Big money up for grabs from “the biggest party in sport” – LCPL prize pot revealed Gold prices show steady rise
donates US$5000 to brain tumour patient
Govt to amend laws to implement night childcare centres
West Indies Cricket Board President Dave Cameron, Digicel Chairman Denis O'Brien, cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers, Versus International Chairman Ajmal Khan and Limacol CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O'Donohoe during the unveiling of the Limacol CPL Roots Trophy at the opening ceremony of the tournament on Tuesday evening at Kensington Oval, Barbados
wednesday, july 31, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, July 31 from 12:30h to 14:00h.
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, July 31 from 11:40h to 13:10h.
WEATHER TODAY
Countrywide: Heavy rain showers are expected during the day, with clear skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to north-easterly at 2.23 to 2.68 metres per second.
High Tide: 11:07h and 23:33h reaching maximum heights of 2.12 metres and 2.19 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 04:35h and 17:00h reaching minimum heights of 1.00 metre and 1.10 metres respectively.
wednesday, july 31, 2013
Gold prices show steady rise – but market
remains unpredictable
There is now some amount of relief for stakeholders in the mining sector as the market price for the gold has shown an increase steadily around US$1330 per ounce.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud during a recent interview said the “reality has shifted, we were anxious as well as the mining community and we share that anxiety, as to the unpredictable nature of gold prices given the importance of this ministry and the investments made,” the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.
He said discussions are ongoing to come up with measures to cushion the situation and these discussions will continue, but the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry will have to establish a “floor price”. There will be need for a standard or cut off price for gold. Once those measures are approved by the government, they will be activated.
There are some current measures which are being built in, such as the royalty rate which states that there
will be a two per cent drop in the rate, if the price hits below US$1000. The minister said, “We are happy the price has bounced back up, not to the levels they were, but certainly to a level that I believe will bring about some relief and comfort. Already we are seeing some positive signs in this regard from the miners, given the importance of gold to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).”
He added that the gold
market is a very unpredictable one as it depends on a number of factors, and the government of Guyana does not control any of those. When the price drops, the entire global market stands to suffer. “The market is unpredictable; it is difficult for one to determine whether there will be an increase or decrease in the price. It’s like a gamble, taking a chance.”
The recent rebound in gold is only transitory. From estimation, on the current levels, bullion prices may see another 25 per cent to 30 per cent correction. Among the reasons for this is the way the price tends to spike when there are serious economic, financial and geopolitical risks in the global economy. It must be note that gold performs best when there is a risk of high inflation, as its popularity as a store of value increases.
Minster Persaud said “what we have to do is to continue to work with the sector, manage the cost, ensure there is greater efficiency, greater recovery and to ensure what is done is environmentally, socially and economically vi-
able”.
When the price plummets, it provides opportunities for operators to introspect on the state of their operations, the business models which they have developed and have been using because they have been premising them on high gold prices and certainly it causes some level of re-evaluation, the minister stated. If operators stop basing their business models on high gold prices alone, they will be more prepared for an unexpected drop in the market. There will be better planning and better production, so if the market prices drop, they will not suffer much due to better preparations.
Earlier this month, the Natural Resources and the Environment Ministry and its regulatory agencies in the mining sector, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Gold Board met with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) during which several proposals were submitted and discussed for consideration to mitigate the falling gold prices.
First shipment of delayed fuel expected today
The shortfall of fuel being experienced by several gas stations across the country will be resolved with the first shipment of the commodity expected to arrive here today.
This is according to Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO, Dr Mahender Sharma, in his response to questions by Guyana Times about the shortage that was being experienced since Saturday last.
Dr Sharma, who was responding to the issue via an email, said the current shortage of fuel supply at gas stations in Guyana is as a result of delays experienced at the ISLA Refinery in Curaçao,
which lasted for some 12 days.
He explained that “During the period July 13 to 25, two vessels had arrived at the refinery and were awaiting berthing instructions”.
Dr Sharma also pointed out that while efforts were made to source products from Petrotrin, Trinidad, that country was also experiencing unavailability of gasoline at the time. The GEA CEO said the vessels at Curacao have completed loading approximately 35,085 barrels of gasoline and other products.
“49,002 barrels of gasoil, 3500 barrels of kerosene and 2500 barrels of fuel oil and are en route to Guyana.”
As a result, the first ship-
ment is expected to arrive on Wednesday, July 31 and the second shipment will reach Guyana’s shores on Friday, August 2. Additionally, another vessel is said to have been loaded at Petrotrin, Trinidad, to be shipped here.
“The situation should be resolved by end of week,” Dr Sharma said.
On Saturday, long lines of vehicles flocked gas stations when it became known that there was an apparent fuel shortage in Georgetown and at certain service stations along the East Bank and East Coast Demerara.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, a number of gas stations were closed, including the Sol and
Rubis service stations on Vlissengen Road and Guyoil on Regent and Hadfield streets. Pump attendants at the Guyoil station in Kitty were also reported to be working two, rather than three shifts, so as to close early.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
Tonight the first game of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) kicks off at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara. This is an event that will reverberate far beyond the cricket field and long after the game is over. Today, cricket may still be a game – but it a game that has morphed into a professional sport that can generate not only huge financial benefits for the players but equally lucrative spin-off benefits for entire countries. And it is T20 Cricket that had led the game into this brave new world.
Launched exactly a decade ago in the home of cricket –England – T20 was designed specifically to add more energy and vitality to a game that appeared to be losing appeal after more than 30 years of another shortened version of the original game (Test) – One Day Internationals (ODIs) –had been introduced. But it was in a former outpost of the empire that the new format took off – India.
As in the West Indies, in India and the rest of the subcontinent (Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh), cricket was more than a game: it was an entire way of life. It was we West Indians who led the way and showed the world that we in the “colonies” could be just as good as the “metropole” once the rules – in this case, cricket – were applied fairly and equally. Cricket was a trope for dignity and independence. T20 cricket was adopted in India at a time when they were just taking off economically after centuries of underdevelopment.
The format allowed the resurgent population to express personally the success that was buried in dry economic reports. And express their success, they did. Beamed across the world, the games brought the new India into the homes of billions who were forced to jettison old stereotypes of a “famine and disaster” prone land. And it is this opportunity that the Limacol CPL in general and the Guyana Amazon Warriors in particular offers us in the Caribbean and Guyana.
First of all, it is a Guyanese brand, Limacol, that prefaces the name of the league, and will be received into the billion plus homes in the global marketplace. For the first time a Guyanese product will be given pride of place in the global environment: this will deliver tremendous positive externalities onto other products as our country is placed on the world’s radar. But NEW GPC INC, the corporate owner of Limacol, is not being selfish. It is positioning Limacol as a “Caribbean” product, so that the region as a whole is given recognition. We have, after all, been accused of not producing anything.
Then there is the franchise, Guyana Amazon Warriors that was the first team purchased – and by the Guyanese company – NEW GPC INC. Without seeking to blame anyone, we must accept that our local cricket has fallen into the doldrums and we are not replenishing our stock of players for the West Indian teams. It was quite a shock for many that there was not a single Guyanese in the West Indies squad that faced Pakistan in this very country.
In purchasing the Warriors, NEW GPC/Limacol gave the commitment that it will go far beyond the official requirement to have eleven local players – four of whom must be under 23 years old. Limacol had long been sponsoring local youth cricket, and it will now go beyond this to work with local organisations to deepen and strengthen the talent pool. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has demonstrated that the incentives of the professional T20 format has the capacity to persuade more young players to give the commitment necessary for success at the other forms of the game – Tests and ODI’s.
All work and no play, it is said, makes one “dull”. Limacol CPL offers Guyana and the Caribbean just the cool kind of “play” to prevent dullness.
The destruction of roads must be stopped
Dear Editor,
A road wears out from the top, but it falls apart from the bottom. This is another way of saying that the road base determines the service-life of a road. The base supports everything
above it, including traffic. I find it strange that there is hardly any excavation and scooping when we are building roads in Guyana.
A good road requires a suitable foundation composed of stable material. I was told
by a local engineer that any road material is stable only if it has negligible soil and does not deform excessively under repeated loads, whether or not the material is wet or dry.
I suggest a very careful monitoring of what actually takes
place when we are doing road projects in Guyana. We must build good roads and stop the destruction of those already built.
Yours truly, Jayden Hunter
Healthy lifestyles needed
Dear Editor,
We need to set our priorities right. A few weeks back, the Food Policy Division of the Health Ministry really observed Nutrition Awareness Week. The whole idea was about the importance of
making healthy food choices and developing sound physical activity habits.
We all know that a healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people’s health and well-being, thereby preventing chronic non-communi-
cable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and cancer, which can all contribute to premature death.
A healthy lifestyle can be attained by achieving and maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity as well as getting regular medical check-ups. This sounds a bit too easy, but it is so, if the whole idea of a healthy life style is embraced.
Yours sincerely, Farouk
Kasim
Benab Foundation in school reading, writing initiative
Dear Editor, August is upon us and I am keenly anticipating the Benab Foundation’s initiative that seeks to enhance the thinking and reasoning capability of approximately 60 students from the Campbellville and Dolphin secondary schools. Anything to do with reading must be supported. We do have a
problem in this area.
In fact, at one time, it was proposed that English B would have become compulsory. This idea came about due to our poor results from English, both A and B, at the Caribbean Secondary Examinations Council (CSEC). As a matter of fact, the Benab Foundation is very conscious of this and so
is making a move towards helping.
This Benab Foundation is a newly established nongovernmental organisation and it has as the objective of empowering youths. The goal in mind is that of seeking ways to progressively make Guyana and themselves better. I really hope for some
kind of feedback at the end of the exercise. This will be beneficial to those who may be lagging a bit in reading. They can then hook up with the Benab Foundation for help. Reading is so vital, that all other subjects suffer when the students cannot read.
Respectfully, Noreen Craig
Together with my friend David Castro, we were diving with a large group of Bigeye travellies at Cabo Pulmo National Park, Mexico. Thousands of fish forming a ball during the reproduction courtship. In the afternoon, these fish congregate to form a large spawning aggregation around the reefs of the National Park (Photo and caption by Octavio Aburto) (National Geographic)
Taking a cue from the NA Town Council
Dear Editor, I think that we have to prevent Guyana from becoming shabby and disorderly. Guyana holds a very eminent place on the international stage and this means that a lot of great nations are seeing us. Now members of the New Amsterdam Constabulary along with the deputy mayor are on a mission to rid the
town of all encumbrances and stop illegal vending.
The town council is targeting businesses operating in the Pitt Street, Municipal Market Square area. Persons illegally vending on the road shoulders and business owners encroaching on the government’s reserves were ordered to move or relocate. Some people are already calling this bully-
ism, when instead all of this came about because the constables were shunning their duties for too long.
Since the street vendors are now posing a threat, then they must be removed by force as well. We all know that street vending is illegal. So it must be stamped out. It is also a big hindrance to traffic and a great risk to the very lives of people.
Congestion in market places is dangerous by itself. Imagine what will happen in the event of an accident or fire! I hope that the authorities will stay on this road –be persistent and stern. This kind of drastic move is definitely needed in Georgetown too.
Yours faithfully,
Omar Fazil
Gun crimes must be taken more seriously
Dear Editor, Shooting to resolve disputes is now entrenched. Over the last few days, two such incidents came up right here in the city – one involving two drivers, and the other involving a soft drink vendor over some kind of old grievance.
In Guyana, where the population density is so thin, this kind of thing is way too much and it should not be tolerated.
The police can prevent youth and any other form of gun violence by focusing on identifiable risk areas and people. While gun violence seems to pervade many societies, it is usually clustered among high-risk people, in high-risk places, at highrisk times.
This concentration of vi-
olence provides an important opportunity for police to strategically address a
seemingly difficult problem. This makes it a bit simpler.
This is why I vote for
Drunk driving must come to an end
more raids and road blocks. Usually it is one gun in the group and that is why, hanging out in a suspicious manner must be targeted.
Also, if a group of young people are not working but are enjoying the finer things of life, then they must be targeted, or at least be monitored.
Gun crimes must not be taken lightly. Our police officers must invade people and places they have doubts about. When guns are in the hands of an unlicensed person, then he or she must be given the maximum punishment and there must be a tracing back as to how this person came to being in possession of a firearm.
Yours truly, Desmond Hughes
Dear Editor, The name “Operation Road Order” may not have sunk in yet for many motorists, but more than a dozen drivers, who probably felt that they could take a little more than a few drinks and get away with it, will have the penalty etched in their memory for a long time.
This goes back to what the Police Traffic Department reported as regards three drivers who were caught over the last weekend driving over the prescribed limit of alcohol consumption.
Will this kind of information be forwarded to the various insurance companies?
I think that the companies should be notified and they can then increase their premiums or simply start a campaign that says if one of their clients is a habitual drunken driver, then a policy will be denied that driver.
I add here too the idea of demerits, that is, taking away driving points, and when these add up, let a suspension of the licence be quickly effected. I like the idea that the police will order suspected drunken drivers to submit to breathalyser tests either at the scene or in a nearby police station.
“Operation Road Order” is truly on. I am noticing more and more traffic police on the road. However, already the complaint is that the penalty is not stiff enough. Maybe we can handle this by ordering an immediate suspension and some counselling sessions for drivers caught under the influence. The bottom line is that we cannot condone this evil.
Yours sincerely, Mona Cummings
You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com
Page Foundation
How to add a baby to a dog household
BY CAROL BRYANT
Babies, the saying goes, complete a household, make life worth living, and bring a sense of joy and vibrancy, hope and promise of a bright future. They also bring change in routine and a complete upheaval of lifestyle for others in the family. Older siblings might initially show resentment towards a new baby taking the spotlight away from what was once theirs: Your sole affection.
What about the canine variety in the family? Dogs need to acclimate with a period of adjustment, too. With a little bit of TLC and using the advice in this article, dogs will be howling rock a bye baby in no time.
Routine
A new routine will be established once the baby comes home. Because dogs are creatures of habit, they’ll need time to adjust as well. Slowly decrease the amount of one-on-one time you spend with Fido. This doesn’t mean ignoring him or giving less of you. A sudden decrease in the amount of time spent with your dog once the baby arrives is likely to upset him more than if the change is gradual and over a period of time. Other family members can participate by spending time and engaging in pet-friendly ac-
tivities with the dog. In this way, the dog is still getting attention and slowly getting used to your presence lessening.
Jumping
Dogs who are jumpers or climbers need to have this behaviour modified prior to the baby’s arrival. Install baby gates and barriers that allow Rover to see what is going on but prevents jumping. Don’t suddenly scold Fido, but work with him using techniques that teach proper behaviours. Positive reinforcement is key.
Help from friends
Invite friends and family members over who have a baby/infant to start your dog’s adjustment process. The scents, sounds, and routines of having a baby can be established through these visits. Easing in and taking the time before baby’s arrival will make the entire process much smoother.
Sights and sounds
Try bringing a toy doll into the home, complete with realistic baby sounds, to help the dog adjust. Seeing you carry ‘something’ around and hearing cooing, crying, and a new voice before a baby enters the home can help with your dog’s adjustment to a new situation. When in doubt, think like
the dog. How would you feel if your routine and world suddenly shifted without warning? Dogs are the same way. Sprinkle baby powder on your skin and allow the family dog to get used to new scents.
Training
Whoever says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks didn’t see an animal behaviourist before saying so. Think about taking a class with your dog on how to humanely and safely control behaviours. Knowing what to do and how to react before baby enters the family will keep stress to a minimum.
Reward
Once the baby comes home, be sure to reward the dog for his patience and gentleness around baby. Have a small stash of treats in your pockets to show your gratitude. Give the reward in conjunction with both tactile (touch) and verbal reward. “Good boy, Max!” with a scratch behind the ears goes a long way in boosting a dog’s morale.
Bite prevention
All family members should know how to prevent dog bites, even from the most loving of doggie family members. Crawling babies are curious. Children sometimes try to hug dogs. Dogs may not like this. Monitor
behaviour and teach children ground rules and dog safety issues early on. An ounce of prevention is definitely worth its weight in bronzed booties.
Mind those squeak toys
Both infant and dog toys are often bright, loud, squeaky, and elicit some sort of joyful reaction. In the wrong hands or teeth, this is a potential snap fest. Best advice? Don’t let it happen. Keep baby toys away from dogs and vice versa. Babies are curious. Even more so, walking toddlers are extra curious. Pulling on ears, tugging on tails, and tossing things at the dog are all nono’s. Don’t allow baby to be in these situations and keep Rover out of harm’s way. Teach children to respect animals early on.
Fido first
When you first return from the hospital, allow your significant other or someone else to enter the residence holding the baby. Dogs love to rejoice when their guardian arrives home. Allow him to rejoice without the baby in your arms. After a few minutes, then hold your new bundle of joy. Slow and steady always wins the race, especially when the reward is Fido’s understanding and adjustment to a new family member. (Yahoo! Shine)
Making your home safe for your baby
What are the biggest risks in the home?
The arrival of a baby means you need to look at your home in a whole new light. Babies and young children are naturally curious and you will need to assess your home for lurking dangers.
In the UK, more than one million children are taken to hospital after being involved in an accident in the home every year. Those most at risk from a home accident are children under four years of age. Falls account for most non-fatal accidents, while the highest number of deaths are due to fire.
Don’t wait until disaster strikes before you think about safety for the new arrival in your home. With careful planning and a little equipment, you’ll be prepared when your baby is ready to explore.
There are hundreds of childproofing gadgets on the market but the most important safety device is always going to be your supervision.
No matter how well equipped you are, you still need to be alert to possible dangers. If the phone rings, or doorbell goes, take your baby with you if you have doubts about her safety while she is out of your sight.
How can I help prevent falls?
• Falls are the most common causes of accidents in the home, accounting for 44 per cent of all children’s accidents. Once your baby starts crawling, you may also need a safety gate to keep her out of rooms which are off-limits.
• Use safety gates and door gates. Fit a safety gate at the top of your stairs and another three steps from the bottom. Remember that the gate you put at the top of the stairs for your one-yearold may become her favourite climbing structure when she is two. Never leave things lying on the stairs which could cause someone to trip up. Stairs should always be well-lit and carefully maintained. Remove or repair any damaged or worn carpet. Make sure balustrades are strong and do not have any footholds for climbing.
• Put non-slip pads under rugs and mats which don’t already have nonslip backs.
• Attach cushioned cornerand-edge protectors to coffee tables and desks. They may not prevent a fall but they can help lessen an injury.
How can I make windows and patio doors safe?
Choose curtains and blinds without cords. If you do have them, tie cords high up and out of your child’s reach. Place colourful stickers on large areas of glass, such as sliding glass doors, to remind your child that they are there. Always open sash windows from the top and fit them with locks to prevent your child from opening them from the bottom.
• Fix low windows so that they don’t open more than 12.5 centimetres. Keep furniture and other items your child may be tempted to climb on away from windows. (Baby Centre)
Guyana records steady growth in intra-regional trade since 1973 I Can Foundation treats occupants of Uncle Eddie’s Home
Guyana has recorded a six per cent growth in intra-regional exports since the existence of the regional body in 1973, up until the period ending 2011, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat said on Monday.
It also noted that food was recorded as its main export commodity. A breakdown of the region’s trade performance since 1973 shows that Guyana’s exports moved from US$15.1 million to US$138.1 million by 2011, at an average annual growth rate of six per cent over the period.
This compares favourably with an overall annual average growth rate of 8.8 per cent for Caricom as a whole. The information from the regional body also listed Guyana as the third highest exporter on average for the entire period, while Trinidad and Tobago ranked first with 71.3 per cent; Barbados second with 8.4 per cent; and Jamaica fourth with 14 per cent.
In the early period of the integration movement (1973 to 1981), Guyana’s intra-regional exports moved from US$15.1 million to US$60 million, increasing at an annual average growth rate of 18.8 per cent, compared to the overall growth rate of 22.8 per cent for exports in the intra-regional market.
For this period, Guyana was on average the third highest intra-regional exporter, with an average of US$40.9 million, accounting for 13 per cent of Caricom’s average exports.
However, while Guyana dropped to fourth place as
an intra-regional exporter for the period 1982-2005, it regained its third ranking position during 2006 to 2011.
Food was the major commodity exported by Guyana in the intra-regional market, accounting for 68.4 per cent of the country’s intraregional export during 1973 to 2011.
However, Trinidad and Tobago remains the lead intra-regional exporter of food, focusing on processed or prepared food products.
In the case of intra-regional imports, Guyana ranked first on average for the period 1973 to 1981 with 25.1 per cent, and for the period 2006 to 2011, it was the second highest intra-regional importer with 14.2 per cent.
Meanwhile, Chief Statistician Lennox Benjamin, on the occasion of the joint government of Guyana, Caricom Secretariat launch of International Year of Statistics, said “the objective of the ‘Year of Statistics 2013’ is to promote statistics, both as an enhanced source of knowledge as well as a comfortable and practical tool in our everyday lives.”
He added that statistics must no longer be something abstract to most or viewed as something hard to grasp, as it affects everyone in his or her everyday lives. Benjamin made reference to weather forecasts, predicting areas for high crime activity and emergency preparedness. Proficiency in statistics provides the art of telling a story with numerical data, and thus, will always be a big plus for media practitioners.
On Sunday last, founder, past students and current students of a cosmetology course hosted in Plaisance by the I Can Foundation visited the Uncle Eddie’s Home to give a day of beauty indulgence and pampering to the residents.
The occupants of the facility were treated to facials, pedicures, manicures and hairstyling, much to their delight. The I Can Foundation believes in taking care of the elderly and respecting them.
Founder of I Can Foundation, Shabakie Fernandes said, “It is only natural that as we age, we still get pampered as we did in our youth. It is a joy and a blessing to be around persons who would have gone through life before us for you can gain considerable knowledge from them. It is a privilege for us to be able to honour our elders in this way. For our students, this is about giving back and learning at the same time.”
It was the first time the I Can Foundation has pampered residents of Uncle Eddie’s Home. Cosmetologist Malinda Marks, who conducts the cos-
metology classes in Plaisance, said: “I love knowing my students are giving back to society. At the I Can Foundation, it is not just about gaining a skill but also having the confidence to utilise it. I am very proud of my students.”
One of the occupants of Uncle Eddie’s Home being pampered
wednesday, july 31, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com
Alleged TV thief, buyer charged
Aself-employed mason was granted bail in the sum of $40,000 when he appeared before Magistrate Rondell Weaver at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on Monday, to answer to a charge of break and enter and larceny.
Larenz Isaacs is accused of breaking into the house of Thomas Bowman and stealing one Sharp television set valued $62,000.
Police Prosecutor
Sergeant Rochelle Mars told the court that on July 24, about 23:15h, Bowman secured his home and went out.
Upon his return 10 minutes later, he discovered that someone had broken into his home through a window. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that a Sharp television set was missing.
Mars said Bowman told the police that as he was returning home in his car and was a few metres away from home, he saw the accused on
a bridge with a television. Isaacs was arrested and told of the offence.
Asked where he lived, Isaacs told the court that he resides on Angoy’s Avenue.
Mars said Isaacs had given the police an address along the Berbice River and asked the magistrate to place the accused on substantial bail since he may not return to court. The magistrate placed the accused on $40,000 bail.
Meanwhile, another man appeared before the same
magistrate accused of receiving stolen property. Kenrick Carrington of Angoy’s Avenue is accused of receiving stolen property on July 25.
According to the police prosecution, the 21-yearold Carrington bought the said television for $8000, knowing same to be stolen. Carrington, who works in the interior as a labourer was granted bail in the sum of $30,000. Both matters have been set for October 21 for trial.
Gambling buddies end up in court
Two young men were brought before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday, after they were cross charged with unlawful assault.
It is alleged that on July 25 at Leopold Street, 19-year-old Chris Ramford, of Leopold and John streets, unlawfully assaulted Alex Simon, 18, causing him actual bodily harm. He plead-
ed not guilty to the charge. It was also alleged that on the same day, Simon, of 121 Norton Street, unlawfully and maliciously wounded Ramford. He too pleaded not guilty to the charge read against him.
Ramford is unemployed and has one prior conviction, while Simon works in the interior and has no pending or any prior convictions.
According the facts, on the day in question, the two
young men were gambling when they had a dispute. They dealt each other several punches which resulted in Simon sustaining a swollen lower lip and abrasions. Simon then injured Ramford with a piece of wood, resulting in him receiving a puncture wound to his arm.
Attorney Paul Fung-AFat represented Ramford and stated that both parties would offer no evidence. However, when the magis-
trate asked both individuals if they wanted to give evidence, Simon said he would like the matter to be concluded, but Ramford said there is a lot to say and he would like to tell his side of the story.
There were no objections to bail by the prosecution. Simon was put on $100,000 bail, while Ramford got $80,000. They are both set to return to Court Six on August 7.
Eyew tness Criticism and...
...self-criticism
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) congress is drawing nigh...and titbits are eking out as to what might ensue. Two fellas who were once bigwigs –Ralph Ramkarran and Moses Nagamootoo – but have now departed are predicting that the delegates will simply endorse whatever the leadership puts to them. Both have always been basically sheep, they assert.
This allegation is a pretty damming indictment of themselves as top leaders of the PPP for decades. Let’s just take one incident just before they departed the executive committee (EXCO). Both these gentlemen wanted the selection of the party’s presidential candidate for the last general elections to be done at a congress. They wanted one convened for that purpose.
Now, if congress had historically been such a tool of the leaders – we can only conclude that with them at the time being “leaders” they would’ve used their influence –and whatever else the “leaders” traditionally deployed –to influence the outcome at the special congress in their favour. So if the process was okay then, why isn’t it okay now? The difference, of course, is that they’re not at this upcoming congress to influence the outcome.
And that’s the whole point, isn’t it. Which leaders of any of the political parties across the democratic world don’t caucus delegates at their party conventions to vote in particularly ways. The check on abuse of this reality is to have delegates who are independently minded. The question we have for these two leaders, is what did they do while they were top leaders, to work at the grassroots to develop the independent-minded delegates they say will be absent in the Port Mourant congress?
It’s never been a secret that the PPP was organised way back in 1969 to run along the principles of “democratic centralism”. The “democracy” portion ensured there was the widest possible discussion of issues by all members, while the “centralism” made sure that the leadership gave those discussions a performative practicality. That’s still the status quo.
It’s a fact that the two ex-PPP leaders were the most vociferous defenders of this method of decision making. While they were still aboard, did they lobby to have it abolished? Now that they’re on the out and without influence, their comments do look like sour grapes. But it is most telling that when these two comrades departed, they had no one of those who they claim were comrades for decades walk out with them. Not even the two of them with each other.
It tells a lot about their ability to lead.
...guilty minds
Carl Greenidge was minister of finance during the period in the 1980s when the misguided policies of the People’s National Congress (PNC) brought this country to its knees and its economy into ruins. Yesterday, Greenidge took exception to claims by a banking official that chops made by the opposition to government’s expenditure summarised in the budget had a negative effect on economic growth.
Greenidge laboured mightily to make his point – and failed ignominiously. But what was interesting was an example he used: “Imagine that the only economic activity in the country was farming and the government took money that farmers would use to build warehouses and buy pesticides to protect their vegetables. The government uses the money it has collected to have a contractor build a wharf which promptly floats away, like that at Charity. That expenditure would not have contributed in any way to a higher rate of economic growth in the country.”
Isn’t this what the PNC did to farming revenues, including the sugar levy, which it frittered away on the Mazaruni Hydro?? Freudian slip of a guilty mind.
...monuments
We note the completion of the 1823 Monument commissioned by the government in honour of the slaves and others who fought and gave their lives for freedom. We hope that all the groups will come together and celebrate its commissioning.
Govt to amend laws to implement night childcare centres
Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster said her ministry is working actively to introduce childcare facilities to children of single parents who work at nights.
During an invited comment, Webster told Guyana Times on Tuesday that work is currently progressing to have the laws amended before the initiative can be implemented.
She explained that this was not likely to happen before the parliamentary recess, owing to current constraints within the National Assembly.
“This initiative is one of the clearest reflections that our government has seen the need to reduce the vulnerability of our children being left without adequate supervision and care, with emphasis being placed upon the safety of our children,” Minister Webster said.
She pointed out that the ministry would like to have night care facilities for children of single parents come into effect before year-end. Minister Webster revealed that the effort is aimed at supporting parents, who by virtue of their employment, are required to work long hours.
She had initially made the announcement during the 2013 budget debate presentation in the National Assembly in April. She had called on the House to work together to capitalise on the current dispensation provided.
“As much, as we in the
Ministry of Human Services and Social Security advocates for every family to work to overcome challenges together, we, as a national family, must embrace the theme of overcoming challenges together, accelerating the gains for Guyana,” she said.
Webster is of the firm belief that should parliamentarians adopt and maintain a collective approach and vision with the main aim of working together in service towards national development, then every action and intervention must support the achievement of this vision.
“History and the people of this country will judge us and I trust that we will not be found wanting,” she said.
Investigation
Minister Webster disclosed that the Child Protection Agency (CPA) will continue to play a leading role in the investigation of cases of child abuse. According to Webster, the agency investigated 3690 child abuse cases in 2012 as opposed to 3653 in 2011.
This year, in addition to investigating child abuse cases, the agency will be placing increased emphasis on the implementation of an Early Childhood Development Programme, which caters for the registering and licensing of more than 200 daycare facilities across the country.
The human services minister revealed also that plans are in place to expand and strengthen the foster care and kinship care programme as an alterna-
tive care option for children at risk, while heightening focus on reducing the number of children in institutional care by promoting family-based care.
Focus will be also be on ensuring all privately managed children’s homes conduct their operation in accordance with the minimum standards and guidelines in place to safeguard children who will have to remain in institutional homes.
Regular visits
Visiting committees are tasked with regularly visiting, inspecting, monitoring and evaluating the operations of these facilities with the view of ensuring their compliance with minimum standards that have been developed by the Caricom Secretariat.
“Those families in need will also continue to benefit from the
Family Assistance Programme which includes day care support, and uniform assistance,” Webster remarked.
The new state-of-the-art Mahaica Children’s Home, which will provide care and support for abused and exploited children, will be commissioned soon.
Minister Webster explained that attention will be given to complementing the programme in place to re-integrate teenage mothers into the school system.
She said daycare services will be provided at this facility to support teenage mothers in support of their education and building a livelihood for themselves.
The CPA will also in 2013 seek to establish necessary links with other agencies and groups to effectively meet the needs of child protection in Guyana even as emphasis will be placed on examining and strengthening existing legislation, as well as initiating new ones, also in the direction of ensuring the equality and protection of all children in Guyana, the minister said.
Through funding from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), capacity building workshop and training programmes will be conducted to enhance the capacity of the agency.
Webster mentioned too that there will be re-organisation and decentralisation of the services provided by the agency throughout the 10 administrative regions.
wednesday, july 31, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com
CIOG donates US$5000 to brain tumour patient
The Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) on Tuesday donated US$5000 to a five-year-old girl, who is slated to undergo surgery for a brain tumour next month.
The kind gesture was made by CIOG President Fazeel Ferouz to Tyjawattie Mahadeo, the mother of Bibi Zaheeda Mohammed, at the CIOG headquarters, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.
During the simple handing over ceremony, the parents of Bibi Mohammed could not hold back their emotions, as they received the cheque that will go towards their daughter’s surgery.
According to Ferouz, the CIOG was made aware of the child’s dilemma via the organisation’s regional vice president, Derrick Rahat and the media.
“The family approached the masjid on the East Coast and therefore, we started to check around for donors to see if we could get the donations to help them to go because it’s an urgent operation,” he explained.
The move by the CIOG to assist in the undertaking of the surgery is part of its mandate in fulfilling responsibilities to cater for the poor and needy.
Ferouz added, “She is a very young, nice child and we hope and pray that she can have a successful operation.”
According to Mahadeo, they were short of G$1 million for the operation, which costs more than G$6 million. She noted that her daughter had undergone a previous surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital in 2011 to remove the brain tumour but it was not completely removed.
As such, the cancerous lump grew back and it is affecting the child’s balance. Mahadeo explained that Mohammed cannot balance on her own when she stands for prolonged periods. Her parents said they first became aware of the tumour when their daughter had a seizure.
Mohammed and her family are expected to leave on August 29 for Trinidad where the operation will take place. The surgery will take place at the St Clair Medical Centre, Trinidad.
Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster
wednesday, July 31, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com
80 families receive help from GRC so far this year
The Guyana Relief Council (GRC) has offered assistance to 54 families whose lives were affected by fire in 2013. On Thursday, the non-governmental organisation donated essential household articles, clothing and groceries to 12 families who hail primarily from Region Four and to a lesser extent Region Six.
The four families who were displaced when fire of unknown origin destroyed their Quamina Street, Georgetown houses on July 6 were among the recipients. These include, Jacqueline Brch, Edgar Downer, Socota Fortune and Venessa Fortune. Allision Herbert from the East Coast Demerara; Gadwatti Singh from Princess Street, Lodge, Georgetown; and Kesha Cheong from B Field, Sophia also benefitted.
GRC Welfare Officer Rohini Bonar said apart from assisting 54 families, the council offers monthly assistance to 25 families who are struggling to keep their heads above rough waters, in addition to facilitating housing accommodation to a young
couple whose house was destroyed by fire.
“Now, if you are a self-employed person and you have lost your tools of trade, we cannot facilitate all the items, but we ask the individuals which of the tools is essential and we purchase that for them.”
Already, the council has spent $3 million to meet the needs of the vulnerable, and according to Bonar, the figure could increase to $8 million by year- end if there is an increase in the number of fires.
Annual, the council helps between 300 to 500 individuals.
While the council receives a small subvention from the government of Guyana, it depends heavily on the public support during the staging of three major fundraiser exercises: the Chinese Food Festival at the New Thriving Restaurant, the Family Jam and a luncheon at the Pegasus International Hotel. Support also comes from a sister chapter in Florida, the commercial sector and public-spirited citizens.
Gadwatti Singh said she will forever remain grateful to the GRC for its generous support. “Oh gosh, they were very
great, very helpful, I got a nice hamper to talk about, stove, clothes, a little bit of this and that and I am very thankful,” the seamstress told Guyana Times
Singh, along with five other persons were left homeless on June 21, when fire consumed their two-storey home at Princess Street Lodge. A ceiling fan was reportedly left on for weeks, resulting in the fire. Singh is now residing at her aunt at Norton Street and is opened to further assistance.
Shonette Hubert, another fire victim of Coverden, East Bank Demerara, who lost her home on May 26, said “I received a mattress, clothing, kitchen utensils and I am thankful.”
The GRC has been offering its assistance to families across Guyana since 1997. In keeping with its motto, “Caring and Sharing”, the GRC continues to offer counselling, material aid and assistance and temporary shelters without any discrimination on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, age, marital status, family responsibility or political affiliation.
Why I walked out...
Satiricus didn’t think he was a coward. But like the big, bad villain in the Harry Potter books, there were certain persons’ names he just couldn’t afford to mention. It’s not that they could put a hex on him or something, but “he-whocould-not-be-mentioned” could put a squeeze on his runnings. OK…OK, it was just a matter of getting some free beers and cutters, but hey, Satiricus wasn’t ashamed about being a “material guy”. Even though he talked the working class talk, he still liked his perks. Especially for free.
Satiricus had joined the boys at the back street rum-shop – as he’d done for God knows how many years. Why! He’d followed his old man into the dive as a boy and as they faded out, their sons had followed suit. Man! They’d gone through so much together. He remembered the times when cigarettes were so hard to come by, they all had to take a pull from the same cigarette. And some of those chaps never liked to brush their teeth.
But after decades of watching everybody’s back, there started to be a change in the fellas’ attitude, whenever he came to have a drink. OK, Satiricus had come into some money through his father in-law, but that hadn’t changed him so much that they should begin to insult him. He still liked his free beer. All he’d done was insist they should call him “Mr Satiricus” and asked the bartender to serve him only wine.
Even though he felt superior to the chaps, he didn’t let them know. He was shocked they felt offended when he helped them by explaining things to them. After all, he knew better. And he couldn’t help quoting books he really didn’t understand. Surely, they shouldn’t have minded that he never listened to their opinions. They were so uninformed!!
Then came “he-who-could-not-be-mentioned” into the group. What an upstart! He just didn’t know his place. Why, he encouraged fellas whose fathers weren’t founding members like his, to think they should have opinions!!! No wonder they all liked him and agreed with him on everything. It was so humiliating. Worse than that he allowed them to become so familiar with him. Satiricus preferred people to know their place.
Well, the day came when Satiricus knew he had to make a decision. The boys were all gathered at the rum shop. Satiricus reached out to the cutters’ bowl. It was fried banga mary –Satiricus’ favourite. And Tony knocked his hand away! Said Satiricus hadn’t paid and he couldn’t have any more freeness. Imagine the nerve of this low-class unwashed!
Satiricus let them have it. They were all ungrateful! Look how he’d given them the benefit of his company and shared his wit and wisdom all these years. He stormed out and went home. He was so angry, he couldn’t speak. It’s not easy having a plate of banga mary pulled away from you. He was traumatised, but he vowed he would never return to the backstreet rum shop. It was all the work of “he-who-he-could-not-mention”. Satiricus mourned his loss of “freeness”.
All set for Emancipation Day celebrations
The African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) said all is set for the successful hosting of the Emancipation Day celebrations on August 1. This is according to ACDA Executive Director Eric Phillips who said Guyanese will be treated to a grand cultural show and showcase on Thursday, at the National Park, as Guyana celebrates Emancipation Day 2013.
Phillips told this newspaper that the main focus for this year’s celebration is to honour fallen African heroes, who have served with distinction and made their contribution to the Guyanese com-
munity. He added that this year the African country of Mali will be celebrated, with the aim of promoting literacy. Mali is a centre for learning in African culture and history with more than 700,000 manuscripts.
While explaining that ACDA is looking to continue educating young African Guyanese about their culture and history, Phillips noted that a contractor has been hired to create poems and plays to effect this during the emancipation commemoration and beyond that period. The Crystal Light dance group will also be performing, while several local artistes, including Devin Stars and Sean English, will be creating an atmosphere of fun and excitement for the audience. A team from Brazil will also be performing, while members of the National School of Dance and the Hebrew family will be putting on a show for the crowd. The libation will be done by Brother Andre Irving. The sunrise service commences at 06:00h and the park opens at 10:00h, while the actual show begins at 15:00h.
A GRC staffer handing over a huge hamper to Alice Pitt, a fire victim of One Mile, Wismar, Linden
ACDA Executive Director Eric Phillips
U.S.-based Guyanese rejects plea offer for machete attack on wife
AGuyanese born West Boca man accused of striking his wife with a machete at least eight times has declined an offer to plead guilty to the brutal July 18, 2011, attack in exchange for a 13-year prison sentence.
Tilakdharry Basdeo, 35, now faces up to life behind bars if convicted at trial of the charge of attempted first-degree murder with a deadly weapon, said Assistant State Attorney Cheo Reid.
On July 22, just three days after a hearing where Basdeo rejected the plea offer, Palm Beach County Circuit Judge Sandra McSorley suddenly removed herself from the case.
“Due to an unfortunate and inadvertent ex parte
communication concerning the facts of this case, the court finds it necessary to disqualify herself from this case,” McSorley wrote in an order sent via inter-office mail to Reid and Assistant Public Defender Erich Taylor.
Circuit Judge Richard
Oftedal, now handling the proceedings, will hold a status hearing August 22. The next step in the case was a planned deposition of the only witness to the incident at the family home on Marlin Drive west of Boca Raton: the couple’s shaken 14-year-old daughter.
On July 19, McSorley set ground rules for questioning the teenager who was apparently traumatised because she “witnessed her father taking a machete to her mother”.
Taylor, who requested the deposition, was asked to draft questions for the prosecutor’s review. Reid said he had worked on getting the girl therapy to help her prepare for the interview. He does not plan to put her on the witness stand at her fa-
ther’s trial.
“We don’t need her to testify here,” Reid said.
An arrest report by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office described the confrontation: When the woman arrived home at about 15:3h, she took a shower and laid down in the master bedroom.
Basdeo, who was outside trimming trees, came inside, took a shower and called a “family discussion” about his wife being out late the previous night. Basdeo started screaming and told the victim: “I’m going to get the machete and cut you into pieces,” according to the report.
Basdeo went to the kitchen, grabbed the blade in his right hand and returned to the master bedroom. He slammed the machete down on the woman’s head and
shoulder about four times, the report stated. While their daughter cried and shouted “stop”, Basdeo lifted the machete over his head and said, “Stop crying”.
Basdeo then proceeded to strike his wife four or five more times in her head and shoulder. He then dropped the machete and walked into the dining room. Basdeo sat on a chair and called 911 with the news: “I think I just murdered my wife,” according to the report. Detectives said Basdeo, a native of Guyana, later confessed at the Sheriff’s Office station. Three weeks ago, the state dropped a count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, because the girl was the victim in that charge. Basdeo was initially arrested on a child abuse
Surujbally still to respond to Boodoo’s letter
ormer Chief Elections
FOfficer Gocool Boodoo said allegations against him concerning the deliberate adjustments of the November 28, 2011 election results were a clear attempt to discredit his character and dissuade commissioners from retaining him.
Boodoo, in a letter issued to the media, dismissed the accusations and insisted that there was nothing “irregular” about his tabulation of the results of the 2011 general elections. The former elections officer stated that while he noted all the recent ramblings about the manipulation of numbers and a change of formula, an observer from the Organisation of American States (OAS) was present throughout the process.
When asked to com-
ment on Boodoo’s statement, GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally said he was in the process of preparing a written response, which would be released to the media.
In the letter, Boodoo remarked: “For the entire period leading up to the declaration, the OAS had a representative at my desk overlooking all that was being done.” Boodoo maintained that nothing was irregular about the process as the commissioners were also present.
“This is a clear attempt to discredit me, so that commissioners would not support my retention. Nevertheless, it did not work as was expected, since those who were aware of the facts could not have been moved.”
Though failing to ad-
dress the manner in which the tabulation was arrived at, Boodoo drew heavily on the presence of the OAS official as his main source of credibility.
In a statement on the 2011 general elections, the OAS revealed that the overall process had been conducted fairly. However, while the
OAS mission maintained a 24-hour presence in the tabulation centre up to the time of the publicly scheduled results declaration, it claimed that the level of transparency and access to information was limited.
Boodoo also pointed fingers in the direction of the information technology section of the Guyana Elections Commissions (GECOM), stating that the results he presented to the nation was the one issued to him by the IT people.
“The fact of the matter is that the results presented to the commission for ratification was what
was presented to me by the information technology section,” he stressed.
Surujbally’s vote was the tiebreaker that sealed Boodoo’s fate when the quorum of commissioners was deadlocked on a decision.
Three governmentappointed commissioners, Mohamood Shaw, Dr Keshav Mangal, and Jaya Manickchand voted in favour of having Boodoo retained as chief elections officer, while the opposition-appointed commissioners in the persons of Vincent Alexander, Charles Corbin, and Sandra Jones voted against him.
charge, but prosecutors did not pursue it.
Tilakdharry Basdeo
Gocool Boodoo
wednesday, July 31, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com
Five-day workweek defaulters could face jail time – Dr Gopaul
Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul on Monday sent a strong warning to government and non-governmental entities, saying should they fail to implement the national fiveday, 40-hour work week; they will be appropriately dealt with.
First time defaulters will pay a fine of $35,000 if caught; however, repeated offenders will be placed behind bars for one month, in addition to paying a fine of $75, 000.
Reports have indicated that some commercial entities have not yet implemented the new Ministerial Order, claiming that their workers are not being paid minimum wages; hence, they are not subject to the five-day, 40-hour work week.
But Minister Gopaul said this is not the case.
“No, 40 hours regardless of salaries earned by workers. The 40 hours per week is nationally applicable to
everyone,” he stressed. He said a survey conducted over the past three weeks have confirmed that 35 commercial entities are operating in compliance with the $35,000 minimum wage and fiveday, 40-hour work week order.
“What we have seen is a lot of staggered operations in some of the entities to ensure that the compliance of the 40-hour, five-day work week takes place.”
Dr Gopaul said during the survey, there were some discrepancies; however, they were quickly rectified to meet the demands of the new order, after the facts were presented.
Visits
Within the next two weeks, the Labour Ministry will be paying a visit to businesses within the garment industry to assess the implementation of the agreement. Similar visits will be conducted within the manufacturing and hospitality
Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul
sectors in August, the labour minister disclosed. The Labour Ministry is hoping to visit 1000 businesses before year-end.
The national five-day, 40-hour work week, which equals to eight hours per day, took effect from July 1. It was instituted by the Labour Ministry to protect some 31,000 workers.
While some compa-
nies have taken the new Ministerial Order in good faith, former Chief Labour Officer Mohamed Akeel has called for it to be revised, claiming that it has defects. He explained that the order was made under the Labour Act, Chapter 98:01, Section Eight, which stipulates that the labour minister if deems it convenient to regulate the wages paid in any occupation in Guyana, may appoint an Advisory Committee to investigate and make recommendations based on consultation following publication. Akeel also claimed that the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Manufactures Association and the Chambers of Commerce were not consulted.
In his final attempt to oppose the Ministerial Order, Akeel said that a national minimum wage with a five-day work week could be “self-defeating”.
“Can a developing country afford to have the wheels
of production by overtime payments and risk limiting the access to overseas markets?” the former labour officer had asked.
Not true
But Akeel’s allegations were rubbished by the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), the National Association of Agricultural Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU). According to the trade unions, Akeel continues to show his preference for “big business interests and subtly attacks a minimum wage of $35, 000 and a five-day work week”.
They refuted claims that consultations were not held, pointing out that in May 2012, a sub-committee was formed to deliberate on the National Minimum Wage.
Additionally, it was stated that the Consultative Association of Guyana Industries Limited (CAGI) held regular consultations with the business community. The minimum wage at the level of the committee which comprised representatives from NAACIE, CAGI and GTUC was approved in February 2013.
At the level of Cabinet, the union representatives said they were advised that a Ministerial Task Force was established to tackle the matter. All along, they argue that steps to implement a National Minimum Wage were made public.
In a united voice, they reinforced their position for the 40-hour work week and a minimum wage of $35, 000, noting that they will prevent any attempt to derail the process.
Rape accused marries victim, still charged
A21-year-old man of Onderneeming Village on the Essequibo Coast was charged with rape of a child under the new Sexual Offences Act.
Satesh Singh, also known as “Vishal” appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Charity Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him.
Singh was not required to plead to the indictable charge of rape of a minor.
However, the virtual complainant in the matter indicated through her Attorney Haimraj Rajkumar, that she is now married to the accused and is pregnant. A certificate of marriage was
shown to the court.
According to police report, on April 29, 2011, at Onderneeming, the accused sexually penetrated the minor, who was 14 years old at the time.
The accused was charged for the said offence on the June 9; however, he was absent when the matter was called on several occasions.
On April 20, police managed to arrest Singh and he was charged again. On this occasion, he was placed on $60,000 bail.
Prosecutor Krishna Datt Ramana did not object to bail as the accused and the virtual complainant are legally together and are expecting a child.
Autopsy on baby in septic tank inconclusive; mother released
Marlyn Severine, 40, of 133 Victoria Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, whose decomposed newborn baby was found in a septic tank in her yard last week, was on Monday released from police custody after an autopsy report on the child’s remains was given as inconclusive.
The autopsy performed by Dr Nehaul Singh gave the cause of death as undetermined but samples were taken for further examination. Minutes after the pronouncement of the autopsy report, the mother of eight was sent home to her children, but was advised not leave the jurisdiction.
She was taken into police custody on Wednesday last after a dog was seen with one of the baby’s arms, and upon searching the area, the other body parts of the baby were found in the sep-
tic tank at Severine’s residence.
It was reported that the woman had left a “Bingo” game in a hurry two days before the find, complaining of experiencing “labour” pains. She reportedly told relatives that after she reached home on that evening, she went to use the washroom and the baby came down after using a substance to fast track the delivery.
She panicked and reportedly threw the baby in the septic tank. Investigators believe that the baby was alive when it was disposed of. After one week, the baby was badly decomposed but parts of the arms and legs were still intact. This would have been the second child that the woman delivered at home without a midwife being present. Her eldest child is 21 years old and resides overseas.
wednesday, july 31, 2013 |
Farming must be seen as a business – U.S. specialist
Rutgers University Professor, Dr Robin Brumfield said Guyanese farmers must begin applying entrepreneurial techniques and view their production enterprises as businesses.
Brumfield, a specialist in farm financial management and greenhouse production, was invited by Partners of the Americas’ Farmer-to-Farmer programme to conduct a workshop with female shadehouse producers on the “Cost of Production”.
She will also provide training for field staff and shadehouse vegetable producers on calculating costs, returns and profitability; and business planning for niche marketing during her July 28 to August 11 assignment.
Business plans
In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, Brumfield said research has shown that persons with business plans are seven times more likely to succeed.
With this in mind, she intends to impress upon the minds of local farmers the importance of developing such a plan. “We are teaching them to think of their shade houses as a business and so we are helping them learn how to develop those plans,” Dr Brumfield explained.
She noted that reducing the cost of production is crucial to any food producer if they are to make a profit and remain in business for the long term. Basically, shadehouse produc-
ers in Guyana are small-scale farmers who produce fruits and vegetables for personal use, but may market the excess.
“So for those doing subsistence farming, it can impact their revenue and it gives them income to purchase other types of food and the necessities they need,” Brumfield detailed.
She added that given Guyana’s proximity to South America and the Caribbean, the country should capitalise on its land space, soil type, and favourable climate to become a major exporter.
“It’s certainly an area that can be considered because the United States get lots of imports from Latin American countries, so there’s no reason why Guyana shouldn’t capitalise on this and begin producing on a large scale,” the professor said.
Production co-ops
She suggested forming production co-ops that can market products collectively, especially in the off peak seasons in North America.
She stressed that women have a huge contribution to agriculture worldwide and small farms are generally family businesses run mostly by rural couples, with the woman performing book-keeping duties.
Brumfield said she discovered that as farmers move further into direct marketing, women tend to take the lead role. “So, it is extremely important, because if the women succeed it means well for the entire family and the next gen-
eration,” the specialist pointed out.
However, Guyanese have not been concerned with expanding small-scale farms, so the application of techniques imparted by Brumfield can benefit not only subsistent farmers but gear them up for large-scale farming. She revealed that shadehouse producers are growing mostly fruits and vegetables, which have been proven by research to be effective in maintaining a healthy diet.
As such, one of the key components of a business plan is incorporated in the value of the product, which in this case helps to create and promote the health of a community.
“In the U.S., we have gone too far with the fast food, processed foods and eating unhealthy and we have developed various health issues, so in addition to making commercial livelihood, it is important to keep a healthy population and keep healthcare costs down,” Brumfield explained.
For her, eating healthy is
deeply personal as it has removed her from a life of pain and prescription medicine. Brumfield related how she became ill to the point of disability five years ago and after changing her diet on the advice of a doctor, she was amazed at the results.
“I did it initially to reduce my cholesterol, but was able to treat other diseases as well. Now I’m off all medicines and can travel around the world to share my story,” the professor said.
Brumfield was in Guyana in 2012 to conduct training under the “Hydroponic Shadehouse Vegetable Production and Marketing Project” to boost the opera-
tions of hydroponic shadehouse growers. This time she will introduce women to a programme on the basic skills needed to sustain profitable agricultural businesses dubbed the “Suzanne’s Project”, which debuted in Turkey.
Hydroponics
In Guyana, hydroponics is considered a timely alternative growing system of cultivating plants without soil, a practice being adopted by small farmers and non-farmers alike. The hydroponic technique is growing in popularity in large part, because it is possible to produce fresh, healthy vegetables through-
out the year, a prospect that is attractive even to non-farmers doing gardening at home. To help shadehouse owners in the U.S. make effective managerial decisions to sustain their operations, Dr. Brumfield has developed “Greenhouse Cost Accounting”, a computer programme that allows greenhouse managers to allocate costs to specific crops that has become the standard for the greenhouse industry. She wrote the marketing and business management chapters for the seventh edition of the best-selling textbook Greenhouse Operations and Management by Dr Paul V Nelson.
U.S. embassy in community service outreach in Linden
The U.S. embassy’s Youth Action Network (YAN) teamed up with partners for a lively day of community service in Linden under the theme “Ready to Serve, Ready to Lead”.
According to a U.S. embassy release, the YAN members joined together with U.S. military cadets from the Cultural Understanding and Language Proficiency Programme (CULP) and U.S. Peace Corps volunteers. A total of 76 volunteers completed three different service projects, all of which were identified by Linden-based Peace Corps volunteer Wendy Kogel.
The first service activity
took place in Retrieve, across from the Brittelbank Daycare Centre, where volunteers joined community members to clear overgrown bush to begin work on a playfield for the children.
The second service project involved painting murals on the walls of MacKenzie Sports Club that have positive messages for the community, including “Say no to drugs” and “Keep Linden litter-free”.
The last activity brought several disadvantaged Linden youths out to the Bayrock Community Centre (the Basin) in Wismar for a crosscultural, sports diplomacy exchange. Guyanese and U.S.
youths shared in games from both countries, while emphasising the importance of good sportsmanship, teamwork and exercise. U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt and embassy staff joined the volunteers in Linden to support their civic engagement.
This is the first major community service project organised by the embassy’s Youth Action Network. The network gives motivated youths an opportunity to participate in networking and training activities to enhance their leadership skills, professionalism and implementation of community service and development projects.
Dr Robin Brumfield
wednesday, july 31, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com
GECOM commissioner says chairman was self-serving
– says backdoor deal was struck to oust Boodoo
By Michael younge
People’s Progressive Party /Civic-nominated commissioner, Dr Keshav Mangal expressed concern about the state of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and its ability to deliver free and fair elections, which would also be free from political interference. This is in light of him accusing the commission’s chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally of colluding with the opposition to oust Gocool Boodoo from the post of chief elections officer.
Dr Mangal told Guyana Times during an exclusive interview on Tuesday evening that he was reliably informed that Surujbally would have voted against Boodoo’s reappointment in a bid to save himself as calls were also been made for his resignation as chairman.
Mangal said he was concerned that “a long-term plan was afoot” to manipulate the work of the commission, commencing with the removal of Boodoo from the post. He explained that Boodoo had been
the victim of continuous attacks from the chairman over the last couple of years, owing to the chief elections officer’s zero-tolerance approach on issues which were in breach of the rules and regulations of the secretariat and commission.
Undermining
The commissioner has also raised concerns over some of the public utterances made by People’s National Congress Reform-nominated Commissioner Vincent Alexander and the chairman about the work and track record of Boodoo. He was convinced that their pronouncements were riddled with inaccuracies and done to undermine Boodoo’s integrity to justify their position that he must not be reappointed.
“We know that there was a secret deal,” he said, before stating that “the country has come a far way to be able to hold free and fair elections, but this is all being jeopardised for obvious political reasons”.
Commissioner Mangal said significant progress has
been made and GECOM has been improving under the stewardship of Boodoo. He was concerned that Boodoo was denied a fair hearing and a chance to undergo an appraisal process before he was denied reappointment. He said he had lobbied on numerous occasions for due process to take place but to no avail.
Dr Mangal has backed Boodoo’s recent revelations about the chairman’s allegeded misuse of office.
He stressed that at some point, these matters would have to be discussed in full as they paint the commission in
a bad light.
Asked whether the issues related to Boodoo’s damning pronouncements against Surujbally were discussed at Tuesday’s statutory meeting for the commission, he responded in the affirmative. He said the chairman has given the commissioners the undertaking to respond fully to the allegations.
“We are aware that there is documentary evidence for some of the allegations which Boodoo made in his letter,” Dr Mangal reported, stating that many times he too attempted to raise concerns about some things that were not right at the level of the commission with Surujbally.
“I will also reveal that I had on many occasions told the chairman, Surujubally that he was the nexus between us six commissioners and secretariat staff, and I always pointed out any deficiencies within the secretariat staff.”
The commissioner said the issue took centre stage at the meeting along with matters related to local government elections.
He added that the infighting and wild public assertions by some commissioners was creating rifts. Dr Mangal said despite their sometimes differing positions on various issues, before the Boodoo matter arose, commissioners had a strong camaraderie.
Pressured
He also confirmed that Boodoo was constantly being pressured to produce the results of the elections by the chairman and the public relations officer who had organised various news briefings for the declarations to be made at set times despite the amount of work that needed to be done.
“All commissioners present in the boardroom at GECOM and awaiting the results of the 2011 General and Regional Elections from the CEO, Gocool Boodoo who was receiving results from the returning officers from all regions of Guyana and through the IT department and being assisted by his staff for the final tabulation and allocation of seats – were all under pressure from the chairman,
Surujubally and his Public Relations Officer Vishnu Persaud as they had caused to be assembled at the Pegasus Hotel media centre – international observer heads of commissions and various media.
For the CEO’s announcement at one o’clock, then two o’clock then three o’clock – as we all participated in the process of “getting it right “to give the commission’s approval for the announcements.
Some heads of observer missions had ongoing reservations to fly out of Guyana etc that same day,” he said in a letter.
He disclosed that Alexander omitted in his statement that a Region Three returning officer came to the full commission one week after the declaration of final results and allocation of seats to apologise for leaving out seven pages of results covering some 19 polling places in his tabulation of results for Region Three.
“All of these are documented in our minutes which were subsequently adopted,” he said.
Former Public Works Minister Steve Naraine passes on
Former Public Works Minister Shiv Sahai Naraine has passed away at the age of 89 in Toronto, Canada where he was residing.
A release from the Public Works Ministry expressed condolences and sadness at his passing. The Works Ministry and Opposition Leader David Granger on Tuesday evening
expressed regret at his passing while remembering his good works and contributions to Guyana’s development.
In its statement to the media, the ministry recalled that the former senior minister of works and transport was a graduate of London University and was one of the first Guyanese to study at Delft University of Technology
in the Netherlands in the field of sea defence.
Granger, in a telephone interview with Guyana Times said Naraine’s passing is a loss that will be hard for Guyana to fathom. He said the former minister of the then PNC government was one of the most distinguished engineers the country ever had.
“Mr Naraine came into the
PNC, also became high commissioner… he was very reserved, dignified, respectful and Guyanese to the bone,” the PNCR chairman noted.
The PNCR leader said during Naraine’s tenure he contributed in a major way to building the infrastructure and road networks in Guyana.
Naraine held various positions in the Public Works Department and the Drainage and Irrigation Department, moving from district engineer in 1951 to director of drainage and irrigation in 1960 to 1963.
He also was designated
the chief works and hydraulics officer from 1963-1970 and technical specialist in the Economic Development Ministry from 1971-1972.
The late Naraine became a Member of Parliament in the early seventies. Under the leadership of Linden Forbes Burnham, of the People’s National Congress, he held the portfolio of housing minister during the years 19721974. He was also the vice president of works and transport and later social infrastructure. The ministry said that Naraine made significant contributions to Guyana’s de-
velopment under the various portfolios.
Some of these included the construction of the Sherima Crossing, Allsopp Point and the Upper Mazaruni Road to facilitate connections to the hinterland and the LindenMabura Road, with a direct link to Omai Gold Mines.
In addition to this, it was reported that Naraine was instrumental in setting up the consulting engineering firm, SKRN Engineering. “He was succeeded in the field of engineering by his two sons, Ravi Naraine and Dr Krishna Naraine.”
Dr Steve Surujbally
Regional investment promotion forum held in Barbados
The Caribbean Export Development Agency, in collaboration with the Regional Investment Promotion Steering Committee, convened a Regional Investment Promotion Stakeholders’ Forum, which was held at the Radisson Aquatica Resort in Barbados on July 11-12.
The committee is a think tank that was set up by Caribbean Export in 2012 to deliberate on matters related to investment promotion. The event saw participation from 35 representatives from the CARIFORUM member states, including the investment promotion agencies and policymakers within the ministries with responsibility for investment attraction.
Strategy
The forum sought to focus attention on the development of a Regional Investment Promotion Strategy (RIPS) and Implementation Plan. The strategy will seek to position the Caribbean as an ideal location for investment.
The forum was officiated by Regional Investment Promotion Steering Committee Chairman and University of the West Indies Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Alvin Wint. Opening remarks were delivered by Caribbean Export Development Agency Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA) President Ronald Theodore, and Hubert Perr, the first
councillor and head of operations for the European Union Delegation to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.
In her opening comments, Coke-Hamilton noted how pleased she was that the development of the strategy was being guided by regional stakeholders. She indicated that the document’s development was timely, given the current downward trend in foreign direct investment flows into the Caribbean region, flows which have not recovered since the beginning of the crisis in 2008, despite the recovery evident in other developing countries.
Commitment
She also pointed to the need to address issues related to fiscal incentives that are being offered by governments in the region to investors – incentives which were among the highest in the world. Coke-Hamilton reiterated the commitment of Caribbean Export to work with regional stakeholders in the development and implementation of strategies that would increase the perception of investors of the Caribbean as an ideal location for investing.
Theodore highlighted the work that has been undertaken to date by the association through its secretariat, Caribbean Export, to strengthen the capacity of the investment promotion agencies within the region to target and attract investment flows. He noted that for the investment promo-
tion agencies (IPAs) of the region, it can no longer be business as usual. He indicated that the role of CAIPA is now ever more crucial to “leverage opportunities for joint marketing and promotion and to build capacity of IPAs through training and information sharing”.
Perr sought to encourage participants to adopt a “bold and creative approach”, developing strategies that are new and innovative in areas such as the creative industries and clean technology. He noted the critical importance for the IPAs in the region to adopt a coherent and cohesive approach to investment promotion, despite them being competitors, highlighting the importance of working together in order to gain the highest results.
The meeting included the presentation of the findings from two studies that were undertaken by Caribbean Export, namely, the
Investor Perception Survey for CARIFORUM and the Benchmarking Investment Incentives in CARIFORUM against those of major competitors.
The findings of these studies, along with a review of existing Regional Investment Promotion Strategies and an update on the development of the Caribbean Growth Forum, an initiative that is being led by Compete Caribbean; guided proposals for the development of the scope of services for the strategy, on day two of the meeting.
It is anticipated that a request for proposals for the development of the strategy will be published within the next two months. Funding for this activity was provided by the European Union under the 10th European Development Fund Regional Private Sector Development Programme that is managed by Caribbean Export.
Five in custody for CJIA cocaine bust
Five persons are now in the custody of the Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) following the 11.5 kilograms cocaine bust at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Saturday last.
The persons were identified as one Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) staff; two Customs and Excise employees; one Timehri Handling Service worker and one staffer of Secure and Aviation security firm, the official CAL security. Guyana Times was informed that the CAL staff is one of the people who generated the name tag for the suitcase in which the cocaine was found.
Hours after CANU issued a wanted bulletin for Anthony Thomas, a clerk attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), he presented himself on Tuesday in the company of
his lawyer, James Bond at the law enforcement agency’s headquarters. Another GRA staff who was implicated in the find also presented himself in the company of his lawyer. Both of them were arrested. The five are expected to make a court appearance before the end of the week.
About 02:00h on Saturday morning, 10 parcels of cocaine were found in a suitcase, totalling 11.5 kilograms when weighed. The street value for a kilogram of cocaine in the U.S. is estimated at US$40,000. The bag was detected by CANU ranks in the baggage area with an old label or name tag, which indicated that it was placed there and did not go through the routine security checks. The suitcase was destined for Caribbean Airlines flight BW 526 destined for the John F Kennedy Airport, USA.
World’s largest agency merger could benefit Caribbean clients
On Sunday, two worldwide marketing communication agencies, Omnicom and Publicis, agreed to merge, thus forming the world’s largest group. Since then, the news has dominated all business pages. Commenting on the development, Anderson King, Managing Director of Greg Hoyos Associates Inc (GHA DDB) said the proposed “merger of equals” could bring significant benefits to regional
clients. King added that he expected the Publicis Omnicom Group would bring additional strategic tools and marketing techniques to GHADDB clients. “Our clients already know and use some of DDB’s excellent tools,” he pointed out. “They have served many regional companies very well. With this merger, we will be able to call on the armoury of Publicis tools to further assist their marketing success.”
Publicis has a greater pres-
ence in digital media and projects, King noted. This is an increasingly important area for local and regional companies, as consumers shift away from heritage media and embrace the Internet. Founded in 1990 upon Greg hoyos’ return from DDB in Australia, GHA DDB operates in the English, French and Dutch Caribbean markets and maintains one of the, if not the largest active network of local agency partners in key markets. Creatively, (Caribbean360)
JP Morgan pays US$410M to settle U.S. energy case
JP Morgan’s energy unit has agreed to pay US$410 million (£268 million) to settle charges from the top U.S. energy regulator that it manipulated energy markets. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) agency alleged JPMorgan’s trading practices drove up prices for electricity, mainly in California and the Midwest. The fine is the second largest penalty in FERC history. The bank did not admit any wrongdoing as part
of the settlement. JPMorgan said it was “pleased to have reached an agreement with FERC to put this matter behind it.’”
JPMorgan spokesman Brian Marchiony said the settlement would “not have a material impact on our earnings” because the bank had previously set aside reserves for the case. FERC claimed JPMorgan’s energy unit used five “manipulative bidding strategies” in California between September 2010 and
June 2011, and three in the Midwest from October 2010 to May 2011. The regulator alleges that traders at JP Morgan’s energy unit created artificial conditions to boost the price of energy. Under the deal, the bank must also make annual reports to the commission for three years detailing its power business in the United States. JPMorgan has already sold the rights to buy the gas and sell the power from its California plants. (BBC News)
Barclays reveals plans for £6B cash call to plug capital gap
Barclays is asking shareholders for almost £6 billion of cash as the bank’s new management team races to comply with a demand by the Bank of England that it plug a £12.8 billion capital shortfall.
As Antony Jenkins admitted on Tuesday the bank was increasing its provisions for mis-selling finan-
cial products by £2 billion, the Barclays chief executive conceded he had been forced to change plans he put in place only six months ago as a result of the actions of the Bank of England, which showed the bank’s finances were in a worse state than previously thought. The size of the cash call on investors – in the form of a rights issue, which will be
launched in September – is bigger than expected and follows a request by the Bank of England that it meet a new measure of financial health, known as the leverage ratio. Barclays shares were volatile in early trading, falling around six per cent to 290p after the larger-than-expected rights issue was announced.
(The Guardian)
Consultative meeting on Ethiopia’s National AGOA Response Strategy held
The Trade Ministry and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) held a consultative meeting on Ethiopia’s National AGOA Response Strategy in mid July (July 16-17) at the UN Conference Centre. The meeting was attended by relevant stakeholders from the private sector, the government and the donor community to provide input for the National AGOA Response Strategy.
Close to 200 participants,
including leading exporters, heads of sectoral associations, heads of chambers of commerce, senior government officials from various ministries, commercial diplomats, members of civil society and donors participated. The meeting identified sector specific constraints in selected priority areas and identified appropriate support programmes and policy interventions to overcome them. Speaking at the consultative forum, Ethiopia’s State Minister of Trade, Yacob
Yala, said he considered this response strategy an integral part of the country’s Growth and Transformation Plan. He said the underlying objective of the GTP strategy “is to increase the share and the benefits gained from the global economic integration with our ultimate goal of becoming a middle-income country by 2025, “ adding that the U.S. market opportunities opened up through AGOA were extremely useful to help realise this objective. (allAfrica)
China's urbanisation cost
The cost of settling China’s rural workers into city life in the government’s urbanisation drive could be about 650 billion yuan (US$106 billion) a year, the equivalent of 5.5 per cent of fiscal revenue last year, a government think-tank said on Tuesday.
The figure is based on the assumption that 25 million people a year settle in cities, with the government spending the money on making sure
they enjoy the same benefits in healthcare, housing and schools that city residents have, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) said.
“I think the biggest obstacle for turning rural migrant workers into urban citizens is the cost issue,” Wei Houkai, a researcher at CASS, told a news conference, adding that to achieve equality of treatment could take until 2025.
Millions of migrant work-
ers from the countryside and smaller towns work in China’s big cities, often in low-paid manual work, but lack access to education, health and other services tied to the country’s strict household registration – or hukou – system. China sees the urbanisation drive as pushing domestic consumption, which it wants to make the main engine of growth for the economy, replacing exports and manufacturing and investment. (Reuters)
IMF warns Dubai over new real estate bubble
The International Monetary Fund warned Dubai on Tuesday that the emirate might need to intervene in its property market to prevent another boom-andbust cycle of the kind which brought it close to default four years ago. Over-inflated Dubai real estate prices crashed by more than 50 per cent in 2009 and 2010, triggering a corporate debt crisis which unsettled financial markets around the world.
The economy and the
Do you routinely find yourself reading statistical data? Do you enjoying balancing your checking account each month? There are some people with a natural aptitude for numbers and while many pursue a degree in business, few are certain what to do after they finish. But success comes to those with an end-goal in sight. So here are the top five careers in finance, selected for the qualifications required, potential for finding a job and average annual salary once you land that job.
property market are now recovering, but so strongly that the IMF worries another bubble could form – and because Dubai’s debt has continued to rise, it might have difficulty coping with fresh instability.
Harald Finger, IMF mission chief to the United Arab Emirates, noted that by one commercial bank’s estimate, listed Dubai property prices soared 35 per cent from a year ago in June.
“It is too early to speak of a bubble, but should price in-
creases continue to take place at this pace, action will need to be taken to prevent a bubble,” he said after annual economic consultations between the IMF and the United Arab Emirates.
Last year the UAE central bank tried to introduce caps on home mortgage lending as a way to head off another bubble, but suspended them after lobbying by commercial banks, which complained their business would suffer. (Arabianbusiness)
Financial analyst
Often found in a consultancy firm or similar company that advises clients on their corporate finances, a financial analyst helps people make smart investment decisions in line with their financial goals for the future, up to and including retirement pensions and 401Ks. An analyst will typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, statistics or finance and those who earn post-graduate degrees will find themselves positioned for a greater degree of marketability and a higher salary.
A personal financial adviser is an individual, and often an entrepreneur, who works either in a small start-up or a large corporation. Responsible for advising individuals on investments, tax laws and insurance, these personal advisors recommend financially-beneficial options that enable individuals to meet both their short- and long-term goals, including establishing a “rainyday” fund as well as savings for major purchases or retirement. (Business Dictionary)
SUDOKU
A poor attitude generally brings bad results, and today will be no exception. If you treat distasteful tasks resentfully, chances are you’ll end up having to do them all over again.
Although you generally are a lucky gambler, there is a possibility you might be tempted to take a chance on something that you know is impossible. You’ll lose.
This is not a good day to debate controversial issues. You’re prone to blurting things out that would be better left unsaid, and you could even say something that would leave a lasting scar.
Certain things that are significant to you might not be of equal interest to your friends. Pushing your opinions on them regardless of this fact could make them feel very uncomfortable.
(Aug. 23Sept. 22)
(July 23Aug. 22) (Feb. 20-March 20)
Be extremely careful not to treat your colleagues or partners in a brusque manner. You may want to unload on them, but it will only end up making everybody angry.
(March 21-April 19)
Someone who is skilled at uncovering information that should be kept private may get you to reveal something that you promised to keep to yourself. Be on your toes.
(April 20-May 20)
You may find a frivolous activity intriguing, despite its high cost. You’re likely to take part, so you need to make sure that you get your money’s worth.
(May 21June 20)
When promoting an interest of yours, be careful how you behave in front of others. Your image is a bit fragile, and you wouldn’t want to appear selfish.
Even if it causes you some inconvenience, honour your commitments. Your gesture will be appreciated, and you may even learn not to be so impulsive next time.
(Sept. 23Oct. 23)
Guard against a strong inclination to force rules and directives on your coworkers that you would never follow yourself. Set a good example and remember to be reasonable.
(Oct. 24Nov. 22)
There is a high probability that you could form a strong attraction to someone that is likely to end just as abruptly as it begins. Do your best to see people for who they really are.
(Nov. 23Dec. 21)
Things should go rather smoothly for you, provided you’re not too indecisive. Think ahead as much as you can and stick to the plans that you make.
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King’s Jewellery World on board with Guyana Amazon Warriors
Renowned Guyanese jewellers King’s Jewellery World joined the list of sponsors for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League that bowled off last night. The official announcement was made last Thursday by Director of Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise, Ravie Ramcharitar. The signing of the agreement was done by Harrinand Persaud, one of the proprietors of King’s Jewellery World, a familyowned business.
Ramcharitar indicated that, “The Guyana Amazon Warriors are proud to have such a prominent Guyanese name onboard. A name that we know represents allround excellence.” It is no secret that crick-
Fans
eters who come to play in Guyana often purchase cricket bands from King’s for themselves and loved ones, as the name King’s is one synonymous with quality jewellery.
Each piece of jewellery created by King’s is handcrafted from the highest quality Guyanese gold and precious stones certified by internationally trained gemologists.
King’s Jewellery World has several locations, with its headquarters located at Quamina Street, Georgetown. It also has a duty-free shop at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, for those Guyanese and tourists who wish to take a precious piece of Guyana with them when they leave our beautiful country.
Having signed on as a sponsor, Kings Jewellery
World will be featured on the helmets of the Guyana Amazon Warriors as they battle in all their matches.
Harrinand Persaud said “we at King’s are excited to be a part of such a big Caribbean event and are honoured to be a sponsor of the Guyana Amazon Warriors. We bring with us the hope that our sponsorship can aptly contribute towards the excellent performance of the Warriors as they embark on an exciting journey in a few days.”
Also present were Dwayne Lovell, representative of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team management.
The first Limacol CPL match in Guyana will be this evening. Matches will also be held on Friday and Sunday, featuring a doubleheader.
get in on action with limacol cPl and team cricket Fantasy cricket partnership
Kingston, JAMAICA – Cricket fans around the world will have the chance to be a part of the awesome action of the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) T20 Tournament with the announcement that TeamCricket.com, the world’s largest Fantasy Cricket platform, will provide free LCPL Fantasy Cricket during the tournament.
LCPL has launched LCPLT20 Fantasy Cricket on its website at www. cplt20.com. The gaming platform powered by TeamCricket.com will allow cricket buffs to play fantasy cricket games during all the LCPLT20 matches. Fans can choose their 11-player virtual dream team to play fantasy cricket for free every day and win a range of prizes such as team-autographed bats, t-shirts, tablets, and a flatscreen TV.
The LCPL Fantasy Cricket application will have fantasy games for all of the 24 matches that will be played during the tournament. In addition, TeamCricket.com has introduced a number of features that are customised to the LCPL Fantasy Cricket app. Users can play in multiple rooms during each cricket match and chat with other players in real time. Each user will have a budget of 100 million fantasy points to select players from CPLT20 teams and build their own fantasy cricket team, and every fantasy team will earn points based on the actual performance of the real players in the CPLT20 matches.
Ankush Gera, CEO of Junglee Games, the company behind TeamCricket. com, believes that fantasy cricket will introduce a unique element to the LCPL.
Barbados Tridents beat St Lucia Zouks by
17 runs
SCOREBOARD
Barbados Tridents innings
D Smith c †Fletcher b Morkel 0
J Carter c Smith b Sammy 11
Shoaib Malik c Gibbs b Best 78 Shakib Al Hasan c †Fletcher b Sammy 5 Umar Akmal† c Sammy
b Shillingford 0 K Pollard* not out 61 K Mayers not out 2
Extras: (lb1, w10, nb1) 12
Total: (5 wkts, 20 overs) 169
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-30, 3-47, 4-48, 5-136
Bowling: J Morkel 3-0-351, G Mathurin 3-0-15-0, D Sammy 4-0-36-2, S Shillingford 4-0-26-1, T Best 4-0-281, N Pascal 2-0-28-0
St Lucia Zouks innings
Tamim Iqbal st †Umar Akmal
b Nurse 22 A Fletcher† c Pollard b Nurse 57 H Gibbs c Holder b Emrit 7 DS Smith st †Umar Akmal b Shoaib Malik 9 Misbah-ul-Haq c Emrit
b Pollard 12
A Morkel c Shoaib Malik b Emrit 0
D Sammy* b Holder 35
S Shillingford c & b Pollard 0 G Mathurin c & b Pollard 0 T Best c †Umar Akmal b Holder 0 N Pascal not out 4
Extras: (w4, nb2) 6
Total: (all out, 19.4 overs) 152
Fall of wickets: 1-57, 2-81, 3-95, 4-104, 5-105, 6-129, 7-134, 8-148, 9-148, 10-152
Bowling: S Gabriel 2-0-25-0, J Holder 4-0-43-2, Shakib Al Hasan 2-0-29-0, A Nurse 4-0-18-2, R Emrit 4-0-20-2, Shoaib Malik 1-0-2-1, K Pollard 2.4-0-15-3
Manof the Match: Shoaib
Malik (Barbados Tridents)
Digicel 4G Award: Darren Sammy (St Lucia Zouks)
Big Six Award: Kieron Pollard (Barbados Tridents)
Barbados Tridents beat Saint Lucia Zouks by 17 runs in their Caribbean Premiere League opening match at the Kensington Oval on Tuesday night.
Barbados Tridents made 169-5 batting first; Shoaib Malik topscored with 78 while captain Kieron Pollard was left unbeaten on 61. St Lucia Zouks skipper Darren Sammy was the pick of the bowlers with 2-36 before he returned to score 35.
He got support from Andre Fletcher who made 57 and Tamim Iqbal (22). Pollard capped off a good night with 3-15, with support also coming from Ashley Nurse (2-18), Rayad Emrit (2-20) and Jason Holder (2-43).
Big money up for grabs from “the biggest party in sport” –
LCPL prize pot revealed
“We’ve customised our platform for the Limacol Caribbean Premier League in order to offer free-to-play rooms and a wide range of prizes. We think that the LCPL is going to bring a new level of fun and entertainment to the T20 format, and we are excited to be a part of this unique tournament.”
“The Limacol Caribbean Premier League is all about entertainment, excitement and fun, which is why fantasy cricket is such a good fit for us,” said Pete Russell, Limacol CPL commercial consultant. “We know the teams are coming to play and now we’ve given the fans the chance to play for some amazing prizes. This is just another way that we’re enhancing the LCPL experience for everyone.”
For more information about TeamCricket, log on to www.TeamCricket.com. (CPL)
The inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) T20 Tournament organisers have unveiled the massive array of prizes that the six franchise teams will be thrashing it out for over the next four weeks.
As the action gets going in six countries across the Caribbean and the eyes of the world are fixed on the awesome cricket and party action, the prize money for the 21 preliminary matches adds up to a massive US$525,000 (US$25,000 per match) and the semi-finalists will battle it out in a winner take all final match with a winning purse worth US$250,000.
Along with the Man of the Match award of US$1000 per match across the full 24 matches, and additional player awards, the total prize pot for the LCPLT20 will exceed a whopping
US$800,000.
But the winning doesn’t stop there as the tournament sponsors are bringing their own exciting challenges to the cricket and entertainment action. Official partner, El Dorado’s “Catch of the Match” award will go to the player in each of the 24 matches who makes the most thrilling catch while Virgin, the official airline of the LCPL T20, will be staging the “Virgin Challenge” which encourages the players to hit balls high into the sky to try and strike the Virgin red balloon positioned over the stadium with the chance to win a round the world trip for two for the master slugger who rises to the challenge.
In addition title sponsor and Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise owner Limacol have introduced the Super Six award where US$500 per match – 24
matches, US$12,000 in total – will be given to the player who scores the most sixes in that match.
“It’s all eyes on the Caribbean as the six teams get set to... battle it out and be crowned the winner of the first ever Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20. While being named the winner of the tournament is a great achievement in and of itself we also know that the substantial prize pot plus the fantastic challenges that the sponsors are putting in place will also be a great motivator for the players,” said Limacol CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O’Donohoe.
“With the countdown on to the first ball being bowled, we are looking forward to some thrilling clashes as the teams rise to the challenge to try and take home both the bragging rights and the fantastic prize pot,” he said.
Dwayne Lovell and Harrinand Persaud at yesterday’s event
Kieron Pollards hits Tino Best during his innings last night
National Stadium ready for tonight’s game
By Avenash Ramzan
The players are here, and so are the umpires and match referees, the television crew, the volunteers, and of course the ground staff, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the Guyana National Stadium is ready for tonight’s start of the local leg of the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League.
Home team Guyana
Amazon Warriors will clash with the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel from 20:00h, and according to Manager of the National Stadium, Anthony Xavier, all systems are in place for the Guyana leg of the mega event.
Four matches will be hosted in Guyana in the coming days, with the Guyana Amazon Warriors facing
the Jamaica Tallawahs at 20:00h on Friday; there will also be a double-header on Sunday featuring the Antigua Hawksbills and the Jamaica Tallawahs at 15:00h and the Guyana Amazon Warriors tackling the St Lucia Zouks at 20:00h.
When Guyana Times Sport visited the stadium on Tuesday afternoon, workers
were busy applying the finishing touches to the venue, erecting the giant replay screen and placing the numerous sponsors’ billboards around the boundary perimeter.
The ESPN camera crew was also spotted installing their electrical devices around the venue to ensure the images are transmitted to millions of homes across
the globe.
Fans who have tickets for the Grass Mound need not worry, since that has already been filled with the necessary paraphernalia to guarantee a party atmosphere.
Event Operations Manager of the Guyana leg, Alex Graham, said patrons desirous of attending tonight’s game should
get their tickets early since there are still some seats available in the stands, as well as the grass mound. He also informed this publication that should tickets not be completely sold out by 16:00h, they will be available for sale at the stadium. Tonight’s highly anticipated game will bowl off at 20:00h.
Showdown at Providence!
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Guyana Amazon Warriors clash with T&T Red Steel tonight
The Providence Stadium will be bursting at the seams tonight when the Guyana Amazon Warriors and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel franchises go head-to-head in the second match of the inaugural Caribbean Premier League T20 tournament from 20:00h.
It is expected that these two franchises will continue the tradition of intense rivalry as was the case when the countries met in previous Caribbean territorial tournaments. With the new franchise concept for this tournament, this matchup can be called a ‘Battle of the Equals’, all sides starting with a clean slate.
On paper, there is very
little to separate the teams. However, what makes the clash even more interesting is the emotion attached to it.
Captain of the Guyana
Amazon Warriors, Ramnaresh Sarwan told media operatives on Tuesday at a press conference while this is a different tournament altogether, his players are all pumped and oozing with confidence ahead of their opening game.
“It’s not about revenge, Trinidad and Tobago has always been a tough competitor, but we are confident and ready for the challenge,” stated Sarwan.
Confident
Captain of the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel, Dwayne Bravo acknowledged that the Amazon Warriors will pose a big challenge for his team, but said his charges are confident and comfortable ahead of the clash.
“Trinidad and Tobago
over the years have dominated T20 cricket, but this tournament will be different and now is the opportunity for the other teams to dominate. That, aside we have a balanced team and I am confident ahead of tomorrow (today) clash and the entire tournament,” Bravo said.
Head Coach of the local franchise, Roger Harper said his team is delighted to showcase their talent not only to the region, but to the world. “We are looking forward with a great sense of anticipation and at the same time looking forward for the challenge”.
Harper, a former West Indies head coach, also disclosed that he is satisfied with the team’s fitness level and preparation leading up to the tournament.
Also at Tuesday’s press
conference were: Head Coach, Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel Gordon Greenidge; Digicel Marketing Manager Jacqueline James; CPL Events Operation Manager Alex Graham; and Limacol
Trinidad
Workers at the National Stadium erecting the giant screen, while others install the various sponsors’ billboards around the boundary edges (Avenash Ramzan photos)
Bouncer is here! Limacol CPL Distinguished Ambassador Clive Lloyd (left) and Guyana Amazon Warriors captain Ramnaresh Sarwan share a moment with the tournament mascot
Ambassador Clive Lloyd. Guyana Amazon Warriors: Ramnaresh Sarwan (captain), Sunil Narine, Mohammad Hafeez, Lendl Simmons, Denesh Ramdin, James Franklin, Christopher Barnwell, Krishmar Santokie, William Perkins, Steven Jacobs, Keon Joseph, Trevon Griffith, Narsingh Deonarine, Veerasammy Permaul and Martin Guptill.
and Tobago Red Steel: Dwayne Bravo (captain), Ross Taylor, Darren Bravo, Fidel Edwards, Davy Jacobs, Samuel Badree, Kevon Cooper, Sulieman Benn, Adrian Barath, Delorn Johnson, Nicholas Pooran, Yannick Cariah, Miguel Cummins, Justin Guillen and Kevin O’Brien.
By Rajiv Bisnauth
(From left) Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel Head Coach Gordon Greenidge, Digicel Marketing Manager Jacqueline James, Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel captain Dwayne Bravo, CPL Events and Operations Manager Alex Graham, Limacol Distinguished Ambassador Clive Lloyd, Guyana Amazon Warriors Captain Ramnaresh Sarwan, and Guyana Amazon Warriors Head Coach Roger Harper
Happy faces! Captain of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Ramnaresh Sarwan (right) and his Trinidad and Tobago’s Red Steel counterpart, Dwayne Bravo (Carl Croker photos)
Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel’s Ross Taylor during a net session on Tuesday
T&T Red Steel Head Coach Gordon Greenidge (left); Guyana Amazon Warriors Head Coach Roger Harper (right); and Limacol Distinguished Ambassador Clive Lloyd (centre) enjoy a light moment on Tuesday at a press conference held at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence
