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INSIDE Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1899 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Fly Jamaica set to begin operations September 22, 2013

− company, CJIA differ over security

See stories on page 3

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WHAT'S INSIDE: P9 Regional infrastructural works moving apace with some hiccups

A visit to the Maha Lakshmi Mandir in P10 London

Youth needs assistance for urgent P12 surgery P13 Scouts take lead in “cleaning up the world” campaign

Looking all radiant! The Miss Guyana Universe contestants were formally introduced to the public at the Plaza Hotel, Main Street, Georgetown on Friday (Carl Croker photo)

Ramotar lauds Canada needs to do Mexico’s more to fight investments corruption – as it dominates World in Guyana Bank’s corruption list See story on page 13

See story on page 16

14 graduate from Sterling Products P16 literacy programme

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SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

NEWS

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, September 22 from 05:30h to 07:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, September 22 from 05:55h to 07:25h.

WEATHER TODAY

Countrywide: Heavy rain showers are expected during the day, with clear skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly at 4.47 to 3.57 metres per second.

High Tide: 05:58h and 18:09h reaching maximum heights of 2.72 metres and 2.75 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 11:45h reaching a minimum height of 0.55 metre.

saturday, september 21, 2013

LOTTERY NUMBERS B 05 08 09 13 19 23 14 FREE TICKET

Daily Millions

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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, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Fly Jamaica set to begin operations − company, CJIA differ over security

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unique to Guyana, but noted the need for a more effective security system at the country’s main airport.

Easy connections Passengers from Guyana will arrive at terminal one at the John F Kennedy Airport in the U.S., allowing for easy connections to other international destinations throughout Europe.

Speaking at a press conference at the Fly Jamaica head office at the Ogle International Airport on Saturday, Finance

Security system She said Fly Jamaica will put systems in place to guard against security breaches.

However, CJIA Chief Executive Officer Ramesh Ghir in a release said it is very disappointing and unfortunate that a director of Fly Jamaica would choose to publicly address her concerns about drug incidents at the airport without first engaging the airport authorities about such anxiety.

“As chairman of the Airport Security Committee and head of the airport corporation, I can safely say that no such concern was ever raised with us; not even at the level of the board of directors.

“We will be happy to engage the staff and directors of Fly Jamaica to address any security related questions that they may have. The airport’s corporation and its security committee remain steadfast to continuously working with its stakeholders to improve passengers’ experience.

“We remain very excited and look forward to Fly Jamaica getting on board!”

Ghir said.

ly Jamaica is set to begin operations here on Thursday and is expected to employ at least 40 Guyanese once things go according to plan.

The airline’s local office is currently in the process of training some 25 Guyanaese to become flight attendants and two as pilots as it gets set for the first three inaugural nonstops flights out of Guyana.

Beginning on September 26, Fly Jamaica’s first flight will be between Kingston and Georgetown; on the 27, from New York to Georgetown; and on October 8, from Toronto to Guyana.

The company said that the introduction of these non-stop flights will mean less time spent getting to destinations, with an estimated three hours flying time.

CJIA Chief Executive Officer Ramesh Ghir

and Commerce Director Roxanne Reece said the airline will be providing services not offered by traditional airlines.

“Passengers will be treated to complimentary meals, in-flight entertainment and shopping, spacious seats and a signature warm, friendly service,” Reece said.

She noted that Fly Jamaica is not just waiting on passengers to come to it; the airline is reaching out to them.

Fly Jamaica is a private airline with no financial arrangements with any government. Currently, the airline operates with six aircraft and will soon add

Fly Jamaica Finance and Commerce Director Roxanne Reece

another to its fleet, which will result in increased routes.

According to the airline, in addition to boosting regional tourism, the new routes will open up opportunities for businesses at its destinations in Georgetown, Guyana; Kingston, Jamaica; New York, U.S.A.; and Toronto, Canada.

On a different note, Reece said the company is a bit concerned about incidents of drug trafficking at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

She was quick to point out that the situation is not

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sunday, september 22, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

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

The AFC implodes

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he news that three high-profile members of the Alliance for Change (AFC) switched allegiance to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) caught the leader of the AFC Khemraj Ramjattan by surprise. This is symptomatic of the narcissism and lack of connection with its membership base that had characterised the leadership of the party from its formation.

The crossover followed hard on the heels of the resignation of a major New York financial backer, which was the result of similar obliviousness to the concerns of the membership.

The AFC has been hung on its own petard. It opportunistically offered its rabid support of the campaign of vilification against the government for alleged corruption, waged by the publisher of the Kaieteur News, who had personal axes to grind. But the attacks from the AFC, amounting to public persecution, continued.

The hypocrisy and shamelessness of the leadership of the AFC was therefore laid bare for its supporters and all Guyanese to see when concrete instances of their own conflicts of interest were exposed. Significantly, all involved finance.

First, there was the furious battle waged by Khemraj Ramjattan in Parliament to derail the construction of the Marriott Hotel, which had been in the works since 1999. What had changed since was that the ownership of the nearby Pegasus had been assumed by a client of Ramjattan, who was also a major AFC backer.

Ramjattan also repeated the identical conflict of interest when he expended valuable parliamentary time fighting a desperate rearguard action on behalf of another client, Fedders-Lloyd, rather than pushing the interests of his constituency and the country.

Fedders-Lloyd had lost out in the bid on the now stalled Speciality Hospital. In any other parliament in the world, Ramjattan would have been censured by the parliamentary committee on privileges. While this was not done, supporters took notice.

Moses Nagamootoo, the other high-profile AFC executive who had crossed over from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), had also claimed to be a paragon of probity and a scourge of “conflict of interest”. This image was rudely shattered when it was revealed he had demanded and received $7 million from the National Industrial and Commercial Limited (NICIL) for filling out and filing forms for the relocation of some residents of D’Edward Village, in the path of the approach to the Berbice Bridge.

It was the same NICIL that he had criticised viciously for “corruption”, not expecting his feeding at the trough of NICIL, would be revealed.

But the final straw in the exposure of the dissembling of the AFC leadership on “conflict of interest” were the actions of Chairman of the AFC Nigel Hughes and his wife Cathy Hughes, an executive of the party. Cathy Hughes had been the public relations face of Synergy, the company owned by Fip Motilall, which the AFC maintained was totally unfit to build the road to Amaila Falls. The cognitive dissonance of this state of affairs never troubled the AFC leaders.

When it was revealed that Hughes, touted as the “new Dr Walter Rodney” and the exemplar of honourable politics, was the legal officer and company secretary of Amaila Falls Hydro Inc (AFHI), there was no stopping the tsunami of disgust.

To be the legal officer of an entity which was opposed up to the eleventh hour and then have his party make a complete u-turn was too much for even the most gullible to swallow. Why would Hughes not reveal his interest?

That AFHI had allocated US$4 million for legal fees provided for most the motive for the betrayal. The departures from the AFC have now passed the critical mass: the party will now implode into oblivion.

Participants examine an exhibit at the Global Shapers Community's (Georgetown Hub) International Peace Day awareness session at the Theatre Guild on Saturday (Carl Croker photo)

The forensic laboratory

Dear Editor, The past decade has seen great advances in a powerful criminal justice tool: deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA. DNA can be used to identify criminals with incredible accuracy when biological evidence exists.

By the same token, DNA can be used to clear suspects and exonerate persons mistakenly accused or convicted of crimes. In all, DNA technology is increasingly vital to ensuring accuracy and fairness in the criminal justice system.

In 1999, New York authorities linked a man through DNA evidence to

at least 22 sexual assaults and robberies that had terrorised the city. In 2002, authorities in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Fort Collins, Colorado used DNA evidence to link and solve a series of crimes, including rapes and a murder, perpetrated by the same individual. In the 2001 “Green River” killings, DNA evidence provided a major breakthrough in a series of crimes that had remained unsolved for years despite a large law enforcement task force and a US$15 million investigation.

Our forensic laboratory is very necessary and a

team from Barbados has been contracted to install the equipment to facilitate the smooth running of the laboratory right here. If all goes well, then operation can begin by year-end.

This has huge implications for crime-fighting here in Guyana.

It will definitely mean that potentials criminals will think long and hard before going on any kind of illegal activity.

Even though a lot of time has elapsed since the birth of this forensic institution, it is going to pay off.

Also, the time in preparing for its opening has been

well used. According to the Home Affairs Ministry, it has already hired staff members and they will soon sign their contracts for employment.

I trust that rape cases will soon be fast tracked. In recent times, too many people got off because of a lack of DNA evidence. The same principle goes for murder. I applaud this great leap in our country. Now all that is needed is professionalism in the exercising of duties and maintaining of the facilities.

Yours sincerely, Hazel Harris

Thoughts for the booming rice industry Dear Editor, I say forget about talking in regards to rice production. We have fought off inclement weather, paddy bugs and even a few financial matters. We have broken all the records. My idea is for us to work on utilising all of our excess rice.

After all, if we produce more then we should use more. Rice has immense benefits, irrespective of what form it is used it. We need to experiment.

Rice is a typical example of a staple food. Today, rice fulfils the dietary needs of millions of people around the globe. More than 40,000 variations of rice are cultivated and sold. Each one has its own unique benefits to offer.

As for our popular brown rice, it retains much of its nutritional value because it does not undergo a whole lot of processing, milling and polishing. Fibre contents in the bran are retained. The

body feels naturally fuller and invigorated for a longer period of time after the intake.

Brown rice is as equally available as white rice.

It falls short on the taste which is quite ordinary but it blends perfectly well with many common recipes.

Many locals just will not make fried rice or cook-up without the white rice.

The rice industry is set to exceed the 2013 target of 450,000 tonnes by approx-

imately 80,000 tonnes. So we have to go the next step – do something and move towards more consumption.

I have heard talks about utilising our vegetables and fruits in other forms too, say like we must preserve them or turn them into drinks, juices and syrups.

Yours truly, Small rice farmer, Essequibo Coast Name withheld by request

Re-examine dismissed cases of abuse

Dear Editor, Sometimes I feel that we are wasting people’s time, and the police’s as well, when we are saying that all must be involved in the battle against domestic violence. Why? A case was dismissed very whimsically against a couple after they

appeared before the magistrate at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

If I were a concerned neighbour of the victim or the police who did the hard work, I would have felt stupid. We have to cut out this nonsense.

I guess if I rape a wom-

an and then she does not give evidence, or if she simply forgives me, that’s it – I am free.

This kind of thinking is a mockery to justice, and for sure, when it involves women abuse, it is really a blow against the effort to curb the scourge.

I firmly believe that this thing about no case when people kiss and make up must stop. It is sending a wrong message and it is subversive to the cause of the abused.

Yours faithfully, Parmanand Tiwari

guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, september 22, 2013

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

Put an end to thievery Dear Editor, One prosecutor recently objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness of the offence, the nature of the offence, and the punishment such an offence attracts – theft.

This leads me to call for the use of decoys and plain clothes officers, especially in busy areas.

They do this in so many countries of the world

and it will be a good thing here.

We need to do some reverse psychology – let the potential snatchers be on the edge. If and when they are caught, they must be dealt with in such a manner that fear will overcome those who have ideas of snatching and running.

We need to get rid of unnecessary elements

from busy zones – the markets, and bus and car parks, for example. The busier and more congested a place is, the easier it is for thieves to operate.

I prefer when our police go around and accost loiterers. If they are not in any legitimate business, selling or buying, then they need to get off the road.

Indeed, they have a

right to window shop and browse around – is this not so? After being intercepted a time or two, they will get the message, even as they are biding their time to make a snatch.

I compliment the force for being much more visible and I urge the patrols to keep up with this ploy.

Yours faithfully, Sean Aaron

APNU’s MP is way out of line Dear Editor, In the 1980s, Guyana had a number of crime sprees and I am still boxing around to see if that period ever had a worse, or will ever have one. The era of kick-down-the-door banditry was so terrible that up to this day the effects of it can be seen.

There is a house in my street that still has a few bullet holes on the kickedin door. The father of this household was shot in the gut and consequently died.

The mother and two children abandoned the area.

Right now, the place is overrun by bush, and smokers play cards under a tree.

Is this a one-off story? The answer is a resounding no.

This I submit to the A

Partnership for National Unity (APNU) member of parliament (MP) who is saying that the government and Home Affairs Ministry are to be blamed for the national security breakdown that has led to the current increase in criminal activities.

I cannot understand what is meant by the national security breakdown. I come and go as normal. Life has not come to a standstill. During the time I am referring to, there was a crippling fear of Mitsubishi Colt vans at night, with soldiers and police on the prowl. This period got Father Bernard Darke, Dr Walter Rodney and a whole lot of people more.

I remember how victims just did not bother making reports and following through on heinous crimes.

I saw more than once how the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) trucks used to swoop on many local businessmen and simply load up. There was an infamous case, in Lusignan, one Friday afternoon. This was so glaring, that it stopped the popular Friday afternoon village market for that day.

I am not seeing any of this breakdown that is now being referred to. This almost happened though in 2005, but a very concerted effort from the government nullified the troubling, but brief, onslaught of criminals, even though this was

seen by some, including this MP, as an attack on freedom fighters.

I am very amused by this MP’s explanation of the prevalence of unlicensed firearms. Who were against the bill that could have been negating this very thing that he is now speaking out against? I will be quick to admit that we have had a few bad days, but all hell has not broken loose and it does not seem that it will.

Yours sincerely, Samuel Solomon

Housing is testimony to Guyana’s development Dear Editor, Eastville, behind south of Annandale, in many ways is a classic manifestation of how Guyana has changed and is changing. That block, situated behind the Railway Embankment, was nothing but abandoned pasture land. It was like a marsh. Now, it is a thriving community and lacks nothing but maybe a few minor amenities.

When I visited that village last year, I was shocked.

Nothing was there when I was a boy. The start that government has given to the folk there has been capitalised on.

Now it is left for the people who live there to work on maintenance and improvement.

By this I mean that streets must not be allowed to run down and crimes must not be the norm. The only bad thing I have ever heard from that place was a fatal accident some years back. Maybe, the place can do with a good park for hire cars and minibuses.

Also, I think that if the Railway Embankment can really be like our main public road, traffic congestion will be negated. All that I am saying is that Guyanese can make things happen. The housing sector is ever marching, and we need to seize the moment to build our homes and community.

I make the same remarks for Little Diamond. When I left Guyana many years ago, that place did not exist. Now it is a virtual town. I was introduced to this area by a friend who lives there, building his house on the plot that was government allotted.

Again, here the people took the initiative and made things happen. The wonderful thing is that life is almost fully accommodated in Little Diamond – schools, nearby police and fire stations and banks.

Government must keep abreast of how rapidly housing is moving. We have communities springing up all over this land. There will be the need for power, water and highway access. The telephone thing can wait, as the anomaly is that for Guyanese, the cell works really well.

I also think that when people are not grabbing the opportunity to really set themselves up, some kind of pep talk must be meted out to them. Ever so often, I go to a lovely new community, and I see a few half done and abandoned buildings.

These owners have probably left Guyana, or maybe they need some kind of financial backing. I am sure that something can be worked out.

Kind regards, Ivan Sinclair

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sunday, september 22, 2013

Page

Foundation

Professionalism Anu Dev

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e’ve all had those experiences: going to the doctor’s office, shopping in some store or visiting a travel agency where we probably went through the worst ordeal of our lives because of the way we were treated.

It sucks to go somewhere to do whatever chore you’re on and you end up being treated as some lesser being.

Call me “melodramatic” but after some jarring encounter with a sales clerk I start paraphrasing Shylock’s speech from Merchant of Venice to myself: “Hath not an Anu eyes? Hath not Anu fed with the same food, hurt with the same weapons, subject to the same diseases?”

As I rise up in righteous indignation, vowing never return to that store (at least not until next week!).

It can really leave a bad taste in your mouth (as bad as Karilla) and makes you wonder if that offensive person had an over abundance of bile. But the thing I don’t understand is it’s not like they’re doing you a favour.

You’re paying them for the

guyanatimesgy.com

"Being a professional is doing the things you love to do, on the days you don’t feel like doing them.”

– 'Dr J' Julius Erving (basketball legend) service. If it’s a doctor, it’s not like he/she is diagnosing you for free. You’ve already had to wait an hour in the waiting room inhaling everybody else’s germs and now the doctor is treating you like you’re an errant three-year-old? What?

That’s not being a professional And professionalism goes beyond treating your patrons like they’re actual human beings. It includes things like punctuality, accountability and being able to carry out your tasks efficiently. We really need to

break the mould of things always starting half of an hour late in Guyana (and the rest of the “Third World”). Sure it’s a running joke that always manages to get a few laughs, but in reality, it’s a sad reflection of how we’ve accepted our tardiness and aren’t prepared to do anything to change.

In whatever profession we choose, we must always also have accountability.

And not just being able to account for finances – we should be able to account for our actions. We’re not living in our own personal

vacuums. Our actions and decisions affect the people around us, sometimes more than we could ever imagine. Nothing has disproved Aristotle’s dictum that we’re social beings. (Incorrectly interpreted nowadays as “political beings”) But it can be difficult; sometimes you’re just having an “off day”. Some days you can’t be all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. But in some professions, that’s exactly what’s expected of you.

To be a true professional, you have to be professional in the way you dress, the way you carry yourself, the way you relate to the people around you. It could’ve been that little girl in the bank who came in with her mom might’ve gotten inspired by the way you carried yourself and now she wants to work in a bank when she grows up to be just like you.

As professionals, you’re representing your profession.

You’re the ones who either inspire us to want to do what you do, or who make us swear never to touch, for instance, law with a 10-foot pole.

And in some professions, you only ever meet some of your patrons for once in your life. Do you really want to be remembered as the late, scruffy, sales clerk? Or like Dr J, who can still soar and dunk the ball at 63?

Study suggests a special needs child is the most important friend your child may ever make

By Ellen Seidman

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ike many children, my son is friendly with the children in his classroom. Unlike many children, those are his only friends.

Max has cerebral palsy and cognitive impairment, due to a stroke at birth; he attends a school for children with special needs.

The lack of typically-developing friends doesn’t bother Max, who is not yet conscientious of it. It bothers me.

Max is a super-friendly, fun child who deserves lots of different friends – and lots of friends deserve him.

Of course, my friends’ children hang with him when they visit. One of my best friends has arranged playdates with her daughter who’s around Max’s age, though she lives an hour away.

The neighbourhood children are friendly when everyone’s playing outside, but that’s as far as it goes. Their moms have never reached out to me and vice versa, although I know I should take that first step. Friendship would benefit all our children, as a new study reveals.

Attitudes

A study of 1520 children ages seven to 16 found that those who regularly interacted with people with disabilities generally had better attitudes toward people with special needs. They were less fearful of them, too, and more empathetic.

Even just observing other people interact with those who had special needs, or observing their friendships, improved children’s attitudes, shows the study by the University of Exeter Medical School in England.

These friendships could majorly benefit children with special needs like my son.

They’d feel included instead of ostracised. It could boost their self-esteem, and even help them develop. It would open their worlds.

Less obvious, I think, are the potential payoffs for children who don’t have special needs. As study author Megan MacMillan said at the recent British Psychological Society conference, “The effort to improve attitudes is worthwhile, as negative attitudes are often internalised.”

If your child doesn’t ever interact with children who have special needs, consider

the benefits that go far beyond the usual gifts of friendship.

Getting to know a child with special needs could open her mind so that she grows up to be more accepting and appreciative of individual differences.

Having a “diverse” group of friends – important to many parents today – isn’t just about children of all races, it’s about children of all abilities, too.

A friendship like this could also sharpen your child’s communication skills, teaching her how to better interact with others. It could give her a deeper understanding of what it means to overcome challenges, and that everyone has their own unique value in this world.

Connections

I think I speak for most mothers of children with special needs when I say we’re not looking for pity playdates here. We’re looking for genuine connections. Yes, it’s going to take a little more effort on your part.

You will most likely have to explain to your child why mine walks and talks differently than other children.

That said, you could also talk about the ways my child is the same to help bridge the gapafter all, children with special needs are children first.

They like to play with toys, watch TV, eat ice cream, listen to music, and tell knockknock jokes – same as any other child.

Perhaps you won’t know exactly what to tell your child about my child. No worries there – feel free to ask. I most likely wouldn’t have known what to say, either, before I had my son and became a first-hand expert on the topic.

Parents of children with special needs are not expecting you or your child to act perfectly. Perfection, as we well know, is not reality.

Just think of all the good friendships like this could do.

Then go ahead and encourage your child to approach a child with special needs at the playground-a simple “Hi!” is always a great ice-breaker.

If you have a child in middle or high school, find out about local Best Buddies programmes (they’re nationwide), or look into the e-Buddies pen pal programme for children ages 10 and up. (shine.

yahoo.com)

news

International Financial and Economic Report

SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Chairman, Guyana Americas Merchant Bank

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he Federal Reserve this week took almost everybody by surprise on Wednesday when the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decided not to cut bond purchases running at US$85 billion a month. The Fed itself had left the clear impression in June that “tapering” or the cutting of bond purchases would begin in the second half of 2013.

The Central Bank is concerned about the U.S. economy and lowered its expectation of growth in 2013 to 2.0 per cent to 2.3 per cent, alongside a cut in growth next year from 3.0 per cent to 3.5 per cent to 2.9 per cent to 3.1 per cent.

According to the statement accompanying the report, the Federal Reserve said that it would “await more evidence that progress will be sustained before adjusting the pace of its purchases”.

On Wednesday, interest rates fell sharply with the 10-year U.S. Treasury dropping to 2.70 per cent from 2.85 per cent and the 30-year bond falling almost as much. The stock market soared with the S&P 500 up 1.2 per cent, gold rose three per cent to US$1362 an ounce, oil jumped to more than US$110 a barrel and the dollar fell with the euro rising from US$1.33 to US$1.35.

As can be seen in Table

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BY GEOFFREY BELL

1, emerging market currencies have increased in value against the dollar with the Indian rupee rising to 62 as compared in almost 69 just a short-time ago.

massive losses”.

The U.S. economic data was generally mixed this week and may have been a small contributing factor in the FOMC’s decision on

JPMorgan Chase agreed yesterday to pay about US$920 million for failing to implement adequate controls and providing incomplete information about its US$6.12 billion trading debacle to regulators and to its board.

It appears that senior management knew in April 2012 that the bank’s chief investment officer in London was using aggressive valuations that hid US$750 million in losses.

According to the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), JPMorgan failed to keep watch over its trading as they overvalued a very complex portfolio to hide

Wednesday. The week began with a report on manufacturing in the New York region for September which eased to 6.3 from 8.2 in August.

On the other hand output rose 0.4 per cent in August after being flat in July but on Tuesday, it was reported that consumer prices only increased by 0.1 per cent in August, the least in three months. The next day it was announced that builders began work on fewer homes than projected in August with housing starts rising 0.9 per cent to an annual rate of 891,000.

Sales of existing homes

unexpectedly rose in August by 1.7 per cent but this increase reflected some transactions beginning a month or two before when mortgages were at a record low (Thursday).

Initial jobless claims rose 15,000 to 309,000 in the week ended September 14 which was less than forecast as two states began working through a backlog of applications that were caused by computer changeovers. Leading indicators climbed 0.7 per cent in August and the Philadelphia Federal survey of factory activity rose to a two-and-a-half-year high in September.

In overseas news, the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee in the Minutes of its September meeting revealed this week that it has revised upwards its forecast of growth for the UK economy from 0.5 per cent to 0.7 per cent for the third quarter on the back of recent economic data suggesting that growth was picking up. This morning it was announced that the UK budget deficit narrowed in August as tax receipts increased by 1.4 per cent and government spending fell by 2.2 per cent.

The Fed announcement certainly achieved the objective of pushing interest rates down. On the week the two year U.S. Treasury fell to 0.33 per cent today from 0.44 per cent last Friday.

Likewise the 10-year bond is now 2.75 per cent compared with 2.89 per cent and the 30-year is 3.79 per cent down from 3.83 per cent a week ago.

The Euro has strengthened against the dollar to US$1.35 today from US$1.33 last week and the pound sterling is up to US$1.60 from US$1.59. The Swiss franc is also stronger at 0.91

13.07 a 2.5 per cent gain on the week.

Today oil is at US$106 a barrel from US$107 last week after jumping to US$110 on the Fed news. Likewise gold is now at US$1339 an ounce up from last week’s price of US$1317, but down from US$1362 an ounce at one point on Thursday.

The Dow Jones is at 15,610 at 10:30h today up 1.5 per cent on the week.

However, the index was down slightly yesterday and again today as perhaps the market starts to recognise that the Wednesday “non-

from 0.93 last Friday but the yen fell slightly to 99.5 from 99.4. The Australian dollar improved to 0.94 from 0.93 and the Canadian dollar was unchanged at 1.03.

The Mexican peso followed the emerging market trend and moved up to 12.75 from

tapering” announcement was not good news but no news and that the more important message was that the projected growth in the U.S. economy was reduced to a not very inspiring 2.0 per cent to 2.3 per cent for 2013.

8 news

SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Competition launched to promote healthy lifestyles

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three-month competition dubbed “Weight No More” was launched by the Health Ministry’s Chronic Diseases Department and Harris Arts, along with several other entities in an effort to promote healthy lifestyles.

The main purpose of the competition, which was launched at the Regency Hotel, Hadfield Street, is to promote awareness of chronic diseases and the fact that they are preventable by simply adopting healthy lifestyles.

The concept of “Fit it Guyana” is an intricate blend of the science of healthy living, fashion and technology via stimulating mediums of television and social media.

It will also offer a reality television show where ordinary Guyanese will be followed for three months. It highlights the journey of overcoming the obstacles in the way of adopting a healthy lifestyle.

The participants will be interviewed and asked about their chronic diseases and how they have been dealing with them.

The show consists of nu-

merous segments, focusing on different areas of healthy living. “Fit body” segment highlights aspects of physical health. It will also feature interviews with doctors, nutritionists and other public figures.

The “Fit Mind” segment of the show focuses on aspects of mental and physical health and features interviews with medical professionals.

Another aspect of the show is “Tech Fit”– this segment highlights how technology is evolving to assist healthy living.

“Fashion Fit”

There will also be a “Fashion Fit”, which will allow the competitors to walk the runway in style and get advice on how to maintain their physique after losing weight.

There will also be a segment called “Surprise of the week”, which will feature a spontaneous visit from an influential member of the Guyanese society to interact and encourage the competitors.

Guyanese will also be able to share their thoughts on

the “Street talk” segment of the show. There will be giveaways to participants.

Merundoi will also be on board with the ministry for this competition by working along with a similar storyline to promote the prevention of these diseases. Merundoi Project Operations Manager Durwin Humphrey said that they are honoured to be part of this unique campaign.

He said “our aim is modelling, fostering, and reinforcing healthy choices and lifestyles through innovative public education, facilitating positive behaviour change utilising the creative arts and mass media platforms.”

Health Ministry, Chronic Disease Department Coordinator Karen Gordon Boyle, said 60 per cent of all deaths are due to chronic diseases.

She said 80 per cent of chronic disease related deaths occur in low or middle income countries. She said among the leading causes of deaths in Guyana are heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, HIV/ AIDS and hypertension.

Eyew tness

Dammed if you do...

...damned if you don’t It can’t be easy if you’re Clement Rohee. With crime showing a big and frightening spike, citizens are demanding that he “do something”. On the other side of the divide – and there’s a great huge divide, amounting to a chasm, between them and the people – David Granger’s A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has been accusing the home affairs minister of “micromanaging”. What the heck’s the poor guy to do?

Well, there’s a bit of advice from an old singer – going back to Granger’s boyhood. The fella ruefully conceded that, in the end, no matter what you do, you can’t please everyone. So, he concludes, you might as well please yourself.

That is, do what you know to be right. Fact of the matter is that the critics of Rohee in APNU all have their axes to grind against Rohee.

Take Winston Felix, who threw out Debra Backer, the long time People’s National Congress (PNC) point person on law and order. How’d he do that? Because he blatantly collided with elements in the PNC during the murder-and-mayhem banditry in the mid-1990s, that’s how!

Remember his infamous phone call to then PNC Chairman Basil Williams when he was commissioner of police (CoP)? He spilled his guts (not to mention confidential police matters) about the fellas who’d committed the Agricola Massacre? Yes, Bannuh!!

So imagine the temerity of this ex-CoP, under the watchful eyes of Granger, to accuse Rohee of “micro management”!! Felix had left a police force completely demoralised while policemen were being killed like flies. And as for “micromanaging” who’s Granger to talk?

At least Rohee is civilian head of the police... they fall under his direct purview. What about Granger’s mentor and hero, Forbes Burnham, who had every police officer report directly to him! And for every police officer to swear personal loyalty to him. But let’s look at the “micromanagement” charge a bit closer.

Granger and Felix would know (God knows they’ve been on enough management courses at

our expenses!) that there’re different management styles. Are they willing to tell the Guyanese people with a straight face that Rohee should adopt a “laissez faire” (hands off) leadership style with our police force? We expect our policemen will suddenly become the consummate professional and, like Spike Lee exhorts, “do the right thing”?

Fact of the matter is that if it wasn’t for Rohee, who the opposition hates because they can’t intimidate him, our crime rates would soar beyond Trinidad’s and Jamaica’s. ...let GPL in For years now, bandits have been posing as Guyana Power and Light (GPL) workers to lull unsuspecting householders into a false sense of security and let them into their yards to read meters, only to be robbed and battered. Once again it almost happened in the Meten-Meer-Zorg incident when the bandit shot dead had a GPL insignia. And how did GPL respond? As it always does by saying the fella was not an employee of GPL. And hear this: customers should check the credentials of the individuals purporting to be GPL workers. How? By making sure they have badges with photos! Can you believe this? Fella can obtain a shirt with the GPL insignia embroidered onto the front, and he can’t get a fake identification card?

We’ve been saying for years – all GPL has to do is to become organised. Announce a schedule of which areas will be checked on which days so that residents – en masse – will expect visits on that day. With scheduled visits, it’s highly unlikely imposters will show up simultaneously.

Now we know residents will be altered to remove their meter bypass mechanisms. But that’s grist for another mill. ...the stupid thing Can you believe the asininity of the Alliance For Change (AFC) in appointing their disgraced Chairman Nigel Hughes to assure their supporters that “everything’s gonna be alright”? It’s like the Pied Piper telling the rats, “A bridge is ahead.”

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9

SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Regional infrastructural works EPA spearheads coastal clean-up moving apace, but with some hiccups

T

housands of residents across the country will soon benefit from new and improved infrastructure in the areas of education, health and agriculture, as the 10 regional democratic councils fasttrack their capital projects.

Local Government and Regional Development Ministry, Permanent Secretary Collin Croal told the media on Friday that Region One has completed 27 per cent of its capital projects.

“This is a reflection of the actual amount that has been expended on our voted provision. Of course in terms of implementation, they are much more ahead of that,” he said.

Among the highlights in that region is the construction of the District Development Office at Baramita.

Additionally, major emphasis is being placed on the electrification programme within the district, with government pumping some $50 million into the initiative.

Electricity to Baramita

Croal reported that the contract has been awarded for the supply of electricity to Baramita while the Mabaruma network is being upgraded.

“Under the same power supply would be the extension for the distribution among Bumbury,” he said.

Meanwhile, in Region Two, 51 per cent of the funds allocated for the execution of capital projects has been disbursed.

Pointing to the construction of a rehabilitation centre at the Suddie Hospital, the permanent secretary said works are moving apace, noting that it is 60 per cent completed.

Under the regional educational programme, a teacher’s quarter is being erected at the Martindale annex in Pomeroon. This project is approximately 45 per cent completed.

“We also have the extension of the Mainstay Lake Primary School. Mainstay Lake is a growing community and so there is a need for the extension,” Sixty-five per cent of the capital funds have been expended on developmental projects in Region Three. In this region, serious attention is giv-

recognise that every year, we invest to ensure that this hospital receives expansion and be able to provide increase health care.”

Bridges at Mibicuri

Local Government Ministry Permanent Secretary Collin Croal

en to the upgrades of roads in canals Number One and Two. Additionally, the Zeelugt and Sisters nursery schools are being constructed while the Physiotherapy Department of the West Demerara Regional Hospital will be rehabilitated under the region’s health programme.

The Region Four Regional Democratic Council has reportedly disbursed 51 per cent of the monies allocated for capital programmes by the government. Among new projects on the table are the Good Hope Nursery School, East Coast Demerara and the Moblissa Health Post. Both projects are 75 per cent complete.

Health hut at Moblissa

“The Good Hope Nursery School of course will service the new housing scheme, catering for approximately 160 students while the health hut at Moblissa of course, catering for the Amerindian communities, so about 200 residents are expected to benefit from this health post.”

In Region Five, 63 per cent of the capital projects have been completed. While all projects executed are of paramount importance, the permanent secretary highlighted that the major projects include the construction of a diabetic foot centre and water purification system at the Fort Wellington Hospital.

Meanwhile, the Mahaicony Hospital is being extended.

“Mahaicony Hospital you will

Turning his attention to the Region Six Regional Democratic Council, Croal said bridges at North and South Mibicuri are being upgraded to concrete structures while major excavation works are ongoing at the Number 51 Main Drain Canal. These projects form part of the 50 per cent of the projects that have either been completed or have commenced.

But while the aforementioned regions have been doing fairly well in terms of works done thus far, the same cannot be said for Region Seven. Only 38 per cent of the funds allocated have been spent on execution of projects.

Likewise, in Region Eight, only 37 per cent of the funds allotted have been used, but works have commenced on a brand new nursery school at Campbell Town. The Kato Primary School is being expanded while a new secondary school will be housed in Kato.

However, in Region 10, work is way behind schedule.

The RDC has only managed to utilise 16 per cent of its capital funds. Croal laid the blame on protest actions and logistical issues.

T

he Annual International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC), coordinated by Ocean Conservancy is observed around the world on the third Saturday in September, under the theme “Fighting for trash free seas”.

From forgotten picnic utensils to tampon applicators, every piece of trash has the chance of becoming marine debris and they have already.

Indeed, not all of the marine debris found locally may have originated from here in Guyana.

Marine debris also drifts onto these shores from other countries where improper disposal may also be a public health issue.

Marine debris is therefore everybody’s business. It is for this reason that Guyana joins 88 other countries in celebrating International Coastal Clean-up day.

It is a day when the world shouts out the need for environmental sustainability and effective solid waste management.

“Although we should keep, every part of our environment clean; the main aim of the activity is to provide data on the types and sources of debris found on the coast. This data could

be used for academic research as well as by policy makers. Additionally, the data is used to advocate for corporate social and environmental responsibility from our business sector,” the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry said in a release.

In Guyana, the initial clean-up was held in Georgetown, in September, 2005. Since then it has experienced growth and expanded to other regions over the years. Worldwide, more than 305, 000 people removed over 7.7 million pounds of debris from more than 11,000 miles of shoreline.

Volunteers The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has collaborated with other partners over the years to mobilise more than 200 volunteers, annually not only to clean up the coastlines, but also to encourage behavioural change through active participation.

The EPA, in collaboration with “Pick it up Guyana”, under the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, have mobilised hundreds of volunteers from schools, non-governmental organisations (NGOs),

private sector and government organisations to pledge their allegiance to the cause of environmental cleanliness by participating in clean-up activities in various regions across Guyana. This activity also aims to sensitise persons on the importance of a clean and healthy environment.

The first clean-up was held at the Rose Hall beach, Region Six on September 15, while the last will be held at the Uitvlugt Sea wall, Region Three on September 29.

10 news

SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

A visit to the Maha Lakshmi Mandir in London

By Vishnu Bisram

I

was in London last month and was privileged to visit the Maha Lakshmi Vidya Bhavan (MLVB) temple led by Guyanese Bankim Gossai, brother of the late popular Prakash Goosai.

One gets a heavenly, inspirational feeling when entering the mandir, a divine feeling that is hard to describe.

Others who visited the mandir revealed similar experiences. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles are impressed with the mandir and its spiritual leader. They were intrigued about the mandir and wanted to know more about how such a wonderful atmosphere had been developed, according to one of the executives.

Pandit Bankim is loved by worshipers who come from diverse places in Africa, India, and the Caribbean. And at the mandir, there is inclusiveness. Pandit Bankim sets the stage for utmost devotion. As in New York, where Prakash-ji was called “guru-ji”, in London Bankim is also fondly called “guru-ji” (meaning teacher).They respect him.

Religious leader

This is hardly surprising as Bankim-ji is an outstanding, effective religious leader who exemplifies simplicity and who does not demonstrate any arrogant traits. He goes all out to help people in distress. In fact, he feels a heightened need to help people who are experiencing a personal problem or a crisis in life, similar to his late brother. And as a spiritual leader, he demands high standards and ethics from followers.

Bankim Gossai is an outstanding pandit who is a joy to listen to. He is very knowledgeable about the scriptures just like his late brother and he interprets the scriptures with utmost simplicity applying the teachings to real life and for the modern age.

He relates the teachings to current day situations.

Bankim-ji treats worshipers with utmost respect and soothes their minds of problems so they can focus on

Pandit Bankim Gossai (second left) with worshippers at the Maha Lakshmi Vidya Bhavan Mandir

The Maha Lakshmi Vidya Bhavan Mandir in London

the Lord during their period spent at the mandir as well as to carry on with their lives after religious services.

True in form

The mandir’s mission statement is, “Working to enhance, serve and preserve”, and based on my observation, Bankim-ji is true to form (either through himself or getting others) addressing their needs helping them overcome emotional problems.

The mandir was founded on the eve of Diwali 1982 by a small group of devoted Hindus from various countries who felt the need for a Hindu organisation to address their religious yearnings.

They felt a need for an organisation to propagate, practice, enhance and preserve Hinduism in the UK. In 1982, four resolute devotees Shri Bankim Gossai, Shri Ramesh Charan, Shri Moti Sukhlal, and Shri Y N Singh formed what they called a “cottage service” as

it was a small and informal fellowship.

The format included a pooja and reading from the Ramayana. The moving mandir functioned at temporary locations under the name Maha Lakshmi Satsang (MLS) performing services at peoples’ homes and at rented spaces. The members held discourses in their homes on the first Saturday of every month and travelled to different counties in Scotland, Ireland, Wales and throughout England.

Permanent location

In 1991, the Satsang was registered as a charity in the UK with four trustees to conduct and manage its affairs.

On the eve of Diwali 1994, a building fund was launched.

In 1999, the organisation acquired a building as its permanent location in Forest Hills, just outside of London proper and changed its name to Maha Lakshmi Vidya Bhavan.

The organisers held several fundraisers to pay for the

cost of acquiring the building as well as to cover its operating costs.

That building was gradually transformed to become a lovely mandir attracting a lot of worshippers of varied ethnic backgrounds. It has been holding regular services on Sundays as well as on auspicious days in the Hindu calendar and on special occasions as desired by members.

The MLVB is now a part of the fabric of life in the UK and beyond attracting people of all backgrounds. Through MLVB, Hindus who migrated to the UK have a religious home where they can worship. The mandir also serves as a building for weddings and other events in keeping with the faith of its members.

The MLVB is offering a variety of social services to Hindus and non-Hindus alike – such as supporting women’s concerns and issues, dealing with youth emergencies and family situations, assisting the aged and needy, and helping those with legal, financial and medical issues, among others.

Worldwide recognition

The MLVB is enjoying worldwide recognition earning kudos for its humanitarian activities and invited to perform services at British national institutions.

In 2005, Bankim and then President of the Mandir Ramesh Charan conducted Ramayana Satsang and pooja as part of Diwali celebrations in the House of Commons. Shri Bankim Gossai himself was decorated with the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) by the Queen.

The founders of MLVB are to be applauded for their hard work, dedication, sacrifices and service in the UK. They willingly gave of their time and deserve the highest recognition.

It is with great devotion and the steadfast efforts and zeal of the trustees and the congregation that the mandir is achieving its goal.

Bankim and the members are to be commended for their efforts at trying to uplift lives in UK.

Remove the mote...

S

atiricus was a great admirer of Canada. Such a nice country. Because they lived right smack next to America they’d learnt early on how obnoxious it was to throw your weight around. And their “eh” at the end of every sentence made it sound like they were seeking your approval.

Satiricus wasn’t used to people seeking his approbation: even if it wasn’t so, Satiricus felt good.

Satiricus had been up to Canada a couple of times to visit relatives. Winnipeg. Had to change planes a couple of times. Such a clean place.

Not like New York City, where Satiricus had also visited relatives. Satiricus could see why Canada was always high up on ratings as to where’s the best place to live. Even though it was always so cold.

So when a new Canadian ambassador landed in Guyana and turned out to be female – and young – the country’s reputation jumped even higher in Satiricus’ estimation. What a forward thinking bunch of folks!

Satiricus couldn’t wait to hear what she had to say. Hey! She’d been to Oxford and all. Maybe she’d have a proper Oxbridge accent – unlike those plebes they sent out from England nowadays.

While Satiricus accepted he wasn’t any great shakes with words, that didn’t mean he didn’t enjoy the mother tongue spoken with panache. But before Satiricus could have that pleasure, he couldn’t believe his eyes when he opened his paper, over breakfast. There, in black and white, were the screaming headlines, “World Bank: Canada, number one in corrupt firms!!!”

Satiricus’ salt-fish and bake fell to the floor as he reeled in surprised. Something had to be wrong. This couldn’t be!

Satiricus read further. Turned out that of the 250 firms the World Bank had blacklisted, 117 were Canadian!! Almost half! Satiricus had fully expected that only denizens newly emerging from Third World status would be on such a list.

You know – like India and China.

But there it was – Canada was first in corruption.

Satiricus saw Canada had even pipped the U.S. who came in second in the corrupt companies sweepstakes with 44 companies. The next day, Satiricus had another surprise.

The new Canadian ambassador had made her maiden speech. But what a headline! “Canadian ambassador tells Guyana to reduce corruption!” Again Satiricus couldn’t believe his eyes. Was he being tested? What the heck was this? Poor Satiricus’ brow got all furrowed.

Then he smiled. He knew what was going on. He might not be the brightest bulb around, but he could figure out a thing or two on his own. The ambassador knew a lot of folks like Satiricus – “natives” if you will, conceded Satiricus – were discombobulated by the news of the corruption in her country.

“She’s so sympathetic!” Satiricus thought. “She wants us to feel good that we poor-ass countries are still corrupt.

We have our role to play. She’ll now announce some Canadian aid to help us become better human beings.”

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SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

12 news

sunDAY, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Youth needs assistance Parents engage in conversation on education for urgent surgery

T

he relatives of 24-year-old Lakeram Jairam are seeking the public’s assistance to help cover the expenses for an urgent medical surgery needed to be performed on him.

Jairam has been diagnosed with aneurysm, a condition in an artery of the brain. It is a life threatening condition that needs to be operated on within a matter of days.

The operation is slated to take place in Trinidad and costs an estimated US$40,000.

According to family members, they were made aware of Jairam’s condition approximately one month ago when they took him for a medical checkup after he complained of severe head-

Lakeram Jairam

aches.

They pleading

are with

therefore corporate

Guyana and the general public for financial assistance to save the life of the young lad who they said still has a long and bright future ahead of him.

Lakeram’s brother, Bisram Jairam, speaking to this publication on Saturday, described his sibling as a simple, easy going type of guy who is also jovial at times.

Lakeram is currently employed at Trust Company Guyana Limited and formally of The Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Group of Companies.

Persons desirous of giving financial support are asked to do so via Demerara Bank account number 2335040 or contact telephone numbers 231-1652, 655-2318 or 653-5024.

New Mahaica Market to open soon

T

The newly-constructed Mahaica Market

he Local Government Ministry is moving to address occupancy at the newly-constructed Mahaica Market, and will soon

hand over the structure to the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and the Mahaica Market Committee.

Junior Local

Government Minister Norman Whittaker said the plan is to visit the facility within the coming week to set up the market management to regularise the operations, before handing it over.

In September 2011, government allocated $82.9 million for the construction of the Mahaica Market as part of its focus on modernising infrastructure and promotion of the provision of services in an orderly and healthy manner.

A few days later, in Mahaica, the contract for the market construction was handed over to Dookie Contracting Service by Whittaker. The building was completed in March.

A section of the gathering at “A Conversation on Education” held at the St Stanislaus College on Friday

T

he Education Ministry as part of Education Month observances will be hosting a series of public forums called “An Educational Conversation”. The inaugural forum was held at Saint Stanislaus College, Brickdam, Georgetown, and saw senior education personnel interacting with parents, guardians and other members of the public on Thursday evening.

Presentations were delivered by Professor William Kellman and Information Technology Consultant

Davina Solomon. The former focused on the methodology behind teaching, learning and assessing students.

The professor also addressed attitudes in the classrooms, by both students and teachers. He urged teachers in particular to better themselves if they realise that they are weak in that regard. Professor Kellman also answered several questions from concerned parents about methods used to instruct children and the way in which some teachers interact with

their charges.

Solomon gave a presentation on the use of technology in classrooms and schools in general. She explained how the use of technology has transformed the teaching profession and the delivery of education as a whole. Solomon noted that overseas, in particular, educators are moving towards information technology as a way to enhance the delivery of education and noted that with the increased use of personal computers, less paper and other resources are being utilised.

She too, responded to several questions from parents who shared their concerns about the use of the Internet and other possible side effects of its usage. However, she noted that many countries are moving towards paperless classrooms and changing their teaching methods to best suit this mode of delivery.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand also addressed the forum, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

485 bins distributed to 15 Region Four NDCs

T

he Local Government and Regional Development Ministry has thus far distributed 485 bins, of the 825 acquired, to strengthen the capacity of the 15 neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs) in Region Four and the Georgetown municipality.

Junior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker said the NDCs have been the beneficiaries thus far, and the ministry plans to commence

distribution this week of the remaining bins to schools within Region Four, government ministries, agencies and public markets.

He said that 20 of the bins will go to the Georgetown municipality, with the expectation that the council would secure and place them within public spaces, notably the markets.

The bins were acquired at a total cost of US$185,000 (about $37 million) and are

of volumes of 240,660 and 11,000 cubic-metres.

The bins’ purchase was funded under the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Programme, which is a government of Guyana-Inter American Development Bank (IDB) funded project, that has within its boundary the construction and full implementation of the Haags Bosch landfill site and is aimed at addressing the issue of littering in Region Four, he said.

news

13

SUNDAY, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ramotar lauds Mexico’s investments in Guyana

Scouts take lead in “cleaning up the world” campaign

President Donald Ramotar and Mexican Ambassador to Guyana Francisco Olguin toast on the occasion of Mexico’s 203rd Independence anniversary reception at the Georgetown Club

Scouts removing garbage from the parapets of Woolford Avenue, Georgetown

W

ith graduate and under graduate scholarship offers and major private investments in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector, Mexico has been hailed for supporting Guyana’s efforts at improving the quality of its most valued resources, its people.

During a reception to mark the 203rd anniversary of Mexico’s Independence, President Donald Ramotar on Friday evening at the Georgetown Club, said he was pleased to see the growing collaboration between Guyana and Mexico in tertiary level training.

Recently, the Mexican embassy announced a new scholarship programme whereby 600 graduate scholarships in engineering and science will be allocated to Organisation of American States’ member countries. Of this number, 50 will be reserved for the Caribbean.

In the recent past, a significant number of Guyanese students received scholar-

ships under the Bicentennial Scholarships for Professional Technicians offered to the Caribbean Community (Caricom) by the Mexican government.

The scholarship offer came with a full package that entailed waived enrolment fees, monthly allowance of US$400, a four-month Spanish course prior to the beginning of the studies, full medical insurance coverage from the Mexican Social Security Institute, and international air transportation at the beginning and end of the scholarship.

Single largest employer In the business arena, the single largest employer in Guyana is the Mexican company Qualfon, a private global provider of call centre back-office and business process outsourcing services.

Qualfon Guyana has employed in excess of over 2000 and intends to create 6000 more jobs with plans to construct the world’s largest multi-building campus

at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Company officials said the decision to invest in Guyana was influenced by the country’s high calibre workforce, diverse culture and a strong government leadership with unwavering dedication to economic growth.

Diplomacy has been cordial and growing with the establishment of an embassy in 2009, adding impetus to the two countries’ 40-year relationship, and partnerships at the level of the Caricom-Mexico Cooperation Programme.

In 2011, the two countries inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), for the establishment of a consultative mechanism that focused on all aspects of bilateral relations the two countries share, including political, economic, scientific, technical and cultural. The abolition of visas for holders of diplomatic and service passports has also been agreed.

Mexican Ambassador to Guyana Francisco Olguin, who toasted with President

Ramotar on the anniversary occasion and the threefold shout “Viva Mexico”, spoke of the country’s efforts to promote bilateral trade and investment cooperation.

He chronicled his country’s journey to independence and the significant changes that have been made in the political landscape.

“On December 1, 2012, the new government and the main opposition parties were able to reach an accord. A political pact was signed which identified the many reforms which Mexico needed. Both government and opposition parties committed themselves to negotiate the approval of reforms,” Ambassador Olguin said.

Optimism

But in the midst of optimism, the officials took time out to sympathise with the Mexican government and people who are at present grappling with devastation from a tropical storm and hurricane.

President Ramotar said the scenario further emphasises the need to increase efforts by the international community in combating the effects of climate change, especially on small island developing countries.

“The effects are too clear for us to keep ignoring that special attention must be paid to these vulnerable countries,” President Ramotar said.

With Mexico’s advocacy role at the level of the Association of Caribbean States in highlighting the effects of natural disasters, President Ramotar said Guyana will continue to support Mexico in this endeavour, both regionally and internationally.

S

everal groups from the Scout Association of Guyana (SAG) took to the streets on Saturday to participate in the annual “Clean up the world” environmental campaign being held under the theme “Our Place...Our Planet...Our Responsibility”.

This year, the scouts cleaned the parapets and roadway along Woolford Avenue, between Camp and Albert streets, Georgetown.

Additionally, groups in Berbice and Linden also carried out similar activities in their respective communities.

This is the fifth year the SAG has participated in this event. It is part of a global movement that aims to inspire and empower communities around the world to clean up, fix up and con-

serve the environment.

On previous occasions, the scouts have done coastal clean ups, tree planting and environmental education with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The association has recently been focusing on cleaning the environment in the immediate vicinity of its headquarters in Woolford Avenue, which is in constant need of cleaning due to the many schools located in the area.

“Clean up the world” is one of the largest global environmental campaigns which mobilises an estimated 35 million volunteers from 130 countries. “Clean up the world” is currently in its 21st year and is held in conjunction with the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP).

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news

SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Canada needs to do more to fight corruption – as it dominates World Bank’s corruption list

T

he World Bank has issued a stern call for the government and anti-corruption bodies in Canada to do much more to fight corruption which is seemingly going unnoticed in the developed country.

The bank recently announced that out of the more than 250 companies to date on the World Bank’s running list of firms blacklisted from bidding on its global projects under its fraud and corruption policy, 117 are from Canada — with SNCLavalin and its affiliates representing 115 of those entries, the World Bank said.

This damning revelation comes even as the country’s new high commissioner to Guyana Nicole Giles appeared to be advocating the need for more to be done to fight corruption here.

Already, Giles has been upbraided by Guyana’s Presidential Advisor on Governance Gail Texiera for her “unfortunate” com-

ments and “lack of information” about the state of affairs here following her recent appointment.

World Bank investigation manager James David Fielder is quoted as saying that its debarment list includes a high number of Canadian companies following an investigation into affiliates to SNC Lavalin Incorporated. Since his revelations, Canada is being described as home to the world’s most corrupt business.

Overall, Canada had 119 total companies on the list (including two permanently debarred since 1999).

United States had the second largest number, with 44 companies on the debarment list (among which are several SNCLavalin companies), and Indonesia came in third with 43.

The World Bank has been stepping up its fraud investigations in recent years, with four times more debarments than

in 2012, and compared to the past seven years combined.

A report in the Financial Post says too that Canadian firms may be at higher risk of being sanctioned by the World Bank, Fielder added, because Canadian authorities have not been as aggressively enforcing its anti-corruption laws as its U.S. counterparts.

Tim Coleman, a global investigations partner at law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer in New York has also said that “The result of that is that Canadian companies may have been lulled into a false sense of security, because their own national authorities were not closely scrutinising their global operations that nobody else would either”.

Meanwhile, the new commissioner failed, according to critics, to make any references to the lessons learnt by her government or the steps it is taking to address the World Bank report findings.

Decriminalising marijuana must be based on thorough research – Phoenix Recovery Project coordinator

P

hoenix Recovery Project Coordinator Clarence Young is supporting the decision of Caricom Chair and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar to conduct detailed research before a conclusion is made on the decriminalisation of marijuana for medicinal purposes within member states.

At the 27th meeting of the bureau of the conference of heads of government of Caricom in Trinidad on Tuesday, Persad-Bissessar said leaders have agreed to engage each other on the uses of marijuana and have promised by February 2014 to make available research data on decriminalising the use of small amounts of marijuana.

Young, who works with illegal substance abuse victims, said “No doubt there are medicinal benefits of marijuana, however, is who is going to decide what’s medical use and what’s not?”

He reminded that quite a few of the American states, which had legalised the drug for medicinal purposes, had rescinded their decision.

Young said his biggest concern, however, is the ground work needed to be carried out

by Caricom regarding the impact of marijuana use in the region.

“They need to show details to suggest that it would be more beneficial than harmful to society,” he stressed.

Young added that researchers need to visit psychiatric units to get an understanding of the impact of the substance on youths and the ratio of criminality associated with it.

Speaking from the point of view of the rehab centre in which he manages, Young said “We are seeing more and more people coming into treatment because of marijuana use and marijuana induced psychosis.”

The Phoenix Recovery Project, in its initial stages, focused on treatment for male substance abusers, but in 2007, the U.S. State Department through the Catholic Relief Services, made a grant available to Phoenix for the first ever treatment centre for women.

The first phase is the residential treatment, during which time clients are required to live-in to undergo primary care and participate in group and individual therapy as well as workshops.

The project essentially caters for the complete rehabilitation of their clients.

Throughout the years, the project has engaged in several collaborations with other local and foreign organisations to fight for its cause. Some of these include the human services, health and home affairs ministries and the Georgetown Public Hospital Psychiatric Department. The Phoenix Recovery Project also provides figures for the Home Affairs Ministry’s Guyana Drug Information Network.

St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves had written to the chair of Caricom calling for a discussion on the medicinal and other uses of marijuana.

In his letter to Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, Gonsalves said it is high time that Caricom addresses regionally “this matter in a sensible focus, not hysterical manner”.

Trinidad’s Chief Justice Ivor Archie also raised the issue of decriminalising marijuana at the opening of the 2013/2014 law term at the Hall of Justice in Port of Spain.

Two injured in Crabwood Creek accident

T

wenty-one-year-old motorcyclist Pawon Ragnauth is nursing a fractured jaw while his pillion rider has sustained bruises to his body following an accident involving a motor van at Crabwood Creek on Friday.

Ragnauth, a Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) worker of Crabwood Creek, Corentyne was admitted at the New Amsterdam Hospital while the pillion rider Vishual Sookram, 17, who is also a GuySuCo worker and resident

of Number 19 Village, Corriverton was treated and sent away.

According to information received, about 16:20h, motor van GLL 4942 driven by Ravindranauth Jagdeo, 20, of Lot 19, Grant 1806, Crabwood Creek was proceeding along the Crabwood Creek Public Road at a normal rate of speed.

The driver reportedly told investigators that about 10 feet away from a street, he switched on the side indicator of his vehicle and while turning into

the street he felt an impact from behind as if something crashed into him.

This prompted him to stop the vehicle and upon checking, he recognsied that two persons were lying on the roadway next to motorcycle GG 2382.

The men were picked up in an unconscious state by public-spirited citizens and taken to Skeldon Public Hospital. Sookram was treated and sent away while Ragnauth was admitted.

The driver of the van is in custody assisting with investigations.

15

news

SUNDAY, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Cellphones, smoking utensils found at New Amsterdam Prison Six in custody after Linden raids P

olice B Division ranks on Friday conducted a raid at the New Amsterdam Prison and unearthed a number of prohibited items that were stashed in various parts of the facility.

The exercise was facilitated by prison officials be-

tween 16:00h and 17:30h.

The search was conducted in both the male and female blocks where two metal spoons, one cellular phone, one improvised jucker, one piece mirror, four phone cards, two improvised smoking utensils and eight lighters were found.

A police source explained that periodic checks are conducted at the correctional institution and items of this nature are found. While the source could not say how these items got into the facility, he contended that security at the prison is exceptional.

When contact was made with officials of the New Amsterdam Prison for a comment, a senior official there said he cannot release any information on the matter, claiming that the officer-in-charge is the only person authorised to do so.

S

ix persons were on Saturday arrested in Linden and are being questioned by police in connection with a number of robberies under arms and possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

The six men and a woman were arrested following a Guyana Police Force operation in the Victory Valley, Green Valley and Mackenzie Market areas.

Investigations are ongoing.

16 NEWS

SUNday, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Govt moves to end squatting 14 graduate from Sterling at Charity Housing Scheme Products literacy programme

Housing Minister Irfaan Ali

H

ousing Minister Irfaan Ali said the repossession of lands at the Charity Housing Scheme, Region Two will begin soon as he emphasised government’s position to eliminate squatting from the local landscape.

Speaking at a One Stop Shop campaign at the Anna Regina Town Council on Friday, Ali said while some persons are going through the correct procedure in applying for house lots, others are disregarding the process by choosing to become squatters.

Speaking on the recently regularised Charity Housing Scheme, the minister said a thorough investigation done on the scheme found that 93 house lots there will soon become vacant.

He noted that 10 persons from the scheme are renting and profiteering on the One Stop Shop drive, while there are 16 illegal sales of land and 45 cases of persons building on the government’s reserve.

The minister said while the move by government may appear “tough”, everyone needs to cooperate with the

Beneficiaries of house lots at Onderneeming on the Essequibo Coast

Housing and Water Ministry to stamp out lawlessness in the housing sector.

Ali explained that the ministry has made it simple for persons to become homeowners, and as such, there is no need for people to squat.

“We are living in real time, it is a time that things are happening and developments are taking place rapidly, all it calls for is cooperation and togetherness,” the minister noted.

One Stop Shop

Some 360 house lots were distributed to Region Two residents when the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) of the Housing and Water Ministry held yet another One Stop Shop exercise on Friday.

The beneficiaries received house lots at the Onderneeming Housing Scheme on the Essequibo Coast. Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali said the exercise was one of several held this year.

Government has spent

more than $182 million on infrastructure at the Onderneeming Housing Scheme. This adds to the more than $400 million spent between 2003 and 2011 in Region Two. Together, these investments have created approximately 3500 house lots, benefiting more than 14,350 persons. Additionally, $60 million was spent to upgrade roads in the old Onderneeming Housing Scheme.

Government has also set aside $22 million for the provision of electricity, which will become effective once the occupancy rate reaches 60 per cent.

When the investment is broken down, it amounts to government investing $536,000 for every household from a total expenditure of $182 million.

This indicates that the scheme is subsidised to the tune of $132.3 million or at a 72 per cent subsidy ratio.

Government also spends some $1.2 billion in the Region Two water sector.

Graduates of the Literacy Staff Development Programme with senior SPL staff members, trainers and other officials

S

terling Products Limited (SPL) continues to lead the way in staff development by providing a number of employees with the tools necessary to excel both in the work place and the world.

Fourteen staff members received certificates and tokens on Wednesday after successfully completing the company’s Literacy Staff Development Programme.

SPL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramsay Ali said the company has been consistently working to improve the conditions of its employees and recognises that the most effective way of doing so was through the provision of programmes that would ultimately empower

them. This has seen SPL conducting an annual literacy programme which has served to enhance the abilities of staff members, particularly in the areas of mathematics and English language, over the last several years.

Ali said as part of efforts to improve the programme, SPL will be introducing a computer course from next year. This, he said, was particularly important in a world of rapidly evolving technology that directly impacts efficiency in the workplace.

Thankful

Commenting on the impact of the programme, Gouslyn Williams, an operator two at SPL and one of this year’s graduates said he is extremely thankful for the opportunity the company has provided through the programme.

Williams said the entire team “has treated him like family” and due to the programme, he has been able to significantly improve his literacy skills.

Another employee, Jasoda Tulsie, speaking on behalf of the other graduates, said, “We wish to assure all the relevant persons who have contributed to this programme

that we will use these skills for further development in the organisation and our personal lives.”

Deputy Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson, in delivering the feature address, said SPL is one of the few companies he is aware of that is taking this time-out to educate its staff.

“It is great to see that this company has recognised the importance of literacy, particularly as we observe Education Month with emphasis on transforming classrooms for the 21st century,” he said.

Hutson told the graduates they all have something to offer, not only to the company, but to wider society, and as such, they should continue to strive for excellence.

"I want to charge you to not be afraid to dive into the deep. Always remember that integrity is very critical to success. Without it, you can be disrespected. Integrity and character will determine how far you can go in life,” he added.

Hutson said the education minister will continue to support this initiative and encourages other companies to follow the lead of SPL.

One in custody for allegedly breaking into Albion house

O

ne man is in police custody after he was implicated in an alleged break and enter and larceny committed on Sukree Nanchipen, 42, of Lot 2 Albion Front, Corentyne, Berbice, which occurred on Friday evening.

The suspect was accused of stealing G$30,000, one gold fingering valued $20,000, two Brazilian gold chains valued $80,000, and other articles.

According to reports received, about 19:20h, the victim, Nanchipen, secured her home and went to visit a relative in the village.

On her return about

19:45h, she discovered her bedroom door wrenched open and a wooden bar removed.

The woman made checks in her home and discovered both bedrooms ransacked and the items mentioned missing.

The police were alerted and acting on information received, they arrested a male from Albion Front, Corentyne, Berbice. The police conducted a search at his home, but none of the stolen articles were recovered. The man is in custody pending investigations.

Police are continuing their investigations.

17

sundAy, september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

18

guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, september 22, 2013

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

By Bernice Bede Osol

archie

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) You can solidify a deal or develop a better working relationship with someone you love as long as you aren’t pushy.

Compromise and looking out for the other guy will be crucial to your success.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Talk over your current position and the way you would like to see things unfold. Don’t make concessions to avoid controversy. Put whatever isn’t working behind you so you can move forward.

PISCES (Feb.20March 20)

dilbert

Take on a challenge and react to change as it happens. Going with the current will help you get the most return with the least work. A personal involvement appears to be improving.

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Calvin and Hobbes

Peanuts

CANCER (June 21July 22) A work development will boost your reputation and put you in the running for a position that could improve your lifestyle. A celebration will lead to love and romance.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Proceed with caution.

Your emotions will be difficult to control, and someone is likely to push you into an unwanted dispute if you aren’t careful.

Change may be necessary.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Look at the fine print and check past records, and you will discover exactly what you need to know to make a difference. Love will bring you greater happiness.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

You may have trouble making up your mind when it comes to certain relationships, but your heart will lead you in the right direction if you listen to it. A misunderstanding can cost you emotionally.

Much that unfolds during this cycle of shifting trends will be due to the way you have handled your personal dealings.

Don’t overreact when what’s required is honesty and practicality.

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

SCORPIO

Don’t fall for it if someone tries to coerce you into an argument. Take a backseat and assess the situation before making a decision that is premature and potentially costly.

Let your emotions flow and your imagination take over. How you present yourself to others will be especially vital. Push yourself to achieve positive, fulfilling results.

GEMINI (May 21June 20) Share your ideas with someone you have worked with in the past or would like to form a partnership with in the future. Putting together a sound plan will improve matters.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Progressive action could lead to many different outcomes. It will improve your personal situation, but it may cost you a friendship. Weigh the consequences carefully before you leap forward.

YELLOW PAGES sunday, september 22, 2013

ACCOMMODATION

Tourist villa apartments 1, 2 & 3 bedroom, long & short term, and car rental service. Phone: 227-2199, 227-2186

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

EDUCATION Electronics course - hands-on training, starting October 2, Abdul Electronics.

Phone: 226-6551, 225-0391.

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 Mixed breed pups. Phone: 253-3114, 692-0126 One 320CL Excavator located at Mahdia; excellent working condition. Owner migrating, call 682-0365 or 614-1669 Gold Land, excellent investment. Priced to sell, call 682-0365, 614-1669 Wine vessel (jue) Shang dynasty, old Chinese painting, old Ming prints, Ming dynasty Chinese painting on bamboo, Qi Baishi orginal painting, rare bowls and pots, all Chinese antiques. Phone: 592623-7029 Pure bred American Akita puppies for sale $200,000. Phone: 639-8924, 2274674 Mercury in large quantities 99.9999% purity. Call: 679-1985, 219-4535, 6935004 1 Canon copier (Image Runner 6020) with finisher. Call 647-5150, 694-5738 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.

health Healthworld Holistic Centre: Psychotherapy available for all types of abnormal behaviors – addictions, emotional, suicidal, anger, relationships and sexual problems. Treatment of stress disorders, depression, fear, low self-esteem, insomnia, trauma, psychosomatic sicknesses and children's disorders. We also conduct IQ evaluations and behavioral assessments. By appointment only.

Clinic hours: 11:00 - 17:00h. Tel: 592-6210552. Email:healthworldhc@gmail.com Ayurvedic herbal treatment for all chronic genetic/none genetic diseases, including HIV, Cancer, diabetic, pregnancy, sexual (weakness), etc. Phone: 685- 3220.

Are you pouring on pounds? Then call Raul /Carol Wilson: 660-6818, 641-5923, 216-3016, 216-3601 for your healthy eating package.

Stay healthy and flexible with yoga.

Phone: 693-2233

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

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 Parfaite Harmonie $1M and $1.2M phone: 675-7292

optician Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda.

Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 339-3536, Meten-MeerZorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.

PENPAL

property for sale One business property, Lamaha Street.

Phone: 669-3313, 231-4586, 695-4382.

Properties for sale. Phone: 642-2116 2-storey concrete house 32’x 55’, 4 bedrooms, block 8 Mon Repos, ECD, $35 million. Phone: 642-2116 EXECUTIVE TWO STOREY BUILDING 3 BEDROOMS WITH ALL MODERN CONVIENCES, MEADOW BROOK GARDENS, MR NARAINE. PHONE: 6968230

services Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 6621247.

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 Lethem – Rupununi Heritage Month event September 27-29. Visit: Iwokrama, Rock View Resort, Bonfim - Brazil, Moco Moco & Kumu Falls, St Ignatius - Lethem.

Package $150,000. Phone: 662-3665

spirituality Suriname astrology palmist and Djuka healer, the most powerful spiritualist in the world, are you suffering from the following problems - (any religions) love, marriage, family, health, business, husband and wife relationships, property, court, children, promotion, visa, pregnancy, education, depression, job, sexual, jealousy, enemy, money, drinking, also you can have all evil forces destroyed such as black magic, witchcraft, voodoo, obeyah, etc, and gives powerful protection. Private and confidential.

Phone: 674-2112.

Dutch Spiritual work. Unite lovers, get rid of evil, enhance prosperity, good luck baths and charm bowu guards, etc. Phone: 220-0708, 612-6417, 6875653 Divinations and cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá and Khemetian spiritual guards, pendants, crystals and rune stones to help you overcome problems with love, relationships, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money and many more.

Call 10:00-16:00h on: +592-690-1824.

Email: anew-life@live.com

TO let

3 bedroom bottom flat for rental situated on the ECD. Phone: 669-9384, available for viewing after September 27 after 4:00pm. No animals.

One house located in Lamaha Gardens, hot and cold water. Call 219-4535 EXECUTIVE TWO STOREY BUILDING 3 BEDROOMS WITH ALL MODERN CONVIENCES FURNISHED/ UNFURNISHED, MEADOW BROOK GARDENS, MR NARAINE. PHONE: 696-8230

Bandits rob fishermen at Fyrish foreshore

F

46 houselots in residential area between Charles & Peter Streets, Parika, EBE. Phone: 622-6971/6612289

Retired Engineer aged 66 would like to know a single female over the age of 50. Phone: 604-7022

19

TOURS Kaieteur Falls day tour, US$150. ManausBrazil US$800 Phone: 231-6663

VEHICLES FOR SALE One Honda Cappa (Yellow) ideal for taxi or private use. Leather seats and roof, alarm, reverse camera, DVD/TV/ CD player, mag rims. Also Motorola Base Radio with Antennae. HC series; immaculate condition; give away price $1M. Call 647-2491.

One black scooter for sale, excellent condition. Phone: 602-7277, for information.

One new Yamaha R1 Motorcycle 1000cc (candy red & black) recently registered 2013. Latest double exhaust, bug lights, immaculate condition. Give away price, call 647-2491 JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA PREMIO; TOYOTA SPACIO; TOYOTA VITZ (NEW SHAPE); TOYOTA NOAH; SUZUKI SWIFT; MERCEDES BENZ C200 COMPRESSOR; BMW 318 I; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, SOLID DIFFERENTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 3, 3.5 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; 3 TON DUMP TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICE AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND A SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST.

our armed men with guns and cutlasses carried out a brazen attack on a fishing vessel on Thursday evening last at the Fyrish foreshore, leaving the captain nursing severe injuries about the body and thousands of dollars in losses.

Captain of the vessel Chetram Ramnarian, 60, of Unity Village, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara was severely beaten by the robbers and was admitted a patient at a private medical institution.

Based on information received, the fishing vessel, MV Savana owned by Lalchan Salickram was transporting at least five crew members when it encountered mechanical problems about 200 yards from the Fyrish foreshore. About 20:30h, the men were trying to rectify the problem when they were confronted by the four unmasked men.

One of the robbers had a shotgun while the others were armed with cutlasses. Reports stated that the three men ordered the crew members to hand over their valuables, but instead, the men put up a fight, result-

ing in one of the robbers discharging a round in the air.

Out of fear for their lives, the fishermen backed down and the bandits removed $500,000 worth of fish glue, $50,000 in groceries and two mobile phones.

Richard Ramnarian of Lot 1, Ogle, East Coast Demerara reportedly told investigators that the five crew members left the Meadowbrook Wharf on September 10 onboard the MV Savana captained by Chetram.

While in the vicinity of the Fyrish foreshore, he disclosed that boat developed mechanical problems which caused them to moor off the Fyrish foreshore. The fishermen were trying to correct the problem when they were confronted by the four bandits.

The robbers escaped on foot with their loot. The matter was reported to the Albion Police Station and an investigation was launched.

When contact was made with the owner of the boat, his wife refused to divulge any information with respect to the robbery, except that Ramnarian was badly beaten by the robbers.

Prime minister opens Heritage Sports 2013

1 Bedford truck. Phone: 616:0617, 663-3285.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds delivering remarks at the opening of Heritage Sports at the Everest Cricket Club ground on Saturday

T

he Amerindian Affairs Ministry’s two-day Heritage Sports was officially opened around 10:30h on Saturday

by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds at the Everest Cricket Club ground.

Prime Minister Hinds in his brief remarks to the athletes and spectators before bowling the first ball to open the events acknowledged how important indigenous people are to Guyana, and encouraged them to become more active in sporting activities.

He said he would like to see more Amerindians involved in competitive sports, and to represent their country at the highest level.

Representatives of different communities in eight of the 10 administrative regions in Guyana are

participating.

Each team will be competing in at least two of the three sporting events – cricket, football and volleyball. Regions Four and Five are participating in all three categories.

Amerindian Affairs Ministry Liaison Officer Yvonne Pearson said that the ministry is extremely happy to yet again host another Heritage Sports. She also conveyed the minister’s regrets of not being able to attend the event. The activities will continue today at the same venue.

September is designated Amerindian Heritage Month, to recognise the indigenous people and their contributions to Guyana.

This year’s theme is “Honouring our Culture, Advancing our future”.

20

september 22, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

West Indies A go down to India A W

est Indies A were outplayed by India A in the only Twenty20 match of their tour, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore on Saturday.

After India A set the visitors a 215-run target, the hosts’ bowlers skittled the opposition out for 121 in 16.2 overs. After Yuvraj Singh cracked a half-century and along with quick-fire knocks by Unmukt Chand and Kedar Jadhav and took the team to 214, Rahul Sharma picked a five-wicket haul, while Vinay Kumar and Yuvraj Singh two wickets each.

Earlier, after Yuvraj Singh opted to bat first, Robin Uthappa and Unmukt Chand got the hosts off to a flying start with a 74run partnership, until Veerasammy Permaul ended the partnership by removing Uthappa. A while later, Ashley Nurse claimed Chand and Baba Aparajith

off his consecutive overs to leave India A on 109 for three. However, Captain Yuvraj Singh smashed the ball all over the park, and he was joined by Kedar Jadhav in doing so. The India A captain scored 52 off 35 with three sixes, while Jadhav made 42 off 21.

Andre Russell ended the onslaught by claiming Jadhav, and followed up with three more scalps.

Yuvraj Singh was the next to depart off the next ball, while Russell castled Naman Ojha to complete his hat-trick and then bowled the dangerous Yusuf Pathan to claim four off four deliveries and leave the home team on 189 for seven in the penultimate over.

But with eight balls left in the innings, Sumit Narwal (18 off 7) and Vinay Kumar (1) came together to take India to a formidable 214 at the end of the innings. The duo garnered 23 runs off Ronsford Beaton in

Andre Russell of West Indies A team in action during his beavertrick bowling effort against India A team during the unofficial T20 cricket match at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore

the last over who after conceding five wides off the first delivery was also clobbered

for a boundary and six by Narwal.

Chasing the stiff tar-

get, the West Indies A top order collapsed in a heap.

Although Andre Fletcher and Kieran Powell collected 19 runs off Pathan in the first over, the visitors could not carry forward the momentum. Vinay Kumar struck in his first over to remove Powell, while a superb running catch by Chand saw the back of Bonner 28 runs later. WI A then lost wickets in a cluster as Rahul Sharma and Yuvraj Singh struck to push the WI A on the back foot.

While Kirk Edwards hit Rahul Sharma to Pathan at mid-off, Jonathan Carter struck Yuvraj Singh to Aparajith at mid-wicket soon after. Sharma then disrupted Fletcher’s woodwork to send the opener back for 32, while the India A captain picked Russell.

With the team struggling on 80-6, Devon Thomas and Nurse then attempted to pull the innings together but were unsuccessful. Their

seventh wicket partnership was halted for 35 runs with Nurse holing Sharma out to Uthappa at long-on, while Thomas edged the spinner to the ‘keeper later in the over.

With India firmly in the driver’s seat, Chand caught another skier to send back Permaul in the next over off Vinay Kumar.

Kieran Powell, the West Indies A captain, admitted his team were complacent in the field.

“The catching has been a problem since the 3rd onedayer. After I had the huddle with the guys we got better.

I think we were a bit complacent today in the field. It’s one of the things we have to brush up on before the four-day matches.

We can’t afford to let them off the hook and we’ve seen what can happen if we do.”

The two teams begin a three-match ‘Test’ series on Wednesday. (WICB)

Enmore pavilion commissioned by President Ramotar

Part of the pavilion that was commissioned (Treiston Joseph photo)

T

he Enmore Community Centre had its pavilion commissioned on Saturday by President of Guyana Donald Ramotar.

The stands which had deteriorated over the year were refurbished by the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport.

After a welcome by a representative of Enmore’s Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) and remarks by the chairman of the Neighborhood Democratic Council (NDC) Jainauth Bhikhari and supervisor of the rehabilitation project Taajnauth Jadunauth, President Ramotar related in his feature address that such projects are important to the development of sport.

“This is a programme we have throughout the country and every year we are trying to do more and more to improve the quality in these areas.

“Let me say that this developing sport and sport facility is very important in our overall objective of having a high quality of life in the country,” Ramotar noted.

Ramotar later participated in the symbolic cutting

of the ribbon to commission the newly refurbished pavilion.

Further, Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony revealed that $300 million in the budget was allotted to the development of 155 community grounds. Twenty-six grants were handed out for grounds in Region Four, along with 20 in Berbice.

“There is no region that is excluded from this programme because we are very serious about getting back sport into our communities and the president has been very vocal on this matter and has made sure that in our budget that we have there’re allocations so that we can rebuild community sport,’ Anthony noted.

However, Anthony also posited that the community needs to lead from the front in order for the rest to follow.

“So we hope that the community can come on board with us, we are looking forward to partnerships and we hope that here in Enmore that you can turn what we are trying to do into a model so that other can emulate it,” Anthony told the gathering at the community ground.

september 22, 2013

ECCCC square series with St Cuthbert’s Mission H

alf-centuries from West Indies Under-19 selectee Tagenarine Chanderpaul and talented Vishwanauth Ramlakhan, coupled with a fine bowling performance by 16-year-old Satesh Jainarine helped Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club (ECCCC) to a 40-run victory over St Cuthbert’s Mission in the return game between the two sides last Sunday.

Playing at the Enmore Community Centre ground, St Cuthbert’s Mission started with the psychological advantage since they had won the first encounter by 70 runs at home in March, but by the end of the day, they were on even keel after ECCCC pulled off a convincing win.

Batting first, ECCCC posted a commanding 2135 from the allotted 30 overs.

Opener Chanderpaul led the way with an attractive 85, while Ramlakhan offered solid support with a fluent 53. Former West Indies Under-19 leg-spinner and First-Class player Amir Khan chipped in with 24.

All-rounder Timothy Andrews picked up 2-28 for St Cuthbert’s Mission, who responded with 173-7 when the overs expired.

Andrews and R. Daniels were the leading scorers for the visitors with 28 each.

Off-spinner Jainarine was the star performer for

Satesh Jainarine

ECCCC, returning excellent figures of 4-18.

At the presentation ceremony, Chanderpaul was voted best batsman, Jainarine, best bowler, while Andrews also received a trophy for his all-round effort.

The match was witnessed by a crowd of about 200 persons.

Meanwhile, the ECCCC will be in action again today against Bravado in a 30over game starting at 11:30h at the Enmore Community Centre ground.

The ECCCC squad is Bheemraj Ramkelawan (captain), Chaitram Ramlall, Sheik Mohamed, Javed Mohamed,Vishwanauth Ramlakhan, Ranjeet Hiralall, Nandram Ganesh, Satesh Jainarine, Jacob Persaud, Mark Persaud, Mark Malone, Navindra Gobin, Naresh Persaud, Safraz Ali and N.Basdeo.

guyanatimesGY.com

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september 22, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

Anthony wins RRT cycling meet with sprint-to-the-finish in fifth to round out the top five finishers.

Anthony also won the Junior and Juvenile 10 lap event while pocketing the two sprint prizes for the race.

Meanwhile, Junior Niles won the Veterans’ under 50 five lap event to top Kennard Lovell and Shurland Sue. The veteran’s over-60

cycling event was won

by Monty Parris while Linden Blackman won the five-lap Over-50 race.

The Boys 12-14 threelap BMX ride was won

by Rawle Small while Richard Sharma took the Boys’ open BMX event.

Richard Charles was the winner of the Men’s mountain bike event.

Proprietor of RRT

Enterprise was also present to distribute trophies to the winners of the event at the presentation ceremony held after the races.

On the other hand, cycling will continue today with the Banks Malta 50-mile road race when the competition pedals off on the West Coast of Demerara.

Jeet Brothers Domino Competition…

International 6, Canal 6 and Wild Bunch face off in domino battle today Michael Anthony crosses the line triumphantly upon winning the 35 lap event at the National Park (Treiston Joseph photo)

J

unior road race champion Michael Anthony used his superior speed with 400m left to break away and win the RRT Enterprise 35-lap feature event on Saturday at the National Park.

The 17-year-old, always in the lead pack for

the event, crossed the line comfortably ahead to record a time of one hour, 17 minutes, 18s.

However, after crossing the line he fell but was lucky escape with any serious injury.

Anthony was somewhat shaken from the fall, suffering some mi-

nor bruises to his knees and back but seemed in good condition and spirit.

Junior Sportsman-ofthe-year Paul DeNobrega finished second in the event ahead of Robin Persaud, who finished third. Rastaff O’Selmo finished in fourth while Stephan Fernandes came

T

he final leg of the Jeet brothers threeway aggregate domino competition, featuring International Six, Canal Six and Wild Bunch, is set for today at Ernest shop, Canal, West Bank Demerara.

At the end of the second round, played at the Everest Cricket Club, on Wednesday night, International Six are out in front on 157 games, one game ahead of Canal Six on 156, while Wild Bunch trails on 141. An intriguing final game is therefore anticipated when the teams meet today.

In Wednesday’s encounter, International Six came out tops with 82 games, Canal on 77 and Wild Bunch, 67.

The top markers for the winners were Ron Callender (16) and Hilbert “Bumpy” Ali (15) while Wayne Austin and Martin Permaul supported with 13 games apiece.

R. Sukhai (17), K. Seopaul (17) and A. Gafoor (13) starred for Canal while the top scorer for Wild Bunch was W. Hardy with 13 games.

“Bumpy” Ali also registered a double love on Sean Trotman of Wild Bunch, and Avie Persaud of Canal 6. Following that, the sponsor decided to add an incentive and will present Ali with a watch and a cap for his achievement. Willd Bunch’s Jackson copped a cap for sharing the first love in the tournament.

The teams are vying for trophies and several other incentives. The three top players in the respective sides will be awarded watches while the six players in the top team will receive caps.

Two caps will also be presented to the two leading players in the runner-up team and one to the top player in the third placed team.

Barnwell century guides Demerara to huge win over Essequibo

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hristopher Barnwell blasted a century in the opening round of the Guyana Cricket Board Pepsi Inter-County 50over tournament against Essequibo on Saturday at GGC ground, Bourda.

Barnwell, Demerara captain and Man-of-the-Match, followed up his enterprising 101 with 2-16, reminding all that the defending champions are the ones to beat if they harbor thoughts of wresting the trophy.

There was no fairy tale ending for the men from the Cinderella County as

Demerara brushed them aside by 124.

Sent in to bat, after losing the toss, Demerara posted a commanding 322 for 8 off their alotted 50 overs.

Local cricket’s whipping boys could only respond with 198 from 43.3 overs.

Opener Trevon Griffith (48), Rajendra Chandrika (39), Paul Wintz (23) and Zaheer Mohamed-Shadir (49) contributed to the imposing target.

Herry Greene was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 38 from his 10, Dillion Heyliger expensive, conced-

ing 49 runs from just four overs withouta wicket, his brother Jason picked up 2 for 66 while Gilford Moore and Vishwanauth Lall grabbed one each.

In response, Royan Fredericks was the first to go for 24, removed by leftarm fast bowler Andre Stoll.

Kevon Boodie (29) and Lall (59) were the other batsmen with other meaningful scores.

Steven Jacobs, Amir Khan and Mohamed pick up two wickets apiece and Griffith and Stoll had one each.

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september 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

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september 22, 2013

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Barnwell century guides Demerara to huge win over Essequibo See story on page

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President Donald Ramotar cuts the symbolic ribbon to commission the newly refurbished pavilion. Also in photo are Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony (third from right) and Permanent Secretary Alfred King INSIDE TODAY’S SPORT

International 6, Canal 6 and Wild Bunch face off in domino battle today P22

Christopher Barnwell

Anthony wins RRT cycling meet with sprint-to-the-finish See story on page

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Winners pose after the RRT Enterprise cycling event concluded (Treiston Joseph photo) GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, Tel: 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230, 223-7231, Editor - 225-5128 Fax: 227-0685 - CONSULTING EDITORS: Dr I Rampersaud, Dr Kim Johnson - SALES AND MARKETING - sales@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.