Guyana Times Daily

Gouveia denies flying Smith out of Guyana

In top photo: NEW GPC INC Marketing Manager Trevor Bassoo (second from right) hands over the cheque to acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali. In bottom photo, Minister Ali with Guyana Festival Committee officials and other festival

saturday, june 28, 2014| guyanatimesgy.com

Over 4000 reports of domestic violence per year

– Rohee tells Police stats too alarming

With almost daily reports of a woman being maimed at the hands of her spouse, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee on Friday told the Guyana Police Force (GPF) that they need to do more to curb this alarming scourge.

The Minister said he is dissatisfied with the posture being adopted by some officers to reports of domestic violence and reminded officers of the investments made in remodeling Police stations to make victims more comfortable in reporting their complaints. Rights groups here have been outraged at the number of domestic violence cases over the years, and despite tough legislative reforms, the attacks on women continue.

Speaking at the opening of a Junior Officers’

training Course at Police Headquarters on Friday, Rohee revealed that there has been an average of 4825 reports of domestic violence annually over the past five years.

He said his Ministry is not fully satisfied, stating that more could not be done at Police stations to treat reports of domestic violence.

Rohee told the Police that analysis also shows that for 2011, in only three out of every 10 reports made were the offenders charged; for 2012, the data indicated that five out of every 10 reports saw offenders charged; and in 2013, six out of every 10 reports saw the prosecution of offenders.

“What we have observed from these statistics is that increases in the charge rates correspond to

declining numbers of offences reported. While recognising that they might

be many other variables at play, we have inferred from this analysis that

when the Police are firm in their response to domestic violence, it helps in reducing the proliferation of this offence by sending clear signals that domestic abuse will not be condoned.”

Noting that while it is understood that the handling of reports of domestic violence can on occasions, be difficult, Minister Rohee said he believes that sufficient training has been provided to members of the Force to respond to reports of domestic violence.

Investments

Further, he reminded the officers that 18 Police stations were remodelled by the Home Affairs Ministry under the Citizen Security Programme. The total cost of this investment was $296.6 million.

A key feature of the remodelling of Police stations was the construction of special rooms for victims of domestic violence to make their reports in a comfortable, confidential and user-friendly environment. “You are encouraged to make sure that the citizens of Guyana, particularly those who are victims of intra-familial violence, get value for money’s investment in this project.”

Touching on the training course, Rohee said that training at all levels of the Force is pivotal to the long- and short-term sustainability of the GPF. “My Ministry, not being unmindful of the need for training in the Force, has over the years, provided full support to successive Commissioners of Police in their Training Programmes. This policy

by my Ministry will continue,” the Minister said. Rohee has observed with satisfaction that the policy of the Force to facilitate the participation of members of the other Services on this type of training course has continued. “I believe that it is necessary that this arrangement should be sustained because the Government of Guyana believes that the Disciplined Services should engage in joint training and operations to build capacity and promote the concept of collaboration and cooperation. These types of training initiatives would also allow for members of the Services to appreciate the way each agency functions and provide opportunities for the sharing of experiences,” Rohee said.

Training In any event, he said because of the way this training course has been structured, where the inputs of the University of Guyana and other institutions have been sourced to compile the modules, “I believe that, individually, each of you participants, will gain tremendous benefit at the conclusion of the training.”

The Home Affairs Minister told the young officers that they are being trained at a time when many issues relating to law enforcement, especially policing, have been attracting the attention of citizens of Guyana. He said citizens at the moment are looking forward to the provision of better services by the Guyana Police Force and other law enforcement agencies

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

BRIDGE OPENINGS

Weather: Thundery showers can be expected in the morning with heavy showers in the afternoon. Light rain showers can be expected in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 04:48h and 17:14h reaching maximum heights of 2.60 metres and 2.48 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 10:49h and 23:00h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.73 metre respectively.

Gouveia denies flying Smith out of Guyana

… although reports say aircraft he used was seen

By Tajeram mohaBir

Former Army Pilot and retired Captain Gerry Gouveia on Friday held out that he did not fly the plane on July 17, 1988 that would have probably aided Dr Walter Rodney’s suspected killer Sergeant Gregory Smith’s escape from Guyana.

Under cross-examination by Attorney for the Walter Rodney Commission (CoI), Glenn Hanoman, Gouveia related that if he did, it would have been recorded in his log book, but it was not. Gouveia had told the Commission on Thursday, that he had flown a man on June 14, 1980 who he subsequently found out through the Catholic Standard newspaper bore a likeness to Smith, along with a woman and children, under the instruction of his superiors, to Kwakwani. He said in the line of duty, he carried the instructions handed down to him with pride and dignity.

On July 14, 1980 Captain Gouveia flew the nine-seater Highlander bearing registration number 84GEE with the reported suspect Smith, his wife and their children from the Timehri International Airport to Kwakwani.

According to reports, from Kwakwani, Smith made a safe passage to French Guiana, reportedly with the help of the Army, which was under the control of the Forbes Burnham Administration. Several eyewitness reports were read to Gouveia by the Attorneys representing Rodney family members at the Commission and the Commissioners that the aircraft under the command of Gouveia, 84GEE, was seen at Kwakwani, three days after dropping the reported suspect Smith, the woman and the children there.

Gouveia said the Army planes look quite the same, and the eyewitnesses would have made a mistake in what they saw, reiterating that he did not fly the plane, and never saw the man looking like Smith again in his life.

Flight logs were kept by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Operations Centre at Timehri, but Gouveia had told the Commission that their logs were disposable after six months. However, he did confirm that during his tenure as a Pilot in the Army, he had flown outside of Guyana, naming Trinidad and Tobago, Brazil and Suriname as the countries he had flown to.

It was revealed to the Commission, that on June 14, 1980 the retired Army Captain flew to Kwakwani without a co-pilot, but he explained that this was not strange, as the other Army Pilots also did so.

Gouveia told the Commission that the Army used to fly Government officials, soldiers, dignitaries and civilians to Kwakwani and from there to Georgetown, but through instructions from the top brass.

No appearance

He related that the suspect did not appear to be an Army Officer, and during his time as an Army Pilot, he would have flown civilians to different parts of the country, noting that flying civilian passengers was not a strange assignment.

The retired Army Captain pointed out that in 1980, he made a total of four flights to Kwakwani and as an Army Pilot, he had flown Government officials to even Jonestown, the secret hinterland community, where members of the Peoples Temple once resided.

On November 18, 1978, the 918 members of that community committed mass suicide by drinking a poison-filled Cool-Kid drink on the instruction of their leader Jim Jones.

Hanoman grilled Gouveia on why a smaller aircraft was not used to transport the reported suspect and the other persons on July 14 or land transportation was not utilised, which would have been cheaper, more so since he flew solo to Timehri after making the drop at Kwakwani .

The seasoned Pilot responded that he was executing orders from his superiors, and to this, Hanoman suggested to him that he is not telling the whole truth to the Commission.

The comment provoked some annoyance in Gouveia, who fired back, pointing out that he came to the Commission to tell the truth, contending that his integrity was never questioned before.

On this point, Commission Chair Sir Richard Cheltenham informed him that it is not his integrity that was being questioned but the accuracy of his recall. Hanoman continued by asking the retired Army Captain if he was aware that

assisting in the escape of a murder accused is a serious offence, to which he responded that he does not know the law. Questioned by the CoI Attorney that he did not report his observation of transporting a man suspected to be Smith to then Guyana Defence Force Chief-of-Staff, Major General Norman Mc Clean, because he and Mc Lean was involved in the secret plot, Gouveia responded with a emphatic no, contending that during his years as a Pilot in the Army, the now retired Major General never gave him instructions to fly.

He also denied that the Army was involved in secret flight operations. Gouveia pointed out too that he has great admiration for Mc Lean, but said for the many years he knows the now retired Army Chief, his relationship with him was never personal but professional. Under cross-examination by Hanoman, he also told the Commission that at the time, based on the information that he had received, he did not believe that Dr Rodney was murdered and even to today, he has never drawn a conclusion on his death.

Former Army Pilot and retired Captain Gerry Gouveia

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com, letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Solid waste management

Over the years, the impact of improper solid waste management has evolved into a critical environmental problem in Guyana, more particularly, the capital city Georgetown. The problem has become more acute over time, creating unpleasant aesthetic conditions, and threatening the health of the urban population.

Despite huge investments in garbage collection, public awareness, new landfills and the prosecution of litter-bugs, the general appearance of the city continues to embarrass residents who are disgusted with the situation. This is also the case in other parts of the country, especially along the coastal areas.

The problem has been blamed on everything, from corrupt practices at City Hall, to the insensitivity of urban businessmen, and the indifference of the private sector to the inefficiency of the solid waste collection and disposal regime. It is obvious that there is a problem; and that everyone should do their part to resolve it.

The overall goal of urban solid waste management is to collect, treat and dispose of solid waste generated by all urban population groups in an environmentally and socially satisfactory manner using the most economical means available. Local governments are usually authorised to have responsibility for providing solid waste management services, and most local government laws give them exclusive ownership over waste once it has been placed outside a home or establishment for collection.

The Government has recently commenced a “National Conversation” with the aim of tackling the issue head-on. This initiative presents a good opportunity for both individuals and businesses to share their ideas with policymakers so that an effective action plan could be designed and implemented with the aim of changing what currently obtains in Guyana.

There is certainly need for action on all fronts as it relates to the issue of solid waste management. There is a need for higher levels of inter-agency interactions so that all stakeholders are aware of the policies and initiatives that are already in place and they can make suggestions as to what other actions could be taken to curb the issue.

There is need for more public awareness and sensitisation programmes to be carried out across the country on the issue. Citizens need to be reminded on a regular basis about their own responsibility and benefits that could be derived from keeping their environment clean. If this does not happen, there is the risk of them returning to their ‘old’ habits.

Solid waste is a problem that every citizen has contributed to by doing something or by not doing something, and to this end they all have a part to play in the solution.

Only a few months ago, members of the diplomatic corps, led by the United States Ambassador, spearheaded a passionate and energetic drive, with the aim of mobilising city dwellers to take the initiative to keep the city clean. It was evident that citizens themselves did not have the same passion as the diplomats and other volunteers to keep their environment tidy, as very few of them came out to play their part.

The point of strengthening of enforcement of the antilitter laws could never be overstated. It would be of little effect if there are laws in place about disposing of wastes if these laws are not properly enforced.

Sustainability of waste management is key to providing an effective service that satisfies the needs of the end users. For example, the authorities have recently allocated $1 billion for a countrywide clean-up campaign as part of the solution to the problem; but what happens after this huge sum is exhausted? Sustainability, therefore, is a relevant issue which must be considered.

On the issue of funding; while private sector involvement is a growing trend in solid waste management, there are also new sources of funding for projects that are in line with emissions reductions that support global needs; such as the Prototype Carbon Fund, and the Global Environmental Facility, which Guyana could tap into.

Govt has a duty to see that rice farmers are paid promptly

Dear Editor,

Rice farmers on the Essequibo Coast announced a massive picketing exercise, which was billed for June 27 from Reliance to Anna Regina in protest of non-payment for their paddy by millers.

The farmers continually draw attention to the heavy capital invested in fertilisers, ploughing, seed paddy, manual labour, insecticides, etc without prompt payment by millers for months, since the socio-economic institution of the rice sector is so powerfully dominated by millers.

As such, the rice farmers are dictated by social prejudices, the greatest source of weakness is in the treatment of small farmers occupying the same living

space as the big farmers. Moreover, the unsympathetic and sometimes contemptuous tone with regard to small rice farmers contrasts sharply with the respect accorded to big rice farmers in payment for paddy. The pressure of non-payment of the same are alluded far too briefly to reflect the objective importance of these phenomena at times.

Unfortunately, for rice interests and for the Government as a whole, economic revival will soon be short-lived if this situation of non-payment for farmers’ paddy continues. For the coming years, the rice export economy will be characterised not so much by a cycle of boom and slump but by a chronic failure by the planners during which some cri-

ses will be more acute than others.

The Government, therefore, has a duty to see that farmers are paid promptly for their produce, as a means of promoting stability in the rice sector and reducing its vulnerability to pressures from millers. To this duty, the Agriculture Ministry should add selfinterest, since the farmers’ safety is bound up with the safety and survival of production.

The Government must support the rice farmers and must ensure that proper marketing arrangements are made, including pricing policies and mechanism for prompt payment for farmers' produce.

Additionally, efficient arrangements should be made

for easy access to credit from banking institutions with a low interest rate. Suitable marketing policy for rice and paddy and related arrangements are established to ensure that farmers reap the full benefit of their labour, and not middlemen. It is expected that the Guyana Rice Development Board and the Guyana Rice and Paddy Standards’ specification, grades, weight, moisture and dockage are adhered to by the millers so farmers can get a fair deal.

These include the general conditions for sampling and the methodologies for assessing the various factors used in determining the quality of farmers’ paddy.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

Guyana’s rate of illegal logging is a mere one per cent

Dear Editor,

Permit me to respond to Peter Persaud’s letter carried by your newspaper in its issue of June 20 on the Matter of Guyana’s EU FLEGT initiative and the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) Awareness Workshop on this initiative in our Amerindian communities.

I carefully read Persaud’s letter and was doubtful that the APA can seek to mislead the American community on the EU FLEGT process in Guyana so as to attain a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union (EU) to tackle illegal logging for Continued Sustainable Forest Management through its FLEGT workshops.

But Persaud’s contentions in his letter may have merit, since I was informed

by a participant at the Santa Rosa Village FLEGT workshop in Region One that the facilitators are saying that Guyana’s rate of illegal logging is one-fifth or 20 per cent.

This is wrong. Guyana’s rate of illegal logging is a mere one per cent, contributing to less than one per cent in deforestation. What is one-fifth or 20 per cent is the rate of all greenhouse gas emissions in the world as a result of deforestation and degradation where our forests represent more than one-third of the solution to Global Warming.

I think the APA needs to reexamine the expertise of its EU FLEGT workshop facilitators for the avoidance of incorrect information given to workshop participants in our Amerindian villages and

communities.

Also, I think that this is where the workshop facilitators need to consult with the recent report of the Monitoring, Reporting and Verification System (MRVS) which informs the Guyanese people about our forest performance endorsed by international forest experts.

Another flaw at the APA’s FLEGT workshop is the presentation of videos on illegal logging in Indonesia which is not relevant to Guyana’s forest situation.

Also, I was informed by the Santa Rosa Village workshop participant that the workshop facilitators did not explain properly to participants the definition of forest legality since the time allocated for this important subject matter was too short.

It is not too late for the

APA to readjust its EU FLEGT workshop presentations based on relevance and factual information which if not done can be a disservice to the Amerindian communities in properly understanding what the EU FLEGT initiative is all about which may cause the Government of Guyana to either withdraw from or suspend the EU FLEGT process in Guyana. I think this is where Persaud’s letter may have merit as I pointed out and I am hoping that the APA takes my advice which must not be viewed within a critical context but within the context of Guyana’s Amerindian communities benefiting from a VPA with the EU.

Yours sincerely, Micheal Rouse

Members of the Amazonian Tatuyo tribe play in their village in the Rio Negro (Black River) near Manaus city, a World Cup host city, on June 23. Because of their proximity to host city Manaus and their warm welcome, the Tatuyo have enjoyed three weeks of brisk business thanks to the World Cup. Usually, they host between 10 and 30 tourists a day. During the World Cup, this number has rocketed to 250 a day. They have become richer and other communities now come to them to sell them juices and fishes (Reuters)

No justification for heinous crimes

The establishment of a local cricket academy

Dear Editor,

Dear Editor,

The nefarious crimes of a tiny minority cannot outweigh the righteous needs of the majority; but it occurs daily with our indifference and consent. Violence and crime are quite difficult to contain in both Trinidad and Guyana, because prominent leaders give it easy justification.

Quick to cite and agitate about inequalities in society, they are the ones most silent in its condemnation. Is it only the political leadership to be blamed? Since violent crimes are committed only by a small percentage without nationwide condemnation, why is the tiny minority allowed unfettered freedom to hold the rest of majority society hostage?

Noticeable is the turning of a blind eye or the glib justifications for crimes based on inequality or race. In Trinidad, Archbishop Joseph Harris in a local newspaper recently claimed that inequality could be fuelling the violence in that society which seemed to harmonise on one problem. It may explain why different ethnic groups and their leaders have their own spin on why violence and crime are the norms of the day.

Former Trinidad Prime Minister Basdeo Panday’s ‘Indian’-based United National Congress (UNC) Government quickly executed nine Indians within two weeks of a guilty verdict for murdering a family. No Indian activists, groups or political interests criticised either the court or the execution. Indo Trinidadians offered no justifications for those nine Indian criminals in their midst.

The dumping of deportees into the fragile mix from Western countries’ jails who were involved in sophisticated, savage crimes has made it worse. It has only made matters considerably worse for our smaller countries ill prepared to resolve it.

Each ethnic group must condemn and deal with their own who commit crimes, since we have become increasingly polarised by those who have constantly found race as both the problem and its only solution. In no way however will inequality permit or justify criminals with the freedom of robbery, easy rape and violent seizure of someone’s life’s work to automatically become right or acceptable on the thermometer of another ethnic group.

In any measure, who is “poor” as in oil-rich Trinidad, it will factor in the availability of free education and vocational training from primary to university level, its liberal, many handouts of free food stamp vouchers, soft loans, free completely new housing (serving primarily as voter banks built adjacent to Indian towns) all with lavish subsidised utilities and many other extras.

Even so, Trinidadians of all races make up a very strong stabilising middle class, but according to Trinidad’s census bureau, black people have a higher per capita income than Indo-Trinidadians.

Yet, black leaders have traditionally championed and excused the small per-

There exists a palpable sense of deep cultural shame and rejection among Indians towards those who are involved in non-political petty crimes, including big-time rape and murder, whether found guilty or not.

centage of blacks involved in crime as poor, therefore making it somehow excusable. In Guyana, the centrally directed Buxton-based Fineman Rawlins gang’s incredibly savage massacre of Indians at Lusignan and Bartica in 2006, degutting sleeping children and their defenceless mothers and fathers.

The Working People’s Alliance/African Cultural and Development Association (WPA/ACDA) activist Tacuma Ogunseye hailed them as Buxton’s black freedom fighters! Yet he was neither condemned nor his insane categorisation massively denounced by black Guyanese as both horrible atrocities.

Such incredible uncivilised black rage cannot be due to inequalities seeking a free ride for economic sea saw relief like no one else matters. Inevitably, it will become reality that those who seek economic changes for Guyanese will do so by their own skills and sacrifices, rather on an exclusivity of inequality based on race.

In America when rich white children commit crimes, their high-powered lawyers will make excuses that these white children are suffering from ‘affluenza’, rich children grow up spoilt and do not know right from wrong.

Criminals must not be sheltered by excuses, religious leaders, or political leaders especially for votes. Wrong should not be measured by who is ‘poor’. Wrong is wrong as well as the people who are fuelling and encouraging crime in Trinidad and Guyana.

Sincerely, Vassan Ramracha

To Guyana’s Commonwealth athletes: Fear not!

Dear Editor,

I have noticed in the press that Guyana has made public it’s contingent of athletes to the 2014 Commonwealth Games in the United Kingdom in a few weeks from now and I am happy to learn that it is indeed a fairly huge contingent. If my memory serves me correctly, I am almost cer-

tain that I read reports that a few athletes (boxers) absconded in the USA on their way home just after the last Commonwealth Games in India. Anyone is free to make correction if it was not that event.

In my opinion, Guyana was given a second chance for visas to be issued to all current athletes slated for

the United Kingdom and I sincerely hope another absconded event does not occur again.

I simply say to Guyana’s sport ambassadors: Fear not the competition that awaits you from the elite athletes of the world.

Yours faithfully, T Pemberton

The Police did not shoot Dennis Evans

Dear Editor, Cognisant of an article published in another section of the press on June 26, under the headline, “Bath Settlement serial arsonist held”, in which it is stated that the suspect was shot to his hand by the Police during efforts to arrest him, the Guyana Police Force wishes to clarify that the man, Dennis Evans, 36 years, of Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice, was not shot during the incident.

During investigations into reports made against Evans, the Police went to his home at about 17:00h on June 25, where, upon seeing the Police approaching, he attempted to escape. The ranks, however, pursued and managed to arrest him. He was not shot in the process.

Evans has been charged with setting fire to a building and two counts of threatening behaviour.

He appeared at the

Weldaad Magistrate’s Court on June 26, where he was placed on bail in the sum of $30,000 each on the threatening behaviour charges, and remanded to prison until July 17 on the charge of setting fire to a building. Other charges are likely to be made against him.

Sincerely,

Ivelaw Whittaker Public Relations and Press Officer

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) would like to join with many others in congratulating the young and talented Guyanese cricketer, Leon Johnson, on being selected for the West Indies squad.

While he is still to receive a Test cap, his presence in the squad is most encouraging and can only help to foster his confidence and dream of representing the regional team. Our party can only hope that very soon he would be given the opportunity to proudly don the maroon cap.

As we all eagerly await his first outing as a Test cricketer, our party hopes that, like him, other local players who are knocking at the West Indies selectors’ door, would soon be imbued with the same sense of excitement of a much deserving call.

Our party would also like to extend congratulations to the West Indies cricket team on their recent victory over New Zealand in the second Test match of the current series. We hope that this hard fought victory would not be an isolated one, but as another step towards inculcating a winning attitude which the people in the Region have been anticipating over the years.

While unfortunately such anticipation has become a cliché, this victory can provide the inspiration that can be infused for future successes, especially given that Cricket World Cup is a few months away.

As loyal fans bask in this success, the PPP/C would like to commend the determination of Shivnarine Chanderpaul who continues to provide invaluable and yeoman service to the West

Indies team which he has been doing over the last 20 years.

Currently, he is ranked by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as the number two batsman in Test cricket and in the past held the number one position more than once. Moreso, he is the highest Test runs scorer for Guyana and number two in the Region, just shy of some 579 runs behind Brian Lara.

Like all Guyanese, our party would be ecstatic and overwhelmingly proud of him breaking Lara’s West Indian Test runs record. It is therefore our party’s fervent hope that he would be given the deserving opportunity by the West Indies selectors to continue to be the bedrock of the team in the future, thereby enhancing his chances of becoming the leading Test runs scorer in the Region.

The joy this would bring to him and Guyanese here and overseas, is unimaginable. Our party is confident that over the next two series, Bangladesh here in the Caribbean in September and in South Africa in December, Shiv, “Tiger” Chanderpaul, as we all fondly call him, would bring this record to Guyana. His selection for these series and others remains automatic and unquestionable, given the fact that he is fit and his continuous propensity for stellar performances.

As Chanderpaul continues to perform outstandingly, our party calls on the West Indies selectors to do the right thing and ensure that he is an integral part of the 2015 World Cup team. We believe that the West Indies team can ill-afford his non-selection in this premier competition which the regional side won

on the first two occasions in 1975 and 1979, but has failed in repeated efforts over the last 35 years.

Chanderpaul’s ingrained ability to provide stability in the team’s batting is a crucial element which is desperately needed. The numerous occasions he has demonstrated this in Test cricket and which he continues to do, remain the undeniable criteria and vindication for his selection in the 2015 World Cup team. We call on all to lend their voices in robust representation.

Also, in an effort to foster the development of cricket here in Guyana so that our country can continue to produce talented players, our party calls for the establishment of a functional and effective local cricket academy.

We strongly believe that our country, which has produced some of the greatest players in the history of world cricket, must have such an important facility as part of its training and developmental programme. We therefore urge those concerned to heed this call and to focus on the development of cricket and cricketers.

Current and future players deserve no less and in this regard, we call on the relevant authorities to ensure that related facilities which were established become functional for the purpose intended since we believe they may be a degree of underutilisation. The development of cricket must not be seasonal since this game not only unifies but is engrained in the culture of our country and that of the countries in the Region.

Sincerely, PPP/C Freedom House

Page Foundation

Preventing childhood obesity: Tips for parents

Childhood obesity is on the rise

The number of overweight children in the United States has increased dramatically in recent years. Approximately 10 per cent of four and fiveyear-old children are overweight, double that of 20 years ago. Being overweight is more prevalent in girls than boys and in older preschoolers (ages four to five) than younger (ages two to three).

Obesity increases even more as children get older. For ages six to 11, at least one child in five is overweight. Over the last two decades, this number has increased by more than 50 per cent and the number of obese children has nearly doubled.

For most children, overweight is the result of unhealthy eating patterns (too many calories) and too little physical activity. Since these habits are established in early childhood, efforts to prevent obesity should begin early.

Determining if a child is overweight

Parents should not make changes to a child’s diet based solely on perceptions of overweight. All preschoolers exhibit their own individual body structure and growth pattern. Assessing obesity in children is difficult because children grow

in unpredictable spurts. It should only be done by a health care professional, using the child’s height and weight relative to his previous growth history.

Helping overweight children

Weight loss is not a good approach for most young

sedentary activity (such as watching television and videotapes, and playing computer games). These preventative strategies are part of a healthy lifestyle that should be developed during early childhood. They can be accomplished by following the Dietary

meals and snacks, daily physical activity, and nutrition education. Healthy meals and snacks provide nutrition for growing bodies while modelling healthy eating behaviour and attitudes. Increased physical activity reduces health risks and helps weight management.

children, since their bodies are growing and developing. Overweight children should not be put on a diet unless a physician supervises one for medical reasons. A restrictive diet may not supply the energy and nutrients needed for normal growth and development.

For most very young children, the focus should be to maintain current weight, while the child grows normally in height.

The most important strategies for preventing obesity are healthy eating behaviours, regular physical activity, and reduced

Guidelines for Americans.

The Dietary Guidelines provide general diet and lifestyle recommendations for healthy Americans ages two years and over (not for younger children and infants). The most recent edition of the Dietary Guidelines can be found on www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.

Following these guidelines can help promote health and reduce risk for chronic diseases.

Promote a healthy lifestyle

Parents and caregivers can help prevent childhood obesity by providing healthy

Nutrition education helps young children develop an awareness of good nutrition and healthy eating habits for a lifetime.

Children can be encouraged to adopt healthy eating behaviours and be physically active when parents:

* Focus on good health, not a certain weight goal. Teach and model healthy and positive attitudes toward food and physical activity without emphasising body weight.

* Focus on the family. Do not set overweight children apart. Involve the whole

family and work to gradually change the family’s physical activity and eating habits.

* Establish daily meal and snack times, and eating together as frequently as possible. Make a wide variety of healthful foods available based on the Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children. Determine what food is offered and when, and let the child decide whether and how much to eat.

* Plan sensible portions. Use the Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children as a guide.

What counts as one serving?

Grain group

• 1 slice of bread

1/2 cup of cooked rice or pasta

• 1/2 cup of cooked cereal 1 ounce of ready-to-eat cereal

Vegetable group

• 1/2 cup of chopped raw or cooked vegetables

• 1 cup of raw leafy vegetables

Fruit group

1 piece of fruit or melon wedge 3/4 cup of juice

• 1/2 cup of canned fruit 1/4 cup of dried fruit

Milk group

* 1 cup of low-fat or fatfree milk or yogurt

* 2 ounces of cheese

Meat group

* 2-3 ounces of cooked lean meat, poultry or fish

* 1/2 cup of cooked dry beans, or 1 egg counts as 1 ounce of lean meat.

* 2 tablespoons of pea nut butter count as 1 ounce of meat.

Fats and sweets

Limit calories from these. Four to six-year-olds can eat these serving sizes. Offer two to three-year-olds less, except for milk. Two to sixyear-old children need a total of two servings from the milk group each day.

* Discourage eating meals or snacks while watching TV. Eating in front of the TV may make it difficult to pay attention to feelings of fullness and may lead to overeating.

* Buy fewer high calorie, low-nutrient foods. Help children understand that sweets and high fat treats (such as candy, cookies, or cake) are not everyday foods. Don’t deprive children of occasional treats, however. This can make them more likely to overeat.

Avoid labelling foods as “good” or “bad.” All foods in moderation can be part of a healthy diet.

* Involve children in planning, shopping, and preparing meals. Use these activities to understand children’s food preferences, teach children about nutrition, and encourage them to try a wide variety of foods.

* Make the most of snacks. Continuous snacking may lead to overeating. Plan healthy snacks at specific times. Include two food groups, for example, apple wedges and whole grain crackers. Focus on maximum nutrition – fruits, vegetables, grains, low-sugar cereals, low fat dairy products, and lean meats and meat alternatives. Avoid excessive amounts of fruit juices, which contains calories, but fewer nutrients than the fruits they come from. A reasonable amount of juice is four to eight ounces per day.

* Encourage physical activity. Participate in family physical activity time on a regular basis, such as walks, bike rides, hikes, and active games. Support your children’s organised physical activities. Provide a safe, accessible place outside for play.

* Limit the amount of time children watch television, play video games, and work on the computer to one to two hours per day. The average American child spends about 24 hours each week watching television. Reducing sedentary activities helps increase physical activity. (www.health.ny.gov)

Guyana rejects US TIP report again

By Svetlana MarShall

The Guyana Government has rejected the US State Department 2014 Trafficking In Persons (TIP) Report on this country, contending that it is highly inaccurate.

In the absence of Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking In Persons Chairman Clement Rohee, the Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster on Friday told a media briefing that the report contains a plethora of inaccuracies and misrepresentations with regard to the scope of human trafficking here. While Guyana has been identified as a country that has made progress in the fight against human trafficking, the US said convicted traffickers have not been held accountable with many of the cases being dismissed.

According to the US State Department, “a high-pro-

file prosecution of child trafficking covered in the media was dismissed late in the reporting period, with the magistrate citing a lack of evidence.”

But while speaking at the Home Affairs Ministry, Minister Webster said sections of the report are far from the truth. She said the Guyana Police Force thoroughly investigates cases of human trafficking, noting too that once there is “sufficient evidence”, charges are laid under the Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act No 2 of 2005. “The Police make every effort to ensure that victims and eyewitnesses are summoned to attend

court,” she emphasised.

Alluding to the section of the report which indicated that three convicted traffickers who were given a maximum of five years’ imprisonment, but were subsequently placed on bail pending the appeal of their cases, she made it clear that the Government does not interfere with the proceedings of the courts. She explained that the matter is “under judicial consideration and the Court’s role should not be usurped by others making public statements, about how these issues should be dealt with”.

Review Webster said too that the matter involving a Police Officer that was accused of trafficking is still being reviewed by the Guyana Police Force and the Director of Public Prosecutions. It was also stated that the transnational crime which was unearthed in Barbados involving five Guyanese nationals is still being investigated. “The Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs and the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, supported the Barbadian Authorities in the repatriation of victims and the investigations of possible local networks,” the Minister explained.

The Human Services Minister also dismissed the general statement which was made by the US that the Government has failed to fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking.

In defence of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Administration, Webster said in addition to the 2005 Act, Guyana has also enacted the Status of Child Act of 2009, the Protection of Children Act of 2009, the Adoption of Children Act of 2009, the Child Care and Protection Agency Act of 2009 and the Sexual Offences Act of 2010.

Just recently the National Plan of Action for 2014-2015 was approved

with the intent to put greater preventative and awareness mechanisms in place to combat the crime and simultaneously grant direct assistance to victims of trafficking.

“Nationally, there were a number of programmes responding to human trafficking, including hinterland surveillance, visits to hinterland checkpoints, training of members of Community Policing Groups…. and the display of information on Trafficking In Persons at national exhibition events,” Webster pointed in an attempt to highlight the work done in the country to combat human trafficking.

Raids

But the work of the Ministerial Task Force was not isolated to the interior. According to the Human Services Minister, “members of the Task Force make covert visits to bars and other night spots to observe the treatment of workers, ages of workers, to detect any cases of persons trafficked and any suspicious activities connected based on information derived. Raids on some of these establish-

ments were later conducted based on information derived.”

For the reporting period April 1, 2013 to March 21, 2014, Minister Webster disclosed that six offenders were charged for human trafficking.

Putting to rest the notion that the mining and agriculture communities are infiltrated by traffickers, Minister Webster said the Task Force has made repeated assessments of the agriculture and forestry sectors, but has not unearthed any significant evidence of Trafficking In Persons. “The Task Force continues to actively monitor the mining districts, domestic services and shops to ensure compliance in collaboration with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, and the Environmental Protection Agency.”

Sufficient info

Questioned whether the Government supplied sufficient information to the US State Department to aid the successful completion of the report, the Human Services Minister replied in the affirmative, but was unable to indicate whether the report was submitted on time. According to information reaching Guyana Times, the Government’s very limited report in the form of a questionnaire was submitted late.

Despite the progress made by the Government, the country remains on the US Tier Two Watch List due to the lack of increased efforts to address human trafficking over the previous reporting period. The country has been identified as a source and destination of TIP victims. (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy.com)

Dynamic Airways without gate, ground handler at JFK

The newest airline to the Guyanese market, Dynamic Airlines has reportedly been grounded at the John F Kennedy Airport, New York City.

According to information received, the airline which left Guyana on Friday morning after several hours of delay on its inaugural flight out of Guyana arrived at the US Airport only to be grounded. Chief Executive Officer of Roraima Airways, the local ground handling agen-

cy for the airline, Gerry Gouveia, when contacted for a comment, related to this publication that contrary to what was being peddled in some sections of the media, the grounding was not as a result of money or legal issues.

He noted that the airline had signed an agreement with a Guyanese -linked ground handling agency which was tasked with the responsibilities of baggage handling and the provision of a gate. However, the agency re-

portedly reneged on the agreement at a moment’s notice, leaving the airline without a ground handling agency or a gate for its passengers.

Gouveia noted, however, that the airline’s officials are currently looking into the matter and will be seeking to replace its ground handling agency in the US. This will not be done until Monday though and as such, arrangements are being made to have the stranded passengers transported to Guyana on other carriers.

Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster addressing the press on Friday at the Home Affairs Ministry

US Ambassador D Brent Hardt

Man busted with ganja at CJIA fined

The New York-bound Guyanese arrested at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) with 0.5 grams of cannabis was fined $3000 on Friday, with an alternative sentence of three weeks imprisonment.

Marvin Wilson, of Lot 605 Wismar, Linden, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry charged for the possession of narcotics.

The charge alleged that on June 27 at the CJIA, the defendant’s luggage was searched by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU).

Wilson pleaded guilty to

the charge and was represented by Attorney Gordon Gilhuys who asked for his client to be fined.

Grove resident remanded for stabbing incident

Grove, East Bank

Demerara resident Charleston Glasgow was refused bail on Friday by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts for a charge of malicious wounding.

Glasgow, of Lot 163 Grove Housing Scheme, on June 24 at Granny Backdam, Region Seven, unlawfully and maliciously wounded Gregory Geot, the court was told.

According to the facts read by Prosecutor Bharrat

Mangru, on the day in question, the Virtual Complainant (VC) and the defendant had a misunderstanding after which Glasgow became annoyed and dealt the victim a stab to his lower abdomen.

The VC was subsequently taken to Linden Hospital but was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Glasgow pleaded not guilty to the charge, and the case was transferred to the Christianburg Magistrates’ Courts for July 1.

Security officer charged for sexually molesting daughters

Asecurity officer who was previously placed under close arrest for allegedly sexually molesting his daughters on Friday appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

The matter was conducted in camera, and the details are sketchy.

However, it is alleged that in order for the girls

to receive money to attend school, they would have to engage in sexual activity with their father.

This newspaper understands that the matter was reported and the Welfare Unit intervened and carried out investigations. The minors were taken to the hospital where a medical examination was carried out and the results show that the girls are sexually active.

Porter charged for robbery under arms

A44-year-old porter accused of robbery was remanded to prison on Friday after he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Paul Callender, of East Ruimveldt Squatting Area, Georgetown, is charged with two counts of robbery under arms.

The charge alleged that on the day in question, the Virtual Complainants (VCs) Ronald Merle and Dhanmattie Singh went to buy food at a popular restaurant located on Sheriff Street when the defendant pointed a gun at them and then robbed Merle of US$60 and Singh, $151,000.

Callender was represented by Attorney Paul Fung-AFat who told the court that his client was wrongly identified as the perpetrator. He further stated that the VCs were asked to stand in line and identify Callender after they had been given a photograph

of him.

Merle and Singh, however, denied Fung-A-Fat’s allegations and said they do not know the man. Prosecutor Joel Ricknauth also denied Fung-A-Fat’s claim and objected to bail on the grounds of the prevalence and seriousness of the matter since a firearm was used.

Callender will make his next court appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on July 9.

Over 20 charged for “lawless” funeral procession of bandit

Police have charged more than 20 persons for various traffic offences during the funeral procession of an alleged bandit who was shot dead following a robbery on Main Street, Georgetown last month. In a release, Police said that during the funeral of Lloyd Hazel of Hill Street, Georgetown, which took place at the Le Repentir Cemetery, a number of motorists exhibited disregard of the law and in some instances disrespect for the Police ranks who were making strenuous efforts to ensure that the free flow of traffic was maintained. Their actions resulted in severe obstruction to traffic during the movement of the funeral procession. In enforcing the laws, the Police charged a number of motorists for causing obstruction and others for failing to wear safety helmet. Those charged with causing obstruction were and issued traffic ticket valued $5000 were: Osaie Nedd, Campbellville Housing Scheme; Orlando Spencer, Lyng Street, Charlestown; Emanly

Nedd, Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara; Karen Morris, Hill Street, Lodge; two charges $5000 each; Ronda Lowe, Joseph Pollydore Street, Lodge; Wesley Anthony Saunders, Barrow Street, Republic Park, EBD; Mitchelle Henry, Holmes Street, South Cummingsburg; Rawle Critchlow, Cane View Avenue, South Ruimveldt; Anirudra Budhram, 10th Street Cummings Lodge East Coast Demerara charged and was fined $10,000 and Tamika Samuels, D’Andrade Street, Newtown who had

been charged.

Those charged with failing to wear safety helmet and issued tickets worth $5000 were: Travis Bowen, Independence Boulevard, La Penitence; Odessa Alves, Lyng and Howes Streets, Charlestown; Hazel Alves, Lyng and Howes Streets Charlestown; Carl Haynes, Freeman Street, East La Penitence; Sergio Irfan, New Scheme, Grove, East Bank Demerara; Jammal Ryan Eastman, Durban Street, Lodge; Lester King, Lodge Housing Scheme; Basil Jeffrey, Layou Street, North Ruimveldt; Dameon Bynoe, Damabeer Terrace, North Ruimveldt; Maxroy Jemmott, Plum Park, South Sophia; Kurt Adrian Dickson, Holmes Street, South Cummingsburg; and Kester Sherwyn Evelyn, Festival City, North Ruimveldt who was charged.

Lloyd Hazel was fatally shot at Main Street, Georgetown, on May 9, by a private security guard during an alleged armed robbery committed by himself and an accomplice on a salesman of the Fix It

Hardware Store. Hazel was allegedly shot at least four times about his body.

Guyana Times was told that Hazel’s accomplice was also shot. According to information received, Hazel and his accomplice were riding CG motorcycles and at about 16:30h, they were seen parking their motorcycles in front of the old Customs Administration Building on Main Street. The motorcycles did not have rear number plates. After they parked the bikes, the two men reportedly walked towards the New Thriving Restaurant and confronted the salesman who was about to board a taxi, and relieved him of the bag with money. The salesman raised an alarm which caught the attention of the security guard.

Hazel reportedly discharged a round in the direction of the guard who returned fire, hitting him in the process. The bag containing an undisclosed sum of money and a gun were found close to his body. The Police also found four spent shells, which were taken as evidence.

Eyew tness

Giving advice...

...to little brother

Prezzie got a bit hot under the collar after the departing US Ambassador claimed the delay in Local Government Elections is “undermining” democracy here. He reminded the US that intercepting citizens’ phone calls, Internet traffic and other “Big Brother” tactics are more destructive of the democratic spirit. True...true...But Prezzie has to consider from whence the advice comes.

The Ambassador represents a country that practises “federalism” – and in which the Central Government SHARES power with the states. The latter, in turn, share with their smaller units like counties and towns. The US was formed by states that decided to come together “in order to form a more perfect union”. The founders explicitly framed the Constitution stressing the residual powers of the states.

From Reagan to Bush (junior) there’s been a movement to reduce the powers of the Federal Government and pass down those powers to the State and local governments. The US Ambassador is obviously influenced by the historical importance of local government within his federalised system of democratic governance. Not to mention the neoliberal fad. He wants to share it with us.

But here in Guyana, while we do have regional and local governments ....its sustenance of “democracy” is not as tangible as in the US. Democracy and federalism are not interchangeable. It's a whole different ball game here – like cricket and baseball. They may both involve balls and bats and fields...but, for instance, the lack of a “pinch hitter” in cricket doesn’t make the game of cricket any less legitimate, does it?

But Prezzie’s point about the US Government’s spying on its citizens brings up the old argument about the “substance” of democracy and who decides as to what weight to award each aspect. Prezzie’s point is that the US’s actions is the essence of the totalitarian state. That, of course, is the antithesis of democracy. We don’t have to reread Orwell’s “1984” to appreciate that, do we?

Similarly, while the US may have local government to the max, the structural conditions that’ve kept African Americans locked in poverty and in the jails – out of proportion to their numbers – haven’t been resolved. Even though education and health and other services are provided by local governments.

Finally, while Prezzie didn’t weigh in, the admonition by the Ambassador to our Foreign Affairs Minister about our relations with Cuba without preaching “democracy” to them is out of order for similar reasons.

Cuba stresses the social and economic aspects of democracy rather than the procedural ones. Shouldn’t they be allowed to chart their own course...while heading in the same direction?

...to friendly Opposition

We wonder if the US Ambassador will pronounce on whether the PNC’s treating its Linden MP, “democratically”. I mean, if we’re going to talk about “local government” and “democracy”, how much more local can you get with how the leader at the centre treats his local MP? We mightn’t have federalism like the US. But we sure as heck have Regional MP’s that ought to have some democratic rights, no?

Your Eyewitness has commented ad nauseam on the totalitarian predilections of Ex-Brigadier David Granger, who only delegates to his old Army officers, who’ve been corralled to the cause. The wanker yells “jump!!!” And expects to be asked (at worse) “How high??” Anything beyond that is “giving lip” and calls for sanctions.

Now we know this Vanessa Kissoon got a swelled head after her antics at the Linden blockade. But just because she “answers back” is no reason for first banishing her to the back bench in Parliament. Or now, suspending her.

Doesn’t democracy demand due process?

...on DEA

This Eyewitness is very pleased the DEA’s establishing a local office here. At a minimum, this should open up a whole new avenue for intelligence gathering on this scourge. Of course, this presumes the DEA will share with the locals.

Marvin Wilson

Accused: Paul Callender

Lloyd Hazel

“Stay out of matters relating to your family”

– Home Affairs Minister warns Police ranks

Policemen and women were on Friday warned not to get involved in investigations relating to their relatives and cautioned that they must at all times uphold the integrity of the Force as this was a aspect of the fight against crime and to maintain the credibility of the Force.

“I believe that the possession of a high degree of integrity by members of the Force is a guarantee for closer collaboration between the Police and the public. In the absence of public trust, you, as Junior Officers, will find it difficult to gain public support,” Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee told a group of middle-level officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

He said as a matter of necessity, ranks need to ensure that they carry out their policing functions with the highest degree of integrity.

“Simple missteps could put you in trouble and damage the reputation of the Guyana Police Force. For example, if your relative or an associate of yours is involved in a matter that requires intervention by the Guyana Police Force, you should know by now that you should recuse yourself from the investigations into such matters.”

Similarly, “if your relative or close friend is a victim of a crime, you should not be part of the investigations; neither should you be involved in directing the investigations be-

image of the Force. “I am of the strong view that if the public has a favourable assessment of the Force, it will gain more support in fighting crime and addressing related issues. You should remember that, to a large extent that you function as members of the Force with the consent of the public. Therefore, public acceptance of the Force is tied in with your ability to be successful in maintaining Law and Order.”

“You should get familiar with social contract theory because it underscores

cause conflict-of-interest issues will arise.

The Police Standing Orders and the Police Discipline Act provide guidelines in such matters, but I am unsure of the extent to which members of the Force are cognisant of these guiding principles.”

Improving image Rohee recommended that this issue should be discussed during the training course, especially in light of a recent incident that is still being investigated. He said his Ministry has championed the reform process of the GPF and the other agencies under its remit, noting that one of the main objectives of the reform is to improve the

GPL offers real-time electricity consumption tracking online

The Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) has completed the installation phase of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project, and has inaugurated its customer involvement phase.

GPL customers who reside or own businesses within the boundaries of the Avenue of Republic to Vlissengen Road and North Road to South Road in Georgetown can now register online to read their electricity consumption in real time from any Internet-ready device from anywhere in the world, GPL said in a statement. Customers using a computer can register using http:// ami.gplinc.net while mobile devices can register using http://ami-mobile.gplinc.net.

This new service is part of the company’s vision of transforming the way it provides electricity services to its customers through the use of modern technology. The implementation of the AMI Project commenced last year with the installation of approximately 2000 meters in the pilot zone.

AMI is an integrated system of smart meters, communications networks, and data management systems

that enables two-way communication between GPL and its customers. AMI metres consumption can be read online and only require customers to sign up using their account number and name. Customers can access updated readings of their electricity consumption every 15 minutes or hourly.

The design of this technology also allows a smart comparative analysis for hourly, daily, monthly and yearly consumptions. In addition, the new service provides customers with a calculator which calculates the wattage and the amount of electricity each electrical item present in the home or business uses. This knowledge provides customers with the power of making more value-added decisions relative to purchasing energy-efficient items and monitoring usage.

The AMI technology is being implemented under the Sustainable Operation of the Electricity Sector and Improved Quality of Service Project which is a US$5.5 million loan agreement received through the Government of Guyana from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

the role of Police in society. The authority of Police is derived from the public through a social contract. Briefly, social contract theory holds that the purpose of the state is to better protect the rights that people already naturally possess: those of life, liberty and property.

Citizens enter a bargain in which they agree to give up their power to enforce their own rights to the state and trust that the state will use this power to benefit the public. As an agent of the

state, the Police are bound by this social contract. Their power is held as a public trust. I, therefore, suggest that the integrity of Police ranks and the image of the Force in the eyes of the public could impact the extent to which more public support could be garnered by you,” Rohee outlined.

Respect for human rights

Touching on human rights – an issue for which the Force has come under heavy criticism in recent times, Rohee said respect

for the human rights of suspects and accused persons must be upheld. “You should be reminded that you have the responsibility to both address and protect the rights of persons in custody. For policing to be effective, it must first be lawful and humane. You are all aware of the damage that could be caused to good Police cases when you breach the human rights of persons who are arrested. I recommend that this issue should not escape your attention during this training course.”

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

Region Two rice farmers protest poor drainage, late payments

Rice farmers in Region Two on Friday staged a protest against the Region Two Administration and millers for delayed payments and poor drainage.

The protest action commenced at 10:00h at Cotton Field and proceeded to the Anna Regina car park. Farmers were armed with placards which read: "Negligence of Region Two Chairman made we lose last crop", "RPA is a sell-out", "we need our monies" among other slogans.

The protest was headed by Alliance For Change (AFC) Councillor and Chairman of the Essequibo Paddy Farmers Association, Naithram who led the farmers with his

car. According to Naithram, who spoke on behalf of the farmers, they were conducting a peaceful protest over non-payment for paddy supplied. Naithram said

that 60 days have passed and farmers to date have not received any payments. He said according to the Rice Factory Act, within 42 days after the sale of pad-

dy, farmers should be paid. He said while some farmers received payments, their rice was given low grades and the farmers were given as low as $500 per bag.

The farmers also complained about poor drainage and irrigation at Richmond and La Belle Alliance. Farmers said despite many attempts to reach Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud on the issue, they were unsuccessful. Farmers said many sluices are out of operation and reports were made to the Administration, but nothing was done. Farmers said that due to excessive water in their fields, large amounts of seed paddy have been damaged.

Golden Fleece

Meanwhile, scores of rice farmers on Friday flocked the Nazemul Hakh Rice Mill (Golden Fleece Rice Investment) for their payments. Farmers were seen as early as 06:00h at the gates of the company for an early number to receive their cheques. Those on the scene told Guyana Times that they were owed since February for paddy sold to the mill. Farmers explained their rice crops are currently in bearing stage and to date, no payments were received for the last crop. Farmers said for paddy sold to the mill, they only received a percentage of the payment which cannot even offset their expenses.

One farmer from Lima who owns approximately 100 acres said he was owed millions and was only able to acquire a cheque of $300,000. Other farmers received $50,000 as part payment. Farmers are not at all pleased with the sum of money they are receiving for their paddy from Golden Fleece Rice Investment. Approximately a month ago, Golden Fleece Rice Investment paid a partial amount owed to some farmers. The mill made payments of approximately $100 million.

Ben Hard trippin wid TIPin

Not too long ago, de Bush Man in de You-S had tell de world that he gotta tip that Sad Damn and E-raq gotta lotta weapons of mass destruction. That turn out to be a wrong tip and even B-Liar in de You-K tek de lie and then tell back de lie wid some more lie.

It turn out that de You-S and de You-K end up bein de real weapons of mass destruction of E-raq, from which de people in that country still ain’t recover. After all, de Bush Man and B-Liar was like bamzee and po wheh givin tips to one another was concern. Well, de tippin had mek dem start trippin, and then dem end up strippin E-raq.

Then de You-S had Snow in de lion’s Den peepin in people bedroom to get tips from all over de world, including the underworld. That was how a certain Boss Man get ketch in de underworld over House Slave.

From Brazil to Europe and even dem own friends in de You-K, de Snow Man was peepin fuh tips. Snow Man was even peepin fuh tips from lil Bahamas, which is like a fly pun a camel back wheh de You-S concern. Now tings turn round and O-Bomber tryin to figure out whah kinda tips de Snow Man givin bout de You-S.

Right hey in GT, Ben Hard gon soon be tippin he hat to seh he goodbye. But ever since he come hey, he been behavin like he got more tips than de Snow Man. When it come to Guyana, de Hard Man believe he is a TIP man. Ben Hard even gotta tip that Guyana not doin enuff to deal with TIP. But it look like Ben Hard ain’t got any tip bout de TIPin whah goin on right wheh he come from and right wheh he goin back to.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Only de other day de Eff-B-High ketch hundreds of dem TIPimps right in de You-S. Wonder if Ben Hard is enough to handle all that TIP!

14 deaths out of 62 suicide attempts in Essequibo this year

Some 62 persons attempted suicide in Essequibo for this year so far, and 14 of them died, records at the Suddie Hospital revealed.

Head of the records department of the hospital, Shanta Springer said she was alarmed by the number of suicide cases on the Essequibo Coast. Springer said most of the victims consumed poisonous substances, but others also drank kerosene and overdosed on tablets. Based on reports, the majority of the victims were of East Indian descent, with domestic violence being the main contributory factor. Persons with chronic diseases were also among the victims. The records indicate that the victims range from ages 14 to 66 and involved both males and females, but the majority are females.

Springer, who is also an active Women Progressive Organisation (WPO) member, said she believes that the penalty that was attached to suicide should be implemented once more. "In the past, we had those persons who attempted suicide and survived to pay a fine, this should be implemented once more as a means of deterring persons from attempting suicide. “ Springer said that many organisations tried counselling and that proved, to some extent, inappropriate in solving or trying to calm the rate of suicide. She said persons who attempt to commit suicide should be removed from their home, because there is a likelihood that they can re-commit the act due to torment or ugly words from family members.

She said that the matter needs to be dealt with in depth and calls on religious leaders from various faiths to advise young people as well as give guidance. Springer said suicide is not the way out and persons should confide in someone or always keep God close. Springer is also urging victims of domestic violence to make use of the House of Justice at Maria's Lodge to seek help, as well as report domestic matters to the Police, and not to drop their case against their abusers when it reaches the court.

Rice farmers during their march

Some of the protesting rice farmers holding their placards

AFC lists 10 demands to stay no-confidence motion

On the heels of threats to table a no-confidence motion against the Government, the Alliance For Change (AFC) on Friday issued a release with 10 demands which it said must be met by Government to avoid the motion.

The AFC said if the 10 demands were not met, it would take steps to table the motion of no-confidence against the Government which may garner the support of the main Opposition party A Partnership for National Unity.

In the release, the AFC said: “More than a year after the Nov 28, 2011 General Elections, the Donald Ramotar Administration has resolutely refused to carry out reforms to tackle rampant corruption, enhance good governance, and ensure transparency in public expenditure, improve security of citizens and increase public sector wages.”

Included on the list of demands is the government setting a date for the holding of Local Government Elections this year.

Also high on the list of demands are the “immediate” establishment of the Public Procurement Commission and appointment of all members of the Integrity Commission.

NICIL audit

The AFC is also demanding that the Government perform a forensic audit of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Ltd (NICIL) and Guyana Sugar Company (GuySuCo). Also among the list was a demand for the Government to reduce the tolls at the Berbice River Bridge which has also been a topic of heated debate.

The AFC is also demanding that Government construct another bridge across the Demerara River, but the new structure must not be a floating bridge. The party also demanded that the Government appoint broadbased boards for state media and for all Opposition parties to have access to those media houses, halt illegal spending of funds without approval of the National Assembly, create job opportunities, and introduce and implement a tax reform plan.

On Thursday AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan said that his party was preparing to go into campaign mode as it plans to table a motion of no confidence against the government.

He said the leadership of the AFC is currently engaging its stakeholders and constituents, after which it will be approaching the National Assembly with the motion of no-confidence against the present Government.

Meanwhile, President Ramotar has said he was up for the challenge of a no-confidence motion. “We do not take threats, if the Opposition wants to pass a no-confidence motion, let them pass it and we will be ready to deal with the consequences of that.”

Provoke

APNU on Friday said the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s Administration is determined to provoke a constitutional crisis, pointing out that any no-confidence motion tabled by the AFC may receive the coalition’s full support.

The party made the statement through Executive Member Joseph Harmon at its weekly press conference at the APNU office. Harmon said there are no “ifs and buts” about the matter, “the “Government’s behaviour over the last 20 years warrants full condemnation”.

Meanwhile, Chief Whip and Shadow Education Minister Amna Ally said the party is guided by a Constitution and will make all decisions in accordance with that guide. “Whenever there are matters of such nature, it first comes to shadow Cabinet. We then discuss the pros and cons, and the advantages and disadvantages and we take a decision on it. So far, we have not discussed a no-confidence motion. It was not disclosed to us by AFC.”

Though the matter has not yet been discussed by the Shadow Cabinet, Ally opined that it may receive

Williams raises concerns on life of Rodney CoI

– Attorney Hanoman says extension gazetted

People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Attorney Basil Williams on Friday questioned the legality of the work of the Walter Rodney Commission (CoI) for the period June 8 to 28, pointing out that the life of the Commission had ended on June 8.

The life of the Commission was originally set for four months, starting on February 8 and ending on June 8, but has since been extended from June 8 to September 20. Williams told the Commission that though he was informed through the Chairman, Sir Richard Cheltenham that he had received a letter of extension from President Donald Ramotar, the information should have been gazetted as stipulated by law.

People's Alliance (WPA) Executive Member and a Kitty Market vendor had expressed a willingness to take the stand on call, to be crossed- examined. Aside from Ogunseye, former WPA activist Karen De Souza is yet to be cross-examined, as she had to leave the country soon after giving her testimony.

the support of her party considering the actions of the Government.

“This Government has been involved in a number of things that would warrant any party to vote a no-confidence in them and the first being the question of spending money without authority. It is taxpayers’ money, the state’s money and one cannot be engaged in such an activity.”

Through the official statement read at the press conference, the party’s Chief Whip disclosed that the PPP Administration over the past 29 months has been defying the decisions of the National Assembly to disapprove funds, withholding its assent to important bills and refusing to implement resolutions.

He noted that on the checking, there was no updated Gazatte online, and officials at the Office of the President had indicated that no new Gazatte was available.

He pointed out that the letter from the President was not enough, contending that the evidence from June 8 to 28 would have to be ratified through a Bill presented to Parliament. Williams mentioned that Commissioners in the Linden CoI had returned after the life of the inquiry was extended and gazetted.

However, Attorney for the CoI, Glenn Hanoman, said that the extension was gazetted on June 24, and effected on June 23 in keeping with the relevant legal statutes.

Sir Richard read the contents of the letter he received

from President Ramotar, which addressed the extension and clauses of the law allowing the extension, but told Williams that he remains guided by the competent authority, Counsel of the Commission and the legal advisors to the President.

Willams also expressed dismay at the cross-examination of witnesses, noting that it is not done in a timely manner. He said the crossexamination should begin soon after a witness’s testimony.

He related that he came on Friday to “deal with Tacuma Ogunseye” who gave evidence on Wednesday, but was unable to do so as Captain Gerry Gouveia spent all day on the stand.

Hanoman said that Williams will be unable to cross-examine Ogunseye on Monday, as Hamilton College, USA, Associate Professor of Africana Studies Nigel Westmaas, who will be in Guyana briefly, will be testifying and will be crossexamined soon after his testimony.

Ogunseye, a Working

Retired Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Major General Norman McLean and Crime Chief Leslie James are also to be crossed-examined. James will return to the Commission pending information requested of him by the Commission. Nevertheless, Williams said the cross-examination should not be done in a piecemeal manner, as it can be construed as facilitating a propaganda exercise, noting that the PNCR is mindful of the public perception. But Commissioner Seenath Jairam pointed out that the work of the Commission is not guided by the perception of the public, but the search to arrive at the truth on the death of WPA Leader, Dr Walter Rodney. Sir Richard said all witnesses will be crossed-examined, but stressed the need for more briskness in testimonies and cross-examinations, while warning that the process must not be done at the expense of thoroughness. Meanwhile, Father Malcolm Rodrigues, who experienced the “oppression” of the then PNC Government in the 1977-1980 period, attended the morning session of the Commission. He will be testifying on July 31.

Preliminary Census report to be released on Monday

The preliminary report of the 2012 Population and Housing Census will be presented on Monday at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC) at 10:00h.

The report is expected to include a preliminary population count; the number of households and the average household size by Region; the regional population growth; regional population density; Gender distribution and the population distribution by coastland and hinterland regions amongst others.

Chief Statistician Lennox Benjamin said that the Preliminary Census Report is in keeping with a previously outlined timeframe.

“The field exercises were completed in

December 2012 while the final verification and editing finished in June 2013. Therefore, the preliminary report is being re -

leased one year after the final verification process.”

Guyana’s last census was conducted in 2002 when a population

of 751,023 was recorded. Census 2012 was part of the United Nations’ 2010 round of global population and housing censuses.

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

PNCR, Lawyer, Basil Williams

Dynamic Airways makes inaugural flight

BY JILLICIA PINDER

US-based air carrier Dynamic Airways made its inaugural flight from New York to Guyana on Thursday with some 94 passengers onboard as it promises great service and prices for Guyanese travellers.

The Boeing 767 flight touched down at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) around 07:00h after being delayed for four hours in the US over an issue with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The flight had on board, in addition to the passengers, seven flight attendants, one maintenance engineer, the co-pilot and Captain David Withers.

Roraima Airways Director, Captain Gerry Gouveia said the local handler of the airline at a reception held on the airport grounds, praised the success of Dynamic’s first flight to Guyana and applauded Captain David Withers and crew members for getting passengers to their destination safely and comfortably.

and Dynamic Airways and the soon-to-arrive, Copa. He stated that this is a way of opening up Guyana to the international market, and giving travellers a variety of affordable options. He declared that the mission of Roraima Airways is to work closely with other airlines to find ways of marketing Guyana, without the thought of competition.

Gouveia made clear that the collaboration of his company with other airlines is strictly in the interest of the public to raise the standard of service.

CJIA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramesh Ghir stated that Gouveia is the driving force behind marketing Guyana internationally, and said he is always pleased whenever a new airline lands on Guyanese soil.

Ghir admitted to having doubts as to whether the flight would take off on the date set by Dynamic Airways CEO Paul Cross, but due to the hard work and persistence of Roraima Airways, and permission from the Government of Guyana and the Civil

mitting airlines to operate in Guyana, on account of past occurrences.

Dookhoo stated that the CIJA is working hard to get more North American airlines to settle in Guyana, and has so far has been receiving positive indications that this will happen soon. In addition, he stated that work is being done to establish routes from Guyana to Europe, as they are many Guyanese in the United Kingdom who cannot find convenient ways to get home. He hopes that Guyana can soon remedy the situation.

Caribbean Cargo President Bobby Veira said the airlines, like any other, depends on others to become successful, noting the need for friendly competition.

He encouraged other airline industries to work together for greater success, but must ensure Guyanese are the ones who benefit.

Veira also stated that through Dynamic and Roraima airways, an exciting cargo service will soon be launched, from New York to Georgetown. He stated that

He stated that Captain Withers is one of the most experienced pilots around and that the airline should be proud to have him on board.

Withers, for his part, expressed his pleasure at being in Guyana again. He mentioned that though they fumbled a little while on US soil, he gave props to his team, who were determined to carry out their mission of getting the inaugural flight to Guyana, safely.

Gouveia stated that the airline business is not an easy operation, but said that his team at Roraima Airways is committed to service improvement. He reflected on the last six months and the advent of several new carriers in Guyana, namely TravelSpan

Aviation Authority, the operation pulled through and he could not be happier.

More seating capacity

Ghir also stated that Dynamic and other new airlines are bringing additional seating capacity to the airline business in Guyana. He noted that compared to last year, seating capacity has increased by more than 25 per cent for local passengers.

Private Sector Commission Secretary and CJIA Chairman Ramesh Dookhoo congratulated Dynamic and Roraima airways on their partnership deal.

He said the policy of CJIA and the Government is to encourage more people to come to Guyana, however, there has been some amount of scrutiny involved when it comes to per-

there are a lot of persons in the New York area who look to get their fresh fruits at the end of the week, and a flight has been arranged to deliver these from Guyana to New York on Thursdays.

The airline is also set to fly to Barbados some afternoons after regular, scheduled flights, laden with fresh fruits and vegetables to add to the Caribbean market.

According to Gouveia, flights will be in operation on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, with the intention of starting the application process to Guyana soon.

He admitted that there is a tremendous amount of optimism in his plans, contending that they are all tied to the economic development of Guyana.

Slow Police response a blight to crime fight

– Rohee tells Junior Officers

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee on Friday chastised the Guyana Police Force for its often slow response to serious crimes.

He said too many expressions of dissatisfaction have been received by his Ministry from victims of crimes about the lethargic manner in which some Police ranks responded to reports. Rohee was addressing the opening of a Junior Officers’ Course at Police Headquarters Eve Leary.

He said junior ranks of the Force on duty at stations, especially during the night, have been making flimsy excuses why they could not respond to the reports made by victims. He said issues of this nature tend to erode the confidence of the public in the Guyana Police Force. “They require more attention by Police Supervisors,” he asserted, noting that timely response to calls can be a deterrent to crime.

Rohee told the officers that it was clearly essential for the maintenance of public safety in Guyana, and for the wellbeing of its citizens, that criminality be kept to minimum levels, that those who break the law should be brought to justice, and that citizen emergencies should be responded to promptly and efficiently.

He said in the Police Accountability Reports that are submitted to the Home Affairs Ministry and are used as one of the tools to measure the performance of the Force on a monthly basis, response time is one of the Performance Indicators. This Performance Indicator which was agreed to by the Ministry and the Guyana Police Force allows each Divisional Commander

to set targets to respond to serious and other crimes.

Rohee said the average Response Time is then calculated based on the aggregate of the time taken to respond to each of the incidents.

Commanders have been reporting on the average Response Times on a monthly basis. For example, the target set by A Division to respond to reports of crime is a minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 20 minutes, B Division’s target is a minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 20 minutes, C Division’s target is a minimum of five minutes and a maximum of 10 minutes while D Division’s target is set at a minimum of five minutes and a maximum of 10 minutes.

All of the Commanders have been reporting that they were able to meet their response targets and they have not reported that they were experiencing constraints to achieve those targets. “It is my belief that you as Junior Officers would have been aware of targets set to respond to reports of crime by your respective stations and Divisions. However, if you are not aware of the targets that have been set by your Divisions to respond to reports of crime, you should use this training course to acquaint yourselves more on this matter. ”

Reducing serious crimes

Rohee also touched on the need to reduce reports of serious crimes, especially robberies and murders. He said monthly analyses of crime data reveal that for each month of 2013, there were more than 300 reports of serious crimes. This, he said, is unacceptable given the

resources available to the Guyana Police Force. “While I am aware that more recently, more analytical work has accompanied the crime-fighting strategies of the Force, I am not totally convinced that, at the Junior Officers Level, enough emphasis is being placed on this aspect of Police operations. I urge you, the Junior Officers, who operate out of Police Sub-Divisions and stations, to pay more attention to the entries in the crime and occurrence books at your stations and information along with analyses available through the Integrated Crime Information System (ICIS) in order that you could be more informed of the crime and crime trends in your districts. You can only manage your resources effectively at Stations when you are able to identify trouble spots in your station districts.”

Noise nuisance Rohee also spoke about noise nuisance, which, he said, is not being handled properly by the Force. He noted that too many complaints of noise nuisance are being made by members of the public to the Home Affairs Ministry, noting that in many instances, the complainants alleged that their reports fell on the deaf ears of Police ranks, some of whom believe that they should not take any action on noise nuisance unless reports are made to the Police and statements are provided. “I believe that a more proactive stance needs to be adopted in this matter. Junior Officers need to be more effective in addressing complaints of noise nuisance made at their respective locations,” the Minister said.

“Strange behaviour” by students disrupts classes at Richard Ishmael

Chaos erupted at the Richard Ishmael Secondary School on Friday, after several students began behaving strangely.

Teachers and students had alleged that “demonic forces” had possessed the children in question. It is not the first time this phenomenon has hit city schools and on each occasion the allegation has always been that the students have been attacked by supernatural forces.

About 12 females of the Second and Third Form classes caused pandemonium in the school’s compound when they erupted in violent screams and unusual behaviour. When Guyana Times visited the school, one student had to be forcefully removed from the school’s fence on which she was sitting, after which she became violent towards a teacher who was trying to subdue her. There were also other students being managed on the floor of the headmistress’ office. Some students fearing they would become “possessed” as well, ran from the compound to escape, while others bravely huddled together and prayed

One of the affected students

for their friends.

Speaking to Guyana Times, a Third Form student claimed that a similar situation had happened about one month ago, but at the time, only one student had been affected. According to the very bold third former, “the demons are back with a vengeance”, as Friday’s attack began with the same student previously affected. Another student stated that at first she thought it was a scam for students to be excused from continuing their National Grade Nine Assessment, which was underway at the time of the unusual occurrence, but lat-

er changed her attitude when she saw the students’ “possessed behaviour” up-close. Parents ultimately began showing up at the secondary school to see whether their children were affected and to take them home. One parent stated that schools need to bring back prayer groups and Bible clubs, saying …”in today’s society, our prayers are all we have, to protect our young people”.

When contacted by Guyana Times, the Richard Ishmael Headteacher made no comment about the occurrences that took place on the school grounds.

Passengers disembarking Dynamic Airways at the CJIA on Friday

Captain Gerry Gouveia and other officials at the reception at the CJIA

NEW GPC INC, several others sign on to Guyana Festival

Corporate Guyana continues to show its support in promoting all things Guyanese through the Guyana Festival with the NEW GPC INC, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) and several other businesses coming forward in support of the event.

The inaugural festival will be staged at the Guyana National Stadium from August 8-10.

At a simple ceremony at the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry on Friday, the NEW GPC INC donated G$1.5 million towards the three-day celebration.

NEW GPC INC Marketing Manager Trevor Bassoo said the company is pleased to support the event.

“We are happy to be onboard with the Guyana Festival,” Bassoo declared.

Jiffi Lubes representative Irfaan Kalamadeen expressed similar sentiments, noting that the event holds great potential in showcasing Guyana, and what it has to offer to the world. Jiffi Lubes also presented a cheque for $300,000 to the Guyana Festival Committee.

Official oil

Meanwhile, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali announced that the Golden Book Cooking Oil, produced by Pomeroon Oil Mills will be used for the Guyana Festival Cook Out, which will be staged on August 10 as part of the threeday activities. Ali made this announcement at a symbolic cheque presentation ceremony, where Alfro Alphonso, from the Pomeroon Oil Mills presented $1.5 million towards the staging of the festival.

“We are very happy and we feel privileged to be a part of this festival that showcases everything Guyanese. Golden Brook is truly Guyanese and this is an excellent opportunity to showcase that. We expect this to be a tremendous success,” Alphonso explained.

Meanwhile, Looknauth Persaud, the head of the Festival Cookout Committee and the owner of Kings Jewellery, explained that all Guyanese are welcome to participate in the Festival Cookout, as this will provide the chance to showcase their skills.

“This is the opportunity for Guyanese to come out and showcase their skills. There is excitement about the event and we want this to kick-start

new businesses,” he said.

Persons and groups interested in participating in this exciting and novel event can access the registration forms from the website www. guyanafestival.gy or visit the Facebook page: Guyana Festival.

a major role in promoting the cultural heritage of Guyana.

“GT&T is one of our most strategic partners in terms of activities for tourism. Their sponsorship of $3 million is not only a financial commitment but also a reminder that they are embedded at home

Courts, Parika; Church’s Chicken, Linden; Essential Care Pharmacy, Diamond; Fatboy Discount, Vreed-enHoop; the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry; the Guyana Tourism Authority; and Choke Gas Station, LBI.

Ali stated that he is pleased

GT&T onboard

Additionally, on Friday, GT&T handed over a cheque for $3 million as they reaffirmed their support for the development of arts and culture, in a national way.

“We at GT&T are happy to be part of this significant, inaugural Guyana Festival,” GT&T Chief Executive Officer R K Sharma declared.

Ali expressed his delight that GT&T has joined the Guyana Festival team and reminded that the telephone company has always played

and remain a strong supporter of everything local.”

Minister Ali reminded that festival passports are on sale and patrons can uplift them from authorised vendors for a low cost of $3000.

This allows access to all three, fun-filled and exciting days of the Guyana Festival.

These passports are available at Nigel’s Supermarket; Ashmin’s Trading; N&S Mattai; Survival Supermarket, Vlissengen Road; K & K Service Station, Mahaica; M & M Snackette, Demerara Harbour Bridge;

Miners may soon get duty-free concession on 4x4 vehicles

Help could be on the way for miners in Guyana facing financial difficulties through the granting of duty-free concessions on 4×4, four-door vehicles, Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) President Patrick Harding said on Thursday.

He made this disclosure at a miners’ consultation held by the Association to discuss the challenges confronting the sector and the way forward in addressing them.

Harding told the miners that the GGDMA has heard their calls for the concession and is currently engaging the Government on the issue, with some amount of success.

He said the Government has signalled its intentions to agree to the demand, but it will be done on a conditional basis in terms of gold declarations, and while all taxes must be paid for workers at mining camps.

The disclosure came after the miners verbally attacked the Association’s executives for being tardy in their fight against the challenges which are hindering the growth of the sector. The gathering consisting of mostly small and medium scale miners were very vocal in airing their views, noting that for far too long the GGDMA and the Government through Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud has been making promises to offer duty-free concession, but to this date, it is yet to happen.

They told the executives that it was public knowledge that gold prices are low, and as such, there is need for concessions to be granted to reduce overhead costs.

One miner, Michael Lam, said that given the current prices for gold, some miners were operating at a loss since the overhead costs are most times more than what is being garnered in production.

High cost

to have received cheques from the various companies, as they are helping to build the local economy.

The money, he said will go a very long way and he hopes that more businesses will come on stream for the Guyana Festival. The threeday festival will feature exciting events that will celebrate sport legends, culture, art, entertainment, food, music and much more.

“We buy fuel in some areas in the backdam at $100,000$140,000 per barrel when it being sold in Georgetown for $47,000. If we buy eight-10 barrels, that’s $1 million alone being spent on just fuel. Leave out you have to pay for occupying claims for those doing who don’t have their own, then you have to pay large amounts of monies in duty when you purchase machin-

ery and equipment, so we really need duty-free concessions,” the miner said.

In some instances, miners who have been unable to pay their monthly installments for equipment have had their excavators repossessed. In responding to the requests, Harding said he will be ensuring that the relevant ministries forge closer relations with the GGDMA’s executive body to deal more effectively with issues, and to determine what assistance Government can render.

The miners have also asked that for those who are unable to honour their financial obligations to lending institutions, Government should try to intervene to bring some relief.

Crime and security was another major issue that was raised. Harding said the mining industry has lost many miners to this scourge and told the miners that the Association was currently engaging the new Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud to put systems in place which can help to reduce the prevalence of crime in the mining areas.

The GGMDA is also engaging Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee on the issuing of gun licenses to the miners, for them to protect themselves. Last year, the industry had a record production of 481,100 ounces of gold. It is the largest foreign exchange earner and plays a pivotal role in the country’s overall development.

Additionally, the gold mining industry in Guyana creates over 60,000 jobs directly and about 150,000 indirectly; catering for both skilled and semi-skilled workers.

Massive sewer spill on Quamina, Waterloo Streets

The Guyana Water Inc on Friday advised that a truck belonging to a private company damaged its sewer main at the junction of Waterloo and Quamina Streets in the morning which resulted in a significant sewerage spill. In a release GWI urged commuters to exercise extreme caution at the junction as the company executes emergency repairs to the damaged sewer main in the swiftest manner possible. For emergencies, customers can contact GWI’s Sanitation Hotline numbers on 2278718 and 226-6059 from Monday to Friday between 8:00 to 17:00h.

GT&T Chief Executive Officer RK Sharma hands over the cheque to acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali

Jiffi Lubes representative Irfaan Kalamadeen (second from right) makes the donation on behalf of the company to head of the Guyana Festival Committee Looknauth Persaud

Pomeroon Oil Mills Director Alfro Alphonso (second from right) hands over a cheque to the tune of $1.5 million to Minister Ali

GGDMA President Patrick Harding

OAS and Haiti discuss elections and plan to register Haitian migrants in The Dominican Republic

The Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), José Miguel Insulza, on Wednesday met with the President of Haiti, Michel Martelly, who reiterated his firm commitment to hold elections on October 26 of this year, in accordance with the political agreements made with other political forces in his country.

During the meeting, Martelly explained that he has taken the necessary steps to make certain that these elections are held and requested the support of the OAS to ensure that the electoral process complies with all due guarantees. In addition, he asked the Secretary General to send an electoral observation mission (EOM) to the elections, in which

will choose 20 senators, 112 deputies, and local authorities.

UWI grads refuse to sign contracts

More than 100 medical graduates of the University of the West Indies’ St Augustine and Mona Campuses have refused to sign internship contracts offered to them by the Health Ministry, saying the new conditions are unreasonable and unfair. The TT Guardian spoke to some students, who chose to remain anonymous.

“When we started medical school we were told the internship is one year. Someone called the Ministry and they told us we have two options: Either we become a locum, or sign a two-year contract, and that this was based on directives from the Minister,” one of them explained.” Another student said

about 11 graduates had accepted the offer and signed the contracts. However, the majority of students refused to sign. Saying graduates only became aware of the changes on Monday, another student added: “Even up to our oath-taking ceremony two weeks ago, we understood that it’s one year, and now we have suddenly been told that it’s two years and that we are not starting on July 1.” Students were told, unofficially, that the new measures were being put in place to develop more competent young doctors. The students said their postgraduate training would also be negatively affected and they were yet to receive official word from anyone on the issue. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

For his part, Insulza committed the support of the OAS and the time-

ly deployment of a preliminary mission, in accordance with Article 25 of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, to back the holding of free and fair elections, in a process planned for October. The Secretary General also offered to organise an electoral observation mission in a timely manner.

On a separate issue, the OAS leader delivered to Martelly an action plan to support the Government of Haiti in providing identification for Haitians residing in The Dominican Republic without documentation. The action plan was prepared at the request of the President of The Dominican Republic, Danilo Medina, and the Prime Minister of Haiti, Laurent Lamothe. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Denzil Douglas admires Cuba’s achievements

Denzil Llewellyn Douglas, Prime Minister (PM) of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, declared himself in this capital to be proud and admired by Cuba’s achievements and committed himself to the strengthening of relations between the two countries.

“We’re proud of what Cuba has done and we’ll become lawyers and spokespersons in the rest of the world to show its achievements,” asserted the PM of Saint Kitts and Nevis at the Jose Marti Memorial at Revolution Square, after paying tribute to the Cuban National Hero.

He asserted that the bonds between the two states have brought

benefits for that small Caribbean nation, in fields like higher education, health and agriculture.

“Cuba is part of the Caribbean and we’re part of the area’s historic relations with Cuba,” said Douglas, who is also his country’s Finance, Sustainable Development, Development of Human Resources, Social Empowerment and Social Security Minister.

Accompanied by Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Rogelio Sierra, the visitor toured the halls of the Memorial, where he received an explanation about the life and work and the struggles of the Cuban hero of the island’s struggle for independence. (ACN)

Over-fishing for conservation in the Cayman Islands

Comfort Suites Grand Cayman, which is franchised by Choice Hotels International, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is working to help preserve the Cayman Islands waters of invasive marine life.

Ridding the Cayman Islands waters of a voracious foreign fish species is one of the initiatives embraced by the resort, which is working closely with a local dive company.

“The lionfish was introduced to Cayman Islands waters and have wreaked havoc on our local fish population – which has in turn damaged our coral reefs

invasive

– so we jumped at the opportunity to do something about it with our partners at Ambassador Divers,” reported Tom Mason, General

Manager of the Comfort Suites resort on the storied Seven Mile Beach.

Comfort Suites Seven Mile Beach partnered

with Ambassador Divers to support an innovative scheme, guided by the Cayman Islands Marine Conservation Board, to reduce the numbers of the voracious fish introduced from the Asia-Pacific region.

“People bought the lionfish for their aquariums and, when they saw how they devoured other fish in the tanks, dumped them into the ocean – not knowing the species could produce 30 thousand eggs every four days,” said Jason Washington, owner of Ambassador Divers – one of the premier dive shops in the Cayman Islands. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Suriname confirms 17 cases of chikungunya

The Bureau of Public Health (BOG) has confirmed 17 cases of the mosquito-borne chikungunya-virus in Suriname. At a press conference on Wednesday evening, officials from BOG, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) warned that if individuals don’t take precautionary measures thousands could be affected by the virus.

The first chikungunya case was confirmed on June 7 after a man who returned from vacation in St Martin developed symptoms of the disease, said Maureen Van Dijk-Wijngaarde, Deputy Director of BOG.

Last week, a second case, a woman who returned from Guyana, was confirmed, while the remaining 15 were confirmed

on Wednesday, prompting the health authorities to hold a press meeting to inform the public.

According to Van DijkWijngaarde, two cases involve family members of the man who returned from St Martin. Fifteen of the infected persons did not travel abroad recently the BOG official noted.

“Chikungunya is a new virus for Suriname. Since there is no resistance as yet, everyone here is vulnerable. Therefore in the coming months we may expect thousands to be infected by the virus,” CARPHA’s Director, James Hospedales, warned. He further noted that, currently, the disease has spread to 24 countries and territories in the Caribbean, with so far a total of some 5000 confirmed cases. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Trinidad Government to create 30,000 new jobs – PM PersadBissassar

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is projecting an expanding economy that will see a massive increase in jobs by 2020. “With the pace we intend to drive the economy at over the coming six years, we project the creation of over 30,000 new, well-paying jobs,” she told a breakfast meeting with the Trinidad and Tobago business community on Thursday.

The Prime Minister said the short and long-term prospects for the country are a far cry, “from a position of decline and instability in 2010. She said for that reason, this is the opportune time for more dialogue between the governing politicians and the business community.

“It is now that our dis-

cussions [should be] on how Government can further work to provide an enabling business environment and a better platform for your growth, expansion and entry into new sectors.”

Persad-Bissessar proceeded to detail several economic signposts that point to an economy on the upswing.

“We are now in a position of stability and growth, with projections of even stronger performance as we proceed into 2015 and beyond.”

Contending that the business environment has improved tremendously in the past four years, she said, “Our economy is expected to maintain a positive momentum into 2014 with growth of 2.9 per cent forecasted in 2014, and up to 3.2 per cent in 2015. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Haitians

(L-R) President of Haiti Michel Martelly and OAS Secretary General José Miguel Insulza

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar

The

species is not eaten by Caribbean predator fish so Washington looked ashore for a solution

Isis execution site revealed by satellite images, claims human rights group

Iraqi insurgents execut-

ed at least 160 captives earlier this month in the northern city of Tikrit, Human Rights Watch has said, citing an analysis of satellite imagery and grisly photographs released by the militants.

The US-based group said militants from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isis) killed between 160 and 190 men in two locations in Tikrit between June 11-14.

“The number of victims may well be much higher, but the difficulty of locating bodies and accessing the area has prevented a full investigation,” it said.

After overrunning large swaths of northern Iraq and capturing the cities of Mosul and Tikrit earlier this month, the Islamic extremist group posted graphic photos on a militant website that appeared to show fighters loading dozens of

Human Right Watch map that appears to show an Isis execution site near

captured soldiers on to flatbed trucks before forcing them to lie in a shallow ditch with their hands tied behind their backs. A final set of photos shows what appear

to be dead bodies.

“The photos and satellite images from Tikrit provide strong evidence of a horrible war crime that needs further investigation,” Peter

Bouckaert, emergencies director at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. The militants “apparently executed at the very least 160 people in Tikrit”. (Excerpt

Vatican defrocks top Archbishop for child sex

The Vatican’s former Ambassador to The Dominican Republic has been convicted by a Roman Catholic Church tribunal of sex abuse and has been defrocked in the first such sentence handed down against a top papal representative.

The Vatican said on Friday that Monsignor Jozef Wesolowski was found guilty by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in recent days, and sentenced to the harshest penalty possible against a cleric: laicisation, meaning he can no longer perform priestly duties or present himself as a priest.

Wesolowski has two months to appeal. He also faces other charges by the

The Vatican said on Friday that Monsignor Jozef Wesolowski was found guilty by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in recent days, and sentenced to the harshest penalty possible against a cleric: laicisation, meaning he can no longer perform priestly duties or present himself as a priest

criminal tribunal of Vatican City, since as a papal diplomat he is a citizen of the tiny city state.

China jails 25 members in latest sentencing of illegal cult

AChinese court has sentenced 25 members of a banned religious group to prison terms of up to eight years, state media said on Friday, the largest in a series of prosecutions against a group that China calls an illegal cult.

China has sentenced dozens of followers of Quannengshen, or the Church of Almighty God religious movement, since the murder of a woman at a fastfood restaurant by alleged members of the group earlier this month sparked a national outcry.

The Quannengshen members were charged with spreading cult materials in public places, disturbing social order and undermining national laws and regu-

lations, state news agency Xinhua said, citing a ruling from the Xiji County People’s Court in northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region on Thursday.

The Quannengshen group, which originated in central Henan province, believes that Jesus has been resurrected as Yang Xiangbin, wife of the sect’s founder Zhao Weishan, Xinhua said. Zhao is also known as Xu Wenshan, Xinhua said, adding that the couple fled to the United States in September 2000.

In 2012, China launched a crackdown on the group after it called for a “decisive battle” to slay the “Red Dragon” Communist Party, and preached that the world would end that year. (Excerpt from Reuters)

The Holy See recalled the Polish-born Wesolowski on August 21, 2013, and relieved him of his job af-

ter the Archbishop of Santo Domingo, Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez, told Pope Francis about rumours that Wesolowski had sexually abused teenage boys in The Dominican Republic.

Dominican authorities subsequently opened an investigation, but have not charged him. Poland, too, opened an investigation into Wesolowski and a friend and fellow Polish priest.

Wesolowski is the highest-ranking Vatican official to be investigated for alleged sex abuse, and his case raised questions about whether the Vatican, by removing him from Dominican jurisdiction, was protecting him and placing its own investigations ahead of that of authorities in the Caribbean nation. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Syria crisis: Obama asks Congress for US$500M for rebels

President Barack Obama has asked the US Congress to approve US$500 million (£294 million) to train and equip what he described as “moderate” Syrian Opposition forces.

The funds would help Syrians defend against forces aligned with President Bashar al-Assad, the White House said. The aid would also counter Islamist militants such as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Isis), it added.

Isis’s advance in neighbouring Iraq has led some in Congress to press Obama to take action. Tens of thousands of people have died and millions more have been displaced in three years of civil war in Syria, as rebels fight

14 killed, 15 injured in gas pipeline blast in Andhra Pradesh

In a major blast in a gas pipeline, 14 people were burned alive and 15 others received severe burns at Nagaram village of Mamidikuduru mandal of East Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh on Friday morning.

Villagers woke up to deafening noise and huge flames after the pipeline belonging to Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) suddenly caught fire near an ONGC connecting station. Villagers allege negligence on the part of officials as the pipeline developed rust and authorities failed to replace it.

troops loyal to Assad.

“This funding request would build on the Administration’s longstanding efforts to empower the moderate Syrian Opposition, both civilian and armed,” the White House said. It will also “enable the Department of Defence to increase our support to vetted elements of the armed Opposition”.

The money will help stabilise areas under Opposition control and counter terrorist threats, the White House said.

The rebels that would receive the funds would be vetted beforehand in order to alleviate concerns of equipment falling into the hands of militants hostile to the US and its allies, the White House said.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

A pall of gloom descended on Mamidikuduru mandal with people running in panic and wailing for help as huge flames engulfed an entire village trapping about 30 people, and burning hundreds of tall coconut trees and reducing about 50 houses and shops to ashes. Many birds and domestic animals were feared burnt in the mishap as flames rose to as high as 250 metres, villagers told media.

The State Government rushed in senior officials to the accident spot to take up immediate relief and rescue operations. Fire fighting personnel from half a dozen fire stations fought to tame the flames. Villagers recall the gas pipeline blowout in the district about two decades ago where flames continued to rage for several days. (Excerpt from Times of India)

Sierra Leone: Sheltering Ebola-infected people ‘is a crime’

Sierra Leone has warned it is a serious crime to shelter patients infected with the Ebola virus who are in hiding. The Health Ministry said several patients had discharged themselves from hospital in Kenema district, the heart of the country’s outbreak.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for “drastic action” to contain the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, which has killed almost 400 people. It is the largest outbreak in terms of cases, deaths and geographical spread.

There have been more than 600 cases in Guinea –where the outbreak started four months ago – and

neighbouring Sierra Leone and Liberia. Around 60 per cent of those infected with the virus have died. The WHO says that in Sierra Leone alone, there have been at least 46 fatalities out of a total 176 people infected with the Ebola virus. The global health body has sent 150 experts to the region to help prevent the spread of the virus. However, it has warned of the potential for “further international spread”.

Dr Shek Moar Khan, who is working with Ebola patients at Kenema Government hospital, said his team met resistance when trying to inform people about the disease. (Excerpt from BBC News)

EU signs trade pact with Ukraine, threatens sanctions on Russia

The European Union signed an historic free-trade pact with Ukraine on Friday and warned it could impose more sanctions on Moscow unless pro-Russian rebels act to wind down the crisis in the east of the country by Monday.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko came to Brussels to sign a far-reaching trade and political cooperation agreement with the EU that has been at the heart of months of deadly violence and upheaval in his country, drawing an immediate threat of “grave consequences” from Russia.

Georgia and Moldova signed similar deals, holding out the prospect of deep eco-

nomic integration and unfettered access to the EU’s 500 million citizens, but alarming Moscow which is concerned about losing influence over former Soviet republics. EU leaders meeting in Brussels demanded that, by Monday, Ukrainian rebels agree to ceasefire verification arrangements, return border checkpoints to Kiev authorities, free hostages and launch serious talks on implementing Poroshenko’s peace plan.

“We expect progress in the next hours,” German Chancellor Angela Merkel said. “If we don’t see any steps forward on any of the points, then we are also prepared to take drastic measures.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

Tikrit

saturday, june 28, 2014

Toronto-based Qaseeda singers

thrill Guyanese audience

With a packed lecture hall, including Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Leader of the Opposition David Granger Toronto-based, international recording female Qaseeda

ence as the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC) held a special thanksgiving programme marking the completion of Phases One and Two of the facilities.

Nazima and her mom,

singers, Guyanese-born, Nazima Hossain and her mother, Sakina Hossain, last Sunday wowed the audi-

Sakina, along with another sibling – Shameeza, formed the group that originated from the island of Leguan.

They started singing at the Amsterdam Masjid, Leguan as part of a play. The play –“Glimpses of Islam through the Ages” depicted through the eyes of the Prophets of Allah, from Prophet Adam (AS) to Prophet Muhammad (SAS).

This play was performed throughout Guyana at many masjids and also at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown. It grew in popularity over the years and with the migration of Nazima and family in 1993, to Toronto, Canada, it folded. However, they continued to sing their beautiful qaseedas, mostly in English.

They caught the eyes and ears of Pakistani-born music producer, Nadeem Ali and through Avenger Productions of Toronto, produced their first album in 1995/96, fittingly named“Glimpses of Islam”. The catchy tunes on this album soon became very popular in the Caribbean and North America, and in Guyana, the song “Whether you go to Churches, whether you go to mandirs” soon became a household song for Guyanese. All the lyr-

ics for these songs, and for the other albums are produced by Zaman Mirza and Rafeek Mirza (formerly of Endeavour, Leguan), now residing in Canada and USA respectively.

The singers credit the patriarch of the family, Sheikh Nazir Hossain; the Razack family; the Mirza family; the late Imam Fazal (Amsterdam Masjid,

Leguan) and family; Buddy Boy (Shafdar); the late Ramatally; Farouk Amin and family; Alim Shaw; Hajji Rahaman (K Rahaman and Sons); Khaleel Rahaman and family (Ruby, East Bank Essequibo); present Imam of Amsterdam Masjid, Shaikh Shahiroon Mohammed; Teacher “Zed” and John Khan and family; as well as their Producer Nadeem Ali

and Avengers Productions of Canada, for their tremendous success as singers.

The duo appearance at the famed ACIC, Guyana’s leading Islamic centre and hub for the international cooperation between the Muslims of Guyana and the rest of the world, was a first for them in Guyana, since their migration.

11 Tutorial High students get cash to pursue higher education

Eleven students of Tutorial High School (THS) were given monetary bursaries to assist in their pursuit of tertiary level education.

In keeping with the ethos of the vibrant THS Alumni Association, members of the Toronto Chapter donated the funds to help offset the expenses of the students who wrote CXC and CSEC Examinations in 2013 and 2014, a release from the school said. Some of the students are already students of the University of Guyana pursuing Bachelor’s degree programmes in Banking, Marketing, Economics and Medicine, while others have commenced certificate and degree programmes at private tertiary institutions including the Aeronautical Engineering institute at the Ogle Aerodrome.

At a simple ceremony held earlier this month in the school’s library, members of the Board of Governors presented bursaries to: Davie Beepat, Namanie Singh, Toshana Maloney, Patrick Stewart, Kenisa Sim and Ryan Shim who all graduated in 2013.

Five students who are currently writing up to 11 subjects at CXC also received bursary awards. They were Damion Petty, Mahendra Paul, Sonia Grannum, Akesha Murray and Treasure Muchennagumbo.

Gregory Blyden, Chairman of the School’s Board, used the occasion to officially sign a three-year contract with Cassandra Bovell, the first recipient of

the Castello Commemorative Scholarship Fund which was revived in 2013 to coincide with the 74th anniversary of the school’s founding.

The then 17 year old had just gained admission to the University of Guyana to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She has the distinction of being the first Tutorial CXC candidate to achieve a ‘double award distinction’ in Agriculture Science, and she scored Grades One and Two in English Language, Human and Social Biology, Mathematics, Social Studies, Information Technology, English Literature and Integrated Science.

In his remarks, Blyden, a THS alumnus, spoke of the continuous contributions of books, teaching and learning materials and cash made to the school by past students in their individu-

al capacities and through the Alumni Chapters in Guyana; London, England; Toronto, Canada; and New York. The signing of the certificate/contract, he said, was in consonance with the school’s 75-year-old motto, ‘We Give That We May Receive’. “We live in an age of advanced technology so wherever in this world Cassandra goes, she would be able to give back to the school her time and resources,” Blyden stated.

This motto in all its permutations has been the school’s bulwark ever since it was founded in 1939 by a consummate educator, Austin Castello, who brought to fruition his vision to provide quality secondary education for the children of British Guiana’s working class. The monthly fee in those pioneering days was $2.00, and it climbed gradually to $30.00 by 1970.

Two years later, education from nursery to the university level was declared free. Austin was joined in this noble endeavour by his younger brother, Joseph, in 1956, and together with a cadre of committed teachers, they promulgated the value of higher education.

Just over a decade ago, the Alumni Association first floated the idea of reviving the Castello legacy of providing scholarships and academic awards to the school’s graduates who win places at tertiary institutions in and outside of Guyana.

The plans for what would be the Castello Commemorative Scholarship Fund lay dormant for a few years while some members in the Guyana and overseas chapters were quietly researching the legal ramifications, identifying possible sources of funding for continuous

replenishment, and crafting constitutional requirements for its management. It was then decided that the sources of funding would include contributions from the Alumni chapters, revenue from fund raising events, from gifts donated by past students, resources provided by the Education Ministry, and from the proceeds of each Triennial Reunion that is hosted in turn by the various chapters.

The school’s 74th anniversary rolled around on September 1, 2013, and during the month-long commemorative activities, the Alumni Association launched the Fund. President of the Guyana Chapter, Desmond Sears, explained that the Castello Commemorative Fund is a Tertiary education resource that would be used to sponsor one Tutorial graduate every year who has per-

formed creditably at any level of the Caribbean Council of Examinations (CXC) and who has gained admission to the University of Guyana, the University of the West Indies or any other institution offering tertiary or vocational study.

The Fund will also be used to supply educational facilities for the school. The Guyana chapter manages the Fund in collaboration with the student and parent-teacher bodies, and it is overseen by the Education Ministry.

The recipient of the 2014 Castello Commemorative Scholarship Award will be announced in September during the school’s celebrations of its 75th anniversary. In the meantime, the Guyana chapter is preparing to host hundreds of THS alumni located all over the world for the Twelfth Triennial Reunion scheduled for July 27-August 3.

A variety of activities have been planned for the one-week reunion including tours to Guyana’s hinterland regions and participation in the annual Emancipation celebrations.

The highlights will be a grand Gala Dinner and Ball and an awards presentation event at which several past and present teachers and outstanding personalities would be tangibly recognised.

Past students could contact any member of the Guyana chapter for more information and to make reservations.

The awardees with their Teachers and Head Mistress

Canadian-based international recording Qaseeda singer Nazima Hoosain

The beautiful ACIC Masjid 2

EU plugs US$510M into supporting education in developing countries

New funding to support education in developing countries over the next seven years, through the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), was on Thursday announced by European Development Commissioner Andris Piebalgs.

Speaking at the EU-hosted GPE’s Second Replenishment Pledging Conference, the Commissioner underlined that the new €375 million (US$510 million) support will contribute to providing basic education in the close to 60 countries where the Partnership currently works.

Announcing the commitment, Commissioner Piebalgs said: “As a former teacher myself, I have always been strongly committed to ensuring that all children receive a quality education, no matter where they live. That’s why we are proud to partner with the GPE on today’s event – it shows our firm ongoing commitment to education, and I hope today’s event will also encourage other donors to redouble their efforts; not only to get children into schools but also to improve the standards of education they receive there.”

This funding comes on top of the EU’s ongoing commitment to education – in the Agenda for Change (the EU’s policy to refocus its aid to support those sectors and countries which need it most and where it can make the most difference), the Commissioner pledged to spend at least 20 per cent of the EU development aid on human development and social inclusion, including education.

Mobilising resources

Total EU funding for education in developing countries is expected to reach some €4.5 billion between 2014 and 2020. This includes €2.8 billion for basic and vocational education, the bulk of it through bilateral cooperation, and €1.68 billion for the higher education programme. Fifty-one of the countries supported are

‘fragile’ (countries currently affected by conflict and postconflict countries) – an increase of almost 10 per cent up from 2013.

The replenishment conference aims to mobilise domestic resources and external financing for education in GPE countries for the 2015-2018 period, the latter both through the GPE Fund and through bilateral support.

Developing partner countries are expected to make significant pledges in terms of mobilisation of domestic funding for education, which is critical for success as it caters for the lion’s share of those budgets. On the donor side, in addition to the European Commission, other EU donors are expected to pledge significant amounts to the GPE at the event.

Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia and Chair of the Global Partnership’s Board of Directors, chaired the event, together with Commissioner Piebalgs. More than 40 education ministers from developing countries were in attendance, as well as Democratic Republic of the Congo Prime Minister Augustin Ponyo; European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, Kristalina Georgieva; ministers from across the EU; former UK Prime Minister and UN Special Envoy on Global Education Gordon Brown; UN Special Adviser on

Global Education Ziauddin Yousafzai, Honorary Chair at the Malala Fund (and father of education activist Malala Yousafzai); UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova; and UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake.

The EU and its member states are collectively the biggest donor to the GPE, having contributed more 75 per cent of US$ 3.7 billion awarded from the GPE Fund in 2004-2013. Since 2004, support from the Partnership contributed to the following results: 22 million more children have been attending to school, including 10 million more girls; 28 developing country partners have achieved gender parity in primary school completion; 300,000 teachers have been trained; and close to 53,000 classrooms have been built, rehabilitated and equipped

The GPE is made up of nearly 60 developing country governments, as well as donor governments, civil society/non-governmental organisations, teacher organisations, international organisations, and the private sector and foundations, whose joint mission is to galvanise and coordinate a global effort to provide a good quality education to children, prioritising the poorest and most vulnerable. It has allocated US$3.7 billion over the past decade to support education reforms in developing countries.

saturday, JuNE 28, 2014 |

Region Two: Packed programme planned for Emancipation celebrations

Emancipation activities in Region Two are set to begin on July 16 with a Primary School Quiz Competition at the African Culture and Education Association’s (ACEA) building, Henrietta on the Essequibo Coast.

According to a release, the activities will also include an essay competition for secondary school students on Cleanup Campaign.

On July 30, a programme of African dance will be held at the Anna Regina Multilateral School at 18:00h, along with the judging of the Best Village Competition.

On July 31, there will be a candlelight parade beginning at Damon Cross, La Belle Alliance and conclud-

ing at the Anna Regina Car Park, next to the Damon Monument.

The parade, which will see participants carrying bottle lamps, accompanied by loud African drumming, will commence at 20:30h.

On August 1, a midnight liberation ceremony will be held at the Damon Monument to usher in Emancipation Day.

On Emancipation Day, a church service will be held at the ACEA building, starting at 08:00h and at 10:30h, senior citizens will be served with lunch from 10:00h to 13:00h at the Queenstown Community Centre.

The Association will also hold an Emancipation Fair at Damon’s Square, Anna Regina from 16:00h, fol-

lowed by a concert at the Queenstown Community Centre on August 2 and a Fun Day on August 3. A wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Damon’s Square on the said day, and on the next day, there will be a camp fire and Bar-B-Que at West Bury Square. The celebrations will move to Dartmouth on the August 12, with a cultural evening at the 8th of May Secondary School.

On August 13, an African Day Symposium will be held at the school, and on August 15, lunch will be served to senior citizens at the Flora Nursery School from 11:00h. The Miss Dartmouth Pageant is slated for the 8th of May Secondary School the next day.

Charity residents complain about speeding as Commander of G Division raps with the public

Scores of residents living in the Charity area on the Essequibo Coast have raised concerns pertaining to drivers and speeding on the public road, especially on Mondays.

Residents raised these concerns during a public meeting held on Thursday

the public road and as such called for speed bumps to be implemented as a way of preventing speeding by drivers.

Residents said that the community which is growing into the status of a town, needs to be safeguarded and residents’ lives need to be secured.

Residents also called for fre-

evening by Commander of G Division and other ranks.

Residents complained that drivers are speeding on

quent patrols in the area.

The meeting was specially convened by ranks of G Division in an effort to build

partnerships and understanding between the Force and the community.

According to Commander of G Division, Kevin Adonis, the Force from his division is on an outreach to various villages interacting with residents, soliciting their views on problems affecting them and hearing what the Force can do to help them.

The Commander said he would like to hear from residents as to whether the Police at Charity or in his division are doing their jobs.

In relation to speeding, the Commander said ranks will be in the area to monitor the traffic and promised to address the issue.

The delegation included Commander Kevon Adonis; Deputy Walter Stanton; Traffic Head, CID head and Sergeant for Charity, all ranks of G Division.

Itacha robbers not confirmed as GRA employees

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has noted with concern an article appearing in the June 16 edition of the Kaieteur News newspaper titled “Itacha family robbed by men posing as Customs Officers”.

According to the article, “three men who claimed to be Customs Officers attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA)… fleeced them of jewellery, cash and other merchandise…”. Additionally, the article said that “they all had ID badges from GRA”.

The GRA stated that there is no factual evidence to support the claim that this act was indeed perpetrated by officers of the Agency. Officers of the GRA, more specifically of its Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) and Berbice Anti Smuggling Squad (BASS),

are mandated to promote compliance with Guyana’s Tax, Trade and Border Laws and Regulations through responsible enforcement. They are expected to do so in a manner that is in keeping with the Standard Operational Procedures (SOPs) created by the Agency.

Enforcement Officers of the Agency and not Customs Officers are authorised to conduct searches for items

suspected to have been smuggled into the country. These searches are conducted after a Writ of Assistance would have been read to an adult occupant of the said premises. That person is allowed to accompany the Officers during the subsequent search. Additionally, if the occupant is uncomfortable, they are allowed to request the presence of a Police Officer from the nearest Police

Station. However, in accordance with Section 215 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, officers should not be hindered in any way from executing their duty. Section 215 also states that anyone who impedes the process ‘shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 together with imprisonment for three years’.

If indeed those persons were in possession of badges from the GRA, the robbed

woman should be familiar with the names and is urged to report same. Maintaining the integrity of the GRA will continue to be a primary focus of the Agency’s administration; however, the public can contribute to its smooth operation by reporting any inappropriate behaviour by officers of the Agency via telephone numbers 227-6060 or 227-8222, extensions 3201-3208.

European Development Commissioner Andris Piebalgs

Police in G Division wrap with Charity resident

Residents of Charity Housing scheme

SUDOKU

Remember that all partnerships are a twoway street. You will stir up a lot of trouble if you are too demanding. Practise give-and-take to find peace of mind.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Take any chance you get to help someone who has aided you in the past. Your relationship will become stronger as a result of your kind gesture.

Don’t behave emotionally or overreact if you want to avoid discord. Feelings will be hurt if you don’t think before you act. Be mindful of others, and you will get the same in return.

Take an opportunity to go through your personal papers yet again. The documents you thought were missing will come to light. Financial or legal concerns will proceed favourably today.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

Your unusual, whimsical attitude will draw people to your side. Take this opportunity to share your ideas and drum up the support you need to follow through with your plans.

(March 21-April 19)

Your tendency to talk will take over today. Resist the urge to blurt out whatever is on your mind. You will get into hot water if you don’t think before you speak.

(April 20-May 20)

Inspiration will strike if you take part in a cultural or artistic event. The ideas generated can be applied to a project that currently has you stymied.

(May 21June 20)

If you want to make the most of your life, follow your dreams. You may have several options, so decide what you really want. Welcome change; without it you cannot move ahead.

Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help. Admitting that there are some things that you can’t handle alone may be difficult, but it is not a sign of weakness.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

You can save yourself worry and doubt if you keep your secrets to yourself. If you want to get anything done, you will need to do the work without help from others.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

You have everything you need to fulfil your dreams. Combining all of your talents efficiently will lead to the success you’ve been hoping for, so don’t hold back.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

It’s time to capitalise on an idea that has been on your mind for some time. When you least expect it, money will come from a most unusual source.

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

arCHie

dilbert

NACRA Men’s 15s final…

Guyana Jaguars, USA South Panthers square off today

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Aconfident Guyana Jaguars will take on USA South Panthers in the final of the North America and Caribbean Rugby Association’s (NACRA) Men’s 15s championship in Atlanta, USA, today.

The Ryan Gonsalvesled Guyanese team earned the right to face USA South Panthers after defeating Trinidad and Tobago 15-8 in the Southern Zone final on June 7 at the National Park Rugby Field, while USA South Panthers qualified for the final after topping the Northern Zone.

Guyana Jaguars were grouped with Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados in the Southern Zone, while USA South Panthers played alongside Bermuda and the Cayman Islands in the Northern Zone.

Guyana Jaguars’ skipper Ryan Gonsalves said while the game will be a tough one, his players are ready for the challenge. He pointed out that they have been

in intense training since the Trinidad game, and key among the areas they focused on were maintaining possession and minimising dropping the ball.

USA South Panthers, on the other hand, will start as sure favourites, especially with home advantage and being higher ranked than the Guyanese. The Panthers

are also on a 10-match winning streak.

Despite the disparity between the two sides, the website www.rugbyredefined.com in its match pre-

Sir Andy Roberts hoping for “Improved Zouks” in Limacol CPL 2014

– “Our Aim is to finish Number 1 in the table!”

The St. Lucia Zouks will be looking to have an improved showing in this season’s Limacol CPL after a disappointing 2013 season. Zouks mentor and West Indies legend, Sir Andy Roberts, spoke exclusively to www.cplt20.com about his plans to make this a successful season for the Zouks.

“I feel the same way I

felt last year, and that is that we have genuine match winners, but there is room for improvement from last year’s disappointing season,” said Roberts. Having played in three Cricket World Cups and won two, Sir Andy, who was the first Antigua-born player to represent the West Indies in Test cricket, noted that his role for CPL

2014 would be to focus on the bowlers. “We have to improve 100%, and I will play more of a role with the bowlers this season to help them with their pace and variation. In cricket, bowlers win matches so I hope to bring the experience I had playing with the West Indies in three World Cups to the Zouks,” he said.

And having taken 202 test wickets, Roberts is a great man for the job. “Last season, we conceded too many runs in the last five overs, sometimes up to 80 runs, which is unacceptable. So this year, we need to avoid those lapses in concentration. Kevin Pietersen will be an important asset; as will Sohail Tanvir from Pakistan as his height will give batsmen issues. Indeed, Brad Hodge’s experience will guide the younger players in the squad.”

One player that Sir Andy Roberts is happy to have secured during the draft is Johnson Charles. “We are

happy have him back home in St. Lucia. Last season, an issue we had was lack of depth in wicket- keeping, so with Charles assisting Fletcher, they can also open the batting. In addition of course, we have Darren Sammy down the order who is one of the best finishers in world cricket, so if we are setting or chasing a total, we are confident he can do the job.”

Sir Andy also sent a strong message to the team he will face on July 12th, saying: “On paper, the Tallawahs are a strong team, however cricket is played on the day and not on paper, so I back our players to give us a good start in Grenada. Our aim is to finish number one in the league table and automatically get to the final. We will work hard and play to the best of our ability.”

CPL 2014 begins on July 11th when the Guyana Amazon Warriors will take on the Antigua Hawksbills.

view predicted a close game.

“This match this weekend should be a right royal battle as the Jaguars of Guyana travel to the USA on the back of two great victories recently and with the Panthers also unbeaten [in] this campaign we forsee that this match may come down to the wire,” the site reported.

Should the Guyanese win the contest, they stand to benefit from an improvement in their current ranking of 54 on the International Rugby Board (iRB) list. The match, which will start at 16:00h (USA time) at the Life University Rugby Complex, will bring an end to the Championship League of the NACRA 15s competition.

The winner will then play in a relegation/promotion match with bottom performers of the Cup League competition’s North and South divisions.

Guyana Jaguars squad reads: Rondell McArthur, Allain Crawford, Jason Tyrell, Clive Prowell, Dwayne Schroeder, Felon

Thompson, Richard Staglon, Vallon Adams, Ryan Gonsalves (captain) Christopher Singh, Avery Corbin, Theodore Henry, Claudius Butts, Carl Lewis, Ronald Mayers, Delroy Gordon, Jacques Archibald, Kevon David, Peabo Hamilton, Rickford Cummings, Leon Greaves, Lance Adonis and Cyon Kitt. The Coach is Clinton T. Clark, while the Manager is Kenneth Grant Stuart, Fitness Coach is Barry Browne and Physio is Abiola Blair.

USA South Panthers squad reads: Waymon Cassel, Wayne Chermely, Jason Davila, Cathal Doyle, Hiko Fotukava, Amro Gouda, Jesse Hackworth, Chad Haynes, Stephen Hickey, Jason Hinchman, Matt Hughston, Charlie Hutchings, Alex Maughan, Chris Milledge, Drew Moyes, Ben Paul, Jesse Posnansky, Brendan Smith, Tom Snow, Scott Terrell, Jonathon Toombs, David Winiarczyk and Greg Wood.

New date confirmed for RSTC horse-race meet

July 6 is now the new, confirmed date for the Rising Sun Turf Club grand horse-race meet, which was initially sched - uled to be run off on Sunday at the club’s track at Arima Park, West Coast Berbice.

On Thursday, organisers were forced to shelve the event due to the current inclement weather.

Persistent rainfall on the West Coast of Berbice had left the venue in a soggy state, giving the authorities no alternative but to reschedule the event.

According to Chandu Ramkissoon, the original programme will remain the same.

Eight highly anticipated races make up the programme with the feature

event being the D1 and Lower, fetching the highest first prize of $1 million and covering a distance of 1500m. The main supporting race is for Three-year-old Guyana and West Indian animals competing at 1400m for a top prize of $600,000. The winner of the F1 and Lower event to be run over a distance of 1400m is guaranteed $500,000 while the two-year-old Guyana and West Indian-bred cash prize is set at $300,000 at a distance of 600m. Other races on the agenda are the G3 and Lower (1000m/$400,000 first prize), I1 and Lower (1000m/$250,000 first prize), J and Lower (1000m/$200,000 first prize) and H1 and Lower (1000m/$400,000 first prize). (Rajiv Bisnauth)

Sir Andy shares a moment with Desmond Haynes and Marketing Director for CPL, James Wynne

Ryan Gonsalves (with the kick) has expressed confidence in his players’ ability to topple USA South Panthers

Today’s games: Brazil vs Chile 12:00h Colombia vs Uruguay 16:00h

Local fans make their predictions after Group Phase

Brazil still favourites but Netherlands now in the mix

By ReuBen StoBy

Prior to the start of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, the names that were bouncing around to win the title included Spain, Italy, Portugal and even England who have since bowed out in the group stage. Brazil and Argentina were the leading favourites among fans in Guyana, with Germany always in the mix.

Following the group phase, however, the Netherlands with the likes of the attacking Arjen Robben and the prolific goal scorer Robin van Persie are now one of the most talked about teams favoured to progress to the final.

Guyana Times Sport checked in with a number of football fans who have been closely following the World Cup to get their predictions. We asked them who they have for the final and to win, if there were any surprises for them in the group stage and who would win the Golden Boot.

Leonard Caleb (Linden): “Brazil all the way. We just have to make some tweaks in our team selection, like bring-

ing in Willian for Hulk and Fernandhino for Paulinho.

The only real surprise in the group stage is a man in Europe winning a bet that (Luis) Saurez will bite someone! It would be great for the World Cup to have a Brazil versus Argentina final but I have the Switzerland team beating them (Argentina) in the round of 16.

If Neymar is in the finals, he will win the Golden Boot but I like how James Rodrigues from Colombia is playing and don’t count out Thomas Muller, always putting himself in the right place at the right time to score. Messi, sorry but the Round of 16 is the farthest he would see.”

Curtis Stephens (Georgetown): “I have Brazil to win this World Cup with Netherlands meeting them in the final. There were really no surprises for me in the group stage as I didn’t expect Spain to do well ever since they failed to make an impression at the Confederations Cup. I didn’t expect

England to do well either.

I have Arjen Robben or Robin Van Persie to win the Golden Boot.”

Jason Gonsalves (Georgetown): “I had Portugal and Argentina to reach the final with Argentina winning so of course the exit of Portugal is the surprise for the group stage. Nevertheless, I have either Germany or Netherlands to progress to the final also.

I am also surprised that Brazil are still there, I was expecting them to get knocked out in the group stage. Messi will win the Golden Boot.”

Seon Singh (Georgetown): “I have Brazil and Netherlands reaching the final with Brazil coming out as champions. My surprise in the group stage was Nigeria making it to the next round. I am not surprised that Spain went home early. I saw it happened to France after they had won the World Cup in 1998.

I have Neymar to win the Golden Boot.”

Kwame Bishop (Georgetown): “I have Brazil all the time. They are going to win the World Cup and Neymar the Golden Boot.”

Marti DeSouza (Moruca): “I am backing Brazil to win the World Cup 2014 even though they have not impressed me much as yet. I am rallying around my neighbor. It’s very much open yet, but my fantasy final is between Brazil and Netherlands.

Surprises? Of Course! Spain being eliminated so early was a shocker. I was expecting a strong title defense.

For the Golden Boot award I have Lionel Messi. He is by far the most impressive player after the first round, notwithstanding I still have a sharp

eye on Neymar.”

Ryan James (Port Kaituma): “I have Argentina to win the World Cup. Surprises? Yes! England going home so early knowing that they have so many talented and experienced players.

I am not sure who may be in the finals with Argentina but I have Messi to win the Golden Boot.”

Statistically, this World Cup may be the best seen so far as goals scored in Thursday’s games blasted Brazil 2014 into the record books as a new benchmark was set for group stage strikes. A total of 136 goals were registered in the opening phase, six more than at Korea/Japan 2002.

The leading scorers so far are Argentina’s Lionel Messi Brazil’s Neymar and Germany’s Thomas Muller who all have four goals to their name.

Meanwhile, in matches today Brazil play Chile from 12:00h and Colombia match skills with Uruguay from 16:00 in an all South American affair.

Athletes hold hopes of medalling at Commonwealth Games

By tReiSton JoSeph

Three men will head to the starting line for Guyana when the 20th edition of the Commonwealth Games begins on July 23 in Glasgow, Scotland. Those three men are Guyana’s 100 metres record holder Adam Harris, Guyana’s 400 metres record holder Winston George and South American under-23 bronze medalist Stephan James.

It is definitely going to be a tough road ahead for the three Guyanese sprinters but if stakes were to be thrown down on the seven sporting disciplines to get Guyana a medal, track and field would definitely be the closest possibility.

Harris will line up for the

100 and 200 metres while both James and George will head to the starting blocks in the 200 and 400 metres.

So are the chances of the trio making the finals of their events or even medaling at the event?

It must be said Harris and George stand a good chance of making the finals of the 100 metres and the 400 metres respectively. However, realistically Harris could probably sneak on to the podium for Guyana in the men’s 100 metres.

In 2010 the 100 metres at the Commonwealth Games was won in 10.12s and it so happens Harris ran a personal best of 10.12s in May of this year to break Guyana’s national 100 metres record formerly held by James

Wren Gilkes. While 2010 is a long time from now and the 100 metres event has gotten far faster than 10.12s, Harris has a few things going in his favour.

One; both Usian Bolt and Yohan Blake will be absent from the

less the

Association inserts Bolt into the 100 metres without him qualifying. With the USA not part of the Commonwealth, the two

men likely to vie for the podium are Trinidad’s Richard Thompson and possibly Jamaica’s Nesta Carter, both of whom have been running well this year but not particularly as fast as Bolt and Blake.

Hence the 10.12s range that Harris is in, and providing he improves, will only get better with the amount of competition he is currently having might and that might just be able to do Guyana proud.

Meanwhile, George might have it a bit tougher than Harris to medal but George is never the athlete to doubt on the big stage. George is definitely expected to make the final of the 400 metres event...

100 metres un-

Jamaican Athletics

The Netherlands have now emerged as one of the favourites among local football fans to reach the final of the 2014 FIFA World Cup following action in the group stage. Photo: FIFA

Adam Harris Stephan James

Winston George

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Aresolute half-century from Kraigg Brathwaite was the cornerstone of West Indies progress on the second day. However, the majority of it was lost to rain. Grey clouds had circled Kensington Oval throughout the morning session and limited the day’s play to less than six overs after lunch. New Zealand might not have minded the intervention. They had begun well but lost the initiative by flitting between various lines and lengths.

The first half hour lived up to its clichéd billing with the ball buzzing past the batsmen’s ears. Chris Gayle was placed under particular discomfort as Trent Boult softened him up and Tim Southee almost had him caught at leg gully. New Zealand might have persisted with the experiment a little more, but Gayle hit himself out of trouble and three fours in three balls earned him some breathing space.

He was approaching a third fifty in four innings when the temptation to loft Mark Craig became too strong and he holed out at long-on. The offspinner would have relished the wear and tear on the pitch at Kensington Oval.

There was rough to exploit against both right and left-handers but he could not quite assert himself the way Sulieman Benn did on the

first day.

Brathwaite was one of the reasons for keeping Craig at bay. His solidity was a known quantity in West Indies.

His driving was eyecatching - a healthy forward stride to underpin a strong push. He used his bottom hand to keep the ball down and none of his 10 fours bore the imprint of being hit too hard. It was a mark of his composure at the crease, but he might have been a touch too lax as he drove on the up and was caught at cover.

The scoring rates in this Test have been very brisk. Kirk Edwards contributed to the continuation of that trend. His strokes were more flashy and fueled a secondwicket partnership of 74 with four fours and a six.

West Indies’ top order is not often the most reliable but having gone in with five bowlers, they had extra responsibility and the response

so far must be pleasing to the captain Denesh Ramdin... New Zealand fussed over the ball for much of the morning session, trying to persuade the umpires to change it. When their efforts did bear fruit, the replacement seemed to offer the seamers a bit more bite but Boult and Southee, on whom the visitors’ attack sorely depended, were rather lacklustre and West Indies benefited to the tune of 127 runs for the loss of two wickets.

New Zealand needed to streamline their plans after lunch, especially with Edwards chugging along on 41 off 45 and the new batsman, Darren Bravo, fresh off a century in the previous Test. Brendon McCullum had employed attacking fields - his ploy of using a silly mid-on almost bore fruit, but Brathwaite’s lazy drive had fallen short. He worked the same principle against Edwards, whose strokeplay was characterised by hard hands, by having two short covers.

He made the right moves and after the break his bowlers responded better. Craig went around the wicket to generate some good bounce, Neil Wagner was persistent. Contest had been imbued back into the game, but it was not allowed to unfurl as what began as a faint drizzle kept gaining strength.

SCOREBOARD

Brathwaite c Southee b Wagner 68

Edwards not out 42

Bravo not out 8

(b 1, lb 2, w 5, nb 1) 9 Total (2 wickets; 42.2 overs) 169 (3.99 runs per over) To bat: S Chanderpaul, D Ramdin*†, JO Holder, KAJ Roach, JE Taylor, S Shillingford, SJ Benn Fall of wickets 1-79 (Gayle, 21.5 ov), 2-153 (Brathwaite, 34.2 ov) Bowling: TA Boult 10-3-38-0, TG Southee 10-2-43-0, MD Craig 13-2-63-1, N Wagner 7.2-311-1, KS Williamson 2-0-11-0

Athletes hold hopes of medalling at Commonwealth Games

The slowest time heading into the final in 2010 was 46.11s and the last place finisher ran 46.07s.

George, on the other hand, has been having a stellar 2014 season and has dipped under 46s on two occasions with the second of the two breaking Guyana’s 400 metres record at 45.57s.

The gold in 2010 was won in 45.44s while the bronze was won in 45.55s all of which are faster than George’s personal record. Adding Grenada’s Kirani James to the race this time around makes the event a bit faster than the 2010 version of the event since James is a sub 45s quarter miler.

Two things can happen here; the race runs faster and George further breaks down his time and sneaks in for a medal, or simply George just breaks down his time since some of the same athletes from 2010 will be back to compete and we all

know that international athletes never stay stagnant.

Nevertheless, the expectation is that George only gets better and hopefully snatches a medal.

Now where does Stephan James stand in all of this? With no knock to one of the athletes that I think highly of, he is definitely on the outside looking in.

James recorded an IAAF recognised personal best of 46.15s in May of this year and, as I pointed out earlier, the slowest time to qualify for the final of the event in 2010 was 46.11s, slightly faster than James’ 46.15s. It is believed that the talented sprinter can make the semis but it’s a tough call from there for the chiseled quarter miler.

Meanwhile, all three men will line up in the 200 metres, which will be their toughest test of the competition.

George has a person-

From page 20

al best of 20.59s and has dipped under the 21s barrier a couple times this year. Harris is not the biggest 200 metres sprinter but does have a personal best of 20.60s, however, seeing that Harris has been focused a bit more on the 100 metres this year, it is believed that he might bow out in the semis of the 200 metres. James, on the other hand, will have the toughest challenge yet again as he has been hovering around early or mid 21s. The slowest qualifier in 2010 for the final ran 21.05s and last place ran 21.13s, so James will definitely have to run sub 21s if he is to have a remote chance of making the final of the event.

All in all, it is expected that the track trio shows up and give of their very best and hopefully come out with hardware at the 20th edition of the event.

Kirk Edwards cuts the ball, West Indies v New Zealand, 3rd Test, Barbados, 2nd day, June 27, 2014. Photo: WICB

Digicel Schools Football Tournament….

Charlestown needle Kingston

By TReisTon Joseph

Charlestown Secondary held on to defeat Kingston Secondary School 1-nil in a tough matchup at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue, on Friday.

Aroydy Brandford’s first shot of the game hit the left side post of the goal but it was an early signal of Charlestown’s inten-

tion. After a brilliant save by Kingston’s keeper, Brandford smashed in the rebound from about 10 metres from the goal line to give Charlestown the eventual winner in the 22nd minute.

The second half saw Kingston attacking a bit more aggressively and creating more opportunities than they did in the first half, however, they never seemed to push for the equaliser.

The best chance for Kingston came seven minutes before full time with an opportunity right in front the goal, but again they failed miserably as the striker struck the ball over the crossbar.

Meanwhile, games will continue at venues across the nation in the new week as teams continue to battle for the most coveted title in schools football.

trophy stall-sponsored volleyball tourney serves off in Berbice on sunday

The Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA), in collaboration with the Trophy Stall of Bourda Market, will stage the fourth annual Trophy Stall volleyball competition on Sunday.

The venue is the Port Mourant Training Centre volleyball court with action set to serve off at 10:00h.

According to a release from the BVA, this year’s competition will see the top volleyball teams from the Ancient County matching skills with teams from the Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) in both male and female categories.

Trophies will be presented to the top three male

teams and to the winner and runner-up of the female category.

Prizes will also be presented to the Most Valuable Player in both categories, as well as to the best setter, best spiker, best server, best defender, best blocker and best libero.

The BVA said a very high standard of volleyball is anticipated, as the Berbicebased players will also be vying for places in the BVA senior squad.

Meanwhile, Trophy Stall recently sealed its sponsorship deal with the BVA ahead of Sunday’s event.

Speaking at a simple ceremony at the business lo-

cation, Managing Director Ramesh Sunich said he was pleased to be associated with the BVA and to assist in the promotion and development of volleyball in Berbice.

He said the Trophy Stall is always willing to assist in sport development and the growth of youths, noting that this year’s donation is bigger and better than last year’s.

BVA Treasurer/ Competition Director Godwyn Allicock, in accepting the trophies from Petal Badrie, expressed his association’s gratitude for the sponsorship and lauded Trophy Stall’s contributions to Berbice volleyball over the years.

Palm court acquires full rights...

Meanwhile, Palm Court Managing Director Ravindra Prashad promised that the entertainment will definitely be at a different level.

“We plan to have topclass entertainment, an entertainment similar to the Trini stand in Trinidad and Tobago,” Prashad opined.

On the other hand, Guyana Amazon Warriors Manager Omar Khan, in his brief remarks, indicated that Limacol CPL OPCO (Guyana) Inc, has readily embraced this initi-

ative by Palm Court, since it brings excitement in a different way.

Meanwhile, Khan further revealed that tickets are expected to be on sale on July 2.

Prior to the three home games, the Warriors will play Antigua Hawksbills on July 11; Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel on July 24; Barbados Tridents on July 27; Jamaica Tallawahs on August 2; Antigua Hawksbills on August 7; and St Lucia Zouks on August 10 in their

Digicel Schools Football Championships…

Brandt’s double leads Tucville to easy win

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Tucville Secondary began their quest for top honours in the Georgetown leg of the fourth annual Digicel Schools Football Championships with an easy 4-1 victory over David Rose at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground, Bourda, on Friday afternoon.

While the win ensured Tucville’s progress to the next round, it was doubly satisfying for the youngsters who had to work to erase a one- goal deficit after David Rose netted an early goal to assume the lead.

Teon Fordyce netted for David Rose in the 23rd minute, but 12 minutes later Tucville drew level when Kiefer Brandt converted the first of his two goals. Shemar Bascombe then

handed Tucville the lead, one that they would never relinquish, scoring in the 37th minute to give his team a 2-1 advantage at the halftime break.

Seven minutes after resumption, Sherwin Reid strengthened Tucville’s hold on the game, blasting in a right-footer after collecting a rebound off the goalkeeper to make it 3-1. Brandt then netted his second goal, the final one of the match, in the 74th minute to lead Tucville’s victory charge.

After the game, the diminutive Brandt, sporting the number 10 jersey, said he was elated to lead his team to victory. He pointed out that his school’s first goal is to win the Georgetown zone and then focus on competing against the various zone champions nationwide.

Tucville’s Manager

Randolph Critchlow lauded his players for coming out victorious, but pointed out that a few areas of their game need tweaking, key among them the defence. He noted that his players will be working on tightening that aspect of their game over the coming days to ensure a more solid performance in the next game.

Critchlow also used the opportunity to compliment Digicel for investing in schools football, noting that more such sponsorship by public and private companies is required to ensure the growth of the game here.

The competition, which has attracted schools from all 10 administrative regions, will continue on Monday with several other games at various venues countrywide.

‘Play and stay’ tennis today at New guyana school

The focus will be on the next generation of players

from page 24

final preliminary game.

Dubbed the “Biggest Party in Sport”, the Limacol CPL, which was played in front of soldout crowds at all the venues in the Caribbean, will be played from July 11 to August 16 with Chris Gayle’s Jamaica Tallawahs set to defend their title against last-year’s runner-up,the Guyana Amazon Warriors; Antigua Hawksbills; Barbados Tridents; St Lucia Zouks and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel.

The youngest players aspiring to excel in the game of tennis will get a chance to compete against each other today at the New Guyana School. This event, which is scheduled twice per year, will run from 09:00h to 13:00h, featuring round-robin competition using special ‘Play and Stay’ mini-tennis red balls.

Twelve teams are expected to participate in the Boys and Girls’ Under-10 categories. They are St Pius Primary, Marian Academy Primary, Maes Under-12,

West Ruimveldt Primary, Enterprise Primary, New Guyana School, Lowe’s Academy, Stella Maris Primary, Park Players Tennis Club, Diamond Tennis Club, Roraima Tennis Club, and Non-Pareil Tennis Clubs.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) Tennis 10s programme has evolved since its inception in 2002 with the ‘Play and Stay’ initiative. This concept is geared to increase the level of participation and speed of tennis development in

young children through the use of softer balls and an increased number of competitions.

The Guyana Tennis Association has been supporting the initiative locally since 2006, with coaches visiting primary schools monthly to assist Physical Education teachers with the coordination of in-school competitions that lead up to this event.

Children whose talents are exposed through this competition are recommended for tennis coaching to have a chance to be inducted into the national tennis squad from which players are selected to represent Guyana at the regional level.

National Coordinator of the Tennis 10s Programme, Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan, said it is challenging to promote tennis in primary schools without the assistance of a functioning Physical Education teacher, but the schools that have adopted the sport have already seen the benefits. She expects a good turnout for the competition today.

Keifer Brandt (left) sets off in celebration after netting his second goal for Tucville on Friday at the GFC ground, Bourda (Photo: Carl Croker)

Aroydy Brandford (white) holds off a defender to take possession of the football. (Carl Crocker photo)

Guyana Masters Athletics Association being

resuscitated

Information reaching Guyana Times Sport is that attempts are being made to resuscitate the dormant Guyana Masters Athletics Association (GMAA).

Further, this publication was told that a meeting was held Sunday last and persons were elected to serve as executive members. The source did not wish to divulge names or much information, since he noted that the members wished to have a meeting sometime next week to iron out certain matters before making their business public.

It is the understanding of this publication, however, that the intention to resuscitate the GMAA attracted the interest of a number of persons, including Dr George Norton, Silas Brummel, Joseph Jardine, Lindon Harrison, Cyrleen Phillips, and past GMAA members Malcolm DeFreitas and George Barry.

Revamping of the constitution, having a membership drive and preparing a calender of events are some of the things the GMAA will reportedly have as priority, the source disclosed. Future efforts would

include getting affiliated to similar associations in the Region and farther afield.

Guyana currently has a number of top distance athletes who compete in the Masters category of various road races here and in the Region. Among those are Llewelyn Gardner, Orin Josiah, Ian Archibald, Euleen Josiah-Tanner and Lindon Harrison.

The GMAA will be hoping to get itself into a position to not only organise road races and other activities across the country, but to also sponsor members to compete at meets outside of Guyana.

National cycling championships pedal off today

B

The country’s leading male and female riders will be hunting individual glory this weekend when the Guyana Cycling Federation’s national championship is staged on the Linden/ Georgetown roadways.

Up to press time last evening, approximately 40 riders from five clubs had completed registration for the event, according to race official William Howard. However, that number is expected to increase significantly as registration will be done on the spot before the start of the Time Trial this morning.

The Time Trial will start at Long Creek on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, proceed to Loo Creek and

return to the start point for the finish.

The Road Race will be contested at four different distances on Sunday; however, all the riders of the various categories will start in a bunch on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown.

The Seniors will proceed to Kairuni Creek and return to Homestretch Avenue, competing for exactly 100 miles, while the Juniors will turn at the Police Outpost on the highway and return to the start point − a distance of 60 miles.

The Veterans and Female riders will turn at Kuru Kuru and head back to Georgetown, covering a distance of 45 miles, while the Juveniles will turn at Coverden − a distance of 40 miles.

This year’s championships should produce some improved times, especially with all the Commonwealth Games selectees set to use the two-day activity to test their readiness for the July 23- August 3 event in Glasgow, Scotland.

In intense preparation for the Games at the moment are Raynauth Jeffrey, Marlon Williams, Geron Williams, Alanzo Greaves, Scott Savoury and Claire Fraser-Green.

Jeffrey is the defending senior champion of both the Time Trial and Road Race, after securing a clean sweep last year. Riding for Team Coco (Guyana), the 20-year-old clocked an overall time of three hours, 48 minutes, 40.71 seconds (03h: 48m: 40.71s).

Industrial Supplies and Services supports ‘Cricket for Unity’ T20 match

Yet another corporate entity has come out in support of the eagerly anticipated ‘Cricket For Unity’ T20 match slated for July 5 at the Demerara Cricket Club ground, Queenstown, Georgetown.

Industrial Supplies and Services located at Albert and Robb Streets on Thursday committed towards the success of the match when Accounts Clerk Thelisha Case handed over a cheque to Chairman of the ‘Cricket For Unity’ Committee, Dexter Garnett.

Case, in handing over the contribution, said the entity always seeks to give back to the community since that is part of its mandate and had no hesitation in being a part of this match.

“We see this as contributing to something that is designed to make our society better and we wanted to be on board. We would like to wish the teams best of luck and we look forward to seeing an exciting game.”

Garnett expressed gratitude to Case and her superiors for partnering with his committee.

Meanwhile, the players for the two teams competing, Roraima Strikers and Kaieteur Thunders, are

asked to make contact with Coach Garvin Nedd on 6179381 to finalise the sizes of their uniforms to be provided by the organisers.

Roraima Strikers squad reads: Neil Barry, Lloyd Harper, Travis Dowlin, Jomo Primo, Gordon Moseley, Clifton Hickens, Orin Forde, Anthony Rigby, Aaron Fraser, Jermaine Neblette, Kirk “Chow Pow” Jardine, James Bond, Lennox Cush, Colin Stuart, Alfred King and Anand

Sanasie. Coaches: Reon Griffith and Andre Percival. Kaieteur Thunders squad reads: Raphael Trotman, Asif Khan, Khemraj Ramjattan, Carey Griffith, Rabindranauth Seeram, Sheik Mohamed, Clyde Butts, Tony Najab, Reon King, Esaun Crandon, David Harper, Alfred Mentore, Steve Ninvalle, Lakeram Mike Singh and Ramesh Sunich. Coaches: Clive Grimmond and Garvin Nedd.

race walkers to match steps on sunday

The country’s top race walkers will match steps on Sunday when the Cavaliers Sports and Tour Club (CSTC) stages a 10k race walk around the National Park, Thomas Lands, starting at 06:30h.

The event is being held in observance of the birth anniversary of the late Guyanese Journalist and Editor, Clarence D Kirton, MS.

According to a release from the CSTC, the race is open to walkers of all ages and prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in the Male and Female segments of the Senior, Junior, Veteran and Differently Abled categories.

Trophies and other prizes have been donated by Michael Kirton, the Managing Director of

The phenomenal Rudolph Mitchell, who has been unbeaten for over 100 races, is expected to be among the starters

Raymincton Solutions, and Dr Mark Kirton, Lecturer at the University of the West Indies, as well as Hand-in- Hand Insurance Company.

Meanwhile, another race walk is slated for Caricom Day (July 7) − the Caricom Day race walk. The race will commence at 06:30h at the Ogle International Airport entrance, proceed along the Railway Embankment, ending at the Caricom Headquarters at Liliendaal. Lucrative prizes will be at stake.

According to CSTC’s Coordinator, Jennifer Major, the races are part of the club’s Road to Brazil campaign, which is aimed at moulding a national race walk team to compete at the 2016 Olympics in the neighbouring country.

Industrial Supplies and Services Accounts Clerk Thelisha Case (left) hands over the contribution to Dexter Garnett

The race is expected to be keenly contested (Avenash Ramzan/file photo)

Limacol CPL 2014….

Palm Court acquires full rights over Orange Stand

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

he Orange Stand of the Guyana National Stadium will be transformed into a party atmosphere during the Guyana leg of this year’s Limacol Caribbean Premier League after Palm Court on Friday signed an agreement with Limacol CPL OPCO (Guyana) Inc, to have the stand rebranded the Palm Court VIP Party Stand.

Tickets for the stand, where patrons can experience quality entertainment, cost $5000 per person on each day.

The Guyana franchise, bought by the NEW GPC/ Limacol, will play three of their nine preliminary games at home, on July 17 against Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel (19:30h), July 19 against St Lucia Zouks (16:00h) and July 20 against Jamaica Tallawahs (16:00h).

Prior to the historic sign-

to be renamed “Palm Court VIP Party Stand”

ing, Palm Court General Manager Avalon Jagnandan said the entertainment spot is extremely happy to be associated with the Guyana leg of the tournament and more so the promotion of cricket in Guyana.

Seestory on page19

“Palm Court being Guyana’s number one entertainment spot saw it fit to bring quality entertainment at the national level.”

“In this stand, patrons can experience quality entertainment and exciting

20/20 games in a great party atmosphere. Palm Court will also have quality food and drinks with top-class service available to all its patrons,” Jagnandan concluded.

To page 22

Athletics hold hopes of medalling at Commonwealth Games

Sealed deal! Palm Court Managing Director Ravindra Prashad and Guyana Amazon Warriors Manager Omar Khan confirmed the agreement. Sharing the moment are Palm Court General Manager, Avalon Jagnandan (left) and NEW GPC INC Marketing Manager Trevor Bassoo (Photo: Rajiv Bisnauth)