Guyana Times Dialy by Gytimes

LOOK ! INSIDE Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1991 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Monday, December 23, 2013

APNU/AFC's position on Berbice Bridge amounts to nationalisation, violates Investment Act – breaches BBCI concession agreement

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Region Two P7 chairman slams GPL over blackout

See story on page 3

Christmas shopping heats up in Rose Hall Relatives want probe into skeletal remains found P7 at Bath Ram dead P8 wrong on govt’s interest in BBCI – PSC U.S. lauds P9 business coalition for response to AIDS fight The holiday shopping season intensified on Sunday in Berbice with thousands gathering at various shopping centres and malls to cash in on sale promotions and other offers. Our photographer captured this scene at Rose Hall Town Sunday afternoon (See story on page 3 of Berbice Times)

Biker dies after Woman stabs crashing into man to death pole over $1000 See story on page 19

See story on page 13

Recruitment agency P17 finds jobs for 2548

monDay, december 23, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

News

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, December 23 from 08:30h to 10:00h. The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, December 23 from 07:40h to 09:10h.

WEATHER TODAY Countrywide: Thundery showers are expected during the day, with light rain showers in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

monDay, december 23, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

APNU/AFC's position on Berbice Bridge amounts to nationalisation, violates Investment Act – breaches BBCI concession agreement

Winds: North-easterly at 4.47 to 2.68 metres per second. High Tide: 08:01h and 20:19h reaching maximum heights of 2.39 metres and 2.40 metres respectively. Low Tide: 13:52h reaching a minimum height of 0.85 metre.

APNU leader David Granger

saturday, December 21, 2013

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Daily Millions

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he recent attacks by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) on several developmental projects have been viewed a ploy by the opposition to damage the local investment climate Several opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) have strongly criticised the Marriott Project, the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project, the Specialty Hospital, the Cheddi Jagan Internationa Airport Expansion, and of late, the toll structure of the Berbice River Bridge. The opposition is seeking through a parliamentary motion to reduce the tolls to cross the bridge On the latter, a prominent Berbice executive said the security for all of the investors in the Berbice River Bridge is the Berbice River Bridge Act and the concession agreement issued pur-

Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan

suant to this act. “One of the most important parts of the concession agreement is the BBCI (Berbice Bridge Corporation Inc) right to collect tolls and to have the tolls adjusted to cover its expenditure. The order made by the minister of public works with respect to the tolls for the Berbice Bridge is based on the Berbice River Bridge Act.

Toll orders

“Two toll orders were made by the minister – Order Number 42 of 2008 published in the Official Gazette on December 22, 2008, the month the bridge started operations and Order Number 23 of 2009 published in the Official Gazette on November 26, 2009,” the official said. Since the bridge started operations in December 2008, the tolls have not gone up. Without investors hav-

ing the confidence in the rule of law and the state honouring the toll orders referred to above, any serious investor will be turned away. The investors include the top five commercial banks in Guyana; insurance companies; pension funds; the National Insurance Scheme (NIS); the New Building Society (NBS); and major corporate investors. Excluding the NIS (which some consider quasi-government); all of the investors in the Berbice Bridge are private.

Break even

With the existing tolls, the BBCI is only at a breakeven position, the official said, noting that to date, the common shareholders have not received a single cent of dividend. To date, only the interest returns on the debt (bonds and subordinate loan stock) and the dividend on the preferred shares to NIS have been paid. The Berbice Bridge has not started paying back principal on any of its debt. “If the opposition’s motion were to be implemented, it would amount to a form of nationalisation or expropriation and would send shock waves through the investment community. It would amount to a fundamental breach of the concession agreement issued to BBCI

APNU Member of Parliament Joseph Harmon

and violate the Investment Act. “Every investor would then be forced to write down their asset as the likelihood of payment of interest, much less principal, would be impaired. “To make matters worse, this opposition political attack on the tolls of the Berbice Bridge will jeopardise the ability to have the proposed new Demerara Bridge funded as a private sector project. “In order for the new Demerara Bridge to be financed by the private sector, investors will have to be confident that they can collect the tolls from users crossing the bridge. "The right to collect tolls is a right derived from legislation (similar to the Berbice Bridge),” he said.

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, december 23, 2013

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

Editorial

Return of the Ombudsman

ost of our state and governmental constitutional offices were derived from the British template at Westminster. The Office of the Ombudsman, first formed in Sweden back in 1809, which came with our independence Constitution of 1966, preceded, however, that of Britain by one year, and was second only to that of New Zealand, which had been established in 1962. The office has an interesting origin, which, to a large extent, determined its subsequent history. As is well known, a People’s National Congress (PNC)United Force (UF) coalition was formed in 1964 as a result of U.S.-British manoeuvres to oust the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government that was supposed to lead Guyana to independence. To address the bitter consequences of racial riots that had been fomented by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) was invited to Guyana. They made two major recommendations: that Indian Guyanese be recruited in such numbers that the police and the army should reflect their percentage in the general population and that an Office of the Ombudsman be established. This latter recommendation was followed in letter, but never in spirit, while the former died in stillbirth. In general, “An Ombuds office, in its classical form, is defined as an office established by constitution or statute, headed by an independent high-level public official who receives complaints about injustice and maladministration from aggrieved persons against government agencies, officials or employees, or who acts on his or her own initiative. “Generally, the Ombudsman has power to investigate, criticise, recommend corrective action, and generally publicise administrative actions, but does not have power to invalidate actions or enforce the recommendations made. As an individual, the Ombuds person is someone of prestige and influence who operates with objectivity, competence, efficiency, and fairness.” According to the last ombudsman, Justice Sheik Y Mohamed, before its formation, the functions of the office were performed by the Attorney General’s Chambers: “A legal officer of that Chambers was specially assigned to deal with complaints from the public, including complaints against government departments. This service was not provided by statute so it lacked statutory sanctions; however, it provided some relief to the ordinary man.” The Constitution of Guyana provides a very succinct description of the Office of the Ombudsman: “The Ombudsman may investigate any action taken by any department of the government by any other authority to which this article applies, or by the president, ministers, officers, or members of such a department, authority being action taken in the administrative function of that department or authority.” With 12 paragraphs delineating complaints he may not pursue, Justice Mohamed wryly observed that he was once told it appeared that there were more things he couldn’t do than do, with the seven staff in his department. The unique feature of the Office of the Ombudsman is its accessibility to the public – especially those who may not have the resources to initiate actions elsewhere. Justice Mohammed pointed out that the office had no independent investigator and had to pursue field investigations through correspondence. The biggest hurdle that had to be overcome was the disdain with which the ministers and heads of departments treated the inquiries. This, he affirmed, had been the case from the beginning of the office’s work under the People’s National Congress (PNC). He pointed out that “the Ombudsman has no power to order or impose sanctions. He has no right to quash or reverse a decision of a government department or authority. He can only make a recommendation or suggestion”. If the recommendation is not followed, the Ombudsman can lay a special report before the National Assembly, before which he also has to submit an annual report on the work of his office. The opposition has been clamouring for the Office of the Ombudsman, vacant since 2005, be constituted again. It is our hope that when the new occupant is ensconced next January, he will be given their full cooperation and not the disrespect shown during the last PNC regime.

Masqueraders on the streets of Georgetown on Friday. The masquerade, a once-glorious Christmas tradition in Guyana, is still practised by a few (Carl Croker photo)

The availability of meals at UG Dear Editor, The idea of the Camex food court at the University of Guyana (UG) is indeed a superb one given the large population of students and lecturers that the campus usually facilitates. However, the prices of the food items are of some concern to many. Though the café is nice, it is absurd for one to charge ridiculous prices for simple beverages such as coffee, in addition to various kinds of food and snacks. It is as if the owner of the food court is operating in such a way that they sell their items at high prices that will allow them to make well over a 100 per cent profit. Many persons who attend early morning class-

es often rely on the campus food facilities to provide some form of breakfast for them. There is therefore always the rush to buy light meals. I strongly believe that a price list should be established and agreed on in order to make food items more affordable. Camex is the franchise owner of several fast food restaurants in Guyana inclusive of Mario’s Pizza, Quiznos, Church’s Chicken and Juici Patties. For those of us who have visited these places we know to ourselves that the average Guyanese may not be able to afford meals from these outlets. In fact, visits to these outlets may be seen as a luxury to some.

I hope that the relevant individuals at UG can establish an affordable price list for the food and drinks available to students on campus. When preparing this price list they need to take into consideration those students who have to travel long distances to get to the university and back and also those students who come from low income households. I know of many canteens around Guyana that allow for food and drink items to be sold at an affordable price to customers, simply because the volume of the business allows for good returns even at a low price. Moreover, as it relates to catering for students that

are not as well off as others may be; it might be wise for the university to consider implementing a shuttle service that will cater for those individuals who attend late night classes and often encounter difficulty finding transportation to go home. Students should be granted a student pass. No person should be denied the opportunity to receive higher education and so we must therefore ensure that the facilities that we put in place will allow for people of all financial backgrounds to benefit. Sincerely, UG student Name withheld by request

The noise nuisance problem in Guyana Dear Editor, I strongly believe that many don’t quite understand the true meaning of noise nuisance. I was in a minibus one day and the driver was playing his music set extremely loud and as we approached a police officer on the road, the driver proceeded to lower the volume. I personally believe that all campaigns that were previously established to address this issue of noise nuisance in vehicles have not been as effective as they should be. Clearly, they were unsuccessful campaigns if drivers will alternate the volume of their

sets only when they see a police. Ideally, if loud music is not permitted in vehicles, then they should not be equipped with gadgets that facilitate the loudness. It, therefore, means that more emphasis has to be placed on ensuring the removal and disconnection of stereo systems in its entirety. Just recently, a licensed event held at the sea wall was in fact reported after the volume of their music was inconveniencing several residents in surrounding areas. Two men were subsequently arrested and fined for noise nuisance.

I live two houses away from a local rum shop and the inconvenience that it causes is often unbearable. Noise nuisance often comes in the form of loud music, car horns and loud erratic behaviour from intoxicated people. I have noticed that the gas station in Buxton often permits atrocious revelling on most weekends. Aside from noise nuisance, the gathering often impedes the regular flow of traffic and what baffles me is the fact that the Vigilance Police Station is not far away and yet nothing is done to address the situation. Ironically, as we may all

be aware, when Guyanese migrate to North America, they somehow manifest the ability to obey numerous laws including that of adhering to noise nuisance regulations, yet they sometimes deliberately break those same laws when living in their own country. I strongly suggest that the relevant authorities make it unambiguously clear to the public what noise nuisance is, the form in which it comes and what the consequences of being found guilty of disturbing the peace will entail. Sincerely, Jeremy Wilson

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, december 23, 2013

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

Goolsarran is aware of the process What can the November 27 flood for revision of wages and salaries teach us? Dear Editor, The credibility of a public figure should always be weighed when considering a stated position. There are a number of elements that lends to a person’s credibility such as integrity, competence and trust worthiness. The bias of the public figure lends to or detracts from that credibility. Columnists, like public figures, depend on their credibility to inform readers that they are an authority on a respective issue; otherwise, no one would take them seriously and read their columns. Anand Goolsarran is one such columnist whose readership looks to his credibility to inform them about issues pertaining to public accounting and related matters. As a long-serving official of the Auditor General’s Office, Goolsarran started his career as an auditor, moved up the career ladder and subsequently became the auditor general, a position no doubt that afforded him great insight into the inner workings of government. The Auditor General’s Office carries a great deal of reverence as a professional agency tasked with oversight to government’s spending. Therefore, whenever Goolsarran speaks on matters pertaining to accounting and auditing, there is a great deal of credibility he exhorts. But this credibility of the individual maybe overshadowed by that of the Auditor General’s Office in and of itself. I note the many cases where Goolsarran has addressed issues concerning government and

Parliament in his column, “Accountability Watch”, from the “The 2011 Auditor General’s Report: Ministry of Finance” to “Second revisit of the NICIL controversy” to “The public service I knew” and “Approaches to decision making”. Most recently, Goolsarran addressed the matter of “The proposed five per cent increase for public servants”. In that column, he sought to explore why government should be able to give the public servants an above five per cent salary increase. What I found particularly concerning is that as a former auditor general, he made no attempt to clarify the inner workings of the revision of wages and salaries that is being misrepresented in some sections of the media. Instead, he proceeded to dissect the line item to falsely demonstrate that government can afford to pay a higher than five per cent salary increase. Goolsarran’s decision to do so rather than accurately inform the public is reason to place his credibility under the microscope which is what I shall endeavour to do via this forum. Goolsarran is a known close friend to Kemraj Ramjattan. Ramjattan has been a long-standing critic of the current administration since he deflected from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in 2004 having discovered he was not going to be the party’s presidential candidate. Biter with the PPP/C, Ramjattan has now made it his all consuming goal to paint the current adminis-

tration in a dark and sinister shade. Most recently, he has been spewing misinformation regarding the revision of wages and salaries with the sole aim to discredit not just the current administration, but specifically Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, a technocrat. Like Ramjattan, Goolsarran has been a longstanding critic of the current PPP/C administration, having served for a number of years under the People’s National Congress (PNC) regime. While he served as the auditor general under Desmond Hoyte, he remained silent to the fact that audits for government were severely lacking up until the PPP/C took office. Having served in an auditing capacity, Goolsarran is well aware of the process and uses of the revision of wages and salaries line in the National Budget. Rather than use his expertise as an auditor and accountant to correct the misinformation spewed by his friend, he chose to ignore the inaccuracies and use his column instead to fuel the inaccuracies. A casual peruse of his columns presents a fair overview of his political lineage and bias. Rather than use his column to clarify, educate and inform the public, Goolsarran cherry picks at issues that will support his friend’s political agenda. This kind of unprofessionalism lends to his lack of credibility which will be further examined in another letter. Sincerely, Richard Paul

Dear Editor, Many of us were affected by some means or another during the recent flood in November caused by heavy rainfall. As the water slowly receded, many businesses and schools gradually got back into their routine activities. The occurrence of the flood brought several concerns to mind, the first being the poor dissemination of information. Many students made their way to school only to find out that schools were cancelled due to the flooding. The various media agencies should have made it their duty to ensure that the

information was effectively made available to the public. This small act would have prevented the inconveniences endured by many. Another concern is that of the absence of traffic police during the chaotic ordeal. Many traffic lights were not working and there was chaos on the roadways. Minibus drivers and taxi operators persistently disregarded and breached many traffic regulations. There was absolutely no level of respect or courtesy being practised on the roadway and there is no doubt that great assistance was needed by traffic officers in

order to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. When citizens irresponsibly dispose of their garbage into our drains, they significantly contribute to the poor drainage and irrigation systems in the country. This disgraceful act inconveniences the entire nation, which is quite evident during the rainy season. We should all use the recent flooding as a lesson to better prepare ourselves for a similar occurrence and further minimise the inconveniences caused. Sincerely, Orrin Noble

monday, december 23, 2013

Page

Foundation

Teach the children... L ate one Christmas Eve, I sank back, tired but content, into my easy chair. The kids were in bed, the gifts were wrapped, the milk and cookies waited by the fireplace for Santa. As I sat back admiring the tree with its decorations, I couldn’t help feeling that something important was missing. It wasn’t long before the tiny twinkling tree lights lulled me to sleep. I don’t know how long I slept, but all of a sudden I knew that I wasn’t alone. I opened my eyes, and you can imagine my surprise when I saw Santa Claus himself standing next to my Christmas tree. He was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot just as the poem described him, but he was not the “jolly old elf” of Christmas legend. The man who stood before me looked sad and disappointed, and there were tears in his eyes. “Santa, what’s wrong?” I asked, “Why are you crying?” “It’s the children,” Santa replied sadly. “But Santa, the children love you,” I said. “Oh, I know they love me, and they love the gifts I bring them,” Santa said, “but the children of today seem to have somehow missed out on the true spirit of Christmas. It’s not their fault. It’s just that the adults, many of them not having been taught themselves, have forgotten to teach the children.” “Teach them what?” I asked. Santa’s kind old face became soft, more gentle. His eyes began to shine with something more than tears. He spoke softly. “Teach the children the true meaning of Christmas. Teach them that

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the part of Christmas we can see, hear, and touch is much more than meets the eye. Teach them the symbolism behind the customs and traditions of Christmas which we now observe. Teach them what it is they truly represent.” Santa reached into his bag and pulled out a tiny

Christmas tree and set it on my mantle. “Teach them about the Christmas tree. Green is the second colour of Christmas. The stately evergreen, with its unchanging colour, represents the hope of eternal life in Jesus. Its needles point heavenward as a reminder that mankind’s thoughts should turn heavenward as well.” Santa reached into his bag again and pulled out a shiny star and placed it at the top of the small tree. “The star was the heavenly sign of promise. God promised a Saviour for the world and the star was the sign of the fulfilment of that promise on the night that Jesus Christ was born. Teach the children that God always fulfils His promises, and that wise men still seek Him.” “Red,” said Santa, “is the first colour of Christmas.” He pulled forth a red ornament for the tiny tree. “Red is deep, intense, vivid. It is the colour of the life-giving blood that flows

through our veins. It is the symbol of God’s greatest gift. Teach the children that Christ gave His life and shed His blood for them that they might have eternal life. When they see the colour red, it should remind them of that most wonderful Gift.” Santa found a silver bell in

his pack and placed it on the tree. “Just as lost sheep are guided to safety by the sound of the bell, it continues to ring today for all to be guided to the fold. Teach the children to follow the true Shepherd, who gave His life for the sheep.” Santa placed a candle on the mantle and lit it. The soft glow from its one tiny flame brightened the room. “The glow of the candle represents how people can show their thanks for the gift of God’s Son that Christmas Eve long ago. Teach the children to follow in Christ’s footsteps... to go about doing good. Teach them to let their light so shine before people that all may see it and glorify God. This is what is symbolised when the twinkling lights shine on the tree like hundreds of bright, shining candles, each of them representing one of God’s precious children, their light shining for all to see.” Again Santa reached

into his bag and this time he brought forth a tiny red and white striped cane. As he hung it on the tree he spoke softly. “The candy cane is a stick of hard white candy: white to symbolise the virgin birth and sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolise the Solid Rock the foundation of the church, and the firmness of God’s promises. The candy cane is in the form of a ‘J’ to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth. It also represents the Good Shepherd’s crook, which He uses to reach down into the ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray. The original candy cane had three small red stripes, which are the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed, and a large red stripe that represents the shed blood of Jesus, so that we can have the promise of eternal life.” “Teach these things to the children.” Santa brought out a beautiful wreath made of fresh, fragrant greenery tied with a bright red bow. “The bow reminds us of the bond of perfection, which is love. The wreath embodies all the good things about Christmas for those with eyes to see and hearts to understand. It contains the colours of red and green and the heaven-turned needles of the evergreen. The bow tells the story of good will towards all and its colour reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice. Even its very shape is symbolic, representing eternity and the eternal nature of Christ’s love. It is a circle, without beginning and without end. These are the things you must teach the children.” (Author Unknown, source: www.neloo.com)

Keep children safe while shopping and travelling By Amanda Rock

ere are some valuable child safety tips for parents to keep children safer while shopping and travelling. Parents should be encouraged to talk with their children about safety before heading out to a busy shopping mall or boarding a plane, train, or bus this holiday season. Crowds are greater this time of year, and children may easily become separated from their parents, causing confusion and fear. If that should happen, parents need a plan and children should know what to do. Unfortunately many adults and children don’t know what to do if they lose each other in a public place or are faced with other unsafe situations. Here are a few guidlines on how to remain safe and avoid panic and potential dangers.

Always

* Keep children with you at all times while shopping * Accompany and supervise children in public facilities, including restrooms * Have a plan in case you become separated, including a pre-designated spot to meet * Teach children to look for people who can help, such as a uniformed security

officer, salesperson or mother with children * Remind children to remain in the area where they become separated * Turn shopping trips into opportunities to practise safe shopping skills

Never

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

Other safety tips

If your child is flying, using a taxi or a bus alone this holiday season, parents are urged to remember the following travel safety tips: * When you make reservations for your child, specify that the child will be travelling alone. Whenever possible, book a non-stop flight or direct route. Avoid booking the last flight of the day. Let your child know what to expect, so the experience will not be so intimidating. * In case of delay or cancellation, remain until the plane, taxi or bus departs. * Make sure children travel with proper identification and parents or guardian contact information. * Always have a back-up plan for the person or people meeting the plane at the destination, in case they are delayed. Encourage children not to become too friendly with other passengers or to reveal any personal information. (About.com)

7 Region Two chairman slams GPL over blackout news

monday, december 23, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

BY INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

egion Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the poor and slow effort by the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) in restoring power on the Essequibo Coast. Persaud, during an interview with Guyana Times, said he is frustrated over the situation and called on GPL to get its act together. Region Two on Saturday suffered a 12-hour blackout on Saturday less than two weeks ago after having to put up with a 48-hour power outage. Since power was restored to the region after the twoday power outage, Region Two residents were greeted with frequent blackouts, but apart from Region Two, Georgetown and other areas

on the coastland have been enduring the ‘fairy-lights’ ordeal. On a visit to the GPL power station at Anna Regina on Saturday, Persaud said he was told by officers there that they are fixing the problem and all will be good before the end of Sunday.

ny in handling the plight of Region Two residents. The regional chairman said he had received numerous calls from the business community inquiring from him about the blackout, noting that he had promised them that all will be well soon, based on the advice of the GPL staff at Anna Regina, but had to suffer the indignity of giving them false hope.

Difficult to comprehend

But the regional chairman is finding the explanation difficult to comprehend, noting that he cannot believe that GPL is taking more than 12 hours to fix a simple problem. According to Persaud, he was told by the officers that a power card was damaged resulting in the shutdown. He said the card has to come from the Geogetown head office and would take five minutes to install.

Hurting businesses

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud

But 18 hours after the blackout, GPL did not install the card, and this Persaud said speaks to the level of efficiency of the power compa-

Meanwhile, the unstable power situation continues to hurt businesses on the Essequibo Coast. The power company last week in a statement had said that power supply is back to near normalcy. But up to Sunday, poultry farmers said they are being forced to sell “live” chicken since they

cannot say whether there will be a daily power supply. One poultry farmer, Jean Samaroo said she is losing on her chickens since she cannot pluck them due to frequent power outages. Samaroo related that she earns more from plucked chicken but due to the unreliable power supply, plucking is a risk. Many offices on Wednesday were unable to function due to the blackout. Sanjay Persaud, a fisherman from Cotton Field, said he did not get to go out to fish, owing to the unreliable power supply which hit the Essequibo Coast since last week. In a statement last week, GPL said all remedial work on the 11kV busbar at the Anna Regina generating station had been completed and power supply has re-

turned to a state of near normalcy. According to the company, intermittent outages are, however, still being experienced as faults develop in its distribution network as a result of high winds. “Be assured that no effort is being spared to deal with this situation. We apologise for the inconvenience caused, thank you for your forbearance over the past week-and-a-half and we appeal for your patience over the next few days as we work towards ensuring that you have a Christmas that is free of outages. We also urge you to limit your use of electricity during the holiday season and to visit our website at www.gplinc.com for more information on energy conservation,” the power company said.

Relatives want probe into skeletal remains found at Bath

Deceased: Sookram Ragabir

post-mortem is expected to be performed on the skeletal remains of Sookram Ragabir, called “Baayun”, which were discovered on Thursday on a vacant plot of land in a clump of bushes at Waterloo, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice. The man had been missing since August. He was never reported as a missing person. According to his sister Rohanie Dkharam, he did odd jobs and most of the times stayed at the place where he worked. According to her, in August, he was working with the owner of a supermarket performing security duties.

Missing

She said her brother had been doing that job for several months and they only learnt that he was missing after the owner of the supermarket came in August to ask if he was at home. She said the supermarket owner was preparing for a wedding and was seeking his assistance to cut bamboo. “But we tell him that Baayun is with him so he can’t come and ask for him.” It was then she explained that family members started a search. She said they searched several villages and work sites for months. Another sister, Jasmattie Dkharram noted that the search took them to

New Amsterdam. “Somebody tell us that he might be in the National Psychiatric Hospital and so we went there and look.” Dkharam said on another occasion, they visited ‘old folks’ home in New Amsterdam in search of her brother. According to her, her now dead brother did have some abnormalities. She said it was a male cousin who called on Thursday and said that they found somebody’s skeleton. According to Dkharam, when he arrived on the scene, he told investigators that his brother-in-law had been missing and provided some details. “The supermarket man had told us that he had between $65,000 to $70,000 on him in his wallet, so I told the police that.” “I decide to go and look and I see a pants in a trench about 25 feet away so I call the police and when we check, we find the wallet.”

Wallet

According to him, the wallet contained a $500 note, along with a $20 bill and some thousand dollar notes. “I average that it was $40,000 -$45,000 when they open the wallet.” According to the police, the wallet contained $24,000. “I can’t understand that because they open the wallet in front of me and even if we accept that it was $24,000, what happen to the $500 and $20 bill, but it was more than that.” Meanwhile, residents in the area said that for the past few months, an ugly stench was coming from the area and they thought it was a decaying animal because some people are in the habit of disposing of their dead animals there. When Guyana Times visited the area on Sunday, the unpleasant smell was still evident. Dkharam is of the view

that there are still other bones in the area and wants

all of them to be buried properly. Ragabir leaves to mourn

three sisters and one brother. He would have celebrated his

birthday on Thursday. Police are investigating the matter.

8 news

monday, december 23, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

Ram dead wrong on govt’s interest in BBCI – PSC …reiterates objection to any state interference in toll reduction right to investment returns.” The business umbrella body said it is only in the context of such protection that private capital can be harnessed and directed into infrastructural projects, which are of crucial importance to the nation but which may be beyond the financial capabilities of government or the capability of government to efficiently manage.

NIS not govt

Christopher Ram

he Private Sector Commission (PSC) reiterated its objection to government interfering in the operations of the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) as the opposition seeks through a parliamentary motion to reduce the tolls to cross the bridge. In a statement last Friday, the PSC said that government’s role in private limited liability companies extends to regulating and enforcing compliance with existing laws. “The Private Sector Commission, cognisant of the free market policies, which have driven growth in Guyana for the past 25 years and allowed a strong private sector to develop and flourish, is of the opinion that private investment must be guaranteed protection from any form of governmental interference with legal investment strategies, most paramount of which is pricing for products and services that directly affects shareholders’ legitimate

In an earlier release when A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) first tabled the motion, the PSC stated that “the Berbice Bridge Company is 80 per cent owned by Guyanese private sector interests, including pension funds and 20 per cent by an institutional investor, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), that also holds non-voting preference stock in the company and provides one of the few opportunities for good investment returns on Guyanese workers’ NIS contributions and may also be considered critical to the future of the scheme.” However, Christopher Ram has since written to the press challenging the commission’s statement and positing that government owns 76 per cent of the issued shares of the company, but intentionally ignores the above. “The PSC stands by its statement since the government, through NICIL, no longer owns the 950 preference shares in the company as these were purchased by an institutional investor, the NIS. Mr Ram is dead wrong to use the NIS owner-

ship of the preference shares as synonymous with government ownership and control. These preference shares are non-voting shares which carry no vote at the shareholders’ meeting,” the commission argued. It said that NIS is an institutional investor with a mandate to provide social security benefits to the workforce in Guyana: health benefits and retirement benefits. “It is not an investment tool of the state which generates income for the Consolidated Fund. Longterm liabilities (LTL), other than the preference shares, representing more than 80 per cent of LTL are financed from private sources, commercial banks, companies, etc.”

Mind-boggling ignorance

According to the PSC , with respect to the special share of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), which Ram points to as evidence of government ownership, it is a common safeguard provision inserted into the articles of amendment to protect the interests of the people when assets are privatised. This special share is usually referred to as a “golden share" and has no financial interest in the company. It merely allows its holder to prevent the company from acting outside of its mandate and would come into play if, for instance, the company sought to utilise the bridge as collateral for a debt for a project unrelated to managing and operating the

Eyew tness

Whistling... ...in the (AFC) dark n its free AFC column in the Opposition MuckrakerKN, Moses Nagamootoo announced that the Alliance For Change (AFC) isn’t dead. He’s whistling in the dark. The AFC contracted a fatal foot-in-mouth disease last year in Linden, it worsened in Agricola and became fatal after the Nigel Hughes Sithe Global Inc fiasco. The AFC is dead and buried. And if Nagamootoo doesn’t realise this, he’s either like the cuckolded husband who’s the last to know – or he a necrophiliac. You know...fellas who like to make out with dead bodies. Nagamootoo conjured up three reasons as to why the AFC isn’t dead. Even then, they’re so specious and contrived, it’s obvious he protesteth too much. First, he claims the “AFC maintains a vibrant and robust voice in the National Assembly”. It’s clear he confuses shrillness and stridency with “vibrancy and robustness”. But what do you expect from a man whose most memorable AFC contribution to the National Assembly was to announce he’d screamed at his grandson: “Shut yuh so-and-so mouth!” Hope no one missed his “vibrant and robust voice”. He then cogged Dr Cheddi Jagan’s line to claim that “AFC mirrors the image of a genuinely authentic multiethnic, multi-class movement”. If wishes were horses...! The results at the last elections are there for all to peruse and draw their own conclusions. The AFC lost all the African Guyanese votes Raphael Trotman had brought in and Valerie Garrido-Lowe has frittered away the Region Eight Amerindian votes with her refusal to break from the anti-Amerindian stance of the AFC. Berbice was a flash in the pan – never to be repeated. Nagamootoo’s third whistle in the dark was to (amazingly) say that the “AFC has become part of the national consciousness that demands that the scourge of corruption should be wiped out from this land”. Maybe the AFC believes in fighting corruption with corruption. Remember AFC councillor Yusuf Haniff’s undisputed charges of corruption against fellow Berbician, the Bush Doctor? Or the New York’s Chapter mass exodus because the head honchos couldn’t account for donations? Or Khemraj Ramjattan’s making his Specialty Hospital client’s case the AFC’s? Or Nagamootoo collecting $7 million from the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) for filling out forms? How many ways do we have to count AFC’s corruption? A more constructive (and honest) exercise for Nagamootoo and company would be to count the ways showing the AFC is dead as the proverbial door nail. We’ll start them off with one. Then maybe they’ll give up on their necrophiliac ways? Hadn’t the AFC said it’d be supporting either the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) or the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) depending on the issue? So how come it’s now just the water boy for APNU in Parliament? Necrophilia’s made the AFC bassidy?

PSC Chairman Ronald Webster

bridge. “The ownership structure outlined above clearly establishes that the government has no direct investment in the Berbice Bridge Company. The ‘mind-boggling ignorance to which’ Mr Ram refers is more appropriately applied to his contention that the legislature can dictate the pricing strategy of a private limited liability company in which it has no direct shareholding and consequently no control. Would Mr Ram, with his expertise in company law, specify precisely how his position is supported?”

Motion

The APNU motion, which was moved by parliamentarian Joseph Harmon and seconded by Amna Ally, stated in the first clause that the Berbice Bridge was built with significant investment by the government of Guyana on behalf of the people of Guyana and that it is owned and operated by the BBCI, which is incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act Number 29 of 1991 of the Laws of Guyana. According to Harmon, government through the NICIL is a preferential shareholder and a member of the board of directors of the company. Harmon noted that since its commissioning in December 2008, the Berbice Bridge has facilitated the crossing of more than 650,000 vehicles (over the Berbice River) resulting in annual revenue of over $1,500,000,000 (one billion, five hundred million dollars) for the BBCI. He also outlined the various toll rates for each category of vehicles. Harmon contended that the toll for crossing the Berbice River is exceedingly high when compared to a similar crossing of the Demerara River by the Demerara Harbour Bridge and represents a significant devolution of wealth from the people of Berbice in particular, to the benefit of a private company. He said in recognition that the toll was too high, the bridge company for the period over August 1-12, reduced the toll. As such, Harmon is calling for a resolution by the National Assembly to call on the government to instruct its representative on the board of directors of the company to demand an immediate reduction in tolls.

...Dixie If we can import Halloween and Thanksgiving from America, we can certainly try out the American slang “whistling Dixie”. It means to indulge oneself in unrealistic fantasies. Which is exactly what Patrick Yarde and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) – this might count as a “tautology” since they’re one and the same? – were doing when they promised to bring Georgetown to a halt with their “protest march”. But you can’t completely blame Yarde. He was cranked up by David Granger and Ramjattan. The latter especially promised that he would bring out the massive “multiethnic, multi-class” support the AFC had in Georgetown (see Nagamootoo above). Yarde, who is a geriatric and clearly out of touch with reality, clearly believed Ramjattan. Granger was doing some serious Dixie whistling of his own if he thought he could get the (anti-Granger) People’s National Congress (PNC) street elements to march behind Yarde. So you had the interesting case of one wanker whistling in the dark and the other three whistling Dixie. ...Yankee Doodle So with America telling Guyana it’ll “democratize” Guyana whether the Guyana government likes it or not... do we have a Mexican standoff? Or are we whistling up a storm by even talking about it?

news

monday, december 23, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

U.S. lauds business coalition’s response to HIV/AIDS fight Coordinator Sean Wilson; and Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) Coordinating Unit Director Dereck Springer.

Response

Winners and some of the sponsors of the GBCHA raffle

.S. Ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt has lauded the work of the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/ AIDS (GBCHA) for its sustained efforts in reducing the disease here while mobilising resources through the local private sector even as donor funds dry up. Hardt was delivering key remarks at the coalition’s private corporate breakfast earlier this month at the Pegasus

shared responsibility.” The breakfast meeting, held on December 10, focused on the theme “Inspiring Compassionate Leadership in the Workplace and Beyond”. The participants, who included members of the diplomatic corps and private sector representatives, were welcomed by GBCHA Vice Chairperson Delmar Tobin. The meeting was a time for members to reflect on the successes of the local private

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt making remarks

Hotel. Hardt, who commended the coalition for its efforts in leveraging resources from the private sector to match existing donor funds, said “In 2008, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched a partnership to combat HIV/AIDS with Guyana’s private sector. It did so out of recognition that private companies must play a central role in a successful and sustained response to the disease.”

Partnership

Following a four-year partnership, USAID made the decision in March 2012 to transition its private sector HIV/ AIDS support programme to the ownership of the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/ AIDS. This decision was based on the confidence the coalition had the in-house capacity to manage these programmes successfully. “I am pleased to say today that over the past 18 months, the private sector did not disappoint. In fact, you have continued to leverage the resources necessary to sustain these critical activities,” Ambassador Hardt said in his remarks. Ambassador Hardt stated that the coalition served as a model for the country and the region while reminding the gathering that “creating an AIDS-free generation was a

sector in response to HIV and to address the issues of “country ownership” in regard to the changing HIV/AIDS response. In his opening remarks, Tobin reminded the audience that the private sector played a key role in HIV prevention programmes through their workplace programmes. He encouraged attendees to stay committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS in the workplace, community and at the national level by continuing their support of the National AIDS Programme (NAPS) and nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) that are engaged in helping to reduce and prevent HIV/AIDS.

Progress

Tobin highlighted the progress made in the reduction of stigma and discrimination over the years and called on partners in the private sector to continue to seek collaborative and innovative ways to fill the resource gap which exists. The GBCHA vice-chair also thanked members of the coalition and international partners like the United States Agency for International Development/ President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (USAID/ PEPFAR) for investing in the GBCHA which now fosters partnerships with members and other stakeholders.

Tobin pointed out that while the GBCHA will continue to forge partnerships in the multi-sectoral response to HIV, the organisation has also used the lessons learnt in its HIV prevention programmes to address gender-based violence and other issues. He disclosed that this expanded mission has initiated discussion about a potential name change for the organisation as it continues in its transition

to expand its mission beyond HIV/AIDS. During the meeting, there was also a panel discussion moderated by the GBCHA Executive Director Suzanne French. Panellists included UNAID Country Director, Dr Roberto Campos; USAID Population, Health and Nutrition Officer, Dr Oleksander Cherkas; International Labour Organisation Project

The moderator opened the brief session by stating that as the response to HIV evolves, the terms “country ownership” and “sustainable response” were more frequently used. The panel was asked to envisage the role of the private sector in country ownership and sustainability. What can the private sector do to advance country ownership and sustainability? Dr Campos began his response by reflecting on the feeling of hope that is evident today as compared to 15 years ago. He urged that investment be made now in order to end AIDS. Dr Campos said sustainability of the gains so far should be made a priority. Meanwhile, last week Friday, the coalition hosted a simple ceremony to present prizes to the winning ticket holders of its raffle.

The proceeds of the fundraiser will support the services of the HIV counselling and testing site at the GBCHA Secretariat. This fundraising, the coalition said, also highlights the reality of the changing response to HIV/AIDS in Guyana and the world over.

Successes

It said while international donors have helped paved the way for many of the successes recorded in HIV testing and other areas in Guyana, it is now critical that all become involved in the HIV response. In order to support continued free testing at the site, the GBCHA partnered with sponsors of prizes and employees of member companies to make the raffle a success. It thanked the management of Randolph’s Welding and Fabrication Establishment, Harukabra River Resort, King’s Jewellery World, Courts, Geddes Grant, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) and ANSA McAL for sponsoring the prizes.

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, December 23, 2013

News

Opposition seeks back door executive power via Parliament – Dr Luncheon

ead of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon said that the parliamentary opposition is using the National Assembly to exercise executive powers which they were denied of when they lost the 2011 elections. Dr Luncheon made this statement last Wednesday at his weekly post-Cabinet briefing. According to the Cabinet secretary, this is shown at every sitting of the National Assembly when the combined opposition refuses to pass or consider key bills which will see the development of Guyana. He noted that the three bills which the opposition previously refused to approve were allowed to be considered for a second time in the 10th Parliament. These are the Anti-Money Laundering Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act Amendment Bill, the Firearms Amendment Bill and the

papers one, two and three was another opportunity for them to display their misconceived belief that the Parliament performs executive functions in Guyana. He explained that this is a “terrible misconception” which the opposition continues to embrace despite court rulings and constitutional provisions to the country.

False sense of authority

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon

Evidence Act Amendment Bill. “Guyanese must be aware that the opposition, presented with the identical opportunity of considering resubmitted bills, inflicted the same fate on those bills as when they were initially submitted. One which we should not forget and for which Guyanese will forever suffer is the Amaila Falls Hydro-Power Bill,” the Cabinet secretary said. Luncheon went on to say that the tabling of financial

The Cabinet secretary also noted that the parliamentary motions and resolutions have been presented as executive fiat, a ploy that Cabinet absolutely rejects. “Parliamentary resolution and parliamentary motions can never replace nor substitute for executive authority… the government policy consummately deals with contracts with obligations, national development policy, image of Guyana, all of which mean very little to the current parliamentary opposition,” he stated. Dr Luncheon added that recklessness and caprice have

now characterised the opposition’s decision-making process; however, he pointed out that a more sinister aspect of the opposition current behaviour is the refusal to consider, hear and even listen to the voices of the Guyanese people. This, he noted was shown in their refusal to hear the petition of the Private Sector Commission. “The opposition rejected the opportunity to hear their voices at the time of consideration of the Anti-Money Laundering Act Amendment Bill, now it’s the Cricket Administration Bill and the petition by thousands of cricket lovers in Guyana,” Dr Luncheon mentioned. The Cabinet secretary pondered and asked Guyanese to consider what would happen if the opposition parties allowed to have executive power given the behaviour which they unashamedly and willfully adopted in Parliament without any power.

De public servants wuk day

ast year, de sugar workers get five per cent wage increase. Dem tek it, bless it, and dem was happy. Wasn’t much but dem was happy. At least was some ting more than whah dem was gettin. This year, de sugar workers get four per cent wage increase. That was one per cent less than last year. Dem tek it, bless it, and dem was happy. Wasn’t much but dem was happy. At least was some ting more than whah dem was gettin. De sugar workers know how to accept and bless. Dem does wuk hard. Dem does sweat plenty and bun in de sun. Dem does wake up early and wake up early again next day to wuk hard again. De joint services get five per cent. Is not much, but dem happy. De public servants get five per cent last year. Dem get five per cent again this year. Dem don’t want five per cent. Or so de Yarde Man seh. Rum Jhaat, Green Jah and Green Bridge seh de same ting. That is why dem end up in de march alone. Eight o’ clock public servants does go to wuk fuh nine o’ clock…wid breakfuss in hand. Breakfuss does last till 10 o’ clock. Ten o’ clock to 11 o’ clock does be de morning wuk session, pun BB and What’s App. Lunch does start at 12 o’ clock but from 11 o’ clock is time to check menu, order and pick up. Twelve o’ clock to one o’ clock suppose to be lunch. Dem does come back to wuk at one o’clock wid lunch in hand. One o’clock to two o’ clock is eatin time. Two o’clock to three o’clock does be siesta. Three o’ clock to four o’ clock does be de afternoon wuk session. Four o’clock is pack up time to leave at five o’ clock. And de wuk day done. Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! De Labour Ministry should not only jail employers who don’t pay de minimum wage. Dem should also jail people who gettin more than de minimum wage but don’t do de minimum wuk! But guvament offices gon be empty if that happen!

91 youths complete skills training under USAID programme

inety-one youths who completed life and work skills training called “Work Ready Now” through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Skills and Knowledge for Youth Employment (SKYE) programme were recognised for their accomplishment on Thursday last. Representatives from the U.S. embassy, the Education Ministry, the private sector, civil society, and parents of the graduating youth were present at the event. Speaking to the youths, who came from Regions Three, Four, Six and 10, Deputy Chief of Mission Bryan Hunt commended them for “showing commitment to improving their lives and being prepared to work towards their own success”. Hunt also recognised the commitment of the programme’s many partners in government, private sector, civil society, the magistracy and local government who are “working and collectively striving to create an environment that can support

the success of all Guyanese youth”. USAID SKYE livelihood and employability coaches will continue to advise and guide youth in their efforts at finding and keeping employment. Partnerships with private sector employers and chambers of commerce play a central role in these efforts. Members of the private sector have consistently assisted the USAID SKYE programme in developing and refining training materials and practices, and have offered many opportunities for young men and women to work towards realising their hopes and ambitions. The SKYE programme focuses on youth, mainly young men, who are school dropouts, youths who completed formal education but do not have the necessary skills to find employment, and youths involved in the juvenile justice system. To date, a total of 740 youths have completed life and work skills training and 270 youths have been placed into full-time employment.

monday, December 23, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

12 News

monday, December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Times Notebook Shameful that a media house can insult women and get away with it I

t is appalling how often women are being degraded and their fundamental rights are being infringed on in the media. There is a trend in the Kaieteur News towards constantly degrading women and attacking their fundamental rights. Kaieteur News has a fetish for attacking people who they perceive to be supportive of the government. Their attacks usually are libellous, racist, sexist and vulgar and this mode of attack is in lieu of them not being able to make a logical case against their target.

Target Their latest target is Town Clerk Carol Sooba and on December 16 –– it was vulgar and, by any standards, exceeded the limits that even an unfair and absolutely biased newspaper sets itself. They were targeting Sooba for ridicule. Guyana is a free country and we are certain there are civilised ways to ridicule someone. Questioning someone’s qualification for a job does not give you a right to ridicule and call the person a

Party/Civic (PPP/C) government recognised the illadvised attack on this woman and was bold enough to make public its concerns. We heard someone from the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) spoke about this matter. We also heard female ministers in government speak out, inluding Priya Manickchand, Jenifer Webster and Gail Teixeira.

Town Clerk Carol Sooba

prostitute. It is wrong and all groups that claim they exist to promote and protect the fundamental rights of women cannot fail to see the injustice in this wicked piece of journalism. The biased nature of Kaieteur News is not the point of our contention. Kaieteur News has disrespected women many times before. Some times ago, Kaieteur News ridiculed another woman who occupies a senior position in government. It was another vulgar piece of journalism and society must

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

demand adherence to common decency. What we also find appalling is the silence from organisations that supposedly exist and get financial support to promote and protect the interests of women. Whether or not Sooba is a legitimate candidate for the position of town clerk, no one has a right to attack her in the vile manner that Kaieteur News did. What if the town clerk controversy involved a man? If that man was perceived to be a supporter of the government, Kaieteur News

Government Chief Whip Gail Teixeira

would have been in a frantic mode about him not having the academic qualification. This would have been within their right, whether they were correct or not. But would Kaieteur News have descended to being vile, vulgar and utterly disrespectful? Maybe they would have celebrated the fact that he might be a gigolo. This is the kind of discrimination, inequality and disrespect we in Guyana, men and women, fought to prevent. We are encouraged that the People’s Progressive

Silence But where is the Red Thread Organisation? Where is the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA)? Where is Transparency International? Where is Amnesty International? Where are the women’s arms of other political parties? Where are the political leaders of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC)? Where are David Granger, Khemraj Ramjattan and Moses Nagamoottoo? It is repugnant that women of the stature of Amna Ally, Volda Lawrence, Cathy Hughes, Debra Backer and Valerie Garrido-Lowe, so vocifer-

ous in other matters, chose to be silent. We need to stand up for Sooba, not for her job, but because she is being told that she can only get the job because of the reason the Kaieteur News column gave.

Ridicule If you are perceived to be supportive of government, you are targeted for ridicule. If you are also a woman, you become targeted for ridicule by being called names. Sooba is a target not because of the particular job the Kaieteur News and others don’t want her to have, but because they perceive her to be supportive of the government. Times Notebook does not know the political persuasion of Sooba, and we stand by her, not because of her job, but because as a woman, she is equal in the eyes of God and in the eyes of humanity, whether or not Kaieteur News thinks so. Readers are invited to comment on this article via email (times.notebook@gmail.com) and on Facebook.

Relief council gets timely clothing donation

he Caribbean Healthy Lifestyle Progamme (CHLP) Club Guyana and the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM) on Saturday donated some

clothing to the Guyana Relief Council (GRC). Speaking at the handing over of the items, CHLP President Tiffany Spencer said the club saw it as an opportunity to do some-

thing different and give back to an organisation other than the traditional orphanage or elderly home. GYSM Chairman Christopher Jones said the youth movement felt it was

a noble task to get onboard with the CHLP and help make the donation possible. The GRC welcomed the donation made by the two groups, noting that it de-

pends on donations and fundraisers to remain in operation. The GRC has been in operation for the past 20 years and has helped over 100 families who have lost

their homes to get back on their feet. The organisation provides families with clothing, food and shelter and has even helped some families to rebuild their homes.

news

monday, december 23, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Woman stabs man OAS in move to strengthen to death over $1000 science education in region O A man was stabbed to death on Saturday evening during an argument with a woman over a $1000 bill. The incident occurred sometime around 19:00h at the Parika Stelling, East Bank Essequibo. The dead man has been identified as Percival Williams, 43, of Hague, West Coast Demerara, while his assailant has been identified as Vanessa Baird, 23, of Sea Dam, Parika. The man, who was a vagrant, used to frequent the Parika Market/Stelling. However, he last stayed in

Hague with his aunt. According to police reports, Williams and the woman were involved in an argument reportedly over a $1000 bill. The police claimed that Baird had given the man money to purchase food for her, but he did not do so and “apparently converted to his own use”. The woman subsequently confronted the man to enquire about the money during which an argument ensued. Baird in a fit of rage reportedly stabbed Williams in the chest. The injured man

was rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Guyana Times understands that Williams and Baird were friends and knew each other well as dwellers of the Sea Dam area. The woman is a housewife and has a young son. Efforts to contact the relatives of Williams proved futile; however, he was described by persons around area as a good man. Baird was arrested and taken into police custody assisting with investigations.

No word on missing CPG officer

amily members of missing Community Policing Group (CPG) Officer Gould Amsterdam are still baffled over her sudden disappearance and are calling on anyone who may have information on her whereabouts to contact them or the nearest police station. Amsterdam, who celebrates her 38th birth anniversary today (December 23rd), left her home on the evening of October 6, informing her young daughter that she was heading over to a neighbour with whom she shared a child, and that she would soon return. When the mother of three, who was also seven months pregnant, did not return, a massive search was launched by family members and members of the police force.

Gould Marcellene Amsterdam

Family members are very worried also about the baby that was due to be born some two weeks ago. Amsterdam’s sister Donelle, speaking with Guyana Times, was still emotional. She said rumours were being spread about Gould’s disappearance.

ECD seniors receive food, money at Christmas cheer

wo hundred and fifty persons in the Ogle, Industry and Cummings Lodge areas received food and money during the staging of the 60th Old and Needy Folks Christmas Cheer, organised by the Ogle- Industry community Group. Seated in the Cummings Lodge Secondary School auditorium, residents from the three communities were treated to a series of cultural performances before receiving their Christmas gifts. In addition to the 250 recipients, the charitable organisation recognised eight families and an individual who would have offered unwavering support to the event over the years. These include the Rampersauds, the Tewaris, the Appanas, the Ramroops, the Boodhoos, the Singhs and the Karticks. Former Chief Education Officer (CEO) Ed Caeser was also honoured. Ceaser, who is not a resideae of the community, has been attending the Christmas celebrations for the past 25 years, throwing in his support. The honourees were all presented with plaques for their overwhelming support

over the years. Also present at the ceremony was junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill. Coordinator of the charity, Andrew Kartick said the event has grown tremendously over the years as he expressed pleasure in bring Christmas cheer to the elderly and less fortunate. The initiative started in 1954, with the Ogle Sugar Estate showing their appreciation to six retired workers. By 1959, the event had moved to the Ogle General Workers’ Club where 20 persons were treated to food and drink. However, by 1993, the event had grown significantly with 200 persons benefiting. At the time, it had already moved to the Cummings Lodge Secondary School with recipients not only receiving food and drinks, but hampers. Today, in addition to food hampers and a grand celebration, they receive money for Christmas shopping. The former education officer said he will also continue to support the initiative, noting that he feels at home in the community.

However, none of them were true. The father of Gould’s child, Errol Lindo, was taken into police custody to assist with the investigation but was subsequently released. According to Donelle, the suspect has since moved out of the Angoy’s Avenue area where he and the missing woman lived. Donelle chided the police, contending that it seems like the investigation is at a standstill. The younger sister, with tears in her eyes said: “All I want is for my sister to come home. Not only that, she has her parents and her children who need her.”

rganisation of American States (OAS) Secretary General José Miguel Insulza last week signed a cooperation agreement with Association of Science and Technology Centres (ASTC) Chief Executive Officer Anthony “Bud” Rock, to strengthen the efforts of the organisation to improve science education in the region. Upon signing the document, Secretary General Insulza said “the development of this kind of education – science, engineering, technology and math – is crucial for the Americas today”. He added that “this initiative is essential to promote creative thinking in our region, which is what we need, not only extended education, but quality education that gives students the basic tools to carry out studies in the field of science, technology and engineering.” “What we are signing here is basically an agreement to work together in networking all the centres of science and technology that exist in the region centred on matters of early childhood to secondary education,” explained the OAS leader. “This is a high priority throughout the Americas and we want to make a contribution,” he concluded.

OAS Secretary General José Miguel Insulza

For his part, Rock characterised the agreement as “a major step forward” in the goals of his institution to improve relationships with the educational centres of the region. The ASTC CEO said “through this agreement, we will be able to give special attention to the highest standards of science education but also to cultural identity as it relates to the countries of the Organisation of American States.” Although there are certain universal goals in education, he added, “at the same time we believe that it is important to retain cultural identity in science learning, the cultural aspects of how science meets the lives of individuals anywhere in the world.”

The agreement signed establishes a framework for cooperation mechanisms between the two organisations in order to strengthen education and human development in the Americas, highlighting partnership, inclusion and sustainability. Both organisations committed themselves to join efforts to contribute to the advancement of the region through capacity-strengthening activities in the areas of human development and education for individuals and institutions. Present at the signing ceremony were OAS Integral Development Executive Secretary Sherry Tross; Trinidad and Tobago Permanent Representative to the OAS Neil Parsan; U.S. alternate representative to the OAS Robert E Copley; and ASTC International Relations Director Walter Staveloz. The ASTC is a non-profit organisation of science centres and museums dedicated to furthering public engagement with science, among increasingly diverse audiences. With nearly 600 members in more than 40 countries, ASTC encourages excellence and innovation in informal science learning by serving and linking its members worldwide and advancing their common goals.

Monday, December 23, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Cuba’s Raul Castro calls for Uruguay’s economy minister resigns “civilised relations” with U.S. U

uban President Raul Castro has called for “civilised relations” with the United States, saying the two countries should respect their differences. President Castro said the U.S. should drop its demand for regime change on the communist-run island. That would allow both sides to continue work on improving relations, he said. Castro’s comments follow a public handshake with U.S. President Barack Obama at the memorial ceremony for Nelson Mandela in South Africa earlier this month. In a rare public speech, Castro said Cuban and American officials had met several times over the last year to discuss practical matters, such as immigration and the re-establishment of a postal service. That shows that relations can be civilised, Castro explained. But he warned: “If we really want to make progress in bilateral relations, we have to learn to respect each other’s differences and get used to living peaceful-

President Raul Castro’s comments came at the closing session of the parliament

ly with them. Otherwise, no. We are ready for another 55 years like the last.” The U.S. broke off relations in 1961, two years after the revolution, and maintains an economic embargo against the island. “We do not ask the United States to change its political and social system, nor do we agree to negotiate over ours,” Castro told legislators at the closing session of the parliament in the capital, Havana.

Relations between the two neighbours have shown signs of improvement of late, although some stumbling blocks to reconciliation remain, said the BBC’s Sarah Rainsford in Havana. Raul Castro, 82, took over from his brother, Fidel, in 2006. Fidel had serious health problems and was never able to come back to power. Two years later, he resigned and transferred control permanently to his brother. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ruguay’s economy minister has resigned as a judge investigates alleged fraud in the failure of the national airline Pluna. President Jose Mujica took no questions on Saturday after announcing that Fernando Lorenzo resigned just before his interrogation by an investigative judge. Pluna flew for 75 years before going bankrupt last year, costing the state millions of dollars. Lorenzo tried to sell the company’s assets in an auction where the only buyer turned out to be a standin for Pluna’s competitor, Argentine businessman Carlos Lopez Mena. His Buquebus company

dominates travel between Montevideo and Buenos Aires. A prosecutor wants Lorenzo and Banco Republica president Fernando Calloia charged with abuse of power, and Pluna’s last private owner Matias Campiani charged with fraud. Any charges will likely be settled by Uruguay’s Supreme Court. Mujica defended the conduct of Fernando Lorenzo, his minister since March 2010, as local television broadcast images of the economist entering a criminal courthouse. “He has been a brilliant minister,” Mujica said. “We have no doubt about his ethical integrity.”

Mujica is considering replacing Lorenzo with the current president of Uruguay’s central bank, Mario Bergara, a source with the president’s political party told Reuters. Lorenzo was widely respected by investors, but faced growing criticism after the government sold seven aeroplanes that once belonged to Pluna, the airline the state took over and shuttered in the wake of its bankruptcy last year. The government has yet to receive payment for the planes, which were bought by a Uruguayan businessman who changed his name before making the purchase. Pluna had been 75 per cent owned by the Leadgate financial group. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Washington Post says CIA helped Colombia kill FARC leaders

Fifth oil spill at Petrotrin, sabotage suspected

erial and land surveillance around Petrotrin’s land and marine operations have been beefed up as a fifth mysterious oil spill developed in its oilfields, raising speculation of sabotage. The latest leak occurred at the Petrotrin W-D 2 lease operatorship block in Rancho Quemado, Erin, spilling between 80 and 100 barrels of oil on land. The field is operated by Trinity Oil and Gas. During a press conference held at Petrotrin’s Learning Resource Centre at Pointe-a-Pierre Saturday, Petrotrin President Khalid Hassanali said the clean-up at Rancho Quemado would take days. Asked whether sabotage was involved, Hassanali said the leaks were “still under investigation”. Saturday afternoon,

Petrotrin President Khalid Hassanali gives members of the media an update on the oil spill

however, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Petrotrin was investigating the leaks as possible acts of sabotage. But, she said, there was no evidence as yet to substantiate this.

“At the moment we cannot blame anyone, but the nature of it indicates there may be sabotage,” PersadBissessar said, as she delivered toys to her constituents in Siparia. Hassanali also warned thieves to refrain from tampering with Petrotrin’s TT$33 million physical assets. “Tampering with oil and gas assets can be hazardous and dangerous. It can cost you your life,” Hassanali said. Asked whether the valves were maintained regularly, Hassanali said, “Yes, there is a standard industry practice to check the valves. “We cannot operate hazardous equipment that operates at high pressures without a proper maintenance programme in place.” This is the fifth leak in four days.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

The FARC, which had its calls for a ceasefire rejected by the government, was accused of carrying out an attack on a police station earlier this month

n investigation by The Washington Post suggests the CIA has helped the Colombian government kill at least two dozen members of the FARC rebel group. The report, based on interviews with unnamed U.S. and Colombian officials, says the CIA provided Bogota with precision guidance systems and bombs. The covert operation was reportedly part of Plan Colombia, an anti-drugs programme set up by the U.S. in 2000. The FARC are current-

ly holding peace talks with the Colombian government. Analysts say the loss of many of its commanders led the left-wing rebel group agree to the talks last year. The negotiations, which are taking place in Cuba, are the first face-to-face talks between the two sides in a decade. The paper said it protected the identity of its sources as the programme was still active. It says the CIA programme was funded through a black budget separate from the main U.S. military aid package for Colombia. The technology provid-

ed by the U.S. allowed the Colombian Air Force to locate and bomb FARC members in their jungle hideouts. Among the FARC leaders allegedly killed with the help of the United States are Gustavo Rueda Diaz, known as Martin Caballero, and Tomas Medina Caracas, known as El Negro Acacio. He was accused of commanding the group’s drug trafficking operation. The FARC deny any involvement with the Colombian drug cartels. The FARC have not yet responded to the report. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

Big things lined up in Jamaica, Barbadian opposition calls for Colombia alliance resignation of finance minister

amaica and Colombia are set to roll out key programmes, beginning early in the new year, that will result in significant benefits for both countries, a Colombian official has said. Apart from increased cooperation in education and sport, there is to be significant cooperation in agriculture, industry and commerce, culture, and defence. William Bush, Colombia’s Deputy Head of Mission at that South American country’s embassy in Kingston, said that over the next two

years, the spotlight of progress will be focused on improving life for the people of both countries. “We have a free trade arrangement with Caricom already, but we have said that we want a free trade arrangement with Jamaica only. We are in talks with Jamaica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, as well as the Ministry of Trade and Industry. “Last week we had our eighth neighbourhood commission between both countries to establish coopera-

tion for the next two years. “Next year we will have an exchange programme with Jamaican farmers in the second phase of a cassava development programme that both countries have. We produce a lot of cassava and we will bring experts here, to work with farmers mainly from St Elizabeth,” he said. Already, Colombian business interests are lining up a large delegation to attend a trade expo in Kingston from April 3 to 6 next year. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

eader of the opposition Barbados Labour Party (BLP), Mia Mottley has called for the resignation of Finance Minister Chris Sinckler based on his handling of the economy. At a press conference on Saturday, Mottley blamed Sinckler for the state of the economy, saying – “For Barbados to grow, the minister of finance must go.” “Chris Sinckler has done more damage to the shortand medium-term prospects

of Barbados and to the lives and livelihood of Barbadians than any Hurricane Sandy did. It is almost unpatriotic now to support Chris Sinckler as minister of finance,” she said. Mottley, who brought a no-confidence motion against Sinckler in October but later abandoned it, declared that Barbados is faced with a crisis. “We are deep in a crisis and the government has lost control…The prime minister and the minister of fi-

nance must come clean with the country and stop spinning tot in mud. Persons are asked to make sacrifices if it will lead to stability or improved circumstances. The question must be asked, “Where will these sacrifices take the country and our economy?” “… The magnitude and scale of the problems must be shared with the public and institutions. Further, those who are aware must stop burying their heads in the sand too,” she added. (Excerpt from CMC)

15 Around the world

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, dECember 23, 2013

Fears grow of civil war in South Sudan

outh Sudan’s government said on Sunday rebels had seized the capital of a key oil-producing region and fears grew of all-out ethnic civil war in the world’s newest country. The United Nations announced it was trying to rush more peacekeeping forces to landlocked, impoverished South Sudan as foreign powers urged both sides to stop fighting, fearing for the stability of an already fragile region of Africa. The South Sudan government said on its Twitter account it was no longer in control of Bentiu, the capital of Unity State. “Bentiu is not currently in our hands. It is in the hands of a commander who

Soldiers in a truck in Juba, December 21

has declared support for Machar,” it said. Information Minister Michael Makuei said on Saturday an army divisional commander in Unity State, John Koang, had defected and joined rebel leader and

former Vice President Riek Machar, who had named him the governor of the state. But the government in Juba said it was still in control of the oilfields crucial to the economy. UN Secretary General

Ban Ki-moon told a news conference in Manila the UN planned to send resources from other peacekeeping missions in the region to South Sudan. “We are now actively trying to transfer our assets from other peacekeeping missions like MONUSCO (in the Democratic Republic of Congo) ... and some other areas,” he said. “And we are also seeking support from other key countries who can provide the necessary assets.” Clashes between rival groups of soldiers in the capital Juba a week ago have spread across the country, which won its independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of war. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Egypt jails key figures of 2011 uprising

hree leading figures of Egypt’s 2011 uprising were jailed for three years each on Sunday for their role in recent protests, as the army-backed authorities intensified a crackdown on dissent. Ahmed Maher, Ahmed Douma and Mohamed Adel are symbols of the protest movement that ignited the revolt that toppled President Hosni Mubarak in 2011. Their sentences include prison labour and fines of 50,000 Egyptian pounds (US$7200) each. As the verdict was read, the three chanted “Down, down with military rule!” from the cage where defendants stand in Egyptian courts. The session, held at a police facility on the outskirts of Cairo, was attended by several European diplomats. The verdict was the first under a law passed by the

army-backed government in November that requires police permission for demonstrations. The case, in which the defendants were charged with protesting without permission and assaulting police, stemmed from protests called in defiance of the law. Already pressing a fierce crackdown against the Muslim Brotherhood movement of deposed president Mohamed Morsi, the authorities have arrested a number of secular activists in recent weeks for breaches of the protest law. Critics see it as an attempt to stifle the kind of street activism common since the 2011 uprising as the government proceeds with a new political transition plan. The next step is a mid-January referendum on a new constitution. “What the current ruling authority is doing is ... a coup against the January

Afghan general warns over delay in signing U.S. pact

top Afghan general has said his country may be dangerously exposed if a security pact with the United States on its military withdrawal is not signed soon. Washington insists on a December 31 deadline for President Hamid Karzai to sign the pact, which sets the terms for U.S. troops to stay on past 2014. Karzai wants to wait until after he leaves office next year. But the head of ground forces, Lieutenant General Murad Ali Murad, told the BBC the army would struggle without U.S. support. Most NATO-led foreign combat forces in Afghanistan are due to leave next year, as combat operations are declared to be over. However, the pact could see 15,000 foreign soldiers remaining, primarily as trainers and mentors for the Afghans, but also to conduct

“counter-terror operations”. After months of negotiation, the pact, known officially as the Bilateral Security Agreement, was endorsed at a national gathering (Loya Jirga) of Afghan elders in Kabul last month. Karzai, who has served two terms as Afghanistan’s first and only president since the Taliban were ousted from power in 2001, is obliged by law to stand down after elections in April. “Without the foreign forces, we will have challenges and problems when it comes to the equipping and training of the Afghan national army,” Ali Murad said. “We don’t share the view that Afghanistan will slip back into civil war but we need more support and resources so we can deal with the threat posed by the insurgents especially during elections.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

25th revolution and all its goals,” Amr Aly, a leader of

Maher’s April 6 youth group, told a news conference. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Bomb explodes on Israeli bus, no one hurt – police

bomb that Israeli authorities suspect was planted by Palestinian militants exploded in a bus near Tel Aviv on Sunday after passengers were evacuated, and police said no one was hurt. No group claimed responsibility for the bombing. But Fawzi Barhoum, a spokesman for the Islamist militant group Hamas, said in a statement the blast was a “heroic action” in response to what he termed the “continued crimes” of Israel’s occupation of land Palestinians seek for a state. Photographs from the scene, in the Tel Aviv suburb of Bat Yam, showed the blast blew out the vehicle’s windows. “There were about 12 passengers on the bus. The driver stopped immediately when he was alerted to a suspicious object. It was a bag on the back bench, and he immediately ordered eve-

ryone off,” Eitan Fixman, a spokesman for the Dan bus company, was quoted as saying on the YNet news site. “We confirm the explosion on the bus today was a terror attack, based on assessments and evidence gathered at the scene,” said Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld, referring to suspected Palestinian militants. Police had set up roadblocks at entrances to the occupied West Bank and were searching cars for the perpetrators.It was the first such incident since IsraeliPalestinian peace talks – which have shown few signs of progress – resumed in July. “We strongly condemn the bombing of a bus near Tel Aviv today. Our thoughts are with those affected and with the Israeli people at this time,” U.S. State Department spokesperson, Jen Psaki, said in a statement on Sunday.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

monday, DECember 23, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Africa

Caribbean

12 difficult days of Christmas

But there is a point beyond which adherence to economic policies can become irrational, even doctrinaire. Last Friday, exactly 12 days before Christmas, the minister of finance in Barbados, along with his Cabinet colleagues, took the decision to send home 3000 of the country’s public- sector employees by the end of March next year. As a result of this decision, the lives of those 3000 work-

he Barbados currency has been pegged to the United States dollar at the rate of 2:1 for the last 40 years. Barbados has managed to retain this peg through some very rough periods weathering foreign currency crises in 1991 and after September 11, 2001. The country has developed a reputation throughout the region as being one of the strongest adherents to the policy of a fixed exchange rate.

ers, their immediate families and their dependents (such as their ageing parents) will never be the same, as they stare financial uncertainty and potential vagrancy in the face. The Barbados Cabinet decided to consign at least 15,000 of their fellowmen to misery because the country has on many occasions refused to even consider the possibility of a devaluation or depreciation of its currency. (Trinidad Guardian)

West Africa hopes new hydropower dams will cut poverty, climate risk

est African states in the Niger River Basin are seeking to tackle climate risks and reduce poverty by constructing three hydropower dams in the next five years. In late November, the Council of Ministers of the Niger Basin Authority (NBA), meeting in Cameroon’s capital Yaounde, endorsed an environmental and climate action plan for sustainable management of the scenic basin and

its rich natural resources, which have come under threat from climate change. The projects include a 102 megawatt (MW) hydropower dam at Fomi in Guinea, a 25 MW hydropower plant in Toussa, Mali, and the 565 MW Kandadji dam in Niger. These aim to boost hydro-electricity and irrigation, reduce desertification and flooding, and improve economic activities across the region.

“The West African region is facing urgent problems of food security, rural poverty and climate change that demand answers in the form of investment and infrastructure. We need to give a push to these three multi-purpose hydropower dam projects as a sustainable solution that involves the region’s largest river,” NBA executive secretary Collins Ihekire said in a statement at the Yaounde gathering. (allAfrica)

Asia

North America

IMF says will raise U.S. economic Apple, China Mobile sign longawaited deal to sell iPhones growth forecast

he International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts the U.S. economy would expand at a faster pace next year, given positive economic data and some signs of compromise in Congress, the head of the Washingtonbased lender said on Sunday. IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde also praised the U.S. Federal Reserve’s communication of its decision last week to start scaling back its massive mon-

etary stimulus. “Growth is picking up,” Lagarde said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” “And unemployment is going down. So all of that gives us a much stronger outlook for 2014, which brings us to raising our forecast.” The IMF forecast in October that the U.S. economy would expand 2.6 per cent in 2014 after growing 1.6 per cent this year. At the time, Lagarde warned that congressional failure to raise the U.S.

debt ceiling could damage not only the United States, but the rest of the global economy. A U.S. Congress, deeply divided along party lines, did manage to pass a limited, twoyear budget deal last week to trim some planned spending cuts and reduce the risk of a government shutdown. Yet the legislation does nothing to avoid a possible U.S. debt default that could occur if Congress does not raise a cap on U.S. borrowing. (Reuters)

pple Inc said it has signed a long-awaited agreement with China Mobile Ltd to sell iPhones through the world’s biggest network of mobile phone users. In a deal that could add billions of dollars to its revenue, Apple said its smartphones will be available to China Mobile customers starting January 17. Pricing and availability details for the iPhone 5S and 5C lines will

be disclosed at a later date, it said in a statement. China Mobile, which has about 760 million customers, will begin registering orders for iPhone from December 25, the company said on its account on the Sina-Weibo micro-blogging service. The tie-up between the pair, in the United States company’s second-largest market after its home turf, provides a much-needed boost

for Apple in a market where it’s trailing rivals. It will also give Apple extra firepower in its increasing global rivalry with South Korea’s Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. Apple didn’t disclose financial terms of the agreement. Tim Cook, Apple’s chief executive, said in its statement that China is an extremely important market for the Cupertino-based company. (Reuters)

Middle East

Mass brawl at Arabtec labour M&S apology over Muslim camp leaves 40 in hospital alcohol refusal F Europe

cohol is forbidden in Islam, and some Muslims refuse to handle it at all. An unnamed customer told the newspaper they had tried to buy a bottle of champagne in an M&S store, but the member of staff “was very apologetic but said she could not serve me” and asked the customer to use another till. A spokesperson for M&S said: “Where we have an employee whose religious beliefs

arks & Spencer has apologised after a Muslim member of staff refused to serve a customer trying to buy alcohol. The retailer said it usually tried to assign “suitable roles” to staff who could not handle certain items because of their religious beliefs. It said this policy had not been followed in a case highlighted by the Telegraph over the weekend. Consuming al-

restrict food or drink they can handle, we work closely with our member of staff to place them in suitable role, such as in our clothing department or bakery in foods. “As a secular business we have an inclusive policy that welcomes all religious beliefs, whether across our customer or employee base... We apologise that this policy was not followed in the case reported.” (BBC News)

Market statistics Gold Prices – Guyana Gold Board

Cambio Rates

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

Bank of Guyana Cur

Buying

Selling

GBP

$336.07

$340.28

CAN

$192.75

$194.97

USD

$205.73

$208.18

U.S.

$1335.00

Cambio

$202.67

Gross

$254,331

Net

$236,527

Selling

$262,426

Indicators as on December 20, 2013 Live Spot Gold

USD Per Once

Bid/Ask

$1203.50

$1204.50

Low/High

$1190.60

$1208.50

Change

+15.70

+1.32

USD GBP EUR

Dec 18 USD GBP EUR

Last: 16221.14

1195.00 731.69 875.33

1195.25 730.10 873.66

1233.25 754.05 896.97

Price Silver

Platinum

London Gold Fix

Dec 20

Indicators Crude Oil

1230.50 750.35 894.26 Changes: +42.06

Open: 16178.57

High:16287.84

% YTD: 23.79

52Wk Hi: 16174.51

US$ per barrel

$110.29 USD per Ounce

$19.42 $1329.00

Change %

-0.05 Change %

+0.16 +14.00

orty people were hospitalised and 25 were arrested at an Arabtec labour camp on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island, following a brawl in which rival gangs of workers were stabbed and attacked with sticks and metal bars. Growing tensions turned violent on Tuesday night when rival groups of Pakistani and Bangladeshi workers, armed with hammers, knives and

metal bars, engaged in a mass brawl at the labour camp. Reports claimed some labourers suffered stab wounds and fighting continued into Wednesday morning, resulting in a police helicopter and officers being sent to the site, where over 2000 workers live. “So far, up to the last report I got, 40 people were hospitalised. I think a lot of them are basic injuries but I am sure a big number of those in-

jured most likely have been discharged form hospital,” Ashraf Zeitoon, the head of group corporate communications at Arabtec, told Arabian Business. Zeitoon confirmed 25 people were arrested by police and said the incident erupted after a Pakistani tea boy got into a disagreement with a Bangladeshi tea boy over the key to the small kitchenette where they both work. (arabianbusiness)

Investors' guide Asian shares creep higher, wary of China's credit strains

sian markets inched cautiously higher today encouraged by record highs for Wall Street, though anxiety over a credit squeeze in China has weighed on shares there, while adding to pressure on emerging market currencies. Volumes were very light with Tokyo on holiday and Christmas almost here. Australia’s main index .AXJO added 0.3 per cent while S&P 500 futures gained 0.25 per cent. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan .MIAPJ0000PUS was a fraction firmer. Sentiment should be underpinned by upbeat data on

U.S. economic growth and the resilience of stocks to the Federal Reserve’s decision to start scaling back its bondbuying stimulus. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones .DJI ended Friday up 0.26 per cent, while the S&P 500 Index .SPX added 0.48 per cent. Europe’s broad FTSEurofirst 300 index .FTEU3 rose 0.45 per cent. The dollar was idling at 104.03 yen today after scoring a fresh five-year high at 104.64 last week. Dealers cited option barriers at 104.75 and 105.00 as the next target for bulls. The euro was steady at US$1.3674, but well short of last week’s US$1.3811 peak.

The single currency was only briefly troubled on Friday when Standard & Poor’s cut its supranational long-term rating on the European Union to AA-plus from AAA, citing rising tensions on budget negotiations. Yields on benchmark 10year Treasuries were holding at 2.89 per cent having risen just two basis points last week even as the Fed announced its tapering. In Asia, all eyes were on China after the country’s central bank sought to allay fears of a cash crunch on Friday, saying it has added US$50 billion in three days to the interbank market. (Reuters)

Business concept – Gap analysis % Change: +0.28 Low: 16178.57 52 Wk Lo: 12471.49

A technique that businesses use to determine what steps need to be taken in order to move from its current state to its desired, future state. Also called need-gap analysis, needs analysis, and needs assessment. Gap analysis consists of (1) listing of characteristic factors (such as attributes, competencies, performance levels) of the present situation (“what is”); (2) listing factors needed to achieve future objectives (“what should be”); and then (3) highlighting the gaps that exist and need to be filled. Gap analysis forces a company to reflect on who it is and ask who it wants to be in the future.

NEWS

monday, December 23, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Recruitment Guyana trip shifts Greenfield pastor’s worldview agency finds W jobs for 2548

Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul

overnment said its recruitment agency has helped to secure jobs for more than 2000 people so far this year. Speaking at a news conference last week, Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul said that from the 2954 persons who registered for jobs between January to December this year, the ministry’s Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency was able to find jobs for 2548. Dr Gopaul said that this year has seen an average number of job placements compared to previous years. The minister said in 2011, of the 2919 persons registered for jobs, 2009 were placed at various agencies and in 2012 when 2825 persons registered, 2865 received gainful employment. Categories The categories of work for which these persons were placed during this year include clerical and office support, supervisors, typist clerks, customer service representatives and receptionists. In the case of craft and related work, persons were given jobs as welders, drivers, fitter machinists, mechanics and machines operators. Meanwhile, for the skilled, semi-skilled and unclassified categories, persons were placed as factory workers, cleaners, sales clerks, labourers, security officers, bag bay attendant, porters, counter clerks, masons and carpenters. In addition to the work of the manpower agency, Dr Gopaul disclosed the figures for persons trained by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) under the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE). A total of 1537 persons were certified, of which 646 were males and 891 were females. Some 492 persons were trained in engineering, 45 in electrical work, 77 in building construction, 220 in

health services, 513 in home economics and 190 in information technology. Further, in the single parent training programme, a total of 447 persons were certified. Approximately 113 persons also underwent training with the Guyana Forestry Commission and 112 attended the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) evening classes and were trained in various technical areas. The minister said that during the course of the year, employers were clamouring for workers registered by the agency. According to him, the job areas that employers are seeking to fill are commercial workers such as sales personnel, clerical staff and security personnel. The agency has been unable to meet those demands for employers. On the other hand, Minister Gopaul said that while massive improvements is being made to have persons of all age and creed employed, his ministry is still to ascertain the level of unemployment here. He said that this information will be provided when the Guyana National Bureau of Statistics completes compiling data of the census conducted in 2012. Underemployment In addressing the issues of underemployment for thousands of University of Guyana graduates, the minister said that there is a need to have students counselled before choosing a programme that will benefit them in the long run. Dr Gopaul stated that too many persons are pursuing studies in the business and social sciences, for which there are limited vacancies and job opportunities. The labour minister said that persons should instead seek to pursue studies in areas that are more marketable such as information technology and natural sciences.

hen Dennis LeBlanc, a former minister who now directs Greenfield’s Pastoral Counselling Centre, was packing his bags in midOctober for three weeks in Guyana, with shorts, t-shirts and other gears for the South American country just north of the equator, he had to remind himself that this trip was not a vacation. The brief visit to the English-speaking tropical country was instead a chance to see firsthand what it would be like to volunteer in a Third World country, helping a longtime friend from seminary who has been travelling to the former British colony for the past nine years. LeBlanc got a taste of the culture along with the strengths and failings of the country by joining his retired friend, who spends three months a year teaching psychology and related subjects to nursing students at Mercy Hospital in the capital, Georgetown, while also volunteering at an orphanage there. For the 67-year-old LeBlanc, who had travelled to Egypt and Israel and had volunteered in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, what he described as his first experience in a true Third World country gave him a fresh perspective on the world.

Hospitality

Describing the hour-long taxi ride the first Sunday on his arrival, LeBlanc wrote in an email to friends, how the driver “warmly greeted me and talked the whole way... only stopping, when he pulled over to a roadside fruit stand and told the owner something in the distance — the owner then pulling out a machete and proceeding to carve up a coconut from his stand. The driver put a straw in the hole and then handed it to me, saying, ‘Welcome to Guyana my new friend. I hope your stay is a good one.’ Trying to pay for

his kindness, I quickly halted as he said, ‘It’s a gift — no pay for gift here.’” LeBlanc, a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as pastoral counsellor, led a “Relationship 101” workshop for the 17 young nursing students at the hospital, many of whom had already experienced abuse and bad romantic encounters. During his visit, from October 19 to November 9, LeBlanc also volunteered at the St John Bosco Orphanage for Boys just outside Georgetown, where he was one of few men and was known as “Father Dennis” by the boys, mostly six and seven-year-olds, he kept company playing board games and by being surprised by their creativity.

Heart rendering

“I was really there kind of watching them play, as an observer,” he said. “I didn’t want to go as the American who knows all the rights and wrongs. The kids are the saddest of populations for me. It touched my heart to see what they don’t have. But they’re also the most resourceful,” playing intricate running games and version of marbles played with far-flung bottlecaps. “I let them be the teachers of me, following their leads, and they seemed to have pride and joy doing that,” said LeBlanc, who found that the boys also had a fascination for his camera and photos he and they could take with it. After playing games like “Snakes and Ladders” in an outdoor pavilion during a surprise torrential rainstorm, LeBlanc observed, “They wanted a hovering adult to say what rules are. They’re craving structure, to not have to be in charge of their lives and having some adult saying, ‘It’s safe enough for you just to be a kid.’” LeBlanc, who was not paid but got to share a simple apartment with his friend on the hospital grounds, de-

Dennis LeBlanc, a former minister who now directs Greenfield’s Pastoral Counselling Centre, spends time with a little girl who is an orphan in Guyana

scribed squalid conditions where no one dared drink the water and even hospital rest rooms lacked toilet paper or paper towels “because people would steal them”. In an email, he wrote, “There is no relief here — from the heat, humidity, torrential downpours ... or from the poverty, pain, unemployment, corruption, garbage, congestion, noise, danger, illness... and on. Relief is a concept very few can afford. ... These are not temporary problems that come and go like our seasons. They are their perpetual state of affairs, that people today have inherited from their forebears, and now those children are also destined to have as the reality of their lives.”

Depressing

After a visit to Guyana’s only “Mad House,” as it is called by locals, LeBlanc lamented, “What we saw there defies description... But I will say that the filth, squalour, poverty and disregard for human life, made me embarrassed to be part of the human race. That we can warehouse people in such a fashion, and hide them away so that who knows who they are, where they are, how they are doing, is a travesty. And to bring a smile to their face or show comfort and compassion for a few moments, does little to soothe my sadness.”

And yet LeBlanc also shares glimpses of Guyanaese hospitality, like the bus driver who responded, “Nonsense” to a request by Canadian and American visitors for a restaurant stop after he had driven two hours to a hospital and back again. Instead, he pulled out his cell phone, called a Hindu friend, and had everyone invited to their home to share a celebration of the annual feast day, puja. “For the next hour and a half, we ate, visited, were shown their ducks, chickens, fruit trees, flower garden ... and left filled with so much more than food!” Overall, LeBlanc said of his threeweek visit, “It was a sad and depressing experience, but their sense of gratitude for what they have in life was a slap upside the head for me.” He’s still weighing whether he would return. “I can honestly say I don’t know,” he said, adding that he may be more inclined to help out from the U.S., whether it is by sending needed things to the orphanage or making other kinds of contributions. “I’m thinking about it a lot. It’s shifted something inside of me that wants me to pay attention to my life here differently and to some part of a pocket of my experience down there. I don’t want to let either of those things go.” (Miami

Herald)

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, december 23, 2013

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

archie

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) Be strategic and maintain a paper trail. Once you know what direction you’re heading in, you’ll be able to enjoy time with the people you love. Be attentive to your heart and work to make someone else happy.

dilbert

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Your cheerfulness and optimism will be infectious. Have fun and enjoy the festivities in your community. Participation in various activities or projects will result in new opportunities and friendships. Love and romance are highlighted.

Calvin and Hobbes

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Review your personal papers and professional strategies. Make certain that everything is in order and that you haven’t forgotten anything that may cost you financially next year. Avoid overreacting, and be honest with yourself and others.

Peanuts

SUDOKU

CANCER (June 21July 22) Be social and creative, and organise a surprise for someone you love. Don’t be pressured into making an indulgent purchase or investment. You stand to gain more by saving your money.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) You should quickly attend to your responsibilities so that you’ll have time to get together with your close friends and family. Enjoying festivities or working alongside a close companion to organise something special will enhance your relationships. VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Be open and honest about your plans. Networking will help you gain professional advancement. Don’t allow personal concerns to stand in the way of professional progress.

ARIES

LIBRA

(March 21-April 19)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Boost your confidence with a personal change. You are likely to meet a like-minded soul. Romance is apparent. Someone you’ve helped in the past will reciprocate with a needed favour.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Meeting up with friends or making lastminute purchases will add cheer to your day. Attending an event and sharing your ideas for next year will prove informative.

Stubbornness will lead to personal difficulties. A new development is likely to change your location or lifestyle. Concentrate on getting along with others and doing what suits everyone best. This is a time of new beginnings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) Spend time with loved ones. Adapting to surrounding changes will lead to good fortune. A new partnership arrangement will give you something to look forward to in the year to come.

Saturday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20) Evaluate your life and partnerships. If you cannot come to terms with what’s happening, mistakes will occur. Changes may be helpful, but only at the right time and for the right reason.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Decorate and open your house to friends and family. Offering honest advice and meaningful opportunities will encourage a deeper bond with important people in your life.

YELLOW PAGES monDay, december 23, 2013

news 19

Biker dies after crashing into pole BY ANDREW CARMICHAEL

olice are investigation the circumstances surrounding the death of a Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice man whose lifeless body was picked up on the public road about 03:30h on Sunday. According to a police press release, about 03:20h, Fazal Baksh, 37, of Cotton Tree, was driving a motor cycle along the main road at D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice, when he lost control of the vehicle and collided with a utility pole. The release said he suffered injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Fort Wellington Hospital. According to the dead man’s cousin Mohamed Shakoor, Baksh had met him the night before at a wedding and they had a good time.

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fter just a few months in operation, UMAMI Incorporated has penetrated the local market with products being sold at major supermarkets throughout the country. UMAMI Inc is the producer of Scoville pepper sauce, hot sauce, redheat pepper sauce, white vinegar, yellow mustard, BBQ sauce, tomato ketchup, all purpose seasoning, green seasoning and Chinese sauce, all made locally. When Guyana Times visited the factory situated at Lot 43 Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, employees were in the process of making tomato ketchup. UMAMI Inc Managing Director Chris Persaud said the company has a mandate to provide 45 per cent of its products for the export market and 55 per cent for the local market. From all indications, he said the company is receiving overwhelming response from the general public. “We have been very aggressive in the marketing and products are pretty much in all the major supermarket chains throughout Georgetown; as far as Parika, Timehri, Essequibo and Bartica has been satisfied,” Persaud

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during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times. Soon the company’s products will be introduced in Berbice. As UMAMI strives to dominate the local market in the areas of sauces, ketchup and white vinegar, Persaud said major emphasis is being placed on appearance and most importantly taste and quality. “We all have pepper sauces, we all have green seasoning, but what differentiate us is, of course, the quality of the products coupled with the packing.”

Expansion

Foreseeing an increasing market, UMAMI Inc will be expanding its operation in 2014, changing location. The company will move from its temporary location in Lusignan to its facility in Unity, Mahaica, occupying some three acres of land by the second quarter of 2014. “We are looking at 30,000 square feet to start with, these would entail conference facilities, recreational facilities, in addition to that which is required for hard work, the production

facility.” The small workforce of just about five permanent employees and 25 contracted workers including farmers, porters, drivers and merchandisers will increase to more than 85 employees when the new factory is built. Currently, a pool of 15 contracted farmers supply the factory with fresh produce on a weekly basis. Both Persaud and his wife Chanchall are qualified chemists, and have wealth of experience in the area of production. According to Persaud, for 10 years, he has been working in the Caribbean building factories of this nature. “So recently, we said why not put our experience and our qualification to work in our own home country to create employment, add value and create foreign exchange,” he said. In March, Persaud and his wife began the process of registration which took approximately a month to finalise the documentations. According to Persaud, Go-Invest has been of tremendous help in building the factory from scratch to its current operation.

"Massive" reservoir of melt water found under Greenland ice

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“We drink bout six beers each and dance up an' about two o’ clock I lef and go home.” The cousin explained that Baksh was “a little intoxicated”. According to him, about 03:00h, police visited the wedding and ordered that the music be turned off. His mother Latifan

Baksh had given $10,000 to his wife of 14 years for the Christmas. “He gave she the money for she to go and do she hair and nice up she self for de holidays. When she come back, all she hair red and we ain’t even recognise she.” However, on Friday, the woman packed up her clothes and left the house. “Earlier this year, she left and go and live with a man and one month after when she come back, he still take she back and Friday she gone again.” According to Shakoor, her nephew had two jobs, one as a labourer in the rice industry and the other as a security guard. He reportedly earns $10,000 a day, most of which he gives to his wife. Baksh leaves to mourn three children, ages four, nine and 13.

UMAMI making headway in agro-processing venture

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Fizal Baksh

Shakoor, who is the dead man’s aunt, told this publication that about the same time Baksh came to her home asking for Mohamed, he was asleep. She said he left and did not head in the direction of his home, but went towards the Rosignol Ferry Stelling. Reports are that moments later, the father of three was heading home when he met his demise. “When I get there, I see police and a couple people,” another relative said, noting that Baksh’s face was covered with blood while the motorcycle was damaged. “The head lamp and other lights on the bike were broken. And the helmet, a few feet away, break in four pieces.” Meanwhile, the dead man’s aunt told Guyana Times that on Thursday,

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esearchers say they have discovered a large reservoir of melt water that sits under the Greenland ice sheet all year round. The scientists say the water is stored in the air space between particles of ice, similar to the way that fruit juice stays liquid in a slush drink. The aquifer, which covers an area the size of Ireland, could yield important clues to sea level rise. The research is published in the journal, Nature Geoscience. The melting of the Greenland ice sheet has been a significant contributor to a rise in sea levels over the past 100 years. According to the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the ice sheet lost 34 billion tonnes of ice per year between 1992 and 2001

- but this increased to 215 billion tonnes between 2002 and 2011 Scientists still have many unanswered questions about the direction and speed and ultimate destination of this melted water. Ice free liquid This new research finds that a significant amount is stored in partially compacted snow called firn. In the spring of 2011, researchers drilled deep into this slushy layer and to their surprise, found liquid water flowing back to the surface even though air temperatures were -15 degrees C. As this was well before the onset of the summer melt, the team concluded the water had persisted in a liquid state through the Greenland winter. "This discovery was a sur-

prise," said Prof Rick Forster from the University of Utah. "Instead of the water being stored in the air space between subsurface rock particles, the water is stored in the air space between the ice particles, like the juice in a snow cone." The scientists have also come up with a rough estimate for the amount of water that is contained in the aquifer which itself covers an area of 70,000 sq km. Greenland ice melt The researchers drilled in areas with large accumulations of snow on the surface They believe that it holds roughly 140 billion tonnes of water, which is the equivalent to 0.4mm of sea level rise per year − about half of what Greenland contributes to the sea every year. But crucially the scientists

don't know the ultimate destination of the water in the reservoir. "It depends on whether it is currently connected to a system that is draining into the ocean or if it is a bit isolated and completely acting as a storage source without a current connection," said Prof Forster. "We don't know the answer to this right now. It's massive, it's a new system we haven't seen before − we need to understand it more completely if we are to predict sea level rise." The scientists say the water is prevented from freezing by the large amounts of snow that fall on the surface of the ice sheet late in the summer. This insulates the water from the air temperatures which are below freezing, allowing the water to persist as liquid all year long. (Excerpt from BBC News)

guyanatimesGY.com

monday, december 23, 2013

Pedro’s nine-minute Du Plessis, de Villiers halt-trick seals win SA v India, 1st Test, Johannesburg, 5th day…

ensure thrilling draw

Pedro scored a hat-trick between the 34th and 43rd minutes

Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers take a breather during their brilliant partnership

irst they pulled off 438, the highest successful chase in ODIs. On Sunday, faced with a target of 458 on a tricky Wanderers pitch, South Africa came within eight runs of breaking the world record for a chase in Test cricket. At the start of the fifth day, South Africa needed 320 with eight wickets in hand, and a draw was their more realistic goal. But after losing two wickets early on, Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers began a partnership that swelled to 205 and turned the game. They took South Africa to within 56 runs of victory. By the time both were dismissed, South Africa needed 16 runs, but with only Imran Tahir and the injured Morne Morkel to come, Vernon Philander and Dale Steyn batted out 19 deliveries to secure one of the game’s greatest draws.

SCOREBOARD India 1st innings 280 South Africa 1st innings 244 India 2nd innings 421 South Africa 2nd innings (target: 458 runs) AN Petersen b Mohammed Shami 76 GC Smith* run out (Rahane) 44 HM Amla b Mohammed Shami 4 F du Plessis run out (Rahane) 134 JH Kallis lbw b Khan 34 AB de Villiers† b I Sharma 103 JP Duminy b Mohammed Shami 5

The two quicks were the last men standing after what will be remembered as one of the most exciting last hours of Test cricket. It began with de Villiers and du Plessis at the crease, both having scored a hundred and South Africa needing

VD Philander not out 25 DW Steyn not out 6 Extras: (b-2, lb-7, w-8, nb-2) 19 Total: (for seven wickets; 136 overs) 450 Fall of wickets: 1-108 (Smith, 30.4 ov), 2-118 (Amla, 36.2 ov), 3-143 (Petersen, 49.2 ov), 4-197 (Kallis, 60.4 ov), 5-402 (de Villiers, 123.1 ov), 6-407 (Duminy, 124.4 ov), 7-442 (du Plessis, 132.5 ov) Bowling: Z Khan 34-1-135-1 (1w), I Sharma 29-4-91-1 (2-nb, 1-w), Mohammed Shami 28-5107-3 (1-w), R Ashwin 36-5-830 (1-w), M Vijay 1-0-3-0, MS Dhoni 2-0-4-0, V Kohli 6-0-18-0

pain international Pedro scored a nineminute hat-trick as Barcelona overturned a twogoal deficit to lead La Liga going into the winter break with a 5-2 win. Getafe led 2-0 inside the opening 15 minutes after Sergio Escudero drilled in after a neat one-two and Lisandro Lopez powered in a

free header. But Barca, without the injured Lionel Messi and suspended Neymar, led before half-time thanks to Pedro’s treble. Cesc Fabregas scored twice more as the champions moved above Atletico Madrid. Gerardo Martino’s side knew they needed to

beat eighth-placed Getafe with anything other than a 1-0 win to move back ahead of Atletico, who won 3-2 against Levante on Saturday, on goal difference. The Spanish top-flight has a two-week mid-season break over the Christmas and New Year period, with La Liga clubs returning to action on January 4.

Flower should remain England coach, says ECB boss

66 off 15 overs to win. But then India surge back into contention by removing both and JP Duminy in the next 12 overs, before it all ended with Philander and Steyn choosing safety first despite how close South Africa were.

(Cricinfo)

Bagai announces retirement A

shish Bagai, the Canada captain and wicketkeeper-batsman, has announced his retirement. Bagai, who will turn 32 next month, debuted for Canada back in 1999 as a 17-year old. He went on to represent his country for more than 14 years. His most recent assignment was the unsuccessful campaign in the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier in the UAE, where Canada finished 12th out of 16 teams after winning only two group games. After the 2011 World Cup, Bagai left the team to attend business school. He was recalled in May this year for a nine-month period leading up to February 2014, after which he was to

Ashish Bagai represented Canada for more than 14 years

resume his career in finance. His inclusion came at a crucial time for Canada with two World Cup qualification campaigns lined up: the

World T20 Qualifier and the 2015 World Cup Qualifier. However, after the disappointing outing in the former, and less than a month before the 2015 World Cup qualifier begins in New Zealand, Bagai tweeted that he was retiring. Bagai’s ODI debut came in Canada’s memorable win over Bangladesh in the 2003 World Cup in Durban, a memory, he tweeted, that was his one of his favourites, along with the 2009 World Cup Qualifier, where Canada finished second behind Ireland. Bagai scored 1964 runs at an average of 37.76 in 62 ODIs, and his List A career produced 2649 runs in 96 games. (Cricinfo)

Andy Flower (right) and Alistair Cook have endured a torrid time in the current Ashes series

ngland coach Andy Flower should lead the team in the next Ashes series in 2015, according to David Collier, the chief executive of the England & Wales Cricket Board. Flower’s side have already surrendered the Ashes to Australia, going 3-0 down with two Tests still to play, but Collier wants the Zimbabwean to remain. “We believe we’ve got one of the best men in world cricket,” he told BBC Radio

5 live’s Sportsweek. “We hope Andy will take us forward into the future and into the 2015 Ashes.” Flower, 45, has said he will not make a decision on his future until after the current Ashes tour. But Collier said the ECB’s stance would not change, even if England were beaten 5-0. “Andy has the total and full confidence of the board,” he added. “He has done an outstanding job. We are very hopeful he will remain with us. We believe

he is the best man for the role.” Under Flower, England won three successive Ashes series. He also guided the team to victory in the ICC World Twenty20 competition in 2010 and led them to the top of the Test rankings a year later. England bowler Steve Finn said it would be a “great loss” if Flower quit his role, while former England captain Geoffrey Boycott urged the coach to make a quick decision about his future plans. (BBC Sport)

monday, december 23, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

Call to revive softball cricket in Barbados

ormer parliamentarian Hamilton Lashley believes there is an urgent need for the re-emergence of softball cricket on the island. In fact, Lashley has gone so far as to suggest that one of the reasons behind Barbados’ failure to produce as many top class cricketers as in years gone by, has been because of the lack of softball cricket being played. The former minister pointed to the fact that most of the island’s cricket legends started off by playing softball cricket. “When you look at the likes of Joel “Big Bird” Garner, Malcolm Marshall, Carlisle Best, they are all cricketers who used to play softball cricket quite frequently,” he told SUNSPORT in an interview recently. “Softball cricket helps to improve a cricketer’s technique in batting, bowling, fielding and wicket-keeping. “In fact, I?would go so far

Hamilton Lashley

as to say that softball cricket is the most physically demanding form of cricket to play.” Lashley explained that because of the lightness of the ball, batsmen, bowlers and fielders had to be extremely focused and skilled to perfect their art. He said that this meant

that when those cricketers moved on to “hardball cricket” their techniques had already been sharpened. “When softball cricket was abundant in Barbados, that was when we were the cricket powerhouse of the region,” Lashley maintained. “Those were the days of the Shell Shield, when softball cricket could be seen played on every pasture around Barbados. “At that time we used to have eight and nine players in the West Indies team . . . but now that softball cricket is practically dead here, we are struggling to get three players constantly in the regional side, far less eight or nine,” he said. Lashley said it was for reasons such as these that he had tried to rejuvenate the sport through the hosting of the just concluded Joe Connell/Rosita Browne Softball Competition. He strongly believes that if softball cricket is regularly played once again, Barbados

All-round Hafeez sinks Sri Lanka

a career-best 140 not out off 136 balls. Following torrid series against South Africa, Hafeez has come upon an approach that has brought a personal change in fortune and lit his team’s path to top-order reliability as well. He had hit only one four in his first 36 balls at the crease, but in a furious finish he walloped seven fours and a six off his last 26 balls, leading Pakistan’s plunder of 105 in the last 10 overs, and the team score to 3265.

SCOREBOARD

Mohammad Hafeez scored his second ton in three games

t was only a matter of time until Pakistan’s method yielded a heavy victory in the series. As their batsmen conformed to the blueprint they had laid down in the first two matches, Pakistan hit their second mammoth score in three innings, to sink Sri Lanka by 113 runs. Mohammad Hafeez was again the architect of the victory, shifting from stable at the outset to sublime at the finish on his way to

Pakistan innings Sharjeel Khan b Kulasekara 2 Ahmed Shehzad run out (Malinga) 81 Mohammad Hafeez not out 140 Sohaib Maqsood c Senanayake b NLTC Perera 21 Misbah-ul-Haq* c Karunaratne b NLTC Perera 40 Shahid Afridi b Malinga 2 Umar Akmal† not out 23 Extras: (lb-10, w-7) 17 Total (5 wickets; 50 overs) 326 Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Sharjeel Khan, 2.6 ov), 2-162 (Ahmed Shehzad, 30.5 ov), 3-200 (Sohaib Maqsood, 36.5 ov), 4-275 (Misbah-ul-Haq, 45.2 ov), 5-281 (Shahid Afridi, 46.4 ov) Bowling: KMDN Kulasekara 101-67-1, SL Malinga 10-0-58-1 (1-w), SMSM Senanayake 100-58-0 (3-w), NLTC Perera 8-058-2 (1-w), S Prasanna 8-0-460, AD Mathews 4-0-29-0 (1-w) Sri Lanka innings (target: 327 runs from 50 overs) MDKJ Perera c Ahmed Shehzad b Umar Gul 7 TM Dilshan b Shahid Afridi 59 FDM Karunaratne c †Umar Akmal b Umar Gul 0

KC Sangakkara† c Sohaib Maqsood b Junaid Khan 14 LD Chandimal c Sohaib Maqsood b Mohammad Hafeez 36 AD Mathews* c †Umar Akmal b Saeed Ajmal 44 KMDN Kulasekara c †Umar Akmal b Saeed Ajmal 1 S Prasanna c Saeed Ajmal b Mohammad Hafeez 22 NLTC Perera c Shahid Afridi b Junaid Khan 2 SMSM Senanayake not out 4 SL Malinga b Umar Gul 19 Extras: (lb-2, w-3) 5 Total: (all out; 44.4 overs) 213 Fall of wickets: 1-17 (MDKJ Perera, 3.1 ov), 2-17 (Karunaratne, 3.5 ov), 3-44 (Sangakkara, 8.6 ov), 4-103 (Dilshan, 21.3 ov), 5-132 (Chandimal, 27.5 ov), 6-136 (Kulasekara, 30.5 ov), 7-163 (Prasanna, 33.6 ov), 8-187 (NLTC Perera, 37.2 ov), 9-192 (Mathews, 38.6 ov), 10-213 (Malinga, 44.4 ov) Bowling: Junaid Khan 9-040-2 (1-w), Umar Gul 5.4-019-3, Shahid Afridi 9-0-41-1 (1-w), Bilawal Bhatti 6-0-39-0 (1-w), Saeed Ajmal 10-1-37-2, Mohammad Hafeez 5-0-35-2

could see a turnaround in its cricket fortunes. “We need to bring softball cricket into the primary and secondary schools, and I am calling on the National

Sports Council, all sporting agencies and the private sector to support such an initiative. “The game of softball cricket is on a suicidal path

if it is not revived. We can’t allow it to die, because it plays an instrumental part in the development of our young cricketers,” he said.

(www.windiescricket.com)

guyanatimesGY.com

monday, december 23, 2013

Guinness Street Football-Georgetown leg…

Queen Street-Tiger Bay crowned champions

Guinness Brand Manager, Lee Baptiste, performs the ceremonial kick-off to signal the start of the final

Part of the massive crowd that witnessed Saturday’s matches

representatives at the national playoff next year. In the third place playoff, Hope Street- Tiger Bay needled just a solitary goal to get past Albouystown B. That all-important strike came off the boot of Rensford Coleridge in the fifth minute. Hope Street- Tiger Bay collected $200,000 and a trophy, while Albouystown B received $100,000 and a trophy. In the two exhibition games that preceded that final and third place playoff, Guinness Bar edged Globe Yard 3-2 and Oasis Taxi got the better of the Media side 2-0.

By Avenash Ramzan

uoyed on by a large band of supporters, Queen StreetTiger Bay turned in a sterling performance to defeat Stevedore Housing Scheme 2-0 to earn the title of ‘champions’ of the Georgetown leg of the sixth annual Guinness Street Football competition on Saturday evening at the National Park tarmac. Playing in front of a packed venue, Hope StreetTiger Bay had earlier needled Albouystown B 1-0 to take the third place playoff. In the championship game- dubbed a clash of the only two unbeaten teams in the competition- Queen Street- Tiger Bay clearly appeared the hungrier team, constantly creating opportunities and challenging Stevedore’s defence. After a few close shaves with the small goal, Queen Street- Tiger Bay finally broke the deadlock in the 13th minute through a Leon Fredericks goal to go 1-0 up. The goal visibly shook the confidence of the

Hope Street-Tiger Bay won the third place playoff. Here the skipper collects the trophy and cash prize from Troy Mendonca (left) of the Petra Organisation

Stevedore lads and catapulted Queen Street- Tiger Bay’s as the latter team started to concentrate on protecting their one goal advantage. Although Stevedore tried desperately to equalise, they were met with a stern defence that repeat-

edly denied the challenges they put forward. Any hope they had of rebounding and capping a come-from-behind victory was thwarted in the 27th minute when Alpha Fletchman blasted in Queen Street- Tiger Bay’s second and final goal to seal the match.

For the victory, the champions walked away with $500,000 cash, the championship trophy and bragging rights, while Stevedore Housing Scheme had to settle for $300,000 and the runner-up trophy. Both teams however, have qualified as Georgetown

Successful competition

Speaking to the media after the presentation ceremony, representatives of the various stakeholders, who have worked to put together the tournament over the years, all agreed that the Georgetown leg was a huge success. Guinness Brand Manager, Lee Baptiste, said Banks DIH Limited is satisfied with the outcome

of the tournament in terms of the quality of play seen and the large crowd that flocked the various venues. Banks DIH Limited’s Communications Manager, Troy Peters, echoed similar sentiments, adding that the aim of the concept was to unearth the talents in the streets, and it has been successful in this regard over the years. The Petra Organisation has partnered with Banks DIH Limited to stage the tournament, and according to co-director of that body, Troy Mendonca, several other zone competititions will be hosted in early 2014 to determine the teams that will contest the national playoff. Zone competitions are on stream for Berbice, East Coast Demerara, West Demerara, Linden and Bartica. The winner of the national playoff in June will earn the right to represent Guyana at the Guinness Caribbean Street Challenge the following month in Trinidad and Tobago.

Swann one of England’s greats, says Vaughan

ngland will find it very difficult to fill the void left by spinner Graeme Swann’s retirement, says his former Test captain Michael Vaughan. Swann, 34, announced his decision as England, who have already lost the Ashes, prepared for the fourth Test. “Of the last 20 years, Swann is going to be one of the hardest to replace,” said Vaughan. The BBC Test Match Special pundit said Swann’s “character, fun and energy” would be missed in the dressing room. With 255 wickets at an average of 29.96, Swann retires as England’s second most successful Test spinner. Only Derek Underwood, with 297 scalps, claimed more Test wickets - and he did so in an international career lasting 86 matches over 16 years, compared with Swann’s 60 in five.

“You look back to Jim Laker [the first bowler to take all 10 wickets in a Test innings] and Derek Underwood, and I think Graeme Swann will be talked about in the same breath,” said Vaughan. “England without Swann in the last five years, I just can’t see how many series they would have won.” Mixed reactions Reaction to the timing of Swann’s announcement has been mixed. Former England seamer Angus Fraser told BBC Sport: “I am not sure what to make of Graeme’s decision - you hear his statement, talking about the fact that physically he is struggling [and] he can’t have the impact that he once had. “But it just doesn’t feel right to me to call it over in the middle of a series. “He said he wanted to be part of an England team that

Michael Vaughn

Graeme Swann

won four Ashes series, so you make that commitment, and when it’s over, you pull out.” But Fraser, who is now Middlesex’s managing director of cricket, acknowledged Swann’s overall contribution. “He will be remembered, quite rightly, as an outstanding cricketer who has played a major role in England becoming a force in the international game. “Everybody thought conventional off-spinners’ days

of effective bowling were over, but he has shown that a highquality off-spinner can be a match-winner too.” Ex-England bowler Derek Pringle said he “should have seen the tour out as a senior player”, but former captain Geoffrey Boycott described Swann’s decision as “honest” and “brave.” In the first three Ashes Tests down under, Swann took only seven wickets at 80 runs apiece.

“He hasn’t been right the whole series. He hasn’t been the Graeme Swann we know,” said TMS pundit and former England opener Boycott. “I think it’s very honest to say: ‘Hey, I’ve shot it, that’s it, I’m not going to be any good any more.’ “It takes a brave man to do that.” Mick Newell, director of cricket at Nottinghamshire, said Swann’s carefree demeanour belied a studious attitude to the game. “He joined us with a reputation for not taking things seriously but I found him to be very thoughtful about his cricket and very committed to improving his game,” said Newell. “He knows how to perk up a dressing room and he was an outstanding character to have in a cricket team. “Swanny has been a dominant performer in Test cricket for six years and it will leave a huge gap in the England team

because there is no outstanding spinner quite ready to fill the place that he will leave.” Swann’s opposite number in the Australia team, Nathan Lyon, paid tribute to his “unbelievable” fellow offspinner. “He’s someone who I’ve looked up to a lot,” Lyon said. “His career stats stand for themselves, he’s been an unbelievable spinner and someone who I watched pretty closely in my time. Australia pace bowler Ryan Harris said the announcement had taken him completely by surprise. “I don’t know what to say, I thought he’d bowled OK in the series, just without luck I guess,” said Harris. “I feel we’ve played him very well, too. “Something’s obviously not quite right with him, or he’s fulfilled whatever he wanted to do, but to me that’s a huge shock.” (BBC Sport)

monday, december 23, 2013

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Ravens, Colts set to square off in Phillip George final – Plaisance, Pacesetters to battle for third division title By Treiston Joseph

he Dyna’s Ravens used a huge fourth quarter run to route the Pepsi Sonics 65-40 and advance to the final of the Phillip George memorial basketball championships on Saturday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Throughout the first three quarters, both teams struggled from the field, missing easy shots while the interior defense was hard to score against with the score reading 35-30 in favour of the Ravens in the low scoring defense altering contest. However, the fourth quarter turned into a high speed game allowing Ravens to control the game by running the floor, changing a five-point contest into a double-digit lead in the blink of an eye with a 30-10 run. Dorian Lewis, who was a part of the big run for the Ravens, was the game’s leading scorer with 20 points, while Akeem “The Dream” Kanhai chipped in with 17.

Sheldon Thomas

Trevor Smith was the high point man for the Sonics with 13 points. Meanwhile, the Colts held on to defeat the Republic Bank Nets 6253 as both team struggled from the field in the fourth quarter. The Colts in the first half was “cooking” from beyond the arc, hitting around the 40 percent mark from three-point land as they opened a 20-point lead at the end of the half and looked to be on cruise control when the half ended 46-26. However, the second half saw the Colts going cold, especially from threepoint range as they missed all their three-point efforts in the third period as the Nets climbed back in the game to outscore the Colts 18-8 to make it a 10-point game heading into the final quarter. Further, with both

Akeem "The Dream" Kanhai attempts a dunk during Saturday's action

teams struggling in the fourth and Colts only managing another eight-point quarter, the Nets players were unable to capitalise on the cold streak by the Colts, only scoring nine points in the quarter. Sheldon Thomas led the Colts with 12 points, while Dave Causeway had 11 points to help hold off the Nets in the win. Drumson McUlly was the game’s leading scorer with 14 points, but was the only player in double digits for the Nets in the loss. In the third division competition, Plaisance Guardians held on to reach the final with a 68-66 win against the Colts. The Colts, up by two points in the dying seconds, made a bad pass that led to a fast break opportunity to level the game. However, the next play the Colts gave the rock away on an inbound pass that cost them the game as they fouled to stop time, which resulted in two free throws for the Guardians, who sank both. Colwyn Nurse ended with a game-high 24 points for the Guardians, while Nduka Horatio had 21 points in the win. Rawle Nelson led the Colts with 17 points, while Evans Johnson dropped 15 and Vibert Smith 10. In the second semifinal, the Trinity Grid Holding Pacesetters got past the Pepsi Sonics 5954 to make it to the final. Joycelin Crawford dropped a game-high 20 points, while Quincey DoSantos had 17 points in the win. Kerwin Jackson scored 16 points for the Sonics, while Samuel Thompson had 14.

monDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2013

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CRICKET: INDIA 280 AND 421 V SOUTH AFRICA 244 AND 450-7; PAKISTAN 326-5 V SRI LANKA 213

Guinness Street Football-Georgetown leg…

Queen Street-Tiger Bay crowned champions See story on page

Guinness Brand Manager, Lee Baptiste, presents the championship trophy and cash incentive to members of the Queen Street-Tiger Bay team in the presence of other officials of Banks DIH Limited and the Petra Organisation (Photos: Avenash Ramzan)

“Some careers are on the line,” says Sammy Vickery through to

arren Sammy has conceded that careers could be on the line after West Indies’ 2-0 series defeat, including his own position as captain. His team’s hopes disappeared in a session on the third day in Hamilton as they were skittled for 103, and it was far from a one-off implosion from the West Indies batsmen. Sammy, as he has throughout, spoke honestly and openly while reflecting on another heavy defeat - West Indies’ fourth in five matches - but there was a hollow look in his eyes. When asked if he was “angry”, he said he wasn’t that type of person “I have good control over my emotions” - but whereas in Wellington, he watched his side fold in seamer-friendly conditions that favoured New Zealand, in Hamilton, there was little in the surface for the pace bowlers. Overall, Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Darren Bravo averaged over 60 for the series, and Denesh Ramdin’s hundred lifted his figure to

Darren Sammy

38.40, but then the numbers slip away. Marlon Samuels was the major disappointment, averaging 19.50 while Kieran Powell, who had established himself in the opener’s position, was 17.33. “There are tough decisions to be made by the coach and the director of cricket, some careers are on the line, could be mine as well, you never know,” Sammy said while he sat alongside West Indies’ coach, Ottis Gibson. “We cannot continue like this. In any organisation, you need to

show graft and commitment. The coach keeps saying if we do the same thing, don’t expect a different result. “Watch us play when we play well and people say wow, things are moving forward, but it’s two steps forward, then three or four backwards. Before we went to India, there were six consecutive Test wins. Then, on the tour of India, we got beaten miserably. We escaped in Dunedin by fighting hard with our backs against the wall. There’s a lot of work to do, we just need to be more consistent.” West Indies’ next Test series is against New Zealand in the Caribbean more than five months away and, given the regression in their form over the last couple of months on the road, the selectors could well decide a change is needed. Sammy has already been removed from the one-day captain’s role, which now belongs to Dwayne Bravo, although he remains the captain of the Twenty20 side that will start as defending champions at the World Twenty20

in Bangladesh. “At the end of the day, the selectors recommend the captain. If I’m asked to do the job I’d still do it. They’ll make the decision,” Sammy said. At tea on the third day at Seddon Park, there were no such remorseful feelings in the West Indies side. Although their lead was only 18, they knew one solid display, leaving a target over 200, would have given Sunil Narine the chance to be a match-winner. “We came here to good batting conditions, that’s not a 103-run pitch, but credit to McCullum and his boys, they had a plan for every batsman and the way their bowlers bowled out under pressure, we didn’t have a response,” Sammy said. “The batting unit needed partnerships, and we were unable to do that. I don’t know what it is, in the end, it’s up to us as batsmen to get the necessary runs, even if they’re ugly.” At the moment, West Indies’ batting is more often ugly for the wrong reasons.

(Cricinfo)

Australian Open

Sachia Vickery, the 18-year-old US-based tennis player of Guyanese parentage, Sunday afternoon stormed into the 2014 Australian Open, by comprehensively winning her USTA Australian Open wildcard playoff against fellow American, Victoria Duval. Vickery wasted little time in getting past Duval, winning 6-3, 6-3. The victory confirmed her spot in the Australian Open, set for January 13-26. Executives of the local governing body for the sport- the Guyana Tennis Association- were following the match keenly, and immediately after the victory, they extended congratulations to Vickery and wished her well in next month’s tournament.

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