CIOG reaches out to Good Intent fire victims P12

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 2008 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Guyana Stockfeeds did not pay dividends – securities council See story on page 3

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

APNU calls for plan P2 to protect flood-prone communities

– shareholders warned to protect themselves

Joe Vieira Park to be main recreation zone in Region Three See story on page 9

Ramjattan threatens P7 massive cuts to 2014 budget Region P7 10 works programme successful despite setbacks – Solomon

Before and after: The Joe Vieira Park on West Bank Demerara, west of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), is being upgraded to a national park catering for Region Three residents

Govt rollover projects in 2014 amount to $billions See story on page 9

Wife’s lover bites off husband’s lip See story on page 13

Wanted P11 bulletin issued for Pretima Augustus Rupununi P11 man bludgeoned to death in brawl

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APNU calls for plan to protect Caricom SG reiterates call for Dominican Republic to “right the wrong” flood-prone communities

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Subryanville, Georgetown under water mid-November 2013

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n wake of the recent floods that have swept some parts of Guyana, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is advocating for a National Flood Control Plan to protect flood-prone communities. During a press conference at his Hadfield, Georgetown office on Friday, APNU leader David Granger said significant damages have been incurred due to repeated floods that have hit sections of the coast and hinterland. According to Granger, the situation will likely deteriorate if the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration fails to introduce a national plan that will minimise the impacts of heavy showers. He opined that the gov-

ernment has done little to reduce the impacts of flooding, pointing out that 2013 was a year in which significant flooding occurred. In January 2013, the flood waters swept through East Coast Demerara while the following month, Kingston was severely affected by flash floods.

Losses

In March, residents of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara suffered at the hands of heavy rainfall. Similarly, the East and West Coast of Demerara, along with the Essequibo Coast were affected in April. Through the months of May to December, 2013, Bartica, St Ignatius, Den Amstel, Albouystown, Tuschen and the PomeroonSupenaam region were all

APNU leader David Granger

periodically flooded. “APNU is concerned that this pattern of monthly flooding continues to incur incalculable personal losses in terms of damage to homes, household goods and domestic and agricultural equipment, the destruction of farms and the death of livestock,” Granger told media operatives. He called for this trend to be broken in 2014 with the implementation of a National Flood Control Plan. Granger said the plan must anticipate the monthly cycle of flooding, paving the way for early notification. Additionally, he said the plan must strengthen disaster risk management agencies and maintain sea defence and flood protection infrastructure. turn to page 10

aribbean Community (Caricom) Secretary General (SG), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque has reiterated the community’s call on The Dominican Republic to take steps to “right the wrong” resulting from a ruling on nationality made by the Constitutional Court of that country. The ruling retroactively stripped tens of thousands of nationals from The Dominican Republic, mostly Haitians, of citizenship and rendered them stateless. The secretary general was speaking at a ceremony where Haiti’s first plenipotentiary representative, Peterson Benjamin Noel, handed over his letters of credence. The event was held at the Caricom Secretariat’s offices, Turkeyen, Georgetown, Guyana. Ambassador LaRocque noted that the Bureau of the Conference of the Heads of Government on behalf of the entire community condemned the ruling which violated regional and international human rights obligations. He said Caricom would continue to provide support to Haiti as it fights for the respect for the rights and citizenship of members of its diaspora. The secretary general also remarked on the considerable progress made by Haiti, as it continued its reconstruc-

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque

tion following the catastrophic earthquake of 2010. He said the thoughts and prayers of Caricom would continue to be with the people of Haiti as they commemorate the anniversary of this tragedy on 12 January. He noted that St Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia and Dominica would also be dealing with the aftermath of the devastating effects of a climatic event that hit hard during the Christmas season and conveyed his sympathies and support to those affected. “I take this opportunity therefore to say to our brothers and sisters of the affected countries, as we had said to Haiti in 2010, that the community is here for every member state and every Caricom citizen, and it is here most especially in times of distress.” In his remarks, Ambassador Noel also spoke

of the 2010 earthquake, noting that the Haitian people were working hard to rebuild the country. He said the economy was growing and the business climate and security environment had improved. The ambassador highlighted that Haiti should be seen and treated as an opportunity for the region and for each Caricom country. “I want to take this opportunity to advocate for my country and to encourage people from the region to take full advantage of the Republic of Haiti’s accession into the community. "Allow me to reassure you that all efforts are being made to fully integrate the Caricom Single Market and Economy and to diversify our trading partners,” the ambassador said. Ambassador Noel noted that the Declaration de Pétion-Ville, was signed recently, under Haiti’s leadership. He outlined that under the declaration, ministers from the region agreed to address the issue of people living with disabilities and special needs with renewed energy and dedication to the development of legal frameworks at the national level. Ambassador Noel said Haiti looked forward to working with the Caricom Secretariat and the community on its implementation.

News

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saturDay, January 11, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, January 11 from 13:30h-15:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, January 11 from 13:00h-14:30h

WEATHER TODAY

Countrywide: Light rain showers can be expected during the day with partly cloudy conditions in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Guyana Stockfeeds did not pay dividends – securities council – shareholders warned to protect themselves In an advertisement sent out by the GSC and published in local newspapers, a Stockfeeds’ attorney confirmed that indeed no dividends were paid to the shareholders for the Financial Year 2012. The council said that it had written the company in November, advising that it corrects the report, but so far this has not been done.

Wind: North easterly between zero and 2.5 metres per second.

High Tide: 13:03h reaching a maximum height of 2.27 metres. Low Tide: 06:31h and 19:10h reaching minimum heights of 1.05 metres and 0.94 metre respectively.

Penalty

Guyana Stockfeeds Inc Chairman Robert Badal Sr

T Wednesday, january 8, 2014

LOTTERY NUMBERS N 06 12 19 20 22 25 03 FREE TICKET Thursday, January 9, 2014

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03 06 09 12 14 15 18 DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

he Guyana Stockfeeds Inc did not pay out dividends to its shareholders as purported in a previous report, the Guyana Securities Council (GSC) has disclosed. The revelation was made in a public advertisement published by the GSC in local newspapers on Friday. It has effectively exposed Guyana Stockfeeds Inc for what appears to be erroneous information about the payment of more than $80 million in dividends to shareholders, when this was not actually done. The council also warned shareholders to protect themselves by seeking legal advice. Guyana Stockfeeds Inc is owned by Robert Badal Sr, owner of Pegasus Hotel and a key backer of the minority opposition party, Alliance For Change (AFC). Meanwhile, several shareholders reported that they have not received any money from the company as stated in the January-June Interim Report 2013 for the Financial Year 2012.

Shareholders

According to the report, which was published in the Stabroek News on September 20, 2013, some $80,285,557 was paid in dividends for the Financial Year 2012. However, shareholders have complained to the GSC that this is not true.

Guyana Times understands that the report was prepared by Nizam Ali and Company. If found in breach of the regulation, the company will be penalised accord-

billion in the corresponding year. “Sales were directly affected by severe shortage of hatching eggs in the United States, our only source of hatching eggs. In addition, problems in the local mining sector, particularly gold mining, affected demand for local chicken. "Rice sales were affected by quality issues arising from poor quality paddy during the spring crop. This necessitated a significant write-off during the period,” Badal Sr stated. However, he went on to say that the second half of the year promised to be optimis-

continued to incur high professional fees of $71 million in 2012 compared with $64.9 million in 2011. According to information obtained by this publication, Guyana Stockfeeds Inc is a wholly-owned company incorporated under the laws of Trinidad and Tobago, which undertook transactions amounting to $771 million on behalf of the Guyana company. It also received $30 million as refunds for costs incurred. It is, however, unclear whether or not this sum is part of the $71 million in professional fees.

The Guyana Stockfeeds Inc office at Farm, East Bank Demerara

ingly. When contacted by Guyana Times on the issue, co-director of the company, Robert Badal Jr, declined to comment. He indicated that Robert Badal Sr was unavailable. A staff member at Guyana Stockfeeds Inc said Robert Badal Sr was out of the country. Robert Badal Jr, however, invited this publiction to call again later in the day, saying he was driving at the time. The later calls went unanswered. In the report, Chairman Robert Badal Sr said the results of the first half of 2013 were disappointing, with a decline in sales of 12 per cent, some $3.55 billion from $4.03

tic with the reduction of grain prices and the increased supply of hatching eggs. These, he had stated, would result in lower input cost and higher margins. “Hopefully, the autumn rice crop would produce improved quality raw materials enabling us to regain our reputation for quality and reliability on the export market,” the chairman envisioned. It has been reported elsewhere that an increase in sales of 13.3 per cent did not translate into income and profits as margins were squeezed with raw materials and consumables accounting for 91 per cent of revenue, up from an already challenging 90 per cent. The company reportedly

Meanwhile, due to a challenge in the High Court of Guyana by the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), a shareholder of the company, Guyana Stockfeeds is not permitted to issue any new shares until the outcome of this matter is fully settled. The Guyana Association of Securities Companies and Intermediaries (GASCI) has suspended trading of the company’s shares until the matter is settled. The shares in Guyana Stockfeeds Inc are owned 85.87 per cent by Robert Badal Sr, who is the chairman and chief executive officer.

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

Editorial

Family structure and violence

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ccording to police statistics, of the 154 murders committed in Guyana last year, 24 were related to domestic disputes and of these, almost all the victims were females. In at least eight instances, the male committing the murder then went on to commit suicide. These statistics are very revealing of a phenomenon that has not received enough attention in the media and by the authorities in charge of our social services: the radical pressures which the traditional family is facing in today’s world. The family has long been regarded as the foundation of society, and it plays a commensurate crucial role in the harmonious functioning of the latter. In the traditional family, the roles of the members were clearly understood. The father would be the breadwinner and decision maker and take the lead in instilling discipline. The mother, on the other hand, had a much more varied role and was supposed to be the homemaker in charge of household chores, the caregiver to other members of the family, the leader in socialising the children into their “proper behaviour” and not least of all, to provide succour and psychological counselling to everyone else. Children were expected to assist in household chores and generally “listen to their parents”. What has happened is that the traditional roles within the family have been changing with increased rapidity and this has resulted in frustrations that have exploded into violence. In Caribbean society, one of the legacies of our plantation heritage is the widespread resort to violence to settle disputes or to elicit compliance. The present surge in domestic violence is one consequence of the changes precipitated in the traditional Caribbean family in terms of roles and responsibilities. If we are to get a handle on dealing with domestic violence, we will have to understand the nature of the changes and then try to ensure they are addressed more positively. The most dramatic change has been that of the role of the woman in the family. With the acceptance of equal rights for women and the increasing number of women in the workforce, women are insisting that they are not subordinate to men in the matrimonial division of power. For instance, if they are also contributing to the breadwinning they are questioning why they also have to take complete responsibility for the “housework”. From this perspective, women have increased their presence outside the home and in the public space. Many men have become discomfited by this turn of circumstances, which can be called “role conflicts” and some are speaking of a crisis in the psyche of the Caribbean male. With the male not being the sole or even prime decisionmaker, and being pressured to assume what have been traditionally defined as women’s work, it is not surprising that the crisis centres on the issue of male identity. One additional factor that has contributed to this challenge has been the changing assumptions of female sexuality. In the patriarchal-oriented socialisation process that defined the old family order, females were conditioned to accept that their sexual drives were lesser than that of men. And they were supposed to behave accordingly.   In the present climate of increasing equality between the sexes, in addition to women resorting to divorce to escape the imposition of the old roles on them, some have also begun to imitate the traditional West Indian male, having “outside affairs”. In a substantial number of domestic violence situations that have ended in murder, accusations of “infidelity” were raised as the “triggering” factor.  Because of the complex nature of the aetiology of domestic violence – and the changing roles within families do not exhaust the diagnosis – it is self-evident that a multi-pronged approach, headed by the Social Services Ministry, is needed to design an intervention strategy and launch concomitant programmes before our society literally fissions.

The Indonesian volcano Mount Sinabung spews ash and lava during an eruption above the town of Karo, North Sumatra on January 4. Some 20,000 people have had to be moved (BBC Future)

Resolving the Indian diplomatic spat with the U.S. Dear Editor, Regarding your commentaries on and references to the arrest of India’s Deputy Consul General Devyani Khobragade (New York), the issue has been resolved with the U.S. after a public spat and a tit for tat response. Ties have been frayed over Khobrogade’s arrest since December 12, 2013 over a petty matter and thrown into jail with regular criminals. She was also subjected to body cavity search, a very unusual act for a diplomat’s standing. The U.S. contends that she cannot escape prosecution because a consular officer does not enjoy full immunity. But that reading of Vienna Conventions on consul generals is being challenged. The convention guarantees freedom from detention until trial and conviction, except for “grave offences.” A wage dispute hardly qualifies as a “grave offence” warranting arrest

and humiliation. As Indian diplomats and others have noted, the U.S. will not tolerate similar treatment of one of its consular officers overseas. In addition, it is pointed out that the U.S. interprets the Vienna Convention restrictively at home, but liberally overseas and always seeks full immunity of its workers abroad. India had sought an apology from the U.S. for its action against Khobragade and withdrawal of charges against the female diplomat. But the U.S. said a flat no and proceeded to indict her. The U.S. granted full diplomatic immunity to Khobrogade after she was transferred from the Consulate to the Indian Mission to the United Nations (UN). The UN accepted her status as a full diplomat and so informed the U.S. It would have been unusual for the U.S. to turn down the Indian request for diplomatic immunity for UN attache. The

U.S. asked Khobrogde to waive her immunity but the Indian government declined the request and the U.S. asked her to leave the country by Thursday and she boarded an aircraft for Delhi arriving on Friday evening to a welcome reception. In response, India instructed Washington to recall a diplomat of the same rank as Khobrogade, apparently for engaging in conduct unbecoming of a diplomat. It is reported in the Indian media that the American diplomat had something to do with the Khobrogade’s case. In addition, India cancelled a whole list of privileges granted to American diplomats in addition to pulling away the security cordon around the U.S. Embassy. Khobragade was indicted for allegedly making false statements on a visa application for a maid – a violation or crime committed by thousands of diplomats in America. Ironically, Pakistan sided

with India on the issue, saying Khobrogade should not have been indicted. It was selective enforcement of a law violated by almost every country. It is not clear why the U.S. chose to go after Khobrogade. Khobrogade’s lawyer hit out at the office of the U.S. prosecutor, Preet Bharara, an Indian American, in the criminal case against her, describing the investigation as “shoddy” and for issuing “baseless charges.” As I implored a week ago, level heads were needed to work behind the scenes to resolve the issue. It is best for both countries that the matter has been resolved and that it won’t leave a bad taste in the mouth of India. The two countries should continue to strengthen relations after finding a way to save face. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Youth unemployment: is it a guessing game?

Dear Editor, A recent column by Peeping Tom titled, “Youth unemployment is a guessing game”, caught my attention because it resonated with some challenges we are addressing at the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). It also reminded me of a widespread survey on youth unemployment reported in a publication of my professional body, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, from which the following conclusions, among others, can be drawn: * There is an apparent paradox of youth unemployment co-existing surprising-

ly alongside the phenomenon of employers struggling to find the right numbers and kinds of employees they require. This mismatch presents obvious challenges for top management and their human resource professionals. * The business case for investment in the development of relevant and sufficient skills and competences for a changing, dynamic and expanding economy is quite clear. It demands concerted action (as the Asian “tigers” led by Singapore, South Korea and Malaysia, etc have demonstrated). * Skills development per

se is not enough, especially in a society that suffers from a debilitating deficiency of work ethic, exacerbated by the ‘overseas barrel’ or ‘Western Union’ syndrome. * The all-important ‘attitude’ leg must always complement the ‘knowledge’ and ‘skills ‘legs in the KSAtripod of competency development. In other words, our training programmes must give equal, if not greater emphasis on youths’ attitude to and behaviour at work, as is done for the development of knowledge and skills. * Furthermore, it must be noted that many young

people are unaware of job opportunities available and/or how to apply, how to write CVs and how to behave at interviews, etc. Young people need training and support before and during their transition from learning institutions to the world of work. If that interval is not properly utilised and managed, we risk creating an expanding band of drop-outs, deviants and delinquents. Sincerely, Nowrang Persaud Vice Chairman BIT

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

Racism can go away when guarantees are enshrined Dear Editor, Kindly allow me some space to respond to Eusi Kwayana’s letter. Kwayana and Abu Bakr, et al, seem to be especially empowered by some registered patent to give them privileged evaluation to determine who is racist. Stereotypes may be considered displeasing but they are as old as the hills. Reference is made to Kwayana’s letter on January 3, titled, “Stereotypes are dangerous”. But neither stereotypes nor racism in Guyana started with his Indian countrymen. It most certainly did not originate from two or three writers onto whom they have now thrown lassos seeking to escape their quicksand quagmire. Freedom, however, does permit those more fashionable indentured servants, symbiotically embraced by our Kwayanas to remain shackled within their deculturised “brown skin, black mask” confusion, regardless of Frantz Fanon’s lamentation. But neither Kwayana nor his agitating fundamentalists can expect to get away with sanctifying the “others” deculturisation to assert or alloy their own laudable cultural awakening. Those who reject their policy to resolve existing race problems most assuredly cannot also acquire any blame or make it their fault. That Kwayana plunged and constantly twists the wedge to widen the gap is historic. Who is the parallel Indian Kwayana from the previous century? Can any three writers simultaneously become stamped as three wise men to save Guyana, who at the same time are neither three blind mice undermining their mound? Either Guyanese racism exists within those who feel

inadequate, they are incapable of respecting differences with others, or unable to coexist without it. Guyana’s Indians are a dwindling minority by design who may soon face extinction. Is there any sensitivity how this may be very important? In a democracy, differences exist especially where there are different people with different cultures. The concept of Guyana being a melting pot is outdated and irrelevant when the practicality of celebrating its salad bowl within federalism is considerably better. The racists are those who are constantly and always defining Indian people and what their culture should be. Both in Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana steel pan, calypso, creolisation and Mashramani are imposed on Indians by those who assume supreme authority to do so. Indian music, drama, culture and art should become part of the school curriculum. When an Indian or black person votes for a political party in either Trinidad or Guyana, would that be to only protect their security or their interests? Not all blacks support the People’s National Congress (PNC) nor do all Indians vote for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). It’s normal in a democracy. Until leaders on both sides can arise who guarantee and acknowledge the “others” right to exist, those voters will remain unchanged. Kwayana and company have become entrapped by their own mistakes, insisting the solution be race based because they have promoted race as the overriding problem and they want their view to be the final solution. Federalism is then the

answer to showcase black magnificence. What’s the incentive for others to change when an outdated black discredited leadership is still at the helm? What makes this wrong? To require any group to acquiesce in their extermination by assimilation will never be right or acceptable. So Kwayana says there are Indian stereotypes which he knows. Really? Surely, he is not afraid of the wrath of two or three writers now? Set the ball rolling. Surely it would do his image no harm as it is. What are they? How did those originate and for his education, do you think Indians really would care? Kwayana admitted his own cultural metamorphosis was inspired and honed by exposure with his many Indian friends who also gave his entire extended family financial upkeep. They all fled Buxton in fear when he was in charge of its defence. Was there any stereotype which embellished such historic acts of Indian charity? Ironically, my Indian consciousness grew from black consciousness which impacted my beliefs and rights to remain culturally liberated. Nevertheless Guyanese history has witnessed Kwayana’s lifelong unceasing crusade which has made Indians his chief targets of acrimony. Everyone knows that Dr Cheddi Jagan was totally bereft of any Indian consciousness. Zero. Kwayana nevertheless made him and his wife Janet the central focus of his and black wrath. So President Forbes Burnham and Mayor Hamilton Green displayed symbols of proud black consciousness by occasionally wearing dashikis similar to Trinidad’s Prime Minister Patrick Manning. Prime

Minister Kamla PersadBissessar does not adhere to her cultural origins in dress. Does that make them all racists? Many Caribbean leaders received awards from ethnic based groups in New York. Racism at best? This could also mean that all those black Guyanese who voted for the PNC for ethnic security also make them all racists. Racism or mental depravity? Similarly, the question arises why any ethnic group contributing a plurality of votes which results in winning makes them all racist and logical targets of violence. If it’s wrong to celebrate and maintain Guyanese Indian cultural pride by birthrights, why has it inspired cultural awakening among those who require their creolisation and assimilation? Thank God I am not a cockroach Indian. When we are able to meaningfully engage in respectful dialogue and be accommodating with each, then we will have begun. Who can disagree with that dialogue to occur? Yours sincerely, Vassan Ramracha

PPP/C has shown leadership in matters of sustainable development and the environment

Dear Editor, Climate change has emerged as one of the most critical issues that will influence our planet’s future. There is overwhelming scientific evidence that climate change is already happening and the effects of global warming, including sea level rise, and more intense floods and droughts, are being felt across the world. Small island states and low-lying coastal countries such as Guyana are particularly vulnerable. In recent weeks, our region has felt the impacts of extreme weather events with devastating consequences of loss of lives and property with damages in the millions of dollars. The alarming observation is that these impacts are forecast to intensify. Left unaddressed, climate change threatens the very existence of present and future generations. The People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has historically shown leadership in matters of sustainable development and the environment. More than 15 years ago, when climate change was just being talked about, our founder leader Dr Cheddi Jagan championed the cause of environmental sustainabil-

ity through a New Global Human Order (NGHO), calling for new partnerships among nations and peoples. The NGHO was subsequently unanimously adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in November 2010. In 2009, former President Bharrat Jagdeo, pioneered Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) as a mechanism for achieving sustainable economic development while safeguarding forest resources and being responsive to climate change. Our LCDS has received international acclaim and in 2012, at the UN Rio+20 Earth Summit, Guyana’s LCDS was recognised as one of the first working models of green growth. Just a week ago, President Donald Ramotar announced his governments' intention to engage regional heads of government to ensure regional action on climate change is given top priority while at the same time intensifying domestic action to ensure we are better prepared for climate change. Yours faithfully, Zulfikar Mustapha Executive Secretary PPP/C

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s photo ops go, there’s nothing cuter than your cutie cuddling up to his new furry pal. Just remember: Family pets, like your child, need lots of care and attention, so you and your partner will be shouldering most of the pet chores for the next few years. That doesn’t mean your tot can’t lend a hand. After all, one of the benefits of pets is that having one can give your little one a sense of responsibility (besides giving him another living thing to love). So what chores can your tyke take on now – and what can he grow into? Depending on your family pet’s temperament (and your child’s), probably more than you think.

Dog chores

Dogs aren’t only man’s best friend – they’re a toddler’s, too. These critters come with tons of pet benefits, including teaching little ones about empathy, love, loyalty, and getting along. Pet chores for children now: Give your child a small cup of dry food or water, and supervise as he refills the doggy’s bowls. He can also drop a

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treat on the floor for your dog to scarf up. Older preschoolers can use simple commands (like “sit”) before they dole out the treats and, depending on your pooch’s personality, even hand-feed doggie biscuits. And for later: When he’s in grade-school, he can brush his furry friend and take over leash duties on walks.

Cat chores

Kitties aren’t quite as child-friendly as dogs – they’re not as tolerant of your tot’s rambunctious roughhousing. But they still have plenty of life lessons to teach children. Pet chores for children now: Your little one can help refill your cat’s food and water dishes (while you supervise, of course) and place treats on the floor. Plus, he can play with his feline companion by dangling or tossing cat toys (under your watchful eye). And for later: Once your tot hits elementary school, he can brush Kitty (if she’ll tolerate it) and can even pitch in with a little poop-scooping from the litter box (make sure he washes his

hands afterward).

Fish chores

Fish make great starter family pets, if you choose a hardy type like a betta fish or a goldfish. Your little guppy will probably love watching his fish and be eager to pitch in to care for it. Pet chores for children now: Feeding a fish is the perfect job for a pint-sized pet owner, so together tap a few flakes into the tank or bowl. Just tell him that it’s important that his fish doesn’t get too much food at once. And remind him that fish are for watching, not touching. Hands out of the bowl. And for later: He can finally put his hands in the bowl (or tank) to refill it with water once he’s a third- or fourth-grader. (You or your hubby will still be the cleaners-in-chief.)

Bird chores

Parakeets (aka budgies) tend to be friendlier than other birds and can even talk or at least whistle. Plus, they’re safely shut away from your rough-and-tumble tot. (Just

tell him not to put his fingers in the cage.) Pet chores for children now: Your little one can help you fill the water dispenser and make a plate of fresh veggies and fruits to feed his feathered

friend (he may even be tempted to take a nibble himself). And for later: A gentle six-year-old can hold a budgie when you let it out of the cage and can feed it treats out of his hand. At eight or nine, your child can help keep the cage clean. (What To Expect)

All about pets and children BY HEIDI MURKOFF

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uestion: “My toddler keeps chasing our dog and cat, trying to pull their tails. I know she just wants to play, but how do I

keep them all safe and living happily together?” It’s no wonder your tot is tailing the family fur balls. After all, what small child could resist a life-sized stuffed toy that doesn’t just sit there but actually bounces around and barks (or pads around and purrs)? The trouble is,

of course, while you can understand what’s motivating your toddler to chase the dog and cat, unless you’ve got Dr Dolittle’s talent for talking to the animals, there’s no way you can explain to them why that annoying pint-sized person keeps yanking at their fur and poking at their eyes. If Spot growls and bares his teeth and Kitty hisses and shows her claws, you can hardly blame them. That being the case, it’s going to take a combination of vigilance on your part and some lessons on basic pet-safety rules to keep your tot from getting nipped or scratched. Here are some keys to a peaceful (and safe) kingdom of pets and children: Remember the first rule for pets and children: Never ever leave a toddler alone with a dog or cat, no matter how sweet and gentle the animal is. Divide the pets and children. Use a baby gate to keep your dog out of whatever room your child is in. Better yet, crate your canine when you need to create some distance between him and your child. Not only is this an effective way to separate the two of them, your pup will probably appreciate it: If he’s stressed out from being chased around, his crate will feel like a safe haven. Teach your dog some new tricks: Good behaviour tricks, that is. At the very least, he should respond to these simple commands: “Sit,” “Down,” “Stay,” “Come,” and “Off” (a signal that he needs to get back on all fours if he jumps on someone). Even if you didn’t take him to obedience school as a pup, it’s not too late for him to pick up the basics. Your vet can help you find a trainer or class that’s appropriate for your dog’s breed, temperament, and age. (It’s harder to teach a cat to behave, but cats usually run away when they feel threatened.) Teach your child some pet-safety rules too. Even a two-year-old can at least start to understand some simple truths about cats and dogs, and how to behave around them: Calmness counts. Jumping and yelling can rile up a dog and even cause him to snap (especially if he’s the nervous sort), so teach your toddler to trade his outside voice for his inside one around your pet. Likewise, don’t let your child roughhouse or play tugof-war with the dog. Cats aren’t into wild behaviour either, but they’ll hide. Just teach your toddler not to corner Kitty, or she’ll lash out.(What To Expect)

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saturday, January 11, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Region 10 works programme successful Ramjattan threatens massive cuts to despite setbacks – Solomon 2014 budget T he Region 10 Committee Works Programme enjoyed a successful 2013 despite several setbacks with general capital works, the Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon said. In outlining the factors which contributed to those setbacks, he said written protests by contractors of Alternative Construction mid last year played a major role. As such, an emergency works meeting was called by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in the latter part of 2013 to have certain issues ironed out. “(Issues) where we have particular contractors who would have taken matters up at National Tender Board as protest on the issuing of contracts in the region and that would have allowed for the holding-up of at least four major capital works. That is measuring to close to about $40 million, $45 million,” he said.

Capital works

“These capital works would have included the Christianburg Agricultural Building, the Vivian Paris Health Centre (Linden), and these are programmes that the administration, nevertheless, went ahead with despite these protests,” he said. Solomon explained that

the Berbice River (Kwakwani, Ituni, Aroaima, etc). He added that it was also agreed that more updates on works being carried out were necessary. Areas where there was slow progress on works were then identified.

Delinquent contractors

Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon

work is being held up in other parts of Region 10 as a result of the protests, in areas such as Kwakwani and Hururu. The contractors responsible for the projects in these areas, according to Solomon, are the ones that the RDC has serious issues with, since they have not fulfilled contractual obligations. He said nothing was heard from the contractors for approximately four months as it relates to grounds for the written protests, despite efforts to determine the cause. Coming out of the emergency works meeting, the regional chairman stated that it was agreed to have improved monitoring of projects in areas in Region 10 located along

“Which would have been due to the fact that we have delinquent contractors. We were told by the administration and we have reasons to believe that there was deliberate holding-up of these protests to stall these works; that was another factor. "We also had late releases of payments or late releases of funds from central government, and we also have some issues with payments by the administration to some of our contractors,” he said. Also coming out of the meeting, the Region 10 chairman related, was the protocol for dealing with delinquent contractors in future. Several contractors have already received letters imposing penalties and liquidated damages. In terms of payment, it was agreed that upon inspection of works carried out, a committee to deal with thorough inspection and timely payments would be established. The RDC went ahead with works on the Vivian

Paris Health Centre and the Christianburg Agricultural Building, Solomon stated. "The region is encouraging from the government – early releases of funds so that we can get our programmes up,” he said. Last year, the RDC set up a committee to investigate what happened to approximately $4 million which was deposited into a social account, approximately two years ago by its former administration.

Fundraising activities

The monies were reportedly a percentage of the proceeds of the sale of scrap iron by residents of Ituni and fundraising activities conducted by the RDC, with the aim of securing funding to carry out developmental projects. Solomon said the matter is still being pursued. “What we recognise is that the bad handling of the access to a particular account at the (Republic) Bank is what allowed for the mismanagement to the point where we have lack or little accountability of those funds. "Nevertheless, the matter is still being pursued to ascertain exactly how those funds are utilised and if we can recoup those funds so that we can execute on behalf of the people of Ituni,” he related.

More private bands for Mash 2014

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ore private companies are registering their bands for the 2014 Mashramani float parade on February 23, one week after Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony called for more participation from the private sector. In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times, Assistant Director of Culture, Colonel Lynden Ross revealed the increase in private sector involvement. He added that private companies wishing to enter this year’s competition can join the regional band. Plans are also progressing in a timely manner for all activities. There has been a slow

trickle of bands coming at this time of the year, according to the colonel. But, as February approaches, more will come on board. Colonel Ross noted that thus far there have been favourable responses so far from both public and private sectors. Moreover, in the world of calypso, Aaron Blackman has been elected president of the Guyana Calypso Association ending the Mighty Rebel’s three-year reign. A Mash Tent will be erected on January 29 at the Stabroek Market where calypsonians will perform their songs for the public. This

event is exclusively sponsored by BANKS DIH. The finalists coming out of the senior calypso auditions held in December 2013 are: Roger Hinds, Darcia Barrow, Karen Bennet, Garfield Campbell, Martin Byrnes, Malcolm Corrica, Linden Thomas, John Marcus, Pearl Lewis, Aaron Blackman, Abigail James, Dawn Edwards, Lassel Duke, Derrick Mangal, Edward Peres, Kenroy Fraser, Milford Innis, Winfield James, John Persaud, and Sherldon Lyken. Plans are also moving

apace for the staging of the Chutney Soca Monarch contest on January 25. The semifinals of the senior calypso competition are scheduled for early February, with the final on February 14. The junior calypso competition has been tentatively set for January 24 or 26, while the child art competition has been launched and entry forms can be uplifted from the education officers in the regions. Mashramani 2014 is being celebrated under the theme: “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44”.

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lliance For Change (AFC) Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan said massive cuts will be inflicted on the 2014 national budget when it is presented to the National Assembly within the next three months. Ramjattan told Guyana Times that despite a promise by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh that Budget 2014 would have been discussed by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the AFC, “absolutely no discussions” took place. However, Minister Singh had reportedly extended an invitation to the opposition to meet since July 2013, but did not receive any response. Ramjattan, who did not indicate what he intends to cut, said due to the government’s alleged failure to consult with the opposition, “a lot of questions” would be posed as it relates to allocations proposed by the government. Without any sign of uncertainty, he said “there will be massive cuts” due to the posture of the government. Meanwhile, APNU leader David Granger told Guyana Times that there has been a total breakdown in discussions between the coalition and the government. As a result, he said, this year’s budget would be “deficient” and short of the inputs of the parliamentary opposition. In December 2011, Granger called for the establishment of a Tripartite Budget Committee, but despite promises by the government, it has not materialised. “It wasn’t done in 2012 and I made the request again in 2012, calling for it to be done in 2013, but it has not been done although the president gave his commitment,” the opposition leader complained. He said although there were talks between APNU shadow finance minister Carl Greenidge and Dr Singh, there were no meaningful consultations. “So,

AFC Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan

we feel that whatever budget is being crafted now… would be deficient, because it would not represent the views of the APNU and I think that is going to be a problem,” Granger said. Asked what would have been the APNU’s input had the opportunity been granted, the opposition leader said the coalition would have placed emphasis on national unity and human development as it seeks to eradicate poverty in the country. Concerns were also expressed over the procedure which allows for the judiciary and the Auditor General’s Office to be financed through a government ministry. According to Granger, these offices should be financed independently. Meanwhile, Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ronald Webster said it will soon make its proposal to the Finance Ministry. Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Clinton Urling said recommendations would be made through the PSC, but the chamber remains concerned about the parliamentary posture which has not been conducive to a friendly business and economic environment, encouraging political compromise and attracting investors.

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saturday, January 11, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

Bandit charged for killing detective

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our days after shooting and killing Detective Corporal Seburn Elias, Delon Abrams on Friday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry charged with murder. Abrams was not required to plea to the charge which alleged that on Monday, Abrams shot and killed Detective Corporal Seburn Elais who was operating in execution of his duties as a police officer. The court heard that on January 6, the accused was arrested by Lance Corporal Ramdatt at Sophia for alleged break and enter and larceny. The man was apparently beaten by public spirited citizens and sustained injuries. He was tak-

en to the Sophia Health Centre and was subsequently referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for X-rays and medical treatment. Constable Green who was armed with a .38 revolver was tasked with ensuring the accused received medical treatment. While at the hospital, Abrams asked to go to the washroom and was escorted to the facility with both hands handcuffed. He reemerged shortly after with only one hand being cuffed. A scuffle ensued between him and Constable Green during which he managed to relieve the constable of his weapon and made good his escape. The police were then tipped off regarding the whereabouts of the escaped pris-

oner. A search was conducted in the Alberttown area and Abrams was spotted by Detective Elias who approached him and demanded that he hand over the firearm. Abrams then allegedly pointed the gun at Detective Elias and fired several rounds hitting him in the process. Elias was then rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The.38 revolver was recovered from the scene. Abrams was remanded and is return to court on March 3.

$125,000 bail for sending nude pictures

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avid Khan appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Friday charged with exposing to the public obscene pictures. Khan pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that between November 1, 2013 and January 1, Khan broadcasted nude pictures of Sherene Gaskin on his BlackBerry Messenger (BBM). The court heard that the two parties had gone out on several occasions. On one of the occasions, Khan had asked the virtual complainant (VC) to use her phone, during this time he unknowingly to her sent the photographs from her phone to his via BBM. The VC had an argument with the defendant and was subsequently told by several persons that nude photographs of her were being circulated on BBM. The matter was reported to the police and the defendant arrested. He was granted bail in the amount $125,000 of which he posted shortly after his appearance in court. He is to make another appearance on February 7.

Eyew tness

Now you see it, now you don’t...

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... (dividends) he land’s full of them...the three-card pros, we mean. So they hustle the unsuspecting rubes with their deft finger-work. Now you see it and now you don’t! Few figured out the “it” wasn’t ever there to begin with!! So guess your trusty Eyewitness’ consternation when he read about the shysters invading our budding stock market. Hey...the Eyewitness wasn’t born yesterday. He knows about sharks and sardines in the arena of business. And he knows there are some folks in “business” who’d put a shark to shame. But what kind of businessman would declare – in an ad in a newspaper – that he’d PAID $80 million in dividends to his company’s stockholders when, in fact, he’s actually paid out zilch, nada, NOTHING!?? Well, you could’ve knocked the Eyewitness down with a feather when he read the Guyana Securities Council “PUBLIC ADVISORY” in our Friday edition. Seems back on September 20, 2013, Guyana Stockfeeds Inc, listed on the exchange as a “public company”, published in the Stabber News that they’d paid out $80,285,557.00 (to be exact) in dividends for 2012.  Now Guyana Stockfeeds might be selling chicken feed... but $80 million ain’t chicken feed.  We can understand these big captains of industry like Robert Badal (the man owns the PREMIER hotel in Guyana, Pegasus, no?) making mistakes about a thousand here, or a thousand there. Pocket change. But $80 MILLION??? Something’s got to be wrong...very wrong. Who was the accountant who prepared the report? Or was he just a bookkeeper?  But heck...Badal himself’s an accountant! More importantly, he’s the major shareholder of Guyana Stockfeeds. Wouldn’t he know whether he’d received his portion of that $80 mil? The securities council has advised “all shareholders to seek independent advice”. But our concerns go beyond these shareholders – not that we don’t bleed for them. The larger problem is the damage this incident will do to all the work that’s been painstakingly done to get a stock market going in our country. Our country is awash with money...the Bank of Guyana complains of a “liquidity” problem every year. But those people would rather plunk their money into a bank account earning practically nothing, rather than do what is so common in developed countries – investing in the stock market.  Why? Because they fear exactly what Badal’s done – people playing with numbers rather than paying dividends.  ...(less taxes) With great fanfare, the Finance Ministry and the GRA announced last year that first time homeowners would receive a 30 per cent waiver on interest they paid on mortgages. Now making it easy to own a house is always a good thing for any society. It’s win-win all the way. Homeowners save a bundle, builders and suppliers get increased business and they pay more taxes while employing more people – who also pay more taxes.  So the $580 million the government was supposedly forgoing wasn’t really lost...the virtuous circle brought most of it back. And who can put a value on lawabiding citizens paying taxes for the rest of their lives rather than slipping into less wholesome behaviour? The only doubt we had...and we raised it at the time...was that the interest had to be deducted by the banks issuing the mortgages. Rather than the taxpayers writing the interest off their income taxes, like they do in the U.S., for example. If the concern was the income stream mightn’t be high enough to accommodate the interest payment....Well, this could’ve been pro-rated to suit. And now we have complaints the banks are dragging their feet on the programme. They have no incentive to do otherwise. ...(AFC chairman) He’s been hailed as the coming of the “next Walter Rodney” by sycophants in the AFC. We’re talking about the Chairman himself – Nigel Hughes. But suddenly, after admitting the Sithe conflict of interest, he’s disappeared.  Rodney was made of sterner stuff. 

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saturday, January 11, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Govt roll-over projects in Joe Vieira Park to be recreation zone 2014 amount to $billions main in Region Three

An excavator at work at the Joe Vieira Park

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud and acting Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Commissioner Rickford Vieira at the meeting with the quarry operators

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he Natural Resources Ministry is taking pre-emptive steps to address problems that may arise in the local quarries and in sand and loam pit mining. On Friday, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud met with local quarry producers at the ministry to hear of some of the constraints affecting their production, so as to very early, assist in alleviating them, and thereby ensuring that the operators’ ability to supply products to government projects in 2014 is not affected.

Concern Minister Persaud noted that there has been some level of concern about the ability of the local quarry operators to satisfy demand in the construction sector. He explained that several government projects during the course of 2013 were affected by the inadequate availability, not production, of quarry material. Government roll-over projects from 2013, amounted to billions, he said, with the Housing Ministry accounting for over $3 billion. “So I wanted to flag very early the problems, so that the Cabinet could assure the related sectors that operators are focused in terms of having the production,” Minister Persaud explained.

He noted that government’s aim is to ensure maximum output from the operators. “You are running a business, so we cannot tell you how it is you should design your business model, it is just to say that we expect maximum output and the utilisation of the resources that were made available to you,” he said. “These resources belong to the people of Guyana. You have been entrusted to develop and utilise it, and make it available. If you cannot, then we have to seek other options,” he pointed out. Problem During the discussions, representatives, including from Toolsie Persaud, Baracara, BK International, Metallica and Durban Quarries pinpointed transportation as one of the major issues affecting their ability to get the stone to the markets. A representative from Toolsie Persaud noted that the company is expected to see an increase of 30 per cent in 2014 and this production, like 2013 will far exceed the company’s transportation ability. He said in a move to bring more stone to the market, the company is now opening up, to allow persons who have barges, to uplift the aggregate at their quarry. There was also a call

for the various ministries to supply the operators with projections of their cut stone and sea defence requirements so that they could plan their production. Minister Persaud committed to formally writing to the ministries to get the different type of aggregate and to supply the operators with such in two weeks. BK International meanwhile has some difficulties in navigating the river due to its shallowness, and the company is paying heavily in terms of damage experienced to the barge. They are asking for assistance, in either having some level of dredging done or that the Maritime Administration put in buoys and navigation lights. Durban Quarry is just over two years old, but has been able to acquire a barge to assist in delivering its products to local market. They now require assistance in having a location for offloading in Georgetown and have identified a location in Mudlot, Kingston, aback the Guyana Forestry Commission. They sought the minister’s assistance in acquiring permission to use the facility. Minister Persaud committed to identifying another suitable location in case that particular site is not available. Metallica Quarries spoke of transportation lo-

Two remanded for taxi driver’s murder

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ean Collins and Mark Bishop were on Friday charged with the murder of Raphael Campbell after they appeared in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Alex Moore. The charged alleged that on January 6, the two murdered Raphael

Campbell, a taxi operator. Sean Collins, 16, and 21-year-old Bishop were not required to plea to the indictable offence and were remanded to prison until February 14. Campbell was discovered in a clump of bushes with a single gunshot wound to his face and other marks of violence

about his body. Police sources later confirmed that five young men were arrested and were at the Sparendaam Police Station assisting with investigations. The men were reportedly arrested after they were found on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway with the deceased man’s car.

gistics associated with their use of the Mabura Road to get their stone from Omai to Linden. According to that company’s representative, due to the state of the road, a voyage time from Omai to Linden of three hours has now become extended, and the company experiences tremendous undercarriage issues.

Willing The company is willing to play a role in the maintenance and Minister Persaud committed to seeking advice to see whether this can be facilitated. Minister Persaud will continue discussions with the suppliers of construction materials today with a meeting with sand/loam pit operators and other relevant stakeholders at the conference room, Splashmins Fun Park & Resort, Soesdyke/Linden Highway. The meeting will centre on discussions pertaining to the future of sand/ loam mining in Guyana as a result of the ministry recognising the increased demand for the product as part of the government’s increased infrastructural programme across the country.

A pond at the Joe Vieira Park that was cleared

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he Joe Vieira Park at West Bank Demerara, located just west of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), is being upgraded to a national park, catering for Region Three residents. The park is currently being excavated and levelled to the tune of $5 million and when completed, will serve as an area for exercise, social events and other family outings. National Parks Commission Deputy Commissioner Denise Fraser said the initiative is not part of the Three Parks Initiative, but is a part of the protected areas managed by the commission. “We are restoring what was already there. This is an initial step in seeking to restore the Joe Vieira Park. We are hoping to implement a number of other measures such as putting in a walking path or jogging track along with benches which persons

can sponsor.” On this note, she calls on corporate entities and individuals to support this initiative. The National Parks Commission also intends to have Victoria Regina Lilies in the park so that residents there can be familiar with the national flower. When Guyana Times visited the worksite on Friday, it was evident that a pond had recently been dug and works are ongoing. The pond is said to be at a maximum depth of 10 feet so as to avoid the rooting of weed. The park, according to the commission, is expected to be of similar standards to the National Park at Thomas Lands, Georgetown. Joe Vieira Park, which was privately owned, was donated to the government of Guyana several years ago and is being managed by the government.

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News

OAS secretary general mourns passing of Dr Pastor

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rganisation of American States (OAS) Secretary General José Miguel Insulza has expressed his deep sadness upon the passing of former advisor to United States President Jimmy Carter, senior fellow at the Carter Centre and Professor at American University, Dr Robert A Pastor, whom he recognised as an outstanding scholar, a brilliant leader and a great man. “He had a profoundly brilliant and curious mind,” said Secretary General Insulza. “He was always insightful, informed, intelligent and well-intentioned. The hemisphere has lost a great champion,” he added. Reflecting on Dr Pastor’s life and experiences, the secretary general said, “I came to know Bob many years ago as an extremely insightful academic and an effective practitioner who played key roles in shaping the future of the Americas in years of great transformation. He devoted his life to

Dr Robert A Pastor

promoting noble and important causes such as advancing democracy and human rights throughout the Western Hemisphere.¨ Secretary General Insulza added that “In particular, his tenure as the director of the Office of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs at the National Security Council during the Carter administration placed these causes as the cornerstones for U.S. policy in the region. This was an unprecedent-

ed approach that came at a critical time when many governments in the hemisphere were struggling with these issues.” Insulza also recalled the role that Dr Pastor played in the negotiations that culminated in the signing of the Panama Canal Treaties, which he called “a leap forward in U.S.-Latin American relations which owes much to his courage and vision.” In his subsequent career, he added, “Dr Pastor never abandoned his efforts to promote understanding among nations, particularly between the United States and its Latin American and Caribbean neighbours.” Pastor worked closely with the OAS, in particular in relation with its first modern electoral observation missions, beginning in Nicaragua in 1990, as well as the creation of the unit for the promotion of democracy and during various democratic crises during the 1990s.

Man stabbed to death in North Rupununi

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ours after a man was beaten to death at Quamatta, North Rupununi, Region Nine, a team of police ranks has been dispatched to investigate another murder, this time at Katooka Village also in the North Rupununi area. The dead man has been identified as Aloysius Kaitan, 27, of Katooka, North Rupununi. He was reportedly stabbed to death in the wee hours of Friday morning in the village. Police investigations revealed that Kaitan and a group of persons were consuming alcohol when an argument started among them. The argument reportedly escalated into a scuffle, resulting in one of the men pulling out a knife and stabbing Kaitan in the chest. Police at Lethem confirmed the murder, stating all efforts are being made for the body to be transported to Lethem. Up to press time, there was no contact with the ranks to confirm if the suspect was arrested. The village is reportedly some 80 miles from Central Rupununi.

Two people feel cold in NY, but not from de weather

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he breeze was blowin cold in de U.S. and Canada. Some people couldn’t leave dem house. Dem who manage to leave dem house couldn’t get in dem car. Dem who manage to get in dem car couldn’t get out de driveway. Everywhere was ice. Snow was fallin like how de headitor does fall at Mook Lall foot. So when de people up North was gettin frost bite, de Mook down South was gettin foot bite. While de people up North was gettin sheer cold ear, de Mook down South was gettin cold feet. And nuff times de cold feet turn to cold sweat. De headitor teeth was knockin and de Mook foot was shakin. But dem was gettin cold feet and cold sweat since December. Was not really that de breeze blow so far down South fuh dem to feel cold. Dem was gettin cold feet and cold sweat just because dem know that January was comin. And January is a cold month. And even when de Mook and de headitor arrive in de cold, it wasn’t de cold weather that mek dem get cold feet. It was just that dem had to mek an appearance. And this wasn’t any ordinary appearance. Dem was all dress up fuh de weather and fuh de appearance. But de Mook tell de headitor he still feelin cold and de headitor tell de Mook he feelin cold too. It was de appearance in front of de judge that mek dem cold. And that kinda cold does bite more hard than frost bite. So was only a matter of time before dem try to get on wid dem back door kinda behaviour. That is some ting whah does follow dem…cold or no cold. That is when some body tell some body to try and bribe some body. And that is when somebody get a holler. Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Old people right fuh seh yuh culd tek out pig from mud, but yuh can’t tek out mud from pig.

APNU calls for plan... from page 2

“It is a well-known fact that Guyana’s coastal zone lies near or below sea level. The rate of sea level in the Caribbean is predicted to be five times greater than the world’s average, according to an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) study,” the opposition leader said, while noting that rise in sea level due to global warming could significantly increase disaster risk in Guyana to levels that threaten the physical and economic viability of the coastal zone. Serious attention Taking the IDB study into consideration, Granger said the damaging effects and frequent occurrence of flooding in this country demand more serious attention. “The PPP/C administration needs to promulgate a National Flood Control Plan that must comprehend the consequences of climate change that are so evident to everyone else everywhere around the world today.” In advancing the party’s call, Granger alluded to the flood of January 2005 which took a toll on the country. According to the IDB study, during the period 1988-2006, floods affected 965,000 persons and resulted in more

than US$663 million in economic damage. The flood reportedly affected 25 per cent of the population and caused economic losses equivalent to 60 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product for 2005. The IDB report had stated that “as a result of the dynamic interplay between high tides, high rainfall levels and a network of drainage and irrigation canals, conservancy dams and sluices designed to support agriculture, the coastland, as well as riverine areas and some low-lying parts of the hinterland are at high risk to flooding.” According to the APNU, since the 2005 flood, the PPP/C administration has been on a “spending spree”. “It has squandered billions on world cup cricket, the Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta), a five-star hotel and other prestigious projects while neglecting the infrastructure needed to protect the country from flooding.” Already for 2014, Airy Hall, Region Two has been severely affected by floods with some rice farmers reeling from the impact. The conservancy in the area was breached twice in matter of days. The 15-foot breach has since been sealed.

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saturday, January 11, 2014

Minister Webster donates kitchen utensils to Long Creek group

Pupils of Long Creek Primary School perform a song at the presentation ceremony

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he Labour, Human Services and Social Security Ministry on Friday made a donation to support efforts by residents of Long Creek to develop their community. The residents formed a parent support group under the School Retention Programme, to do their bit in ensuring all school-aged children in the community attend school regularly. To generate funding and support families with children, most of whom are single parent families, the group began a breakfast shed,

where they prepare meals and snacks for sale. They also host other fund-raising initiatives, the proceeds of which are reinvested into the community. To date, they have built a bus shed. In an attempt to support the breakfast shed venture, Human Services Minister Jenifer Webster presented items that would be used in the kitchen, including utensils, pots and appliances to the chairperson of the group Gwendaline DeJesus. The ministry has also undertaken to purchase stoves and a freez-

er for the group, as well as make efforts to ensure they have a suitable kitchen to conduct their operation. Making the presentation at the Long Creek Primary School, Minister Webster noted that the ministry is happy to support the initiative and would continue to work with the group to ensure sustainability and possible expansion. DeJesus in turn expressed the community’s appreciation and committed their dedication to making the venture a success.

North Rupununi man bludgeoned to death in brawl

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man was on Thursday evening killed during an argument at a drinking spot in the small remote Region Nine village known as Quamatta in North Rupununi. The incident occurred about 21:30h. The dead man was identified as Martin Roberts, 23, of Quamatta. According to information received, Roberts was in the company of a group of men when an argument

started. The argument reportedly led to a scuffle, resulting in one of the men (who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol) collecting a piece of metal and dealing him several blows to his head. Guyana Times was told that persons who were drinking at the shop at the time of the incident were questioned by police ranks who went to the area on Friday morning. The suspect is said to be related to the dead man.

Registration for motorcycles, ATVs enters H series

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he Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced that the motorcycle registration in the G series concluded on January 6. The revenue body in a release said persons desirous of, or preparing to register new motorcycles and All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) which are all registered in the specific series, should note that the next available registration letter will be H. The G series officially commenced in September, 2011. “Persons are reminded

that the motor vehicle licence (s) for the vehicle(s) being registered, including motorcycles, will be valid until the registration anniversary the following year. Motor vehicle licence renewal is being done at GRA’s Camp Street headquarters, 200-201 Camp Street, South Cummingsburg, between Middle and Quamina streets while inspection of the vehicles is conducted at the former Licence Revenue Office (LRO) building at Princes and Smyth streets, Georgetown,” the release said.

Roberts reportedly collapsed from the blows and was bleeding profusely. Due to difficulties reaching a medical facility, the man succumbed to his injuries. This publication was told that the village is about 60 miles from Central Rupununi and is about half the distance from Annai. His body was transported out of the area and taken to the Lethem mortuary. Based on preliminary investigations, two men were taken into police custody.

Wanted bulletin issued for Pretima Augustus T

he police have issued a wanted bulletin for Pretima Augustus for questioning in relation to reports of obtaining money by false pretence. According to a release, Augustus is 49 years old, brown in complexion, medium built, of African descent and her last known address is Critchlow Street, Tucville, Georgetown. The police say Augustus has been contacting unsuspecting persons by telephone, claiming that she is Olive Gopaul (former Miss Guyana Universe) and is ill and is soliciting funds to as-

Pretima Augustus

sist with her medical treatment. Miss Olive Gopaul has been contacted by the police and she has indicated that she is in good health and has not authorised anyone to collect monies on her behalf for any purpose. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Augustus is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 225-6411, 2252227, 226-7065, 227-1149 or 911 or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with strict confidence, the police say.

No arrest yet in Pegasus taxi driver’s murder

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he police are still to make an arrest for the murder of Rudranauth Jeeboo, 49, of Lot 25 Craig Street, Georgetown, a taxi operator attached to the Pegasus Taxi Service who was discovered dead in a heap of garbage at Cane View Avenue, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown. Police on Friday stated that they have questioned several people in connection with the murder, but there is not sufficient evidence that can lead to the prosecution of anyone. The surveillance footage collected from the Pegasus Hotel was also reviewed several times with the hope of getting a clear image of the persons who Jeeboo left with on the night he met his demise. Guyana Times understands that about 00:30h on the fateful night, the very quiet taxi driver left with a couple but investigators cannot locate the man and woman for questioning as their faces were blocked. This publication was also

told that the couple might have had their eyes on Jeeboo since the video recordings proved that they allowed several cars to leave the premises with other passengers and when it was Jeeboo’s turn, he was called upon. The couple, a source claimed was seen lurking around the front gate of the hotel for quite some time before they entered to solicit a taxi.

Dumped

On December 27 last, Jeeboo was murdered and his body was dumped among the garbage in South Ruimveldt. His motor car, a Toyota Allion, was later found abandoned at Guyhoc Park, South Ruimveldt. The now dead man had been working with the Pegasus Hotel for the past 23 years. According to information received, Jeeboo recently bought a new car and would leave it at the base and use the old one to go home. Hours after the man’s body was discovered, his colleagues told Guyana Times that the

man reported for work about 23:30h and switched cars as he normally does. He reportedly left with a customer but after time elapsed and his colleagues did not see him return to the base, they thought he went home. It was until his sister contacted the base to inquire about her brother’s whereabouts that they got worried. She told the office that she attempted to make contact with him, but his phone rang out and went to voicemail. After several attempts, she reported that the phone was turned off. She then sought the assistance of the base to make contact with Jeeboo which also proved futile. This prompted his colleagues to establish a search party to find him. During the search, the police received a report that the body of an unidentified man was found. The sister along with other relatives of the dead man went to Lyken’s Funeral Home where they positively identified the body as Rudranauth Jeeboo.

12 News

saturday, january 11, 2014 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Private sector mourns passing of Terry Holder

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he Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has joined several others in conveying sympathy to the family of Terrence Holder. The GCCI in a release said Holder spent many years as a private sector leader and advocate, serving on many boards and committees of several private sector associations in Guyana. He held many executive level positions at the GCCI, including that of senior vice president, and will also be remembered for his intellect, insightfulness and sagacity on issues that attracted the attention of the chamber and which affected the country’s social and economic climate. During his tenure at the GCCI, Holder was a staunch advocate for corporate social responsibility (CSR) being a fundamental part of the operations of the GCCI and its constituent private sector members and he formulated and led many initiatives in this regard for the chamber. The GGCI said he also played the role of mentor to new and young members of the GCCI’s executive, offering valuable counsel and advice as they transitioned into the arena of private sector advocacy. GCCI President Clinton

Urling recalled being a beneficiary of Holder’s wisdom and understanding on many occasions when he became a member of the chamber’s executive council. “As his family mourn, may we all take solace in the fact that the contributions he made to Guyana continue to inspire present and future generations and may his dear departed soul rest in peace.”

Deep sorrow

Meanwhile, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) said though not sudden, Holder’s death has cast a pall over the entire its board of directors and membership. “He had become a fixture on the board since the mid 1990s as the representative of the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company. Terry served as vice president responsible for public communications for more than six years before he demitted office due to his ill health,” the GMSA said, describing him as an outstanding, dependable and always articulate member. The GMSA has benefited tremendously from the polite and appealing approach he brought to internal, national

Terrence Holder

and international situations and programmes and from his broad expertise in verbal and written communication and programme planning,” the association said. According to the GMSA, Terry represented extremely high standards in every aspect of his work for the GMSA and the association has not missed an opportunity to express its gratitude to him, tangibly and intangibly, for more than a decade of dedication. “Our appreciation is even greater considering that he was able to offer the same level of service to the Guyana Cricket Board, the Rotary

Club and a number of other local and regional NGOs. He was a kind man who never passed on a chance to help. Terry loved life and embraced all of it, the good and the challenging, with quiet industriousness, and when kudos were being given out, he stepped aside and allowed others to receive. Terry Holder will not be easily forgotten; he has touched too many lives, given a hands-up to too many people; and unselfishly shared his life’s passion for communications in all its diversity with correctness and steady determination. He has certainly secured a place in the annals of the GMSA. On behalf of our membership, the board of directors extends our deepest condolences to his grieving children, grandchildren and other relatives who are now deprived of his kind, jovial personality.”

Avid cricket fan

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) also expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Holder as well as Grenville Felix and Carlotta Dodson and offer sincere condolences to their family, relatives and friends. The coalition noted with sorrow the passing of Holder who held several key posi-

tions in the broadcasting and communications sector of the country. He was also an avid cricket fan and served as a member of the Guyana Cricket Board. APNU also expressed condolences to the family and relatives of Grenville Felix of Canefield Settlement, Canje, East Berbice who passed away at the Anamayah Memorial Hospital, Corentyne. He was born on the July 16, 1917 and died on January 5, 2014; he was 96 years old. Felix had a long and distinguished career in the sugar industry where he started working as an apprentice at age 16 and retired in 1977 as assistant factory manager-engineer. APNU also expressed regret at the passing of Retired Assistant Police Commissioner and Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Carlotta Dodson, DSM. Dodson was 66 years old. She served in the executive leadership of the Assemblies of God in Guyana. She was also administrator of its educational institution “Generation Next” and a deaconess of the church. In recognition of her long and distinguished service in the Guyana Police Force, Dodson was awarded the Disciplined

Service Medal (DSM). Holder, also a veteran broadcaster and former general manager of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) passed away on Wednesday after battling a chronic illness for several years. He was aged 73.

Career

He had retired from the company after he took ill. He started his broadcasting career at the now defunct Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) rising to the level of general manager. During that period, he also served as secretary general of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU). Well-respected for his current affairs productions such as documentaries, he moved on to become the GBC general manager in the 1990s. After the change of government in 1992, he served on the board of directors of GBC’s successor, the National Communications Network (NCN). He had also worked at the Information Ministry under the previous administration and served the Guyana Cricket Board and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA).

Hindus laud Albuquerque public Future of sand mining here to schools for offering yoga be discussed H indus have a p p l a u d e d Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) in New Mexico, U.S.A. for reportedly offering yoga in its various schools and have urged all New Mexico school districts to do the same for their pupils. Calling it a “step in the right direction”, Hindu leader Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada, U.S.A., suggested all school districts of New Mexico incorporate yoga in the lives of the students. Yoga, referred to as “a living fossil”, was a mental and physical discipline, for everybody to share and benefit from and traces back to around 2000 BCE to the Indus Valley civilisation, Zed pointed out. In the 2013-2014 APS Wall Calendar, Superintendent Winston Brooks, in his message, wrote: “We’ve definitely evolved as a district. Just look at the pictures in this calendar: fourth graders use yoga to help prepare for rigorous learning...” Its Volcano Vista High School, which reportedly has a yoga room, offers a course titled yoga/pilates whose syllabus said “by incorporating yoga into your lives, you will learn how to harness positive energy and use it to help

Universal Society of Hinduism President Rajan Zed

you focus on you and forget about negativity”. APS has posted “Yoga with Kermit the Frog” PowerPoint presentation on its website; Eisenhower Middle had a yoga class; Johnson Middle and Coronado Elementary have yoga clubs; APS promoted asthma and exercise class last year which started with yoga; West Mesa High is holding one hour weekly yoga events; Pajarito Elementary last year offered yoga class for the staff; Desert Ridge Middle planned a short yoga lesson; Arroyo Del Oso Elementary had monthly yoga events in

2013; Mission Avenue Elementary held yoga workouts in 2013 focusing on “breathing, balance and body control” and exploring a variety of Yoga poses; Family Fitness Nights at Zia Elementary included yoga focusing on the whole family; Alvarado Elementary finished a yoga unit in 2013 and its website says that “yoga is an ancient system of exercise that focuses on integrating mind and body” and its 2013-2014 Wall Calendar shows Longfellow Elementary students practising yoga; and “Yoga by Julia” offers special discount for

APS employees. Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, said yoga, although introduced and nourished by Hinduism, is a world heritage and liberation powerhouse to be utilised by all. According to Patanjali (sage) who codified it in yoga sutra, yoga was a methodical effort to attain perfection, through the control of the different elements of human nature, physical and psychical. According to U.S.A.’s National Institutes of Health, yoga may help one to feel more relaxed, be more flexible, improve posture, breathe deeply, and get rid of stress. According to an estimate, about 21 million Americans, including many celebrities, now practice yoga. Yoga was the repository of something basic in the human soul and psyche, Rajan Zed added. APS, the largest school district in New Mexico and 30th largest in U.S., has about 90,000 students, including over 5000 homeless, in its 140 schools. Over a third of its students come from homes where the primary language is not English; and one of its schools has its own film studio. Martin Esquivel is president of APS board.

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry will engage sand/loam pit operators to discuss the future of sand/loam mining here

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he Natural Resources and Environment Ministry through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission will engage sand/loam pit operators and other relevant stakeholders to discuss the future of sand/ loam mining in Guyana. The meeting will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2014 commencing at 09:30h at the Conference Room, Splashmins Fun Park and Resort, Soesdyke/Linden Highway. The ministry in a release said the meeting is in recognition of the increased demand for sand/loam as part of the government’s increased infrastructural programme across the country,

particularly in the areas of road and home construction. Also, to examine possible support for value added activities. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud and the ministry’s regulatory agencies such as the GGMC, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission will engage all stakeholders to highlight future plans and listen to concerns. This move is also part of the ministry’s effort to ensure the sustainability and environmental compliance in sand/loam mining activities.

news

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saturday, january 11, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

GPHC to ensure private CIOG reaches out to Good hospitals, clinics use Intent fire victims hydroclave

The Georgetown Public Hospital’s hydroclave system

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he Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s (GPHC) Facilities Management Department will be intensifying its awareness efforts this year, to ensure that private hospitals and clinics utilise the hydroclave system. This was highlighted by Waste Management Consultant Rufus Lewis, during an interview with Clean and Green Guyana. The GPHC’s hydroclave system is designed to sterilise all infectious waste produced from public and private health care facilities in Region Four, before it is disposed of at the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill Site. “After the medical waste leaves the hydroclave, it is regarded as normal domestic waste,” Lewis explained. He said when infectious waste is taken to the landfill site without being treat-

ed, they become hazardous to waste pickers who work there. “So we don’t want untreated waste at the landfill because it is dangerous to the pickers who sort out the items there.” Lewis believes that the issue of getting private hospitals to conform to the practices of the hydroclave is the fact that there is currently “no legislation in place to compel them to do so”. The waste management consultant said the GPHC will be aggressively pursuing those hospitals which have not yet complied. He added that workshops were held in the past to enlighten medical institutions on the importance of the hydroclave’s functions. Lewis is tasked with the mandate of overseeing operations at the hydroclave and ensuring that waste ema-

nating from public and private health care facilities is safe for handling when it reaches the landfill site. While public health care facilities are utilising the services, the only private medical institutions that are currently taking their waste to be treated are Dr Balwant Singh’s Hospital Inc, the Georgetown Medical Centre Inc, Prashad`s Hospital, St Joseph Mercy Hospital, Woodlands Hospital and Doobay Medical Centre at Annandale, East Cost Demerara. Health care facilities are charged a fee of $675 for every 30 pounds of medical waste, with an additional $10 for every extra pound. This, Lewis said is merely a cost recovery for sustenance of the hydroclave system. The hydroclave system came into operation on March 22, 2012.

Wife’s lover bites off husband’s lip

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he bottom lip of a man was allegedly bitten off by his wife’s lover during an attack at his cousin’s place, Lot 48 D’Urban, Lodge, Georgetown in the wee hours of Tuesday morning last. Carland Hercules, 50, formerly of Thomas Street, Kitty, Georgetown, is presently taking treatment for the injury at the Georgetown Public Hospital and is due to undergo surgery on January 23. According to information received, Hercules and his wife Dianne tied the knot about four years ago but shortly after, he learnt that the woman was having an affair with another man in the area. Despite knowing this, he continued the relationship for the sake of their four children. However, as the situation worsened, the couple separated, resulting in him moving out the house and taking up residence at a cousin on D’Urban Street, Lodge. On the morning of January 7, the man woke up about 00:55h to use the washroom when he heard voices

on the platform and thought it was strange and went to check. As he opened the door, he saw his wife and her lover and inquired about the purpose of their visit. Within in a few minutes, the man and the woman reportedly grabbed Hercules and started to assault him. The man whose name was given as “Kerwin” reportedly took out a knife and stabbed the man in the back twice but as the brawl continued, he bit Hercules about his body.

Not satisfied

He then turned his attention on the man’s bottom lip. A cousin of the injured man stated that when she heard the commotion, she ran out of bed only to see Hercules covered in blood and the bottom half of his lip missing. The woman said she tried to part the fight but she was also assaulted by the man and his lover. The cousin said she bolted to the East Ruimveldt Police Station to make a report but was confronted by the suspect and dealt several blows. After assaulting her,

Kerwin and his lover, Dianne, left and was not seen since. The matter was reported to the police and an investigation has been launched. Hercules was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was treated and admitted, but was subsequently discharged. Calvin Hercules, a brother of the injured man stated the he was at work when his cousin telephoned and informed him of the incident. He explained that his brother has a soft mind, explaining that despite the separation, his brother would provide shelter to his wife whenever she was assaulted by her lover. He explained that ever since the incident, his brother has to attend the Georgetown Public Hospital to receive treatment. He disclosed that he was on East Street when he saw the couple but by the time he could have contacted the police, they disappeared on a bicycle. The worried brother is hoping that the woman and her lover are caught and brought to justice.

CIOG representative Goolzar Namdar (left) presents the cheque to a brother of Inshad Alli in the presence of family members

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he Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) has donated cash and other household items to the family of Inshad Alli of Murphy Street, Good Intent, Wales, West Bank Demerara after their home was destroyed by fire last Saturday. The CIOG in a release

said Alli was occupying the house with his wife and nine children for the past 19 years. The cause for the fire is yet to be determined. The family is currently staying with relatives. “The CIOG wishes to thank the Muslim community and all those who responded so promptly at a

time of emergency, and contributed to the family, including May’s Shopping Centre of Regent Street. “We are kindly asking for all those who want to assist the family to kindly channel your contributions through the CIOG on telephone number: 225-6167/27-1033,” the CIOG said.

LIAT receives notice of penalty from ECCAA

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IAT (1974) Limited has received notice of a penalty from the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) in connection with an incident which occurred on November 2, 2013. LIAT in a release said it received the notice on January 8 and management is reviewing these findings with its advisors and will engage ECCAA in discussion. LIAT is committed to a fair resolution of the matter based on full and frank disclosure by all parties. “The safety and security of our passengers remains LIAT’s top priority and LIAT continues to operate in full and strict compli-

ance with the Civil Aviation Regulations and its operating procedures and manuals. “These matters remain under review by LIAT and

discussion with ECCAA. It would therefore be inappropriate to make further public comment at this time,” the airline said.

Five Latin American states to receive IDB innovative government prize

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he Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will on January 15 award the GobernArte Prize for the most innovative government programmes to five states and provinces from Latin America, in the smart government and the citizen security categories. The winners will receive the prize from IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno at a special event in the bank’s headquarters in Washington, DC. The winners in the Smart

Government Category are the states of Colima and Puebla states (Mexico) and the State of Pernambuco (Brazil); while the states of Pernambuco and Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) and the Province of Santa Fé (Argentina) won in the Secure Government Category. The winners of the GobernArte prize showed how they met the citizen demands for world class services within tight budgetary limitations, in a broad range

of services from providing driving licenses to registering new businesses and carrying out public consultations in citizen security. In its first edition, GobernArte received 71 applications from more than 30 sub-national entities in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Peru and Chile. Of these, 55 met the prize’s requirement and were evaluated by a panel of external experts.

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Regional

Jamaica: Driver risks life to move burning fuel tanker away from homes

Tanker driver Dennis Butler (inset) explains how he drove this burning fuel trailer away from a section of Mona Road, preventing a disaster

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gasoline tanker driver risked his life to prevent a possible catastrophe on Thursday afternoon by driving his trailer, filled with burning fuel, for about 200 metres away from a cluster of houses before jumping from the ve-

hicle moments before it exploded into a ball of fire. The searing heat from the inferno forced several residents from their homes, damaged sections of two houses, several electrical transformers, and more than 200 metres of the newly paved Mona Road

in St Andrew. “I was driving along the roadway and I heard an explosion,” Dennis Butler, the 51-year-old driver of the tanker told the Jamaica Observer. The frightened driver said he stopped to inspect the vehicle and saw smoke and fire gushing from the rear of the tanker, which was filled with more than 36,000 tonnes of gasoline. The driver said he tried to extinguish the flame but realised his efforts were not making a difference. “That was when I realised that the tanker was about to explode,” said Butler, the father of eight children. His first instinct, he said, was to flee. However, he quickly decided to drive the tanker to a section of the road where he believed the impending explosion would cause less damage. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Lightning strike on beach kills three in Argentina

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lightning strike killed three people on a beach in Argentina Thursday and injured 22 others, state media reported. “We were hiding in a tent to take shelter from the storm when we felt an explosion, and then I saw my friend thrown to the ground,” Rafael Viñuela told the state-run Telam news agency. He ran to find a doctor after seeing that his

friend’s arm was burned. “When they arrived, they told us that he had died,” he told Telam. The state news agency reported that another victim, a 17-year-old, was playing soccer on the beach when the lightning hit, killing him and injuring several members of his family. The storm struck the seaside community of Villa Gessell, located about 230 miles (375 km) southeast of the coun-

try’s capital, around 17:00h. Thursday. The injured victims included 16 adults and six children, a health official said, according to Telam. It’s summer in Argentina, and several witnesses told the state news agency they were vacationing in the area. Buenos Aires province Governor Daniel Sciolio called the incident “a tragedy that surprised families” at the beach. (CNN)

St Kitts-Nevis church leader offers to mediate political crisis

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leading cleric has called on government and opposition to put country first in a bid to ease rising political tensions in St Kitts and Nevis. Archdeacon Valentine Hodge of the Anglican Church believes that compromise on the part of both sides will help address what’s becoming an increasingly polarised situation. The deputy chairman of the Christian Council,

the archdeacon is volunteering the services of the Council and the Evangelical Association as part of efforts to help resolve the existing impasse created by the nontabling of the motion of no confidence and the tensions arising from last weekend’s opposition protests and two cases of suspected arson on Sunday last, in which the Venezuelan embassy building was destroyed. “It may well be that

perhaps the Christian Council (and) Evangelical Association at this time may be used as a kind of a buffer,” the arch deacon suggested. “We can take the initiative, other parties can take the initiative in having us share in the experience of trying to deal with this situation as it is,” Hodge said while expressing concern that the situation was becoming more acrimonious.

Jamaicans “targeted” in TT

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popular broadcaster and comedian, Christopher “Johnny” Daley is calling on Foreign Affairs Minister AJ Nicholson to condemn the latest incident in which Jamaican nationals “are targeted and profiled” by immigration and customs officials in Trinidad and Tobago. Daley, in a message posted on his Facebook social webpage, said he and his wife were this week subjected to their “worst travel experiences” when they sought to enter

the oil-rich twin island republic. “AJ Nicholson, Mr Minister of Foreign Affairs, there is much work to be done. We were suspects the minute we walked up to immigration. Without scanning our passports, the Indian-looking officer took up a phone and called someone to indicate that she felt suspicious,” he wrote. Last year, the foreign ministers of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago met in a bid to diffuse the situation after 13 Jamaican nationals

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er. Making the statement Thursday was the commission’s chairman Professor Ramesh Deosaran, after he and his members met with Williams for close to an hour and a half at the commission’s office in Tunapuna. Deosaran said the meeting was an ongoing exercise in which several issues to do with the performance and management of the Police Service were raised. He said while there were conclusions the commission could

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olice are warning residents not to answer calls coming from the 473 international area code, assigned to Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique in the Caribbean. Utah police said the phone scam could result in a huge, unwanted charge on residents’ phone bills. The authorities said some residents have been receiving calls from the number 473-520-9774 and other 473 area code numbers. They

said the caller is moaning and claiming to be in distress. Police warn residents not to answer or call back if they receive a call from the number or area code, warning doing so would result in a large connection fee. The Utah Department of Public Safety Cyber Crimes Unit and the Statewide Information and Analysis Centre (SIAC) said they are working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and oth-

er Utah law enforcement agencies to “provide any additional information that may safeguard the people of Utah. “First and foremost, we ask people to block all calls from area code 473. Do not answer, as this is an aggressive scam targeting Utah phone numbers. If you answer this call, you may hear someone in distress, they will then hang up,” the authorities said in a statement. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Opposition participation in disaster recovery causes turmoil in St Vincent as well as St Lucia

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ard on the heels of an apparent meltdown of the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) in Saint Lucia, caused by an invitation extended to and accepted by the leader of the parliamentary opposition to attend an emergency disaster response meeting, the leader of the opposition in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) complained that a similar invitation was not extended to him by the SVG government. Leader of the opposi-

tion New Democratic Party (NPD), Arnhim Eustace, complained of not being invited to a disaster response meeting the SVG government held on December 28, 2013, four days after the Christmas storm. Eustace said it was “unacceptable” that the opposition party should have been excluded from such a meeting. In response, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said the country was in a war with nature and “soldiers don’t wait for an invi-

tation to join the war; soldiers report for duty.” Meanwhile, a non-partisan, socio-political group, People’s Movement for Change, has called for a bipartisan agency to oversee the reconstruction after the Christmas floods, adding that it feared a repeat of 2010, where some residents affected by Hurricane Tomas are yet to receive help, while persons not affected have received disaster relief, local media reported. (Caribbean News Now)

Barbados: Appreciation for regulars

(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

arrive at, it was a matter of due process to consider what strategies Williams had put forward. Another commission member, attorney Martin George, who first raised the issue of the reports being handed in late with members of the media, said: “One of the things I could tell you definitely that we indicated as an area of concern was the timeliness of the reports that we have requested from the commissioner.

Nation News)

Utah police warn of phone scam from Grenada area code

TT commissioner under fire for late reports cting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams has been criticised for being tardy in submitting critical reports to the Police Service Commission. The commission said it was so dissatisfied that this could ultimately affect Williams’ performance appraisal. Despite this, Williams will likely receive yet another extension because of the convoluted process now used to select a commission-

were deported from Port of Spain, one day after arriving in the country in November. Jamaica had been critical of the decision and the Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a warning to nationals travelling to Trinidad and Tobago and was continuing to interface with the relevant authorities in Trinidad and Tobago on the matter particularly in light of the Shanique Myrie ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). (Excerpt from

Students of Bay Primary won over the hearts of the visitors at Ilaro Court with their melodious local and original selections

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etween 75 and 80 cents out of every dollar that reaches the hands of a Barbadian are spent on something that they will consume and that has to be imported. This reality was highlighted by Prime Minister Freundel Stuart as he welcomed a group of return visi-

tors to his official residence at Ilaro Court on Wednesday night and thanked them for the confidence which they placed in the country over the years. According to the prime minister, “The money you spend here will help to pay the bills of Barbados because the industry of which you are a part is the

lead foreign exchange earner in Barbados and the very structure of this economy requires us to have foreign exchange in as great quantities as possible because we import most of the things which we consume.” “... And we cannot import using Barbados dollars, we have to import using hard currency and this is why this industry is so important for Barbados. So we cannot afford to take for granted the confidence which you have continued to show in Barbados,” he told the visitors. He gave a historical background into the relationship with United Kingdom, the United States and Canada he said the closeness between the latter and Barbados must not be underestimated. (Excerpt from

Barbados Advocate)

15 Around the world

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, January 11, 2014

CAR interim President Michel French president threatens Djotodia resigns legal action over affair claims

Michel Djotodia

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entral African Republic’s interim President Michel Djotodia has resigned at a regional summit aimed at ending violence that has engulfed the country. PM Nicolas Tiengaye also re-

signed at the meeting in Chad. Thousands of people took to the streets in CAR’s capital, Bangui, most of them celebrating the news. Djotodia, CAR’s first Muslim leader, seized power last year. Since then 20 per cent of the population have fled fighting between Christian and Muslim militias. The UN has warned of an impending humanitarian disaster. Since December and the arrival of more regional peacekeepers and French troops, 1000 people have died in sectarian clashes. Many villages are deserted and in the past month the

number of those who have fled their homes has doubled – including almost half of those living in the capital, Bangui. Following the announcement from Chad, there were jubilant scenes in Bangui. Carine Gbegbe, who has been living in a displacement camp, told Associated Press: “Finally we are free. We are going to return home at last.” French tanks were quickly deployed around the presidential palace. French Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian called for a replacement for Djotodia “as soon as possible”. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

Iran, EU make progress in atom deal implementation talks

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ran and the European Union appeared to make progress in resolving outstanding differences on how to implement a landmark nuclear deal in talks in Geneva on Friday but the United States said discussions were not yet finalised. Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met a senior EU official in Geneva to iron out remaining practical details of the November 24 accord under which Iran agreed to curb its most sensitive nuclear work in return for some sanctions re-

lief. After the meeting, he told Reuters that the sides have found “solutions for every difference” but more consultations were needed before an agreement could be announced. “Now we are taking the solutions... home, all of us. Hopefully tomorrow we can either confirm or not, but hopefully confirm,” he said. The European Union liaises with Iran on behalf of six world powers – the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany – in diplomatic

efforts related to Tehran’s atom work. A spokesman for the EU said “very good” progress was made “on all the pertinent issues”, but added that results of the talks still had to be validated by more senior officials. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told a news briefing that the technical talks were making good progress but reports that a deal had been finalised were inaccurate. (Excerpt from Reuters)

French ban on anti-Semitic comic fuels free speech debate

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decision to ban performances by French comic and convicted anti-Semite Dieudonné M’bala M’bala has been praised as a “victory” by the government, while many say the ban undermines free speech. In a legal tug-of-war that played out on Thursday, a court in Nantes, western France, overturned a ban the city authorities had imposed on a Dieudonné show due to open its doors that evening. Hours later the Council of State, France’s highest ad-

ministrative court, confirmed the city’s prohibition of his comedy act. The final decision was greeted with boos and jeers by hundreds of the comedian’s fans outside the Zenith Theatre in Nantes. More than 5000 tickets had been sold for the performance, which was to be the second in his planned Francewide tour. Dieudonné, 47, the mixedrace son of a Cameroonian immigrant and a French mother, has been convicted seven times for inciting ra-

cial hatred or anti-Semitism in shows in which he has scorned the Holocaust and played up anti-Jewish conspiracy theories. He also has popularised the “quenelle” hand gesture, which French Interior Minister Manuel Valls has called an “inverted Nazi salute.” Dieudonné was convicted at the end of 2013 for using the word “Shoananas,” a combination of the Hebrew word for Holocaust and the French word for pineapple. (Excerpt from

France24)

China: Filmmaker Zhang Yimou fined US$1.2M for breach of one-child policy

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scar-nominated Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou has been fined 7.48 million yuan (US$1.2 million) for breaching China’s one-child policy, authorities say. A letter sent to Zhang by the family planning bureau of Binhu District of Wuxi City, Jiangsu province in eastern China on Thursday demanded that he pay a penalty for having two “beyond-the-quota” children. The letter was posted on the district’s official account on Sina Weibo, China’s

Twitter-like microblogging service. The fine comes after Zhang apologised in an open letter for his “excessive children” in December. He and his wife, Chen Ting, admitted to having two sons and a daughter. “As a film director, it takes a lot of efforts and good movies for people to remember you, but having excessive children had ruined it all,” he said, according to Xinhua, China’s state news agency. “I sincerely apologise to everyone on my ‘excessive children’ case. I admit it’s my mistake

and I won’t blame others for it.” “I will learn my lessons, and I’m willing to cooperate with any investigation from family planning commission,” Zhang said. Local officials in Jiangsu province calculated the fine based on the couple’s combined annual income, the document stated. Nine investigation teams had been sent to “collect evidence” since November. The couple have to pay the fine within 30 days of receiving the letter, local authorities added. (Excerpt from CNN)

French actress ulie Gayet and President François Hollande, who are alleged to be having an affair

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he French President, François Hollande, has threatened legal action over claims he is having an affair with an actress. The glossy celebrity magazine Closer published a special edition on Friday including a seven-page report

on the leader’s alleged relationship with Julie Gayet. In a statement from the Elysée Palace, Hollande did not directly deny the report but accused the magazine of breaching his privacy. He said advisers were looking at what action to take

against the magazine, which caused a storm in 2012 after publishing paparazzi photographs of the topless Duchess of Cambridge on a private holiday in the south of France. The statement said Hollande “deeply deplores the attacks on the principle of respect for privacy, to which he, like every citizen, has a right”. However, it did not directly deny the story of the affair. Closer published photographs showing a man in a motorcycle helmet outside what it said was Gayet’s Paris apartment, along with a man reported to be the president’s bodyguard. Subsequent photos taken in the morning show the man said to be the bodyguard arriving with what Closer said was a bag of croissants. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

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Caribbean

Asia

Billion-dollar mall upgrade China overtakes U.S. as world’s largest goods trader in TT starts soon

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eorge Aboud, the man behind the TT$1.1 billion upgrade of the Centre City Mall in Chaguanas, expects construction of the mega project to begin soon. Aboud, of George Aboud and Sons Ltd (GASL,) confirmed that he is the owner of Centre City Mall, which is earmarked for a hefty upgrade. “There is nothing more to add. The project will start soon,” he said. On Wednesday Anthony Fifi, a land developer and consult-

ant with GASL, unveiled the billion-dollar project during a Planning Ministry consultation on an implementation strategy for the 4Cs Growth Pole, at the Couva/Point Lisas Chamber of Commerce conference hall in Camden, Couva. Aboud said the mall was established 25 years ago. Couva/Point Lisas Chamber of Commerce president Lily Heerai welcomed the project which will provide job opportunities for residents in the area during

construction and upon completion. “The mega mall will really enhance Chaguanas in terms of economic development,” said Heerai who admitted that she had some concerns about implementation of the project. “They will need to address the traffic situation. Even though they have the new traffic plan I do not know if it will continue. Chaguanas continues to have traffic all the time,” she said. (Trinidad

Guardian)

North America

Wall Street flat after jobs data; focus shifts to earnings

S

tocks were little changed on Friday after the December payrolls report came in much weaker than expected, raising new questions about both the strength of the economy and the aggressiveness of Federal Reserve stimulus. But for the week, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indexes were on track for modest gains, while the Dow Jones industrial average was set for a slight decline.

Defensive stocks were the day’s gainers, with utilities and telecoms among the few rising for the day. Financial and energy shares were the weakest for the day; both are closely tied to the pace of economic growth. Homebuilding stocks rose as the much weaker-than-expected payrolls report drove the yield of the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note lower. Shares of Lennar Corp

gained 2.1 per cent to US$39.23. The stock of DR Horton Inc, the largest U.S. homebuilder, added 1.8 per cent to US$22.14. The PHLX housing index climbed one per cent. The Dow Jones industrial average fell 20.11 points or 0.12 per cent, to 16,424.65. The S&P 500 gained 2.82 points or 0.15 per cent, to 1840.95. The Nasdaq Composite added 11.426 points or 0.27 per cent, to 4167.62. (Reuters)

Europe Italian fashion industry back to growth in 2014 – trade bodies

I

talian fashion exports should spur the industry back to growth in 2014 after two years in decline, the national chamber of fashion says, as Milan prepares to kick off the first of its biannual menswear shows on Saturday. The birthplace of fashion icons from Giorgio Armani to Dolce and Gabbana should see turnover from clothing and accessories rise 5.4 per cent to 62.5 billion euros (£51.85 billion) in 2014, according to the Camera Nazionale della Moda

Italiana (CNMI). But CNMI says it is too soon to talk about a true bounce back to levels seen in 2010 and 2011, when the luxury industry was buoyed by fast growth in China and a resurgence in Europe and the United States. “The numbers are resoundingly positive, better than we expected... but one should always be wary,” CNMI president Mario Boselli told Reuters. Fellow industry body Sistema Moda Italia (SMI) also forecasts growth for 2014, by 2.1

per cent in the first half. Exports should rise to 76 per cent of total Italian fashion sales in 2014, boosted by markets like the United States and Hong Kong, CNMI says. CNMI’s forecast reflects an improvement in the global economy, pulled by the U.S., and healthier demand in China, where a crackdown on gift-giving has removed “froth” from sales figures, especially for menswear, said Exane BNP Paribas analyst Luca Solca. (Yahoo!)

Market statistics Gold Prices – Guyana Gold Board

Cambio Rates

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

Bank of Guyana Cur

Buying

Selling

GBP

$337.04

$341.26

CAN

$189.18

$191.37

USD

$205.49

$207.93

U.S.

$1335.00

Cambio

$202.67

Gross

$254,331

Net

$236,527

Selling

$262,426

Indicators as on January 10, 2013 Live Spot Gold

USD Per Once

Bid/Ask

$1248.60

$1249.60

Low/High

$1227.00

$1249.60

Change

-20.90

+1.70

USD GBP EUR

Jan 9 USD GBP EUR

Last: 16437.05 Open: 16453.62 % YTD: -0.84

Crude Oil

Price Silver

Platinum

London Gold Fix

Jan 10

Indicators

AM

PM

1232.25 750.78 906.53

1244.25 754.14 909.67

AM

PM

1226.00 744.97 900.61

1226.00 744.97 903.46

US$ per barrel

$106.39 USD per Ounce

$20.17 $1432.00

Change %

-0.71 Change %

+0.63 +18.00

C

hina has claimed that it is “very likely” that it overtook the U.S. as the world’s top trading nation, a title the U.S. has held for decades. According to the latest data, China’s total trade grew at an annual rate of 7.6 per cent to US$4.16 trillion (£2.5 trillion) last year. The U.S. is yet to release it full-year figures, but its trade for the first 11 months of 2013 totalled US$3.5 trillion. China became the world’s biggest goods exporter in 2009. Its imports have also risen

amid an expansion in its economy. “It is very likely that China has overtaken the U.S. to become the world’s largest trading country,” said Zheng Yuesheng, a spokesman for China’s customs administration. The U.S. is scheduled to release its full-year figures next month. However, there have been concerns in recent months over the accuracy of China’s export data. There has been speculation that some Chinese ex-

porters may be overstating their shipments in an attempt to bypass restrictions on bringing funds into the country. For their part, Chinese policymakers have taken measures to counter the problem. In May last year, the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), China foreign exchange regulator, said it would increase its scrutiny of export invoices and impose tougher penalties on firms providing false data. (BBC News)

Middle East

4DX cinema launches in the UAE

T

he Middle East’s first 4DX enabled sensory cinemas have been launched in Dubai at Mirdif City Centre and Deira City Centre by VOX Cinemas. The cinemas, which opened on December 26 2013, have welcomed over 5000 guests with numerous sessions sold out, VOX said in a statement. 4DX cinemas are designed to offer an immersive, engaging and sensational experience. Seats are fitted with multiple motion sim-

ulators, synchronised with the on-screen action, making movie-goers feel every jolt and tremor that characters go through in the film. Specially fitted mechanics around the seats also mimic the on-screen environment, making it possible to experience fog, rain, wind, thunder and lightning. The concept also introduces various scents, allowing guests to smell the on-screen environment. Cameron Mitchell, CEO of VOX Cinemas said: “As ex-

pected with such an exciting concept, VOX 4DX has been incredibly popular in its first few weeks. “In line with our exclusivity agreement with the CGV Group, we are advancing plans to install the technology into Aldar’s new Yas Island super regional mall later this year, so guests in Abu Dhabi can also experience the new concept, and plans are under review to install VOX 4DX in Sharjah, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Lebanon,” he added. (Gulf Business)

South America

Peru’s central bank expects bigger 2013 trade gap than before

P

eru’s central bank said on Friday that the country likely posted a US$531 million trade deficit in all of 2013 – a wider gap than previously estimated and the global minerals exporter’s first since 2001. Last month the central bank forecast a US$396 million trade deficit in 2013. The Andean nation’s exports slipped during much of last year on lower glob-

al prices for minerals like copper and gold, leading to weaker-than-expected economic growth. But a rebound is expected this year, when Peru should clock a six per cent expansion in the first quarter, central bank economist Adrian Armas told reporters on a conference call. That pace is in line with the bank’s six per cent forecast for economic growth in all of 2014. The central bank

now expects the economy to have expanded by 5.1 per cent in 2013, a forecast that had been revised down several times over the course of the year. Peru’s potential growth rate – the fastest rate the economy can expand by without stoking inflation – has widely been seen as between six and 6.5 per cent. The economy expanded 4.9 per cent in the first 10 months of 2013. (Yahoo!)

Investors' guide Being a savvy investor and a small business owner

I

nvesting as a small business owner is not always as easy as it might be if you weren’t the entrepreneur you are. There are a number of things that should be looked at carefully as a small business owner that you might get to overlook if you are simply part of a more typical work arrangement. Without careful attention to each issue, you might find yourself in more trouble than traditional investors. One of the first things you must be aware of is the level of risk that you, as a small

business owner, can take on. Keep in mind that your personality as an entrepreneur might make you more likely to be a risk taker, but that attitude simply cannot carry over into your investment strategies. Your business is actually a part of your investment portfolio, not just something that you handle on the side. As a result, making too many risky investments within the larger context of your portfolio as a whole can jeopardise your business too. Unlike larger corporations, small businesses are more likely to

feel the pressure of the natural economic patterns. As competition increases or prices inflate, small businesses tend to suffer more than others simply based on the fact that they are so much smaller. As a result, a small business owner’s portfolio must be structured around a philosophy of preserving the investment rather than large scale growth. While a lot of growth might seem like a good thing, it could potentially harm what you’ve been working so hard to build. (Business Dictionary)

Business concept – Inventory

Changes: -7.71

% Change: -0.05

High:16487.65 52Wk Hi: 16174.51

Low: 16379.02 52 Wk Lo: 12471.49

An itemised catalogue or list of tangible goods or property, or the intangible attributes or qualities. The value of materials and goods held by an organisation (a) to support production (raw materials, subassemblies, work in process), (b) for support activities (repair, maintenance, consumables), or (c) for sale or customer service (merchandise, finished goods, spare parts).

news

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Saturday, January 11, 2014| guyanatimesGY.com

BM Soat withdraws appeal against Justice Chang’s ruling

Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall

B

M Soat has withdrawn its court appeal against the decision of acting Chief Justice Ian Chang, who had squashed a conservatory order which prevented the Public Works Ministry from demolishing structures alleged to be on government’s reserve. Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times disclosed that on Monday, January 6, proprietor of BM Soat Bhashir Mohamed through his lawyer Khemraj Ramjattan filed a “Notice of withdrawal

and discontinuation”. Minister Nandlall had represented the Public Works Ministry when the case was called in the Court of Appeal on December 31, 2013. Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang had granted a conservatory order which prevented the Public Works Ministry from demolishing structures alleged to be on government reserve. Subsequently, Chang found that the redress that was sought by proprietor of BM Soat Bhashir Mohamed to prevent the government from dismantling his property was “legally misconceived’, hence, the 2012 conservatory order was thrown out. However, BM Soat appealed the case and it was heard in the Court of Appeal for the first time on December 31, 2013. Mohamed at the time was represented by attorneys Nigel Hughes and Khemraj Ramjattan. But after the first hearing, the legal affairs minister said he was contacted by Mohamed on January 2, who indicated his willingness to instruct his lawyers to withdraw the appeal. According to Nandlall, the BM Soat proprietor ad-

The Public Works Ministry dismantling the fence said to be on government’s reserves on Friday, December 27, 2013

mitted that he was in default. The Public Works Ministry had accused BM Soat of exceeding its boundary at its Success Branch on the East Coast on Demerara, thereby occupying government’s reserve. Mohamed exceeded the 57,934.80 square feet vested by 7,797 square feet. Based on reliable information received, Mohamed has commenced the dis-

mantling of his make-shift fence and other infrastructures with the aim of bringing them in line within his boundary and away from government’s reserve. In December last year, the ministry moved in on the BM Soat Success Branch and demolished a fence and two structures said to be on government’s reserve. However, on the same day, Mohamed erected a makeshift fence

on government’s reserve, claiming that he was not in default. It was while the Public Works Ministry was demolishing the fence and other structures that it was served with the court notice of appeal. Since 2007, notices of violation were issued by the ministry to the proprietor of BM Soat but to no avail. On December 27, Mohamed had promised that the

structures would have been removed but he reneged on his promising forcing the ministry to take stern actions. According to Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, the non-removal of the fence has cost the Guyana government $40 million as it currently stalls the ongoing road expansion project along the East Coast of Demerara.

Region Three riverine communities get solar panels No date set for

local govt elections

– several projects commissioned

The Caria Caria Primary Annex

E

ngrained in the policy of the government, is the delivery of services aimed at realising the upliftment of the citizens it serves. This has seen the introduction of several policies that cater for every class of society, including the vulnerable. One of the initiatives has been the provision of equipment to residents in need. In this regard, Local Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persaud accompanied by Permanent Secretary Collin Croal and Region Three Chairman Julius Faerber on Thursday visited several riverine communities in Region Three, Essequibo and made presentations. Morashee, Lanaballi, Makouria, Caria Caria and Great Troolie were the areas that were visited. Solar panels, batteries, inverters and other accessories procured at a total cost of $260,000 were delivered to Morashee and Lanaballi.        Morashee received one panel which

will be utilised in the health post, while Lanaballi’s two, will go to the health centre and the nursery/primary school. The team also delivered to

The teacher’s quarters at Morashee

Makouria, a brush cutter and a sewing machine and Great Troolie, sports gear to boost sporting activities among young people. “This is the way the PPP/C government operates… we reach out to the people and hear their concerns, and then based on that, we try to meet their needs,” Minister Persaud noted. He also charged the residents to maintain the equipment and urged that they be utilised for the development of the communities. Meanwhile, the team also commissioned a teacher’s quarter at Morashee built at a cost of $5 million, an extension to the health post at Caria Caria, and a sanitary block. Also commissioned was the primary school annex at Caria Caria constructed at a cost of more than $5 million. In commissioning the buildings, Minister Persaud also implored the residents to safeguard them as they were critical to the delivery of health care and education services to the residents in their respective communities.

Local Government Minister Ganga Persaud

L

ocal Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persaud on Friday said that no date has been confirmed for local government elections which are scheduled to be held sometime this year. While noting that no progress has been made as far as setting a date for local government elections, Minister Persaud did say that one aspect of the training for these elections has been completed. Ganga, who was at the time speaking to media operatives at a press conference held at the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry, said that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is currently conducting more training.

He stated that Guyanese should only expect the announcement of a date for the elections when he is satisfied with the preparatory work agenda. Meanwhile, President Donald Ramotar recently inked three of the four requisite local government reform bills which were approved by the National Assembly last year. One of the bills was declined after President Ramotar expressed reservations about its content and the government also had expressed the need for certain changes. Local government elections were last held in 1994 and since then the local government system has virtually become ineffective and unresponsive to the needs of the citizenry.

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thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

archie

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Sudden changes regarding your friendships and finances can be expected. Don’t lend or borrow unless you want to be embroiled in an unsavoury situation. Overreaction on your part or another’s can be expected. Compromise, but protect what you’ve got.

dilbert

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Continue to view things with curiosity in order to attract attention. You are a trendsetter, and this will lead to greater popularity, as well as controversy. You should consider how you phrase your input.

Calvin and Hobbes

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Discipline, understanding and tenacity will help you excel. Be proactive and take advantage of any chance you get to do something that improves your community or environment.

Peanuts

SUDOKU

CANCER (June 21July 22) It’s a good day to try something new. Let your creative imagination lead the way, and don’t be afraid to do things differently. Change can be good if you take it one step at a time.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Don’t be confused by what’s going on around you. Make alterations that are more in line with your skills. A change may not be well-received by everyone.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Stay on top of any matter that pertains to partnerships. Disillusionment is apparent, so do your best to find solutions that please everyone. If you play your cards right, you’ll come out a hero.

ARIES

LIBRA

(March 21-April 19)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Take baby steps regarding your projects. The less attention you attract, the more you will accomplish. Stick to the basics and what you know and do best.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Information you gain through a discussion or seminar will help you make a life- altering decision. Things will look up if you use your talents in a diverse manner.

Think matters through before you act today. Not everyone will be happy with your choices. Protect your health and do whatever it takes to make the best choice.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) An open mind will help immeasurably when it comes to free-wheeling discussion. Knowing what you want will give you an edge. Your love life will get a spicy boost.

Friday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20) You’ll be tempted to take a trip or try something new and exciting, but be cautious. Arguments, accidents or problems with someone in a position of authority will detain you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) The way you’re living may be challenged. Focus on your attributes and how you can turn something you enjoy doing into a lucrative endeavour.

news 19

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saturday, January 11, 2014

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

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FOR SALE One unfurnished three-bedroom flat concrete house with concrete fence at Parfaite Harmonie. Call 231-0821 or 643-4740.

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WANTED Handy man to do store runs and to and basic cleaning apply Guyana Variety Store tel 227-3939 Body work man to spray motor cycles apply in person Guyana Variety Store Tel 227-3939 One experienced cook; one female bartender with experience in making cocktails; two waitresses. Contact Accomplished Restaurant & Bar. Lot 9 W ½ Lamaha Street or call 684-5976 or 684-3371 Cashiers - Apply in person to Nirva at 49 Sheriff & Craig Streets, Campbellville. Tel: 227-5771

Ramjattan supports appointment of Justices Chang, Singh

– Granger remains adamant posts should be advertised

T

he parliamentary opposition parties have taken differing stances on the appointment of acting Chief Justice Ian Chang and acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh to the substantive positions. The Alliance For Change (AFC) supports the confirmation of the judicial officials while the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) remains adamant that the posts should be advertised. AFC leader Khemraj Ramjattan told Guyana Times that the acting chief justice and acting chancellor of the judiciary should be officially appointed to their respective posts. He pointed out that this was his initial position and it still stands. “Those people are there for a while and for the remainder of whatever time they have left, they ought to be made substantive in their position,” he explained. On the other hand, APNU leader David Granger reaffirmed his position that a public advertising system should be used to fill the posts. He noted that he inherited a situation of gridlock and has made recommendations so that the issue can be dealt with.

Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh

He said he would like to break the gridlock so that the public can be confident about the persons appointed in these positions. When questioned by the media about whether he has any confidence in the persons currently acting in these positions, the opposition leader stated that “it is not a matter of expressing confidence in one person or the other, it’s a matter of dealing with a situation which is eight years old… I have confidence in the mechanism which I recommended,” he said.

When asked if any other country uses this system to fill senior judicial posts, Granger said he was not aware of such; however, he pointed out that different jurisdictions have different procedures. “Not one size fits all,” he stated. The opposition did not disclose his reasons for not agreeing to the appointment of Justices Singh and Chang, stating that President Donald Ramotar did not disclose his reasons for appointing them so why should he reveal his for making his recommenda-

tions. Meanwhile, in an invited comment on the issue, Guyana Bar Association President, Attorney Ronald Burch-Smith pointed out that if the opposition leader and the president cannot come to an agreement, then they should change the Constitution to satisfy them both. “If the parties can’t come to an agreement, then they should amend the laws and find a new way to make appointments of these positions,” he stated. The GBA president called the current procedure “foolish”, since it does not work. The attorney noted that the president and opposition leader are two sensible and experienced persons, so they should find a mechanism that suits them. Burch-Smith added that the ongoing “political stalemate is undesirous and dangerous for persons functioning in these offices.” President Ramotar has opted to substantively confirm acting Chief Justice Ian Chang and acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh. However, according to the Constitution, he needs the support of the opposition leader before this can be done.

Can innovations in healthcare technology leapfrog to better solutions? By Kristin Dacey

I

n our experience at the Inter-American Development (IDB), healthcare systems in many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) suffer from severe resource constraints. Competing health priorities, budget restrictions, staff shortages and general technological deficiencies leave large segments of the population without basic treatment. In addition, more than 80 per cent of the healthcare specialists in LAC countries are located in the capital cities. Rural and low income populations have to travel onerously long distances with high financial burdens of lost work to get care for themselves and loved ones, which adds risk and complications to treatments, and makes preventative care impractical. Leveraging digital X-rays, remote consultations via video technology and new portable health technologies can have an important impact in remote and lowincome areas. Below are some innovative models of technology in healthcare we have seen. Health_Blog3In Bogota, Colombia, a level III/IV hospital realised that lowincome patients living in

New portable health technologies can have an important impact in remote and low-income areas

neighbourhoods surrounding the city are facing a three to four hour commute in traffic to reach the hospital. The investment established ambulatory centres outside the city where top specialists in Bogota work with primary care doctors at the centres using digital technology to read scans and tests along with teleconferencing to support the doctors to diagnose and

treat patients. In Brazil, mobile medical centres easily access remote and peri-urban communities and bring high-quality healthcare services to lowincome families. The mobile medical centres vary in size and form and offer up to 10 healthcare specialties. In Mexico, a chain of high-quality, low-cost diagnostic clinics uses digital x-rays that are taken

at the clinics and in many cases sent electronically to centres of radiologists to be read. This allows clinics to open in remote areas that have high demand for services, but insufficient radiologists. It also eliminates chemicals and other X-ray ingredients that are hard to manage and dispose. Do you think these solutions can help bridge the healthcare gap? (IBD)

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Pakistan v Sri Lanka, 2nd Test, Dubai, 3rd day…

Younis, Misbah hold up Sri Lanka S

ri Lanka were a wicket away from breaking Pakistan after lunch on the third day of the second Test in Dubai, but they could not take it. Having conceded a firstinnings lead of 223, and then slumped to 19 for 3 in the second, Pakistan were on the brink. Their old guard dragged them back from it. Younis Khan and Misbahul-Haq batted with focus and not flash to whittle the deficit below 100 but because of the spectacular top-order failure their job was far from done. Their 113-run association that spanned 41.1 overs, but Sri Lanka were still a wicket away from breaking Pakistan. The events that unfolded on the morning of the third day showed Pakistan what could have been had their wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed not dropped Angelo Mathews off Rahat Ali the previous evening. The Sri Lanka captain was on 5 at the time, his partnership with Mahela Jayawardene was 12 and their lead was 74. Rahat drew a similar edge from Mathews this morning, before the batsman had added to his overnight score, and Sarfaraz dived to his right to successfully take the catch. Pakistan went on to dismiss Sri Lanka by taking six wickets for 70 runs in the first session. Between those edges from Mathews, however, he had moved to 42 and his partnership with Mahela had grown to 93, swelling Sri Lanka’s lead towards 200. By the time the visitors

Misbah-ul-Haq was left with the responsibility of rescuing his side

were out for 388, 20 minutes before lunch in an extended session, their advantage was such that Pakistan required an escape act similar to what Sri Lanka pulled off to save the Abu Dhabi Test. Those prospects took a hit in the three overs Sri Lanka bowled before the break, when Rangana Herath got the new ball to rip and bounce sharply away from Ahmed Shehzad’s front-foot prod, grazing the outside edge on its way into Prasanna Jayawardene’s

gloves. They trooped off the field a merry bunch, their bowlers beginning to drive home the advantage earned by Mahela’s century. After lunch Nuwan Pradeep continued the trend of the Sri Lankan quicks gaining more assistance from the pitch than Pakistan’s did, by bowling two deliveries that seamed away just enough to draw edges from Mohammad Hafeez and Khurram Manzoor, giving Prasanna

two more catches. Perhaps it was the change of ball in the 13th over, but there were few alarms thereafter. Misbah joined Younis and the pair went about restoring stability by playing percentage shots. Younis was extremely careful at the start, scoring 2 off 20 balls before playing several fluent off and cover drives against the seamers. Misbah, on 3 off 16, planted his front foot forward and hit Herath with the turn over the long-off boundary, and then went past 3000 runs in Test cricket. Despite his experience, though, Misbah had a brain fade off the last ball before tea and was lucky to survive. He ran after pushing close on the off side but the bowler Suranga Lakmal had got to the ball quickly and Younis did not respond. Misbah’s sprint to safety would have been in vain had Lakmal directly hit the stumps. He was on 41 at the time. Younis and Misbah had scored at more than three runs an over before tea, but they added only 47 runs in 21 overs in a final session curtailed by bad light. A feature of their innings was how they played Herath, lunging forward to sweep and driving with the turn through the off side. The batting and its pace appeared homogenous, with Younis reaching his half-century off 109 balls and Misbah getting his off 108. They were the only reason Pakistan were not lost.

Sri Lanka’s position of comfort in this match was largely due to Mahela’s century, during the course of which he passed Steve Waugh to move to No. 8 on the list of highest run-scorers in Tests. He added only 23 to his overnight score of 106 though. With Sri Lanka losing three quick wickets in the morning, Mahela began to pull and chip over the infield and also farm strike. He welcomed Saeed Ajmal w ith a sweep to the boundary but when he tried to play the reverse in the offspinner’s second over, he missed

and was bowled. The dismissal ended a 77.2-over wicket drought for Ajmal. Pakistan lost Bilawal Bhatti to a hamstring niggle shortly after he bowled Shaminda Eranga, who scored 14 after being dropped on 8 by Hafeez at slip, but the rest of the attack gradually worked its way through the Sri Lankan tail. Pakistan desperately needed to eat into the deficit with most of their wickets intact but their top order failed them, leaving Misbah and Younis to toil for a great escape. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Pakistan 1st innings 165 Sri Lanka 1st innings FDM Karunaratne lbw b Junaid Khan 32 JK Silva lbw b Mohammad Hafeez 95 KC Sangakkara lbw b Rahat Ali 26 LD Chandimal c Rahat Ali b Junaid Khan 12 DPMD Jayawardene b Saeed Ajmal 129 AD Mathews* c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Rahat Ali 42 HAPW Jayawardene† b Junaid Khan 9 HMRKB Herath run out (Rahat Ali) 6 RMS Eranga b Bilawal Bhatti 14 RAS Lakmal not out 10 N Pradeep lbw b Saeed Ajmal 3 Extras (b 1, lb 7, w 1, nb 1) 10 Total (all out; 134 overs) 388 Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Karunaratne, 10.6 ov), 2-75 (Sangakkara, 21.1 ov), 3-88 (Chandimal, 26.3 ov), 4-227 (Silva, 77.5 ov), 5-320 (Mathews, 107.2 ov), 6-341 (HAPW Jayawardene, 116.3 ov), 7-348 (Herath, 117.2 ov), 8-365

(DPMD Jayawardene, 123.3 ov), 9-377 (Eranga, 126.5 ov), 10-388 (Pradeep, 133.6 ov) Bowling: Junaid Khan 36-7102-3, Rahat Ali 36-6-131-2, Saeed Ajmal 34-11-56-2, Bilawal Bhatti 22-3-80-1 (1-nb, 1-w), Mohammad Hafeez 6-1-11-1 Pakistan 2nd innings Khurram Manzoor c †HAPW Jayawardene b Pradeep 6 Ahmed Shehzad c †HAPW Jayawardene b Herath 9 Mohammad Hafeez c †HAPW Jayawardene b Pradeep 1 Younis Khan not out 62 Misbah-ul-Haq* not out 53 Extras (lb-1) 1 Total (3 wickets; 49 overs) 132 Fall of wickets 1-11 (Ahmed Shehzad, 2.5 ov), 2-12 (Mohammad Hafeez, 3.3 ov), 3-19 (Khurram Manzoor, 7.5 ov) Bowling: RAS Lakmal 6-119-0, N Pradeep 10-2-282, HMRKB Herath 21-3-581, RMS Eranga 12-3-26-0

Pietersen released in Delhi Moyes Daredevils revamp charged with misconduct E by FA ngland batsman Kevin Pietersen was among those released as Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Daredevils decided not to retain any players. It means the 33-year-old will be a free agent when the auction for this year’s competition is held on February 12. Among others leaving Delhi are Australia David Warner and India’s Virender Sehwag. Pietersen has played in three IPL campaigns, representing Royal Challengers (2009/10) and Delhi (2012). In that time he has scored 634 runs in 21 matches at an average of 42.26 with a highest score of 103 not out, however he missed last season’s competition because of injury. In a statement, Delhi Daredevils said: “We are grateful to all our players and support staff and most importantly our fans who

Kevin Pietersen will be a free agent at the IPL auction

have been a part of DD in the last six years. “It was a unanimous decision by the management in order to build a fresh team that our fans will be proud of.” Former England captain Michael Vaughan stated this week that he believes

there is an issue between Pietersen and England team director Andy Flower. Flower has denied issuing an ultimatum that he was prepared to quit if Pietersen remained part of the set-up following a humiliating Ashes tour which saw England beaten 5-0.

And the South Africanborn player, who helped England win the World Twenty20 in 2010, has reiterated his commitment to the national side - claiming he wants to help them retain the Ashes in 2015. Should the Surrey player earn another IPL contract it is likely rule him out of the early round of County Championship matches in England. This year’s IPL tournament runs from April 8 to May 30 and the agreed cutoff date for IPL players to return is May 13, which would give them seven days to prepare in home conditions for the one-day international series against Sri Lanka although Pietersen has only played nine one-day internationals since February 2012. This summer England take on Sri Lanka in a twoTest series and India over five Tests. The first Test against Sri Lanka starts on June 12. (BBC Sport)

David Moyes

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anchester United manager David Moyes has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association. It is in relation to comments made after Tuesday’s 2-1 League Cup semi-final

first-leg loss to Sunderland when Moyes, 50, said United are “beginning to laugh at referees” for their “terrible” decisions. He added that they are “playing referees as well as the opposition”. Moyes has until Wednesday, January 15 to respond to the charge. “It is alleged the comments called into question the integrity of the match officials... and/or implied that such match officials are motivated by bias; and/ or brought the game into disrepute, in contravention of Rule E3(1),” said a statement. The first-leg defeat was United’s third loss in a week - the first time that has happened since 1992. (BBC Sport)

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“One incident could Cycling season starts Sunday in Berbice destroy our cricket,” T says BCB chairman he 2014 cycling season is scheduled to commence on Sunday when the Wilbur Benjamin 40-miler pedals off from the Benjamin Cycle Store at Fryish on the Corentyne. The event, which is open to cyclist across the country, will be the first event for 2014 and will see riders competing from Fyrish to Number 43 Village before returning to the starting line after covering a distance of 40 miles. The event was officially launched on Wednesday at the Fyrish store. Former Berbice cyclist

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azmul Hassan, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president, hasn’t yet made a big statement without backing it with facts. His assertion on the significance of the next three months for Bangladesh, as a result, holds a lot of meaning. He claims to have crossed the first of many hurdles by convincing Sri Lanka and Pakistan of taking a positive view of their visits to Bangladesh. But most poignantly, he believes that despite their efforts of persuasion, one small incident stands to destroy Bangladesh cricket. There are obviously two ways to view this statement. The easy route would be to call him unconvinced of Bangladesh’s security situation - him of all people giving a negative view of what might happen. There won’t be many to blame him. While the political violence has been brought under some control over the past few days, there are no visible guarantees of calm.

Security assessment

A major security assessment will take place later this month when the participating teams of the World Twenty20 will send their security representatives to Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet. They arrive on January 20, a week after a two-member security committee of Sri Lanka Cricket will conduct an assessment of their own and deduce whether the Sri Lanka tour will be played in the three venues or not. There is some trepidation of the political situation in Bangladesh when the security team visits, but, as Hassan said on Friday, it is not entirely up to the BCB to keep Bangladesh safe. He has called on the entire country to be involved in keeping players and the general environment safe. The BCB may have the strongest security force at their disposal but it will be up to the political parties to ensure a violence-free Bangladesh till at least April 6, when the World Twenty20 final is scheduled to be held in Mirpur. “We know why the West Indies Under-19 team left in the middle of their tour,” Hassan said. “It is because a cocktail exploded near their hotel. If such a thing happens again, it will be all over for Bangladesh. The impact of such an incident in the coming months would be even worse. The BCB cannot control every road and hotel in Bangladesh. It is quite a big country. We cannot stop

Gary Benjamin, in making the presentation of the prize money to coach of the Flying Ace Cycle Club Randolph Roberts on behalf of his brother, said the store was happy to be able to be a part of the development of the sport in Guyana. He added that his brother, who is a former national cyclist, was always willing to give back to cycling in Guyana. Prizes will be awarded to the first six finishers, the first three veterans under the age of 45, the first three juniors and the first three beginners.

The beginners will be sitting on BMX cycles and are expected to complete the 30mile distance from the starting point to Nand Persaud Rice Mill at Number 37 Village before returning to the starting line for the finish. The first three females to complete the race will also receive prizes.     The race is expected to ride off at 09:00 hours and is one of two events planned by the Benjamins this year. The other will be Sanko Benjamin’s 80th birthday race slated for February 23. (Andrew Carmichael)

Kings XI surprise with Vohra and Miller retention

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Nazmul Hassan, BCB president, said it was vital that Sri Lanka’s tour went ahead

someone from exploding a cocktail. “For now, we have done our part but now it is up to the political parties, the government, media and the general public who have to take up the responsibility. We have discussed yesterday how this is the biggest World Cup ever, with 26 teams participating. There are so many tournaments lined up, which in itself is a first-time occurrence. This is a very important time for Bangladesh. If a small incident occurs causing teams to avoid playing here, we will be set back by 15-20 years and destroy our cricket.”

Major challenge

At one point during the last few months, Hassan believed that the cricket events would all be shelved: “I basically think that we have done what we needed to do till now. We needed to make them understand that they should come here to play. This was our major challenge. “To be honest, the situation was so bad here that there was a possibility of them not coming. We will contact the political parties regularly, so that we can work with everyone’s cooperation,” The link between the three events is crucial for the BCB. They had to confirm Sri Lanka to ensure a sense of safety for the Asia Cup, and they expect to host the World Twenty20 if they can host the preceding two events incident-free. But convincing Pakistan seems to be another matter, which Hassan claims has been completed. “If the Asia Cup isn’t held here, the World Twenty20

wouldn’t take place,” Hassan said. “If Sri Lanka didn’t come here, there was a big chance for the Asia Cup to be moved. All of these tournaments are connected. The biggest challenge was Asia Cup because Pakistan had an objection. “They asked me if we can give them additional security. I told them that we will give all the teams the topmost security. If your security personnel ask us to increase the security, we will provide that. Until yesterday their appearance in Bangladesh was uncertain. After talking to them in Dubai, it seems they will try to come.”

Move forward

PCB chief Najam Sethi’s statement also suggests a move forward rather than stalling and not a complete refusal to visit, which was expected in some quarters in Bangladesh. “BCB has given a formal statement saying the Pakistan team will be provided whatever additional or special security it asked for over and above those for other teams,” Sethi told AFP. “We are sending our top security official to Bangladesh to attend an ICC security meeting in January and to review security plans.” There are many hurdles for the BCB. The SLC security team will be the first to enunciate whether an international team can play in Bangladesh in this political climate. They could force the BCB into making concessions but the fans realise that by not seeing international matches in their cities, it is the price to pay for the current situation in the country. (Cricinfo)

ings XI Punjab have provided the first major surprise of the new round of team-building by retaining little-known Punjab batsman Manan Vohra. The other player they held on to was South Africa batsman David Miller, who shot to fame in the IPL with a blistering century against Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013. Vohra, a right-hand batsman, has been retained as an uncapped player, and was hired by the franchise last year as a player for the future. He played 12 matches last season, and had a modest record of 161 runs at 20.12 with a top score of 43. “Obviously, it’s a good feeling because I never thought I would be retained,” Vohra told ESPNcricinfo in Baroda, where he is playing Punjab’s Ranji Trophy quarter-final tie against Jammu & Kashmir. “I did little bit for

the team, but now I am excited because I will be playing for the home team.” Vohra’s domestic form this season has been rich as he hit a big century against Jharkhand in Punjab’s final Ranji league game in late December. “I was the highest scorer for Under-25, and got 187 against Jharkhand and they noticed it,” he said. “I just got the news, so excited.” Miller, who was originally picked by Punjab as a replacement player in 2011, was retained for $100,000 in 2012 by the franchise. Although he failed that season, last year Miller finished as Punjab’s leading scorer with 418 runs at a strike-rate of 164.56, including that whirlwind century against Royal Challengers. Miller tweeted: “Really looking forward to this year’s #IPL. So chuffed to be retained from @lionsdenkxip. #punjabi” “We are rebuilding the

team entirely but both Miller and Vohra were retained since we felt they had done well with us earlier,” a Kings XI official said. According to him, the franchise did not spend much time thinking about retaining any other player. “Miller is a very crucial batsman for us,” the official said. “Apart from Bad Hodge and Kieron Pollard, there are not many like Miller who can turn matches in the lower middle order.” The official also said that Vohra was in the mould of Sanju Samson, the Kerala batsman, who has been retained by Rajasthan Royals. “This season he has been consistent scoring a few hundreds in Under-25 and has got a big century in the Ranji Trophy,” the official said. “The previous team management had a lot of time for Vohra and he is a player we can develop.” (Cricinfo)

Pregnant star to miss 2014 Commonwealth Games

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lympic heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis-Hill will miss the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow because she is pregnant. The 27-year-old Briton is expecting her first baby with husband Andy, but still plans to defend her Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games. “I am sorry I won’t be in Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games,” she said. “But I know it will be an amazing occasion. I will be at home awaiting the arrival of a little Ennis-Hill.” England’s Ennis-Hill won bronze at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and chose to skip the 2010 Games in Delhi to concentrate on the European Championships the same year, where she won gold. Her announcement

Jessica Ennis-Hill

means she will also miss the 2014 European Championships in Zurich. The 2009 world champion, who got married in May 2013, added: “We are completely overwhelmed, with excite-

ment and a degree of anxiety that I am sure all first-time parents will relate to. “My plans for 2014 have been completely turned upside down, but having had a couple of weeks to think about things from a career point of view I am 100% set on returning to full-time athletics once our baby is born and go for a second gold medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016. That challenge really excites me. “But, in the short-term, I will make our baby a priority and enjoy the whole experience as much as possible.” Despite suffering a disappointing 2013 season where she missed the World Championships because of an Achilles tendon problem, London 2012 Olympic champion Ennis-Hill was favourite for gold in Glasgow. (BBC

Sport)

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and Mendes renews GAPF to ask Shewdas Farfan partnership with RHTY&SC to pay fine on the ban imposed by the IPF on Shewdas, Green explained that confidentiality was important until a definite decision was made which saw Shewdas being listed as positive on the World Antidoping Agency (WADA) list on December 22. “On the 21st of October as president handling Shewdas whereabouts form I received a confidential letter, a lot of people are very concerned about the confidentiality of the athlete and his testing and its findings are just that, not for public consumption until all avenues have been exhausted and a final result declared,” Green noted.

Tragedy

Flashback! Gumendra Shewdas and coach Egbert Jackson pose with the medals after the lifter returned from Texas last year

By Treiston Joseph

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owerlifter Gumendra Shewdas will be asked to pay the fine of $2000 Euros ($558,213 GYD) to the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) after testing positive for banned substances. This was revealed in a clear-the-air press conference by the president of the GAPF, Peter Green, on Friday. “At this moment the spotlight is on both the coach and the young man; IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) advised us that because they have no way of recovering money from the athletes personally, they impose it on the federation with the expectation that federation will be reimbursed by the lifter,” Green explained. He added, “So we have it both ways now. We are going to ask Mr. Shewdas to repay the fine and [if] found culpable the coach will be

sanctioned with the levity to be decided by the executive upon receipt of the reports.” In a case of falling from grace, the world powerlifting gold medallist Shewdas has been banned by the IPF after failing an in-competition doping test last year.

Prohibited substances

During a test at the Sub-Junior Powerlifting Championships in Texas, the 18-year-old Berbician was found to have been in use of two prohibited substances, and as such, has been suspended for two years. Shewdas had recorded 475.5kgs en route to winning the gold medal in the 53kg sub junior class. His closest rival was U.S.A’s Dalton La Coe, who finished a distant second with a total of 425kg in the bench press, squat and deadlift. Following several reports on the federation’s silence

Green, who was amused by persons labelling the 18-year-old as a cheat, suggested that the incident was a “tragedy” and should be treated that way as he did not believe that the powerlifter knowingly took the substance. “We do not agree with any form of doping, whether intentional or unintentional, the view of this president is that Gumendra Shewdas did not take… the stimulants intentionally,” Green stated. Meanwhile, the Shewdas dilemma that has caused a ripple effect throughtout the sporting fraternity in Guyana has resulted in Green withdrawing his athletes from all international meets throughout the year, as his association, coupled with the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) through Dr. Karen Pilgrim, will be doing awareness campaigns on banned substances. Further, Green will look to put the matter to rest by month-end after the GAPF is expected to conclude their own investigation. Shewdas tested positive for Methylhexaneamine and Oxilofrineine.

RHTY&SC representative Sylvia Foster (left) receives Farfan and Mendes’ sponsorship from Annie Joao

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ponsorship for sport activities in Guyana is some times very difficult to obtain and even when it materalises, most sponsorship tend to be oneoff deals. The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) however, has an unrivaled ability to maintain sponsorship with their sponsors for a long period. This was the case on Wednesday last when the Georgetown based Farfan and Mendes Limited renewed its cricket sponsorship for the club’s Under-15 team for the 17th consecutive year. The Urquhart Street business entity has been sponsoring the defending Berbice Under-15 champions since 1997 and has pledged itself to a long term relationship with Guyana’s leading youth and sport organisation. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster expressed gratitude to the management of Farfan and Mendes

Limited for its continued confidence in the RHTY&SC and for investing in the future of the young cricketers. The RHTY&SC’s Under-15 team under the Farfan and Mendes sponsorship has won the Berbice championship four times and numerous others organised by the club and has also produced a total of twelve national cricketers. These include Test player Assad Fudadin, ODI player Royston Crandon, Abdel Fudadin, Delbert Hicks, Shevon Marks, Shawn Pereira, Phaffiana Millington, Dominique Rikhi and Parmanand Narine, while a total of 39 have represented Berbice over the years at the Under-15 level. Shawn Pereira, Phaffiana Millington and Assad Fudadin also captained Guyana at the junior level. Foster also disclosed that the RHTY&SC’s Farfan and Mendes Limited Under-15 and their fellow cricket teams in the club completed a total of 80 self-devel-

opment programmes during 2013 and have committed themselves to a target of 85 in 2014. These include educational, awards, charity, anti-drugs and community development programmes. The Under-15 team is currently being restricted along with the other junior cricket teams and would be under the management of Moonish Singh and coach Winston Smith. The captain for the 2014 Under-15 season would be Kevon Anderson with Emanuel Seecharran as his deputy. The RHTYSC Secretary/ CEO disclosed that the club’s Discipline Committee would also be revamped and strengthened to make sure that all club rules are respected by its membership. The 2014 sponsorship deal is worth $200,000, while Farfan and Mendes also cosponsors the RHTY&SC annual review magazine, annual awards ceremony, educational programmes and Christmas charity programmes.

Chess season starts Sunday with Trophy Stall tournament

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GCF president Shiv Nandalall (right) and Trophy Stall Managing Director Ramesh Sunich pose with the trophies and sponsorship cheque

he Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) will commence its year of activities with a one-day rapid tournament on Sunday. The Trophy Stall of Bourda Market and the City Mall is sponsoring the first oneday rapid chess competition of the year at the Carifesta Sports Complex, Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown. Ramesh Sunich, Managing Director of Trophy Stall, on Thursday pledged his support to the GCF with sponsorship of two chess tournaments this year. Another competition which would be of a longer format is set for later this year. “I support all sports and chess came to me and got my support,” Sunich de-

clared to Shiv Nandalall, president of the GCF. Sunich stressed that he would like to see chess go to a higher level with support from government and the business community. “Chess is not only a game but it sharpens one’s knowledge [of aspects] of life,” he observed. Nandalall thanked the business proprietor for his commitment and for coming on board with chess for three consecutive years so far. Players would be allotted 20 minutes per game in the seven-round tournament. A number of trophies and medals will be at stake as well as cash prizes. Prizes would also be awarded to the Best Beginner (Under-13), Best

Under-16 and Best Female players. The fee for the upcoming tournament is $500 for senior non-members and $300 for junior non-members. Registration will begin at 09:00 hours at the venue and the tournament will start at 10:00 hours. Players are reminded to renew their membership with the GCF for 2014 and pay lower tournament fees. Members of the GCF may also become eligible to participate in tournaments overseas or vote at elections for GCF office bearers. The next election is set for February 2. The annual membership fee for seniors is $2,000 and $1,000 for juniors (Under-20).

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Champs to face Jamaica on opening day of Super50 P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad – Defending champions Windward Islands will face Jamaica on the opening day of the NAGICO Super50 2014 tournament on Thursday, January 30 at the Queen’s Park Oval. This will be the first match of what promises to be an action-packed tournament featuring 15 games in just over two weeks. The matches will be played at the historic Queen’s Park Oval in Port-of-Spain and the picturesque Shaw Park in Tobago. The final will also be played at the Oval on Saturday, February 15 with

Sunday January 16 as the reserve rain day. The West Indies Cricket Board on Friday unveiled the fixtures for the event which will be contested by eight teams in two zones. Zone A will include the champs Windward Islands, Jamaica, Guyana and Ireland while Zone B will include hosts Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Leeward Islands and Combined Campuses and Colleges – last year’s losing finalists. Shaw Park will host two matches in Zone B: the marquee contest between archrivals Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados on Thursday, February 6; and CCC vs

Leewards a day earlier. “As we start the new year the atmosphere is certainly building as we prepare for what will be a superb NAGICO Super50 2014 Tournament in Trinidad and Tobago,” said Michael Muirhead, CEO of the WICB. “Most of the matches will be played at Queen’s Park Oval, which is one of the leading cricketing venues in the world. We are also delighted that the fans in Tobago will get a golden opportunity to see their favourite players in action as well.” Mr Muirhead added: “The schedule for any tour-

National players win second warm-up game – skipper Barnwell among the runs again

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ational captain Christopher Barnwell stroked a fluent half-century to guide the national team to a 26-run victory over the Rest Team in the second warm-up game for the senior national cricketers, who are preparing to compete in the West Indies Cricket Board’s NAGICO Super50 tournament, starting January 30 in Trinidad and Tobago. Playing at the Everest Cricket Club ground, the national side won the game which ended prematurely due to bad light. The Rest Team players, who were chasing 252 for victory, reached 194-7 from 46 overs when bad light stopped play. However, the national team at that stage of their innings was 220-6, clearly ahead of the Rest Team by 26 runs and therefore was declared the winner.  The national team had earlier posted a challenging total of 251-9 with skipper Barnwell leading from the front with 84. The West Indies T20 all-rounder struck ten fours and two sixes in his 80-ball innings. Barnwell, who has represented Guyana in 17 List A games, shared a crucial 74run partnership for the fourth wicket with former West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan (35) to repair the innings after they were placed at 60-3 in the 17th over.   The strongly built Barnwell, who will lead Guyana in the upcoming West Indies Cricket Board’s NAGICO Super50 competition, then put on 51 runs for the fifth wicket with veteran West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul (32), before he was eventually dismissed in the closing stages of the innings. West Indies left-arm spinner Veersammy Permaul (19 not out), Trevon Griffith (16) and Robin Bacchus (14) were the other batsmen to reach double-figures. Bowling for the Rest

Christopher Barnwell

Team, Keon Joseph picked up 3-59, while Shaquille Williams and Amir Khan claimed 2-31 and 2-42 respectively. Chanderpaul Hemraj and fast bowler Raun Johnson both picked up a wicket each. In reply, former West Indies opener Sewnarine Chattergoon topscored with 44 for the Rest Team. He received support from Rajiv Ivan (37*) and 34 apiece from West Indies middle-order batsman Assad Fudadin, who is also part of the national squad, and Jonathan Foo. Leg spinner Devendra Bishoo was the pick of the bowlers for the national side with 3-27.  The third practice match is scheduled for Monday. Meanwhile, Guyana’s 14-man squad for the tournament reads: Robin Bacchus, Trevon Griffith, Leon Johnson, Shivnarine Chanderpaul (vice-captain), Narsingh Deonarine, Christopher Barnwell (captain), Ramnaresh Sarwan, Royston Crandon, Assad Fudadin, Anthony Bramble (w/k), Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton and Paul Wintz. The Guyanese will be hunting their 10th regional 50-over title, having last won in 2005. Prior to that, Guyana won the title in 1980, 1983, 1985, 1993, 1995, 1998, 2001, 2003. (Rajiv Bisnauth)

nament or event attracts a lot of attention as spectators are always eager to see when their team is playing and when the ‘big matches’ will be contested. Based on the nature of this tournament

January

Thursday, 30th: Friday, 31st :

February

Saturday, 1st: Sunday, 2nd: Monday, 3rd: Tuesday, 4th: Wednesday, 5th: Thursday, 6th: Friday, 7th: Saturday, 8th: Sunday, 9th: Monday, 10th: Wednesday, 12th: Thursday, 13th: Saturday 15th:

we foresee all games as ‘big match-ups’ in the battle to lift the Clive Lloyd Trophy and be crowned NAGICO Super50 Champions for 2014.” The NAGICO Super50

Champions 2014 will be televised live throughout the Caribbean on ESPN. The official start times and full squad lists will be announced at a later date.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE Windwards vs Jamaica at Queen’s Park Oval Guyana vs Ireland at Queen’s Park Oval CCC vs T&T at Queen’s Park Oval Barbados vs Leewards at Queen’s Park Oval Windwards vs Ireland at Queen’s Park Oval Jamaica vs Guyana at Queen’s Park Oval CCC vs Leewards at Shaw Park T&T vs Barbados at Shaw Park Windwards vs Guyana at Queen’s Park Oval Jamaica vs Ireland at Queen’s Park Oval CCC vs Barbados at Queen’s Park Oval T&T vs Leewards at Queen’s Park Oval Semi-final 1 – Zone A winner vs Zone B second at Queen’s Park Oval Semi-final 2 – Zone B winner vs Zone A second at Queen’s Park Oval FINAL – Winner of Semi-final 1 vs Winner of Semi-final 2 at Queen’s Park Oval

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

saturday, January 11, 2014

TOP SCORES

CRICKET: NATIONAL TEAM 251-9 V REST TEAM 194-7; PAKISTAN 165 AND 132-3 V SRI LANKA 388

National players win second warm-up game Se e on stor pa y 2 ge

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– skipper Barnwell among the runs again

Shivnarine Chanderpaul gathers runs through the on-side

Veerasammy Permaul played a little cameo towards the end of the national team’s innings

Cycling season starts Sunday in Berbice See story on page

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Former Berbice cyclist Gary Benjamin (centre) makes the presentation to coach of Flying Ace Cycling Club, Randolph Roberts

Rajiv Ivan was unbeaten on 37 when bad light stopped play

GAPF to ask Shewdas to pay fine

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Se e on stor pa y 2 ge

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President of the GAPF Peter Green speaking at Friday’s press conference