Guyana Times Daily

monday, may 26, 2014|

Digicel recommits to financing NGO

As Social Life Issues, a Non-Governmental Organisation celebrates its first anniversary, Digicel Guyana, one of its major sponsors, has recommitted its support to the entity in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse among teenagers.

At the celebratory dinner at the Georgetown Club on Saturday evening, Digicel Senior Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope reiterated that the company remains resolute in its support to the organisation, noting his company’s satisfaction with the work the charitable organisation has done in its first year.

He recalled that in 2013, when his superior Jacqueline James took the sponsorship documents to him, he saw it as a great opportunity to support a worthy cause.

gramme, it looks forward to its money’s worth and without a doubt, the organisation has lived up to expectations; hence, will continue to lend its support.

Hope further stated that the organisation had never refused when it was called upon, recalling that it has conducted counselling sessions with footballers and basketball players in four regions during the company’s school tournament.

Gratitude

Against the backdrop of his experience as a young national hockey player, he jumped upon the opportunity and did not hesitate to approve the sponsorship.

ing and many young people were involved in extracurricular activities.

He recounted that it was due to his parents’ guidance that he did not indulge in smoking and drinking while on the team, noting that those days were challeng-

Hope expressed satisfaction with the work the organisation has been doing in the various schools and communities. He said when Digicel sponsors a pro-

Speaking at the dinner, Chairman and Director of the organisation, John Greaves expressed his gratitude to the sponsors for their overwhelming support of the organisation.

The organisation is the brainchild of Greaves, a coordinator and well-known counsellor, who worked for several years with the Salvation Army’s Drug Rehabilitation Programme.

Greaves noted that the

organisation was established to address a range of issues that plagues society, to bring about changes in family life, and to create a better society for all.

He also noted that the organisation has introduced its Drug Prevention Education Programme in five schools, two branches of the Institute of Business Education, the Josel Educational, Chase Academy and the Institute of Professional Studies.

He said in the year ahead, he intends to double the programme in schools and more so, conduct community outreaches in various regions.

Greaves said he is confident that his team is competent to oversee, plan and execute programmes of the organisation.

He, however, noted that financial support is necessary and called for the support of corporate Guyana.

Some of the sponsors, he noted, are Digicel, DaSilva House of Optics, Lucky Dollar, Food Shop and a number of private individuals.

Others who spoke at the event were Reverend Ronald McGarrell, Dr Faith Harding and other officials of Social Life Issues.

Increase in malicious fires worrying – Fire Chief

Compton Sparman, the Fire Officer in charge in Berbice, said he was concerned by the increasing number of malicious fires being set to buildings.

So far this year, there have been nine such fires in the Berbice division, compared to four for the corresponding period last year. Last year, there was a total of 11 arson-related fires in Berbice. For that year, there was a total of 53 buildings that were damaged by fire and already this year, there have been 22.

Two persons have been killed by fires this year in Berbice, compared with two for 2013. Already this year, 47 persons have been left homeless as a result of fires, compared with 102 for 2013.

The announcement from the fire department comes as the Rose Hall Town Fire Service observed its fourth anniversary on May 22.

According to Sparman, the Rose Hall Town branch has been assisting greatly with reducing the destruction and damage to buildings along Central Corentyne.

He, however, expressed concern over the fact that many traditional water sources may be dry. “At this point in time, people need to be very careful especially along that Corentyne area.”

However, residents along the Corentyne have criticised the Rose Hall Town Fire Department for not doing their best in containing fires. Many have accused them of turning up at fire scenes without water.

While this is being denied, the lone tender at Rose Hall has a capacity of 3000 gallons, which could be utilised in three minutes, after which firefighters have to source water.

Meanwhile, at Rose Hall, there is no facility for the tender to be filled unless the vehicle is taken for a one mile drive to the Guyana Water Inc Treatment Plant at Port Mourant.

The Rose Hall Fire Department came into existence as part of an Independence Project by the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce a few years ago. The project was funded with proceeds from the Berbice Expo.

Social Life Issues Chairman John Greaves addressing the gathering

Digicel’s Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope

Govt can’t fight narco trade without AML/CFT Bill – Ramotar tells nation

Amid the standoff over the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, President Donald Ramotar on Sunday night asked how can the nation fight drug trafficking and corruption without the legislation.

His comments were directed to the Opposition, which has blocked the Bill in exchange for a range of other governance measures, including the Public Procurement Commission and Local Government Elections.

Serious sanctions

Delivering his Independence address at the National Park, President Ramotar told the nation that the country would face serious sanctions by Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for its failure to pass the Bill.

He said the Opposition in blocking such a Bill coming to the House; have exposed Guyana to being blacklisted by the international community, with all the consequences that will follow.

“As we meet tonight, the Guyana delegation is on their way to the CFATF meeting which will review Guyana on our Independence Day and all indications are that Guyana will automatically be forwarded for review by the FATF. This means that Guyana will be listed immediately as a country that threatens the global financial, banking and insurance systems and countries will be instructed to take protective measures against Guyana,” the President warned.

He asked what Guyana will gain by these “irresponsible and reckless tactics in our body politic” adding that: “This I believe will have an impact on the collective morality of our nation. These actions threaten

the foundations of our freedom and democracy that our foreparents fought so gallantly for.”

Ramotar said over the years, Government has worked tirelessly to restore and consolidate “our new born democracy and embed it in our Constitution, laws, institutions and administrations”. He said the country’s governance architecture has not emerged as a result of a top down approach, but arose from a participatory process with thousands of citizens in the regions and civil society bodies, including the Opposition parliamentary political parties.

“Our governance structures enshrined in the Constitution are unique and progressive. No country in this hemisphere has built in a veto by the leader of the Opposition in the appointment of certain constitutional post holders and establishment of service commissions. This was an important ingredient of the constitutional reform process to provide for greater inclusivity. However, the Constitutional Reform Commission never anticipated that these measures would lead to gridlock,” the President said.

He said Guyana emerged as a democratic nation, respecting and protecting human rights. “These are things that we must guard like our ancestors guarded their dream of freedom and equality. We must not take it for granted; we must always try to strengthen these rights and we should let those who condemn them, those who abuse them know the harm they are inflicting on our country.”

He called on citizens to take special pride in the country’s achievements and to make a greater contribution to its improvements.

“Too often we hear about the litter and untidiness of our surroundings. Here each of us can play a part in leading by example, to make a per-

sonal contribution to the appearance of our living and working environment. I call for a renewed patriotism and nationalism from our political parties.” He said opposing for Opposition’s sake and “introducing blackmail methods in our politics will gain us nothing.

“Indeed, even if it gives results in the short-term, it will damage the moral fabric of our society in the medium and long-term.”

Economy

Turning to the economy, the President said Guyana has had real consecutive economic growth every year since 2006. This, he said represents the longest period of uninterrupted real economic growth since Independence in 1966.

“It is no mean achievement. It is one that all Guyanese must be proud of. We must recall that this was being accomplished at a time when the international economy was rocked by a series of international financial and economic crises

from 2007.”

The President said in spite of these negative global developments which impacted on the price for the country’s main exports and imports, Guyana pushed ahead. He noted last year, the economy grew by more than five per cent.

“That figure would have been much greater, but one of the big contributors to the economy, sugar, was experiencing many difficulties since the abandonment of the Sugar Protocol by Europe in 2010, which saw sugar price being cut by 36 per cent. That the industry survived this and that the country continues to grow in spite of this, demonstrates the resilience of our economy and of the sugar industry.”

Additionally, the President said growth was experienced in mining.

“Significantly, we recorded the highest declaration of gold last year. We surpassed the level reached at the peak of Omai’s operations here.

President Donald Ramotar

Countrywide: Thundery showers are expected to give way to heavy rain showers in the afternoon. Partly cloudy conditions are expected to prevail in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations.

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

Taking stock

It would be quite irresponsible of us if on this 48th anniversary of our independence from Britain, we do not engage in some kind of stocktaking – both in terms of ourselves and of our nation. While there are nations with hoary pasts that extend into antiquity, our official beginnings are yet distant enough to offer a fairly disinterested perspective. There are at least two variables that we must grapple with.

First of all, there is the threshold issue of our identity itself and that of our “nation”. It has been said – not only of us, but of the majority of ex-colonies that were granted independence in the post-WWII era – that we were “states but not nations”.

The former were the easily bestowed name, map, constitution, membership in the UN, etc, that made the country a member of the Westphalian state system that had been created three centuries before.

But even older countries had discovered that a “state” was not necessarily a “nation”, which was the entity that identified their “oneness” according to descent, culture and other more emotional markers.

And while it was assumed that this dichotomy between state and nation would disappear or be made to disappear through assimilationist policies, the reverse actually happened, resulting in a debilitating struggle within countries by self-identified groups seeking greater autonomy of one kind or another.

Later this year, Scotland, which was part of “Britain” since 1601, will hold a referendum which most believe will result in the Scots having their “own state”. Ironically, many of the overseers that played pivotal roles on the sugar plantations to socialise the slaves and indentured labourers into being “Guyanese” were from Scotland and Ireland – both now redefining their then “identity”.

In Guyana, while there are thankfully no moves for separation, it is widely believed by analysts that unless there is a more cohesive national identity, many of the goals that need everyone putting their shoulders to the wheel might continue to be problematical.

Another unsettled question that manifested itself under different guises to create problems over the last 48 years is that of the economic system that is supposed to deliver the “good life” to all Guyanese. After independence, there was a continuation of the debate on this subject that had created much conflict with the ex-colonial power.

“Cooperative socialism” was the PNC’s answer to the more traditional Marxist-Leninist centralised economy the Opposition PPP favoured. By 1989, however, the question was moot and both major parties, as well as the minuscule “third” parties, accepted the seemingly inevitable mélange of neo-liberal policies dubbed the “Washington Consensus”.

Without rehearsing the path travelled since then, we would be even more irresponsible if we ignore the severe inequalities produced by that model in the emanating developed countries.

We are now assured by an economist, working from within the economic orthodoxy, Thomas Picketty – and accepted by most across the divide – such as it exists nowadays – that while most ships will rise with the system’s economic tide, the rise of the top one per cent will be so Olympian that the remaining 99 per cent will remain mired and moribund in the shallows.

More worrisome, is his demonstration by reference to the historical record, that the resulting inequalities becomes structurally entrenched and obviously very difficult to alter later. The apparent relative rise of the lower classes in the developed countries in the post 1930s depression era, was evidently a unique occurrence caused by conditions unlikely to be replicated again – such as a global war.

For a country like ours, with an ethnically divided polity that remains poor and politicians ever ready to attribute inequalities to the actions of their “racist” opponents, the policy implications of Picketty’s analysis must be considered seriously, and implemented, if we are to ever become really independent.

But with all of that, we have to acknowledge that there has been progress. Happy Independence Day.

Educate people on how to make the right choices

Dear Editor,

Since a few hundred years BC, when the Greeks experimented with a form of egalitarian rule, democracy has been practised by various states which have realised its efficacy over other systems that entailed some form of autocratic rule in producing an equitable society where all citizens could participate in national decision-making.

This is all to the good, as the system has produced many of the great liberal nations of the world, and contributed to even-handed rule and freedom that has spurred vast advances in economic and social growth.

But one of the negative results of this political arrangement is that we now find that the principle of giving power to the masses is that it is being used by those in authority to determine what is right in many

crucial areas of national life. By this, politicians aim to satisfy the greatest number of their constituents, giving them the best chance of retaining power.

One instance of this is the current movement in many societies to decide whether to legalise marijuana, which is illegal in many countries, and the use of which is addictive and known to lead to more harmful drugs.

As far as the trend that is showing, the chances are that this will succeed as more people become more dissolute and depressed, and feel that this drug will ease their problems because of the sense of euphoria that it engenders.

Another example is the effort being made in many countries to legalise samesex relationships, which has heretofore been always condemned as an abomination

to the human condition, and surely an unnatural practice that has produced endless disease and despair.

This is what is happening in many nations, even those who would have us believe that they are more advanced, civilised and progressive. Citizens are being encouraged to ignore their innate sense of what is right for this principle of what the majority prefers.

Shouldn’t we be exploring what standards we should be using to determine what is integrally right or wrong? Should we not be consulting with those who have been known to be able to guide us morally, as well as the dictates of our own conscience to determine these standards, and use these to guide us into what we should be adopting as legal?

There are various means available to all human be-

ings to judge right from wrong, which would result in everlasting benefit, rather than the temporal advantage that these compromises to our consciences encourage.

Deductive reasoning, intuition, the virtues that are inborn, and religious tenets are all instruments that we can invoke in every instance when we need to determine what will lead to the common good.

Let us not discredit these and blindly follow those who basically seek our political support, and end up in the proverbial ditch. If we really care for our people, let us at least strive to educate them on how to make the right choices and then we can trust their judgement in any movement towards the formation of a just society.

Yours sincerely, Roy Paul

Launching of the Green Ambassador Programme

Dear Editor,

The Environmental Community Health Organisation (ECHO) will launch it “Green Ambassador Programme” on May 30 at North Georgetown Secondary School.

The objectives are to raise environmental awareness among our young people, to promote civic and environmental

responsibility among our youths, to reduce the incident of littering in local communities by 25 per cent, to provide a forum for young people to talk about and take appropriate action on environmental issues, and to establish Green Ambassador Clubs in schools and local communities.

The programme is science based and will in-

volve community and other leaders, in our society.

This is part of a wider programme to raise environmental awareness at the national level.

ECHO believes that this is vital to personal and community environmental responsibility and accountability. Our young people have a deep and abiding interest in the presentation and protec-

tion of the natural environment.

Community groups and interested individuals who wish to participate in this green initiative can call telephone 604-2479 or 223-0682. There is a formal application process.

Royston King, Executive Director ECHO

Guyana Relief Council Chairwoman Yvonne Hinds and a little Annai boy smile for the cameras as the charitable organisation distributed haversacks and other items on Friday in the Region Nine Community

Listen to your constituents

Dear Editor, Failing to listen to your constituents, or to anyone for that matter, is very serious business. Sound advice can come from any source, from the humble “nobody” out there or even from your staunchest opponent. Help can come from the strangest sources ever.

When you stop your ears from the advice of others, the result is that you become self-centred and basically a law unto yourself. You believe that you know it all, I am speaking of that “omniscient” kind of existence which is a dangerous place to be. The exclusion of other people’s views,

suggestions, opinions or just the simple advice of “let’s try it another way... let us look at it from another perspective”; things of this nature would certainly go a far way in solving many of the ills facing Guyana today.

I do not have rocket science brains nor did it take me long to recognise this; however, the problem is the PPP/C Government hasn’t learnt its lesson; it still hasn’t got it yet. It is still wallowing in the notion that it alone knows it and its members are the only ones that are so educated to fix all problems.

The basis for my obser-

Prevailing circumstances would dictate whether a woman is freed

Dear Editor,

Over the past weeks, there have been two notable acquittals namely CarolAnn Lynch and Desiree Jeffers. The first woman mentioned was freed of all charges pertaining to the death of her husband Swiss House Cambio owner, Farouk Razac while Jeffers was acquitted of the killing of her much younger reputed husband Igris BobbBlackman.

Two women charged for murder in apparent openand-shut cases, but somehow they are able to convince jurors of their version of the events which subsequently earned them their freedom.

In the case of Carol-Ann Lynch, this was her second trial. Many were the critics who still believe that these two ladies may have “gotten away with murder” due to the fact that so much circumstantial evidence was stacked up against them.

But like the OJ Simpson case, circumstantial evidence was not enough to secure a conviction; hence, they were acquitted, freed of all charges.

So one would now have to sit down and piece together the puzzle to see how the two got through.

Then, you would not have to think very hard to arrive at an answer. Integral to any trial, murder being a prime example, is the taking into

consideration of the prevailing circumstances. In Guyana today, the prevailing circumstances speak volumes where men are concerned in their abuse and/or killing of women.

So the facts are crystal clear whenever a woman is supposedly brought in on grounds of murder, there is an overwhelming possibility that she would be acquitted. Sympathies lie with the woman.

Whenever that case comes up for trial, the tone and content of the case goes in favour of the female gender. So it would be very difficult to find an unbiased jury, men included, who would attempt to bring her in guilty.

Try as they would, courts in Guyana today would be hard pressed to find jurors who would go against that inner conviction of seeing women who are constantly abused by heartless and cruel men, further burdened with a conviction, far less incarceration.

This is the cold hard reality of the whole scenario we find on woman-man relationships in Guyana. It paints a very dismal picture for men in a Guyanese society. So my candid advice to all abusers and would-be abusers of women is to come clean and fly right, because too many factors militate against you.

Sincerely, Name withheld

vation is so clear that even if you are equipped with half a brain, you will readily see this problem, and trust me, not just the problem but you will come up with the solutions to those problems also.

So, the present impasse in the House concerning the budget whereby the Government is at pains to get key aspects of it passed, is but one of these. The combined Opposition has made huge cuts into the budget in areas it thinks

the Government’s agenda would be enhanced –a situation that was very much expected albeit not fully understood, that the Opposition would have reacted this way. Hence, the Government is at its wits' end to find a solution to the present blockade.

Now, the answer to this scenario is very simple: in some ways, the Government has acted very highhandedly, both with the Opposition as well

as with the people of this great country.

But suffice it to say, no one doubts the PPP/ C’s knowledge and administrative ability to get things done – in my estimation it is the only party that is so blessed – however, you cannot negate the fact that a party whose ideas and dogmas are fashioned and crafted only from within is going down the wrong road. When your policies are dominated by party hacks, an -

alysed and administered by your standards, then, a minority Government you would be.

So let me conclude our discussion by saying this, the Government might hastily refute the claims I have highlighted here and readily dismiss it as nonsense, but let me caution the PPP/C’s hierarchy that they are in for a shocker if they fail to listen.

Sincerely,

Neil Adams

We shall overcome

Dear Editor,

The Progressive Youth Organisation of Guyana extends best wishes to all Guyanese on the occasion of the nation's 48th anniversary of independence.

The PYO believes that Guyana is in a far better place today than it was back in 1966 as a result of the achievements of hard-working Guyanese who endured countless struggles to develop and modernise our great land.

For the Progressive Youth Organisation, independence was not an end in itself, but an important stage along the road to national and social liberation, which the party had set as its objectives from its inception.

We are respectful of the work done by the founders of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic which led to the creation of a society of striving for equality, human rights and social justice. The PYO recalls the endless hardships faced by its

members and senior PPP comrades in the fight to achieve sovereignty and independence over the last 48 years.

Even in the post-independence period, the people of Guyana had to wage a relentless struggle for the restoration of democracy, which was brutally snatched away by several rigged elections and other infringements on human rights.

We issue a call for all youths to understand the importance of safeguarding our independence and the democratic gains made since 1992. Our young people must strengthen their resolve to become catalysts in Information Communication Technology, New Media, and the fight against Climate Change while understanding the need to continue the pursuit of a new Human Global Order.

The PYO strongly believes that the new threat to Guyana’s forward movement since attaining independence is a brutish and cruel Opposition

which is willing to sacrifice the bright future of our youth and people at the altar of political expediency.

This Opposition, which has a combined one-seat majority in the National Assembly, continues to hold the Executive to ransom.

However, the Opposition’s unconstitutional efforts will continue to be resisted and, in the end, will prove to be futile.

The PYO wishes to advise that just as the struggle for independence was won through patience and unity, the youth of Guyana will continue to advocate support for critical projects and initiatives that will define the future of this great land.

The PYO is refreshed by the positive sentiments in our society and the zeal of our young people and their willingness to be part of the decisionmaking of this great land.

Submitted by, Progressive Youth Organisation National Steering Committee Freedom House

Page Foundation

Parenting For Success Helping children grieve

— ChildLinK’s vision is a Guyanese society where every child enjoys the right to a childhood in a safe and caring family, free from poverty, violence, and exploitation

Eight-year-old Ashley lives with her grandmother, aunt, and cousin in a two-bedroom apartment in a rural community, where she also attends school. One day Ashley’s class teacher noticed that the child was sitting in the corner talking and laughing, and there was no visible person around. The teacher decided to inquire to whom the child was speaking, and Ashley responded that she was speaking with her mother. Taking the response as a joke, the teacher laughed and proceeded out of the classroom. However, this behaviour continued over a period of time and the teacher made inquiries and was reliably informed that Ashley’s mother was deceased. The teacher was even more concerned and she decided to report the situation to a ChildLinK counsellor at the school. Ashley was invited to an initial assessment session to aid in exploring the reasons for the child talking to her deceased mother. During this session, Ashley confidently and bravely expressed that she still sees her mother and is able to have conversations with her, even though she is dead. Ashley recounted hearing her dead mother calling her that morning to take a bath and when she looked, she saw her standing at the bathroom door. Ashley then drew a pic-

ture of her mother and proudly showed it to the counsellor with a bright smile. In order to conduct an accurate assessment of what was happening with Ashley and her home environment, the counsellor began an investigation into her life. At her home, a large picture of a woman holding a young child approximately eight months old was hanging in the hallway. It was later discovered that the photograph hanging in the hallway was of Ashley and her mother before she died.

Brutal attack

During the visit, Ashley’s grandmother revealed that Ashley was born into a violent home environment. According to the grandmother, Ashley’s parents’ marriage had been nothing but violent from the start of the union. Ashley’s father had been cruel towards his wife daily. Ashley’s grandmother described numerous incidents of Ashley’s mother being thrown across the room by her husband. She often suffered from broken ribs and arms and being burned with an iron. The abuse had continued for several years until Ashley’s mother decided that she had had enough and made attempts to leave the abusive relationship. One day she waited until her husband was at work, packed

her and Ashley’s clothing and went to live with her parents. Her parents were happy to have her and Ashley living in the house. Ashley’s mother was relieved to be free from the clutches of the abusive relationship and began to live again, taking good care of her daughter.

Months went by and there was no contact from her husband. However, just when they had begun to believe that he was out of their lives for good, Ashley’s father showed up and begged his wife to return home. She refused, telling him how much happier she was and free from harm. Her husband refused to take no for an answer and threatened to kill his wife if she didn’t comply. After that first incident, he repeatedly showed up unannounced at the home and verbally abused all the family members.

Then one sunny morning, Ashley was sitting at the window looking at her mom who was doing her early morning chores in the yard. Little did Ashley know she was about witness a most brutal attack on her mother that would change her life forever. Ashley’s father jumped out of the bushes, where he had been hiding, armed with a cutlass and started chopping her mother repeatedly about her body. As she told the story, Ashley’s grand-

mother described the man’s brutal actions as though he was chopping ‘fish’. People who witnessed the incident were too scared to intervene and stood by helplessly as the woman was being chopped. Ashley’s mother pretended to be dead and as a result, her father stopped chopping and ran off. She was rushed to the emergency room at the hospital, where she underwent a surgery. Because of the severity of her injuries, she lost a lot of blood and she had to get a blood transfusion. Unfortunately the blood she received was from a person who had leukaemia and she also contracted the disease.

Traumatised Ashley was at the window and witnessed the brutal act against her mother and this left her traumatised (trembling and experiencing nightmares) for weeks. Ashley’s mother was hospitalised for a year, undergoing multiple surgeries. When she was discharged, she returned to her parents’ home. Ashley’s father was arrested and charged with attempted murder. Throughout this ordeal, her grandmother said that it was mainly Ashley who took care of her mother. She did everything: bathed her, brushed her teeth, and assisted her to the washroom when necessary. Due to the leukaemia her mother

was constantly in and out of hospital for three years, all the while Ashley stayed by her side providing her with care. Ashley’s grandmother became emotional while recounting their distress, “I had to watch my daughter suffer for four years, it would have been better if she had died in the attack.”

Three years later, Ashley’s mother’s health took a turn for the worse. Sensing that she might not make it out of the hospital this time, she asked to see her daughter. Ashley was taken to the hospital where she reassured her mother that she would soon recover and return home. However, Ashley’s mother grew weaker, and it wasn’t long before Ashley saw her mother take her last breath. The young girl was now left without the one person she loved and cared for. As a result of having a hard time letting go, Ashley made frequent visits to the cemetery where she took flowers and spent hours talking with her mother. Her grandmother soon discovered what she was doing and put a stop to it: the cemetery was far away and it was unsafe for her to go there without adult supervision.

Intervention

The child’s grandmother gave permission for her to attend counselling sessions

once a week. In these sessions, Ashley was asked if she wanted to make a memory book (a compilation of drawings and letters to the deceased loved one in order to keep their memories alive and have the client expressed all unresolved feelings and thoughts). The first memory Ashley recorded was a picture of her mother holding her when she was a young child. The counsellor noted that Ashley used a lot of yellow in her drawing so she encouraged her to talk freely about the picture/memory. Ashley related that the memory she had drawn was a happy one, it was the day her mother had taken her to the zoo and they had a fun time together playing and looking at the animals. They spent the entire day feeding the manatees and running; later, they went for ice-cream. The next memory she drew was a picture of her mother lying on a bed in a hospital with tubes attached to her body. In this picture, Ashley used only grey to colour, and she became distant – often she ended up staring out of the window. When she was approached about her feelings, she began to cry and shake. She was encouraged to express what she was feeling, and she was reassured that it was ok to feel sad and to cry. Ashley cried continuously for the rest of the session until she was in a relaxed state to end the session. In the weeks that followed, Ashley continued her activities in her memory book and was allowed to talk freely about her mother. She is learning daily how to cope with her feelings and how to express her thoughts.

Ashley’s father was released from prison much sooner than anticipated. He visited his daughter’s home and requested to see her. Ashley’s grandmother stated that Ashley was afraid of him and, therefore, did not allow him to see the child. She was encouraged to report Ashley’s father to the relevant authorities for showing up, then she received support and advice on how to deal with the situation.

Today Ashley still attends school and is doing much better. Even though she still misses her mother, she has started the necessary grieving process and has learnt that although her mother is gone, the memories she has of her will never die. Discussion between the child and grandmother was encouraged. Please contact us on telephone number 231-7174 or at programmes.childlink@networksgy.com for any support you may need with parenting and any other challenges that you may be experiencing with your children.

CDB confab to propose solutions to struggling Caribbean economies

The Annual Meeting of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) opens here on Wednesday with Finance Ministers across the region and other economic experts set to tackle some of the major economic challenges confronting member states.

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh said Guyana is proud to be hosting this important annual meeting of the economic leadership of the region.

“There is much expectation that this gathering provide the opportunity to confront some of the pressing economic challenges faced by the countries of the Caribbean,” Dr Singh said in a release.

The Board of Governors is the highest policy-making body of the CDB and meets once a year in one of the member countries to set the bank’s agenda and oversees its implementation.

The meeting will see economic leaders, Finance Ministers and some Prime Ministers, who also hold the portfolio of Finance Minister, from within the region. The meeting aims to facilitate the 27 member states to discuss issues confronting its members and to forge a plan for the coming year to address those needs and concerns.

Another highlight of the meetings is the release of the bank’s annual report which provides an overview of the region’s economic development and sector performance. The bank will also host a number of seminars to discuss a range of topics of relevance to the socio-economic development of the region. Among the topics to be discussed are Agriculture and climate change, Public/ Private Partnerships in the

Caribbean, transitioning to a green economy and mainstreaming multidimensional approach to poverty assessment.

Special guests of the meeting include representatives of multilateral financial institutions, development agencies, central banks, private banks and other stakeholders.

“The presence of these regional leaders should also be seen as an opportunity for us to showcase Guyana to the rest of the Caribbean,” said Minister Singh.

Improved rating

Meanwhile, the meeting of the bank is coming at a time when Standard and Poor’s (S&P) has revised the CDB’s outlook from “negative” to “stable” and affirmation of its “AA/A-1+” status on long and short-term foreign currency ratings.

The S&P made the announcement on May 16, stating that factors which contributed to the shift to “stable” include: the abatement of external liquidity pressures among some of the bank’s largest borrowers; high capital adequacy with a risk-adjusted capital ratio of 23 per cent as of December 31, 2013 to offset the significant embedded credit risk in its portfolio; CDB’s “strong” business profile and its “very strong” financial profile; it’s role as a prominent lender in the Caribbean and ability to lend to sovereigns through the credit cycle; demonstration of members support for the bank’s mandate by granting a 38 per cent increase of paid-in capital in 2010; strengthening of its risk management structures and monitoring over the past 18 months.

“We welcome the revision in our outlook to stable and

are satisfied that the measures we have taken have been successful in contributing to the improvement in outlook. We have strengthened our risk management structures and monitoring; further improved capital adequacy and continued with good liquidity planning. Our priority continues to be equipping ourselves to remain a strong institution which has the confidence of our partners and provides timely, effective support to our BMCs,” said Dr Warren Smith, President of CDB in a statement.

Among the measures implemented were: further improvements to profitability; increased monitoring and compliance; establishing the foundation for a successful private sector initiative; and strengthening balance sheet capital adequacy to improve our external rating.

“We are encouraged by the gains made within the region in 2013 in fiscal and debt sustainability where they have occurred, while being mindful of the continued challenges of: accelerating growth, sustaining fiscal consolidation, and contain-

ing the debt burden. Our performance is inextricably linked to that of our member countries’ performance generally, and to their support of the bank’s preferred creditor status specifically,” Dr Smith said.

S&P described CDB as having a strong business profile. This is reflected in the Rating Agency’s assessment of CDB’s mandate and of its public policy role as a prominent lender through the credit cycle for its borrowing members in the Caribbean.

S&P noted that the bank’s borrowing members have treated CDB as a preferred creditor in most periods of stressed external liquidity – evidence of the strength and stability of CDB’s relationship with its shareholders.

S&P further noted that significant support from non-regional members, including the funding of CDB’s Special Development Fund (not rated), which provides grants and concessional loans to lower-income countries, had helped sustain the credit quality of the rated Ordinary Capital Resources. The review concluded: “In our calculations, a potential moderate credit deterioration of some of CDB’s borrowing members would have limited effect on the bank’s capital adequacy.”

CDB also maintains a strong “Aa1” rating with Moody’s Rating Agency, which in November 2013 revised the bank’s outlook from “negative” to “stable”.

CYAs to benefit from CSME public education forum

Caribbean Community (Caricom) Youth Ambassadors will discuss the workings of, and opportunities that reside within the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) this week.

The Caricom Youth Ambassadors (CYA) Caricom Single Market and Economy Advocacy workshop is being executed as part of a wider public education programme coordinated

by the Caricom Secretariat, to increase the understanding of specific categories of people on the CSME.

Supported by the European Union’s (EU) 10th European Development Fund (EDF) Caribbean Integration Support Programme, the workshop was devised to ultimately increase participation in the Caricom flagship programme.

The Youth Ambassadors

will examine issues pertaining to the CSME spawning regional opportunities for national skills and talents, integrating the Organisation for Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and Belize into the CSME, and free movement.

The opening ceremony of the workshop is slated for Thursday at the Grand Coastal Inn, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara.

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

CDB President, Dr Warren Smith

Teen wins trip to UEFA 2015 Champions League

An ardent fan of Real Madrid will be heading to Europe for the UEFA Champion League 2015, compliments of ANSA McAL through its Heineken Brand.

Seon Mc Almont, 19, of 35 D’ Urban Street, Lodge, Georgetown, was selected from among thousands who participated in the Heineken Promotion which culminated at the Gravity Lounge with the viewing of the Champions League Final and after-party.

The young man won the prize after a dramatic draw, which was done by several patrons who flocked to the venue to be part of the action. The first three digits, 119 were pulled by three persons and after an elimination process, only three people had tickets with the first three digits. After the third pull to get the last digit, Mc Almont emerged the luckiest contender.

In all smiles, he reiterated that he is an ardent supporter of Real Madrid and thought that his luck stuck twice, the first being Real Madrid’s 4-1 trouncing of Atlético Madrid and then his capture of the grand prize.

The prize caters for him and a companion to travel to Europe to witness one match of his choice, provid-

ing air tickets, hotel accommodations and more importantly, spending money.

While it is too early to decide who he will take along on the unforgettable journey, he was thinking of a close relative. He thanked ANSA McAL for giving him the opportunity to visit Europe, which will be his first. Heineken Brand Coordinator Robert Hiscock

said the brand was extremely pleased to have been a part of the organising team for the grand affair, noting that next year will be bigger and better.

He said the last viewing party was kept at the Georgetown Cricket Club Ground (GCC), but this year they upped their game and hosted the event at the popular Gravity Lounge.

He thanked the patrons for their overwhelming support of the event and encouraged them to continue drinking Heineken in a responsible manner.

After the presentations, patrons were entertained by Jamaican reggae artiste Tanya Stephens, who had the audience gyrating to her vibes.

She dished out almost two hours of non-stop music from yesteryear to present time. As usual, she said that she loves to perform before her Guyanese fans.

Eyew tness

A...the best of times

nd here it is, on our Independence Day, we got the news that some fellas from Hong Kong, with very deep pockets, are the investors behind the new Marriott. For years there’ve been all kinds of speculation by the inveterate naysayers in the Opposition camp that somehow, there was some “cockishness” going on.

Of course, we can now confirm that even if pure, distilled water is poured into a dirty bottle – filthy water’s gonna come out. Exactly like the utterances from the MuckrakerKN and Ramjattan, for instance.

And it makes sense as to who the investors are. In any business of this size, it makes sense to know what it’s all about. Heck, even in a sugar cake stand, you’d better know about the coconuts that’re going into the sugar cake. If the nuts are even a bit overripe, customers gonna be spitting out the rancid mess!

Everyone knows at this time we’re not exactly the Bali of tourist destinations. But we do know also to get our numbers up, we need top name, branded hotels that’ll signal to far-off tourists they’re in good hands. That’s what the Marriott Brand delivers. But it’s a chicken and egg question, no? Which businessman’s going to plunk down his money if the return isn’t there – immediately? It’ll take some time for even our more well-to-do overseas Guyanese to fill the hotel. But right in front of us was the answer: just look at how the Princess was able to become self-sustaining. Casinos. This was the route Suriname took – big time. But casinos are a specialised business and need people who are already in the ring – to steer some of their patrons down our way. Like the Turkish owners of Princess.

So former President Jagdeo, who understood the need for us to have a flagship hotel, had the testicular fortitude for his Government to put up the seed money to get the Marriott going. Even against the sustained attacks of the know-nothing brigade, he stood his ground. And now we know that the Hong Kong investors are the principals in REXLOT – with more than US$1 billion in casino related assets. These fellas know what they’re doing.

There’ll be loud lamentations by the Opposition and their camp followers that the Government should own the hotel – because of its initial investment. This is the old PNC state capitalism model that brought us to ruin in the 1970s. Guyanese should all thank Jagdeo for his vision and Ramotar for sticking with the plan.

...the worst of times

And while the Marriott was securing billionaire investors, the oldest hotel in Guyana – the Tower, closed its doors. Literally. Its staff and even its guests had to fend their way out... since its owners didn’t deign to inform them of their plans.

Maybe there is a lesson for all Guyanese – not just the naysayers – in the denouement to the story of this hotel, founded exactly 100 years before independence.

We believe the biggest lesson is the one we made above: in the modern world, you’d better know the business you’re getting into. Seems to your Eyewitness that the local fellas who plunked their money into the downtown hotel, were into other businesses. They were looking at the Tower in the traditional manner – and took the embellishment to spice up the entertainment lounge as “innovative”.

But any cash flow analysis would’ve shown, these patrons were never going to be enough to service the loans on the hotel.

It’s a good thing the Marriott’s opening in a few months.

...independent times

There’re going to be all kinds of analyses about the state of our independent country, today. This Eyewitness is just happy at all the very visible signs of progress all around him. And hopes that a new Mayor will soon set our capital straight. That’ll be real independence.

Sean Mc Almont poses with ANSA McAL General Manager Beverly Harper and Heineken Brand Coordinator Robert Hiscock after winning the grand prize

Five injured after RUSAL bus topples

– union cites breach of safety standards

Five Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc (RUSAL) workers were rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex on Saturday evening after a minibus reportedly toppled while driving along the Mines Road at Kwakwani, Region 10.

The accident occurred about 18:00h.

Out of the five injured persons, Guyana Times understands that two men sustained serious bodily injuries and had to be hospitalised. Barton (only name given), a foreman at the mining company and Mc Credo (only name given) were the two persons who would have sustained the most serious injuries.

Guyana Times understands that Mc Credo suffered a broken shoulder while Barton suffered concussions to the head, and from reports, a broken arm.

Information reaching Guyana Times revealed that the minibus was transporting a group of workers to Block Five when the driver of the vehicle lost control and toppled several times before landing with its four wheels in the air.

This accident occurred moments after it had stopped raining, but from reports received, the road is in a deplorable state and might have

been the major cause for the accident.

An official attached to the company stated that the injured persons managed to crawl out of the mangled vehicle and were subsequently rescued by another vehicle.

The injured men were rushed the Kwakwani Hospital and later transferred to the Linden Hospital Complex by ambulance. Hospital officials confirmed that the men are in stable conditions and not critical as was reported.

Gross negligence

However, the Guyana Bauxite & General Workers Union (GB&GWU) in a release stated that the accident is another resulting from negligence and gross occupational safety and health shortcomings, which highlights the risk which RUSAL workers face on a daily basis.

“Occupational health and safety breaches present a threat to labour’s safety and it is not a matter to be taken lightly, nor can it be compromised,” the release added. It further stated that the safety of workers at the BGCI has been compromised for some time now and efforts being made by the union to have the Labour Ministry address

Govt can’t fight narco trade without...

We have also seen a surge in rice production in which records were also broken. We must congratulate our workers, miners and businessmen and women for the tremendous contributions they have been making to the expansion and diversification of our economy.”

He said too that the private sector has made significant achievements in every area of endeavour, noting that investments are taking place in mining, agriculture, tourism, commerce and information-based technology.

“The service sector has also grown steadily. It is making an important contribution to our economic progress.”

Over the years, he said the country has also seen the massive development in the construction sector.

“Here is another area for growth. Clearly, we have laid and are continuing to lay a solid foundation for greater and faster progress in the future. To do so, we need to have improved infrastructure. For us, one of the main impediments to our faster economic growth is the lack of cheap energy. We need this to provide for a strong industrial and processing sector. We need it to add value to much of what we produce today. We need it too, to ensure that our domestic consumers have cheap and reliable power in their homes.”

He called for serious talks on reducing the importation of fossil fuel and to be able to save $9 billion use every year to subsidise electricity charges to citizens.

“I have every confidence that cheap energy will stim-

these problems have been ignored.

The union also recalled that the 2012 ruling of the High Court is yet to be respected by the Labour Minister in the form of reissuing letters to commence compulsory arbitration proceedings.

“The situation is made worse by an Opposition that prefers to turn the other way. As section of this society, its constituents continue to be violated and abused by the Government and BCGI,” the release further stated.

The GB&GWU posited that the accident occurred in a company assigned vehicle, on a company road, when workers were being transported in the execution of their duties.

The union highlighted that there are a number of instances that involved RUSAL workers due to employer’s negligence.

In May 2009, BCGI workers had caused to protest working with malfunctioning vehicles, which resulted in 67 workers being suspended. On June 30, 2010, there was an accident of similar nature – two workers lost their lives – 15 were seriously injured and others traumatised, while in 2011, a mine at Arorima caved in and resulted in the death of one person.

From page 3

ulate rapid economic growth and facilitate job creations in every sector. That is why it was such a national tragedy that our National Assembly did not unanimously support the Amaila Falls Hydro Project last year. It took us four years of negotiations to have reached that stage in 2013 and all of that has been lost. But we are determined to get this project... already we have recommenced the search and opportunities to bring hydropower to our country. We will also pursue other forms of cheap, reliable and renewable (green) energy in the future. As we approach the 50th Anniversary of our Independence, let us work in greater cooperation and unity. We still have a lot to do to further enhance the quality of life in Guyana.”

Search continues for abducted infant

Since the disappearance of 10-day-old baby “Avinash”, family members and villagers have joined in the search with the hope of recovering the abducted infant.

The infant of Number 60 Village, Corentyne was last seen in the company a woman who told the family her name was “Bibi Khan”, a name very popular in Guyana and is believed to be fictitious.

The woman befriended the mother of the infant Sandra McLean also known as “Pinky”, telling her that she has a special interest in the baby.

She lured McLean to Rose Hall Town, Corentyne and eventually to Port Mourant Market under the guise of buying stuff for the baby’s Ninth Day celebration.

At the market, she put to work a carefully orchestrated plan and made good her escape with the baby. At the time, she was wearing a Black “Khemar” most likely to disguise herself, with a red short sleeved shirt and a blue skirt, knee high. She

was also wearing glasses at the time.

The mother is devastated and has not slept or eaten since the incident. Her other two sons, ages three and five, have been asking for the baby. Earlier on Sunday, after learning that the woman was dropped off at Tain, Corentyne, the family quickly headed to area and conducted their search, but came up empty handed.

The family is of the view that the woman had special interest in the child from the very beginning since she knew when “Pinky” had giv-

en birth and even showed up at their home on Friday even though “Pinky” did not tell her where she resides.

They are calling on the Police to fast tract their investigations so that the woman can he caught. The distraught mother said after realising that her son was missing, stopped a Police patrol that was in the vicinity of the market and explained what had happened.

“I stopped the Police vehicle and tell them the lady gone with me baby; them tell me to go search and wait until 24 hours to make a report.”

After being unsuccessful in getting anywhere, the 22-year-old mother visited the Whim Police Station where she insisted the Police take her statement. The Police are continuing their investigation. The family is appealing to the general public to be vigilant and be on the lookout for the woman and child.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the nearest Police station, or call 3381297, 660-2651 or 693-9484.

The infant kidnapped

Nations University launches Alumni Association

Nations University (NU) in collaboration with the Australian Institute of Business (AIB) launched its first ever Alumni Association last Monday at Nations University, 4142 New Market Street, Geogetown.

The university has been offering an internationally-recognised Master’s in Business Administration through the AIB here to local students.

With close to 50 successful graduates to date, the institution thought that

it was the opportune moment to begin to develop a productive and functional Alumni Association.

Nations University Director, Dr Brian O’Toole said the initiative is poised to enable the institution to further develop past students while simultaneously creating awareness of the advancement opportunities of Nations University.

“With this newly-formed Alumni Association, we will be working assiduously and aggressively with other graduates to build awareness, strengthen net-

works and create synergies amongst the members of the association,” O’Toole said.

AIB has teaching centres in more than 12 countries around the world, many of which already have vibrant Alumni Associations. The local centre at Nations University is currently working with the seventh batch of MBA students.

A graduate from the second batch of students, Oliver Kanhai was elected President of the Association earlier this week. Vishnu Doerga was elected Vice

Expressing his sentiments on the formation of the Association, Kanhai said: “We are delighted to announce the formation of the alumni. The purpose of the Alumni Association is for the persons who have graduated from the MBA programme to reflect together on issues facing the business community in Guyana and to begin to charter new approaches to meet those challenges.”

The Alumni Association’s first event will be a Black Tie Gala, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 22, at the Pegasus Hotel.

Happy Independence Day

Today is Independence Day and Guyana supposed to be better off now than when de country get independence 48 years ago. But not every body gon agree wid that statement. Some people prefer life in Guyana long ago and some people prefer life in Guyana now.

Some people never like life in Guyana and dem pack up dem traps and gone elsewhere. Now some a dem lookin to come back and that is a good ting. De guvament welcomin dem back like de Prodigal Son in de Bible, but dem better bring dem own money. Wid all dem Budget cuts, de guvament ain’t got nutten to spare.

On de other hand, some a dem who leff get send back because a certain man near a market who used to be in a market tek dem money and send dem through de back track. Now dem want dem money back and he not willin to backtrack.

It got people who like de days of de British more than now and does even try to talk like de British, just like how Burnt Ham used to do. Nowadays, just go in to some a dem courts and listen to some a dem Lawyers and Magistrates talk and any body gon realise that dem talkin more British than de British.

And most a dem never even study wid de British or live wid de British. But yet dem sound ultra British. People like dem gon never be truly independent even if dem live in a independent country like Guyana. Dem should try and listen to whah Dave Martins seh bout dem.

Old people seh people like dem foreign minded. As far as de Bell Crier concern, dem simply ain’t got a mind of dem own. And as far as Bob Marley concern, dem still ain’t emancipate dem selves from mental slavery. So people like dem gon never truly be independent.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Happy Independence Day to everyone and hope every body become truly independent, and don’t behave like Green Ham and Roy Stone.

President while Theressa Madray was voted Secretary and Sahadeo Ramkirath elected Treasurer.

Members of the executive of the Nations University Alumni Association

Congratulations GuySuCo! Times Notebook

GuySuCo recently surpassed their first crop target of 74,000 tons of sugar, ahead of the time scheduled for the end of the first grinding season of 2014. By May 24, the time for the end of the crop, GuySuCo should have attained a production of more than 80,000 tons, more than 10 per cent higher than its target.

GuySuCo should be congratulated for achieving its target. It has been mercilessly criticised for the failure to reach its own targets in the last few years. Many of those who made it their business to be critical of GuySuCo are now damning GuySuCo, ignoring that the company reached its target, and being critical that the target was too low.

There were loud noises from the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) and Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), both of which could not find the decency to praise the workers and managers of GuySuCo for reaching a target that, not so long ago, these same entities believed was an unreachable one.

The target for the first crop of 2014 was announced a long time ago. The first indication of the target was mooted in October 2013 and confirmed in November 2013. Thus, it has been at least six months since the target was established. At that time, no one suggested that the target of 74,000 tons sugar was too low.

At the beginning of the

crop, GuySuCo experienced difficulties with the weather and the season started shakily, with most of the factories starting their operations later than expected. Since not all of the estates were in grinding mode at the start, the initial production figures were lower than projected.

Prominent headline stories were carried in the local media about the dismal performance of the sugar corporation and two newspapers took the position that GuySuCo was on pace for another failing season. Not to be outdone, the GTUC and politicians also predicted another failing season for GuySuCo.

Now faced with the reality that the Sugar Corporation surpassed its target for the first crop in 2014, these same critics have sought to ignore the success and instead criticise GuySuCo for establishing a target that was too low. In the first crop of 2013, GuySuCo struggled to reach 48,000 tons.

During that crop, it was forced to start late and curtailed the first crop of 2013 earlier than the scheduled end date. In fact, during the first crop of 2013, GuySuCo only had about 50 per cent of its projected production days.

During the first crop of 2014, the Sugar Corporation had full or partial use of about 85 per cent of its projected production days, because the weather has been suitable for most of the season, since

the start of the crop. Given these conditions, GuySuCo lifted its performance level. What has made the difference for this crop compared to the first crop of 2013?

It is the same workers and managers, the same unions, the same factories, the same cane fields, yet GuySuCo’s performance in the first crop of 2014 is almost double the one in 2013. The only difference is that the company had generally fair weather to work with.

Given the relatively good weather, GuySuCo reminded us of its capacity to produce sugar that

still remains a fixture on the GDP profile of Guyana. Glimpses of their ability were on show during good weather conditions in the second crop of 2013 and in the second crop of 2012.

Albion has continued to excel and produced more than 2000 tons of sugar in excess of its first crop target. Rose Hall and Blairmont Estates also surpassed their targets. The West Demerara Estates fell just short of their targets. The Skeldon Factory, with more than a week to go in this first crop, is about to surpass its target for the first time since its commis -

sioning.

The critics have been brutal in their attacks on the Skeldon Factory. But the factory has produced energy for Guyana Power and Light (GPL) since its commissioning in 2008.

Not only is the co-gen plant generating energy that feeds into GPL’s grid that supplies electricity from Moleson Creek to Mahaica, but 25 per cent of the energy that Skeldon provides for GPL’s National Grid comes from bagasse-based energy – “green” energy.

There remains vast room for improvement.

But we should be unhesi -

tant in giving praise. We should avoid changing the goalpost when the results are not what we want. The critics wanted GuySuCo to fail. GuySuCo did not grant them their wishes but they found another angle of attack.

Times Notebook reserves our right to be critical when the relevant and appropriate circumstances dictate. On this occasion, GuySuCo deserves our congratulations. Readers are invited to send their comments by email or Facebook to times. notebook@gmail.com.

Probe continues into chopping incident at NA Prison

Police and prison authorities are investigating how a series of banned items entered the New Amsterdam Prison. The items were used when four prisoners were attacked and injured in a cell last Friday evening.

Reports are that a lone prisoner overpowered a Prison officer and took control of his keys before opening a cell and carrying out the attack.

Shawn Hubbard, a Prison officer for three years, was at the time performing duties inside one of the blocks at the prison. He was reportedly chocked and

left unconscious before being relieved of the items he had and then placed into a cell that the prisoner opened with the keys.

The manoeuvre by the inmate, Randolph “Shoulders” Rodriguez, who is serving a 20-year sentence for murder, allowed him to have control of that section of the prison.

After arming himself with a cutlass and a bottle containing a corrosive substance, Rodriguez attempted to open the door to the cell, where four prisoners were being held.

However, after seeing who it was, the men inside

the cell held on to the door and prevented him from pulling it open. According to one of the four men who was in the cell at the time, acid was thrown on them, forcing them to flee to the back of the cell. After getting inside, a corrosive liquid was again thrown at the prisoners, followed by cutlass chops.

The finger of one of the prisoners was severed. Another almost lost both of his arms from his shoulders. All of the men suffered several chops.

Details are still sketchy as to how Rodriguez was subdued and the cutlass taken away. However, Rodriguez

was described as a nuisance at all jails across Guyana.

Meanwhile, the injured men were rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital and subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital. They are 31-yearold Abdulsalam Azimullah called “Sato”, who is nursing chop wounds about his body; 27-year-old Davindra Harrichand, who suffered a fractured right leg and severe injuries to all his fingers; 39-year-old Clarence Williams, who lost several of his fingers and suffered dislocation of joints; and 32-year-old Kuame Bhagwandin also called “Baggi”, who was chopped about the body and burned with acid.

Azimullah was accused of killing Gary “Fat Bull”

Samaroo. Bhagwandin of Angoys Avenue and Ithaca Village West Berbice, is currently on remand for several armed robberies, including breaking into a New Amsterdam Pharmacy and stealing a quantity of items. He is also before the court for breaking into the dwelling house of Eunica Gorden of Vrymen’s Erven and stealing a total of $1.4 million in cash and items.

Charges Among the other charges that he faces, include two armed robbery committed on a businessman of Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice. Williams had escaped from the New Amsterdam Prison between June 1 and 2, 2009 while he was on remand for murder. Harrichand of Nigg

Squatting Area, Berbice was remanded last month on a charge of robbing a Corentyne businessman of $10 million in cash.

Meanwhile, Rodriguez was transferred to the Camp Street Prison, placed in a high security cell and is reportedly being monitored. The pandemonium broke out in the compound of the New Amsterdam Hospital Friday evening and as relatives of the injured prisoners heard of what transpired, they rushed to the hospital. Many were demanding that they get into the Accident and Emergency Unit to see their loved ones. Several Police ranks had to be called in to back up those that were already on the scene. It took about 30 minutes to restore order.

Courts launches KickOff Competition

In an effort to reward their loyal customers, Courts Guyana Inc recently launched an exciting Kick-Off Competition at its Main Street Branch, Georgetown.

This promotion commenced on May 22 and will conclude on June 30. During this time, customers who make Digital purchases of $19,999 and over will get a chance to enter to kick and win fun and exciting prizes from all Courts locations.

Media representatives from Guyana Times and Chronicle were a part of this segment and were rewarded with prizes of footballs for their efforts.

Of the first batch of customers to kick and win, Dawana Sudin won first place, Khemraj Permaul came in second and Pratima Narine third.

The other customers who participated but did not place were Seolachmie Bridgelall, and Jenny Daly,

who was the eldest. The winners were rewarded with prizes such as digital cameras, cordless phones and iShuffle headphones. Representatives from Courts Guyana Inc stated that they are always looking for the opportunity to give back to their customers for their loyal patronage throughout the years and the Kick-Off Competition is just one of the thrilling ways they chose to do so.

monday, may 26, 2014 | guyanatimesgy.com

NGOs enlisting more businesses in HIV fight

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)supported Advancing Partners and Communities project (APC) and the Guyana Business Coalition against HIV and AIDS (GBCHA), launched a campaign to expand and strengthen collaboration between the local business sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) responding to HIV and AIDS last week.

The event was held at the DDL Building, 44 High Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

APC Chief of Party Folami Harris said the campaign is about expanding and strengthening partnerships between the business sector and the NGOs.

“We want to improve the visibility of NGOs responding to HIV and AIDS and keep the business sector informed about successes in the national response without burdening them with rhetoric. Through the campaign, we hope to stimulate a broader range of partnerships between them for sustaining the NGOs response.”

Guyana’s impressive achievements in HIV prevention and treatment has resulted in solid declines in new HIV infections, down from 1258 in 2006 to 758 in 2013. AIDS-related deaths have reduced from 475 in 2002 to 194 in 2010.

“These gains would not have been possible without the combined effort of Government, NGOs, development partners and the business sector,” said GBCHA Chairperson Tracey Lewis.

Lewis also stated that “Guyana’s Private Sector Response” serves as a model for partnerships aimed at reducing the spread of HIV

and the associated stigma and discrimination. In the face of declining external funding, Guyana’s business and NGO sectors are being called on to expand and strengthen partnerships to support the goal of zero new HIV infections.

A total of 83 persons attended the event from 44 businesses, 12 NGOs, the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) and international development partners USAID, US Peace Corps, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP).

PANCAP Coordination Unit Director Dereck Springer commended APC and GBCHA for “rebranding and reinvigorating the business-NGO partnership in health and wellness in Guyana”.

Members of the business sector in attendance also expressed their appreciation for the effort.

“It is commendable that an event of this nature was held to sensitise and encourage the business com-

Unidentified man shot dead in Eccles

The body of an identified man was on Saturday evening found along the Eccles Access Road, East Bank Demerara, with two suspected bullet wounds to his chest. According to information received, the man was discovered about 22:30h by several Police security officials who were patrolling the area at the time.

From all indications, the man did not appear to be a destitute and might have been shot moments before his body was discovered.

Persons in the area re-

portedly recalled hearing several gunshots, but could not verify from which direction they came. However, Police in a statement said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of the man, who thus far, is unidentified. The Police said that the man’s body bore a bullet wound.

The victim is said to be in his 30s, brown in complexion, and was clad in a white jersey, blue denim coat, a pair of blue denim pants and black boots. The body is at the Lyken’s Funeral Parlour awaiting identification.

munity to participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” Smith, a representative from Courts Guyana Inc said.

“It’s important for companies to get on board and exercise corporate social responsibility,” added

Gregory Shaw of California Stucco, another business representative in attendance.

Advancing Partners and Communities (APC) is a five-year project funded by USAID’s Office of Population and Reproductive Health and implemented by JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc, in partnership with FHI 360.

APC’s core funding covers grants management and capacity-building for NGOs, providing services for HIV prevention, care and support. In Guyana, APC supports 11 NGOs across eight of the 10 administrative regions: Artistes in Direct Support, Agape Network, Comforting Hearts, the FACT Group, G-Plus, Hope for All, Hope Foundation, Lifeline Counselling, Linden Care, United Bricklayers and Youth Challenge Guyana.

CANU hunts third suspect in cocaine found at CJIA

As investigations continue into the discovery of 2.2kg of cocaine onboard a Caribbean Airlines Flight destined for Toronto, Canada on Friday, drug enforcement officers are hunting for a third suspect who they think played a pivotal role in the smuggling operation.

The third suspect is believed to be a member of a law enforcement unit.

According to a well-placed source in the investigations, one of the men, who was taken into custody has been cooperating fully with the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and would have provided vital information with respect to the persons involved.

Information reaching Guyana Times revealed that after the CJIA bust on Friday afternoon, a search was conducted on the home of one of the suspects, during which an undisclosed sum of money and suspected cocaine were discovered.

The two men in custody are attached to the Timehri Handling Service and have

been employed with the organisation for a number of years.

They are expected to make a court appearance on Tuesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and are expected to be charged with trafficking in narcotics. It was reported that the two men would have been working in collusion to facilitate shipment of the illegal drug to Toronto, Canada. Sources confirmed that there is enough evidence to charge the men.

The 2.2 kilograms of cocaine was found in the aft hold (the belly) of a BW 606 aircraft by airline security during a routine search about 13:00h on Friday.

The aircraft stopped at the CJIA about 12:11h from Port of Spain, while on its way to Toronto, Canada. After landing at the CJIA, the baggage was off-loaded from the aft hold and it was during a sweep of the hold as per Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), the drug was discovered.

APC Chief of Party Folami Harris addressing the audience

SUDOKU

Your love life is heating up. You can gain something valuable if you plan a recreational activity geared toward forming a closer bond with someone you cherish.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

People close to you aren’t likely to see things your way. You’ll avoid complaints and confrontations if you take care of your responsibilities without being asked.

No one else truly understands what you are going through. Stop beating around the bush. Let the important people in your life know how you feel and what you want.

You have plenty to deal with, but if you do a good job, you will be given credit for it. Gauge your time so that you can live up to your responsibilities.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

You will be the centre of attention today. You’ll make many new contacts, and your charisma will entice people to give you what you ask for.

(March 21-April 19)

Preparation and attention to detail will lead to monetary gains. There is no room for error. Be ready to answer any questions that arise. Your thoroughness will lead to victory.

(April 20-May 20)

Ignore criticism, and don’t get stressed out by the number of items on your to-do list. If you take one step at a time, you’ll get it all done.

(May 21June 20)

Someone may be trying to pin the blame on you for something you didn’t do. Avoid stress by remaining calm and taking care of your responsibilities, and you will stay ahead of the competition.

You may be feeling introspective. Try to find out more about your family history. If relatives are not available, try using the library or the Internet for research.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Family matters will take top priority. Make your voice heard in any conversations regarding elderly or ailing relatives. Don’t count on your memory to keep track of details. Make sure all information is recorded.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

A new acquaintance is likely to lead to an interesting proposition. Make sure all of your bases are covered to ensure the best results possible.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Put aside less important activities and take care of pressing responsibilities. A helpful associate will slow you down if you’re not careful.

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

arCHie

dilbert

Sweet Revenge!

Score’s Even crowned champion at PPP/C pre-Independence race meet

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Score’s Even of the DeRoop racing stable, was in a category all by itself when she whipped a top field to score a big win and take top honours in the feature ‘A’ and Lower class event when the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Civic held its pre-Independence one-day horse race meeting at the Rising Sun Turf

Club’s track at Arima Park on the West Coast Berbice on Sunday.

The feature event saw eight animals leaving the gate in an even break, but Score’s Even showed why she is the best horse in Guyana, dominating from the start, winning the race gate to pole.

Seventeen-year-old jockey, Ajai Sansaran, decided to let the animal go from the start, giving it

full rein as it set a searing pace throughout.

Coming into the homestretch, it was all Score’s Even; and with jockey Sansaran showing his brilliance in the stirrups, the animal was able to romp home by about one length. The win was worth $1M and the General Secretary Trophy in the one -mile event.

Sweet Revenge

For Score’s Even, the win can be seen as sweet revenge. The animal was denied entry in last month’s Guyana Cup Fever, which had subsequently led to a legal challenge mounted by its owner, Dennis DeRoop.

DeRoop had moved to the courts to challenge a decision made by the Guyana Cup Fever organisers to disqualify Score’s Even from participating in the event, after they had refused to register the horse, claiming that the event is not for ‘A’ Class animals.

Additionally, the principal concerns that led to the decision to debar Score’s Even from participating in Guyana Cup Fever, was the fact that other horse owners had threatened to opt out of the race meet, because of the pedigree and experience of Score’s Even.

Results in the other races one to three read:

J1 and Lower – De Gump, Royal Cash, Famous Pride

D3 and Lower – Swing Easy, Run Nana Run, Force Entry

G3 and Lower – Damascus Dream, Ameera’s Joy, Quite Storm

Three-year-old Guyana and West Indies- bred animals –Settling Jet, Unsettled, Shooting Star

‘I’ and Lower – Easy to Win, I Want Revenge

F1 and Lower – Swing Easy, Princess Alisha, Silent Night Jokey Randolph Richmond was adjudged champion jockey, while Russel Chichester was adjudged the best apprentice jockey. Shariff Racing Stable was the best racing stable, while Fazal Habibulla was the top trainer. They received accolades, compliments of the Trophy Stall.

A fair-sized crowd attended the day’s event, including a number of top- ranked government and regional officials. The day’s proceedings saw over 70 horses taking part and over $6M being up for grabs.

World Relay Championships: Jamaica set new world record

Jamaica’s men set a new world record in the 4 x 200m event on the opening night of the IAAF World Relay Championships in Nassau, Bahamas.

With Usain Bolt recovering from a foot injury, Yohan Blake led home the quartet in a time of 1:18.63 to beat the old record by 0.05 seconds.

Great Britain’s women’s 4 x 100m team were fifth in their final, in 42.75, with the United States taking gold.

GB’s men’s and women’s 4 x 400m teams qualified for their finals on Sunday.

The men won their heat in a time of 3:00.74, while the women finished third in their heat

behind the USA and Jamaica in 3:27.30.

World 400m champion

Christine Ohuruogu is expected to come in for the final after Eilidh Child, Shana Cox, Emily Diamond and Margaret Adeoye qualified.

GB’s 4 x 100m men, featuring world indoor 60m champion Richard Kilty and Dwain Chambers, will be hoping for more luck when they race on Sunday, having been disqualified at the last five major championships.

The top eight men’s and women’s 4 x 100m and 4 x 400m teams will qualify for the 2015 World Championships in Beijing. (BBC Sport)

The record-setting Jamaica relay team

Jockey Ajai Sansaran piloted Score’s Even to a comfortable win (Photos: Rajiv Bisnauth)

Region Five Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth presents the winner’s trophy to a representative of the M Dookhie Racing Stable for East to Win victory Pictures saved as: Score’s Even, Clement Rohee and Region Five Chairmen

World Cup a minefield for Brazil’s Rousseff in election year

The script was simple enough: host the soccer World Cup, win it for a record sixth time and ride a wave of national euphoria to another four years in power.

Yet Brazil’s ruling Workers’ Party may find it’s not that easy.

Recent history shows little correlation between being crowned world soccer champions and winning elections, despite endless speculation to the contrary among Brazilians of all political stripes.

At best, President Dilma Rousseff could get a temporary bump from a victory for the heavily-fancied home team in July but it would likely wear off in a few weeks, leaving more than two months for reality to set back in before election day on October 5.

At worst, a disastrous early exit from the tournament could add to frustra-

tions with the way Brazil is run and fuel a growing desire for change.

With no home team to root for, more Brazilians might feel tempted to join anti-World Cup street protests, creating a potentially volatile situation for Rousseff to manage.

Indeed, what was supposed to be a moment of national pride has instead become a political minefield for a president whose popularity is already waning.

A string of violent protests last year during a smaller soccer tournament here drew hundreds of thousands onto the streets and dramatically raised the political stakes at the World Cup, which starts on June 12 in Sao Paulo.

One of Rousseff’s main challengers, Eduardo Campos, recently told Reuters that the Cup could have some effect on opinion polls right after it ends, “but

other concerns will soon appear on the radar.”

Political science seems to back that up. Sporting victories 10 days before an election can win an additional 1 to 2 percent of the vote for an incumbent, but games played more than two weeks prior have little effect, a study in 2010 by Stanford

Graduate School of Business researchers found.

That, for the most part, has been the case in Brazil.

Since 1994, the World Cup has coincided every four years with general elections in Brazil.

That year, Brazil won the tournament just as an economic stabilization plan, which included the launch of a new currency, the real, was being rolled out.

The man who conceived the plan, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, later said the upbeat national mood following the victory may have helped the currency succeed - which, in turn, led to Cardoso’s election to the presidency later that year.

After that, though, the correlation falls apart.

In 1998, Cardoso was reelected even though Brazil lost in the World Cup final to France. Four years later, Brazil beat Germany to be-

come champions for a fifth time, yet opposition leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva beat Cardoso’s candidate at the polls.

Lula was easily re-elected in 2006, when Brazil was knocked out in the quarter-finals by France. And Rousseff cruised to victory in 2010 with Lula’s blessing, just a few months after the Netherlands eliminated Brazil in South Africa.

Home field risks

The big difference this time is that the World Cup is being held at home and there is far more at stake than the performance of Brazilian soccer stars like Neymar.

And a lot can go wrong off the pitch.Deficient transport

could stop teams and fans getting to games on time. Stadiums built in a hurry could be faulty. Wireless communications could jam or floodlights could cut out in the middle of play. Worse, games could be disrupted by street protests by Brazilians who say the government should have built hospitals, schools and rapid transit systems instead of costly soccer stadiums that some host cities do not even need. With billions watching on TV around the globe, any mishap would embarrass Brazilians who hoped the World Cup would cap Brazil’s emergence as a player on the global stage. And they could take it out on the president.(Reuters)

England v Sri Lanka: tourists level ODI series with crushing victory

Man-of the –Match,Tillakaratne Dilshan

England were skittled for 99 as Sri Lanka levelled the fivematch one-day international series at 1-1 with a 157-run win at Chester-le-Street.

Tillakaratne Dilshan made 88 as Sri Lanka posted a respectable 256-8.

England were reduced to 29-4 as seamer Nuwan Kulasekara (3-15) wreaked havoc while Sachithra Senanayake took 3-13. Eoin Morgan top-scored with 40 as England were all out in the 27th over, their heaviest ever home ODI defeat in terms of runs and fifth worst anywhere. (BBC Sport)

SCOREBOARD

Sri Lanka innings (50 overs maximum)

HDRL Thirimanne c Tredwell b Anderson 10

TM Dilshan b Jordan 88

KC Sangakkara† c †Buttler b Tredwell 40

DPMD Jayawardene run out (Ballance/†Buttler) 2

AD Mathews* c Bopara b Gurney 30

SMA Priyanjan c Morgan b Anderson 43

LD Chandimal c Bopara b Gurney 14

KMDN Kulasekara c Root

b Gurney 0

SMSM Senanayake not out 2

KTGD Prasad not out 7

Extras: (lb 5, w 15) 20

Total: (8 wickets; 50 overs) 256

Did not bat: SL Malinga

Fall of wickets: 1-33 (Thirimanne, 8.6 ov), 2-129 (Sangakkara, 30.4 ov), 3-136 (Jayawardene, 32.5 ov), 4-159 (Dilshan, 37.1 ov), 5-225 (Mathews, 46.2 ov), 6-236 (Priyanjan, 47.2 ov), 7-247 (Chandimal, 48.3 ov), 8-248 (Kulasekara, 48.5 ov)

Bowling: JM Anderson 101-38-2, HF Gurney 10-0-593, CJ Jordan 10-0-56-1, RS Bopara 9-0-40-0, JC Tredwell 10-0-57-1, JE Root 1-0-1-0

England innings (target: 257 runs from 50 overs)

MA Carberry c †Sangakkara b Kulasekara 6 IR Bell c †Sangakkara b Kulasekara 12

GS Ballance lbw b Kulasekara 5 JE Root b Malinga 0 EJG Morgan* c Chandimal b Prasad 40 RS Bopara b Senanayake 7 JC Buttler† c Senanayake b Mathews 4 CJ Jordan lbw b Senanayake 1 JC Tredwell c Kulasekara

Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff

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Mumbai Indians v Royals, IPL 2014

Mumbai pull off stunning jailbreak

The scenes at the Wankhede Stadium were scarcely believable as Mumbai Indians’ turnaround of a campaign that had begun so disastrously culminated in the most fairytale of finishes. As Aditya Tare swung his first ballJames Faulkner’s leg-stump full toss - over long leg to give Mumbai the boundary they needed to claw into the playoffs, Rahul Dravid rose from the dugout and flung his Rajasthan Royals cap to the ground as the team he was mentoring completed the most spectacular of meltdowns to lose an un-loseable game. The shambles that caused Dravid to lose his temper would have broken less-composed men much sooner. Despite the mad-scientist experiments in their last few matches, Royals had gone into this game with a hand full of aces. Mumbai Indians, having decided to chase, needed to achieve whatever target they were set in 14.3 overs to get ahead on net run rate. Royals set them 190.

tum of a runaway train, Watson looked listless and frazzled, and at times Brad Hodge was seen marshalling fielders to their positions.

As Rayudu sank to his knees after his dismissal, gutted because he thought Mumbai had fallen so agonisingly short, chaos broke out around him. Calculators went to work off the field, the batsmen and fielders crowded the umpires for clarification, and play halted for several minutes. Some Royals players had begun to celebrate14.3 overs had been bowled and the scores were only tied, Mumbai had not won - but substitutes ran out with the message that it was not done yet. If Mumbai hit a boundary off the next ball, they would make it. And then Faulkner bowled an staggeringly loose full toss, Tare hit it for six, got in Watson’s face, tugged his jersey over her head and celebrated like a footballer. Beyond the boundary, Dravid threw down his cap.

Corey Anderson, whom Mumbai picked in place of fast bowler Marchant de Lange, played the attackshredding innings he had been bought to play but had failed to produce so far in the tournament. However, when Mumbai needed nine off three deliveries to win in 14.3 overs and qualify for the playoffs, Anderson could manage only a single off Faulkner’s first to move to 95 off 44 balls and take his place at the non-striker’s end.

Faulkner had eight runs to defend off two balls, but that equation lurched heavily in favour of Mumbai when he delivered a leg-stump full toss that Ambati Rayudu smacked over the long-leg boundary. Rayudu then mistimed what should have been the decisive ball of the match into the covers and would have been run out had Shane Watson hit at the bowler’s end. But the throw was inaccurate and Rayudu was eventually run out attempting the overthrow that would have given Mumbai all they needed.

That moment in the field capped a horrendous match for the Royals captain. Watson’s timing had been incredibly poor during his

Ninth straight loss for dismal Delhi

Kings XI Punjab warmed up for the playoffs with a demolition of Delhi Daredevils, whose batting failure sent them crashing to a ninth successive defeat. Kevin Pietersen made his only fifty of the season, but he had next to no support as Daredevils were dismissed for 115 with nearly two overs remaining in their innings. Glenn Maxwell got his first duck of the tournament in the chase, but for a side that had made 190-plus six times this season, this target was easy meat. They took 13.5 overs to register their 11th win in 14 games. (ESPNcricinfo)

Fans of the Guyana Amazon Warriors will be hoping Corey Anderson will replicate his swashbuckling performance for the

struggle for 8 off 18 balls after opening the innings, and then he conceded 33 off two wicketless overs. As Mumbai began building the momen-

The hero on the night was the man striding off the field, chest puffed, and wearing a smile as broad as his shoulders. Anderson had played only because Mumbai were in desperate need of men who could hit a long ball. His team-mates - Lendl Simmons, Michael Hussey, Kieron Pollard and Rohit Sharmacame out swinging but soon ran out of steam. Anderson’s guns never stopped firing. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

SR Watson* c Pollard b Harbhajan Singh 8 SV Samson† c Harbhajan Singh b Gopal 74

KK Nair c Simmons b Bumrah 50 BJ Hodge not out 29 JP Faulkner c Anderson b Pollard 23 KK Cooper not out 0 Extras: (lb 2, w 3) 5 Total: (4 wickets; 20 overs) 189 Did not bat: AM Rahane, AM Nayar, Ankit Sharma, PV Tambe, DS Kulkarni Fall of wickets: 1-34 (Watson, 5.3 ov), 2-134 (Nair, 14.6 ov), 3-136 (Samson, 15.3 ov), 4-185 (Faulkner, 19.5 ov) Bowling: CJ Anderson 2-014-0, JJ Bumrah 4-1-30-1, PP Ojha 4-0-31-0, Harbhajan Singh 4-0-43-1 S Gopal 3-036-1, KA Pollard 3-0-33-1

Mumbai T20 innings (target: 190 runs from 20 overs)

LMP Simmons c Faulkner b Kulkarni 12

MEK Hussey b Cooper 22

CJ Anderson not out 95

KA Pollard c Hodge b Cooper 7

RG Sharma* c Nair b Kulkarni 16 AT Rayudu run out (Nair/†Samson) 30 AP Tare† not out 6 Extras: (lb 3, w 4) 7 Total: (5 wickets; 14.4 overs) 195 Did not bat: Harbhajan Singh, S Gopal, PP Ojha, JJ Bumrah Fall of wickets: 1-19 (Simmons, 1.5 ov), 2-53 (Hussey, 4.2 ov), 3-61 (Pollard, 4.6 ov), 4-108 (Sharma, 9.2 ov), 5-189 (Rayudu, 14.3 ov) Bowling: JP Faulkner 3.4-0-

Nadeem not

ov), 9-115 (Imran Tahir, 17.6 ov), 10-115 (Unadkat, 18.1 ov)

Bowling: P Awana 3-1-15-2, AR Patel 4-0-28-2, MG Johnson 3.1-0-27-2, Karanveer Singh 4-0-22-2, R Dhawan 40221

Punjab T20 innings (target: 116 runs from 20 overs) V Sehwag c †Karthik b Mohammed Shami 9 M Vohra b Imran Tahir 47

GJ Maxwell c Pietersen b Unadkat 0 DA Miller not out 47 GJ Bailey* not out 1

Extras: (lb 5, w 10) 15

Total:

(Agarwal,

ov), 2-44 (Karthik, 5.2 ov), 3-44 (Jadhav, 5.6 ov), 4-67 (Tiwary, 9.3 ov), 5-91 (Duminy, 12.3 ov), 6-93 (Pietersen, 13.4 ov), 7-110 (Neesham, 16.6 ov), 8-111 (Mohammed Shami, 17.2

Warriors during the upcoming Limacol Caribbean Premier League

– Abbensetts, Garraway add to budding rivalry Sampson, George dominate IGG trials

By Treiston Joseph

Kevin Abbensetts reacted to the blast of the pistol with a powerful drive phase that allowed him to pull away from the rest of the field to win the male under-20 100 metres on Sunday at the InterGuiana Games (IGG) trials held at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground, Camp Ayanganna.

Not known for his drive phase, Abbbesetts executed his race well enough to fend off Tevin Garraway, who is known for his brilliant start, clocking 10.5s to win the event. Garraway, who showed signs of muscle at the 60- metre mark, pulled through to finish second in 10.7s. Kareem Purch was

Claudrice McKoy was third in 5:40.00s. George also won the female 800 metres ahead of Foster at the event.

The short and powerful Jevina Sampson displayed her quick turnovers with a handsome win in the girls’ under-20 200m metres, cruising easily to victory in 24.6s to finish ahead of her club mates Avon Samuels 25.0s, and Shoquanne Daniels 25.3s for a Running Brave sweep.

Sampson also set the field afire in the girls’ 400 metres to win in a time of 57.4s as Running Brave again swept the top three spots, with Samuels finishing second in 57.7s and Natricia Hooper third in 58.1s.

Ornesto Thomas showed tremendous ability in the

third in 11.0s.

However, the shorter Garraway rebounded in the 200 metres, utilizing the turn by closing the staggers out of lane four and pulling away from Abbensetts in lane three to win the event in 21.3s, to add another layer to the budding rivalry between the two top sprinters. Abbensetts was second in

21.6s ,while Lennox Douglas was third in 22.0s. Triple Carifta gold medallist Cassey George was her usual dominant self, destroying the field in the girls’ under-20 1500 metres, winning the event by some 20 metres to clock 4:50.00s. Carifta bronze medallist Andrea Foster finished second in 5:01.00s, while

Lights at Albion Sports Complex: brainchild of regional chairman

The recently installed lights at the Albion Sports Complex, are the brain child of Region Six Chairman, David Armogan.

The chairman had made known his intention of having lights installed back in 2012. Following the Independence Cup tournament which was played under inadequate lighting conditions and which was attended by several thousand Berbicians, Armogan said he saw the need to have lights installed at the facility.

The venue for the first ever One Day International cricket match in the West Indies between Pakistan and the West Indies, was played on the 16th March, 1977,at the complex. between the West Indies. The West Indies had won by four wickets.

According to the regional chairman, back then after receiving several complaints about a permanent venue in Berbice for night activities and after widespread discussions he had with various stakeholders and several recommendations, he discussed the matter with President

Donald Ramotar and the president agreed that it is possible to have permanent lights placed at the premier cricket arena in Berbice.

The regional chairman, who is an ardent cricket fan and a former cricketer himself, stated that, “Not only will we be able to have night cricket there, but it will enhance our chances of having any game played there in the night under lights.”

According to Armogan, the type of lights to be installed at the venue are similar to those at the National Stadium which is expected to bring back the international flair to the venue.

Now it has become a reality.

The venue, which was one of the premier cricketing venues in Guyana in tandem with the Bourda Cricket Ground, has hosted a number of one-day games so far, but it has been more than two decades now that an international game has not been played at the venue; and with the recent decision of the West Indies Cricket Board to ban

international cricket matches from Guyana, the return of high- class cricket to the venue might be sometime in coming.

The venue holds a 300M athletics track comfortably and can also host a number of different sporting activities one can think about. Boosting a number of stands and pavilions, the venue can accommodate over 15,000 spectators. In the past, the Berbice Cricket Board, in collaboration with the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association (BCCDA) and a number of other private organisations have organized night cricket at the Albion Sports Complex, but because of inadequate lighting, the boundaries had to be brought in significantly. It was that, that caused the chairman to make his move.

According to Armogan, lights at the Albion Sports Complex it will increase tourism in the region. It will also bring with it business and help Berbice to develop at a faster rate. (Andrew Carmichael)

Independence Table Tennis Tourney

Britton falls to Bryan… …forced to forfeit men’s title

male 1500 metres to win the event easily in 4:10.00s, before capturing the 800 metres later in the day.

Finishing behind Thomas in the 1500 metres was Orin Prince in 5:42.00s and Matthew Mackenzie in third with a time of 5:46.00s.

Kade Pearce was top notch in the boys’ highjump, claiming the event with a leap of 1.72 metres to finish ahead of Tramaine Beckles, who had a jump of 1.65 metres and Tabiki Thompson who was third with a distance of 1.63 metres.

McKoy took the girls’ 3000 metres to end her day on a high note, recording a time of 11:02s to win the event and finish ahead of Shontel Hinds 11:06s and Maria MacKenzie 12:08s.

The meet will be used to select the IGG team to represent Guyana at the IGG later this year scheduled to be held in Guyana.

By Treiston Joseph

Talented racquet wielder Shemar Britton showed tremendous heart as his body failed to do what his mind was willing to accomplish, falling to a ruthless Nigel Bryan in the male 21 and under Independence Table Tennis final on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium. Britton, who was one half of the winning duo of the boys’ doubles category with his partner Kevon Corbin ,went through the rounds of both the male 21 and under and men’s singles to put himself in both finals. However, having played so

many games in one day, his body began to show signs of fatigue in the form of both his legs and hands having cramps during the finals, with Bryan who showed no mercy as he lost in 2-4.

Bryan, who noticed that the under-18 champion was beginning to wilt, was relentless and closed the game out after the third set that saw Britton up 2-1. The match ended with Bryan winning three straight set points as he displayed his patented looping forearm shot. Meanwhile, Britton’s cramps were bad enough that he had to forfeit his final against Bradon Belle that

would have determined the men’s singles champion. However, earlier in the day ,Chelsea Edghill made table tennis look like a cake walk as she dominated the women’s final with a 3-0 win against Akecia Nedd that ended 11-7, 11-7 and 11-7. Edghill also partnered with her brother Kyle Edghill to win the mixed doubles title against Alec Hopkinson and Prescilla Greaves 3-0 at 11-3, 11-7 and 11-9 to complete the proceedings of the tournament sponsored by the National Sports Commission and organized by the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA).

The now well-lit Albion Sports Complex

Jevina Sampson (pink) won the girls’ 400 metres at the IGG trials (Treiston Joseph photos)

Kevin Abbensetts dips ahead of Tevin Garraway to win the boys’ 100 metres

Cassey George finishes easily ahead of her competitors to win the female 1500 metres

Kade Pearce clears the high jump bar to win the event at the IGG trials

Nigel Bryan (right) sets himself for his forehand loop against Britton during their final (Treiston Joseph photo)

Kuru Kururu Warriors, Grove Hi Tech win in latest play

The Soesdyke-Linden

Highway- based Kuru Kururu Warriors created the first upset of the CULT sponsored East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-17 League on Saturday at the Grove Playfield, erasing a 1-0 deficit to defeat Diamond United in the feature game.

Saturday’s opening encounter saw home team Grove Hi Tech, led by a helmet-trick from Joel Dick and a double each from Threvon Pluck and captain Trevor Jones, hammering Soesdyke Falcons 12-0 in a lopsided affair.

Diamond United went into the game against Kuru Kururu Warriors as favourites to win especially from the standpoint that it was the first competitive junior game for the Warriors this season.

The lack of cohesiveness did show for the highwaybased side in the first half ,as Diamond established

themselves, taking the lead in the process through a 19th minute strike from Daniel Melville.

The Warriors did show at times glimpses of individual understanding of the game and as the game matured, they came into their own to the extent that they shocked the Diamond side.

/ EBFA Div 1 League

Timehri hand Agricola first loss; Soesdyke needle Diamond Stag Beer

The first round of the Stag Beer sponsored East Bank Football Association division-one league will end today when front runners Grove Hi Tech match skills with bottom of the table Mocha Champs at the Grove Playfield.

The home team, sharing the same points as Soesdyke Falcons and Timehri Panthers, will be seeking to pull clear of their rivals ahead of the second and final round of matches.

In yesterday’s play, the previously unbeaten Agricola Red Triangle suffered their first defeat of the tournament, going down to Timehri Panthers by the lone goal of that encounter. The opening game ended similarly, Diamond suffering at the hands of Soesdyke Falcons as the former missed from the penalty spot. Both matches saw end –to- end action as the teams continue to labour with a view to ensuring that they walk away with the first prize of $300,000. As it stands, it is too close to call and fans can anticipate a keen second round.

The first half of the

Timehri Panthers / Agricola Red Triangle showdown ended without either team being able to break the deadlock as goals dried up on either end of play. Agricola, back in competitive football on the East Bank after a long hiatus, started the league as hungry lions but has been kept in check in their last three games, tasting defeat for the first time in their final first round match.

Collis Messiah it was who made the difference in the match with a 64th blast, that ended up being exactly what the doctor ordered for Timehri.

The tone in terms of goals was set in the first game of the afternoon, Soesdyke Falcons winning by a similar margin against the ever improving Diamond United, which had the opportunity to take a point from the game but failed at the penalty spot.

This encounter was however decided much earlier, Roger Dey netting for Soesdyke in the 24th minute of play.

The final first- round game today will kick off at 15:00h between Grove Hi Tech and Mocha Champs.

They earned the equalizer when one of their players was brought down in the area, Brian Daniels making no mistake in finding the back of the nets.

The Warriors’ bench, including the coaching staff,

was actually in a huddle when the penalty kick was being taken and erupted in celebration when Daniels scored as if they had won the championship.

The pressure was now on Diamond to stave off

the Warriors and they did not succeed in this regard.

In the 64th minute, Joshua Grant inked his name on the score sheet for the first time when he lashed in the winning goal for Kuru Kururu Warriors enabling them to

start their campaign at this level on a high.

It was easy sailing for Grove Hi Tech, the reigning Trophy Stall Under-15 champions. Soesdyke Falcons did look a bit rusty and were not able to catch their length against the rampaging home team.

Joel Dick led the goal party with four goals, netting in the 13th, 43rd, 47th and 52nd minutes. Threvon Pluck netted a brace, finding the back of the nets in the 25th and 50th minutes; his Captain Trevor Jones also netted twice, in the 53rd and 61st minutes.

There was one apiece for Antone Stanton (26), Kevin Padmore (64), Alwyne Haynes (66) and Marvin Squires in the 68th minute. Action will continue on Saturday at the same venue with two more matches.

One of Grove Hi Tech’s 12 goals against Soesdyke Falcons

Sweet Revenge!

WBC featherweight champion Jhonny Gonzalez (56-8, 48 KOs) retained his WBC title tonight with a 10 round technical decision on Saturday night against #12 WBC Clive Atwell (12-1-1, 7 KOs) at the Convention Center in Acapulco, Mexico. The referee stopped the bout after Gonzalez was cut over his left eye from a head-butt. The fight then went to the cards with Gonzalez, 32, winning by the scores of 99-89, 96-92 and 98-90.

Gonzalez dominated the entire fight with his hard power shots and stiff jab. Atwell was much too slow to get anything going with his offence in the fight and he ended up taking oneway punishment from the first round until it was finally stopped in the 10th. Atwell