LOOK ! INSIDE Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1920 guyanatimesgy.com
THE BEACON OF TRUTH
October 13, 2013
PRICE
Scam of the millennium
WHAT'S INSIDE:
GSL directors Glenn Lall, Tony Yassin skim off $602M
See story on page 3
Kaieteur News owner and publisher Mohan Lall, aka Glenn Lall
– NIS, 1561 shareholders get nothing – owe $354M in taxes
$100 vat included
Owner of the majority shares in Royal Investment Inc, Tony Yassin
Inaugural Miss North Georgetown Secondary Pageant launched
Bulgaria P7 writes-off US$2.9M debt owed by Guyana
Guyanese P10 drug mule gets 10 years in Dubai Katherina Roshana P13 hosting fundraiser for autistic children
Cattle rancher dies in P13 vicious piranhas attack
See story on page 10
The delegates vying for the coveted title of Miss North Georgetown Secondary (NGSS) were on Friday evening unveiled at a simple ceremony at the Pegasus Hotel poolside, Kingston, Georgetown (Carl Croker photo)
Caricom heads lament slow implementation of Jagdeo Initiative See story on page 13
Two dead, one critical in shootout with police See story on page 19
P16 “I lost everything I worked for” – Ogle fire victim
Guyana, Venezuelan foreign P16 ministers to meet on seizure of seismic vessel
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com
NEWS
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, October 13 from 12:00h to 13:30h. The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, October 13 from
11:30h and 13:00h.
WEATHER TODAY
Countrywide: Heavy rain showers are expected during the day with lighter showers in the evening over coastal and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius. Winds: Easterly between 1.94 and 2.22 metres per second. High Tide: 11:44h and 00:14h reaching maximum heights of 2.22 metres and 2.27 metres respectively. Low Tide: 17:42h reaching a minimum height of 1.03 metres.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2013
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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2013 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
Scam of the millennium
GSL directors Glenn Lall, Tony Yassin skim off $602M
– NIS, 1561 shareholders get nothing – owe $354M in taxes
W
hen Guyana Stores Limited (GSL) was privatised in 2000, Mohan Lall, also known as Glenn Lall, and Tony Yassin of Royal Investments Inc (RII), acquired 70 per cent, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) had 10 per cent, and employees and other small shareholders collectively owned the remaining 20 per cent of the company. For the next decade, the company refused to hold annual general meetings, did not issue annual reports and simply declared every year that, since they did not make any profits, no dividend could be declared. As such, the NIS, the employees and other small shareholders received not a penny. Yet it is now revealed, when GSL annual reports up to 2009 were recently compiled and hastily submitted, that during that time the directors, including Glenn Lall and Tony Yassin, skimmed off an astounding $602.9 million in “interest, consultancy fees, allowances and accommodation”. The NIS, it was revealed in the press – and trumpeted in the Kaieteur News – is in danger of not having funds to meet its obligations to its subscribers who are overwhelmingly the poor and retired employees. These subscribers, most of whom would be employees of the state, such as public servants, teachers and police officers, as well as of employees of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), would have had to work and contribute
Kaieteur News owner and publisher Mohan Lall, aka Glenn Lall
Owner of the majority shares in Royal Investment Inc, Tony Yassin
at least 15 years to qualify for payments that are now in jeopardy because of the scam of Glenn Lall, Tony Yassin and company.
tion alone. In light of the inability of the company to ever turn a profit, it is pertinent to ask of what use was the advice the $303.399 million paid as “consultancy fees” to the directors? But the scam does not end with those payments. As the owner of the majority of shares in RII, Tony Yassin had promised to “inject equity” into GSL at the time of privatisation. But the reports show that he actually classified his “injection” as a “loan” for which he has been charging 19.5 per cent interest. On the other hand, the millions of dollars that the government loaned have not only not been repaid, but they deny that any interest should be charged. Looking at the figures from another angle, the financial statements of GSL shows that, in 1999, the NIS’s 10 per cent was worth some $32 million and the
Quandary Of the 1561 small GSL shareholders, about half are employees who had spent their hard earned salaries to purchase shares. Because GSL was in breach of the Companies Act through the dereliction of duty by Glenn Lall and Yassin; the small stockholders could not even sell off their shares. They were stuck with pieces of worthless paper instead of receiving a steady stream of dividends to tide them through their retirement. Many might have already died as paupers. The GSL annual reports, however, disclosed that Glenn Lall, Tony Yassin and other directors spent $126.507 million on allowances and accommoda-
small stockholders $64 million. In the following decade, through misappropriation, mismanagement and other financial skulduggery, the company moved from owning assets of $316 million to owing $847 million in liabilities. Losses This means that the book value of NIS’s 10 per cent equity stake is now a negative $85 million, and other shareholders, a negative $170 million. In other words, if the GSL were to be liquidated today, and that is a foregone conclusion, given the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has taken them to court and won its case for $354 million in unpaid taxes, then the NIS will completely lose its 10 per cent investment in GSL and the small shareholders, including past employees, their 20 per cent. In the U.S., citizens have seen and wondered at the greed and avarice of financial scammers such as Bernie Madoff, who bilked individuals of their hard earned money. He and some others were jailed for their scams. In Guyana, several members of the business community have said that the laws have to be modified so that such individuals on the local scene can be brought to justice and jailed. Information from this article was extracted from an audited report done by Ram and McRae accounting firm. It was provided by a source within the company.
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Views Sunday Times Editor: Tajeram Mohabir 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
Caribbean agriculture
T
he Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) 2013, held in our Garden City of Georgetown, was just concluded. In its closing session, there was an interesting parsing of words in which it was concluded that even though the region “should be further along” with implementing the “Jagdeo Initiative” on agriculture, there was really no “lag”. It would appear that they have forgotten what the initiative was all about since it had been on the table for at least eight years. A reminder might be appropriate at this time. The Caribbean Community (Caricom) had launched its Regional Transformation Programme for Agriculture (RTPA) because it was recognised from the onset that the region was importing too much food. The “colonial” mentality had persisted after independence. Yet even though hundreds of meetings were held at all different levels, not much had been done by the time then President Bharrat Jagdeo placed the initiative that bears his name. In 2002, Jagdeo – the lead head responsible for agriculture declared that “at this stage, we need a policy and strategy which will allow us to decide on what sort of institutions and mechanisms are needed to reposition agriculture”. In 2003, he asked the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) to assist in the development of a framework for a regional agricultural repositioning strategy. In 2004 the heads of government endorsed the proposal, which contained the initiative’s vision, scope, focus and process. By 2015, it declared that, if every country did their bit, agriculture would “make substantial contributions to economic development and economic, social and environmental sustainability; have a transparent regulatory framework at national and regional levels that promotes, attracts and facilitates capital and investments; have significantly transformed its processes and products and stimulates innovation and entrepreneurship; and enable the region to achieve an acceptable and stable level of food security”. The initiative identified 10 constraints and responsibilities that had been allocated for addressing those constraints. Surely if we want to know whether we have lagged or not on the Jagdeo Initiative, we can review the progress, or lack thereof, made on that front. The constraints, with the territory’s agriculture minister responsible for removing them are : 1) Limited financing and inadequate new investments – Barbados/Caribbean Development Bank (CDB); 2) Outdated/inefficient agricultural health and food safety (AHFS) systems – Trinidad and Tobago/Caricom Secretariat; 3) Inadequate research and development – St Lucia/ Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI); 4) Fragmented and disorganised private sector – St Vincent and the Grenadines; 5) Inefficient land and water distribution and management systems – Guyana; 6) Deficient and uncoordinated risk management measures – Antigua and Barbuda; 7) Inadequate transportation (especially for perishables) – St Kitts and Nevis; 8 and 9) Weak and non-integrated information/intelligence systems and weak linkages/participation in markets – Jamaica; 10) Lack of skilled human resources – Dominica. With less than two years to 2015, when the initiative was supposed to have been implemented, how can these ministers say there has been no “lag” when the food importation bill of the region has grown from US$3 billion to the present $4 billion, and growing? There have been so many meetings and conferences and booklets produced since 2004 on the Jagdeo Initiative, but what exactly has been done to remove even a single constraint so that the people of the region can say there has been progress and no “lag”? Back in 2008 at the very same Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC) at Liliendaal, there was a Regional Agriculture Investment Forum. In 2009, there was the Public/Private Sector Consultation on Agri-Business in the Caribbean. With hundreds of “stakeholders” – bankers, ministers, heads of state and businessmen and 25 projects – deemed “concrete” – had been identified. Guyana had offered 120,000 acres of land at a nominal lease for agricultural development. Four years down the line, has even one of these projects materialised so that we can say there has been “no lag” on the Jagdeo Initiative”? In 2008” Jagdeo had pointed out that “it’s the projects that matter, not the chat”. It looks like we can only chat.
Flashback: From left, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett after her oral presentation before the United Nations on Guyana's application to extend the country's continental shelf
Anand Goolsarran is an opportunist Dear Editor, The recent comment by former Auditor General (AG) Anand Goolsarran regarding the qualifications of AG Deodat Sharma exposes his opportunistic nature that has made him into a shameless puppet of the Alliance For Change (AFC). For those who are too young to remember, or who might have forgotten, allow me the opportunity to share a snippet of who Goolsarran is. In 1994, when Goolsarran wanted to go abroad on extended leave to study for a master’s degree, he recommended to then President Cheddi Jagan that Gaindha Nauth Dwarka be appointed to act as auditor general. Dwarka was a very experienced and competent public sector auditor with a bachelor’s degree in accountancy. Dwarka was appropriately appointed to act while Goolsarran pursued his private interests abroad. Later, in 2002, when Goolsarran wanted another leave of absence to take up a lucrative position at the United Nations (UN), he recommended to then President
Bharrat Jagdeo, that Balraj Balram be appointed to act as auditor general. Balram was so appointed and acted for several years while Goolsarran, again, pursued his private interests overseas. Like Dwarka, Balram was an experienced public sector auditor with a bachelor’s degree in accountancy. Neither Dwarka nor Balram were chartered accountants in possession of a practice certificate issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants, but Goolsarran had no hesitation in recommending that they be appointed to act in his absence and to certify the public accounts. This week, Goolsarran suddenly came to some amazing realisation that Sharma, who has exactly the same experience and qualifications as Dwarka and Balram, is not adequately qualified to be auditor general. It would appear that Goolsarran is attempting to discredit Sharma, or is practising some serious double standards. What qualifications do Dwarka and Balram possess that differ from Sharma and
therefore disqualifies him from being auditor general? Why would Goolsarran recommend Dwarka and Balram to fill the post of auditor general, but object to Sharma on the basis of his seemingly lacking qualifications? Or, is Goolsarran an opportunist to use Sharma’s qualifications as ammunition to attack the validity of the auditor general for his own political gain? Indeed, Goolsarran himself has never at any time been the holder of a practice certificate issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants. By his own argument, this should have disqualified him from appointment as auditor general. While he is at it, he should also confess to the people of Guyana that he is politically tainted and prejudiced. He is the AFC nominee to the Public Procurement Commission, while his son, Michael Goolsarran, was a lead candidate of the AFC in the 2006 general elections. In addition, Goolsarran has publicly acknowledged that Khemraj Ramjattan is a close, personal friend of his for many years.
It is therefore no wonder that he has remained silent on the blatant conflict of interests and ethical abuses that are being perpetrated by his party, the AFC. Goolsarran did not utter a single word of condemnation when AFC parliamentarian Cathy Hughes failed to disclose that she was being paid by Sithe Global, the developer of the Amaila Fall Hydro Project. Goolsarran also remained silent when AFC chairman Nigel Hughes neglected to disclose his relationship with the jury foreman in the Lusignan massacre case. These are striking examples of Goolsarran’s hypocrisy and double standards. A man of such questionable character and integrity would be seen in any other democracy as an embarrassment. I can only hope that Transparency Institute of Guyana Inc (TIGI) is taking note of the damage Goolsarran is inflicting on their organisation and Guyana. Sincerely, Name and address withheld by request
Better training needed for T&HD workers Dear Editor, I wish to apprise you of a situation which exists at the Supenaam/Parika stelling. On Friday, October 4, I called a clerk to advise that I have a monthly appointment with my private doctor for a medical check-up and asked him to book my car since I live at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast. The clerk was very kind and courteous and did book my car – in fact all the staff at Supenaam stelling are kind and helpful in discharging their duties. I suffered a motorcycle accident on July 20, 2004 while on duty as a Field Extension Officer for
my employer, the Guyana Rice Producer’s Association (RPA). I was diagnosed with an injury to the T-8 vertebrae of my spine. I was told by the booking clerk to be at Supenaam stelling at 02:00h, because the ferry leaves at 04:00h. I boarded the ferry with my car and departed at Parika stelling, informing another clerk there that I am going to see my doctor in Georgetown and would like him to book my car for the afternoon ferry, which he did. He told me that it is a standing procedure that all sick and disabled are given a priority to travel with their
vehicles. However, he said that I must be at the stelling by 15:00h. As I approached the Parika stelling gate at about 14:00h on the said day to board the ferry for home, I was humiliated, intimidated and harassed and prevented from entering the stelling by a woman in uniform, who normally opens and closes the gate. She asked me to produce a medical certificate, which I did, and I told her that I had a booking with the clerk, yet she still refused to let my vehicle into the stelling. She told me to park the car in the sun until the ferry
is ready to load. I was in terrible pains from my medical treatment and therapy. My wife then went and sought the intervention of the supervisor. She, the lady in uniform, was then instructed to open the gate and we entered the stelling to get out of the sun. Training should be an essential component for all Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) employees so that they will know how to deal with members of the public. Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan
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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com
Ram does not understand the Constitution
Dear Editor, I have read with grave disappointment, and yet amusement, the letter penned by the very respectable Christopher Ram, entitled, “Neither the president nor the attorney general is the authority for the interpretation of the Constitution; that is the function of the courts” (Stabroek News, October 3). Ram was responding to a letter written by the attorney general (Stabroek News, September 30), which I have read and with which I completely agree. Ram’s contention is that the attorney general is of the opinion that the president and the attorney general have the authority to interpret the Constitution. But the attorney general said no such thing. The attorney general’s argument is that the president, the attorney general and indeed every person has the authority to interpret the law and the Constitution but that the court is the final arbiter. He stated that in plain language in the section of his letter entitled, “Judiciary role remains intact”.
If the president assents to a bill that in his opinion is good and constitutional, the court is the final arbiter and only the court can decide whether in fact the bill, which becomes an Act of Parliament, is valid. Ram himself sites several articles of the Constitution and tries to explain what they mean. Is he not in fact interpreting the Constitution? From whence did he derive the authority? Is he not usurping the functions of the court? I am shocked that such puerility can emanate from a trained legal mind such as his. Ram next takes issue with the use of the adjective “untrammelled” in the attorney general’s writings, where he described the president’s power to withhold assent to bills. He contends that no power is untrammelled. Clearly Ram again misunderstands the context in which the attorney general makes use of that word. The attorney general was responding to issues raised by Bryn Pollard that the president has no power to reject a bill on the ground of
“unconstitutionality”. I understand the attorney general to be saying that the president has untrammelled power to reject a bill on the ground of unconstitutionality, as well as a number of other reasons. But rather than be guided by the learning of the authors quoted by the attorney general, Ram expressly disregards them and promises to focus only on Guyanese law, yet seeks to also quote other authors of his own choice. It appears that Ram has not read the letter, or did not grasp its contents. If he did then it must be concluded that Ram’s rambling is yet another crack at remaining or indeed becoming relevant in legal and political factions. His complete disregard for all the references that the attorney general makes to other similar constitutions and learned authors who have tread the terrain of this issue for years further solidifies this conclusion. Sincerely, John Milton Fraser, LLB
Guyana needs to re-examine this taxi business
Dear Editor, Taxi drivers and criminal connections must be looked at more and more. I have read too many times about the fortuitous appearance of a taxi that came at the right time to whisk away persons engaged in some kind of foul deed. I have also noted that on quite a few occasions, taxi drivers have been found with some kind of dangerous
weapon. When it comes to being a taxi driver, I see that we are too willy-nilly. Just about anyone is doing this most important job. In fact, this rush to be a taxi driver created opportunities for backtrack issuance of drivers’ licences. This has led to more chaos on the road, as many accidents could have been avoided, if only some of the driving
would have shown evidence of better skill, more maturity and longer duration of experience. There is too much youthful exuberance. I cannot envisage a mature taxi driver colluding with criminals that easily. It is time we bring a measure of safety on and off the roads where taxis are concerned. Sincerely, Bazil Haynes
GuyExpo should inspire a deep re-thinking Dear Editor, A GuyExpo presentation on the opening night is still on my mind. One speaker opined that Guyana is spending a huge amount of money on training, yet loses many of those trained to greener pastures. So, according to the speaker, we, Guyana as such, have to find ways of keeping our people right here. Let us face it and accept that Guyana is not a super rich nation. We are young – not even 50. We also had a lengthy period of sustained damage, and our return to democracy in 1992 does not mean automatic well-being. I think that our mind-set must be changed. We leave too quickly. Now is investment time and we have to think long term. Take the analogy of a baby – it takes about two decades for one to be productive. There is joy in watching this baby grow and then greater joy as this child enters the work force. Guyana, in many ways, was truly born in 1992. Let us face it again – we had no system, no voice among ourselves, and really nothing to be proud of. The get-away mentality became the domi-
nant motif during this dark period. Backtracking was the thing of the day. That running to North America, particularly to the U.S., is now affecting us. The reason is very simple – the family members of many who made that dash, during the hard years are now waiting to go, and not because of hardships here. If we ask many of them why they are leaving, the reason is family based. Of course, many from this lot are well qualified. On this note, it is not only Guyana that is suffering from this brain-drain crisis. In fact, Guyana is not even in the top 10 category. Malaysia has been steadily worsening, with the World Bank actually projecting it to intensify over the next few years. Currently, two out of every 10 Malaysians, with higher education, seek employment elsewhere, accounting for about 305,000 in any given year. Malaysia made big economic strides in the 1990s, but growth has been halved in the past decade, slowing from 7.2 per cent to just 4.6 per cent. Experts believe this is large-
ly due to brain drain. England has seen a large number of its skilled professionals leaving for work abroad, with over 1.1 million university graduates living and working outside of the country. This accounts for almost one in 10 skilled citizens choosing to emigrate. This mass emigration of skilled professionals may have serious ramifications for the British economy, as professionals add to the workforce of nations like Australia, Canada, America, France and Spain, rather than at home. So, in many ways, no matter what we do, people will leave. Individuals have to take it upon themselves to stay and build. The problems we have here are not unique. We talk about corruption, but recently we read about what was said about Canada. Take transportation, and we will see that many people in the U.S. drive for around three hours round trip to and from work. Bottom line then is that we have to stay by choice and in time to come, we will reap great benefits. Yours truly, Camille Ramsarran
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Foundation
A solid foundation Anu Dev
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’ve been in school for the past 15 years of my life and having been in school for so long, I have a fair idea of what different types of teachers could be like. Some go about their jobs like they truly love what they’re doing, others seem to go through the day like teaching is an obligation. But no matter what their teaching attitudes or stance, we learn a lot from our teachers. Teachers teach more than just science and math and all the other “subjects” – they teach ethics as well. In addition to the weekly one hour of “Pastoral Care”, they do this generally through the most powerful medium – not through words but by their actions. Their behaviour impacts their students strongly. And of course, it’s always best to lead by example, so we’re most likely to do as our teachers do, rather than as
guyanatimesgy.com
they say. Quite a bit of my personal values and sense of ethics is a product of the influence of my school teachers. Of course, the major chunk consists of values directly instilled into me by my parents, but on some level, we’ve all been
solid. What if I had teachers that throw things and scream at their students, calling them names, belittling them? If a student didn’t have a strong personal value system or positive role models, they could easily accept that sort of behaviour as being okay, or accept-
“A man without ethics is a wild beast loosed upon this world.” – Albert Camus
influenced by our teachers. My current value system is a melange of what I’ve been taught at home and whatever modifications my experiences have forced me to make – with me spending a third of my time every day in school. And I realised how damaging it could’ve been if I had teachers whose values and ethics standards were not that
able. And they might carry over that type of behaviour into adulthood in their professions and personal lives. Our teachers as a consequence have great power; they have the most interaction with us, especially during our young, impressionable years, when we’re still forming our opinions of the things around us and deciding how we want to fit into society.
More emphasis should probably be placed, when training teachers, about their role in moulding the values of their students. Values like the importance of confidentiality and the importance of privacy could be emphasised by the teachers so that when the students leave the school system, they’ll be able to function like adults that are capable of respecting the persons they interact with. Others like the importance of accountability, punctuality should all be established as being important from a young age. Teachers that violate these tenets in their classes do damage beyond the details of the “subject” not being covered. Our teachers can hold great sway over how we might turn out at the end of our tenure at school; they could be the difference between whether we become successful professionals, or whether we go about our jobs in a very unprofessional manner. We need a solid foundation in professionalism, and our teachers can give us that, hopefully by their actions and not just their words.
Fun, fabulous activities for practising (Continued from Saturday)
BY SUSAN VERNER
Try these simple ideas to make work with adjectives thrilling.
Adjectives of a colour
This activity will help your students understand how similar adjectives can have different degrees of intensity. To prepare, take a trip to your local hardware store or anyplace else where they sell wall paint. Gather several paint sample cards which have two or more shades from the same family. In class, give your students a pair of adjectives which have similar meanings but are of different intensity. For example, you might use any of the following pairs: hungry/starving, angry/furious, tired/exhausted, small/tiny, big/ gigantic, sad/miserable, smart/ brilliant, or bad/horrible. Write the general adjective on the lighter end of the paint sample card and the more intense adjective on the darker end of the card. Then divide your students into groups of two or three to make their own set of cards with more pairs of adjectives. You may want to give them the general adjectives as a starting place and encourage them to use a thesaurus to find a match. Encourage students to come up with their own pairs as well. If you like, post these adjective pairs on a bulletin board decorated with a painter’s pallet. Encourage students to use more specific, intense adjectives in their speech and writing for more vivid and accurate descriptions.
Adjective dominoes
If you don’t make a display with the cards from the previous activity, use them to create a set of adjective dominoes. Have students cut each paint sample into two equal pieces so each adjective is on its own piece. Then, have students tape two pieces from different cards together domino style.
Play a game of dominoes following the standard rules, but instead of matching numbers match each adjective to its more or less intense partner.
Expanding sentences
This simple activity not only reviews adjectives with your students but gives them practice putting them in the right order. Start by writing a simple sentence on the board. (The boy is holding a book.) Tell your students that adjectives make a sentence more interesting by giving details. Challenge your students to add adjectives to the sentence you have on the board, one at a time, to make a more interesting sentence. As they add adjectives, point out the correct order in which to place them. (For a simple summary of how to order adjectives, see this adjective lesson plan on learn4good.com.) Once students are familiar with the process, put them in pairs and give them some additional simple sentences. Give students a few minutes to expand their sentences as creatively as possible and then come back together as a class to share what students have written.
Adjective mix up
In this adjective activity, your students will have a chance to be creative and imaginative. Give each student two sticky notes. On one note they should write a noun and on the other an adjective. Encourage students to be creative. Then, have students mingle around the classroom. During this time, they should look at what every other student has written on his sticky notes. The challenge is to use either another student’s adjective with her noun or the other student’s noun with her adjective and put the two together in a creative sentence. Partners can work together to write one sentence when they are matched, and both should write it on their paper next to their partner’s name. Continue the mix up until every student has worked with every other student to write a sentence using these creative words. If you like, have individuals share their favourite sentences with the rest of the class before collecting and checking what students came up with. (Busyteacher.org)
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com
Bulgaria writes-off New Testament Church US$2.9M debt owed tackles issues affecting men by Guyana
Alex Graham
Brian Skinner
he New Testament Church of God (NTCOG) in Guyana on Friday announced the hosting of its National Men’s Convention 2013 under the theme “I’m The Man”. The convention will be held on October 16 at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. NTCOG National Men’s Director, Alex Graham, said that “this year we are aiming to tackle issues of a broader national moment than just what is of concern to men in our churches. The social crisis in masculinity that manifests itself in domestic abuse, violence and crime necessitates a long and hard look at how we are supporting boys in the transition to manhood and how we are preparing them for the challenges and responsibilities of manhood.” Among the matters that
will be discussed are: How do we set about a revaluation of manhood so that the current constant criticisms of men do not become a selffulfilling “prophecy’; how are we preparing our boys for the challenges and responsibilities of manhood; and what does it really mean to be the ‘man of the house’ as the saying goes. The main presentation at the one-day convention will tackle two primary questions: What does it mean to be a man? and What is the process by which a boy becomes a man? This presentation, “Becoming A Man” will be delivered by Brian H Skinner of Trinidad and Tobago. Skinner is a sociologist, urban planner, family life, crisis and marriage counsellor, trainer in emotional intelligence, and motivational speaker. He practises both locally and internationally and has
T From left to right: Bulgaria’s Finance Minister Dr Petar Chobanov, Guyana’s Finance Ministry Chief Planning Officer Clyde Roopchand and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh signing the debt write-off agreement in the boardroom at the World Bank in Washington, DC
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inance Minister Dr Ashni Singh on Saturday signed a bilateral debt relief agreement to cancel just over US$2.9 million of Guyana’s debt owed to Bulgaria. The agreement will be effective from December 31, 2012. A balance of approximately US$322,578 would be rescheduled and repaid over a three-year period. “The funds saved under this agreement will be used to assist Guyana in enhancing economic growth and alleviating poverty,” Minister Singh said at the signing. The minister further expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation on behalf of the government and people of Guyana for the generosity and support from the government and people
of the Republic of Bulgaria. Bulgaria’s Finance Minister Dr Petar Chobanov signed the agreement with Minister Singh on the margins of the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, which are currently taking place in Washington, DC. “Guyana looks forward to the continued friendly relationship and future cooperation with the government and people of Bulgaria,” Minister Singh said. “This agreement represents a step towards greater cooperation and the strengthening of the cordial friendship between the two countries.” The debt write-off was facilitated by the Paris Club, which is an informal
group of official creditors aimed at facilitating debt treatment options to countries like Guyana. Guyana’s debt to Bulgaria resulted from an Intergovernmental Barter Protocol that was signed on June 10, 1984 in Varna, Bulgaria, which facilitated trade between the two countries during the early 1980s. With the conclusion of this debt relief agreement, the government of Bulgaria recognises Guyana’s attainment of completion point under the enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative in 2003 and the subsequent agreed minute signed with the Paris Club in 2004 for the delivery of debt relief by Guyana’s creditors.
Mexico offering scholarships in hard sciences
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he Mexican government through the National Council on Science and Technology (CONACYT) and in collaboration with the Organisation of American States (OAS) is currently offering scholarships in hard sciences. Mexican Ambassador to Guyana Francisco Olguin has clarified that the scholarships are not available in health sciences as was previously reported by this newspaper. The hard sciences include mathematics, physics and engineering studies, and according to the diplomat, fluency in Spanish is required to pursue such scholarships. The Mexican ambassador in a recent interview with Guyana Times had explained that the scholarships being offered are for master, doctorate and specialty programmes. He said persons ap-
plying should be fluent in Spanish since classes will be taught in this language, but added that eligible applicants should not let this deter them from applying. “I know this may sound difficult but I think most of us in our lives when we decide to go forward, we have to accept that we will probably need to learn other languages.” Explaining his own experience in furthering his studies, Olguin noted that when he and his friends graduated from university and wanted to continue their studies, they realised that they had to know other languages. The ambassador said persons interested in applying should know that the courses are challenging and will require complete dedication. He assured also that the universities are highly accredited. After the scholarship recipients complete their studies abroad, they will
have to come back and serve their country. “This will be for as long as they studied in Mexico, so if they did a two-year master’s degree, they will have to come back to Guyana and work in Guyana with the government for two years.” Olguin disclosed that the country had previously not been able to offer scholarships in the hard sciences; hence, it has to partner with the other agencies. Interested persons can apply via the embassy’s website embamex.sre.gob. mx/guyana/? where they will find the relevant information and requirements. The deadline for applications is October 31 and persons will be notified if they have been awarded the scholarships on November 15. Candidates applying will have to compete with other persons from Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Spain and Portugal.
over 35 years of experience to his credit. He has been most recently involved as a consultant for the Trinidad and Tobago Gender Youth and Child Development Ministry’s male support programmes, including effective parenting. The day’s opening presentation “Revaluing Manhood” will be delivered by Dr Kwame Gilbert. Dr Gilbert is a bishop and pastor in the NTCOG as well as a Member of Parliament and social policy advisor at the Office of the President. Dr Gilbert will be leading a discussion to examine how a revaluing of manhood in society may be one of the contributing factors to bringing about a radical change in male performance in school, the workplace and ultimately helping to pull society back from the descent into violence. The final presentation will focus on the home and family and the proper role of the man in the family. This presentation may challenge some conventional wisdom but will seek to give men 10 things to develop and to do in order to be effective in their roles and responsibilities in the home. These 10 things may require that some men change. For those men who do not yet have their own homes and families, it gives them a blueprint for their current development and preparation for that role.
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com
Sparta fisherman laments alleged theft at sea
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ishermen continue to face a number of challenges on the high seas as they seek to earn an income to provide for their families. Recently, Haresh Singh of Sparta, Essequibo Coast alleged that he was again the victim of theft, pointing out that his seine was reportedly cut by other fisherfolk while his boat was drifting at sea. According to the fisherman, the incident occurred in the Atlantic Ocean off Somerset and Berks Village on Saturday night.
He told Guyana Times that he lost some 400 pounds of seine in the alleged heist, noting that incidents like these make it difficult for him to stay in business. The cut was noticed by his crew members when they decided to pull up the seine to assemble their catch. Singh related that on a closer check by his crewmembers, they noticed that the seine was cut by a sharp object. According to him, if the seine was broken by the waves, it would have had
huge holes in it. Singh suspects that fishermen using the hook and line fishing method are targeting other drifting fishermen. He estimated his loss at around $500,000. Singh, who is now at home along with his four crewmembers, said he now has to incur additional expenses to look after his seine. The fisherman noted that earlier last month, he experienced a similar problem at sea. Then, he said, he lost some $2.8 million worth in seine.
Eyew tness Haresh Singh
Man gets three years for five grams of cannabis
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miner from Queenstown Village on the Essequibo Coast was fined $30,000 and sentenced to three years imprisonment for possession of five grams of cannabis. James Fisher, also known as “Bholo”, was charged for the possession of narcotics
for the purpose of trafficking when he appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court. He pleaded guilty to the charge. According to a police report, on October 7 at Anna Regina, Fisher was found with five grams of cannabis.
He was not represented by an attorney. According to the prosecution’s facts, presented by Krishnadatt Ramana, the defendant, on October 7, about 15:30h was arrested by police for the offense of assault. He was subsequently brought to the Anna Regina
Police station where a search was conducted on him and the substance was found in his left side inner pants pocket in a transparent bag. He was told of the offence and was cautioned. The 34-year-old told the court, “Me does boil it and use it for asthma in my tea”.
Hampton Court man remanded for cocaine possession
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radesh Persaud, 22, called “Brudo” of Hampton Court Village on the Essequibo Coast was remanded to prison after he was found in possession of three grams of cocaine. Persaud appeared before
Magistrate Sunil Scarce on Tuesday at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court. He was charged for the possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. According to a police report, Persaud was found with the substance on
October 6 in the Danielstown area. He was represented by Attorney Lachmie Dindyal, who requested bail for his client. Bail was refused by Prosecutor Krishnadatt Ramana on the grounds that the attorney gave no special
reason why bail should be granted to his client. The substance was found in his right side pants pocket. He was remanded to prison until October 29. A trial will commence on the matter shortly.
That’s a whole lotta... ...chicken or a moment we thought the Alliance For Change (AFC) had thrown in the towel when we heard the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) was going after them. That fella Khurshid Sattaur isn’t easy...he’s like one of those Sheriffs in the old-time cowboy movies who “always got their man”. Dead or alive. We knew the AFC was bleeding every which way: chairman in conflict of interest mess, chairman’s wife and top executive in even bigger conflict of interest mess, and foreign and local people deserting the sinking ship left, right and centre. The GRA head honcho had already gone after the AFC’s chairman and his wife in their private capacities for not paying their taxes on their restaurant and bar and some such. What pulled the Eyewitness up short was the amount the GRA was trying to collect in Value Added Tax (VAT) from the AFC – $618,491,299. How the hell did the AFC collect that much VAT?? $618 million? There were fundraisers in Berbice in which he’d heard their Bush Doctor had played hanky panky with the funds. But $600 million? Jeez!! Then he caught himself...it wasn’t AFC...it was KFC!! The KFC owner evidently not only cut back on his cleaning staff – which caused the colonel’s people to swoop down from Georgia – or some other redneck state – to look for cockroaches and other droppings. He’d also not passed on his VAT collections to the government. Maybe he thought those monies had to be put into some kind of VAT? Your Eyewitness isn’t surprised at the perfidy of these big business types who’ve been holding back on the taxman. Everyone comes down hard on politicians and lawyers as having their hands out. But these delinquent businessmen made them look like pikers. First of all the government uses most of its income to fund projects to help businesses. Bridges and canals...that’s for farmers, no? Schools? You might think they’re to “educate” your little darlings... But they just prepare them to work for somebody, sooner or later. And here it is that these businessmen don’t want to pay their VAT. This isn’t even coming out of their pockets. It has nothing to do with their profits...they only collect VAT for the government. So what AFC was doing (sorry, KFC) was stealing from the government. And that means me and you. If they don’t want to pay the taxman, then we the Guyanese people will just have to do our duty – take back our VAT in chicken. At $300 per piece, we’ll just have to put away 2 million pieces of chicken. That’s about three pieces for every man, woman and child. Your Eyewitness likes breasts, thank you.
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...runs and running As regular readers would know, your Eyewitness, in addition to being a breast man (chicken, please), is also a cricket buff. He’s pleased that Sachin Tendulkar will finally be retiring from cricket. If the truth be told, the little fella, who’s a god in India, made him feel old. After all, Tendulkar wasn’t so much younger than the Eyewitness...and once he kept running down those pitches, the Eyewitness couldn’t “throw back”. Tendulkar’s going after 200 test matches and god knows how many runs. Eyewitness is happy that he’ll play his final game against the West Indies. That completes many a circle. The West Indies might’ve been through a tough patch in the last couple of decades... but when one talks of greatness, we know what it’s all about. We’re sure they’ll give the little master a good send off. We might’ve composed a calypso for Sunil Gavaskar: but we’ll do a symphony for Sachin. ...calls Have you noticed how messed up the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) has become recently? Just can’t get even their billing right. And when it comes to their Internet service, you just can’t imagine! The government better hurry up with their deregulation. GT&T needs some competition.
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com
Inaugural Miss North Georgetown Secondary Pageant launched
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he delegates vying for the coveted title of Miss North Georgetown Secondary (NGSS) were on Friday evening unveiled to the public at a simple ceremony at the Pegasus Hotel poolside, Kingston, Georgetown. Dressed in pink satin gowns made with sparkling silver jewellery and high heeled black shoes, the delegates made their way to the centre of the stage to be sashed by the executives of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and the school’s headteacher.
The delegates competing on pageant night are Jehoshebeth Ferdinand, 14; Jadhiel Harry, 15; Shania Olton, 13; Cindy Khan, 15; Johnali Stewart, 14; Zhoria Wilburg, 14; Yonella Burkett, 13; Niketa Bhoopa, 15; and Regena Lall, 14. The competition will feature introduction, talent, intelligence and evening gown segments. The pageant is slated for Saturday, October 26 in the school’s auditorium. The event is promoted by the North Georgetown Secondary School Old Student Association and
Alumni Association. Alumni Association President Trevor Benn told Guyana Times that the association is made up of past students of the school who now reside in Canada and the U.S. and they have been contributing tremendously to the school’s development. He noted that thus far the association has provided over 400 writing desks to the school and installed several electrical fans in the auditorium. He also praised the Education Ministry for erecting a spanking new
information technology laboratory for the school, noting that not everything is left to the ministry. Benn said as a group, the association will continue to provide the necessary support that is needed for the school, with the aim of enhancing students’ learning capacity. He said once the children are comfortable, they are at an advantage to perform better. Coordinator of the pageant, Sunil Rasul promised to make the pageant a memorable event.
Guyanese drug mule gets 10 years in Dubai
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2 2 - y e a r - o l d Guyanese woman who was busted at the Dubai International airport on May 18 with 3.013kg of cocaine was on Thursday sentenced to 10 years and fined Dhs50, 000. The woman whose name was given as NR reportedly broke down in tears when the judgment was read to her. According to the Gulf Today newspaper, the woman cried before Dubai International Airport officers when they checked her handbag and seized three plastic bags containing 3.013kg of cocaine on May 18. She was on her way from Brazil to South Africa. On May 20, when she was referred to the Public
The Guyanaese woman who will serve jail time in Dubai
Prosecution, she was quoted complaining: “I was sup-
posed to deliver cocaine to South Africa and receive US$3500 in reward.” When she was asked about the quantity of the contraband, she allegedly added that drug dealers fooled her: “I thought I was carrying only a kilogramme of cocaine. I did not know that they had given me three kilos.” At the Dubai Criminal Court on September 30, she admitted to the charge before Judge Badr Eisa Al Samt. The woman will be deported after serving her jail term, the newspaper stated. A Djiboutian police corporal testified that he had suspected NR in the airport’s transit hall. “She was carrying a men’s leather handbag. I asked her
the price at which she had bought her ticket but she could not tell. “She could not even tell me the name of the hotel or place in Johannesburg where she was going to stay.” Investigations revealed that a female Emirati corporal at the scanning device added that, “I opened NR’s handbag and seized three plastic bags containing a suspicious white powder. When I asked NR about the plastic bags, she burst into incessant tears.” During interrogation, the woman reportedly claimed that while in her home country, a female friend called “Sofia” asked her whether she wanted to make money from a drug deal. Sofia introduced her to “Mike”, a Nigerian man residing in Brazil, who sent her a ticket to Sao Paulo. From information gathered, Mike reportedly received her at the airport and took her to one of the hotels where she spent three days. “On the date of my departure, I was inside a taxi when Mike gave me a handbag of drugs to be taken to Johannesburg. He requested that I deliver them to a man in South Africa and that the latter was waiting for me at the airport with a reward of $3500 if all went well,” the woman added.
Walking disaster
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atiricus is nothing if not a patriotic Guyanese. His navel-string is buried here and to-help-meGod, he would do anything to help his native land. And so it was, with today being “International Day for Disaster Reduction”, his furrowed brow was testimony to the deep thought he was applying to the question of how to reduce disaster in Guyana. He’d long realised that deep thinking didn’t come naturally to him and so, with discretion being the better part of valour, he retired to the back-street bar to discuss the matter with the boys. “Guyana don’t have too many disasters like them Caribbean islands, you know,” pointed out Hari. “No volcanoes, no hurricanes, no earthquakes…” “Hold it right deh!” exclaimed Suresh. “Like you sleep through the earthquake Friday night, or wha?” “What earthquake?” snorted Hari. “Is the same thing I talking about...we don’t get disasters and we think a lil tremor is an earthquake!” “Budday...two of me wife ware plates slip off she shelf and broke. Is a real disaster I got this morning.” Suresh did look harassed and he was putting away the beer quite faster than usual. “The woman crying she eye out and everything.” “Well, me na know about alyou,” interrupted Cappo. “Dem islands got earthquake and so on...but we had de biggest disaster fuh ever hit de Caribbean – Burnham!” “You, rite,” grinned his pal Bungi. “After Burnham done wid we, was worse than any hurricane!” “But he dead now...,” pointed out Hari. “Well you know what he said,” interjected Teacher Samad. “As soon as one Rasta dead another gon rise up to take his place.” “An look who tek he place – Mook Lall!” Cappo rose from his chair. “Dat chap a wan mo big disaster fuh Guyana dan Burnham!” “You got a point there,” said Teacher Samad. “Let us count the ways...backtracker?” “Damn right!” agreed Kuldeep who had come in late. “His people beat me cousin black and blue when she lil late wid she payment.” “He carry news pon he friends at de U.S. embassy,” added Cappo. “Dat is de lowest of de low. Mo low dan a snake belly!” “The man stain Guyana name in he paper so much that people don’t want to come to Guyana to visit...much less live,” complained Hari. “An now we hear he doan pay he tax to de city,” said Bungi. “Even doh he always complainin’ de city dirty.” “Man, Mook Lall is a walking disaster. Maybe we should beg the U.S. embassy to give he back he visa, so he can move to New York,” said Satiricus. “They know how to deal with disasters.”
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com
John Lewis Styles celebrates Mahaica gets $83M market 10th anniversary J
Some of the bikes on giveaway as part of John Lewis Styles’ 10th anniversary celebrations
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ohn Lewis Styles on Thursday celebrated its 10th anniversary and to mark the occasion, it made generous donations to several non-governmental (NGOs) organisations. These NGOs include The Guyana Relief Council, Guyana Kids First Fund, NCN Radio’s Needy Children’s Fund, The Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Georgetown. The store’s proprietor John Lewis said in addition to increasing the donation amounts, it has added The Salvation Army and Help & Shelter as new recipients. “We recognise the hard work and dedication each organisation exhibits on all projects and we are pleased to be associated with their efforts. This donation highlights our social and ethical responsibilities to society in
being a good corporate citizen. “We have also continued to maintain the Waterloo Street Avenue between Quamina and Church streets as part of our beautification project. Landscaping, private garbage collection and street lights are ways in which we give back to the community,” Lewis said. He noted that as part of the 10th anniversary celebrations, he thought the store’s year-end promotion should be something to remember, and has decided to give away 10 motorcycles over a 10-week period to 10 winners. The prizes include seven 110cc Jailing bikes, a 125cc scooter, a 125cc Honda XR dirt bike and a 250cc Honda CBR Sports Bike. The promotion runs from October 14 to December 27. For every $5000 spent (VAT
inclusive) during this period, customers will receive one entry form to be correctly filled and dropped into a box provided. There will be 10 weekly drawings commencing October 26 and concluding on December 28. Lewis said a children’s department will open this December and in the near future, two more stories will be added to the store. This will see the store expanding its product line. “On this occasion, we give thanks to God for making all things possible. To our customers, family and friends, we extend our sincere gratitude for their support over the years. To our staff, we are truly grateful for their honesty and hard work. We promise to continue offering quality and value and we look forward to serving all,” Lewis said.
unior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker on Friday officially handed over the $83 million Mahaica Market to the area’s Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC). The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Region Four Chairman Clement Corlette, local government officials, including Unity/Vereeniging NDC Chairperson Anoopwattie Veeren and dozens of vendors. Minister Whittaker told the gathering that the market was another example of government’s support to bring order to the manner in which people vend and to provide healthy, safe and hygienic conditions for buyers and sellers. Minister Whittaker challenged the appointed Market Committee, which comprises
The newly-constructed Mahaica Market
vendors, and NDC, RDC and Local Government Ministry officials, to work along with the vendors to optimise the use of the market by encouraging them to vend within its boundaries and off the road sides. He further emphasised the need for accountability with respect to the earnings realised from the use of the facilities.
The market, which was constructed by Dookie Contracting Services with washroom and water supply facilities, can accommodate 120 stalls on its ground floor and staffing facilities and a meeting room on the top floor. Corlette commended government for financing the project and urged the vendors to utilise and care the facility.
Efforts being made to control Haags Bosch landfill odour
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unior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker noted that having received complaints from residents about the odour emanating from the Haags Bosch landfill, the ministry is working with BK International, the contractor of the site, to improve the manner in which things are done. Minister Whittaker noted that after visiting the lo-
cation, it was identified that there was need for adequate spread and cover, and it needs to be done with some frequency. Further, coming out of discourses with the contractor, the local government and finance ministries came up with a revised list of equipment and personnel to ensure this process. The Haags Bosch landfill, aback of Eccles, East
Bank Demerara replaced the Mandela Avenue dump site in Le Repentir and was opened for use in 2011. The project is being funded by an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) US$18 million loan, and is intended to serve 15 surrounding neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs) and to facilitate the disposal of health care discards and other hazardous materials.
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sunDAY, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com
Harry Madramootoo’s Guyana has greatest potential in agricultural production in American scholarship to be implemented at GSA hemisphere – IICA director general
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nter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA) Director General Dr Victor Villalobos said Guyana is one of two countries in the American hemisphere with the greatest potential in agricultural production. He made the remarks during a recent lecture titled “Emerging issues in agriculture” at the University of Guyana. Dr Villalobos, a Mexican national with a doctorate from the University of Alberta, Canada, explained that agriculture, at this moment of human history, is experiencing a transition towards a new paradigm. He indicated that population growth and higher standards of living are creating a greater demand for food, but warned that mankind cannot continue to produce agricultural goods at the high environmental cost of the past. Referring to the green revolution which took place in the second half of the 20th century, he recognised its importance but pointed out that it mainly favoured the production of grains in flat and large fields with highly mechanised procedures and the production of fewer and selected varieties. The new paradigm in agriculture has to overcome those limitations and include a social component that will translate in greater incentives to develop the country side, ensure biodiversity and protect the environment. Standards of living and quality of life in the countryside should be at least
extension of land that has not been agriculturally developed.”
Rapid growth
IICA Director General Dr Victor Villalobos
as high as those of the cities. He said today about one billion people suffer from hunger and the world’s population will experience an increase of two billion more people in the next 40 years.
New challenges
Crop and livestock production face new challenges in the global scene that include not only recurrent economic and social crises, but also environment degradation and climate change. “Therefore, we have to be able to become more efficient, more resilient, ensure sustainability and develop more inclusive forms of production,” he said. Referring to the regions of the world, he pointed out that Europe has practically reached its potential for food production under the present state of scientific and technological development. Asia and Africa have
the possibility to increase their production but are experiencing high population growth and face various social, political, and economic difficulties that could take a generation to overcome. “Latin America, therefore, is the only region with the capacity to respond immediately to the new demands. Five countries of the region are among the richest in biodiversity in the planet and therefore important in terms of food security. They are endowed with a rich genetic base that holds hidden treasures to discover. Our continent has 24 per cent of the world’s forests, which are vital for ensuring the availability of fresh water. Not surprisingly, we hold 36 per cent of the reservoirs of fresh water of the globe. And two countries of our region, Paraguay (particularly the Chaco region) and Guyana have abundant water resources and a considerable
Agricultural production has been growing faster than other sectors in the recent past, reaching more than 11 per cent in some years, but needs to satisfy some important needs and overcome some serious problems. Dr Villalobos referred to some of those needs, such as developing greater knowledge and technology. Unfortunately, he said, when “we experience economic crisis, budgets for research and education suffer cuts, which affects the development of our human resources. We need better markets to benefit from an increased production, and that includes means of transportation and fair access to world markets, which would translate in higher standards of living for all. We need to increase quality of life and standards of living in rural areas to attract and retain qualified people. And we need an increasing effectiveness of international organisations to deal with the challenges of globalisation.” Dr Villalobos said this is the best time for agriculture development in world history and this opportunity should not be lost. IICA is here to work at the regional level to help overcome the problems and foster development, he said, as he announced a joint Mexico/IICA scholarship programme that will yearly offer the opportunity for Guyanese students to take their knowledge and skills to a new level.
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he immediate family of the late Harry Madramootoo, a former dean of the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) will soon be implementing the Harry Madramootoo Scholarship, as negotiations are currently in its final stage of completion. This was recently announced by dean of McGill University, Dr Chanda Madramootoo, son of the later Harry Madramootoo. “My father devoted his career to agriculture in Guyana. He was called in at the very last minute by the late Dr Cheddi Jagan to pay the role... He committed his heart and soul to the school, he wanted to see the school established to train the future generation of agricultural professionals; it is something that we had talked to the school about after my father died in 2001 as something to honour his contribution to agriculture in Guyana,” he said. Presently, the negotiating aspect of the Harry
Madramootoo scholarship is being finalised. The annual scholarship will cater for students to complete a two-year diploma in agricultural science. “I think my father will be proud to see how the school has grown and expanded, not only academically but when I looked around the room, I saw the number of students compared to when my father started at the school with only a handful of students in 1993. I think anybody would be proud of how the school has grown and expanded,” Dr Madramootoo said. Dr Madramootoo expressed his delight at how the GSA has evolved over the years, and the contributions it continues to make. “I was also impressed to see how big an impact the school has made on agriculture in Guyana. Every year, you go regionally or internationally you are seeing students who graduated from GSA and who are playing a big role,” he said.
Berbice pensioner found hanging in house
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he lifeless body of a pensioner was on Friday night found hanging in his home at Glasgow Village, East Bank Berbice, leaving relatives to believe that he committed suicide. Arthur Christopher, 62, a pensioner of Lot 58, Glasgow Village, has reportedly attempted to commit suicide on a number of occasions, but apparently succeeded on Friday evening when he was home alone. Christopher was reportedly both a drug and alcohol addict. Based on reports received, he lived with his wife, Roselyn Christopher, 58, a market vendor. Roselyn explained that about 07:30h on Friday, when she left home, her husband
was sitting in the yard after he had taken a few drinks earlier in the morning. The woman said when she returned home about 22:00h, she called out to her husband, but there was no answer, so she went into the house and was confronted by her worst fears. She found him hanging from a piece of white cloth tied around his neck which was attacked to the stairway. Christopher’s body was cut down and taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Checks were made on his body but no mark of violence was seen. The body is at the said hospital’s mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.
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Caricom heads lament slow implementation of Jagdeo Initiative
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aricom heads have expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace at which the Jagdeo Initiative is being implemented within member states, noting that a more welcoming approach would see the region becoming more food rich. Addressing the media following the just concluded agriculture ministerial meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy told a news gathering on Friday that while a number of activities were done across the region to satisfy the call for the implementation of the Jagdeo Initiative, it is still not enough. “When we say that we are disappointed and that we have made slow progress, we don’t mean that there was a lag in implementation and we don’t mean that it was abandoned. What we did concede is that there is much room for energising the way we have embraced implementing the Jagdeo Initiative,” he said. He disclosed that 11 Caribbean countries have so far formulated work plans with indicators as part of executing the components that the initiative outlines, add-
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo
Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy
ing that Guyana is among those listed. The Jagdeo Initiative identifies and defines the key constraints facing agricultural development in the Caribbean and aims to develop and implement targeted, focused and practical interventions at both the regional and national levels to overcome these constraints. Dr Ramsammy believes that the rigorous implementation of the initiative by all member states can ultimately result in a collective effort to reduce the region’s food import bill.
basket, can therefore be addressed with the proper execution of the plan, he said. As it stands, the region currently has a US$5 billion food import bill, with some $200 million of the total going towards the importation of flour and another $200 million for corn and soya for the stock feed industry, Dr Ramsammy explained. “Indeed, one of the things we identified was the fact that we need to substitute for our imports… we believe that we could reduce the amount of wheat we import in the region by substituting with other kinds of flour in mixtures.” In this regard, he said Guyana will be seeking alternatives and substitutes to certain food commodities,
Food import bill
The import bill, which is one of the constraints identified in hindering the region’s development as the food
as it seeks to play its part in reducing import. He believes countries need to take innovative steps in using their local produce to substitute for imported products. As such, he said Guyana will be looking to incorporate cassava and other ingredients into flour. He added that “initiatives like those would lead to reduction through substitution”. In light of this, Dr Ramsammy said Caricom member states have reconfirmed that they will be utilising the Jagdeo Initiative as a means to ensure food security. “We have worked with the Jagdeo Initiative in the past without timelines. We identified the alleviating activities but we didn’t give ourselves timelines,” he said, adding that more emphasis will now be placed on timelines. Under the Jagdeo Initiative, it is expected that agriculture in the region will have made substantial progress in its contribution to sustainable growth, within a framework of transparent institutions and good governance that enables the transformation of its products and processes.
Cattle rancher dies in vicious piranhas attack
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young rancher died Friday afternoon after his face was disfigured by piranhas when he fell into the Plantation Rising Sun Main Canal, West Coast Berbice (WCB) while grazing cattle in the area. The dead young man was identified as Peter Pestano, 23, a cattle farmer of Lot 19, Number 40 Village, WCB. From reports received, Pestano’s entire face and right eye were eaten in the attack after he fell into the canal in an unconscious state. According to further information received, Pestano left home about 12:00h on
Friday and went to the cow’s pen at Washington Main Canal in Weldaad to release the cattle for grazing. However, about 13:30h, his father, Edward Pestano, received a telephone call, informing him that the young man was seen floating in the Rising Sun Canal. Upon receiving the news, the father and another son, Eldon went in search of Peter and located him. He was fished out of the canal and it was observed that his entire face and right eye were devoured by the fish. The young man was taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was certified dead by a doctor. The
body is presently at the said hospital’s mortuary awaiting post-mortem examination. The father of the dead man told Guyana Times that from reports received on Saturday, his son was on a horse and while in the vicinity of the main canal, he attempted to block the cattle from crossing and fell from the horse, into the canal. As he fell to the ground, he reportedly hit his face and other parts of the body. As a result of the injuries, he started to bleed from hisnostrils and this might have attracted the piranhas. “His assistant was on
the opposite side of the canal and due to the dept, he could not have gone to my son’s rescue… Once piranhas smell blood, they will attack and in this case, it was my son,” he said. The aggrieved father recalled the last time he saw his son was earlier on the fateful day when he left home to look after the cattle. He described his son as a hard-working young man. Pestano was a devout Christian and attended the Tabernacle Church in his community. He leaves to mourn his parents and four brothers. Police are investigating the incident.
Katherina Roshana hosting fundraiser for autistic children
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he Savannah Suite, Pegasus Hotel will come alive this Wednesday evening when newly-crowned Miss Guyana Universe Katherina Roshana hosts Charity Night, to raise funds for autistic children. The evening promises to be a night of entertainment with performances from Apsara and the Nachagana dance troupes, Feed the Flames Band and others. All proceeds will go to the Step by Step Guyana Foundation. There will also be two auctions and a fashion show. Additionally, ticket holders will also win prizes which include tickets to the Rihanna and R Kelly concerts, Guyana Fashion Week, Apsara’s “An evening of dance, music and fashion”, a gift voucher, compliments of Nanda’s Boutique and several others. Tickets cost $2500 and are available at the Pegasus Hotel front desk; the Feed Shop in Sandy Babb Street, Kitty; Nanda’s Boutique, Camp Street; and King’s Jewellery World, Quamina Street. Apsara Chief Executive Officer and franchise holder of Miss India World Wide Guyana, Chandini Rambalak is encouraging persons to come out and support this worthy cause, explaining that the Step by Step Foundation is depending on donors for its existence. “If you do not attend the event, you can make a donation to Step by Step Guyana… a small donation, even if it’s a $1000… it’s for the children,” she encouraged. She disclosed that Roshana will leave Guyana immediately after the charity event to begin her quest for the Miss Universe 2013 pageant, adding that it is
somewhat a goodbye event for her as well. “So persons can come out take photos of her, meet and greet, offer her your wishes and give her any advice you want.” Rambalak said Roshana is ready for the pageant in Moscow, Russia, on November 9. She is being groomed by a number of experienced trainers. One of Roshana’s personal trainers is Richard Young, a well known Caribbean fashion expert, who was the trainer of former Miss Universe 1998, Trinidadian Wendy Fitzwilliam. The Miss India Guyana franchise holder said the experience gained by Roshana during her participation in the Miss India World Wide Pageant 2013 is a huge plus going into the Miss Universe Pageant. “Even though she has a small space of time to prepare for the Miss Universe Pageant, thank God she has previous experiences which will make her stronger and aid her significantly,” Rambalak said. She is also encouraging persons to go online and vote for Roshana. The 23-year-old beauty is being sponsored by the NEW GPC INC under its Limacol brand as well as the Miss Universe Committee. Roshana was crowned Miss Guyana Universe 2013 before a packed to capacity Pegasus poolside just before midnight last Sunday. She captivated the judges with her smile, and was awarded the Best Smile Prize. Roshana, who hopes to become a doctor in oriental medicine, will be competing with 89 other delegates for the coveted title, with some optimism of bring home Guyana’s first Miss Universe crown.
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com
Understanding Reducing Emissions from Motorcyclist Deforestation and Forest Degradation fractures pelvis in in Developing Countries (REDD+) minibus collision
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n the previous articles, we discussed the major initiatives that are being implemented to address climate change, including Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). This week, we will focus on a key approach to mitigating climate change – Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (REDD+). Forests cover about 31 per cent of the global land area and provide a number of important ecosystem services, including watershed protection, regulation of regional climate, regulation of the water cycle, prevention of erosion and flooding, maintenance of soil quality and micro-environment, as well as carbon sequestration. They directly support the livelihoods of 90 per cent of the 1.2 billion people living in extreme poverty and are home to nearly 90 per cent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity. Forests hold a significant standing stock of global carbon and therefore play an important role in the global climate system. They absorb carbon dioxide and store carbon from the atmosphere constantly and so regulate the levels of Green House Gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. When forests are
damaged or cleared, the burned or decaying wood releases the carbon stored in trees in the
form of carbon dioxide (CO2), thereby increasing the levels of GHGs. Deforestation and forest degradation account for nearly 20 per cent of GHG emissions. There is potentially a financial value for the carbon stored in forests, which could help to assist rainforest countries in reducing/avoiding emissions from forested lands and invest in low-carbon development activities and sustainable development. Recognising the significant amount of GHG emissions that come from deforestation and forest degradation, the potential role of forests in regulating climate, and the role of forests in contributing to green development, rainforest countries have advocated for a platform
for “Reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries: approaches to stimulate action” which was adopted under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2005. Subsequently, rainforest countries were successful in adding forest conservation, sustainable management of forests, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries to the concept of REDD, thus creating what is now known as REDD Plus. A major decision to stimulate action on REDD was adopted by Parties in Bali at the UNFCC Conference of Parties (COP) 13 in 2007. At COP 15 in Copenhagen, REDD Plus was further advanced, and at the subsequent COP in Cancun, the scope was formally adopted to include not only deforestation and degradation, but also forest conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries – REDD+. Including the “Plus” component in REDD+ is an important element, because without it there would be little incentive for High Forest Cover, Low Deforestation (HFLD) countries like Guyana to maintain a low rate of deforestation. A programme of work on
methodological and financing issues on REDD+ was initiated under an Ad Hoc Working Group on Long term Cooperative Actions (AWGLCA). Under this track, negotiations continued in the drafting of decision language relating to Monitoring Reporting and Verification (MRV), reference levels, safeguards and financing. Presently, negotiations are focused on the modalities that will govern a financial mechanism for REDD+, including an institutional architecture under the UNFCCC. Internationally there has been recognition that to be able to participate in and/or implement any future activities for REDD+, many developing countries will require capacity building, technical assistance and financial support for a number of enabling activities. The negotiation sessions have acknowledged the importance of REDD+, and agreed on the need to establish a mechanism for REDD+ to mobilise financial resources to reduce deforestation and to conserve and sustainably manage forests. At this stage, REDD-plus pilot and demonstration activities are currently implemented by several countries. Many countries have entered into bilateral and multilateral cooperation activities involving governments and a broad range of organisations to build capacities to support REDD+. Next week we will explore Guyana’s actions as it relates to REDD+ and the use of its forests in addressing climate change. For additional information, please contact the Office of Climate Change, Office of the President, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown on telephone number 223-5205, email info@lcds.gov.gy or website www.lcds.gov.gy.
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motorcyclist is now nursing a fractured pelvis at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he collided with a minibus on the Number 28 Village Public Road, West Coast Berbice on Friday evening. The motorcyclist was identified as Eustace Saul, 59, of Number 29 Village, West Coast Berbice while the driver of the minibus is Denzil Thompson, 35, of Number Five Village, West Coast Berbice. Investigations revealed that the minibus, bearing registration number BKK 5406, was proceeding along the Number 28 Village Public Road at a fast rate when the driver suddenly made a stop. As a result, Saul, who was riding motorcycle CF 5433 and was proceeding in the same direction, collided with the rear of the minibus. Saul fell to the ground and received injuries about his body. Eyewitnesses told Guyana Times that it was almost dark and both the minibus and motorcycle were speeding when the accident occurred. One man stated that after the minibus stopped to pick up a passenger, the
motorcyclist was too close behind and could not avoid slamming into the rear of the vehicle. Saul could not have overtaken the bus since there were other vehicles travelling in the opposite direction, the eyewitness said. “From what it look like, he may have suffered a broken hip because when people attempted to pick him up, he couldn’t walk properly and was seemingly in immense pain.” Saul was rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital in a conscious state where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and immediately referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. The motorcyclist was admitted a patient at the medical facility suffering from a fractured pelvis. He is being monitored by hospital officials. The matter was reported to the Fort Wellington Police Station and the driver of the minibus was taken into custody to assist in the investigations. The minibus was lodged to be examined by a licence and certifying officer. Police are continuing their investigations.
guyanatimesgy.com
SUNday, october 13, 2013
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Around the world Half a million flee as huge storm batters eastern India
As many as 500,000 people have left their homes, many for storm shelters (BBC News)
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ore than 500,000 people fled their homes on Saturday as cyclone Phailin slammed into India’s impoverished eastern coastline. The storm packed gusts of up to 240 kilometres per hour (150 miles per hour) as it churned over the Bay of Bengal, making it potentially the most powerful cyclone to hit the area
since 1999, when more than 8000 died, the Indian weather office said. “We could see windspeed of over 330 kph and it’s expected that water levels will surge by nearly 15 feet (4.5 metres) in the low line area”, said Mankadkini Gahlot, France24’s correspondent in Mumbai. The weather department warned of extensive damage
to mud houses, major disruption of power and communication lines, and the flooding of rail tracks and roads. Flying debris is another threat. “In a storm of this magnitude there is the potential for widespread damage to crops and livestock in the low-lying coastal areas and houses completely wiped away,” said Kunal Shah, the head of the aid group World Vision’s emergency response team in India. Many of the people along the coast are subsistence fishermen and farmers, who live in mudand-brick or thatched huts. India’s disaster preparations have improved significantly since the 1999 typhoon and aid workers praised precautions for Phailin such as early warnings, stocking of rations in shelters and evacuations. (Excerpt from France24)
Jamaica signs historic Minamata Convention on Mercury
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amaica was one of 91 countries to sign the historic Minimata Convention on Mercury at the Conference of Plenipotentiaries which took place in Minamata, Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan from October 9-11. Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change Minister Robert Pickersgill signed on behalf of the government of Jamaica. The treaty seeks to place controls and restrictions on a range of products, processes and industries where mercu-
ry is used, released or emitted. It seeks to phase out by 2020, the production, export and import of products that contain mercury. These include batteries, switches and relays, certain types of compact fluorescent lamps, soaps and cosmetics, certain types of non-electronic medical devices such as thermometers and blood pressure devices; and the use of dental fillings using mercury amalgam. The treaty also seeks to control mercury emissions and releases from the min-
ing industry as well as cement and coal-fired power plants. In addition, parties that have artisanal and small-scale gold mining operations are expected to draw up national plans within three years of the treaty being entered into force to reduce and where possible, eliminate the use of mercury in these operations. Under the new agreement, populations at risk will be identified, and medical care and training of health professionals improved. (Excerpt from
Jamaica Observer)
Deal to resolve fiscal crisis stalls in Congress
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opes for an immediate resolution of Washington’s fiscal crisis faded on Capitol Hill on Saturday as angry House of Representatives Republicans accused President Barack Obama of shutting down negotiations with them and turning to the Senate. Congress was racing against a Thursday deadline to extend U.S. borrowing authority and as Obama ratcheted up pressure on lawmakers to end a partial government shutdown.
Hundreds of thousands of federal workers have been furloughed since October 1 when lawmakers failed to reach agreement to fund the government. In a sign of intensifying negotiations in the Senate, Democratic leader Harry Reid and Republican leader Mitch McConnell were holding talks on Saturday after a chilly period. “Senator Reid and Senator McConnell are talking to each other for the first time and that’s good,” Republican Senator Roy Blunt told reporters.
Even if senators craft a proposal to end the government shutdown and raise the debt ceiling, at least some Republican support will be needed to pass it in the House. That support is far from guaranteed, especially if the Senate deal does not include any new attacks on Obama’s health care reform law. After two days of House Republicans talking in positive terms about Obama and their chances for a deal, the bubble burst on Saturday. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Costco recalls 40,000 pounds of rotisserie chicken for salmonella risk
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Costco wholesale store in South San Francisco, California, is recalling nearly 40,000 pounds of rotisserie chicken products because the food may be linked to an outbreak of salmonella poisoning that now has sickened more than 300 people in 20 states, federal health officials said early Saturday. The Costco store at 1600 El Camino Real is recalling 8730 Kirkland Signature Foster Farms rotisserie chickens and 313 units of Kirkland Farm rotisserie chicken soup, rotisser-
ie chicken leg quarters and rotisserie chicken salad, according to a notice issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The products were sold directly to consumers between September 11 and September 23. The rotisserie chickens may have been contaminated with a type of salmonella Heidelberg rarely found in the United States, FSIS officials said. The strain is linked to an ongoing food poisoning outbreak associated with three Foster Farms
poultry plants in Fresno and Livingston, California. The USDA issued a public health alert for products from the plant on Monday, but on Thursday agreed that the facilities could remain open if the company made promised food safety fixes. At least 317 people in 20 states have been sickened by the outbreak since March, according to an updated notice from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of the cases have been in California, where 232 people have been reported ill. (Excerpt from MSNBC)
Brazil’s Rousseff seen beating likely 2014 challengers: poll
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razilian President Dilma Rousseff would win re-election against her most likely challengers without a runoff if ballots were cast today, according to a Datafolha opinion poll published by newspaper Folha de S Paulo on Saturday. Rousseff, a pragmatic leftist expected to seek a second term next October, won 42 per cent support in a hypothetical matchup against Senator Aecio Neves of the traditional opposition party PSDB and Pernambuco Governor Eduardo Campos, whose centre-left PSB party recently bolted the governing coalition. Neves and Campos, who are still introducing themselves to a
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff
national audience, took 21 per cent and 15 per cent in the poll, respectively. Their higher-profile party col-
leagues fared better, underscoring the long shadow cast by more established politicians a year ahead of the 2014 elections. Jose Serra, the PSDB candidate who faced Rousseff in 2010, and Marina Silva, a former presidential candidate for the Green Party who joined the PSB a week ago, would push the vote to a runoff, according to Datafolha. In that matchup, which is seen as unlikely, Rousseff polled at 37 per cent, Silva took 28 per cent and Serra won 20 per cent. The Datafolha poll of 2517 people had a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Mandatory cancer registry proposed in Cayman Islands
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xperts have declared unqualified support for Premier Alden McLaughlin’s announcement of official efforts to create a mandatory national cancer registry, boosted by explicit reassurances over privacy concerns. Addressing the Legislative Assembly, McLaughlin devoted a section of his budget speech designating cancer as a “reportable disease,” making it obligatory for hospitals, clinics and private doctors to report its occurrence. This would facilitate data
collection and boost public health by collating information about the incidence and prevalence of cancer. He also addressed patients’ long-standing worries about their confidentiality, fearing release of personal information either through oversight or official intervention. While Health Ministry legislation sought to make cancer reporting mandatory, he said, it would also “make provisions regarding the confidentiality of the registry.” Legal drafting is still in the initial
stages. “This would be an enormous step forward, an exponential increase” in efforts to track cancer, discerning patterns, charting shifting trends and identifying at-risk groups and behaviours,” said Amanda Franck, cancer registrar at Cayman Islands Hospital in George Town. She and the Health Services Authority have been trying to get legislation, changing it to make it mandatory, while conceding that the effort is “time consuming and complex.” (Excerpt from
cayCompass)
African Union urges ICC to defer Uhuru Kenyatta case
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he African Union summit in Ethiopia has demanded a deferral of The Hague trial of Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, due to start in November. It also agreed a resolution stating no sitting African head of state
should appear before an international court. With both Kenyan and Sudanese presidents facing ICC cases, African leaders have long complained that the court unfairly targets them. The AU had discussed withdrawing from the ICC,
but failed to get support. Senior figures including Kofi Annan have criticised plans to quit the ICC. The AU leaders, meeting in Addis Ababa, agreed to back immunity for any sitting African head of state. They also asked Kenya to write to the UN Security
Council seeking a deferral in the International Criminal Court (ICC) case against Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who faces charges of crimes against humanity. Both he and his deputy, William Ruto, deny charges of organising violence after the
2007 election. While Ruto went on trial in September, President Kenyatta has repeatedly requested his trial – due next month – be postponed. Addressing the summit, Kenyatta accused the court of bias and “racehunting”, AFP reports.
“The ICC has been reduced into a painfully farcical pantomime, a travesty that adds insult to the injury of victims. It stopped being the home of justice the day it became the toy of declining imperial powers.” (Excerpt from BBC News)
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SUNday, october 13, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com
“I lost everything I worked for” Guyana, Venezuelan foreign ministers – Ogle fire victim to meet on seizure F of seismic vessel
irefighters worked around the clock on Friday evening into Saturday morning as they battled the small flames that intermittently sprung up following the massive fire at Ogle, East Coast Demerara, which completely razed a storage bond owned by M Beepat and Sons and a dwelling house nearby. At the scene on Saturday morning, there was heavy smoke and several explosions were heard as tinned items went off as a result of the heat. The back of the building still had patches of fire which were quickly extinguished by the firemen. One fireman explained that his team took over from another group that worked throughout Friday night, and they have been very busy since, putting out small pockets of fire. As the firemen battled the flames, members of the Beepat family stood and watched but remained tightlipped about the disaster. While some reported that the fire stated from the back of the huge bond, some believe that it started from the front. The upper flat of the treestorey multimillion bond, which was built of wood and concrete, was completely flattened as a result of the extent of the fire. Several cracks on the walls of the second flat were evident, and from all indications, it is on the verge of collapsing. Debbie Williams, who rented the bottom flat of the
The house that was once occupied by Debbie Williams and her four children
Lot 20, Temple Street property, said she lost everything that she has worked for her entire life. The distraught woman explained that as a result of the fire, she and her four children ages 21, 16, 15 and two are forced to stay at a friend’s home until she gets another place to rent. Williams recalled that she was at work in Bel Air Park when she received a telephone call from a friend relating the bad news. Williams told Guyana Times that by the time she reached the scene, her apartment was in flames. As she looked around, she saw her eldest son with their two rabbits and her dog standing besides him. The woman stated that her apartment had every convenience and she estimated her losses to be in the millions. Williams has been renting the flat for the past three
years. This newspaper understands that no one occupies the upper flat of the house, since the owners of the property are overseas. The house is being taken care of by a relative. In a solemn tone, the woman said that starting over will be extremely difficult, while noting that her friends and folks in the community have been very supportive. She has not heard from the Guyana Relief Council or any member of the Beepat family. With God’s grace, Williams is hoping to return to normalcy as soon as possible. Meanwhile, Angela Singh, who lives at Lot 21, Temple Street, Ogle, recalled that about 10:00h, she was at home alone when she heard her dogs barking and as she looked out, she heard some cracking sounds followed by loud explosions.
Singh said that she ignored the noise and went along her business, but within a few minutes, she heard her neighbours screaming, calling out to her. “It was then I realised that it was a fire but I panicked and ended up asking the neighbours to call my husband.” The woman also stated that after a while, Fish Spray tins started to fly-in all direction with one ending up in her backyard among the wood and grass, and subsequently igniting. “I run and grabbed all our personal documents and secure them… by which time people started to remove the furniture and other materials.” The woman went on to say that as people helped them to evacuate, a quantity of money and jewellery were missing. By this time, the firefighters arrived, but had some difficulties in getting to the scene as vehicles were parked haphazardly on the access road. When the fire tenders arrived, they ran out of water and had to source water from a trench which was about 600 feet away from the blaze. Singh commended the firemen, noting that they worked tirelessly to contain the blaze. The fire devoured the Beepat bond on Friday, leaving millions of dollars in losses. From all indications, the fire might have been electrical in origin.
International Day for Disaster Reduction focuses on persons living with disability
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nternational Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) will be observed today , and to mark the event, the National Commission on Disability (NCD) in collaboration with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) held an observance on Friday, bringing awareness of disaster reduction and persons living with disabilities. The focus of IDDR 2013 is on one billion people or onefifth of the world’s population living with some form of disability. The theme for this year’s event is “Living with Disability and Disasters”. CDC Director General Colonel (retired) Chabilall Ramsarup, pointed out that when disasters occur, persons living with disabilities are the most disadvantaged, and explained that IDDR will focus on how to cater for this category in a disaster. This year’s theme is the third area focused on under the Step up Initiative that was developed in 2011, and which focuses on a different group of partners every year leading up to the World Conference for Disaster Reduction in 2015. These groups are children and
A section of the gathering at the event
young people (2011), women and girls (2012), people living with disabilities (2013), and the ageing population (2014). CDC Operations and Training Officer Major Kester Craig also said that persons living with disabilities are among the most excluded in society, and their plight is magnified when a disaster strikes. More often, their contribution to helping communities prepare for and respond to disasters is also often overlooked. These individuals are also the most vulnerable because they may not be able to respond in a timely manner during a disaster hence, special focus should be given to them. The IDDR started in
1989 with approval of the United Nations General Assembly which views it as a means of promoting global disaster reduction, including disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness.
Art and essay competition
Meanwhile, the NCD launched its In-School Art and Essay Competition as a part of IDDR observances. The competition is coordinated by Anita Wilson, a volunteer of the CDC volunteer corps to allow children to highlight key considerations for persons living with disabilities in disaster risk reduction. It comprises a written essay and/or an art piece depicting the effects of flooding on the disabled. Flooding
was the topic chosen, because it is the biggest natural disaster that Guyana faces. The participants are given two questions to choose from; how are persons with disabilities affected by disasters caused by flooding? And what actions can be taken to reduce impacts of persons with disability during disasters caused by flooding? The participants may seek assistance from their teachers or relatives but the final piece presented must be theirs. They are asked to submit one piece for either category; however they can enter both categories. The art category requires a drawing or painting that is relevant to the above mentioned questions. The contestants must submit their original piece, which should be created using crayons, pencils, markers or paint. The essay category has a word limitation of 700 words and all essays must be original and unpublished. The competition is open to students of all age groups that attend schools or institutions that cater for disabled persons. All finished pieces must be submitted by Friday, November 22.
Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
Venezuelan External Relations Minister Elías Jaua
he Foreign Affairs Ministry on Saturday stated that the government of Guyana is committed to working with the Venezuelan government to find a diplomatic solution to the current problem which has arisen. Directed by President Donald Ramotar, Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett made contact on Friday with External Relations Minister of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Elías Jaua, to discuss the matter of the seizure of the seismic vessel. The ministers agreed that dialogue was essential in an effort to find a peaceful solution to this matter, as well as in preserving the relations which had developed between the two countries in recent years. In this regard, they agreed to meet in the coming week, said the Government Information Agency (GINA) in a release. The government of Guyana was informed that approximately 16:00h on Friday, a Venezuelan Navy frigate, the Yakuana, was trailing the seismic vessel, the RV Teknik Perdana which is under contract with Anadarko. The frigate obstructed the research vessel’s passage, request them to change course and stop surveying. As is known, Anadarko has a petroleum prospecting licence to search for hydrocarbons in the Roraima block offshore Guyana. The crew of the RV Teknik Perdana had explained to the crew of the Venezuelan frigate that they were conducting a multi-beam survey of the seafloor in Guyana’s exclusive economic zone. The Venezuelan crew aboard the frigate insisted that the vessel was doing such work in Venezuela’s exclusive economic zone and instructed that the vessel switch off its engines and shut down its seismic equipment.
The Venezuelan Frigate subsequently ordered the RV Teknik Perdana, to sail to the island of Margarita in Venezuela. It was then clear that the vessel and its crew were not only being escorted out of Guyana’s waters, but were under arrest. The government has stated clearly that firstly, the RV Teknik Perdana was in Guyana’s waters when this regrettable incident took place. In fact, Guyana has been exercising jurisdiction over the said area ever since the extension of the jurisdiction of coastal states was established under international law. This was in fact made clearer after the passage of the Maritime Boundaries Act of 1977, the GINA release said. GINA said the Venezuelan navy vessel acted in contravention of the laws of Guyana and indeed international law when it entered Guyana’s waters and sought to intimidate the crew of the vessel and later ordered that vessel out of Guyana’s waters and escorted the vessel and crew to Venezuela. “The government of Guyana has expressed to the government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela its grave concern about the incident, and is of the firm belief that the actions taken by the Venezuelan navy vessel constitute a serious threat to the peace of this sub-region,” said GINA. The release added that Guyana believes in the peaceful resolution of disagreements among states. “It is for that reason that Guyana maintains that since the vessel was merely collecting seismic data, and it will be some time before actual exploration for hydrocarbons could take place, there was and is ample time for Guyana and Venezuela to discuss any differences of view that may exist in relation to the provisional maritime boundary between the two States,” said GINA.
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City Hall on World Monuments Watch list
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The City Hall building
he National Trust of Guyana had submitted City Hall for nomination to the World Monuments Watch list and on Friday, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony an-
nounced that Guyana for the first time has been placed on the list. At a press conference at his ministry, Minister Anthony said a broad stakeholder committee was needed to advocate
for repairs at City Hall, and this had to be done in conjunction with the Georgetown City Council. The minister said this is a positive for Guyana as it will generate publicity about this heritage site. Guyana National Trust Chief Executive Officer Nirvana Persaud said, “This is more of an international promotion or advertisement at that level…The fund, while they have some amount of funds they dedicate in smaller sections to these sites.” City Hall will be on the list for the period 2014 – 2016. She expressed hope that the site will attract the attention of local sponsors to assist in some aspects of City Hall’s restoration. “During this period it is expected that the local community, will
Finance ministers discuss economic outlook in Washington
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inance ministers from throughout the Americas and the Caribbean gathered Wednesday in Washington, DC to discuss ways to boost growth in the region to compensate for slowing overseas demand and uncertainty in international financial markets. Representatives of 24 countries were joined by top officials from multilateral organisations, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank (WB), the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), the Economic Commission for Latin America (ECLAC) and the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) for the Fifth Meeting of Finance Ministers of the Americas and the Caribbean (RFM Meeting), which this year was chaired by Mauricio Cardenas, finance minister of Colombia. “We all know that the global tailwinds are decelerating, and that’s having an impact on our economies,” said Minister
Cardenas, in his opening remarks. “That’s the result of changes in global liquidity, the expected tapering here in the United States, and the reduction in commodity prices that is resulting to a large extent to changes in economic growth from China.” This is the right time, he said, to discuss ways to boost productivity and reduce informality in the region’s economies, and to create strong engines of growth at home, which will help reduce inequality. IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno, who also participated in the opening remarks, called on governments to work closely with the private sector through publicprivate partnerships and other means, to overcome the region’s infrastructure bottlenecks that have been a drag on growth. “Given the magnitude of the effort required to overcome large infrastructure gaps in our countries, we all agree that private sector participation is absolutely necessary to take on this huge challenge,”
Moreno said. The challenges go beyond infrastructure, however. He added that “much work remains to be done to lower informality in labour markets, to improve education and innovation, to support healthy market competition and ensure equitable tax systems.” During the rest of the half-day meeting, participants also heard from U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew and IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde. The RFM annual meetings began shortly after the 2008 G20 summit, in response to the economic financial crisis, when leaders from the hemisphere agreed to hold an annual policy dialogue to discuss long-term development issues and promote economic integration and cooperation. Previous meetings were held in Mexico, Chile, Peru and Canada. The IDB serves as technical secretary of the RFM meetings, providing logistical support and coordination, and this year provided the venue for the event.
mobilise awareness and would form groups so as to help safeguard it.” “It is a prestigious opportunity for us to really work towards preservation of one of our most remarkable structures,
and it’s one of the most remarkable throughout the Caribbean,” Persaud said. The WMF had received 248 nominations, from which 67 heritage sites from 41 countries were
selected. The 2014 watch list includes cultural landscapes, eastern urban areas, civic buildings, industrial heritage gardens, and religious structures.
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guyanatimesgy.com
sunday, october 13, 2013
thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com
By Bernice Bede Osol
archie
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) Productivity must not be squashed by an emotional outburst. Listen if someone has a complaint, but don’t let it slow your progress. Overreacting will result in a costly mistake.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Listen to what’s being said and do your best to please and satisfy someone you love, but don’t let anyone restrict your freedom or limit what you can do. Follow your heart.
PISCES (Feb.20March 20)
dilbert
An emotional situation will be expensive if you haven’t made the necessary adjustments to protect yourself. Underhandedness can be expected.
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
Calvin and Hobbes
(June 21July 22) Enjoyment is the name of the game. Try something new and exciting, and you will begin an adventure that could lead to great things. A philosophy you discover will fit your current needs.
LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Arguments will be a waste of time. Keep a low profile and a tight grip on your wallet. Adventure and excitement may be enticing, but it will also be emotional and costly.
VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Stick to what and whom you know. An investment may sound good, but it isn’t likely to deliver what’s being promised. Do your research, and you’ll be praised for your findings.
LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)
Getting together with old friends or colleagues will help put you back on track emotionally, mentally and physically. A favour will be granted and will greatly help your cause.
A last-minute change of plans must not throw you off course. Follow through with your agenda and do your best to make your home and family life in tune with your pursuits.
TAURUS (April 20May 20)
SCORPIO
Follow through with your long-held plans. A partnership will be enhanced if you discuss issues that could alter your lifestyle. An open house will lead to praise and compliments.
Peanuts
CANCER
GEMINI (May 21June 20) Get the details concerning a job you are asked to do before you take on the task. You may not want to follow through. Make positive changes to your surroundings and personal appearance.
(Oct. 24Nov. 22) Look at every angle before you make changes that may invite opposition. An emotional situation can stand between you and your destination. Make adjustments if you want to achieve your goals.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Keep everything out in the open to avoid being blamed for something you didn’t do. A promise isn’t likely to be honoured. Get an agreement in writing. A domestic change looks promising.
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sunday, october 13, 2013
dentistry Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034
EDUCATION SAT/AP/CXC/IGCSE English classes, personalized tutoring. Phone: 6124821 after 4pm, 274-0437 after 7pm. Learn to play the guitar, keyboard, drums, and train your voice at Foundation 7. Phone: 225-1151 or 617-4200.
flowers Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315
FOR SALE Cheap earth. Delivery to spot, ECD and EBD. Phone: 627-9977 Clean garden earth & builders waste. Also bobcat rental, excavating, clearing & leveling done. Phone: 616-0617, 6633285. Mercury in large quantity, 99.9999% purity. Call: 219-4535 / 693-5004 / 6791985
health Are you suffering from abnormal behaviors, addictions, stresses, or psychosomatic sickness? Feeling suicidal, low self-esteem, loneliness, unloved, anger, conflicts and relationship problems? For appointments call 592-621-0552. 12:00pm -6:00pm, Email: healthworldhc@gmail.com
immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca U.S. Green Card Lottery 2013. We are now accepting entries for the Annual Green Card Lottery sponsored by the U.S. Government. Enter now for a chance to become a permanent resident of the USA. Closing date November 2, 2013. Contact Balwant Persaud Immigration and Visa Services 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings and Light Sts.) Tel: 225-1540, 655-3105, 622-8308
KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 621-3249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today.
lAND FOR SALE New Providence Prime Housing Lots for residential purposes. Are you thinking of a quality, luxurious & modern home? Then think ELAINE VILLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT INC. Our gated community with play park is situated approximately 30 minutes from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport; 2 minutes from the Providence Police Station and gas station. Neighbouring: Guyana National Stadium, Princess International Hotel & Casino, ATM and 3 minutes from the Demerara Harbour Bridge, shopping plaza & supermarket. Enquire now to build your dream home. Infrastructure works ongoing. Contact: 592-615-8810, 592-668-3100 or email:info@elaineville.co
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19 Two dead, one critical in shootout with police
House at Lamaha Gardens, hot & cold water, A/C, etc. Call 219-4535 Two modern apartments at Campbellville, hot & cold water etc. Call: 219-4535
optician
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Dead: Mark Anthony Joseph
wo suspected bandits were shot dead while another is clinging to life in the High Dependency Unit (HDU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) following a shootout with police on South Road, Georgetown on Saturday night. The shooting occurred about 20:30h in the vicinity of K&VC Hotel, South Road, Georgetown. The police have alleged that the men were about to commit a robbery. It is alleged that the men opened fire on the police. The dead men were identified as Jermaine Canterbury, 20, also called “Chow” and Mark Anthony Joseph, 19, also called “2grand”, both of Lot 17 Hogg Street, Albouystown, Georgetown. The injured man has since been identified as Mario Goueiva, 18, of James Street, Albouystown. Based on reports, Canterbury was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital at about 20:45h, but Joseph succumbed while receiving medical attention. Their bodies re-
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services Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 662-1247. J Eastman & Associates Financial Services: Taxation, VAT Compliance, Accounting & Consultancy, and Cash Flow Projection. Address: 190 Church St, S/Cburg (East of Austin’s Book Store) Phone: 662-7467, 223-2105 House plans starting at $9,000 Phone: 674-0725, 266-2154.
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One customs clerk with at least three subjects CXC including English Language, mathematics. Applicant must be computer literate. Please submit application before the October 11, 2013 to email: windsortechhomes@ gmail.com or call 669-6874 or 682-3481
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Libya’s prime minister has failed – Muslim Brotherhood leader
1 Bedford truck. Phone: 616:0617, 663-3285.
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portedly bore multiple gunshot wounds from AK-47 rifles. According to information received, three men along with another were in a motor car when they were intercepted by police attached to the Tactical Service Unit in the vicinity of the Tourism Ministry, South Road, Georgetown. While information remains sketchy, the police reportedly opened fire on the car, causing it to stop. One of the men reportedly opened one of the back doors of the car and fled the scene. As the others were reportedly coming out of the car, they were riddled with bullets. Carol Cox, the mother of Canterbury stated that she was at work, and upon returning home, she heard that her son was shot and killed. She explained that she last saw him on Saturday morning when she left for work. At the time she spoke with this publication, she could not confirm what exactly occurred. On the other hand, June Ann Joseph, the mother of Mark Anthony Joseph, explained that after she heard of the shooting, she went to the hospital but by the time she arrived, her son was already dead. “I didn’t get the courage to see his body… I hear that they proper shoot he up and he damage bad… I start feel weak and I left,” the woman cried. She disclosed that earlier in the night, her son left home in a hurry to meet Jermaine (only name given), his cousin who resides on James Street. And about an hour later, she received the devastating news. Guyana Times understands that Joseph was shot to his leg a few weeks ago during a similar incident. The bodies of both men were taken to the hospital’s mortuary awaiting post-mortem examinations.
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he leader of Libya’s Muslim Brotherhood has said the prime minister, who was briefly abducted by militia members this week, has failed and needs to be replaced. Mohammed Sawan said on Saturday the Libyan parliament is “seriously searching for an alternative” to Ali Zidan, who was seized from his hotel room on Thursday. Zidan has described the kidnapping as an attempted coup and warned that some of Libya’s many armed militias want to turn the country into “another Afghanistan or Somalia”. “One hundred vehicles came with heavy and medium weapons,” he said in a speech. “This is a coup against legitimacy.” Sawan said in reference to the kidnapping that mis-
management by Zidan’s government might have led to “irresponsible actions” by individuals. The abduction ended when local militias stormed the Tripoli police station where the prime minister was being held on Thursday afternoon. Zidan has been facing mounting pressure from parliament for months, first by Islamist blocs including the Muslim Brotherhood and another group of ultra-conservative Salafis. Independents later joined the criticism of Zidan over allegations of corruption and wasting public funds, as well as the country’s deteriorating security. He has not named those who were behind his kidnapping, only referring to the Libyan Revolutionaries Operation Room, a militia umbrella group. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
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CSA introduce quota for Webber will not aid black African players Vettel’s title bid M A
black African quota has been passed in South Africa, incentivising franchises to field at least one player from the country’s majority race group and amateur teams, two. Those franchises who have more than one black African in 70 per cent of their matches will be reimbursed an amount equivalent to the average contract cost of the qualified players. The new policy will take effect from October 16, 2013. This comes after CSA held their first transformation indaba (conference) in over a decade and a proposal was drawn up to introduce a quota requiring franchises to play two black African players. At the organisation’s AGM, held Saturday, the board voted on an incentive-driven policy that expects the teams to include at least one black African player, with monetary benefit to franchises who exceed that. “These new requirements are incentive based, not quota based,” Haroon Lorgat, the CSA chief executive, said. “We have a very talented population. We have all embraced the need to accelerate transformation.” “The CSA Board has also supported a recommendation from the Cricket committee to implement a more flexible player loan agreement to facilitate the development of black African players. This is currently being drafted in consultation with the South African cricketers Association (SACA).” The board will monitor the performance and progress made by the black African players in the do-
Makhaya Ntini played more that 100 Tests, but the other four black African players have featured in only 17 Tests between them
mestic competition in the coming season before considering any further proposals for the next season. Since South Africa’s reintroduction to international cricket in 1991, only five black African players have made it to the Test level even though the group forms 80% of South Africa’s population. Makhaya Ntini is the only one who has played more than 100 Tests, while Mfuneko Ngam, Thami Tsolekile, Monde Zondeki and Lonwabo Tsotsobe have appeared in only 17 matches in all. In contrast, 11 mixedrace players, including Hashim Amla and Imran Tahir, have made it to the South African side. South Africa introduced a quota system in 1998 to address the racial discrimination caused by the Apartheid system. The stip-
ulation then was that every team had to field four players of colour - a term which encompasses black Africans, mixed-race people and those of Asian descent. It was officially removed in 2007. A recent report presented to CSA contained information that most black African players give up the game between the under-19 and provincial level, at an age at which, if they are not contracted, will need to find jobs. The report also revealed that when black African players do get into the system, they are often further sidelined. Only two black African players turned out in more than 80 per cent of their franchises’ games last season and when they did, they bowled less overs and batted lower down than players of other races. (Cricinfo)
Federer splits from coach Annacone
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American Paul Annacone was Roger Federer’s coach for more than three years
eventeen-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer has ended his partnership with American Paul Annacone, his coach for more than three years. The pair teamed up in July 2010 and since then Federer has won 13 titles, including Wimbledon in 2012. However, the 32-yearold Swiss slipped to seventh in the world this week,
his lowest ranking since October 2002. “After numerous conversations, we felt like this was the best time and path for both of us,” said Federer. Federer added that when they started working together they aimed to win another Grand Slam and regain the world number one slot, both of which have been achieved. The Swiss spent three
months at the top of the rankings from July 2012 in the wake of his win at the All England Club. “Paul remains a dear friend,” Federer added. Severin Luthi, who shared coaching duties with Annacone, attended the Shanghai Masters with Federer, where he was beaten in the third round by Gael Monfils on Thursday.
(BBC Sport)
ark Webber says he will race to win in Japan despite team-mate Sebastian Vettel being on the brink of the title. Webber starts on pole ahead of Vettel, who will seal a fourth title if he wins with Fernando Alonso below eighth. Webber said: “We’ll have a standard race. It’s everyone for themselves to get the maximum result they can. “That means me winning and the rest is whatever. If Seb can get more points than Fernando, it’s good for him and the team.” The issue of team orders is a sensitive one at Red Bull after Vettel ignored a command not to pass Webber to win the Malaysian Grand Prix in March this year. Vettel’s actions infuriated Webber and although the German initially apologised, two weeks later he said he would do the same again and that Webber did not “deserve” the victory. Vettel also indicated that he felt he had lacked support from Webber in the past, a suggestion Webber has said he finds laughable. The Australian was 0.174 seconds quicker than Vettel in qualifying, the German having suffered a
Mark Webber (left) and Sebastian Vettel have not had the best of relationships
power-boost system failure that cost him in the region of 0.3secs a lap. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner left all options open when asked after qualifying whether the drivers would be free to race. “They race for the team,” Horner said. “They’re free to race and the goal is to do the best they can for the team.” Vettel added: “It’s unfortunate these things come up when it is the end of the season but these sorts of questions come up because one car is in a strong position. “We will try our best. I’m sure we’ll try hard and race hard like we did in the past.”
Vettel has won eight of this season’s 14 grands prix, including the last four races in South Korea, Singapore, Italy and Belgium - a dominance Britain’s Lewis Hamilton has said risks driving fans away. Nico Rosberg of Mercedes and Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso - who qualified in sixth and eighth respectively in Japan - have two wins apiece, while Webber has none to his name in 2013. Hamilton, one of the other two drivers to manage a race win this year, will start third on the grid on Sunday in his Mercedes, with fellow Briton Jenson Button of McLaren 10th.
(BBC Sport)
Del Potro beats Nadal in Shanghai Masters
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n inspired Juan Martin Del Potro beat world number one Rafael Nadal 6-2 6-4 to reach the Shanghai Masters final. Nadal had not lost his serve in the tournament but was broken in his first service game as Del Potro moved 4-0 up. The Argentine, 25, displayed majestic power and Nadal was unable to gain a single break as a high-class contest ended in an hour and 46 minutes. Del Potro will play defending champion Novak Djokovic, who beat seventh seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-2 7-5. It was only the second time during an incredible season in which he has won 10 titles that Nadal - the French and US Open champion - has failed to reach the final of a tournament he has entered. The only other occasion was his shock first-round exit from Wimbledon. But the 13-time Grand Slam champion was given the run-around by the 2009 US Open champion, who launched a sustained allcourt attack, out-hitting his illustrious opponent to gasps from an enthralled crowd. A rueful Nadal, who could not convert any of his six break-point opportunities, conceded Del Potro deserved victory. Djokovic, 26, twice broke
Juan Martin Del Potro
to love in the first set against Tsonga and won it in 34 minutes. The Frenchman was seeking to pass Roger Federer in the quest for an automatic spot in next month’s World Tour finals but was beaten in one hour 33 minutes. Tsonga had already moved up from 11th to ninth in the race for the World Tour finals, which is effectively the last of the eight automatic places because of third-ranked Andy Murray’s withdrawal through injury. He had not lost a set en route to the last four and was bidding to reach only his third Masters final, his first outside of his native France. But he started slowly and two double faults led to him losing his opening service game as Djokovic, who lost
the world number one ranking to Nadal last week, raced 3-0 ahead. Tsonga, whose sole Masters title came in Paris five years ago, broke back but lost the set after Djokovic’s third break. The second set was more competitive and Tsonga levelled at 4-4 when, on the first of two break points, Djokovic allowed an attempted pass from Tsonga by. The ball was called out but the decision was reviewed and it was shown to have clipped the line, prompting an explosive outburst from the Serb. Djokovic regained his composure to complete his 11th victory in 16 matches against Tsonga and reach his seventh final of the season, extending his winning run in China to 19 matches. (BBC Sport)
october 13, 2013
Bangladesh v NZ, 1st Test, Chittagong, 4th day…
Massive wins for St Pius, North Georgetown in Courts Pee Wee
Rain stops play with S New Zealand ahead
By Avenash Ramzan
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ohag Gazi’s maiden century had left the first Test in Chittagong nicely poised, but a passing shower drastically diminished chances of a result and New Zealand’s caution in their second innings, on a pitch that hardly turned, increased that probability. Chittagong is within 600 km of the predicted path of Cyclone Phailin, and the 20-minute shower in the third session forced an early halt to play. There was more rain forecast in Chittagong on Sunday. Before the weather took a turn for the worse, however, it was Bangladesh’s No. 8 Sohag Gazi who had the most impact on the play. Resuming on 28, Gazi brought out his favourite shots. The hard-hit cover drive, the upper cut and the late cut were eye catching but the slogs through midwicket and bludgeons down the ground were what demoralized the New Zealand attack. Doug Bracewell was cut over the wicketkeeper’s head and then slammed over midwicket for Gazi’s first six, as he reached his fifty off 94 balls. Gazi was also severe on the spinners; he charged slow left-armer Bruce Martin and hit him over his head for his second six. The third came off part-time offspinner Kane Williamson and gave Bangladesh’s lead in the 140th over. Bangladesh went to lunch on 491-8, having scored 111 runs in the session, for the loss of only Abdur Razzak. Robiul Islam fell in the first over after the interval, leaving Gazi on 98 with only
Sohag Gazi’s maiden century helped Bangladesh take a firstinnings lead against New Zealand on a rain-curtailed day in Chittagong
No. 11 Rubel Hossain for company. There was no need for nerves though as Gazi cut a short ball over gully to record his maiden Test century. He celebrated gleefully by pumping his fists, as the home side continued to dominate in the early part of the second session. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 501 in the 149th over with a 32-run lead - the first time in five attempts that Bangladesh have overtaken New Zealand after batting second. Gazi’s innings wasn’t shot-a-minute as one might expect from a batsman who has the country’s fastest first-class hundred. He left many balls outside off stump, though he had two reprieves - both caught-andbowled chances of varying difficulty. Martin spilled a sitter, but Trent Boult’s onehanded attempt was harder.
SCOREBOARD New Zealand 1st innings 469 Bangladesh 1st innings Tamim Iqbal c Williamson b Boult 0 Anamul Haque lbw b Bracewell 3 Marshall Ayub c †Watling b Anderson 25 Mominul Haque lbw b Anderson 181 Shakib Al Hasan c †Watling b Williamson 19 Mushfiqur Rahim*† c Taylor b Bracewell 67 Nasir Hossain c Williamson b Sodhi 46 Sohag Gazi not out 101 Abdur Razzak lbw b Boult 7 Robiul Islam c Taylor b Bracewell 33 Rubel Hossain c Taylor b Sodhi 4 Extras (b-5, lb-8, w-1, nb-1) 15 Total (all out; 148.5 overs; 637 mins) 501 Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Tamim Iqbal, 0.1 ov), 2-8 (Anamul
Haque, 3.3 ov), 3-134 (Marshall Ayub, 38.2 ov), 4-180 (Shakib Al Hasan, 56.6 ov), 5-301 (Mominul Haque, 92.6 ov), 6-301 (Mushfiqur Rahim, 93.5 ov), 7-371 (Nasir Hossain, 112.1 ov), 8-387 (Abdur Razzak, 120.4 ov), 9-492 (Robiul Islam, 145.6 ov), 10-501 (Rubel Hossain, 148.5 ov) Bowling: TA Boult 24-9-502 (1-w), DAJ Bracewell 25-296-3 (1-nb), BP Martin 27-3113-0, IS Sodhi 28.5-3-112-2, Corey J Anderson 17-7-342, KS Williamson 27-4-83-1 New Zealand 2nd innings PG Fulton not out 44 HD Rutherford lbw b Nasir Hossain 32 KS Williamson not out 28 Extras (b-11, lb-2) 13 Total (1 wicket; 40 overs) 117 Fall of wickets: 1-48 (Rutherford, 15.5 ov) Bowling: Abdur Razzak 7-213-0, Rubel Hossain 1-0-12-0, Sohag Gazi 6-0-21-0, Shakib Al Hasan 9-1-19-0, Nasir Hossain 9-4-20-1, Robiul Islam 4-1-90, Mominul Haque 4-0-10-0
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Gazi finished with ten fours and three sixes, adding 105 runs with No. 10 Robiul, who also made his highest score of 33. Bracewell took three wickets while Boult, Corey Anderson and Ish Sodhi took two each. New Zealand’s reply wasn’t too cautious to begin with, as Hamish Rutherford made a rapid 32 off 45 balls. But when he fell lbw to Nasir Hossain in the 16th over, Peter Fulton and Kane Williamson became more circumspect, as they slowly added 69 in an unbroken second-wicket stand. The visitors led by 85 runs, but they have to take a more positive approach for a result, weather permitting. (Cricinfo)
t Pius Primary and North Georgetown sent a strong message to the other schools in the Courts Pee Wee Under-11 football competition, trouncing their opponents by 5-0 margins when preliminary action culminated on Saturday at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park. Also in winner’s row during the third weekend of action were J.E. Burnham, Enterprise, Tucville, St Stephen’s, East La Penitence, West Ruimveldt, Marian Academy and F.E. Pollard. In game four of the day, a Beveney Mark helmettrick powered St Pius to a commanding win over Winfer Garden. The victory ensured St Pius maintain an unbeaten record, winning all three of their preliminary games. Mark opened the scoring in the eighth minute and never looked back, blasting in another three goals in the 11th, 25th and 28th minutes, while Kamacy Davis tucked in a consolation in the 14th minute. While St Pius’ victory was more of a one-man show, North Georgetown’s success against South Ruimveldt came through a total team effort, as they also remained unbeaten after three matches. Tyreek Saunders slotted home a double, scoring in the 11th and 14th minutes, while Joshua Denny (fourth), Oren Williams (sixth) and Michael Joseph
(15th) accounted for the other goals. The other two unbeaten schools in the competitionEast La Penitence and F.E. Pollard- gained hard-fought wins to finish the preliminary phase of the competition with an unblemished record. East La Penitence secured a 3-1 success over Sophia with Fabian Bollers (11th), Leroy Yaw (19th) and Andrew Hope (31st) on target for the victors and Travis Smith (22nd) scoring for the losers, while F.E. Pollard got past Ketley Primary 4-2. Getting on the score sheets for F.E. Pollard were Quincy Williams (third), Makhaiya Jervis (eighth), Tramel McCurdy (33rd) and Cordell Charles (38th), while Jahima Messiah (sixth) and Kevo Mallin (20th) scored for Ketley. Defending champions Marian Academy, through a Demetrius DeAbreau hattrick (13th, 15th and 32nd), overwhelmed Redeemer Primary 3-0, while a Ryan James’ 39th minute strike handed West Ruimveldt a 1-0 win over St Gabriel’s. St Stephen’s emerged with a 2-0 victory over Stella Maris with Rondell Jordan and Mosea Parkison scoring in the 11th and 13th minutes respectively, while last year’s runners-up Tucville defeated St Sidwell’s 3-1. Samano Williams in the opening minute, DeAndre Linton (15th) and Raheem Marques (27th) accounted for Tucville’s goals, while St Sidwell’s only response came off the boot of John Johnnie
in the 37th minute. Rasheed Evans (second) and Jeffrey Blair (31st) scored for Enterprise in their 2-1 win over Green Acres, whose goal came from Sion Jeffers in the 34th minute, while J.E. Burnham gained a walkover from West Field. Jermaine Padmore scored a hat-trick (12th, 26th and 28th) for St Ambrose, who drew 3-3 with St Margaret’s, whose goals were recorded by Diego Britton (22nd and 30th) and Malachi Edwards (29th), while Success and St Angela’s played to a nil-all stalemate.
Prizes
At the end of the competition, the top four schools will receive a 32-inch television set each to aid visual sessions in the classroom. In 2012, the four top schools were recipients of a laptop each. All 24 teams will be given stationery vouchers and participation trophies from Courts (Guyana) Inc., while they have been provided with two footballs each and playing bibs, compliments of the Petra Organisation. The champion school will also receive a complete set of uniforms. Under the tournament format, the teams have been divided into six groups of four teams, where they will contest a round-robin. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third place finishers will advance to the Round of 16, after which the teams will battle for positions 1-16.
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India A v WI A, 3rd unofficial Test, Hubli, 4th day…
F&H Million Dollar domino competition…
Republic Bank, Guyana Gold Fields among zone winners
Zaheer four-for helps R secure innings win
epublic Bank and Guyana Gold Fields emerged winners of their respective zones on Friday evening when action in the F&H Printing Establishment’s Million Dollar inter-corporation domino competition continued at the sponsor’s location in Campbellville. In the final of Zone One, Republic Bank defeated KTS and Ivan’s Grocery by
quite a comfortable margin. The bankers chalked up 91 games, leaving KTS with 72 to settle for second and Ivan’s Grocery with 61 games in the cellar position. Anthony McFarlene led the champs to victory with 18 games, while John Fraser and Colin Abel marked 17 games each and Bevan Jeune had 15. Guyana Gold Fields won
Zone Two with 76 games, ahead of Ministry of Health on 72 and All Season Pick Up on 67 games. John Freeman of All Season Pick Up was the lone lovebird. Meanwhile, the organisers are advising teams to take note of a change in venue for next Friday’s games. Double-six time is 19:00 hours and the venue is the Bank DIH Sports Club at Thirst Park.
Indian media reaction as ‘Little Master’ retires
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Captains Kirk Edwards and Cheteshwar Pujara with the trophy after the series ended 1-1
eight runs signalled the end of the match minutes after the afternoon drinks break. West Indies A began the day with seven wickets in hand and needing 180 to make India A bat again. Deonarine and Fudadin seemed largely comfortable and even a longerthan-usual six-over first spell from Zaheer didn’t bring India any success. Then, Cheteshwar Pujara did what Mumbai captains often do at such times: get Nayar to bowl. And Nayar did what he does: bowl wide outside off, play on the batsman’s patience, and somehow the batsman follows one. SCOREBOARD Fudadin committed the mistake this time, West Indies A first innings 268 edging to the keeper India A 1st innings 564-9 declared on 49. West Indies A 2nd innings KC Brathwaite lbw b Pandey 21 Jonathan Carter, KOA Powell* lbw b Khan 6 who had injured himLR Johnson b Kulkarni 1 self when filling in for N Deonarine b Khan 99 the keeper Hamilton, AB Fudadin c †Kaul b Nayar 49 came in to bat at No. JL Carter b Nayar 12 6, but fell to a special NO Miller c Dogra b Bhatt 17 Nayar delivery. AR Nurse b Khan 0 It was short of a DE Johnson not out 0 length, from round the ML Cummins b Khan 4 stumps, pitched midJN Hamilton† absent hurt dle and off, beat the Extras (b-16, lb-9, w-1, nb-7) 33 outside edge as it held Total (all out; 73.5 overs; its line, and sent the 337 mins) 242 off stump cartwheelFall of wickets: 1-17 (Powell, 4.3 ing. ov), 2-18 (LR Johnson, 5.1 ov), Deonarine looked 3-57 (Brathwaite, 17.6 ov), 4-139 (Fudadin, 44.5 ov), 5-165 (Carter, assured in his effort, 50.5 ov), 6-234 (Deonarine, 71.4 ov), not going after wide 7-234 (Miller, 72.1 ov), 8-234 (Nurse, deliveries, driving 73.1 ov), 9-242 (Cummins, 73.5 ov) and cutting the loose Bowling: Z Khan 16.5-3-59-4 (3nb), DS Kulkarni 17-4-38-1 (4ones, while Miller nb), AM Nayar 16-2-45-2 (1-w), gave him good supIC Pandey 11-3-38-1, V Sehwag port. The two went to 9-1-28-0, BA Bhatt 4-2-9-1 lunch having put up
arsingh Deonarine resisted India A with a plucky 99 but the bowlers burst through to deliver a series-levelling innings win. Abhishek Nayar, that champion in domestic cricket, provided the only two wickets in the first session, ending an 82-run stand between Deonarine and Assad Fudadin. Deonarine’s vigil continued, in the company of Nikita Miller, until Zaheer Khan produced what seemed a magic delivery. With Jahmar Hamilton injured and unavailable to bat, the loss of the last four wickets for
a reassuring stand. After lunch, too, they carried on. Dhawal Kulkarni seemed to have taken Deonarine’s edge when he was on 94, but he had overstepped. It was the last over of his spell. On came Zaheer, fitter, slowly raising his intensity after his first-class comeback in the previous match in Shimoga. In his second over, he pitched one on a length, seemingly angling in, enough to make Deonarine look to play to midwicket. However, he ended up losing his off stump. It had all the indications of the Zaheer legcutter, which leaves the left-hand batsmen. With Deonarine gone, and one-and-a-half sessions to bat out, those who were fighting their natural attacking instincts let themselves go. And thus began a procession. Miller stepped out to Bhargav Bhatt and gave an easy catch to mid-off. Ashley Nurse pushed forward to Zaheer and lost his off stump. Miguel Cummins tried to swing hard at a few, and lost his off stump a ball after he had hit Zaheer for four. With so much time left in the day, it wouldn’t have been wise for Hamilton to further risk his injured hand. West Indies A won the one-day series 2-1, lost the one-off T20, took the lead in the first-class series through their spinners, but couldn’t hold on to it. (Cricinfo)
atching cricket will never be the same for millions of fans across the world after legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar plays his final and 200th Test match in November. The right-hander’s decision to retire from all cricket after the upcoming series against West Indies was not unexpected, but it still took a while to accept that the “god of cricket” will not play for India after he appears in his final match. And as the realisation begins to sink in, it is time to pay tribute to one of the greatest players in the history of cricket. But then what is the best way to mark the retirement of a man who has carried the hopes of millions for more than two decades? Newspapers and experts, too, seem to be grappling with the same question. Pradeep Magazine, one of India’s best cricket writers, says it would be “pointless here to delve in detail about his genius, which even otherwise would be impossible to describe in words.” When verse and prose fail to match the achievements of a genius - it is best to deliver the message in a simple way. And the message from Indian newspapers to India is simple and clear: Let them say you lived in the times of Sachin Tendulkar but accept that his era is coming to an end. “There will never be another you,” is how a frontpage banner headline in the Hindustan Times sums up the country’s sombre mood. The legend has enthralled cricket fans all over the world with his elegant cover drives, smashing square cuts and a straight drive that matched the precision of a master craftsman. Tendulkar’s artistry on the cricket field will remain etched in his fans’ collective memory, but they must, rather reluctantly, get ready for a life without him. “The trouble we will face is to see cricket with Tendulkar permanently
Sachin Tendulkar
missing... With Sachin’s retirement, a special, long stretch of cricket will now come to an end,” writes Indrajit Hazra in the Hindustan Times. And Hazra is not alone is feeling that the world around him has changed. The Hindu too says the world, as we knew it for close to 25 years, has changed forever after the master batsman’s retirement from all forms of the game. “When Tendulkar leaves, his absence will be as keenly felt in spheres of the game quite removed from its runmaking aspect,” says the Indian Express . Tendulkar’s retirement also marks an end of the “fantastic four” batting lineup that included two former captains in elegant lefthander Sourav Ganguly and gritty number three Rahul Dravid, as well as the freescoring VVS Laxman. The quartet earned India many memorable wins at home and abroad and also inspired the current generation of cricketers, including skipper Mahendra Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh. “Everyone adores Sachin, the cricketer, but for me personally, having played with him for almost 16 years, I feel really privileged and honoured to have known him so closely,” Laxman told an Indian TV channel. Ganguly still seems enamoured with his colleague’s achievements. “It is impossible to emulate his feats. They are
so enormous that he will be talked about as long as cricket is played anywhere in the world,” he says. How does Tendulkar handles the pressure of expectations and love from one billion people? And how does he manages to stay normal when his regular morning walk has the potential of causing a stampede in any Indian city? A natural answer would be that he earns his fans’ admiration by winning matches for India. But that may be just oversimplification. There is more behind the astonishing success of the maestro. Many cricket pundits say it’s his mental strength and his ability to stay humble under a massive media spotlight and the glitz of modern-day cricket. “He has been the sage voice in the dressing room... Tendulkar was, in a way, Indian cricket’s first celebrity. Largely staying away from controversy despite the singeing effects of media scrutiny, something that only increased in intensity towards the autumn of his career,” says the Indian Express. Another paper says Tendulkar is not the only legend of the game, but others did not have to withstand the constant scrutiny of fans, and that too for 24 long years. And whole of India and the world will be watching this champion when he takes a bow in his home city of Mumbai in November. (BBC
Sport)
guyanatimesGY.com
October 13, 2013
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Sport minister sees Another win for dominant Greaves growth potential in golf By Rajiv Bisnauth
F
ifty-one (51) golfers took to the Lusignan Golf Course on Saturday after Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony performed the ceremonial swing to signal the start of the second annual President’s Cup golf tournament. The annual tournament is a collaborative effort of the Guyana government through the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). The event adds to the list of tournaments being played at the venue and is being promoted by the Tourism Ministry in a way that seeks to lift the quality of the game, and at the same time, attract the high-end category of golf-loving tourists. At the official opening, Dr Anthony said he was elated at the level of attention that was being given to the sport. The minister said golf is as good as any other sport and has the potential to grow into a big sporting activity. “It’s one of those games where a lot of professional
and business persons easily gravitate towards and we thing this is good for the sport and Guyana. This is something that we should promote. It is a game that has a strong international recognition,” the minister pointed out. Dr. Anthony assured the gathering of government’s unwavering support for the sport, adding that the administration will continue working to improve existing facilities and erect new ones, in order to have athletes train in the best possible environment. He added that the aim is to have more people visit Guyana to engage in the various sport disciplines. “We in Guyana are right now building a lot of sporting infrastructure; one of the reasons we are doing so is not only about developing sport here in Guyana, but it is also about attracting people to come to Guyana to play in the different sporting disciplines. You would have seen our investments in cricket with the building of a National Stadium, and more recently we have started work on building a warmup pool and with the com-
pletion of that we will have a complete facility where we will be able to host regional and international swimming events,” Dr. Anthony explained. He continued “We are also building the synthetic track and when completed that would ensure that we get international certification from the international athletics association and again records which would be broken there will be upheld around the world. So with these types of infrastructure what we have been able to do is to move Guyana up in terms of being a venue to host sport in the Caribbean.” Minister Anthony also applauded the administrators of the Lusignan Golf Club and wished the participants best of luck. Meanwhile, GTA’s Director, Indranauth Haralsingh, in his address, said he was thrilled that the sport was growing, since it has the potential to attract a vast number of tourists. The tournament has become an annual feature on the calendar of events of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.
Newcomer Webster wins President’s Cup golf tourney
Winner Shanella Webster (centre) poses with other top performers and Guyana Tourism Authority Director, Indranauth Haralsingh (fourth from right), at the conclusion of Saturday’s tournament
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ewcomer Shanella Webster copped top honours in the second annual President’s Cup golf tournament, the first female to win the prestigious tournament at the Lusignan Golf Course, East Coast Demerara. Playing off a 36 handicap, Webster finished on gross 78 and net 62, while
Chatterpaul Deo, with a 15 handicap, ended second with gross 81 and net 66. Third place was taken by Andre Cummings, who shot an 83 gross and 67 net, playing off a 17 handicap, while Vijay Deo was fourth with 77 gross and 68 net, playing off a nine handicap. William Walker, play-
ing off a seven handicap, was fifth with a gross 76 and net 69. Walker also won the best gross prize, while Mohanlall Dinanauth copped the Longest Drive and Patrick Prashad was Nearest-to-the-Pin. The competition attracted 45 players, inclusive of five females.
New bikes! The three young riders with their newly acquired BMX cycles donated by Hand-in-Hand Insurance Limited
By Avenash Ramzan
A
ny doubts about Alanzo Greaves being Guyana’s best cyclist in 2013 were put to rest on Saturday when the Roraima Bikers Club rider surged to another commanding victory, this time in the feature race of the ninth annual Hand-in-Hand Insurance Limited’s 11-race programme at the inner circuit of the National Park. The victory in the gruelling 35-lap School Boys and Invitational event was Greaves’ 20th win across all competitions this year, by far the most wins by a single rider since the season started in January. The 24-year-old Digicel sponsored rider crossed the finish line in a time of one hour, 21 minutes, 27 seconds (01h: 21m: 27s), in the process copping one of the eight prime prizes on offer. Greaves’ nemesis Robin Persaud rode in second ahead of Hamzah Eastman, Michael Anthony, Paul DeNobrega and Albert Philander in that order. DeNobrega and Godfrey Pollydore copped three prime prizes, while Philander claimed the other. Prior to the main attraction, Rawle Small took top honours in the BMX Boys 12-14, beating off a challenge from Bryton John and Jaleel Jackson, who finished second and third respectively. The BMX Boys 9-12 years was won by Sherwin Sampson ahead of Thuran Garbarran and Stephan Wilkinson, while Sampson returned to beat the competition in the BMX Boys 6-9, winning ahead of Alexander Leung and Shane SueHang. Junior Niles carted off the Veterans Under-50 race, beating defending champion Shameer Baksh into second and Kennard Lovell third, while Virgil Jones and Linden Blackman finished 1-2 in the Veterans Over-50 over. Adrian Sharma took top
honours in the BMX Boys Open, leaving Daniel Fraser to settle for second and Deeraj Garbarran third. In the 12-14 years Boys and Girls race, Alfie Soonoram took home the winner’s trophy, beating Romelo Crawford and Toshawnna Doris in the process. Maurice Fagundes was the only rider in the Veterans Over-60, while Michael Anthony won the Junior race ahead of Mario King and Alonzo Ambrose in that order. Richard Charles, Ozia McUally and Stephano Husbands were 1-2-3 in the Mountain Bike event. At the presentation ceremony which followed, na-
Bryton John, Jaleel Jackson and Thuran Garbarran. Meanwhile, as the season continues, heated rivalry is expected to be the recurring theme today when the Flying Star Cycle Club stages the second annual Kadir Mohamed memorial road race from Georgetown to Linden and back. A large field of local riders is lining up to compete for the top prize of one ounce of gold, sponsored by the late Mohamed’s businessKadir Enterprise of Bartica. According to race organiser William Howard, the race is expected to attract a high level of competition as the riders are gearing up for several important events,
All smiles! A beaming Alanzo Greaves receives the winner’s trophy and prime prize from Customer Service Representative of Hand-in-Hand Insurance Limited, Bonicka Gordon, in the presence of national coach Hassan Mohamed
tional cycling coach and organiser of the day’s activities, Hassan Mohamed, thanked Hand-in-Hand Insurance Limited for its continued support to cycling, noting that corporate sponsorship is critical to the sport. The company was represented by Customer Service Representatives, LaShanna Thompson and Bonicka Gordon, who both expressed their entity’s delight to partner with the cycling fraternity. The establishment also continued its tradition of presenting BMX bikes to three promising cyclists. The beneficiaries were
including the seventh annual ‘Ride for Life’ Five Stage. The race will start on Homestretch Avenue at 07:30 hours, proceed to the Coca Cola sign at Dora on the Linden/Soesdyke highway, and return to the point of origin for the finish. It will cover an approximate distance of 80 miles. The top ten finishers in the Open category will be handsomely rewarded with cash incentives, while the top three juniors and three leading veterans will also receive prizes. Berbician Neil Reece of the Flying Ace Cycle Club is the defending champion of the Open category.
Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business
october 13, 2013
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CRICKET: WEST INDIES A 268 AND 242 VS INDIA A 564-9 DECLARED; NEW ZEALAND 469 AND 117-1 VS BANGLADESH 501
Another win for dominant Greaves Sport Minister Dr. Frank Anthony about to tee off to signal the start of the second annual President’s Cup golf tourney on Saturday (Photo: Rajiv Bisnauth)
See story on page
23
Sport minister sees growth potential in golf
See story on page
23
Race officials and representatives of Hand-in-Hand Insurance Limited pose with the outstanding riders at the conclusion of Saturday’s programme (Photos: Avenash Ramzan) Alanzo Greaves
INSIDE TODAY’S SPORT
Newcomer Webster wins President’s Cup golf P23 tourney
Massive wins for St Pius, North Georgetown in Courts Pee Wee See story on page
21
See story on page
22
India A v WI A, 3rd unofficial Test, Hubli, 4th day…
Zaheer four-for helps secure innings win Part of the action on Saturday at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park (Photo: Avenash Ramzan)
Narsingh Deonarine’s 99 on the final day was in vain
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