Guyana Times Daily

Guyanese seniors in New York receive Christmas cheer P13

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1992 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

CGX starts arbitration proceedings against Repsol See story on page 14

US$4M Chinese shipyard creating a stir

PRICE

$60 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Man caught stealing Main Street Christmas lights

P7

Major oil P7 and gas companies hold talks with Guyanese officials

See story on page 17

P9 Toy gun bandits blitz Western Union branch

Several hurt as high winds rip off shed of fishing P9 complex

Zhango Hao No 1, a 63-metre long logging vessel which was constructed by Chinese owned Zhanghao Shipyard at Coverden, East Bank Demerara

Oswald Singh passes away See story on page 7

Man knifes reputed wife to death See story on page 10

Profound ignorance of workings of procurement body evidentP11 – Nandlall

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tuesDay, december 24, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

News

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Tuesday, December 24 from 09:30h to 11:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Tuesday, December 24 from 08:25h to 09:55h.

WEATHER TODAY Countrywide: Heavy rain showers are expected during the day, with thundery showers in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East north-easterly to easterly at 4.47 to 2.68 metres per second.

High Tide: 08:50h and 21:13h reaching maximum heights of 2.34 metres and 2.33 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 14:44 reaching a minimum height of 0.90 metre.

saturday, December 21, 2013

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

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tuesDay, december 24, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

PSC supports strengthening of FIU, BoG – urges compromise in setting up of procurement body

T

he Private Sector Commission (PSC) said it has supported calls by the opposition for amendments to the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill, but urged compromise on government retaining its no-objection powers in the award of contracts.

The PSC’s position was made known following meetings it held with the two parliamentary opposition parties, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC).

The PSC met the two parties separately last week. The meeting, the PSC said, was to exchange views and share information with regard to the passing by Parliament of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill.

Concerns

The PSC, at the meeting with APNU reiterated its concerns previously expressed in its petition to Parliament, submitted on November 5, that failure to enact the legislation to prohibit money laundering and the financing of terrorism to comply with the requirements of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) with the consequential referral of Guyana to the international Financial Action Task Force (FATF) would do considerable harm to the legitimate private sector of the country and cause severe hardships for the ordinary citizens of Guyana.

However, according to the commission, APNU informed it that the party strongly supports the AML/ CFT legislation, provided that it includes the institutional strengthening of the Bank of Guyana (BoG) and the Financial Intelligence

Unity (FIU) sufficient to achieve the objectives set out in the bill and to ensure enforcement under the law.

APNU, the PSC said, pointed out that, even though the bill presented to Parliament in its present form may satisfy the minimum standards of the CFATF, it did not meet the conditions considered by APNU to be essential for the implementation of the legislation.

“The Private Sector Commission expressed its support for the position of APNU with regard to the strengthening of the legislation to provide the necessary institutional and enforcement requirements.

The PSC further urged APNU to support the referral of the bill to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee and that the coalition should make every possible effort to find consensus and complete the work of the select committee in time for the bill to be returned to Parliament.

The PSC proposed to APNU, that the meetings of the special select committee be held in public and APNU stated that they would support such a proposal,” the commission’s release stated.

Give us PPC

Meanwhile, in its meeting with the AFC, that party informed the PSC that its support for the AML/ CFT Amendment Bill being passed in Parliament is conditioned on the government agreeing to the appointment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) as is currently legislated for by Parliament without any further amendment to provide the Cabinet with the right of a “no objection”.

“The PSC acknowledged the position of the AFC and pointed out that the PSC, has on more than one occasion, urged the government in writing to appoint the procurement commis-

objection and finds that the law was adhered to as per the Procurement Act, then permission will be granted to the National Tender and Administration Board to proceed with the awarding of the contract as recommended by them without referral back to the Cabinet.

If the procurement commission agrees with the objection, then the matter is sent to the National Tender and Administration Board to remedy the short comings and sent back to the Cabinet for their no-objection.

PSC Chairman Ronald Webster

sion as is required by the Constitution. The PSC, however, proposed that the AFC considers reaching a consensus with government along the following lines: the Procurement Act should be amended to give the Cabinet the right to a no-objection for contracts proposed by the National Tender and Administration Board even after the procurement commission has been set up; an objection can only be made if Cabinet believes that the procedures laid out in the Procurement Act were not adhered to.

This is in the existing act already; Cabinet’s objection should be made to the procurement commission as an oversight and appellate body, who will then review the reasons for the objection and make a ruling.

Further, the PSC recommended that if the procurement commission disagrees with the grounds for

Urgency

The PSC suggested that once the act is amended by Parliament and assented by the president, the procurement commission should be installed with a level of urgency.

It said adequate funding should be provided to ensure that the procurement commission can carry out its function effectively.

The PSC said it informed the AFC that the commission is willing to represent this position to the government in an effort to persuade consensus.

Finally, the PSC said it urged the AFC that, in the meantime it should join with the APNU in the special select committee to find consensus on the AML/CFT legislation. I t said too that the AFC agreed with the proposal of the PSC that the special select committee meetings should be held in public and confirmed that they would support such a proposal.

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guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, december 24, 2013

Views Editor: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Virtue and public officials

E

veryone, including public figures, is entitled to privacy.

But when a person enters public life, he or she steps into a different shoe as his or her actions as a public personality become a matter of public interest because of the expectations the position demands.

One cannot exclude the scrutiny subjected to public officials, especially, when they appear in contravention of the positions they support. The matter involving an attorney, the owner and publisher of a local newspaper, and a mayor’s wife owing the City of Georgetown millions of dollars in taxes, quickly comes to mind.

They have all branded themselves as crusaders of moral, ethical and idealistic principles, and by extension, model examples of upright citizens, but yet, they are being taken to court for an unsavoury charge.

Though not taking a position on the matter to pronounce who is guilty and who is not, issues of this nature tend to raise concerns of sincerity, principally because if the upright accused are found guilty, they would automatically be in breach of public trust and confidence. Outside of Guyana, the case involving Toronto Mayor Rob Ford comes to mind, albeit the issue is different.

The mayor of Canada’s largest city has faced intense pressure to resign after admitting to smoking crack cocaine, but has refused to bow to the demands, even though the Toronto City Council recently voted to strip him of most of his authority. Incidents like these also awaken the consciousness about virtue as an uncompromising requirement for public officials.

To many of the ancient Greek philosophers, a person could not possess one of the cardinal virtues, namely prudence, temperance, courage, and justice, without possessing them all. The big question really deals with whether or not a person can control his/her behaviour, save but for one single foible.

According to Santa Clara University (SCU) Associate Professor of Philosophy and Classics, Scott LaBarge, Socrates posits that virtue was a matter of understanding, and that once a person understood what is good and what is evil, he or she would naturally be prudent, temperate, and courageous.

Aristotle, however, argues that virtue has this intellectual component, but also includes the virtue of character, that is, habits of behaviour, developed by proper training, and thus room for error.

The public too, on the whole, is interested in leaders who are morally and ethically upright, and makes duplicity alien both to their personal and professional lives. This expectation handed down from the older societies has not changed, and the mayor of Toronto is quickly finding out.

Many difficult ethical dilemmas arise in the relationship between a politicians’s personal and public life. If a public official used drugs in his youth, is this germane to his or her current character? Is it a fit topic for public discussion?

What if the indiscretion was some form of embezzlement?

Some guidelines that may help in determining the statute of limitations on such indiscretions would be: Is the politician still engaging in this behaviour? Has the politician been hypocritical?

Many fallen public figures have been able to turn around their lives and move on with their career and Bill Clinton readily comes to mind. After the 1998 elections, the House impeached him, based on alleged acts of perjury and obstruction of justice. In the end, the Senate later voted to acquit Clinton on both charges, but the soiled memory still lives on.

Clinton continues to be active in public life, giving speeches, engaging in fundraising and founding charitable organisations. He has been a significant force for incumbent President Barack Obama. Those accused of owing the City Hall are not in this fold, but the possibility exists that they may not all be living up to what they preach.

But it is never too late to correct a wrong.

Christmas spirit! Downtown Georgetown Monday was not all about commerce, masqueraders dressed in some very attractive costumes added colour and flavour to the shopping experience (Carl Croker photo)

The opposition and the Berbice bridge

Dear Editor, The opposition parties A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) seem committed to damaging the investment climate of Guyana.

Is this an APNU strategy?

They attack the Marriott Hotel, the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project, the Specialty Hospital and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion project.

More recently, their attacks on the toll structure of the Berbice bridge are all direct attacks on investors. Any reasonable person would interpret this as a strategy to scare away existing and potential investors.

With respect to the Berbice bridge, the security for all of the investors in the Berbice bridge is the Berbice River Bridge Act and the Concession Agreement issued pursuant to this act. One of the most important parts of the Concession Agreement is the right of the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) to collect tolls and to have the tolls adjusted to cover its expenditure.

The order made by the public works minister with respect to the tolls for the Berbice bridge is based on the Berbice River Bridge Act (Act Number 3 of 2006). Two toll orders were made by the minister: Order Number 42 of 2008 published in the Official Gazette on December 22, 2008, the same month the bridge started operations and Order Number 23 of 2009, published in the Official Gazette on November 26, 2009. Since the bridge started operations in December 2008, the tolls have not gone up.

Without investors having the confidence in the rule of law and the state honouring the toll orders referred to above, any serious investor will be turned away. And the investors include the top five commercial banks in Guyana,

insurance companies, pension funds, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the New Building Society (NBS) and major corporate investors.

Excluding the NIS, which some consider quasi-government, all of the investors in the Berbice bridge are private.

With the existing tolls, BBCI is only at a break-even position. To date, the common shareholders have not received a single cent of dividend. To date, only the interest returns on the debt (bonds and subordinate loan stock) and the dividend on the preferred shares to NIS have been paid. The Berbice bridge has not started paying back principal on any of its debt.

If the opposition’s parliamentary motion was to be implemented, it would amount to a form of nationalisation or expropriation and would send shockwaves through the investment community.

It would amount to a fundamental breach of the Concession Agreement issued to BBCI and violate the Investment Act. Every investor would then be forced to write down their asset as the likelihood of payment of interest, much-less principal, would be impaired.

To make matters worse, this opposition’s political attack on the tolls of the Berbice bridge will jeopardise the ability to have the proposed new Demerara bridge funded as a private sector project.

In order for the new Demerara bridge to be financed by the private sector, investors will have to be confident that they can collect the tolls from users crossing the bridge. The right to collect tolls is a right derived from legislation (similar to the Berbice bridge). If there is no confidence in this mechanism working based on agreements entered into, then investors will not be willing to take the risk of investing.

Without the private sec-

tor investing in this bridge, it will force the government to borrow the money to fund the bridge. Based on the estimated capital costs contained in the pre-feasibility study, this is likely to cost a minimum of US$162 million. Consider this figure being added to the national debt and the implications for the government having the fiscal space to do other projects.

So if the proposed new fixed Demerara bridge has to be funded by the public sector, rather than the private sector, our national debt will go up, and the ability of Guyana to afford other capital projects will be substantially reduced.

And there is substantial liquidity in Guyana – just our banking sector has over US$1 billion of assets that are not loaned out. So we will force government to invest in a project, when the private sector can – all because the opposition political forces are scaring away potential investors.

One final note on the tolls and the volume of traffic on the Berbice bridge. In December 2005 (some eight years ago), a car with five passengers would pay for each way and for every passenger – one way was $760 for a regular vehicle and each passenger was $60 one way.

Therefore a round trip cost with the ferry for five passengers would be $2120.

Compare this to the Berbice bridge of $2200. So the fares are substantially similar in money terms (real terms).

Compared to 2005, the tolls on the Berbice bridge are just about the same as that of the ferry.

It should also be noted that all the studies showed that users of the ferry were willing to pay a lot more for the convenience of using a bridge vs the existing ferry. The Berbice bridge allowed users to go from three hours to cross (waiting time included) using the ferry to three minutes on the Berbice bridge.

In terms of volume, in 2005 (average round trip), about 109,000 vehicles crossed with the ferry, of which 82 per cent were passenger vehicles and the balance commercial vehicles. The vast majority of vehicles paid the above ferry fare – commercial fares were much higher.

In 2009 (the first complete year of operations of the Berbice bridge), the total volume of vehicles crossing the bridge totalled 307,000, of which 90 per cent were passenger type vehicles. In 2012, vehicles crossing the bridge totalled 393,000 of which 90 per cent were passenger type vehicles. So since 2005 to 2012, as a result of the bridge, total vehicular traffic has increased by 260 per cent.

Notwithstanding the so called concern about tolls, far more vehicles are using the bridge compared to the ferry, and since the bridge has opened, volume of vehicles using the bridge has increased by close to 10 per cent per annum (2012 compared to 2009).

The opposition should explain what his intentions are and the logic of his actions.

Based on the above, his actions seem to be devoid of rational thinking and logic, and more based on scaring investors and scoring cheap political mileage.

It is always appealing to have rates lowered – everyone would want to have their minibus fares, or electricity rate, or telephone tariffs, lowered.

Who wouldn’t want that? But can we afford this? Similarly, everyone would like to see their wages go up each year.

The facts are – the BBCI is just generating sufficient cash flows to pay interest and dividends and the tolls are not that different from the ferry.

Sincerely, Business owner, Corentyne, Berbice Name withheld by request

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, december 24, 2013

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

Second annual children’s Christmas party at State House

First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar greeting the children at the State House party

Dear Editor, On Saturday December 21, First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar and the First Lady’s Foundation hosted the 2nd Annual State House Children's Christmas party.

This event, which was at-

tended by 350 children, also concluded a series of similar parties held in other regions of Guyana for the year 2013.

The State House crowd was made up of children from as far as Mahaica on

the East Coast and Soesdyke on the East Bank and included other area such as Tiger Bay, Anna Catherina, Ruimveldt, Better Hope, the Convalescent Home and other Central Georgetown communities.

The children participated in activities and games such as face painting, singing, dancing and poem recital.

A bouncing castle and a trampoline were added attractions for the happy little faces who also listened attentively and responded to questions on the story of baby Jesus.

Then at the chant of ‘we want Santa’, the jolly, old white bearded man appeared with his trademark laugh of Ho Ho Ho. Santa Claus, with the assistance of the honourable first lady and other helpers, presented gifts and goody bags to the beautiful bunch as they continued to enjoy the festive season.

The first lady and members of the foundation wish to extend a merry Christmas to all Guyana!

Regards, Vedyawattie Looknauth

Goolsarran is indebted to the PNC

Dear Editor, In my previous letter, I addressed the importance of credibility and the need for public figures and columnists to possess this attribute.

The issue of credibility was specifically used to address that of the former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran and Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan.

I will now demonstrate via a series of examples why Goolsarran severely lacks any semblance of credibility as a columnist on accounting and worse, as a former auditor general.

In the late 1980s,

Goolsarran joined the Auditor General’s Office as the deputy auditor general and later became auditor general. His appointment and promotion, however, came with a price tag.

During his time under the People’s National Congress (PNC), Goolsarran remained silent to the blatant corrupt practices of that administration as he was the recipient of their protection. When the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) took office and insisted on accountability, Goolsarran suddenly found his voice and began to attack the current administration under the guise of pro-

fessionalism when in fact he never had any.

Then Finance Minister Carl Greenidge has a sister who was employed at the same audit office with Goolsarran. Under Goolsarran’s watch, the sister of the finance minister was given a preferential scholarship to pursue her studies in the UK catapulting more qualified and long serving officers in that office. Goolsarran even tried to raise additional funds for her when she had to repeat some classes.

These actions by Goolsarran speak for itself, as he is indebted to the PNC

and must, at all lengths, discredit the current administration for fear that his past deeds will be unveiled for the public to judge.

When Goolsarran speaks, the foundation of his career and his bias need to be taken into consideration. When these are brought to the forefront it will be clear that he has no credibility to speak about corruption, accountability, justice and/or ethics.

Sincerely, Richard Paul

Why religious images?

Dear Editor, Ethiopians in Africa created an image of a black Jesus Christ while Europeans created a white Jesus. The Indian Gautama Buddha was transformed in the rest of Asia (Chinese, Thais, Vietnamese, Koreans and Japanese, etc) into an image of Buddha which replicated their own distinctive Mongoloid features of slanted eyes.

India’s Hinduism (from which Buddhism originated) featured their sacred deities or Gods with images with their own Indian features including animals living in harmony when worshipping God as in the Vedas. The use of images, pictures, animals or statues which explains and gives meaning to religion is nothing new.

For thousands of years visual aids were an integral Hindu method of worshipping, teaching their children its preservation and continuing their Vedic way of life. Yet, Hinduism came under criticism for idol imagery which is a modern teaching method practised today in schools.

Two main techniques: 1. phonetics and 2. whole language are generally employed in teaching.

In phonics, the sounds of a word by its syllables do not bring meaning to the words or letters but allows an understanding of its possible pronunciation. Whole language uses pictures or images to evoke prior language of a particular word into graphic

meaning.

Since a picture can tell more than a thousand words, images are therefore important. For example, a teacher before reading a story will show their students a picture, say of “Old Mc Donald who had a farm”, and ask them to describe details seen.

Developing critical thinking is achieved by eliciting the necessary information from the students for effective education. Some of the questions may include a) the setting of the place b) clothes worn c) any animals present d) making comparisons to another environment and e) what do you think this story is all about?

Students initially would have already known or comprehend the old McDonald story is about farm life with assorted animals.

After the Mahabharata war which pitted cousins feuding over a kingdom most of the Hindu intellectuals were decimated resulting in Hinduism’s decline and pervasiveness.

Buddhism later became widespread in India.

But by the continuous use of whole language used worldwide today, Hinduism eventually reasserted itself in India.

Criticism of Hinduism is spurious when the facts become clear and should be discontinued.

Merry Christmas, Vassan Ramracha

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Foundation

Keep children safe while shopping and travelling (continued)

BY AMANDA ROCK

Here are some valuable child safety tips for parents to keep children safer while shopping and travelling.

Parents should be encouraged to talk with their children about safety before heading out to a busy shopping mall or boarding a plane, train, or bus this holiday season. Crowds are greater this time of year, and children may easily become separated from their parents, causing confusion and fear.

If that should happen, parents need a plan and children should know what to do.

Unfortunately many adults and children don’t know what to do if they lose each other in a public place or are faced with other unsafe situations. Here are a few guidelines on how to remain safe and avoid panic and potential dangers.

Always

* Keep children with you at all times while shopping * Accompany and supervise children in public facilities, including restrooms * Have a plan in case you become separated, including a pre-desig-

guyanatimesgy.com

nated spot to meet * Teach children to look for people who can help, such as a uniformed security officer, salesperson or mother with children * Remind children to remain in the area where they become separated * Turn shopping trips into opportunities to practice safe shopping skills

Never

* Dress children in clothing that displays their first or last names, prompting unwelcome attention from people looking for an opportunity to start a conversation with your child * Leave children in toy stores or public facilities expecting supervision from store personnel * Go shopping or attend a public event with a child if you feel you’re going to be distracted * Make other arrangements for child care ahead of time * Allow younger children to shop on their own to purchase surprise gifts for friends or family members * Drop off older children at a mall or public place without agreeing on a clear plan for pick-

ing them up, including: where, what time, and what to do in case of a change in plans.

Other safety tips

If your child is flying, using a taxi or a bus alone this holiday season, parents are urged to remember the following travel safety tips: * When you make reservations for your child, specify that the child will be travelling alone.

Whenever possible, book a non-stop flight or direct route. Avoid booking the last flight of the day. Let your child know what to expect, so the experience will not be so intimidating. * In case of delay or cancellation, remain until the plane, taxi or bus departs. * Make sure children travel with proper identification and parents or guardian contact information. * Always have a backup plan for the person or people meeting the plane at the destination, in case they are delayed.

Encourage children not to become too friendly with other passengers or to reveal any personal information. (About.com)

Giving holiday hope to the grieving

BY MARY MAY LARMOYEUX

A

h, Christmas: the aroma of turkey baking in the oven… the sounds of children singing Christmas carols… the memories of grandpa telling stories about “when I was a boy.”

Sometimes it seems that December 25 is an enchanted day when the world stands still. It’s packed with countless expectations and dreams – all tied in red and green bows and tucked under Christmas trees …

But for many, the holidays can be a season of deep loneliness and sorrow. Missing packages and empty chairs make no secret that life has changed.

Most of us realise that it is normal for those in mourning to feel great sadness and grief during the holidays. And we know that God can work through us to give the brokenhearted encouragement and companionship. But if you are like me, you have asked yourself, “How can I give hope to the grieving during the holidays?”

The gift of listening

One of the most precious gifts is the simple act of listening.

Jane and Roger Palmer’s 19-year-old son, Patrick, died unexpectedly in the fall of 2003 from acute bronchial pneumonia. He went into a coma and

died in his sleep while at college. Jane says, “Just being there and listening is so important. Well meaning people at times feel that they must do something, quote scriptures, or have the answers.”

Instead of answers, Jane says the grieving are comforted by people with understanding hearts whose sheer presence says, “I care.”

Linda Spann, whose first husband (Jimmie) died from cancer, suggests, “Let them cry if they want to cry. Let them laugh.… Being there and letting people know that you care is the most important thing.”

Although Jimmie had been a strong Christian and Linda knew he was in heaven, her heart was broken. She was blessed to have her daughters and others walk alongside her and live out the words of Romans 12:15b: “Mourn with those who mourn.”

Tommy Tenny, author of Trust and Tragedy, says: What would Jesus do in our situation? We know that He wept at the tomb of Lazarus.

Perhaps you can’t speak the words of resurrection life with the authority Jesus did when He raised Lazarus from the grave, but surely you can weep with the same passion Jesus had when He cried at the death of a friend.

The gift of remembrance

It is encouraging for

friends and family to talk about Christmases they once shared with the deceased and to recall good memories. Those who are grieving want to talk about the ones they’ve lost.

They may even want to rehash some unpleasant details of an illness with a close friend or a family member. Regardless, give them space to talk and let that be part of the holiday gathering.

Realise that the sounds, smells, and sights of the holidays can trigger some strong emotions. The broken-hearted will likely recall their absent loved one as friends and family gather. Let them know that it’s okay to feel pain… that this is an important part of the healing process.

As you do this, your loved one will feel affirmed and loved. Jane says, “It is very healing and comforting when others remember or honour your loved one’s memory. The simplest gesture is greatly appreciated – a hug, phone call, e-mail or card.”

The gift of the unusual

Encourage your grieving friend to consider doing something out of the ordinary during the Christmas season. Linda says, “If they have grown children, go to one of their houses or take a family trip somewhere.” She also encourages relatives to be attentive to emotions and says, “Sometimes children might have to sacrifice what they had planned to do for Christmas to be with mom or dad.”

Jane says, “Holidays are very difficult after the loss of a loved one, especially a child.… Following through with special traditions from the past may be much too painful for a grieving family.”

This holiday, you may want to join your grieving friend or loved one and volunteer together. Although it can be encouraging for those in mourning to reach out to others, instead of focusing inward, it can also be intimidating to do this alone. Volunteering in the community for local toy and food drives, helping with Christmas activities at church, or delivering baskets of food to shut-ins in the neighbourhood can lift someone’s spirits

The gift of enduring friendship

The grieving process varies from person to person.

During this time period, loved ones typically are no longer actively reaching out to the hurting person, but it’s also a stage when the numbness begins to disappear and reality sinks in: Life has forever changed. (Family Life) TO BE CONTINUED

news

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tuesday, december 24, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Major oil and gas companies Oswald Singh passes away hold talks with Guyanese P officials

P

rincipals from petroleum companies operating in Guyana held talks with Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud and Deputy Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Newell Dennison in the United States.

The meeting was held against the backdrop that Guyana has petroleum prospecting licences issued for exploration activities by petroleum companies in the offshore, coastal, near shore, deepwater and ultra-deep waters of Guyana and within Guyana's maritime areas.

Executives of CGX Resources Inc, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd, and Repsol Exploracion Guyana SA were in attendance, while new venture company Ratio Petroleum was also present.

According to a Natural Resources Ministry statement, the petroleum companies shared their operational experiences in Guyana and cross-cutting issues were identified which needed to be better addressed.

In that regard, it was recognised that during 2013, there were three major offshore 2D and 3D seismic acquisitions and these involved administration details with several agencies such as the Guyana Geology

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud

and Mines Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Guyana Revenue Authority.

The volume of documents which had to be processed in an organised and timely manner was a challenge which was handled well under the circumstances by the involved agencies where full support was always evident.

However, better systems are being examined to improve future operations.

The minister was able to respond and give his assurances that he would engage his colleagues to tackle this matter. Minister Persaud was also able to respond to concerns over the situation with Venezuela which directly affected Anadarko’s survey in October 2013, after

a seismic vessel was seized and her captain detained and taken to Venezuela before both were released. He also intimated that Guyana was committed to a peaceful resolution but would preserve its rights of sovereignty guaranteed under international laws and conventions.

Esso, Repsol and Anadarko were operating offshore and concluded geophysical surveys in their respective prospecting areas.

Nabi Oil and Gas Inc concluded a small geochemistry survey over its coastal onshore block in the last quarter of 2013. Overall, such investments in exploration have cost in the vicinity of US$50 million.

CGX indicated that significant funding was being arranged for its own exploration programme over its prospecting areas and that it should, in the near term, be advising on its plans.

All the companies present committed to keep their time lines, especially with regard to processing and interpreting new data which has to inform the anticipated next campaign of drilling in as early as 2015.

The meeting concluded with an undertaking by all to work in a unified manner to overcome the issues common to all stakeholders for a more efficient outcome.

Man caught stealing Main Street Christmas lights

The thief with the stolen light

A

man who thought it opportune in the quiet, rainy Sunday afternoon to steal one of the Christmas Village decorative lights on Main Street, was caught by a vigilant bystander.

It was a well-known vagrant called “Red Man”

who frequents the area that observed the man with the booty and raised an alarm, alerting a guard who emerged from one of the huts in the avenue.

She then approached the man who was calmly walking south along the eastern carriageway of Main Street with the item secure in an old multicoloured suitcase.

When questioned by the guard as to where he got the item, the man said he found it not too far away, but then later changed his story when approached by law enforcement officers, saying that he did not know who the item belonged to and that he had no idea how he got it.

Guyana Times’s roving photographer, Carl Croker, who happened to be in the area when the incident occurred, observed the commotion and recalled seeing the man with the bag moments before him being apprehended by the guard. It was not long before a crowd had gathered, prompting him to tell the truth about how he came into possession of the item. After refusing to change his story, he was then arrested and taken to the police station for further questioning.

Since its installation ear-

lier this month, the management of the Christmas Village has had to beef up security in the area significantly, so as to sustain the attractive Christmas feel after already suffering the loss of four such lights, among other items.

opular radio announcer Oswald Singh, one of the great voices of Guyanese radio, died on Monday evening at the Woodlands Hospital after a brief illness.

Singh, at the time of his passing, was employed at Radio Guyana Inc (RGI) 89.3/89.5/89.7 FM, headquartered at Camp and Quamina streets, Georgetown. Prior to his engagement at RGI, he was employed at the National Communications Network (NCN).

The management and staff of Guyana Times/TVG/ RGI extends condolences to his family.

General Manager (GM) Daniel Singh expressed profound sadness at the news of

Oswald Singh

his passing and said the radio fraternity and the country have lost a fine son of the soil.

“He will be remembered for the joy and upliftment he brought listeners,” he

said. The GM also conveyed his deepest sympathies to the family and relatives of Singh during this time of bereavement.

Funeral announcements will be made at a later date.

GPSU’s planned protest fizzles

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he Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has postponed another nationwide protest action, which was expected to take place on Monday.

This is according to the union’s first vice president, Mortimer Livan. Livan told Guyana Times that the union received permission from the Guyana Police Force late Monday, which led to the union calling off the protest.

He said despite this, the GPSU will be re-applying for permission to be granted for a later date. Livan said the application for permission will be made no later than Friday. Livan told Guyana Times that the union will continue to press for an increase in salaries for all public servants. The union hopes to attract approximately 100 to 150 persons.

The first GPSU protest march had a poor turnout Friday last with less than 100 people participating, as the union seeks to get government to reconsider its position on the matter. GPSU President Patrick Yarde blamed the late approval from the Guyana Police Force for the poor turnout.

Yarde had said the union will not relent until the government addresses its concerns.

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh had explained that the money allocated in the 2013 National Budget for revised wages and salaries can only cater for a five per cent increase across the board to public servants, since the budgeted allocation not only catered for annual increases but offsetting all the new recruitments and other employment shortfall costs.

Public servants have been protesting the increase given to them, and the union has been pressing to have government increase salaries by 25 per cent. But, government has maintained that it cannot afford more than a five per cent hike. Members of the opposition have said that monies approved in the 2013 National Budget cater for a 15 per cent increase.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall said they are both willing to take a pay cut, to facilitate an increase in wages

and salaries for all public servants countrywide. The announcement was made at the People’s Progressive Party/Civic weekly press conference. Rohee said he is now working for approximately $300,000 per month.

“There are many like myself in the Cabinet…so to ask me to take a pay cut from what I’ve managed to earn over 46 years, I don’t mind, but I think they have to put this thing in context and to understand how one has to struggle in life to reach where you are,” he stated.

Minister Nandlall said while he is not advocating a pay cut, he is willing to accept whatever is given to him, even if it means having a reduced salary.

He said, “I can’t voluntarily determine that I will take a pay cut. I have other colleague ministers who would not agree and I can’t pretend that I would like to be a hero and a martyr out there…but it’s not a matter for me, my salary is fixed. Whatever salary the government pays the attorney general that is the salary I will receive. I will not object.”

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tuesday, december 24, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

Man charged for backtracking

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ohammed Ali, a 27-year-old resident of Berbice was on Monday charged at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for using an illegal port of exit from Guyana.

Ali, who was unrepresented, pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that on September 27, he departed Guyana for Suriname via an illegal port of entry/exit

at Springlands, Berbice.

The apologetic defendant claimed that he had missed the ferry to go to Suriname and resorted to using the Springlands port. He said he was not aware that the Springlands port was illegal. He also mentioned that he had previously made arrangements with relatives to travel to the U.S. via Paramaribo, Suriname, which he did.

Upon his return from the United States, where he had stayed for three months, Ali was arrested at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and subsequently charged with the offence.

Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry sentenced Ali to pay a fine of $30,000 or an alternative of three months imprisonment.

Taxi driver in court for robbery

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ineteen-year-old Teairre Cush was on Monday charged with robbery under arms when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The charge stated that on December 19, Cush was the driver of a 212 Toyota Carina with three occupants in the vehicle. He drove up to Naresh Singh, a currency dealer, and a male occupant proceeded to exit the car and approach the virtual complainant (VC), ask-

ing him to change US$5000 (G$1,000,000).

Singh entered the car and Cush drove away with the VC in the vehicle. The occupants of the car then relieved Singh of the cash and released him in Kingston, Georgetown.

The defence claims that

Cush was hijacked at gunpoint and after the entire ordeal, he went to the Brickdam Police Station to make a report, but was charged instead.

The defendant was refused bail and is to return to court on January 21, 2014.

Caretaker remanded to prison on narcotics trafficking charge

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n Monday, a man was remanded to prison after he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Thirty-two-year-old Ian

Smith of 23b Norton Street, Georgetown pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Police prosecutor, Bharat Mangru told the court that acting upon information, CANU officers conducted a raid at the Norton Street address and 3.970kg of cannabis was found along with the

passport and clothing articles belonging to the defendant.

Appearing on behalf of the defendant, attorney George Thom in his application for bail, indicated that his client does not reside at the Norton Street address but rather he lives in Alberttown.

He further stated that Smith

had made a report to the Alberttown Police Station some days earlier that a disgruntled ex-girlfriend had broken into his car and stolen his passport and some other articles.

The defendant is to make another appearance in court on January 6, 2014 for fixture.

Eyew tness

The end...

...for a comrade ichard Hart represented the very quintessence of what West Indianess was all about. Born in Jamaica as a local “white”, he remained committed for all his very long life of 96 years to the cause of the poor, the powerless, and the oppressed in this part of the world.

He passed away on the 21st of this month. Guyanese should take note of this man, and honour him, because of the key role he played in the career of Dr Cheddi Jagan.

Dr Jagan had returned to Guyana in 1943 and was seeking his footing for a life of activism. Two years later, the West Indian Conference in Georgetown brought together all of the major labour organisers from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Barbados, among others.

Dr Jagan saw firsthand that the kingdom of political independence could be opened up with the key of the labouring populations. He struck up a close friendship with Hart, which was to be of great assistance in Dr Jagan’s own mobilisation of sugar workers in Guyana.

Back in Jamaica, Hart had responded to the privations of the sugar workers that had precipitated labour unrest in all of the territories, including British Guiana. He became involved in the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) formed by Sir William Bustamante and later the People’s National Party (PNP).

He was a committed Marxist. When the West Indian Conference was transformed into the Caribbean Labour Congress (CLC), Hart was a leading light who advocated its alignment with the progressive world labour movement.

So it wasn’t surprising when the Americans launched their offensive against communism in the newly defined “Cold War”, along with other leftists in the Caribbean, Hart would be targeted. He was ejected as General Secretary of the CLC in 1953, the same year that Jagan and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government were removed from office.

By 1962, the other governments in the region all toed the U.S. line and Hart was expelled from the PNP In Jamaica, which he’d helped found. Cheddi brought him to Guyana where he edited the party newspaper, the Mirror, until 1965.

An interesting tidbit was recounted by Dr Jagan.

When the PPP was about to be formed, he had Forbes Burnham, then returning from England after completing his law studies in 1949, stop off in Jamaica to collect a copy of the PNP’s constitution from Hart. The PPP, of course, was launched in 1950. Hart’s passing really marks the end of the era of West Indians really making common cause in pursuing common interests.

Today the landscape is dotted with petty politicians happy to be big fishes in their puny ponds.

R

...of democracy?

The Stabber News weighed in on the U.S.’s decision to proceed with its “democratization” project – even though the government had rejected it. In one of its patented, prolix editorials, it yet couldn’t find space to comment on this clear assault on the sovereignty of Guyana. It was also mute on the implications of the International Republican Institute (IRI) executing the project.

The IRI, staffed by worthies such as John McCain from the right-wing Republican Party, is a product of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), established

by Ronald Reagan in 1983 to “roll back communism”.

After the U.S. conquest of Grenada, where Hart served as Attorney General, the NED through its Democratic Party arm, the National Democratic Institute (NDI), funded the press for the Stabber News. So maybe it’s back-scratching payback time. So much for patriotism and sovereignty!

The present imbroglio between the U.S. pushing its definition of “democracy” down the throats of poorer countries is redolent of the post-World War II era in which Hart and Dr Jagan fought for the right to chart one’s own destiny.

Seems the fight isn’t over. ...of Sammy After the last capitulation by the West Indies to the New Zealanders (who aren’t exactly world beaters) Captain Darren Sammy said, “Some careers are on the line.” While all eyes are on Sammy, what about Ottis Gibson?

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tuesday, december 24, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

PPP/C distributes Christmas gifts in Corentyne

Junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill presenting a gift to a child at the party at Line Path, Corentyne

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he People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) as part of its yearend programme has brought Christmas cheer to some sections of Region Six on Saturday, sharing gifts and toys to children in the East Berbice region.

Gifts were given to

the children at the New Amsterdam and Port Mourant hospitals. The party also visited East Canje and several villages on the Corentyne before hosting a tree light up at Line Path where toys and gifts were also distributed.

Junior Finance Minister

Juan Edghill addressing the gathering at Line Path said it is hoped that all Guyanese will be able to enjoy the spirit of Christmas in a manner that will bring happiness to all.

“The true meaning is a message of hope... As a government, we take the mes-

sage of Christmas very seriously and that is what we want to continue to do in Guyana; be inspired by the message of Christmas, we want to continue to bring hope to our people. While we celebrate the good things that would have happened in 2013, we want to assure you that 2014 the party in government will be looking to ensure that we keep hope alive in the hearts of every Guyanese man, woman and child.”

The minister said Christmas is a time of giving and that spirit should “also be with us at this time of the year. The best gift that anyone could give to anyone at this time of the year is the gift of love,” Edghill noted.

Minister Edghill urged those in attendance to look out for the orphans, widows and the less fortunate in society.

The children were overjoyed when santa arrived in the back of a pickup. However, before the distribution of gifts commenced, he turned on a switch to light a large tree under which the activity was held.

Toy gun bandits blitz Western Union branch

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hree men armed with toy guns robbed the Western Union branch at the Demerara Harbour Bridge Mall as well as its customers just before midday on Monday.

According to reports received, one of the bandits allegedly joined the line under the pretext of transacting business, about 10 minutes later, he was joined by two other men. Upon entry, the two men pulled out the toy guns and ordered the customers to lie face down on the ground.

They then relieved them of their monies, jewellery, and mobile phones before turning their attention to the clerk. From reports received, the bandits instructed the employee to hand over all the cash or else they would shoot him.

The frightened clerk handed over an undisclosed sum of money to the bandits who ran through the door. The three men made good their escape via the back of the building. Security at the facility gave chase and found the toy guns. The police were contacted and an investigation was launched.

There were reportedly no surveillance cameras in the building and the men were not masked.

This is the third brazen daylight robbery in the past five days. On Friday around 08:30h, two gunmen robbed a clerk attached to the Shamdas Kirpalini Store, carting off

$17.2 million. The clerk was about to enter a commercial bank on Avenue of the Republic with a carton box containing the money when the two men confronted him, took the money and escaped on a motorcycle.

Investigators said they are working on the theory that the clerk was followed by the men. No one was arrested.

One day before, armed men relived a female assistant accountant and a female accounts clerk attached to the Public Works Ministry, Fort Street, Kingston of $7.7 million.

The victims had just returned to the ministry after conducting business at a bank and as their motor vehicle entered the compound, the two armed men, who were already in the compound, held them at gunpoint.

The perpetrators took away the bags with the money from the two women and also took away the security guard’s .38 revolver with seven rounds of ammunition and escaped on a motor cycle. The men had pretended to be employees of the ministry.

Recently, Acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud disclosed that there has been a four per cent increase in serious crimes in 2013 fuelled by an increase in gun robberies. According to Persaud, there has been an increase of 15 per cent in gun rob-

beries, which are mainly perpetrated on the streets

of A Division on vulnerable people.

Several hurt as high winds rip off shed of fishing complex

The shed that was blown off by high winds

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igh winds early Monday morning ripped off a shed at the Number 66 Fisherman’s Co-op Complex, injuring several persons, two of whom are hospitalised.

The injured are at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

According to reports, the incident occurred about 05:45h when more than two dozen men were looking after their fishing nets.

Sources close to the co-op say the entire 100-foot long shed was raised several feet in the air and then crashed onto the wharf before anyone could escape to safety.

Several persons were

trapped under the shed and had to be rescued by others.

Twelve of those who sustained injuries were rushed to the Skeldon Hospital; two were later transferred to New Amsterdam Hospital while the others were treated and sent away.

A source close to the hospital confirmed that one of the men suffered a broken leg. The Number 66 Fisherman’s Co-op Complex is home to some 700 workers and has a membership of 100. The complex also provides indirect employment for about 50 huskers and vendors.

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News

Man knifes reputed wife to death past 20 years, but separated about a year ago.

During the 20 years together, Basdeo reportedly left the home several times but her reputed husband would always take her back.

Guyana Times also understands that Basdeo was also accused of infidelity by the man. Up to the time of her demise, Basdeo was living home with another man, Salim Ahmad, with whom she shared a relationship for close to two years.

Blood

Dead: Sookdai Lalita Basdeo

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mother of four was on Monday morning found dead in her bathroom with her throat slit and several stab wounds about her body. The discovery was made about 07:45h.

The dead woman was identified as Sookdai Lalita Basdeo, 37, of Lot 2400 Block 8, Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo. She was allegedly killed by her estranged common-law husband who subsequently admitted to committing the heinous crime.

The man was taken into police custody and is expected to be charged shortly. According to reports received, Basdeo and the man, Iqbal, were together for the

Covered in blood, Ahmad at the Leonora Police Station, told this publication that he had just left their home for his mother’s place, but suddenly decided to check on the now dead woman only to make the gruesome discovery. He said that she was lying in the bathroom covered in blood with a gash to the throat.

Ahmad disclosed that he panicked and ran to his mother’s house, telling her what he saw. The distraught man could not say much but claimed that if he were at home, Basdeo would have still been alive. The distraught man also added that Basdeo was alive when he made the discovery, but died shortly after.

Bibi Farida Daniels, Ahmad’s mother explained

that she was at home when her son brought over his car to wash since the area where he and Basdeo lived does not have water nor electricity.

She further stated that he would normally drop the woman on the main road to get transportation to go to work.

“After he bring the car, he tell he children to wash it and he went back to the house to see if Lalita was ready… couple minutes later, I see he running back to we house screaming that someone stab up Lalita.”

The woman said she rushed to the house and called out the woman but there was no answer. She then went into the house where she saw the woman in the bathroom. “I called out to meh husband for he to bring the car because Lalita was still breathing… by the time we pick she up to put her in the car, she dead.”

Confession

While taking to neighbours, she revealed that a young man approached and informed them that he saw the woman’s husband running breathlessly and thought that something was wrong. A few minutes later, the police arrived on the scene with the woman’s husband, who confessed to com-

mitting the act.

Daniels went on to say that from all indications, the man went to the house with the intention of killing her son and Basdeo.

She said that since her son “took home” the woman, she warned him about befriending a married woman, but he never listens.

She explained that he got lonely after his wife passed away. The father of three was bent on remarrying, thus giving his children a mother.

The murder weapon, a knife, was retrieved in a nearby trench and was taken as evidence. At the Leonora Police Station, the eldest daughter of the dead woman told Guyana Times that she was at home in Philadelphia when she received the dreaded news.

She explained that her father and mother lived together for the past 20 years, but she started to see other people despite them living in the same house. The woman said that her mother was befriending Ahmad for almost two years but they moved in together about nine months ago. Basdeo’s body was taken to Ezekiel’s Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.

She leaves to mourn her four children and four siblings.

Not every body like whah dem getting fuh Christmas

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hristmas day deh round de corner and every body gettin dem own kinda Christmas. Christmas is a time of givin and sharin, but is not every ting whah sharin out is whah people really want. Some people promise one ting and givin another ting.

G-PEE-Hell promise to give no blackout. But de more press release dem send out is more de people deh in blackout. De more Dind Dhaal talk is de more de G-PEE-Hell poles fallin down. Only a couple months ago dem was sayin dem upgradin de power supply. But at this stage it look like de only ting that get upgrade is de light bill.

Because of G-PEE-Hell, de man pun Main Street who get ketch thiefin de Christmas lights gon defend heself in front de magistrate. G-PEE-Hell deh right pun Main Street, but de lights wasn’t lightin. He gon tell de magistrate that he thought was garbage. He gon seh he was helpin to clean up GT de garbage town since de mayor-fuh-life Green Ham can’t clean up he own mess.

De Labour Ministry givin jobs. Dem give wuk to more than 2500 people. Yet some people seh dem can’t find wuk. And de public servants got wuk but dem ain’t wukkin.

Dem don’t even want to protest. So is high time de Labour Ministry give real wuk to de public servants fuh dem to do.

Mook Lall give a man from Berbice a envelope. Right away de man leff Guyana through de back door and try to come back through de front door. But he get ketch as soon as he land. He call Mook Lall pun de phone. Then he call Mook Lall name to de police. Mook Lall turn round and offer de police a ticket through de same back door. Police gone.

Story done.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie!

Mook Lall givin people a lotta tings these days and he smilin.

But Mook Lall ain’t got a clue whah he gon get in return. Old people right fuh seh after laugh is cry!

Bahamas rated wealthiest Caricom country

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he World Bank has rated the Bahamas as the wealthiest Caribbean Community (Caricom) country.

The Washington-based financial institution said that The Bahamas is the most economically prosperous country relying on tourism to generate most of its economic activity.

It said that the tourism industry not only accounts for over 60 per cent of the Bahamian Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but provides jobs for more than half the country’s workforce.

After tourism, the next most important economic sector is financial services, accounting for approximately 15 per cent of its GDP. The Bahamas, with a Gross National Income (GNI) of US$21,280, is one of the richest countries in the Americas.

The World Bank in its 2014 World Development Report noted that oil-rich Trinidad and Tobago with a GNI of US$14,400 is one of the wealthiest and welldeveloped nations in the Caribbean. In November

2011, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) removed Trinidad and Tobago from its list of developing countries.

“Trinidad’s economy is strongly influenced by the petroleum industry.

Tourism and manufacturing are also important to the local economy. Tourism is a growing sector, although not proportionately as important as in many other Caribbean islands.

Agricultural products include citrus, cocoa and others,” the World Bank said.

It said that within the sub-regional Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), St Kitts-Nevis with a GNI of US$13,330, has an economy characterised by its dominant tourism, agriculture and light manufacturing industries. The World Bank said sugar was the primary export from the 1940s on, but rising production costs, low world market prices, and the government’s efforts to reduce dependence on it have led to a growing diversification of the agricultural sector. (CMC)

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Profound ignorance of workings of procurement body evident – Nandlall T

he People’s Progressive Party/ Civic said there was an overwhelming amount of ignorance about the functions of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC), which is being peddled by the opposition.

PPP/C executive member and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall said there is a clear misunderstanding of the role and functions of the commission, which needs to be corrected at the earliest time.

Nandlall said the PPP/C supports the government’s contention that Cabinet should continue to have its no-objection power and its role to establish the commission soon. The minister added that it was clear in the Constitution that the executive has the responsibility for the financial affairs of the state and expenditure of public funds.

“How can Cabinet be accountable for the expenditure of these funds when it is denied any role in how they are expended? The retention, there-

fore, of Cabinet’s role in the procurement process is indispensable,” he added. Nandlall said in a recent debate in Parliament, Speaker Raphael Trotman cited countries that include Canada, Australia and almost all countries in the Caribbean where Cabinets award contracts or play some role in the process.

Disappointing

The PPP/C executive member, who is also the attorney general, made mention of arguments put forward by government, which referred to international financial institutions having the no objection role. Nandlall said it was even more disappointing that the opposition – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) – refused to support the bill that sought to establish the commission. He also stated his dissatisfaction with the AFC for misconstruing that the power to award contracts belongs to the commission.

Digicel secures submarine fibre assets across Caribbean

Digicel has announced that it has reached contractual agreements for the acquisition of a submarine fibre network

D

igicel on Monday announced that it has reached contractual agreements with Loret Group and Caribbean Fiber Holdings for the acquisition of a submarine fibre network.

Fibre cables are designed for long distance and very high bandwidth network communications.

The telephone giant in a release said the deal will see the acquisition of Middle Caribbean Network, Southern Caribbean Fibre Antilles Crossing and several other related networks across the Caribbean, providing it with a wholly-

owned submarine fibre-optic cable network.

This acquisition will give Digicel a total of 15 submarine segments. The company will also have essential capacities on other networks in some key areas worldwide.

Digicel’s Chief Executive Officer Colm Delves said, “We are always looking for new ways to deliver choice and innovation to our valued customers”. He further added that the additional networks will be a big step in their mandate to providing innovative products and services in a world that is data hungry.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall

APNU leader David Granger

He said, “There is nothing on the Constitution in relation to the Public

Procurement Commission, which excludes a role for Cabinet. Secondly, nothing in the Constitution author-

ises, either expressly or by implication, the procurement commission to award contracts.” According to him, the commission cannot usurp the statutory functions of the National Tender and Procurement Administration Board, while stressing that there was a huge misunderstanding of the function and role of the commission.

Government earlier this year announced the establishment of the commission in keeping with international standards and to fight corruption.

However, there has been much controversy relating to the issue, with the opposition fighting amendments brought to the 2003

AFC leader Khemraj Ramjattan

Procurement Act, which eliminated Cabinet’s no-objection role.

12 News

tuesday, December 24, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

explains blackouts Blackouts affecting students sitting GPL over the weekend CSEC January examinations T S

tudents sitting mathematics and English at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations in January have expressed frustration at the continuous power outages at the hands of the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL).

The examinations are being done privately at the University of Guyana (UG), Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) centre at Anna Regina.

Persons, who are sitting the examinations on January 3, 2014, said the prolonged darkness caused by GPL is creating great inconvenience for them.

The Essequibo Coast has

Students have expressed frustration at the continuous power outages at the hands of the GPL

been in darkness for almost the entire Sunday.

Speaking with Guyana Times, some of the students said that the blackout has affected their studies. Many of

the students sitting the examination are employed and have to set aside time in the night to study.

The old saying “burning the midnight oil” is coming

into play as many persons are forced to used kerosene lamps to study.

Many housewives said they will be purchasing less poultry, sausage and Cheese this Christmas to avoid spoilage.

“We can’t say when and when we won’t get blackout, every day we are faced with same things, some can afford generators, others can’t. The situation is really sickening and the problem need to be resolved, we can't buy things we usually use cause them thing go spoil up,” one housewife echoed.

Residents said Christmas is a jolly time and called on the GPL to stop the frequent power outages so that they can enjoy a merry Christmas.

Bartica police youth group members given Christmas treat

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embers of the Bartica Police Station Youth Group were treated to full satisfaction at a well attended Christmas party at the Bartica Police Station last Saturday.

According to a release, the police youth group continues to benefit from training geared to develop their all round character and in education and career skills development.

They had earlier this year participated in summer educational camp programmes, sporting events and the recently held Gymkhana at Bartica.

The primary aim for the formation of the youth group by ranks of the Bartica Police Station is to strengthen their relations with the community.

The party brought down the curtains on the stations’ programme of activities for the year.

“It clearly depicts an important level of achievement within the gold mining community, to basically preserve on the positive social base for youths, in maintaining them in the desired pure frame of minds, which is the

he Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) said the power outages experienced on Saturday, commencing at 14:10h were the result of a series of faults occurring on the F4 feeder emanating from the Kingston Two generating station.

GPL in a release said this was coupled with the tripping of one of two station service transformers at that station.

After restarting the system, this feeder was reclosed around 14:34h after waiting for any reports of fallen poles and other unusual occurrences, as is standard procedure.

However, it tripped again and checks to the lines revealed a burnt cable lug on the feeder pothead at Kingston.

Repairs were completed approximately 17:10h.

On closing at 17:21h, it again tripped and a burnt jumper connection on the line was found at Water and Barrack streets, Kingston.

After repairing and reclosing the feeder at 18:15h, it again tripped and crews found the lines entangled at Main and New Market streets. The feeder was finally reclosed at 18:35h.

Repowering of areas commenced 14:22h with areas from Kingston along Water Street, Brickdam, Princes Street, Louisa Row, Sussex Street, to Agricola.

Zed talks to high schoolers about Hinduism

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Children at the party at the Bartica Police Station

basic ingredient in providing that basic foundation that will shape their destiny and also give them that confidence that it is right to focus only on the correct paths of life in general and so guarantee their all round future development.”

The community of Bartica is still on the road of “alert social healing” after the 2008 massacre.

“Five years have passed by since that date, and the police with the community

continue to foster symbiotically to achieve and claim in a guaranteed manner a desired level of community peace and order, which is a truly desired objective of all law abiding citizens, especially in the community Bartica.

“The Christmas party for the Bartica youths is only another example of a step in the right direction towards what the community truly desires which infinite concerted synergy between all

of its stakeholders,” the release said.

This event also clearly demonstrates the many positive evolving social facets of achievement on the platform of human resource development so desired and being yearned for by law abiding residents of the community.

The party for the youths was made possible through the police and residents of Bartica. (Edward A Persaud)

indu statesman Rajan Zed on Wednesday held a talk about Hinduism and its contributions to the world to Rainshadow Community Charter High School students in Reno, Nevada, U.S.A. Kristin Quintana, a leadership teacher, facilitated the talk, which was part of school’s Multicultural Day, aimed at helping “to breakdown stereotypes and encourage communication between people of different cultures”.

Zed also answered students’ questions on God, religion and Hinduism.

Rainshadow, “Home of the Pirates” launched in 2003 whose mission includes “Creating empowered community members through re-

Enterprise youth group brings Christmas cheer to hundreds

The youngsters with their goodies and Santa during Saturday’s party

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he Enterprise Youth Development Group (EYDG), which was formed in April, held its first Christmas party on

The station service transformer that was tripping has been isolated, and technicians are carrying out detailed checks.

“The outages experienced on Sunday, December 22, commencing approximately 12:15h, were as a result of a shutdown of our Demerara Interconnected System. This was caused by a stuck starting air valve on a cylinder of the Number Three generating set at our Kingston Two generating station, leading to a drop in the common control air pressure system and consequent shutdown of the fuel pumps to all of the machines.

“With the loss of this, the largest station (36 MW) in our system, all other stations would become overloaded and shutdown. All areas in Georgetown/Greater Georgetown, the East Coast, East Bank, West Bank, and West Coast Demerara were affected,” the company said.

Repowering of areas commenced 12:19h with small areas between Sophia and Good Hope. The last areas between Good Hope, Industry, Success, and Lusignan were repowered at 13:40h.

GPL said it sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused and technicians, line crews, and contractors are working continually to keep the system running.

Saturday, hosting about 200 children from the East Coast Demerara village.

The children were well entertained by santa and enjoyed

a variety of treats, including free gifts and photos with santa, followed by lunch.

They were also engaged in novelty games and were

enlightened on the story of Christmas in which they were told a lot about the spirit of the season.

A release from the EYDG

stated, “We encourage everyone to check us out on Facebook to see our youth projects for more details. The aim of this event was to revive the culture and spirit of Christmas in our community and provide an opportunity for those less fortunate to celebrate and enjoy this joyous occasion. Together as youths, we want to make a difference in someone else’s life, and also make a difference in our community as a whole. We wish to thank all our supporters who would have made the event successful. The EYDG wishes everyone a merry Christmas and productive New Year.”

Rajan Zed

al-world education”, targets at-risk youths. Steve West and Inge Gerber are the principal and board chair respectively of Rainshadow, which is known for its “art programme” but also offers culinary, theatre and farming.

It believes that “learning is a self-directed, internal process”.

Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, is a global religious leader, who besides taking up the cause of religion worldwide, has also raised a huge voice against the apartheid faced by Roma in Europe.

Bestowed with the World Interfaith Leader Award, Zed is senior fellow and religious advisor for the Foundation for Religious Diplomacy and spiritual advisor to National Association of Interchurch and Interfaith Families.

Hinduism is the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about one billion adherents. Some three million Hindus reside in U.S.A.

news

13

tuesday, december 24, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Guyanese seniors in New York receive Christmas cheer

The senior folks party in full swing

Volunteers with the gifts that were given to the senior citizens

BY VISHNU BISRAM

G

uyanese senior citizens were treated to a special luncheon fete in Richmond Hill on Sunday for the holiday season. The banquet was organised by community leaders and sponsored by several local businesses, Indo-Caribbean Federation District Leader, Dr Taj Rajkumar, RHDC, Pan American Travel, and others.

It was a wonderful, entertainment packed holiday luncheon held at Villa Russo in the heart of the Indo/Guyanese community at the Villa Russo Italian restaurant that made available its catering hall and staff free of charge.

George Russo gave a short

talk wishing all happy holidays.

The community organisers and sponsors provided the food and drinks.

It was done to show appreciation for the seniors who have had a very lonely life in America. As the organisers noted, in today’s society, senior citizens are often not treated with the respect they deserve and it was great to bring them together for special honours and gifts for the holidays.

One of the scourges of old age is loneliness especially during the winter.

The holiday luncheon allow seniors an afternoon to be out of their homes and to socialise with others they had not seen for some time.

It provided merry making.

The elderly had a most joy-

ous time celebrating the yuletide season and the end of the year. The elderly did a lot for us as children growing up and it was a terrific gesture honouring and treating them well.

The event included a traditional Guyanese luncheon, with seasonal music and dancing interspersed with speeches.

Big party

This is the eight consecutive year of the luncheon that was initiated by Frank Singh, the Indo-Caribbean Fed and others. It started very small with just a few dozen seniors. But this year saw some 500 being feted in Richmond Hill and the guests included several non-Indians and nonGuyanese from the great-

er Richmond Hill area as well as from Brooklyn.The event helps to promote partnerships between businesses and the local communities as a gesture of good will to the elderly and their families. It was funded by donations from several businesses and a host of volunteers who worked very hard to put together the programme and organise gifts for everyone.

The hall was transformed into a festively decorated atmosphere with balloons, trimmings and buntings and other party favours and Christmas paraphernalia.

Villa Russo had a Christmas tree and other decorative items, providing an atmosphere of festive fervour and celebration for the elderly citizens.

Fried rice, chowmein, dhal puri, curried meats,

jerk chicken an assortment of vegetarian dishes, cakes, kheer, sald, fruits and drinks were served. The senior citizens enthusiastically cheered the singers and dancers who performed at the luncheon.

Several of them sang several old Bollywood songs of yesteryear and popular chutney songs and even took to the dance floor. Among the singers were Son-Son, Sita Panday, Lalita Ramauth, Savitri Hemraj and a host of others. Jack Persaud provided some jokes and rendered a few songs.

The luncheon brought out an energy of its own among the elderly and one can see the joy and happiness beaming from their smiling faces. The non-Indians also showed their appreciation of what the Indian community has

done for them. The nonIndians cheered and also danced away. All seniors over 65 years old were given a free gift – jewellery, scarfs, hats, mens shirts and throws (Small blanket).

The master of ceremonies, Frank Singh, encouraged the participants to sing their favourite songs and to dance. He thanked the sponsors and organisers of the event.

A live band provided back up music, entertaining the gathering. “A laugh till yuh belly bust” skit by Nirvana enlivened the programme. The deejay was Ajay Singh of Live Production.

As the seniors left the hall, they thanked the organisers for remembering them during this season, something not even done by their own family members.

14

tuesday, December 24, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

News

CGX starts arbitration proceedings against Repsol C

anadian-based oil and gas exploration company CGX Energy Inc announced Monday that it will commence arbitration proceedings against Repsol Exploración SA in connection with the expiry of the petroleum prospecting licence (PPL) covering the Georgetown Block.

CGX, which along with Repsol, Tullow Guyana BV and YPF SA formed a fourcompany consortium that built the Jaguar-1 well in the Georgetown Block, believes that Repsol acted in “bad faith”, according to Co-Chairman Dr Suresh Narine.

The company is of the view that the terms of the

Co-Chairman Dr Suresh Narine

joint operating agreement governing the Georgetown Block were still in effect when Repsol allowed the Georgetown PPL to expire and sought out a new

petroleum prospecting licence covering virtually the identical acreage offshore in Guyana, which is now known as the Kanuku PPL. Furthermore, Repsol was aware of CGX Energy’s continued interest in the Georgetown PPL and under the joint operating agreement, was obliged to seek renewal of the Georgetown PPL alongside CGX Energy.

The company further alleges that Repsol, which owned 15 per cent of the PPL, as against CGX’s 25, accepted a US$15 million payment. The Jaguar well was closed due to overpressure issues and the company said before closure, it had indicated its continued interest in exploration activi-

ties. Repsol began offshore drilling of the Jaguar-1 well in Guyana on December 5, 2011.

Interest in the Guyana/ Suriname basin amplified after explorer Tullow struck oil last year off of French Guiana, raising the prospect of the opening of a major offshore oil-producing province in South America.

The United States Geological Survey ranked Guyana as having the second most attractive underexplored basin in the world with a possibility of 15.2 billion barrels of oil. If a finding was to be made, production targets would be estimated at 50 million barrels per year, which would be about 140,000 barrels per day.

Bloody weekend pushes TT murder toll to 400

Police said that Lance Corporal Rawle Fletcher, 34, was shot multiple times in the head, while his best friend and businessman Mitra Maharaj, 45, was shot several times about the body in a drive-by shooting

T

he murder toll climbed to 400 after several people, including a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Regiment, were shot and killed over the weekend.

Police said that Lance Corporal Rawle Fletcher, 34, was shot multiple times in the head, while his best friend and businessman Mitra Maharaj, 45, was shot several times about the body in a drive-by shooting that also claimed the life of a 19-year-old National Energy Skills Centre (NESC) student, Anil Diram.

The Trinidad Regiment in a statement said defence force personnel were working alongside the police “to determine the perpetrators of this gruesome act”.

Police said the three people were outside a bar, near Inshan Ali bar in Preysal on Sunday morning, when the

occupants of a vehicle fired upon them.

Police said a back seat passenger walked out of the car, stood over Fletcher and Maharaj and shot them multiple times. Meanwhile, police said an employee of United Independent Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (Unipet), who was shot and killed on Saturday night, may have been linked to an illegal diesel racket that has taken a multimillion-dollar hit in recent times.

They said Nigel Hosein, 38, a father of two, was returning home from the company’s Christmas dinner when his vehicle was blocked by another vehicle and one of the occupants fired several shots at Hosein, killing him in the presence of his wife. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Chile Caravan of Death: Eight guilty

A

judge in Chile has found eight former members of the military guilty of murdering political opponents during the rule of Gen Augusto Pinochet.

The accused were part of the Caravan of Death, a military operation thought to have killed almost 100 opponents of the 1973 military coup.

They were sentenced to between three and 15 years in jail for killing 14 people in the northern city of Antofagasta shortly after the coup.

The ruling can be appealed against.

The Caravan of Death was a “delegation” of military men sent to Chile’s provincial towns by General Pinochet, the leader of the 1973 coup.

Pinochet said there would be no mercy for “extremists”, and was reportedly annoyed by news that some commanders in provincial towns had been “soft” on political opponents.

He dispatched an army unit under the command of General Sergio Arellano Stark to impose “uniform criteria in the administration of justice to prisoners”.

Chileans each year remember the coup that still divides the country

The unit, which came to be known as the Caravan of Death, travelled from town to town in a Puma helicopter, armed with grenades, machine guns and knives, killing opponents of the coup.

It arrived in the northern city of Antofagasta, where on October 19, 1973; it ordered that 14 political prisoners held there be taken to a ravine.

There, the men were executed by firing squad. The prisoners had been tried and convicted by military tribunals but not yet sentenced.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

15 Around the world

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, dECember 24, 2013

AK-47 inventor dies at 94 M

ikhail Kalashnikov, the designer of the AK-47 assault rifle that has killed more people than any other firearm in the world, died on Monday at 94, Russian state news agency Itar-Tass reported.

Kalashnikov, who was in his 20s when he created the AK-47 just after World War II, died in his home city of Izhevsk, near the Ural Mountains, where his gun is still made, the agency cited a spokesman for the province’s president as saying. He did not give a cause of death.

Kalashnikov had been hospitalised for the past month with unspecified health problems.

Kalashnikov once aspired to design farm equipment.

But even though his most famous invention – the AK47 assault rifle – sowed havoc instead of crops, he often said he felt personally untroubled by his contribution to bloodshed.

“I sleep well. It’s the politicians who are to blame for failing to come to an agreement and resorting to violence,” he said in 2007.

The AK-47 is the world’s most popular firearm, favoured by guerrillas, terrorists and the soldiers of many armies.

The gun’s status among revolutionaries and national liberation struggles

Mikhail Kalashnikov

is enshrined on the flag of Mozambique. An estimated 100 million guns are spread worldwide.

Kalashnikov, born into a

peasant family in Siberia, began his working life as a railroad clerk. After he joined the Red Army in 1938, he began to show mechanical flair by inventing several modifications for Soviet tanks.

The moment that firmly set his course was in the 1941 battle of Bryansk against Nazi forces, when a shell hit his tank.

Recovering from wounds in the hospital, Kalashnikov brooded about the superior automatic rifles he’d seen the Nazis deploy; his rough ideas and revisions bore fruit five years later.

“Blame the Nazi Germans for making me become a gun designer,” he said. (Excerpt from Al

Jazeera)

Five killed in an explosion in Egypt’s Nile Delta

A

t least five people were killed and more than 100 hurt in an explosion at a security building in Egypt’s Nile Delta town of Dakahlyia on Tuesday, state media and a security source said.

“It is still unclear what caused the explosion, but it seems to be a big one that led to the collapse of parts of the security building in Dakahlyia and we are expecting many injuries and potential deaths,” the source said.

Another security source said the blast may have been

caused by a car bomb, but it was not yet clear if it was suicide attack or not.

State TV said two top security officials were among the injured.

Egypt’s Nile News TV cut into its late-night programming to urge people to go to hospitals to donate blood to the victims of the attack, which it described as the worst in the city’s history.

Attacks on soldiers and policemen have sharply risen in Egypt since the Egyptian army ousted elected Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in July in the face of mass un-

UN seeks to boost South Sudan force

Thousands are fleeing for their lives

U

nited Nations chief Ban Ki-moon has urged the Security Council to add 5500 UN troops to the 7000-strong force in South Sudan, amid escalating fighting there.

His plea comes as new details emerge of alleged mass killings committed during more than a week of violence.

Ban warned that anyone responsible for abuse would be held to account.

Tens of thousands of people have fled fighting, as rebels thought to support sacked former vice president Riek Machar have seized major towns.

A journalist in the capital Juba, Hannah McNeish, said witnesses had told her about a massacre in which more than 200 people, mostly from the Nuer ethnic

group, were herded into a police station and shot by security forces.

Another man interviewed at the UN base in Juba reported that gunmen from the Dinka tribe were shooting people in Nuer districts who did not speak the Dinka language.

The allegations cannot be independently verified.

Up to 1000 people are thought to have been killed in the fighting and UN compounds are sheltering more than 40,000 civilians.

UN humanitarian coordinator Toby Lanzer, who was in Bor, north of Juba, over the weekend, told the BBC he had witnessed “some of the most horrible things that one can imagine”. He said people “were being lined up and executed in a summary fashion”. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

rest against his rule.

Most of the attacks have occurred in the Sinai, which borders Israel and

the Palestinian Gaza Strip.

Around 200 soldiers have died in Sinai alone since Morsi’s ouster. (Reuters)

UN approves India’s request to accredit diplomat charged by U.S.

T

he United Nations has approved a request from India to accredit a New York-based diplomat after her arrest by U.S. authorities on criminal charges including visa fraud, a UN official said on Monday.

Indian media said the request to transfer Devyani Khobragade, who was deputy consul-general in New York, to the United Nations was aimed at ending the stand-off with the United States in the hopes that her new diplomatic status could allow New Delhi to bring her home without the prosecution proceeding.

“The UN has processed the request to register Khobragade as a member of the Permanent Mission of India to the UN,” a UN source said on condition of anonymity. “However, the fi-

nal stop in the process is the U.S. (State Department).”

Khobragade’s arrest on December 12 has enraged India, which is demanding that all charges be dropped against her. She was strip searched when arrested in what the U.S. Marshals Service said was a routine procedure imposed on any new arrestee at the federal courthouse.

Khobragade pleaded not guilty to charges of visa fraud and making false statements about how much she paid her housekeeper. She was released on US$250,000 bail. As India’s deputy consul general in New York, Khobragade had only limited diplomatic immunity from prosecution – not the more sweeping immunity accorded to UN-accredited diplomats.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

16

tuesday, DECember 24, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Africa

Caribbean

Carib Cement sends shipment Review foreign direct investment policy, world bank tells Kenya to Venezuela

C

aribbean Cement Company Limited, a subsidiary of the TCL Group, has entered into an agreement to supply 100,000 tonnes of clinker to Venezuela from this month to April 2014.

This arrangement was facilitated under the compensation mechanism of the Petro Caribe Agreement where the government of Jamaica could repay the loan to Venezuela with goods and services in lieu of cash.

This contract is the outcome of more than three years of negotiations between Carib Cement and the government of Jamaica and the government of Venezuela. What started as an initiative to export cement ended instead in an agreement to supply clinker. Clinker is the intermediate product made in the cement manufacturing process.

Carib Cement will export 20,000 tonnes of clink-

er a month to Pertigalete, Venezuela. This clinker will be used in cement plants to make cement. The company will continue negotiations to continuing supplying clinker after April. The company said in a statement: “Carib Cement is pleased to be a trailblazer in setting a precedent for other goods and services to be negotiated under the compensation mechanism of the Petro Caribe.” (Trinidad Guardian)

North America

R

eview foreign direct investment policy, world bank tells Kenya Kenya should overhaul the business regulatory environment to aggressively attract foreign direct investments in order to attain sustainable economic growth over the next 50 years, a World Bank report has suggested.

The bank warned in its latest Kenya Economic Update report that short term inflows that continue to trickle in are

not reliable as are shaped by investor risk aversion which may change abruptly in response to unfavourable changes in political and economic landscapes.

The capital flows through the Nairobi Securities Exchange accounted for between 50 and 60 per cent of transactions. “The short term flows tend to be more volatile and sensitive to changing conditions in global financial markets. Although Kenya has so far escaped turbulence in fi-

nancial markets, there is no guarantee that it will do so in future” the report reads.

The bank said FDI as a ratio of gross domestic product has remained flat for over a year at 0.6 per cent, well below her smaller neighbouring economies of Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania. “The inability to attract FDI is closely associated with the regulatory environment which is hostile to investment,” the report says. (allAfrica)

Asia

Target sued by customers over Japan’s record budget spending credit card breach highlights balancing act

U

debit cards.

Security researchers said the stolen card numbers had been seen on underground markets. U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer has called for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to investigate the breach.

Target told the BBC it does not comment on pending litigation. The thieves managed to grab key details for

.S. retailer Target is being sued by at least 11 customers over a credit card security breach that saw details of more than 40 million cards stolen.

The lawsuits, each seeking class-action status, were filed in U.S. courts in recent days and seen by the BBC. Meanwhile, major U.S. banks have moved to limit damages by restricting spending on

so many cards by getting malware on to the computer systems at the checkout desks in almost 1800 Target stores in the U.S. It is still not clear how the hackers managed to get their malware on to the systems. The fraudsters had access to card data read at the tills for almost three weeks, said Target in a statement released after the attack. (BBC News)

Europe

J

apanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday secured cabinet approval for a draft budget for the next fiscal year that aims to split the benefits of higher tax revenue between trimming fresh borrowing and stimulating the economy with record spending.

The government’s second annual budget since Abe’s election triumph a year ago marks a balancing act between boosting growth and

doing just enough to show it is keen to rein in public debt, which is more than twice the size of the economy.

Of projected record spending of 95.88 trillion yen (US$921.97 billion) in 2014/15, about one-third will be spent on social security while debt servicing costs will account for nearly one-quarter.

“Abe vows to seek both growth and fiscal consolidation, but the focus now needs

be on stimulus,” said Hidenori Suezawa, analyst at SMBC Nikko Securities. “Hasty fiscal tightening could derail the economy and foil the sales tax plan in 2015.”

Spending in the generalaccount budget for the year starting April 2014 will rise more than three trillion yen from this year’s initial budget, the Finance Ministry said, with higher outlays for public works, military and social security. (Reuters)

French strike keeps a third of oil Middle East refining sector shut Saudi Arabia sets modest

A

strike at three of Total’s five oil refineries in France held firm for an 11th day on Monday, but the risk of a repeat of fuel shortages seen during a 2010 walkout receded after staff at a fourth plant returned to work on Sunday.

The strikers, led by the CGT union, demand an improved pay offer from Total but the company has refused to reopen talks after other unions approved a deal this month.

CGT officials said votes by shift workers approved the continuation of the strike at the Gonfreville refinery in Normandy, La Mede in the south and Feyzin near Lyon.

“Our position is still the same. The fact we’re just before Christmas has made our determination even greater,” said Christian Votte, a CGT official at Gonfreville, the largest of the striking sites.

The three plants together represent just over a third of France’s oil refining capaci-

ty and provide gasoline and diesel fuel for motorists. The end of the strike at Donges in western France, meant the share of closed capacity had fallen from just over half.

Total said the strike was not threatening fuel supply, echoing comments made by France’s oil industry lobby UFIP that last week played down comparisons with the 2010 refinery strike which led to shortages at pumps.

(Reuters)

Market statistics Gold Prices – Guyana Gold Board

Cambio Rates

Fixed as at July 24, 2013 Calculated at 94% purity

Bank of Guyana Cur

Buying

Selling

GBP

$336.23

$340.44

CAN

$193.78

$196.01

USD

$205.73

$208.18

U.S.

$1335.00

Cambio

$202.67

Gross

$254,331

Net

$236,527

Selling

$262,426

Indicators as on December 23, 2013 Live Spot Gold

USD Per Once

Bid/Ask

$1198.40

$1190.40

Low/High

$1196.50

$1205.00

Change

-5.10

-0.42

Dec 23 USD GBP EUR

Dec 21 USD GBP EUR

Last: 16294.61

AM

PM

1192.75 729.47 871.96

1199.00 733.69 875.31

AM

PM

1195.00 731.69 875.33

S

audi Arabia released a state budget on Monday that projects a modest 4.3 per cent rise in spending next year, suggesting the Kingdom is starting to slow expenditure growth after three years of huge increases.

Spending and revenue are both projected to total SAR855 billion (US$228 billion) next year. That compares with outlay of SAR820 billion and revenue of SAR829 billion in the original budget for 2013.

Actual expenditure and

Indicators Crude Oil

Price Silver

1195.25 730.10 873.66 Changes: +73.47

Open: 16266.35

High:16218.11

% YTD: 24.35

52Wk Hi: 16174.51

US$ per barrel

$111.56 USD per Ounce

$19.46 $1325.00

Change %

-0.19 Change %

+0.05 -4.00

revenue in the world’s top oil exporter often turn out to be much larger than its projections, allowing the Kingdom to post big budget surpluses, as oil prices generally come in higher than its conservative assumptions.

Nevertheless, the 2014 budget suggests Riyadh is starting to rein in fiscal policy after massive expansion driven partly by the 2011 uprisings in the Arab world. Saudi Arabia escaped major unrest but boosted welfare spending

sharply to buy social peace.

Next year’s 4.3 per cent rise in planned spending is far smaller than the 19 per cent leap envisaged by the 2013 budget plan. The International Monetary Fund told Saudi Arabia this year it was spending more than it should if it wanted to preserve oil wealth for future generations, and that its state budget could fall into deficit by 2016 if expenditure continued rising fast. (Gulf Business)

Investors' guide

Why good credit matters for both individuals and small businesses (continued from Saturday)

Platinum

London Gold Fix

spending rise in 2014 budget plan

A vehicle loan has a similar process, yet your credit may determine the kind of car you’re eligible to purchase. Like with mortgages, you may need to make a down payment in order to satisfy certain loan terms depending on your credit history. When you apply for a loan there is also interest you’ll pay that goes to the lender. If you have poor credit you may pay more; meaning monthly payments would be higher than average.

Some may say that it’s not an employer’s business to know anything about an individual’s credit score. Employers run credit checks for a reason: to determine if a potential employee demonstrates responsibility. If you’ve been steady in making payments and keeping up with your finances, this is often a plus for helping people get hired.

More people are looking into starting their own business. Small business loans

may not be easy to come by with poor credit. The good news is that there are programmes available for small business owners and entrepreneurs to help them improve their credit worthiness.

For some, managing a small business is their main source of living income. Establishing utilities including gas, water, cable, phone and electric is also determined by your credit since you pay for services on a monthly basis. (Business Dictionary)

Business concept – Ansoff matrix % Change: +0.45 Low: 16226.35 52 Wk Lo: 12471.49

Strategic marketing planning tool that links a firm’s marketing strategy with its general strategic direction and presents four alternative growth strategies as a table (matrix). These strategies are seeking growth: (1) Market penetration: by pushing existing products in their current market segments.

NEWS

17

tuesday, December 24, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

US$4M Chinese shipyard Rome-based UN agencies join creating a stir forces on food losses

T

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Public Works Minister Robeson Benn with owner of the Zhanghao Shipyard, Shuzairong Su and a worker on the deck of the Zhango Hao No 1

A

Chinese family is creating quite a stir with its recently-established US$4 Million shipyard at Coverden, East Bank Demerara.

The speed and efficiency with which Zhanghao Shipyard has constructed a 63-metre long logging vessel has impressed Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Transport Minister Robeson Benn, who both paid a visit to the shipyard on Monday.

The vessel, Zhango Hao No 1, which is 183 metres in width and 4.3 metres in height is 95 per cent completed after just over three months of construction. “I felt very heartened and excited by what we saw here some months ago, the establishment of this shipyard and the construction of this power barge, and we think it is a sign of what would be accomplished in Guyana, and what is being accomplished in Guyana, and we thought we come out here to bring attention to the fact that activities are being widened in Guyana so that you could think more of having ships built in Guyana – small ships – and repaired here in Guyana,” Prime Minister Hinds explained, according to a Government Information Agency (GINA) release.

Hinds expressed the hope that the investment would encourage Guyanese to make similar investments in their country.

Zhanghao shipyard is operated by the Su family, which has been involved in the logging business in Guyana over the past six years. In 2009, the decision was taken to construct a shipyard in Coverden; in 2012, work started. However, the family realised that to facilitate its logging concession in Kwakwani, a vessel to transport timber was necessary, so construction of the shipyard paused to make way for the vessel’s construction.

Investing in country

The owner, Tresey Su explained that her husband Shuzairong has invested US$4 million in the entire operation thus far; US$2 million on the construction of the Zhango Hao No 1, and the remainder on the shipyard and on the 60 employees; 30 of whom are Guyanese. She said her husband, who is a Guyanese, was driven by his need to give back to his country. The Chinese-designed vessel has an engine and steel plates that were manufactured in China. It has the capacity to carry 200,000

tonnes of logs and six crew members, taking four days to travel from the family’s wharf in Kwakwani to Coverden.

This was Minister Benn’s second visit to the shipyard since construction began. “I actually visited whilst they were in construction a few months ago, and had a quick site visit,” he said. The minister explained that rapid construction and good quality delivery, on schedule, is always of interest to the ministry. “We are excited that such construction to move our goods into markets could be done fairly quickly here based on technology that is planned and prepared and integrated. We are also interested in the fact that the cost of shipbuilding, based on Chinese engineering and construction materials, the cost is significantly lower than the sources that we have, so that is all of interest to us,” he said.

All that remains to be completed on the vessel are minor works in the cabin and painting another coating of paint on the exterior. The Su family is hoping to, in time, construct and design similar vessels for interested buyers.

he United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO); the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD); and the World Food Programme (WFP) have launched a joint project to tackle the global problem of food losses.

Around one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted each year, amounting to 1.3 billion tonnes – or enough food to feed two billion people. The three UN agencies will work together on the US$2.7 million project funded by the Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation to target food losses in developing countries, which can occur during harvesting, processing, transportation, and storage as a result of inadequate infrastructure or lack of skills and technology.

In particular, the threeyear project will focus on reducing losses of grains and pulses such as maize, rice, beans and cow peas – staple foods that play a significant role in global food security and have a major impact on the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers.

According to a 2011 report by the World Bank, the FAO, and the United Kingdom’s Natural Resources Institute, grain losses in sub-Saharan Africa alone are worth potentially US$4 billion a year and could meet the minimum annual food requirements of at least 48 million people. At a global level, the joint initiative will share knowledge on the most effective ways to reduce post-harvest losses and help countries introduce policies and regulations to cut down on wastage at national and regional level.

The project will also identify critical points for loss-

Food losses and waste account for about 30 per cent of cereals; 40-50 per cent of root crops, fruit and vegetables; 20 per cent of oilseeds, meat and dairy; and 30 per cent of fish produced each year

es in pulse and grain supply chains in three African pilot countries – Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda – and identify and test potential solutions to issues such as ineffective harvesting and handling; storage moisture levels; attacks by rats, birds and other pests; and insect damage.

Food security

The UN project will contribute both to the Millennium Development Goal of improving food security and to the Zero Hunger Challenge launched in June 2012 by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, which includes zero loss or waste of food as one of its main elements.

“When some 840 million people are going hungry every day, we have an ethical responsibility to ensure that food produced is in fact consumed and not lost or wasted,” said FAO’s Programme Support Division Director Jong Jin Kim, speaking on behalf of all three Rome-based UN agencies. “Reducing food loss and waste will make significant amounts of additional food available, and at lower environmental costs,

which is also critical in view of the need to produce 60 per cent more food by 2050 to meet the demands of a growing population.”

According to the FAO, the 1.3 billion tonnes of food lost and wasted each year use 250 cubic kilometres of water and 1.4 billion hectares of land, and add 3.3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases to the earth’s atmosphere. “By mobilising the individual strengths of IFAD, WFP and FAO, and thanks to Switzerland’s contribution, we believe the project will have significant impact and influence in stimulating member countries to take action to reduce food losses,” said Kim. Food loss occurs mostly during production stages – harvesting, transportation and storage of food – while food waste typically takes place at the retailer and consumer end of the food supply chain.

In total, food losses and waste account for about 30 per cent of cereals; 40-50 per cent of root crops, fruit and vegetables; 20 per cent of oilseeds, meat and dairy; and 30 per cent of fish produced each year.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, december 24, 2013

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

archie

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) To maintain control and please everyone, you should avoid making abrupt changes. Someone you underestimated may surprise you with a thoughtful favour. This could open the door to an interesting relationship.

dilbert

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) It’s a good day to invite family and friends to your home. Being charitable toward those less fortunate will give you confidence, improve your relationships and lead to networking.

Love is in the stars.

Calvin and Hobbes

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Keep your thoughts private, and avoid indulgence and excessive people. Be cognisant of time and money and do not allow others to take advantage of you. It’s not the time to break the rules.

Peanuts

SUDOKU

CANCER (June 21July 22) Take care of business so that you can attend festive gatherings. A change to your professional plans may be unexpected, but it will also be a relief. Focus on your skills and speak openly of your intentions.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Volunteer work will remind you of your good fortune. Love is in the stars. Get out and socialise in order to meet potential partners or improve the relationship you’re in.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Your commitment to finishing your work before enjoying the holidays with loved ones will enhance your professional reputation. However, this may upset those who want your attention. Weigh your options carefully.

ARIES

LIBRA

(March 21-April 19)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Try to make peace with the past today. Remember the good times and let go of negativity. Opportunities will arise through people you meet. Enjoy this festive season and view it as a new beginning. Love is highlighted.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Take care of unfinished business and then focus on travel, entertainment and spending time with those who bring you joy. Unusual conversations could lead you in a fruitful new direction.

Ignore any discord at home or someone trying to control you or your money. The joy you bring to others will be meaningful. Don’t be surprised by last-minute changes.

Welcome challenges with open arms.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) A surprise awaits you.

You will be rewarded for the extra responsibilities you’ve taken on. Enjoy good tidings with friends and family, and maintain an open heart. Make a commitment.

Monday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20) Enjoy spending quality time with friends, family or your partner.

Everyone will show interest in your plans and pursuits, and will seek honest advice from you. Your popularity will heighten your confidence.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Making alterations to your home environment will make you feel good and will delight loved ones. A secret plan you’ve been harbouring will surface, leading to a change in your lifestyle.

news 19

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Packed programme set for Youman Nabi observances

T

he Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC) and The Guyana United Sadr Islamic Anjuman will be associated with a series of programmes to mark the birth anniversary of the beloved prophet of Islam, Muhammad.

The programmes will commence during the Islamic month Rabi-ulAwal (the month in which the prophet was born), expected to commence on January 3, 2014 and will climax in May, 2014.

They will be staged under the theme “A blessing for the entire universe – prophet Muhammad (SAS)”. Eid Milad un Nabi or Youman Nabi, has been observed by these organisations for decades and is observed in nearly all countries where Muslims reside.

The programmes will commence on Thursday,

January 2, 2014 at 18:30h with the “Welcome to Rabiul-Awal Programme” at the ACIC. Thereafter, each night until the January 13, 2014, there will be nightly programmes at the ACIC. At these programmes, the life of the prophet of Islam will be discussed as well as the importance of showing love and gratitude for this greatest of all human beings.

ACIC resident scholar Maulana/Qari Muhammad Mujahid Raza and ACIC Imam, Imam Abdool Fazeel will make nightly presentations. Special videos will be shown on “Big Screen” featuring Shaikh/Professor, Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri, one of the world’s foremost Muslim scholars and founder of Minhaj University as well as other scholars of Islam.

The ACIC will join Muslims around the world in an event themed

“International Mawlid in the city event”. The original inspiration for holding the “Mawlid in the City” event project was drawn from the hugely successful event held a year ago outside Google’s London headquarters.

The portrayal of Muslims by the media as an angry, violent and blood-thirsty community must stop. This year, “rose-themed” events are organised not only across the UK, but throughout the world.

It is a very simple concept, offer a rose as a peaceful gesture to people and at the same time convey the true message of Islam. This can be viewed as an extension of dawah (giving the message of Islam), the celebration of mawlid or in many eyes, an extension to the substantial amount of work being done for the sake of Namuse-Risalat – or

upholding the honour of the prophet – by presenting the beauty of his teachings and overall, the positive message of true Islam.

Islam and Muslims are not represented by extremist Muslims and non-Muslims, nor should they be given such a platform by the mainstream media. Islam is of the balanced middle way and always has been, and we need to reclaim this position.

The rose-themed events seek to further isolate extremists of all kinds and to promote peace. Guyana’s event will be held at 18:30h on January 11, 2014 and the special guest for the programme is Maulana Muhammad Waffee of Trinidad and Tobago.

Organisers will present a symbolic “rose” to representatives of the other religious groups of this country who will be present.

CJIA’s Santa parade thrills EBD communities

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hildren of all ages were treated by Santa and his many helpers, courtesy of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Friday. It is the third year that the airport’s staff have pulled off the family oriented event.

The fun-filled parade kicked off from Kaylee’s Gas station, Coverden, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and made its way to CJIA’s cricket ground, Timehri. More than 1000 gifts were handed out, as well as a wide assortment of candies.

Two Santas turned up for the occasion. While one was perched on his sleigh surrounded by his helpers, the other showed off his dancing moves along the route and enquired from children if they were naughty or nice.

Prior to the parade, one of the Santas and his beautiful sidekick Mrs Claus distributed gifts, candies and Santa hats to children in the Timehri North area.

CJIA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramesh Ghir was impressed, stating that, “it was a gratifying experience. It is priceless to see children glowing when they

Santa Claus and his helpers moving along the East Bank

see Santa and his helpers on the sleigh. The gifts, sweets, cakes and hats were an added bonus for them,” he said.

Meanwhile, more than 500 children, many accompanied by their parents, converged at the junction of the Timehri Police Station anxiously awaiting their treats.

According to Ghir, the planning committee had not

anticipated such large turnout at every street corner along the roadway.

A mini concert was then held at the ground with some of CJIA’s staff revealing their “hidden” talents including singing, dancing and poetry reading. One of country’s upcoming artistes, Jovinski, wrapped up the evening’s event in song.

Candy Corner, Thrill Drinks, Roti Hut, New Timehri Handling Service, Digicel, Shawnee Service Station, Deokie Gas Station, Basheer and Sons Trucking Service, Loncke Variety Store, Chico Sweets and Kaylee’s Gas Station made the event a success. (CJIA)

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tuesday, december 24, 2013

GTA congratulates Vickery on Australian Open qualification E

nergetic 18-year-old Sachia Vickery has again made into another main draw of a Grand Slam tournament, this time at the 2014 Australian Open. She fought her way through three days of in-

tense competition to defeat fellow American 18-yearold Victoria Duval in the final in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 on Sunday and in the process grab a wildcard.

Vickery, who is of Guyanese parentage, has

received congratulations for her tremendous achievements from the Guyana Tennis Association (GTA).

A release from the association on Monday stated, “The Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) would

like to extend its warmest congratulations to Ms. Sachia Vickery and her family for yet another qualification to big stages: the Grand Slam. The GTA has been following your every step of the qualification process and you have continued to show exemplary skills and maturity during this tournament. To this end, we know you would give a good account of yourself at the upcoming Grand Slam of Asia (Australian Open).”

The Australian Open will run from January 1326, 2014.

With a spot in the Asian Grand Slam up for grabs, the 195th ranked Vickery showed more fight and determination through the three-day competition, which culminated with the big prize on offer.

Showing early signs of nerves, Vickery held her opening service game timidly while her higher ranked opponent breezed through her opening service, to even things up at 1-1.

Consequently, Vickery’s nerves to get the better of her in the third game where she immediately dropped serve to fall behind 2-1.

Brimming in confidence, the 165th ranked Duval’s lead was soon shortlived as Vickery gained momentum and confidence after the first change over. She immediately broke her opponent’s serve to bring the match back on serve at 2-2, at which time she subsequently held service to inch

Sachia Vickery

ahead 3-2.

Intense pressure was then applied by the young Vickery, whose mother is Guyanese, in breaking down her opponent’s game to cease the opportunity to break.

After the second change of ends, to which there seemed to be no answer to what the lower ranked player was offering, Vickery began to find the going easy and serves began to be a routine as 4-2 soon became 5-2.

With the set slowly inching away, Duval would then stop the bleeding when she held serve to prolong the set at 5-3, but Vickery would soon put an end to any thought of a return.

She began hitting winners and sending down powerful serves to close it out 6-3.

The second set was more competitive, as both players matched each other’s ground strokes and power for power, but it was Vickery’s consistency that proved the deciding factor.

Philander displaces Steyn as No. 1 Test bowler

V

ernon Philander, the South Africa fast bowler, has displaced his team-mate Dale Steyn at the top of the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings. Philander moved to the top after a fine showing in Johannesburg, bringing to an end Steyn’s 186-match run at No. 1 - the second most by any bowler after Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan, whom Steyn overtook to the top in July 2009.

Philander, who picked up a four-for against India in the first innings and then three in the second, said that being part of a quality squad had put him at an advantage. “It has been a great couple of years for our squad. What has been the most pleasing has been the all-round contribution from everyone in the squad, that has been the main reason for our success,” he said.

“Needless to say, it is always easier to be at the top of your game and successful when you are part of a winning team.”

In the batting rankings, West Indies’ Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who hit a century and a half-century in the three-Test series against New Zealand to finish with 256 runs at 64.00, moved up two places to No. 3. Ross

Vernon Philander is the new No. 1 bowler in Test cricket

Taylor, who topped the runscoring charts in the series having hit a century in

each of the three Tests, also moved up two spots to a career-best No. 4. (Cricinfo)

tuesday, december 24, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

21

PMTC/Shariff horse race meet…

In-form Score’s Even wins feature contest

A representative of the Shariff Racing Stable collects the winner’s trophy for Silent Night’s win in the Three-year-old West Indies bred maiden and Guyana Open event

Run Na Na Run of the Simple Royal Stable won ahead of Swing Easy in the D3 maiden event

core’s Even chalked up another victory in a feature race, this time before a packed Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC) on Sunday during the PMTC/Shariff Racing Stable one-day horse race meet.

Ridden by Randolph Richmond, the animal was in exceptional form, toying with its rivals before beating them handsomely in the

Shariff Racing Stable upsetting pre-race favourites She So Special. Competing in the 1200-metre event, Silent Night took away the $500,000 first prize.

The Shariff Racing Stable was again in winner’s row with Shooting Star galloping away with the first prize of $400,000 for the Two-Year-Old West Indies maiden and Guyana bred

S

A and Lower event.

The Dennis De Roop’s Simple Royal Stable took away the coveted $1.2 million first prize for the 1200 metres race.

Who is on the Case finished a distant second place, with Grande De Roja and Settle in Seattle rounding out the top four.

The Simple Royal Stable also won the D3 maiden

event as newly imported Run Na Na Run, in only its second outing, won ahead of Swing Easy to take the $600,000 purse. Red and Lovely and County Armagh followed in that order.

The co-feature race for Three-year-old West Indies bred maiden and Guyana Open horses was as exciting as the feature event with Silent Night of the

Gibson, Pybus to plot way forward for West Indies in Tests

T

he future of the West Indies Test team will be mapped out early next year with the coach Ottis Gibson and the new director of cricket Richard Pybus set to meet to discuss how to respond to the recent slump in results.

Four of West Indies’ last five Tests have been heavy defeats and without rain in Dunedin it would have been five losses in a row, undoing the strides made over the previous year where the side had strung together six straight Test victories.

Their next Test assignment is not until May when they host New Zealand in a return series, but although Gibson wants to use the gap to make a considered judgement on his team, it seems inconceivable that significant changes won’t take place. Pybus only joined the WICB in late October, shortly before West Indies went to India, so there has been limited opportunity for him to work with Gibson.

“We’ve had some discussions already about where we are and my thoughts on what we need to do to move forward,” Gibson said. “There’s a meeting pencilled in for us when we get back, including the selectors, to try and plot the way forward. We have five months before the next Test series which gives us some time.”

Ottis Gibson (right) has said the West Indies team management will not make hasty decisions in view of the recent slump in results

West Indies were hampered in New Zealand by the absence of Kemar Roach, due to a shoulder injury, and Chris Gayle, but the discussions between Gibson and Pybus will also need to focus on the status of players such as Ravi Rampaul and Fidel Edwards, who have doubts over their viability for Test cricket, and whether to recall other experienced figures such as Ramnaresh Sarwan and Dwayne Bravo.

Careers on the line

In the aftermath of the 2-0 loss against New Zealand, which was sealed by a collapse for 103 in the second innings in Hamilton where all 10 wickets fell in a session, Darren Sammy spoke about careers being

on the line but Gibson said there will be no hasty decisions.

“When you’ve just lost a series, and the way we’ve lost, emotions run high and people start talking about careers being on the line and it’s a bit premature,” he said. “We can get home, let the dust settle and assess where we are. We can come up with a plan, but also decide who the right personnel are.”

He did, though, concede that patience was wearing thin especially when it came to the batting performances. “Batting collapses happen. In our team they happen too often. It’s a sickening feeling when it happens to your team.”

In the short term Gibson has the limited-overs leg

of the New Zealand tour to focus on, which brings with it a change of captain - Dwayne Bravo replaces Sammy for the ODIs, but not the T20s - and Gibson hopes for a fresh approach.

“Dwayne brings his own energies,” he said.

“Sometimes what is going on in the Tests can drain the players, it can have a drain on the captain as well. Having a new figure head in the one-dayers, and some new players, means we aren’t taking too much baggage into the series.”

There is also the chance that Gayle will be available for the two Twenty20s that round off the tour next month. Gayle picked up a hamstring injury during the one-day series in India and was ruled to have not recovered in time for the 50-overs segment of this trip. He is currently in Sydney, believed to be as part of his rehabilitation programme, and Gibson said the main target for him was the World Twenty20 defence in Bangladesh.

“We’re in communication with him and the people he’s working with in Australia,” Gibson said.

“He’s still injured so would be an unnecessary risk to fast track him with what lies ahead. The World T20 is coming up - a format where he is king. He should be available for the two T20s.” (Cricinfo)

horses. Release the Beast, Untouchable Girl and Quiet Danger were the others trailing in that order.

Captain Crook of the Jumbo Jet Stable ran away with the G1 event and the $300,000 first prize from Damascus Dream, Bridal Stone Corner and Fairy Landing, while Savion of the Marcel Crawford Stable won the ‘I’ and Lower race with

Affinity winning the J and Lower event.

The Shariff Racing Stable took the champion stable award, while jockey Richmond took the top jockey accolade.

Zaheer Shariff was the top trainer. The top performers were presented with the accolades, compliments of the Trophy Stall and the organisers.

Swann denies taking swipe at ex-England team-mates

F

ormer England spinner Graeme Swann says he was not referring to anyone in the current squad when he said certain players are “up their own backsides.”

The 34-year-old, who announced his retirement from cricket on Sunday, did not name specific players when he used the description.

But he later contacted former captain Michael Vaughan to deny he was referring to England players.

He tweeted: “I wasn’t talking about the England dressing room or anyone in it.”

Swann has never been frightened to speak his mind about cricket.

In his autobiography, The Breaks Are Off, published two years ago at the start of an England one-day international tour of India, he caused a stir with his appraisal of Kevin Pietersen’s captaincy.

Swann wrote Pietersen was “never the right man to captain England”, though he later said: “With hindsight, I would probably have worded it a bit differently.”

Pietersen captained England only fleetingly before he and coach Peter Moores both lost their jobs at the start of 2009.

Swann, who was also critical of his former England and Nottinghamshire team-

Graeme Swann

mate Samit Patel in his book, retired in the middle of an Ashes series England have already lost after defeats in the first three Tests.

He left others to draw their own conclusions when he said: “Some people playing the game at the minute have no idea how far up their own backsides they are.

“It will bite them one day and when it does I hope they look back and are embarrassed about how they carry on.”

With 255 victims in his 60 Tests, Swann is behind only Derek Underwood as England’s most prolific wicket-taking spinner.

Asked to reflect on his own career, Swann said he wants to be remembered as someone who brought enthusiasm as well as a competitive edge to Test cricket. (BBC Sport)

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tuesday, december 24, 2013

Ravens take second Phillip George title – Pacesetters win third division title

Pacesetters won the third division title

Akeem “The Dream” Kanhai heads to rim through contact for a three-point play

By Treiston Joseph

D

ynas Ravens routed the Colts 78-53 to take the second edition of the Phillip George Legacy memorial championship on Sunday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The Ravens out ran, out hustled and out rebounded the Colts on their way to the 25-point drubbing of a Colts team that couldn’t sink a shot as they shot less than 30 percent from the field.

Rebounding was the name of the game for the Ravens as they dominated the post with the likes of Ryan Gullen and Akeem “The Dream” Kanhai, who were rebounding machines both on the offensive and defensive glass as the duo claimed a ton of garbage points for the Ravens.

Their guards, Ryan Stephney and Dorian Lewis, constantly pet rated the lanes, dicing up the defense of the Colts, who had

a tough time rebounding the ball.

Colts guard Nikkoloi Smith erupted for a 20 points first quarter performance, but could not sustain the effort as he ended with a game-high 24 points in the loss.

Stephney, who had his jumper working well, dropped a team-high 17 points, while Kanhai, who tormented the post players of the Colts, also ended with 17 points, which helped him to capture the Most Valuable Player award.

Gullen, who before the final won the three-point shootout, ended the night with 10 points, while guard Dominic Vincente had 11 points in the win.

Meanwhile, in the third division final, Pacesetters came out on top with a 6359 win over the Plaisance Guardians.

Pacesetters played brilliant interior defence, especially with the presence of Joclyn Crawford in the mid-

dle, who blocked five shots, altered many and collected 13 rebounds.

Crawford’s game-altering plays on the defensive end resulted in guard Ruel Ritch being able to set up the fast break offense effectively in the open court while controlling the game once the pace slowed down.

Ritch ended with a teamhigh 20 points, while Tariq Cave dropped 13 points to bolster the offensive production in the win.

Colwyn Nurse dropped a game-high 22 points in the loss for the Guardians, while Nduka Yorrick had a solid 14-point performance in the blow out.

At the presentation ceremony held immediately after the game, president of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA), Michael Singh reiterated his commitment to basketball in Georgetown while thanking the teams for their support throughout the tournament.

K&S Secondary Schools football…

De Rosario puts up golden shoes for MVP

M

ajor League Soccer (MLS) superstar Dwayne De Rosario is the latest contributor to the 24th annual Kashif and Shanghai football tournament which has taken on, for the first time, the secondary schools format.

The Canadian, who is of Guyanese descent by virtue of both parents, presented the organisers with a pair of golden Puma cleats which he said is to be award to the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.

De Rosario made the presentation in front the massive crowd at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground on Sunday last and received thunderous applause for his gesture.

Addressing the audience after making the presentation, De Rosario said that he’s overjoyed by making his maiden voyage to Guyana and most importantly, getting a chance to be part of the Kashif and Shanghai School’s football tournament.

“I want to present these football cleats to the MVP, whoever that lucky player is and I hope that it would be cherished as well. I love to give back to football, especially through the youths and I’m glad Kashif and Shanghai could make me being here in Guyana a success,” said the famed footballer.

He added that since it was his first time coming to Guyana, he wanted to make

a lasting impression on the youths and lauded the organisers for giving the youths a major platform to showcase their talent.

“I’m returning to my roots for the first time and I’m very happy about it, but what I’m more happy about is the fact these young players can have a very big stage to showcase their talents on.

It’s important to not only invest in their future, but also to give them that stage where everyone would see them, follow them, and help turn them into stars.

Every player loves to be seen and I’m glad people are coming out in their numbers to support them as well,” the former MLS MVP noted.

Three-point champion Ryan Gullen goes up for a floater during Sunday’s action

Ryan Stephney (#9), who dropped a team-high 17 points, pelts Sheldon Thomas’ shot into the stands

Petrova withdraws from Australian Open after mother dies

F

Nadia Petrova

ormer world number three Nadia Petrova has withdrawn from next month’s Australian Open following the death of her mother in a car crash.

Petrova’s mother, Nadezhda Illyina, was an athlete who won bronze in the 4x400m relay at the 1976 Olympics in

Montreal.

Fellow Russian Maria Kirilenko, world ranked 19, has pulled out with injury.

Petrova’s withdrawal means 26-yearold Bulgarian Tsvetana Pironkova, who is ranked 108 in the world, moves into the main draw. (BBC Sport)

tuesday, december 24, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

23

Digicel, Metro support KMTC Boxing Day race meet

By Rajiv Bisnauth

I

n another solid demonstration of their commitment to sport activities across Guyana, Digicel and Metro Office and Computer Supplies on Monday added their names to the list of corporate entities that have thrown their support to the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Boxing Day horse race meet.

The one-day event is scheduled for the club’s track at Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, from 12:30 hours.

Mobile phone company, Digicel, has sponsored the entire J1 and Lower race at a cost of $400,000, while Metro Office and Computer Supplies has offset the first prize and winner’s trophy for the feature A and Lower event.

Both presentations were done on Monday at Brickdam, Georgetown, where Digicel’s Events and Sponsorship Manager, Gavin Hope, presented president of the KMTC, Cecil Kennard, with the J1 and Lower winner’s trophy, while Metro’s representative Ariff Baksh handed over $1,000,000 cheque and trophy, which will be awarded to the winner of the feature event.

Hope, speaking shortly after the presentation, said the company was once again pleased to be supporting the club, adding that it was not the first time that the entity has benefitted from Digicel’s goodwill.

“Digicel is one of the leading corporate sponsors in Guyana and even though this occasion is about horse racing we’ve also done similar presentations to other sports,” Hope stated.

He disclosed that Digicel has made significant contributions towards the development of sports in Guyana and the company intends to continue to do so in the future.

Baksh said that the company is once again happy to be associated with the event and this is the fifth year they are on board.

“Metro Office and Computer Supplies has been associated with the Kennard Memorial Turf Club for several years and the continued sponsorship symbolises that

Digicel Events and Sponsorship Manager, Gavin Hope, presents the trophy for the winner of the J1 and Lower event to president of the KMTC, Cecil Kennard (Photos: Rajiv Bisnauth)

ongoing relationship and recognition that the “King of Sports” is a part of the sporting mosaic in Guyana,” Baksh said.

Kennard, in his response, thanked both companies for their continued support towards the horse racing industry, reminding that not only his club benefits from their generosity, but almost the entire sporting fraternity.

He said he is optimistic that the current friendship between the two entities will be strengthened in the future.

Kennard stated that the meet will be of a high standard, especially since majority of the country’s top horses will be participating.

Further, the KMTC head is hoping that there is good weather so that turfites can enjoy the day’s activities.

Eight races are billed for the day with over $6 million in prizes to be distributed.

The feature race will run for a mile for a top prize of $1.5 million. Other events billed for the day are the D3 maiden and E Lower for $600,000 over seven furlongs; the Threeold West Indies bred maiden and Guyana bred open for a $600,000 winner’s purse.

The J3 and K, G1 and Lower, Two-year-old Guyana and West Indies bred and J1 and Lower races will run at a distance of six furlongs. The winning

purses for those four races are $150,000, $400,000, $400,000 and $200,000 respectively.

Metro’s representative Ariff Baksh presents the trophy and cheque to KMTC president Cecil Kennard

Rounding out the roster is the I and Lower over seven furlongs with the winner collecting $250,000.

Meanwhile, the race is being conducted under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA)

and, according to Kennard, the rules of the local governing body would be rigidly enforced.

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

tuesday, december 24, 2013

TOP SCORES

BASKETBALL: DYNAS RAVEN 78-53 V COLTS; PACESETTER 63-59 V PLAISANCE GUARDIANS

Ravens take second Phillip George title

See story on page

22

– Pacesetters win third division title The Dynas Ravens players celebrate their second straight win of the Phillip George Legacy tournament (Photos: Treiston Joseph)

K&S Secondary Schools football…

De Rosario puts up golden shoes for MVP

See story on page

22

MLS superstar Dwayne De Rosario (right) presents Kashif Muhammad with a pair of golden Puma footwear for the MVP of the tournament. Sharing the moment is Aubrey “Shanghai” Major

PMTC/Shariff horse race meet…

In-form Score’s Even wins feature contest

See story on page

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Connections from the Simple Royal Stable collects the winner’s trophy for Score’s Even’s victory in the feature A and Lower event

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