Caribbean Times

Guyana Trade Show & Tourism Exposition gets corporate support Page 9

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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ISSUE NO. 54

CANADA EDITION

CN $1.00

WEEK ENDING June 13, 2013

Guyana Independence Festival Toronto boasts new, exciting features this year See story on page 5

- tax, housing officials on hand to address concerns of Guyanese

Jamaica to establish Cyber Emergency Response Team Page 9

Flashback: A scene taken from last year’s (2012) Guyana Independence Festival in Toronto, Canada.

TT taps $833 million China funds to build industrial parks Page 14

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NEWS

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013

GBTI posts Gy$1.8 billion aftertax profit in Guyana

By Svetlana Marshall

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he Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has recorded an after tax profit of Gy$1.814 billion in 2012, representing a 32 percent increase when compared to the bank’s returns for 2011.

GBTI Chief Executive Officer John Tracey made this disclosure in the bank’s 2012 report.

He said the return on equity stood at 20.17 per cent at the end of the year, while the return on average assets stood at 2.23 percent.

“Revenues for 2012 amounted to Gy$5524 million, an increase of 21 per cent over that for 2011 due primarily to increased lending.

“Net interest income increased by 33 per cent while non-interest income increased by 19 per cent due to the increases in commissions and exchanging gains,” he revealed. On the flip side, the bank incurred an ex-

penditure of Gy$2.972 billion, an increase of Gy$385 million.

GBTI’s overwhelming success was driven by the growth in its loan portfolio, the CEO said.

He explained that loans stood at Gy$35 billion at the end of 2013, reflecting a net growth of Gy$11.3 billion or 46.8 per cent.

Currently, the bank owns a whopping 22 per cent of the loan portfolio in the banking industry.

“While the growth in our loan portfolio exceeded our target, we continued to adhere to the sound tenets of lending, while responding on a timely basis to the exceptional demand for financing.

“The bank’s credit to deposit ratio increased to 45 per cent in 2012 compared to 40 per cent at the end of 2011,” Tracey reported.

The growth in the loan portfolio was attributed to the improved and diverse loan system. In

GBTI Chief Executive Officer John Tracey

an effort to increase its portfolio, GBTI tailored its lending policies based on development in the various economic sectors

in Guyana.

As 2013 progresses, the CEO expressed concern over the high levels of uncertainty in some

sectors.

“Two of the leading production sectors and significant foreign exchange earners viz rice and gold mining are facing uncertain futures,” Tracey pointed out in his report.

According to him, the heavy dependency on the Venezuela market for the sale of rice is also worrying, noting that the loss of this market can cripple the rice sector.

“The sugar industry continues to limp along, but, with favourable weather and improved technical and mechanical competence, should do no worse than done in 2012.”

Amid the signs of un-

certainty, Tracey said bankers were optimistic that the banking industry will continue to flourish. He said that with competition for less lending opportunities, it is anticipated that the trend of the reduction of interest rates will continue this year.

Additionally, the bank will be commissioning another branch this year, while assessing the possibility of greater expansion in the future.

“With our new software being market-oriented, greater emphasis will be placed on product development and market penetration,” Tracey assured. (Excerpt from Guyana Times)

PM Kamla says she’s willing to share password in email probe

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rime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar has submitted a written statement to police on emails alleging a government conspiracy on Section 34 which Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley first disclosed in Parliament three weeks ago.

On Monday afternoon, Supt Baldeo Nanan led a team of investigators to the Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain, office of attorney, Senior Counsel Israel Khan who handed them the prime minister’s statement on her behalf.

After leaving Khan’s office, the investigators

met with Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Joan Honore Paul who is advising officers on the investigation.

According to a report in TT media, PersadBissessar made it clear the emails presented by Rowley in the House of Representatives on May 20 were a total fabrication and said she committed no wrong-doing.

Persad-Bissessar also assured she was willing to cooperate with investigators and would make available to them the password to her computer and any equipment which they may wish to examine.

When contacted Tuesday, PersadBissessar confirmed that she had retained an attorney to look after her legal interest in the investigation, but offered no further comment.

Khan, when reached for comment, said he did not wish to confirm or deny he was retained by the prime minister to represent her in the probe.

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan and Minister of Local Government and Works and Infrastructure Dr Suruj Rambachan have already presented statements to the police through their attorney, Senior Counsel Pamela Elder.

The police are yet to indicate when they will meet with PersadBissessar, Ramlogan and Rambachan to interview them.

In a previous inter-

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar (TT Newsday file photo)

view on June 4, PersadBissessar disclosed she received a letter from lead investigator Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Mervyn Richardson, in which he asked her for a statement and any equipment used to send emails between September 5 to September 30, last year.

It was the prime minister who referred the issue to the police after Rowley disclosed an email trail to the Lower House, during a no-confidence motion against government. The alleged exchanges implied a conspiracy among PersadBissessar, Ramlogan, Rambachan to pervert the course of justice on the controversial Section 34 law.

In their replies to the

Lower House, the senior government officials hit the emails as fake, noting errors in email addresses and details in the contents. On conclusion of the debate, PersadBissessar moved a motion of abuse of privilege against Rowley, who was referred by Speaker Wade Mark to the Privileges Committee.

Rowley went before the Committee Tuesday.

Persons referred to in the emails included DPP Geoffrey Henderson (who has recused himself from the probe, delegating the task to HonorePaul), Chief Justice Ivor Archie, Gary Griffith, the prime minister’s national security adviser and Guardian journalist Denyse Renne. (Excerpt from TT Newsday)

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St Vincent national selected as Canadabased YCI youth innovator for Ghana

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Shalisha Samuel

halisha Samuel, a Vincentian and a student of law, has been selected as the 2013 Youth Innovator for Ghana by Youth Challenge International (YCI).

YCI is a leading global youth development organisation, based in Toronto, Canada, which promotes youth innovation to drive positive change. The organisation’s programmes are designed to meet the needs of youth affected by poverty through three integrated sectors: youth livelihoods, youth health and

youth leadership.

YCI accomplishes these objectives by engaging youth ages 18 to 30 in overseas volunteer projects. They provide young people with the opportunity to live and work on community-based projects in Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica, Guyana, Nicaragua and Vanuatu. YCI is supported by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).

Following a comprehensive application and interview process, Samuel was selected to volunteer with YCI and their local partners in Accra, Ghana, on development projects in the community between June and July.

As the 2013 Youth Innovator, Samuel will teach monitoring and evaluation techniques to local staff and student body organisations from 28 tertiary institutions in Ghana.

The students implement projects in their communities ranging from teaching business skills to beauticians, to facilitating technology transfer for agricultural production in rural communities. The monitoring and evaluation project will be carried out in collaboration with ENACTUS: Entrepreneurial Action and Us. ENACTUS is a community of student, academic and business leaders committed to using the power of entrepreneurial action to transform lives and shape a more sustainable world.

Samuel has a history of development work on behalf of the region. She was instrumental in building the World Intellectual Property

Organisation’s first Caribbean Unit.

She was diligent in streamlining the Unit’s monitoring system, a critical component in results based management.

Speaking about the opportunity to volunteer in Ghana, Samuel noted, “I’m honoured to be selected from

such a competitive international pool.

I would like to thank my friends and family who has supported this vision, particularly the Youth Challenge International for the opportunity and the Rotary Club of Barbados West for their tremendous support of the trip.”

(CaribbeanNews)

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EDITORIAL

Global job crisis

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he International Labour Organisation (ILO), in one of its recent reports, states that the gap between the rich and poor in most low-and middle-income countries remains wide. The report notes too that what is even more worrying is the fact that many families who have managed to rise above the poverty line are at risk of lapsing back.

Of note also, is that global unemployment is predicted to rise from the current 200 million to nearly 208 million by 2015. In essence, the job crisis worldwide is likely to get worse unless certain urgent measures are taken to remedy the situation.

This is enough to cause governments and policy makers to be concerned about what sort of future is being created for our young people.

The report titled, “World of Work Report 2013: Repairing the Economic and Social Fabric”, states that income inequalities rose between 2010 and 2011 in 14 of the 26 advanced economies surveyed, including France, Denmark, Spain, and the United States. Inequality levels in seven of the remaining 12 countries were still higher than before the start of the financial crisis.

The report says that economic inequalities are on the rise, as small firms lag behind their larger counterparts in terms of profits and productive investment. While most large enterprises have regained access to capital markets, start-ups and small enterprises are disproportionately affected by bank credit conditions. This is a problem for job recovery now and affects economic prospects over the longer term.

It is interesting to note too that the report shows that middleincome groups in many advanced economies are shrinking, fuelled in part, by long-term unemployment, weakening job quality, and workers dropping out of the labour market altogether. For example, in Spain, the size of the middle-income groups declined from 50 percent in 2007, to 46 percent by the end of 2010. In the United States, the richest seven percent of the population saw their average net worth increase during the first two years of the recovery from 56 percent in 2009 to 63 percent in 2011. The remaining 93 percent of Americans saw their net worth decline.

That said, the size of the middle-income group in developing and emerging economies has increased from 263 million in 1999 to 694 million in 2010. This is a major achievement of a growing number of Latin American and Asian countries, which spread more recently to some countries in Africa and the Arab region.

In developing countries, the most important challenge is to consolidate recent progress in reducing poverty and inequality.

The report shows how productive investment, minimum wages, and social protection have contributed to this endeavour in countries like Brazil, Costa Rica, India, Indonesia, Turkey, and Vietnam.

Among the ILO recommendations to address the job crisis and income inequalities are the need to have an approach that balances macroeconomic and employment goals. This means a sustainable pace of fiscal consolidation measures, where they are necessary; more attention to the employment and social impact of different macroeconomic policies; and moving quickly with yet unresolved inefficiencies in the financial system.

ILO Director General Guy Rider points to the fact that there is need for a global recovery focused on jobs and productive investment, combined with better social protection for the poorest and most vulnerable groups. Hence, the need to pay serious attention to closing the inequality gap that is widening in so many parts of the world.

It was also suggested that the authorities place jobs higher on the reform agenda, as this is not the case presently in some developed and developing countries. What is clear is that countries, including Guyana, would need to put systems in place where more and better jobs could be created so that there can be a more balanced distribution of income.

Female officers of the Guyana Defence Force on parade at Base Camp Ayanaganna before the commissioning ceremony of 13 new sergeants after they successfully completed the Lead Sergeants Course Number One. The officers were commissioned by Chief-of-Staff Commodore Gary Best

Caribbean must take advantage of TIFA accord with U.S. - Kamla

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he third annual Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) began in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago on Monday, with delegates being urged to take advantage of the recently signed Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) between the United States and Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, addressing the opening of the two-day event, said the accord, which was signed during the recent visit of United States Vice President Joe Biden to the Caribbean, provides an opportunity to expand trade for the benefit of the region, individual states and “every citizen in our respective countries”.

“The Caribbean Investment Forum must take advantage of the leverage offered by this renewed international involvement in the region,” she said, adding that Caribbean countries should also seek to take advantage of the opportunities being provided by China as a result of the visit of President Xi Jinping.

“President Xi’s offer of TT$3 billion is of particular significance for our national development. And I want to announce today that Trinidad and Tobago would be able to immediately access these funds to accelerate the development of business/commercial and industrial parks throughout Trinidad and Tobago,” she said.

She told more than 100 business executives from

leading global companies, as well as regional and international business investors, that Port-of-Spain will be establishing seven such parks on 592.1 acres of land, representing an investment of TT$833 million.

She told the CIF that Trinidad and Tobago had also signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the United States Department of Energy, to establish a Renewable Energy Research Centre in TT so as to promote the rapid deployment of critical technologies for renewable energies to our country and also the wider Caribbean.

Port-of-Spain/Ottawa partnership

Persad-Bissessar said that during her recent visit to Canada, she took the opportunity to push for public/ private sector partnerships and that Port-of-Spain and Ottawa “have successfully collaborated to organise, for the benefit of the Caribbean region, a public-private partnership (P3) symposium, to assist the governments of the region build capacity in designing and implementing P3 projects”.

She said that in order to develop a “more diversified, knowledge intensive economy” Trinidad and Tobago has created two new institutions related to competitiveness and innovation with the goal being to support human capital development and build knowledge networks.

She said in 2014, Portof-Spain will host the annual Americas Competitiveness Forum (ACF) whose objec-

tive is to facilitate the development of businesses and promote the exchange of ideas and knowledge to enable the countries of the Americas to become more innovative, productive and competitive.

Persad-Bissessar said that the ACF dialogue reaches the highest levels, as delegates comprise of heads of state, governments as well as ministers of finance, trade, planning and key business representatives.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I firmly believe that Caricom, the wider Caribbean area that includes Latin America are at a critical development juncture.

“Notwithstanding the promises and generous gifts of international partners, and the challenges facing small-island developing nations like those in the Caribbean, I believe that we are being called upon to display a level of maturity, innovation and enterprise that belies our geographic and resource reality.

“The question we must all ask ourselves is whether we [are] up to the challenge,” she said, adding “the reality is that we have very little choice in the matter.

“Each country may have its own unique limitations but when we work together we have the potential to go further and faster,” she told the delegates to the CIF that is being presented by ‘invesTT’, Trinidad and Tobago’s investment promotion agency, whose mission is to develop the island’s non-oil and gas sectors.

News

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week ending June 13, 2013 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Barbados set to Guyana Independence borrow Bds$ 100M to Festival boasts new, pay off arrears to UWI exciting features this year - tax, housing officials on hand to address concerns of Guyanese

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UWI’s vice chancellor, Dr Nigel Harris

arbados is set to borrow more than Bds$100 million from a commercial bank in Bridgetown to pay off much of its arrears to the University of the West Indies (UWI), according to reports from Barbadian media.

“All the details have not yet been worked out but the plan will allow us to get the money and the Barbadian government will repay the funds to the bank over time,” the UWI’s vice chancellor,

Dr Nigel Harris, told the Sunday Sun in an exclusive interview in New York.

“There is an intermediary who is taking responsibility for the loan and that intermediary will pay the university while the government will pay the intermediary over time. The intermediary is in Barbados.”

Barbados is the UWI’s largest debtor, with an outstanding bill of Bds$150 million. (Nation News)

reparations are well advanced for this year’s Guyana Independence Festival slated for June 23 at the Centennial College (Progress Campus). The event is expected to be very exciting, with the attendance of President Donald Ramotar and a number of businesses and entities from Guyana that will be showcasing some of the great products that the country has to offer.

Additionally, some government agencies would be represented to address concerns of Guyanese in Canada, including the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Central Housing and Planning Authority, among others. They will all be a part of the trade and tourism exhibition, which will equally focus on Guyanese businesses in Canada, the festival committee has announced.

Billed as a familyfriendly occasion, the

festival is in its 18th year, and the organising committee is working assiduously to ensure that the festivities are a grand success. In an invited comment, Honorary Consul General Sattie Sawh said that the festival is moving “full steam ahead”.

“Our diaspora looks to this event as a way to annually salute our nation. The planning committee is aware of the significance of this event for our national pride, and has been working extremely hard to make sure that every last detail is considered,” Sawh stated.

She added that “in turn, I’d like to ask every single person that is reading this to come out and support the 2013 Guyana Festival. On June 23rd at Centennial College Progress Campus, let’s celebrate all things Guyanese!”

A press release from the organisers stated

that the programme for the day is jam-packed, with some of the feature events being cultural shows, a trade and tourism exhibition, and softball cricket and soccer matches. Also, there will be several food vendors, a car show, and attractions and games for kids. The venue has ample parking facilities, and is also readily accessible by public transit.

The festival, which would run from 10 am to 7 pm with the opening ceremony planned for noon, will be graced by the presence of President Ramotar and Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, both of whom would bring greetings to the masses and help in conveying the news about developments happening in Guyana.

Added to the business showcase, tourism would be strongly represented, especially given the fact that Guyana is surging in international circles as a destination

for eco-adventures.

In the meantime, one of the feature attractions of this year’s festival would be a series of songs and dances by the Katawau Dance Group, a group of young Amerindians from Guyana. They have been practising hard for their appearances in Canada, and have promised to deliver a wonderful display for the patrons.

They will be a part of the grand cultural show that is being organised, which would give a glimpse of Guyana’s beautiful mixture of heritages.

“No Guyanese celebration is truly complete without a sampling of our scrumptious food – vendors of all sorts of goodies will be on site to provide some of the best Guyanese cuisine available,” the release stated.

More so, softball cricket and football games would be staged, featuring GuyaneseCanadian players.

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News

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013

‘Look to Canada for energy solution’ - Diaspora member urges Jamaica R

TT looks to Canada for PPP help

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member of the diaspora in Canada has said that it is time Jamaica engages Canada in the discussions aimed at seeking out an alternative energy solution to solve the local energy crisis.

Addressing a Gleaner Editors' forum at the newspaper's North Street, Central Kingston offices Monday, Howard Shearer, who is the chairman of Hitachi Canada, said he recognised that one of the greatest issues with the business continuity in Jamaica "is the energy question".

He argued that there is a "tremendous amount of stress on alternate energy solution" coming

Howard Shearer

out of Ontario Canada, in particular, that he feels could be of significant benefit to Jamaica if the country takes the initiative to engage in-

dustry players in that region of Canada.

"This is significant because we cannot assume that the PetroCaribe deal will not crumble and, therefore, I believe it behooves us to try to find alternatives within solar (energy), wind, hydro (electricity) for example," Shearer said.

He stated that he recognised that some of the options were already being closely examined locally to see how they can work "but they require policy framework that allows them to strive and so we will certainly try to show example where the policy framework has worked in Canada, and maybe it could be adopt-

ed or maybe the conversation could find a way to see how it could be done," he said.

Adding to that, Shearer said that it was his opinion that the liberalisation of the power grid was the way to go for Jamaica. He said the monopoly on energy cannot be good for business.

"I personally believe that transmission and distribution should be separate. If you go to the U.S. (United States) for example, you will find that transmission and distribution are separate ... (which) allows other players to come into the market. No monopoly is ever good," Shearer argued. (Jamaica Gleaner)

udy Indarsingh, minister of state in the Ministry of Finance, says Trinidad and Tobago needs the help of Canada to develop an efficient public privatepartnership (PPP) programme.

“It is well known that Canada has one of the world’s most developed public-private partnership models in both volume and size of transactions.

We welcome the support which Canada will bring to the development of that model to TT. These programmes achieve significant risks and by transferring risks and costs to the private sector, it would achieve value for money,” he said. Indarsingh spoke at the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) at the Hilton Hotel and Conference Centre, St Ann’s.

Reading a speech on behalf of Finance Minister Larry Howai who was unable to be present, he said it is important to have partnerships between the public sector and private companies to efficiently carry out infrastructural works.

“We need to overcome these structural factors like limited fiscal space and limited international financing, if we are to ensure that our economic growth becomes sustainable and viable. Given

their centrality of importance for growth and development, we cannot escape our requirements for modern international airports, adequate highways, stateof-the-art transit systems and healthcare delivery systems,” Indarsingh said.

He said with the help of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), government set up a PPP Unit with the Ministry of Finance.

Indarsingh gave examples of TT’s experience in public-private partnerships. In the petrochemical sector, there is Yara Trinidad Limited owned

by Yara International, a Norwegian-based company which operates Tringen, which is 51 percent owned by the government of TT. In the telecommunication sector, Telecommunication Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) is a joint venture company 51 percent owned by the government and 49 percent owned

by Cable and Wireless Communications.

The Desalination Company of TT (Desalcott) is a private sector owned water production company which supplies water on a contractual basis through a sale agreement to the Water and Sewerage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (WASA). (TT Guardian)

Caribbean must take advantage of trade opportunities - WTO

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irector General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Pascal Lamy Tuesday urged developing countries to ensure they have the necessary trade capacity to take advantage of a changing global environment.

Addressing the launch of the Caribbean Regional Aid for Trade (AFT) Strategy, Lamy said however having trade opportunities is not enough.

“We must translate the “trade can” into the “trade has” by ensuring developing countries have built the necessary trade capacity. And this is what Aid for Trade is about: helping transform trade opportunities into trade realities.”

Aid for Trade refers to the flow of development finance from developed countries and multilateral funding agencies to developing countries to enhance their participation in the multilateral trading system.

The Caribbean strategy, which was developed with the assistance of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), aims to create consensus within Caricom on prior-

ities for ensuring growth and a more diversified regional economy.

It presents a coherent approach to obtaining funding and provides a framework for collaboration among Caricom Member States and international development partners (IDPs) or investors with an interest in providing support for the region’s development.

The IDB, along with the International Trade Centre (ITC), the WTO and the Caribbean Export Development Agency all have collaborated with the CARICOM Secretariat for the launch of the strategy under the theme “Turning Market Access Into Market Presence”.

Lamy said that four years ago he met with Caricom on the AFT and that his message was that the strategy was a platform for the region around which the development partners and private investors could coalesce.

The WTO official said the region has made some initial, but crucial steps in concretising the role that Aid for Trade can play in its economic development.

(Excerpt from CMC)

News

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Jagdeo calls on world leaders to address policy failures G

lobal Green Growth Institute (GGGI) President Bharrat Jagdeo believes that a combination of robust analytics, proof of action and an informed and critical mass of countries advocating for systemic, international policy change can transform global policies into becoming a reality rather than a vision. Speaking to member countries at the Green Growth Summit in Songdo, South Korea, the former Guyanese head of state acknowledged that these are the very elements which present significant challenges. Jagdeo stressed that the world cannot afford failure at reaching a global climate deal that contains the level of ambition needed to achieve a two-degree pathway or less.

He noted that the agreement must be made by 2015 and implemented by 2020, with climate financing totalling US$100 billion by 2020 as agreed in Cancun.

“If today’s leaders and those who influence them

sleepwalk through the next few years, the window to make these things happen will close, and they will be responsible for a catastrophic derogation of responsibility to the generation which follows.”

Valuable work

Jagdeo emphasised that despite the valuable work of climate change advocates and many other enthusiasts, the scale of action to address such challenges is nowhere near what is needed. He called on member countries to deploy their individual and collective powers to address, what he described as a continued global failure of policy, without which, financing and innovation cannot be properly achieved at the pace required.

According to Jagdeo, US$207 million was invested in green technologies during last year, but he detailed that there is evidently need for up to US$2 trillion in addressing the global policy framework in order to create the impact need-

Global Green Growth Institute President Bharrat Jagdeo

ed.

The former president emphasised the need to maintain a case for inclusive green growth as the single most important form of growth with societal and economic value and work to develop the tools that allow this form of growth to be implemented.

He also admonished the advocates to support

persons who are building examples of inclusive green growth to prove that large-scale, transformative change is possible.

Global policy

Jagdeo stressed the need to deploy the power and legitimacy of the institute’s entire membership and networks to advocate for the requisite global policy shifts to en-

gender sustained progress. “… beyond high-level rhetoric, the case for green growth is still not sufficiently accepted or embedded in daily decisions, to make leaders, businesses and citizens fully commit to creating a new economy.

“In major part, this is because the conversation around green growth is still excessively focused on its costs rather than on its opportunities and benefits such as wealth creation, jobs and economic growth,” Jagdeo remarked.

He stated that the Global Green Growth Institute and its partners can add value and change the nature of the conversation by utilising world-class analytics to indicate the capability of green growth strategies.

Poverty elimination

The former president underscored that inclusive green growth is essential to reaching the historic target of eliminating extreme poverty by 2030, as well as in the global fight for equity

and justice.

“There is no solution to the problems of climate change if a billion people, mainly women, continue to use dirty stoves.

“There is no solution to food security unless hundreds of millions of small holder farmers are able to participate in a market which pays them a fair price for their food and labour. There is no solution to water shortages unless we are able to create incentives for the stewards of the forests and land that are responsible for our rainfall.

All of these objectives are part of a hard- headed argument for green growth – as well as supporting the moral and ethical arguments that nobody should be left behind.”

The greatest greenhouse gas emissions reduction in history happened in Brazil, which since 2005 has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than the entire European Union combined, Jagdeo pointed out. (Excerpt from Guyana Times)

Twin sisters among four teens killed in TT accidents left the club en route to their respective homes.

According to the police, Balkissoon was driving the car north when, on nearing the Cross Crossing bridge in San Fernando, his car crashed between two pillars near the bridge.

The vehicle spun several times before crashing between the pillars of the

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Twin sisters Khertima, left, and Khadija Taylor in a family photo with their mother Desiree Waddell (TT Newsday file photo)

he young lives of four teenagers, among them twin sisters, were snuffed out in two unrelated accidents which have stunned Trinidad and Tobago and left three families weeping and mourning their losses.

In one incident, three persons including twin sisters Khertima and Khadijah Taylor, 18, and UWI student Kafiya Gill, 19, died when the

car they were passengers in, crashed into the steel sides of a bridge in San Fernando during the early morning hours Sunday.

In the other incident, Chris Sookoo, 19, of Lange Park, Chaguanas lost his life when the car he was a passenger in, blew a tyre and crashed into a drain off the Uriah Butler Highway near the Divali Nagar site Sunday.

Twins Khertima and

Khadijah — Form Six students of St Joseph’s Convent, San Fernando, Gill, Kenisha Garcia, 18, Akiton Derek, 21, and David Balkissoon had gone to celebrate the birthday of their friend Nicolette Jones at Club Metro in Gulf View Link Road, San Fernando.

At about 4 am, the twins, Gill, Garcia and Derek squeezed themselves into a Mazda 3 car driven by Balkissoon and

north and southbound lanes of the bridge where it was lodged in a vertical position. The Taylor twins, Gill and Garcia were the back seat passengers, while Derek was the front seat passenger.

Supt Cecil Santana, Supt Huggins, ASP Jamsheed Mohammed and ASP Gaffar, visited the scene.

The Taylor twins

died at the scene while Gill subsequently died at hospital while receiving emergency treatment.

Both Garcia and Derek remain warded at the San Fernando General Hospital in a serious condition, while the driver, Balkissoon of Pointea-Pierre was treated for minor injuries and discharged. (TT Newsday)

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Jamaican Republic Bank now owns 32 manufacturers percent stake in African bank urge Nicholson R to ‘step aside’ in dispute with TT

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he Jamaica Manufacturers' Association (JMA) Monday told Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister AJ Nicholson to step aside or start singing a different tune on the trade dispute between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

In a strongly worded reaction to Nicholson's outburst in the Senate last Friday against their criticism of Trinidad and Tobago's trade practices, the JMA said that the minister contradicted earlier statements

cised Nicholson's statement, which was made during debate on a motion on Jamaica's growth strategy in the Senate.

Monday, in an apparent effort to control the damage resulting from Senator Nicholson's statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade issued a statement.

According to the ministry, there was no intent

by Nicholson to downplay the challenges being experienced by Jamaican businesses in the region, as a result of the application of non-tariff barriers

Jamaica’s Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister AJ Nicholson (Jamaica Observer file photo)

by Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Anthony Hylton, promising to take the trade issues as far as the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), if necessary.

"The confusion within the government is unacceptable. One minister is saying one thing and another minister something else," the JMA said. "What is really the position? Minister Nicholson needs to start singing a different tune, or step aside for someone who is a team player, understands issues and addresses them rather than wishing them away."

The Opposition's spokesman on foreign affairs and foreign trade Dr Christopher Tufton and the president of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, Christopher Zacca, have also criti-

and other impediments which have prevented Jamaican goods from entering those markets.

"Neither can there be any doubt that our foreign minister is sensitive to these concerns, as he has been a staunch defender of the interests of the private sector in Jamaica," the release stated.

But the JMA said that it was disturbed by what it described as the "careless" comment made by Nicholson in the Senate that "this thing about quarrelling with Trinidad every day must stop".

"Minister Nicholson has either forgotten which team he is on or blatantly disregards the people he is supposed to represent," the JMA statement said. "(Jamaican) manufacturers are not picking on Trinidad. There are

legitimate issues, which are negatively affecting the competitiveness of the productive sector," the JMA stated.

"When there are breaches or suspected breaches, as a sector and as a country, it is our right to call for an investigation into these matters, to ensure that local products are not being placed at a disadvantage to goods from Trinidad entering Jamaica duty free," the release said.

"When products are repackaged and do not meet the rules origin standards, then we make no apology when we say that this cannot be called manufacturing," it added.

"We are guided by the Treaty of Chaguaramas to ensure that we are competing on a level playing field with our Caricom partners. When the rules are violated, remedial action must be taken. We cannot allow Trinidad, or any Caricom partner, to go unchecked, and we expect the government to be receptive to the concerns of the manufacturers who want to contribute to Jamaica," the JMA said.

Jamaica recently imposed Ja$184 million in duties, as penalty, on lubricants imported from Trinidad under concessionary Caricom terms, which were suspected to have originated in Venezuela.

In explaining the decision to impose the penalty, Hylton said that Jamaica acted as it is empowered to do under the Treaty of Chaguaramas, after Trinidad and Tobago failed to respond to his request for an explanation over six months.

He said that there were other alleged breaches which his ministry's trade enforcement team was looking at, some of which may eventually end up at the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Hylton said the government was prepared to act on any evidence available, and invited the private sector to "come forward on those matters on which they have complained". (Jamaica Observer)

epublic Bank Limited (RBL) now owns 32.02 percent of HFC Bank Ghana, thus making it the single largest shareholder of that bank. The news came six months after RBL first acquired shares in the Ghanian bank back in December when the bank acquired an 8.79 percent shareholding in HFC Bank Ghana.

RBL General Manager (Corporate and Investment Banking) Robert Le Hunte has been appointed to the HFC Bank’s Board of Directors. The share purchase was made last Friday, on the Ghana Stock Exchange, with approval from the Central Bank of Ghana.

The shares were previously held by Aureos.

RBL Managing Director David DulalWhiteway said the bank had made an application to the Ghana Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for an exemption from the requirement to make a mandatory takeover offer, for the remaining shares in HFC Bank.

He said that should the waiver not be granted by the Ghana SEC, Republic Bank would, subject to regulatory approvals, be obliged to make a mandatory offer to acquire all shareholders of HFC Bank Ghana, in keeping with the Code on Takeovers and Mergers.

Dulal-Whiteway said

Republic Bank Managing Director David DulalWhiteway (TT Newsday file photo)

the bank is excited about opportunities this investment in HFC Bank Ghana would bring to its clients in the Caribbean, who are desirous of doing business in the African continent.

In a statement issued

by Republic on Monday, its managing director also said he was equally excited at the value that RBL would add to the operations at HFC Bank, noting the bank would soon be working closely with HFC’s executive management team on previously identified business growth areas.

RBL has a current asset base of US$8.6 billion (TT$51.6 billion) and profit after taxation of US$88.09 million (TT $1.2 billion). HFC Bank (Ghana) was licenced as

a commercial bank in 2003, and today operates 26 branches throughout that African nation, providing a wide range of banking services, including mortgages and real estate services, commercial banking, investment banking, micro-finance, private equity and venture capital fund management.

It was instrumental in the development of the mortgage industry in Ghana and continues to be the leading home loan provider in that country, commanding 30 percent of the market. HFC Bank Ghana has an asset base of US$301 million and profit after taxation of US$7.7 million, based on its last published financials. (TT Newsday)

Court adjourns sentencing of former Jamaica-based U.S. embassy security chief

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Virginia court has adjourned to June 21, the sentencing of David Rainsberger, the former security chief at the United States Embassy in Jamaica.

Rainsberger, 32, admitted to accepting two luxury watches worth approximately US$2,500 from a Jamaican entertainer, identified only in court documents as "DB", in addition to free admission to nightclubs, backstage access to concerts, and a birthday party hosted by the musician.

The incident occurred while Rainsberger, then a member of the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service, was stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Kingston from 2009 to 2011.

According to a release posted on the web-

David Rainsberger (Jamaica Observer file photo)

site of the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia in February, while in Jamaica, Rainsberger "befriended" the well-known musician whose entry to the U.S. had been barred because of allegations of

criminal conduct.

The statement said that Rainsberger's investigation "of this individual" resulted in the reinstatement of his visa, "which allowed the individual to travel to the U.S. to take advantage of performance and recording opportunities".

In addition to the charge of receiving unlawful gratuities, Rainsberger also pleaded guilty in an Alexandria, Virginia court to making false statements to the United States government on a national security questionnaire, which is required to maintain his security clearance.

Rainsberger faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison on the gratuities charge and five years in prison on the false statements charge. (Jamaica Observer)

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Guyana Trade Show & Tourism Exposition gets corporate support

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orporate Guyana continues to show its support in promoting Guyana’s tourism product, with Fly Jamaica Airlines and the NEW GPC INC being the latest entities giving financial assistance for the staging of the Guyana Trade Show and Tourism Exposition to be held in New York and Canada later this month.

The expo will be held in Toronto, Canada and New York to highlight what Guyana has to offer.

At a simple ceremony at the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry in Guyana on Monday, Fly Jamaica handed over a cheque worth Gy$512,500 to Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh, while the NEW GPC INC donated US$5000.

NEW GPC INC Marketing Manager Trevor Bassoo said his company has confidence in the staging and success of the trade show.

“We believe that this is the event for the Guyanese diaspora and the wider international buyers and business investors as a whole, to see what opportunities lie in Guyana and more so, the capabilities of the Guyanese and to become familiar with some of the high quality produce that can be developed here,” Bassoo posited.

He said the NEW GPC has some 200 pharmaceutical products which are sold in the Caribbean and North America.

As such, he thinks the expo is a good medium through which the company can enhance awareness of the products they have to offer.

Fly Jamaica representative Patricia Reece and NEW GPC Marketing Manager Trevor Bassoo holding their sponsorship cheques for this year’s trade show and expo to be held in New York and Toronto this month. Also in photo are Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali and GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh

Meanwhile, Wings Aviation Limited Director/Company Secretary Patricia Reece, who represented Fly Jamaica, also believes the event will greatly impact Guyana’s tourism industry.

“Now that they (Fly Jamaica) will soon be

beginning flights in Guyana as the minister said in July, this comes at the right time. I’m happy about the trade fair… because it will promote Guyana to a large extent to those who are there and hopefully some will be coming home on Fly Jamaica,” she said.

Jamaica to establish Cyber Emergency Response Team

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he Jamaican government, in an effort to boost the island's cybercrime fighting capabilities, is moving to establish a Cyber Emergency Response Team (CERT) to deal with an emerging global threat.

The CERT is expected to be fully operational by year-end, State Minister in the Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining Julian Robinson told Jamaica Observer reporters and editors at the newspaper's weekly Monday Exchange.

"This will be a team that will co-ordinate responses to cyber criminal activities. They will operate out of a physical environment. The persons in this team will have the technical capacity to be proactive and to set standards for all government agencies," Robinson said.

Robinson said the country is presently without the capacity to respond to a major cyber attack that could render services at sensitive government agencies inoperable.

"We don't have, in a co-ordinated, systematic way, the capacity to deal with something like that.

It's a work in progress," he said.

Due to the almost limitless nature of the Internet and the fast pace with which cyber criminals up the ante against law enforce-

ment, the island's legislators have also moved to put more teeth into the Cybercrimes Act. The Act was signed into law by Governor General Patrick Allen in March 2010 as the government moved to punish persons who misuse and abuse computers systems for criminal purposes.

"The government of

ernment would also be setting up a Cybercrimes Task Force which will be advisory in nature and will fall under the remit of the science, technology, energy and mining ministry.

"It will be a cross-section of private and public sector stakeholders who will advise guidance to the ministry in relation to cyber crimes," he said.

ing to access sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, credit card details and money by posing as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication and botnetting -- the use of a number of computers to forward transmissions (including spam or viruses) to other computers over the Internet.

The Jamaican gov-

Julian Robinson, Jamaica’s minister of state in the Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, gestures while addressing Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange.

Flanking him are (from left) Tracey-Ann Johnson, acting head of the Cybercrimes Unit in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions; Inspector Warren Williams, head of the police Cybercrimes Unit; and Wahkeen Murray, chief technical director in the Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining. (Naphtali Junior/Jamaica Observer photo)

Jamaica has taken some specific steps to ensure that as a country we are, one, in a position to adequately respond to cyber criminal activities and two, to prepare us in a proactive way to deal with what is now becoming an emerging threat not just within the country but globally," he said.

A report on the proposed amendments to the Act is expected to be tabled in the House of Representatives next month, Robinson said.

He also said the gov-

Robinson also revealed that between 2011 and 2012 more than 1,000 websites have been hacked, including those belonging to the state.

Head of the Cyber Crimes Unit in the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Tracey Johnson, said statistics revealed that there have been 88 cases of third party, debit card and credit card fraud since the start of this year.

She cited a rise in the cyber crimes of phishing -- the act of attempt-

ernment has also formed an alliance with a group of 'ethical hackers' as part of efforts to beef up the country's resistance to cybercrimes.

According to data from the Communication Forensics and Cybercrime Unit of Jamaica, some 229 websites belonging to government entities, tertiary institutions, and the private sector were hacked last year while just over 140 government websites were defaced by the hackers. (Jamaica Observer)

Acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali pointed out that the event is as a result of meetings with tour operators, travel agents and various leaders, who have noted the need for an occasion to bridge the gap between communities in the diaspora and Guyana, to pro-

mote local businesses.

“We decided at that point to collaborate with the local private sector in an effort to ensure that we can create an opportunity where they can have access to a wide market and where they can come to a common goal in developing business relationships with the entities that can further expand their business potential,” the minister explained.

The minister welcomed the support of the two entities, adding that they have also received another US$5000 from Mohammed’s Enterprise, while Banks DIH Limited, the Beharry Group of Companies, Caribbean Airlines and Air Services Limited, among other entities, have indicated their intention to support the initiative. (Guyana Times)

Shine more light on human trafficking – Barbados group urges

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March against human trafficking in Barbados (Barbados Advocate photo)

resident of Soroptimist International of Barbados, Tammy Bryan, has suggested that more events could be staged to raise awareness of human trafficking locally.

She recently spoke to Barbadian media prior to the start of a march conducted in The City to bring attention to human trafficking. This march forms part of the organisation’s ‘Purple Teardrop’ campaign.

Bryan said events such as the march could be held to educate the public and clear up misconceptions.

“I think events like this [would be useful], perhaps some town hall meetings where experts [or] maybe members of

the National Action Task Force can educate the public. Very often we encounter people who say ‘That [human trafficking] doesn’t happen in Barbados’ or we get people who say that has been happening for years and that can’t be an issue; why the girls can’t get up and run away…

It is very difficult for the victims to escape the situation. So I think generally raising awareness by marches like this [could help] because at least one person will ask what is this about and you get an opportunity to explain,” she outlined.

In recent weeks, a number of individuals were brought before the law courts on charges of human trafficking.

(Barbados Advocate)

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Guyana gov’t launches ‘1000 homes’ initiative G

uyana’s Housing Ministry through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) last Friday launched its ‘1000 homes’ project at the Perseverance New Housing Development, targeting single parents and low income earners.

The project was launched with support from the private sector, whose members turned out in their numbers at the event.

Delivering the feature address, President Donald Ramotar said providing easier access to housing to Guyanese remains a core objective of his government. He underscored that while it is important to have a strong and growing economy; it is also essential to ensure that the people of the country benefit from it. He said government has recognised that access to housing is one of the main ways to make this possible and his administration has been feverishly working towards providing more housing to its people.

“The investment that we have been putting in has been big; last year alone, the investment

President Donald Ramotar joins Housing Minister Irfaan Ali in launching an ambitious housing project on Friday at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara. Also in photo are Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh; PSC Chairman, Ronald Webster; GCCI President Clinton Urling; and several other officials

was some Gy$3.36 billion in investment on the East Bank of Demerara that excludes many other areas.”

He stated that this is a big jump since from 2004 to 2011; it invested some Gy$1.38 billion.

Ramotar said the project is yet another initiative by government to fulfil its 2011 manifesto promises. He highlighted that in the manifesto, the administration had promised that it would deliver 30,000 houselots to Guyanese by 2016.

Exceeding target

“Last year in pursuit of that goal, the

Central Housing and Planning Authority delivered some 7940 lots… they exceeded their target by 22 percent… the target for last year was 6500 lots, and they also managed to process 4177 titles which is a 12 percent increase of the target of 4000 that they had.”

Ramotar said too that the administration has delivered on its promise to make access to finance affordable, citing government’s support of low income housing programmes under which tax incentives are given to the banking sec-

tor to promote lending for home owners. In the same breath, he added that the government will continue to work with stakeholders to further improve access to financing specifically for the construction sector.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh said the national housing programme is an outstanding example of public policy, private sector response and household effort being brought together to develop and transform the country. He also echoed similar sentiments as the president, stating

that the government is on a vertical move to ensure that the financial sector is prepared and enthusiastic about lending for homeownership as it is important.

He said due to this, banks are able to offer lower interest rates to borrowers and potential borrowers for low income housing developments, as a result of which millions of dollars are lent to thousands of Guyanese at subsidised rate, which they then in turn use to build their homes.

Housing Minister Irfaan Ali said the proj-

ect is in keeping with government’s thinking and President Ramotar’s commitment made in his first Independence Day address.

“He said housing would form the bedrock through which the transformation of Guyana will take place… when he made a promise to move from land ownership to homeownership and making homeownership easier and less cumbersome.”

The New Perseverance Scheme is located on the East Bank Demerara, five miles from the city and will be available in two designs: low and moderate income. The initiative was launched under the theme “Transforming the dream of homeownership into a reality: Homeownership made easier”.

Within six months, the area is expected to be transformed with 1000 homes, adding to the “turn key” initiative which started in 2011, to boost the housing sector. The New Building Society has been a key partner since then.

(Excerpt from Guyana Times)

New hospitals for Rio, Grenada willing to aid LIAT if it proves serious, cost Grande in Trinidad

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he Ministry of Health in Trinidad and Tobago plans to construct two new hospitals — at a cost range of between TT$870 million and TT$1.2 billion — at Rio Claro and Sangre Grande, stated Minister of Health Dr Fuad Khan.

The new hospital at Sangre Grande, Khan said, will be a “full hospital” which will come in addition to a planned extension of the current Sangre Grande Hospital at Ojoe Road. Khan said the new Sangre Grande facility is likely to cost between TT$800 million to TT$900 million.

“I am preparing to take this to Cabinet,” the minister said. The new facility is expected to include CT and MRI scanners, clinics and a pharmacy. The ministry this year tendered for the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of medical equipment at the existing Sangre Grande Hospital. Khan also outlined plans for a new hospital at Rio Claro at a cost of between TT$70 million to TT$120 million.

“This is going to be a medical facility of a higher standard than a dis-

effective - PM Mitchell

G

TT’s Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan

trict health facility,” he said. “There have been calls for a hospital there for so long.” The minister did not state when he would approach Cabinet for approval but it is understood he may do so in coming weeks.

Khan’s disclosures come after Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar last week disclosed the State was seeking financial assistance to the tune of TT$1 billion from China in relation to a planned hospital at Arima.

Khan said, however, that the facilities at Rio Claro and Sangre Grande would be tendered to local contractors and are not subject to ongoing financing talks

with the Chinese.

“There will be local financing and local contractors,” he said. The new projects are in addition to the ongoing Couva Children’s Hospital and Multi Training Facility, being constructed by a local subsidiary of the Shanghai Construction Group.

Another hospital project — the Point Fortin Hospital — has also been subject to negotiations with Chinese diplomats.

Chinese firm China Railway Construction Caribbean last year handed over the Scarborough General Hospital at Tobago, a project which had been in limbo since 2007. (TT Newsday)

renada says it is willing to be a partner in the development and success of the regional airline, LIAT, only if the cash-strapped airline shows itself to be serious and cost effective.

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell said he made recommendations on improving the airline to the just concluded summit of leaders of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in Antigua last week.

“We’re prepared to make sacrifices but we will not be able to support a business if it cannot demonstrate that it can get its act together and provide what we believe is necessary; much cheaper transport and much more efficient transport to the OECS and the Caribbean region as a whole”, Prime Minister Mitchell said.

LIAT, which flies to 21 destinations in the Caribbean, is now in the process of re-fleeting its aging planes, estimated at US$100 million. The airline said that it is seeking to borrow between US$60 and US$70 million from the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

The Antigua-based airline last December unveiled a new business plan it said would help reverse an EC$43 million loss in 2011, while projecting a two percent profit in 2013.

LIAT has also been complaining of the unfair subsidy being provided to the Trinidad-based Caribbean Airlines (CAL) and is seeking a meeting with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissesar on the matter.

Mitchell, whose New National

Party (NNP) came to office following the general election in February, said he accepts complaints from the general public that regional governments were implementing various taxes and

Dr. Keith Mitchell

forcing airfares of LIAT to be extremely high.

“We cannot tax ourselves out of a serious issue of affordable transport,” Prime Minister Mitchell said, adding “we can drop the cost …and reduce taxes, what we’re going to find out is that LIAT may be a much more successful enterprise.

“More people will travel, the governments are going to get much more revenue by multiplying the amount of people that will be travelling,” he added. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

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U.S.-based company builds IT lab at Essequibo police college in Guyana

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embers of the Guyana Police Force, students from various secondary schools on the Essequibo Coast and civilians will soon be benefitting from free Information Technology (IT) training at the Richard Faikall Training College at Suddie on the Essequibo Coast. The move was made possible through the kind donation of a computer centre and library by overseas-based Guyanese company Zara Reality Holdings.

According to Zara Reality Holdings Vice President Jays Sobhraj, the company has invested US$ 100,000 in the IT project on the Essequibo Coast. He said the aim of the project is to bridge the communication gap that exists in today’s society and to equip all Essequibians with knowledge of how to use a computer.

He said the donation was a way the company could give back to the people.

“We want everyone on the Essequibo Coast to make the maximum use

of this opportunity, what you are getting here is a valuable opportunity.”

Sobhraj said thus far the company has managed to build and install 11 centres of similar nature, outlining that six were built in Guyana and five in North America where the company operates.

“We cannot prepare the future for you, however, we can prepare you for the future,” Sobhraj said.

Meanwhile, Nardeo Singh, a computer consultant attached to Zara Reality Holdings for the past 25 years, said the project aims to create a society that is computer literate.

He said the 36 computers are connected to the Internet and have a DELL server.

The centre also will facilitate a pilot project which will cater for five students from various secondary schools.

He said a special trainer has been selected to manage the class and will prepare the students for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) IT examinations.

Chairman Vishnu Samaroo, who also addressed the gathering, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Region Two administration.

Samaroo said the state-of-the-art computer centre and library is a good example of public-private partnership (PPP) and called on local businessmen to emulate the good gesture.

Samaroo said the move was a bold innovative and will expose young people living within the coastland to a wide knowledge of IT.

Call centre

The modern Information Technology Centre commissioned at the Richard Faikall Police Training College on the Essequibo Coast

Delivering the feature address at the commissioning of the Guyana Police Force/Zara Computer Centre was acting Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell, who said the donation of the computers and library at the college is a classic example of partnership.

Brumell said IT is no longer a skill, rather it has become a culture for the Guyana Police Force.

Top priority

Brumell said the Guyana Police Force is developing rapidly in terms of IT, noting that it is a top priority for all officers. He said the force had budgeted Gy$200 million for training but unfortunately, it was only able to acquire Gy$50 million.

Brumell noted the donation from Zara Reality Holdings is timely since it comes when the force is modernising.

He said the focus

THA spending pegged at TT$2.1 billion

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he Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM)controlled Tobago House of Assembly (THA) recorded the highest expenditure for the 2012 financial year, a whopping TT$2.1 billion. This information is contained in the 2012 Auditor General Report which was submitted to Parliament on April 29.

According to the report, the THA, spent approximately TT$2.1 billion in the last financial year. The Housing Ministry and the Tertiary Education Ministry recorded the next largest expenditures of TT$1.9 billion and TT$1.4 billion respectively. In contrast, the expenditure for the Office of the President for the last financial year was only TT$19 billion.

The report said the total expenditure authorised for the 2012 financial year was TT $61,634,968 and this was a 1.91 percent increase from a figure of TT$60,482,546,712 in the 2011 financial year. Total actual expenditure for the last financial year was TT$55,7092,231,796.24, a 2.25 percent increase from a figure of TT$54,474,868,253.84 in the 2011 financial year.

The report also showed

a 0.9 percent decrease in unspent allocations from TT$6,090,435,523.84 in the 2011 financial year to TT$6,035,496,002.17.

Regarding unspent allocations which exceeded TT$75 million, the largest amount was

al expenditure for the last financial year comprised current transfers and subsidies.

This total figure was TT$26,756,846,387.64.

Some of the larger amounts within this figure included

Orville London (TT Newsday file photo)

Charges on the Public Account which amounted to TT$1.9 billion. Other significant unspent allocations for the last financial year include TT$791 million (public administration); TT$749 million (education); TT$397 million (finance and economy); TT$223 million (local government); TT$213 million (national security); TT$206 million (pension and gratuities) and Tt$163 million (police service).

The report said 48 percent of the actu-

TT$3.9 billion (deposit to the Infrastructure Development Fund); TT$2.5 billion (Senior Citizens’ Grant); TT$2.4 billion (regional health authorities); TT$1.5 billion (shortfall in subsidy- petroleum products); TT$1.3 billion (deposit to the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund) and TT$1.2 billion (pension payments).

With respect to increases in expenditure over 50 percent from the 2011 financial year, the Sports Ministry reported

a 1,275 percent increase from TT$28,786,161 in 2011 to TT$395,884,905 in 2012.

This was followed by increases of 386 percent and 378 percent in expenditure by the Transport Ministry and the Works Ministry respectively, during the same period.

The Transport Ministry’s expenditure increased from TT$218 million in 2011 to TT$1 billion in 2012. Over the same period, the Works Ministry’s expenditure increased from TT$514 million to TT$2.4 billion.

As a result of Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar’s Cabinet reshuffle on June 22, 2012, new heads of expenditure were created for newly created government ministries, effective on June 25, 2012.

The Tertiary Education and Skills Training Ministry had the highest expenditure of TT$882million, while the Communications Ministry had the lowest expenditure of TT$19 million. The Auditor General said as a result of the realignment of ministerial portfolios last June, “there were delays in the transfer of staff records and other ministries indicated that staff did not receive transfer letters.” (TT Newsday)

is on officers becoming computer literate and for information to be linked station to station, electronically via the Internet.

The acting police commissioner said the move to utilise the centre to train civilians was also a prudent one, noting that it will help to build strong ties between the Guyana Police Force and the community.

Regional Vice

He disclosed that Essequibo will soon be benefitting from a call centre and having IT as a subject is an asset for young people looking for jobs.

Zara Reality Holdings had earlier supported the police force with the establishment of a similar computer training centre in Berbice, where the training has been extended to schools and members of the community. (Excerpt from Guyana Times)

Captain to be charged for fatal Cuyuni boat accident in Guyana

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s the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) continues its investigations into the boat mishap that resulted in four men losing their lives at Matuk Falls, Cuyuni in Guyana on May 25; the captain is likely to be charged shortly.

This is according to Captain Steven Thomas, who explained that police are addressing the criminal aspect of the investigations, while maritime authorities are looking into the breach on the basis of regulations that govern speedboat operations.

He added that based on investigations, they have identified four charges to be instituted against Junior Lyte, the captain of the boat at the time of the mishap.

One of the most serious charges, he revealed is being an uncertified captain. The other charges, he noted, have to do with operations.

The captain further stated that once the preliminary report is presented to MARAD, it will be made known to the public as to what really transpired on the day of the tragic incident.

To date, no authentic information with respect

to the boat capsizing is available.

The four men who perished after the boat capsized were Clive Welcome, also called “Basil” or “Bazzo” of First Avenue, Bartica; William Patoir of New Amsterdam Berbice; Junior Bandoo of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo; and Shawn Robinson of New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Three days after the mishap, the bodies of Welcome, Patoir and Bandoo were recovered, while Robinson was recovered almost one week after. Immediately after the mishap, MARAD officials in light of this accident established a board to investigate whether the rules and regulations pertaining to speedboat operations have been adhered to.

There were also reports that not all of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.

Those who were equipped with life jackets were the ones who were saved. Of recent, there have been concerns of how miners risk their lives by not wearing life jackets, and this is a phenomenon that occurs across the country.

(Excerpt from Guyana Times)

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Roraima Group of Companies partners with Surinamese nature resort to promote tourism

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abalebo Nature Resort of Suriname and Arrowpoint Nature Resort of Guyana, owned and operated by the Roraima Group of Companies, last Thursday evening signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote the services and products of each other’s resort.

According to acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, Guyana and Suriname have been engaging in talks to develop a shared market plan, which aims to sell and promote the two countries’ tourism industry. This venture is one such measure discussed by the tourism ministers, which will strengthen partnerships between the two countries in this regard.

Roraima and Kabalebo announced the historic collaboration at a simple ceremony attended by several members of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), as well as other officials.

The acting tourism

From left standing: RK’s Security Chief Executive Officer Roshan Khan, Guyana Tourism Authority Director Indranauth Haralsingh, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Clinton Urling, acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, Private Sector Commission Chairman Ronald Webster and an official witness the signing of the agreement by Roraima Managing Director, Captain Gerry Gouveia and Kabalebo Nature Resort’s Karl Dawson

minister, in addressing the event, said Guyana will always be one step ahead and ready for any challenges that are placed before the tourism industry, while alluding to the country’s unique offerings that set it apart from the other tourist destinations around the world.

Ali said himself and the Surinamese tourism minister have engaged

in several deliberations on ‘twining’ the countries and this new initiative by the Roraima Group of Companies and the Suriname resort is a step in that direction.

The minister explained that tourists do not just want to experi-

ence the usual sand-andsea tourism, and want to get in touch with nature and that is what gives Guyana an opportunity to be one of the best nature tourist destinations.

The minister said most times tourists want to reconnect with

the beauty of nature.

Guyana’s wildlife and flora provide the stunning vistas and experience upon which such tourism would thrive.

Ali said that the countries will not only seek to sell and promote their tourism industries, but

also aim to be the “cream of the crop”. “…eco tourism is not only a growing business, but it is sustainable and is growing fast,” he said.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Roraima Group of Companies Managing Director, Captain Gerry Gouveia said Guyana’s tourism is a vision that has been in the making for the last 20 years.

He said the venture is a bona fide initiative and something the rest of the Caribbean can only imagine when it comes to the two countries’ rich and natural diversity.

“These products will sell the countries like never before and the government has given its full support and we are very appreciative for this,” Gouveia stated.

Gouveia said marketing is a big challenge for both Suriname and Guyana, and this new initiative will bridge the gaps.

TT minister denies overpayment claims

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rinidad and T o b a g o ’ s Communications Minister Jamal Mohammed has denied media reports that the 2012 Auditor General’s Report indicated government ministries paid millions in overpayments to contract employees and failed to provide documentation on other matters.

One of those matters was the payment of public monies to members of the House of Representatives and the Senate, outside of the

salaries and allowances they are entitled to.

Commenting on media reports pertaining to the 2012 Auditor General’s Report, Mohammed told TT media: “These are alleged accounting errors. These are normally corrected upon notification.” The report indicated there were “examples of weakness in the system of internal control, as well as non-compliance with legislative requirements and/or financial directives” regarding heads of expenditure and allocations approved by Parliament of the financial year 2012.

One area which the report said was not satisfied was the payment of public monies to Members of Parliament (that is all members of the House and Senate).

Section 25 (2) of the Exchequer and Audit Act states: “The Auditor General shall set out in his annual report all payments made out of public monies to a member of each House of Parliament (other than the salary and any allowances paid to him as a minister, president or deputy president of the Senate, Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the House, Parliamentary Secretary or as a member and any pension paid to such member) stating the name of the member receiving the payment, the total amount which he has received and the

TT’s Communications Minister Jamal Mohammed

service or services in respect of which the payment is made.”

By memorandum dated February 5, the Auditor General requested information from government ministries and departments to fulfill this requirement. The report said as of April 15, 19 entities had not provided this information.

The Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of the Attorney General, National Security Ministry, the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Police Service were included in this group.

The Office of the Prime Minister, National Security Ministry, Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Police Service were also included in a group of 36 entities which as of April 15, did not provide the Auditor General with an entity profile which is needed to assist with “the planning of the audit”.

The Office of the President, Local Government, Works, Finance, Housing, Justice and Sports Ministries are members of this group. The Auditor General requested all government ministries and departments provide an entity profile in a memorandum dated December 7, 2012.

Regarding contract positions, the report said replies from 26 permanent secretaries/heads of department indicated that a total of TT$224,432,499.80 were paid to 2,239 persons employed in contract positions during the financial year ended September 30, 2012.

“The audit highlighted that duly executed contracts were not produced for several of these officers and the various terms of engagements could not be verified,” the report said. (Excerpt from TT Newsday)

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Guyana’s top NGSA students celebrate success - Islamic School secures top spot

Zane Ramotar

Leshanna Bindah

Abdur-Ramhman Sattaur

Navindra Persaud

Ashtmi Natasha Deo

Brandon Chanderban

visited the Al Ghazali Islamic Academy. The lad said he was excited and ecstatic when he received the news of being placed eighth in the country.

top 10 along with three other persons.

This aspiring doctor pointed out that she always wanted to go to Queens College and can do so now while adding that the most difficult subject during the exam was mathematics.

Daniel BaldeoThorne, 10, said preparing for exams was tough, especially for the subjects that he does not like, nevertheless he studied and it proved beneficial for

him as he was placed 10th among the country’s top performers.

The aspiring astronaut thanked God, his teachers and parents, more so his father for their support. The New Guyana School student noted that his father was the one who pushed him, even though he would not want to study.

Topping Region Six and also placing ninth is Renee Bisnauth of Cropper Primary.

(Excerpt from Guyana Times)

Sacrifice

Divya Jagroo

By Vahnu Manikchand and R uqayyah B oyer

E

leven-old Salma Majeed of ISA Islamic School gained 548 marks to cop the top spot in this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) in Guyana, bringing prestige to her school and satisfaction to parents and teachers who worked tirelessly in preparing her for the examinations.

Pile of Mae’s Under 12 scored 547. Several other students from the school made it into the top 100.

Surrounded by family members, teachers and classmates, Majeed said she is happy to have achieved this milestone because she worked really hard and always tried her best.

The ecstatic 11-yearold pointed out that she does not have any particular weakness, but noted that her two favourite subjects are science and social studies.

Christian Pile, 11, of Mae’s Under 12 copped the second spot in the top 10 and was very happy that all his hard work paid off. The young man scored 547 marks at the examinations. The young man believes that he deserves the position as he anticipates his future at Queens College, where he will continue to strive for excellence.

He remarked that he hopes to one day become an astronomer.

At number three, Navindra Persaud, expressed excitement at his achievement, not-

Daniel-Baldeo Thorne

ing that he studied really hard to gain the position he got. Taking the third spot, the Mae’s Under 12 student disclosed he is aspiring to become a doctor or a cricketer just like his role model, Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

Ashtmi Natasha Deo, 11, came in at number four. She said her parents were the driving force behind her success and credited her teachers at Mae’s Under 12. The aspiring doctor/musician noted that her success is somewhat bittersweet because of the fact that some of her friends did not make it.

The fifth position was awarded to another Mae’s Under 12 student, 11-year-old Brandon Chanderban, who described his feelings as euphoric.

Hard work

Zane Ramotar in at number six and also of Mae’s Under 12 expressed his elation at the news. He stated that he worked hard to attain the space and was assisted by his father with his studies.

Ramotar disclosed that he worked a lot of past exam papers.

Exceeding her expectation, Leshanna Bindah from Stella Maris Primary School related that while she knew she would be placed in the top spots, she did not expect to be in the top 10. Bindah was placed seventh in the country.

Abdur-Ramhman Sattaur was surrounded by friends and teachers when this newspaper

Renee Bisnauth

When this newspaper broke the news to 11-year-old Divya Jagroo, who copped the ninth position, she began screaming, her fellow classmates surrounded her outside of the Graham’s Hall Primary School. Jagroo was placed ninth in

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Low income housing significantly boosting Guyana’s economy

A

s at the end of the first quarter of 2013, the low-income window policy at commercial banks has seen over 3400 borrowers, and billions of dollars injected into the Guyanese economy, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh has said. A total of 366 persons accessed loans from this programme for the first quarter of 2013, with a total of Gy$690 million being disbursed.

Accumulated at the end of March 2013, there were 3408 borrowers from the financial sys-

tem who accessed this facility, and the total amount disbursed by the banking system was Gy$9.3 billion, Minister Singh said.

Government approved an increase in the ceiling on loans granted by approved mortgage finance companies for the purposes of low income housing from Gy$3 million to Gy$8 million in 2009.

sand, stone, paint, paying carpenters and masons and transportation; Gy$690 million being injected into the economy, and so it is significant this partnership goes beyond just the private developers who are building homes under this programme.

“This partnership is also one which has seen the private sector participating in the economy in a much broader sense because these monies are spent in the economy as a whole.”

Low income housing

It relates to loans granted under the low income housing programme established in 2001, under which par-

Multiplier effect

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

ticipating licenced financial institutions that enter into an agreement with government are mandated to allot loans to back housing development to persons for the purpose of land purchase and home construction. The loans are required to be secured on the same house for which the loan is granted and the land on which it is built.

Minister Singh, while speaking at the launch of the 1000 Homes Project aback the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, last Friday, illustrated how the money borrowed and invested into the construction of the homes trickled down and benefited the entire economy. “…we are speaking of Gy$690 million buying wood, nails, cement,

“Indeed, every job that is created and every additional dollar that is put for a construction worker is multiplied many times over in the economy… and so the multiplier benefit of a facility such as this goes far beyond the fact that 366 persons accessed this facility and 366 new homes will be going up, it goes deep into the core of our economy what this simple policy has generated,” he said.

The minister credited

the private sector with responding aptly to the conducive financial environment created by the government.

“We have seen rapid growth in private sector credit over the years and in fact in the first quarter of this year, private sector credit has continued to grow. Total credit from the commercial banks to the private sector has increased from Gy$161.6 billion at the end of December to Gy$163.5 billion at the end of March, growth of 1.2 per cent in the first quarter of this year, building on sustained growth year after year for the last several years,” Minister Singh said.

The finance minister pointed to the housing solutions that the government has been affording, with the aim of improving the lives of the citizens, and the multiplying effect these solutions have had on the development of the economy as a whole.

(GINA)

TT taps $833 million China funds to build industrial parks

T

rinidad and Tobago will be able to immediately invest TT$833 million of the funds offered by China to TT and the Caribbean region, and will use this money to accelerate the building of seven business/industrial parks, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced Monday.

The prime minister said the parks will be built on 592.1 acres of land within the next two years.

“This would give an immediate boost to our country’s economic activity,” Persad-Bissessar said, speaking at the opening plenary of the third Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF), held at the Hilton Trinidad, Cascade.

“We can do this within the next two years instead of waiting for this expansion,” she added.

On a visit to Trinidad and Tobago this month, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged US $3billion (TT$19 billion) in financing to Trinidad and Tobago, and some countries of the Caricom region. China is also considering a proposal for TT$1 billion in financial assistance for construction of a hospital at Arima.

The prime minister also announced that following from Xi’s visit, there has been an expression of interest from a Chinese firm with regard to developing the maritime industry.

“I am pleased to also announce that following our discussions with the People’s Republic of China, we have already had an expression of interest from one prestigious Chinese ship and dry docking company that wishes to partner with us for the development of this activity as part of our maritime industry,” Persad-Bissessar said.

Speaking at the same event, Trade Minister Vasant Bharath disclosed that a delegation from the firm is due to arrive this week.

“A high level team from China in

TT’s Trade Minister Vasant Bharath (TT Newsday file photo)

the maritime industry is to arrive here to further discussions in that area,” he said. It is understood the firm in question is China Harbour Company.

“Ladies and gentlemen these developments point to a country on the move,” Persad-Bissessar said. “The vision of the Caribbean Investment Forum is embedded in my government’s belief that national development must have a holistic approach, which is why we focus on good governance, ensuring transparency, accountability participation, and effective representation, through institutional strengthening, enhancing democracy and strengthening execution and delivery capacity.” She added, “We are a stable democracy, and my government is committed to developing policy and initiatives that would extend a friendly helping hand to business development.” (TT Newsday)

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Fix the dollar, says Guyana power Jamaican opposition company calls for 26.7 percent tariff increase T

T

Jamaica’s Opposition Spokesman on Finance Audley Shaw

he Opposition S p o k e s m a n on Finance in Jamaica Audley Shaw, believes it’s time for a fixed exchange rate.

Monday the dollar traded at Ja$100.14 to US$1.

Shaw says the exchange rate could be fixed at Ja $100.

However, he says such a decision would have to be taken based on discussions with stakeholders in the foreign exchange market who influence supply and demand.

The former finance minister also notes that other policies that stimulate economic growth must also be implemented coupled with the fixing of the exchange rate.

Shaw pointed out that it was not necessary to fix the exchange rate during his tenure

as finance minister as the previous Jamaica Labour Party government kept the dollar stable for over two years.

He says his government also brought in enough foreign exchange to prevent a shortage.

Shaw has outlined several measures he says are aimed at restoring investor confidence in light of the continued slide in the Jamaican dollar.

He believes the fast tracking of the programme of accessing low cost loans and grants from the Inter-American Development Bank, the World Bank and the European Union could also help in stabilising the Jamaican currency.

He says the government must also review some of the recently imposed tax measures, ramp-up the retooling programme for energy

efficiency and the process of providing access to credit and micro-financing for small businesses.

Shaw is also casting doubt on whether the government is in a position to access early drawdowns from multilateral institutions.

He says it is time for the Prime Minister to intervene and has warned against an over-reliance on the IMF Agreement as a substitute for the sensible, practical action that is needed from the government.

Last month, the IMF, in its Country Report on Jamaica, said that despite a recent depreciation in the value of the Jamaican dollar, the currency was overvalued and further depreciation was needed. “The recent nominal exchange rate depreciation has been useful, by reversing part of the overvaluation of the real exchange rate that has emerged in recent years, thus supporting price competitiveness,” the IMF said.

“Looking forward, and given the need to address the remaining overvaluation, structural reforms are expected to help in restoring external competitiveness, alongside exchange rate flexibility,” the fund added. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Tewarie: TT’s Cabinet leaks disturbing

T

rinidad and Tobago’s Planning Minister Bhoe Tewarie resents leaks coming out of Cabinet.

Tewarie was fielding questions from members of the media after Monday’s press conference on the disbursement of European Union grant funds to various civil-society organisations. The event was held at the Eric Williams Financial Complex, Portof-Spain.

On Sunday Congress of the People (COP) chair Carolyn SeepersadBachan called for the veil of secrecy relating to Cabinet’s collective responsibility to be lifted so that individual parties could make important information available to the public. Her comments came in wake of reports that Cabinet approved a TT$6.8 million wrecking service bill for the retrieval of a crashed firetruck last year.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Planning Minister Bhoe Tewarie (TT Guardian file photo)

Making the point that he wanted to participate “fully” in Cabinet, Tewarie described the matter of Cabinet leaks as “disturbing”.

“I need to participate freely in the Cabinet...

I then have to be concerned about what I say and whether it is going to find its way into the paper the next day in a way that I did not intend for my statements to be repre-

sented to others,” Tewarie explained.

Saying he was quite prepared to represent his own views, he made it clear he did not want “other people” to represent his views.

“The leaks have been a source of disturbance and difficulty for me and I resent the fact of Cabinet leaks,” Tewarie reiterated.

Given that the issue has reached the public, however, Tewarie said he was glad, as it could now be discussed further. On whether or not every issue arising in Cabinet should be discussed freely, Tewarie was unwilling to state his position.

“I may take in the discussion and views from others. What I am prepared to say is that I have been terribly disturbed about the leaks in Cabinet and the misrepresentation of collective Cabinet decisions,” he added. (TT Guardian)

he Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) has submitted its Final Return Certificate (FRC) to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) that allows the utility to charge an increase in tariffs of 26.7 percent effective May. According to a release, the new rates have not taken effect, but the GPL board is actively engaged in planning its implementation.

The allowable increase of 26.7 percent is calculated in accordance with the 1999 Electricity Sector Reform Act (ESRA) and its licence.

The tariff filing, called the FRC, computes annually how much GPL may increase (or decrease) its tariffs, using an internationally acceptable methodology that is based on a rate of return basis.

This methodology calculates the tariffs looking at GPL’s income and expenses, assets, debt and equity in the prior year (in this case 2012).

The GPL FRC was accompanied by a notice of compliance issued by an independent firm of accountants and GPL’s 2012 audited accounts that shows GPL losing Gy$7.6 billion in 2012.

GPL last increased tariffs in 2008, over five years ago.

The computed increase in tariffs, as stated in the 2013 FRC, is based on a deficit of Gy$5.2 billion, and a

headline tariff or service tariff increase of 26.7 percent, that is computed to recover the deficit over an eight-month period (May to December).

GPL has published its 2013 FRC, 2012 audited accounts, and other information on its website: www.gplinc.com.

Reasons for the increase

The company explained that the permitted increase can be reviewed against several factors, mainly because the opposition in Parliament has recently cut GPL’s capital budget by over Gy$ 5.2 billion, despite available funding from loans provided

by Venezuela, China and the IADB. All these loans must be repaid by GPL over a period of time; a recent CARILEC report shows GPL residential tariffs to be one of the lowest in the region (with only Trinidad, Suriname, and The Bahamas having lower rates); GPL’s last increase in tariffs was announced in 2007 and effected in February 2008, over five years ago; the average increase then was 14 percent, with residential customers facing only six percent and nine percent and the government covering a 20 percent increase; GPL’s fuel cost has risen from a weighted average of US$ 64 /barrel in 2006, to US$108, in 2012; in 2006, GPL’s fuel bill was Gy$12.4 billion; in 2012, this had doubled to Gy$24.2 billion; in 2012,

fuel alone accounted for 83 percent of GPL’s tariff revenue; and GPL has delayed implementing full tariff increases (implementing increases in only two of the last 10 years), resulting in GPL having foregone revenue of over Gy$21.7 billion (after taking account of the Gy$5.2 billion to be recovered from the 26.7 percent increase.)

Amaila Falls Project

GPL also projects that the Amaila Falls Project, expected to start construction at the end of 2013, will not be ready until 2017; at this time, GPL expects generation costs to be reduced to half of the current version. The Amaila Falls Project is therefore critical to GPL reducing its costs of generation and the impact of fuel costs on increasing tariffs.

The company is expected to shortly highlight its current position and the challenges it faces, particularly given the reduction of access to loan financing for GPL from its shareholder (the government of Guyana) to invest in critical improvements in its infrastructure.

Within the next five years, GPL projects that at least US$90 million will be required for investment, with considerably more needed, if GPL is to make substantial reductions in technical and commercial losses. (Excerpt from Guyana Times)

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Caribbean gov’ts urged to market countries in China U

nited Statesbased Guyanese journalist, Felicia Persaud is encouraging Caribbean governments to do more to market the diverse investment stories of the region to the right people, since the region is relevant despite proclamations by naysayers.

Persaud, who is the founder of Invest Caribbean Now (ICN) and chief marketing officer (CMO) of Hard Beat Communications, was addressing delegates at the opening of an ICN forum in New York.

She stated that the Caribbean region remains relevant since 11 nations have been listed in the top 100 “ease of doing business” survey when there were only seven for Latin America and eight for Africa.

Fastest growing economies “We

are

relevant

when eight nations in the Caribbean are ranked in the top 100 fastest growing economies globally compared to 10 for Latin America as of 2012 … a difference of two… and we are relevant when the world’s richest man invests in the Caribbean.”

At the end of the forum, Caribbean governments were invited to participate in a trip to China aimed at promoting investment and business development opportunities during the latter part of this year.

The invitation was extended by ChineseAmerican Business Development Centre Managing Director Li Li and echoed by China’s Consulate General in New York Xiaoguang Liu and American-Chinese Commerce Development Association representative Johnny Liu at the recent Avalon Invest

Caribbean Now Forum in New York City.

The invitation came on the heels of the first visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, to Trinidad on May 31 and his pledge of more than US$3 billion in loans to 10 Caribbean nations.

“The Chinese private sectors are seeking opportunities in the Caribbean such as hospitality, real estate, healthcare and education industry because they are easy to operate, are transparent and create jobs,” Li said.

Easy market access

She noted that the location of the Caribbean in the centre of the Americas provides the advantage of easy access to markets in the North, South and Central America and serves as a bridge to the markets in Europe.

Citing statistics that

“the Caribbean has garnered critical acclaim as a Mecca for tourism with significant investments in that and related sectors”.

Li also pointed to figures that showed the Chinese outbound travel market will be US$590 billion by 2020.

Economic partnership

United States-based Guyanese journalist, Felicia Persaud

said up to 100 million Chinese will be travelling abroad by 2015, Li said the time was ripe for the Caribbean to tap into this key demographic, especially since the Chinese consumer is industrious and has spending power and

M e a n w h i l e , Caribbean Affairs Office of the Western Hemisphere Division in the U.S. State Department representative Anthony Eterno, presenting his country’s view on investing in the Caribbean, emphasised that the Obama-led administration remains committed to an economic partnership with the region that stimulates growth.

In brief remarks, Royal Caribbean International President and Chief Executive

Officer Adam Goldstein said, “The Caribbean has been the heart and soul of who we are and where we go for over 40 years, and we are honoured to receive the 2013 Invest Caribbean Now Corporate Leadership Award as our goal is to continue to work closely with the Caribbean so that their ability to retain and attract cruise ships remains as strong and robust as ever and we look forward to being a leader and working to help recognise the region’s value.”

Invest Caribbean Now is organised annually by The Caribbean Tourism Organisation and digital media solutions company, Hard Beat Communications, during Caribbean Week in New York.

The event is the brain child of Persaud and is now in its third year.

COP: Time for party financing reform in TT C

ongress of the People (COP) chairman Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan, said Sunday that Trinidad and Tobago has to return to a position of “establishing the truth” regarding the contentious issue of campaign financing for political parties.

She made the comment while deliverinig welcoming remarks

at a public symposium on Financing of Political Parties, hosted by the COP at Plaza de Montrose, Main Road, Montrose, Chaguanas.

Seepersad-Bachan said the COP party, a member of the four-party People’s Partnership coalition government, is committed to both constitutional and campaign financing reform

and noted that the time for only talk had passed and “now is the time for action” regarding the issue of campaign financing.

Seepersad-Bachan noted that whilst no government would “ever get it perfect”, the legislative agenda as well as a plan of action had to be put in place to prevent party financiers from unduly in-

fluencing the governing process in Trinidad and Tobago.

She said that approximately 12 years had elapsed since the passage of the Amendment in Public Life Act and the country was still unable to deal with the “ills” of party financing.

“We must rethink how we do things,” Seepersad-Bachan, who

is also public administration minister, said.

She expressed optimism that a resolution regarding transparency and accountability in the financing of political parties, would be formulated at the symposium.

Panelists at the symposium were Sunity Maharaj, Dr Patrick Watson and Dr Morgan Job. (TT Newsday)

Congress of the People (COP) chairman Carolyn SeepersadBachan (File photo)

Jamaica: All in place for active hurricane season J amaica’s Minister of Labour and Social Security Derrick Kellier says the ministry’s disaster preparedness plans are in high gear, as the country braces for an overly active hurricane season.

“As it stands now, we are beefing up our nonperishable supplies and our meetings continue with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to ensure the training of (our field per-

Jamaica’s Minister of Labour Derrick Kellier (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

sonnel),” he informed.

The minister was addressing journalists last

Thursday at the weekly Jamaica House press briefing held at the Office of the Prime Minister.

He informed that the ministry is always ready to work with its various partners, including the Salvation Army, Jamaica Red Cross and ODPEM, to ensure that relief supplies are available to those residents, who have been affected.

“We are also ready to assist with the recovery process as it relates to damage to houses and

property,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Service is predicting an above average hurricane season, with some 20 storms on the horizon.

Head of the Weather Branch at the Meteorological Service, Evan Thompson informed that forecasts show a 50 per cent above normal chance for the development of a tropical cyclone this year.

“Normally, where we would see about 12 sys-

tems developing, this year. We are likely to have as many as 20 tropical storms develop during the hurricane season,” he informed.

Additionally, Thompson said there is a 100 per cent above normal chance of the development of a major hurricane this season.

“So, whereas we would normally have maybe two to three of the hurricanes developing into major hurricanes - Category three, four or

five - this year, we could have as many as six developing,” he said.

Thompson said too there is a very strong likelihood that the Caribbean will be directly impacted by a major hurricane and is therefore urging Jamaicans to ensure that they are properly prepared to mitigate any disaster.

The 2013 hurricane season, which officially began on June 1, ends on November 30. (Excerpt from JIS)

St Vincent to be recognised for reducing undernourishment among its population

P

rime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is to travel to Rome to accept an award from the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) in recognition of St Vincent and the Grenadines significantly reducing the number of people suffering from un-

dernourishment.

“The Food and Agricultural Organisation, they just sent a letter to us. St. Vincent and the Grenadines… and Guyana are the two Caricom countries which have satisfied two important tests in relation

to undernourishment — one set by the FAO and one set by the Millennium (Development) Goals of the United Nations General Assembly.

Halving the absolute number of persons undernourished and halving the percentage,” Gonsalves said.

He said that in 1992, about one-fifth of the population — 21,000 people – were undernourished.

“It came down by 2002 to 11,000 and it is now under 5,000,” Gonsalves told legislators during the debate of a supplementary appropriations bill that allocated loans of EC$208

million to the EC$652 million international airport being built on the island.

Opposition lawmakers said that some of the money could have been used to fund social programmes and to improve other infrastructure, such as roads.

“I am not saying that we don’t have people who are finding it difficult you know. But I am showing you how it has come and this remarkable progress and we are one of 18 countries in the world to have accomplished this,” Gonsalves said. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

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Irish teen sorry for threatening Guyana’s president

A

n Irish teenager expressed regret and relief following the dismissal of criminal charges against him for making a drunken threat against Guyana’s president. Cillian James Crossan said he was eager to move past the incident.

“I am happy it’s all over,” 17-year-old Cillian, from Co Louth, Ireland said. “If I could do anything to change what happened I would,” the Irish Independent reported him as saying.

Cillian is spending a year in Guyana as a volunteer teacher. He was arrested in April after a conversation with two bodyguards of President Donald Ramotar in which he said he would shoot the leader.

Crossan was accused of threatening to shoot the Guyanese leader at City Boy Club, Tabatinga, Lethem.

He had appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on April 2.

According to the police,

Cillian James Crossan

on March 29 at Central Rupununi, Crossan said he would shoot the president who was not present at the time, but Amerindian Affairs Ministry Permanent Secretary Nigel Dharamlall overheard the comment and approached the young man, asking him what he said and he repeated that he would shoot the president in his head.

The matter was then reported.

The director of public prosecutions (DPP) last week dropped charges against the teenager.

Crossan’s lawyer, Glenn Hanoman had said the teen was hav-

ing an alcohol-fuelled conversation with two bodyguards of the president at an international rodeo event in April and was joking when he said he would shoot and kill Ramotar – saying it’s because he did not believe the two men were really the president’s bodyguards.

The president was not there at the time.

“He had been drinking beer since early the morning and had even mixed rum and beer and had them at the same time,” Hanoman said.

“I think that was the main factor at play when he argued with two of the guards.” Prosecutor Vishnu Hunte had objected to bail, stating that the threat was aimed at the president of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and that the defendant is also a flight risk. Crossan gave a caution statement, admitting to what he did. However, Crossan pleaded not guilty to the charge and was released on Gy$60,000 bail.

(Guyana Times)

Caribbean mourns passing of leading agri science expert

Professor Emeritus Nazeer A Ahmad

A

cademics in the Caribbean region are mourning the passing of Professor Emeritus Nazeer A Ahmad, who was one of the last associates of the Imperial College of Tropical Agriculture (AICTA), the Trinidad Express reported. Ahmad was Professor Emeritus of the Department of Food Production in the Faculty of Food and Agriculture at the time of his passing on June 6. Principal of the University of the West Indies (UWI) St Augustine Campus,

U.S. diplomat assaulted in Bahamas

T

he United States Embassy in Nassau sent a strong message to the government of The Bahamas after one of its diplomats was assaulted and robbed on the way to church on Sunday morning.

The embassy confirmed the attack in response to inquiries by The Nassau Guardian.

The embassy said, “On the way to worship services in downtown Nassau this morning (Sunday), a diplomat assigned to the United States Embassy was accosted, robbed, and injured.”

According to Superintendent Paul Rolle, who heads the Central Detective Unit, around 11 am, a 74-yearold American woman was robbed by a man as she walked to worship at St Francis Xavier Cathedral on West Hill Street. He said a man approached her, threw her to the ground and stole her purse, cash and jewellery.

“The man left heading east along West Hill Street towards Baillou Hill Road on his bicycle, where he was able to make good his escape,” Rolle said.

Superintendent Paul Rolle said a 74-yearold American woman was robbed by a man as she walked to worship at St Francis Xavier Cathedral on West Hill Street in The Bahamas

The Nassau Guardian understands that others who were there to worship assisted the diplomat in the aftermath of the attack. She was treated at Doctors Hospital for injuries, which Rolle said were minor.

“While the embassy recognises and commends other churchgoers and medical professionals at Doctors Hospital for the prompt assistance rendered, this morning's events only serve to reaffirm the embassy's serious concern for the safety of United States citizens residing in and visiting The Bahamas,” said Dana Jea, interim public affairs officer at the U.S.

Embassy.

“The embassy urges the government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to redouble its efforts to address matters of public safety and stands ready to assist in these efforts.”

Rolle said that around 7 pm on Sunday, officers from the Central Police Station took a 27-yearold man into custody. He was “assisting with the investigation”.

In a statement issued Sunday night, Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell condemned the incident.

“The ministry of foreign affairs has expressed its regret and

concern to the United States Embassy over the reported assault and robbery of a United States Embassy staff member here in Nassau which is alleged to have taken place [yesterday] while she was on her way to church,” Mitchell said.

“The government of The Bahamas deplores this and all acts of criminality in the strongest terms and the matter has been communicated to the ministry of national security for an immediate and full investigation.

“The public is assured that the appropriate steps are being taken by the government to pursue the perpetrator.”

Reports of Americans being targeted by robbers have been surfacing in the headlines more frequently.

Last Sunday, two American visitors were robbed at gunpoint outside the Royal Towers, Atlantis Resort and Casino, though no one was said to be harmed in that incident.

Last month, American sailor Kyle Bruner, 34, of Chicago, Illinois, was shot and killed during an armed robbery.

Four men have been charged with his murder.

(CaribbeanNews)

Clement Sankat, in a statement last Friday, noted that Ahmad’s distinctive service included the development of the Faculty of Agriculture from a fledgling campus.

“He was the leading expert in the region in this area of our agriculture, and was often called upon to give expert advice on matters of this nature,” said Sankat, who, along with the UWI, has extended condolences to Ahmad’s family.

“He trained several undergraduate and postgraduate students to follow in this path. I am pleased he was able to complete his monumental book on soil science, published by Ian Randle, before his passing, so that we were able to launch it (in TT) and in Guyana.”

Ahmad was born in 1932 and was an undergraduate from 19491952 (DICTA) and a postgraduate student (AICTA) from 19521953.

He went on to do his master’s of science degree in Canada (McGill

University and the University of British Columbia), and then his doctor of philosophy in the UK. In 1957, he returned to the then British Guiana and took up the position of agricultural chemist and head of the Division of Soil Science in the Agriculture Ministry.

In 1961, Ahmad assumed the position of lecturer at UWI, St Augustine, and became a professor of soil science in 1969.

He was the founding warden of Canada Hall of Residence. He was well loved by the residents, also known as the Hermits, and was a father figure to many who lived there, the UWI’s statement added.

“Prof Ahmad’s work in tropical soil is internationally acclaimed,” the statement added. “He was awarded the InterAmerican Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA) Gold Medal for his contribution to research in soil science in the Caribbean and Latin American region.(Guyana Times)

No to food imports, says Barbados agri society

B

arbadian farmers must speak up loudly against the practice of franchises importing foods that are produced here.

This was the strong assertion of Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Agricultural Society, James Paul, as he urged the group to speak out against any action that would create unfair competition.

“Call in on the callin programmes and let your voice be heard too...

I want you to stand behind us because we are fighting on your behalf,” he maintained.

Addressing a recent Barbados Association of Pig Farmers seminar, Paul continued to apply pressure against this practice.

“This fight on behalf of the BAS in respect to that particular product category is one I want all farmers to recognise that is important for us.

We cannot allow and we will not allow, a situation where persons seek to undermine the livelihood of farmers in this country. We cannot have

a situation where supermarket operators, franchise operators from wherever they come, feel that they can come into Barbados and instead of buying the local product, seek to import that product which we are producing the same in the country.

“We also have spoken to them because there are some people who are saying that we cannot produce the products here. What we are saying is that for those people to work with agencies such as Hipac to see how we can do it, because it is not technology that we cannot do,” he said.

Pointing to local fast food restaurants that use home-grown foods, Paul argued, “If they can do it. I do not see why, whether we are a Burger King or Subway or whatever, they cannot also do it. That is the point we are making.”

In addition, he pointed to the willingness of local producers to invest in making the foods needed by these franchises.

(Barbados Advocate)

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Jamaican taxis want Caricom 40 percent fare hike worried about

OAS budget cuts

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A woman makes a point while two taxi operators await their turn during last Thursday night’s public consultation at the Ocho Rios Baptist Church in St Ann (Jamaica Observer photo)

amaican taxi operators told a public consultation in St Anns, last Thursday, that they were prepared to accept a 40 percent fare increase, noting that inflation had eaten away at their earnings since the last hike granted in 2010.

Speaking at the public consultation hosted by the Transport Authority at the Ocho Rios Baptist Church, Dion Chance, president of the National Council of Taxi Association, said that in the last four years, their operating costs have increased by more than 50 percent.

Chance said the ideal increase at this time would be 50 percent; however, with a wage freeze for government employees and with the harsh economic climate, transport operators would at this time take 40 percent.

"Taxi operators are

responsible for the transportation of the majority of the workforce in rural Jamaica," he pointed out.

"If the service is not there the wheels of production will slowly grind to a halt and, as a result, the GDP of the country will be affected," he added.

Chance, at the first consultation in Mandeville, Manchester, last Monday said soaring costs were killing the industry.

"While we realise that the entire economic situation is difficult, when you are in business you have to look at it from a perspective of survival as (an) operator of a business. We have also taken into consideration the plight of the public within the amount that we are asking for," he told the consultation held at the Mandeville Hotel.

Commuters who attended the Ocho Rios forum last Thursday, said

they agreed that the operators needed an increase; however, they said the percentage increase being sought was too high.

One woman proposed a 30 percent increase instead.

In the meantime, taxi operator Lenworth James told the Ocho Rios meeting that the government should look at increasing the minimum wage so that persons would be better able to deal with the fare hike, which he said is well needed by the taxi operators.

Last Thursday's meeting was a part of a series of public consultations being hosted by the Transport Authority and the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing to help in arriving at a decision on a fare increase for public transport operators. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Guatemala’s Foreign Minister Fernando Carrera (centre) leads the first session of the 43rd General Assembly of the Organisation of American States (OAS) in Guatemala last Wednesday, June 5. Also pictured are OAS General Secretary Jose Miguel Insulza (left) and OAS Assistant Secretary General Ambassador Albert Ramdin (right). (PHOTO: AP)

C

a r i b b e a n Community (Caricom) countries have told the Organisation of America States (OAS) that budget cuts are threatening the provision of scholarships and the activities of OAS national offices in the Caribbean.

A Caricom Secretariat statement issued last Friday said that Caricom foreign ministers, who attended the 43rd General Assembly of the OAS that ended in Guatemala last Thursday, met with OAS Secretary General José Miguel Insulza and Assistant Secretary General Albert Ramdin.

The discussions centred on the organisation's ongoing administrative and financial difficulties and its reform efforts and in this regard, the ministers discussed the possibility of a modest increase in contributions to the

regular budget," said the Caricom statement.

The regional grouping said the foreign ministers also addressed areas of priority and concern to Caricom, including decreasing resources allocated to integral development, one of the four pillars of the OAS; the contribution made by the OAS national offices in member states, a presence which is under threat from budget cuts; scholarships and their capacity-building potential also threatened by the financial difficulties; and under-representation of Caricom nationals in the organisation.

The secretariat said that Caricom was wellrepresented at the meeting, and "as is the norm at multilateral and other meetings... Caricom foreign ministers held a caucus before the start of conference proceedings to strategise and co-or-

dinate their positions on the major issues on the agenda and to prepare for their engagement with the secretary general of the OAS".

It said that Caricom countries participated actively in the debates on the focus of the meeting and other major issues such as the reform and modernisation of the Inter-American human rights system as well as on the draft resolutions tabled for adoption.

"Of particular note was the InterAmerican Convention against Racism, Racial Discrimination and Related Forms of Intolerance championed

by Antigua and Barbuda which was signed during the meeting. Member states also held a number of bilateral meetings to further political and co-operation links," the Caricom Secretariat statement added.

Major concerns remain about universal secondary education in Antigua A

number of major concerns remain on the nation’s readiness for Universal Secondary Education (USE) just a week after more than 1,500 students sat the inaugural Grade 6 National Assessment.

“My objection is not that children should not go to secondary schools,” educator and executive secretary of the Board of Education, D Gisele Isaac, said.

“My objection is that we are sending children to secondary schools that they have proven at primary they are not equipped for.

“We already have universal secondary education. If you can pass primary school, you go to secondary school and that, to me, is universal. If you can’t pass, you don’t go because really and truly, if you can’t pass grade six, what are you going to do in first

Secondary school students in Antigua attended the annual hospitality career road show hosted by Ministry of Tourism

form?” she added.

Isaac said she supports offering children that would have failed the Common Entrance exam, a position in a vocational school, where she believes they would be more likely to succeed.

President of the Antigua & Barbuda Union of Teachers Ashworth Azille, while stressing full support for the concept, also raised

concerns over the nation’s preparedness.

“We’re expecting it to be implemented this year and to date, we still have not received any great clarification as to how the ministry proposes to fully implement USE,” Azille said.

The head of the teachers’ union said he was concerned at a lack of human resources to help struggling or high-risk

students. He added he’s unsure how timetabling would be impacted and feared the quality of education could be compromised.

Member of the special education group ABILITY Salma Crump said she worried whether the system was ready to accept students with special learning needs.

“From a special education point of view, with

kids with diverse learning needs, I think our education system needs to strengthen its preparedness,” Crump said.

“I’m not sure we are fully prepared for the shift we are going to be headed into, come September. It just seems that as soon as you say special needs, everybody thinks vocational,” she added.

Special Education expert from the Rivier

University in New Hampshire, Dr Sue Gately raised concerns over how the USE system would group students.

Students will be placed in levels between one and four based on their performance in the four core areas of the national assessment: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies.

Marks of 100 are available in each subject and the levels are to be as follows: Level 1 – 260 to 5400 marks, Level 2 – 180 to 259 marks, Level 3 – 100 to 179 marks and Level 4 below 100 marks.

“Another problem is, my understanding is the test is the main criterion they are going to use to level the students and if you are not a good tester, you may be placed at a level that is not really appropriate to you,” she added. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

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Caribbean Fashion Week ends on a high www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013

I

n a way, there were two endings to the final runway night of Caribbean Fashion Week (CFW) 2013 at the National Indoor Sports Centre, St Andrew in Jamaica, on Sunday night. For while taken as whole, it was the third of three consecutive nights of fashion and music on the catwalk, the entertainment package which followed the last collection, by Ashley Martin, was strong enough to be considered in its own right.

Both endings were strong, spontaneous applause punctuating Martin's showcase, in which the shimmer of two or three pieces in particular, figuratively dazzled the audience.

Then there was the class of the flared hem of one outfit, which delighted the appreciative onlookers in a different way.

On the song and dance side of things, Sizzla capped off the night with a strong showing largely centred, as has been his accustomed format since catching yet another musical wind last year, with material released between 1997 (Black Woman and Child and Praise Ye Jah) and 2003 (Da Real

Saleem Samuels and Tigerlily.

And Ninja Man, who went retro and declared himself a changed man - again ("a no me one tun back", he said to laughter) brought on Specialist for their mock clash song ‘Dweet’ around the three-sided catwalk, followed by the drumming and vocal gusto of Shelia E, rounding out the musical package.

Shelia E involved the audience, getting one man to drop some slick moves and a young lady to tap the drums (she got a pair of drumsticks for her efforts), Glamorous Life peaking the white-clad performer's short set.

There were honours for some who were not booked as a major part of the night's proceedings. There was a twotime winner as an emerging

Ashley Martin walks the runway with a model wearing one of her creations. At right:Designs by Earl ‘Biggy’ Turner were also on show.

(Jamaica Gleaner photos)

Thing).

However, in-between the already popular material, the well-known introductory phrases of songs such as

Sizzla performs much to the delight of the audience at CFW on Sunday

D

eepa Laltoo, 21, of Rock Road, Penal, Trinidad, is making a special pilgrimage this year on June 19. Laltoo will be visiting ‘Ganga Dhaaraa’ in Blanchisseuse, the site where, when she was one year old, she had her first haircut or ‘mudan’ (shaving of the hair). Since then, many families have taken their children, one year and older, to Ganga Dhaaraa, to have their mudan - part of the process of the weaning of the child, signalling that she is developing her own ego and spirit of independence.

This year is also a special one for pilgrims who have celebrated the Ganga Dashara festival — the Oldest River Festival Extant — in Trinidad and Tobago as they will mark the 20th year that they have been formally gathering at

‘Words of Divine’, ‘Solid as a Rock’ and ‘Rise to the Occasion’ enough to send hands in the air even before Sizzla's often rasping delivery, it was the material made for the occasion which put the night over the top.

In these lyrics, Sizzla made his stance against homosexuality unmistakably clear, without going into expletives or threats of physical violence, as well as his deep physical appreciation of women. Each customised lyric, often stopped and repeated as the audience lauded the performer in the time-honoured Jamaican way - by interrupting him - was greeted with glee by what appeared to be the majority of

Shelia E puts energy into her drumming at Sunday night's Caribbean Fashion Week show.

the audience.

The official designer lineup for the night's fashion was Ashley Martin, Biggy, Gavin Douglas, Delia Alleyne,

designer and three models Nell Robinson, Orane Barrett and Jeneil Williams - were inducted into the Pulse Hall of Fame. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Ganga Dhaaraa observances in Trinidad

this teerath - pilgrimage — site on the Northern Range.

Significance

Ravi-ji, founder of the Longdenville-based Hindu Prachar Kendra,

has a special connection with Ganga Dashara, a festival brought to TT by early indentured labourers and initially celebrated in rivers and ponds across the country.

“I recall that in my early childhood while we were living in the cocoa fields in the Montserrat Ward, our family, including my ajaa, my paternal grandfather, who was an

indentured worker from Bihar, would gather by a small pond for bathing, well before sunrise.

I remember because I used to feel so miserably cold. This handful of

folks would offer ‘jal’ and perform puja with Pandit Chanderbally of Arena, Caparo,” Ravi-ji said.

“I reconnected with the festival when I was a student in the ancient city of Kashi on the banks of the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh. There, I was amazed at the grandeur of the festival spread along the ghats of the Ganga. The festival went on for a pakshafortnight — with at least one million pilgrims participating each day,” he added.

In Trinidad, Ravi-ji has been a faithful devotee of Ganga Dhaaraa for the last 20 years, making the yearly journey from as early as 3 am.

Though celebrating the 20th year of gathering at Ganga Dhaaraa this year, artefacts found at the site show that worshippers have used the continued on page 21

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- says former President Bharrat Jagdeo, as he urges more action in climate change fight

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ormer President of Guyana Bharrat Jagdeo last Wednesday received the honorary doctorate conferred upon him by Trent University, his fifth such honour in recent years. Trent University, with a world-class reputation in environmental and resource sciences, water science and biomaterials, conferred the honour on Jagdeo in recognition of his global advocacy for averted climate change through avoided deforestation, by linking economic development in forested countries to carbon sequestration, ecosystem services and preservation of biodiversity.

The citation was read by Guyanese Professor Suresh Narine, director of the Trent Centre for Biomaterials Research, and was attended by approximately 20 Guyanese dignitaries and academics.

In his address to the university’s graduating class of 2013, Professor Narine said: “We face a series of interrelated challenges: availability and affordability of energy; availability of clean water; a growing world population and increasing food scarcity; sustained meltdown of the world’s financial systems; continued mal-distribution of wealth, resources and opportunities between the developed and developing world; and, climate change as a result of anthropogenic activities, including massive deforestation.

“These challenges urgently de-

From left: President of Trent, Steven Franklin; Professor at Trent, Suresh Narine; former President Bharrat Jagdeo, Chair of the Trent Board, Anne Wright; Chancellor of Trent University, Tom Jackson

mand global leaders who are transformative thinkers: women and men who are capable of convincing political leaders, the private sector and mass populations alike, across borders, cultures and nationalistic interests, of the urgent imperative for con-

certed action. Bharrat Jagdeo is such a leader.”

Jagdeo urged the graduating students, parents and assembled academics to ensure that they play a role in the efforts to address the environmental issues facing the planet, in

particular, climate change, as it was not sufficient to leave the issue up to scientists and policy leaders.

“Ensure you do not sleep walk through life,” he said to the graduands. “You have within you individual and collective power to effect the massive changes necessary to turn around the catastrophic outcome towards which the world is headed unless climate change is addressed.”

Trent’s outdoor convocation ceremony, set on the picturesque banks of the Otonabee River, was a fitting backdrop to Jagdeo’s message: “The most challenging barrier to concerted action to avert catastrophic climate change in our world relates to policy,” he told the attentive audience of some 1600 individuals.

“And you have the individual and collective power to ensure that the correct enabling policies are adopted by your governments, through your advocacy, votes, and voices.” The former Guyanese president pointed out that it was no longer just an environmentally important imperative to address climate change, but that climate change threatened the economic viability of all nations on the planet.

He made a convincing argument that the longer the wait, the more expensive the steps necessary to abate climate change will be, and that at some crucial tipping point, it will no longer be possible to halt climate change, regardless of the cost. from page 20

Hindu devotees take part in Ganga Dhaaraa observances in Trinidad (TT Newsday file photos)

ghat dedicated to the children’s mudan sanskaar, the first shaving of babies’ hair.

An interesting traditional ecologically-sensitive disposal process follows; the hair is interred in a loya — a round of dough — of flour or fresh cow’s dung and buried in the earth for a slow decomposition of the baby’s hair.

Worship

site for much longer than this time, and several recent pilgrims have noted they had been to the site for puja with their elders when they were children, Ravi-ji also noted.

Ganga Dhaaraa is now a must-do annual pilgrimage for many persons who come from the all parts of the country.

Ceremony

For visitors arriving for the commemoration, which begins at 7:30 am and goes on all day, the scene reflects worshipful man at one with nature.

Cool shallow waters of the river running amid the verdant green of the forest contrasts beautifully with the yellow

clothing worn by most devotees in honour of the female deity, Ganga.

Several ceremonial sites are flocked with long lines of chanting devotees carrying out ancient rituals in a mix of languages. On the day of the commemoration, more than 20 events will take place at dedicated spaces. At Ganga Pravesh, devotees will first pay obeisance to Ganesh who is worshipped according to ritual protocol as much as to pray for a teerath — pilgrimage — free of obstacles.

Ardha Nareeshwara is dedicated to married couples for renewal of the sindoor — red pow-

der placed in the middle hair parting of married Hindu women — while the unmarried make special offerings for a suitable spouse.

The popular Hanooman Ghat is installed midway on the river — the actual Ganga Dhaaraa is about quarter mile of the river. At the Hanooman Ghat, pilgrims gather to participate in non-stop chanting of the Chaleesa led by the Cunupia-based Amay Jyoth Sabha organisation. The site is identified by the predominance of flags, drapes, and flowers, all in varying shades of red.

Nearby is a special

Along from this site is one of the main stations — a Shivalingam, the Tri-ninaad Mahadeo — which attracts long lines of devotees who proffer offerings of sweets, fruits, flowers, incense sticks and deeyas all laid

out in shiny, brass thaalis (Plates), and milk in lotaas as Sanskrit chants of Vedic mantras several thousand years old vibrate in the air.

Towards the end of the day of celebrating Ganga Dashara at Ganga Dhaaraa, the Ganga murti is taken upstream from Tulsi Ghat and merged in the waters in the deep pool.

Ganga Maa (the murti) is wrapped in a sari of several thousand yellow buttercup flowers as the murti is immersed, and as it disappears in the depths of the river, the buttercup-sari floats gently downstream.

Arti — ritual worship

and chanting — begins at that time.

Deeyas are lit by devotees, some place them in small boats made from coconut husks as the Ganga Arti is sung to the accompaniment of drums and cymbals and lights are waved in the air. At the end of the arti ceremony, pilgrims offer personal prayers and float their boats with lit deeyas. The floating deeyas are enveloped by the rush of yellow buttercup flowers — a truly awesome sight enough to hush every human being at the site as this unified vision of man, nature and the Divine. (Excerpt from TT Newsday)

At the end of the arti ceremony, pilgrims offer personal prayers and float their boats with lit deeyas

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013

and Telegraph Company Limited Jingle and Song Competition.

Maraj sang a tune from the popular Indian movie “Dhadkan” and one from the movie “Dosti”, a tune that was first sung by the legendary Mohammed Rafi.

Soon after, the Ishara Dancers performed an energetic medley dance that was enjoyed by the audience.

Each performance had a storyline. It was colourful and beautifully presented.

By Bhisham Mohamed

G

uyanese were on Sunday evening treated to an evening of melodious Qawwali and Sufi music by Bollywood playback singer Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

The evening can be described as sensational as Ali Khan and his 22 band members left their fans spellbound after dishing out some top class tunes from yesteryear and present.

The band members appeared on stage about 21: 15h and performed an instrumental rendition.

Ali Khan was given a standing ovation after which he took his place on the stage; plaited his

turned to perform before the home crowd. He performed “Tu Jaane Nah”, “Mitawah” and an English number, “Stand

by Me”. Durgaprasad left the stage after his first segment, but was forced to return a since the feature performer was running late. On his return, he dished out a few hits that were enjoyed by the audience.

The Ishara dancers also spiced up the evening with a few other dances before the man of the night made his grand

Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan performing at the Guyana National Stadium

legs and thanked his Guyanese fans for their tremendous hospitality. His voice undoubtedly created a stir, leaving

Purnash Durgaprasad during one of his performances on Sunday evening

fans no alternative but to dance to his songs.

He dished out some splendid tunes such as “Ishq Junoon Deewangi”, “Sajda”, “Teri Meri”, “Teri Ore”, “Kuch Pyar Ka Pagal” and others. He also performed songs from the movies “Dabaang”, “My Name is Khan”, “Bodyguard”, “Dabaang 2”, and “Singh is King”. After every performance, he was given a loud applause from the audience.

His second segment even saucier than the first and literally had everyone on their feet, dancing to the rhythms.

Keeping everyone in suspense, Ali Khan did not sing a popular tune, and as fans were walking out of the arena, he switched gear, deliver-

ing “Tere Mast Mast Do Nain” which had them scampering back to their seats and having a grand time as he reeled out hit after hit.

The show culminated just after midnight, but some thought they had their money’s worth after the singer would have performed in his first appearance on stage. It was indeed a magical night with patrons humming to Ali’s tunes as they left the national stadium.

The audience loved him as he sported a cream and burgundy kurta suitwith his makeup elegantly done.

After a while, he gave a little “shake” and introduced, Neil Maraj, a young talented singer who is a finalist in the Guyana Telephone

The lead dancers of the Ishara Dance Troupe thrill the crowd

The show continued with Purnash Durgaprasad, a Guyanese who participated in the ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’ contest in India.

He left Guyana at the age of 10 and this was his third time he re-

appearance.

A number of government ministers, members of the diplomatic community, the Indian Arrival Committee and businessmen were present for the night of musical extravaganza.

Upcoming film fest puts spotlight on Jamaica’s famous‘ August Town’

J

amaican reggae singer Duane Stephenson believes the inaugural Greater August Town Film Festival (GATFFEST), scheduled for June 20-23, is an opportunity for the community he grew up in, to shed its violent image.

"There is so much of this culture to tell. I hope it will highlight August Town as a cultural destination," said Stephenson.

The singer/songwriter paid homeage to the St Andrew community on his debut album, ‘From August Town’, which was released by VP Records in 2007. He says it is important GATFFEST highlight the area's diversity.

An initiative of the University of the West Indies Centre and Mona Social Services/University Township Project, GATFFEST will showcase films from local and overseas producers.

The local 'delegation' includes August Town residents who graduated from the UWI's

Professor Ian Boxhill speaks with Tresana Pearson (centre), co-producer of the film ‘Homelessness — Two Pay Cheques Away’, and actress Kamo Henry at the launch of GATFFEST: (The Greater August Town Film Festival) at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus, recently. (Aston Spaudling photo)

film-making and video production courses.

Their submissions cover topics such as homelessness, relationships, peer pressure, drugs, culture, music, dance, slavery, fear, romance and passion.

"Our programme encour-

ages the trainees to use this medium as a vehicle to document and give passionate voices to their communities, even as they educate, inspire and entertain. We work with local film-makers and industry professionals to teach the trainees how media projects

can effectively bring about social change," said professor Ian Boxill, director of the UWI Centre.

Among the local films to be shown are ‘Homelessness Two Pay Checks Away’, ‘Fast Lane’ and ‘August Town Tells A Story’. Overseas flicks include ‘The Guy Who Knows Everything’ and ‘A Finger, Two Dots Then Me’.

August Town has made headlines in the past because of internal gang feuds that has resulted in a number of homicides.

The area has a rich cultural heritage. It was the home to spiritual leader Alexander Bedward, who proclaimed he would ascend to Heaven on December 31, 1920.

Bedwardites still live in the area.

During the 1970s, August Town had a large Rastafarian community. They included current finance minister Dr Peter Phillips and roots-reggae group ‘Israel Vibration’.

In recent years, sing-

er Sizzla has established his Judgement Yard camp there.

(Jamaica Observer)

Duane Stephenson

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Trinidadian “Bacchanalist” Kerwin Du Bois thrills Toronto crowd at Twilight

By Ravendra Madholall

T

r i n i d a d i a n “Bacchanalist” singer/ producer and songwriter Kerwin Du Bois thrilled a Toronto crowd on Sunday at the Twilight Restaurant and Bar parking lot in Scarborough with his lyrics.

The restaurant and bar was celebratin its third anniversary and the ‘Bacchanalist,’ Du Bois, was the special invited singer for the occasion, which drew a large crowd.

From the minute he took to the stage, Du Bois, a former Junior Calypso Monarch champion, began entertaining the crowd.

The 32-year-old singing sensation told this publication that he was happy to be in Canada to perform his Caribbean vibes for patrons.

“I [am] definitely happy to be in Canada again and to be part of the restaurant and bar’s third anniversary; I am also thankful to the promoter for the invitation and I think the reaction by these people has been great,” Du Bois related.

His presence on Sunday was his fifth time to Canada to perform. He will be heading across to United States of America for another show in DC Washington this weekend.

“I will be heading off to Washington DC for another big show hosted by a Caribbean band and the community and no doubt I am delighted to make my presence felt over there; those people, like here, are wonderful and coming to North America on a regular basis always makes me enthusiastic and motivational,” Du Bois, who was born Trinidad and Tobago’s Capital, Port of Spain, declared.

Meanwhile, Albert Ramcharran, of Twilight Restaurant and Bar, was also in a jubilant mood, stating that the Caribbean people were more than happy to have a great singer like Du Bois in Toronto for his anniversary.

“I just want to thank him for his presence today (Sunday); he has been a veteran in the calypso and ‘bacchalanist’ industry and I am sure the people would like to have him back again next

Kerwin Du Bois entertaining the crowd in Toronto

year for another celebration of the restaurant and bar,” the Guyanese-born Ramcharran said.

Ramcharran’s son, Anthony, believes that Du Bois’ presence coupled with his performance and talent was indeed remarkable and he promised to have the veteran singer entertaining his loyal patrons annually.

“The turnout was great and I am willing to bring him back next year because he is a great

entertainer and with his experience and talent on the stage I think he did a fantastic job for our customers on this special occasion,” the younger Ramchanrran and co-owner of the recently opened Starlite, related.

Patron Natasha Peters from Jamaica stated she was privileged to meet Du Bois for the first time and was very thankful to Twilight restaurant and bar for having him in Toronto. “I am a great follower

of his music and today I think I am fortunate to meet him and have a ‘chat’ with him too; I love his talent as a Calypso singer and writer and he really showed the Caribbean community in Toronto that he loved singing for them,” Peters, who hails from Trelawny in Jamaica, revealed.

Twilight restaurant and bar also held a family orientated Day last Friday and Saturday to also commemorate the anniversary.

Guyana gets ready for Moruca Expo 2013 T

he committee of the Moruca Expo 2013 is inviting tourists to join in celebrating the rich heritage of the indigenous people of the Moruca village in Guyana. The festivities this year will commence on July 27 and will be filled with new games and entertainment. Many can also take the opportunity to visit the various communities in the area and surrounding villages, and soak in the colourful culture of the people.

Some features which will be highlights of the event are the upright bicycle race, road run competition, archery, slingshot, paddle and craft making, face painting, viewing the Piaiman Pot, strong man competition, strong woman competition, fish trap demonstrations, H’aichisiro (pepper sauce eating) competition and the widely anticipated Miss Moruca Pageant.

The village of Moruca, in Region One, is a centre of dazzling beauty and community cohesion. It maintains a police station, hospital, post office and a cluster of shops, and speed boat services.

The village is home to a number of Guyana’s fascinating ecotourism wonders: numerous bird species, endangered turtles,

glimpses of other wildlife species native to the collection of communities that constitute the Moruca sub- region, and meandering waterways that harbour little marvels of their own.

An ideal location to visit after the expo is Santa Rosa. It is located in Moruca and is a collection of small islands that are distinct in the rainy season when the savannah floods, but linked by paths and bridges in the dry season.

The boat ride into Santa Rosa from Charity is comfortable and well worth the time. Sail up the mouth of the Pomeroon, up the coast, then back inland up the Moruca river through a tunnel of trees with immense roots later opening into savannah with floating reed beds and trees where the boatmen speed over vegetation mats.

The beautiful village of Moruca is quiet and peaceful and ideal for nature walks, swimming, canoeing and boat rides.

Breathtaking boat rides in and around Moruca would help you connect with the people and nature. The people are welcoming and nature is lush so mark your calendar for the upcoming Moruca Expo.

(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Tourists crossing the Kumaka bridge, Moruca, to join in the expo celebrations

Moruca residents observe a game of archery at last year's expo

A section of the audience at last year’s pageant at Moruca Expo

Having fun during a boat race on the Moruca river

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013

Independence and Economy PART III

The economy: PPP: 1992-2013

Still learning lessons from SSEE

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he PPP took over the Guyanese economy that had been ravaged by the PNC and had just recovered through the IMF-imposed 1989 ERP to a level where the PPP had left in 1964. But it was not a matter of just marking time. The rest of the Caribbean had marched on and, for instance, the per capita GDP of Barbados was now 20 times greater than ours and we had slipped behind the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa. We were barely above Haiti in this hemisphere.

Our most important resource - human capital was almost completely depleted as 89 percent of Guyanese with skills migrated to OECD countries. Because of the opportunities for rent-seeking (seeking gains from one's position) in state-controlled enterprises, corruption had become endemic in the system. This was to prove one of the major obstacles in moving Guyana forward from its very low economic base.

Growth

But through discipline - and not blind adherence to the IMFdictated ERP - Guyana achieved growth between 1992 and 1997 of almost 7 percent annually. Sugar, rice and almost every sector - other than bauxite - grew to deliver better wages to the workers. The removal of import controls meant that shops were stocking consumer items not seen in the country for decades.

The PPP government, however, refused to continue with the massive retrenchment in the Civil Service that had been initiated by the PNC and increased spending in the social sector to assist the most disadvantaged members of society.

Extreme poverty was slashed by a third to 19 percent between 1993 and 1999 and absolute poverty by 19 percent to 34 percent. These were extraordinary accomplishments and poverty related spending continue to exceed 20 percent which would have further reduced the incidence of poverty.

The PPP redrafted the Privatisation guidelines and began a Phase 2 of divestments with the focus on local investors rather than foreigners, which the PNC had stressed. The gains and profits from privatisation would remain in the country. Rehabilitation of manufacturing facilities and increased employment were the new watchword.

Privatised companies such as the New GPC plunged into cutting edge manufacturing of HIV/AIDS ARV's, for instance, and brought in foreign exchange from exports.

Removing debt albatross

But it was in the field of debt relief, under new Minister of Finance and later President (from 1999) Bharrat Jagdeo, that the greatest progress was made. The short term relief of a bridge loan obtained by the PNC in its waning days, also meant that to service the debt of US$1.5 billion, the country would have to expend 94 percent of its revenues. This was beyond "unsustainable".

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The government under Jagdeo, who was a trained economist, was able to secure debt write-offs to such an extent that debt servicing was reduced to a manageable 20 percent. Today, formerly healthy economies such as Barbados and Jamaica have to deal with their debt overhang, while Guyana can still continue borrowing.

For Guyana to catch up with its Caribbean neighbours that had surged ahead while the PNC was destroying the economy, meant that it would have to maintain double-digit growth rates for at least two decades. With an average growth rate of 7.1, sustained to 1997, Guyana was poised to achieve this target; only bauxite remaining troubled, even though more than US$23m was injected and debts of US$30 million assumed by the government between 1992 and 1994. The PNC had so destroyed the infrastructure and poisoned labour relations that foreign prospects for its privatisation were skittish. Bauxite continued to be downsized with government providing huge subsidies is electricity and other areas to the residents of the mining town. With the huge Omai gold mine operating in full swing, gold was picking up the slack in mining. It was not until the PPP was able to persuade Rusal (Berbice) and Bosai (Linden) that hope was returned to the industry.

The consequences of Opposition Protest: Opposition-induced downturn

Following the elections of December 1997, the PNC embarked on a series of protests and street violence that brought economic activity to a halt and plunged the GDP into a decrease of 1.8 percent in 1998.

Increased violence from organised gangs, aligned to the Opposition PNC in the following years ensured that growth between 1998 and 2005 averaged a measly 0.3 percent. This period of stagnation has cost the Guyanese economy dearly because the longer we remain mired in the sub-Saharan GDP levels the harder it will be to break free.

Return of growth

With the government taking control of the violence against the state growth of the economy was resumed - but at a lower average rate of around 4.5 percent between 2006 and2012. This is also correlated with the continued agitation of the opposition so that there is no consensus on the nation working together to build the economy.

While the growth in the last seven years is very positive compared to the declines in the economies of our Caribbean neighbours, we must stress that we need to attain double-digit growth rates to catch up with them. It should be of no comfort that their economies might decline. Sugar, facilitated by the government brought infrastructural development and research has reached its highest production and export figures ever. Sugar, unfortunately, has declined and might have to be reorganised at the least, or even privatised.

For our economy, the government has been trying to reorient it away from the colonial pattern of being primary producers for the developed economies. It has embarked on a Low Carbon Development Strategy that combines the benefits of creating a green economy - hitched to ICT4D (Information and Communication Technology for Development) - that can achieve this goal.

Already its carbon sequestration component has garnered US$250m from Norway for green projects. Unfortunately the Opposition continues its campaign to stymie growth - because its fears its support will dwindle - and they have nixed the use of those monies to launch the Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project that could make Guyana petroleum independent. And of course, also save valuable foreign currency.

The present economic prospects

No Guyanese can deny that this government has made tremendous economic progress since it took over the reins of government. That progress would have been increased by quantum leaps if the Opposition had accepted the political system, which it has shaped more than any other political entity. There is not a country in the world that can develop if every policy initiative of the government will be opposed in the streets.

The latest refusal of the Opposition to debate the money laundering and terrorism funding bill is a case in point. How can the country develop into a modern economy if its laws in this crucial are not brought into conformity with the internal regime being created. Guyana cannot afford to be branded as a rogue state.(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

By Anu Dev

ne of my idiosyncrasies is that I like to keep memorabilia – old papers from school, scrappy artwork drawn during a particularly boring class, miscellaneous stuff. Now, I’m by no means a packrat, anything quite of that (disturbing) magnitude, but I do hold on to enough stuff that my drawers and nooks are quite chock full.

Sifting through some of my miscellanea, I stumbled across (literally stumbled, given the amount of things I have strewn across my floor during CAPE exams – much to my mother’s consternation) my old speech from my primary school graduation. I found the actual copy – not one of those newfangled ‘soft-copies’. It’s the original hand-written one – with all of my scribbles and creases from me nervously folding and unfolding it countless times in the interminable countdown until my name was called.

I’ve never been placed on death row, having never committed any significant sort of crime, but waiting to deliver that speech felt like I was waiting to get my lethal injection. Or at least that’s how my 10-year-old brain interpreted it. I can be ‘slightly’ melodramatic sometimes.

But getting back to the actual speech, re-reading it seven years later, I’m proud to say, it only made me cringe about 10 times. The speech was quite a tell-all with me revealing such scandalous nuggets of information about myself like the fact that I’m a picky eater and that I used to go to bed at 8: 00 pm in sixth grade. (Gasp) But on as serious note, the things I had emphasised as being crucial to me doing well at SSEE (yes, SSEE, from the dinosaur days – not the NGSA these youngsters are writing now!), were completing the syllabus and the expectations the teachers and headmaster had of us.

And it was much more than expectations – there was a drive to do well. We were motivated – inspired even – to do well. There were perks for excelling at every step of the way.

Badges pinned onto you in front of the entire school to reward you for doing well.

You got the literal “round of applause”. There was the promise of your name on the school’s honour board for upcoming generations to see that you made the top 10 at SSEE. It was corny, but it worked.

At a very early age, we were made to understand that things like the SSEE exam could determine what kind of lives we would lead for the rest of our lives.

And it was a heavy burden, but being young and altogether not very inquisitive about these things, we took it as a given that we had to work 50+ math problems every night.

That was school. We didn’t question it – we just griped. We didn’t rebel against being trained to become corporate slaves.

We did our work, we competed against each other, we flew kites on the field, we thought our lives would be set if we got the school of our dreams.

And then we attended the schools of our dreams – and all of the illusions were shattered. Okay, okay, I’m being melodramatic again.

But in between trying to find a foothold in this new school, this new environment, we lost some of that drive. We entered our secondary schools as first formers and we were treated like first formers, like the ‘babies’ of the school.

There was no longer any sense of urgency pushing us. There wasn’t that life-or-death drive propelling us forward. There was just the promise of another make-or-break set of exams – the mystical CSEC exams that were a whole five years away.

Five years is a long way from now right? We a have a long time before we have to deal with anything massive like SSEE. And importance was always given to the older students, solidifying our feeling that the things we were doing weren’t that important yet.

Gradually, we lost that sense of purpose and some of our discipline. And it’s so much more difficult to regain discipline than to lose it.

Some of us managed to build up back our discipline in time for CSEC, some of us never quite recovered and weren’t functioning at the same level that we were at in sixth grade.

So to the students who’ve just received their results – Congratulations! And I hope you thoroughly enjoy your secondary school life.

Have fun! But at the same time, try to not forget your sense of purpose. Hold onto that desire to do well, to do your best.

And to quote Leonora Primary School’s motto, “Strive ever after excellence”.

Bollywood

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Shabana Azmi gets doctorate from Vancouver University

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Photo credits: Times of India website photo

ational awardwinning actress Shabana Azmi has gotten her fourth doctorate from the Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, reports PTI. Azmi, 61, who is one of the prominent faces of Indian cinema, had earlier received doctorates from Jadavpur University (2003), Leeds Metropolitan University in Yorkshire (2007) and Jamia Milia University

(2008).

"Off to USA. I will receive Doctorate from Simon Fraser University Vancouver on June 12," she posted on Twitter a few days before the convocation ceremony.

The 'Godmother' star, who will be accompanied by husband Javed Akhtar, will also speak on the topic of '100 years of Indian cinema' at Drury Lane Theatre.

(Times of India)

John Abraham’s out for a ride

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ohn Abraham is set to take his love affair with motorbikes to the next gear with a special film. To be made under his production company, JA Entertainment, the yetuntitled venture — with John in the lead — will hit the floors next year.

Almost 80 per cent of the film will be shot in the Isle of Man, famous for hosting one of the most prestigious and dangerous motorcycle races in the world (last month, Japanese rider Yoshinari Matsushita died in an accident there; since 2000, 21 riders have died at the races).

The film “will showcase the relationship be-

Photo credits: Hindustan Times website photo

tween three to four bikers, have a romantic angle and lots of bonhomie. John plans to package it in a way that even

those who aren’t interested in bikes will like it.

Through the film, he will focus on riding safely as well,” says an insider.

John plans to travel to the Isle of Man prior to the shoot to practice biking on the rough terrain, according to the insider.

“He feels that, after ‘Dhoom’ (2004), Bollywood needs to come up with a bike-racing film, since India is one of the biggest markets for motorcycles. That’s why it’s going to be a highbudget venture, with costs running into tens of crores,” adds the insider. This is likely to be John’s most expensive film. (Hindustan Times)

Facebook page launched to demand justice for Jiah Khan

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Facebook page has been created to fight for justice for Bollywood actress Nafisa alias Jiah Khan, who committed suicide by hanging herself in her Juhu apartment. It was reported that she was depressed due to her failing career and crumbling personal life.

Titled "Justice for Jiah Khan", it was launched Monday on the social networking site (URL: https://www.facebook.com/Justice.For. Jiah.Khan). An initiative by a news and content website, it is reportedly supported by several Bollywood artistes and media professionals.

The page states that: Jiah's suicide was completely sudden, unexpected and uncalled for.

She was a strong, determined person and it is

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Bollywood Celebden website photo

Photo credits: Hindustan Times website photo

‘Can’t stay away from comedy’ – Johnny Lever

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ssuring fans that his role as a CID officer in the forthcoming action thriller ‘Enemmy’ will provide adequate humour, popular Bollywood comedian Johnny Lever said he cannot stay away from comedy, according to reports by IANS. “Yes, you will see me doing adequate comedy in the action thriller. This role will show that even a person who makes others laugh can get angry,” Lever told reporters at a promotion for ‘Enemmy’.

Credits: Santabanta.com photo

Directed by Ashu Trikha, ‘Enemmy’ is a cop action drama, which features Mithun Chakraborty and actor Suneil Shetty in lead roles. Also, Mithun’s son

Mahaakshay plays a CID officer in the film.

Lever has played endearing characters providing comic relief in films like ‘Kaho Naa Pyar Hai’, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, ‘Golmaal 3’ and ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana’, among others.

“I definitely want to work in comedy films, as you see I look more like a comedian. The audience also likes me in that way and even if I am not delivering any dialogue, my face makes them laugh,” said Lever. (Bollywood Celebden)

had been arrested by Mumbai police in connection with suicide of Jiah. Police await Jiah's medical reports to probe further.

The Britain-born actress, who debuted opposite Amitabh Bachchan in ‘Nishabd’, was found hanging at her flat in Sagar Sangeet Building in the posh Juhu area of northwest Mumbai June 3. She was 25. (IANS)

Javed Akhtar appointed VP of copyright body

Sunny Leone wants to dance like Madhuri ndo-Canadian porn actress Sunny Leone wishes she can someday dance like Bollywood's dancing diva Madhuri Dixit. While shooting an episode of reality show ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 6’, where Madhuri is one of the judges, Sunny shared her desire, according to reports from IANS. "I love dancing on Bollywood songs and I love Madhuri-ji's ‘Dola re dola’ (from ‘Devdas’). I wish I can dance like Madhuri one day," Sunny said.

On the big screen, she was last seen in item number, ‘O Laila’, in Sanjay Gupta's, ‘Shootout At Wadala’. Sunny made her Bollywood debut with ‘Jism 2’ and she will next be seen in Ekta Kapoor's production, ‘Ragini MMS 2’.

(Hindustan Times)

Credits: Times of India/FB photo

obvious there is much more than what meets the eye. LIKE this page and leave your comments to ensure that the truth prevails.

Jiah's mother Rabiya Khan has alleged her late daughter was in a live-in relationship with Suraj Pancholi, son of actor Aditya Pancholi and unrequited love killed her.

On June 10 Suraj

cclaimed writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar’s three-year long battle to secure copyright benefits for writers and musicians in India, has now gone global.

In what must be regarded as a singular honour for an Indian artist, he has been appointed the vice president of the International Confederation Of Authors and Composers Society (CISAC).

CISAC monitors, guards and checks copyright laws all over the world for every form of creative pursuit.

In principle, Akhtar will now be fighting for copyright laws for artists all over the world.

Talking from Washington, he said he was “pleasantly surprised by this honour”.

“I guess my battle for copyright and royalty for Indian musicians reached this very prestigious global forum. As you might be aware, the CISAC comprises 121 countries. The apex body looks out for copyright issues in all these countries. So I’d say it’s a very big responsibility,” he said.

The renowned musician reportedly got selected for the role after he spoke at the CISAC headquarters in Brussels in 2011.

“There, I spoke about my fight against copyright violation in India. I think they were impressed enough to follow my fight in India. And when the Indian parliament passed a copyright bill in favour of writers and musicians, the CISAC must have taken a decision to invite me on board as vice president,” he said. (Bollywood Celebden)

Priyanka Chopra’s father passes away

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t was officially announced on Monday that Priyanka Chopra’s father, Dr. Ashok Chopra, has passed away, after suffering from cancer for a prolonged period. He was in the Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai.

A few days earlier, on May 23, Priyanka was seen barefooted at Vaishnodevi Temple, where she participated in a ‘yaPhoto credits: ibnlive.in.com website photo jna’ in an effort to pray for her father’s health. She had kept all her projects on hold to be by her father’s side. He was suffering from cancer since 2005. His death has come as a shock to the entire Chopra family and the entire Bollywood community as well.

The funeral service was attended by many famed Bollywood actors and directors, in addition to family and close friends of Dr. Chopra. Priyanka has on many occasions revealed the immense bond she has shared with her father and there is no doubt that she will miss him terribly. (Excerpt from Bollywood Celebden)

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Unhappy fan wants compensation John Malkovich helps from Justin Beiber tourist in Canada

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Credits: Contactmusic.com photo

ustin Bieber could have a lawsuit on his hands after the singer allegedly ordered one of his bodyguards to attack a fan taking photographs of the singer and steal his camera's memory card.

The alleged victim, Jeffrey Binion, claims that he was taking snaps of the singer as he left a recording session at the Hit Factory studios in Miami,

Florida, at the beginning of last week, only to be attacked by the teen singer's bodyguard. According to the police statement filed by Binion and acquired

by TMZ - filed on June 5 - Bieber ordered his bodyguard to attack the photographer and steal his memory card, when Hesny pulled out a gun and proceeded to threaten Binion until he handed over the memory card.

In his case against Bieber and bodyguard Hugo, Binion says that Hesny followed out Bieber's requests; that included him being thrown against a wall, grabbed by the throat, and having a gun holstered under Hesny's shirt shown to him, whilst his memory card was stolen by some of Justin's other bodyguards.

Binion insists that he is a professional photographer, not paparazzi, and was simply at the right place at the right time to steal a picture of Bieber.

The unhappy fan is claiming that the ordeal caused him to suffer bodily injury and both physical and mental pain. He has also demanded compensation for his medical expenses incurred as a result of the attack. (Contactmusic. com)

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U.S. tourist says actor John Malkovich played a starring role in coming to his rescue when he fell and gashed his throat on scaffolding in Canada, according to reports by Associated Press.

Seventy-seven-yearold Jim Walpole fell Thursday in Toronto while on a trans-Canadian trip.

Walpole tells the Toronto Star that Malkovich, who was appearing at a local theatre, applied pressure to slow the bleeding until medics arrived. The in-

Credits: www.movpins.com photo

Emma Watson to complete university degree

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Oprah donates US$12m to African-American history museum

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prah Winfrey is no stranger to a philanthropic deed or two, in fact, her US$12m donation to the Smithsonian brings her total donation to US$13m – the highest single source for a donation the museum has ever received.

“I am so proud of African American history and its contributions to our nation as a whole,” Winfrey said in a statement, explaining the reasoning behind her huge donation. “I am deeply appreciative of those who paved the path for me and all who follow in their footsteps. By investing in this museum, I want to help ensure that we both honour and preserve our culture and history, so that the stories of who we are will live on for generations to come.”

In 2004, Winfrey became the first black person to rank among the 50 most generous Americans, and by 2012, the talk show host-cum-media mogul had donated over US$400m to educational causes. The recipient of the first Bob Hope Humanitarian Award also handed out over 400 scholarships to Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia.

It’s not just charitable causes that benefit from her generosity, either; she took her whole staff on holiday in 2006 to celebrate 20 years of being on TV. “Every donation, whether $25 or a

jury required 10 stitches.

Ben Quinn, whose family owns a restaurant nearby, held Walpole's head. He said by phone Monday that Malkovich "had everything under control" quickly, didn't want attention and called later to check on Walpole.

A message seeking an update was left for Walpole on Monday.

Representatives for Malkovich did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment, according to the reports

by AP. (Times of India)

Credits: www.fanpop.com photo

mma Watson has revealed that she will be returning to Brown University this fall to complete her degree. The 23-year-old actress told Rookiemag. com that she has been in charge of her own education since she started out on ‘Potter’ when she was just 9 or 10, the New York Daily News

reported.

The star said, referring to her university studies, that she liked the fact that she could design her own major and could even take independent studies if she wanted to, on subjects that weren’t necessarily in the curriculum.

(Hindustan Times)

‘Capt. Jack Sparrow’ visits ailing kids

A Credits: Contactmusic.com photo

$10 million corporate donation, is important. But truly, there’s only one Oprah Winfrey,” said the museum’s founding director, Lonnie G. Bunch, lauding Oprah’s contribution. “In essence, she’s put her imprimatur on it.

Part of getting a museum built is tied to visibility helping all people see how important it is. Oprah Winfrey is someone so many people in America admire, and I think this is an important moment to the museum." (Contactmusic. com)

ctor Johnny Depp visited a children's hospital unannounced dressed as his famous character ‘Captain Jack Sparrow’. According to franchise producer Jerry Bruckheimer, the actor regularly travels with his famous costume from the fantasy adventure film series ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’, so that he can surprise ailing kids, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

Bruckheimer said: “He knows he is a very fortunate person and he wants to give back.”

The 50-year-old actor has appeared in the first four part of the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series and will be seen in the fifth one as well.

In 2010, the actor had accepted an invitation from a nine-year-old girl, who had asked the actor to visit her school in London after she discovered he was filming for ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ at the

Credits: www.fanpop.com photo

nearby Old Royal Naval College, according to reports. (Hindustan Times)

Denzel Washington to star in sci-fi flick

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ctor Denzel Washington has entered negotiations with Warner Bros to headline its film adaptation of Adam Sternbergh's sci-fi novel, ‘Shovel Ready’. The award-winning actor and father of four has been offered to lead the film, the feature adaptation of a forthcoming sci-fi novel by New York Times Magazine culture editor Adam Sternbergh, reported Ace Showbiz.

In a way similar to Washington's ‘Man on Fire’, the plot of the up-

Credits: India Times website photo

coming movie centres on a garbage man-turned-

hitman, who is hired to kill the daughter of a powerful, maniacal evangelist. Ultimately, the killer becomes the girl's protector. It is set in a dystopian future of New York City, according to the reports.

As of now, the project already gets Erwin Stoff on board to be the producer.

The actor himself is already committed to, ‘The Equalizer’, which unites him and young Hollywood star Chloe Moretz.

(Hindustan Times)

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Credits: www.fansshare.com photo

scar winner Halle Berry says she doesn't follow fashion trends and wears only those clothes which she feels complement her skin tone and body shape.

"I don't follow fashion or beauty trends, I just stick to products and colours that work for me and suit my skin tone," femalefirst. co.uk quoted Berry as saying.

The ‘Cloud Atlas’

star, who is also a diabetic, also makes sure she eats a healthy diet.

"Because I'm diabetic, I don't just start eating healthily and working out before I start filming a movie or attend a red carpet event, I live like that.

It's a way of life and it's really important that I stay fit and eat healthily all of the time,” the reports quoted Berry as saying. (Times of India)

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Though crumbling, the house of 99 windows stands as a symbol of status more than 100 years ago

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chitect.

The house was originally built with 100 windows, but that would later become 99, which remains the same today. Fraser noted that he would like to dispel the popular misconception that Guyana’s former president Burnham was the one who ordered the window to be blocked.

Fraser said from what he could remember from the records, the governor of that time visited the area and saw the house.

While the governor apparently had no problem with the huge house, the number of windows the house had, was an issue. The governor’s house also had one hundred windows.

The house with 99 windows

found out the owner of the house, Edgar Hicken, was a non-Guyanese businessman who was involved in cattle rearing and cotton farming.

The house was constructed more than 102 years ago and took about two years to construct. Fraser pointed out that it took so long to build because the road where it is located in East Lothian, Berbice, was in a deplorable condition especially during the rainy season. The edifice, he recalled from the records, was designed by a French ar-

Arrow points to the window that was ordered blocked by a past governor when he visited

→

n the 1800s and early 1900s, to construct a house with 100 windows and furnish it with a more than 14- foot dining table were ways of showing to society one’s high status. This was true of the Hicken family of Berbice. They built a massive house with 100 windows and furnished it with a dining table stretching over 14 feet in length.

David Fraser, 76, and heir of the house, said in an interview that he had read a bit on the building from some aged records that are totally destroyed now. He was unable to learn all the details about the history of the house, but whatever information he was able to gather, he shared with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

“My father worked with the Hicken family for many years. Edgar later married my father’s sister. The Hicken family also had a company I worked with in 1958. Our family was close to the Hickens and so they gave me the house out of goodwill,” Fraser said, in outlining how he inherited the house.

The house has three bedrooms, a dressing room, and a magnificent dining hall where governors would dine regularly.

Fraser disclosed that he

As the story goes, the governor ordered the Hicken family to board up one window in the house. Fraser does not know the reason for the governor to have demanded such an action, but assumed that he may have wanted his house to be the most majestic one at that time.

The house is now deteriorating and since Fraser is afraid of the crime situation where he is living, he is hesitant to have it restored.

Fraser does not live in the house anymore, but resides in a home adjacent to it. Many have approached him to purchase and restore the house but he has politely refused for personal reasons.

Fraser is still contemplating though what should be done with the historical landmark, and welcomes anyone who would like a tour of the house with 99 windows.

There are other surviving houses built in the 1800s that also have 100 windows. One such is State House, which was built during the 1820s.

It was built on land belonging to the Anglican Church in British Guiana.

Several governors, including Governor Lyght and Governor Barclay, resided there. (Photos by John Greene) (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Jamaican Akuna Matata’s message to the world

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hen Superstorm Sandy ripped through parts of the United States east coast last November, dub poet Akuna Matata was transfixed to coverage of the natural disaster that left hundreds homeless.

It inspired him to write ‘Sandy’, a poem he eventually recorded for Main Focus Records, a small label located in the Grants Pen area of St Andrew, Jamaica. Like many message artistes, current affairs provides material for most of his work.

"What I write is mostly about the times, it really depends on what is happening at the moment," says Akuna Akuna Matata

Matata, who is in his early 50s.

Other major events, such as the election of Barack Obama as America's first black president in 2008, have influenced his recordings. So too sensitive social issues such as abortion and Jamaica's unreliable transportation system.

‘Abortion’ and ‘Transportation’ are two of the nine songs Akuna Matata has recorded for producer Diavallan Fearon. Those songs comprise an album yet to be released by the label, which also operates out of Grants Pen. Born Errol Smith in nearby Barbican, Akuna Matata grew up in Grants Pen which had a vibrant music scene during the 1970s and 1980s.

It was once the stomping ground of roots singer Edi Fitzroy and his ‘Food, Clothes and Shelter’ band as well as deejay Burro Banton.

Typical of Jamaican youth in the turbulent 1970s, Akuna Matata says music was a big part of his upbringing, especially the roots message of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Burning Spear and Culture.

But though he wrote profusely, Akuna Matata never got an opportunity to emulate his heroes until four years ago when he cut ‘Obama for Fearon’.

Lack of recording opportunities has never frustrated the self-described entrepreneur.

"Nuthin' happen before it time, yuh nuh, cause the songs wi do are timeless," he said. (Jamaica Observer)

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T’s Minister of Planning Bhoe Tewarie is assuring the public that ziplining in Chaguaramas is “safe, good fun”. But Tewarie refused to try out the zipline himself, saying he didn’t like heights. Minister of Community Development Winston Peters took a turn, zipping through the air with a broad smile, followed by CDA chairman Daniel Solomon. Members of the media were also allowed to ride the zipline.

Speaking at the launch of the ziplining and canopy walk tours at Macqueripe Bay last Friday, Tewarie said the board had been cautious when it came to safety measures.

“The board stressed two things to make sure that people are not at risk with the zipline. Out of an abundance of caution, what we’ve done is take measures for additional safety with the zipline with the provider.”

Tewarie said the operator which was managing the facility, Zip It, had been asked to get insurance to protect people using it and also provide extra insurance coverage though the CDA. The Chaguaramas Development Authority, as the institution in charge, also has its own insurance arrangements, he said.

Nearly 2,000 feet of cables have been strung through the Chaguaramas for-

A guest is assisted by a Zipline Canopy Tours employee to make her way across the newly-installed zipline.

(Roberto Codallo/TT Guardian photo)

ests, near Macqueripe Bay, for the peninsula’s first ziplining and canopy walk site. (Excerpt from TT Guardian)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013 Isurdeen sits in a wheelchair after the accident which left him unable to walk

Former Essequibo teacher Uttamkumar Isurdeen dreams of walking again after an accident left him paralysed

By Indrawattie Natram

T

he "news" that he would be permanently disabled due to a diagnosed spinal compression after being the victim of an accident, has not destroyed the hope of Guyanese Uttamkumar Isurdeen of Pomona Housing Scheme in Essequibo.

Speaking from his bed, 28- year- old Isurdeen, father of a four- year- old boy, revealed what hurts him most is not being able to fulfil his obligations as a father, husband to his wife Komawattie and son to his mother Indera Ramlall.

Ordeal

Recalling that fateful Saturday, February 27,

2010, when his dreams and hopes for the future were snatched away, an emotional Isurdeen believes he had received numerous signs during the day of the impending tragedy.

But Isurdeen recalled that he was determined to go home to Essequibo for the holiday weekend to spend it with his father, so that Saturday he went to work; at that time he was employed with Victoria, an East Coast construction company. It was pay day for him and he had gone to collect his money so that he and his wife of two years could make the Essequibo trip.

On his way back from work, he caught a bus and was heading to his

Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara home when he became involved in an accident. He said the bus had hit a car and toppled several times. He vividly remembers being pinned down in the accident.

He later awoke at the Georgetown Public Hospital with severe pains, and had attempted to get up and walk but was unable to. Desolately, he said that was the moment reality hit him and he knew something was definitely wrong with him, and he was going to have a change in his life.

After spending 11 days in the hospital, Isurdeen was unable to move or do anything for himself, and remained

bed-ridden.

After several examinations by doctors, he was diagnosed with a ‘clinical history of blunt trauma to his back’. He is now unable to feel from his knees down to his feet, and is also experiencing numbness.

During his hospitalisation, he said, he had given up hope and thought that his life would have ended. However, later, with a glimmer of hope he said he began recuperating with therapy he received from the Palms.

Optimism despite the odds

Isurdeen said that he went to a few doctors who stated that he won’t be able to ever walk again.

He also underwent a few surgeries, and a few spi-

nal specialists were consulted on his condition.

However, his prognosis hasn’t changed.

But Isurdeen remains undaunted. He said he still has that strong belief within him that he can walk again. He is no longer bed-ridden, able to an extent to use the washroom on his own, and now moves around with a walker.

"I must walk. I dream every night I can walk again. I dream that I am going for interviews for jobs," he insists.

Isurdeen disclosed that he has to undergo a comprehensive rehabilitation package available in India, which is his only hope of walking again. He is certain that the package will make him walk again.

The course requires some US$ 16,500 dollars exclusive of air fares.

Isurdeen does not have sufficient funds and is soliciting help from individuals or companies willing to help him. (Excerpt from Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Star of the Week

M

eet beautiful 22-year-old Shivon Timaul. She was born in Berbice, Guyana, but migrated to Canada when she was four years old.

Timaul is a final year student at the University of Toronto, pursuing a bachelor’s degree of science in the specialist programme of Biological Health Science. She hopes to build a career in biomedical research.

As cliché as it sounds, she dreams of going to work every day knowing that she is making a difference in the world, even if it is impacting one life at a time. Although Timaul’s true passion is science, she has interests in modelling and dancing and works part time as a model and dancer.

She had modelled for various South Asian designers, Derrick Rutledge (the makeup artist for Oprah Winfrey) on the Marilyn Denis show and for the famous South Asian show OHM. On June 16, she will grace the runway at the upcoming Extravaganza Expo.

Timaul also boasts magazine shoots for OHM, WI Canadian (featured on the cover), Jodi and Suhaag. She also recently co-hosted the first ever WI Can Dance competition 2013 and back in 2010, she participated in the Miss West Indian Canadian pageant.

“Overall, I have my parents to thank for all my successes,” says Timaul, adding that, “they have instilled in me the importance of hard work, education, culture and above all, family. For that, I am grateful.”

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Coach optimistic about Guyanese Olympian’s chances at World Championships

- athlete to run in Canada this weekend

Toronto and District Cricket Association…

Guyanese, Vincentian cricketers star with bat and ball

By Ravendra Madholall

H C

Lyndon Wilson

Winston George

oach of the Police Sports Club Lyndon Wilson is optimistic about Guyanese Olympian Winston George’s chances at the World Championships in Moscow, Russia in August after he ran the 200m B standard time for the Saturday event at the New Jersey International meet. George, who clocked 20.59s to eclipse the B standard time of 20.60s, missing the A standard seven hundredth of a second, is expected to make the A standard time and qualify for the 400 metres

by Wilson.

“First I must say that it is a great achievement for him and I can guarantee the public of Guyana that he will make both of the qualifying times and lower them to the A standard. He has been there for a month and he is breaking down his times very fast, I had a chat with him and he is scheduled to run in Canada soon and he guaranteed

me that he will lower the time. The thing is, that was surprising for me; he ran the time one hour- he ran the 400 metres and to do that with that type of lactic acid build up speaks of goods things,” Wilson told Guyanese media.

Further, Wilson believes that if George is supported by Guyana he should do well at the World Championships.

“I can tell you he is very focused and dedicated and I must say thanks to the Guyana Police Force for giving him this opportunity and I believe if everyone comes onboard; corporate Guyana, the government, the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG)… I’m seeing an athlete that can reach the semi- final and anything can happen,” Wilson stated.

Meanwhile, George is expected to run in Canada this weekend and will return to Guyana in August after the World Championships.

TT for Concacaf U-15 tournament

T

rinidad and Tobago is one of 20 countries from across the Caribbean and Central America which will compete in the inaugural Concacaf Under-15 Championship, to be held in the Cayman Islands, August 14 – 25, 2013 as announced on Monday.

The tournament, is an initiative of Concacaf President Jeffrey Webb, with a view towards strengthening the game at the youth levels among all of the Confederation’s members. In addition to TT, the other countries include Aruba, Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St Kitts/Nevis, St Lucia, French St Martin, Dutch St Maarten, St Vincent and The Grenadines, and US Virgin Islands.

“We are proud to host

such an impressive number of our member associations for this inaugural under-15 tournament, which will give the Confederation’s younger stars the chance to demonstrate their talents on a larger pan-regional stage,” said President Webb.

“It is our belief that supporting youth football by every possible means is fundamental to the widespread development of our sport across the region and the world.

Through this tournament we hope to take an important further step towards assuring substantial opportunity for all of our Confederation’s youth,” Webb added.

The competition will take place in three venues on Grand Cayman, with teams set to be divided into various groups. The top sides will qualify to a knockout round which will yield the regional champion at this level. (TT Guardian)

ard-hitting batsman Alphie Gould slammed an attractive century to inspire Parkdale Cricket Club to a resounding 146run win over Kholvad Cricket Club in the continuation of the 2013 Toronto and District Cricket Association Premier League competition on Sunday at King City.

The right-handed 34-year-old Vincentian smacked four sixes and a similar number of fours in his 102 as Parkdale tallied up a formidable 237-3 from their allotment of 50-overs.

When Kholvad batted, they never threatened the total and eventually succumbed for 91 in the 28th over.

Gould also received admirable support from Gilmore Stapleton who displayed great aggression and weighed in with an enterprising 84, which was punctuated with three sixes and four fours.

Meanwhile, in the Elite Division, Guyanese and West Indies one-day player Royston Crandon spun a web around the batsmen with his offspin capturing six wickets for 19 runs from 8.5 overs to help Vikings

Royston Crandon

Cricket Club humiliate Mississauga Ramblers Cricket Club, also at King City.

Crandon’s team dismissed the opposition for a modest 128 while Vikings, in reply, safely reached 132-3 with former Guyana first-class middle-order batsman Zaheer Haniff leading the way with a responsible, unbeaten 40.

In other games, Islanders Cricket Club recorded back-to-back victories over Yorkshire and Lords on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

Guyanese players Raakesh Goberdhan, Eon katchay, Trevor Henry and Ricardo Jadunauth performed well with both bat and ball.

In the first encounter, Jadunauth scored 37 to see his team scoring a winning total of 230, while Goberdhan and Katchay picked up two wickets apiece to help skittle out Yorkshire for 204 when they batted.

In another match, they raced to victory with six wickets in hand as Henry hit an unbeaten

32 against Lords.

Victoria Park Cricket Club overwhelmed Caribbean Limers by 76 runs also at King City on Sunday.

Victoria Park batted first after calling correctly at the toss and set up a decent 208 while Caribbean Limers, in reply, struggled to 132 all out.

Former Guyana under-19 opening batsman Anthony D’Andrade top-scored for Victoria Park with 37 while Trinidadian Troy Harper hit a combative 52 for the losers.

Defending champion Brampton Masters Tranzac Cricket Club whipped bitter-rival Centurions Cricket Club by six wickets on Sunday at the same venue. Centurions took first strike but only mustered an inadequate 176 all out with former Guyana senior team captain Damodar Daesrath bagging four wickets for 26 runs from his seven-over spell.

Brampton Masters achieved the target in the 42nd over, thanks to a steady 70 from Canada’s international batsman Hiral Patel.

The action is set to resume on Saturday and Sunday with a number of matches across Toronto.

CPL matches remain at Sabina Park despite light troubles M

atches scheduled for Jamaica's Sabina Park in the inaugural Caribbean Premier League (CPL) will still be played there despite the collapse of a deal to install floodlights at the popular Caribbean venue in time for the tournament, organisers have announced. Tournament officials say they have tweaked the schedule in order to accommodate the Jamaica matches which will be played over four days in midAugust.

The deal collapsed about three weeks after Jamaica cricket officials announced a partnership to install lights at Sabina Park between Sabina Park Holdings, the entity which manages the venue and Consolidated Energy Partners (CEP), the intended financier and contractor for the project.

"It is unfortunate that Sabina Park was unable to secure its lights in time for the CPL but

A view of the George Headley Stand at Sabina Park (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

we have done what we can to ensure that Team Jamaica fans will not miss out on home matches or be excluded from the CPL excitement," said CPL CEO Damien O' Donohoe.

"Sabina Park is an important ground in the history of West Indies cricket, and a popular venue for fans so we felt it was vital to keep the matches at this ground."

The Jamaica matches will now take place on Thursday, August 15 at 2:00 pm (Jamaica vs Guyana), Saturday, August 17 featuring a doubleheader at 10:00 am (St Lucia vs Trinidad & Tobago) and 2:00 pm (Jamaica vs Barbados), and Sunday, August 18 at 2:00 pm (Jamaica vs Trinidad & Tobago).

CPL officials say they are aware of the chal-

lenge of drawing large crowds as a result of the new dates and times.

But event director Rhonda Kelly says there will be added entertainment at Sabina Park.

"Each match will open with live performances by popular local artistes, and there will also be a performance during the match break," said Kelly. (Excerpt from CMC)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | week ending June 13, 2013

Guyanese Alonzo Greaves cops another first-place finish in USA

A

s his one-month stint draws to a close, Guyana’s national cyclist Alonzo Greaves is making maximum use of his remaining time in the United States of America (USA).

The 23-year-old Roraima Bikers Club representative is set to return home this weekend, but is determined to leave his mark in the USA before he does so.

Last weekend, Greaves copped a first place finish and runnerup spot in the two races he competed in, adding to his already impressive results from five previous races.

He was the first to the finish line on Saturday in the Historic Riverton Criterium (Pro 1-2-3) race, while he ended second best the following day in the Connecticut Criterium (Pro 1-2-3).

In both races, over 40 riders took to the starting line.

The top performance on Saturday was Greaves’ second win since arriving in the USA mid last month.

Last Thursday, he won the WS United Category One race.

Apart from the top podium spots on Saturday and Thursday, Greaves also copped fourth in the

CRCA Open Category 1-3; 12th in the Floyd Bennette Category 1-3; 18th in the Bound Brook Criterium Pro-1 and 52nd in the Tour of Somerville Category Pro-1. The talented young rider, who finished fourth overall in this year’s Three-Stage, was slated to compete in another race last Friday evening.

Greaves said he is enjoying the experience so far, and is eager to develop on what he has learnt when he returns to Guyana next weekend.

This is Greaves’ third visit to the USA to participate in cycling training/competition.

He informed that he would be back in time to challenge his counterparts in the Guyana Cycling Federation’s national championship, which is billed for the end of this month.

Greaves has been in tremendous form this season, winning an unprecedented eight races so far in 2013.

His trip has been made possible with support from Digicel, Bounty Farm, Spads Inc., Toucan Industries, Kevin Jeffrey and family, Café Sol, Compton Persaud, Roraima Bikers Club, Linden Dowridge and George Humphrey.

Roraima Bikers Club rider Alonzo Greaves as he competes during one of his five races so far

‘We need to bounce back,’ says Bravo

W

Dwayne Bravo

est Indies were outplayed

by India on Tuesday and lost their second Group B ICC Champions Trophy match by 8 wickets at the Oval. Johnson Charles scored a purposeful 60 at the top of the order and Darren Sammy blasted four sixes in a stunning 56 not out, but 2339 proved inadequate.

India made 236-2, with a brilliant run-a-ball century from left-hander Shikhar Dhawan, and moved top of the group.

The Man-of-the-Match award went to left-arm spinner Rajindra Jadeja, who took a career best five-wicket haul.

The Windies slipped to third position and

will have to beat secondplaced South Africa on Friday in Wales to qualify for the semi-finals.

Windies captain Dwayne Bravo admitted the batting came up short, noting that after a solid start he expected more in the middle overs.

“We need to identify how we can become better and comfortable with the batting group and the middle overs when the slow bowlers are on, and try to pick up the boundaries and build momentum. At the moment, we keep stalling in the middle and that’s where we lose the games. We don’t lose the games in the first six or in the last six; in the middle overs is where actually we lose it as a

batting group,” the captain said after the match.

Bravo was however full of praise for Sammy, who pulled the innings around from 179-8 in the 44th over with some phenomenal power-hitting. He added a record, unbroken 50 off 27 balls with Kemar Roach who supported well.

“I wouldn’t say he [Sammy] had something to prove. He got an opportunity and he did very well. It was the right situation for him and he played his natural game. Sammy is a very competitive person and he comes out there and gives 100 percent at all times whenever he plays for West Indies,” Bravo said.

The captain said his team is looking forward to Friday’s showdown against the Proteas at the Swalec Stadium in Cardiff. India have four points from two matches and have qualified for the semis. South Africa have two points (NRR+ 0.410), West Indies have two points (NRR - 0.086), while Pakistan are yet to register a point and have been eliminated.

“We still have hope.

If we win the next game, we’re on to the next round. If we lose, we go home. So I think we are aware of that. We just have to... improve on our mistakes we made in this game, and look forward to the next game,” Bravo said. (WICB)

Jamaica’s Sheckema Cunningham eyes 'grand slam' medals

S

h e c k e m a Cunningham, Jamaica's top-rated female martial artist, is eyeing the unprecedented feat of medalling in all three 'grand slam' events on the international fight circuit this year.

Starting with July's International Sports Karate Association (ISKA) United States Open in Orlando, Florida, Cunningham also has sights set on a double in October - the International Taekwondo

Federation World Championships in Spain and the ISKA Worlds in Cyprus.

No Jamaican fighter has ever completed a hattrick of grand slam medals on the international circuit.

Captain of Jamaica's female combined martial arts team, Cunningham is unbeaten in three outings so far this year, the Dutch and Puerto Rico Open, plus the recent Gator Nationals in Daytona, Florida.

Sheckema Cunningham (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

Coached by Jason McKay, the petite 28-year-old fighter was crowned ISKA continuous sparring microweight top gun at last year's Night of Champions at the U.S. Open, a bout televised live on ESPN. McKay was beaming with confidence ahead of the July 4-5 U.S. Open, but warned about the competition at the World Championships.

"The hardest one is the ITF World Championship.

However, we are confident

of gold at the U.S. Open and Cyprus, though," he told Jamaican media.

Cunningham became the first Jamaican female to medal at the ITF World Championships when she and male lightweight Alrick Wanliss landed bronze medals in New Zealand 2011, her biggest achievement so far.

"It's very competitive. That's where you find the best of the best.

Everybody wants to win," she pointed out.

"If you're not on top of

your game and go out to do what you want to do, a World Championship medal will only be a dream. That's the medal everybody wants to get," she added.

Making her quest harder at the U.S. Open, Cunningham will also be leading the national female team in the ISKA Continental Gold Cup in which Jamaica will face the likes of Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Coach Greenidge boasts of strong TT batting in CPL

C

oach of the Trinidad franchise team for the inaugural Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Gordon Greenidge says his club’s batting line-up is one of the strongest in the tournament. The Trinidad franchise includes ace New Zealander Ross Taylor as its international franchise player,

with TT’s Darren Bravo, Kevon Cooper and Adrian Barath, Australia’s Aaron Finch and Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien in their ranks.

Finch has an impressive T20 average of 35.32 with a highest score of 111 not out while Darren (34.87) and his brother Dwayne (28.26) are also dependable with the bat.

Taylor averages 30.02

with a highest score of 111 not out while O’Brien has also scored a century in the shortest format of the game.

“It’s a line-up that is as strong as any of the other teams in the tournament,” Greenidge declared. “It’s strong enough but we can’t leave it up to anybody else to get the job done (when we’re batting).

If we do what we’re supposed to do, then we can put up a competitive score consistently”.

The franchise is captained by Dwayne Bravo, the highest wicket-taker in this year’s edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). While Bravo will be supported by Bajan pacer Fidel Edwards, spinner Samuel Badree and left-

arm spinner Sulieman Benn, the former West Indies opening batsman has conceded that the franchise is a ‘quality bowler’ short.

Greenidge has admitted that last Wednesday’s player auction did not turn out exactly as the Trinidad franchise had planned, as players they had targeted were snapped up by other

franchises.

Trinidad and Tobago: Dwayne Bravo (captain), Ross Taylor, Darren Bravo, Fidel Edwards, Aaron Finch, Samuel Badree, Kevon Cooper, Kevin O’Brien, Sulieman Benn, Adrian Barath, Delorn Johnson, Nicholas Pooran, Yannick Cariah, Miguel Cummins and Justin Guillen. (CMC)

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Bolt laughs off idea he's 'past it' after loss

U

sain Bolt laughed off suggestions he may be 'past it' Tuesday and said he is looking forward to defending his world titles at 100 and 200 metres in Moscow in August.

Bolt, who will run the 200 metres at the Bislett Games Thursday, said he has his "eye on the prize" of the Worlds and is not too concerned after coming off a rare defeat in the 100 metres last Thursday.

Bolt lost by onehundredth of a second to American sprinter Justin Gatlin in Rome, the Jamaican's first significant international loss since the false-start disqualification at the Worlds in South Korea in 2011.

"I'll just point something out. In '08, I lost one race and I won the Olympics that year," Bolt told a news conference. "(The loss to Gatlin) doesn't say much. All I'm concerned about really, is the championship.

Running the runs, getting into shape, figuring out what I need to do to get to the championship."

Bolt is the world record holder over 100 and 200 and any slight dip in form from the athlete widely considered to be the fastest ever is going to attract attention.

His dominance is also be-

N

Usain Bolt

ing questioned as rivals Gatlin, Tyson Gay of the U.S. and Jamaican teammate Yohan Blake begins to look like they could threaten him this season.

"Never try and single out one person to see who's the strongest, because in track and field people get injured all the time," Bolt said. "If I focus on one person and they get injured, then what?

Then you have to change your focus and you may not be ready for that other person. So for me, I just work hard and try to be at my best when those seven people are lined up against me."

Bolt faces local favourite Jaysuma Saidy Ndure Thursday. The 28-yearold set a season's best of 10.13 in the 100 in Rome last week and is relishing the prospect of challenging Bolt again. (AP)

Canadian-born Marisa Dick tops TT’s Level 10 at National Gymnastics

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Marisa Dick

anadian-born Marisa Dick, representing Capital City Gymnastics, emerged as the all-round champion in the Level 10 category on Saturday, at the Trinidad and Tobago Gymnastics Federation National Championships.

The meet, which ended Sunday, was staged at the Woodbrook Youth Facility.

Dick ended with 36.375 points, after winning the vault (9.375 points) and the uneven bars (9.150 points).

Another top national competitor, Thema Williams of Tots and Tumblers Gymnastics Club, was victorious in two events in Level 10 — the balance beam (9.275 points) and the floor exercise (9.325 points).

Williams, who rep-

Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz coach asked to resign

resented Trinidad and Tobago at the Olympic Qualifiers a few years ago, left the crowd impressed at the balance beam with her array of twists and turns that made her the obvious choice for the gold medal.

Other winners in the Men Division - Level 3 were: Floor: Nathan Peacock (International School Gymnastics Club - ISGC) 9.300; Pommel: Daniel Jeary (St Andrews Gymnastics Club - SAG) 9.700; Rings: Joshua Campbell (ISGC) 9.300; Vault: Joshua Campbell and Daniel Jeary 9.700; Parallel Bars: Nathan Peacock 9.400; High Bar: Joshua Campbell 9.000; All Around: Joshua Campbell 55.700.

Level 4 - Floor: Elisha Ali (Olympia Gymnastics Club - OGC) 10.200; Pommel: Shaaven Worrel and Shane Ramsingh (Gymnastics Training Centre - GTC) 9.300; Rings: Shaaven Worrell 10.000; Vault: Elisha Ali 10.000; Parallel Bars: Shane Ramsingh 9.900; High Bar: Elisha Ali 10.3; All Around: Elisha Ali 57.900.

ational senior men's team football coach, Theodore Whitmore, is to resign from his position.

He confirmed that he had been requested to do so by Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president, Captain Horace Burrell.

This follows the Reggae Boyz' 2-0 defeat to Honduras, at the Honduras National Stadium in Tegucigalpa Tuesday night.

"He asked me to ... we had a meeting last (Tuesday) night," Whitmore confirmed, as the team prepared to depart.

"I am going to," Whitmore told Jamaican media Wednesday morning from his room at the Real Intercontinental Tegucigalpa hotel when asked if he has resigned from his position with the JFF. As he was getting ready for the team departure and pressed for time, Whitmore promised to say more.

The decision does not come as a surprise.

The team has failed to win a match in six outings in CONCACAF final round World Cup Qualifying (WCQ).

Tuesday night’s loss was the team’s fourth in

succession and third in eight days.

Jamaica had lost back-to-back home games last week against Mexico and the United States, following a 2-0 defeat at Costa Rica on March 26.

In post-game interviews Tuesday night, Whitmore had been asked if he feared being sacked.

“Once you’re hired you can be fired,” he said.

Whitmore is a former Reggae Boyz captain and two-goal World Cup hero; his strikes enabling Jamaica to win its only match at its only senior World Cup Finals appearance, at France '98, when they beat Japan 2-1.

He is the second Jamaican coach to be sacked in Honduras, as Brazilian Rene Simoes was fired by Burrell after a loss virtually eliminated the team from World Cup Qualifiers in 2008.

When Simoes had been sacked in 2008, the decision was announced to the Jamaican media travelling with the team at a hastily arranged briefing at the Honduran airport.

Now, the Jamaica team is in a similar position as it is at the bottom of the six-nation standings on two points.

Theodore Whitmore

They are not yet out of the race, but far worse off.

Barring Panama, all the other contenders in the Hexagonal gained distance Tuesday night in the hunt for a spot at next year’s Finals in Brazil.

The United States extended their winning streak, a 2-0 margin over previously undefeated Panama, to take control of the elimination with 10 points.

Mexico drew goalless at the Azteca for the fourth time in the Hex,

against Costa Rica, as both inched up to eight points, while Honduras’ victory catapulted them up the standings to seven points, as they leapfrogged Panama, on six.

Jamaica and Mexico have played six matches, while the others have played five. Each will play 10.

The top three automatically qualify for Brazil, while fourth will play Oceania champions New Zealand in home and away play-offs for another spot. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Barbados’ Carter in the money in Canada

B

arbadian Kyle Carter won his first added-money race of the Northlands Park season when he steered outsider ‘Silver Baubles’ to the capture of the Cdn$58 360 (BDS$114 588) ‘Journal Handicap’ in Edmonton last Saturday.

The triumph, in the 58th running of the event, capped a superb day at the western Canada oval for Carter, who also won race four with ‘Grand Request’ and race nine with ‘U Play U Pay’.

With his latest successes, Carter moved into a four-way tie for third in the jockeys standings on ten wins, with fellow Barbadian and twotime defending champion Rico Walcott out front on 37 wins after landing a handsome triple on Saturday.

The day belonged to Carter, however. Going six furlongs, Carter and Silver Baubles stalked the leaders from fifth, as ‘LA Weekend’ led through the first quarter before ‘Tiny Giant’ and ‘Wild About Chrome’ emerged as the new con-

FLASHBACK: Kyle Carter on Turbulent Guy (right) heading to a close victory over Queendora, ridden by Anderson Trotman, at the Garrison Savannah. (FP)

tenders at the half-mile.

Once in the stretch, Carter rallied the fouryear-old chestnut gelding and he responded, overhauling the leaders and racing to the finish 1-1/4 lengths clear in a time of one minute, 11.80 seconds.

“Winning a race like this is always exciting.

It’s what you hope for,”

said trainer Ron Grieves.

Tiny Giant finished second while odds-on favourite and defending champion ‘Commander’ was third.

Walcott, meanwhile, continued to threaten to run away with the riding title, with another excellent outing.

He won race one with favourite ‘Bouree’ going a

mile on dirt for the threeyear-olds and upward fillies and mares, and followed up in race two with victory aboard ‘Rockport Street’ in a 6-1/2 furlong trip for three-year-olds.

Walcott completed his triple when he carried odds-on bet ‘Quite Contrary’ to a comfortable win in race six over 6-1/2 furlongs. (CMC)

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

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

INTERNATIONAL WEEK ENDING JUNE 13 , 2013

W

ith just over seven weeks to go until the inaugural Caribbean Premier League kicks off, CPL Limited has announced the signing of its first franchise agreement on behalf of Guyana. The franchisee is well-known

“The CPL is just what we needed in the Caribbean and in Guyana. This tournament and my companies’ investment will help to develop cricket talent and also stimulate economies across the region,” says Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop, owner of the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (NEW GPC INC).

Guyanese businessman Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop, owner of the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (NEW GPC INC). The final agreement with Dr Ramroop was signed on Monday in Guyana with CPL officials.

This announcement comes hot on the heels of the recent selection of the

new franchise-based teams that took place on Wednesday, June 5 in Mobay, Jamaica.

Headquartered in Guyana, NEW GPC has been operating for 90 years and is the Caribbean’s oldest and largest pharmaceutical manufacturer of generic pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter cosmetics preparations and veterinary products of the highest quality. Dr Ramroop is very excited about what is to come as the new owner of the Guyana franchise.

"The CPL is just what we needed in the Caribbean and in Guyana. This tournament and my companies’ investment will help to develop cricket talent and also stimulate economies across the region," said Ramroop.

"We are elated to be part of this inaugural year and look forward to the growth and development of CPL, which we believe will be the envy of the cricketing world,” the businessman stated.

Guyana Franchise Partner Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop and CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O'Donohoe at the signing of the Guyana CPL Franchise

Guyana’s franchise players are West Indian Sunil Narine and Pakistan player Mohammed Hafeez. They are joined by players drafted last Wednesday – Ramnaresh Sarwan, Lendl Simmons, Denesh Ramdin, James Franklin, Chris Barnwell, Martin Guptill, Krishmar Santokie, William Perkins, Steven Jacobs, Ronsford Beaton, Trevon Griffith, Narsingh Deonarine and Veerasammy Permaul.

"We are thrilled to have Dr Ramroop and his group of companies as part of

the CPL," CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O’Donohoe said.

"It is clear that he understands our vision and what we want to achieve. We appreciate the enthusiasm he brings and we believe that Team Guyana will benefit greatly from his support," the CPL official indicated.

The inaugural Caribbean Premier League starts on July 30 in Barbados and concludes on August 24 in Trinidad.

The matches in Guyana take place July 31 and August 2 and 4.

Caribbean Times International - (Canada Office) Unit 12, 680 Rexdale Blvd., Etobicoke, Toronto, Ontario M9WOB5 email: news@caribbeantimesinternational.com, marketing@caribbeantimesinternational.com, caribtimes@gmail.com