Guyana Times Daily

Govt will move ahead with Amaila Falls project

Ramotar defends Cabinet maintaining no-objection to contracts

Kopecký and GMSA President Clinton Williams (at centre seated)

IDB specialist urges swift enactment of Disaster Risk Management Bill

– says emphasis must be placed on implementation

Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) legal consultant Judy Daniels is urging government and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the draft Disaster Risk Management Bill is swiftly enacted and implemented in the best interest of the Guyanese people.

Speaking at the recently concluded two-day consultations held at the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Daniels, who spearheaded the drafting process, noted that while the enabling legislation merely establishes the powers and the institutions, emphasis must be placed on implementation.

She said it is often the case that legislation has implementation problems since enforcement is lacking and seldom meets expectation.

“I would like this to be a living bill. I don’t want it to be shelved. I want it to meet the needs of the people… the legislation will give you

the powers of the actors, the funding mechanism, ensure the actions are legally done, responsibilities, takes care of the offence regime. However, many areas require regulations,” Daniels remarked.

She pointed out that one of the weaknesses of the region is that it tends to put

the legislative framework in place but fails to follow up with regulations on “how to” and the monitoring and implementation to measure the level of success or failure.

According to Daniels, it was for this reason that this particular legislation provides a mechanism for reviewing the act at five-year intervals to re-examine the plan to see whether it needs adjustments.

While drafting is a fundamental stage in the legislative process, Daniels stated that stakeholders would require enough will power to move forward and prepare the regulation to give true meaning to the legislation.

Key aspects

The bill focuses on three aspects: the integration of disaster risk consideration into sustainable development policy planning and programme at all levels with special emphasis on preparedness, mitigation and prevention; the development and strengthening of institutions such as CDC and all supporting institutions and mechanisms and capacities at all levels in particular at the community level, which can systematically contribute to building resilience; and the systematic incorporation of risk reduction approaches into the design and implementation of emergency preparedness, response and recovery.

The policy framework for Guyana adopts a comprehensive disaster risk management approach and is supported by institutional, legal and regulatory frameworks which ensure that stakeholders are organised and authorised to implement appropriate professional initiatives and activities.

Daniels explained that the legal concept in the framework of the Disaster Risk Management Bill was centred on the 2005-2015 period which sets out wellrounded, technical and organisational requirements.

However, she revealed that the details of implementation were left to government.

Since Guyana does not yet have a comprehensive policy framework, several instruments came together to guide the policy including the consideration of regional, international and local items.

Wide research

Daniels said that the standard operating procedures (SOPs) strategic documents and vulnerability assessment documents were all examined to guide policy making.

“For legislation to be effective, you must consider all of the policy instructions. The quality of work done is reflected by the materials provided for consideration. It’s important to have all the policy instruction,” she stated.

Importantly, a necessary part of policymaking is to engage the stakeholders who can examine the framework and make recommendations, Daniels said.

She further mentioned that one of the key considerations is the all-hazards approach which refers to different types of disaster hazards including those which exists in the 21st century, such as matters related to terrorism.

The legal consultant is advocating for adherence to a whole-government approach since all entities have a role to play in disaster management and the focus on critical facilities require more work to be done.

Daniels explained that disaster management must be recognised in the budgets and planning of all institutions and organisations.

“It’s a new paradigm shift from waiting for a disaster to happen to planning for it. It is no longer a matter for the Joint Services to gather their boats and respond. It’s all about vesting the CDC to deliver and coordinate all entities to ensure limited loss of life,” the consultant stressed.

IDB legal consultant Judy Daniels

BRIDGE OPENINGS

Region Two chairman says development will continue

– as opposition councillors walk out of special budget meeting

BY INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud said development in the region will continue as the Alliance For Change (AFC) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) councillors walked out of a special meeting on the region’s proposed budget for 2014.

Speaking after the walk out at the meeting held in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) boardroom, Anna Regina, Persaud thanked the government councillors for approving the $767.4 million budget which covers works in the agriculture, health, public works, education and administration sectors in the region.

The chairman expressed satisfaction with the allocations to the various sectors and the major projects planned, pointing out that the proposed budget is subject to amendment and changes.

For agriculture, a total of $273 million has been proposed; $107,985 million for education; $255.6 million for public works; $101 million for health; and $148 million for administration, amounting to a total sum of $767.4 million for current and capital works programme.

Persaud congratulat-

ed the staff from the various sector departments for providing what he called a transparent budget with many development projects that will benefit Region Two residents.

RDC Clerk Sunil Singh told the councillors that the budget presented by the various ministries within the region underwent several stages before it was finally approved. He said the special RDC meeting was held specifically for councillors to get a first hand view of all the development projects proposed for 2014, noting that copies of the document were provided to all the councillors for review and suggestions.

Opposition councillors, namely Naithram and Bohawanie Persaud from the AFC and Prince

Shepherd of the APNU walked out at the conclusion of the presentation of the budget for agriculture.

The opposition councillors were of the view that the $273 million budget for agriculture should be slashed, specifically under the line item of “fuel and lubricants”. According to AFC councillor Naithram, the budget is exorbitant and officers within the ministry cannot justify the spending under this line item.

The councillors said they decided to walk out as they were not listened to. The chairman during the misunderstanding called for a vote on the slashing, and when this was done, the government councillors won with six votes to three.

In defending the line item, Regional Vice

Chairman Vishnu Samaroo said the budget caters for the future and the administration is focusing on employing more rangers and overseers to help build the region’s drainage and irrigation network, noting that more motorcycles will be purchased by the administration as they would require fuel and lubricants.

Dr Allison Brown presenting the health budget for the region at the Region Two RDC meeting in the boardroom of the regional council's building, Anna Regina

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

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Editorial

Enforcing traffic laws

Globally, every year the lives of almost 1.24 million people are cut short as a result of road accidents.

Between 20 to 50 million more people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many incurring a disability as a result of their injury.

Road traffic injuries cause considerable economic losses to victims, their families, and to nations as a whole. These losses arise from the cost of treatment, including rehabilitation and incident investigation, as well as reduced/lost productivity (eg in wages) for those killed or disabled by their injuries, and for family members who need to take time off work or school to care for the injured.

Further, compared with other causes of untimely deaths, worldwide, road incidents take more lives each day (about 275) than HIV/AIDS does (156). With the numbers going up, citizens are becoming increasingly impatient and want to see immediate action taken to address the problem.

Here in Guyana, the situation is the same. This country has suffered its fair share of disasters on the road resulting in a number of our citizens losing their lives or becoming disabled at a very young age. Almost every week there are reports in the media that someone was killed or badly injured on our roadways. Despite actions on several fronts, including government enacting the relevant legislation, civil society groups mounting numerous protest marches for stronger action against reckless drivers and the traffic department carrying out a number of campaigns, the road fatality rates are still going up.

Recently, in describing the traffic situation here as “terrible”, acting Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell, came out with a strong warning that tougher action will be taken against those found culpable of breaking the traffic laws. He cited statistics which state that there has been a 30 per cent increase in accidents and deaths this year. Last year, there were some 43 fatal accidents and 45 deaths. This year for the same period, 56 accidents and 59 deaths have been recorded; hence the reason for the commissioner’s stern warning.

The reasons for this increase are well known, and reside partly in the minibus culture, and in the way the drivers and conductors are paid. Minibus drivers and conductors are expected to meet a quota for the owner, and they can keep takings over and above that. So there is a mad rush to pick up as many passengers as possible since both the driver and conductor aim to make as much in the shortest possible time.

What is even more dangerous is that some of these drivers and conductors could be seen openly consuming alcohol while transporting passengers to their various destinations. While some passengers may speak out against such actions, others are afraid that they will be attacked.

It is also widely believed that some drivers, including those for hire and private cars, have “bought” their licences, and have never taken a driving test or been exposed to formal police instruction on the highway code. If this is proven to be true, there is need for more scrutiny and to review the system of issuing licences, so as to minimise the loopholes for corruption.

Most importantly, while there are various factors which impact on road safety, there is little doubt that the single most important in a general sense is enforcement of the traffic laws. The government has enacted the relevant legislation in relation to driving under the influence, loud music in vehicles, overloading and speeding, among others, but if the laws are not adequately implemented they become useless. What would be interesting to find out is that how many of the drivers and conductors who are actually stopped for breaking a traffic law are actually charged and sent to court.

There is a widely held perception that some traffic officers, working in collusion with others, go out on the road with the intention of meeting their own “target”. While we are pleased that the commissioner has spoken out strongly against the level of lawlessness on the roads and is taking the necessary steps to bring down the road fatality figures, we are convinced that unless what is perceived as the endemic corruption in the police force in general and the traffic section in particular is addressed in a systematic way, we will be preaching about the same issues five years from now.

Orlando community held vigil for Guyanese shooting victim

Dear Editor,

I visited Orlando to show solidarity with the family of the shooting victim Eric Roopnarine, who was brutally murdered two weeks ago. Several dozen friends of Eric held a candle light vigil to remember him and to pay tribute to him on Wednesday, July 17.

Eric was violently robbed and murdered at his home in the quiet section of Poinciana. Several Guyanese turned up for the vigil to pay their regards to the young man who was brutally murdered.

Eric was fatally shot and stabbed in the wee hours of July 4 when his home was invaded by the robbers. He was discovered dead by his mom who had left him alone two hours earlier when she went to the airport to pick up his aunt who was visiting from New York.

Four suspects were arrested for the killing and charged with first degree murder, robbery and other offences. The suspects were also charged for another killing, 17-year-old David Guerrero, a week before Eric was murdered, as well as a dozen other shooting incidents that drove fear into residents of the area.

The killers emptied 100 bullets in their shooting spree and are alleged to have told police they consid-

ered killing people as “fun”. They confessed to the killing of Eric, but have reportedly blamed each other for planning and executing the robbery and murder.

They reportedly told police and friends that they hatched the plot on Tuesday and executed it on Wednesday evening. They will have their second hearing before a judge on July 29.

At the vigil, friends told of their experiences with Eric while going to high school as well as college and socialising after work. They described Eric as a kind, gentle, fun loving young man who knew how to have a great time.

Several related how Eric helped turn around their lives, as well as others they knew from personal difficulties. He helped several people providing them with food and other handouts. They said he had a soft heart to help others and it may have been his kindness that led to his violent murder.

One friend related how she was on the verge of killing herself when Eric talked her out of it and guided her on the right path of life. Another said Eric assisted her with her college study and purchased books, a book bag and supplies so she could stay in college.

“Eric assisted me in school,” she said, “and I was able to go to college.”

Another young lady who considered Eric as her adopted brother said, “He was the kind of person who would spend his last penny to help others.” And yet another friend said, “Eric was the kind of person a young lady would want as a husband and as a friend. He was so loving and generous.”

The latest on the case is that the county chief prosecutor told reporters on Wednesday evening that he will personally prosecute the charges against the four accused, all of whom reportedly confessed to the killing.

The youngest suspect, 15-year-old Konrad Schaefer, reportedly told police that Eric begged for his life, but David Damus, another suspect, allegedly shot him in the face.

Damus’s father denied that his son would be involved in murder. But police are believed to have found damning evidence at his home, including the boots and gloves used in the shooting.

Schaefer allegedly admitted to slitting Eric’s throat, while Victoria Rios reportedly did the planning for the robbery and the escape route. The fourth ac-

cused, Julien Sebastien Muriel, is believed to have been the driver and the lookout for the plan. All of the accused are now speaking out against each other. They were picked up as they attempted to purchase ammunition for the powerful gun. Police had put a bulletin to ammunition dealers to be on the lookout for purchasers of bullets and also queried gun dealers on whether they recently sold a gun using the rare bullet. The gun was reportedly purchased by Schaefer’s father on June 26 and it was believed to have been used from that time until the killers were picked up on July 12. Police obtained search warrants and reportedly found the gun at the home of Schaefer.

Police also said they secured the footwear that matched footprints wore by the killers inside the home of Eric when they carried out their brutal acts of murder and robbery.

Police have further said they found Eric’s stolen electronics at the homes of the suspects. Eric’s friends told me one of the items, a flat screen television, was reportedly posted for sale on the Internet by Rios.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Dan McManus and his service dog Shadow hang glide together outside Salt Lake City, Utah, July 22. McManus suffers from anxiety and Shadow’s presence and companionship help him to manage the symptoms. The two have been flying together for about nine years with a specially made harness for Shadow (Yahoo News!)

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

Colonial mentality

Dear Editor,

For some time now I contemplated writing to you on the position of the AFC on the Amaila Falls Hydro project. However I kept putting it off in the belief that someone else would notice and speak out on it. Nobody did so here I am trying my hand.

This party on several

occasions stated that they are waiting on the IDB to give them the okay before they pass the legislation to bring hydro power to Guyana. As a Guyanese who read of my ancestors' fight for freedom, who knows of the struggles of thousands, Cheddi Jagan from the 1940’s for independence, I am deeply hurt

and profoundly saddened that after 47 years of independence that a political party would be waiting for a foreign bank to tell it what is good for Guyana. This is colonialism by invitation. Nagamotoo likes to say that he is revolutionary etc. What revolutionary will ever take such a backward position. He is

like the rest of his party, AFC a big fake. If the AFC does not know what is good for Guyana then it should disband itself and leave our scene. Otherwise it is clear that they will make Guyana once again a colony.

Sincerely, B Williams

Sports and education should not be separated

Dear Editor,

The brutal honesty of the secretary of the Fruta Conquerors Football Club must be admired. In a nutshell, some simple but very profound things –sportsmen cannot always make a living from their game, in this case football, at least not locally.

Even if scholarships are on offer, their lack of a basic education disqualifies them from winning one, and sponsorship for many sports, again, namely football, are not forthcoming.

As for the education factor, many young people see sports as an escape from school. This is so especially when it comes to cricket, football and boxing.

This attitude can be traced back to school sports, since competitions among classes and schools are mostly run off during the school term and on actual school days. When it comes to the track and field season, it is like free-for-all sessions, and even non-participants hardly do any schoolwork.

I believe in both aspects of life, that is education and sports, and one

can complement the other. So from the inception, one must not be at the expense of the other. Should this be so, on leaving school, the athletically gifted can embark on a sporting career, and with their high school foundation already intact, they have something to fall back on.

It will not hurt to trace down how Guyana’s successful sportsmen actually

The sectorfisheries must be safeguarded

Dear Editor,

Cabinet has approved measures to facilitate the installation of Vessel Monitoring Systems on Guyana’s trawler fleets. According to various media reports, this would secure the integrity of the fisheries sector.

made it. Definitely, it was not any form of corporate sponsorship, nor from the government.

The more talented ones, in any discipline too, who made it, got a lot of help from family members and good friends.

Usually, sponsors come on board when a person is already established.

The hard ground work was done by the few unmentioned and unknown supporters. This again says that education must not be left out of sports.

There is no sense in dreaming about landing some big deals. It all comes back to linking sports and education at all times.

Yours truly, Conrad Chabrol

Fishing is huge in Guyana and it must be safeguarded. The big talk these days is really about sustainability and this trawling business has always been on my mind. Trawling on the whole is very controversial because of its environmental impacts.

What is referred to as bottom trawling involves towing heavy fishing gear over the seabed, and it can cause large-scale destruction on the ocean bottom, including coral shattering, damage to habitats and removal of seaweed.

There are also many bad trawling practices here in Guyana, and even if these are mere rumours, it would not hurt to have preventative measures in place. Any form of inconsiderate trawling may lead to a vast array of species being threatened around the world.

In particular, trawling can directly kill coral reefs by breaking them up

and burying them in sediments. In addition, trawling can kill corals indirectly by wounding coral tissue, leaving the reefs vulnerable to infection. The net effect of fishing practices on global coral reef populations is suggested by many scientists to be alarmingly high. Guyana must guard against this.

Internationally, mid-water or pelagic trawling is a much cleaner method of fishing, in that the catch usually consists of just one species and does not physically damage the sea bottom. The major caution here is that this fishing practice may very well lead to significant volumes of by-catch, particularly cetaceans such as dolphins, porpoises and whales, which so far has not really been a factor in Guyana. Guyana has massive market potential in North America and Europe and this should be a great incentive. Guyana is not on the bench in these matters of sustainability, where living off the environment is concerned. The country is on the international stage now and there must be compliance to international rules and practices.

Yours sincerely, Timon Jacobs

Page Foundation

What is nutrition? Why is nutrition important?

Nutrition, nourishment, or aliment, is the supply of materials – food – required by organisms and cells to stay alive. In science and human medicine, nutrition is the science or practice of consuming and utilising foods.

In hospitals, nutrition may refer to the food requirements of patients, including nutritional solutions delivered via an IV (intravenous) or IG (intragastric) tube.

Nutritional science studies how the body breaks food down (catabolism) and repairs and creates cells and tissue (anabolism) − catabolism and anabolism = metabolism. Nutritional science also examines how the body responds to food. In other words, “nutritional science investigates the metabolic and physiological responses of the body to diet”.

As molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics advance, nutrition has become more focused on the steps of biochemical sequences through which substances inside us and other living organisms are transformed from one form to another – metabolism and metabolic pathways.

Nutrition also focuses on how diseas-

es, conditions and problems can be prevented or lessened with a healthy diet.

Nutrition also involves identifying how certain diseases, conditions or problems may be caused by dietary factors, such as poor diet (malnutrition), food allergies, metabolic diseases, etc.

Five fruit and veggies a day helps you live longer – researchers from the Karolinska Institute, Sweden found that people who ate their “five-a-day” portions of fruit-and-veggies tended to live longer than those who did not.

The researchers said that for those who went a step further and had more than five portions per day, there appeared to be no additional benefits in terms of longer lifespans.

Nutrition is present in all processes of life. Right from the very moment the sperm fertilises an egg, through fetal development in the uterus, to the birth, human growth, maturity, old age, and eventual death. Even after death the human body serves as nutrition for other organisms. Anything that involves life and chemical or biochemical movement has nutrition at its core.

Anything that lives is dependent on energy, which results from the com-

bustion of food.

In Guyana Nutrition Awareness Week is an initiative of the Food Policy Division of the Health Ministry created to focus attention on the importance of making healthy food choices and developing sound physical activity habits. It has been celebrated annually in July since 1995 and is a timely intervention towards reducing and preventing both under-nutrition and over-nutrition in children and adults.

Nutrition Awareness Week 2013: This year Nutrition Awareness Week will be celebrated during the period July 21-27, under the theme: “Healthy Eating Active Living: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles”.

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people’s health and well-being thereby preventing chronic non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and cancers which can contribute to premature death. A healthy lifestyle can be attained by achieving and maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity as well as getting regular medical check-ups.

Several multimillion-dollar contracts signed in Region Seven

The Region Seven, Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has completed the signing of the first phase of contracts of 2013 in the region.

Regional Executive Officer Peter Ramotar in brief remarks encouraged the contractors to complete their work in a timely manner.

He also emphasised on the importance of contractors perusing their contract documents to ensure that works are executed according to specification and warned that those who are in default will be penalised.

Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford also urged the contractors to execute their work in a timely, noting that it will allow residents to have the full benefits of the development.

Deputy Regional Executive Officer Deryck Persaud also urged contractors to involve the village council in the respective areas where works will be executed so that they will know firsthand of all transactions between con-

tractors and residents.

The contracts signed are: the rehabilitation of Jawalla Health Post, Upper Mazaruni ($4,635,320), awarded to Joseph Allen; rehabilitation and extension of Kamarang Hospital, Upper Mazaruni ($4,264,775) awarded to Joseph Allen; construction of sanitary block, Karrau, Lower Cuyuni ($4,474,547) awarded to Joseph Allen; mainte-

nance of bridge at Agatash ($2,353,495) awarded to Joseph Allen; maintenance of Two Miles Primary School fence, Bartica Potaro Road ($3,031,424) awarded to Joseph Allen; maintenance of Quebenang Primary School, Upper Mazaruni ($2,786,660) awarded to Joseph Allen; maintenance of Kamarang Primary School, Upper Mazaruni ($2,056,180) awarded to

Region Two chairman says...

The proposed budgets presented by officers from the various sectors focus on development and with the aim to boost all government services in the region.

The agriculture budget caters for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the drainage and irrigation network in the Pomeroon and Supenaam Creek. It focuses on upgrade of farmland roads from loam to crusher run, enabling farmers easier access to their agricultural

plots. The proposed budget also focuses on building and rehabilitation of culvert, tail wall and other infrastructure in the sector.

The allocation for public works covers road improvement, including the continuation of the Mainstay\Red Lock Road.

For education, the allocated sum will facilitate extension of the Abram Creek and Cotton Field secondary schools and rehabilitation of the Charity and Aurora pri-

mary schools. Plans are also in the pipeline for the demolition and construction of a new Abram Zuil Secondary School and the provision of fire extinguishers for all schools on the Essequibo Coast.

In the area of health, the sum allocated will be spent on the building of bridges to the Akawini and the St Monica health centres in the Upper and Lower Pomeroon, rehabilitation works on the Suddie

Joseph Allen; construction of concrete bridge, Byderabo Front Road ($5,141,160) awarded to Orien Daniels; maintenance of roadside drain 7th Street between 3rd and 4th avenues, Bartica ($3,204,860) awarded to Orien Daniels; construction of Bagwall revetment, Agatash ($6,260,780) awarded to Maurice Balgobin; maintenance of alleyway drain 4th and 5th streets be-

Diagnostic Centre and electrical works at the Suddie Hospital. It also covers for the provision of a motorcycle for staff and the purchase of a water filter system for the Suddie Public Hospital.

The sum allocated to the regional administration will go towards the rehabilitation and extension of several government buildings.

State House in Region Two will be modernised while rehabilitation works

tween 3rd and 4th avenues, Bartica ($6,028,408) awarded to Maurice Balgobin; maintenance of alleyway drain 3rd and 4th streets between 3rd and 4th avenues, Bartica ($6,004,809) awarded to Maurice Balgobin; maintenance of concrete river defence wall, Bartica ($5,412,220) awarded to Maurice Balgobin; maintenance of Amerindian Hostel, Bartica ($1,176,428) awarded to William Bury; maintenance of SSOW quarters, Bartica ($1,099,964) awarded to Clinton Isaac; maintenance of Amerindian Hostel Kamarang ($1,722,697) awarded to Gerald Jordan; maintenance of Bagwall River defence at Byderabo Waterfront ($4,044,556) awarded to Gerald Jordan; maintenance of Imbaimadai Health Post, Upper Mazaruni ($2,335,775) awarded to Gerald Jordan; landscaping of Two Miles Primary compound ($4,311,220) awarded to Gerald Jordan; maintenance of bridges at Dagg

Point ($2,119,380) awarded to Carlsen Mc Donald; maintenance of Waramadong Teachers Quarters ($3,485,616) awarded to Clairmont Chase; maintenance of Imbaimadai Primary School ($3,710,325) awarded to Clairmont Chase; maintenance of Chalets Waramadong Secondary School compound, Upper Mazaruni ($1,819,259) awarded to Clairmont Chase; maintenance of of RDC stores bond and compound, Bartica ($5,094,100) awarded to Clairmont Chase; maintenance of Bartica Secondary School U-shaped building, Bartica ($3,586,700) awarded to Ishaqi Jarvis; maintenance of dentist quarters, Bartica ($824,350) awarded to Maurice Hall; and maintenance of St John the Baptist Primary School, Bartica ($1,165,700) awarded to Gary Hohenkirk. The signing on June 27 was held in the RDC boardroom, First Avenue, Bartica.

will be conducted on all the Amerindian hostels throughout the region.

Regional Executive Officer Peter Ramotar, Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford and Deputy REO

Deryck Persaud at the signing

Vendor charged with assault

Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday granted a cart vendor bail on a charge of unlawful assault when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Thirty-one-year-old Carlos Headly, of 371 Kaneville, Grove, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on July 20, at Water Street, he unlawfully assaulted Bridgette Grant.

Headly was represented by Attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat, who stated that his client has a

wife and children. FungA-Fat said on the day in question, the virtual complainant, who is a policewoman, approached the defendant to purchase something. When he handed her the item, she did not want to take it. A man then came and purchased that article resulting in Headly making a silly remark, calling Grant “stupidy”. This made Grant feel offended. Fung-A-Fat said his client then turned to attend to another customer when his buttocks accidentally touched the virtual complainant.

The defence lawyer then made an application for reasonable bail.

According to Prosecutor Vishnu Hunt, on the day in question, the defendant pushed a bag of sweets in the VC‘s face who refused to take it. He then hit her with his buttocks, saying “move outta my way”. The matter was reported, and the defendant was arrested and charged.

There were no objections to bail and it was set in the sum of $5000. The matter is set to return to Court One on July 31.

Armed robbery case against miner dismissed

Aminer on Tuesday appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after he was charged with robbery under arms.

It is alleged that on July 15, at a Chinese restaurant on Agricola Public Road, Adrian Adonis, 32,

of 941 Grove Housing Scheme, armed with a dangerous weapon, robbed Lakeram Chanterman of one gold chain valued $250,000. He pleaded not guilty to the charge read against him.

Initially, the prosecution objected to bail on the grounds that a firearm was used and if granted bail,

it is likely the defendant will not return to court. However, the virtual complainant came in a bit later and said he did not wish to give any evidence, since the brother of the accused compensated him for the chain.

The matter was dismissed and Adonis was free to go.

“The

TEyew tness

horror! The horror...”

...of Buxton

he testimony of Dwayne Williams at the trial of those accused of the Lusignan Massacre has to chill the hearts of all individuals with even the slightest streak of humanity left in their heart. Here’s a young man, just 20 years old, who would’ve been 15 when the massacre took place, revealing he was tied up with the murderous gang since he was 10 or 11.

He confessed he wasn’t only present at the Lusignan Massacre, but also at Bartica and Lindo Creek, where in all almost 30 innocent persons – including children and women – were murdered in cold blood. The persons killed had done nothing to the “Fineman” Gang – they just happened to be in their homes or jobs troubling nobody when they were executed simply as a message they wanted to send to the government.

But we’d like to dwell somewhat on what Williams represents in Guyana. Today, a monument has been built in Buxton to all those who’d been killed as they took on the police – protectors of law and order in the country. We’d like all those who clamour for “justice” for those young men killed to listen very carefully to the story Williams related.

Williams is a type that is unfortunately very common in Guyana – as was the eponymous leader of his gang, “Fineman” Rawlins. Fed a constant stream of propaganda about being “marginalised” and “discriminated” against by the government, boys like Williams drop out of school and “regular” society and are drawn to the outlaw life. This is glamorised as providing quick money, as well as the proverbial “wine, women and song”.

There were dozens of the “child soldiers” like Williams who were openly identified with the gang and their “operations”, which invariably involved gruesome murders and tortures of the innocent – including one crippled old man. One can only imagine what these children saw and how their minds were affected. What we know from studies drawn from similar milieus, is that these child killers are invariably warped for the rest of their lives.

There should be a follow-up study of the

fates of the other child soldiers from Buxton and others drawn from further afield. The “thrill” they received from the killings and other hijinks such as rapes of village girls and the use of drugs and marijuana become psychologically ingrained in them. They are in the society.

And when there are calls from some political leaders, who are defending one of the accused gang members and know intimately their mindset for “protests” to bring down the government, no one can convince us they know not what they are calling for.

...of the outcast

Ralph Ramkarran has replied to the release by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on his stream of attacks ever since he left the party. Those attacks have become increasingly shriller and were publicised by the opposition’s yellow press. In fact, as we’ve pointed out, Ramkarran tried to play the role of a disinterested critic of the PPP/C by insisting he was just posting his thoughts on his blog – Conversation Tree. (Intriguingly, the actual tree has once again shrivelled – even after tender care by supporters and relatives of Ramkarran. A portent?)

But the contents of the blog were invariably printed before they got onto the blog!! And were then carried prominently the following days as “news items”. We guess the PPP/C felt it had to respond, because Ramkarran didn’t even have the fig leaf that he wasn’t in the opposition. But they’re wasting their ink. From the moment Ramkarran refused to accept the apology from the individual he said had precipitated his departure, they should’ve known the matter wasn’t personal any longer. He’s now opposition.

...of sugar

The minister of labour, and once chairman of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), said the corporation’s management team is one of the “finest”. Let’s see what the “finest” does this crop.

Guyana, EU advance negotiations on forestry agreement

The National Technical Working Group (NTWG) has been involved in meetings and the second round of negotiations with representatives from the European Union (EU) relating to the Guyana-EU Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade Voluntary Partnership Agreement (EU FLEGT VPA).

The NTWG, represented by a 14-member delegation from Guyana comprising of government officials, indigenous community, private sector and civil society representatives, arrived in Brussels, Belgium on July 15 for the engagements.

Thematic areas discussed during the four-day session included an over-

view of the EU customs procedures related to FLEGT licensed timber, the progress made to date by Guyana, the road map for the VPA, legality definition and Guyana’s legality assurance systems.

Additionally, the negotiating delegation had dialogue with representatives from various international civil society groups regarding the involvement of civil society organisations in Guyana and their contribution to the VPA process.

Following the successful discussions in Brussels, the NTWG will continue consultations and meetings to ensure the VPA process is developed in a participatory manner.

Woman able to see again after three years

Afifty-year-old woman who hails from Annai, North Rupununi, Region Nine is now able to see again after three years following intervention by Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran.

During an interview with Guyana Times, Stephanie Bartholomew said she will forever be grateful to the Health Ministry and the surgeons at the Port Mourant Ophthalmology Hospital who through unwavering dedication, aided in the restoration of her sight.

In June, Minister Ramsaran visited Annai, conducting one of his many outreach programmes; a trip which has proven to be successful in more ways than one. Upon learning that the health minister was in the area, Bartholomew and her husband Richard wasted no time in meeting the minister and his delegation.

A vocal Richard Bartholomew said upon telling the story of how his wife gradually became blind and totally lost her sight three years ago, systems were put in place for

them to journey to Region Four to receive medical assistance.

“These medical teams use to be coming now and then but when she go, they use to tell her that nothing is wrong with her eyes, but she use to go back every time they come because she started seeing blur, then three years ago, it went completely,” the man recalled. The man said his wife was unable to do her daily duties, including sewing which she did to earn a living.

With funding from the Health Ministry, the elderly couple travelled to Region Four where Stephanie was examined at the Diamond Regional Diagnostic Hospital. Realising the severity of the problem, she was immediately transferred to the Port Mourant Ophthalmology Hospital.

“When we got there, they discover that she had an infection in her right eyes, so they had to treat her for that before doing the surgery on July 14.” Stephanie was diagnosed with cataract.

She is now able to see again in her right eye as

with the objective of offering free eye care service to the people of Guyana, in addition to foreign-

ers. Since it was declared opened on July 25, 2009, hundreds of Guyanese have been treated.

she awaits another surgery. Her next surgery will be conducted in three months.

The Port Mourant Ophthalmology Hospital was constructed to the tune of US$13 million

Guyana’s negotiating team (left) and the EU’s in Brussels, Belgium

Stephanie and Richard Bartholomew interacting with Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran and Cuban doctor ambassador Raul Gortázar Marrero

Gold sector should be used to grow total wealth – CI

Conservation International (CI) Executive Director David Singh said a sustainable and responsible mining sector would drive long-term sustainable development, if it fosters growth in total wealth which is more than just access and flow of revenue.

During remarks at the presentation of CI publication of “Guyana’s Extractive Industry Sector”, Singh said there are important considerations that can guide interactions when considering, in context, the mining industry’s position in the economy.

In pointing out the mining industry is an important contributor towards the growth of the total wealth of the country, Singh revealed that eight per cent of the adult population and four per cent of the population over 15 years are directly employed in the mining sector, with a preponderance of males.

Total wealth

He explained that total wealth has three components: natural, intangible and produced capital, which in effect translate to non-renewable and renewable resources, human resources, and manufactured assets. According to Singh, in determining total wealth, the creation of opportunities and options for future generations should also be counted.

“In order to consolidate the role of the sector in growing total wealth, we must recognise the fact

CI Director David Singh

that mineral resources are non-renewable and finite, and the extraction of each unit should be balanced by growth of more of its equivalent in human resources on social structure and manufactured assets,” he explained.

The CI head said the conservation organisation will continue to create a space for the engagement of civil society in the whole progress of building the country’s economy – “an economy that recognises the central function of nature even as Guyana pursues economic and social development. We represent a segment of a range of groups that share an interest in this. Our perspectives are, therefore, important and we welcome the role of the stakeholder engagement.”

He added that it is only within the context of creating space for dialogue that citizens can support efforts of government, particularly those leading to the development of the nation.

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), in 2008, estimated that 14,130 persons were directly employed in the sector.

In 2009, it was estimeated that as many as 90,412 persons in total were, directly and indirectly, dependent on the sector.

In 2012, government estimated that the industry employed 16,500 people, which meant that the industry was responsible for the employment of more than 10 per cent of the workforce.

“The mining sector provides a valuable market for various goods and services notably transportation and food, boosting demand and employment in these sectors and providing jobs across economic and geographic landscape,” Singh stated.

Economy

He explained that gold is of increasing importance in Guyana’s economy and the industry was examined to provide context for understanding the extractive industry as a whole including oil and gas and forestry.

According to Singh, gold’s contribution to Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose from seven per cent in 2007 to 12 per cent in 2010 to 15.5 per cent in 2011.

Figures from the GGMC indicated that total revenue from the gold sector has increased dramatically, growing by 30 per cent over the past five years from $170 million in 2007 to over $570 million in 2011.

The conservation official said simultaneous with the evolution of the gold sector, there have been continued efforts to improve environmental and social performance in the sector.

These include the enactment of mining regulations covering the use and control of poisonous substances; environment management for small-, medium- and largescale mining; and preparation of environmental management plans inclusive of closure and reclamation in 2005.

Reservation

In 2009, the GGMC mandated the reservation of specific areas within the Rupununi region from prospective mining.

Singh noted that the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry was established three years later and has resolved to reform the natural resources sector to have it aligned with current knowledge and practice.

“At the same time, we note the commitment towards phasing-out the use of mercury in the sector and increased coverage in the media of social issues within the mining sector,” he said.

These issues, Singh said, require greater activism in order for them to be addressed effectively, along with emerging issues, including those associated with the relationship between indigenous communities and the impact of mining activities on waterways.

Mea culpa

Satiricus was more than a bit het up. He felt he had a right to be. “Look how they treated the old Talker,” he fumed to himself. “They couldn’t even apologise to him properly.” Satiricus wasn’t sure what exactly the Talker’s old comrade TheSharer had said to him that teed him off so much. But he was sure it had to be something that hurt the Talker to the quick.

Because the Talker sure left the party quickly after that. Satiricus heard it had something to do with the Talker’s briefs. He wasn’t sure whether The-Sharer had offended the Talker professionally by questioning his legal brief. Satiricus knew the Talker, a lawyer, was very proud of his briefs.

But then again, it could be The-Sharer had told the Talker “not to get his briefs in a knot” about something or other she might’ve said. Satiricus sympathised: The-Sharer was prone to make sharp remarks from behind the cloud of smoke that always surrounded her. Maybe she felt that since nobody could see her, maybe they couldn’t hear her??

Anyhow whatever she’d said, the Talker was rightfully upset about the apology offered. First off all, The-Sharer described it as a “mea culpa”. “What the heck?” thought Satiricus, “After all those years, The-Sharer didn’t realise that as a cardcarrying Communist, the Talker would’ve been livid by the use of a religious term for “I’m sorry”?? And it wasn’t just any old religious term... it was a Catholic religious term. The-Sharer might’ve well called the Talker a “capitalist running dog” who drove a Mercedes Benz and was the managing partner in a colonial law firm!!! Jeez...how insultive can you get??

And to rub salt into the Talker’s wound, The-Sharer continued in the same insulting vein in the “apology”. Imagine all she said was, “I regret that my remarks offended you and I apologised then and I apologise in this letter again to you.” The Talker was absolutely right in rejecting this “apology” as being “too little, too late”. After all, The-Sharer only apologised right AFTER whatever she said (which cannot be mentioned). Begad!!! She should’ve apologised even BEFORE she spoke!! Satiricus figured this was what The-Sharer should’ve offered as an apology to a man as hallowed as the Talker. “Oh great and revered Talker, I hope you would deign to recognise the existence of one so low and insignificant as me. I don’t know what came over me that day for me to mention your briefs. You are as Mount Everest to me as to the speck of dust that I am. As you know, before that incident I had always kept my eyes lowered in your presence and only spoke when spoken to. The devil must’ve made me do it.

Oh, great potentate. Forgive me my transgressions – even those that I mightn’t have realised.

Your humble Servant,

The-Sharer”

Ramotar defends Cabinet maintaining noobjection to contracts

President Donald Ramotar has argued in favour of Cabinet maintaining its no-objection role in the award of contracts, which opposition politicians want abolished as they tout the Public Procurement Commission (PPC).

The head of state, during an interview with the state media on Monday, said there is nothing unreasonable about Cabinet’s miniscule role in the process. “The Cabinet of Guyana has the least power when you compare it to the rest of the Caribbean, and for that matter, probably with the rest of the Commonwealth or most of the Commonwealth,” President Ramotar said.

On numerous occasions, the government has had cause to explain in detail its procurement regime as it seeks to defend its record of transparency and openness in response to the speculation often spewed. It was the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government that took the decision to publicly advertise contracts, overhauling a system used by the previous regime to ar-

bitrarily grant an award.

Following the passage of the Procurement Act of 2003 in the National Assembly, the way was paved for the establishment of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) where contracts are scrutinised. This board, comprising about 15 technical evaluators from a diverse range of professional backgrounds, is tasked with evaluating tenders and implementing policies in accordance with regional and international standards.

Once approved, the contract is submitted to the Cabinet for a no-objection and once given the green light, an award notice is issued which paves the way for the final stage where relevant ministry officials would sign the contracts. There are instances where Cabinet if dissatisfied, can request that the tender board review the award and other instances where provisions under the Procurement Act allow bidders to object with probable reason, if the contract goes to another. The overall objective is to promote accountability, transparency and competitiveness, but the political opposition and their allies believe that there is corruption within the system and wants it replaced with the PPC. With a one-seat majority advantage, the opposition demanded that the PPC be established before its members approve legislation to modernise Guyana’s financial crimes legislation; a trade-off which has been described as political blackmail.

Mastering negotiating skills critical in globalised environment – GMSA president

Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Guyana, Ambassador Robert Kopecký on Tuesday declared open a negotiating skills seminar which targeted local private and public sector organisations at the Regency Hotel, Hadfield Street, Georgetown.

In his key note address at an event organised by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Ambassador Kopecký said the seminar is a step in the right direction, pointing out that the National Assembly should follow suit since there is need for training at the political level.

GMSA President Clinton Williams said mastering win-win negotiations skills is critical during this era of a globalised environment that is continuously faced with challenges.

He posited that the workshop was designed in keeping with GMSA’s mission to provide institutional capacity, initiate, advocate and promote plans and programmes for the development and growth of the manufacturing and services sectors.

Reflecting on the leaps and bounds made over GMSA’s five decades of existence, Williams said the association has built cordial relationships with government and the political opposition, in addition to building national, regional and international linkages.

“Ten years ago we had approached UNIDO/UNDP to create what is now ‘Empretec Guyana’. Its development and growth was preceded by an in-

tense international threeyear capacity building, development and training programme, and examination of the private sector spectrum would reveal the significant contributions made by Empretec towards the sustained growth and expansion of the micro and small business enterprises (MSME).”

Currently, the GMSA is in the process of establishing a fashion design cluster industry in Guyana to capitalise on the vast opportunities in the “multibillion U.S. dollar international fashion industry” using funds provided by the Caribbean Export Agency under the 10th European Development Fund (EDF) programme.

Meanwhile, the association continues to build the proficiency of its members through the provision of Information Communication Technology (ICT), quality assurances, environmental management, energy logistics and maintenance management training sessions.

Williams said steps are being taken by the GMSA to promote all available opportunities to access offshore funding, joint venture partnerships and foreign investment in an effort to accelerate growth.

“You would have noticed by now that advocacy with the implicit requirement

for negotiation is one of the main pillars of our thrust towards growth. In the recent past, we have also sponsored training and sensitisation programmes related to quality control and standardisation, labelling and packaging.”

The one-day seminar, which was facilitated by Sandra Ann Baptiste and members of the North American-based Carigold Association, focused primarily on styles of communication, preparing for negotiations, building relationships and trust, maintaining emotional control and managing a potential or existing impasse.

Barama Company Limited, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, the Guyana International Conference Centre, the Small Business Bureau, Gizmoz and Gadgets, Iwokarama, Edward B Beharry and Company Limited and the GuyExpo Secretariat were among the entities in attendance on Tuesday.

President Donald Ramotar

Participants and media personnel at the opening of the negotiation skills workshop

EU Ambassador Robert Kopecký

Brassington laments blow to hydro project

Head of the technical team of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), Winston Brassington has called the opposition’s action of voting against a bill and motion dealing with the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project as a “huge blow to the progress the project has been making”.

He also said that government’s prior engagements with the opposition on the project, the latest, being the very eve of the July 18 Parliament sitting, was not able to realise fruit. Brassington, who was present in the National Assembly on the night of July 18, said, “I was very disappointed with what happened because we are taking a chance here. With the bill and the motion being denied, we are gambling with this project now and that is why I am very concerned and upset about what came out of it,” the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

He was at the time speaking at a recent interview on the National Communications Network (NCN), during which he also pointed to some of the implications of the opposition’s action. He explained that there are now key risks associated with the project, which do not put government on a good footing in negotiating with the partners on the project or with potential partners on future development projects.

A negative for investors

He observed that investors, who are spending millions of dollars on a project in a country, will have no confidence doing so in the absence of firm guarantees that they will receive the full support of the country in seeing that project through to the end. “When you are taking that sort of risk, no one is going to do that on the good faith alone of the government going forward,” he stated.

“In order to take a project through the development stages, particularly larger infrastructure projects, you

have to spent tens of millions of dollars on the studies and all of the preparations… and you are doing that at your risk, so if you realise that you can come all the way up to the 11th hour and then have the rug pulled from under you, they are going to be saying, what guarantees can you give us before we start spending monies here?”

Brassington said this is going to send the worst signal on any major partnership project where sponsors have to spend a lot of time and money in the preparatory stage because of the absence of firm guarantees that when “you get to the finish line” that a country will do what it is expected to do. Brassington observed that if the opposition said on every project that government brings before them, “we would consider it when you are finished doing duediligence and you have made a decision to go forward with the project, then what can an investor assume? They do not have a project.”

Severe blow

He noted that this will have a significant impact on every other major project where investors are coming into the country and looking to spend substantial sums in advance. “I think that even if we get through Amalia, the landscape for investors would have been given a serve blow with what transpired,” he said. Meanwhile, Brassington said that government is still trying to assess what level of damage has been brought to the pro-

ject in light of the opposition’s action and that within two weeks; it would be able to have a more detailed position. Government is currently reaching out to key stakeholders on the project and is expected to sit down with them on the implications.

He said one of the immediate noticeable implications has been expenditure to advance agreement in various aspects which are being funded by SITLE Global (one of the major implementing partners on the project) which is now looking at that in a very conservative manner. Government, he said, is doing all it can to try to salvage the project and remains hopeful that they can, and that ultimately the intent in going forward is to secure the support of the political opposition as quickly as possible.

Pleadings

Despite the pleadings of members on the government side, the APNU and AFC used their one-seat majority to, on July 18, vote against the passage of the HydroElectric Act Bill that confers on the president, the power to create hydro-electric offset reserve areas and rules for the establishment of the said areas, and for the conservation and preservation of the environment and ecosystem surrounding the hydroelectric resources in Guyana.

The bill which also increases the penalty for the breach of regulations made under the principal act to $1 million, passage would have meant that the country is compliant with its international partners and stayed true to its national commitment, particularly as it relates to Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The US$840 million hydro electric plant will convert Guyana’s energy supply, from one that is almost entirely sourced from fossil fuels to one that is almost entirely renewable. Once completed, it will result in significant foreign exchange savings and a regular supply of inexpensive, reliable electricity for Guyanese.

The solidarity political opposition figures have shown to Timehri residents who recently voiced disagreement with the announced plan to relocate them from the vicinity of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), is seen by President Donald Ramotar as another attempt to incite animosity.

During a special interview at his office on Monday on current issues and events in Guyana, the head of state said the opposition is using the Timehri relocation issue as a “fig-leaf for disruption”.

“They are not being very constructive and (are) not demonstrating to the Guyanese people that they have a developmental plan, but they are being more disruptive on these types of activities,” President Ramotar said.

At a July 16 press conference by the Timehri North Community Development Council, in which Alliance for Change (AFC) Chairman Nigel Hughes was present, the government was accused of provocation with the an-

nouncement to have the residents relocated. With the loan agreement for the CJIA expansion project already sealed, a relocation plan for about 300 houses with an estimated 815 residents who are considered within the “impact area” is intended. They will be moved to a designated area.

Despite being daunted by the political opposition’s vote against the air transport sector’s $5.6 billion allocated in the National Assembly in April, Public Works Minister Robeson Benn had assured that the CJIA expansion project will continue.

Residents were told of the relocation plan including concerns by the government about notable extensions to buildings that occupants were advised against, on the basis that they would have to move. The Public Works Ministry was also forced to discontinue the operations of agro-businesses that were established on the southern side of the airport attracting birds which posed a risk to aircraft.

Guyana Power and Light (GPL) on Monday distanced itself from the July 21 incident which claimed the life of an electrician, but said it is currently taking appropriate steps to improve the safety of employees.

In a release to the press, the power company made it clear that Ronald Arthur, an employee of Dynamic Engineering Company was not working for GPL at the time of his death on Sunday. The 22-year-old father of two was killed after a pole collapsed with him at Le Ressouuvenir, East Coast Demerara.

“The fallen utility pole does not belong to GPL and at the time of the incident, Dynamic Engineering Company was not author -

The Region Six administration will not be undertaking much road repair work during this year, its chairman David Armogan has said. His comments come in the wake of complaints by residents that several roads in the region are in need of repair. Armogan said the administration has found itself in a position where there are no funds to undertake road repair work. This is as a result of an unexpected project which the regional administration was forced to undertake, though it was not budgeted for this year.

“We have put in $20 million and the Public Works Ministry $19 million towards the East Bank Berbice Road Repair Programme and so it subtracted from our programme.”

According to Armogan, the regional administration did not budget any money to repair the East Bank Berbice Road this year. “The talk was that the IDB money would have been available this year so we did not really cater for the East Bank Road in our budget… We had budgeted funds to do patch work on some roads through the region. So now

CJIA relocation quarrel is a “fig leaf” for disruption – president GPL not to be blamed for electrician’s death

ised to conduct any work on GPL’s behalf,” the power company stated. It was also noted that works undertaken without GPL’s permission in any part of the national electricity grid is illegal, noting too that actions will be taken against defaulters.

Nevertheless, the company showed its softer side by extending condolences to the family of Arthur.

In the promotion of Occupational, Health and Safety (OH&S), GPL is currently facilitating a training programme will all employees and subcontractors to ensure that safety is practiced at all times.

“At GPL, all measures are taken to ensure maximum safety of all employ -

The relocation plan involves moving the people to a designated area in which they become proud homeowners. It was reported that over 400 lots were being considered for the Timehri squatters. The CJIA Expansion project remains a priority for the government as it seeks to improve the infrastructure necessary for Guyana’s economy to improve and more particularly boost the country’s tourism. With an extended runway to a total of 10,800 feet, the capacity to accommodate larger category of aircraft will be made possible, thus bringing more visitors and making Guyana a hub for regional travel. In March this year, President Ramotar joined Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin in turning the sod for the airport expansion project that will include a new terminal building, eight boarding bridges, elevators, escalators, three dimensional x-ray scanners, flight information and security monitoring systems, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

ees of the company. Just recently, the company has procured and commenced training in the use of improved technology to ensure tasks undertaken by its employees are completed efficiently while observing all safety regulations,” the company stated.

However, initial reports indicated that the 22-yearold electrician, who hails from Lot 29 Pompey Street, Christianburg, Linden was a contractor attached to GPL. After the incident, which occurred about 15:00h, he was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) where he died shortly after receiving treatment. According to the GPH, Arthur died from blunt force trauma to the abdomen.

Region Six RDC needs funds to fix potholes – chairman

we don’t have funds to fix any of the holes on some of the roads throughout the re-

gion. It is not that we don’t care or that we are not seeing the holes, but we don’t have any money to fix them.”

He said the administration as part of its planned work programme for 2013, had arranged to buy tar, crusher run and stone to undertake a massive pot hole filling programme in Region Six. However, that programme has been shelved. “So we can’t do any work because the money has gone to the East Bank Road and hopefully we would not have to spend any money on that road next year and we would have our full budget

for maintenance of roads to spend on maintaining roads in East Berbice rather than putting most of it on one road.” Armogan said the administration understands people’s problems and the inconvenience caused in getting in and out of where they live. “We have been going around to some communities, but unfortunately funds are not always available to tackle the work with the urgency with which we will like to do it because when people make a complaint today, they expect you to fix it tomorrow, that

has become the nature of our people. Once they make a complaint tomorrow and in another couple of days and you don’t fix it, they go to the opposition as though the opposition is going to fix it and then the opposition sends them back to us to get it done.” The chairman noted that he will be happy to look after all of the roads in the region which will be a plus for his administration, and in so doing, residents will not be calling his office to curse him out. Limited finance and budgetary allocation only allows them to do limited work, he said.

Winston Brassington

Region Six Chairman David Armogan

Govt will move ahead with Amaila Falls project

– Minister Benn says door open to opposition

BY SAMUEL SUKHNANDAN

Government said it will ensure that works for the Amaila Falls project continues, despite the recent move made by the joint parliamentary opposition to vote down the project.

This announcement was made during a site visit on Tuesday, where representatives from all media entities were invited to view for themselves the progress made thus far on the project, specifically as it relates to the completion of the road at the seven sections.

Media operatives were given an aerial view of the project site, onboard the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Bell helicopters. The journey began over section two of the project site, which led to sections three, four and five. The plane landed at section six, where the media was given an opportunity to meet with the contractors. Soon after, media representatives were flown over the Amaila Falls and the area for the electricity sub-station.

Cheap electricity

Works and Hydraulics

Minister Robeson Benn who led the team of journalists on the site visit said “if the project collapses, it will immediately affect employment and the failure to bring in cheap electricity to our country”. Benn stated that proper consideration must be given to the project, so that it can continue. “This is a national project and it’s about Guyana advancing into the future,” he said.

The minister noted that the site visit was aimed at sensitising the public through the media of the importance of the project. “Everyone should have a clear understanding so that they can support the

opposition on Amaila. “We think that they would see the light and whatever concerns, misunderstanding or confusion they may have on their side is cleared up and that we would want to be able to ... clear it up.” It was further said that the project is not a People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) project, but a national project, which involves the opposition’s input.

Legal action

Benn said that while government is mulling legal action against the opposition on the matter, there is no immediate plan to have the needed finance made available for the project, by any other means except through Parliament. “If government could have done it without the national consensual support it required, it would have done so. But that is the cleanest and neatest way to get it done and that is why we came to the Parliament to seek approval and which we were astounded by.”

The works minister said many hours were dedicated by government members to discuss this issue with the opposition at the last sitting of Parliament, but at the end, the joint parliamentary opposition voted down the pro-

project because it’s a national project... no one... at the end of the day should be able to say that they didn’t understand this important national project.”

Benn reiterated that once the project comes on stream, electricity rates could be reduced by a quarter of what is presently charged.

“If I was paying $10,000 light bill and I’m now paying $6000 then that is a big reduction. That’s a quarter of the cost for electricity that is being reduced right there,” he added.

Meanwhile, Benn told media operatives that government remains open to have another discussion with the

ject. The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) were also given the opportunity to visit the project site and made it public that they were satisfied with the work of the project thus far. They are scheduled to make a next trip to the area, but have not indicated when they will do so. The opposition, during their visit, also spoke positively about the involvement of many young Guyanese working on the project.

At the time of the visit, the opposition also said the invitation from government was a signal of its willingness to be more open with opposi-

tion members.

Amaila Falls Project

Manager Walter Willis said at least 67 per cent of the road construction is completed. Willis explained that when the contract was scrapped between government and Synergy Holdings Inc, at least 28 per cent of the road works were completed. He admitted that matching the money against the work carried out by that company is a contentious matter. However, he

stated that government did everything possible to keep the project going.

This led to the ministry of works purchasing 54 units, for use, of pontoon crossings and also paying US$980,000 for the company’s second shipment of equipment. While he did not divulge further details, Willis noted that all of that was done by government with the aim of having the project fasttracked. However, the matter is now in the courts and there-

fore steps should be taken to continue with Amaila.

Limited finance

Questioned as to how longer the project can go on, given the limited financing that is available, Willis said regardless of the current situation, as engineers, they will seek to complete the work that is left unfinished.

“We will continue with the work until the end of the year because we have to substantially complete this road project by the end of this year and we are on track for that so far.”

Government had given consideration to contracting China Railway First Group Company Limited to complete the final sections. It was contracted to build the plant after signing off on a loan agreement in 2010, along with the Guyana Power and Light Company, Sithe Global and the China Development Bank. The company has procured several new pieces of equipment, to commence work and

was awaiting the approval of financing from the National Assembly to have its fasttracked.

The US$840 million hydro project involves the construction of a hydropower plant in the area of west-central Guyana, where the Amaila and Kuribrong rivers meet.

Foreign exchange

Electricity produced at the plant will be delivered to Guyana’s capital, Georgetown, and its second largest town, Linden, by transmission lines. The project, once completed, will result in significant foreign exchange savings and a regular supply of inexpensive, reliable electricity for Guyanese.

The project is a fundamental component of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, and will significantly lower the nation’s carbon footprint while reducing its long-term energy costs and exposure to imported oil price volatility. (samuelsukhnandan@guyanatimesgy.com)

Construction equipment at a camp set up in section three of the project site

A section of the road leading to the Amaila Falls project

Political opposition or obstruction?

– a perspective by Harry Gill (Part 1)

The former British prime minister, the great Sir Winston Churchill once said, “The duty of the opposition is to oppose.” There is no doubt that to oppose is part of keeping the administration accountable for its actions. Ensuring checks and balances is fundamental to democracy.

The opposition’s main role is to expose weaknesses in government policies and remain a vigilant watchdog over the action and inaction of the government by playing the oversight role: ensuring that the actions of government are in the best interest of the people.

The two bills relating to the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project (AFHEP), presented by the government last Thursday in Parliament, required such scrutiny. Were these legislative amendments in the best interest of the Guyanese people? And if so, why were they shot down?

Benefits

Despite the blunder of awarding Makeshwar “Fip” Motilall the initial contract to build the AFHEP service road, there is no doubt that Guyana stands to benefit tremendously from a cheaper, more reliable source of electricity: the nation will save an estimated $40 billion annually by reducing the importation of fossil fuel now being used; residential electricity rates will be reduced by 25-40 per cent; blackouts will be significantly reduced or become extinct; overall production within the manufacturing and commercial sectors will be increased; burglaries of homes during blackouts will be reduced; schoolchildren will have more productive hours to study; the loss of refrigerators and other electrical appliances caused by unstable electricity will become a thing of the past; and Guyana will be able to attract more foreign investors that would create jobs for

more of our nationals.

Already, we have seen a significant increase in the production cost of this project from US$675 million, to US$840 million. This is tied to a rise in commodities, the appreciation of the Chinese currency against the U.S. dollar, and the Debt Political Risk Insurance costing US$55.7 million as is demanded by the Chinese. Obviously, they know just how uncooperative and obstructive the opposition in Guyana can be.

Financial closure for the project hinges on the approval of a US$175 million loan from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB). A major concern of the IDB is the assurance that the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has the ability to manage the project and to make the necessary repayments. Hence the motion to raise the debt ceiling to secure the IDB loan.

Funding for the project comes from a variety of sources. The Guyana government is committed to US$100 million in equity. This comes from the US$250 million Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) initiatives such as the Memorandum of Understanding signed with Norway. It is being used in part for the construction of the access road.

Loan approval

With the IDB’s approval of the loan for the hydroelectric project, it is also expected that the World Bank would be more open to the release of Norway funds. The China Development Bank will be providing some US$413.2 million, and the IDB US$175 million. Sithe Global Group will be providing US$152.1 million, bringing the total project cost to US$840.3 million.

However, the longer this project takes to be built, the anticipated increase in the cost of construction materials may very well make it unprofitable to pursue. As a Build Own Operate and

Transfer (BOOT) project, the hydroelectric plant will be fully owned by the Guyanese people after 20 years, and is expected to last for at least 75 years, and quite possibly much longer.

As it relates to the critical nature of the financial closure, Sithe Global Chief Executive Officer Bruce Wrobel said should this not become a reality soon, Guyana could see the project being put on the back burner for the next five to 10 years.

Time is of the essence

Time is of the essence, but one would never know that, judging from the joint opposition’s reckless, unpatriotic, and vindictive vote against a bill to amend the hydroelectric act and a motion to raise the debt ceiling to secure the US$175 million loan from the IDB for this project. This was done with full knowledge that a July 30 deadline looms for submission to the IDB as a prerequisite for the funding for the Amaila project.

In an effort to justify his party’s vindictive and irresponsible act, and contrary to admitting his support for the AFHEP, leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan blamed PPP/C parliamentarians for not supporting the four local government bills that were

presented before, and said in a press conference, “The bullyism and attempt to dominate the National Assembly by the minority PPP/C government forced the AFC to withhold its support for the hydroelectric bill.”

Is that so, Ramjattan? Since when does a retaliatory vote that holds the country to ransom, a justifiable act? I have no doubt that most Guyanese, and indeed those in the diaspora who funded the AFC campaign for “change” during the last election, would strongly reject this explanation from a man who aspires to be the leader of this nation.

Indeed, this view was eloquently expressed by an AFC supporter, Reza Holladar, who wrote in a letter:

“Please allow me some space in your newspaper to explain the total disappointment myself and colleagues feel with the party of our choice at the 2011 election. We are young professionals, the so-called future of Guyana and we truly believed Moses Nagamootoo and Ramjattan when they declared that they are going to usher in a new type of politics, one that is based on principles, with the young generation at the centre of Guyana’s development.

“We believed them, switched from the PPP/C

Man on $200,000 bail for unlawful wounding and assault

Thirty-one-yearold master builder Devon Reid was brought before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after he was charged with unlawful wounding, assault causing actual bodily harm, and unlawful assault. He pleaded not guilty to all three charges. It is al-

leged that on July 20, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Alicia Joseph, unlawfully assaulted Abiola Campbell causing her actual bodily harm, and unlawfully assaulted Yuaine Grant.

Reid was represented by Attorney Paul Fung-AFat, who stated that Grant is his client’s commonlaw wife. He added that

his client has a fixed place of abode at 177 Waterloo Street and Grant, the mother of his child, was not going to give evidence against him.

Magistrate Latchman asked Grant to step into the witness box to give her statement that she will not be offering any evidence against Reid. She did so, and the matter

was dismissed. The couple was ordered to seek counselling.

There were no objections to bail for the other charges, and it was set at $100,000 for the unlawful wounding charge and $100,000 for the assault causing actual bodily harm. The matter was transferred to Court Six for July 30.

and campaigned feverishly for the AFC, sparing no time and resource, because we truly believed that Guyana finally has a chance of creating a new political culture with young people at the centre of it all. We were sure that with the AFC holding the balance of power in the Parliament, the era of constructive engagement would become an important part of Guyana’s politics, and that the national, and not individual or group interests, will determine the order of the day.

Disappointments

“But alas, we were in for great disappointments. Our first disappointment was when our leaders Nagamootoo and Ramjattan abused our votes and supported the residents of Linden’s demand for free electricity without giving a thought to the fact that it is we who are saddled with the burden of Linden’s electricity bill.

“The second disappointment was when the AFC instigated and encouraged the Agricola mayhem. The third was the chopping of all of the government’s major development projects from which the young generation stands to benefit the most.

“And now, the biggest disappoint of them all, the denial of all Guyanese, es-

pecially the young generation, of the lifeline of development – cheap, reliable and abundant energy, by voting down the hydro project. We could have expected anything, but not this, especially since there is not one single valid reason for this action.”

Holladar added, “We used to be proud to be associated with the AFC, but now with the voting down of the hydro project, we are ashamed to be so identified. How can Nagamootoo, Ramjattan, and other leaders of the AFC, who promised the young people of Guyana a better future, by their irrational and vindictive actions seek to destroy the very foundations upon which that promised future must be built?”

Obstructive force

And I may add, how can these people sleep at nights knowing that they are guilty of not fulfilling the role the electorate gave them – that of a constructive opposition, rather than the obstructive force they have now become.

The AFC was not alone in this defiant and unpatriotic act. David Granger’s People’s National Congress (PNC)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) demonstrated once again that because they failed while in power, they are not prepared to give the PPP/C an opportunity to succeed. This is evident by the lack of support given to major national development projects such as AFHEP, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion, and the Marriott Hotel. Hell, they even blocked security measures that would prevent money laundering and make Guyana safe from criminals. How much more irresponsible can they be? The PNC/APNU is determined not to support any project that would further enhance the popularity of the ruling PPP/C, regardless of how much the entire nation stands to benefit.

Police probing death of North West teen

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Gweneth Alexander, 18, of Arakaka Village, North West District, whose body was found in a shop at Tenapu around 10:00h on Tuesday.

The police are awaiting the results of the autopsy.

Meanwhile, in anoth-

er incident, police said about 14:45h on Tuesday, ranks conducted a search on a residence at Kumu, Central Rupununi, during which an unlicensed .38 Taurus revolver and 11 rounds were found. Two men, one Guyanese and a Brazilian national, have been arrested and are in police custody assisting with the investigations.

An artist’s impression of the Marriott Hotel under construction in Kingston, Georgetown

William and Kate present baby prince

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have emerged from St Mary’s Hospital in west London with their new baby son.

Walking out with their baby to cheers from staff and well wishers, Kate said it was “a special time for any parent”.

Prince William said they were “still working on a name”.

The couple then went back inside the private Lindo Wing and placed their son in a car seat. A few minutes later they came outside again and the duke drove his family home to Kensington Palace.

Speaking to reporters, the couple both said the experience was “very emotional”.

They appeared relaxed and smiled as they walked out on to steps of the hospital shortly after 19:10h BST in front of a mass of photographers.

The world gets its first glimpse of the new prince

William later held his son and walked forward with his wife to speak to reporters.

He said: “He’s got a good pair of lungs on him, that’s for sure. He’s a big boy, he’s quite heavy. We are still working on a name so we will have that as soon as we can.”

He added: “It’s the first time we have seen him really so we are having a proper chance to catch up.”

The duchess, smiling as she held her son, said: “It’s such a special time. I think any parent will know what this feeling feels like.”

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Death toll mounts in renewed Cairo clashes

Pressure grew Tuesday on Egypt’s new leaders to release Mohamed Morsi from detention as clashes between supporters and opponents of the deposed Islamist president left 10 people dead.

The deadly clashes which also wounded dozens broke out on Monday, raged through the night and were continuing on Tuesday, a day after Morsi’s family vowed to sue the military over his ouster.

At least six people were killed early Tuesday when opponents of Morsi attacked supporters of the deposed president who were staging a sit-in near Cairo University, state media reported.

Morsi’s family told a news conference on Monday they will take legal action against the military for having “kidnapped” the elected president after he was deposed in a militaryled coup on July 3.

Egypt’s new leadership says Morsi is in a “safe” place for his own good.

Calls for Morsi to be released have also been issued by the United States, Germany, the United Nations and the European Union which, on Monday,

TT PM, others initiate legal action against opposition leader

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Attorney General Anand Ramlogan and Local Government and Works Minister Suruj Rambachan are initiating legal action against Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley for alleged defamatory statements he made about them over the e-mail issue at a May 23 public meeting. The pre-action protocol letter finalised on Monday was issued by Attorney Donna Prowell against Dr

Rowley. The action bars Dr Rowley from repeating the statements or making “any similar defamatory statements”, failing which the parties will “immediately seek injunctive relief before the High Court” without notice to him.

The letters noted Dr Rowley’s statements when he spoke about the purported emails that he read aloud during a no-confidence motion against the prime minister in the parliament on May 20, accus-

Jamaica: Two accused of raping five, including girl, eight, acquitted

The two brothers who were charged with the rape and assault of five females, including an eight-year-old, in the upscale community of Irwin Point in St James last year, were on Monday acquitted of all charges in the Western Regional Gun Court after the prosecution offered no further evidence.

Twenty-one-yearold Sheldon Brissett and his 20-year-old brother, Kerron, were released after the prosecution called two of their 10 witnesses during the first day of the muchanticipated trial.

Attorney Lambert Johnson, who appeared for

again called for the Islamist leader to be freed.

“It is now of utmost importance that Egypt embarks on a transition, allowing a transfer of power to a civilian-led and democratically elected government,” EU foreign ministers said in a statement.

They listed demands, including “the release of all political detainees, including Mohamed Morsi” – reiterating remarks EU Foreign Policy Chief Catherine Ashton made last week in Cairo. (Excerpt from France24)

both men, told the Jamaica Observer that he was “very happy that justice has been done”.

He said while he was not surprised by the acquittal of the men, he was rather astonished that the prosecution had insisted on going to trial after the DNA evidence that they had volunteered to give did not place them at the scene of the assault.

The attorney also described the identification evidence as “exceedingly poor”.

The trial was presid-

ed over by Justice Evan Brown.

The brothers were jointly charged with burglary, robbery with aggravation, illegal possession of firearm, abduction and assault at common-law, as well as the sexual assault charges, including rape, buggery, sexual touching and grievous sexual assault, after they were pointed out at an ID parade.

The duo had argued that they were innocent of the charges and voluntarily offered DNA samples for testing. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

ing the government of a plot over the Section 34 issue.

The letters stated that at a public political meeting at the Croisee, San Juan, on May 23, Dr Rowley continued to use the purported emails as the basis for his assertion. “Against the background of events during the 20th to the 22nd May, 2013, the public was particularly sensitive to his allegations grounded on the purported emails,” the letter said. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

The Muslim Brotherhood has been organising almost daily street protests against Morsi’s removal

A September 2012 Observer file photo of people protesting in Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay, against the rape of five females, including an eight-year-old, in Irwin Point, St James

Protecting currency value vital – Barbados CB governor

Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados (CBB), Dr Delisle Worrell says selfconfidence will help the island overcome its economic problems, including the foreign exchange imbalance that has emerged in the last three months. In a paper released here titled “The Strength of Barbadian Institutions and the Resolve of Barbadians Will See Us Through the Crisis”, Worrell

North America

also indicated that Barbados has strong institutions for decision making and that Barbadians must have every reason to be confident that they can revive the growth of the local economy.

“First, we have the highest standard of living in the Caribbean, and we have earned it by transforming the economy and investing in infrastructure and human resources, over many decades,” he said, adding

also “our social partnership is the envy of countries worldwide. “Our economic information systems are the equal of many industrial countries; our media are knowledgeable; and we have a strong mechanism for putting policy into effect. Thirdly, we have preserved the value of our dollar, protecting the value of people’s savings, and providing more predictable returns for investors.” (Trinidad Guardian)

AT&T quarterly revenue beats analysts’ estimates

AT&T Inc posted quarterly revenue on Tuesday that was ahead of Wall Street expectations as it added wireless subscribers but its profitability was hit by higher costs.

AT&T, the number two U.S. mobile service provider, said it added more than 550,000 contract customers in the quarter, slightly ahead of its target for about 500,000 and an improve-

ment from its 320,000 net additions in the year-ago quarter.

Its growth rate, however, was still well behind 941,000 net additions at bigger rival Verizon Wireless which reported its financial results on July 18.

It posted earnings of U.S.$3.82 billion, or 71 U.S. cents per share, compared with US$3.97 billion, or 66 U.S. cents per share in the year-ago quarter.

Its wireless profit margin based on earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) was 42.4 per cent in the quarter compared with 45.8 per cent in the second quarter of 2012 due to higher costs.

Revenue rose to US$32.08 billion from US$31.58 billion, compared with Wall Street expectations for US$31.81 billion, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. (Reuters)

Bentley to build SUV in Crewe

Bentley Motors is to build its first ever sports utility vehicle, creating 1000 new jobs in the UK and driving £800 million of investment at its Crewe plant.

The luxury car manufacturer, owned by Germany’s Volkswagen Group, said the 185mph 4x4 would go on sale from 2016. It is likely to be priced at the top end of the SUV market, with a retail value of around £150,000. David Cameron said the investment and job creation was good news both for the town and the UK as a whole.

“It is another important milestone in strengthening our economy. One sector that we know is sprinting ahead in the global race is our booming automotive industry,” said the prime minister, speaking at Bentley’s Crewe site on Tuesday.

Cameron added that the investment

would also increase training opportunities for skilled apprentices. Of the 1000 jobs to be created, 400 will be directly employed by Bentley at Crewe, with the balance generated in the supply chain. The company employs 4000 people at Crewe, where operations include design, research and development, engineering and production. (The Guardian)

Africa

Africa held back by land ownership confusion – World Bank

Africa’s economic growth is being held back by confusion over who owns vast swathes of agricultural land, according to a World Bank report. The continent is home to half of the world’s usable uncultivated land, yet has the highest poverty rate.

But the bank said farmers’ inability to prove ownership, legal disputes and land grabs had held back cultivation. Land governance needs to be improved if Africa is

to fully exploit its resources and create jobs, it said.

Writing in the report, Securing Africa’s Land for Shared Prosperity, the Bank’s vice president for the continent, Makhtar Diop, said: “Despite abundant land and mineral wealth, Africa remains poor.

“Improving land governance is vital for achieving rapid economic growth and translating it into significantly less poverty and more opportunity for Africans, in-

cluding women who make up 70 per cent of Africa’s farmers, yet are locked out of land ownership due to customary laws.

“The status quo is unacceptable and must change so that all Africans can benefit from their land,” Diop said. The report recommends that governments secure tenure rights for communities and individuals, possibly using new and relatively cheap satellite technology to conduct land surveys. (BBC News)

Samsung reveals new Exynos smartphone and tablet chip

Samsung has unveiled its latest top-of-therange smart device processor saying it offers more than twice the 3D graphics power of its predecessor. The Exynos 5 Octa is the first productionready chip to include ARM Holding’s latest GPU (graphics processing unit) architecture. Samsung’s move to license the tech marks a reversal of its decision to use a GPU design by rival British chip firm Imagination in the last version. It enters mass

Middle East Asia

production next month.

In its press release Samsung highlighted the fact that GPUs are increasingly being used to handle general computing tasks and not just video games graphics. While GPUs are typically slower at doing single calculations than CPUs (central processing units), they have the advantage that they carry many of them simultaneously.

This makes them particularly adept at handling highly “parallelisable” tasks

such as applying filters to photographs, running augmented reality apps as well as speech, gesture and facial recognition. While the vast majority of smart devices use ARM-designed CPUs, the firm is a smaller player when it comes to GPUs. In February the Cambridge-based business said it accounted for about 20 per cent of all Android phones and 50 per cent of Android tablets. Apple’s iOS devices use Imagination’s GPU tech. (BBC News)

UAE Central Bank orders update on mortgage cap law

The UAE Central Bank has ordered an update on plans announced in December 2012 to implement a mortgage cap on residential lending, the WAM news agency reported.

Central bank officials in December announced plans to limit mortgages to 50 per cent for first-time foreign buyers and 70 per cent for locals, while levels for subsequent homes would be set at 40 per cent and 60 per cent.

The measure aimed to prevent a repeat of the 2008 real estate crash, which saw prices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi slump around 50 per

cent from their peak. At present, banks in the UAE are allowed to lend 100 per cent of a property’s value to home buyers. Following an outcry by commercial banks, officials agreed to soften the cap and in March agreed, in principle, the cap should be set at 75 per cent of the value of a property for foreigners who are first-time buyers and 80 per cent for local citizens, sources told Reuters.

At a recent meeting of the board of directors of the central bank an update on the drafting of the legislation was ordered. “The board of directors of central bank of

the UAE held its fourth meeting for the year 2013 during which it took note of the latest developments regarding draft of the Mortgage Loans Regulation, which had previously been referred to the concerned agencies for study and feedback, and instructed follow-up with the said agencies,” the WAM news agency reported.

Foreigners account for about 80 per cent of the UAE’s population of roughly eight million and are major buyers of real estate in designated areas where they are permitted to own property.

(Arabianbusiness)

Online MBA – is it worth it?

(CONTINUED FROM TUESDAY)

Cost factor may make an online MBA worth it to you as opposed to attending classes. Many state universities offer online MBA’s without charging out-ofstate tuition for those students. Other universities require at least one on campus class meeting per semester. Determining whether it is worth it to pursue such an online programme depends on your ability to travel to the campus and comply.

For example, Duke University offers an online MBA programme, which is considered to be a top

tier option for online MBA seekers. The programme is 19 months long, requiring five different two-week in class sessions at a campus location. Cost of the programme is US$115,000 not counting travel costs, or lost wages from work if you must take time off for the in class requirements.

A recent survey of hiring managers and professional recruiters determined that many still view online MBA’s as substandard to traditionally received degrees, due to the fact that most online pro -

grammes are not through top tier schools. To boost the power of your online MBA, choose a school accredited by Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Whether you want to start a career or advance an already established career, an MBA certainly cannot hurt. Online MBA’s, while sometimes viewed as substandard still stands out more than not having the MBA at all, therefore, depending on what your career goals are, just may be worth pursuing. (Business Dictionary)

Lusignan Massacre trial Officer testifies about taking statements from accused

On the sixth day of the Lusignan Massacre trial, Sergeant Suraj Singh took the stand and testified about taking an oral statement from the number one accused and a caution statement from the number two.

Mark “Smallie” Williams and James “Sally” Hyles are jointly indicted with the murder of the 11 persons, including five children, who were killed in the wee hours of January 26, 2008 at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara. Williams is being represented by Attorney Roger Yearwood, while Hyles is represented by Attorney Nigel Hughes.

Sergeant Singh told the court that he is currently stationed at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, and was stationed there in 2008.

Oral statement

Singh said he took the oral statement from Hyles in the presence of then Sergeant Reid on February 19, 2008. The officer said he put the allegations to the accused that he, along with others, while being armed with guns, murdered 11 persons on January 26, 2008, at Track A, Lusignan, ECD.

The witness stated that he then cautioned Hyles about his rights after which the accused told him: “Officer, me is ah conductor fo ah bus. Me na lime wid “Fineman” and dem man. De only thing me know about Lusignan is what me see on TV.”

Singh added that he asked the man if he wanted to make a written statement; however, the accused declined. He noted that at no time before, during or after that, did he or any-

one else made use of any force, threats or made any promises or inducements to the accused.

Singh continued that on June 15 that same year, he went to Sergeant Reid’s office at the CID headquarters about 20:50h. While there, he said, Williams was brought in by Sergeant Reid. The officer stated that the accused was asked if he wanted anything to eat or drink, but he replied in the negative, and so Sergeant Reid put the allegations to him about the Lusignan Massacre.

Caution

The witness explained that Reid then cautioned the accused about his rights to which the man responded, “Bigga, leh ah tell you ‘bout dah wuk.”

The officer said that Williams then agreed to give a written statement and requested that he (Singh) write it. Singh disclosed that he fill out the caution statement form given to him by Reid; he then gave the form to the accused and Reid to sign.

The officer related that the accused narrated what happened and he recorded his words after which he signed the document and gave it to the two men to sign again. Singh noted that he read the statement and the accused did not change or add anything, saying, “Ok, this is the story”. Singh was then shown the statement, which was tendered and marked Exhibit A in the trial, and was asked to read it aloud. The statement read: “Officer with the Lusignan wuk, the afternoon “Fineman” tell all ah we, that is me, “Chung Boy”, “Uncle Willie”, “Mud-up”, “Capone”, “John I”, “Small Friend”, and “Sally”, that we going out tonight. This was late afternoon.

The night, “Fineman” give “Uncle”, “Mud-up”, “Capone”, “Chung Boy”, “John I” and “Small Friend” guns. Me get choppa. “Fineman” tell we that we going and ****-up some people in Lusignan and who na wan go deh against he and he gon kill who stay back. Me had to go with them, because me na wan “Fineman” do me nothing. We tek the canefields and we reach in Lusignan. This was about just after midnight. “Fineman” tell me fo stay back at the dam and watch out and the rest of them run in the street and me start fo hear gunshots. When them done, all ah we tek the canefield and head back to Buxton, where we gone and hide at different place. Me hide down at the backdam. “Fineman” na give me no gun fo this wuk because me and he na bin ah pull. The early morning me get fo understand that 11 people get kill by dem boys. Me know ah dem boys because me bin a lookout for dem when dem bin ah shoot up the place. This is what me know about the massacre. Me na know why “Fineman” want to kill them people. Me na shoot nobody, because me na had guns, but me bin there at Lusignan.”

Cross-examination

Under cross-examination by Attorney Yearwood, Singh said that when he got to work on June 15, 2008, the accused was already there and he introduced himself to the man after which he “fed” the man. The officer noted that at the time he had no idea for which murder the accused was arrested, but later learnt that it was the Lusignan Massacre.

The attorney went on to question the state witness about several other issues

Protest raises issue of gender discrimination in minibus industry

Demonstrators make evident their displeasure (Carl Croker photo)

Members of the United Minibus Association and a group of women staged a protest on Tuesday at the route 45 minibus park in support of a female driver, Tishaun Miller, who was assaulted by a male colleague. The demonstrators expressed their dissatisfaction with the discrimination against female drivers, chanting and displaying placards which highlighted their anti -discrimination and violence against women message. According to some protesters, the constant violence being perpetrated against women must come to an end.

Miller stated that she was seeking justice. According to Miller, she was brutalised by a male minibus driver who was consequently charged and placed on $10,000 bail. The woman stated that he will be appearing in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts today.

In an interview with this publication, United Minibus Association President Eon Andrews stated that everyone has the right to make a living. Women in the association have always been good workers, he said, and they have complained about been victimised, discriminat-

ed against and even assaulted. He noted that some of the union’s best performers are women and they ought to be respected.

Andrews noted that they are working to find ways of eradicating the issue.

Andi Stewart, one of the women in the association, in voicing her concern over the situation, stated that based on the outcome of the first protest, they will decide what the next move will be.

Stewart called for the authorities to take the necessary action against persons who try in any manner to assault or discriminate against women.

and at one point, suggested to the officer that it was the police who wrote the caution statement since his client, Williams, does not speak using country dialect. The officer denied this suggestion.

Alibis

Attorney Hughes took his turn to question the witness. He asked Singh whether it was necessary for the police to follow up on information given to them by an accused such as alibis, and the officer said it was in some cases but he did not in this case.

The attorney then suggested to the officer that Hyles had told him that he was at home watching television and even provided the names of persons whom he was with, but no police officers checked out the information provided by his client. Singh responded that he cannot recall whether anyone checked out any of the information provided by the accused.

Hughes then questioned the officer at length about the purpose for interviewing a former accused in this matter, Dwayne Williams, some 10 days ago, just days before his trial would have began. Singh maintained that he was told by his superiors to conduct the interview and complied without asking for any explanations.

Singh was the sixth witness of the prosecution, led by Senior State Counsel Judith Mursalin, to testify in court. The trial will continue today before Justice Navindra Singh at the High Court.

Medical bills for ASL crash victims total $3M

Air Services Limited said its medical bill has reached $3 million for the victims of last week’s plane crash at Matthews Ridge, Region One.

In a release on Tuesday, ASL said Esther Williams from Baramita and Urmella Rajesh from Berbice, both of whom underwent surgery for fractured facial bones, were the last two passengers to be discharged from the St Joseph Mercy Hospital last Saturday. They are scheduled for a follow-up visit this Thursday, with Dr Abalberto Fernandes. They are staying with relatives in Mocha, East Bank Demerara and Enmore, East Coast Demerara respectively.

According to ASL, previously Aloma Massay (injury to right leg); Lloyd Thomas (mainly injuries to right shoulder, wrist and forehead); and Ulan Benjamin (hip injury) were sent home last Thursday.

Dexter Benjamin, who suffered lacerations on the lower right eye-lid, was discharged from the Balwant Singh Hospital on Wednesday, July 17. Five other passengers – Naline Dellon, Wesley Johnson, Troy Henry, Clifton Campbell and Sheldon Williams – were treated and discharged from Woodlands Hospital on the day of the crash, July 15.

The remaining passenger Christina Mangru opted to travel out with ASL from Matthews Ridge the day after the crash, and was seen and discharged from Woodlands Hospital on the same day. All 12 passengers are now out of hospital.

The airline said too that it had also disbursed approximately $600,000 to cover in-

cidental expenses and transportation costs. ASL staff members have stayed in touch with all 12 passengers. They had meetings with them on Friday and Monday, to discuss claims for compensation.

“ASL thanks all passengers for their patience and understanding. Any queries can be addressed to ASL’s Personnel Manager, Mr Umadat Singh, (ASL, Ogle Airport Tel: 222-1234) who has been interfacing with passengers and their families,” the airline said.

According to reports, the accident occurred about a quarter of a mile from the airstrip. It was reported that at the time of the crash, the airstrip was covered in heavy fog, which posed a challenge for the pilot to land the aircraft. It reportedly circled three times and then disappeared.

An investigation was launched by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) into the crash to determine if the weather might have been a contributing factor, among other things. Speaking with this newspaper on Saturday, GCAA Director Zulfikar Mohammed explained that the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board has been contacted and has offered assistance. The engine, he added, has been dismantled and will be transported to the city in the new week. Mohammed also added that the authority has had meetings with the pilot about the crash, but could not divulge the content of the meeting at this time. A report, he noted, will be forwarded to the GCAA as soon the investigation is completed.

Since Lady Luck would like to be your agent, this could be an unusually good day to negotiate something important. She’ll influence matters in a way that will benefit all.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

If you’re involved in something that could be financially meaningful, stick with it until you get the results that you want, even if it means burning the midnight oil. Unlike real oil, it’s a renewable resource.

This could be an exciting day, especially regarding a joint endeavour of some kind. An extraordinary happening might develop that you’ll want to be a part of.

Although you may not think so at first, events could prove just how fortunate you are. All you have to do is add the secret ingredient that is sorely missing: enthusiasm.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

The secret to popularity today is to just be yourself. Allow your warm, compelling personality to draw others to you. It doesn’t get any easier than that!

(March 21-April 19)

Even if you yourself don’t feel too lucky today, you’ll quickly discover that you can be quite fortunate for your family or someone you love. Place all your emphasis on them.

(April 20-May 20)

Good news is in the offing for you pertaining to something that you may have only recently became interested in. It’s the type of change that’ll move you significantly ahead.

(May 21June 20)

There are plenty of opportunities around you both careerwise and financially, but it’ll be up to you to take advantage of them. You may need to be able to handle several things at once.

Regardless of whether you’re dealing with an entire group of people or just one person, your influence will be much stronger than you may realise. Weigh your words carefully.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

If you establish a realistic objective, a number of substantial rewards could follow. Understand and define what you can accomplish and go after it with everything you’ve got.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

A bit of friendly competition tends to bring out some of your finer qualities. Although you will badly desire to win, if you do lose, you’ll be graceful in defeat.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Although joint endeavors look to be quite favorable today, you’ll still try to use only your own resources, even when joining forces with another. This won’t be a necessary position – it’ll be a pragmatic one.

DILBERT

CAR RENTAL

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DENTISTRY

Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte Street, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

YELLOW PAGES

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2013

TOYOTA HILUX; 3RZ AND 5L; 4WD

Partners in Christ on medical mission here

EDUCATION

WHERE CAN YOU GET A BOOK FOR $40? THE MASSIVE BOOKSALE, NOW ON AT BOOKLAND, ABOVE MATTS RECORD BAR (226-2874). BOOKLAND, ON A SALE MISSION “ TO GET BOOKS IN EVERY HOUSHOLD”.

FLOWERS

Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

SALE

Garden earth and builders waste also bobcat rental excavating clearing and leveling done phone:616-0617, /663-3285. Duckling phone:617-9300. All models of engines (Perkins, cummins, lister, deuez, john dere etc) enclosed and open air any size of KVA. Call Ram on 619-4483 or 226-6325

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HEALTH

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SERVICES

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SPIRITUALITY

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Wanted kitchen cook, helper, server and bartender. Call: 231-5857

Partners in Christ, an overseas-based nonprofit organisation, has chosen Guyana as its first stop to kick off its international missionary outreach programme.

Speaking at a press conference held at the SleepInn International Hotel, Brickdam, Georgetown on Tuesday, the organisation’s Secretary Dionne Kowlessar said the programme is aimed at catering to the physical needs of communities, while spreading the gospel.

“Partners in Christ is here and we want to reach all of Guyana and we want to tell Guyana what a difference Christ has made in our lives,” she said.

She also added that “Guyana was selected as our first destination since upon the introductions you would have heard… several members of the panel were actually saved in Guyana and have a love for the mother land. So we felt it necessary for our first missionary outreach to be back to roots.”

President of the Partners in Christ John Cummings explained that the outreach events are designed to reach

individuals through medical workshops, sporting activities, crusades and youth forums to positively impact lives.

Through the medical aspect of the programme, residents of various communities are expected to benefit from diabetic, HIV/AIDS and hypertension testing.

These will be conducted by Patricia McPhoy, who is a registered nurse and therapist Dr Candace Cummings, who will also be giving health education tips during the medical workshops.

“Our plan is spiritually but also physically. We’re going to be talking about ways to keep ourselves healthy, what we need to do to prevent ourselves from developing diabetes… acquiring hypertension and also HIV prevention,” Dr Cummings noted.

Meanwhile, Sport Coordinator of Partners in Christ, Pastor Delon Chester pointed out that a number of basketball games have been planned for Linden and Georgetown.

“It’s very tough to get young people to come into a church service and just

hear about Jesus. But when they have an atmosphere like basketball, with a halftime show where you have a Christian reggae artiste, they would be more receptive,” he explained.

On July 26, games will get underway in Linden from 18.00h, while on July 27 and 28, they will be held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, featuring teams from Guyana and the U.S.

The group’s Vice President, Pastor Elsworth Chester said while the organisation is based in the U.S. it is collaborating with a number of churches to carry out its mandate.

“We recognise that no one church has everything that would enable it to take the gospel, that’s why we’re working together with the churches, the various denominations, as we gather together we believe that we could accomplish much,” Chester outlined.

The outreaches will begin on July 23 and will run until August 6. Visits will be made to Berbice, Essequibo, East Bank Demerara, Bartica and Georgetown.

Gravity Lounge opens on Thursday

Gravity Lounge, Guyana’s first modern contemporary restaurant and bar will open its doors to the public on Thursday following its grand opening on Tuesday evening.

The restaurant, which is located at the top floor of the Footsteps Mega Store on Regent Street, Georgetown, affords a spectacular view of the city and will offer a variety of local and overseas drinks and dishes. Along with these benefits, the restaurant is expected to have an impressive customer service.

According to Gravity Lounge General Manager Navin Singh, the restaurant will be solely driven by customer service. “There are so many different customers here offering bars, food; hence, we depend on customers… so we are solely driven by customer service.”

Singh said the facility includes an in-and-outdoor dining area, an elevated VIP area for rental for meetings and birthday parties and a sports section.

“We have both domestic and imported beer, so we can give everyone an option, they can decide how much they want to spend… they always have two options on everything, it just depends on what they want to spend.”

According to Singh, a chef from Panama will be training three Guyanese chefs and will help in the design of the menu for the restaurant.

“We strive to use both local and imported ingredients, but we definitely want to highlight our local cuisine.”

Singh said the facility was established as Guyana is a growing economy and more tourists are visiting

the country.

“We also know many Guyanese are travelling abroad and they are being introduced to international cuisines so when they come back its hard right now to get back the dishes they would like.”

He noted that the lounge will employ over 45 persons; however, it is still short of staff, and as such, is looking to employ more persons.

Singh was cognisant of the heavy traffic on Regent Street after 18:00h, and before that time, all businesses are closed.

“It’s a very much lit street; also we will be offering a strong security service downstairs.” The restaurant will open from Monday to Saturday at 11:00h until the last customer leaves, while Sunday, it will be opened on Sunday from 17:00h until the last customer leaves.

Inside the Gravity Lounge

Sri Lanka 2-0 up after rainy day

Asecond, successive sub-standard performance with the bat saw South Africa undo their significantly improved showing with the ball to go 2-0 down in the series on Tuesday.

On a slow surface, batting was laboured, and Sri Lanka’s attack was able to defend with ease, the spinners getting the opposition batsmen into a tangle, again.

South Africa’s challenge was dealt a serious blow before it even began. Hashim Amla, who missed the first match with a neck niggle but recovered in time for this one, was injured in the field and could not open the batting. Amla slipped in the 43rd over while trying to field a ball at fine leg. He fell on his knee and was immediately taken to hospital for a scan.

Having dropped Colin Ingram to make way for Amla, South Africa needed another makeshift opener and pushed Robin Peterson up the order. He became the first spinner to open both the batting and the bowling for the country, having been given the first new ball earlier, but it was not an occasion for celebration.

Peterson watched as his partner, Alviro Petersen was dropped off the fourth ball of the innings but he had no such reprieve. He kept out one Lasith Malinga yorker but was comprehensively beaten by the next, which crashed into the stumps to see South Africa’s

opening stand broken in the first over.

Petersen and JP Duminy seemed to settle, with both hitting boundaries that showed their class, but they only had a 32-run stand to show for it. Thisara Perera managed some superb movement and got Duminy to feather an edge to Kumar Sangakkara.

Rangana Herath struck in his first over again, getting Petersen lbw playing for turn to one that went

straight on. Tillakaratne Dilshan removed AB de Villiers on review when the South Africa captain missed a sweep. When Faf du Plessis was caught behind in the next over to become Herath’s 50th ODI wicket, South Africa were 69 for 5 and defeat was imminent.

With rain looming, David Miller and Ryan McLaren tried to keep up with the Duckworth-Lewis target but they had fallen too far behind. Form in the

top order has been exposed as severely lacking by Sri Lanka’s wily attack. With none of Duminy, de Villiers or du Plessis posting a halfcentury in their last five innings, South Africa’s batting will have to improve even more than their bowling did in this match.

Although the South Africa attack sent down 14 wides, they found their lines quicker than they had on Saturday. Morne Morkel struck the first blow when he had Upul Tharanga caught by Peterson at midwicket but South Africa would have shuddered to see the in-form Sangakkara stride out.

He immediately added stability with the first boundary of the innings, a well-timed flick through the leg side off a wayward Chris Morris delivery. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Sri Lanka innings

U Tharanga c Peterson

b Morkel 3

T Dilshan c †de Villiers

b Morkel 43

K Sangakkara† c Petersen

b Phangiso 37

M Jayawardene b Peterson 17

H Thirimanne lbw b McLaren 13

L Chandimal* c du Plessis

b Morkel 43

J Mubarak c & b Duminy 8

N Perera c sub (CA Ingram)

b Morris 11

H Herath run out (Morkel/†de Villiers) 13

R Eranga not out 7

L Malinga not out 0

Extras: (lb6, w20, nb2) 28

Total: (9 wkts, 49.2 overs) 223

Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-66, 3-106, 4-120, 5-143, 6-167,

7-192, 8-205, 9-220

Bowling: R Peterson 10-039-1, M Morkel 10-0-34-3, C Morris 7-0-38-1, R McLaren 9.2-0-45-1, A Phangiso 100-52-1, J Duminy 3-0-9-1 South Africa innings

A Petersen lbw b Herath 24 R Peterson b Malinga 3 JP Duminy c †Sangakkara b Perera 15

AB de Villiers*†lbw b Dilshan 12 F du Plessis c †Sangakkara b Herath 8 D Miller not out 22 R McLaren not out

A Division takes lead on second day of police championships

ADivision is out in front with 96 points in the race to win the 59th edition of the Guyana Police Force Sports which started on Tuesday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary.

With six events completed, A Division holds a comfortable lead over Headquarters who are second with a total of 77 points while Country Division are third in 27 points and B Division are in the cellar with 26 points.

Reigning long jump champion Troy Williams was dethroned and was knocked all the way to third with a jump of 6.14 metre when Jabori Joseph jumped 6.45m to win the event. Cordell Mentor was second

with a jump of 6.39m.

The discuss men saw Julio Sinclair winning the event in 38.62m while Cordell English finished second with a throw of 35.50m as Warren Duncan was third, throwing a distance of 31.42m.

Meanwhile, on the distaff side, Tracy Moses won the female long jump while Cindy Fraser and Tandica Burgess were second and third respectively.

Carifta 1500m bronze medalist Jonella Jonas won the women 3000m clocking a time of 12:56.4s while Shion Boyer and clocked 13:27.0s leaving Tisha Grimes in third with a time of 13:31.7s.

Latoya Rodney threw away the discus with a throw of 29.89m while Donna Ferguson took second

with a throw of 27.50 metres leaving Joanne King- Brown in third with a distance of 24.19m.

Shawn Semple and Keith Roberts won their respective heats in the men’s 100 metres with times of 11.6s and 11.4s respectively while Leota Bobb and Alita Moore won their respective heats in the female category.

Semple also won the men’s 400 metres heats while Kevin Bailey won his to set up a much-anticipated final without the presence of Winston George, who is currently training for the World Championships in the United States of America. Moore and Tenisha Punch registered wins in the female version of the 400 metres heats.

Dinesh Chandimal‘s 43 was crucial in Sri Lanka posting more than 200

Shawn Semple takes heat two of the men’s 100 metres at the police championships Tuesday (Treiston Joseph photos)

Alita Moore cruises across the finish line taking heat one of the women’s 100 metres on day two of the police championships

–Franklin and Guptill arrive on Friday; Hafeez, Narine and Simmons to join squad after WI/Pakistan series

Corona Extra Beer given pouring rights in Guyana for Limacol CPL Amazon Warriors begin training camp

Corona Extra Beer, distributed by Top Brandz Distributors, has joined the Guyana chapter of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) T20 tournament, slated to bowl off in one week.

The official announcement was made on Thursday by Ravie Ramcharitar, a director of the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise.

The signing of this agreement gives Corona Extra Beer the pouring rights for beer at the Guyana National Stadium for all Limacol CPL matches.

“There are some moments when only a Corona will do and we at Top Brandz Distributors believe that the Limacol CPL in Guyana is one of those moments, as it will bring together all Guyanese for the sport that runs deep in our veins, the one game that truly unites us,” said Wayne

James, managing director of Top Brandz Distributors at the signing.

“We are happy to have Corona on board for the inaugural Limacol CPL and we look forward to their continued support in the future as I’m positive that our combined efforts will deliver great benefits to both companies,” said Ramcharitar.

Top Brandz Distributors has promised the presence of the “Corona Girls” and other surprises at matches to entertain the crowd at the action-packed games.

Corona will be sold in the various sections of the Guyana National Stadium on the days of the matches

and the distributor has indicated that they will be doing a number of advertising campaigns in collaboration with the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise as they strive to make Corona Extra the preferred beer of patrons even after they exit the matches at Providence.

Also present at the signing were Dwayne Lovell, member of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team management, Amazon Warriors captain Ramnaresh Sarwan and Christopher Barnwell, team member.

Limacol CPL matches will be held in Guyana on July 31, August 2 and 4, 2013.

WI look to share the spoils

Castries, ST LUCIA

A close finish is anticipated between Pakistan and West Indies when the two sides meet in the fifth and final deciding game of their five match One Day international (ODI) series at the Beausejour playing field today.

West Indies need a win to draw the delicately poised series, punctuated with twists and turns, which Pakistan currently lead 2-1.

The visitors stormed back from a precarious position to win the first match while the home side rebounded to win the second game convincingly

However the third match climaxed in dramatic lastball, last wicket tie before Pakistan prevailed in the rain affected fourth ODI.

Given the importance of the final match, West

Indies are likely to bring Chris Gayle back to his usual opening spot in the batting order but would also expect him to fire.

Gayle has had a poor run of form thus far and was pushed down the order allowing Devon Smith to open with Johnson Charles in the last game.

The bowling looks in good shape with Kemar Roach, Jason Holder and Sunil Narine striking consistently with the ball.

The Pakistan Captain Misbah-ul-Haq has been a thorn in the side of the Caribbean side by leading from the front whenever the team is in disarray with players like Umar Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez and Shahid Afridi rising up to the occasion.

Irrespective of the final outcome, Pakistan have maintained their record of

not losing a bilateral ODI series in the West Indies since 1988.

They have won the last two, in 2005 and 2011.

Dwayne Bravo’s men are now faced with the task of winning the fifth match to avoid losing another home series to Pakistan.

Probable XIs: West Indies: 1 Chris Gayle, 2 Johnson Charles, 3 Darren Bravo, 4 Marlon Samuels, 5 Devon Smith, 6 Lendl Simmons, 7 Darren Sammy, 8 Dwayne Bravo (captain), 9 Kemar Roach, 10 Sunil Narine, 11 Jason Holder.

Pakistan: 1 Nasir Jamshed, 2 Ahmed Shehzad, 3 Mohammad Hafeez, 4 Misbah-ul-Haq (captain), 5 Shahid Afridi, 6 Umar Akmal, 7 Haris Sohail, 8 Wahab Riaz, 9 Saeed Ajmal, 10 Junaid Khan, 11 Mohammad Irfan. (CMC/WICB)

By Rajiv Bisnauth

The Guyana Amazon Warriors began a seven-day training programme as part of preparations for the July 30 start of the much-anticipated Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) T20 tournament.

Ten of the 15 members started the training camp on Tuesday at the Guyana National Stadium under the coach Roger Harper.

New Zealanders, James Franklin and Martin Guptill will join the squad upon their arrival here on Friday while international star Mohammed Hafeez, West Indies franchise player Sunil Narine and Lendl Simmons will unite with the squad at the end of the West Indies/Pakistan series.

“The purpose of this camp is to get the players together.

“We wanted to get the players together, so we could do remedial work on their game and continue to set plans going forward and what is expected of them,” said Harper.

The 50-year-old former West Indies vice captain said the camp is vital for the continued development of each player and that he wants to focus on the basics.

“We will be looking at all the basics, batting, bowl-

unit talking about anti-doping and anti-corruption, so there will be someone communicating with the players and sensitising them about it,” Harper related.

Commenting on the squad, Harper said, “I thought for the specific type of competition we have a very good group of guys here and I think we have guys with experience winning regional tournaments, we got some good international players and I think once we come together, exhibit great teamwork and believe that we can win we

players respectively. They will be supported by openers Lendl Simmons, William Perkins, Trevon Griffith and Martin Guptill; wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, all-rounders James Franklin, Christopher Barnwell, Steven Jacobs and Narsingh Deonarine; left-arm seamer Krishmar Santokie, fast bowler Keon Joseph and left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul.

The Limacol CPL will be contested by the Antigua and Barbuda Hawksbills, Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Jamaica

ing, and fielding. We need to examine each player’s game and work on the areas in which they need to improve,” said Harper.

“Their improvement will not happen overnight because it’s a process, but they have to constantly work at their game for us to remain competitive at this level, and we want to be able to emphasise this during the camp.”

Harper said as part of the preparation, the players will be sensitised on issues pertaining to corruption with an official of the AntiCorruption and Sports Unit (AC&SU).

“Part of the programme for the camp is a presentation by someone from that

have a great chance of winning this tournament.”

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.

The 33-year-old Sarwan, who has captained Guyana in most T20 matches, has a record of 19 victories, 12 defeats and two no-results spanning matches in the Stanford 20/20, the Caribbean T20 and the Champions League T20.

Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez and mystery off-spinner Sunil Narine are the International and West Indies franchise

Tallawahs, St Lucia Zouks and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel.

The tournament bowls off next Tuesday in Barbados but the local franchise will be action the following day against Trinidad and Tobago, Red Steel at the National Stadium, Providence.

The local franchise will then play Jamaica on August 2 and St Lucia on August 4. They will then play hosts Trinidad and Tobago on August 9 and Barbados on August 11, before playing hosts Jamaica on August 14. Their final preliminary game is against hosts Antigua and Barbuda on August 17.

Captain Ramnaresh Sarwan stretches before the start of the training camp on Tuesday at the Guyana National Stadium

Veerasammy Permaul, Trevon Griffith, Krishmar Santokie and William Perkins doing their share of sit-ups during training on Tuesday (Rajiv Bisnauth photos)

Marlon Samuels

Top seeds record big wins

Madhoo wins

Men’s Singles at GDA tournament GBTI Tennis Open…

The stronger players showed why they were seeded, when they completed convincing in the latest round of matches at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) Tennis Open at the bank’s recreational facility at Bel Air Park.

Opening his title defence, top seed Anthony Downes humiliated Jason Andrews 6-1, 6-0 on Monday in front of a partisan crowd.

Downes showed his class in breaking the error riddled Andrews whose only game came from a service struggle when Downes was unable to control the balls off his racquet and made lots of unforced errors which gifted Andrews

the game.

The unseeded Andrews could not have gotten any of his service returns into play as he tried blasting every serve return for a winner. He even found it hard to serve the net as he began double faulting in the beginning of the second set.

That was all Downes needed as he launched an assault on Andrews, who incidentally is his doubles partner.

The unseeded Andrews looked uncomfortable as he was made to jump, sprint and slide on the hard courts by seasoned campaigner Downes. The set was closed out at 6-0 as Downes sounded an early

warning to the remaining players left in the draw.

Also moving on was top seed in the Men’s 35 Singles, Carlos Adams, who handed Albert Madramottoo a 6-0 6-0 thrashing. Joining him was Harry Panday who took out Dick Wesenhagen easily 6-2 6-2 to progress to the second round.

In the lone female match-up of the day, junior poster girl Afruica Gentle showed why she is the top under-12 player when she ousted Maria Stephens 6-0 6-0.

The competition, which ends on August 3, continued last evening with another round of matches at the same venue.

Rambalak wins Georgetown leg of “Premium Cues”

Ryan Rambalak was crowned champion of the Georgetown “Premium Cues Showdown” pool tournament last Sunday at Buddy’s Pool Hall on Sheriff Street.

In a keenly contested Georgetown leg of the countrywide tournament, Rambalak battled to victory against 32 players, and for his win he took home a first prize of $60,000 and a trophy.

Troy Soodoo captured the runner-up position, securing $40,000 and a trophy, while the third place finisher Bernard Bagot claimed $35,000 and a trophy.

The three players will now represent Georgetown in the grand finals of the countrywide tournament billed for Sunday at Stabroek Sports Bar above Idiho Restaurant starting at 11:00h.

Banks/Premium Beer Manager Brian Choo-Hen disclosed that 21 players representing seven zones will contest the finals.

The countrywide tourna-

ment is sponsored by Banks DIH Limited under the Premium Beer brand.

The winner will take home a top prize of $125,000 and a trophy with the runner-up securing $70,000 while the third place finish-

er will collect $35,000.

Choo-Hen said the tournament received overwhelming support and he thanked players and pools enthusiasts from Berbice, Georgetown, West Coast Demerara, East Bank

Demerara, Essequibo and Linden for coming out and supporting the matches.

According to Choo-Hen, the players are anxiously awaiting Sunday’s showdown in the open straight pools competition.

Norman Madhoo turned in a brilliant performance to win the men’s singles title last Friday when the Guyana Darts Association (GDA) held a Men’s Singles and Luck of the Draw tournament at the Malteenoes Sports Club.

Madhoo suffered an early defeat to Sudesh Fitzgerald in the preliminary stage, but rebounded to win his other matches to emerge with the victory.

The overseas-based former national champion defeated Lallchand Rambarose in the semi-finals 2-0, while Anil Lachman prevailed 2-1 over Colin France in the other semi-final.

In what turned out to be a one-sided final, Madhoo whipped Lachman 4-0 to lift the Men’s Singles title.

In the Luck of the

Draw, the team of Anthony Bissoondyal and Sherwyn Greene created a major upset by outplaying Madhoo and Fitzgerald three matches to two in the final.

Bissoondyal/Greene had gained their place in the final following a 2-0 win over Mark Persaud and Shaundelle Hyles, while Madhoo/Fitzgerald had defeated France and Delon Correia 2-0 in the other semi- final.

Meanwhile, Madhoo, who is the proprietor of the Water Store, will sponsor a tournament this Friday before he returns to the United States of America.

The tournament will comprise Luck of the Draw and a Men’s Singles and it will be held at the Maltenoes Sport Club, starting at 19:00h. Cash prizes up for grabs for the top performers.

Anthony Downes

Ryan Rambalak (right) receives the first prize trophy from a Premium Beer model while Premium Beer managers Brian Choo-Hen and Jeoff Clement, and other models look on

Mary Correia (right) congratulates winners of the Luck of Draw, Sherwyn Greene (left) and Anthony Bissoondyal

Norman Madhoo

Coordinator gives Digicel school football A Grade

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

As the third annual Digicel Schools

Football tournament enters its penultimate stage today with the hosting of the semi-finals, the coordinator has expressed total satisfaction with the way the event has evolved this year.

According to Lavern Fraser-Thomas, apart from some unfavourable weather, the tournament has been a tremendous success.

This year’s competition attracted 147 schools from the 10 administrative regions, and it has boiled down to 2012 champions Wismar/ Christianburg, last year’s runner-up Waramadong Secondary, Covent Garden and St George’s who will contest today’s highly anticipated semi-finals.

Coordinator FraserThomas during an exclusive interview with this publication on Tuesday was adamant the 2013 edition had surpassed the achievements of the previous two tournaments.

“This year we would have had the highest level of participation where schools are concerned. Notwithstanding that we’ve had the least amount of challenges; things have really gone well for us. The only glitch maybe was the weather, and of course we don’t have any control over that, but I think this year has really been a hallmark in terms of the competition and what it is we’ve been able to achieve,” Fraser-Thomas outlined.

Fraser-Thomas, who is also the sport coordinator at the University of Guyana,

noted that there are several reasons for the significant progress made since kick off on June 21, primary among them is the invaluable experience gained from hosting the first two competitions in 2011 and 2012.

“Well, I guess the last two years probably we would have gained at this end, and also schools too are recognising that we plan to stick by our rules and regulations and how important discipline is if you’re going to be part of the tournament. So a lot of them are making the effort and taking the steps needed to ensure they do not find themselves falling by the wayside. Also, our experiences over the last two years have taught us and we are getting better at the organising level,” she explained.

While the quality of the on-field play has been excellent, activities beyond the playing area have been even more tremendous with large crowds flocking the venues to witness the various

Donut Prince wins feature on Sunday

Donut Prince of the Colin Elcock stable on Sunday last convincingly took the feature C and Lower 1200 metres event when the Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club and Sport Facilities (RCMTC&SF) and the Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC) held its horse race meet at the Port Mourant Turf Club.

Veteran Jockey Yap “Old Boy” Drepaul took full control of the race from gate to pole. The win was worth $700,000 and the Banks DIH trophy. Country Armagh of the Jagdeo stable came in second with CP Got Even of the Elcock stable finishing third and Who Is on the Case occupied the top four positions.

Silent Night of the Mohammed “Nankoo” Shariff stable won the co-feature Three-year-old event for Guyana and West Indies bred horses. The Guyana bred animal was ridden by Jamaican Brian Blake and it defeated the foreign bred horses to win easily and take away the $350,000 winner’s money and

trophy from Monsoon, Set for Fame and Party Time.

Jockey Colin Ross piloted Today is my Day to victory in the Two-year-old event for West Indies bred animals.

Unsettled, Royal Empire and Untouchable followed in that order. The win was worth $300,000 and trophy.

The Two-year-old 1000 metres event for Guyana bred horses saw I’ll Get Another with Winston Appadu in control winning the $220,000 top prize and trophy from Baby Kerry and Sunny Silence.

Treacle of the Habibulla stable won the G1 and Lower race from Celebrating Love, Quiet Storm and War Craft to take the $300,000 first prize.

There was a win for Gold Romance of the Saul stable in the G3 and Lower event. The animal raced away with the first prize of $300,000 from Silent Lizzy, Quiet Storm and Red Cloud.

Easy to Win won the ‘I’ and Lower race while Smarty Light from the Ron Velloza stable was in winners’ row in the J and K class event.

matches across the 10 administrative regions.

Fraser-Thomas opined that the tournament, like never before, has connected well with the populace, as more persons are embracing the concept of school football.

Today, both semi-finals are slated to kick off at 15:30h with Covent Garden taking on 2012 champions Wismar/Christianburg at the Beterverwagting ground on the East Coast of Demerara and St George’s tackling last year’s runnerup Waramadong Secondary at the Uitvlugt Community Centre on the West Coast of Demerara.

Judging from the large following, the semi-finalists have received throughout the competition, both venues are expected to attract a large number of spectators cheering their respective teams on.

Looking ahead to today’s

showdown, Fraser-Thomas opined that two highly competitive games are in the making, which she said, should make for great viewing.

“As I always say, I don’t ever predict football because one the ball goes into the net, that’s it. But I can assure all those persons who are going to come out that you’re in for a treat because we have two schools who have never reached this far in the competition in St George’s and Covent Garden and of course we have the two old heads

[Wismar/Christainburg and Waramadong] who are there every year so far. So it’s really going to be interesting to see what happens,” she remarked.

The grand final and third place playoff are billed for Sunday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary.

While the semi-finalists have been decided, the big question is, which school will lift the winner’s trophy on the left and etch its name on the lien trophy at centre?

Lavern Fraser-Thomas

Amazon Warriors begin training camp

From left: Ramnaresh Sarwan, Guyana Amazon Warriors captain; Ravie Ramcharitar, director, Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise; Wayne James, managing director, Top Brandz Distributors (distributors of Corona beer); and Christopher Barnwell, team member, Guyana Amazon Warriors

Some members

Guyana Amazon Warriors team going through their beep test at the start

Guyana National Stadium, Providence

See story on page 21