted that the authority was planning to have one grand ceremony to present the certificates.

Remuneration will then fall into place, he related.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, june 5, 2014

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

archie

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) It’s time to tackle home beautification and domestic chores.

Yardwork, redecoration and reorganisation are good ways to spruce up your surroundings and burn a few calories.

dilbert

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Imagination is only part of the equation for a successful effort. Changes need to be made, and now is the time to make things happen. You have waited long enough to reach your goals. Forge ahead.

Calvin and Hobbes

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Someone is trying to deceive you. Don’t believe what you are told.

You will have to get the information firsthand if you want to discover the truth.

Peanuts ARIES (March 21-April 19)

SUDOKU

Don’t be afraid to say no. It’s good to offer help, but before you do, take care of your responsibilities. You don’t have to be superhuman. Take a break.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Do whatever it takes to enjoy life today. Your health will suffer if you’re constantly worrying. Go out and do something with the people who make you happy.

CANCER (June 21July 22) Get in touch with someone from your past.

It’s time to revive an old friendship or flame. Make the first move, and see if a response is elicited.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) If you have been neglectful in any way, it’s time to make amends.

Life is too short to waste your time arguing.

Compromise is a good place to begin when dealing with an important relationship.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) A delightful surprise will brighten your day.

Love and romance are highlighted, so spend some extra-special time with the people you love the most. Actions speak louder than words.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23) You will get caught up in a dispute. Before you make any suggestions, get the facts. Keeping the peace will be more difficult than anticipated. Be prepared to back away if necessary.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) You will be unsure of how to deal with an important decision. Go back to the people you have trusted in the past. Their input will help you to make the right choices.

Wednesday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20)

SAGITTARIUS

This is not the time to be pushy. Compromise is required. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Be sensitive, and let others have their say.

Collaborative ventures should be avoided today.

Do your homework. You can make a small investment pay off, but it must be on your terms. Work alone.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

thursday, June 5, 2014

19

Performance key for captain Ramdin Says Avenash Ramzan

E

ver so often there is talk about the West Indies turning the corner. In fact, that has been the trend for close to two decades, only for the promising dreams to hit a dead end.

Sunday’s start of the first Test against the visiting New Zealanders at Sabina Park in Jamaica, provides yet another opportunity for the Caribbean side to not just turn the corner, but hit the road running under a brand new leader.

Denesh Ramdin’s appointment as captain in favour of the ousted Darren Sammy did not come as a surprise to many, although the immediate resignation from Test cricket by the latter shocked the entire Region, and by extension the cricketing world.

Like Sammy, one would be led to believe that Ramdin’s success as a leader would not just depend on how well the team performs, but a great deal of his own performance could be criti-

Denesh Ramdin’s future as captain will be judged by his own performance

cal to the length of time he is given at the helm.

Unlike Sammy, whose spot in the XI created much debate, Ramdin commands a more steady position in the team, having been rated over the years as arguably the Region’s top glovesman.

His batting over the past two years has only served to strengthen his case.

At 29 and with close to a decade on the international stage, Ramdin is certainly not short on experience, and dating back to May 2012 his production level with the bat has been phenomenal, a late bloom after all that he had

Darren Sammy immediately resigned after being replaced as Test captain

promised at the Under-19 level.

A return of 753 runs from 14 Tests, including three hundreds, at an excellent average of 44.29, second only to Shivnarine Chanderpaul during the corresponding period, speaks of Ramdin’s contribution in front of the stumps; maybe a critical factor in him being appointed Test leader.

However, if he is to succeed in his new role, his keeping, which has overwhelmingly withstood scrutiny, and his batting especially, which has blossomed recently, must continue to

come to the fore. In essence, the Trinidad and Tobago captain must lead from the front with consistent performances, something the numbers suggest his predecessor failed at miserably.

Being lion-hearted like Sammy was is commendable, but if the numbers do not stack up, ultimately the team will suffer and fingers will be pointed.

It’s a scenario Ramdin must be cognisant of, having been in the system for so long. Maturity and a sense of responsibility must be his watchwords.

Former captains

Shivnarine Chanderpaul’s role cannot be underestimated

Chanderpaul and Chris Gayle, who will be appearing in his 100th Test on Sunday providing he is passed fit, also have a role to play in ensuring Ramdin starts on a positive note.

Those are two brains the new captain must tap into; especially given the fact that the position is one of the most difficult in regional sport, leading men from different cultural backgrounds.

The poisoned chalice, as it is often referred to!

Ramdin has tasted tremendous success being at the helm of the Trinidad and Tobago team after tak-

ing over full-time from the indomitable Darren Ganga, but his new challenge would be to revive a West Indies side that lingers at the bottom half of the International Cricket Council’s Test rankings.

Will West Indies once again turn the corner?

Can Ramdin inspire a side yearning for success? Is the Trinidad and Tobago wicketkeeper/bastman the right man for the job?

Only time will provide the answers. The upcoming series is important on many fronts, none more than a leader looking to establish command, repay the selectors’ faith and fulfil the captaincy potential that was spotted at the youth level a decade ago.

The squad for the first Test is Denesh Ramdin (captain), Sulieman Benn, Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shiv Chanderpaul, Kirk Edwards, Shannon Gabriel, Chris Gayle, Kieran Powell, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Shane Shillingford and Jerome Taylor.

Guinness Caribbean Street Challenge…

Queen Street-Tiger Bay leave today with high expectations the regional title.

He pointed out that the team is a very youthful one and he has high hopes of the players doing well in the twin-island republic.

The Guinness Caribbean Street Challenge will open on Friday at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex.

The team, which features seven players, a competitor for the Skills Challenge and two officials, will depart today for the twin-island republic.

By Avenash Ramzan

S

port Minister Dr. Frank Anthony and Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste say they expect great things from Queen Street- Tiger Bay, who will represent Guyana in the Guinness Caribbean Street Challenge this weekend in Trinidad and Tobago.

The ballweavers from Georgetown have earned the right to represent Guyana at the regional tournament after winning the national playoff of the Guinness Greatest of the Streets football competition on Sunday last.

Playing at the Banks DIH Parking Lot, the Georgetown zone champions defeated East Coast winners Melanie A 3-0 in the final. Dr. Anthony wished the players well as they embark on representing the nation in Trinidad and Tobago.

He said the players are ambassadors of the country and they should aim for nothing less than copping the title, one that has so far evaded during the two years

(referee) and Lee Baptiste, Guinness Brand Manager.

The eight competing teams are defending champions Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Antigua/Barbuda, St. Kitts, Dominica, and newcomers Jamaica.

The winning team will take home a top prize of US$4000 and the chance to attend a FIFA coaching programme. Guyana’s best showing was runner-up in

Alpha Fletchman

Dr Frank Anthony

Lee Baptiste

of regional competition.

Queen Street- Tiger Bay emerged from a group of eight teams that contested the national playoff- four from Georgetown, three from Linden and one from East Coast Demerara.

Guinness Brand Manager, Lee Baptiste, in congratulating the Tiger Bay boys on their win, said he looks forward to a good showing from the national champions, one that could culminate with them lifting

The team will be captained by playmaker Alpha Fletchman with Ezekiel Gravesande being named the vice-captain. The other members are Jeffrey Newton, James Meredith, Godfrey Powers, Stephen Alfred and Rensford Coleridge.

Nickel Stoute who won the Skills competition will also be looking to display his dazzling talent in the regional Skills Challenge. The two officials are Wayne Griffith

the inaugural tournament staged at the National Park in 2012.

The tournament will kick off on Friday evening with an official opening ceremony followed by preliminary matches starting at 18:00 hours. The semi-finals and final will take place on Saturday followed by a Celebration Concert with Jamaican Reggae superstar Beenie Man and Prophet Benjamin of Trinidad and Tobago.

Ezekiel Gravesande

Nickel Stoute

20

guyanatimesGY.com

thursday, JUNE 5, 2014

Amla named South Africa Test captain A

Murray beats Monfils to reach French Open semis

Hashim Amla with CSA CEO Haroon Lorgat and South Africa coach Russell Domingo after his appointment as Test captain

H

ashim Amla has been appointed South Africa’s Test captain, taking over from Graeme Smith, who retired in March. Amla’s first assignment will be South Africa’s two-Test tour of Sri Lanka next month. He was given the job ahead of team-mate AB de Villiers, who will continue to lead the ODI side in which Amla will serve as his deputy. De Villiers will remain the Test vice-captain and the firstchoice wicketkeeper in the longest format.

“It’s an honour and a privilege,” Amla said, “I have to pay tribute to Graeme and his leadership. For years, I’ve concentrated on my batting, but now it’s time to contribute in the team setting.

As a captain, you are more a servant than you are a leader. I will be taking it as my responsibility to give all my heart to this position.”

A notoriously reluctant leader, who even stepped down as vice-captain in the limited-overs teams last year, Amla’s interest in the Test role only became public a few weeks ago, but it is a thought he has harboured since Smith stood down.

“When Graeme retired, it came as a surprise to us, especially with him being a young person but we could also understand because of the pressures of being a captain for so long,” Amla said.

“At that moment, I felt with the group of senior guys we have in the team - myself, AB, Dale, JP, Morne and Faf - that if the team wanted, I would be available.

“That was the first time I really considered it.

Hopefully with the experience I have gained, I can do a good job. If you can add value to your team-mates, try and get the team to do well and the country to do well,

that’s the ultimate as an international sportsman.”

But Amla admitted it is not a task he will take on alone: “It is always a collective effort. There is no single person who should be taking the credit. Every single person has a huge part to play.

I will be picking people’s brains, guys in the team and guys outside the team.”

De Villiers will be one of the pillars Amla will lean on heavily, especially as the ODI captain was considered a shoo-in for the job when it first became vacant. Former players, including Mark Boucher and Jacques Kallis, as well as former convener of selectors Mike Procter had all picked de Villiers as Smith’s successor but South Africa’s current selection panel decided against overloading him, although they remain concerned about having different captains in each format. (Cricinfo)

Rooney, Lambert score as England draw with Ecuador

R

aheem Sterling was sent off as an experimental England side produced a mixed display to draw with Ecuador in their World Cup warm-up game in Miami.

Liverpool youngster Sterling was dismissed 11 minutes from time for a clash with Manchester United’s Antonio Valencia - who was also given a red card for reacting furiously to the challenge.

It provided a sour note for manager Roy Hodgson - as did a worrying-looking knee injury for Alex OxaldeChamberlain - as he saw England struggle defensively but produce some excellent work going forward, especially from Everton midfielder Ross Barkley.

Ecuador took advantage of poor England defending as Enner Valencia headed them in front early on, but Wayne Rooney bundled in his 39th goal for his country before half-time.

Rickie Lambert celebrated his dream £4m move to Liverpool by putting

Wayne Rooney

England ahead just after the interval following brilliant work by Barkley, but the South Americans levelled through substitute Michael Arroyo’s spectacular strike.

With temperatures and humidity high, it was the perfect conditioning workout for England and there were pluses for Hodgson.

Rooney worked hard in his left-flank role and got another 63 minutes under his belt, while Barkley demonstrated once again that he could become a real World Cup wildcard.

OxladeChamberlain also delivered some good moments before

departing with an injury that his manager said afterwards was serious enough to require a scan.

None of England’s revamped defence suggested they would start at the World Cup as central defensive pairing Chris Smalling and Phil Jones looked uncertain and the ploy of playing James Milner at right back was not a success.

England can now fine tune further against Honduras here on Saturday before flying to Brazil to embark on their World Cup campaign. (BBC Sport)

ndy Murray produced a late surge to beat Gael Monfils in five sets and reach the French Open semi-finals.

The Briton let a two-set lead slip but raced through the fifth to win 6-4 6-1 4-6 1-6 6-0 in near darkness at 21:40 local time.

Murray goes on to face eight-time champion Rafael Nadal in a repeat of the 2011 semi-final.

Nadal fought back to beat fellow Spaniard and fifth seed David Ferrer 4-6 6-4 6-0 6-1.

“I started well,” said Murray. “When the wind calmed down he started playing so much better - some of the shots he chased down were incredible.

“I was just lucky in the end that he started the fifth set badly.”

Murray, 27, had played superbly to move two sets clear on Court Philippe Chatrier, driving Monfils to distraction - and quietening the crowd - with his variety of pace and spin.

When the Scot had break points early in the third against a dispirited Monfils, a straight-sets win looked almost inevitable, but the Frenchman clung on.

Serving first in the set, Monfils’s opportunity arrived at 5-4 when Murray floated a backhand long to fall to 15-40, and when the Briton went long two points later, the Frenchman and his supporters roared as one.

Murray had struggled with cramp when taken to five sets over two days in the third round against Philipp Kohlschreiber, and he appeared to be struggling physically again.

Monfils, 27, stormed through the fourth set in 30 minutes and it began to look as though only the gathering darkness could stop the 23rd seed.

Referee Stefan Fransson came onto court to assess the light and insisted they play on into a fifth set - a decision Murray described as “ridiculous”.

The Wimbledon champion was wobbling

Andy Murray

badly at 15-30 in the opening game, but Monfils missed an inviting backhand and suddenly all the energy was at the other end of the court.

A newly energised Murray rediscovered his attacking intent and leapt on a volley to break for 2-0, punching his fist in celebration, and then hit a spectacular running forehand for 3-0.

Monfils had no more to give and the errors began to flow, gifting Murray a second break, and this time it was the Frenchman who was complaining about the light as his hopes of victory disappeared.

Murray clambered all over the Monfils serve one last time to earn three match points in game six, and he swatted away the second to seal a remarkable victory after three hours and 15 minutes.

“It was getting a bit dark, we couldn’t see all that well, but I I really wanted to finish tonight because I knew that he was not in great shape,” said Monfils.

“I felt better. Maybe that’s why I was a bit rushed in attacking him. I’m very frustrated.” (BBC Sport)

Women’s International Cricket League has no support – ECB

T

he England and Wales Cricket Board has refused to back an Indian Premier League-style tournament for women.

Australian businessman Shaun Martyn wants to launch a Women’s International Cricket League, which could see leading players earn £23,500 in only 12 days. But the International Cricket Council has not yet sanctioned the proposal and the ECB has dismissed the plan.

“There is no support or

interest for this proposed event,” said ECB chairman Giles Clarke.

The tournament would bring together the best female players in the world to play in six company-owned teams during a 12-day event in Singapore.

Speaking ahead of the ECB’s announcement, England captain Charlotte Edwards, 34, said she would want to play - but only if the competition was officially approved.

“It’s a wonderful opportu-

nity for top players,” she told BBC Sport.

“Nothing has been ratified by the ICC but these things are exciting for the game and as England players you want to be part of it.”

The ECB may have dismissed the WICL but it has backed the new ICC International Women’s Championship.

The top eight teams in the world rankings will take part “with results determining qualification for the 2017 Women’s World Cup”. (BBC Sport)

Buttler controversy will have impact on Tests – Bopara

E

ngland batsman Ravi Bopara believes Jos Buttler’s controversial run-out in the decisive one-day international against Sri Lanka will provide extra “needle” for the upcoming Test series.

Buttler was controversially run out while backing up at the non-striker’s end during England’s six-wicket defeat at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

“I think there will be a bit of needle in the Test series now,” said Bopara.

The two-match series begins at Lord’s on June 12 be-

fore moving to Headingley.

Bopara, who is unlikely to feature in the Test side, added: “It means we will have to come really hard at them, which is when we play our best cricket.”

Sri Lanka bowler Sachithra Senanayake twice warned Buttler for straying out of his crease during the ODI clash, before removing the bails to dismiss him.

The off-spinner’s actions were backed by his captain Angelo Mathews, who felt Buttler was attempting to gain an unfair advantage by

walking off down the pitch.

Bopara disagreed, saying: “He’s not taking off and stealing yards, he’s just walking.”

On the dismissal, he added: “Personally I don’t think it is the right thing. I was quite shocked. I don’t think I have seen that in international cricket before.”

Although Senanayake’s actions are within the rules, “Mankading”, as it is known, is frowned upon by many within the game and the controversy has split cricket opinion. (BBC Sport)

SPORTS

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orld Cup hosts Brazil strolled to a 4-0 win over Panama in their penultimate warm-up yesterday, goals from Neymar, Daniel Alves, Hulk and Willian securing the victory.

Brazil barely had to break out of third gear in seeing off limited opponents as Neymar, with his 31st international goal, set the ball rolling, rifling in a free-kick for the opener on the halfhour.

Alves drove in the second five minutes before the interval and a cheeky Neymar backheel was enough to pave the way for Hulk to slot in the third early in the second period before Willian put the icing on the cake 17 minutes from time.

With only Friday's friendly against Serbia to

come before the Selecao meet Croatia in their World Cup opener on June 12 in Sao Paulo, 2002 title-winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari seized the chance to use several second string players.

He replaced Barcelona's Alves with veteran Maicon at the break and sent Henrique on for David Luiz midway through the second period of the game in the provincial city of Goiania.

Maxwell came on for Champions League winner Marcelo at the break, with Hernanes replacing Ramires also at half-time for the runout against a side ranked 35 in the world but who have never reached the World Cup Finals.

Willian came on for fellow Chelsea colleague Oscar on 63 minutes and Jo re-

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Brazil's Neymar celebrates after scoring against Panama during a friendly international match at the Serra Dourada stadium here, yesterday (Photo: AP)

placed Fred on the hour, while Scolari left Paulinho, Fernandinho and skipper Thiago Silva back at squad headquarters outside Rio as they recover from knocks.

Scolari had called on his side to pull their socks up after a slovenly training session on Sunday and they responded after a quiet opening quarter-of-an-hour.

Tejada picked up a yellow card for the visitors with a foul on Neymar and Brazil's star man swiped his freekick high into the net to delight a 30,000 crowd.

The Barcelona starlet then crossed for Fred but the Scolari favourite directed a header off target.

Alves then smacked home the second with a low effort to all but break the visitors' sagging resistence and allow Scolari the luxury of some major pack shuffling.

Neymar was not interested in allowing anyone game time at his expense, however, and it was his superbly weighted backheel which allowed Hulk to slot in a cool third with the outside of his boot.

Panama tried to respond with a Roberto Nurse header which Julio Cesar, finally called into action, tipped over.

Fred had time to send an effort high and wide before Brazil scored their fourth with Neymar feeding Maxwell, who found Willian for a routine finish from close range.

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onald Sterling, the embattled owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, has agreed to sell the team for $2 billion and will drop his lawsuit against the National Basketball Association, his lawyer, Maxwell Blecher, said on Wednesday.

Sterling, 80, has been banned for life and fined $2.5 million by the NBA for racist remarks he made in a taped recording that were leaked to the media in April.

Most of the players in the NBA are black.

His estranged wife, Shelly Sterling, last week agreed to sell the franchise to former Microsoft Corp chief executive Steve Ballmer for an NBA record price of $2 billion.

Sterling sued the NBA and league commissioner Adam Silver last week for at least $1 billion in damages, alleging the NBA forced him to sell the franchise based

Real estate mogul and Los Angeles Clippers NBA basketball team owner Donald Sterling

on a recording illegal under California law.

The lawsuit was filed at the same time as the NBA tentatively agreed to the Clippers sale and announced that Shelly Sterling agreed that neither she nor the trust that owns the team would sue the league.

By dropping his lawsuit and any opposition to the sale, Sterling, who had owned the Clippers for 33 years, brings a close to a crisis that brought shame on the league, caused sponsors to drop the team and led players to consider a boycott. (Reuters)

22

guyanatimesGY.com

Thursday, JUNE 5, 2014

Lessons from Worrell and Lloyd James faces uphill task to

By Dr Rudi V Webster

T

hroughout the IPL competitions, West Indies players have done particularly well. This year was no exception Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith and Sunil Narine performed brilliantly. I feel that if they had the opportunity to play in the other formats of the game in India they would do equally well. So why are these players who are mediocre at best when they play for West Indies doing so well in India?

Having worked with the Kolkata Knight Riders, the 2012 champions, I would say that the enabling factors are the competence and professionalism of the administrators, the learning environment in which the players operate, and the first- class coaching, leadership, and player management skills that they encounter. These factors enhance players’ self-belief and self-confidence, and motivate them to perform as disciplined members of the team. It would be interesting to learn how West Indies players would rate their administrators, coaches, captains and selectors in these areas.

Autocratic attitudes and practices are common

Dr Rudi V Webster

in West Indies cricket. But when players are made to believe that they can truly make a difference to the performance of their team, they bring with them a level of motivation and discipline which when correctly directed and focused, satisfy a major requirement for success. Discipline then comes from within; it doesn’t have to be imposed. In fact, at the highest levels of sport success revolves more around motivation, self- belief and self-discipline than around talent and potential.

Richard Pybus, the new director of West Indies cricket, has recently designed and articulated a good strategy and detailed plans for improving West Indies cricket. But execution will be key, because strategic plans by themselves can only take the team so far. Plans and goal charts do not accomplish performance. Players do.

Players breathe life into the team’s vision and plans. At

the end of the day it is competent, well-trained, highly disciplined and highly motivated players that are the key to the team’s success.

Good management and administration are needed to run a cricket organization, but the team will not win its battles on the field unless the players are motivated to fight. No one has as yet found out how to administer or manage players into battle. US general Omar Bradley once said that the greatest leader in

Clive Lloyd

the world could never win a campaign unless he understood the men he had to lead. And Vince Lombardi, the famous American football coach said, “Coaches who can outline their plans on a blackboard are a dime a dozen. The ones who win get into their players and motivate.”

In sport, motivation depends more on the needs and aspirations of those who are to be motivated – the players – than the needs and goals of the coaches. But too often that priority is reversed. The same applies to change. Coaches who suggest change are convinced of its benefits, but the players who have to implement the change might not see its value because it might not address their needs and concerns. How important then are motivation and player management?

Sir George Alleyne recently gave a brilliant Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Lecture in Trinidad. I would encourage every West Indian to read this lecture. In his address, he quoted Sir Wesley Hall as saying that Frank Worrell was a great man-manager.

He added that Frank never denigrated the person. He would identify the fault and address it in personal interaction, never in public. Sir George also quoted Cammie Smith as saying that Worrell spent as much time speaking about life and living in personal interaction as he spent in discussing cricket. Such was the rapport and respect that there was ready compliance with his instructions on and off the field, because one did not want to disappoint the skipper.

Clive Lloyd did similar things with his players.

Worrell and Lloyd fully understood their players and knew how to get the best out

of them. In a Test match in Perth, Joel Garner bowled about five or six no balls in one over, became quite frustrated and started to lose composure and control.

Lloyd then went up to him and asked, “What size shoes do you wear?” Joel stuttered and said “Size 16.” Lloyd then countered, “You wear size 16 and you can’t get a piece of your boot behind the line? Come on man.” Joel never bowled another no ball in the match.

These types of motivational and man-management skills are singularly lacking in today’s West Indies administrators and coaches. In the last few years, the relationships between the players and the coaches and between the players and administrators have hit rock bottom. One has only to look back at the hostility between the senior players and the coach to see the magnitude of the problem and the silly manner in which the conflict was handled. The same inflexible, autocratic and punitive attitude has now been used against Narine for staying on in India to play the IPL final, thereby missing one day of the West Indies training camp, The more things change the more they stay the same. The use of intimidation, fear, and punishment occasionally work as a motivational technique, but

represent Guyana

By Treiston Joseph

O

verseas-based sprinter Stephan James is facing difficult times on the road to representing Guyana at the Commonwealth Games set for July in Scotland .

The talented sprinter, who will accompany Adam Harris and Winston George to the games as his team-mates, recently clocked 46.15s in his 400 metres at the School Nationals in American but is unable to prepare for the games in the best of ways.

“Training is coming good, but over here it’s tough because I’m not getting to train everyday but it’s coming good.

All I can say is that it’s hard over here and it’s like I still live with my mother and father because I have to depend on them,” told Guyana Times Sport.

When questioned on the reason for the tough period along with him being unable to train every day, the South American under-23 bronze medallist simply responded, “funds.”

The heavily built sprinter is on a two -year scholarship at the ASA College in New York, U. S. A, James still depends on his parents in Guyana for financial aid for his daily support.

While James noted that the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) does not help with his finances, James noted that he does not think that they are aware of the situation.

However, James plans on representing Guyana well at the 20th edition of the games set for Glasgow, Scotland.

“I’m feeling good and I want to take it step by step but I’m looking forward to running a fast time.

“I am looking to hit a low 45s and like I say just taking everything step by step,” the burly sprinter noted.

Further, James noted that he was excited to be representing his country again and looks forward to doing great things for

Stephan James

Guyana.

“It’s a great feeling to represent Guyana again, I know I can do well but again it’s just tough over here,” James quipped.

The Commonwealth Games will begin on July 23 and will run until August 3 and some of the best athletes around the world will be taking to the track.

Heat and Spurs ready to rumble in Finals opener

N Sir Frank Worrell

too often it is counterproductive because it disrupts performance and frequently creates resentment, disrespect, disloyalty and a stifling of talent.

The people in charge of the West Indies players can continue with their autocratic and outmoded practices and stifle the talent of the players; or they can learn from Frank Worrell and Clive Lloyd and get the best out of their teams and players.

Pybus must now spend most of his time motivating the players and other stakeholders to implement his strategy. But effective execution will only happen if at the same time he gets rid of limiting beliefs, bad habits, poor excuses, disruptive insularities, political infighting and outmoded management traditions. And he must constantly remind his people that good leadership starts with self-leadership.

ow that the verbal sparring is over, the San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat are ready to get down to business on Thursday with the opening game of the best-of-seven NBA Finals.

San Antonio power forward Tim Duncan has allbut guaranteed a victory after the team suffered a heartbreaking, seven-game loss to Miami in the finals a year ago.

Heat forward LeBron James knows San Antonio is inspired but doesn't believe that matters much once the game begins.

"They are motivated," James, the finals MVP the last two seasons, told reporters on Wednesday. "I think motivation can only go so far. How much motivation can carry you to a championship, I'm not sure.

"At the end of the day, five, ten guys on the floor, three refs and one basketball. You gotta make plays.

I can't shoot the ball and say motivation will make it in.

"I can't sit in the lane and take a charge and say, 'Motivation, let me get this call.'"

Needing just one win for title, the Spurs squandered

a five-point lead in the final 28 seconds of regulation in Game Six a year ago and lost 103-100 in overtime.

The Heat won Game Seven 95-88, leaving the Spurs deflated, angry and wondering what might have been.

James knows the feeling, having lost in the finals to the Dallas Mavericks three years ago. But, he added, there's nothing more you can do than try your hardest.

"Motivation, yes, can carry you to some things, I agree, because I had it a lot after we lost in 2011 to the Mavericks, but at the end of the day you have to play the game of basketball and do it the right way," he said.

"Hopefully, you can sit back and say, 'Well, I did everything it took to win. Win, lose or draw I'm satisfied with it.'"

Duncan tempered his earlier we're-going-to-winit remarks on Wednesday, saying, "I don't know if we're going in with a chip on our shoulder.

"We're going in this trying to win a championship," said the 38-year-old, 14-time All-Star. "We understand what happened last year, we understand how close we got and we're disappointed

in that respect but we're ecstatic that we have an opportunity to challenge that.

"Series starts over again and we'll see what happens."

The first two games of the series are in San Antonio and the next two are in Miami. The Spurs have the home-court advantage, unlike last year's series.

Miami is shooting for its third straight championship, having beaten Oklahoma City in 2012 for the title.

"We have worked hard in training camp and all season to get ourselves back to this point," said San Antonio small forward Danny Green.

"And we have been lucky enough to fight through a lot of adversity throughout the season and to get some playoff wins and get back to this point.

"We have tried to get better, be the last team standing. We have to be the best, do all the little things perfect. We want to continue to do that. At this point we're almost there.

"We know we're playing the two‑time defending champs and the best team in the league right now. It's not going to be easy. We got to earn it." (Reuters)

thursday, JUNE 5, 2014

guyanatimesGY.com

Government makes huge statement with $2M donation to GABF G

overnment is leading from the front in support of Guyana’s basketball with a pledge of two million dollars to the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) to support the national team’s trip to the British Virgin Islands for the upcoming Caribbean Basketball Championships (CBC) from July 1.

According to a correspondent from the Office of the President on Tuesday, the GABF was notified of the donation made by the government.

In a statement by the GABF, president of the GABF Nigel Hinds expressed his gratitude: “It is indeed a timely donation by the Government of Guyana and the GABF hereby expresses its gratitude and appreciation for

Nigel Hinds

the commitment shown by the government to sports in Guyana.

“The GABF is very thankful for the financial support from the Guyana Government and we intend to honour the Government’s confidence shown in the GABF by working diligent-

ly to firstly ensure that Guyana’s Men and Women Teams are well represented at the CBC 2014 Championships; and secondly to continue in our efforts to promote and develop basketball across Guyana,” Hinds stated.

Hinds also went on to note that the male Guyana national squad is heavily touted as favourites to win the tournament.

“The Guyana Men’s Team based on the accomplishments of and talent of the overseas- based Guyanese who will be joining with our local players is seen as a major contender to win the CBC 2014 Championships. The first Guyana- born NBA player Rawle Marshall has committed to being in Guyana before June 21st. Rawle currently plays profession-

al basketball in Europe,” Hinds highlighted.

Further, Hinds hopes that corporate Guyana can follow in the footsteps of the government in support of basketball.

“We do hope that the endorsement by the Government of Guyana to support basketball development in Guyana will encourage Guyana’s corporate community to respond positively to the ongoing fundraising efforts of the GABF as the Federation prepares the Guyana teams for the 2014 Caribbean Basketball Championships,” Hinds mentioned.

Both the male and female national squads will be in training from June 10 as the players prepare to represent Guyana at the championships.

(Treiston Joseph)

Naeem to lead Bangladesh A in One Days

T

he Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a 15-member Bangladesh A team with Naeem Islam as captain for the two limited-overs series in the West Indies.

Bangladesh A are playing their second four-day match of the West Indies tour. After the match

Nasir Hossain, captain of the team for the four-day matches, Mominul Haque, Elias Sunny, Suvashish Roy, Mustafizur Rahman and Shamsur Rahman will return to the country.

Farhad Reza, Soumya Sarkar, Arafat Sunny, Sabbir Rahaman, Mosaddek Hossain and Shafiul Islam will be re-

placing them for the three one-dayers and two Twenty20s. They will start for Barbados on Wednesday night.

The one-dayers will be held on June 8, 10 and 12, while the T20s on June 14 and 15. All the matches will be played in Barbados.

Squad: Naeem Islam

(captain), Imrul Kayes, Marshall Ayub, Abdul Mazid, Nurul Hasan (wicketkeeper), Muktar Ali, Robiul Islam, Taijul Islam, Farhad Reza, Soumya Sarkar, Arafat Sunny, Sabbir Rahman, Mosaddek Hossain, Shuvagata Hom Chowdhury and Shafiul Islam. (WICB)

Gibson hopeful of Gayle’s fitness

O

ttis Gibson, the West Indies coach, is hopeful Chris Gayle will be fit for the first Test against New Zealand, which starts on June 8 in Kingston. Gayle had suffered a back injury after the World T20 in Bangladesh and missed a few games for his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2014. After his team’s run in the T20 league ended, he travelled to Germany to consult a specialist for his injury.

“He’s here. He was told he had to be at the camp on June 1,” Gibson said. “He went to Germany to see a specialist so over there, he had some injections for his back. The specialist said he would need to take a couple of days rest and after which he should be able to take full part in cricket. The first Test match starts on June 8, so he has enough time to get enough cricket. He had a couple of hits in the nets today and he did some catching on the field, so he has enough time, once we get to Jamaica, to get himself settled down.”

Chris Gayle participated in a few fielding drills on the final day of the preparatory camp in Barbados

Apart from Gayle, the squad for the first Test also has fit-again pacers Jerome Taylor and Kemar Roach and a spinner Sulieman Benn. Taylor and Roach returned from long injury layoffs, while Benn has not played a Test since December 2010.

Shane Shillingford, who was cleared for an international return after rectifying his bowling action, is likely to play his first Test since the suspension. With Sunil Narine absent from the squad, the spin-bowl-

ing department comprises Shillingford and Benn but Gibson was reluctant to commit to a two-spinner strategy in Jamaica.

“We have to get there first. What we do is we tend to get there first and see the conditions and then think of the make-up of the team,” Gibson said. “We have three quality fast bowlers who have done well this week and two world-class spinners, with Benn coming back into the team after a long absence and Shane, who’s had his issues with his

bowling action and stuff. We are very happy we have two of those guys in our midst.

If the wicket suits two spinners, then I guess two spinners can play. If not, we have three quality seamers that will take the field.”

Gibson was pleased with the form of the batsmen and bowlers during the practice matches against local opposition, held as part of the preparatory camp in Barbados.

“Darren Bravo got a hundred in the first game, Kraigg [Brathwaite] came in and he got some runs yesterday. Shiv [Chanderpaul] spent some good time in the middle,” he said. “The reason why we come here and prepare ourselves physically and then we do a lot of technical work is to make sure that when we get to Jamaica it is just about performing. In Jamaica, we will have a look at the conditions, the pitch we are likely to play on we pick the best possible team from the 13 guys we have and we work really hard and try and win the first Test match.” (Cricinfo)

23

EBSC Busta 20/20 cricket competition…

Hemraj leads Strathavon to victory over Golden Grove

Chanderpaul Hemraj

By Avenash Ramzan

N

ational First-Class player Chanderpaul Hemraj was productive with both bat and ball as he led Strathavon to a winning start to this year’s Busta 20/20 cricket competition, organised by the Enterprise Busta Sports Club (EBSC).

Four other teams recorded victories last weekend to advance to the second round of the competition, which is for teams on the East Coast of Demerara.

Recording victories in the opening round were Strathavon, Ogle, Lusignan, Fairfield and Enterprise ‘A’, while the Enmore and Enterprise ‘B’ match was called off due to a damp wicket at Enterprise.

The left-handed Hemraj, with five first-class games to his name, was in imperious form, hitting a solid 59 not out, while G Sugrim stroked 55 and G Hemraj 36 in Strathavon’s 188 all out. O Gardner picked up 2-13 for Golden Grove, who responded with 130 all out.

Hemraj, the 20-yearold former West Indies Under-19 player, completed a fine all-round effort, snaring 3-22, while O. Blair topscored with 29 not out and R. Woolford and T. Gardner made 26 apiece.

Ogle defeated Better Hope by 30 runs after making 120-9 with K. Dindyal making 37 and C Patadin 20. J. Manna took 2-25 and R. Singh nabbed 2-19 for Better Hope, who responded with 90 all out with A. Joseph being the chief destroyer with 5-23 and S. Ramkellawan taking 2-18.

Lusignan prevailed by 11 runs over Buxton after posting 113 all out with S Alick scoring 25 and S Ali 20, while D Benjamin took 3-16, O Ferrel 2-12 and C Glen 2-28.

Despite a fighting 37

from Clive Andries and 19 from Ferrel, Buxton folded for 102 with S Ramdass bagging 4-7.

In a low- scoring thriller, Fairfield toppled Bravado by 26 runs. Fairfield, batting first, scored 88 with R Chatura hitting 18 and A Cudley getting 4-22. In reply, Bravado were dismissed for 62 with E Gilley making 33 and R Chatura returning to pick up 3-7.

In the other match in the first round, Enterprise ‘A’ got the better of Unity by seven wickets. Imran Hassan topscored with 63 and D Mangal made 34 in Unity’s 139-4.

Videsh Lall claimed 3-21 for Enterprise ‘A’, who replied with 140-3, with Brijanand Singh making 65 and national all-rounder Zaheer Mohamed an unbeaten 44.

The competition will continue this Saturday with round two, followed by one semi-final and the final on Sunday at the Enterprise Busta Sports Club ground.

On Saturday, Enmore and Enterprise ‘B’ will play their game at 09:30h at the Enterprise ground, followed

by Enterprise ‘A’ versus Strathavon from 13:00h at the same venue. The winner of the Enmore/Enterprise ‘B’ game will face hosts Ogle at 13:00h, while Lusignan and home team Fairfield will square off at 13:00h .

According to coordinator of the tournament, Jowharilall Jitlall, based on Saturday’s results, a team will draw the bye to the final, fixed for Sunday from 13:30h. The semi-final to determine the other finalist will be played at 09:30h.

The champion team will pocket $50,000, while the runner-up will collect $25,000. The competition is being sponsored exclusively by Guyana Beverage Company, under its Busta soft drink brand.

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

wednesday, June 4, 2014

TOP SCORES

Performance key for captain T Ramdin

BT Sport to broadcast Limacol CPL in UK – two-year deal for exclusive rights to the 'Biggest Party in Sport'

E

ver so often there is talk about the West Indies turning the corner. In fact, that has been the

Guinness Caribbean Street Challenge…

trend for close to two decades, only for the promising dreams to hit a dead end.

See full story on page 19

See sto r on pa y ge

19

Queen Street-Tiger Bay leave today with high expectations The Queen Street- Tiger Bay lads will leave these shores today full of confidence

he Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has signed a two-year deal with UK sports broadcaster, BT Sport, to show exclusive live coverage of the tournament, known as the 'Biggest Party in Sport'.

BT Sport will show live coverage of all thirty Limacol CPL matches this year, with former England spinner Graeme Swann forming part of the commentary team. UK fans will be able to catch all of the live, high-octane action from one of the world’s most exciting T20 competitions, and each match will also be repeated in one-hour highlights shows throughout the tournament.

Cricket fans will be able to tune in to watch Kevin Pietersen in action for the St Lucia Zouks, where he will line up alongside Glamorgan’s Darren Sammy, under the guidance of former England assistant coach Matthew Maynard.

Other global stars taking part in the tournament include Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo, Saeed Ajmal and Corey Anderson.

BT Sport’s live TV coverage will commence on 11 July at 7pm (UK time) on BT Sport 2, with coverage of the opening clash between Guyana Amazon Warriors and Antigua Hawksbills in Grenada.

Damien O’Donohoe, CEO, Limacol Caribbean Premier League, said: “We are delighted to partner with BT Sport who have quickly established them-

selves as a major player in sports media in the UK. The Limacol Caribbean Premier League was a huge success in its first year and we are now attracting the world’s best players such as Kevin Pietersen. We have big ambitions for the tournament going forward.”

Grant Best, senior executive channel producer, BT Sport, said: “We are delighted to continue enhancing and expanding our multi-sport line up by bringing fans not only one of the most exciting cricket tournaments globally, but also the eagerly-awaited return to the crease of Kevin Pietersen.”

The Limacol CPL, which thrilled sell-out crowds in six countries across the Caribbean in 2013, is once again looking to excite fans with high intensity T20 cricket for the 2014 tournament. Grenada, known for its vibrant culture and hospitality, will serve as the opening venue to showcase the Region’s most exciting domestic Twenty20 tournament.

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