Guyana Times, September 4, 2014

Prominent Pakistani Muslim scholars visit Islamic Complex P12

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2243

Thursday, September 4, 2014

T&T investors still unidentified for “agri-lands” Page 7

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Webster suspects “bandits- P2 staff” collusion in pension heist

– Ramsammy unaware of reasons

US$185M garnered for Guyana Goldfields

Region 10 RDC buys P10 $10M ambulance for Wismar Hospital

Page 12

Major excavation works are taking place at the Guyana Goldfields operations at Aurora

Two-time convict mounts protest on NA Prison roof Page 17

Nandlall chides Greenidge for attacks on Judiciary Page 17

Rastafarians press Govt to set up P11 “Ganja Commission” Policeman shot in Eccles P13 Nagamootoo, Hughes likely to vie for AFC leadership spot P13

2 news

thursDAY, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Education Ministry Webster suspects gears up to disburse “bandits-staff” collusion $10,000 cash grant in pension heist

H

uman Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster is concerned about the spate of robberies committed on post offices and strongly feels that some collusion might be involved.

In a telephone interview with Guyana Times, Minister Webster condemned the act, claiming that the robberies are occurring too often, and as such, something has to be done to curb the problem.

She recalled only recently the Campbellville and the Soesdyke Post offices were robbed, highlighting that the incidents were committed at a times when Old Age Pension and Public Assistances are being paid.

“The public is aware that Old Age Pension and Public Assistance are given out on the first of every month… I also feel that these bandits target the post offices around this time,” the Minister added.

Pattern

She added that there is pattern in these robberies; thus, she intends to speak with the Police Commissioner for the police to investigate the matter thoroughly and to reveal whether these crimes are perpetuated with the involvement of staff. “It is a situation for the raise of eyebrows.”

She is also calling on the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) to reassess the security arrangements at the various locations. The Minister feels that

not to be a reoccurrence.

The acting Post Master General also stated that the Post Office Training Centre located at Lamaha and Carmichael Streets has been reopened for business as normal.

Gunmen stormed the Campbellville Post Office in June, taking with them a bag containing $1.3 million from the Post Master and staff members.

Brazen

One of the post offices that were robbed by bandits

once a large amount of cash is being kept at a specific location, there must me additional security.

However, the $5 million that was taken by the bandits on Tuesday from the Lamaha and Carmichael Streets Post Office is a losts to that entity rather than the Ministry.

Minister Webster explained that the missing monies were from the revolving fund. “The post office would do the necessary pay out and the Ministry would reimburse once the payment vouchers are sent to the Ministry,” she said.

The $5 million, she added was to take care of Old Age Pension, Public Assistance and NIS payments; hence, the amount of money at the post office at one given time.

Acting Post Master General Abdul Hassan on the other hand told Guyana

Times that he has no information that suggests staff members were acting in collusion. He is presently awaiting a report from the Security Manager about the details of the robbery.

Hassan said the $5 million is deemed as Corporation loss and will be replaced by the GPOC. With the hope of not having a reoccurrence, he said the Corporation is presently looking at different security initiatives such as beefing up security and installing surveillance cameras.

Hassan added too that the reason for the amount of money being transferred to the post office was due to the fact that three payments were due on the particular date.

He nevertheless said that it is another major blow to the Corporation, and as such, they will try hard for it

The brazen daylight robbery was committed by a man who posed as a customer. It was reported that moments after the Post Master and staffer arrived at the location with the bag containing the money, the bandit held them at gunpoint.

In addition to the bag of money, he stole an undisclosed sum that was in the post office at the time. He then ran out of the building, jumped on a waiting motorcycle, and sped off.

A few days prior, gunmen carted off an undisclosed sum of cash from the Soesdyke Post Office after holding employees and customers at gunpoint.

It was reported that residents in the area heard a “loud banging” and later saw two men exiting the post office with their weapons drawn.

The men then joined a heavily tinted blue car which was waiting for them outside and sped off in the direction of the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Deputy Chief Education Officer (Administration), Donna Chapman

T

he Education Ministry upon completion of a number of public consultations held throughout the country with parents and guardians of children in the public school system, on the $10,000 per student grant, is nearing the end of a lengthy but transparent verification process.

Over the last two months, headteachers from across the country met with their respective regional education officers to verify the number of students currently enrolled in their respective schools, and that are on the schools’ registers.

According to the Deputy Chief Education Officer (Administration), Donna Chapman, the process is moving along smoothly as the Ministry now awaits the final lists of names of children currently beginning

Year One (Nursery), Grade One (Primary) and Grade Seven (Secondary).

These lists, she expects, will be submitted within the coming week to her office and that of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, so as to facilitate the completion of the master list of students eligible to receive the $10,000 cash grant per student.

The Ministry is urging parents and guardians to register their children immediately so that the final verification process can be completed.

With the administrative processes currently running on schedule, the Ministry is set to commence disbursement of the cash grant by Monday, October 6.

Feedback from the public consultations held countrywide suggested that the preferred method chosen by parents to receive this cash grant on behalf of their children was by way of money transfer services.

The Ministry will be providing further updates through the press, informing parents and guardians of the date, place and time when they will be able to collect the cash grant on behalf of their children.

The Education Ministry is advising the public that anyone found to be engaging in any form of malpractice, fraudulent or corrupt activity regarding the disbursement of this $10,000 per child cash grant will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law!

BBCI donates to Lady of Annunciation R C Church

BBCI Driver Mohammed Imran Azahur hands over one of the items to a member of the Lady of Annunciation R C Church

T

he Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) on Tuesday donated a blender among other

items to the annual Lady of Annunciation R C Church Parish Fair.

The fair is the church’s’

main fundraising activity and all funds raised will go towards the maintenance of the church building.

NEWS

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thursday, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Thursday, September 4 from 12:30h-14:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Thursday, September 4 from 11:45h-13:15h

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Thundery showers can be expected in the morning with heavy rain showers in the early afternoon. Thundery showers are expected to prevail in the late afternoon and in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly between zero and 4.02 metres per second.

High Tide: 12:14h reaching a maximum height of 2.24 metres.

Low Tide: 05:35h and 18:10h reaching minimum heights of 0.90 metre and 0.99 metre respectively.

wednesday, September 3, 2014

LOTTERY NUMBERS D 01 07 09 19 20 21 04 Bonus Ball

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LUCKY 3

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By Svetlana Marshall

T

he new Board of Directors of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has begun to function.

Both the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) have criticised the composition of the Board, saying Government’s move to appoint Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh, is a step in the wrong direction. But Government is sticking to its decision.

On Wednesday, Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy said Opposition forces would not deter the spirit of the Board led by Baksh. In fact, the Board has commenced its review of the revised version of the sugar industry’s 20132017 Strategic Plan.

Meanwhile, it was explained that the revised 2014 target has been set at 216,000 tonnes of sugar, but there is a high possibility that production would reach a high of 219,000 tonnes.

During the first crop, the industry produced 79,995 tonnes, with an additional 138,000 tonnes expected to be produced by the end of the second crop.

While proposals have been made for the 2015 and 2016 targets to be revised, the Agriculture Minister explained that the 2017 target of 350,000 tonnes would remain.

Mechanisation

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New GuySuCo Board begins review of strategic plan

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The board and management will be exploring avenues that can be taken to accelerate production. “We have to increase the rate of mechanisation… the revised version would have to accelerate the rate at which mechanisation is accomplished.

"At the eight sugar estates and seven factories, we would have to an address greater mechanisation to compensate for a reduced pool of labour,” he explained.

Gradually, sugar workers are downing their tools

GuySuCo's Enmore Packaging Plant

as they seek to capitalise on emerging commercial activities that are transforming Guyana’s economical landscape. In September 1995, GuySuCo's labour force stood at 24,000, but today it has dropped to a disputed figure of 18,000.

While the Agriculture Ministry has repeatedly said

For the first time, the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate will operate via a partially mechanised process. It was explained that for the first crop of 2014, less than 50 per cent of the labour force turned out for work, with the majority turning to other agricultural sub-sectors, and the mining and construction sectors for employment.

In addition to mechanisation, the Corporation has been working closely with private farmers, leasing 1000 hectares of land to private farmers, who, for the first time, delivered cane to the factory. By the end of the year, the Corporation is hoping to lease an additional 500 hectares of land.

Private cultivation

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

that approximately 18,000 persons are directly working in the sugar industry, critics have said this figure is bloated.

Through mechanisation, GuySuCo is cushioning the impact of the dwindling labour force.

The Corporation has already moved to mechanise 30 per cent of its 48,000 hectares of fields. In 2014, approximately 14,000 hectares of land will be reaped mechanically.

This model, the Agriculture Minister explained, has been successfully implemented for a number of years at the Wales Estate where private farmers are working closely with the Corporation.

At that estate, 40 per cent of the sugar is provided by private farmers.

Earlier in the week, APNU condemned the Government over the politically appointed board. The coalition said Government is bent on controlling the management of GuySuCo. According to APNU, under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government, GuySuCo is still to produce

a credible turnaround plan.

Although more than $500 billion has been pumped into the Industry over the past 10 years, the Opposition party said there is no indication that there will be a turnaround.

“President Donald Ramotar has admitted that the industry cannot meet its cost or pay its bills without Government’s support. The failure of successive politically-dominated GuySuCo Boards cannot be overlooked.

"The PPP/C cannot expect to do the same thing over and over again and expect a different result.”

According to the main Opposition party, GuySuCo Board should be equipped with members who have the personal integrity to be able to avoid financial conflicts of interest.

“GuySuCo needs Board members who understand large-scale labour management and [have] a working knowledge of the sugar industry. GuySuCo needs a Board that is chaired by someone who can set longand short-term goals to improve the viability of the sugar industry,” APNU said. (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy. com)

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guyanatimesgy.com

thurSDAY, september 4, 2014

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

The silly season I

n the UK and some other countries, the summer season is also called the "silly season" because to keep their readership and viewership interested, the media resort to all sorts of frivolous "news". For this reason, in the US, it is more prosaically called "the slow news season". It is perhaps not a coincidence that this season is coterminous with the holiday period for legislators.

It would appear that the "silly season" is upon us.

APNU's Carl Greenidge claims that "the separation of powers" is being "eroded" because the courts are being called to make a decision on a ruling by the Speaker of the House that has to do with a member being consigned to the Privileges Committee.

The "separation of powers" is a doctrine that simply asserts that the sovereign powers of the state of Guyana have been divvied up and placed in the hands of the three branches of the Government – the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary.

What this means is that each branch of Government has its own area of "competence" – in which the other should not interfere. This is the "separation". The Executive, for instance, must be allowed to use the organs of the state to carry out its programme on which it was elected.

It is rather ironic for Mr Greenidge to raise the issue of "separation of powers" when the Opposition, of which his party is the largest component, has insisted on usurping the functions of the Executive to craft the programme of the Executive through its control of the Budget. This is a back door way to get into Government outside the constitutional rules.

In terms of their claim of "judicial encroachment" on the powers of the Legislature, the role of the Constitution in Guyana must be appreciated. Unlike Britain, which has no formal written Constitution and where the Legislature is supreme, in the Guyanese state, it is the Constitution that is supreme.

For Guyana the "rule of law" rather than the "rule of men" begins in the first instance with the Constitution. This means that no other organ of Government – starting with the three branches of Government – can make rules that are in violation of the constitutional stipulations.

The Constitution also has clear rules that govern itself.

For instance there are clear procedures laid out for altering the Articles of the Constitution – some requiring a simple majority of the MPs and others (the "entrenched" ones) a full two-thirds majority. In an analogous fashion, the Constitution clearly states what has to be done in the event that there is a dispute between the Executive and Legislative branches on their relationship: the Judiciary must make what will be binding decisions. On this, there is no ambiguity.

And here we arrive at the contention of Mr Greenidge that we believe must be inspired by the aforementioned "silly season" – in which all his colleagues, with whom he could have consulted, may be on vacation. The Finance Minister performed an action that was sanctioned by the President and his Cabinet – that is, the entire Executive – and brought it to the attention of the House as he is required by the Constitution.

What Mr Greenidge and the Opposition contend is that since the House had implicitly instructed the Minister not to perform the action, the Minister was violating a "privilege" of Parliament and as such could be sanctioned by the Privileges Committee of Parliament.

The question, of course, is whether the action of the Minister was a "privilege" conferred on him by Parliament – which it clearly was not. However, we can accept that even "reasonable" men may differ – so the question is what is to be done?

As adumbrated above, the answer is clear: in this disagreement on the interpretation of the Constitutional rule, the court has to be the arbiter. We hope the "silly season" will soon be over.

Lightning strikes over buildings during heavy rainfall in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, China, September 2

(Reuters)

President Putin’s plan for peace in Ukraine Dear Editor, On September 3, President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin and President of Ukraine, Petro Proroshenko during a telephone conversation exchanged views on how to settle the conflict in southeast Ukraine.

The Press Secretary of the Russian President emphasised that the resolution of the conflict should be reached between the conflicting parties, because it is an internal affair of Ukraine, and not as it is claimed between Russia and Ukraine.

The President of Russia emphasised that in order to stop the bloodshed and stabilise the situation in southeast Ukraine, the parties involved should cease fire and coordinate the following steps: 1. End active offensive operations by armed forces, armed units, and mi-

litia groups in southeast Ukraine in the Donetsk and Lugansk areas.

2. Withdraw Ukrainian armed forces units to a distance that would make it impossible to fire on populated areas using artillery and all types of multiple launch rocket systems.

3. Allow for full and objective international monitoring of compliance with the ceasefire and monitoring of the situation in the safe zone created by the ceasefire.

4. Exclude all use of military aircraft against civilians and populated areas in the conflict zone.

5. Organise the exchange of individuals detained by force on an ‘all for all’ basis without any preconditions.

6. Open humanitarian corridors for refugees and for delivering humanitarian cargoes to towns and populated areas in Donbass – Donetsk and Lugansk regions.

7. Make it possible for repair brigades to come to damaged settlements in the Donbass region in order to repair and rebuild social facilities and lifesupporting infrastructure and help the region to prepare for the winter.

The Kiev authorities and the representatives of southeast Ukraine should come to basic agreements at the meeting of the contact group on September 5.

There is real hope that the Government of Ukraine will use this opportunity to bring about a final and comprehensive settlement to the situation in southeast Ukraine with full and unconditional respect for the lawful rights of seven million people who live in this region.

Denis Kopyl, Press Attaché, Russian Embassy

Ram should say the Kaieteur News misquoted him Dear Editor, Christopher Ram, in his letter to Kaieteur News, is denying that he used the word “discrepancies” in his misleading comments on the 20052012 Annual Reports of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC).

If Ram is denying that he used “discrepancies”, then he should refer to the Kaieteur News of August 24. He should, therefore, say that it is the Kaieteur News, which misquoted him and let the newspaper know, and not to keep denying.

Why is Ram side-tracking the fact that he questioned the Auditor General’s qualified opinion of the

GFC’s audited financial statements presented to Parliament? Did he read his own column and the National Forest Plan and National Policy before making erroneous and misleading statements?

In relation to the huge fluctuations of the GFC’s income and expenses, did Ram say what is the problem with this? Are he, Janet Bulkan, and John Palmer fused with the political Opposition to mischievously mislead the public?

Ram, Bulkan, and Palmer did not say anything when the PNC Government did not submit Public Accounts for over 10 years. Why is it

that they are not writing about this?

They are only engaged in selective and deceptive reporting, which shows their anti-Government agenda.

President Donald Ramotar is calling on David Granger, leader of the PNCR, to “bring back the guns” that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) loaned to the party. But Ram seems to be defending Granger when he rejected the President’s comments.

Further, I think that Phillip Bynoe should challenge Ram to a public debate.

Yours sincerely, Peter Persaud

guyanatimesgy.com

thurSDAY, september 4, 2014

Investing in new Wärtsilä engines Dear Editor, It would be remiss of me if I do not bring this matter to the attention of the press. For the past weeks, Essequibians have been constantly experiencing frequent and sudden power outages in the northern and southern parts of the coast.

For days, there was no electricity and the people continued to suffer terribly.

There must be a dramatic turnaround in the performance of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) if it is to remain in shape and form in the next few years.

There should be a public disclosure on the condition of the two Wärtsilä engines at Anna Regina. For the past five years, these engines have been producing electricity well below

capacity, causing frequent blackouts.

With no attention being paid to Essequibo’s energy crisis, it may come as a surprise that the majority of Essequibians have lost confidence in GPL. The future of our energy stability in this region now poses a real threat to business and the security of residents.

In business and life, the probability and the risk of catastrophic consequences rise without stable power.

GPL has a moral obligation to take action now regarding efficient energy supply.

If not, future generations will face the consequences of GPL and Government apathy. When blackouts hit, our businesses go down, and our lights

go out. When GPL shuts down, the people feel it everywhere. We are faced with the same reality yearround.

In today’s changing world, it is imperative that Government work together with all interested parties to make sure this region’s energy is protected and sustained.

Problems of energy production and the life of the citizens must be examined as a whole, not individually.

Government will need more solutions that include spare parts for these Wärtsilä engines here at Anna Regina.

One engineer told me that when he ordered spare parts for these engines from Georgetown, he would receive none, because they are not in the country, or

the spare parts are stored at GPL’s headquarters.

The whole idea is to harness the power of the region and give the benefits to the people.

Considering the strategic importance of Region Two’s energy security, the Government must look at a long-term energy policy protecting businesses and citizens They should realise that a consortium is good for all the regions. The President needs to understand that restoring these two Wärtsilä engines is not just a big expense.

It’s an important investment that will yield returns for generations to come.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

Let us continue to make education fun, relevant Dear Editor, I would like to extend on behalf of the executives of the Upper Demerara Branch of the Guyana Teachers’ Union, greetings for a happy and productive 2014 academic school year to all teachers.

As educators, we are cognisant that education is a means of sharpening the mind of man, both spiritually and intellectually. It is a two-edged sword that can be used either for the progress of mankind or for its destruction.

That is why it has been our constant desire and endeavour as teachers, the true “nation builders”, to develop our education for the benefit of mankind. We are now more than ever before convinced that it is education that can heal, unite and bridge the racial, religious and political divide that is denying Guyana “real” development for all of its citizens.

As teachers, let us in this new academic year continue our efforts in making education fun and relevant. Let us aspire to make the teaching-learning experience one that is not monotonous but exciting, and our pupils/students become more aware as to why we do what we do.

Let us strive to extend our efforts in which we teach our children to teach themselves when they are out of the school’s learning environment.

Education develops the intellect; and the intellect distinguishes man from other creatures. It is education that enables man to harness nature and utilise her resources for the wellbeing and improvement of his life. The key for the betterment and completeness of modern living is education.

In this new school year, let us always be cognisant and aware of the ever-present fact that each student is unique and their individuality differs in many respects. Therefore, our methods, strategies, and approaches in delivering our content must be broadbased to cater for those differences.

As educators let us be reminded that it is of vital importance that we keep up to date with what is new, not only in our field of study but the changing world. Let us take up the challenge to re-inspire ourselves as well to learn new things on a regular basis and have fun in the process.

Let us be passionate about what we teach and continue to provide challenges for the nation’s children. Let us continue relentlessly in encouraging creativity in our students and challenge them to think outside the box for new possibilities and solutions that would contribute to a better society, a better Guyana and world for all of us.

I pen these words with the hope that this new academic year will be one in which the teachers and this noble profession will be given the seriousness that has been denied for far too long from its paymaster.

A seriousness that will catapult teachers and members of the Guyana Teachers Union into the consciousness of the untapped potential that the union possess to get its demands met by Government without the mendicant approach.

As nation builders, we deserve more, why our teachers who are trained graduates get paid less than US$600 a month?

And tiny islands like Trinidad, Barbados, and St Lucia, all of which can be accommodated in our mighty Essequibo River islands, have two and three times more than us.

I am optimistic that the seriousness in realising and acting on that realisation that teachers need to be given more resources, recognition and most importantly, better representation from ‘our union will be evident’.

The seriousness, in realising that teachers not just teach academic lessons to pupils/students but also help and guide them in every sphere of their life, by giving the right tools and advice. The time has come; the time is now, give our teachers what is

due.

Jermaine Figueira, Chairman Upper Demerara Branch GTU

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255 animals impounded in August Dear Editor, The Home Affairs Ministry wishes to report that a total of 255 animals were impounded during the month of August in pounds in A, B, C and D Police Divisions.

The Georgetown Unit accounted for 97 animals, comprising 34 cows, 47 goats and 16 sheep. The Berbice Unit accounted for 158 animals, comprising 24 horses, 57 cows, 28 goats, and 49 sheep.

A total of nine animals were impounded in A

Division, 158 in B Division, 59 in C Division, and 29 in D Division.

Training sessions were done on conduct and appearance on duty, the Pounds Act, the Cattle Stealing Act, and the Roads Act. The Ministry wishes to advise cattle owners to ensure that their animals are branded so as to facilitate their redemption after being impounded.

Submitted by, Home Affairs Ministry

The emerging problems of e-waste Dear Editor, The Environmental Community Health Organisation (ECHO) has expressed concern with the emerging problems of ewaste, within Guyana.

Much of the electronic waste is dumped in different areas of our country.

Derelict computers and allied parts, batteries from cellphones, wires and a host of other electronic components and devices are just discarded at the sites.

Such waste contains hazardous chemicals known to be potentially dangerous to humans. This contributes to the process of global warming and climate change.

Further, this kind of waste has far-reaching effects on the ecology and consequently local communities.

To this end, the Organisation is in the process of organising a conference with the relevant stakeholders to address this very serious problem and to work out practicable solutions to deal with this issue.

Further, the Organisation hopes that the relevant authorities would put appropriate measures in place to treat with this problem.

Sincerely, Royston King Executive Director ECHO

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thursDAY, september 4, 2014

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Foundation

10 ways to help your child Reasons children get anxious about school adjust to a new school

BY DIANE MILNE

BY HANNAH BOYD

T

he beginning of the school year should be an exciting time, but it can be stressful for children starting at a new school. Whether you moved over the summer or are simply switching schools, you’re probably wondering how to make the transition easier on your children. Here are 10 expert tips.

sport activities. Knowing she’ll have the chance to serve on the Model UN may make your daughter miss her old school’s debate team less. * Future friends are everywhere you look; find them!

Sign your child up for nearby summer camps and classes, play at the school playground, and visit the local library storytime.

Young

losing touch with old ones, or simply finding his locker on the first day of school, odds are you can help. * “Remind your children about other “firsts” they’ve experienced in their lives and how well they handled them,” suggests Glasser. “For example,

Before school starts

* “Include your children in the process,” suggests Debbie Glasser, PhD and founder of NewsForParents.org, who moved three children to a new state.

“Attend the school orientation together and/or arrange for a tour. Older children might appreciate the opportunity to follow their schedule – walking from the bus loop to the locker to each class. Also, be sure to point out the bathrooms, cafeteria and auditorium.

Younger children might benefit from a few visits to the new school. Most schools will assign a ‘buddy’ to assist your child during the first few days or weeks. If you think this is something your child would benefit from, talk with the guidance counsellor.” Knowing where things are should alleviate some of your child’s fears. * Seek the positive.

Request the school handbook or scour the website for fun facts, photographs, and lists of interesting classes, extracurricular activities and

children may need help meeting new friends, but they’ll feel less nervous starting a new school if they see some familiar faces in the classroom. * Brainstorm. “Knowledge is the best tool to reduce anxiety and if you can uncover the basis for your child’s concerns, you will be better prepared to address them,” says Rhona M Gordon, author of Thinking Organised for Parents and Children.

Whether your child is worried about making new friends,

has your child ever started a new camp? Does your child remember his or her first day of kindergarten? Find opportunities to talk about successes they’ve experienced and the advantages of taking that first step – like meeting a new friend or learning a new skill.” This will build confidence and remind them that taking risks can pay off.

The first few weeks

* Be prepared for stormy weather. “You might find children are withdrawn, more sensitive, not doing as well in school, being uncoop-

erative,” says Suzy Martyn, founder of Mother’s Friend.

This will pass as they settle in. * Stick to your routine. If rapid changes have left your child reeling, knowing what’s expected at home can provide a soothing anchor. * Find any excuse to socialise. Throw a “new in town” or homecoming party, invite someone over for a playdate, or ask if your child wants an early birthday party. Socialising on home turf is often easier for children and socialising one-on-one can be less intimidating than trying to break into a new group, while hosting a party is a great way to ingratiate oneself with a crowd. * Get involved with the school. If you’re able to volunteer in the classroom, you’ll get to know the teacher and your child’s classmates firsthand.

Networking with other parents can be a great way to meet other children, too. * Be patient. “I would expect most children to have a hard first six weeks or so, although some who adapt and make friends easily may adjust much more quickly,” says Jennifer Shewmaker, PhD, Director of School Psychology Training at Abilene Christian University. “If a child was still really struggling, crying and complaining of lack of friends, after six months, that might cause me concern.” In that instance, talk to your child’s teacher and the school counsellor – but remind yourself that the odds are he’ll adjust just fine. (education.com)

W

e all expect that our children will be excited and a little bit nervous about the first day of school.

The first step to calming fears is identifying them. Here are 10 things that make children anxious about school:

New situations

Whether your child is facing the first day in a new grade or the first day in a new school, it’s normal to feel nervous in a new situation. Talk about what the first day of school will be like. “When children know what to expect, they experience less anxiety about a situation,” explains School Psychologist Erin L Enyart. Remind your child that everyone feels a little anxious, and allow time for him to adjust.

Point out that pretty soon, the situation will be routine and comfortable. If possible, adjust your schedule so that you have extra time with your child, especially right after school, for the first few days.

Failure

Children worry that their schoolwork will be too hard, they won’t be able to keep up, or they won’t know the correct answer when called on in class. Remind your child that everyone makes mistakes, then praise her best efforts.

Test anxiety

Many children are scared of testing situations. They worry ahead of time, and are unable to perform on the day of the test.

One way to help is to offer to help your child study so he feels well prepared. Remind him that he knows the information, and that you are confident he will do well.

Social anxiety

Children worry about fitting in, making friends, what others

think of them, being teased, and being left out. Encourage your child to face, rather than avoid, social situations, and talk about ways to make friends. According to the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), teaching children social skills, problem solving, and conflict resolution supports good mental health.

Grades

Some children worry about whether or not they’ll be able to earn all A’s in Math make the honour roll, or maintain a certain grade point average. Remind your child that you do not expect perfection.

Stress

Some children become anxious or stressed out when they feel that their school environment is unorganised, or that classroom expectations are unreasonable. The NASP suggests that parents can help children learn to deal constructively with challenging situations by offering to help come up with a solution together when your child tells you about a problem.

Making the team

Whether your child wants to make the cheerleading squad, get a part in the school play, or simply not be the last one picked for kickball at recess, it is important to remind him that not everyone succeeds every time. There are always other opportunities to be involved or be a part of a team. Practice together: fluff the pompons, rehearse the lines, or roll the ball to help your child master the skills of his choice.

Peer pressure

Children just want to fit in, and they may worry about what their classmates expect from them. Encourage your child to talk about his concerns.

Putting his fears into words may be helpful. Listen, but in most situations, the NASP says, “resist the urge to jump in and fix a problem for your child – instead, think it through and come up with possible solutions together.

Problem – solve with children, rather than for them. By taking an active role, children learn how to tackle a problem independently.”

Being bullied

Children worry about others tormenting them in some way, and this can be extremely upsetting. Take their concern seriously. Explain that bullies feel powerful when they upset other students, and talk about ways to cool down without giving the bully the reaction he wants.

Have your child practice ignoring teasing remarks, walking away, and getting an adult.

Home situation

According to Childrenhealth. org, sometimes the reason a child doesn’t want to go to school “actually has nothing to do with the school. They may feel they’re needed at home because a parent is stressed or depressed, or because of something else affecting the family. If that’s the case, the answer involves addressing the family issue.”

Enyart says if the fears persist into the school year, inform your child’s teacher. At most schools, a guidance counsellor, social worker, or school psychologist are available to talk with children and help them overcome these fears. (education.com)

NEWS

7

thursDAY, September 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

T&T investors still unidentified R for “agri-lands”

Ancient County Rice Mill still to settle debts with farmers

– Ramsammy unaware of reasons

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

By Svetlana Marshall

A

pproximately one year after Government offered some 1000 acres of land to Trinidad and Tobago for agricultural purposes, there has been no indication from Port of Spain as to whether any investor in that country will take up the initiative.

The Governments of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago had signed a Memorandum of Understand (MoU) setting the stage for the leasing of land by private investors for the pursuit of agricultural production, including agro-processing.

In March, the Trinidadian Food Production Ministry advised the Agriculture Ministry that it was calling on investors to tap into agricultural opportunities in Guyana, but since then Port of Spain has not indicated whether it will be moving forward. “So far Trinidad and Tobago has not contacted us on their next step,” Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy disclosed during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Wednesday.

Last year, the Trinidadian Food Production Ministry expressed an interest in utilising 10,000 acres of land in Guyana for the purpose of sustainable food production. The Guyanese Government had signalled its willingness to provide 1000 acres during the initial stage had the MoU evolved into an agreement.

“We are ready to allocate a portion of land, but, so far, Trinidad and Tobago has not gone onto the next step since they advertised,” the Minister added.

Mobilising investors Questioned on whether Trinidadian investors are no longer interested in Guyana, Dr Ramsammy said approximately two weeks ago, the Trinidadian Food Production Minister Devant Maharaj indicated that the island was still trying to mobilise investors.

“Based on the commodities and the interest of investors we had promised the 10,000 acres in various places: the Intermediate Savannah, Region Five and in the Canje Basin. So it could be in all three places based on what their interests are, but it is not one single location.”

The MoU was signed by both D. Ramsammy and Minister Maharaj on September 6, 2013 in Trinidad and Tobago.

The MoU addresses programmes and activities, core areas of cooperation, monitoring and coordinating mechanisms, mutual responsibility, commitments and settlements, rights and obligations, and scope for termination.

Recognising that global food insecurity remains a major problem across the world due to rising food prices amid declining food production levels caused by climate change, the parties had signed the agreement in their quest to reduce their food import bills.

For Trinidad, this plan is in keeping with its National Food Production Action Plan 2012-2015.

The MoU provides guidance for the development, promotion, and strengthening of bilateral cooperation between the countries through the development of joint ventures and activities that will contribute significantly to the promotion of food security, but it does not impose action targets for either Guyana or Trinidad.

“In the execution of such programmes, projects, and activities, the parties will give consideration to developing capacity in sectors critical for food security and reducing the food import bill including but not limited to small ruminant production, dairy, beef and poultry production, certified seeds (rice) production, corn and soybean for animal feed, garlic, onion, legumes, coconuts, citrus and aquaculture,” a section of the MoU stated.

ice farmers in Region Six, East Berbice/ Corentyne, continue to wobble in discomfort as millions of dollars are still owed to them by the Ancient County Investment Inc, a milling company located at Tarlogie Farm on the Corentyne.

Rice Producers Association (RPA) President Leekha Rambrich told Guyana Times on Wednesday evening that some $200 million is still owed to farmers for the current crop, since selling their paddy in April of this year.

Since last December, the Ancient County Investment Inc has been toe to toe with rice farmers on the Corentyne Coast, after a massive protest was held in front of the mill.

The company was also threatened on several occasions by RPA General Secretary Dharamkumar

Rice Producers Association President Leekha Rambrich

the threat and stern warning by the representative bodies, farmers continue to feel the financial pressure.

The farmers had said earlier that the issue was compounded by the high price they are required to pay for

Trinidad and Tobago’s Food Production Minister, Devant Maharaj

But shortly after the MoU was signed, the Trinidad and Tobago Agriculture Society, United Farmers Association and the Trinidad and Tobago Cane Producers Association objected to the document.

It was contended that the agreement would not bring about a dent in T&T’s $4 billion food importation bill.

Even farmers in Guyana had signalled their objection, but Dr Ramsammy said it was simply a misunderstanding, explaining that if brought into fruition, easier access will be provided to both markets. (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy.com)

Rice farmers protesting in front of the Ancient County Investment Inc back in December

Seeraj that he would make a recommendation to the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to have the company blacklisted from the list of millers benefiting from the Venezuelan rice deal if it continued to owe farmers. However, despite

manure. Authorities at the mill had said that they were unable to fully pay the farmers because of the amount of stock they have on hand.

The company had said that it was unable to sell its rice to the Haitian

and Caribbean markets.

Tensions flared among the more than 150 farmers who were given cheques by the mill back in December.

When the issue first came to light, some farmers turned up at the bank with cheques signed by the mill’s owner, but were turned away, because they were not valid. Rambrich said too that among the monies owed to the farmers are payments for transportation and the required two per cent interest fee.

The farmers and their representatives had converged at the entrance of the company in December to voice their frustration.

Meanwhile, Rambrich told this publication that the close to 4000 farmers on the Corentyne Coast are expecting a good harvest this crop.

He said there has been an increase in the yield and acreage when compared to last crop. Rambrich noted that “the yield is looking around 34 bags per acre”. Last year, he said, farmers harvested around 32 bags per acre.

8 NEWS

thursDAY, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Foreign Affairs AFC Councillor on self-bail for charge of protesting Minister meets without permission Samoan PM A

Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Samoa and President of the United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference, Tuilapea Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi.

Guyana and Samoa are also members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of Countries where the two Governments closely collaborate on issues of mutual interest.

lliance For Change (AFC) Councillor Naieen Gafoor who is accused of carrying out a procession without obtaining Police permission appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Judy Latchman on Wednesday morning.

With his party leader, Attorney-at-Law Khemraj Ramjattan, representing him, the 48-year-old was released on his own recognisance on the charge of having a procession without first obtaining permission from the Police on August 4 at 111 Miles, Mahdia.

Attorney Ramjattan had indicated to the Court that his client, the owner of a spare parts shop and a Regional District Councillor, is married with four children and resides at Mahdia.

He said that his client, who had given the Police notice about the protest for better roads, was heading for the demonstration in Mahdia when he was arrested.

When asked for the reason behind the arrest on the day in question, the Police told Gafoor that more than notification was needed, as

L

Police Prosecutor Michael Grant told the court that on the day in question, Police ranks were on patrol when they saw the defendant coming out of a known drug house. As a result, he was stopped and a search was conducted on him. The drug was found in his left pocket in a brown paper parcel.

When it was opened in the presence of Roopwah, it was found to con-

AFC Councillor Naieen Gafoor permission was required as well, the Defence Attorney related. Ramjattan then told the Court that his client was doing what he felt was constitutionally right and requested that Gafoor be released on his own recognisance.

Police Prosecutor Michael Grant had no objections to bail, but requested that it be granted in a reasonable sum.

The matter will be recalled on September 8 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

tain stems, roots and leaves which were suspected to be from the cannabis plant. The substance was weighed in front of the defendant, and he was told of the offence after which he was arrested.

The unrepresented defendant was sentenced to six consecutive Saturdays of community service at the Leguan Police Station.

Labourer granted bail for alleged possession of GDF property

A

45-year-old labourer was on Wednesday afternoon placed on $100,000 bail for possession of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) property.

Bertie Stoll, of Kuru Kuru, Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, ap-

peared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

He denied the allegation, which stated that on Tuesday, September 2 at Ameila’s Ward Public Road, Linden, he unlawful-

ly acquired military stores from Woman Constable #17155 Burthnell Charles, with one haversack being the property of GDF. Police Prosecutor Michael Grant did not read any of the case’s facts to the court. He also did not

object to bail which led to the unrepresented man being placed on bail.

Stoll will make his next court appearance before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on September 8.

Mechanic accused of cellphone theft

T

wenty-one-year Cordel Stanley was on Wednesday remanded on a charge of simple larceny.

Stanley, of Lot 273 Good Intent, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Judy Latchman. He is accused of stealing one HTC cellphone valued $100,000

from Beverly Captain at Kwakwani Park, Upper Berbice on August 31.

He pleaded guilty to the charge and told the court that he had an explanation. The unrepresented defendant told the court that on the day in question, Captain had owed him some money, which she refused to pay, so he picked

up her phone which was on the counter. However, he claimed that he put it back.

Based on the explanation given, Magistrate Latchman entered a not-guilty plea. Police Prosecutor Michael Grant objected to bail based on the nature, gravity, and prevalence of the offence.

He also told the court

Quit whining...

A

Leguan man given community service for narcotics possession

eguan labourer Derek Roopwah appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday before Magistrate Judy Latchman on a possession of narcotics charge.

The 34-year-old pleaded guilty to the charge that on September 2 at Leguan, Essequibo Islands, he had in his possession one gram of cannabis.

Eyew tness

that the phone was found on Stanley when he was searched and if bail were to be granted, it was likely that the defendant would not return for trial.

Bail was denied by the Magistrate. Stanley’s case will be recalled on September 8 before the Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

...and start building

bu Bakr, from far off France, has some good advice for the self-defined “black consciousness” group calling themselves “Cuffy 250”. And it echoes what this Eyewitness has been saying ever since he heard of their existence and “work”. In its deliberate imitation of a South African movement from the 60s, Cuffy250 proves Bakr’s thesis that they need to move on. Because the community here has moved on.

Cuffy250 and Bakr both make assumptions about the “motives” of this Eyewitness. No problemo! But we don’t question Bakr’s motives in standing up for African Guyanese. While one may disagree with him on specifics, he has proven a Muslim can without apology talk about injustices of his race without being branded a “racist”.

This Eyewitness doesn’t understand why people are asked to ignore lines or markers along which they are oppressed.

The time for talk is over – the time for building must begin for African Guyanese. That’s all this Eyewitness and this newspaper have been saying. Back in 1997, Dr Jagan made some comments that “blacks were at the bottom of the social ladder” to an audience in Toronto. The man was making a descriptive, not a normative, statement – intended to serve as a basis for action. There was a hurricane of protest from many of the same people now in Cuffy250. They made the same statements and had the same round of meetings.

They even held a conference in Georgetown about the “Plight of the African Guyanese”. The question this Eyewitness has, echoing Abu Bakr, is what have these folks done in the intervening 17 years to build institutions to address the challenges facing African Guyanese???

They knock this newspaper. This paper offered to make a financial contribution to a monument to Philip Moore in his village when he died, if these folks who sang hosannas would get the project going. Deafening silence.

This newspaper has supported and publicised the just struggle for reparations. It has noted and saluted the contributions of African Guyanese to the democratisation of this society in the village movement. This Emancipation, it declared August “Emancipation Month” and ran a special supplement on “African Entrepreneurship”. And not only in the past – but in the present as role models.

It commented on the structural factors operating to hold back African Entrepreneurship.

But rather than whining about it, it took a lead on pushing the Education Ministry to get the CAPE subject “Entrepreneurship” kicked off at the premier high schools, to which the African middle class still socialise their children to do French but not “business”.

Finally, we ask: Have those child soldiers of Buxton been taken in hand by Cuffy250??

...and hallucinating

From the medieval era, one persistent accusation was that the most educated men of the times – dubbed the scholastics – used to argue for days on end on subjects so obscure no one but them showed even the slightest interest. For the simple reason that the furious debate had nothing to do with their lives. The paradigmatic example that’s come down to us as representative of this tendency was the argument, “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin”!! Uh Huh!!

Well, in Guyana it seems we’re witnessing a rebirth of the scholastics and the question that’s troubling them is, “What constitution we can design to bring heaven on earth”. We know we’re revisiting this question...but the scholastic wankers – led by Henry Jeffrey and Ralph Ramkarran show – no sign of letting up on their irrelevant postulations.

Jeffrey’s now gotten to ask as to whether representatives should represent their constituents’ positions or some higher purpose which only they can possible discern!! What about representing the interests of those funding the party?? Specialty Hospital, anyone??

Ask Khemraj Ramjattan. Get real Henry!

...and tell the truth

Mook Lall’s complaining about harassment. That’s like Kim Kardashian complaining about the paparazzi!!

news

9

thursDAY, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

GCCI donates breathalyser kits to Police I

n order to curb the increased number of accidents caused by drunk drivers, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Wednesday donated five breathalyser kits to the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

The five breathalyser kits, which include thermal printers, are valued some $1.4 million. They were handed over to Traffic Officer, Superintendent Ravindra Budhram at the Police Force’s Conference Room, Eve Leary. Speaking at a simple handing over ceremony, acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud pointed out that the number of road fatalities caused by drunk drivers is constantly increasing, and underscored the need for such equipment in their operations to curb drunk driving.

“The contribution being made today is extremely critical to our operations.

The road fatalities this year is way above what it was last year and a significant amount of those fatal accidents are caused by drunk driving and therefore in order to prevent, we need this type of technology to assist our operations,” Persaud stated.

The Acting

GCCI President Lance Hinds handing the breathalyser kits over to Superintendent Ravindra Budhram in the presence of stakeholders and other senior officers of the Police Force

Commissioner added that the Force welcomes such initiative by the private sector, with whom they share a “historic” partnership.

He noted that the donation comes at a time when the Police Force is intensifying integration with various stakeholders in society.

Persaud said that such engagements will continue because both the Police and the private sector share common interests. “The pri-

vate sector has an interest in crime control and the Police have a mandate to be effective in crime control and for that reason alone, I think our partnership will continue,” he stated.

The kits were handed over by GCCI President Lance Hinds, on behalf of the Chamber. He explained that as a national stakeholder, the Chamber is concerned about the prevalence and consequences of drunk

DEA Office rollout pushed back to year-end

T

he United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is expected to commence operations in Guyana by the end of this year.

This is according to Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy, Bryan Hunt. In an interview with Guyana Times, Hunt said while everything has been approved for the operations of the DEA office here, the administration is currently looking at the staffing of the office.

“We’re simply waiting on our Drug Enforcement Administration to run through its personnel and identify the agents who will be coming to fill the office here,” he disclosed.

Nevertheless, Hunt noted that the DEA Office is expected to be set up in “Fall” which will be the ending of September to mid-December.

However, he did note that the commencement of operations here highly depends on personnel hiring process used by the DEA. Former US Ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt, just before his departure in June last, had announced that the Barack Obama Administration has authorised the DEA to establish an office in Guyana. At the time, Hardt noted that the agency has already begun

Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy, Bryan Hunt said while everything has been approved for the operations of the DEA office here, the administration is currently looking at the staffing of the office

shipping its equipment to Guyana and training was planned for the local enforcement officers.

Subsequently, a US Embassy official had revealed to this newspaper that three agents and an administrative officer will staff the DEA Office.

The office will be stationed and operating out of the US Embassy located on Duke and Young Streets, Kingston. The officers will be working along with the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and the Police Narcotics Branch. Amid spiralling narcotics trafficking here, stakeholders believe

that the US’ move to set up the office will help break up local drug networks, but they also believe earlier interventions could have prevented the spread of the narcotics trade to the point where Guyana is considered a transshipment point. The increased level of gun violence and other crimes have been tied to the drug trade.

The DEA currently has an office in Trinidad that lends support to the Caribbean Region. There is also a more substantive office in Puerto Rico that handles matters around the Region and Latin America.

Turn to page 16

driving. Hinds noted that the private sector, through the Chamber, is making the donation as part of their corporate and social responsibility.

“I hope the breathalysers and supporting equipment will be used by the GPF to even more actively engage in operations, reducing the instances of drunk driving and dealing promptly and severely with those who continue to do

so,” he pointed out.

The GCCI President assured the officers that the Chamber is always ready to support efforts such as these that look to the safety and comfort of the Guyanese public.

After receiving the equipment, Superintendent Budhram briefly stated that the donation was timely as road fatalities were continuously on the raise.

He expressed his grati-

tude to the private sector for their contribution, adding that he hopes the initiative will be repeated for other departments within the Force.

The breathalyser kits were donated by six companies, namely: BEV Processors; Digicel Guyana; John Fernandes Limited; John Lewis Styles; Republic Bank Guyana Limited, and Trans Pacific Motor Spares.

10

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, september 4, 2014

News

Region 10 RDC buys $10M ambulance for Wismar Hospital Paper man T

he Upper Demerara Hospital (UDH) at Wismar, Linden on Wednesday received a $10.2 million ambulance under the Region 10 Democratic 2013 budgetary allocation.

Representatives of the UDH and Linden Hospital Complex (LHC), including Region 10 Health Committee Chairman Maurice Butters, Chairman of the Board of the LHC Mortimer Mingo, and Regional Health Officer (RHO) Pansy Armstrong were among those present to witness the official handing over.

Addressing the gathering at the simple ceremony conducted in the former LHC compound at Mackenzie, Mingo said the ambulance will enhance the delivery of health services to residents in the community and thanked the Region 10 Democratic Council for ensuring that it was obtained under the administration’s 2013 health programme.

He said that while the issue of ambulances has always been a sore point

This $10 million ambulance was handed over to the Wismar Hospital by the Region 10 Administration

for the region, he is grateful that the transfer and transport of patients in and around the region has now been made more viable.

“On behalf of the members of the Board of the Linden Hospital Complex and on my own behalf, I am saying to you how pleased we are to receive this important piece of equipment, in addition to what we already have, to be of service to our community. Thank you very

much...,”he noted.

Butters, who also spoke on behalf of Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon, who was unable to attend the simple ceremony, thanked and congratulated the regional administration.

He said the ambulance is a realisation of the efforts being made to ensure that the UDH can provide the necessary care and services to residents of Wismar. “... Wismar is expanding,

larger in population... this ambulance would be of great service,” he said.

The Health Committee Chairman also stressed the need for proper management of ambulances within the region, pointing out that currently there are a few which are not in use due to the issue of mismanagement. “When I say management, I’m not talking only about the senior persons, but I’m talking about each individual, who has to come into contact with the vehicle. We need better management. If that can happen, we would spend less money on repairs and we will be able to acquire more vehicles for other purposes,” Butters urged.

Dr Armstrong also thanked the regional administration for securing the ambulance under its 2013 capital budgetary allocations. “... it will also be used to transfer critical cases to receive special care in Georgetown. It’s a pleasure to have this ambulance here,” she noted.

Following the brief ceremony, the official handing over of the ambulance was marked by the signing of official documents and the handing over of the keys.

wanna be a miner

O

nce upon a time a man was born wid brains that wasn’t wukkin too good. People give up pun he, but de doctors wuk pun he and give he some body else used brains. So he grow up stupiddy because de brains was almost used up.

De doctors didn’t realise that de brains whah dem give he was from a thief man. So he start thiefin too. He thief a fella newspaper and call de paper he own paper. Paper man thief a lotta people money and promise dem trips. Some of dem reach, but most never reach. De rest reach and get turn back. But none of dem money ever reach back.

De paper man end up thiefin current fuh he wuk place and he get a shock one day, not wid de current, but when he get ketch. So just when G-Pee-Hell thought dem had he lock down and he couldn’t thief again, paper man thief a whole G-Pee-Hell transformer.

That is how good a thief this man was. People does thief current, which G-Pee-Hell or no body else can’t see.

But to thief a transformer whah is such a big ting that every body can see, yuh musbe a big time thief.

And talk bout big, just mention de word big and right away any body gon realise that this man like big vehicles and big wood. And from whah a reporter seh, de paper man like dem both at de same time. So he tell lies to de tax man, then he turn round and threaten de tax man.

He had thought de tax man woulda sit down quiet like de headitor at de wuk place who does tek all de hollerin, then still got to translate he garbage into language before he get pay. But when de tax man holler back, paper man realise right away that de tax man ain’t no limb he could climb pun.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie!

Now, since de Prezzi announce duty-free fuh miners, paper man wanna be a miner.

Woman to be charged for capturing young jaguar

I

n light of the recent passage of the Wildlife Management and Conservation Regulations, a woman will soon appear in court for being in possession of a young jaguar which she illegally captured.

The woman was allegedly transporting the animal when the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) received a tip about the transport of the endangered species from its Ranger Station located at Kurupukari.

GRA subsequently acted on the information and apprehended the woman in possession of the animal along the Iwokrama trail. The jaguar is an endangered species and, as such, is protected under the Wildlife Management and Conservation Regulations.

A release from the Natural Resources Ministry said the “woman was not in possession of any Permit to capture or transport the animal. As such, the woman has been instructed to report at every Police Outpost/ Station en-route from Kurupukari to Georgetown and finally to take the ani-

The vehicle in which the young jaguar was being transported in

mal to Guyana’s Zoological Park”.

The recent crackdown reiterated calls by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud for continued collaboration with the various agencies for similar operations to protect endangered wildlife and indigenous communities that depend on hunting for a livelihood.

Earlier this year, Persaud had said effectively tackling the illegal wildlife trade requires a holistic approach, involving the cooperation of all stakeholders.

Persaud said the Ministry is cognisant of its responsibility to protect and conserve Guyana’s wildlife

resources and this could be seen by the successful piloting in the National Assembly and gazetting of the Wildlife Management and Conservation Regulations in November 2013.

This is to be followed by a Wildlife Import and Export Bill, which deals specifically with the regulation of international wildlife trade (import, export, re-export and introduction from the sea).

According to the Minister, the bill will lead to a comprehensive legislative and legal framework to address issues of conservation, management, and trade of the nation’s wildlife species.

guyanatimesgy.com

thursdAY, september 4, 2014

11

News

press Govt to LEAD project implementation Rastafarians set up “Ganja Commission” moving apace – Hunt T

T

he principal United States Agency for International Development (USAID) implementing partner for the Leadership Education and Democracy Project (LEAD) – the International Republican Institute (IRI), is currently in dialogue with a wide crosssection of stakeholders to implement the programme’s activities in key areas.

This is according to US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt.

Hunt told Guyana Times that the implementation process is being undertaken in active partnership with a variety of national institutions, including the National Assembly, the Guyana Elections Commission, the Women and Gender Equality Commission, various youth organisations and civil society.

He said that the programme, on August 15 last, held consultations with Non-Governmental Organisations that are interested in providing information on civic education and Local Government Elections.

Public meetings

According to Hunt, sessions with civil society will include the LEAD Programme’s Local Government TownHall public meetings, which will be conducted throughout September in selected communities in Guyana’s administrative regions.

The Charge d'Affaires said following formal consultation with the parliamentary leadership, an initial activity work plan has been developed.

In accordance with that plan, the USAID LEAD Programme has undertaken preparatory work to provide

assistance to political parties and their representatives in any shape or form.

Hunt made it clear that the project was geared toward creating inclusive governance and allowing civil society stakeholders to shape and fashion the democratic structures and new brand of democracy for their country.

Way forward

United States Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt

assistance in maximising the benefits of the Parliament’s redesigned website, enhance parliamentary structures, and strengthen legislative processes.

He stated that formal seminars, workshops, and training in these and other areas will follow in due course.

After months of stalemate and controversy, the Government of Guyana finally agreed to the full implementation of the LEAD Project.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon, had said that a mutually acceptable agreement had been reached, putting to rest the concerns of Government over the project’s initial design and implementation.

He said Government was keen, from the outset, on ensuring that Guyana and Guyanese were not robbed of the opportunity to exploit the benefits that could be derived from the project.

Hunt, who had attended the joint press conference to announce the decision in mid-August of this year, had explained that the project would not engage or provide

The Guyana Government had publicly chastised the US for pursuing the LEAD Project despite its strong objections.

The Government had posited that the project’s design and implementation was unacceptable and that the action taken by former US Ambassador D Brent Hardt was a clear departure from protocols and conventions governing inter-state relations, and deserved full condemnation.

But despite the criticism, the US Ambassador had claimed that the project still had as its main concern, the interest of the Government and the people of Guyana.

He noted too that the objectives towards Government’s participation were vital, pointing out that the US Government was looking forward to a constructive dialogue, and was hopeful that at the end of the day, both parties would be able to find a way forward in the tradition of their long bilateral relationship.

The controversy surrounding the USAID LEAD Project began in late 2013 when Government rejected the project, stating that it was not consulted when it was being drafted nor when the Washington, DC-based IRI began implementing the project here.

he Guyana Rastafari Council has passed a resolution at their recent meeting urging the Government to immediately implement the mandate of the last Caribbean Community (Caricom) Heads of Government meeting that each Caricom member state set up a National Marijuana Commission.

The Commission will complement the Regional Marijuana Commission to look at decriminalising marijuana for medical, religious and recreational purposes.

Back in July, President Donald Ramotar had said that the move by Caricom to establish a committee to look into the use of marijuana for medical purposes is a step in the right direction, and is welcomed by the Guyana Government.

Examine thoroughly

“I think it is something that we need to examine thoroughly… it is a good thing. The United States has already implemented this in many of their states across the country and a lot of people are pushing for it.

A lot of emphasis has been placed on the positive side of it,” Ramotar said.

The President, however, highlighted that while it seems a good idea; thus far, there is need for adequate information on its effects before steps can be made to legalise the contraband.

“Many are pushing for it and people are looking at all the positives, but the question is how do we control and maintain the health of the citizens and how it is used? We need to look at the negatives too and see which one outweighs the other before we make a decision, but we have definitely welcomed the initiative,” he said.

Caricom had created a

The Guyana Rastafari Council has passed a resolution, urging Government to implement the mandate of the last Caricom Heads of Government meeting to set up a National Marijuana Commission

Commission to study whether the Region’s 15 million people should be allowed to use medical marijuana and how courts should handle possession of small amounts of the drug. The accord was reached at the semi-annual summit of Caricom Heads of Government in Antigua. The Commission is expected to submit reports at Caricom’s next summit, scheduled for February 2016.

Rigorous inquiry

The Heads of Government agreed to establish a regional Commission on Marijuana to conduct a rigorous inquiry into the social, economic, health and legal issues surrounding marijuana use in the Region and to advise whether there should be a change in the current drug classification of marijuana, thereby making the drug more accessible for a range of users.

A recent preliminary report from Caricom found that decriminalising medical marijuana could help boost the Region’s economy.

St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, who was key in getting the issue on the agenda during his Chairmanship of Caricom,

APNU, Chinese Ambassador hold talks on Chinese business operations

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hina’s Ambassador to Guyana, Zhang Limin, on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on the Leader of the Opposition, Brigadier David Granger, at his Hadfield Street, Georgetown office.

In a release, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said the Chinese Ambassador recalled the long history of friendship between the Communist Party of China and the People’s National Congress. The Ambassador congratulated Brigadier Granger on his recent election as Leader of the

China’s Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin meeting with Leader of the Opposition, retired Brigadier David Granger at his Hadfield Street, Georgetown office

People’s National Congress Reform. Brigadier Granger was accompanied by

Member of Parliament Ronald Bulkan, APNU Shadow Minister for Local

Government, and Mark Archer, Communications Director, Office of the

Leader of the Opposition.

The two sides discussed a number of issues of mutual interest, including Guyana/China relations; APNU support for a no-confidence motion against the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Administration; early elections; Chinese direct investments in Guyana; and the conduct of Chinese companies operating in Guyana. Other matters relating to the lack of good governance, the escalation of crime and the refusal of the PPP/C Administration to hold Local Government Elections were also discussed.

expects the Commission to study reforms taking place around the world on marijuana policy, including Jamaica, the US, Sweden and Uruguay.

Puerto Rico is currently debating easing marijuana possession penalties, legalising medical marijuana and allowing cultivation of medical-grade marijuana.

Marijuana has been criminalised and considered taboo in other parts of the Western Hemisphere.

Lawmakers in Puerto Rico have filed legislation over the past year that would allow medical marijuana and decrease penalties for possession of small amounts.

Another resolution passed by the Rastafariasn is the endorsement of the work of the Guyana Reparations Committee in coming up with the correct historical narrative for Guyana, among other things, as part of the Caricom Reparations Claim.

The members also expressed concern over the general allocation of land in Guyana; and are calling on members of the Rastafari community to utilise the land in more organic agricultural pursuits for food security. This is in light of recent concerns being raised about genetically-modified seeds and food entering the Guyana food chain.

The Guyana Rastafari Council said it is about to embark on the process of building its headquarters in Georgetown, and developing an agricultural project on the outskirts of Linden.

The pioneering community organisation will be holding its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and election of new office bearers on Sunday, December 21.

The new executive will be responsible for coordinating a Regional Rastafari Conference on Reparations and Repatriation in the first half of 2015, as part of the Caricom Reparations Commission’s agenda that is part of the mandate of the United Nations’ International Decade for Peoples of African Descent.

12 news

THURSDAY, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Prominent Pakistani Muslim US$185M garnered scholars visit Islamic Complex for Guyana Goldfields

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uyana Goldfields Inc and its wholly owned subsidiary, AGM Inc are pleased to announce the signing of a common terms agreement with International Finance Corporation, Export Development Canada, ING Capital LLC, Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation and The Bank of Nova Scotia.

The other definitive documentation with respect to its previously announced credit approval for a US$185 million project finance facility to fund the development and construction of, and general matters relating to, the 100 per cent owned Aurora Gold Project located in Guyana, South America.

With the completion of the facility, the development of the project is now fully financed, subject to the terms and conditions of the facility.

The Project Loan Facility will consist of two tranches: a Tranche One facility of US$160 million and a Tranche Two cost overrun facility of US$25 million.

The maximum term of the facility is eight years and advances under the facility bear a weighted average interest rate of threemonth LIBOR plus 5.11 per cent for Tranche One facility, and advances under the Tranche Two facility would bear interest at the same average range of rates plus 0.5 per cent (if drawn). There will be no gold hedging requirements or other similar provisions associated with the facility.

As a condition of first disbursement, the company is obligated to fund an additional US$33 million which has been satisfied through a fully-subscribed, non-brokered private placement offering. Management currently expects to obtain first drawdown of the facility in September of this year.

The Natural Resources

and Environment Minister Robert Persaud stated, “The Government of Guyana congratulates Guyana Goldfields Inc in securing full financing for the wholly owned Aurora Gold Project. This level of investment from a large-scale mining operation is important to the growth and development of the Guyanese economy. The Government of Guyana through the Natural Resources and the Environment Ministry has been working with Guyana Goldfields to ensure that their undertaking is realised and will continue to work with this company throughout the lifetime of this project.

Benefits

The benefits for Guyana from this project such as local employment, contribution to national wealth, training and community development cannot be overemphasised. In addition, Guyana’s level of gold declaration is expected to double with the anticipated output from the Aurora project.”

Scott A Caldwell, President and Chief Executive Officer stated, “We have been aggressively working on the construction of the Aurora Gold Project, which remains on schedule to achieve commercial production in mid-2015, and recently completed the largest single concrete pour for the SAG Mill base foundation.

We would like to thank all parties involved throughout the facility transaction.”

The company was advised by Endeavour Financial Limited (Cayman) (Financial Advisor), Cassels Brock and Blackwell LLP (Ontario Counsel), Allen and Overy LLP (US Counsel), Harridyal-Sodha and Associates (Barbados Counsel) and Luckhoo and Luckhoo (Guyanese Counsel).

The Senior Lenders were advised by Shearman and Sterling LLP (US Counsel), Stikeman Elliott LLP (Ontario Counsel), Hughes, Fields and Stoby (Guyanese Counsel), Clarke Gittens Farmer (Barbados Counsel), JLT Specialty Limited (Insurance Consultant), Roscoe Postle Associates Inc (Independent Engineer), and Golder Associates Limited (Independent Environmental and Social Consultants).

A copy of the Credit Agreement will be filed under Guyana Goldfields’ profile on SEDAR. Guyana Goldfields Inc is a Canadian-based company, focused on the exploration and development of gold deposits in Guyana, South America. GGI is focused on the construction and development of the Aurora Gold Project scheduled for commercial production in mid2015.

The Aurora Gold Project has a total gold resource of 6.54 million ounces in the measured and indicated categories (62.83 million tonnes at 3.24 g/t Au) as well as an additional 1.82 million ounces in the inferred category (16.93 million tonnes at 3.34 g/t Au). (CNW, a Public Relations News Wire

Company)

ACIC President Hakeem Khan in discussion with the scholars

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rominent Muslim scholars Hazrat Maulana Hafiz Qari Imran Naeem and Hazrat Maulana Hafiz Qari Waqas Ahmad of Pakistan made a short first time ever visit to Guyana as guests of the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC) and the Guyana United Sadr Islamic Anjuman over the last weekend.

Hazrat Maulana Hafiz Qari Imran Naeem and Hazrat Maulana Hafiz Qari Waqas Ahmad of Pakistan made the brief visit to Guyana from Suriname where they are attached to the Jamia Ilmiyyat Fareediyat School and Jamia Ashrafiyat Qadriyat respectively, both in Paramaribo, Suriname.

They were accompanied by Chairman of the International Qaseeda Committee of Suriname,

Hadji Sarafat Ali who took the opportunity to discuss Guyana’s participation in the International Qaseeda Mehfil 2014 to be hosted by the Hedayatul Islam in Suriname next weekend.

Guyana is sending a large delegation to that event.

The visiting scholars both memorised the Quran at the early ages of 13 and 14 years respectively and attended Jamiatul Madina, Faizana Madina and Alimiy Madini Markaz in Pakistan (run by Dawati Al Islam of Karachi, Pakistan).

They are attached to the Dawati Al Islam, which is an International Sunni organisation with an active presence (schools and mosques) in 42 countries and has scholars in over 200 countries across the world.

It is a non-profit organi-

sation dedicated to the upliftment and spreading of Sunni Islam and owns the famous Madani TV Channel.

The visiting scholars both expressed great pleasure at the work of ACIC, Guyana’s leading Muslim centre.

The Sunni Scholars took the opportunity to hold discussions with officials of ACIC aimed at finding ways of supporting the work at the Centre of Sunni Islam in Guyana. They will be making regular visits to Guyana in the future to conduct classes and programmes.

The scholars, together with Hadji Sarafat Ali were also guests at a special programme at ACIC. The delegation was updated with the work of ACIC and had a firsthand view of the current expansion works there.

Professor to explore relationship between jaguars, miners in Amazon

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r Anthony Cummings was in the third year of his doctoral work, studying multiple-use plant species in Guyana’s part of the Amazon basin, when he came into contact with a Guyanese gold miner.

The man gave Dr Cummings a disc with photographs showing the man and his fellow miners capturing and, a few days later, killing a jaguar.

“I was really upset by this because all of a sudden my mind began to think of larger, multinational corporations that come into Guyana for gold,” said Dr Cummings, a Geospatial Scientist and Assistant Professor in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences.

“Here was a small-to medium-scale gold miner demonstrating the kinds of impacts he could have on environmental processes.”

Dr Cummings recently received a grant from the National Geographic Society’s Big Cats Initiative to fund a trip this winter to Guyana, where he will explore the relationship between jaguars and gold miners.

Gold mining in Guyana grew tremendously after the global economy crisis in 2008, Dr Cummings said. Gold prices reached record highs, and lower risks incentivised more people to invest in the precious metal.

He said most people do not realise the lasting impacts gold mining has on the envi-

Dr Anthony Cummings

ronment.

The jaguar, the national animal of Guyana, is considered a surrogate species, Dr Cummings said. If the animals are seen in the rain forests, it generally means everything is ok in the environment; there are enough rodents, such as agoutis and pacas, and deer in the ecosystem to support the jaguar population.

If jaguars are removed through human activity, the question then arises, “What else is being impacted?”

Dr Cummings wants to see whether there is any correlation between the 2008 economic crisis and the number of jaguars killed in Guyana.

In other words, with more gold miners pushing into the frontier, are more jaguars being killed?

“There’s this cliché that

we use all the time that tropical forests are the lungs of the world,” he said.

“There is a tremendous amount of truth to that because tropical forests store carbon in their biomass. You remove forests, and that carbon has to go someplace, which impacts our ability to live on the planet.

“It’s a tricky situation. You want more gold, you’re going to remove forests to get that gold, and as a consequence you’re going to trigger human well-being issues.”

During his three weeks in Guyana, Cummings will examine the rates of incidents in which humans kill and capture jaguars and jaguars kill humans.

He aims to identify stakeholders in the interactions, determine whether there is an issue and then plan a discussion of how to remove jaguars from harm’s way and educate gold miners to protect the animals.

Dr Cummings will speak with gold miners, foresters and managers in the capital, Georgetown, and in various gold-mining hotspots in the country. He will also talk with indigenous people who live in areas where the presence of gold miners is high.

Dr Cummings said he prefers being “on the ground” and spending time with the indigenous people, as opposed to conducting formal surveys or group discussions. Trying to understand how indigenous people think about issues

drives his work.

“If I do something, how is to going to affect them and their livelihood? This is a question I’m always aware of in what I do,” he said.

“Even though jaguars seem like they’re far removed from indigenous people and their livelihoods, the process that leads to the jaguar being endangered will also lead to traditional practices of indigenous people being endangered. There is a very strong connection there.”

Dr Cummings aims to develop a bigger project that would become part of an effort to prevent jaguars from becoming endangered in Guyana.

Dr Cummings was born in Wauna, a village about 10 miles from the GuyanaVenezuela border. He was raised among indigenous people, primarily members of the Arawak and Carib tribes.

During his undergraduate work at the University of Guyana, he worked with Conservation International to gauge the views of indigenous people of southern Guyana on the creation of a protected area adjacent to their homelands.

He holds Masters’ Degrees from the University of the West Indies at Cave Hill in Barbados and the University of Cambridge in the UK. He earned his PhD in Geography at Syracuse University.

He came to UT Dallas last year as a visiting Assistant Professor. (UT Dallas/News Centre)

NEWS

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THURsDAY, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Nagamootoo, Hughes likely to vie for AFC leadership spot – Congress billed for October 25

BY JOMO PAUL

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ot only is the Alliance For Change (AFC) preparing for a debate in the National Assembly on a no-confidence motion brought against the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration, but the party is also preparing for its Biennial Congress during which a candidate will be identified to lead the party into the next elections.

The party’s Congress is set for October 25 and the post of party leader will also be up for voting.

When the AFC was founded in 2005, it included three parliamentarians who had left their respective parties, namely Raphael Trotman of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Khemraj Ramjattan of the PPP/C and the late Sheila Holder of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA).

Trotman subsequently became the leader of the party and led it at the 2006 parliamentary elections. He made way for Ramjattan in the 2011 polls at which time the party received 10.3 per cent of the votes and gained seven of Guyana’s 65 parliamentary seats, becoming the third largest political party in the National Assembly of Guyana.

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

The party’s internal Constitution stipulates that the person running for the leadership post and presidential candidacy of any impending elections can only do so once, which is unique to established party Constitutions in Guyana’s political sphere.

Candidates

Given the party’s current membership, the most likely discernable candidates for the leadership position of the party would be Moses Nagamootoo, who serves as party Vice Chairman and Nigel Hughes, who is the sitting party Chairman.

On Wednesday, this news-

paper contacted Chairman of the party, Nigel Hughes who said all questions with respect to the party’s Congress and candidates should be directed to AFC’s General Secretary David Patterson and AFC Leader Ramjattan.

However, several attempts made to contact Ramjattan and Patterson proved futile.

Cathy Hughes, AFC Parliamentarian, on the other hand said she was not focused on the upcoming Congress, but rather on impending snap elections debate in the National Assembly when it reconvenes in October. When questioned whether she would be running for any other posts in the party, she said: “I am not even looking at that, we are preparing for the no-confidence motion.”

Meanwhile, Guyana Times spoke to the party’s youth representative Trevor Williams, who said while he is interested in the leadership post of the party, he has not considered running for the top spot at the upcoming congress.

“I am definitely thinking about running, it’s an honourable post to run for,” he added. Williams explained that while he is unaware of the possible leadership contestants for the upcoming

elections, the party does not lack any candidates for the post, noting that most of its current leaders have the skills to lead the party.

Conflict of interest

Since the 2011, the AFC has been dogged by a series of sandals with several of its top leaders being caught up in conflict of interest situations, include, Mr

AFC Chairman Nigel Hughes

and Mrs Nigel Hughes and Ramjattan.

In the ensuing period, Region Six Councillor Haseef Yusuf spoke out against many of the internal party hiccups and expressed no confidence in the top leader-

Policeman shot in Eccles A father and a son are in Police custody assisting with investigation in connection with the shooting incident involving a Police Constable on Wednesday, along the Eccles Public Road, East Bank Demerara.

Police Constable Leroy English was reportedly shot to his right arm and foot about 00:30h and was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted a patient.

Hospital officials confirmed that he is in a stable condi-

tion.

Police ranks at the Criminal Investigation Department, Brickdam, Georgetown remained tightlipped about the shooting.

A Division Commander Clifton Hicken in an invited comment told Guyana

Times that the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is investigating the matter, and as such, he cannot divulge any information.

In addition, he said at present he is not sure what the circumstances are surrounding the shooting.

GT&T awards bursary to 17 students

GT&T senior staff pose with the awardees at a simple ceremony

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eventeen students, all children of employees of GT&T who wrote the 2014 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), were recently awarded with bursaries from the com-

pany.

The students will be provided with an annual stipend for the entire period of their secondary education.

GT&T Chief Financial Officer

Justin Nedd, in his remarks to the students, challenged them to maintain the highest grades and use all academic opportunities available to them.

ship.

The AFC subsequently tabled a motion of no confidence against Yusuf. The motion filed on March 14, noted public attacks by Yusuf to discredit the AFC and his declaration of support for another political party. Yusuf has openly challenged the minority Opposition party on issues of transparency and corruption.

Additionally, only recently the Finance and Economics point man of the AFC, Sasenarine Singh tendered his resignation from the party with immediate effect.

In a letter, Singh said he was resigning for “personal” reasons and wished the party well in its future endeavours.

He noted he would become active in local politics.

Before him, in March 2013, AFC Councillor Charrandas Persaud decided to leave the party over “recognition issues”, which were among a long list of his concerns that are yet to be addressed. He had since returned to the party.

Several other members, including Dr Asquith Rose and Tarron Khemraj, had resigned from the party and joined the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), because of unresolved conflicts

AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo

and differences on policy issues and decisions taken by the AFC’s current leadership.

Also an AFC Member of the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Archie Cordis had parted ways with the party. In August last, its Chairman Nigel Hughes had tendered his resignation, but it was not accepted. Hughes had offered his resignation after it was reported that he was the Company Secretary of Amaila Falls Hydro Inc, a project which his party had blocked Parliamentary support for.

“Junkie” reportedly confesses to murder of Helena man

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he main suspect in the chopping to death of 52-yearold Balkissoon, of Lot 107 Helena Number Two, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara reportedly confessed to the act on Tuesday and signed a caution statement admitting to the crime, a senior Police rank confirmed on Wednesday.

He is due to appear in court before the week ends.

A post mortem examination performed on Balkissoon’s body gave his cause of death as shock and haemorrhage due to an incised wound to the neck. The autopsy was performed by Dr Nehaul Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary.

The senior rank told Guyana Times that from all indications it was a premeditated murder since earlier in the day, the farmer had warned the suspect to leave his premises. He reportedly left, but staked out the man’s farm.

Balkissoon reportedly left for lunch and it was while he was on his way back to the farm, he was attacked and killed. Moments before the chopping incident, the suspect was also chased from another farm.

Balkissoon was chopped to his neck at Middle Walk Dam, Mahaica on Tuesday around 12:30h and was left to bleed to death.

Dead: Balkissoon

The dead man’s eldest son, Hemchand Balkissoon, recalled that his father had gone home for lunch and left shortly after midday to return to the backdam. He was carrying a “motor blower” and a pump on his bicycle when the “junkie” confronted him.

Guyana Times understands that the man’s youngest son and a friend of his father witnessed the gruesome murder. In a release, Police stated that Balkissoon was involved in an argument with another man on Middle Walk Dam during which he was chopped to his neck.

The Police further stated that the man was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The murder suspect was arrested and taken into Police custody to assist with the investigations.

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, september 4, 2014

Regional

Venezuela reshuffles cabinet, backs Guatemala Prisons Director Edgar away from economic shake-up Camargo arrested P

resident Nicolas Maduro has reshuffled his cabinet in a bid to boost his popularity but shows no sign of revamping Venezuela’s troubled economy, meaning prospects of gasoline price hikes and a unification of Byzantine currency controls have dimmed.

Caught between trying to preserve predecessor Hugo Chávez’s socialist legacy and fixing the economy, Maduro on Tuesday night pushed Rafael Ramirez from his twin posts as Oil Minister and boss of state oil company PDVSA, ending the official’s decade-long grip on the country’s Energy Industry.

Ramirez, also moved from a third post of Vice President for the economy, had been advocating re-

Venezuela’s new Oil and Mining Minister Asdrubal Chávez, cousin of the late president Hugo Chávez, smiles during a news conference at Miraflores Palace in Caracas on September 2

forms such as one official foreign currency rate instead of the current three and an increase in the price of the world’s cheapest gasoline. He was named Foreign

Minister.

Maduro promoted PDVSA’s exploration and Production Chief, Eulogio Del Pino, to the company’s top job and tapped Asdrubal

Chávez, cousin of late leader Chávez, to lead the Oil Ministry.

After weeks of Government officials talking of a major “shakeup,” critics and some economists said the shuffle shows that Maduro, whose popularity has been slipping, is not willing to shoulder the political cost of undoing the Chávez-era model.

Though popular social welfare projects from Chávez’s 14-year rule are still in place, the economy is teetering on recession and annual inflation has risen to over 60 per cent. A lack of US dollars due to strict currency controls has led to shortages of basic goods ranging from powdered milk to soap. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Extradition hearing for Surinamese national accused with Dino Bouterse on drug charges in United States

T

he extradition hearing of a Surinamese national charged in the United States with Dino Bouterse, the son of Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse, is due to resume in a court in Trinidad on Tuesday.

Bouterse, 41, is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty last week in the United Sates to charges of attempting to aid the Lebanese paramilitary group, Hezbollah, and conspiring to import cocaine into the United States.

He also pleaded guilty to carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.

Bouterse, who faces a sentence of between 15 years and life in prison, was accused of inviting people he believed to be from Hezbollah to establish a base in Suriname to attack Americans, in exchange for an initial two million US dollar payment.

Edward Muntslag, with whom he was jointly charged for conspiring to

smuggle 10 kilos of cocaine into the United States, is fighting his extradition to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago. He was arrested at a shopping mall on August 29 last year.

US law enforcement officials have charged both Bouterse and Muntslag of participating in the transportation of a suitcase with the drugs from Suriname to an unnamed Caribbean island aboard a commercial flight in July 2013. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Camargo had been in the post since February 2013

G

uatemala’s Prison Service Director Edgar Camargo has been arrested and charged with involvement in a lucrative corruption and extortion scheme.

Prosecutors say the scheme was run by a high profile convicted criminal, Byron Oliva Lima, who paid bribes to Camargo.

Oliva Lima took money from inmates to allow them access to phones, special food and sexual encounters in prison. He is serving a lengthy sentence for the murder in 1998 of Roman Catholic Bishop Juan Jose Gerardi.

Oliva Lima, a 44-yearold former Army Captain, was sentenced in 2001 to 20 years in jail, but he was due

to be released on parole later this month.

He has now been charged with money laundering and organised crime, which means he will probably remain in jail for longer.

Prosecutors say Camargo and at least another 12 people were involved in the scheme.

The Guatemalan prison service Director was arrested in an early morning raid in the city of Mixco and later appeared in court in the capital, Guatemala City.

He has been accused of allowing Oliva Lima a number of privileges at the Pavoncito jail, including permission to leave the penitentiary in several occasions. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Caribbean must brace for “full impact” of Chikungunya – CARPHA

T

Chikungunya is a viral disease, carried mainly by the aedes aegypti mosquito and causes a dengue-like sickness

he Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is warning the Caribbean to be prepared for the “full impact” of the mosquito-borne Chikungunya virus eight months after the first case was detected.

CARPHA Executive Director, Dr James

Hospedales told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that almost all Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries have now reported cases of the virus.

“There are a total of over 9000 confirmed cases. There is an estimate in excess of 600,000 cases in total, most of those being from the bigger

countries like The Dominican Republic and Haiti with 37 deaths in total.

“So it continues to spread, we will have an expert consultation next month to look at all the plans and also to see how we better inform and protect people and protect the economy of the Region,” Dr Hospedales told CMC.

He said Caribbean governments were making a “valiant effort” in dealing with the virus, adding “what we have been doing has not been sufficient and the increase of dengue that we have seen in the last years is a marker that what we are doing is not working as well as it ought to work. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

St Lucia says SIDS lack Deadly punches China to support Antiguacarbon emissions assistance killed Jamaican Barbuda education programme from developed countries man beaten in jail

S

t Lucia has expressed its disappointment at the lack of assistance from developed countries to significantly reduce carbon emissions as well as labelling many Small Island Developing States (SIDS) as middle income countries.

“The record shows that our community of small island nations has yet to arrive at a point of sustainability. Overall progress in surmounting our challenges has been modest at best, and in some areas there has been noticeable regression,” said Dr James Fletcher, the island’s Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology

Minister.

Fletcher, addressing the United Nations’ Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which ends today, attributed the lag in progress to several factors including prolonged economic recession; dwindling support and the failure of key partners to fulfil pledges to scale up climate finance; and the graduation of SIDS to Middle Income Status.

He said the new status was based on “outmoded criteria that are out of step with empirical studies on vulnerability and resilience”. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

U

nited States-based Pathologist, Dr Michael Baden says that preliminary results from Tuesday’s autopsy of the body of Mario Deane, who was beaten while in Police custody in August, proved that he died from a rain of blows to his head and brain, consistent with punches.

The autopsy of the body of the 31-year-old was conducted by local Pathologist, Dr Murari Saranji in the presence of Dr Baden. “The cause of death was multiple impact to his head and brain and compression to the neck – homicide,” Baden told

journalists in Montego Bay following a marathon postmortem conducted at the Cornwall Regional Hospital morgue.

“Dr Saranji was very cooperative and very helpful to me and to the family. We did confirm that Mario died of multiple impact to the head, face, brain and did suffer some neck compression,” Dr Baden disclosed. The renowned US Pathologist said that Dr Saranji will get “additional studies finished”.

However, Baden said, while the autopsy proved that Deane died of a beating, it could not say by whom it was orchestrated. (Excerpt from

Jamaica Observer)

P

remier of China Li Keqiang has pledged to support the Antigua and Barbuda Government’s thrust in education. During a meeting with Li, Prime Minister Gaston Browne outlined his Government’s plans for developing the education system in Antigua and Barbuda.

He spoke of the plans to transform the Five Islands Secondary School, under construction by the Chinese Government into the first phase of the University College of Antigua and Barbuda; the establishment of a Confucius School of Learning; the establishment of a Chinese language programme in secondary schools, which will

ultimately lead to mandarin becoming a subject at the Caribbean Secondary Certificate CSEC examination level; and the granting of additional scholarships for young Antiguans and Barbudans to pursue studies abroad.

“Education is one of the most important factors that can ensure that our nation truly becomes an economic powerhouse within the Caribbean. The Government of China has been a valuable partner to Antigua and Barbuda in this area and many others and it is my intention to develop our friendship to further benefit both of our peoples,” said Browne. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, september 4, 2014

15

Around the world

5 women named to Japan’s Al Qaeda announces India wing, renews loyalty to Taliban Chief Cabinet, tying past high

A

l Qaeda leader Ayman al Zawahri on Wednesday announced the formation of an Indian branch of his militant group he said would spread Islamic rule and “raise the flag of jihad” across the subcontinent.

In a 55-minute video posted online, Zawahri also renewed a longstanding vow of loyalty to Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Omar, in an apparent snub to the Islamic State armed group challenging al Qaeda for leadership

of transnational Islamist militancy.

Zawahri described the formation of “Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent” as a glad tidings for Muslims “in Burma, Bangladesh, Assam, Gujurat, Ahmedabad, and Kashmir” and said the new wing would rescue Muslims there from injustice and oppression.

Counter-terrorism experts say al Qaeda’s aging leaders are struggling to compete for recruits with Islamic State, which has

galvanized young followers around the world by carving out tracts of territory across the Iraq-Syria border.

Islamic State leader Abu Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi calls himself a “caliph” or head of state and has demanded the loyalty of all Muslims.

The group fell out with Zawahri in 2013 over its expansion into Syria, where Baghdadi’s followers have carried out beheadings, crucifixions, and mass executions. (Excerpt from MSN)

France halts warship delivery to Russia Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, centre bottom, and his new Cabinet members, Trade Minister Yuko Obuchi, bottom left, Internal Affairs Minister Sanae Takaichi, right bottom, Minister in charge of Promoting Women Haruko Arimura, centre, Minister in charge of Japanese Abducted by North Korea Eriko Yamatani, middle right, Justice Minister Midori Matsushima, top right, pose for the photo session of new Cabinet members following the first Cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister’s official residence in Tokyo Wednesday, September 3

J

apan’s Prime Minister picked five women for his Cabinet on Wednesday, matching the past record and sending the strongest message yet about his determination to change deep-seated views on gender and revive the economy by getting women on board as workers and leaders.

Japan has a vast pool of talented, well-educated women, but they are far under-represented in positions of power in Government and corporations. Women make up 10 per cent of Parliament and just 3.9 per cent of board members of listed Japanese companies, versus 12 per cent at US corporations and 18 per cent in France.

Women here have long

complained about the obstacles to getting taken seriously at work, receiving equal pay for equal work and finding child care or helpful spouses.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reiterated Wednesday that a key part of his “Abenomics” growth strategy is making greater use of women and promoting them to leadership posts – a campaign dubbed “womenomics,” a term he has embraced. Abe has set a goal of having women in 30 per cent of leadership positions in both the private and public sectors by 2020.

“Realising a society where women can shine is a challenge our Cabinet has undertaken,” he said dur-

Second American Doctor diagnosed with Ebola identified as Rick Sacra

T

he second American Doctor to contract Ebola while serving a humanitarian mission in Liberia has been identified as Rick Sacra, a 51-year-old family physician from Massachusetts.

Sacra returned to Liberia about a month ago after two other American missionaries were diagnosed with Ebola, said Bruce Johnson, president of the international missionary group SIM USA, at a press conference in North Carolina on Wednesday.

Sacra is being treated by doctors and staff at the hospital where, until just days ago, he helped deliver babies. Johnson said it is not yet clear how Sacra contracted the disease as he was not working in the hospital’s Ebola isolation unit. The doctor immediately quarantined himself in the hospital’s isolation ward after showing symptoms of Ebola, Johnson said.

When asked if Sacra was going to be flown back to the US for treatment, as two other Americans were, Johnson said all options are under consideration but the focus is on his care in Liberia.

Dr Bruce Ribner, head of infectious disease unit at Emory University hospital in Atlanta where the two infected missionaries were treated, told NBC’s Today show that he does not know if Sacra will be flown to the US for treatment. “I know there have been discussions that this person will be coming back to the United States,” he said. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

ing a news conference. “I look forward to the wind of change these women will bring.”

Having five women in the Cabinet, which currently has 18 members, is extremely rare for Japan. It matches the highest number set back in 2001 under Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.

Abe’s previous Cabinet, dissolved earlier in the day, had two female ministers.

Although ministerial positions are in some ways ceremonial in Japan, where government affairs are largely run by professional bureaucrats, expanding the presence of women in a place as high profile as the Cabinet is a step toward sexual equality. (Excerpt from MSN)

F

rance has suspended the delivery of the first of two Mistral-class warships to Russia “until November” after fierce criticism from its allies given the crisis in Ukraine.

Paris agreed in 2011 to build and sell the two advanced helicopter assault ships to Russia for a total of 1.2 billion euros ($1.6 billion), with the first scheduled for delivery in October or November and the second in 2015.

French leaders had refused to back down on a sale seen as crucial to a country suffering from stagnant growth and record unemployment, despite widespread condemnation due to Russia’s alleged involvement in the Ukraine crisis. Kiev accuses Russia of fomenting the rebellion in Ukraine’s east, a charge that Moscow denies.

“The President of the

The Vladivostok was due to be delivered to Russia by late October (souce: bbc.com)

Republic declared that, despite the prospect of a ceasefire, the conditions for France to deliver the first warship are not to date in place,” Francois Hollande’s office announced on Wednesday, on the eve of a major NATO summit in Wales.

The statement came

just hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin unveiled a plan to end the four-month war in the former Soviet republic, calling on pro-Kremlin rebels and government forces to cease fire and agree to the broad terms of a truce. (Excerpt from Al

Jazeera)

Ebola death toll passes Sex abuse church elder McConaghy 1900, says WHO ‘too fat for jail’

A

The outbreak has brought cases to five countries in West Africa

T

he World Health Organisation (WHO) says more than 1900 people have now died in West Africa’s Ebola outbreak. WHO head Margaret Chan said there were 3500 confirmed or probable cases in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia.

“The outbreaks are racing ahead of the control efforts in these countries,” she said. On Thursday the WHO is holding a meeting to examine the most promising treatments and to discuss how to fast track their testing and production.

Disease control experts, medical researchers, officials from affected countries, and specialists in medical ethics will all be

represented at the meeting in Geneva.

The WHO has previously warned that more than 20,000 people could be infected before the outbreak of the virus is brought under control. Ms Chan described the outbreak as “the largest and most severe and most complex we have ever seen”.

“No one, even outbreak responders with experience dating back to 1976, to 1995, people that were directly involved with those outbreaks, none of them have ever seen anything like it,” she said. Forty per cent of the deaths have occurred in three weeks leading up to September 3, the WHO says. (Excerpt from BBC News)

66-year-old church elder convicted of indecently assaulting a child will not be sent to jail because his obesity means his health is “precarious”.

John William McConaghy, from Urbal Road, Dervock, County Antrim, was found guilty of indecent assault.

Judge David Smyth at Antrim Crown Court suspended a two-and-a-half year term. He said McConaghy’s lack of mobility, ulcerated legs and need for frequent dressings amounted to “wholly exceptional circumstances”.

The jail term was suspended for three years and a £10,000 fine was also imposed. During a 10day trial in October McConaghy’s victim, who is now 44, said she was indecently assaulted from the age of around 10 until she was 18. She said that she was assaulted so often it became “the norm”.

She said McConaghey’s abuse “petered out” as she reached adulthood and struck back at him, scratching his face as she fought him off.

Speaking after the sentencing the woman said was “not happy” he was freed, but nevertheless understood the reason why. “I am happy with the sentence he got, I think that was a fair sentence, but I am not happy with the suspension of it, but I understand the reason for it on medical grounds.”

She added that she was glad she had pursued the case against him, “because everybody now knows, church elder or not, what he is”. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

16 NEWS

thursDAY, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

All set for Yacht Rally Caricom Ministers address SIDS Conference:

challenges to small islands A

Former Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana President Kit Nacimento gave a pictorial explanation on the movements of the yachts expected here

T

he health and security sectors are among a list of stakeholders to participate in the annual Nareid’s Yacht Rally, to be held at the Hurukabra Resort between September 5 and 17.

The Tourism Industry and Commerce Ministry, along with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), has collaborated with the Hurukabra River Resort to host the event which promises to be exciting. Other agencies to participate include Customs and Immigration, Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), and the Region Seven Administration.

Co-owner of the resort, Kit Nacimento said the event is being held for the second time in Guyana. He explained that the rally is growing and will see an improved number of yachts coming here.

The event will be held at the Hurukabra River Resort located on the West Bank of the Essequibo River, just 10 minutes away from Bartica by speed boat. “Come prepared for fun, come prepared to travel on a boat and walk on sand,” Nacimento said.

The rally, which will feature a number of activities including a firsttime beach party at the resort, also comes with three packages for patrons to choose from.

Gem MadhooNacimento, Co-owner of the Hurukabra River Resort said it is expected that people dressed accordingly.

“One of the things we want to do on that day is give people an opportunity to go on the yacht. We’re hoping to take all those persons at the beach party on board,” she said, adding that patrons could choose from three different scales of tickets, including a $15,000 package which caters for all inclusive transportation and lunch.

The other tickets cost

$12,000 for persons who would prefer to walk along with their own lunch.

Another ticket costs $7000 is also available for patrons who wish to attend the event with their own vessel.

Madhoo-Nacimento said that her agency had heeded to requests by patrons to make the event an annual one. She said she hopes the general public

Tourism Ministry, led a delegation to Trinidad and Tobago to sell Guyana as a yachting destination.

“When you promote Guyana as a yachting destination, you also promote it as a tourism destination,” he said, adding: “We are at the exciting beginning of making Guyana a yachting destination.”

Representatives of GTA said Government has al-

Co-owner of the Hurukabra River Resort, Gem MadhooNacimento speaking to media operatives in the boardroom of the Tourism Ministry on Wednesday

would take advantage of the opportunity.

She related too that the entire Guyanese population, especially persons within the hospitality industry, benefited tremendously when the yachts are here.

“It’s not only the resorts, in fact we benefit very little. If they support our bar, that just a little money,” she said, continuing that hoteliers and taxi drivers on most occasions benefit.

Kit Nacimento said the yachts, which will be coming from countries around the world, are “simply spectacular”. He said the high cost invested into the yachts is an indication of the special interest in the yachts coming to Guyana and make the country a yachting destination.

He said just recently, Government, through the

ways been pleased to work along with the private sector to promote tourism in Guyana.

uthorities from several Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and experts from the United Nations discussed on Wednesday the critical factors that underpin the vulnerability of Caribbean SIDS, during the Third International Conference on SIDS being held this week in Samoa.

In a side event of the Conference hosted by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in collaboration with the Caribbean Community Secretariat, untitled “The vulnerability of Caribbean SIDS revisited - it’s all about size,” ministers gathered in a panel discussion and mentioned the Caribbean SIDS journey and the role of the wider international community.

The speakers addressed the challenges related to the vulnerability of Caribbean SIDS as a result of small size and resulting limited capacity. The areas of trade and finance, governance and institutional capacity, disaster management and regional integration were discussed.

Also, the issue of classification of the majority of Caribbean SIDS as middle income countries based on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was analyzed and opportunities arising from small size were explored within the context of regional integration.

“The development imperatives that drive national decision making are related to size,” expressed at the opening Arnold J. Nicholson, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica, who moderated the meeting.

Raúl García-Buchaca, Director of ECLAC’s Programme Planning and Operations Division, welcomed participants to the side event and indicated that the discussion would focus

Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett

on the critical factors that underpin the vulnerability of Caribbean SIDS and that are based on their unique characteristics.

“The middle income status based on GDP per capita does not consider the inequalities that exist even at the national level. Narrowing of gaps within countries is essential and this could be done through collaboration”, García-Buchaca emphasized.

A special statement by John Ashe, President of the 68th Session of the United Nations’ General Assembly, was delivered during the meeting. It focused on the particular vulnerabilities of Caribbean SIDS and suggested that they should be mainstreamed into the post2015 development agenda.

Winston Dookeran, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago, noted that conflicting interests make it difficult to work together in the theme of SIDS. He suggested looking to the systemic problems that create the conditions in which we live, and questioned if the Caribbean vulnerability comes from size, geography or structure.

He stated that buffers to external shocks should be built by working together with development partners and international finan-

DEA Office rollout...

Of recent, the DEA Office has been lending a supporting role to CANU in the investigations of the submersible vessel found in Region One last month.

Hunt had told this newspaper in an exclusive interview that Government had requested their assistance in the investigations.

“The Government of Guyana asked us to assist them technically with some of the forensics involved in the investigations. They asked for advice on the best way to handle securing and moving of the vessel so we have provided them with our best technical advice and our technical experts who have been work-

ing alongside the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit,” he disclosed. The US Embassy official disclosed that there are a small number of DEA officials involved in the investigations. He noted that their participation in the probe varies every day, depending on the level and type of expertise needed at the site.

DEA officers from the regional offices, the Caribbean and the US comprised the small team assisting with the investigations. Asked whether their intelligence so far have shown links to any drug cartels, Hunt noted that it is too early in the investigations to determine this;

cial institutions. “Size may well be an opportunity rather than a limitation,” he declared.

Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guyana, noted that the Caribbean would need over 7 per cent growth to be sustainable.

Last year the highest growth rate in the region was 5.3 per cent (in Guyana), according to ECLAC’s Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean.

She mentioned the challenge in diversifying Caribbean economies within the new global economic order to promote economic growth.

Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, focused on the vulnerability of Caribbean SIDS to natural disasters and their impact on the economies.

“The impacts of natural disasters are eroding the gains in economic growth,” he said. He added that because of their small GDP, the islands are unable to finance adaptation and recovery from natural disasters and recommended regional integration, development financing, preferential trade and debt relief and restructuring to overcome vulnerability and small size.

Participants in the side event also introduced the vulnerability-resilience profile for arriving at an index, but warned that poverty and unemployment continue to increase in the region.

The resilience fund for SIDS could be a good measure and stressed the importance of partnerships to obtain productive relationships.

Finally, the ministers conveyed that the human capital of the Caribbean needs to be recognised and public policy needs to be revolutionised. “The political structure needs to be changed to build public policy,” they stated.

from page 9

however, he said based upon the DEA’s professional assessment thus far, the vessel was intended for the movement of narcotics.

“It’s very early days yet in the investigations to speculate as to which particular entity, what particular people, what particular links but the purpose of the investigation and the purpose of our co-operation with the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit is to assist them in being able to determine all of that and I’m sure when CANU has made that determination, they will be more than happy to share the results of their investigation,” the US official stated.

According to the Charge d’Affaires, anti-narcotics agencies around the world have made many such discoveries of semi-submersible vessels, including the Caribbean and Latin America.

Hunt explained that the DEA has been involved in some of those discoveries. He went onto say that using those intelligence, the DEA will try to assist CANU with comparing the vessel found with other known models and types previously discovered in order to determine the similarities and differences so that they can identify which entity is responsible for it.

NEWS

17

thursday, september 4, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

Nandlall chides Greenidge Sustainable for attacks on Judiciary development of SIDS He said two things were obvious from this uninitiated disclosure. Firstly, Greenidge is unaware that in civilised societies, a person who is aggrieved by a decision of a judge is free to challenge that decision by invoking the relevant legal procedure rather than “cuss out” the judge in the newspapers, attributing to that judge nefarious motives and humiliating and intimidating him publicly.

Oblivious

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

A

ttorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall has chided A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Finance Spokesman Carl Greenidge for his recent attacks on members of the judiciary.

Nandlall’s comments come in reaction to an article in another section of the media on Wednesday in which Greenidge said, among other things, that the judiciary “is keen to intervene at the behest of the Executive and handing out decisions that are damaging and inconsistent with the Constitution”.

Nandlall said Greenidge’s attacks were unwarranted and “distasteful, and were clearly intended to bring our judges into disrepute and intimidate them”.

Secondly, he said, Greenidge is oblivious to the legal right which every citizen possesses to have unhindered access to the court to challenge any perceived violation of the law or the Constitution.

“Mr Greenidge further, incredulously, alleges that the President appoints Judges “alone” and in disregard of the Constitution and the Judicial Service Commission. According to Greenidge, as a consequence, an increasing proportion of those who are appointed are not only inappropriately experienced, but politically connected, have been inflicted on the public.

“In short, Mr Greenidge is contending that most, if not all, of our judges were unlawfully and unconstitutionally appointed, are incompetent to discharge the

APNU Finance Spokesman Carl Greenidge

functions of their office and are political stooges to the Executive. This is a most contemptuous statement which strikes at the heart of the independence of the judiciary.

"Not only must it be condemned in the strongest possible manner but the relevant legal process ought to be activated, so that appropriate sanctions can be imposed to protect our judiciary from such and similar scurrilous attacks, if not, our judges will not be able to rule fearlessly and in accordance with law,” said the AG. In this regard, Nandlall said he will be reviewing the legal options. He said too that Greenidge continues his delusional utterances by stating that in September 2000,

the President appointed four persons as Justices of Appeal “in defiance of the recommendations of The Judicial Service Commission”.

“Something must be fundamentally wrong with an individual who is not only capable of conjuring up these occurrences and convincing himself that they actually took place, but is prepared to assert them publicly.

"This presidential aspirant expects people to believe that these grave constitutional tragedies took place in this country and not a single legal challenge was launched against them. But yet he expects to be taken seriously.

"The situation becomes even graver when one recalls that when Mr Greenidge’s party was in Government it preached and practised the doctrine of “party paramountcy”. That meant that all institutions of the state were subject and subservient to the ruling party. They abolished the Privy Council as Guyana’s final court of appeal in order to control the judiciary. Then they flew the PNC flag on top of the Guyana Court of Appeal.

"Mr Greenidge was a Minister then. Perhaps he is still mentally incarcerated in the prison of that era where the judiciary was expected to be beholden to the PNC as a matter of political policy,” Nandlall asserted.

Two-time convict mounts protest on NA Prison roof

A

female inmate of the New Amsterdam Prison on Tuesday took to the roof of the facility in protest over what she described as injustice.

From the roof, Vanessa Schroeder shouted, “This is injustice.” The 39-year-old claims that she and other inmates suffer physically at the hands of both inmates and prison officials. The inmate, who is currently before the court on a ‘damage to property’ charge for which she has failed to raise bail, has already served two sentences. Schroeder is alleged to have damaged a minibus windscreen in July.

In 2006, Schroeder was convicted of manslaughter for the unlawful killing of her 16-day-old baby, Lana, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment by

Venessa Schroeder during her protest at the New Amsterdam Prison

Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards. In a confession, she had admitted that she had paid a man $500 to kill the infant.

The mother of three other

children was on bail awaiting the outcome of that trial when she was jailed for three years for killing her brother In August 2013, she was released from prison.

According to a close relative of the prisoner, in December 2012, she was given $200,000 to start a new life when she was released in a few months.

Arlene Cameron told this publication that after she was released in August, Schroeder squandered the money and returned to family members in Linden to demand more money and was given an additional $200,000.

According to Cameron, during Linden Town Day celebrations, they were once again approached and they gave the woman $50,000. “It is very hard, we minding her daughter since she was 10 months old..., ” she said.

Cameron said they have done enough and will not be supplying the $90,000 bail which Schroeder is currently seeking.

Man, 48, charged with assault of mother A

48-year-old man accused of assaulting his mother was granted bail when he appeared before the court on Wednesday.

Anand Surajbali, of Lot 65 West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Judy Latchman to answer to the unlawful assault charge.

The charge alleged that on September 1 at the aforementioned address, he unlawfully assaulted his mother, Joyce Surajbali.

He pleaded guilty with an explanation. According to him, he was having drinks with a female companion late into the night, and after the drinks, he went to bed.

The next morning he woke

up and was drinking his tea as usual when the Virtual Complainant (VC) started an argument. He subsequently left the room and went to his cousin’s house. Moments later, he saw the Police approaching him with the VC, who made false allegations against him.

Based on the defendant’s explanation, a not-guilty plea

was entered. The prosecution, however, noted that the VC is the mother of the defendant and there may be a recurrence of the incident if he was granted bail.

Nevertheless, bail was granted in the sum of $30,000 and the defendant will return on September 12 before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry.

a global litmus test

C

FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva

oping with climate change should be seen as more than just a question of survival for small island countries the international community should view it as a challenge to take unified action and notch up efforts to shift to a sustainable model of development, FAO DirectorGeneral José Graziano da Silva said on Wednesday.

“Climate change is happening before our eyes.

Rising sea levels, higher air and sea surface temperatures, and changing rainfall patterns are affecting countries worldwide. But there is no doubt that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are more vulnerable,” the FAO chief said during remarks delivered at the 3rd International UN Conference on SIDS in Apia, Samoa (1-4 September).

Climate change has particularly profound implications for the development of SIDS, affecting their food security, livelihoods, and economies, he noted. Long-term thinking and a more holistic approach are necessary, said Graziano da Silva, explaining: “To ensure food security you cannot simply give a person bread. You need to help him produce food; you need to adapt to climate change; you need to ensure him access, including by social protection; you need to ensure a diversified diet that guarantees adequate nutrition.”

Development challenges

SIDS are a group of island countries, mostly from the Pacific, Caribbean, Atlantic and Indian Ocean regions that, while diverse, face similar development challenges. These include small populations, limited resources, susceptibility to natural disasters, vulnerability to external shocks and a high level of dependence on international trade.

The growth and development of SIDS is often further hampered by high transportation and communications costs, expensive public administration and infrastructure, and limited opportunities to create economies of scale. (Learn more) SIDS also struggle with

a spectrum of malnutritionrelated challenges, ranging from undernourishment to obesity, Graziano da Silva added, noting that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), nine out of the 10 countries with the highest female obesity rates are Small Island Developing States. Tackling nutrition issues in the developing world will feature front and center during discussions this coming November at the 2nd International Conference on Nutrition (ICN2), being convened by FAO and WHO in Rome (19th-21st).

Graziano da Silva highlighted three key fronts where action is needed to promote greater resilience and sustainable development in SIDS: Helping them improve their management and use of natural resources: Boosting local food production and building local and regional consumption circuits and Strengthening the resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters and emerging climate-related challenges

FAO’s contribution

FAO is working with governments and other partners to promote resilience and sustainable development in SIDS on a number of fronts. Over the past two years, the Organization has invested over $40 million to support SIDS in their efforts to tackle issues related to food and nutrition security, agriculture, fisheries, forestry and natural resources management.

In the Caribbean, the Organization is supporting the development and implementation of resilience-building and disaster risk reduction plans.

In the Pacific, FAO is actively support the Food Security and Sustainable Livelihoods Program being developed by countries of the region. And through its new Blue Growth Initiative, FAO is helping Small Island Developing States around the planet sustainably use their aquatic resources to advance food security, better nutrition, and poverty reduction.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, september 4, 2014

archie

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) You may be confused about your love life. Be honest about the way you feel, and discuss personal decisions with your partner. Sharing is the best way to keep your relationship alive.

dilbert

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Protect your interests. There are people who would like to benefit from your ideas or ventures.

Your intuition will guide you to the right confidants.

Calvin and Hobbes

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Participate in an unusual or unconventional creative process. New friendships will develop if you are open about the way you feel and the things you want to pursue.

Peanuts

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

SUDOKU

Take care of your responsibilities. This is not a good time to air grievances. Bad feelings will mount if you get involved in an argument. Choose your battles wisely.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Travel and communication are highlighted.

Valuable friendships and worthwhile information will come your way if you get out and do things with the people you admire.

CANCER (June 21July 22) Don’t criticise others.

Your emotions will run high, and you are likely to offend someone if you refuse to see both sides of a situation. Bide your time and avoid isolation.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Put in extra hours at work and increase your productivity. Your superiors will appreciate your efforts and will put you in the running for a raise.

You’ll impress the boss or clients with your contribution.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Put your energy and enthusiasm to good use.

By getting small jobs out of the way, you will have the time to do something that will make you feel special.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23) Interaction with family members or colleagues will be dissatisfying. If you want to lessen the tension, consider stepping away from the turmoil by offering to run errands.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) Don’t let friends or family subdue your enthusiasm. You may be considered quirky or unusual, but that is no reason to stifle your creativity or deaden your personality.

Wednesday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20)

SAGITTARIUS

Take the time to assist family members. You will gain important allies if you are helpful to older relatives. This is a good day to scrutinise your personal papers and financial records.

Keep money matters a secret for the time being.

Resist the urge to lend or borrow. Don’t discuss investments or financial plans until you have your facts and figures straight.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

thurSday, september 4, 2014

19

The unwavering dedication of Chanderpaul

By Avenash Ramzan

S

h i v n a r i n e Chanderpaul’s commitment and dedication to a trade that has brought him worldwide acclaim and has earned him a livelihood is as clear as day. Anyone seeking to dispute that would be bordering on absurdity, for only a man on concocted brew may even attempt to initiate such a discussion.

Any opening for such an argument was shutdown; done and dusted by what transpired last weekend on that tiny island of St Kitts, Warner Park to be specific.

While much has been said about two players opting to play in this month’s Champions League, thereby forgoing their consideration for selection for the West Indies team for the first Test against Bangladesh, Chanderpaul decided, not surprisingly, to use the three-day warm-up game against Bangladesh for crucial preparation

ahead of the Test series, starting Friday.

Without any FirstClass cricket under his belt since July this year when he played for Derbyshire against Glamorgan in the English County championship, Chanderpaul was eager to get a knock in the middle, and from all indications, was not prepared to enter the impending Test series without some ‘serious’ preparation.

The fact that he got a good look at the Bangladesh bowlers – spending 412 minutes and 315 balls over a brilliant 183, his 69th First-Class hundred – means the tourists, without their leading player, the banned Shakib Al Hasan, will enter the series with more headaches, rather than confidence and optimism.

For the West Indies, it’s a different story with their premier batsman in prime form and the team coming off a morale-boosting clean-sweep of the three-

Shivnarine Chanderpaul has been a runs machine in Test cricket over the last five years

match ODI series late last month.

Bangladesh, or any team for that matter, should be wary of Chanderpaul for

his laborious approach can tire the opposition, as was the case in St Kitts last weekend. Mushfiqur Rahim’s men are all too fa-

miliar with Chanderpaul’s exploits, so the 183 might just be a sign of things to come in the Test series.

In the last Test series between the sides, in November 2012, the dogged left-hander was at his mercurial best, piling up scores of 203*, 1 and 150* in the two matches in Dhaka and Khula. Those masterful hundreds carried his tally to 627 runs from eight Tests against Bangladesh at an imposing average of 104.50, his highest against all nations.

But the numbers aside, did Chanderpaul really need to play in that warmup game last weekend? At 40, with an international career spanning two decades, the ‘Tiger’ has seen it all, yet he opted to spend time in the middle rather than engage in nets and training with the rest of the West Indies squad.

Was Chanderpaul guarding against complacency, given the fact the West Indies Cricket Board

has viewed him primarily as a Test match specialist since the last 50-over World Cup in 2011?

Taking it at face value, it’s another clear demonstration of Chanderpaul’s unwavering dedication to mastering his skills, even at a time when many feel he should call it a day. But like fine wine, Chanderpaul has gotten better with age, regularly outperforming his teammates who have time on their side.

With 11,414 runs from a record 156 Test matches, the former Captain is just 539 runs away from eclipsing Brian Lara as the West Indies highest runscorer in the longest version of the game, and the upcoming two matches would provide a perfect opportunity to close in on the ‘Prince of Trinidad.’

It is also a dress rehearsal for tougher tours to India and South Africa later this year. Bangladesh, it would seem, are between a rock and a hard place.

Muirhead defends WICB policy Bell to miss T

he West Indies Cricket Board has defended its decision not to sanction the players who have skipped the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh to play in the Champions League Twenty20 competition in India, but insists there is no wavering on its new West Indies First policy.

Last week, the WICB released the squad for the first Test against the Bangladeshis with the notice that “two players who were considered for selection to the Test squad have opted to play in the Champions League which has an ICC approved window on the international schedule. The players’ decisions will not have any deleterious effect on consideration for future West Indies selection.”

That statement has since been challenged by former Chairman of selectors Michael Findlay who

Michael Muirhead

suggested that, “when the selectors are naming the team for the next series, they will certainly have to look at, we are not sure about this player, because he may choose to play somewhere else.”

However, CEO of the Board Michael Muirhead,

said the governing body had to take responsibility for this particular situation.

“We have never played cricket this late in the season and normally players are on leave and we have infringed on that break and it happens that it also clashes with the Champions League,” Muirhead told the Express.

He added that, “none of the other nations committed to playing in that (Champions League) window. We felt we would not seek to penalise any player. It’s still Windies first, we are very strong on that.”

Asked why the Bangladesh series had been scheduled at this time, the CEO called the situation an “anomaly” and added: “We had to do some movement to accommodate CPL (Caribbean Premier League). There was some shifting in the

scheduling and it just happened this way and we had no alternative.”

The Champions League is scheduled to run from September 13 to October 4.

Pressed as to the identity of the two players, Muirhead declined to name names, saying, I’d rather not say who those names are but you can deduce who those names are.”

However, the CEO insisted that the Board’s Windies First policy would be in full effect when England come to the Caribbean next year.

“Next year during the IPL we will be playing England and it (leniency) would certainly not hold for that... We are informing players in advance about the schedule as to what their commitment to West Indies cricket is going forward, and we expect that decisions will be made to put West Indies cricket first.” (windiescricket)

final ODI with toe fracture E

ngland’s Ian Bell has been ruled out of Friday’s fifth one-day international against India with a fractured toe.

The Warwickshire batsman suffered a small fracture to his left big toe in practice ahead of Tuesday’s nine-wicket defeat to the tourists at Edgbaston.

Bell played no part in the heavy loss at his home ground that secured India an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series, with Gary Ballance drafted into the XI. England will not call up a replacement for the final contest at Headingley.

England’s management team were initially planning to assess Bell’s injury in practise on Thursday but have decided already the number three will not recover in time to play.

Ian Bell

After the first one-day contest was washed out, Bell, 32, scored just one run in the heavy defeat in Cardiff and 28 in the sixwicket loss at Trent Bridge.

India’s tour of England concludes with a oneoff Twenty20 match at Edgbaston on Sunday. (BBC

Sport)

20

thursDAY, september 4, 2014

guyanatimesGY.com

Letter to the Sport Editor

Is an ominous sign evident with the senior national football team?

Dear Editor, If one is to be guided by the notion “a picture says a thousand words”, then the publication in another section of the media of a photograph accompanied by the respective article headlined, “National football squad in intense training for Caribbean Cup” is alarming, indeed!

That from all indications apart from whom is overseas, the poor turnout of players is worrying, along with the absence of uniformity, or some semblance of it – whereby senior national teams are normally the standard bearers of a country.

So, in actuality how come training bibs were not a part of the outfit for players? And the head coach’s appearance leaves much to be desired. Can such a mode of dress, demand the respect of players? Moreover, some clubs have their players and coaching staff more properly outfitted!

By the way, hasn’t the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) within

its possession training uniforms? I shudder to accept that they don’t, since a few months ago, clubs had benefitted from equipment, inclusive of uniforms compliments of the Federation.

Meanwhile, who or what is responsible for the poor turnout of players at the first training session of the senior national team? One media house reported that only nine players reportedly turned up for national training on Saturday. This tells a different story.

The nine players, including two goalkeepers, were told that training was to be cancelled as a result, a severely embarrassing event that suggests a lack of organisation from the GFF, as no official notice for players to attend training was made. Unbelievable, but not surprising!

Gone are the days when the onus was on clubs, via their respective associations, being the medium used to duly inform players of their selection, along with the relevant requirements.

The GFF is a national body and if it is functioning effectively, they should have a data base on all of the players under its auspices, wherein dates od birth, addresses, employers and contact numbers are all easily retrievable, while the relevant letters to employers are dispatched, seeking their approval for the employee’s time off to attend training sessions.

Protocol normally dictates that the relevant letters of correspondence are copied to the Sport Minister, secretaries, associations, affiliates and clubs.

Also it must be noted that for out-of-town players, the daily transportations costs for the return trip should be paid at the conclusion of each training session, utilising the voucher system, towards ensuring proper accountability!

Finally, from a managerial perspective, ahead of encampment, the modalities of daily stipend, travel documents being in order, dietary intake, med-

ical evaluation and additional letters to employers are submitted, requesting leave for overseas travel.

At this crucial juncture, the Sport Minister must be duly informed by way of letter, copied to employers of the overseas sojourn’s duration. This is applicable, since a few employers in the private sector have a tendency of not honoring national representation by employees, with the relevant salaries/wages paid during the players’ absence.

Meanwhile, the Finance Minister is also written to, seeking an exemption from the relevant taxes associated with air travel. It’s my sincere desire that all of the afore-mentioned requirements are fulfilled in a timely manner, which in the process would debunk claims of mismanagement, incompetence, nepotism and unprofessionalism that was evident on the first day of training.

Respectfully yours, Lester Sealey

ECCB 40-over trophy competition...

Bravados defeat Strathavon in semi-finalin Upper ECD zone

Vivian Albert

Vivian Albert

ravados Sports Club won the toss and invited Strathavon Cricket Club to bat first and were 137 all out in 28 overs at the Strathavon Cricket Club Ground.

Chandrapaul Hemraj was the only one to put up a fight with 40 (5 X 4s) and (1 X 6s). Gobinram Hemraj contributed 19, which included 2 fours.

Bowling for Bravados, Lakan and Carl Gilkes bowled well, with figures of 5-0-17-2 and Carl Gilkes 7-025-2, respectively.

Bravados in reply scraped home with138 for 9 in 29 overs. T Capp top scored with 22 (2 X 4s) and Walkins 18 (2 X 4s). Bowling for Strathavon, Chandrapaul Hemraj and Gobinram Hemraj bowled beautifully with figures of 4-1-10-2 and 7-0-21-2, respectively. Bravados won by 1 wicket.

Because of the ground condition, a date and venue will be set shortly for the other semi-final game between Perseverance Cricket Club and Unity Sports Club in the Upper East Coast Zone.

B

In the Lower East Coast Zone, Better Hope B won the toss against the Enterprise Busta Sports Club B and batted first on a good pitch in bright sunshine and made 164 all out in 33.5 overs at the Enterprise Community ground.

Kevin Rampersaud made 34 runs with 4 X 4s and 1 X 6s, while Clive Rampersaud stroked 30 with 3 X 4s.

Good bowling performances came from Vivian Albert and Rohaman, with Albert figures being 7-0-25-3 and Rohaman 7-0-18-2.

Enterprise in reply reached 165 for 9 in 32 overs. Beepat smashed 63 runs with 6 X 4s and 3 sixes. Bowling for Better Hope, Daniel Kowlessar almost put in a match wining performance with figures of 7-0-35-4.

Aroof Hamid’s good bowling performance of 7-0-28-2 also failed to win the match. Enterprise won by one wicket.

The East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) is aiming to conclude this competition as soon as possible and commence its premier tournament, the Carib Beer T20, which will have the final play-off under lights.

Clubs are asked to contact Chairman of the Competitions Committee, Raymond Barton, via telephone 220-1636 or 626-0223 regarding this competition.

Golden Jaguars, Dominica play to nil-all draw

G

uyana’s Golden Jaguars and Dominica had to settle for a share of the points in the Caribbean Cup Qualifiers on Wednesday evening in St Kitts and Nevis.

Both teams failed to score in the 90 minutes, as the game ended nil-all.

Though they did not come out victorious, the result is a welcome one for the Golden Jaguars, who were making their first appearance as a unit for nearly two years. Full details in Friday’s edition.

The Golden Jaguars last played as a unit on November 16, 2012, losing 2-1 to Grenada. Since then, the team has been dormant as a power struggle at the administrative level of the game meant that little or no football was being played.

In fact, the team was only recently selected and has been completely overhauled with strictly locally based players making up the travelling contingent for the three games that will spread over the next five days.

Previously, the Golden Jaguars had a high percentage of foreign based Guyanese players, but President of the Guyana

Football Federation (GFF) Christopher Matthias said the move did little to help in the development of local football, and as such, his administration is keen on harnessing home grown talents.

The Guyanese, drawn in Group Six, will now face St Lucia on Friday at 17:30h and St Kitts and Nevis on Sunday at 20:30h.

The squad is Oswald Cornette and Dorville Stewart (Goalkeepers), Steffon Ramsay, Walter Moore, Quincy Adams, Adrian Adonis, Joshua Brown and Trevon Lythcotte (Defenders), Eusi Phillips, Jahall Greaves, Eon Alleyne, Mark Jhalu and Jamaal Harvey (Midfielders), and Delwin Fraser, Delroy Fraser, Shaquille Agard, Clarence Huggins and William Europe (Forwards).

The management team comprises Manager Carlos Bernard, Head Coach Denzil Thompson, Physical Trainer Germin Craig, Assistant Coach Dwain Babb, and Physiotherapist Lacretia Abiola Blair.

Currently, Guyana is ranked 153 in the world, and a good showing over the next five days will guarantee a move up the ranking.

Corskeld Trackers Cycle Club to hold anniversary race Sunday C

orskeld Trackers Cycle Club is one year old and as part of the club’s first anniversary, it will be holding a 45mile road race on Sunday.

The event which is open to all Berbice riders will peddle off from in front of M and Vanessa Ganga Online Shopping and General Store at Springlands, Corriverton from 08:30h.

The race will proceed to Hack Ricemill at Number 35 Village and then return to the starting line for the finish.

The first three cyclists to cross the finish line will receive prizes while the first three juveniles to finish the race will also be awarded.

Prizes will also be awarded to the first three females to complete the

distance.

There will also be a special race for novices and the top three finishers will be awarded.

Corriverton’s Dwight ‘Bad Boy’ Holder is expected to be one of the key contenders on Sunday, while the upcoming Nishane Jaundoo will be looking to challenge cyclist who accept the club’s invitation to ride.

Although only one year old, the Corskeld Trackers Cycle Club with 27 members is the largest cycle club in Berbice.

President of the club Zamad Djmier told this publication that over the past year the club has received tremendous support from the business community, for which he is grateful.

SPORTS

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21

Frank Worrell

By Dr Rudi V. Webster

T

he West Indies Cricket Board and coach Ottis Gibson recently parted company and the Board is now searching for a new coach to revive the team.

Let’s hope that it chooses wisely this time and not repeat its mistakes of the last decade. M.S. Dhoni once told me that the main difference Garfield Sobers between good organizations and the others is the interval between mistakes. Good or- When athletes are made to ganizations make mistakes, believe that they can truly learn from them and hard- make a difference to the perly ever repeat them. Lesser formance of the team they bring with them a level of ones keep repeating them.

Performance is not only motivation and discipline influenced by history and which when correctly directpast experiences but also by ed satisfy a major requiregoals and visions formulat- ment for success. Shouldn’t ing the future. Our last three this then be a major priority coaches seemed to have a of the coach?

In an excellent Frank limited and fuzzy picture of what they wanted the team Worrell memorial lecture in to achieve and become and Trinidad recently, Sir George acted as if our cricket did not Alleyne quoted Sir Wesley have a rich and successful Hall as saying that Frank Worrell was a great manhistory.

Why did the Worrell/ Sobers and Lloyd/Richards teams play so well? Why is Lloyd’s team universally regarded as one of the best teams in the history of sport?

What worked for these teams and why do we have so little of it now?

Good coaches create environments in which players learn, grow and play to the best of their ability. In the last decade our players did not learn enough from their coaches to improve perfor- Ottis Gibson mance or change the fortunes of the team. Were the coaches poor teachers? Did they manager who spent a lot of focus on the wrong things? time getting to know and unWere their teaching methods derstand his players. He nevout of sync with the learn- er denigrated them publicly. ing style of the players? Did And Cammie Smith is quotthey understand the beliefs, ed as saying that Worrell values, culture and motiva- spent as much time speaking tional profiles of the players? about life and living in perAnd did they truly compre- sonal interaction as he spent in discussing cricket. Such hend the role of the coach?

Sir Garfield Sobers once was the rapport and respect told me that if he were a that there was ready complicoach he would initially de- ance with his instructions on vote most of his time teach- and off the field, because one ing the basics of the game did not want to disappoint – physical and mental - but the skipper.

The importance of manwould then spend an equal cannot be amount of time teaching management the players how to identi- overstated. According to US fy and deal with the many General Omar Bradley, the situations they will face in greatest leader in the world the game. He feels that this could never win a campaign combination gives the player unless he understood the the best chance of doing well. men he had to lead. Good In schools, why do some coaches know that plans teachers succeed in getting and goal charts do not

accomplish performance and that strategies are worthless if they are not well executed.

It is the players who get things done. Players breathe life into the team’s goals and strategies. At the end of the day it is competent, well trained, highly disciplined and highly motivated players that are the key to the team’s success. Coaches who can outline plays on a blackboard are dime a dozen. The ones who win get into their players and motivate them.

Clive Lloyd built his leadership on three strong pillars. The first was an agenda for change that included a clear and detailed vision of what he wanted his team to achieve and become, as well as an intelligent strategy to achieve that vision.

And he made sure that the

Clive Lloyd

players bought into that vision and strategy. Second he selected a group of competent and highly motivated players who were committed to implementing his strategy. Third he got rid of the insularity, indiscipline, bad habits and weak excuses that were harming the team.

Playing better is often more about unlearning or removing bad habits, fears, indiscipline and outmoded traditions than about learning or adding new ones.

Good coaches focus strongly on execution and spend a lot of time motivating, communicating, facilitating and monitoring. They motivate by coaxing, praising, kicking, correcting, and inspiring. They communicate by telling and listening, informing each member about his role and place in the team, and by giving and accepting feedback. They facilitate by linking players’ aspirations to the common vision and by building good relationships with them.

And they monitor by putting people and systems in place to oversee the process.

Fitness and technique are important parts of coaching but should be servants not the master. The new coach will do well if he understands this, broadens his agenda, concentrates on improving the players’ strategic and mental skills and pays attention to the wise words and examples of our great players.

22

thursDAY, september 4, 2014

guyanatimesGY.com

Senior Inter-County cricket…..

Confident Demerara can retain title − Amsterdam, Johnson also in high sprits

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) InterCounty, Senior oneday competition bowls off today at two separate venues.

Today’s first round is set for the Wales Community Centre ground where Demerara will face Essequibo, while at the Demerara Cricket Club ground the National Under-19 team will oppose Berbice.

The tournament, forms part of the preparation for the regional 50-over and four-day competitions. It is also being used as a benchmark to select the local squad to participate in the regional competitions.

This year the GCB has included the successful Under-19 team which won both the three-day and 50over titles for the first time in the history of regional youth cricket, making it a four-team tournament.

The regional season will start in November and will have four-day cricket played in a home and away format, paving the way for a minimum of 10 games in the tournament.

The four-day tournament will then break in January to make way for the Super 50 limited-overs tournament. The four-day competition will resume thereafter and culminate in March.

Meanwhile, Demerara coach Garvin Nedd is full of

Christopher Barnwell

Anthony Adams

Garvin Nedd

Adrian Amsterdam

Narsingh Deonarine

Vibert Johnson

confident they possess the requisite firepower to deliver another successful campaign.

Nedd, speaking with this publication on Wednesday said once his charges play to their full potential, they can be a real destructive force.

“We get a group of players who are keen to showcase their class. They know

with the franchise cricket in place now they will be looking to market themselves and this cricket is basically for them to perform and they are keen about coming into the tournament and defend the title,” Nedd said.

We have a good bunch of experienced players as well as a good allround team and to add to that our prepara-

tion leading up to this tournament was fantastic, so overall I am confident our performances will be much better this year,” Essequibo coach Vibert Johnson revealed.

The President’s XI coach, Adrian Amsterdam, believes that the combination of players will work well as a team since they had the ad-

Brian Sattuar

vantage of spending time together as a team during the Regional tournaments.

Round two is billed for September 6 with the National Under-19 team playing Essequibo at DCC and Berbice face Demerara at Everest.

The third and final round is scheduled for September 8 with Berbice taking on Essequibo at Everest and Demerara challenge the National Under-19 team at GCC. The final is set for September 13 with the following day been the reserve day. The four-day format will get going on September 18.

The squads are as follows: Demerara: Christopher Barnwell (Captain), Paul Wintz (V/Captain), Trevon Griffith, Robin Bacchus, Andrew Light, Shemroy Barrington, Rajendra

Chandrika, Raj Nanan, Zaheer Mohamed, Amir Khan, Yatesh Dhanpaul, Steven Jacobs, Chanderpaul Hemraj, , Seon Daniels, Garvin Nedd (Coach), Clive Grimond (Manager/ Assistant Coach).

Essequibo: Anthony Adams (Captain), Ricardo Adams (V/Captain), Royan Fredericks, Norman Fredericks, Kevon Boodie, Ricardo Peters, Royston Alkins, Vijay Surujpaul, Anthony Ifill, Hemchand Persaud, Eknauth Persaud, Mark Tyrell, Brian Herbert, Mark Gonsalves, Leroy Halls (Manager), Vibert Johnson (Coach).

Berbice: Narsingh Deonarine (Captain), Veerasammy Permaul (V/ Captain), Kandasammy Surujnarine, Seon Hetmyer, Devon Clements, Jonathan Foo, Rajiv Ivan, Anthony Bramble, Jason Sinclair, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Krishendat Ramoo, Keon Joseph, Raun Johnson, Albert Smith, (Manager), Hubern Evans (Coach).

Guyana U-19: Brian Sattaur (Captain), Sharaz Ramcharran (V/ Captain), Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Shimron Hetmyer, Kemol Savory, Kemo Paul, Keon Morris, Balchan Baldeo, Daniel Basdeo, Steven Sankar, Akel Wallace, Nial Smith, Dimon Waldron, Askay Homray, David Black (Manager), Adrian Amsterdam (Coach).

US Open 2014…

Murray set for Djokovic challenge B

ritain’s Andy Murray is relishing the prospect of facing world number one Novak Djokovic in a US Open night session.

The pair will meet for the 21st time, with their quarter-final due to start at about 02:00 BST on Thursday.

“Playing at night against the number one player in the world is exciting,” said 27-year-old Murray.

“If you aren’t getting motivated or pumped for those matches, then that’s when there’s a problem.”

Murray and Djokovic are scheduled second in the New York night session, after the match between Serena Williams and Flavia Pennetta, which begins at 00:00 BST. “That’s what you put the work in for, so that when you come to these events and you do have to play against the best players, you’re ready,” added the

Andy Murray

Scot, who is seeded eighth.

“And as much as it’s incredibly tough and challenging - that’s what you enjoy.”

Murray and Djokovic, also 27, know each other well, having competed from the age of 11 in juniors, and they practised together on

Arthur Ashe Stadium before the start of the tournament.

Djokovic has the edge since they became professionals, having won 12 of their 20 matches and four of the past five, and collected his seventh Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in July.

Murray has not won a tournament since he beat Djokovic at the All England Club 14 months ago, but the Scot showed signs in his quarter-final win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga that he might be getting back to his best.

Both he and Djokovic

have taken on new coaches this year, the Serb starting work with six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker and Murray choosing two-time major winner Amelie Mauresmo to replace Ivan Lendl.

“I think he should really go out there and express fully what he’s capable of doing,” said Mauresmo.

“The pressure is probably a little bit more on Novak, which is normal, he won Wimbledon.”

It is Mauresmo, along with Murray’s longtime team member Dani Vallverdu, who will be charged with settling on a game plan.

“I would say we play a fairly similar style,” said Murray.

“I think that’s why a lot of the matches have been long games, long rallies, long points, because we do a lot of the same things well.

“I don’t know exactly

what I’m going to do, but by the time I get on the court I’ll have a good idea.”

Djokovic had a poor run of form after Wimbledon, which he has put down to the welcome distraction of getting married and awaiting the birth of his first child in October, but his focus appears restored as he chases another major title.

“I do value these tournaments the most and try to always perform my best tennis in them,” he said.

“I think Andy also performs his best in the Grand Slams.

“Even though he had this back surgery last year that kept him off the tour for the last few months of the season, he’s been on and off this year.

“But I think in the big matches, as the tournament progresses, he’s still fit. He still plays very high-quality tennis. That’s what I expect him to do.” (BBC Sport)

thursDAY, september 4, 2014

guyanatimesGY.com

23

EDFA U-13 League…

Golden Masters win Shew’s PHMAA wins Little Diamond Int’l aggregate domino Martial Arts Academy c/ship

The winning Parfaite Harmonie Martial Arts Academy (PHMAA) team

T

he Parfaite Harmonie Martial Arts Academy (PHMAA) took top honours at the conclusion

of the Little Diamond International Martial Arts Academy (LDIMAA) tournament held at the Enmore Community Centre, last

Former Windies wicketkeeper backs first-class franchise system

Ridley Jacobs

F

ormer West Indies wicketkeeper Ridley Jacobs has welcomed the decision by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) to professionalise first class cricket in the Caribbean starting next season.

Jacobs, a Leeward Islands selector, says professionalism in cricket is lacking in the Caribbean and as such the WICB’s move will serve to bolster the quality of the sport in the Region.

Under the new Professional First Class structure, players will receive contracts as part of a first-class franchise system.

“We need to be more professional in our approach where cricket is concerned.

I think that if we have players playing cricket all year round and being paid, it’s a plus and I can only see cricket going forward from there,” said Jacobs.

“Having coaches working with these players all year round, (will result in) better players representing Leeward Islands, representing West Indies and we will start winning more games so I honestly think that is the best way forward”.

Fifteen players in each of the six territories will be contracted on a full-time, year-round basis.

This means 90 first-class players will be given annual contracts joining those contracted under WICB Annual Retainer Contracts.

“You would have the opportunity to pick who you want to pick. I haven’t seen any problems as yet,” said Jacobs.

“I don’t think it would be a problem because if you go into a draft and you want a fast bowler and a fast bowler is up for grabs you have a chance to pick him to strengthen your team”.

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) announced recently that it will contribute US$360,000 towards the annual retainer contracts for first-class players.

month.

PHMAA snapped up seven medals (six gold, one silver) from their six students which participated.

Arianna Etwaroo won gold in the 6-9 years female Kumite (fighting) division. In the 6-9 and 10-12 years male Kata divisions, Matthias Ignatius and Reyanard Etwaroo won gold, respectively.

Antonio Caesar also won gold in the 16-19 years Kata category.

Moses and Marlon Ignatius both achieved gold medals in the 13-15 and 1619 years Kumite (fighting) divisions.

Marlon Ignatius, 1st KYU Brown belt athlete won the full contact fight against a 2nd Dan Black belt athlete from Suriname, an outstanding achievement.

Shihan Nazim Yassim said that he is very proud of this branch for turning in such encouraging performances.

Marlon and Moses Ignatius along Arianna and Reyanard Etwaroo will now turn their focus to the next competition which is slated for Suriname September 6.

I

n what was indeed a final to behold on Monday last at Dynasty Sports Club, Aubrey Barker Road, Georgetown as three top teams battled for supremacy in the Shew’s General Store of Leopold Street three-way sponsored aggregate domino tournament.

After three completed rounds of competition, Golden Masters emerged champions, followed by Strikers Sports Club and Phantom.

The games, which started at South View Tavern, Aubrey Barker Road, on Tuesday last, saw Phantom coming out on top of the points table in the first round with 77 games, followed by hosts Golden Masters with 73 and Strikers Sports Club in the cellar with 63 games.

For the winners, Frank Solomon made the maximum 18 games, while Paul Persaud and Rodwell Phillips chalked up 15 and 14 games respectively for Golden Masters. David Patterson starred with 17 games and Roderick Harry 14 games in a losing cause for Strikers Sports Club.

On Thursday, the second round was played at Strikers Sports Club, Meadow Brook Gardens,

and saw the hosts in a nailbiting finish coming out tops with 78 games, while Golden Masters made 77 and Phantom failing miserably with 63 games.

Sydney James and Roderick Harry made 15 games apiece and were supported by Lyndon Boston and Neville Cadogan with 14 games apiece for the winners. Rodwell Phillips, who was picked to play through, made 30 games, while Paul Persaud and Dillon Griffith contributed with 15 and 14 games respectively. Colin Downes’ 14 games were not enough for Phantom. The lone lovebird was Terrence Wills of Strikers Sports Club.

After two rounds, Golden Masters had 150 games, Strikers Sports Club 147 and Phantom 140 games heading into the final. In the last round, Phantom amassed 81 games, while Strikers Sports Club, who, after the third sitting, seemed totally out of the match made 75 games, and Golden Masters brought up the rear with 72 games.

At the completion of three rounds, Golden Masters and Strikers Sports Club were tied on 222 games and Phantom agonisingly close on 221.

This led to the statisticians heading to the archives to determine the winner of the match, which saw Strikers Sports Club and Golden Masters having 17 sixes each. Golden Masters came out on top by virtue having more fives that Strikers Sports Club. The eventual winners had 10, one more than Strikers.

Gavin Gibbons made 17 games and was supported by Jermaine Jackson and Terrence Wills with 14 games apiece for Strikers Sports Club, while Clive Anderson and Dillon Griffith made 16 and 15 games respectively for Golden Masters. Phantom skipper Rawle Cameron made 17 games, while Colin Downes and Charles Hooper made 15 each with Trevor Ambrose chipping in with 14 games. David Patterson of Strikers Sports Club was taken down lover’s lane by Rawle Cameron.

The top two teams were presented with trophies, while there were incentives for the top players in each team. Dillon Griffith (42 games) of Golden Masters, Frank Solomon (42) of Phantom and Gavin Gibbons (40) of Strikers Sports Club were the top players.

Alonso wants to extend Ferrari stay

Fernando Alonso

F

errari’s Fernando Alonso says he wants to extend his contract beyond 2016 despite enduring a frustrating year on the circuit.

The Spaniard, 33, has been with the Maranellobased team since 2010, but has not won a race since May last year.

Alonso is a target for McLaren, but says he has no desire to leave Ferrari and is in negotiations over a new deal.

“Talk of other teams has never come from me,

it’s always the opposite,” the two-time world champion said.

“I think since last summer there have been stories and news almost all the time so it’s now been going on for a year.”

He added: “It’s not nice, because it creates a bit of stress and it means it is disruptive for me, the fans and for the people in the team.

“However, on this topic, it’s a year now that I’ve been saying I want to stay at Ferrari and ex-

tend my contract. That’s my wish.”

Alonso is contracted for a further two years but has been frustrated by Ferrari’s continuing inability to provide him with a car that can compete with the dominant Mercedes duo of Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton.

Alonso has been on the podium twice in 11 races, with his best result second at the Hungarian Grand Prix in July.

He finished seventh

at the Belgian Grand Prix last time out and is not confident of challenging for victory at this Sunday’s Italian Grand Prix – Ferrari’s home race – but has seen enough positive progress to be confident of a brighter future for the team.

Alonso added on the Ferrari website: “This year has definitely been the toughest in the five I’ve been with Ferrari, in coming to Monza in greater difficulty and without having a really clear idea of what the race can hold for us.

“In other years, we were fighting for the title or a podium was definitely within our grasp or maybe even a win.

“This year however, it’s all much more up in the air and there is no certainty as to what we might be able to do.

“For 11 races now we have been fighting to sort out the situation and become more competitive and I think we have done that.

“I would say the progress is visible.” (BBC Sport)

thursday, september 4, 2014

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

TOP SCORES

West Indies, Bangladesh seek improvement

T

he West Indies will take on Bangladesh in the first match of the two-Test series on 5 September in Kingstown, St Vincent.

The two teams are currently ranked eighth and 10th respectively on the Reliance ICC Test Team Rankings Table.

The West Indies, which is currently sitting on 74 ratings points, leads Bangladesh (21) by 53 ratings points. And because the rankings are weighted to reflect this difference, the West Indies will drop points if it doesn’t win the series convincingly.

A 1-0 series win will earn Bangladesh 13 ratings points and will cost the West Indies eight ratings points, while a 2-0 series win will help Mushfiqur Rahim’s side gain 15 ratings points with the West Indies losing 10 ratings points.

In the event of a drawn series, Bangladesh will benefit by gaining seven ratings points, while the West Indies will drop four ratings points.

In contrast, the West

Indies can earn a maximum of one ratings point if it wins both the Tests. In this scenario, Bangladesh will drop two ratings points.

Meanwhile, Shivnarine Chanderpaul will go into the series as the highestranked batsman from either side, in sixth place on the Reliance ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen.

Other batsmen to feature inside the top 50 and likely to appear during the series are Darren Bravo (22nd), Chris Gayle (29th), Mominul Haque (33rd), Tamim Iqbal (42nd), Nasir Hossain (46th) and Denesh Ramdin (49th ).

In the Reliance ICC Player Rankings for Test Bowlers, Kemar Roach in 11th position is the highestranked bowler from either side.

Shane Shillingford (21st), Sulieman Benn (30th), Narsingh Deonarine (47th), Jerome Taylor (49th), Mahmudullah (61st), Robiul Islam (62nd) and Shannon Gabriel (66th) are some of the other bowlers who may feature in the Bangladesh will hope for some level of success in the upcoming Test series series. (windiescricket)

EDFA U-13 League…

Page 23

Bolt credits father for sports career

PHMAA wins Little S Diamond Int’l Martial Arts Academy c/ship

What should we expect from the next coach?

Page 21

print superstar Usain Bolt admitted on Tuesday that his decision to pursue a career in track and field was based on the advice of his father.

The world’s fastest man has conceded that his passion was to represent Jamaica in cricket but changed his mind after his father convinced him to take to the tracks.

“Blame it on my dad. My father is a huge cricket fan, but when I got to higher secondary, I had two options -- cricket or athletics,” said Bolt, the six-time Olympic gold medallist on a promotional visit to India.

“My dad said because of the system in Jamaica, it would be better to take up athletics. He said, ‘You just have to run fast in athletics while it’s tougher to get into the national (cricket) team’.”

Bolt, an ardent crick-

Usain Bolt during a match in India recently

et fan, was in Bangalore to captain a seven-a-side team against one led by India’s cricket World Cup hero Yuvraj Singh.

The exhibition match, organised by both men’s sponsors, was staged in a stadium in the southern city of Bangalore.

The world record holder in both the 100 metres and 200 metres said his records at this stage were “pretty much out of reach”.

“There are quite a few runners who could challenge me but not beat me,” said Bolt.

“As an athlete, I have seen records come and go.

They have always been broken, but if you want to be as great as me, you have to work very hard. That’s why my records will stand the time.”

Bolt, who has raced four times this season, plans to compete in his final Olympics in Rio in 2016 leading up to his retirement. (BBC.com)

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