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Issue No. 1818

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Deepwater harbour a matter of priority – PSC See story on page 3

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Brazilian miner P7 robbed, killed at Port Kaituma NIS takes NA Market vendors to court

Former coast guards sentenced to death for gold miner’s P9 murder

Ramotar wants to work with U.S. on fighting crime See story on page 17

Mrs Saskia Hardt (third from left), wife of U.S. Ambassador to Guyana D Brent Hardt, joins guests for a photograph at the embassy’s independence celebrations Tuesday evening at the ambassador’s residence Turkeyen East Coast Demerara. The event was held under the theme "Celebrating the West”, and guests were asked to dress in cowboy and cowgirl attire as is evident in this Carl Croker photo

Probe into land sale fraud ongoing at GLSC

$60 vat included

Local gunmen attack TT vessel after P9 captain refuses to fetch drugs

See story on page 3

See story on page 2

PRICE

Region Six RDC issues $91M in contracts See story on page 10

Govt still P11 has concerns over local government bills

Sophia man acquitted P17 of murder

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Probe into land sale fraud ongoing at GLSC – some staff dismissed, several under investigation

number of staff of the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission (GLSC) have been dismissed and some are under investigation for alleged fraudulent sale of lands, Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud said on Monday. He said too that Cabinet has plans to implement a National Land Use Plan in the near future. Persaud at the time was addressing residents of Kuru Kururu at a community outreach meeting. He told residents that the national plan will deal with issues of illegal land practices across the country; guide the use of land in a transparent and an open way; and the operations of the GLSC, the Central and Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC),

the Guyana Forestry Commission, the Regional Democratic Council and other agencies. The plan will also ensure that there is maximum use of every square metre of land in Guyana because a land that is rich in agriculture, tourism, or mining will be wasted if we use it for something else, Minister Persaud said.

such illegalities and that land ownership must follow a specific process. He said that the president is the only authority that can grant lands. “We are just representatives… the policy is that we must ensure that there is equitable distribution of lands in any part of the country… those who need lands must be able to access lands not those who got land must be able to get more lands,” he said.

Complaints

Persaud told residents that over the years there have been complaints with regards to GLSC officials, who had facilitated, encouraged and engaged in illegal activities. He said these staffers have since been dismissed and others are under investigation. The minister said if it has been found that such illegal practices are re-occurring, “we are going to weed out and stamp

Priority

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud during his address to the residents of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, at the community’s primary school

out those officers within the commission who are in one way or the other... contributing to this problem.” Meanwhile, according to

a Government Information Agency (GINA) report, Kuru Kururu has been developing tremendously over the years, but some residents

had taken to illegally using the corridors of the community, especially the road reserves. During the meeting, Persaud warned against such practice and encouraged residents to map out a strategy for the orderly development of the community. He reminded them that development and opportunities will not be possible if they continue to misuse the land. Persaud also addressed the issue of illegal land ownership, as the residents complained that GLSC officials are giving out lands. Minister Persaud was very adamant, according to GINA, that government will not and does not condone

He clarified that there was nothing wrong with accessing more one land, but the priority is “land for the landless” and this must be done in a “fair and transparent manner”, with the processes outlined and the law followed. “Even if someone is entitled, it is not a passport for you to go and break the law,” Persaud explained. He also said promised that the ministry will be conducting educational programmes that will be spread across the various communities in the different regions with the aim of educating persons on how they can access land. He said that training programmes will also be done for staff of the relevant agencies for them to develop a customer friendly approach to treating those applying for land.

Labourer drowns after falling out of canoe

labourer from Malbourgh, Lower Pomeroon, Region Two, lost his life after his canoe capsized with him in it on the Pomeroon River. Dead is Dick Murray, 41, from the Lower Pomeroon. His body was discovered by residents in the riverine area around 17:00h on Monday. According to information reaching Guyana Times, the labourer was in the company of two others going up the river when his canoe lost balance and upturned on Monday around 08:00h. Murray was the captaining of the canoe when a speed boat traversing at high speed passed close to him, resulting in him losing control of his canoe. Murray disappeared after the mishap. One of the survivors, Jean Murray said the speedboat drove very close to the canoe. The huge splash generated from the speedboat hit the canoe and overturned it. Another speedboat that was passing

Dick Murray

at the time saw what happened and rushed to the scene, rescuing the two passengers of the canoe, but Murray was nowhere to be seen. Murray’s wife, Zabonne Murray said she received a call stating that her husband went missing after a mishap which occurred early Monday morning. The woman said her husband left to visit his friend on a farm when he met his demise. He was described as a caring father.

News

wednesday, july 3, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

bridge openings

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, July 3, from 14:00h to 15:30h. The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, July 3, from 11:05h to 12:35h.

Weather

Countrywide: Heavy rain showers are expected during the day, with clear skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius. Winds: East north-easterly at 2.68 to 3.12 metres per second.

High Tide: 06:29h and 12:58h reaching maximum heights of 2.27 metres and 2.19 metres respectively. Low Tide: 06:29h and 18:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.95 metre and 1.01 metres respectively.

saturday, June 29, 2013

LOTTERY NUMBERS D

11 12 24 18 15 26 13

FREE TICKET

tuesday july 2, 2013 Daily Millions

07 11

LUCKY 3 8

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Deepwater harbour a matter of priority – PSC

he Private Sector Commission (PSC) is calling for crucial infrastructural development, including a deep-water harbour to be addressed as a matter of absolute urgency. The commission believes that the broadening of the country’s economic base, the Brazil road, hydroelectricity and interior airstrips are critical to attracting valued-added investment and in order to reduce dependence on commodity price import and export. According to PSC Chairman Ronald Webster, over the last six months, global commodity prices for rice, sugar, bauxite and gold have fallen dramatically, in addition to the rise in fuel cost, corn and soya products; placing a burden on the economy. The PSC chairman said that the local economy has fortunately become more diverse, allowing for a certain amount of cushioning. “However, these external pressures will have an impact, regardless, and we must find a way to mitigate this impact and guard against accusations being bandied about that it is the fault of government or the opposition.” Webster mentioned that if such a situation is improperly handled, it can lead to chaos and unrest. He disclosed that 2012 was a flagship year for many businesses in the private sector, most of which achieved robust and unprecedented growth. Although, there was a slowdown earlier in 2013, most businesses recorded

some amount of progress and momentum which is projected to continue. There was impressive fiscal performance of 4.8 per cent growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and increases in all the productive sectors with the exception of sugar. Webster said that had sugar broken even; the GDP growth rate would have been recorded at six per cent.

Faults

He faulted production downtime, poor yield and terrible prices as contributors to the ineffective functioning of the sugar sector. Webster stressed how critical it is for the sugar industry to develop a high level of efficiency in the long-term. Despite the slippages in commodity pricing, the World Bank has estimated that GDP growth will reach 5.1 per cent. Webster revealed that the taxes remitted to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) by private sector companies amounted to $36.4 billion; which is 11 per cent more than 2012. “I again stress that Guyana is rapidly approaching the tipping point where continued economic growth can be stymied unless the planned capital programmes go forward as planned,” Webster emphasised. He said for this growth trend to continue into the future, along with private sector development, there has to be a very significant broadening of the economic base, increase in quality job creation, reduc-

PSC Chairman Ronald Webster

tion in migration of skills and access to and from export markets. Webster pointed out that this imperative, in turn, requires a quantum increase in infrastructural investments. He noted that the commission will continue to collaborate with government as an equal partner in the implementation the IDB-supported competitiveness programme, which was launched and conceptualised in 2006. Key programmes currently being undertaken with the involvement of the National Competiveness Council are interior airstrips, extension and rehabilitation, road links, the Demerara Harbour Bridge Project, Port Georgetown, and hydroelectricity. The council has met regularly to develop an action plan to improve the “doing business” index position in Guyana. Webster likened the country’s economy to a business which never plateaus, but rises and falls.

“We need to avoid it falling; at all cost,” the chairman said. Webster stated that politicians must realise that the median age of Guyanese is 24.6, which is lower than its Caribbean average of 30.5. “A high percentage of the population therefore is very young and only concerned about the here and now and having immediate contact with relatives locally and abroad through Internet and other means of communication. They do not have the academic interest in the history of political parties, but are caught up in their own utopia and role models, many of whom unfortunately have feet of clay,” he remarked.

Young professionals

Webster stated that there is nothing worse than young professionals who become disillusioned by so-called role models. The private sector community has collaborated with the Technical Vocational and Education Training Council in recognition of its role in skills creation. It has also partnered with the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) to submit proposals to the University of Guyana towards reviewing the curriculum to produce a more marketable workforce. The community also committed itself to working with the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) on employment projects which will seek to upgrade the employability of young graduates.

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 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

Democracy in Egypt? T

he bloom from the “Arab Spring” of democracy in Egypt appears to be fading. As to whether it will segue into a hot summer or fast forward into a freezing winter depends on events today. After winning the democratic elections in 2012 under the watchful eyes of the army, which had stepped aside after the departure of Hosni Mubarak in 2011, the Muslim Brotherhood under Mohamed Morsi had followed a programme not much different from its predecessor. It was widely accepted that they recognised the historic role they were playing in a democratic transition led by a party that was explicitly “Islamist” and did not want to rock the boat too much. They did not adopt any radical line towards Israel, for instance, and in fact, took action against the tunnels in Gaza which were a source of concern to the Israelis. They did not make any moves against the army, which still retained a powerful role, never far behind the scenes. But yet after massive protests in the streets of Cairo against the government, the army demanded that the government must reach consensus with the opposition, or they would dictate new terms of governance. Even if the protesters mustered one million bodies as claimed, the action is analogous to a situation where in the U.S., the government of President Barack Obama would be forced to share power with the Republican Party after large protests by the Tea Party. Egypt, after all, has a population of over 90 million. This move by the army has very serious implications for democracy in the region – especially after all the rhetoric about the “will of the people” being the bedrock of democratic governance. If the protesters are dissatisfied with the performance of the government, then in a democratic polity, they have the right to protest peacefully once they obey the law not to violate the rights of other individuals and institutions. They may even demand that the government ought to resign. But what cannot be allowed to happen is regime change or the government being forced to share its authority through unconstitutional means. And the army’s present ultimatum to the legally elected government is certainly unconstitutional. More than anything else, but especially in a situation where the seed of democratic government is being planted in soils that are still impregnated with the hubris of authoritarianism, the rule of law must not be cast aside as capriciously as it has been. If the army’s action is allowed to stand, what then is the difference from the rule of Mubarak? The army was the power behind the throne before the “Democratic Spring” and remained so in the aftermath. The most powerful influence on the army is the U.S. government, which has backed it with arms, material, and training for four decades. This year, they have already received US$1.5 billion from the U.S. The latter has made the “export of democracy” the linchpin of its foreign policy since the George Bush administration and it has been in the Middle East that it has concentrated its efforts most. If it does not defend the right of the Morsi government to complete its term of office then the entire legitimacy of its project will be de-gutted. It is significant that President Obama was in Africa when the protests were staged and the army responded with its anti-democratic demand. While shortages have fuelled some domestic anger, it has been suggested that the protests have been funded by the conservative Saudi regime that fear an Islamist agenda. President Obama called Morsi and emphasised that Egypt should have a “peaceful democratic transition”. His administration had already been criticised by large swathes of Africa for its support of several other undemocratic regimes such as Equatorial Guinea. Unless, he takes a firmer stand for democratic processes to play out, the critics would feel they have been vindicated.

The Katiwau (Sand Creek) Cultural Dance Troupe, a Wapishana group, trained by Dorothy Faria, performs at the Toronto Guyana Independence Day Festival on June 23 (David C Khan photo)

Wakenaam Police Station needs a four-wheel drive vehicle Dear Editor, I have exhausted all options. I have spoken to the station sergeant, inspector, deputy commander, commander and minister of home Affairs with reference to mobile transportation at the Wakenaam Police Station. The Wakenaam Police Station is located at San Souci on the far western side of the island. The furthest village that is densely populated is some 12

miles away from the station. On numerous occasions reports were made to the police station. Reports such as robberies, physical assaults, abusive language, noise nuisances, among others and all the police officers who answer the telephone will say “we don’t have transportation to come at the moment”. This is absurdity in its entirety. There is a pick-

up police vehicle at the station, but that has been parked for over one year and no one seems to care about its condition. I must however point out that, in recent times, the station sergeant, whom I was told was recently placed here at Wakenaam, and his ranks have been traversing the entire island using motorcycles. But this does not solve the issue of not having a mobile

vehicle to transport law breakers. This letter is primarily for the purpose of informing the public and hopefully addressing the issue. There are many other issues that need urgent attention, such as the behaviour of neighbourhood police officers, which I will bring to your attention in another letter. Yours faithfully, Ganesh Mahipaul

Drugs in prison must be investigated Dear Editor, We are leaking at the seams! A New Amsterdam prison inmate, serving time for drugs, has again found himself in hot waters for the same offence. This time however, the situation is exacerbated because the man had drugs right in the penitentiary. I think that this prisoner holds the key to a number of important issues. Quite rightly then, officials at the institution are conducting their internal investigations to determine how the illegal substance

made its way into the correctional facility. On more than one occasion, prison officers were implicated and nothing serious was done. They were either reprimanded or transferred.

In fact, I recall only recently a prison officer who reportedly used his influence to commandeer those within his charge at the New Amsterdam Prison to indulge in a drug running scheme within the precincts of the penitentiary. He has been charged along with an accomplice. Recently, the BBC Panorama came out with shocking findings after it was given exclusive access to a prison. The report revealed that drug addiction, as the root cause of many crimes that resulted in incarcera-

tion, has repercussions. Prisoners want to continue feeding their habit even when they are in jail, and many times they do. The reason is drugs get smuggled into prisons either by prisoners, or their visitors, or by prison officers themselves. Guyana is not exempted and that is why I call for something to be done to find out who is allowing for drugs to get into the prisons. Yours truly, Sydney Conway

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

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

Drama must Education Ministry should go after be emphasised those “money solicitors” in school Dear Editor, A Chinese proverb says, “Tell me and I will forget, show me and I will remember, involve me and I will understand.” This came to my mind, when I read of the launch of the 2013 National Drama Festival. As regards the importance of drama as a school subject, I feel good that plans are already in place to make this a big part of the Caribbean Secondary Examinations Council (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) all across Guyana. Dramatic arts education is an important means of stimulating creativity in problem solving. It can challenge students’ perceptions about their world and about themselves. It also provides students with an outlet for emotions, thoughts, and dreams that they might not otherwise have means to express. A student can, if only for a few moments, become another, explore a new role, try out and experiment with various personal choices and solutions to very real problems – problems from his/her own life, or problems faced by characters in literature or historical figures. This can happen in a safe atmosphere, where actions and consequences can be examined, discussed, and in a very real

sense experienced without the dangers and pitfalls that such experimentation would obviously lead to in the “real” world. I remember being a part in William Shakespeare’s “Othello” and how this brought home to me the utter foolishness of jealousy. I plotted against a better man, Othello, and it left a bitter taste in my mouth. That is why drama as a subject must be done and not just taught. The University of Guyana (UG) will do well to have its own studio for its courses, or it can bring the subject to the National School of Drama, the Theatre Guild, or the National Cultural Centre. When there are local shows in Guyana, they must be supported. Just to bring off one play takes a lot of time, energy and thinking. Even if the artiste cannot make a living with their pieces, they can at least be morally encouraged. The media must play a part too. It seems like most media personnel and outlets are about mere entertainment. I think that good, old school drama needs a push. There is little lasting glory in just being happy, but not being enlightened. Respectfully yours, Fabian Gonsalves

Parents may send children to private school Dear Editor, Can someone look into this matter urgently before the closing of school on Friday? I am a parent of a child who is currently a pupil in a senior class at the Cornelia Ida Primary School on the West Coast Demerara. The problem is: * My child will soon go on to the next class but most of the parents are not pleased with the staffing. The current teacher, we have learnt from experience (working with our children), has difficulty with content matter. Her method of giving notes is letting the child copy from the textbook and there are difficulties with simple mathematical problems. She gives the term and annual tests at lessons before they are administered in the classroom. Is this fair to the children?

* The other teacher who will be going to the next class is a teacher who is attending the University of Guyana (UG). How can a teacher cope with her studies and be the teacher of a senior class. What will happen to the class when she is away at university? We need all our children to get a fair chance. There are three other experienced teachers of senior classes at the school, including the headteacher. Can more of these experienced people be placed ? If the ministry does not take action, I and many other parents will have no other alternative but to remove our children to a private school. Concerned parent, Sarah Ally

Dear Editor, Some time ago, I made a call to the Ministry of Education and am happy to report that I got a good response – and the school that I complained against was paid a surprise visit. The school was and still is a veritable squalor when it rains. And when it comes to Friday, the headmistress is still involved in selling items to students. I am happy to report that things are set to change, even to the point of relocating the teachers and students, and perhaps shutting down the school. It is a bold move and I am sure that the message is now getting out that close monitoring of school is now picking up. Clearly, the Education Ministry has really upped the ante against schools that demand money from students for a range of school-based activities and in some cases debar them

from participation if they do not pay the required funds. Many times, if the students are not debarred, they are subtly discriminated against. Many schools receive good-will gestures from the more fortunate parents, but they still continue to make unnecessary monetary demands. So if this money campaign practice can be rooted out, it will be great. The problem is that these schools involved in monetary and other forms of soliciting make the claim that they are being shortchanged. They complain about the lack of resources and thus they have to get the input of the parents to run the schools properly. For those teachers who run little businesses to raise money, they talk about poor salaries. What has happened is that these teachers have become overwhelmed with responsibilities – they have to

teach and still run their little cottage industries from class to class or via the canteen. I have a feeling that many of them will leave the teaching profession when their side businesses cannot be conducted anymore. Then how about those who run their private lessons? They teach, but skilfully slow down the work so as to make their lessons indispensable. Many of them issue tests in their classes on topics taught at their private sessions. This is an obvious ploy. A good research project will be to track down how many qualified teachers have left the government schools and for what reasons. It would be great to see graphically the comparison of quality of life, assets and salaries of these as against those who have stayed on. Now that the Ministry of Education will be ac-

tively responding to complaints from parents and guardians, I have a very important pronouncement. It does not matter how low the salary is, teachers must teach to the best of their ability. If they have issues with pay, this is a matter for them to take up with their employer. In cases where the school is without adequate supply of whatever the ministry is supposed to provide, the headteachers must make this known to the ministry. If nothing is being done, they can do what complaining parents and guardians are doing, or will do – make public their grouses. All I want is that Guyana’s children be free to enjoy a high quality educational experience. Is that too much to ask? Yours sincerely, Michelle B DeFreitas

Thoughts about eye care Dear Editor, I wear a hat when I am out in the sun and with good reasons. I am not visually impaired, but I learned for myself what can happen without the hat. UV radiation consists of invisible rays from the sun that can have adverse effects on the eyes and vision in general. Short and longterm exposure to these dangerous rays can cause significant damage. It is important to note that UV radiation can also be given off by artificial sources like welding machines, tanning beds and lasers. So people have to

watch where they go when they visit factories and other places where a lot of manufacturing is being done. So in terms of eye care,

it is vital that people be told what they can do to protect their eyes. I think of umbrellas and sunglasses too. Many think of the latter as mere fashion, us-

ing them even at nights. I am happy that at least they are being worn. The point to note is that more people should be encouraged to use protective wear so as to guard against eye degeneration. I compliment Da Silva’s Optical for making this move to help the seniors of the country, but I ask for more education where eye care is concerned. All eye care offices should make available relevant and recent information concerning eye care. Yours faithfully, Norbert Jones

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

Page

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

My child is scared of other children

Factors affecting socialisation of children

HELP!!!

BY BARBIE CARPENTER BY CAROLYN R TOMLIN

t was the first day of kindergarten. The children arrived with new clothes, lunch boxes, book bags stuffed with wide-line tablets, fat pencils, a blanket for naptime, and a box of 100 crayons. As a teacher, I watched the children’s faces and those of their parents and realised that some of these children were not ready to leave home. Small hands clutched a parent’s hand, eyes brimmed with tears, and even a few sobs echoed from one corner of the room. For some, the socialisation process had not occurred.

shortly after birth and continues into adulthood, the age of early childhood is a crucial period of socialisation. How children are disciplined, how they respond to this discipline, and how they develop independent behaviour are all connected to the process in which socialisation occurs.

The family and parental influences

Families are different, and the role of the family is changing. Each family is unique in the expectations of the

groups: • The nuclear family consists of a mother, father, and offspring living together. • When two or more families live together, this is known as an extended family. Within this group are grandparents, uncles, aunts, or other relatives. • The third family group is that of single parent households. The proportion of chil-

Social-emotional development

Specific tasks related to social development occur in early childhood, just like developmental tasks occur in cognitive growth. The term social refers to a relationship or interaction between two or more people, who by definition respond to each other and influence each other’s behaviour. Socialisation is an important process in child development. Stated simply, it is the process whereby individuals, especially children, become functioning members of a particular group and take on the values, behaviours, and beliefs of the group’s other members. Although the process begins

people i n vario u s roles, in its p a t -

terns of interaction, its history of development, and its relationship with other systems. However, family categories usually fall into three

dren living in single-parent homes more than doubled between 1970 and 1998 – from 12 per cent to 28 per cent. Children living only with their mothers were more than twice as likely to live in poverty

than those living with only their fathers (47 per cent vs 20 per cent).

Dimensions of parental behaviour

Researchers believe that acceptance-rejection and control-autonomy are contributing factors that determine a family’s attitude toward child rearing. The structure of the family and the personality characteristics of individual parents make a difference in socialisation as will be demonstrated in the following examples. Will, a father of two young children, believes t h a t spendi n g time e a c h day with his children is vital to developing strong family ties. During this time, the children talk about their day, engage in some type of physical activity, such as going for a walk, playing with their dog, or enjoying simple games. Hugging his children, telling them how important

they are in Will’s life is a part of each day. In return, his children feel accepted in this warm environment. His friends often remark, “Your children show such responsibility and self-control. What are you doing that makes a difference?” When children feel this level of acceptance, they want to please and parents become their best role model. Next, let’s look at Susan a mother of a six-year-old. At the end of a long workday, Susan is exhausted. Instead of giving her daughter a few minutes of quality time when she comes home, she immediately starts working on the home chores. “Every time I want to talk to my mother, she is too busy, too tired, or says ‘wait till later’,” remarks her daughter. Later never seems to come. Parents who use rejection in parental behaviour may have children who are hostile and aggressive toward others. I recall a home of six youngsters where the children were extremely well behaved. Some years later I talked with one of the adolescent boys in that home and he said, “On occasion, my father had to watch us while our mother ran to the grocery store. He made each one of us sit on the couch and dared us to move. A large paddle stood nearby. (Early Childhood News)

TO BE CONTINUED

aving fears – and learning to overcome them – is a part of childhood. Children fear the real, such as the possibility of losing their parents, and the unreal, such as monsters hiding under the bed. Fear is normal in childhood and not a sign of any problem. However, when children fear their peers, they can face difficulties in their school lives and social lives, so it’s important for parents to address and quell these fears.

Causes

Fear of other children can stem from a number of things. Your child simply might be shy, and she is afraid to open up to other children. She might be the victim of bullying, and she may have retreated from children for fear of more bullying. Perhaps she was made fun of by her peers in the past – one bad experience can have a major impact on a child’s ability to feel comfortable around her peers.

Signs

Parents should be aware of their children’s fears and look for signs that their children fear their peers. If your child dreads going to school every day, she might be afraid of other children. If she avoids social opportunities – such as not wanting to go to a birthday party or join a sports team – she might fear her peers. Understanding the signs of fear in your child is the first step in eliminating those fears.

Age

Your child’s age affects the kinds of fears she might have. The Iowa State University Extension explains that “preschoolers are more self-assured than toddlers.” Generally, as your children become more mature, their fear of other children will dissipate. In the meantime, however, you do not want them to suffer from missed social opportunities with their peers, so it is important to help them overcome their fears.

Tips

Gradually introduce your fearful child to other children her age. Throwing her into an environment with many loud, rambunctious children might overwhelm her, but a one-on-one play date with a child she knows might help her open up. Do not force your child to do anything that she is not comfortable with. Instead, take small steps toward socialisation to help her overcome her fear of children. (www.livestrong.com)

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Gunmen rob Black Bush Polder businessman NIS takes NA Market vendors to G court unmen on Monday evening invaded a Corentyne businessman’s home and carted off cash, jewellery, computers, and cellphones. The incident occurred sometime around 19:10h on Monday. The businessman, Andy Anderson, 37, of Lot 50 E Mibikuri Public Road, South Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, was upstairs in his two-storey house while three of his neighbours were downstairs when the gunmen came in from the road and surrounded the “bottom house”. He said there were eight masked men, six of whom were armed and went into the yard, while two remained on the road to keep watch. One of the armed men had a shotgun while

the others had handguns. Anderson told Guyana Times that his neighbour Mohammed Salim, 46; the man’s wife, Bibi, and their daughter were visiting him and he had gone upstairs when suddenly there was utter silence, which was strange. The man said he became suspicious that “bandits” were downstairs, so he was trying to find a way to escape from the house. “I was on de back veranda when three ah dem come up and catch me and them start beat me demanding money and gold,” he recalled. Anderson said the men made him lay down as they ransacked his house during which they found two laptop computers and took his jewellery.

The businessman added that the men began hitting him, asking for money and he told them that the money was downstairs. The men took him downstairs where he showed them where the money was. Anderson recalled that the gunmen closed the door and began ransacking the downstairs after which they put him in the bathroom to lie down and ordered him to not to get up or call the police. While all of this was happening inside the house, the other three gunmen were holding the neighbours hostage outside the house and had gun-butted Salim to his head. The entire incident lasted about 30 minutes. Anderson told this newspaper that after the gun-

men left, he went back upstairs and opened his side door from where he called out to his neighbour for assistance; however, they were already aware of what was transpiring next door and had summoned the police. Anderson noted that none of the neighbours saw where the gunmen went, but he was told that they were about to attack another neighbour and the police had arrived, so they discharged a round and escaped. The man disclosed that the bandits made off with the laptops valued $240,000; a ring, a chain and a band, a total of $310,000. In addition, the gunmen took off with cash, jewellery and three cellphones from Anderson’s neighbours.

Miner remanded for drug trafficking

miner was remanded on two counts of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday. Floyd Campbell, 53, of Beterverwagting, East

Coast Demerara pleaded not guilty to both charges, which stated that on June 28 at Aranka Landing, he had in his possession three grams of cocaine and 287 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. Attorney George Thomas, in an application for reasonable bail for his

client, stated that Campbell does not pose a flight risk and on the day in question, he was taking care of the shop when a search was conducted and the drugs were found in the kitchen area where the defendant does not work. Prosecutor Ronetta Bentham objected to bail,

citing no special reasons were offered for bail, and the seriousness and prevalence of the offence. The magistrate denied bail and remanded Campbell to prison. He will appear at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on July 11 for the continuance of the matter.

Brazilian miner robbed, killed at Port Kaituma BY: INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

Brazilian national formerly of Charity Extension Scheme, Region Two, was brutally murdered and robbed early Tuesday morning at Port Kaituma backdam, Region One. Dead is Jose Francisco De Sousa Lima, 52, who was robbed and shot at Sorabaro Road, Region One, while riding an ATV vehicle. Julian Cummings, the deceased's father-in-law was gun-butted during the brazen day light robbery. Lima’s wife, Rebecca Calvan, speaking from her Charity home, said she re-

ceived a call from a sister stating that her husband was shot dead and her father-in-law gun-butted. The mother of two said she could not believe the news and called her sister Samantha Cummings to confirm it. The mother, who broke down in tears, said she last spoke to her husband on Monday evening. The distressed woman said she and Lima shared a common-law relationship of five years and the union produced two children. She said they usually work in the backdam “hand in glove” to provide for their family. Calvan said her hus-

band previously worked with other gold miners in various backdams as a general manager; however, he managed to purchase his own dredge and excavator and was doing his own work. The woman, who could not control her tears, said it was her husband’s dream to earn more and provide for his family. The thirty-twoyear-old woman said her love for her husband was unconditional and described him as a hard-working individual. She mentioned that only last week, he returned from the interior. They were also saving to tie the knot soon. Lima’s eldest child is a five-month-old. The de-

ceased's wife said arrangements are being made to transport the body of her husband from Port Kaituma backdam. Sister-in-law of the deceased Samantha Cummings said her sister’s stepfather Julian Cummings was gun-butted and left in an unconscious state. She said Julian told her via the radio system that when he regained consciousness, he found himself in a pool of blood. She said Cummings in pain, walked to the camp where he informed the other workers what had transpired. No one is in custody for the shooting. Police are continuing their investigating.

everal vendors of the New Amsterdam Municipal Market shared different fates when they appeared before Magistrate Roby Benn for failing to produce relevant documentations to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) inspectors, during a routine check on February 18. In the New Amsterdam Court, Wavney August, 53, who owns four stalls, told the court that in addition to being a mother of five and grandmother of 10, she is already old and could ill-afford to make the required 750 contributions. Another vendor, Viola Persaud, who has one stall at the market, said she only sells two days per week and is a diabetic who suffers with hypertension and has a heart condition. She did not have documentation to show the income she earns from her business. The two were fined $5000 each with an alternative of one week imprisonment. Attorney Carolyn Artiga who represented the vendors said most market sellers do not keep receipt of their purchases. “They are ignorant of what they have to do,” she argued. “The National Insurance Scheme should inform the public of what they ought to do.” However, Magistrate Benn noted that he understands the social aspect of the vendors’ course of work. “They do not have a book per se, but they must keep records, as the NIS plays a big part in the Guyanese populace.” It was agreed that the Guyana Revenue Authority should guide the sellers with respect to their income and expenditure documents. Meanwhile, another defendant Sabrina Parasram told the court that she would assist her husband at his

stall, while Lois Amsterdam said she made repeated visits to the NIS office in New Amsterdam to meet an inspector, but was unsuccessful on all occasions. They were both sent on their own recognisance and are expected to return to court on July 19. Another vendor Lilawattie Bisram, 48, admitted that she never joined the NIS, but has since produced the relevant documentations and has been registered, while, Kitty Kumar Somai, 51, yet another stallholder said she had been unemployed for 18 months. Somai’s matter will be investigated; several others were reprimanded and discharged. NIS Inspector Julian Caesar told the court that on February 18, the vendors had failed to produce for examination receipts CS1, and other documentations when required to do so by Inspector Rebecca Ramolos, thereby breaching a section of the NIS Act.

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Man charged Three women charged for unlawful wounding with harassing Eyew tness T ex-wife Action... O n Tuesday, a man was brought before Magistrate Judy Latchman on a charge of threatening behaviour. It was alleged that on June 5, at Vlissengen Road, Kitty, Sheik Mobin Samad, 38, made use of threatening behaviour to Fazeeda Hamid, 32, causing a breach of the peace. The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges. According to the virtual complainant (VC), she was proceeding along the road in her car when the defendant pulled up to her and said: “I’m gonna kill you and make it look like an accident.” A report was made to the police and the defendant was arrested. The accused and the VC were married, but separated since November 7 last year, after Samad wanted his ex-wife and children back in his life. He asked Hamid to leave the house, so she did and later remarried. In open court, the vir-

tual complainant emphasised that she endured constant harassment at the hands of the accused. She stated that the defendant also has a tendency to slander her name. She added that she has been receiving threatening phone calls and text messages from different numbers, although she has changed her number several times, and she has reported the matter to the police and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) Limited. She also stated that the defendant has been sending text messages to her husband who is overseas at the moment and has persons calling her mother to harass her. She said her husband is flying in tomorrow and another report will be made. Bail was set at $30,000 and Samad was placed on a bond to keep the peace pending the outcome of the matter, which is set to return to Court 6 on July 8.

hree women were arraigned on a joint charge of unlawful wounding when they appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday. Christel, Kemy, and Coreen Ford, 54 of Lot 163 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown pleaded

not guilty to the charge, which stated that on June 25 at Fifth Street, Alberttown, they unlawfully wounded Odenesha Thompson. The magistrate granted bail in the sum of $40,000 for all three defendants, and they will appear in Court Six on July 12.

Armed robbery suspect remanded

agistrate Judy Latchman remanded a man when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a robbery under arms charge on Tuesday. Dwayne Hamilton, 23, of Tucville, pleaded not guilty to a robbery under arms charge which alleged that on June 27 at West Ruimveldt, Georgetown while being armed with a gun, he robbed Adrian Pestana of one BlackBerry Torch smartphone valued $50,000. The defendant was

represented by Attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat who stated that the virtual complainant has refused to give evidence against his client. Fung-A-Fat then requested an early court date. The prosecution objected to bail, citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offence, the weapon used, the fact that the defendant may tamper with the witness and may not return to court for his next hearing. The magistrate remanded Hamilton whose next scheduled hearing is in Court Six on July 8.

Surinamese national fined for illegal entry

Surinamese national was fined for charges of illegal entry and false

statements when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’

Courts on Tuesday. Maxwell Anthony Gill, 35, pleaded guilty to the charges which stated that

on June 27, he knowingly made a false statement on a Guyana Passport form in an effort to procure a Guyanese passport. The second charge stated that between January 7 and July 7 at Springlands, he entered Guyana by sea without the consent of an officer. According to reports, the defendant caused Michael and Roxanne Da Silva to swear in an affidavit that they were his parents. He later applied for a Guyana Passport and it was observed that Gill had an accent. Investigations were carried out, and the present charges were later imposed. Gill told the court that he was born in Georgetown, but lived in Suriname from a tender age. He does not know his parents and has been travelling between Suriname and Guyana for some time now without an ID card. The defendant stated that he does not want to continue the act, so he asked a couple to assist him with his papers. Additionally, he was offered a job in French Guiana for which he was told he would need his documents to be in order. The magistrate fined him $30,000 on each charge with the alternative of 12 months’ imprisonment.

...and reaction

e certainly do live in an age of irony. On Sunday, the Muckraker ran a piece under the headline: “Corruption issue takes centre stage at investment seminar”. And, of course, they revelled in the fact that the American, British and Canadian (ABC) ambassadors had joined in their dirge about “corruption” being an epidemic in Guyana. They forget that all countries, especially these three old hands at the game, followed the maxim of always acting in their own interest. The Muckraker, not surprisingly, never bothered to ask as to what interest the ABC had in painting Guyana with the brush of “corruption”. It was just happy the government would have mud on its face. And it would sell more papers. But three days later, they ran another story under the headline – and this was the irony: “Bad news chasing good money away from the Caribbean”. They didn’t realise they were describing precisely what their reporting had done to Guyana. They described the devastating effect financial flight can have when reacting to “bad” news created inside countries. Look what had happened back in 1997 to some of the strongest economies in the world in the Far East when investors pulled out funds on “bad news” about economic fundamentals. Even South Korea was rocked. Such news becomes self-fulfilling as the perception becomes reality. And this is what the Muckraker ignored these past years. In Guyana, no one, including the president and his party, has ever denied that there is corruption. Guyana would be unique in the world if this were so. Every country has corruption – for the simple reason that when we say “country” we are talking in the end about people. And people aren’t perfect. But it’s the extent of the corruption that is disputed. The way the Muckraker and the rest of the opposition – and now the ABC ambassadors – have gone on, you’d think that every penny spent by the government has been pilfered. So how do they explain the progress in infrastructure, social services, and the general economy in which the government dominates with its public investment programme? Were these achieved by the wave of a wand without any funds being utilised for the public weal? Centuries ago, Sir Isaac Newton proposed that “action and reaction are equal – and opposite.” To the nasty and vindictive action of painting Guyana with the brush of “corruption”, there has been the just as nasty and vindictive reaction of the perception that “if they say so, it must be so”.

...and perception

But we know that while “perception” becomes the reality in the minds of the ordinary folks, this does not mean that “reality” is matched by what actually exists in the real world. So when one participant at the “Paint Guyana Corrupt Conference” said “if perception is reality, then change is mandatory”, all it proved that wisdom does not ineluctably flow just because words rhyme. The question is, do we change the distorted and false conclusions that have been implanted in the minds of the people or do we change the empirical reality that was – at a minimum – never as bad as the naysayers had painted it? From the answers at the “Conference”, it was clear that they would leave the people in their state of confusion and change what is not necessarily broken. Or not as badly broken as painted. We say that if ABC ambassadors can accept that financial flight based on rumours can destabilise the global economy, they must not join in rumour mongering in Guyana. Guyana will be destabilised and their motives will inevitably be questioned.

...strong response

The wordsmith that came up with the rhyme about perception, “reality”, and “mandatory” action cited Singapore as the model to which we should all aspire. Really? And the ABC ambassadors agree? Singapore’s model of democracy has been widely condemned as “authoritarian”, exclusionary, and “high handed”. Maybe our government should imitate it then.

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Former coastguards sentenced to death for gold miner’s murder according to the prosecution witnesses. The judge said the prosecution case is that the accused committed the act of murder “jointly”. Prosecutor Judith Gildharie-Mursalin represented the state’s case while Attorney Peter Hugh and Lachmie Rahamat repre-

Devon Gordon

Sherwin Hart

hree former coastguards of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were on Tuesday sentenced to death for killing a young gold dealer back in 2009 after robbing him of some $17 million and dumping his body in the Essequibo River. Family members of the late Dweive Kant Ramdass shouted for joy when the 12-member jury returned the unanimous guilty verdict before Justice Franklyn Holder at the Suddie High Court. The condemned former coastguards are Devon Gordon, Sherwin Hart and Deon Greenidge. Their lawyers said they will appeal the decision. The death sentence for the trio was read after the jury returned with the guilty verdict. During the sentencing, family members of the accused coastguards broke down in tears while the death sentence was read out. The deliberation period commenced on 16:27h and concluded on 17:05h. Before handing down his sentence, Justice Holder asked the accused if they had anything to say and again they proclaimed their innocence. In court, one of the accused lawyers Latchmie Rahamat said the former army ranks will appeal the decision. According Rahamat, the pathologist who performed the autopsy on the remains of the gold miner revealed that he died on August 21, 2009. Rahamat said the defence case will continue to hold that the coastguards are not guilty because they were in police custody on August 20,

2009. Speaking to the court and the jury, Justice Holder gave a detailed summary of the case. The case commenced sharply at 10:00h. The courtroom was packed with family members of the deceased as well as the accused coast -guards. Justice Holder told the jury that the law must be applied to the case and circumstantial evidence is important to note. He asked the jury to consider carefully the testimonies of each witness.

Deon Greenidge

Justice Holder told the court and the jury that 16 witnesses testified in the matter, one being a civilian who he named as pathologist Dr Vivekanand Bridgmohan and others being police officers. Justice Holder said the state is relying on the evidence to justify the case with the principles of law such as “Felony murder” “Common design-joint enterprise” being applied. Holder said the murder of the gold miner is suspected to be a joint venture,

Local gunmen attack TT vessel after captain refuses to fetch drugs

Trinidad and Tobago cargo vessel came under fire on Friday last after the captain reportedly refused to transport drugs to the twin island republic. Criminal Investigations Chief Seelall Persaud told Guyana Times that he is aware of the incident, but no official report was made in Guyana so they cannot act on the issue. Persaud noted that if the matter was reported in Trinidad, then the officials there would have made contact with the Guyana Police Force, but so far, this has not been done. According to the Trinidadian Express, Coast Guard, Lieutenant Commander Kirk JeanBaptiste, said on Monday that the 1000-feet long vessel Adorra docked in Guyana

sometime last month with a shipment of coconut water; however, the crew extended their stay. Then on Friday’s date, the captain of the vessel was approached and offered money to transport drugs to the twin island republic, but he refused. His refusal reportedly aggravated the other persons who verbally threatened the captain and his crew. The men also opened fire on the vessel, forcing the captain to leave Guyana immediately. Jean-Baptiste said that after leaving Guyana, the captain of the vessel was in contact with the Trinidad coast guard via radio. The captained sailed to Chaguaramas Bay on Sunday. The matter is currently being investigated by the police officers and custom officials, the Trinidadian Express stated.

sented the three accused. Reacting to the sentence handed down by Justice Holder, family members of Ramdass said they are satisfied with the decision. They commended the effort of Justice Franklyn Holder and the jury for the deci-

sion. The family members, who travelled from Bartica to hear the judge’s decision, said they were anticipating the moment four years now. Brother of the deceased, Richard Ramdass said “I really admired the way the prosecution took the evi-

dence,” noting that losing his brother was very emotional. He said his brother was only 23 years old when his life was brutally snatched away from him. Ramdass said due to his brother’s death, his family diverted from gold business to construction due to fear.

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Region Six RDC issues $91M in contracts

Caribbean man

S The contract document being handed over to one of the contractors

erbice residents are to benefit from the signing of 17 contracts for developmental works in the region totalling $91 million. The contracts were signed on Tuesday at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) boardroom in New Amsterdam. They will see bridges being constructed on the East Bank of Berbice, facilities for doctors being upgraded in New Amsterdam, and schools and roads being rehabilitated on the Corentyne, while in Orealla along the Corentyne River, work will be done on the river defence. The Amerindian community, which is situated 50 miles upriver from Corriverton and home to 1500 residents will benefit from an $8.4 million contract to carry out revetment work in the village along the Corentyne border. In addition, two schools along the Corentyne coast are to be rehabilitated at a total cost of $7.5 mil-

lion. The schools, Belvedere Primary and Albion Front Nursery will be extended. At Highbury, $7.5 million will be spent on development, while in the next village, Light Town $6.5 million will be spent to construct a bridge to help farmers. Also, the Region Six administration has awarded a contract worth $5.4 million to carry excavation work in the Enfield-New Doe Park Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC). In the town of New Amsterdam, $12.7 million will be spent on the health sector under three separate contracts which will see several buildings that house doctors being renovated and a shed being constructed at the Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA). Regional Vice Chairman Bhaupaul Jhagroo, speaking at a simple signing ceremony, noted that the administration will not be accepting sloppy work. “As chairman of the Works Committee, I

sometimes have difficulty in passing the work some contractors do.” He took the opportunity to thank the contractors who were given work by the RDC last year, and urged them to do better this year. “There is always room to do better,” he said. Contracts were also signed for Health Centre Street in Cumberland, East Canje to be upgraded and the Edinburgh Community Centre Street to be rehabilitated. According to the regional vice chairman, a bridge will also be constructed at Warren on the East Coast of Berbice. Once contractors go past the stipulated deadline for the completion of contracts, a liability clause will be applied. The liability period has been extended from three months to six months. The signing took place in the presence of the respective NDC chairmen who were given a copy of the contract for work that will be carried out in their area.

atiricus was puzzled. He’d just enjoyed his Caribbean Community (Caricom) Day holiday. Nothing big as usual. Just “throwing back” with the boys at the backstreet dive. Banks and cutters and a good gyaaf. What could be more Caribbean than that? But here were these politicians from all the territories meeting in Trinidad and Tobago to “mull over” ways to make the Caribbean develop. Forty years after Caricom was launched, and they were still “mulling”??? Something was wrong. Satiricus and the boys knew that problem had been solved long ago. The calypsonian Black Stalin had solved it in 1979, when he won the Calypso March Monarchy that year with “Caribbean Unity”. Like everybody else, Satiricus always called it “Caribbean Man”. It was the only song played on Caricom Day in the backstreet bar. (You try with a federation De whole ting get in confusion Caricom and then Carifta But somehow ah smelling disaster Mister West Indian politician I mean yuh went to big institution And how come you cyah unite seven million When ah West Indian unity, I know is very easy If you only rap to yuh people and tell dem like me, dem is...) But it was in the chorus – which Satiricus and the boys would join in with increasing gusto as the day progressed – that had the answer: One race (de Caribbean man) From de same place (de Caribbean man) Dat make de same trip (de Caribbean man) On de same ship (de Caribbean man) So we must push one common intention Is for a better life in de region

For we woman, and we children Dat must be de ambition of de Caribbean man De Caribbean man, de Caribbean man Satiricus remembered that there was some confusion back in the day about what Stalin meant by “one race”. But it was explained that he was talking about what we would call “one people” in our National Motto. The “one place” was the poor, raped Africa and Asia. Didn’t the politicians know if we saw each other as one people, we would work together as one, and not try to go it alone?? (You say dat de federation Was imported quite from England And you going and form ah Carifta With ah true West Indian flavour But when Carifta started running Morning, noon and night all ah hearing Is just money speech dem prime minister giving Well I say no set ah money, could form ah unity First of all your people need their identity, like... [chorus]) Imagine way back in 1979, Stalin could conclude: Caricom is wasting time De whole Caribbean gone blind If we don’t know from where we comin’ Then we cyah plan where we goin Dats why some want to be communist But then some want to be socialist And one set ah religion to add to de foolishness Look ah man who doh know his history He have bought no unity How could ah man who do know his roots form his own ideology, like... [chorus]) And if Stalin could see that then, what was there to “mull over” now, thought Satiricus.

11 News

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

Govt still has concerns over local government bills W eeks before the Local Government Reform Report is presented to the National Assembly, the government said there remains a number of contentious issues at the level of the Local Government Special Select Committee, to be addressed. Addressing a news conference at his Kingston Office on Tuesday, Local Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persaud said Guyana has been misled into believing that the work of the committee has been completed. “We have not completed the work at the select committee, but much progress was made during the last meeting on Friday.” In making his concerns known, the minister requested that several contentious issues be addressed as he alluded to the four bills. The bills which are before the committee are the Fiscal Transfers Bill, the Municipals and District Councils (Amendment) Bill, the Local Government (Amendment) Bill and the Local Government Commission Bill.

Major problem

On the Local Government Commission Bill, Persaud told media operatives that the composition of the commission remains a major problem. “I raised the issue with the view of seeking consensus. The majority (opposition) again decided that they were not willing to open that issue and so we didn’t get far with that one,” the minister explained. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) members on the special select committee have been pushing for six persons to be appointed by the president, three based on the advice of the opposition and one to be appointed by the local government minister. However, prior to the Friday, June 28 meeting, the PPP/C's proposal was overruled by the opposition. The opposition without the support of the ruling party, agreed to have the president appoint three members to the commission, another three based on the recommendations of the opposition leader and one to be appointed by a trade union. Meanwhile, without giving much detail, Persaud said some decisions made during the initial stages on the Municipals and District Council’s Act and on the Local Government Amendment Bill were rescinded based on his intervention at the last meeting. “Because some of these would have embarrassed us seriously, if they had gone

Local Government Minister Ganga Persaud

Special Select Committee Chairman Basil Williams

to the floor of Parliament,” he said. Contacted for a comment, Local Government Special Select Committee Chairman Basil Williams said all of the bills have been completely scrutinised and agreed upon by members. Citing the Local Government Amendment Bill, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament said the opposition outnumbered the PPP/C, thereby remov-

ing the power vested in the local government minister to the Local Government Commission. Williams reiterated that all of the bills have been completed. “We are not opening anything for discussion,” the special select committee chairman said. Williams noted that currently the report on the four local government reform bills is being vetted. According to him, the committee is working to have

the report presented during the next sitting of the National Assembly on July 18. Late last month, the British High Commission, the European Union, U.S. embassy and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry renewed their calls for the bills to be passed in the National Assembly before recess set for August 10. Local Government Elections was last held in 1994.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Caricom summit Preparations for Berbice Expo moving apace opens today B C aribbean Community (Caricom) heads of government chairman and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will preside over the 34th meeting of heads of government which opens in Port of Spain this evening. Prime Minister PersadBissessar assumed the sixmonth rotational chairmanship on July 1. The meeting, which coincides with the observance of the 40th anniversary of Caricom, will see representation from all member states with only one not represented at the level of head of government. Three heads of government of associate members will also attend the meeting. In addition to Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, outgoing Chairman and Haitian President Michel Martelly, The Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie, Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, Grenada Prime Minister Keith Mitchell and Caricom Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque will address the opening ceremony at the Diplomatic Centre. The historic meeting which is being convened in the city where the found-

TT Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar (File photo)

ing Treaty of Chaguaramas was signed on July 4, 1973, will feature a re-enactment of the treaty signing on Thursday at the Chaguaramas Convention Centre. The heads of government will be in an all-day retreat on July 5. There will be a cultural event that evening featuring performers from the countries whose leaders signed the original treaty in 1973 – Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago – as well as from Haiti, Caricom’s newest member state.

High on the agenda at the meeting will be charting a new direction for growth and development; transportation, the reform process in Caricom and a proposal for a high-level meeting on persons with disabilities and special needs. Special guests at the meeting are Equatorial Guinea President and ACP Chairman Obiang Nguema, The Dominican Republic President Danilo Medina, and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The conference ends on July 6.

erbice Expo Coordinator Tajpaul Adjodhda said preparations for the upcoming trade fair are moving rapidly. The event slated for Wednesday, July 26 to 29 at the Albion Sports Complex, Berbice, is being held under the theme “Raising Our Standards, Enhancing Our Competitiveness”. Speaking to Guyana Times in a telephone interview on Tuesday, Adjodhda said about 50 per cent of the booths have already been reserved, pointing out that the aim is to have about 150. He said the response from exhibitors has been “good” so far compared to previous years, expressing hope that this year’s expo will be the largest the county has seen. Adjodhda is optimistic that after the International Building Expo which is scheduled for this weekend, more businesses will indicate their intention to participate in the event, as many are currently busy preparing for this weekend’s event at the Guyana National Stadium. The Berbice Expo coordinator also disclosed that the Corentyne Chambers of Commerce is working

closely with the Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) to get Venezuela and Brazil onboard to the event. “We are hopeful that Brazil and Venezuela will take part in the expo, currently, we are in discussions with the two countries,” he said. Thus far, Suriname has already indicated its intention to participate in the event and has reserved about five to six booths. The coordinator noting the importance of the participation of foreign countries, pointed out that this will aid local and foreign businesses in building linkages. He stated that at this year’s expo, “we are looking to promote businesses in Berbice and to build relationships with small businesses in Berbice and businesses in Georgetown.” Adjodhda said over the years, the expo has been beneficial to businesses in Berbice since the owners often take pattern from larger businesses in Georgetown, noting that a large number of Berbice business owners utilise the event as an enlightenment forum. Apart from being a business forum, the coordina-

tor stated that the expo will be providing entertainment as well, highlighting that a live band will be there each night, along with several other excitements. He said patrons have already disclosed their enthusiasm for the upcoming event. He stated too that many Berbicians overseas plan their vacation around the time of the expo. Adjodhda commended businesses that have come onboard to sponsor this annual event. Sponsors include Digicel Guyana, Beharry Group of Companies, E-networks, Comfort Suites, Demerara Bank, Metro, Banks DIH, Demerara Distillers Limited, ANSA McAL and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T). An estimated $15 million is budgeted for the hosting of the event. The expo showcases the products made in Berbice and other parts of the country. It has seen remarkable improvement since the annual event was first held in 2005. In the first year, some 5000 persons attended the four-day event, while in 2012, 25,000 attended. This year, the chamber is predicting an even bigger turn out.

Right to trade must be a WTO rule – Commonwealth report

obel prize-winning economist Professor Joseph Stiglitz called for a ‘right to trade’ to be enshrined in the rules of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and enforced through its dispute settlement system in a new report for The Commonwealth on June 26. In “The Right to Trade: Rethinking the Aid for Trade Agenda”, authors Professor Stiglitz and Andrew Charlton propose a ‘right to trade’ mechanism that would enable countries to bring legal action to the WTO against states whose policies restrict their ability to trade. Professor Stiglitz said at the launch: “Despite some successful projects, aid for trade has been a disappointment. The aid goes through bilateral channels according to the priorities of the donors, not recipients. “The WTO is a legal framework that attempts to enshrine some rights. We’re saying the ‘right to development’ and the ‘right to trade’ should be part of the legal framework of the WTO.” The authors added that any group of individuals harmed by the actions of another country would also have the right to bring their case to the WTO. They also propose a Global Trade Facility – a dedicated fund to which all aid donors would contribute resources based on their needs, which would go towards aid for trade. The report was launched at the WTO at a Commonwealth Secretariat workshop on improving the integration of least developed and small and vulnerable economies in the

Professor Joseph Stiglitz (left) and Commonwealth Secretariat Economic Affairs Director Cyrus Rustomjee with the report for the Commonwealth “The Right to Trade: Rethinking the Aid for Trade Agenda”

multilateral trading system. Participants at the workshop and launch included policymakers and trade negotiators and experts from across the globe, senior officials of the WTO, UNCTAD and other international organisations. Professor Stiglitz said: “I believe that there is scope for an effective aid for trade agenda that would lessen supply side constraints and offset some of the increases in inequality and poverty that result from trade liberalisation. “A recognition of a right to development and trade as an enforcement mechanism in the WTO framework would ensure aid for trade works for poorer countries.” C o m m o n w e a l t h Secretariat Economic Affairs Director Cyrus Rustomjee, said: “Over many years, The Commonwealth has focused on systemic issues in the functioning of the WTO to advance

the Doha Round, which aims to reform the international trading system to improve the trade prospects of developing countries. We’re very strongly committed to the successful conclusion to the round and a strong multilateral trading system.” The discussions at the workshop − organised by The Commonwealth’s London and Geneva-based offices − will benefit countries preparing for the forthcoming Global Review of Aid for Trade in Geneva in July and the ninth WTO Ministerial Conference in Bali, Indonesia, in December. On July 25, The Commonwealth also launched a practical guide on getting the most out of trade negotiations for small states – “Negotiating Against The Odds: A Guide for Trade Negotiators from Developing Countries”.

wednesday, july 3, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

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News

Barbados facing very serious Duo charged with BlackBerry robbery economic challenges, says PM T

Bds$400 million fiscal adjustment programme is needed if Barabdos is to stave off economic doom, Prime Minister Freundel Stuart said, as he gave the closing address at last Thursday’s one-day national private/public sector consultation on the economy. He told those gathered that this country was facing “serious problems of debt and deficit” and stressed that if the present challenges were to be overcome, then the cooperation of all Barbadians, in what he termed “this mighty effort”, would be required. “The governor of the Central Bank was very clear that we have to make a very serious adjustment if we are to eschew the prospect of economic damage being done to Barbados. He contends that we need to do about a 4.4 [per cent] adjust-

Prime Minister Freundel Stuart and Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Stephen Lashley in discussion with businessman Bjorn Bjerkman at last week’s national private/public sector consultation on the economy

ment and that 4.4 adjustment translates into about Bds$400 million in the short-term. Now short and sharp interventions can lead to short and sharp responses and that is a fact which we must bear in mind. I think, therefore, that we have to continue the dialogue. “But the reality is that we have problems. These

problems are not problems of a nature, quality and kind that we can claim to be new. We’ve had these problems before, what we’re dealing with here is the gravity of the problem. And, as I said this morning, the extent to which the problems have been able to sustain themselves over as long a period as they have,” he said. (Excerpt

from Caribbean News Now)

TT PM says Jack Warner was a liability to Peoples’ Partnership

inutes after Jack Warner announced his intention to contest the Chaguanas West by-election, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said his request to be returned as a member of parliament on a United National Congress (UNC) ticket was disrespectful to the party. She admitted too that keeping him in the cabinet would have caused irreparable damage to the government, noting

he resigned from the cabinet “on his own volition” because of matters involving him which are still in the public domain. She said those matters related to Warner’s previous position as a vice president of world football governing body FIFA. Persad-Bissessar said: “To date he has not provided compelling evidence to refute the allegations. You cannot separate those matters from his position as a minister, since it

has the potential to do irreparable damage to the government and the image of our country.” The prime minister said Warner’s decision to resign was taken unilaterally. “No one asked him to resign. Recognising the magnitude of what was revealed in the (Concacaf) Ethics Committee report from Panama, he offered his resignation as minister of national security and I accepted, as is my right.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Caricom heads to consider new direction

he effects of the current economic climate on member states of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and the framework within which the community can achieve growth and development will be a major agenda item at the upcoming 34th meeting of

the conference of heads of government of Caricom. The meeting begins in Port of Spain, Trinidad with an opening ceremony on the evening of July 3, with working sessions beginning today and ending on July 6. The current economic scenario, including the slow

recovery from the global financial and economic crises, heavy debt burdens and other exogenous developments such as the policy of graduation by international financial institutions which have had debilitating effects on the economies of Caricom. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

wo men charged with robbery appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday. Alfred Benjamin, 25, of Lot 8 Drysdale Street, Charlestown pleaded not guilty, Kimp Beckles, 47, of Lot 128 East La Penitence pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that on June 29 at Croal Street, Georgetown, they robbed Lakeraj Beharry of one BlackBerry valued at $40,000 and $3550 cash. In applying the Administration of Justice Act, the magistrate asked both defendants if they wished to have their matters heard at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. While Benjamin gave an affirmative nod, Beckles indicated that he wished for his case to be heard at the High Court. The magistrate pointed out that his matter would con-

clude faster if it was heard at the magistrates’ court, and Beckles withdrew his request. According to reports, on June 29 about 22:30h Beckles met with a friend at Tavern Night Club and Bar. The Virtual Complainant (VC) was proceeding down the stairway to exit the nightclub when Beckles pushed his hands into the VC’s pockets, relieved him of articles mentioned in the charge, and made good his escape. A plainclothes police officer was alerted to the crime by the VC who pointed out Beckles, who was subsequently arrested. In his defence, Beckles said he was wrongfully accused, as Beharry had mashed his foot and he merely approached him to ask if he could not apologise. He added that he has a hole in his foot, even if he wanted to commit a robbery, he

would not because he would not get very far. The magistrate then entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf after listening to his explanation. Benjamin, on the other hand, stated that he came out of the ‘bush’ two weeks, and he was heading out of the club when the police officer got aggressive and pulled his jersey. He told the court that he requested that the police officer let go of his clothing, since they were expensive. He added that he has served 12 years in prison and has not had a conflict with the police, since he stays away from them. He alleged that the police told him if he knows what is good for him, he would shut up and he was hit on his mouth with the police weapon. The magistrate remanded both defendants to prison and they will appear in Court Six on July 11.

PetroCaribe summit adopts new economic, social projects

he eighth summit of heads of state and governments of the PetroCaribe regional energy integration bloc concluded on Saturday in Nicaragua after adopting new projects to boost regional economic development and social investment in the fields of education, food and health. During the summit’s closing session, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said that the objectives of the forum were largely met

in favour of integration and the fight on poverty. The leaders of the region noted that PetroCaribe is the result of the humane and supportive spirit of the late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chávez and former Cuban President Fidel Castro, who were the creators of PetroCaribe and the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of our Americas (ALBA) regional integration bloc. The PetroCaribe summit adopted the increase of

investment in the sectors of maritime and air transportation, tourism, trade telecommunications, and production. The forum adopted three plans of action, aimed at the eradication of illiteracy and the improvement of the quality of education and cultural instruction; the expansion of the free-eye-surgery programme known as Operation Miracle, and the enhancement of food production programmes.(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Jamaica: Police officer ambushed, killed

police sergeant assigned to the Protective Services Division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force was on Monday ambushed and shot dead as he walked home on Sunrise Crescent in St Andrew. He has been identified as Alphanso Gossop, the bodyguard assigned to Denise Eldermire-Shearer — widow of former Prime Minister

Andre Gossop, a police officer assigned to the Protective Services Division, is being comforted by a colleague as he stood metres away from the body of his uncle, who was killed on Sunrise Crescent in Kingston on Monday

Hugh Shearer. He was in his mid 50s. In a swift response, the police intercepted a Nissan Tida motor car — believed to be the getaway vehicle near Half-Way-Tree, the St Andrew capital — and arrested its four male occupants. The vehicle was also seized. According to the Constabulary Communication Network, Sergeant Gossop was walking home at minutes after 17:00h when he was shot and killed by men

who were travelling in a Nissan Tida motor car. The attack happened a few metres from his home. It was not clear if his firearm was taken. As news of the shooting spread, scores of people rushed to the scene where Sergeant Gossop’s body lay, blood seeping from his mouth and side. Many speculated as to the motive behind his gruesome death. One woman suggested that it may have been a reprisal killing. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Global Technology celebrates Apple’s first anniversary in Guyana

Dena James pulls the winner of the iPhone5

lobal Technology Inc, Guyana’s only authorised reseller of Apple products on Tuesday held their Fathers’ Day promotion draw for the winning prize of an iPhone5 as part of Apple’s first anniversary in Guyana. According to Chief Executive Officer George Melville, the iPhone5 data plan will run on the I-net network, which will see full connectivity in September. “Hopefully, the I-net communications will be up for GuyExpo to offer its services,” Melville said. In this regards, Melville revealed

that another promotion draw at the end of July will see Global Technology customers having a chance to win free five meg Internet connections for a year. The winner of the iPhone5 Anthony Islam, receipt number 94574 of Enmore, East Coast Demerara, was pulled by Dena James, a journalist at the drawing. Some of the gadgets displayed included the iPad Mini, iPad4, iPhone4 and iPhone5. Meanwhile, Melville noted that all Apple products purchased from Global Technology carry a one-year warranty.

Global Technology Inc is currently focusing on iPhones and other Apple products as its new technological advancements here, with efficient connectivity available for data plans through their telecommunications partner, I-net telecommunications. Melville is encouraging persons to choose Apple products over any other brand of technology, pointing out that they can be used for a variety of purposes, including as an instrument of learning. Global Technology is a growing establishment in the area of technology.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Caribbean

JSE bond market launched

ompanies are now able to list bonds on the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE), which will give a wider pool of investors access to debt instruments. The JSE is currently reviewing the minimum amount, also called a board lot that investors can buy into the bond market but it should be in the region of J$10,000 increments. And while no corporate bonds — instruments issued

by an entity for the purpose of borrowing money from investors for a defined period of time at an interest rate — are ready to be listed, the stock exchange is waiving the fee to do so for the rest of 2013. “The bond market is designed to facilitate the trading of bonds whether they are corporate bonds, government of Jamaica securities, or the securities of any other sovereign Caricom nation,” said Marlene Street Forrest,

JSE general manager. “The JSE Group has the platforms through which issuers of corporate bonds can raise capital on the primary market and list on the JSE. “Equally, those corporate bonds that have already been floated privately can still be listed on the exchange.” The idea behind the JSE bond market, is to facilitate the trading of bonds with the aim to increase efficiency, transparency and liquidity. (Jamaica Observer)

North America

Firefox gets into the smartphone business

new smartphone operating system is joining the fray. Mozilla released a phone running its new Firefox OS in Spain on Monday, joining leading mobile operating systems Android and iOS, as well as smaller players Windows Phone and BlackBerry. The ZTE Open and Alcatel OneTouch Fire are very basic phones with 3.5inch screens, entry-level specs and appealingly low price tags. Telefonica will

sell the ZTE Open in Spain starting July 2 for 69 euros, or about US$90. Nonprofit company Mozilla is trying to shake up the typical closed app ecosystems with the Firefox OS. Built using open Web standards, it will appeal to the estimated eight million Web developers who can jump right in and start creating HTML 5 apps for the phones. There is no timeline for when the phone will come to the United States. For

now, Mozilla is focusing on emerging markets such as Spain, Poland, Colombia, Venezuela and eventually Brazil, where an iPhone is prohibitively expensive for most people. “For many of the users, this will be the first smartphone they would purchase,” said Chris Lee, who heads the product team for Firefox OS. Firefox OS is rolling out in locations where significant portions of the population are still using feature phones. (CNN)

Europe Greece has three days to deliver or face consequences – EU officials

reece has three days to reassure Europe and the International Monetary Fund it can deliver on conditions attached to its international bailout in order to receive the next tranche of aid, four euro zone officials said on Tuesday. The lenders are unhappy with progress Greece has made towards reforming its public sector, a senior euro

zone official involved in the negotiations said, while another said they might suspend an inspection visit they resumed on Monday. Athens, which has about 2.2 billion euros of bonds to redeem in August, needs the talks to conclude successfully. If they fail, the International Monetary Fund might have to withdraw from the 240 billion

Market statistics Cambio Rates

Gold Prices – Guyana Gold Board

Bank of Guyana

Cur

euro bailout to avoid violating its own rules, which require a borrower to be financed a year ahead. That would heighten the risk that concerted efforts by policymakers over the past nine months to keep a lid on the euro zone crisis could unravel, at a time when tensions are rising in other countries on the region’s periphery. (Reuters)

Fixed as at June 18, 2013 Calculated at 94% purity

U.S.

$1366.75

Buying

Selling

GBP

$310.58

$344.58

Cambio

CAN

$161.50

$181.42

Gross

$260,585

USD

$198.42

$205.58

Net

$242,344

Selling

$268,875

$202.83

Indicators as on July 1, 2013 Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask

$1252.60

$1253.60

Low/High

$1230.80

$1263.40

+17.30

+1.40

Change July 2 USD GBP EUR July 1 USD GBP EUR

London Gold Fix AM 1260.75 829.93 967.95 AM 1243.50

816.27 921.89

Indicators

USD Per Once

Crude Oil Price Silver Platinum

US$ per barrel

Change %

$103.00

+0.12

USD per Ounce

Change %

$19.66

+1.15

$1339.00

+25.00

PM 1252.50 826.30 963.17 PM 1242.75 816.10 953.83

Africa Power sector ready for “stampede”of investment – General Electric

he U.S.-based multinational General Electric, which points to a 100year record of involvement in Africa, is one of the companies participating in the Power Africa initiative, announced during President Obama’s Africa visit, designed to double access to electricity across sub Saharan Africa. GE is expanding operations in several places, perhaps most aggressively in Nigeria. Last year, GE and the

Federal Government of Nigeria signed three Memorandum of Understanding agreements (MoUs) outlining cooperation in the energy, healthcare and rail transportation sectors. Ground-breaking for a US$250 million manufacturing facility in the port city of Calabar took place two weeks ago. Lazarus Angbazo, president and CEO of GE Nigeria, discussed the company’s growth strategy in an interview with Reed Kramer in

Abuja last month. Excerpts: * Why has GE decided to enlarge operations in Nigeria? This is a country where the GE portfolio – the full GE portfolio – fits perfectly in terms of the need of the country and the capabilities of the country. * You can’t get away from the fundamentals of this country – 170 million people with tremendous natural wealth [and] and an unbelievable entrepreneur spirit. (allAfrica)

Asia

Mitsubishi UFJ to buy control of Thailand’s Bank of Ayudhya

apan’s Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) is planning to buy a controlling stake in Thailand’s Bank of Ayudhya. Japan’s biggest lender has agreed to buy a 75 per cent stake in the Thai bank for up to US$5.6 billion (£3.7 billion). If the deal goes through it would be the biggest purchase in South East Asia by a Japanese bank. The deal would also see General

Electric end its investment in Ayudhya, which goes back to 2007 when it bought a 33 per cent stake in the bank. Attracted by bright

growth prospects, Japanese financial firms have been expanding in South East Asia. In May, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group’s bought a US$1.5 billion stake in Indonesia’s Bank Tabungan Pensiunan Nasional. The offer from MUFG still needs approval from Thailand’s Finance Ministry, but in a briefing the Japanese bank expressed confidence that the deal would go through. (BBC News)

Middle East

New Abu Dhabi airport terminal to open Q3 2017

bu Dhabi International Airport’s new AED11.7 billion (US$3.2 billion) midfield terminal complex will become operational in the third quarter of 2017, according to the holding company’s CEO Tony Douglas. Another senior executive at Abu Dhabi Airports Company had previously said that the new terminal would be open in the first half of 2017 following a completion date in 2016. The 700,000 square metre facility is expected to boost

the capacity of the UAE capital’s airport to 30 million passengers per year and will also become the home of Etihad Airways, the Gulf state’s flag carrier. “By 2017, Abu Dhabi Airport will open its midfield terminal, which will be very much a highpoint in airport infrastructure anywhere in the world,” Douglas told journalists at a press conference in Abu Dhabi. Authorities in the emirate are investing heavily in transforming Abu Dhabi into a transport hub to rival neigh-

bouring Dubai, which currently has a capacity of about 75 million passengers per year, with the new Al Maktoum International hub expected to be able to accommodate 160 million upon full completion. Abu Dhabi’s capacity is currently about 12.5 million per year. Fellow Gulf state Qatar is also expected to open its long delayed Hamad International Airport later this year, which should be able to handle around 50 million passengers annually. (Arabianbusiness)

Investors' guide

What I learnt from Steve Jobs When looking for role models, admire the trait, but don’t worship the person. Don’t expect to find perfect role models. People are complex creatures, each with much that’s worth emulating and much that’s not. Steve Jobs was no different in this regard. He had much to teach about how to succeed in business, but he also had many personality traits that I wouldn’t advise modelling yourself after. With any role model, focus on the traits they have that you think will help you move in the direction of the career and life that you want. Make something for yourself Jobs and Wozniak built the first Apple for themselves because computers at the time were too expensive for

them to afford. When their friends saw it, they wanted them too, so the Steves built a kit which enabled their friends to build their computers quickly. Then a local store wanted several dozen pre-built computers, and they realised the retail market was a much bigger opportunity than the do-it-yourself hobbyist market. That’s how Apple got started. Many other successful companies were also born from entrepreneurs creating something that they wanted for themselves, or something that removed a pain point from their lives. By starting a company that makes a product or service you want to use, you’ll be able to better judge its quality, and you’ll also be more passionate about it.

(CONCLUSION)

The execution matters more than the idea The idea is the easy part. Getting from a great idea to a great product requires genius, craftsmanship and toil to navigate the problems, opportunities, interconnections, subtleties and tradeoffs. This is under-appreciated by most people because when it’s done right, the product’s users don’t know about these complexities; the product just works the way it should. Hire the best people you can For most things in life, the difference in magnitude between ideal and average is two to one, or less. This isn’t the case in some fields, such as innovative technology product development. Here, sometimes the difference is 10 to one. (Business Dictionary)

Business concept – Entrepreneur

Last: 14932.41

Changes: -42.55

% Change: -0.28

Open: 14973.04

High: 15049.22

Low: 14870.51

% YTD: +13.95

52Wk Hi: 15398.48

52 Wk Lo: 12035.09

Someone who exercises initiative by organising a venture to take benefit of an opportunity and, as the decision maker, decides what, how, and how much of a good or service will be produced. An entrepreneur supplies risk capital as a risk taker, and monitors and controls the business activities. The entrepreneur is usually a sole proprietor, a partner, or the one who owns the majority of shares in an incorporated venture. According to economist Joseph Alois Schumpeter (1883-1950), entrepreneurs are not necessarily motivated by profit but regard it as a standard for measuring achievement or success.

news

wednesday, july 3, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ramotar wants to work with U.S. on fighting crime By Leana Bradshaw

resident Donald Ramotar has highlighted his government’s willingness to work in partnership with the United States of America, in an effort to fight crime, terrorism, and trafficking in persons. The president extended the offer to the U.S. government through its ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt, as he joined him, other members of the diplomatic corps, and government officials in celebrating America’s 237th independence anniversary at a ceremony on Tuesday. Ramotar said as globalisation takes place, his administration is ready to work with the U.S. in combating corruption, which is occurring worldwide. He, therefore, lauded the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), which he deems important in contributing to national efforts. “We remain committed to the implementation of the various facets of that programme. I also would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the valuable partnership of the United States with the Caribbean in advancing another element of our security agenda, which is the region’s comprehensive disaster management strategy,” the president said. The head of state added that the regular funding provided through the U.S. to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDERA), for humanitarian assistance and programmes, has been improved to include assistance for the construction of a training facility and regional coordination centre with a warehouse that would also house the agency’s new headquarters in Barbados. He added, “We are looking forward to the completion of this project that will be another tangible demon-

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana D Brent Hardt shares a toast with President Donald Ramotar to the health of Guyanese and the strengthening of ties between America and Guyana, as well as the region

stration of the collaboration between the United States and the countries of the Caribbean in strengthening disaster management in the region.” As America celebrates its independence, Ramotar said, “The revolutionaries of 1776 continue to inspire people who want freedom”, and their achievements have encouraged Guyana’s own fight against colonialism, as he pointed to late President Dr Cheddi Jagan. He said in the last 237 years of independence, the people of the USA have built an economy that is the largest in the world, with the most powerful military industry. He congratulated America on reaching yet another milestone, noting that its independence is one of the most important events in the history of the hemisphere. “Bilateral relations have evolved since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1966 (when Guyana achieved her independence) and I’m happy to say we enjoy friendly relations with the United States,” Ramotar said. “We must continue to

strengthen this friendship, abiding always with the principles of mutual respect, understanding, and non-interference in each other’s affairs.”

Courage

Addressing the gathering, the U.S. ambassador said: “We are reminded how unlikely it was our American experiment would succeed at all, that a small band of courageous patriots could declare independence from a powerful empire to form what the Old World had never known.” He also highlighted Guyana’s similarities and existing relations with the U.S., noting that both Guyana and the U.S. have diverse indigenous populations with long histories and cultural traditions that enrich their nations. “Looking back since last July 4, relations between the United States and Guyana, and the U.S. and the Caribbean Community have never been closer or more dynamic,” Hardt stated. He pointed out that in working with the people of the region, much has been accomplished and

Sophia man acquitted of murder

fter spending four years incarcerated, a Sophia, Georgetown man was acquitted on a murder charge following a unanimous verdict of not guilty by the jury. Romo Andrews was indicted with the murder of 38-year-old Andrew Thomas of North Sophia, between August 16 and 17, 2009. He had pleaded not guilty to the indictment when it was read to him. The trial began two weeks ago before Justice James Bovell Drakes and a 12-member jury panel. The prosecution, led by state counsels Natasha Backer and Dhanika Singh, presented several witnesses to testify against Andrews.

The prosecution closed its case a week ago, after which Andrews was called up to lead his defence and he elected to do so by giving an unsworn statement from the dock. Andrews told the court that on the day in question, he and Thomas had an altercation during which the now dead man pulled out a dog chain from his waist and was about to hit him when he became fearful for his life and lashed the man before running away. Andrews’ attorney, Hukumchand Parag, then closed the defence’s case, and the prosecution and the defence delivered their closing addresses to the jury. On Tuesday, Justice

Bovell-Drakes summed up the evidence for the jury, explaining the law and what was required of them. The panel then retired to the jury room and returned some two hours later with a unanimous verdict of not guilty. They also unanimously found the man not guilty of the lesser count manslaughter. Andrews was then freed by the court. According to reports from the incident, the accused and the deceased had a “beef” the week before the incident and this had caused problems between them. Thomas died of shock and haemorrhage, according to state pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh.

with continued mutual support, more can be done. Hardt highlighted too the CBSI project, through which “DEA [Drug Enforcement Agency] trainers conducted a counternarcotics investigators course for Guyana’s anti-narcotics units”. The U.S. officially celebrates its independence anniversary on July 4; however, it was on July 2, delegates to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia took the fateful step towards independence. July 4 stands as a symbol to Americans and to many worldwide of the ideals of liberty, freedom, and independence.

Man charged with possession of cannabis, cocaine

n Tuesday, a 48-yearold man was brought before Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan on a charge of possession of narcotics. It is alleged that on June 28 at Carmichael Street, Dexter Cross had in his possession 15.5 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking, along with 2.5 grams of cocaine with utensils for smoking it. It is also alleged that he resisted arrest. The defendant pleaded guilty with explanation. According to the facts read by Prosecutor Bharat Mangru, on the day in question, the suspect was seen by Constable Benjamin, who was in plainclothes at the time, acting in a suspicious manner with his fists clenched. A search was conducted on the defendant and the cocaine was found. A further search was conducted on his person and leaves, stems and seeds suspected to be cannabis were found in his pockets. Upon being told of the charges, the defendant pushed the police officer in an effort to resist arrest. The defendant was arrested and charged. According to the defendant, he lives in Berbice and on the day in question, he came to town with his boss. He stated that he does not know Georgetown very well and was on a bicycle on Carmichael Street when a police van approached him. He claimed that a police officer wearing a t-shirt

pushed him off the bicycle and began to kick and cuff him while he was on the ground. He said they then took him to the lockup, but officials there did not accept him because of his condition. He was subsequently taken to the hospital where he was treated by a doctor. After being treated, he was returned to the lockup where he presented the medical, but the police refused to take it. He added that the officers did not give him anything to eat although he had asked for some during his time there. According to him, two men who were also in the lockup were kind enough to give him something to eat. He pleaded with the court to have mercy on him, since it is his first matter in court. The prosecution objected to bail, stating that the defendant lives outside of Georgetown and if granted bail, he may not return to court for trial; also the defendant gave his address as 16 Pineapple Street, Wismar but had admitted to living in Mara. Cross was remanded to prison on the charges of possession of cocaine for trafficking and possession of a utensil for the purpose of smoking cocaine. He was then sentenced to three years in prison, along with a fine of $10,000, for possession of cannabis, and a fine of $15,000 for resisting arrest.

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2010 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ARCHIE

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) Because you’ll know how to put everyone at ease, you’ll be an asset at any social gathering. Most assuredly, your tactics will make you very popular.

DILBERT

(June 21July 22) You’re the one who can awaken enthusiasm in a friend who has been down in the dumps, because your words will carry more weight than you realise. Don’t hesitate to speak up.

AQUARIUS

LEO

(Jan. 20Feb. 19)

(July 23Aug. 22)

Your thoughtfulness toward your family and friends will be apparent. All the little things you do will show them that you really care and have their best interests at heart.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

CANCER

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) For whatever reason, you’ll be especially adept at endeavors that require a creative and imaginative mind. Be sure to utilise your skills to the fullest extent.

Once you’re certain that you are on solid ground, devote all your efforts to an ambitious project. Work hard and take things one step at a time.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) You might get an opportunity to teach a friend a valuable skill. However, first be sure that he or she is open to your suggestions.

PEANUTS

SUDOKU

ARIES

LIBRA

(March 21-April 19)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Don’t be indifferent to the suggestions of others when it comes to your commercial dealings. By the same token, don’t discount your own ideas, either. Consider everyone and everything.

To be successful, you won’t have to be bolder or stronger than your competitors, just smarter. While most of them are using their muscles, you should be using your head.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) It would be best not to employ an intermediary to pass on critical information to associates. If there is something important you need others to hear, communicate it yourself.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) It’s important to keep an open and receptive mind at all times. There’s a good chance that a colleague could occasionally have better ideas than yours.

Tuesday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20) Many times, others’ tips about ways to make money are less than reliable. Today, however, you are likely to receive some inside info that is worthy of exploration.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Be reasonable about the size of the returns you expect for your efforts. What you accomplish might be acknowledged in small ways, but not necessarily on a grand scale.

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wednesday, july 3, 2013

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s a Guyanese living in Toronto for too long now, I don’t get to savour things Guyanese a lot, unless I make it myself. So when the Toronto Independence Day Festival came around June 23 (Still too cold here in Toronto on May 26) this year, I revelled in nationalist pride and wrapped myself in my flag for a day. Little did I know what was in store for me. A small group of eight children from Katiwau (Sand Creek), South Rupununi, a Wapishana cultural dance troupe, caused a storm of nationalist pride in being Guyanese and in particular,

Amerindian pride. From the devotion and dedication of Ms Dorothy Faria and the hard work of her Katiwau Cultural Dance Troupe came an outpouring of pride that has done more than the snow and ice of Canada to make me think it’s time to go home. Not that I haven’t thought of going home before, but this one single event has done more than anything ever has. These children have put Guyana, Sand Creek, and Amerindian culture on the map and have piqued interest in things Guyanese and in Amerindian culture. They were awe-inspiring with their energy, precision, poise and

passion, as they belted out their songs and dances in captivating and explosive performances that stole everyone’s hearts. They just tugged on everyone’s already pent up pride and quickly turned us all homesick. Of course, there were other Guyanese performers there and other Amerindian dance troupes at home that are deserving of praise, but it was good to know that Amerindian culture survived and their pride was palatable. Guyanese can be proud that a culture so old and original was the first strand of the fabric that weaves us all together.

guyanatimesGY.com

wednesday, july 3, 2013

Sri Lanka demolish CT13 champions P

Kaneria fails to overturn his life ban from cricket

Mahela Jayawardene

I N G S T O N , Jamaica – Commanding centuries from Upal Tharanga (174 not out) and Mahela Jayawardene (107) steered Sri Lanka to a mammoth 348 for one and a crushing 161-run victory over India in the third match of the Celkon Cup tri-nation series at Sabina Park on Tuesday. Sent in by the world champions, Sri Lanka blunted the Indian attack and played untroubled as their openers posted 213 for the first wicket , before

et for the Indians as Jayawardene, who also showed a return to form with his first ODI century in two years, was caught by Yadav playing a reversesweep. However, there was no let-up as the left-handed Tharanga changed gears and along with captain Angelo Matthews, Sri Lanka added another 135 for the second wicket off 11 overs. Tharanga seemed at his devastating best and also recorded his highest ODI score in helping Sri Lanka

SCOREBOARD Sri Lanka innings U Tharanga not out 174 M Jayawardene c Yadav b Ashwin 107 A Mathews* not out 44 Extras: (b1, lb6, w16) 23 Total (1 wicket off 50 overs) 348 Fall of wicket : 1-213 Bowling: Shami Ahmed 10-068-0, U Yadav 8-0-64-0, Sharma 9-0-68-0, R Jadeja 9-0-55-0, R Ashwin 10-0-67-1, V Kohli 2-0-9-0, S Raina 2-0-10-0, India innings RG Sharma c Mathews b Kulasekara 5 S Dhawan c Tharanga b Herath 24 M Vijay b Malinga 30 V Kohli* c Malinga b Mathews 2

the innings closed with a daunting 348 on the board for the lost of Jayawardene. India, who successfully chased 330 against Pakistan a year ago, were expected to challenge the opposition but the Sri Lankan bowlers proved too restrictive and the total too imposing for the reigning ODI champions. They were dismissed for 161 with five overs remaining. After a watchful start, where the first 50 came off 12 overs, Jayawardene, who slammed his century off 107 balls , and Tharanga brought up the 100 off 21.1 overs and kept the Indians toiling as they stretched their unbroken stand to 213 in the 39th over. At this stage, Ashwin picked up the lone wick-

D Karthik† st wkp Sangakkara b Herath 22 S Raina run out (Malinga/ Jayawardene) 33 R Jadeja not out 49 R Ashwin c Malinga b Senanayake 4 l Shami Ahmed b Senanayake 0 I Sharma c wkp Sangakkara b Herath 2 U Yadav b Malinga 0 Extras: (lb4, w12) 16 Total: (all out, 44.5 overs) 187 Fall of wickets: 1-12, 2-52, 3-57, 4-65, 5-118, 6-142, 7-153, 8-153, 9-166, 10-187 Bowling: K Kulasekara 90- 37-1, A Mathews 8 -223- 1, S Senanayake 10-046-2, H Herath 10-0-37-3, L Malinga 7.5-0-40-2 (1w)

Upal Tharanga

to post a historic 348 for one. The Indian bowlers seem bewildered by the situation and as their persistent length balls went for regular boundaries, Tharanga also showed remarkable acceleration. While his first 72 runs came off 105 balls, he hammered an additional 102 off just 54 balls while striking 19 fours and three sixes. When the Indians batted, they slipped into early trouble as opener Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 5, with the score on 12 off 4.2 overs, and never got into a position to threaten the Sri Lankans. They reached 50 in 14 overs and were 64 for four, losing captain Virat Kohli for 2, by the 19th over. Suresh Raina (33) and Dinesh Karthik (22) staged a minor fightback , putting on 53 for the fifth wicket bot once they were separated, with the score on 118 for five, the last five wickets managed just 69 runs. It was all over, Malinga fired a yorker into the stumps of Yadav in his eighth over. West Indies lead the tri-nation series with nine points, after victories over both Sri Lanka and Indi , and the Sri Lankans picked up four points for the win over India. (CMC/WICB)

akistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria has failed in his appeal against a life ban imposed by the ECB for corruption. Kaneria, 32, was banned by a disciplinary panel in June 2012 for spot-fixing while playing for Essex. He was found guilty of “cajoling and pressurising” team-mate Mervyn Westfield into accepting cash to concede a number of runs in a Pro40 match in 2009. Westfield, 25, was imprisoned for his part in the affair. He was also banned from professional cricket for five years, but the ECB appeal panel ruling stated that he can return to club cricket next April - three years before his ban is complete. ECB chairman Giles Clarke, who worked on the ICC’s Pakistan Task Force from 2002 to 2010, said: “The appeal panel’s findings in this case clearly confirm the disciplinary panel’s finding that Mr Kaneria acted as a re-

Danish Kaneria

cruiter of potential ‘spotfixers’ and used his seniority and international experience to target and corrupt a young and vulnerable player. “We note, with regret, that Mr Kaneria has neither made any admission of guilt nor expressed any remorse for his corrupt actions, despite the weight of evidence against him. “It is high time that Mr Kaneria came clean about his involvement in

these corrupt activities and stopped misleading the Pakistan cricket fans and wider public.” ECB chief executive David Collier also commented on the panel’s ruling on Westfield, saying: “The ECB notes the panel’s decision on Mr Westfield’s appeal against the length of his ban. “Without Mr Westfield’s stand, the corrupt actions of Mr Kaneria might not have been exposed. (BBC Sport)

Sabine Lisicki to face Agnieszka Radwanska in Wimbledon semis come a fixture in the world’s top four over the last year, despite lacking the stature and power of her leading rivals. Battling with a thigh problem and a more powerful opponent, the Pole sealed victory in a dramatic final game on her eighth match point after two hours and 43 minutes. She had fended off four set points with some superb returning and recovered from 5-3 down in the tie-

Agnieszka Radwanska

ermany’s Sabine Lisicki backed up her stunning win over Serena Williams by beating Kaia Kanepi to reach the semi-finals at Wimbledon on Tuesday. The 23-year-old, seeded 23, won 6-3 6-3 on Court One to secure a place in the last four at the All England Club for the second time. There she will face Polish fourth seed Agnieszka Radwanska, last year’s runner-up, who beat Chinese sixth seed Li Na, 7-6 (7-5) 4-6 6-2 on Centre Court. In the other half of the draw, France’s 15th seed Marion Bartoli beat Sloane Stephens 6-4 6-4, and Belgian 20th seed Kirsten Flipkens upset 2011 champion Petra Kvitova 6-4 3-6 6-4. Kvitova’s defeat means there will be a new name on the women’s trophy on Saturday. Lisicki had caused arguably the shock of a tournament characterised by upsets when she beat defending champion Williams on Monday, and she suffered no comedown 24 hours later. It was the German’s re-

Sabine Lisicki

turning, rather than her big serve, that proved the difference in the first set as she broke in a lengthy opening game and again to take the set. Kanepi, who beat Laura Robson in round four, edged ahead in the second when Lisicki double-faulted twice. The German responded immediately though, reeling off four straight games and closing out the match, rather nervily, on her third match point. Radwanska, 24, demonstrated why she has be-

break to win the first. Li hit back with four games in a row to take the second, at which point Radwanska had a medical timeout to get her thigh strapped, and the Pole promptly broke at the start of the decider. A second burst of rain caused a delay as the Centre Court roof was brought across, but the momentum stayed with Radwanska on the resumption and she clinched victory in a dramatic service game. (BBC Sport)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Simon Gerrans takes yellow jersey

ustralian Simon Gerrans took the leader’s yellow jersey after his Orica GreenEdge squad won the team time trial on day four of the Tour de France on Tuesday. Orica GreenEdge rode the 25km course in Nice in 25 minutes 56 seconds to edge Mark Cavendish’s Omega Pharma-QuickStep outfit by 0.75 of a second. Britain’s Team Sky, including Geraint Thomas, who is riding with a broken pelvis, were three seconds adrift. “It’s the pinnacle of the sport,” said Gerrans, 33, the stage three winner. Despite being in pain because of his injury, Thomas took his turn at the front and stayed with his teammates until the final kilometre. “My race was to get to the promenade after a kilometre and then when I made it there with the team I was buzzing off that and managed to give it what I had,” he said afterwards. “I was shouting at a lot of my teammates at the end, we just had to give it everything, we were all full gas trying to encourage each other at the end, and I think we can be proud of that.” A Team Sky win would have put Norway’s Edvald Boasson Hagen, their highest ranked rider, into yellow but the day still went well for their British leader Chris Froome. The pre-race favourite gained time on his main rivals in the general classification – making six seconds on Spain’s Alberto Contador and 23 seconds on Australia’s Cadel Evans. Froome, who rode strongly in the closing stages, moved up to seventh overall and sits three seconds behind Gerrans – who is not considered a Tour contender – without having the pressure of defending the yellow

Scott’s Jewellery collaborates with Boyce/Jefford meet for first time

Simon Gerrans

jersey so early in the race. “If we were in the yellow jersey it would mean that on Wednesday, and the next couple of days, which are predominantly flat, we would do a lot of work which I think would be a bit of unnecessary extra work at the moment for such a small advantage,” Froome explained. “Personally I felt really good, I was able to do longer pulls on the front. I’m feeling like I’m coming into good form before the mountains.” Froome did not want the yellow jersey but, with 71 of the 195 remaining riders only a second behind race leader Jan Bakelants at the start of the day, several riders were eyeing that prize. Garmin-Sharp, winners of the team time trial when it was last held in the Tour in 2011, were again among the favourites and set off with high hopes of placing Britain’s David Millar in the yellow jersey. But they could only finish sixth, 17 seconds behind Orica, and Millar blamed himself. “I wasn’t in good form but the team was very, very strong,’’ the 36-year-old Millar said. “I think it was me who was missing the sec-

onds.” Cavendish’s Omega Pharma-QuickStep came closest to victory. The Manxman has been suffering from bronchitis and completed a course of antibiotics on Sunday, but he showed no ill-effects as helped his team set a time that led the way for much of the day. Cavendish will hope for an individual win of his own on Wednesday, with stage five following a 219km route from Cagnes-Sur-Mer to Marseille that contains no major climbs and offers him a chance for his first stage win of this year’s Tour. For now, however, it is Orica and Gerrans who are celebrating. Following Gerrans’s dramatic individual stage win on Monday, Orica’s latest success means they continue to make the headlines for the right reasons following the embarrassment of seeing their team bus get stuck under the finish gantry on Saturday’s opening stage. Gerrans, 33, took the overall lead from Belgian rider Bakelants and leads the standings ahead of teammates Daryl Impey of South Africa and Michael Albasini of Switzerland. (BBC Sport)

Pirelli blames F1 teams over tyre failures

irelli has blamed the way the Formula 1 teams run their cars for the series of tyre failures during the British Grand Prix. The Italian company will introduce modified tyres for this weekend’s German Grand Prix in an attempt to ensure the blowouts are not repeated. But it has requested that the sport’s governing body, the FIA, steps in to ensure teams run the tyres correctly. A new range of tyres will be developed for the Hungarian GP later this month. A statement from Pirelli

insisted the 2013 tyre “does not compromise driver safety in any way if used in the correct manner”. Pirelli attributed blame to the teams mounting the rear tyres the wrong way around, running low tyre pressures, using extreme cambers – the angle at which the wheel is mounted on the suspension – and what it described as “high kerbs” at Silverstone. In a second statement released 90 minutes after the first, Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery said: “In no way are we intending to create arguments or attack anybody. We have taken our responsibilities upon ourselves.

“But not having full control over all the elements that impact on the use of the tyres, we need everybody’s contribution. With regard to this, we are receiving the full support of all the parties involved, for which we are very grateful.” The manufacturer said, in its first statement, that all the failures happened on cars with the rear tyres mounted on opposite sides of the car from the one intended. This has become common practice this season as teams try to manage usage of tyres that have been designed to wear out quickly to guarantee races with multiple pit stops. (BBC Sport)

Shanomae Blackmore receives the cheque from Steve Persaud at the simple handing over ceremony

cott’s Jewellery joined the Boyce and Jefford track and field classic for the first time this year on Tuesday during a handing over ceremony at the store’s Charlotte Street headquarters Manager, Steve Persaud, hinted that the sponsorship of the growing track and field meet will not be the last time the store is involved. “This is a first time venture for us and we plan on continuing in the future

with this activity. This contribution is toward the continued development of athletics and athletes,” Persaud stated at the ordinary handing over ceremony. Shanomae Blackmore, secretary of the Management Committee of the Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic expressed her gratitude for the contribution to the event, noting that plans for the event are well under way. The meet which has be-

come Guyana’s premier track and field event over the past four years will be held on August 17 and 18 at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary and Mackenzie Sports Club ground, Linden respectively. In addition, the event which also has become the highest paying track meet in the nation is aimed at establishing a prominent place for track and field in Guyana as international athletes are also expected to participate.

Morgan places second in Caricom 10K in TT

istance queen Alika Morgan ran second to Trinidad’s Tonya Nero in the 2013 edition of the Caricom 10K on Saturday at Savannah Park in Trinidad. Morgan, who registered a time of 41:46s behind Nero’s winning time of 37:22s believed that her time was incorrect as there was a mix-up with the routes. “Well there was another route that some other athletes took that Alika didn’t take and register a time of 39:18s but it was registered because the officials thought she took the unofficial route but they said they would have changed the time. “There was a lot of traffic and some confusion but we are trying to get her (Morgan) to run faster at each event,” Black told this publication. While Morgan was not totally upset with the time she believes that it was a good race and will be looking forward to the upcoming 5K events in the United States of America (USA).

Alika Morgan poses with her second place trophy

Meanwhile, local distance king Cleveland Forde was dethroned at the event,

falling to Denzel Ramirez who clocked 32:09s to win the event.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Wismar Christianburg, Kwakwani record wins on opening night of NSBF c/ships

Part of the action during the WCSS game at the CASH on the opening night of the NSBF (Treiston Joseph photo) By Treiston Joseph

ismar Christianburg Secondary School (WCSS) signaled their intent by blowing out the Government Technical Institute (GTI) when the National School’s Basketball Festival (NSBF) opened on Monday at the newly-refurbished Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH). WCSS got off to a flyer with an 8-0 run in the opening three minutes to put GTI under significant pressure during the 40 minute game that ended 53-33 on the Linden.

GTI, who never recovered from the start although having a size advantage in the paint, failed in the post. They put up too many forced shots that missed its target which allowed WCSS to gain momentum with fast break points. Displaying the ability to run the fast break effectively and disrupt the defence of the opposition, WCSS also displayed precision passing in their half court sets that got them easy points in the paint. GTI, unable to defend both the perimeter and the paint despite four emphatic blocks from Lassar Richard,

was never able to stop the offence of WCSS. Travin Drydan torched GTI’s defence with 20 points, scoring most of it at the rim with his penetrative drives while Terron Welch was aggressive, scoring 16 points. GTI’s only double digit scorer came from inside-man Dwight Gray with 13 points while Darrel Williams had nine points of his own. Kwakwani Secondary, another school from Region Ten, did not play around as they routed JC Chandersingh of Berbice 58-22. Kwakwani played an allround game as they scored the majority of their points in

Action during the under-17 game between Marian Academy and Plaisance Academy on Monday (Treiston Joseph photo)

the paint and showed their ability to hit from downtown either in transition or off passes that left players wide open from the perimeter. JC Candersingh who displayed the lack of defence allowed Kwakwani’s Leonard Primo to scorch them for a game high 18 points while Orin Samuels and Joseph Gilkes both had nine points apiece in the blowout win. Michael was the only player for the Berbice School to amass any amount of points with a total of nine. In the under-17 category Marian Academy opened their account on a positive note, torching Plaisiance

Academy 41-14 after the final buzzer was sounded. Opening with a barrage of threes Marian never looked back as they seemed to have developed great court chemistry, especially with their passing. Bahiel Lopes scorched Plaisance for 11 points, while Ronald Yuen Chan and Wayne Obermuller had nine apiece in the blowout win. Meanwhile, in the first game of the opening night Kwakwani’s Under-17 team survived late surge by Bishops’ High School to notch a 37-30 win. After going up by double digits with a half left to

play, Kwakwani had to kick into gear to hold Bishops’ High off who came within four points (34-30) in the closing minutes before scoring three free throws, evaporating any hope of a Bishops’ come back. Bishops’ High did themselves a disservice by having too many unforced errors during the game that allowed Kwakwani to capitalise and take the win. Kerrol Philips and Domair Gladstone had 12 points to lead Kwankwani. Daniel Haynes was the only player in double digits with 12 points for Bishops’ High.

GCB announces WI/Pakistan ODI tickets go on sale from Thursday squad to face Pakistan T

Veersammy Permaul

Christopher Barnwell

he Guyana Cricket Board on Tuesday afternoon released the squad for the 50-over warmup game against Pakistan scheduled for July 11 at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda. According to a release, the 14-man squad will be captained by West Indies left-arm spinner Veersammy Permaul. The team will be managed by Alvin Johnson and Coach by Essan Crandon. Entry to the warm-up game is free and spectators will use the Rohan Kanahi pavilion, Regent Street. Following the warm-up game the visitors will face the West Indies in five OneDay Internationals and two Twenty20 Internationals in Guyana, St Lucia and St

Vincent. The series begins with the first of two ODIs in Guyana on July 14 and 16 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The remaining ODIs will be played in St Lucia on July 19, 21 and 24. The two T20Is will be played at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground in St Vincent on July 27 and 28. Guyana full squad reads: Veerasammy Permaul (captain), Christopher Barnwell (vice captain), Trevon Griffith, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Assad Fudadin, Leon Johnson, Narsingh Deonarine, Anthony Bramble, Steven Jacobs, Devendra Bishoo, Rajiv Ivan, Zaheer Mohamed, Paul Wintz, and Keon Joseph.

ickets for West Indies first two ODI games against Pakistan will be on sale from Thursday and can be purchased at the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) ticket office on Regent Road, Bourda, according to GCB Secretary, Anand Sanasie on Tuesday. The games are scheduled for July 14 and 16 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence from 09:30h on each day. Ticket prices for the July 14 ODI are: South West Stand (Green Stand) – $3500; North West Stand (Red Stand) – $2500; South Stand (Orange Stand) – $2000; and Grass Mound/

Anand Sanasie

Party Stand $2000. Ticket prices for the

July 16 ODI are: South West Stand (Green Stand) – $3000; North West Stand (Red Stand) – $2000; South Stand (Orange Stand) – $1500; and Grass Mound/ Party Stand $1500. Tickets will also be available at the stadium on match days. Also, during the Guyana leg, the visitors will play a 50-over warm-up game against Guyana at the GCC ground, Bourda on July 11. Entry to the warm-up game is free and spectators will use the Rohan Kanahi pavilion. Guyana has not hosted international matches in close to two years as

a result of the dispute between GCB and government of Guyana following the body’s controversial elections in 2011. Guyana last hosted an ODI in 2011 between West Indies and Pakistan. The WI/Pakistan series includes five One Day Internationals and two Twenty20 Internationals. The remaining ODIs will be played in St Lucia on July 19, 21 and 24. The two T20Is will be played at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground in St Vincent on July 27 and 28. (Rajiv Bisnauth)

GCB/GTM limited overs U-19 cricket starts today

he one-day version of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire and Life Insurancesponsored (GTM) Under-19 Inter-County cricket competition bowls off today with two matches from 09:30h. In the opening round the President’s XI will oppose Essequibo at the Everest Cricket Club ground while Demerara will play Berbice at the Albion Community Centre ground. Round two will be played on Thursday with Berbice facing the President’s XI at the Demerara Cricket Club ground and Essequibo playing Demerara at the Everest Cricket Club ground. The third and final round

is scheduled for Saturday with the President’s XI opposing Demerara at the Wales Community C e n t r e ground and Berbice facing Essequibo at a venue to be announced shortly. Meanwhile, the final round in the three-day version between Demerara and Berbice and the President’s XI and Essequibo were both washed out as a result of consistent showers over the weekend. Demerara won the threeday version of the tournament after registering two

wins from two matches and led the table with 31 points. Their closest rival Berbice had one victory from two games and finished second on 22.5 points. In the first match played at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, Demerara defeated Essequibo by 10 wickets inside two days. And, in their first match over at the Everest Cricket Club ground, Berbice secured first innings points against the President’s XI in their drawn encounter. In the second round

Romario ShepherdDeJonge’s all-round performances led Berbice to an outright victory over Essequibo while Demerara recorded an eight-wicket victory over the President’s XI. The competition is being used as a yardstick by the junior selectors to pick the Guyana team for the West Indies Cricket Board’s (WICB) Regional Under-19 competition scheduled for later this year. The competition, which began in 1976, has produced all but two of Guyana’s Test players. Clyde Butts and Neil McGarrell are the only two Guyanese players to play Test cricket without participating in the GTM competition.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

onboard with Amazon Warriors full squad DDL Limacol CPL to assemble later this month A By Avenash Ramzan

s the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) draws closer, the six franchise-based teams would no doubt be upping their preparation in the coming weeks with the ultimate aim of being the team celebrating under the confetti at Queen’s Park Oval on the night of August 24. With the franchises having a make-up of regional and international T20 stars, having all the players available for early encampment is not a luxury the territories can enjoy as the International Cricket Council (ICC) still has a some international series being played. Head coach of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Roger Harper is fully aware of this, and as such, his franchise, which has been bought by NEW GPC INC., has already started putting measures in place to ensure the locally based players get into rhythm for the July 30 start of the highly anticipated event. “The squad as whole is due to get together from July 22 and even at that time there may still be a few international players who would be on international duties,” Harper, the former coach of West Indies and Kenya, told local media on Saturday. H e added, “[But] prior to that, I think the franchise as a whole sees it as critical that the local players prepare so that when that camp starts they are in tip top shape, both physically and technically, and we’re working to put things in place, getting the guys to the gym and so on.” The 50-year-old former West Indies vice captain is however, concerned about the current weather pattern, which has hampered outdoor training thus far. “One of the challengers we’re facing though is the weather, [and] getting a suitable venue where good, meaningful practice can take place. We’re still looking at that and maybe we can get an indoor facility as well as an option,” Harper reasoned. Harper said as part of the preparation, the players will be sensitised on issues pertaining to corruption with an official of the Anti-Corruption and Sports Unit (AC&SU) meeting with them some time soon.

Roger Harper

Sunil Narine

Mohammad Hafeez

“Part of the programme for the camp is a presentation by someone from that unit talking about antidoping and anti-corruption, so there will be someone communicating with the players and sensitising them about it,” Harper related. Ex-West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan, who was at the helm when Guyana won the first Stanford 20/20 in 2006 and the inaugural Caribbean T20 in 2010, will lead the Guyana Amazon Warriors, and according to Harper, he is expecting the team to do “very well”. “I’m pretty happy with the squad that we have; I think it’s a good squad especially for this format of the game. I think we have a lot of depth in every area, and I expect our team to do well… very well,” he reckoned. The 33-yearold Sarwan, who has captained Guyana in all T20 matches, has a record of 19 victories, 12 defeats a n d t w o no-results spann i n g matches in the Stanford 20/20, the Caribbean T20 and the Champions League T20. Sarwan, who said Guyana Amazon Warriors’ chances of emerging champion are as good as any, has a good blend of youth and experience to choose from during the tournament. Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez and mystery off-spinner Sunil Narine are the International and West Indies Franchise players respectively. They will be supported by opener Lendl Simmons, wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, allrounder James Franklin, all-rounder Christopher Barnwell, left-arm seamer Krishmar Santokie, open-

er William Perkins, allrounder Steven Jacobs, fast bowler Ronsford Beaton, opener Trevon Griffith, all-rounder Narsingh Deonarine, leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and opener Martin Guptill.

The Limacol CPL will be contested by the Antigua and Barbuda Hawksbills, Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Jamaica Tallawahs, St Lucia Zouks and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel.

ward-winning El Dorado Rum has signed on as Official Partner for the Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20, bringing its distinctive taste and spirit to the tournament and guaranteeing an unforgettable and fun experience for cricket-goers. Produced by Demerara Distillers Limited, El Dorado will, for this landmark event, also sponsor the tournament’s Catch of the Match award. This award will go to one player in each of the 24 matches who makes a thrilling catch in the game, demonstrating the spirit of the tournament and the El Dorado brand. DDL Vice President for International Marketing, Komal Samaroo, said, “The Eldorado Rum brand embodies the spirit of Guyana and the Caribbean – competitiveness and fun, hard work and enjoyment – all at the same time. This is the spirit of the Limacol CPLT20 League, styled Carnival T20, making both a perfect match for

each other! The growing appreciation and following of Eldorado Rum around the world and the global viewership of CPLT20 presents to the world the best that Guyana and the Caribbean have to offer.” “We are delighted to have the El Dorado brand as part of our sponsor family,” said Jamie Stewart, commercial director and consultant to the Limacol CPLT20. “The company’s reputation for producing quality, awardwinning top shelf products that are world renowned for their distinctive flavour means that we can offer the best to our patrons. Both El Dorado and Limacol CPL share similar value and aspirations; we are both proudly Caribbean, yet with global ambitions. Both of us seek to delight cricket followers all over the world.” The inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League starts on July 30 in Barbados and concludes on August 24 in Trinidad.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2013

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Limacol Caribbean Premier

League franchise captains announced

Ramnaresh Sarwan

Marlon Samuels

he Limacol Caribbean Premier League on Tuesday announced the six captains for the franchise teams for the tournament that will be staged from July 30 to August 24 in six Caribbean territories. Guyana Amazon Warriors will be captained by Ramnaresh Sarwan, who cap-

Kieron Pollard

tained the country to the inaugural Stanford Twenty20 and Caribbean T20 titles while Antigua Hawksbills will be led by Jamaica’s comeback kid Marlon Samuels. Barbados Tridents has Trinidadian Kieron Pollard as its head and Jamaica Tallawahs will be marshalled by the talismanic Chris Gayle. West Indies Test and

Amazon Warriors full squad to assemble later this month

Roger Harper

Chris Gayle

Darren Sammy

T20 captain Darren Sammy will lead St Lucia Zouks and Dwayne Bravo will take charge of Trinidad and Tobago’s Red Steel. Commenting on his selection as captain for the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Sarwan said, “It is a great honour to have been chosen to captain the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the first ever Caribbean Premier League

Dwayne Bravo

T20 tournament. I have the opportunity to work with and lead some of the best players in the region and the world, and I am looking forward to using my years of experience to guide the Amazon Warriors to victory.” Meanwhile, fans can follow the various Limacol CPL social media networks for more information and updates.

DDL onboard with Limacol CPL See story on page

Sunil Narine

Demerara Distillers Limited Marketing Director Sharda Veeren-Chand hands over a bottle of El Dorado rum to captain of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Ramnaresh Sarwan. Commercial director and consultant of the Limacol CPLT20, Jamie Stewart (right) also shares the moment

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Published on Jul 3, 2013

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