Guyana Times Daily

Husband allegedly killed by wife’s lover

Atriangular love affair ended tragically on Friday morning in Haslington, East Coast Demerara, leaving a man dead and his wife hospitalised.

Chetram Bharrat, 41, a fisherman of Lot 418 Haslington, New Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara sustained several chops to the head, upper body and one of his hands was almost severed after his attackers entered his house armed with a cutlasses. He was found dead on his bed about 04:00h.

During the brutal attack, the dead man’s wife, Lomattie Ramdat, 36, intervened and she too suffered chops about her body.

She was reportedly chopped to the head, face and hand. Parts of her nostrils and lips were severed as well as a portion of her elbow.

Up to press time, the woman was still in theatre at the Georgetown Public Hospital undergoing a surgery. The suspect whose name was given as Errol Khan of Enmore, East Coast Demerara is still on the run. Police at C Division have launched a manhunt for him.

According to information received, the attack stemmed from an unfaithful marriage. Guyana Times understands that Ramdat and Bharrat were married for the past 22 years, but recently Ramdat forged a relationship with Khan and were living together as a couple while the now dead

man was away in Suriname.

At the scene, Lalita Goberdan, a sister of the woman, told this publication that she was at home when she received the devastating news about 03:50h on Friday morning.

The woman stated that in a panick; she woke everyone in the house and rushed to her sister’s home.

Gruesome scene

Upon her arrival, she said the house was dark and on checking, they found the couple in the house covered in blood. The man, she added was already dead while her sister was panting for breath. She was picked up by her son, placed in a taxi and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Goberdan explained that the suspect had threatened to kill the couple and their children about a year ago; hence, the teenagers moved in with her. The dis-

tressed woman added that in January, Bharrat left Guyana to work at sea in Suriname but only retuned about two weeks ago.

During his stay in Suriname, he telephoned his sister-in-law and requested of her to keep his wife at her home until he comes home since the man was constantly threatening to kill her. After his return, they moved back into their home, but without their children who refused to go.

A neighbour who asked to remain anonymous told Guyana Times that she was awakened by a loud screams emanating from the couple’s home. She said after a while, the place went silent. She too confirmed that the injured woman’s action may have been responsible for her husband’s demise.

Meanwhile, contrary to the story being told, the Police stated that Bharrat was chopped to death and his wife battling for her life after bandits invaded their Haslington home early this morning.

Police investigations revealed that two men, both of whom were armed with cutlasses, entered the couple’s home through a window. The men demanded cash and jewellery during which the two victims were chopped about their bodies.

The man’s body was taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Home and is awaiting a post-mortem examination. He leaves to morning his two children and three siblings. The Police are continuing their investigations.

Corentyne toddler drowns in reservoir

The quiet community of Friendship on the Corentyne Coast was thrown in a state of shock and disbelief after Thavish Ramnarine, one, was found dead in a reservoir on Thursday.

The incident occurred about 18:00h on Tuesday at the toddler’s Lot 46 Friendship Village Corentyne, Berbice home.

According to reports, the child was playing in the yard while his mother Sunita Balkarran, 22, was preparing the family’s dinner.

She related how the discovery was made.

“I was in the kitchen preparing dinner and he was in the front yard playing, after a while I did not hear any sound and I decide to come out and see where he was,” she recalled.

The mother added that when she checked in front of the yard, her son was nowhere and this prompted her to check at the back, where her husband farms.

There a reservoir is situated for farming purposes.

She also pointed out that

the gate at the backyard is always secured, but she was clueless as to how it was left open on the day in question.

“When I went to the backyard, I see the gate open and I thought that my baby was in the garden playing, I pass the reservoir and went down to the end of the yard but I did not see him,” the grief-stricken woman said.

She said she became agitated and started to shout

his name with the hope he would appear and give her his adorable smile.

“When I turn back to come out of the garden, I just happened to glance in the reservoir and it was then I saw my baby floating in the water,” she wept.

According to neighbours, the woman's piercing scream brought them running to the scene and they subsequently pulled the child out of the water and tried to resuscitate him, but according to reports, the toddler was already dead.

According to information received, instead of rushing the child to the nearest hospital, the mother was advised to leave him lying beside the reservoir while neighbours summoned the Police.

Meantime, the father of the dead child Briganand Ramnarine, 32, a farmer, was too devastated to speak with media operatives.

The dead toddler is currently at the Ramoo’s Funeral Home awaiting an autopsy.

Dead: Chatram Bharrat

Thavish Ramnarine

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday May 3 from 05:30h-07:00h

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday May 3 from 06:15h-07:45h

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Heavy rain showers are expected to give way to light rain showers during the day with clear to cloudy skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Wind: North easterly between 5.36 metres and 5.81 metres per second.

High Tide: 06:41h and 19:10h reaching maximum heights of 2.59 metres and 2.42 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 00:16h and 12:43h reaching minimum heights of 0.73 metre and 0.65 metre respectively.

may 3, 2014|

Rodney wanted walkie-talkie for party communication

…brother says PNC saw opportunity to kill him

By Alexis Rodney

Dr Walter Rodney’s elder brother Edward Rodney on Friday told the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) investigating his death, which took place some 33 years ago, that his brother may have had many reasons for being interested in walkie-talkie devices.

It was a walkie-talkie device which he received from a trusted friend that caused his untimely death on June 13, 1980.

Dr Walter Rodney was 38 years old at the time and had become a thorn in the side of the then ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) Government led by the late President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.

The elder Rodney was giving further evidence at the Commission set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of his brother.

“Eddie” Rodney told the Commissioners that among the many reasons his brother may have wanted a walkie-talkie device was for the freedom to communicate with other members of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA).

He also informed the inquiry of the training Dr Rodney received in East Africa. He said his brother may have developed the notion that WPA members having walkie-talkies in their possession would allow the party to cover its base.

“I think Walter recognised that being able to communicate meant not just being able to speak to people at public places, but to receive, to get feedback, for people to reach him and that was one of the reasons why he thought it was necessary to have a walkie talkie apparatus.”

Rodney said his brother has had experience working in East Africa, where, unlike Guyana, communication technology was not as developed as they were in other Caribbean Countries. According to him, “he had been to Mozambique; he had been to liberated areas. He had seen the value or values of these kinds of equipment”. He said Dr Rodney probably thought that the WPA could utilise walkietalkies to cover distances.

Self-sufficiency

Rodney continued that his brother had believed in self-sufficiency and would have preferred to get someone to construct a device, rather than purchasing it on the market.

“While he was in East Africa, he was an associate of Frigemo and Frigemo would have from time to time showed him how logical it was to try and capture things… you had to build

your own, you have to construct your own.”

Asked if he knows of any reasons his brother may have wanted to get his hands on explosives, Rodney responded in the negative.

Dr Walter Anthony Rodney was killed on Friday, June 13, 1980 after a bomb exploded in his lap, while he sat in his brother’s car on John Street outside the Georgetown Prisons.

According to Rodney’s younger Brother Donald, who was driving the car at the time, ex-army Sergeant Gregory Smith had given Rodney the bomb concealed in the walkie-talkie that caused his death.

Smith left the country shortly after the incident in June for French Guiana where he lived and worked until his death some 10 years ago.

Meanwhile, Rodney said that his brother’s death was no ordinary one; in fact the elder brother of the politi-

cal activist and historian has concluded that it was an act of terrorism against his brother who stood up against the dictatorial Government of the day.

He recalled that the Government was probably trying to frame members of the WPA to trap them with guns so that they would eventually be caught during the many raids conducted by Government agencies.

The elder Rodney said he was taken to Lyken Funeral Parlour, the morning after his brother was killed, to identify the body. He said while his brother’s face was unblemished, the state of his body proved that there was an explosion. “I was taken into the chamber at the funeral parlour and there was the body of a man on the gully. I recognised the person as Walter and I was asked by the policeman which one was his.” He said he was not sure if the device used for the explosion was indeed a walkie- talkie, but that was the rumour of the day. Rodney, who has had military training in such devices, said the device found in the explosion was consistent with an anti-personnel device (API). According to Rodney, such devices are either thrown or planted either in a book or vehicle or sent through the mail. He said it was used regularly by intelligence services. He said the radio set given to his brother had concealed in it “a very ingenious insertion of a bomb”.

Asked how he could have recognised it was indeed his brother, he said it was from his face. “The facial features alone, I was able to see it was Walter… there was no abrasion on the face so I recognise him,” Rodney told the Commissioners.

Edward Rodney on the stand on Friday

Editor: Nigel Williams

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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Editorial

Bobbing and weaving

The Rodney Commission of Inquiry has been 33 years in the making. With a network of well-positioned friends, acquaintances and admirers spread across three continents, it was always a question of “when” rather than “if” it would come off.

The murder of a high profile political activist, such as was Walter Rodney, was an anomaly in the Caribbean, long tutored in the etiquette of Westminster Parliamentary mores to settle political differences. That the activist was one who had grappled most profoundly with a praxis to deal with race and class, shocked the sensibilities of a generation, and the effects still reverberate in the hearts and minds of that generation.

So for the People’s National Congress (PNC), through its present Chairman Basil Williams, to declare that the Chairman of the CoI, Sir Richard Cheltenham, QC is “biased” because of a statement the gentleman made back in 1980, can only be seen as insulting to the collective consciousness of the Caribbean People.

The statement, uttered at a memorial service for Rodney in 1980, was: “Whatever attempts are made to envelope his death in confusion and surround it with controversy, I doubt that it has brought solace to those who saw his presence and his preachings on the political scene as threat to their political survival.”

Who was it living in the Caribbean between Rodney’s banning from Jamaica in 1968 and his murder most foul in 1980, could have failed to be touched by the man? Sir Richard is hardly unique in wanting justice to be done to Rodney’s memory. But that does not mean he will be willing to perjure his soul to railroad the PNC into perdition.

As Rodney was completing his PhD in England, which he would do in 1966 at the age of 24, he was part of a study group that coalesced around the legendary CLR James. Should the just departed Norman Girvan, who was part of that group, have been disqualified from being the representative of the Good Officer Process of the UN Secretary General in the border controversy with Venezuela?

Banned from reentering Jamaica to teach at the UWI Mona Campus, thousands rioted in the streets in Kingston and across the Caribbean because his “groundings” with the poor and the powerless in the gullies of Jamaica were deemed subversive. Are they all “biased” today that they would ignore the evidence just to “get the PNC”?

Rodney’s groundbreaking work, “How Europe Underdeveloped Africa”, produced while teaching at Tanzania after the Jamaica ban, has been required reading at scores of African Universities since it was issued in 1972? Are they all “biased”?

Back in Guyana in 1974, when the Burnham regime, in the person of Hamilton Green on the University Council, reneged on his appointment to teach history at UG, he remained not only to confront the dictatorship of Burnham, but also the racial dilemma the dictator had created to keep himself in power.

Polarising the country along race, Burnham argued to African Guyanese that the alternative to his rule was that of the “Indian” PPP. Rodney presented a third alternative with his rigid adherence to Marxist principles, even as he acknowledged the salience of ethnicity.

As a proud Pan-African, Rodney had such impeccable credentials that he was the most credible threat to the racial foundation of Burnham’s power. And it is this threat that the PNC is worried about in the present and has them bobbing and weaving with one excuse or the other as to why the CoI is not “credible”: lack of “consultations”, terms of reference, “interested” members of the CoI.

The PNC realises that apart from some of their leaders being fingered in Rodney’s killings (for which they have immunity), the greater threat is an undermining, once again, of the racial polarisation whipped up by them against the PPP Government. The truth might just set the countty free of the PNC’s bullyism.

Minister Manickchand has always been up-front and truthful with the Guyanese people (Part two)

Dear Editor, It is therefore sheer wickedness that two men who live thousands of miles from here, would find the time to slander the reputation of the hard-working Education Minister, whose innovative ideas have just begun to bear fruit in the two years since she was appointed to head that Ministry.

Both Rose and Singh have a common political agenda. Their goal is

to badmouth the PPP/C Administration every chance they get. By parroting the Opposition’s talking points, Dr Asquith Rose hopes to get a political appointment in Guyana or the USA, should he help to bring down the PPP/C Administration.

Sasenarine Harish Singh has a tougher time realising his ambition of becoming Guyana’s Finance Minister now that he has officially resigned

from the AFC. Even if he joins his co-writer by jumping ship, I’m sure that Carl Greenidge will have a thing or two to say about that.

I call upon Dr Asquith Rose and Sasenarine Harish Singh, to publish an apology to Education Minister Priya Manickchand, for distorting her record and trying to tarnish her character. I also wish to extend an invitation to both, to return

to Guyana to see for themselves, real development taking place here. I made the same mistake years ago, believing I can live in New York and know everything that goes on in Guyana by listening to Benschop and reading the local newspapers online. I was wrong... Guyana has come a long way!

Sincerely, Harry Gill

Nagamootoo does what he does best – accuses and generalises

Dear Editor,

It is often difficult to find an authentic moment in Moses Nagamootoo because of his steep preoccupation for outlandish and outrageous distortions. Because he has an axe-to-grind with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), no one expects Nagamootoo to deviate from his vendetta which is solely motivated by bitterness and hate.

So obvious is his tirade, he tries to blame the PPP/C Government for the APNU/AFC actions of over 37 billion in budget cuts to Amerindian and hinterland development, among other initiatives aimed at creating jobs and a better life for Guyanese.

To even contemplate that the Government can be responsible for the reckless Opposition actions is both clumsy and un-clever on the part of Nagamootoo.

With such public sting and outrage penetrating APNU/AFC, no amount of

twisting of facts and reality can spare the Opposition from the heat for jeopardising the country’s development prospects.

The recent Oppositionimposed budget cuts proved very clearly that there is more of an obsession in undermining the PPP/C Government by placing undue hardship on the people of Guyana and reversing the years of social and economic progress.

Nagamootoo does what he does best; accuses and generalises, but with no supporting evidence. He attempts to put wool over the eyes of every Guyanese by pointing to a reduction in remittances in 2013 knowing full well that this has been attributed to the global economic crisis.

The Alliance for Change (AFC) Vice Chairman is further exposed when his lamentation of the USGuyana exchange rate increase omits the fact that it is tied to his party’s failure

to support the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill 2013.

A local newspaper on March 2 confirmed this when it quoted a local cambio dealer as saying, “The exchange rate fluctuates for different reasons, but this is happening because of the Anti-Money Laundering situation”.

The AFC in unison with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) ignored advice emanating from every conceivable corner which called on them to pass the AML/CFT Bill.

He challenges the political values of the PPP/C, but ignored, deliberately so, the crumbling of his own party which continues to witness mass migration of its members over corruption, lack of transparency and lack of accountability within the AFC.

Guyanese are witnessing by the day, the insincer-

ity of the AFC which continues to pursue ‘change’, yes, for the worse. Many of its members have exited because the AFC has failed to live up to its ideals and by the minute it is hard to make a distinction between the AFC and PNC/APNU and their disruptive, confrontational politics. We recalled the role played by the AFC in instigating the Linden and Agricola violent unrest.

The most glaring example of the recognition of AFC failure to live up to its ideals was its recent rejection by hundreds of sugar workers who booed and chased away Nagamootoo outside Parliament building.

I expect the recurring vendetta campaign of distortions and vilification to continue, spearheaded by a bitter and disillusioned Nagamootoo.

Sincerely, Dexter Glasgow

A white Bengal female tiger frolics with her three cubs, who were born in captivity, at the Huachipa’s zoo in Lima, Peru (BBC Future)

Racism and reverse-racism

Dear Editor,

I refer to an article published on April 29 in another section of the press, under the headline, “Lawyer disbarred in US gets top post in Guyana”. Reference was being made to Shaun Orville Allicock who was admitted to the Guyana Bar in 1998 and who was subsequently disbarred in the US in 1999.

This headline seemed designed to deceive the public into believing that the Government has committed a huge fraud. However, if you read the article you will notice that no mention was made of the Guyana Bar Association.

I would like to draw the public’s attention to a reply by the Guyana Bar Association to a letter, “Is the Bar Association asleep?” published on November 25, 2007 by MY Bacchus in another local newspaper, in which the then President of the

Guyana Bar Association, Mr Kashir A Khan, in response wrote:

“In addition to its core responsibility of advancing the interests and development of lawyers, the legal profession and the practice of law in Guyana, the Guyana Bar Association has also a broader mandate to speak to and advocate for issues which concern the society at large especially in areas that affect social justice and the rule of law in our society, a natural consequence of our professional remit.”

Yet, a lawyer disbarred in the USA since 1999 is reported to be practising in Guyana as a partner in a law firm and even managed to land himself a top post in a statuary body.

Simply amazing! It appears that the Guyana Bar Association has been in a deep slumber longer than Rip-Van-Winkle and only awoke when Justice

Rabi Sukul was appointed as a judge to the Guyana Court of Appeal.

I recall the loud condemnations by the Guyana Bar Association of Justice Rabi Sukul when the news of his disbarment hit Guyana. I recall weeks of coverage of this matter in the press.

I recall Christopher Ram both personally and in his capacity and as Secretary of the Guyana Bar Association pronouncing with the wisdom of the biblical Solomon. I waited patiently for a similar response in relation to Allicock.

A week has passed since the disclosure in the media. Not a word from Christopher Ram and the Guyana Bar Association and virtually no coverage by the other media houses. The hypocrisy is nauseating.

I recall when the jury tampering allegations surfaced regard-

ing Nigel Hughes, the Attorney General called upon the Guyana Bar Association for a response. The response of the Bar Association was an attack on the Attorney General and as regards the allegations against Hughes; their meek comment is that it is not a matter within their “remit”.

That response came from the President himself, Mr Ronald Burch-Smith. As usual, Christopher Ram, the Secretary of the organisation remained mute. He was quick to attack Jaya Manickchand, however, for certain statements published on Facebook.

If this is not hypocrisy and double standards, I have no doubt that racism and reverse-racism are at work. As for the press, they do not even disguise it.

NTC disturbedgreatly by targeting of Mr Dharamlall

Dear Editor, The National Toshaos Council would like to respond to an editorial published in the Stabroek News on April 28 under the headline, “What the Permanent Secretary said”. What was being discussed at that point in time was relevant to the situation and so the statement that “Low Carbon Development Strategy is the Government of Guyana and the people of Guyana’s project” made by Mr Dharamlall, the Permanent Secretary of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, was in our view, indeed correct.

as a smoke screen to divert the public’s attention from things that will affect the well-being and livelihood of the Amerindian peoples of Guyana. Our villages and communities cannot develop without financial support, and so the non approval of the capital budget of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry and the LCDS and the other areas that will have direct effect on the lives of the Amerindians is a criminal act.

It is crystal clear as to who the perpetrators are with regard to hindering development within our various villages and communities.

Yours sincerely, Faruk

Mohamed

Mr DaCosta sees skeletons in every cupboard

Dear Editor,

Mr Mark DaCosta’s response to my letter that was published on April 18 in another section of the press has clearly indicated that he has an obsession with the PPP/C and its leaders.

This obsession is seen from his constant reference to the late Dr Jagan and then using the good name of Dr Jagan to get at those who have not only joined the party he founded, but who have over the years risen to leadership positions both at the level of the party and Government.

Like his colleagues in the Opposition, Mr

DaCosta sees skeletons in every cupboard. He seems utterly incapable of coming to terms with the fact that ordinary men and women can make it in life by virtue of hard work and application. This is true of workers and farmers as it is of business people and those who hold public office. For the benefit of Mr DaCosta and his ilk, the economy of Guyana is not driven by narco-money and by recourse to corrupt practices and illegal means, as Mr Granger recently alleged. Guyana and by extension, the Guyanese people are much better off today than before.

This is the Guyana that Dr Jagan had wanted to see and for which he dedicated his entire life. A Guyana where every Guyanese regardless of race, religion or political affiliation are provided with an opportunity to grow and develop as far as their ability and talent would allow.

Instead of being obsessive about the PPP/C and its leaders, Mr DaCosta should try to enlighten himself about the tens of thousands of Guyanese who are today, the proud owners of their own homes, vehicles and other consumer goods which they own by dint of hard

work and taking advantage of the opportunity provided by the PPP/C Administration. For many, this is a dream come through since under the PNC regime, they never saw a way of owning a home and a car. These are some incontrovertible facts that cannot be ignored or wished away.

Sincerely, Jagnarine Somwar

The Community Development Plans (CDPs) were developed by the people of the various communities and are supposed to be funded through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Guyana and the Kingdom of Norway.

What must be understood is the role of UNDP as the executing agency, and not the funding agency. Moreover, it is expected that the Community Service Officers and Toshaos will be working very closely with these projects and it is important that they have a clear understanding of the role of UNDP.

The Amerindian Affairs Ministry has an open door policy, and it is for this reason that those who have issues or matters to be addressed are always welcomed. We believe that this matter is being blown out of proportion purposely.

This matter is being used

So what did the Permanent Secretary say? Mr Dharamlall was just trying to explain to those attending the meeting that they are not working with the UNDP. In addition to the fact that the CDPs and the LCDS are not projects of the UNDP.

No one was threatened, nor bullied or harassed; so why make a mountain out of a mole hill. Remove the smoke screen and let us deal with the real issue which will have negative effects for our people.

The NTC is greatly disturbed by this fiasco targeting Mr Nigel Dharamlall since he was only supporting the stance that the NTC had taken in reacting to the sickening development in Parliament by the combined Opposition on Amerindian development.

Respectfully,

Derrick John

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

Page Foundation

How you can help your children succeed in school

BY COLORÍN COLORADO

* Find homework help for your child if needed. If it is difficult for you to help your child with homework or school projects, see if you can find someone else who can help. Contact the school, tutoring groups, after school programmes, churches, and libraries. Or see if an older student, neighbour, or friend can help.

* Help your child prepare for tests. Tests play an important role in determining a student’s grade. Your child may also take one or more standardised tests during the school year, and your child’s teacher may spend class time on test preparation throughout the year. As a parent, there are a number of ways that you can support your child before and after taking a standardised test, as well as a number of ways you can support your child’s learning habits on a daily basis that will help her be more prepared when it’s time to be tested.

Get involved with your child’s school

* Learn what the school offers. Read the information the school sends home, and ask to receive information in your native language if necessary. Talk to other parents to find out what programmes the school offers. Maybe there’s a music programme, after-school activity, sports team, or tutoring programme your child would enjoy. Remember to keep track of events throughout the school year.

* Volunteer at your child’s school and/or join your school’s parent-teacher group. Teachers appreciate it when parents help out at the school! There are many ways you can contribute. You can volunteer in your child’s class or in the school library. You can make food for a school event. If you work during the day, you can attend “parents’ night” activities or your child’s performances. At most schools, a group of parents meets regularly to talk about the

school. This group is usually called the PTA. The meetings give you a good chance to talk with other parents and to work together to improve the school.

Get informed and be an advocate for your child

* Ask questions. If something concerns you about your child’s learning or behaviour, ask the teacher or principal about it and seek their advice. Your questions may be like these – what specific problem is my child having with reading? What can I do to help my child with this problem? How can I stop that bully from picking on my son? How can I get my child to do homework? Which reading group is my child in?

* Learn about your rights. It’s important to know what your rights are as the parent regarding special services, English instruction, immigration status, and more.

* Let the school know your concerns. Is your child doing well in school? Is he

or she having trouble learning, behaving, or studying? Is there a problem with another student, teacher, or administrator?

Support your child’s learning at home

* Demonstrate a positive attitude about education to your children. What we say and do in our daily lives can help them to develop positive attitudes toward school and learning and to build confidence in themselves as learners. Showing our children that we both value education and use it in our daily lives provides them with powerful models and contributes greatly to their success in school.

* In addition, by showing interest in their children’s education, parents and families can spark enthusiasm in them and lead them to a very important understanding- that learning can be enjoyable as well as rewarding and is well worth the effort required.

* Monitor your child’s television, video game, and

Internet use. American children on average spend far more time watching TV, playing video games and using the Internet than they do completing homework or other school-related activities.

* Encourage your child to read. Helping your child become a reader is the single most important thing that you can do to help the child to succeed in school-and in life. The importance of reading simply can’t be overstated. Reading helps children in all school subjects. More important, it is the key to lifelong learning.

* Talk with your child. Talking and listening play major roles in children’s school success. It’s through hearing parents and family members talk and through responding to that talk that young children begin to pick up the language skills they will need if they are to do well. For example, children who don’t hear a lot of talk and who aren’t encouraged to talk themselves often have problems

learning to read, which can lead to other school problems. In addition, children who haven’t learned to listen carefully often have trouble following directions and paying attention in class. It’s also important for you to show your child that you’re interested in what he has to say.

* Encourage your child to use the library. Libraries are places of learning and discovery for everyone. Helping your child find out about libraries will set him on the road to being an independent learner. Remember that libraries also offer a quiet place for students to complete homework, and are often open in the evening.

* Encourage your child to be responsible and work independently. Taking responsibility and working independently are important qualities for school success. You can help your child to develop these qualities by establishing reasonable rules that you enforce consistently, making it clear to your child that he has to take responsibility for what he does, both at home and at school, showing your child how to break a job down into small steps, and monitor what your child does after school, in the evenings and on weekends. If you can’t be there when your child gets home, give her the responsibility of checking in with you by phone to discuss her plans.

* Encourage active learning. Children need active learning as well as quiet learning such as reading and doing homework. Active learning involves asking and answering questions, solving problems and exploring interests. Active learning also can take place when your child plays sports, spends time with friends, acts in a school play, plays a musical instrument or visits museums and bookstores. To promote active learning, listen to your child’s ideas and respond to them. Let him jump in with questions and opinions when you read books together. When you encourage this type of give-and-take at home, your child’s participation and interest in school is likely to increase. (colorincolorado.org)

APNU calls for inquiry into alleged abuse at NOC

APartnership for National Unity (APNU) Leader David Granger said the coalition has no confidence in the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry’s ability to manage the affairs of the New Opportunity Corps (NOC).

The opposition Leader expressed the view at a press briefing at his Hadfield Street Office, Georgetown on Friday. He was at the time in the company of APNU Members of Parliament (MPs) Christopher Jones and Africo Selman.

Granger’s pronouncement comes on the heels of reports of sexual violation by NOC staffers.

APNU is also calling for an independent Commission of Inquiry into the reports and the management of the NOC.

“APNU proposes further that responsibility for the Corps be transferred to another Ministry or agency that possesses the requisite personnel and skills and is better prepared to administer to the lives of juveniles sympathetically,” Granger told a full house of media operatives.

While he said major emphasis should be placed on education, the Opposition Leader said a reformed Human Services Ministry would manage the facility better than the Youth Ministry.

“The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport does not possess the skills or does not have the sympathy or empathy to do this sort of function.” However, he made it clear that that the Opposition would not nominate a Ministry.

New approach

What is needed to curb the perpetration of abuses and interpersonal violence at NOC is a new approach and

agency, Granger contended as he tagging the NOC fire in 2012 as the worst incident of violence in the entire history of the institution. To date, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony is yet to table the report of the Commission of Injury in the National Assembly after more than 20 months after the incident.

“The absence of the report clearly has resulted in the Ministry’s inability to comprehend the problem and to prevent the recurrence of abuses similar to those that are alleged to have triggered the August 2012 events.”

Referencing the most recent “escape” which occurred during March 22-24, and involved 11 juveniles, Granger said the Opposition is deeply concerned, especially with reports of sexual harassment and exploitation of juvenile girls at the institution.

Other concerns

The coalition is also concerned about repeated escapes, the criminalisation of juveniles by subjecting them to arrest, detention and prosecution by the Guyana Police Force in the criminal

justice system.

“APNU calls on the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration to implement urgent measures to ensure the safety of all juveniles at the Corps,” Granger said while calling on the Ministries of Culture, Youth and Sport, Education and Human Services to pay keener interest the protection of inmates at the institution.

Jones, who is the APNU Shadow Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, told media operatives that over the years there have been repeated reports of harassment emanating from the NOC. “Females have been impregnated at the institution,” he pointed out, while calling on the Government to do better for the youths of Guyana.

Alluding to the recent incident which unfolded in March, Jones read to the press a letter which was written by a 16-year-old girl who was among the 11 who escaped and were recaptured. A copy of the letter was given to Guyana Times

In the letter, the teen whose name was given,

OPR to investigate shooting of teenager

chronicled her experienced at the correctional facility. It was alleged that she was verbally, physically and even sexual abused.

“I have been badly beaten in my head, back, face and also on my part that my mom says no one should touch,” the girl said.

The teenage, who expressed regret at the fact that she had allowed herself to be at the institution, said the NOC has had a negative impact on her life as she begged to be sent home to her mother.

Not a bad place

“NOC is not a bad place but it is some of the staff and some of the students that make this place bad. One of these days somebody in that place will take their life,” she opined.

According to Jones, copies of the letter were revealed to Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry officials by the parent of the teenager. Relatives of the 16-yearold also met with representatives from the Human Services Ministry.

“The representatives there said to them that the letter means absolutely nothing,” the APNU MP said.

Without any sign of uncertainty, Jones said this is a clear attempt by the ministries involved to cover up the major issue.

Meanwhile, Selman said while UNICEF and UNDP have done a commendable job at the NOC, there exists the need for a family reunification programme to help children reunite with relatives through intensive clinical assessments.

The Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has been mandated to investigate the shooting incident where Alex Griffith, 15, of North-East La Penitence was shot in the month by a policeman on Wednesday evening.

According to A Division Commander Clifton Hicken during a telephone interview with Guyana Times on Friday, the policeman is still under close arrest.

He added that upon the completion of the investigation, a decision will be taken on the say forward.

The Commander further noted that once an allegation has been levelled against a policeman, a thorough investigation is launched and appropriate action is taken.

He also claimed that the report given by the teenager’s mother was just a speculation, and more so, she is a civilian who gave her side of the story.

However, the teenager remains a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital as doctors continue to monitor his condition. His mother, Marcelle Griffith on Friday afternoon told this publication that a lawyer and several political activists have visited her son offering comfort.

She, however, is fearful that the Police might want to harm her child while he is in hospital, and as such, has requested for him to be taken to a private room of the medical facility.

Signs of recovery

Up to Friday afternoon, she added that her son was still unable to speak, but was showing signs of recovery. He could hardly consume liquid much less eat, she said.

The woman said she has met with several senior ranks of the Police Force, who promised her to conduct a full investigation into the matter.

APNU Leader David Granger APNU MP Christopher Jones

Shot teen: Alex Griffith

Kitty man remanded on robbery, other changes

Nigel Norville, 18, of 168 Duncan Street, Kitty on Friday pleaded not guilty to several charges when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The first charge alleged that on April 29, at Festival City, North Ruimveldt, Norville, armed with a gun, robbed Marcel Fitzaben of one gold chain valued $150,000 while the second charge alleged that on the day in question, he discharged several rounds at the Virtual Complainant (VC) with intent to harm

him. The third and fourth charges alleged that on the said day, Norville also had in his possession a 9mm pistol and five bullets without being the holder of a licence. According to reports, he was allegedly caught near the crime scene.

However, Defence Counsel Adrian Thompson told the court that if this was so, his client should have been caught with the stolen gold chain as well as the weapon and matching ammunition.

Thompson said too that his client has no knowledge of the firearm, but was allegedly held in Police cus-

tody since Tuesday last. Thompson also claimed that his client was gunbutted and he has a medical on the condition of the young man.

The Attorney also told the court that Norville had no previous brushes with the law, and appealed for reasonable bail, noting that his client is prepared to lodge his passport and report to the Police station when required.

Prosecutor Michael Grant informed the court that on the day in question, the VC was walking on the street in Festival City wearing a gold chain when the defendant approached

him and attempted to relieve him of the gold chain.

A scuffle ensued between the two and three shots were fired during the scuffle. He said Police, who were in the vicinity at the time, came to the scene and arrested the defendant.

According to a Police report, the gun was recovered on the defendant but not the gold chain. Prosecutor Grant objected to bail based on the prevalence of the offence and the firearm being recovered on the defendant.

Norville was remanded to prison and will make his next court appearance on May 23 in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

12-year-old seven months pregnant

A12-year-old girl on the Corentyne is now seven months pregnant after she was allegedly raped by a relative.

According to a source close to the victim, the first rape occurred in the latter part of 2013 and continued on several occasions.

The 12-year-old had confided to a relative about what transpired. She related that both her mother and stepfather are alcoholics and when they would usually go out to imbibe, the 19-yearold male relative would use the opportunity to have sexual intercourse with her.

She told the source she was afraid to tell anyone since the perpetrator had threatened her. The mat-

ter was only brought to light some three weeks ago after the child complained of feeling unwell; it was at this point she was taken by her mother to a doctor who confirmed that she was indeed pregnant and that the pregnancy was well in its seventh month.

According to reports, the matter also attracted the attention of the Child Welfare Department who investigated the matter and placed the child in the care of the aunt of the alleged perpetrator.

This move, according to some villagers was outrageous since the 19-year-old would visit the girl.

Reports gathered indicated that the girl, after confiding the entire ordeal to the relative, changed her story sometime after, saying she was raped by an 18-year-old who offered to drop her home from school.

She said, she was forced to have sex with him on the first occasion but on the second and third occasions, she consented. They believed the

child was forced to change her story to protect the relative. Residents are hoping that the relevant authority can step in and thoroughly investigate the matter.

Norton Street man remanded for larceny

A21-year-old Norton Street, Lodge man was on Friday placed on $200,000 bail when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Wazir Hussain, who is a trainee at the Guyana Police Force Training College Headquarters, Eve Leary, pleaded not guilty to the charge of larceny.

It is alleged that he stole one cellphone valued $90,000, property of Kosy Arthur.

Hussain was represented by Attorney Paul FungA-Fat, who told the court that the phone was recovered and his client subsequently confessed to the crime.

He further stated that Hussain was locked up for five days and was not fed by a rank, who was named, for two of the five days he spent imprisoned.

Prosecutor Michael Grant did not object to bail and was instructed to carry out an investigation into the starvation allegation made against the rank.

Hussain will make his next court appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on May 30.

Eyew tness

Jumping from limb to limb...

...by Lincoln the Loud

Well, what’d you know!! Lincoln “the Loud” Lewis picking up cudgels on behalf of sugar workers??? Your Eyewitness wasn’t sitting down when he read that delectable morsel in the papers and nearly fell face down on the concrete floor. Nearly.

Here it was that this is the same fella who got to where he is – as head of the TUC – because that body has studiously refused to accord the sugar union that represents sugar workers the voting weight it should have because of its size.

When it came down to brass tacks, GAWU was the largest union in Guyana – with some 25,000 members at its peak. Even with workers streaming out of the industry in droves, it still has about 18,000 members. But in the TUC, it still had the same voting power of the lowest two bit salt-goods shop union. And so it was that GAWU could never have the weight of the TUC to fight on behalf of the sugar workers.

And all kinds of indignities were heaped on them. Like Lincoln the Loud being elected as head of the TUC and Komal Chand never becoming the bridesmaid, much less the bride. Like the sugar factories falling into ruin and sugar cane fields abandoned because the profits were squeezed out of the industry by a levy that subsidised the rest of Guyana for things like free electricity. We needn’t go on with more illustrations, do we?

Fact of the matter is that Burnham always said there were many ways to skin a cat. (He actually went on at length about ways to “kill” a cat, but we won’t go there. It’s revealing, but psychotic.) After he recognised GAWU in 1976 for the PPP’s support on nationalising the sugar industry, he knew that this was just one, big, mamaguy. GAWU would be a toothless tiger when the TUC, filled as it was with any number of paper unions controlled by Burnham, toed the latter’s line.

So for Lincoln the Loud to shed crocodile tears for sugar workers is pathetic. It’s simply a ploy to threaten the PNC/APNU for not going along his antiRUSAL crusade. What he should do, if by some miracle he was struck by a bolt of lightning on his way to Woolford Avenue, is to resign his position as General Secretary of the TUC forthwith.

Wearing sackcloth as ashes, he should offer the position to Komal Chand, for keeping him in the wilderness for so many moons.

...by wannabe warlord

Both the Government and APNU made a terrible blunder when they created the wannabe warlord, Sharma Solomon, from Region 10. You know about these “warlords” don’t you? Well if you’ve been following matters in tribal or clan-based states like Somalia, you’d know that they don’t respect any central authority – they just want what they want for their “people” and to the hell with the rest of the country.

To stave off a challenge from AFC that started the whole brouhaha, APNU let Solomon take the lead in the protest that led to three Lindeners being slaughtered by gunmen unknown. All of the national attention went to Solomon’s head and the swelling of that cranial structure wasn’t helped when the Government decided to negotiate directly with the Regional Council headed by Solomon. Big mistake.

Like all warlords, Solomon decided to shakedown the locals for the “protection” he was “providing” them. Most recently this was exposed by his dealings with the owner of the local radio station. After dragging the region’s feet on paying the radio for services rendered, Solomon uttered the not so veiled threat to the owner: “I hope so far your morning has been peaceful.” And he feigns surprise that the poor owner is worried!!!

US might retaliate to Bradbury’s work permit termination – Granger

Opposition Leader

David Granger said the Government would have to pay a price for terminating the work permit of the head of the Leadership and Democracy (LEAD) Project.

Granger was on Friday alluding to the Government of Guyana’s decision to revoke the work permit and extension of stay issued to Glen Bradbury, the head of the LEAD Project.

When asked to elaborate on his comment, Granger further stated: “In diplomacy, there is jook for jook.”

According to the Opposition Leader, he had no idea that negotiations between the two countries on the LEAD initiative had broken down in recent times.

“I understand that the Embassy of the United States of America and the Office of the President were actually involved in talks. I did not get the impression that the talks had broken down, and such, a drastic action was necessary at this point in time,” Granger told the press at his Hadfield Street Office.

Nevertheless, Granger said the Opposition regrets the actions taken by the Donald Ramotar Administration, contending that the project which was designed to promote democracy was beneficial.

Last Wednesday, Granger addressed the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS) on Guyana’s diplomacy at an event organised by UGSS and the International Republican Institute (IRI).

“It was a very large audience and I got the impression that the students appreciated what was being said,” he noted that it was a healthy intellectual discourse which gave students an opportunity to express themselves on

matters of national interest.

In general, the coalition believes that the LEAD initiative would have educated the young population on the complex local government system and elections.

Granger’s position should be taken with a tip of salt, according to a top PPP executive, who pointed out the irony in the matter.

The official said that Granger was putting the interests of the US in front of that of the Government because the project would benefit the Opposition more. The PPP executive maintained that the true intentions of the IRI and US were very evident, as the Government was forced to object to several clauses of the LEAD Project.

Unpatriotic

The official maintained that it was a shame that Granger refused to stand on the side of the Guyanese people and their Government, but it was not surprising given the history of the PNC.

On Wednesday, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon announced that the Guyana Government has rescinded the work permit and stay extension of Bradbury

who led the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)funded International Republican Institute (IRI) LEAD Project. According to Dr Luncheon, Bradbury had breached the Immigration Laws of Guyana.

The US Government also said it regrets the decision taken by the Government of Guyana over the concerns about the continued implementation of the governance programme which it had rejected.

“The decision to revoke Mr Bradbury’s permit is contrary to our understanding of the Government of Guyana’s commitment to review together the LEAD programme and to the spirit of the discussions proposed by the Government of Guyana itself,” the US said in a statement Friday morning.

The US said too that it welcomes the willingness of the Government of Guyana to re-engage in discussions with the US on democracy and governance, and specifically in relation to the USAID LEAD project.

“LEAD is designed to benefit the Government and people of Guyana through the promotion of understanding and consensus-building within the National Assembly; greater citizen engagement with Parliament; civic education on local Government; and greater civic engagement among women and youth.”

Washington said the LEAD Project implements the objectives described in the USAID Assistance Agreement for Governing Justly and Democratically reached between the US Government and the Government of Guyana in 2009.

OPR to investigate shooting...

The Police are still to take a statement from the young man and will have to wait until he recovers.

The 15-year-old boy was on Wednesday night shot to the mouth by a Police rank who had accused him of being a witness to a robbery in the North East La Penitence Squatting Area earlier in the day.

Police said in a release that investigations are being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the incident which resulted in Griffith being shot to his mouth by a policeman about 20:55h.

The incident occurred during a response to a report of robbery with aggravation committed on a

relative of the rank earlier in the evening.

Moments after the shooting, the teen reportedly told his mother that on their way to the Police station, the rank who is known to the teen continued to question him about the robbery committed on his (policeman) sister and after he held out that he knew nothing of the incident, the man placed a single bullet in the gun and pulled the trigger.

On the first attempt, the gun reportedly snapped, thus, the rank pulled the trigger for the second time and it went off. The bullet, according to hospital officials has caused severe dam-

age to the young man’s mouth and to the back of his head.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM), the youth arm of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has condemned what it described as the irresponsible shooting of Griffith.

The group in a release stated that the vile action by the Police Force should not be allowed to continue to fester in the ranks of the Police Force and swept under the carpet as previous incidents have, especially in light of a new Commissioner embarking on fostering a good relationship with the people.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon

Another murder rocks Baramita

Two weeks after a woman allegedly stabbed her reputed husband to death during a fight at Baramita, North West District, a woman was on Friday morning found dead in a mining camp in the same village.

The dead woman was identified as Destina Basil, 25. She was found about 07:00h in the mining camp with blood ooz-

ing from her nostrils. The Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

The body of the woman was taken to the Port Kaituma Hospital Mortuary and is awaiting a post-mortem examination. Two weeks ago, Junior Brandt, 32, of Baramita was stabbed to death during an argument with his reputed wife who

is still on the run.

Over the past weeks, there have been several murders in various interior locations. The recent being that of Terrence Robin James, 23, of Kwatamang Village, Rupununi. He was found with stab wounds along the Tabatinga roadway.

It is believed that the man might have attended the rodeo at Lethem

and was on his way home when he was attacked and stabbed to the chest. No one has yet been arrested. In another incident, Victor Pires, 62, allegedly shot and killed his reputed wife Pamela Martin, 39, during an argument. He later shot himself. An improvised shotgun and three empty cartridges were found at the scene by the Police.

Quamina Street stabbing stemmed from stealing – Police

As Police continue their investigations into the stabbing to death of Nigel Lawson on Thursday evening at Quamina Street, Georgetown, it is believed that the man might have stolen two electronic devices from the main suspect.

Police in a release stated that investigations so far revealed that a Security Guard on duty at a residence in Quamina Street had left his iPod and cellphone on a chair in front of the building while making

routine checks. On his return to the front of the building, the guard saw Lawson leaving the compound and upon checking, he realised that his iPod and cellphone were missing.

The Police added that the guard confronted Lawson and an argument ensued, resulting in an altercation during which he was fatally stabbed. The items iPod were retrieved from Lawson by the Security Guard, the Police added. The suspect is in

Police custody and is assisting with investigations. Meanwhile, it was reported that the man was stabbed following a row over the dumping of garbage in front of a premises along Quamina Street.

Reports are that Lawson, who is a handyman and reportedly works at a wash bay, was walking east along Quamina Street when he was approached by a male on a bicycle who shouted at him to remove garbage from a spot that he had dumped it.

Lawson reportedly refused and a scuffle ensued between the two men. It was during the scuffle that the Security Guard stabbed Lawson about the body three times.

Residents in the area raised an alarm after they heard the screams of Lawson and summoned the Police, who arrived promptly on the scene. The residents pointed out that Lawson is well known in the area.

Shortly after reaching the scene and cordoning off the area, paramedics arrived and pronounced the man dead.

One man still in labour long after Labour Day

Labour Day come and gone, but a lotta people still labourin. De people who turn out to march end up marchin like dem was in labour. Old people seh it ain’t got no pain like woman labour pain. Well, when yuh watch dem people who been marchin pun Labour Day, all a dem look like dem was in more pain than a woman who in labour.

Dem wasn’t screaming fuh pain. But that was only because dem had to bear dem chafe and go wid de flow. If dem had a chance, was out like south from any kinda marchin. De only marchin woulda be marchin home. At least nuff a dem put on a smile and greet people fuh Labour Day. But even that was a labourin smile.

Even somma de MPs and de Actin Prezzi turn out and mix wid de people after all dem speeches. But from all appearances, it was a labourin Labour Day fuh dem too. De best ting bout de whole marchin was when de Labour Day labourin was over fuh dem to go home and sleep. On de other hand, somma dem look lively again when was time fuh de table, de chair and de bottle. That was when every ting turn to less and less labour. De more labour dem use to empty de bottles, de more dem fuhget bout de labour.

Rum Jhaat seh he wish every day was Labour Day. But he seh he gon go to Parliament and table a motion that dem must start every Labour Day wid de endin part wid de tables and de chairs, and wid de other ting whah does deh pun de table.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Another one who labourin long after Labour Day is Big Mook house slave Adumb. In fact, Adumb labourin a long time long before de Big Mook buy he over, so labourin ain’t nutten new to he. In fact, when yuh tink bout it, Adumb is a lifetime labourer!

National Library unveils Arrival Day Exhibition

In observance of Indian Arrival Day, which will be celebrated on May 5, the National Library officially opened its annual Arrival Day Exhibition under the theme “Arrival: Cultural Diversity”.

The exhibition, which will be opened until May 10, has on display artefacts, literature, models, texts and graphics and related photographs of not only the East Indians but also Amerindians, Portuguese, Chinese and Africans who also arrived on Guyana’s shores at various times.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, underscored that Guyana has been known as the land of six peoples, and was surprised when while studying at the New Brunswick University in Canada (in 1963) that there were several other Guyanese

of different ethnic groups.

The Prime Minister noted that despite the contradictions this status of six peoples may bring, it is hoped that such a status remains intact.

After rehashing a bit of history regarding the arrival of the Amerindians, Africans, Chinese and Europeans, Prime Minister Hinds posited that it was actually an accident that our ancestors were brought to Guyana. The challenge thereafter was for them to work together as one people.

“I would like to emphasise that we were never one people that became divided… we are descendants of six peoples working to become one and there is much challenge in that, and it would take a number of generations of work to become one people,” the Prime

Coast Guard remanded for possession of narcotics

Zegga Phillips, 22, of 440 Kuru Kuru, Soesdyke, Linden on Friday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry to answer to the charge of possession of narcotics.

The charge alleged that on April 30 in the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Parking Lot, Phillips had in his possession 4.342 kilogrammes of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

Phillips, who is a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Private attached to the Coast Guard, was represented by Attorney Patrice Henry. He pleaded not guilty to the charge against him.

Henry, in his application for bail, asked that his client be granted same in a reasonable sum. He further stated that his client was at the time operating a taxi and was hired by a passenger for an airport trip. Henry claims that while at

the airport, the said passenger asked Phillips to wait to pick up another incoming passenger. He said, soon after, the passenger reportedly texted Phillips to say that he forgot his bag.

Having said all that, Henry informed the court that his client is denying all the allegations made against him.

Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor Oswald Massiah objected to bail, stating that a CANU officer approached Phillips and requested to carry out a search, and instead of complying at first, Phillips flashed his ID at the officer, informing him that he is a member of the GDF.

However, a search was still carried out and two black plastic bags were recovered containing four bricks of the illegal substance.

Bail was refused and Phillips was remanded until May 15 when he will make his next court appearance at the Providence Magistrate’s Court.

al society. He also brought greetings on the celebration of the 176th anniversary of Indian arrival in Guyana.

Dedication and sacrifices

This celebration, he emphasised, is a tribute to the dedication and sacrifices of not only the indentured labourers who came

es. He noted that with their agricultural skills, the East Indians had an impact on Guyana’s economy and this is evident in the sugar industry.

welfare of the Indian diaspora, the Government of India has taken on several initiatives to address those concerns.

Minister emphasised. Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Tirath Singh lauded the National Museum for hosting the exhibition which promotes Guyana’s multicultur-

from India, but also those who came from other plac-

Ambassador Singh pointed out that the East Indians in Guyana form an important part of the 36 million Indian diaspora spread all across the world.

In recognition of the

In her overview of the exhibition, Guyana National Museum representative Nadia Madhoo explained that many people from different parts of the world were attracted to Guyana for different reasons.

She noted that while the indentureship system resembled slavery, the groups who came to Guyana during that period have left a legacy of rich traditions which have resulted in multicultural Guyana.

Madhoo highlighted that while May 5 takes on more significance for the East Indians, the day is also significant for the Portuguese, Chinese and Africans.

The museum has been hosting the exhibition for about 14 years now.

From left: Cuban Ambassador to Guyana Julio Cesar Gonzalez Merchante; Mexican Ambassador Francisco Olguin Uribe; Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Indian High Commissioner Tirath Singh and others viewing one of the exhibits

Records of the Whitby, one of the ships that brought East Indians to Guyana

saturday, may 3, 2014

US regrets revocation of Bradbury’s work permit

The US Government said it regrets the decision taken by the Government of Guyana to revoke the work permit it had issued to the LEAD Project head Glen Bradbury over concerns about the continued implementation of the governance programme which it had rejected.

“The decision to revoke Mr Bradbury’s permit is contrary to our understanding of the Government of Guyana’s commitment to review together the LEAD programme and to the spirit of the discussions proposed by the Government of Guyana itself,” the US said in a statement on Friday morning.

The US said too that it welcomes the willingness of the Government of Guyana to reengage in discussions with the US on democracy and governance, and specifically in relation to the USAID LEAD project.

“LEAD is designed to benefit the Government and people of Guyana through the promotion of understanding and consensus-building within the National Assembly; greater citizen engagement with Parliament; civic education on local Government and greater civic engagement

among women and youth.”

Washington said the LEAD Project implements the objectives described in the USAID Assistance Agreement for Governing Justly and Democratically reached between the US Government and the Government of Guyana in 2009.

Cabinet Secretary and head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday made the announcement of the revocation during his post-Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President.

Reason for revocation

In explaining the decision, Dr Luncheon said: “I would want to believe that we can in general speak to the revocation being based on the Immigration Laws of Guyana, the Immigrations Laws of Guyana have been offended by Mr Bradbury and his actions in Guyana. It is a fact that the revocation has taken place but it is equally a fact that Mr Bradbury, a Canadian citizen has had a reputation brought to the attention both of his employer – the US Government through its Ambassador – and to the Canadian High

Commission.”

Government has long objected to the LEAD Project, complaining that it was not consulted on the final design, but the US Government said extensive consultations were conducted and are going ahead with the project with or without Government’s support.

Since then, there have been several meetings between the two sides, one taking place only last week to resolve the issue. The action taken against Bradbury would no doubt send a strong signal to Washington that it means business. Dr Luncheon also took the opportunity at Wednesday’s press briefing to reiterate the administration’s concerns about the project, something which he raised with US Ambassador Brent Hardt when they met last week.

Demand

The Cabinet Secretary explained that the administration wants a formal reply as to the status of the implementation of the project from Washington, adding that the Government is contending that comments made by the US Ambassador on the project were “disrespectful” and “revealing”

for the most parts. He explained that as head of the Presidential Secretariat, he had “advised Cabinet that it was an amazing assertion (by the US Government) that the Government knew and that the Government and... the public was equally made aware of the implementation of this project”.

He further insisted that the ruling administration is not waiting on a response from Washington to act on the issue, but rather said it will do all that it can to ensure that Guyana’s sovereignty remains intact and is not undermined by foreign influences.

Only on Sunday, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in a statement had called on the US to halt the implementation of the project, while reminding Washington that Guyana has had a long and glorious struggle against foreign domination and dictatorial rule and can, therefore, do without being lectured on the elements of democracy and political leadership.

PPP’s view

“It is the considered view of the PPP that the project in its present form will not achieve its stated objective which is to build leadership capacity among stakeholders, but apparently forms part of a much broader political agenda which could undermine the country’s fragile democracy,” the PPP said. The party, however, had said it is hopeful that good sense will prevail on the part of the US Government and that the sovereign rights of the Government and people of Guyana to determine their own political future will be respected and not frowned upon as is currently the case.

“The PPP, both in and out of office, has consistently fought for and championed the cause of a free and independent Guyana where the dignity and integrity of the country is preserved and protected,” the party said, adding that “(it) is at a loss to understand why a foreign power that lay claim to respect for democracy and self-determination of sovereign states could be so callous in its disregard of the opinion of another sovereign state and continue to persist with a project that does not find favour with the Government of Guyana. The PPP stands firmly behind the Government of Guyana in its rejection of the LEAD Project and calls on the US Government through its Ambassador to end forthwith the continuation of the project and re-engage the Guyana Government on the way forward.”

InselAir announces special fares

arlier this month

EInselAir announced that it will start operating two flights per week from Georgetown to Aruba.

Via the Aruba hub, passengers will have easy access to Curacao from which many other InselAir destinations are available.

The Aruba hub also provides passengers excellent connections to Amsterdam, New York and Toronto.

Travellers to the US can conveniently go through preclearance on Aruba, which will save them a significant amount of time as they will enter the US as a domestic passenger.

Until September 30, InselAir offers introduction fares from Georgetown to Aruba, Curacao and Miami which can be purchased at local travel agents.

“Two flights per week will not only enable travellers from British Guyana to come explore the beautiful islands of Aruba and Curacao, but they can also conveniently connect through to other InselAir destinations; from Aruba passengers can easily connect through to Miami and via Curacao to desti-

nations such as Bonaire, St Maarten, Jamaica and Santo Domingo,” InselAir Aruba Chief Executive Officer Frederick Nuboer explains.

“And through the Aruba hub, many other international destinations are within reach as well, such as Amsterdam, New York and Toronto. Besides that, we offer travelers a convenient timetable, Comfort Class service, online check-in and an attractive reward programme, Insel Starmiles,” Nuboer concluded.

Through an Insel Star Miles membership, travellers save miles per flight which can be redeemed for tickets. Until July 30, passengers will receive double Insel Star miles on flights from Georgetown to Aruba (and vice versa). InselAir is also known for its onboard raffle; on each flight the amount of Insel Star miles required for a roundtrip ticket for the current flight is being raffled. These Insel Star miles can also be used to redeem for tickets to other InselAir destinations. More information about the Insel Star Miles programme can be found at fly-inselair.com/inselstarmiles.

Free media a cornerstone of democracy – EU High Representative

United Nations High Representative Catherine Ashton said free, diverse and independent media constitutes one of the cornerstones of a democratic society by facilitating the free flow of information and ideas, and by ensuring transparency and accountability.

In a message to mark the 21th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, Ashton said the EU calls upon all governments to abide by international norms and to put an end to the intimidation, harassment, censorship and arbitrary detention of journalists and to impunity.

She said efforts to protect journalists should not be limited to those formally recognised as such, but should also cover support staff and others who use new media to reach a mass audience.

Technological innovations in information technology and communications have created new ways of promoting freedom of expression but have also brought new challenges.

“The EU is firmly opposed to any unjustified re-

United Nations High Representative Catherine Ashton

strictions on the Internet and other new media. All human rights that exist offline must also be protected online, in particular, the right to freedom of opinion and expression.

“The EU will soon adopt the EU Guidelines on Freedom of Expression Online and Offline. The aim of those guidelines is to address unjustified restrictions on freedom of expression, promote media freedom and provide valuable guidance to EU officials and staff across the globe,” Ashton said.

‘Let’s celebrate our unique cultural diversity’– First Lady

First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar has extended Arrival Day greetings to all Guyanese, noting that it is an occasion to celebrate the diversity spawned by those who came.

Ramotar, in a message, said history informs that not all those who came did so of their free will.

“Some of our peoples were forcibly brought here and others were lured by the promise of a better life and opportunities. Many of those who came stayed and made this country their home. Through their contributions and that of their descendants, we have forged a nation out of the many cultural strands of our peoples,” she said.

Ramotar pointed out that Arrival Day is a celebration of a nation carved out of the meetings of many worlds and cultures.

“Our ancestors came from various parts of the world: Europe, Africa and Asia. Those who came following the discovery of the New World met the indigenous peoples of our country. Their ancestors too had jour-

neyed to Guyana, thousands of years prior.

“Arrival Day is a time to celebrate the diversity spawned by the many peoples that came. It is a time to recognise how privileged we are to belong to a nation of so many cultures, each adding richness and value to our national tapestry,” the First Lady said. She noted that whether one is African, East Indian, Portuguese, Chinese, European, Amerindian or of mixed descent, Arrival Day should remind all that ev-

ery citizen, no matter his or her colour, creed or class is an equal member of society and should be respected and valued.

“On this Arrival Day, I wish to reiterate an appeal that I have made before for us to continue to strive for and to promote greater harmony in our relations with one another. Let us work to overcome the barriers of suspicion, hatred and mistrust which are often planted by those who seek to divide us to facilitate our exploitation. Arrival is a historical reality which we all have to accept. How we live with each other, how we relate to one another and the extent to which we promote good relations will be our contribution towards the survival and development of Guyana. I therefore hope that on this Arrival Day, we reaffirm our commitment to improving relations amongst all of our peoples so that Guyana can continue to traverse along the road of peace, unity and progress,” the First Lady concluded.

PNCR extends Arrival Day greetings

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has joined with all Guyanese of Indian descent to commemorate the 176th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day and celebrate their tremendous contribution in shaping every area of national life to help make Guyana a much richer place.

“We salute all of our Indian brothers and sisters as we celebrate this special commemorative day,” the PNCR said in a message.

The party said it is happy to be identified with all groups in society which seek to celebrate the achievement of their ancestors whose courage, per-

sonal sacrifice and commitment have helped to create a unique tapestry of people called Guyanese.

According to the PNCR, the occasion is also an opportunity for the nation to understand that all share a common destiny and that racial harmony, tolerance and understanding are essential to the further and overall development of the country.

The development of Guyana can no longer be deferred, the PNCR said, noting that it is, therefore, essential that all stakeholders, especially political parties, and all relevant social groups and organisations make a

ECLAC to hold 35th Session in Lima

The 35th session of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) will take place May 5-9 in Lima, Peru.

The biannual meeting is the most important gathering held by this United Nations regional organisation. The meeting will be inaugurated on Tuesday, May 6, at 09:00h inside the Westin Hotel’s Convention Centre.

ECLAC’s session provides a forum for debating the region’s socioeconomic and environmental situation, as well as countries’ long-term development strategies.

During the meeting, the Commission will present

the document “Compacts for Equality: Towards a Sustainable Future, which aims to orient policy making in the coming years. The programme also includes a seminar on the challenges of regional integration and a dialogue between senior officials, among other activities. The gathering – which will be broadcast live via Internet – will be attended by representatives from ECLAC’s 44 member states and 12 associate members, officials from the Commission and from the United Nations’ system, members of the diplomatic corps, renowned scholars, representatives of non-governmental organisations, and special guests.

Mexico, Caribbean strengthen technical cooperation in agriculture

Mexico and 14 countries of the Caribbean will benefit from a technical cooperation agreement on agriculture and rural development, which was signed within the framework of the Third Mexico-Caribbean Community Summit (Caricom), which was held in the state of Yucatán.

The agreement was signed on April 29 by the Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA) of Mexico, Enrique Martínez and the Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Víctor Villalobos.

The Secretary of SAGARPA pointed out that IICA’s role was central to the signing of this agreement that will make it possible to strengthen relations with the Caribbean.

Villalobos, for his part, reported that 14 Caribbean States will be able to strengthen their knowledge in areas related to agriculture and rural development, as well as promote sustain-

able agriculture.

“The agreement… is the most relevant technical cooperation in agriculture and development between Mexico and the Caribbean. IICA is honoured to have facilitated the development of this cooperation,” pointed out Villalobos.

Mexican organisations involved in research and training will train 150 technical persons from the Caribbean countries in areas of priority for the region, such as tropical and protected crops, small ruminants, rural development, technological innovation, value chains and good agricultural practices, management of water and irrigation systems, as well as food safety.

The programme is sponsored by SAGARPA with the participation of the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE), the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID), and the National Council on Science and Technology (CONACYT).

With respect to implementation, IICA will draw

on the technical capabilities of Mexican educational institutions specialising in agriculture and livestock research, in addition to the experience that will be contributed by agribusinesses in that country.

During the first stage of the programme, training in Mexico will be done in English. The participants will be drawn from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Bahamas, Dominica, Haiti, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, The Dominican Republic, Saint Kitts, and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Suriname, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago.

The second stage involves transfer of the technology and capabilities acquired during the course, with supervised practicum in the Caricom countries. Finally, the lessons learned will be systematised and the training programme will be evaluated, especially the results relating to productivity and the adaptation of good agricultural practices to the conditions of each country within the Caribbean.

Dharmic Sabha Essequibo Praant to host leadership seminar

firm commitment to exercise honesty, maturity and good judgement to put an end to racism, which has often stymied the development of society and the nation.

“On this occasion of the 176th anniversary of the Arrival of East Indians in Guyana, the PNCR calls on all our citizens to reflect on the significance of this occasion and to take to heart the lesson that racial harmony and understanding are the keys to our survival and long-term development and joins in wishing all Guyanese citizens of East Indian origin a Happy Arrival Day,” the release concluded.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Essequibo Praant will be hosting a special seminar for all mandir leaders (executives) on May 18 at the Cotton Field Secondary School.

The seminar aims to foster unity among leaders as well as to update executive members of the various temples on the Sabha’s planned activities.

The seminar is expected to commence at 10:00h. Approximately 200 leaders from temples are expected to attend.

According to Public Relations Officer for the Essequibo Coast Praant, Reema Natram, all execu-

tive members, along with active youths from the various temples throughout the Essequibo Coast, are invited to attend.

Natram said the seminar will be conducted by Praant Chairman Kaydar Persaud and Co-Chairman Parmanand Singh, and they will be reminding executives of their duties and responsibilities in managing temples.

The seminar also will offer a forum for interaction, suggestion and recommendation Natram said.

The newly-elected body of the Essequibo Praant will also be introduced to all the members.

Natram also noted that

members will get an opportunity to socialise with the new executive and raise interests of concern affecting the functioning and management of temples.

The Sabha President, Dr Vindhya Persaud and other members of the Central Executive are expected to attend the seminar.

“The main purpose of the seminar is to enlighten members of what are expected of them as well as too encourage unity/togetherness and peace among all,” Natram explained. The seminar is one of the many activities of the Praant to reach out to Hindus on the Essequibo Coast.

Region Two Administration donates cycles to health departments

TJL 110-8

ciency in health services delivery on the Essequibo

Five bicycles were also handed over to the Maternal Child Health Departments of the health centres on the Coast.

The cycles were handed over by Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud at a simple ceremony held in the compound of the Regional Administration.

The Chairman said the motorcycles and bicycles will be used in patient outreach exercises, and called on health officials to use them with care.

Regional Vice Chairman Vishnu Samaroo said the cy-

cles will undoubtedly improve the delivery of health services to citizen on the Essequibo Coast.

According to Regional Executive Officer Sunil Singh, the motorcycles and bicycles were purchased under the region’s Capital Works Programme for 2013.

Meanwhile, Regional Health Officer, Dr Allison Brown thanked the Government and the Region Two Administration for the cycles, saying that it is a significant boost to health workers in the execution of their field work.

First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar

he Region Two Administration on Friday handed over six

Jailing

motor cycles to the Environmental Health Department to improve effi-

Coast.

TT Govt weighs new honour for ANR

OAS supports Haitian Government’s call for legislative and municipal elections this year

Another Tobago tribute is expected to be declared in honour of the late President Arthur NR Robinson. Announcement of the tribute is expected to be given in Tobago, sources said, noting that the talks were initiated after President Anthony Carmona said Government should honour Robinson with more than his name being placed on a building and other monuments during the Trinidad leg of the State ecumenical service

at the National Academy for the Performing Arts, Port of Spain, Thursday. On May 19, 2011, Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar renamed the Crown Point Airport in Tobago the ANR Robinson Airport. Robinson, 87, who died of kidney failure on April 9 at St Clair Medical Centre, is to be buried today on the island of his birth, Tobago, after a second state funeral, this time at the Dwight Yorke Stadium, Bacolet. Carmona

El Salvador luxury developments funded by millions in UK aid

It’s the end of the dry season in El Salvador, but behind the thick concrete wall that surrounds Villa Veranda – a gated community outside the capital – the grass is green and the water flows fast.

On a weekday morning, a large water tanker lumbers through the quiet streets, past its football field and basketball court, and over to a carefully manicured private park where a couple are sprawled on the bright green grass.

Carved out of a historic coffee forest, this 34-acre gated community is among the largest in Santa Tecla, one of the wealthiest areas north-west of the capital. More than 500 houses stand in neat rows on freshly-paved private roads in beige, brown and coral pink. Private security guards control who comes in and goes out 24 hours a day.

Villa Veranda is a private island of calm in a country struggling with pollution and rampant urban crime. And it’s not the only one – over the past

decade, thousands of well-todo Salvadorans have retreated into gated communities, carving out pockets of suburban, southern California in the heart of Central America.

Avance Ingenieros, the construction firm behind Villa Veranda, has already built 10 gated communities and has another four under way. “Being a construction company dedicated exclusively to the construction of houses for the middle class has given us dominance in that segment,” its website boasts. The company’s fortunes have been buoyed by growing numbers of middle- and highearning Salvadoran bankers, bureaucrats and businessmen, and by a rise in compatriots living abroad who are buying property at home for their families or retirement. Remittances – money sent home by migrants – are worth an estimated 15 per cent of GDP and are a regular multibillion-dollar boost to the economy. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

was among eight people who paid tribute to Robinson. The others were Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Chief Justice Ivor Archie, former President George Maxwell Richards, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Sang-Hyun Song, Integrity Commission Chairman Kenneth Gordon and former Executive Director of the Trust Fund for Victims at the ICC, Andre Laperriere. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

The Permanent Council of the Organisation of American States (OAS) has approved a declaration in support of the Government of Haiti following the country’s decision to hold legislative and municipal elections before the end of the year, during a regular meeting held at the headquarters of the hemispheric institution in Washington, DC.

The Council welcomed the will of the executive branch of Haiti and other political stakeholders to hold legislative and municipal elections

in 2014 under the terms of the El Rancho Accord. In the declaration, the Council expressed its “solidarity with the Haitian people and their right to take part in periodic, free, and fair elections.” The Council also expressed its support for “the process of national dialogue underway, which contributes to the stability of democratic institutions and the consolidation of the rule of law in Haiti.”

The declaration also urges all branches of Government and stakeholders to continue said process of national dialogue and to implement

as a matter of urgency the provisions of the El Rancho Accord.

The interim representative of Haiti, Edmond Bocchit, thanked the OAS General Secretariat and all member states for adopting this declaration.

“President Michel Martelly and the Haitian cabinet have supported a process of dialogue in an inclusive and democratic manner to act accordingly. Today’s support of the electoral process is something we value,” said the Haitian diplomat. (Caribbean News Now)

IMF says Antigua’s economy is slipping

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given an uncomplimentary review and forecast for Antigua economy. The fund concluded, in its first review of the economy since the standby arrangement with Antigua and Barbuda ended last year, that the local economy is slipping.

In its assessment released Friday, the IMF says the country’s econom-

ic performance worsened in the months after the programme ended. The funds Directors stressed that delays in reforms are worsening fiscal risks and undermining the stability of the banking system.

The IMF also stressed the importance of swiftly reversing what they called “fiscal slippages.” Directors called for a redoubling of efforts to implement pending tax administration re-

forms. On the issue of CIP, IMF directors considered that the recently launched Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) could bring benefits to Antigua and Barbuda, if managed prudently. But the fund is recommending that CIP monies be spent mainly on paying off debt. Directors also called for measures to improve the business climate. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Cases of chikungunya continue to rise in St Vincent

The Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has confirmed 12 new cases of the mosquito-borne virus chikungunya in St Vincent and the Grenadines, as health authorities said they were stepping up efforts to eradicate the aedes aegypti mosquito.

The Health Ministry said that all confirmed cases to date are on the Grenadine island of Bequia. Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito resulting in fever and severe joint pain. Other symptoms include muscle pain, head -

ache, nausea, fatigue and rash.

Persons experiencing such signs and symptoms are strongly advised to establish contact with their health care provider, the Health Ministry said. The illness was first detected in the Caribbean in December 2013, in St Martin, and Antigua and St Vincent and the Grenadines have the latest countries to declare an outbreak. The head of the CARPHA, Dr James Hospedales, has said the chikungunya virus has reached epidemic proportions in the Caribbean.

“By definition this is an epidemic since it represents an unusual num -

ber of cases of this problem where we would never have it before,” he told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

Hospedales said that as of April 28, there were 4108 probable cases in 14 countries across the region. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

St Lucian Prime Minister presents EC$1.2 billion budget

Prime Minister, Dr Kenny Anthony has presented an EC$1.2 billion (One EC dollar =US$0.37 cents) budget for consideration of Parliament saying the fiscal measures contained are intended to reduce the island’s current financial deficit.

Anthony, who is also Finance Minister, presented the expenditure and estimates to legislators on

Tuesday highlighting the success made over the last 12 months in reducing the fiscal deficit from 9.4 to 5.7 per cent. The deficit however stands at EC$57.2 million.

He described the achievement as “commendable,” adding “I don’t think I can identify any country in the Eastern Caribbean that was able to do that without the involvement of the International Monetary

Fund (IMF)”. Anthony, who will deliver his budget statement on May 13, with the debate scheduled for May 15-16, said his administration had also been able to stabilise revenue intake for the previous financial year and expressed gratitude to the population for understanding that measures had to be put in place, to assist with the reduction of the fiscal deficit.

Anthony said he hopes during the fiscal year 2014/15, the fiscal deficit will be reduced significantly telling legislators, however, “we are not out of the worst. I hope that this Government would be able to present legislation, to deal with public debt and refashion how to address that issue… to determine what to borrow and at what time we can borrow,” he added. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Soldiers carry the casket of former Trinidad and Tobago President and Prime Minister Arthur NR Robinson to a waiting helicopter at the Ulric Cross Air Station, Piarco, Thursday, for transportation to Tobago

The entrance to Villa Veranda, which was built by UK-aid funded firm Avance Ingenieros in El Salvador

Dozens killed in building fire in Ukraine’s Odessa after clashes

tre of the city, was set on fire after separatists clashed with hundreds of residents rallying for national unity.

Police did not give details on how the fire had started. Until now, Odessa, a key port on Ukraine’s southern Black Sea coast, had largely been free of the unrest that is gripping eastern parts of Ukraine in recent weeks.

Ukraine, a nation of 46 million, is deeply divided between those in the West who favour closer ties with Europe and many Russianspeakers in the east who look towards Moscow.

Xinjiang station attack: President Xi Jinping urges action

China’s president has urged “decisive actions” against “terrorist attacks” in Xinjiang after a deadly blast at a railway station, state media say. The explosion took place on Wednesday as President Xi Jinping completed a tour of the region.

Three people were killed and 79 injured when attackers used knives and detonated explosives at Urumqi’s south railway station, officials said.

They say they now be-

At least 35 people died in Ukraine’s southern port city of Odessa on Friday after a trade union building was set ablaze during clashes between proMoscow and pro-Kiev activists.

There were conflicting reports of the death toll with the Ukrainian Interior

Ministry initially saying eight people died jumping from the building and 30 died from smoke inhalation. They later revised the death toll down to 27 dead from smoke inhalation.

Police said four people were killed during the clashes outside the building. The building, located in the cen-

Ukraine has accused Russia of backing the insurgents who have seized Government buildings in 10 eastern cities and fears that Moscow is seeking a pretext to invade. Russia has already stationed tens of thousands of troops along the Ukrainian border. (Excerpt from France24)

Nigeria girls’ abduction: Parents asked for photographs

Police in Nigeria have appealed to parents of more than 200 abducted schoolgirls to come forward with photographs of their daughters. The girls were taken from their school in Borno state by suspected Islamist militants more than two weeks ago.

Borno state’s Police Chief told the BBC that the authorities needed to confirm exactly who was missing as the school records had been burned in the attack.

He said it was now

thought that 223 girls were still missing. The Islamist group Boko Haram has not made any response to the accusation that its fighters abducted the girls from the school in Chibok town in the middle of the night on April 14.

The group, whose name means “Western education is forbidden” in the local Hausa language, has staged a wave of attacks in northern Nigeria in recent years, with an estimated 1500 killed in the violence and

subsequent security crackdown this year alone.

Tanko Lawan, Borno state’s Police Commissioner, said the headmistress of the school in Chibok had been working to produce a list of those believed to have been taking their final year exams.

Her task had been hampered as students from surrounding areas had also come to the school to take the exams as it was believed the town was relatively safe from attack. (Excerpt from BBC News)

UK child death rate among worst in western Europe, say experts

The UK has one of the highest death rates in western Europe among children younger than five, according to an international study whose authors express surprise at the poor figures for a country with free universal healthcare.

Almost five children die for every 1000 born, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation in Seattle has found. The UK’s rate, at 4.9, is nearly double that of Iceland, the European country with the fewest child deaths, at 2.4 per 1000 births.

The UK has the second worst child death rate in western Europe after Malta, where there are seven deaths per 1000 births. Child death rates are worse in central Europe, with 6.7 deaths per 1000 births, and eastern Europe, with 9.7. The UK rate is similar to that in Serbia and Poland.

“We were surprised by these findings because the

UK child death rates are high at almost every stage up to five years old, the study found

UK has made so many significant advances in public health over the years,” said Dr Christopher Murray, the institute’s director and the study’s senior author.

“The higher than expected child death rates in the UK are a reminder to all of us that, even as we are seeing child mortality decline

worldwide, countries need to examine what they are doing to make sure more children grow into adulthood.”

The figures are published online by the Lancet medical journal, whose editor, Dr Richard Horton, said politicians need to take child health more seriously. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

lieve two of the attackers were among the dead. The Xinjiang Government news website said the pair had come under the influence of “extremist religious thought and participated in extremist religious activities”.

The far western province has seen a series of violent attacks in the past year.

Beijing has blamed such violence on separatists from the mainly Muslim Uighur minority. This incident follows an attack on Kunming station, in southern China,

in March – also blamed on Uighurs – in which 29 people died. Xi’s visit to the western Xinjiang region was the first since he became President in 2012. “The battle to combat violence and terrorism will not allow even a moment of slackness, and decisive actions must be taken to resolutely suppress the terrorists’ rampant momentum,” Xinhua news agency quoted him as saying after the attack.

Afghan landslide: 350 dead, hundreds more missing in buried village

At least 350 people were killed and several hundred more are missing and feared dead after a village was buried by a huge landslip in a remote region of Afghanistan, officials said Friday.

One-third of the 1000 homes in the village were completely covered by mud

several feet deep, local police told NBC News.

Rescue teams have been dispatched to Aabe Barik in the Argun district of the mountainous Badahkshan province, but heavy rains are making access difficult.

A United Nations spokesman said at least 350 people were killed, but province

Governor Shah Waliullah Adeeb said the toll could be as high as 2500. Ari Gaitanis, from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, told Reuters the UN is working with authorities on the ground to rescue people still trapped. Adeep said rescue crews did not have enough equipment and appealed for shovels.

“A mountain part slid down. Washing off the entire village,” he told NBC News. “According to our estimates the village [comprised] about 300 families and an estimated population of 2000 people including women and children. “About 500 people from a neighbouring village rushed to the scene to help any survivors. As they were trying to help, another part of the valley slid down – killing almost everyone.” (Excerpt from NBC News)

Earlier on Friday Ukrainian security forces launched their first major offensive against rebels in the eastern city of Slaviansk, unleashing a wave of violence with militants shooting down two Ukrainian army helicopters, leaving two servicemen dead

The scene of a landslide in a remote region in Afghanistan on Friday

saturday, may 3, 2014 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt to take ADF back to Parliament

Opposition Leader

David Granger said the Donald Ramotar Administration should return to the National Assembly for funding for key programmes and projects that were affected due to the budget non-approvals during the consideration of the 2014 estimates in the recently concluded Committee of Supply proceedings.

Speaking to Guyana Times in an exclusive interview on Friday, Granger said the items were disapproved by the Committee of Supply because they were bundled with other contentious projects.

He related that the Opposition had no other choice than to disapprove programme areas that included controversial projects or entities, adding that while it was never the intention of the Opposition to “paralyse” by the disapproval of the entire budget, it merely wanted to record its censure with respects to some of the projects.

However, Granger said the Government should return to the House for funding for areas of mutual interest, which include the University of Guyana Student Loan.

He said that it is expected that the Government would present a Supplementary Appropriations Bill in a “disaggregated form so we can approve items such as the student loans for UG”.

As it relates to the Amerindian Development Fund, Granger restated a previously established position, in which the party explained that it is not adverse

to the idea of development in Amerindian communities, but it should be done in the ‘right’ way.

He highlighted that the communities have indicated to the Opposition and possibly to Government that they would like to see the construction of technical and other educational institutes in their communities so that their youths can be trained and subsequently gain meaningful employment whether it was in their communities or in the city.

Displeasure

At a later press conference, Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai related that the Amerindian populace have since restated their displeasure with moves taken by the Opposition to reject funding for what they had deemed a very critical project to the

stability of their communities.

“The disappointment ran very deeply, particularly when they learnt the presidential funding grant wasn’t going to be available this year,” said Minister Sukhai

She noted that the funds that were disapproved had “deep and long linkages” in the Amerindian communities and that the female populace were especially affected since there was a large number of female Community Service Offices.

“I myself continue to be worried over the fact that in the media, the Opposition continues to talk about the disapproval, in way.... as if the indigenous people are not intelligent, they don’t have education, that they are an illiterate bunch of villagers that could not advance to this Government their needs at all,” the Minister said, as she denounced the Opposition’s disapproval.

Sukhai noted that if or when the Government decides to present a supplementary budget to the National Assembly, it will include the allocations for the Amerindian Development Fund.

“I don’t think the Opposition has authority to deny the indigenous people Amerindian development finances,” Sukhai said, adding: “I will be the craziest Minister to leave ADF out... because that’s the core of the funding.”

She highlighted that as soon as the legal way is paved, the Government will be making a presentation to the National Assembly.

Cousins attempt suicide over disapproved love relations

A16-year-old boy and his 14-year-old cousin, a girl, are battling for their lives at the Suddie Public Hospital after they drank poison following their parents’ disapproval of their relationship.

The Bush Lot, Essequibo Coast teens are said to be

the children of two sisters. They fell in love with each other and despite warnings from parents, they did not give up on the relationship.

They were rushed to Suddie Public Hospital where they remain patients.

Doctors said they are speaking and listed their conditions as critical.

According to information received, the girl drank one mouthful of a poisonous substance before giving the boy who drank two mouthfuls. They then called their mothers and told them what they did.

Treaty of Chaguaramas revised following Guyana-TCL dispute

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday related that after some deficiencies in the provisions of the Treaty of Chaguaramas were discovered as a result of a Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) proceeding involving Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL), the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has since taken steps to review the treaty with the aim of rectifying the issues.

Speaking at a recent postCabinet Press briefing, Dr Luncheon related that at the March Caricom Heads of Government meeting in St Vincent and the Grenadines, the revised edition of the treaty was presented.

The revised treaty, he explained, provides improved “flexibility to Caricom Member of States to respond to the functioning of the Common External Tariff System (CET).”

“At the bottom line a facility that did not exist before, during a suspension, a facility was introduced that allowed for a hike in the CET.”

The Cabinet Secretary further explained that the treaty is currently open for signature by the participating Caricom Member States.

Dr Luncheon pointed out that the amendments

were made after the decision handed down by the CCJ in the “celebrated” Trinidad Cement Limited case against Guyana.

The reference made was with regards to the 2009 CCJ matter which saw the CCJ ordering Guyana to re-impose the regional tariff on cement within 28 days, adding that without an order, there would be severe consequences for the Rule of Law in the single market economy.

The CCJ confirmed that Guyana was in breach of the provisions of Article 82 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) by failing to put into service and maintain the CET on cement since October of 2006.

It further ordered that Guyana maintain the CET without prejudice to its right to seek a waiver in the established manner.

Acknowledged

When the court hearing began in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Guyana acknowledged from the onset that it had violated the provisions of the RTC but denied legal responsibility by citing Article 179 of the RTC (abuse of dominant position) and Article 184 (promotion of consumer interests in the community).

TCL and TCL Guyana

Incorporated (TGI) alleged a breach by Guyana of the provisions of Article 82 of the revised treaty under which Guyana is obliged to establish and maintain a CET on cement imported into Guyana from outside of Caricom.

In making its case, TCL and TGI had accused the Guyana Government of breaching the RTC by independently suspending the CET on cement imported from countries outside of Caricom and was later granted leave to sue the Government in Guyana after approaching the CCJ.

But Guyana argued that both companies were guilty of abusing their dominant position in the market and the court needed to protect consumers within Caricom.

The Attorney General at that time, Charles Ramson also argued that throughout Caricom, there were complaints about the inability of TCL to supply the Caribbean market and in the period between 2001–2007, CET waivers were sought and obtained from the Caricom Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) by Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and the member countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

GuySuCo launches E-10 fuel

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), which continues to demonstrate its remarkable resilience, is seeking to make further strides, by adding to its list of manufactured goods and services.

Through a technical cooperation; “Expanding bioenergy opportunities in Guyana” and with funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in August 2013, the Government of Guyana formally commissioned a Bioethanol demonstration plant at GuySuCo’s Albion Estate with the objectives of demonstrating production of fuel grade ethanol from the estates’ available feed stock, increasing the mass of trained personnel in the area of biofuel through training and research, and demonstrating the utilisation of bio-ethanol fuel.

Today, the Bio-Ethanol E-10 fuel produced at GuySuCo’s Albion Estate was formally launched for trial run in a number of ve-

hicles, with the expectation that before the end of 2014, approximately 25 vehicles would be routinely utilising the fuel, but moreover, the pilot plan developing in the future towards the production of commercially available blended fuel.

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy delivering the feature remarks at the event noted that Albion has

always been a lead estate in many ways, and therefore it is ‘poetic justice’ that this new thrust of development for sugar is coming out it.

But importantly, the Minister noted, that efforts at Albion is not just for a ‘show piece’, but in fact the first step in adding a new commodity for the sugar company. The Minister said that the Government is also

hoping that GuySuCo’s effort is the first step in making it a national programme.

He noted that Government in its determination to pursue a fuel blend with ethanol, looking towards the country’s future, established a National Commission on bio-energy and set as one of its goal the hope of introducing legislation to mandate the use of blended fuel.

“Whilst we are deciding on that we at GuySuCo have moved forward by blending E-10 for a small number of vehicles... one thing that we want everyone to know however, is that having made the start here at Albion, this pilot plan will develop in the future to produce commercially available blended fuel for use, and therefore GuySuCo is adding to its commodity,” the Minister said.

Even as GuySuCo launched the new E-10 blend of fuel, it will continue efforts at a determined cost and efficiency towards this goal of

commercial production, he stated.

One of the studies that is to be conducted over the next many months is to consider in addition to molasses derived out of sugar, what other sub-strains can be used, for example cassava, in the production of bio-fuel. This will ensure that even when sugar is not in production, the company can continue

to produce bio-fuel, with the other sub-strains. But Albion is set to go from demonstration of bioethanol to production; and Minister Ramsammy also reiterated that GuySuCo’s and the Government of Guyana’s goals for the sugar company remains sugar cane cultivation and sugar production.

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai

The bio-ethanol demonstration plant at Albion Sugar estate in Berbice

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy fuels up his vehicle with the bio-ethanol E-10 fuel

Inaugural Guyana Festival launched

In an effort to showcase Guyana’s rich cultural diversity, the Tourism Ministry on Friday launched the inaugural Guyana Festival, which will see a mixture of the country’s traditional music, dance, food, arts and craft being exhibited at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence on August 8 to 10.

This three-day event, which will be marketed in North America and the Caribbean, is aimed at bringing awareness of Guyana’s diverse cultural heritage, and generally the nature of its tourism product locally, regionally and internationally.

During a feature address at the launch which was held at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC), Liliendaal, President Donald Ramotar said that he was delighted to be a part of the launch and promotion of this cultural festival.

The Head of State said that the festival is an idea whose time has come, demonstrating to the world at large how beautiful it is to live in a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society of rich roots from Africa, Asia and Europe, and at the same time coinciding in a single and unique Guyanese culture.

President Ramotar also mentioned our Guyanese foreparents who came in very difficult times, and fought to ensure most of the Guyanese traditions were kept alive. “When you sit there and enjoy the African

and Indian drumming and the fusion dance, we must thank our foreparents for the strength and resilience to keep alive under difficult circumstances, our culture,” President Donald Ramotar said.

The President also spoke of the togetherness the different cultures would have brought among Guyanese, which he said will take the country to a higher level. President Ramotar noted that while there is need for material things to build the country’s economy, the unique culture that Guyana possesses also plays a very important role.

“The quality of life is not only measured by the quality of material things, but it is also measured by the development of our culture, by helping us to appreciate the different cultures that our

GuySuCo launches...

“GuySuCo has no intention of giving up sugar and sugar cane. These will remain the pillars on which GuySuCo as a Corporation not only sustains its reputation, but continues to build on that reputation. We will add products along the way, and we will change how we do business along the way, but GuySuCo is not giving up on sugar, not next year, not 20 years from now. GuySuCo’s entire future will continue to produce sugar and continue to add new products, bio-fuel is simply another of the new product we will add.” he said.

There will come a time when GuySuCo will support other industries such as aquaculture, but the Minister reiterated that the sugar cane fields will not be converted into tilapia farms.

“Guyana has enough land to develop aquaculture, we do not have to give up cane fields for aquaculture... if [we] think that debate is dead... there will always be those who will come out with such staggering suggestions, I am too polite to call people names, but therefore I would simply say it is not GuySuCo’s intention to abandon our cane fields and convert them into tilapia (farms) but where the Ministry of Agriculture develops aquaculture, GuySuCo will support those and engage and bring its expertise to help,” he said.

Estate Manager, Albion, Devindra Kumar said that it was a privilege to have the bio-ethanol demonstration plant at Albion, as the estate welcomes being part of a programme to generate bio-fuel to reduce the country’s dependency on fossil fuel.

country has,” the President noted.

Remarkable significance

He said that this festival has a remarkable significance, in that it will encourage more creativity and encourage young people to produce more dance, song, arts and craft, which is very important. He highlighted that Guyana has produced great people in sports, culture and arts, and this event will also provide a great opportunity for Guyanese to return home and be a part of this great festival.

Meanwhile, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Irfaan Ali, who give an overview of the festival and what persons can expect, said that the intention is to create a long lasting impression. Minister Ali said the festival will be a

very important aspect of the tourism drive where persons will have the opportunity to experience every aspect of Guyana’s culture.

“We want the Guyana Festival to be the single subject that would bother your mind and contemplate your brain…. we want to bring thousands of Guyanese and non-Guyanese all across the globe to celebrate with us this wonderful and rich history and culture... ,” Minister Ali said.

This family-oriented event will take the format of an exhibition during opening hours showcasing craft, art, culinary delights, celebrity and demonstration tents, and concerts in the evenings. There will also be a children’s playground.

On Friday, August 8, there will be the opening ceremony which will see a

fusion of Guyanese culture comprising various dramatic performances highlighting drama groups, and craft, poetry, dance and painting.

Local legends

On Saturday, August 9, there will be a night for local legends which will see renowned celebrities such as Dave Martins, Sammy Baksh, Eddy Grant, and Terry Gajraj performing. There will also be a day set aside for games and will see various communities coming out to compete in cricket, football and other sports with the aim of winning trophies and other prizes.

The event will culminate with a culinary cookoff competition of traditional Guyanese cuisine, such as duck curry, pepper pot, cook-up, metemgee and black cake, followed by a

grand concert aimed at promoting the next generation of Guyana’s music industry and helping to develop new/ young talent. Performing will be Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo, Adrian Dutchin, Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts and others. There will also be the minting of a “Festival Coin” to commemorate this inaugural festival. This coin will be available at King’s Jewellery World. A Guyana Festival passport costing US$15 or $3000 will be made available which will allow persons to enter the event all three nights, among other benefits.

The opening saw performances in the form of dance, song, and poetry from the National Dance School, and Dave Martins, among others. Persons also had the opportunity to sample some of Guyana’s traditional food.

US Ambassadors urges journalists to ask tough questions

US Ambassador D Brent Hardt said Guyana has shown improvement in Press Freedom but said journalists should press for greater answers. The US Ambassador was speaking at a reception held at his residence to honour media operatives in Guyana in observance of World Press Freedom Day.

Under the theme “Media Freedom for a Better Future: Shaping the post-2015 Development Agenda”, Press Freedom Day is celebrated today across the world.

Addressing a highly distinguished audience comprising Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman; Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Dr Jacob Opadeyi; Attorney General Anil Nandlall; politicians, editors-in-chief and journalists, the US Ambassador said Guyana’s media houses have brought to the forefront human interest stories.

Trafficking in persons, violence faced by the Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgender (LGBT) society and discrimination, in addition to issues of national development, have been brought to the attention of the public through the writings of diligent journalists.

Ambassador Hardt point out

that Guyana was ranked 67th worldwide out of 180 countries by Freedom House in its 2014 Press Freedom Index.

This, he said, is a slight improvement from last year. “In Freedom House rankings for 2014, Guyana was classified once again as partly free,” the US Ambassador said while stating that these are indications of the country’s development.

However, the US Ambassador strongly believes more can be done to protect and expand freedom of the press and the free exchange of ideas and perspectives.

These were the concerns raised by the International Press Institute that paid a visit to Guyana last year along with the Association of Caribbean Media Workers. Though some

Caribbean countries have ranked higher than those in Latin American, all is not well. IPI and the Association of Caribbean Media Workers have pointed out that journalists in some countries “continue to practise self-censorship”, and “state-owned media continue to serve as propaganda machines for Governments”, Hardt said. He called on journalists to ask the tough questions when the need arises, telling them not to be afraid or intimidated.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall said that as World Press Freedom Day is being observed today, the work, struggles and contributions of journalists to the world and development in general will be recognised. He noted that this is an

occasion for journalists to reflect on those countries that do not enjoy the privileges of Press Freedom. He recounted in the past when “news print” was denied to the Opposition members and the only news disseminated was that by the Government sources. “We come from a history where journalists were beaten, brutalised, jailed and murdered,” he said while pointing out that the ongoing Commission of Inquiry into the death of Walter Rodney is unveiling details and information about life in Guyana 30 years ago as compared to today where newspapers enjoy the freedom to print and broadcasts anything without the intervention of the government.

President Donald Ramotar and acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali being welcomed by young Guyanese decked out in their traditional wear at the launch of the Guyana Festival at the Guyana International Conference Centre

US Ambassador Brent Hardt with members of the local press whom he awarded for their outstanding work

SUDOKU

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Positive financial changes are apparent. If you make money matters a priority, you will benefit from your creativity and resourcefulness. Changes at home will add to your comfort.

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YBG launches schools basketball tourney

By Treiston Joseph

Schools will be preparing extensively for the upcoming regional schools basketball conferences after the Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) launched the ninth edition of the regional basketball conference tournament on Friday at the National Resource Centre.

The regional tournament will see schools from all parts of Guyana being divided into zones namely Georgetown, Linden, East Bank, East Coast and Berbice, all vying for a chance to represent their zones in the National Schools Basketball Festival (NSBF) later this year.

Director of the YBG, Chris Bowman, who related that the YBG stands for partnerships and developments highlighted the importance of the schools programme and its impact.

“We are in the business

of student athlete development and after these students are finished playing they give back to the programme.

“There is a greater value far beyond just the tournaments, we are shaping lives and we would not be doing this without the National Sports Commission and our major sponsors,” Bowman stated.

Director of Sport Neil Kumar, who was also present for the launching, gave some insight into the birth of the tournament.

“The genesis of this tournament came about through organizing the Inter Guiana Games (IGG), because the government facilitates the tournament and looks to the associations for the teams and we were finding it ex-

tremely difficult.

“The tournament has grown out of a need and to the sponsors, your sponsorships have grown into national teams,” Kumar mentioned.

Meanwhile, for only the second time in the nine years of the YBG programme, the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) under president Nigel Hinds has

fully endorsed the tournament, while challenging the YBG to also mold street talent.

“This is a great moment in some ways to have the GABF sitting next to the NSC and director of the YBG… we have had our ups and downs but we are working to remove any of those bumps and I am happy to say that we fully endorse this tournament.

Youths get to develop various skills so the whole thrust of having the youths involved, we feel is to have sport as an integral part of youth development in student athletes,” Hinds noted.

The tournament will tip off with both the Georgetown and East Coast conferences on May 10 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

GSCL Independence Cup bowls off today

The inaugural Independence Softball Cup, organised and hosted by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL), is set to bowl off today at venues across the city.

The three-day competition will continue on Sunday and conclude on Monday with rivalry in the Male Open, Masters and Female categories.

Trophy Stall, Farm XI, Smith XI and Regal XI have been drawn in Group ‘A’, while Speed Boat, Wolf’s Warriors, Boys and Memorex will do battle out of Group ‘B’ for a place in the final of the Male Open division. They will do battle for the first prize of $500,000 in the T20 competition.

In the female category, which will be a 10/10 affair, Karibee Girls, Trophy Stall Angels and 4R Lioness will meet in Group ‘A’, while Regal Champs, Lady Jags and Mike’s Wellwoman will battle out of Group ‘B’.

The winners of the two groups will clash for a top prize of $50,000. Six teams- Parika Defenders, Frontline Masters, Regal Masters, Enterprise Legends, Floodlight Masters and Industry Super Kingswill be doing battle in the

Masters’ Over-40 category, which will also be a T20 format.

Parika Defenders, Frontline Masters and Regal Masters are in Group ‘A’, while Enterprise Legends, Floodlight Masters and Industry Super Kings have been

drafted in Group ‘B’.

In the Male Open category, Regal XI will oppose Smith’s XI, while Trophy Stall will battle with Farm XI in the first round out of Group ‘A’. Karibee Boys will take on Memorex and Speed Boat will meet Wolf’s Warriors in the Group ‘B’

first- round fixture.

In the masters category, Regal Masters and Parika Defenders will meet in the first game, with the winner taking a break, while the loser will face Frontline Masters in the second game, followed by Frontline Masters and the

winner of the first game meeting in the third game for Group ‘A’.

In Group ‘B’, Floodlight Masters will take on Industry Super Kings in the first game, with the loser and winner meeting Enterprise Legends in that team’s next two games.

Apart from the first and second- place prizes, there will also be two three-piece living room suites for the Man-of-the-Series in the Male Open and Masters categories respectively, while the Female Playerof-the-Series will walk away with a trophy.

Male Open and Masters matches will be played at the St. Stanislaus and Everest grounds, respectively, while the Females will be doing battle at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) ground, Woolford Avenue, with all preliminary round matches being played today and Sunday, leading to the three category finals on Monday.

Members of the head table at the launching of the YBG regional conference

Director of Sport Neil Kumar (third from right), along with, from left, Samuel Kingston, Russell Jadbeer, Telesha Ousman, Ian John, Inderjeet Persaud and Calvin Roberts at the launch of the competition on Wednesday

Tyson Gay accepts one-year ban

American sprinter Tyson Gay will be allowed to return to competition next month after accepting a one-year suspension for a positive drug test.

The 31-year-old former world double sprint champion admitted last July he had failed an out-of-competition test, and he could have faced a twoyear suspension for his first offence.

However, the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) reduced his ban to a year because of his substantial assistance into the investigation of his case.

“We are thankful he decided to come in and be truthful in his cooperation with us,” said USADA chief executive Travis Tygart.

Gay, the joint-second fastest man in history and the American 100m record holder, was disqualified from all competitive results since July 15, the date he first used a product that contained a prohibited substance.

He has also returned the silver medal he won with the US 4x100m relay team at the 2012 London

Olympics.

Gay, who won gold in both the 100m and 200m at the World Championships in Osaka in 2007, will be eligible for future World Championships and Olympics.

an investigation into the circumstances of his case is ongoing and his suspension is subject to appeal by the International Association of Athletics Federation and the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Amir Khan still targeting clash with Floyd Mayweather

Amir Khan still has his sights on a fight with Floyd Mayweather despite only being on the undercard for the American’s title bout on Saturday.

Khan, 27, knows all eyes will be on Mayweather’s WBC and WBA unification fight with Marcos Maidana at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

But his earlier fight with Luis Collazo could be an audition for a lucrative shot at Mayweather in September.

“People always remember you from your last fight, and my last fight wasn’t my best”

“We want to steal the show and have fans talking about our fight,” he said.

With 19 knockouts from 28 wins and three defeats, Khan was in contention to fight Mayweather on

Saturday but came out second to Maidana in an online poll to choose the opponent.

He was philosophical about not getting the Mayweather fight this time around, saying it gives him more time to work with new trainer Virgil Hunter while also adapting to a new weight class.

Khan, from Bolton, moves up from light welterweight to welterweight to fight former champion Collazo, 33, in a bout that will do more than just test his ability at the higher weight.

“I would have loved to fight Mayweather, but I believe it’s really for the best,’’

Khan said. “It gives me a chance to get to 147 (pounds) and feel my way.”

Khan, a silver medalist in the 2004 Olympics, fights for the first time in more than a year after struggling in his last outing, last April, to beat Julio Diaz in Sheffield.

“People always remember you from your last fight, and my last fight wasn’t my best,” Khan added.

“People are saying I’m looking past Luis Collazo for Floyd Mayweather,” Khan said. “If I lose this fight, there is no fight with Floyd.”

Collazo is not the kind of fighter anyone can overlook. With 18 knockouts from 35 wins and five defeats, he is a former two-time champion coming off an impressive victory over Victor Ortiz inside the distance. (BBC Sport)

Wayne Rooney injury no hindrance to World Cup selection

Wayne Rooney should be available for inclusion in Roy Hodgson’s England squad despite a fresh injury worry.

The Manchester United striker has a minor groin problem and temporary boss Ryan Giggs says he is a doubt for Saturday’s home game with Sunderland,

However, the BBC understands Rooney will miss the Old Trafford clash with the Premier League strugglers.

“Together with the bug, it means his immune system is down so we have to watch that”

Ryan Giggs on Wayne Rooney

The setback comes just 10 days before Hodgson names his squad for the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil.

According to Giggs, Rooney has also been ill.

“A few of the lads have had a bug,” said the Welshman.

“Wayne Rooney has, Anders Lindegaard has. Wayne has a tight groin, too. Together with the bug, it means his immune system is down so we have to watch that.

“Wayne being Wayne, he wants to play and wants to be involved. We will monitor it over the next 24 hours.” As he prepares for his second game in charge following the sacking of David Moyes, player-boss Giggs hinted that Robin van Persie could feature this weekend.

The Dutch striker has been out with a knee injury since scoring a match-winning hat-trick in United’s victory over Olympiakos on 19 March.

“Robin has been back training and looks good,” said Giggs. “I’m just trying to keep myself fit and try to win every game. I might not get into the team!” Giggs also addressed continued managerial speculation around United. He has been tipped to become the full-time successor to Moyes by some of his team-mates, but it is thought United want a more experienced man.

Talks have already taken place with Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal, who remains the leading candidate. (BBC Sport)

NBA owners agree to force sale of LA Clippers

Agroup representing National Basketball Association team owners has agreed to proceed with efforts to force the sale of the LA Clippers following a heated race row.

Owner Donald Sterling was banned from the sport for life this week after he was recorded making racist remarks.

On Thursday the 10-member NBA advisory committee unanimously agreed to begin terminating Mr Sterling’s ownership.

A number of celebrities have expressed interest in purchasing the sports team.

“The committee unanimously agreed to move forward as expeditiously as possible and will reconvene next week,’’ said NBA executive vice president Mike Bass.

of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) resigned.

Mr Jenkins had intended to present Mr Sterling with a ``lifetime achievement award’’ later this month, a move he withdrew after the recording emerged in which the Clippers owner made racist comments.

In his resignation letter, Jenkins said: “In order to separate the Los Angeles NAACP and the NAACP from the negative exposure I have caused the NAACP, I respectfully resign my position.’”

you are associating with black people. Do you have to?” the man says.

On Tuesday, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Mr Sterling had acknowledged it was his voice on the recording. It was not clear how or when the conversation was recorded.

Mr Silver subsequently announced Mr Sterling’s expulsion from the NBA along with a $2.5m (£1.5m), the maximum allowed.

Mr Sterling’s remarks caused an immediate uproar in Los Angeles and among basketball fans across the country.

The Clippers are competing in the first round of the NBA playoffs, drawing extra scrutiny to the incident.

But Mr Sterling could oppose the sale in the courts,

A forced sale of the LA Clippers would require the approval of three-quarters of the 30 team owners in the NBA.

according to sports lawyers. Television star Oprah Winfrey, media executive David Geffen and boxing legend Floyd Mayweather

have been among those touted as prospective buyers.

Another casualty of the row emerged on Thursday evening, when the president

In the 10-minute audio recording, Mr Sterling can be heard criticising his girlfriend V Stiviano for posting online photographs of herself with black friends at Clippers games.

“It bothers me a lot that you want to broadcast that

Team coach Doc Rivers later said the lifetime ban and fine for Mr Sterling was the “start of a healing process”. (BBC Sport)

Amir Khan (left) faces off with Luis Collazo (Reuters)

Wayne Rooney grimaces in pain after sustaining his latest injury (PA)

However,

(Skysports)

Tyson Gay

Who’s buying the Clippers? Clockwise from top left: Boxers Mayweather and De La Hoya are interested,as is singer Sean Combs,while David Geffen,Larry Ellison and Oprah Winfrey are in talks

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Super Kings v Knight Riders, IPL 2014

McCullum, Jadeja sink Knight Riders

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The Chennai Super Kings playbook has one abiding formula: a top-order contribution, a blitz from the finishers and a strangle by the spinners. Brendon McCullum took care of objective one with his third half-century in five matches, MS Dhoni swung his bat around to lift the total to 148 in a rain-reduced match and Ravindra Jadeja swindled 4 for 12 to down Kolkata Knight Riders with ease.

Robin Uthappa, who opened for Knight Riders, posed the greatest threat with his execution matching his intent. He crunched four fours and a six on either side of losing his partner Gautam Gambhir in the third over. He was conscious to use his feet, unafraid of going aerial and the reverse sweep was a trusted weapon as well. But his stroke-

play coincided with a dreadful collapse at the other end. The introduction of spin left Knight Riders at 39 for 4 at the end of the Powerplay, too deep a hole to escape from no matter how long Yusuf Pathan managed to biff the ball down the ground.

The Jadeja-Ashwin combine plucked three wickets in five balls and Knight Riders’ middle order was broken inside the powerplay. Uthappa waged his battle until he became Jadeja’s fourth victim to hand the left-arm spinner with the best figures of the season.

India’s leg of the IPL was delayed by an hour of 40 minutes in the face of an unseasonal shower in Ranchi that limited the game to 17 overs a side. Knight Riders utilised spin for the entirety of the powerplay and were encouraged with some help from the pitch. But a persistence in pushing the balls through allowed McCullum to settle and shepherd Super Kings past the loss of Dwayne Smith in the third over.

Piyush Chawla was particularly adamant in refus-

ing to flight the ball. Suresh Raina and McCullum had no qualms with that as they joined hands for a brisk 70run stand for the third wicket. The introduction of pace did little to stem the run flow as Vinay Kumar fed McCullum with a steady diet of short balls that thudded into the midwicket boundary. The five over spell from the eighth and 12th overs yielded 51 runs for one wicket. Sunil Narine was his usual miserly self and Super Kings seemed to be running out of gas in the final overs, especially when McCullum was caught in the deep for 56. But some initiative and wayward bowling from Andre Russell, who was brought in for Morne Morkel, allowed the home side to finish on a high. Those extra runs ensured Yusuf’s late pummeling was inconsequential. He blazed three sixes in the penultimate over and each of them gave the fielder no chance. Knight Riders would hope the next time he wields the long handle the equation was not 59 off 12. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Chennai T20 innings (17 overs maximum)

DR Smith lbw b Shakib Al Hasan 16

BB McCullum c Pathan b Russell 56

SK Raina c Yadav b Shakib Al Hasan 31

MS Dhoni*† not out 22

RA Jadeja not out 17

Extras: (lb 5, nb 1) 6

Total: (3 wickets; 17 overs) 148

Did not bat: F du Plessis, M Manhas, R Ashwin, BW Hilfenhaus, IC Pandey, MM Sharma

Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Smith, 2.3 ov), 2-90 (Raina, 10.4 ov), 3-119 (McCullum, 14.3 ov)

Bowling: Shakib Al Hasan

4-0-25-2, SP Narine 4-0-26-0, PP Chawla 3-0-31-0, R Vinay Kumar 3-0-26-0, JH Kallis 1-010-0, AD Russell 2-0-25-1

Kolkata T20 innings (target: 149 runs from 17 overs)

RV Uthappa† c †Dhoni b Jadeja 47

G Gambhir* run out (†Dhoni/

Hilfenhaus) 6

JH Kallis c Manhas b Ashwin 4

MK Pandey c McCullum b Jadeja 1

Shakib Al Hasan c Sharma b Jadeja 0

SA Yadav lbw b Jadeja 8

YK Pathan lbw b Sharma 41

AD Russell b Sharma 1

PP Chawla c du Plessis b Sharma 1 R Vinay Kumar not out 0 SP Narine not out 1

Extras: (lb 3, nb 1) 4

Total: (9 wickets; 17 overs) 114 Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Gambhir, 2.2 ov), 2-36 (Kallis, 4.4 ov), 3-38 (Pandey, 5.1 ov), 4-38 (Shakib Al Hasan, 5.2 ov), 5-65 (Yadav, 9.3 ov), 6-88 (Uthappa, 13.4 ov), 7-91 (Russell, 14.6 ov), 8-113 (Chawla, 16.4 ov), 9-113 (Pathan, 16.5 ov) Bowling: BW Hilfenhaus 3-0-26-0, IC Pandey 2-0-200, MM Sharma 3-0-22-3, R Ashwin 4-0-21-1, RA Jadeja 4-0-12-4, SK Raina 1-0-10-0

Sangakkara could quit ODIs after World Cup

Kumar Sangakkara has said that the 2015 World Cup could be his final ODI tournament but he has plans to extend his Test career for a while longer. Sangakkara has already quit T20 internationals, Sri Lanka’s victorious World T20 campaign in April being his last outing in the format.

“That [2015 World Cup] might be my last assignment in that form of the game, and looking at Test cricket, there might be another series left in me,” Sangakkara said.

“It depends on the chat I’ll have with the selectors and the authorities back home. I’ll

be 37 at the end of this year, and I’m fully aware that it’s fast approaching the time when either you go, or you get asked to leave.” , With 12,500 runs from 369 games, Sangakkara is the fourth leading run-getter in ODIs behind only Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and Sanath Jayasuriya, while his 11,151 runs from 122 matches put him ninth on the list in Tests in an international career that has spanned 14 years.

He has also been involved in two World Cup finals in 2007 and 2011 and three World T20 finals in 2009, 2012 and 2014, playing a key

role in the latest one with a match-winning, unbeaten fifty as Sri Lanka finally broke their run of losing at the last stage of a world event. Despite admitting that the end was near, Sangakkara said he still derived pleasure from stepping onto the field for his nation. “I still enjoy playing, and wearing the Sri Lankan shirt. There’s still a huge enjoyment factor that comes with playing. As players, we’re been very, very lucky. It’s a high-paid job that allows you to travel the world and earn a living playing outdoors. I can’t really complain.” (ESPNcricinfo)

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Brendon McCullum struck his third 50 in five matches this season (BCCI)

Dryden free throws drop Ravens in second-division tourney

By Treiston Joseph

Bounty Colts Errol Dryden sank two clutch -free throws with 4.1 seconds left in the game to give the Bounty Colts their opening win against the Ravens in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) organized second- division basketball tournament on Thursday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The Ravens hammered the Colts in the first half with their transition game and smooth passing, while dominating the glass which made the game look lopsided ,with Ravens cruising comfortably at the half with a 42-30 lead.

The second half saw the Colts going on a run to cut the deficit to six points before the Ravens had a run of their own to carry the lead to 10 to end the third with a 5646 lead.

The fourth was a much different tale as the Ravens were plagued with travelling violations that helped the Colts back in the game, as the Ravens were able to score only nine points in the quarter, while the Colts scored 21 points.

However, with the game knotted on 63 and 4.1s left on the clock, Dryden dropped the two clutchfree throws in calmly to help the Colts pull off the comeback victory.

Dryden ended with 15 points ,while Evans Johnson had 11 to help in the win. Jamal Singh had

GCB double-wicket rescheduled

a team- high 14 points for the Ravens, while Keno George and Nduka Horatio had 13 and 11

for Sunday only

The Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) doublewicket cricket festival that was slated for today and Sunday will now take place on Sunday only.

According to a release from the GCB, “This is to accommodate players who have previous commitments to club cricket and other competitions on Saturday.”

The tournament organisers are expecting to attract 16 male pairs and

Devendra Bishoo

eight female pairs who will be vying for over one million dollars in winners’ and runners-up prizes. In addition, there are several other attractive incentives up for grabs for the most sixes, best fielders, best catches and most run outs/stump outs etc.

Many of the national players available will be turning out for their respective clubs, but the organisers have not restricted the

pairs to clubs only. Among them are Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Christopher Barnwell, Paul Wintz, Zaheer Mohamed, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Troy Gonsalves, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Leon Johnson, Robin Bacchus, Latoya Smith, Shemaine Campbell, Tremayne Smartt and Katana Mentore.

Entrance to the venue is free and play will start promptly at 10:00h.

points respectively.

The Republic Bank Nets routed the Panthers 63-44 during a game

that saw the Panthers’ coach being ejected for two technical fouls.

Further, the coach went on to obstruct the game by hitting the ball out of the hands of one of the officiating referee’s hands.

However, Mortimer Williams ended with a team- high 13 points, while both Joe Ifill and Wayne Lashley had eight points. Jacob Lowe had a game -high 17 points for the Panthers in the loss.

The Pepsi Sonics dominated Buxton in their opening game with a 72-48 drubbing of the Buxtonians.

Samuel Thompson lit up the score sheets with 31 points while Kerwin Jackson dominated the post with 20 points.

Travis Braithwaite had a team -high 16 points, while Ewert Smith and Denzil Phillips had 14 and 13 points respectively in the loss for Buxton.

The Knights dropped the West Side Jammers 61-56 to take their first victory in the second division contest.

Alberto Novella had a gamehigh 20 points in the win, while both Kester Gomes and Lloyd Bart dropped 14 point to assist in the win.

Ralph Brown had a team- high 16 points in the loss; team-mate Devon Murray had 12 points in the game for the Jammers.

Lambert hails young Jamaican brigade

Jamaica’s cricket captain Tamar Lambert lauded his young charges after returning to the island with the Regional Four-day Headley/Weekes Trophy yesterday.

Jamaica, led by 22-yearold middle-order batsman Jermaine Blackwood, were dominant in claiming eight points in the drawn final against the Windward Islands (five points) in St Lucia to secure the title.

In the semi-finals against rampaging Barbados in Bridgetown a week before, the Jamaicans won by one wicket.

“The most important thing was just to see the youngsters, especially the batters. I think the youngsters stepped up and hopefully they can really push on from here,” Lambert told reporters at the Norman Manley International Airport yesterday.

“We have an inexperienced team and we had to give and take. We knew the season was always going to be up and down. Having said that, we pulled through.

“It’s a very good feeling. We stepped it up in the semi-final and into the final and in the two games the batting was good. Once we have runs on the board we always back our bowlers to get 20 wickets, so it’s a good feeling to win the Headley/ Weekes competition,” the

Jamaican skipper said.

Blackwood, who ended the tournament as leading run scorer, amassing 611 runs in 15 innings, was imperious in the championship decider, cracking 94 and 118 in a man-of-the match performance.

The 29-year-old wristspinner Damion Jacobs, in the starting XI due to the absence of recovering veteran spinner Odean Brown, was as influential as Blackwood, grabbing 8-47 in the first innings for a match haul of 10122.

“Jacobs has been around for a long time. He had his chance this year because of the injury to Odean Brown and he really grabbed it with both hands. He normally performs well at the [national] trials, so it wasn’t sur-

prising the way he bowled in the final. To get 8-47 was really a great performance by him,” Lambert added.

The Jamaicans had barely made it to the semi-finals after inconsistent showings during the preliminary phase, highlighted by three straight losses.

A nervy win over the Combined Campuses and Colleges hauled them to 59 points and into the pivotal fourth spot.

Lambert said that victory was the turning point.

“The game against the CCC was a very important one for us because we knew we had to win to get through to the semi-finals. We always backed ourselves that once we are in the semi-finals that most times we would come out on top,” he said.

Barbados had taken the 2013-14 President’s Trophy to retain the tag as regional four-day title-holders after finishing top of the league standings with 82 points, followed by Trinidad & Tobago (80) and Windward Islands (65).

The Combined Campuses finished fifth with 49 points, ahead of Leeward Islands (42) and last-placed Guyana (29).

The Headley/Weekes Trophy is named in honour of West Indies batting legends George Headley and Sir Everton Weekes. (Windiescricket)

Veerasammy Permaul

Tamar Lambert

A piece of the action during the Colts comeback win (Treiston Joseph photo)

GCB Inter-County U-19 Tournament….

Sankar spins Demerara to innings victory

– President’s X1 succumb to innings defeat against Berbice

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Leg-spinner Steven Sankar sparked two typical Essequibo batting collapses, as Demerara whipped Essequibo by an innings and 105 runs inside two days of the opening round in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Inter-County, Under-19 three-day competition at the Demerara Cricket Club ground on Friday.

Sankar took a match haul of 13-75. He picked up 5-17 in the first innings and then returned with figures of 8-58 in the second innings, as the Ancient County batsmen collapsed like proverbial ninepins in both innings on the penultimate day.

Resuming at their overnight 23-1, Essequibo crumbled for 104 in their first innings just before lunch.

Essequibo’s hopes for a strong start had taken a dent when fast bowler Keon Morris (2-47) removed overnight batsman Ricardo

Peters (3) and Parmesh Parsotam (10) within the first 20 minutes of play.

The visitors then lost their last seven wickets for 43 runs, with Sankar, being the destructive force.Only Shivindra Hemraj (32) and Ryan Adams (20), offered any meaningful resistance.

When Sankar was introduced he quickly removed Hemraj, Keno Harry (2), Kemo Paul (0) Akil Wallace (4) and Travis Drakes (0), with his first eleven balls.

Off-spinner Stephon Brown (1-19) picked up the wicket of Paul Williams (5), before pacer Kevin Paul (25), claimed the final wicket of Adams.

With a first innings lead of 237, the home team enforced the follow-on. Leftarm seamer Daniel Basdeo then gave Demerara the perfect start, trapping Peters (0) lbw with a full-length delivery just before the interval.

Upon resumption, Sankar proved too hot to

handle as the Essequibians collapsed in a heap and were eventually all out for 132 in 27.2 overs in their second innings on the stroke of tea.

Avenash Persaud (43) and Keno Harry (30) were the only two principal scor-

Digamber retains WDCA presidency

The WDCA executives seated from left are: Anand Sanasie, Lalta Digamber, Sejwattie Ramrattan and Hardeo Oudit. Standing from left are Krishnchand Mangal, Robin Khan, Navindra Persaud, Omar Hussein, Reaz Deen, Dhanpaul, Ramesh Persaud and Sudesh Persaud

West Demerara businessman Lalta Digamber has retained the presidency of the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA) unopposed for a second consecutive term. The proprietor of Brandi’s Furniture and West Side Agricultural Products has been at the helm of West Demerara cricket since April 2012.

Pursuant to the WDCA Constitution and notices published in the Guyana Chronicle, the Biennial General Meeting was held at the Wales Community Centre on April 30, 2014, with the Wales Estate Industrial Welfare Officer, Ive Persaud, performing the duties of Returning Officer for the elections.

Also returning unopposed to office were Vicepresident Anand Sanasie; Secretary Sejwattie Ramrattan; Treasurer Hardeo Oudit; Assistant Secretary Krishnchand Mangal and Marketing Officer Sudesh Persaud.

The new faces on the executive are Reaz Dean as Public Relations Officer and Omar Hussein, Chairman of the Competitions Committee.

Five members to the Competitions Committee were also appointed, and they are Dhanpaul, Ramesh Thakur, Navindra Persaud (Georgie), Ramesh Persaud and Robin Khan. In giving a comprehensive executive report, Digamber outlined the

achievements and work of the association over the past two years and gave a forecast of future plans. He was quite emphatic in stating that quite a lot of work was done, resulting in West Demerara producing national youth cricketers. He praised the WDCA Under-19 team for its consistent performances.

Digamber, who would be serving his final term since the WDCA Constitution does not permit him to serve more than two consecutive terms, also boasted of the strong financial position of his association.

He complimented the vice-president, treasurer and marketing manager for this achievement.

ers.

Meanwhile, over at the Enmore Community Centre ground, the President’s X1 succumbed to a humiliating innings and 88 runs defeat against Berbice.

Faced with a mammoth

first innings deficit of 199 runs, the President’s X1 collapsed in 45.1 overs for 111, batting a second time on the penultimate day.

Avishkar Sewkarran (23), Travis Persaud (21), and 14 each from Sunil Singh and Richie Lucknauth, were the batsmen to reach double figures.

Riding high on such a huge first innings lead, Berbice’s bowlers, especially spinners, exploited the conditions effectively, hardly giving the President’s X1 batsmen chances to settle down.

Spinner Arif Chan and Viendra Gooniah were the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-17 and 3-20 respectively.

Parmanand Ramdhan, on the other hand, snapped up 2-11, while Niall Smith and Ramcharran were also handy with a wicket apiece.

Resuming on 97-2, Berbice declared on 337-9 after 84 overs. West Indies Under-19 batsman Shimron

Hetmyer and Ashkay Homraj made the most of a slow pitch to share in a third-wicket stand of 132 runs.

Hetmyer, the more aggressive of the two batsmen, cut, drove and pulled the President’s X1 bowlers at will. He made 125 off 135 balls, inclusive of 12 fours and three sixes. Sharaz Ramcharran (60, 5x4s), Homraj (59, 9x4s), Hakeem Hinds (21), Niall Smith (16) and Parmanand Ramdhan (14 not out) were the other principal contributors for Berbice.

Ronaldo Mohamed (227), Chavin Moriah (2-36) and Ryan Shun (2-36) were the best bowlers for the President’s X1.

The second round of the competition will be played from May5-7 with Berbice playing Demerara at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground and Essequibo taking on the President’s XI at the Demerara Cricket Club ground.

WICB reopens bidding for England Tests

The WICB has responded to a backlash over its allocation of Tests for the series against England in April 2015 by holding a fresh bidding process for potential hosts.

WICB had originally decided to allocate the three Tests to Guyana, Grenada and Jamaica. But, after that news was revealed by ESPNcricinfo, the cricket boards and, in some cases politicians, of the Caribbean nations that missed out reacted in dismay and have now provoked a rethink.

Officials in Barbados, which has proved a popular destination for England cricket supporters and re-

cently hosted three wellattended T20s between England and West Indies, are understood to have been particularity irked by the decision.

“It is correct that there is an ongoing bidding process for hosting the England series next year,” a WICB spokesman told ESPNcricinfo. “There is a list of criteria which the WICB has outlined to the territories.

“The winning bids will be determined based on an assessment of these criteria and will not automatically be the highest bids. The criteria involve a number of general and specific areas

including but not limited to pitch and outfield, spectator capacity, accommodation, ground travel, logistics and airlift.”

With many of the Caribbean nations heavily reliant upon tourism, the allocation of an England Test is especially valuable. No other country brings as many travelling supporters and their willingness to embrace the local hotels, restaurants and bars provides a meaningful boost to the local economies.

The WICB has many nations to satisfy and many grounds from which to select, meaning disappointment is inevitable for some.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Kensington Oval could yet host a Test on England’s 2015 tour

In this Rajiv Bisnauth photo, Travis Drakes is bowled by Steven Sankar (not in picture)

Banks DIH Limited has presented nine complete sets of electric lamps to the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) to enhance the lighting at the sports facility in the mining town.

The presentation took place on Thursday last at the MSC pavilion and was attended by Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon, Banks DIH Limited officials and executives of the MSC and the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA).

Banks DIH Limited Communications Manager, Troy Peters, said the floodlights were purchased after a request was made by the UDFA during the inaugural GT Beer Football tournament played at the MSC ground late last year.

“Banks DIH has fulfilled its promise as it continues

GCB Inter-County U-19 Tournament….

Sankar spins Demerara to innings victory

– President’s X1 succumb to innings defeat against Berbice

he inaugural Independence Softball Cup, organised and hosted by the Georgetown Softball

Cricket League (GSCL), is set to bowl off today at venues across the city.

The three-day competition will continue on

to foster a closer relationship with the executive and members of the Mackenzie Sports Club and the people of Linden,” he added.

President of the MSC, Avery Trim, expressed gratitude to Banks DIH for the kind gesture noting that the contribution was made possible through the intervention of the UDFA.

“This will go a far way to enhance the lighting at the MSC and all sports disciplines and the Linden community will benefit tremendously from the floodlights,” he added.

Banks DIH Linden Branch Manager, Shondell Easton, made the presentation to Robert Langevine, Secretary of the MSC. Also in attendance were Banks DIH Limited’s Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart and football officials Collie Hercules, Clyde Brushe and Claude Williams.

Sunday and conclude on Monday with rivalry in the Male Open, Masters and Female categories.

Shondell Easton, Banks DIH Linden Branch Manager, presents one of the electric lamps to Secretary of the Mackenzie Sports Club, Robert Langevine, while Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon, Banks DIH Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart and other officials look on

The Demerara players appeal successfully for a lbw verdict against Akil Wallace (Photo: Rajiv Bisnauth)