Guyana Times International

Vincent indallall

CFATF official to meet local MPs on anti-money laundering bill

ACaribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) official on Friday will meet with parliamentarians fine-tuning the controversial Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill.

Chairperson of the special select committee looking at the bill, Gail Teixeira made this disclosure on Wednesday, minutes after a brief meeting with committee members at Parliament Buildings.

According to the government’s chief whip, preparations have commenced for the arrival of the CFATF official, who is expected to address concerns expressed by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

On Wednesday, when the committee met, Chief Parliamentary Counsel (CPC) Cecil Dhurjon submitted a document with one of the draft amendments proposed by the coalition, but sought further clarification on the others.

Extension

APNU members led by Shadow Finance Minister Carl Greenidge requested an extension to study the queries sought by Dhurjon.

The CPC had asked for

clarification during the last meeting of the committee on Wednesday. The remaining amendments; however, are expected to be presented during a meeting set for next Wednesday.

APNU in its proposed amendments is seeking to remove the powers of the finance minister to appoint the director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and have it placed within a committee of the National Assembly.

It is also pushing for the establishment of an anti-money laundering authority, comprising 10 members appointed by the House.

Additionally, APNU has also proposed the seizure of cash of over Gy$2 million by the police or customs, once there are reasonable suspicions. The CPC in his submitted document had major concerns with the anti-money laundering authority, introduced by the opposition.

However, Teixeira told

Guyana Times International that she is growing tired of the back and forth movement, but expressed hope that the work of the committee will culminate at the next meeting, paving the way for the bill to be presented in the National Assembly next Thursday.

“This back and forth is becoming very tiresome… I think Guyanese people are getting tired, and they have a right to be and as the chairman of the committee, I am finding it rather tiresome myself,” she said.

In addition to Teixeira and Greenidge, the meeting was also attended by the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill and APNU parliamentarian Jaipaul Sharma. Absent

Basil Williams attended the first half of the meeting while Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan and Joseph Harmon were absent.

Nandlall told this newspaper that the opposition did not furnish the CPC with adequate information during the initial stage; hence, Dhurjon chronicled a series of questions with the aim of attaining further clarification.

But Greenidge told GTI that the coalition would be basing its questions on autonomy. He explained that the government and the Private Sector Commission (PSC) had alleged that CFATF had indicated that the anti-money laundering bill should be based solely on its recommendation and should not be altered to include amendments to the principal act.

Opinion

Additionally, APNU would seek CFATF’s opinion on the establishment of an anti-money laundering authority. But while the coalition is looking forward to meeting the CFATF official, Greenidge said the meeting should not be rushed.

Guyana was granted another extension to comply with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. According to the government, the FATF plenary members on February 13 accepted the CFATF recommendation for Guyana to receive an extension.

However, it was said that the country should pass the anti-money laundering bill before the next CFATF plenary meeting in May 2014, when the country is expected to be reviewed.

aml Special Select committee chairperson gail teixeira aPnu parliamentarian carl greenidge

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EDITORIAL

Public-private sector dialogue

When the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) met last week, some very important points were brought up for discussion and consideration in relation to the development path Guyana should take.

This approach being taken by the administration seeks to involve all the relevant stakeholders as part of the national development dialogue. Government alone cannot, and should not, be left to decide national development policies and how they must be implemented. The private sector, which is considered the engine of growth, must be encouraged to have an input.

The NCC is the body that oversees the implementation of Guyana’s National Competitiveness Strategy (NCS) and is the highest level public-private dialogue body in the nation. It is chaired by a president and comprises senior ministers and officials of the government and senior representatives of the private sector. This is a key forum where the government and private representatives meet to have dialogue on issues of national importance.

Following the National Economic Forum (NEF) held in August 2013, the chairpersons of the 10 thematic working groups were invited to make presentations to the NCC, based on the recommendations developed by their respective groups.

The thematic groups consisted of members of the government, private sector, the parliamentary opposition and other stakeholders who met regularly during the period June-August 2013 in preparation for the forum in order to develop presentations, focusing on policy recommendations for priority consideration by government regarding the 10 major sectoral areas.

There were also some key recommendations made which the authorities would need to consider in their discussions at the level of the Cabinet. The key short-term actions include upgrading of the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, the Bartica/Issano Road, the East Bank Essequibo Road and the Parika Backdam Road.

The long-term actions include the Kurupukari/Mora Road, paving of the Linden/Lethem road, developing an alternative road between the East Coast and West Coast of Demerara, reconstruction of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, dredging of the Demerara River, establishment of a container terminal and a deep water harbour.

It was pointed out that the small size of Guyana’s domestic economy and the importance of trade as a major source of economic growth and employment make trade a critical policy area.

The recommendations include strengthening trade agreements, introduction of the Single Window System, a certification laboratory for Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary (SPS) standards, improved monitoring of ports for illegal drugs, investments in infrastructure, particularly the road to Lethem and the deep water harbour, re-engineering of GoInvest and challenging consulates and embassies/high commissions overseas to identify opportunities for trade.

A presentation on tourism highlighted several areas that priority should be given to, such as marketing, accessibility, nation branding, product development, pricing and safety and security.

Another presentation outlined some of the challenges to human resources development – the low level of adult literacy and numeracy, inadequate levels of performance in science, technology, English and mathematics, undertrained teachers and trainers and low Internet and IT penetration due to high costs.

Recommendations included the establishment of a national education planning secretariat, support for online and distance education programmes, a strategic IT penetration programme, resuscitation of the National Science Council, increasing the minimum qualification for a high school teacher to be a first degree and inclusion of more foreign languages and exchange programmes in schools, particularly in Spanish and Portuguese.

The University of Guyana (UG) plans to launch four online degree programmes by March so that prospective students do not have to physically attend the university. This would be particularly beneficial for prospective students who live far away from the two established UG campuses.

All of these are important comments/suggestions/ recommendations that came out of this high level public-private dialogue. It is hoped that as the development debates continue, all stakeholders, including the political opposition, will make their contributions in an effort to help create a better future for the citizens of Guyana.

An icon of the Caribbean...

Caribbean Court of Justice outgoing judge, Justice Desiree Bernard and Belizean Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin heading into the special sitting of the court on Wednesday to honour her contributions to both the local and regional legal fraternity (Carl Croker photo)

Justice Desiree Bernard hailed as icon of legal profession

Former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Desiree Bernard was on Wednesday hailed as an icon of the local jurisprudence during a special farewell sitting of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) held in her honour.

The CCJ panel was in Guyana for a three-day itinerant sitting held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

Justice Bernard will be officially retiring from the CCJ today (Thursday). The special sitting in her home country was attended by local judges, magistrates and attorneys. Several foreign jurists and other dignitaries also gathered as tributes poured out in her honour.

Justice Bernard was described as a woman of many firsts. She was the first female High Court judge of the Supreme Court of Guyana, the first female justice of appeal, the first female chief justice of Guyana and in the Caribbean; and the first female chancellor of the judiciary of Guyana and the Caribbean. She was also the first female judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice at the court’s inauguration in 2005.

Delivering remarks, CCJ President, Justice Dennis Byron gave a summary of Justice Bernard’s legal career, beginning with her graduation from the University of London to her appointment at the CCJ, along with her tremendous work in the social sectors.

“Throughout her tenure at the court, Madame Justice Bernard has demonstrated the value of the CCJ as a dispute resolution authority for regional integration, economic development in a rule-based community, exhibiting high standards of fairness and governance, opening up new avenues for ordinary people in our region to have a voice and get justice at the highest of the judicial authority,” he stated.

The CCJ president added that she was even described

as a pioneer judge and trailblazer, breaking barriers for women in the legal profession, not only in Guyana, but the Caribbean and beyond.

Excellence and integrity

Justice Byron continued to list many of the areas in which Justice Bernard has imprinted her legacy as the first female. He pointed out that “excellence and integrity” are the two words which automatically spring to mind when thinking about Justice Bernard.

“One of the tenets that have been a guide is a constant surge for excellence in all her endeavours. As a student, leader, practitioner, a judge, a judicial administrator; she has always brought her best to date. Her service to the profession and the public, not only nationally or regionally but also worldwide, has been nothing short of service par excellence,” he stated.

The CCJ president urged all jurists to follow her example and celebrate her achievements not only in word, but also in deed, by making “excellence and integrity” the hallmark of their endeavours. Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh, who also sat on the bench alongside the CCJ panel, emphasised the fact that not only is Justice Bernard a distinguished jurist, but one who happens to be a Guyanese, a fact which makes the entire country proud. He recalled working alongside Justice Bernard when he was appointed chief justice and she was then chancellor.

“I will be forever in your honour’s debt for her continuous encouragement and support as my own judicial career progressed.” He highlighted the outstanding characteristics which embodied the attitude of the retiring judge in all her judicial posts.

Justice Singh noted that when the decision was made for a female judge on the CCJ, the choice of Justice Bernard was one of a jurist with appropriate judicial temperament. He described Justice

Bernard as “A judge of considerable learning and experience and a judge, who in exemplary fashion, has demonstrated discipline and decorum and who is always courteous, polite and extremely personable.”

He stated that her appointment to the apex judicial body of the Caribbean is testimony of heights that can be achieved by women who commit themselves to the disciplined and delicate study of law.

Legacy

Meanwhile, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall said Justice Bernard has left a legacy for others in the legal profession to emulate, which will surely be an uphill task.

The minister said that it is impossible for one to properly capture the accomplishments of the outgoing judge. Nandlall noted that Justice Bernard’s contribution at every stage of her career is a remarkable exhibition of legal scholarship and pragmatism.

“As we bid farewell to Her Honour, as the curtain falls on this stage of her career, we hope that a new chapter will soon begin where the people of Guyana and indeed the people of the entire region, will continue to benefit from her wisdom, from her knowledge and from all the great qualities we have heard adumbrated,” the legal affairs minister added.

Humble

In responding to the glowing tributes, Justice Bernard said she had tried humbly to fulfil her duties and had pledged to uphold the scale and be patient at the time of her appointment. The outgoing judge went on to reflect on her tenure on the panel of the CCJ, which she said was the crowning glory of her judicial career, which she never dreamt of attaining. She said that the experience was rewarding due to the fact of the “comradely” relationship she built with the other CCJ judges, both professionally and personally.

“We take seriously the

continued on page 9

EU, Guyana hold third round of talks

The third round of European UnionGuyana Political Dialogue, under the framework of Article Eight of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP)EU Cotonou agreement, was held on Wednesday at the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

The previous rounds of political dialogue took place in 2009 and 2010. The Guyanese delegation was headed by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, and included Director General Elisabeth Harper; the Americas Department Director, Ambassador Audrey Waddell; acting Multilateral and Global

Affairs Department Director, Deborah Yaw; Foreign Trade Department Director, Rajdai Jaggernauth; Chief of Protocol, Esther Griffith and Frontiers Department acting head Donnette Streete.

The EU side was headed by Ambassador Robert Kopecký, head of the EU Delegation, and included British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre; German Ambassador Stefan Schlueter and Spanish Embassy Charge d’Affaires Beatriz Lorenzo Didic, who are both resident in Trinidad and Tobago; and French Embassy Charge d’Affaires Carolle Lucas

and Dutch Embassy

Political Counsellor Floor Nuiten, both resident in Suriname. The EU Delegation to Guyana’s political section head, Derek Lambe, also participated.

Mutual understanding

The objectives of the dialogue are to exchange information to foster mutual understanding and to facilitate the establishment of agreed priorities and shared agendas, in particular by recognising the existing links between the different aspects of the relations between the parties and the various areas of cooperation as laid down in the Cotonou Agreement.

The two sides en-

gaged in constructive, wide-ranging and frank discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual concern. Discussions included political and economic developments in Guyana and the EU, EUGuyana and regional development cooperation, human rights and governance, security, climate change, and regional integration.

In conclusion, the two sides expressed their satisfaction on the usefulness and continuity of the dialogue in the context of EU-Guyanese relations, and have agreed to hold the next political dialogue in one year’s time.

Teacher in alleged rape case should face full force of the law if convicted – Union

The Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) said it is concerned about allegations against a teacher for sexual misconduct.

GTU General Secretary Coretta McDonald told Guyana Times International on Wednesday that the union is totally against any form of sexual act perpetrated by teachers on their charges.

Her comment comes on the heels of a recent wanted bulletin issued by the Guyana Police Force for a teacher on allegations of rape.

“We’ve been saying to our teachers and we will continue to say to them that you are there as a role model for the children,” McDonald said.

She stated that while the teacher is still to be proven guilty, the GTU

is concerned about the allegation.

The GTU general secretary said if convicted, the teacher should face the full force of the law.

The top GTU official also pointed out that the allegation has created a bad image of teachers and the profession.

The Guyana Police

Foreign affairs minister carolyn rodrigues-birkett makes a point to the eu delegation. among those seated on the eu side are: ambassador robert kopecký, head of the eu delegation; and british High commissioner andrew ayre

U.S. governance project aimed at easing tension in parliament –Ambassador Hardt

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) US$ 1.2 million Leadership and Democracy (LEAD) governance project is intended to address the lack of compromise and consensus, which have dogged the work of Parliament since the 2011 elections, the U.S. government has said.

In 2012 and 2013, the tripartite talks among the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), the Alliance For Change (AFC) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) broke down, resulting in billions of dollars being slashed from the budgets.

Additionally, the parties have failed to agree on the construction of the world class Marriot International Hotel and the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Plant and now the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill.

Included in the LEAD project is a component that is designed to build consensus among the parties at the level of the

National Assembly. The LEAD project will offer (non-material/non-financial) technical assistance to the PPP, APNU and the AFC in a nonpartisan, inclusive manner. This objective, if the project comes into operation will be achieved through cross-party negotiation workshops, according to the project document.

The LEAD programme proposed bimonthly workshops on political negotiation, featuring experts in the field. “These workshops will be offered to all parties in one setting. The programme will be con-

ducted in this multi-party format to foster interaction between the parties outside of the formal parliamentary setting, encouraging them to take part in mock negotiation sessions with their counterparts,” a section of the project document stated. It was stated that this technique has proven to be effective in other parts of the world.

Additionally, through the programme, consultative sessions will be facilitated to develop the ability to debate, deliberate and negotiate legislative initiatives. It is believed that by equip-

ping parties with the ability to arrive at meaningful consensus, the demands of citizens will be addressed.

Policies

In the area of issuebased policy development, the programme will host workshops to review techniques in research and analysing constituent concerns, in addition to the development of policies.

“Through these workshops, the programme will share tools for addressing constituent concerns. The programme also intends to organise multistakeholder discussion groups for engagement with citizens, civil society, the private sector, among others, to provide input for developing legislative priorities.”

It was contended that citizens in general are not acquainted with their elected representatives in the House; hence, the programme would create the desirable environment for politicians to interact with citizens within the confines of the current electoral laws. This would be accomplished through town hall meetings and multi-party issue forums.

Meanwhile, component two of the programme focuses primarily on strengthening the National Assembly and citizen engagement. “A legislative expert will be hired and be seconded to the National Assembly for a minimum of four to six months to provide intensive consultative advice and training to members of Parliament and National Assembly staff.”

It was further explained that the programme’s chief of party and other technical experts and or consultants from the U.S., Canada, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago will equip parliamentarians and staffers with the requisite skills and knowledge to effectively research and draft legislations.

“With the limits on the time members of Parliament can devote to specific issues and with no individual staff, members are significantly hampered in their ability to effectively analyse pressing issues facing the country, understand constituents’ concerns, and research solutions that can shape legislative agendas,” the project document explained.

Additionally, in component two, the LEAD

Screaming for…

…attention

Ever since Christopher Lallbachan-Lalloo “Suspenders” Ram (L.L.S. Ram) was thrown out on his ear by the Stabber News for one of his intemperate outbursts against someone who got in his way, the fella’s been getting shriller and more strident trying to get attention. For people with identity and self-esteem issues, attention is like oxygen – they simply shrivel up and expire if they can’t get enough.

And with the issues Lalloo Ram has, he needs a whole lot of oxygen! He probably thought he’d be given a spot on the Muckraker’s roster – but then he doesn’t know Mook Lall. The Mook enjoyed being briefed by Lalloo – so he could carry on as if he knows what he’s talking about. So why would he pay Lalloo to expose that he’s never had an original thought in his head. Never. After all, there were tons of backtrackers and snitches before him. He just rose to the top of the heap – after quite a lot of practice.

Anyhow, Lalloo Ram’s gotten to be a regular pot salt with his blog. Blogs? Yes, anyone could scribble away to their heart’s content – and Lalloo’s certainly done that. But he’s really been scraping the barrel for subjects. His latest rant had to do with the Chancellor promptly asking a defrocked lawyer in another jurisdiction to resign as an Appellate Judge here. Ram thinks that’s not enough… he feels there ought to be a Commission of Inquiry into the matter!

He feels that Guyana needs a “more effective Judiciary”. With this decision of the Chancellor presumably showing the “ineffectiveness” of the said judiciary! Can you believe it? Here it is – this junior lawyer who barely scraped through to get behind the Bar – trying to impress with his jejune and banal opinions. What we want to know is this: what kind of “due diligence” would’ve uncovered the kind of infraction for which the lawyer was cited for? (And let’s not forget the ruling can be appealed.) If the fella had been playing fast and loose with the canons of legal ethics (something completely foreign to Lalloo) over in England, wouldn’t their much more vigilant Bar have nipped him before?

Fact of the matter is that Lalloo Ram is so rabidly anxious to “get ahead”, he just can’t stop himself from pulling down any and every one of his betters, hoping he’ll be noticed.

But all he’s doing is exposing his irrelevance. Sick wanker!

…for cricket equity

There is a (cricket) God! There is no question about this after looking at what’s playing out in New Zealand. There it is – India, whose BCCI demanded that they be part of an upper tier in the ICC that could never be budged – on their knees before one of the minnows to which they thought they could just throw a few rupees to roll over and play dead.

In a match that few thought New Zealand could even salvage, Brendon McCullum is on the cusp of a triple century and India will have to do all in their power (which isn’t very noticeable nowadays) to avoid defeat. Even the 325 by which New Zealand is ahead right now, is beyond this Indian batting lineup. So what gives them the right to hog the top spot in the ICC? Their money? So cricket has come down to this? Money is power and cricketing skills are just a sideshow?

As your Eyewitness has said before, we believe the WICB exposed the yellow streak down their pusillanimous back when they went along with the iniquitous BCCI plan. We hope henceforth they’ll try to recapture some of the dignity our cricketing forebears earned with their blood, sweat, and tears.

…from Lincoln the Loud

Another fella desperately seeking some relevance is Lincoln (“economic genocide”) the Loud. Bereft of any labour following, he’s taken to offering gratuitous political advice in the letter columns.

u.S. ambassador d brent Hardt

cabinet Secretary, dr roger luncheon

80 persons identified for homeless shelter

Human Services and Social Security

Minister Jenifer Webster said some 80 homeless persons have already been identified and evaluated by the ministry to take up residence at the recently-constructed Hugo Chávez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration Centre at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice.

In an invited comment on Monday, Webster told this newspaper that the ministry was in the process of recruiting more than 25 staff members to work at the institution, including a live-in administrator. There are also plans to establish a management oversight board for the centre.

The human services minister said the various rooms in the facility were recently furnished with the necessary furniture and appliances. She added that the Human Services Ministry is working along with the Health Ministry to evaluate other persons who may want to seek refuge at the institution.

Webster sought to clear up the popular misconception that every homeless person will

be “picked up and taken to the homeless shelter”. That notion should be rejected, since the ministry will not be doing such.

The minister explained that the homeless shelter is intended for persons who are capable of taking care of themselves, but many homeless persons are mentally challenged and unable to do so.

Special training

Hence, her ministry’s collaboration with the Health Ministry to determine the mental condition of potential residents via a thorough examination. The home also will not house persons for extended periods, but they will receive special training so that they can reintegrate into society.

Construction on the Gy$402.8 million facility, a gift from the Venezuelan government to the people of Guyana, began in January 2010.

In August 2013, President Donald Ramotar and Venezuela’s Ambassador to Guyana Reina Margarita Arratia Diaz toured the facility after unveiling a plaque bearing the image of Venezuela’s late President Hugo Chávez whose name the centre bears.

Guyana shares a friendly relationship with its western neighbour at the bilateral level and through the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR). The two countries have built on good diplomatic relations, signing an agreement that paved the way

for Guyana to export rice and paddy into the Venezuelan market.

Guyana is also a beneficiary of the PetroCaribe deal, conceptualised by the late President Chávez that allows signatory countries to access fuel at a subsidised cost.

Homeless persons from across Guyana will be housed at the centre, which has two dorms –one for males, the other for females; a kitchen; recreational, medical, training and dining facilities, and conference rooms.

The centre has the capacity to hold 200 males and 100 females and stands on 7.30 acres of land. Some of the land has been set aside for residents to engage in agriculture.

De Queen not coming but she sending a baton

De G-Owe-A announce that de Queen baton comin to Guyana, and as soon as Dew Man and Pill Grim mek de announcement, some people start to jump fuh joy, although it still got another two weeks to go before de baton reach de s*ity of Green and garbage.

On de other hand, some people start to holler and bawl. Then dem start to cry. At this early stage, no body ain’t sure if dem who happy, happy fuh de Queen or fuh de baton, or both, or happy that de Queen sendin a baton.

When Harding hear that all de way in Jamaica, he apply fuh asylum right away. He tell No Gel Hugly that de pullice bringin another baton fuh he all de way from England. And Harding remember he mudder tell he that tings from England strong and does last long.

That alone mek Harding never wanna come back to he home country and to de s*ity of Green and garbage, especially knowing that he got to land at Timehri, and that is whey de Queen baton gon land, and that is wheh de pullice baton station deh.

It too soon to know if dem who hollerin, bawlin and cryin sad because is a baton comin and not de Queen she self. A lotta people still wanna see de Queen. But it got some a dem who ain’t kay bout de Queen. All dem want is a baton. Dem boys done start to line up at de hairport, and dem ain’t mind if is a midnight flight. De Mook and he headitor goin to meet de baton in Tee-T.

Wid Green in de s*ity, includin Green Case, Green Bridge and Green Jah, some body seh de Queen mighta plan to mek de trip too, because de whole a de Royal Family like every ting to do wid de environment. But is when de Queen realise that all dem Greens in de s*ity is garbage, that is when she change she mind.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Look out fuh all dem who gon tek night-off when de baton reach!

the Hugo chávez centre for rehabilitation and reintegration at onverwagt, west coast berbice

Flouting…

Satiricus was tired. He was tired of this Anti-Money Laundering Bill. It had dominated not only the newspapers but – more the (vexed) point – the daily briefings the Editor had with the news hounds. “I mean, how much can a fella take?” Satiricus had fretted to the boys at the back street dive. They were gathered there in their usual Friday night conclave, solving the world’s problems, while they wet their throats.

Cappo, the CaneCutter, pointed to the headline on the MuckrakerKN, “Yuh mean dis?” And he then read out laboriously, “Govt flouts new deadline ahead of CFATF review”.

“Flouts?” interjected Teacher Samad and then went on his classroom voice. “‘Flout’ is like when you break or ignore a law or rule or something and you don’t hide what you doing or showing any fear or shame.”

“Yeah!” agreed Suresh. “Is like when Cappo bin out with that dutty-skin ‘bad gyaal’ and he walk all around the village with she!”

“Ai!! Me bin drunk dat day!” Cappo replied hotly. “Wha you excuse when yuh jump around naked last week? Wha you bin flouting then?”

“That was “flaunting”, me friend,” retorted Suresh with a smile. “And ah had on me red buckta. Ah was gettin ready for Mash!”

“Hold it chaps,” said Satiricus firmly as he sat up with a start. It all now made sense to him. He’d been all confused before, but now his brain was suffused with a light. And he’s only had a dozen Banks. “I don’t care if the two of you flouncing yuh petticoat. But if the government “flout” the new deadline, it mean they know the bill no good, but yet they backing it. Just like what the Jhaat and GrainJa saying!”

“Budday, is dat I bin tellin’ you all dis time!” shouted Cappo. “If de government pass dis bill, is how de opposition guh survive?”

“That’s right,” agreed Teacher Damad. “Is who you think giving them all their funding? That is why they can tell the regular businessmen to “go to hell!” when they ask them to support the bill.”

“I now understand,” said Satiricus quietly. “And you know the most important thing in a democracy is to have an opposition.”

“Well, dat is why de MuckrakerKN saying de guvment flout de bill,” said Cappo disgustedly. “Dey know is only de drug dealers and de money launders keeping the opposition alive.”

“Take away that, and you have no opposition in Guyana!” Exclaimed Satiricus in wonder. “How brazen can this government be?”

“Dey not only brazen. Dey brigah too. Dey flout de bill,” concluded Cappo

Essequibo rice farmers’ woes continue

Just when farmers from Airy Hall on the Essequibo Coast thought they were in the clear after the December conservancy breach, which flooded the community and destroyed several acres of rice, some are now faced with another major challenge.

This time, strange “green looking” worms are responsible for their heartache. The “heart worm” pest, as it is being called, is stunting rice fields, which were replanted following the flood. Farmers are now uncertain as to when they will reap their crop, which is presently 20 days old.

Approximately 20 farmers whose rice lands are located close to the conservancy are facing the infestation. They are clueless how the worms, living particularly in the middle of the young plants, got into their fields and are uncertain of a possible remedy.

One farmer, Bhagwan Parbhu, whose 10 acres of land is situated north of the conservancy, told Guyana Times International: “I re-sow very well, but my plants are so stunted. I give it

several days and still they are not picking up. I used several insecticides, tried many measures, still one thing – they not growing.”

Strange infestation

He said he noticed several weeks after re-sowing that his plants were not showing any signs of growth. The father of six said he then decided to investigate, and he found tiny worms feeding on the insides of the young rice plants, causing them to yellow and drop. The farmer, who said he has been in the business for more than 20 years, said he has never faced such a

situation previously.

The frustrated farmer explained that he took a loan from the bank and was now faced with many expenses, trying to save his rice plants. His brother, Sonu, whose plot is nearby, said his crop was also severely affected. He added that he too treated his crop with insecticide, but progress is slow.

Another farmer who said only a few of his acres are affected by the “heart worms” is spraying continuously, hoping that the problem will be eradicated.

The farmers are calling for “scientific” help from the Agriculture Ministry. They said a sample of the plants needs to be tested by a plant pathologist so that appropriate measures can be taken to arrest the unknown infestation.

The “heart worm” infestation was reported to officers of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and inspections were conducted in the fields.

U.S. governance project aimed at easing tension in ...

initiative seeks to establish a “women’s Parliament caucus”, with the intention of providing a forum for women issues to be discussed.

“Such a caucus will help foster non-partisan discussion and build consensus between representatives from the different political parties on issues of mutually-shared common interests.”

Youth component

Thirdly, the LEAD programme proposes to motivate and better equip Guyanese youth with the necessary skills to be integrally involved in politics and civic processes. “It is critical for young citizens to understand their roles and responsibilities in a democracy so they can participate constructively in the political process

and become more engaged as citizens in civil society,” it was stated.

The initiative will engage youth groups and civil society organisations in civic education campaigns and events to generate broader interests among youths. Additionally, public-private partnerships will be fostered to increase the probability of sustainability and marketing opportunities for youths, not only in government and civil society, but also in the private sector. This will be achieved through youth debate clubs and youth civic education festivals.

In the final component of the project, attention will be given to civic and voter education on the implementation of local government reform and local elections.

Officers working under the LEAD programme will enhance knowledge of citizens on the recently approved local government reform legislation, in addition to the role of local government and the rights and responsibilities of citizens and elected officials.

Last week, Presidential Advisor on Governance Gail Teixeira informed the press that the government and the U.S. would be meeting this week to achieve a consensus on the implementation of the project. However, U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt told GTI on Tuesday that the administration has not yet consulted him on a possible date, although he would have inquired about it. “I am available at anytime,” he said.

Farmer bhagwan Parbhu inspecting his field of stunted 20-day-old rice

Farmer Sahadeo Sookraj in his rice field, which was not affected by the “heart worm” infestation. He will harvest his crop in mid March

The AML Bill: The PNC will lose much

Dear Editor: I say People’s National Congress (PNC) in the headline intentionally because it is they that will suffer in the next general elections and not the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), as I believe that APNU will be abandoned, as it should have been long ago.

Reasons for this I have expressed to the several leaders in the PNC who meet periodically. APNU comprises certain non entities as political parties, even non-essentials. I think the party, the PNC, was extremely charitable to give those others free seats. None could have won a seat in Parliament other than the PNC.

Therefore, in the long run, it is the PNC that its supporters and those on the ‘fence’ will lose faith in. The recalcitrance,

the hard-line, the toughness the APNU is showing in not supporting the Anti Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill is a kind of militant mentality.

Soldiers love to hold their ground, and when death is upon them in battle, and there is no other alternative, they retreat, and retreat they will eventually!

Opposition Leader David Granger, the soldier, held his ground to bring down Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee via parliamentary boycotts, no votes, and walk outs of Parliament, but eventually he failed miserably, and in reality placed the PNC in an embarrassing situation, as the PNC (lost in the APNU confusion), had to retreat, as the Guyana Police Force was starved of its requirements for

law and order, and the citizens of this country were in confusion as to their safety and security.

Granger has to understand that in politics one has to be a diplomat and not a soldier. While some techniques of the military can be taken, in politics it is diplomacy that is the master art.

The PNC is undoubtedly a great national political institution, born with a name at its founding. Who gave its leaders the right to murder that name? They have made the name weak.

In my opinion, this needs to be corrected. They should have had a party referendum before agreeing to the name of APNU and going in that direction.

The people of the country are not feeling the crunch of the recalcitrance in its full blast yet, caused by APNU’s

refusal to support the bill, but when they start to suffer, they will turn to the PNC, not APNU, as APNU in reality is a façade, a mere face mask that will disintegrate.

It is at Congress Place they will congregate, and when the elections season steps in, they will feel the bitter reality; unfortunately, they will lose many of their die hard followers. Granger, Sir, you’re taking the PNC down the path of destruction. I advise that you resign.

Even when they somersault, as they will, they will lose many admirers and hardliners. Their people will give them a reckoning they may not recover from.

The AML/CFT Bill is a most important and serious law that must be complied with for international sanity, and well-being, but one which

the so-called APNU continues to object to. In my opinion, the game of playing games is unnecessary to prove that they are powerful, and make the government of the day look weak.

To think they can get all they want. The sanctions that Guyana is facing are nothing compared to what will be the reality if we are blacklisted by the international community, and if the loans and grants dry up.

Then banking internationally will be impossible, money transfers will freeze, and many will lose jobs, as industries will close or minimise operations, etc.

The people of Guyana cannot forget the whole banning of food items, particularly flour and the like, which led to an amazing growth of illegal wealth by smugglers, and the export of cash by

every and any means.

I ask the people of Guyana if they recall the days when Guyanese could not pass the airport with anything more than US$25.

One could not go on a holiday with anything of value, not even a piece of jewellery except the marriage ring, and that had to be small. Jewels and monies that were seized were used as bribes in order not to be charged. I have a feeling that there is indeed a deep conspiracy to suck the government into committing an atrocity similar to the flour ban.

APNU will have to somersault or live to be cursed by this nation forever for bringing untold, unimaginable hardships. He who forgets the past is bound to repeat it.

Sincerely,

Roshan Khan Guyanese patriot

GCB woes are like those of many

Dear Editor,

As was the case with the Guyana team, so it is with the West Indian one; many are the complaints. I see that members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) are quite unhappy with the non-selection of even a single Guyanese on the West Indies Twenty20 team against Ireland. This was expected and I have a few comments in this regard.

I go back to the selection of the Guyana NAGICO Super50 tournament. One of the appointed selectors objected to a late comer turning up for the team selection. This was objected to by Sheik Mohamed and he subsequently resigned. This kind of thing happened with Sheik more than once.

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) was least bothered and no one took note of the immoral nature of the selection. I know that a few people from the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) voiced their feelings, but still nothing really came out of the matter and issues went back to normal.

I recall what one man said. Apparently privy to inside information, he opined that the team was very disgruntled and that there will be some kind of sabotage.

Go back if you care and see who got sick, what the sicknesses were and when they occurred. I may be overly suspicious, but I sense the lack of camaraderie and cohesion in the Guyana squad, even before members departed.

Go now to the West

Indies team and let us face facts and reality. The coach and captain are not people with great track records. Also, the present coach Otis Gibson is not too good with relationship matters. He was rude to both Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan, and there seems to be a distancing between this coach and a few players.

So team selection for the West Indies is hinged on emotions, desires to get even, territorial preferences and prejudice; same with Guyana, where the prejudice seems quite the norm.

So a lot of people and local board members are just as displeased with the GCB as is the GCB over the selection choices of the West Indies

Justice Desiree Bernard ...

heavy responsibility of being a court of last resort for the countries accepting our jurisdiction and spare no effort in ensuring that the judgments of the court will withstand international scrutiny,” she explained, while adding that they have tried to fulfil the vision of the court.

“As I leave the court, I wish to give the assurance to the region that the Caribbean Court Justice is in safe and competent hands as it continues its voy-

age of the ports of the Caribbean encountering passengers willing to be a part of a destination towards the illusive dream establishing a jurisprudence peculiarly our own,” Justice Bernard stated. The retiring judge also expressed her appreciation to the CCJ, and everyone for organising the event in her honour.

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque; Swaziland Supreme Court Judge Stanley Moore; CCJ

Trust Fund member Oswald Barnes; former CCJ Trust Fund member, Professor Harold Lutchman; Guyana Bar Association President Ronald Burch-Smith; and Guyana Association of Women President Simone Morris-Ramlall, also spoke glowingly about Justice Bernard.

Meanwhile, at the end of the ceremonial special sitting for the outgoing CCJ judge, Nandlall handed over copies of the laws of Guyana and law reports to Justice Bryon.

Cricket Board (WICB) selection panel with the team selected to represent the West Indies. Overall, local cricket

is not stirring the populace. Berbice seems to be in a league all by itself – it is doing great and I am hoping that all

Guyana will learn from what is happening in this little county.

Sincerely, Fitzroy Wilson

Culture Ministry staff killed after car slammed into truck

Asupervisor attached to the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry’s training centre at Kuru Kuru, Soesdyke/Linden Highway was killed after the car in which she was travelling slammed into a parked lumber truck on Sunday evening in the vicinity of Marudi resort.

The dead dormitory

supervisor was identified as Jasmin Norton, 22, formerly of Moruca, North West District. She had been employed at the training centre for the past two years.

According to information received, the woman was the front-seat passenger of a taxi and was heading to Georgetown when the driver who was allegedly travelling at a

fast pace slammed into the protruding ends of the timber in the truck.

The truck, Guyana Times International understands, suffered a blowout and the driver was in the process of changing the wheel when the accident occurred. The woman’s face was disfigured, since she received the blunt of the impact.

Republic Day!

She reportedly died on the spot. The drivers of both vehicles were taken into police custody but the truck driver was subsequently released on station bail. The driver of the car is expected to be charged for the woman’s death.

Sadly missed Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry Permanent Secretary Alfred King expressed his condolences to Norton’s family, noting that her parents were dead and she was living with her grandmother in Moruca.

He confirmed that she joined the ministry in 2012 and had been attached to the Kuru Kuru Training Centre as a dormitory supervisor. King said whenever persons of the ministry pass, it leaves a dent especially when they played a major role in carrying out the ministry’s work programme.

He said he was in a meeting on Monday morning when he heard of the young woman’s death. She will be missed by all, particularly the students at the training centre.

By Anu Dev

A return to first principles in a Republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example. –

Niccolo Machiavelli

Well, Republic Day is on Sunday and it really is an important day. I certainly wasn’t around way back in 1970, to know personally what it must have been like to live in a country still under the rule of another. Or even nominally under a governor general. But I do know that it feels better to be in control than to be controlled. And we won that right on Republic Day –to chart our own destiny. It’s like an ultimate version of becoming an adult.

My favourite hero in WI history was Toussaint L’Ouverture. To be a man – born a slave – take on the full might of one of the greatest European powers of the day, for the right to be free, was awe inspiring. He was indeed an “Opening”: the eventual independence of Haiti showed the path that every other colony had to walk.

So on Republic Day at least, we should make a point of being proud to be Guyanese. On that day we commemorate the earlier rebellion of our own Cuffy, in our own Berbice, for that same struggle to be free. Before l’Overture.

I know some people try to raise some Guyanese pride on Republic Day, but unfortunately for most, it’s just about the Mashramani parade.

Teacher in alleged rape case should face full force...

from page 5

Force on Tuesday issued a wanted bulletin for Ronald Forde for questioning in relation to a matter of rape, which is under investigation. Back in November 2011, Forde, a teacher of the Fort Wellington Secondary School on the West Coast of Berbice, was charged with having carnal knowledge of one of his students, aged 14, fully knowing that she was under the age of 18.

The charge, to which he was not required to plead, was read to him at the Weldaad Magistrate’s Court. He was subsequently refused bail by Magistrate Roby Benn. Forde had complained of losing his cellphone a few weeks before the charge. The phone was eventually found. Images of him having sex with the female student were reportedly seen on the device. It was rumoured that the teacher and student were having an affair.

Granted, everyone has different ways of celebrating, of showing joy. Some people express themselves by parading down the streets in various states of undress in honour of Republic Day. Other people have more demure gatherings to celebrate the day.

But the problematic thing about it all is that most people don’t parade because of national pride. They parade to dress up (or undress) in costumes and ride on floats. Because it’s all about Mashramani – the jump-up and wine-down.

We’ve gotten so caught up with the festivities, that we’ve completely forgotten why we’re celebrating in the first place. Who thinks of the meaning of Cuffy or Toussaint in the definition of what ‘freedom’ means?

One of the aspects of being free means that we’re a democracy – we can elect our own government. I know I’m thrilled that I’m finally 18, so I can vote in the next election. Even though I just get one vote out of the thousands that are cast on Election’s Day, it still makes me feel like I have a say in who’ll be in charge of running our country.

And I’ll be thinking long and hard about which party has the best interests of the country at the top of their agenda before I cast my vote. Who’ll ensure most UG graduates don’t emigrate? A healthy nation is a productive nation – which party will implement the best health-care programme for the country?

Our kids are the future of our country and they need to have a sound education to ensure that they can have successful careers to continue the development of Guyana. We still have so few scholarships that kids have to write over 20 subjects at CXC to try to grab either the regional prize or the two scholarships that Guyana gives out.

Why aren’t we giving out scholarships to children for the different streams, example, science, arts and business? That’ll encourage children to be the best in their chosen field, instead of having to spread themselves too thin to write subjects from all of the streams.

So don’t just wait until it’s close to election’s time to think about whom you’ll vote for: start this Republic Day. Look at their actions during the year – what bills are they pushing (or holding up) in Parliament? Are they the type of people you’d want representing you?

We’re a republic now. We have the right (and obligation) to vote for who governs our country. So let’s think long and hard and make the decision that’ll be best for Guyana. That’s us.

Happy Republic Day!

No response from Opposition on budget talks invite - Dr. Ashni Singh

The Parliamentary Opposition parties are still to respond positively, to government’s invitation to participate in pre-budget consultations even as preparations for its presentation in the National Assembly remain on-going.

It was revealed yesterday by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh that despite formal invitations to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), both parties have declined to participate in the consultative process with officials of the Ministry of Finance.

“I don’t know whether they will shift their position, but as of now there is an open invitation from government to the opposition to meet with them on Budget 2014, and as of now, they have not accepted that invitation. Indeed, they have gone as far as to say that they have no intention of meeting with us,” Dr Singh said during an recent interview.

Asked about the recent meeting between opposition parliamentarians and the hierarchy of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the signals of support for the military, the minister said that government is

happy that everyone is on board and supportive of efforts to strengthen and protect Guyana’s borders and ensure compliance with local laws.

He made the observation however, that despite the platitudes and expressions uttered by the political opposition, it has been proven “time and time again, that they are not faithful to their word and cannot be trusted.”

The minister recalled that when a request was made for supplementary funds via the parliament by the GDF, it was the APNU, which led what was described as an “unprecedented assault” on

TravelSpan conducting interviews for flight attendants in Guyana

TravelSpan Airline on Monday interviewed 54 Guyanese to fill the post of flight attendant, but only 30 will be selected following intense training both here and in the United States.

The attendants are to service the airline’s Georgetown to New York route. The interviews were conducted at the Princess International Hotel.

According to TravelSpan Director Rob Binns, when the applicants are shortlisted, they will commence training in April for a period of three weeks and then proceed to Las Vegas, Nevada for another training session.

Asked what credentials the company is looking for, Binns related that applicants must be honest, very enthusiastic, University of Guyana graduates, and willing to learn.

He elaborated that the company made the decision to replace its American flight attendants with Guyanese flight attendants, because most of its passengers are Guyanese visiting their friends and family and it would be fitting to have Guyanese flight attendants. By so doing, the passengers will have individuals who understand them and provide them with excellent customer service.

Meanwhile, Binns also stated that the airline is committed to helping the development of Guyana. He said since the airline recommenced operations, business and the reception from the Guyanese people have been overwhelming.

“We are here to offer services to the Guyanese public and in return, they are supporting us, and we are grateful for this,” Binns noted.

the query, requesting details about the need for additional funding.

The Finance Minister noted that the National Budget will be presented as it is constitutionally mandated, and he is hopeful that the opposition will be supportive of every ministry’s allocations.

Consultations have been held with several stakeholders including the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), and all have been described as

a good series of engagements, according to the minister.

“The door is always open, there must be no doubt in their minds about that, and there must be no doubt in the minds of the people of Guyana that the Government of Guyana is open, willing and ready to meet with the opposition at any time on the matter of Budget 2014, indeed on any matter of national importance, but more particularly on Budget 2014. That must be made crystal clear”.

The minister said that he remains optimistic that there will be a rethink within the ranks of the opposition, as other key stakeholders have used the opportunity to have their views considered as Budget 2014 is compiled.

After closing operations in Guyana in 2008, TravelSpan Incorporated returned with a flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on December 14 last year. The Boeing 767 aircraft landed with 180 passengers onboard, along with 10 crew members.

TravelSpan presently offers direct flights between New York and Georgetown, Georgetown and Port of Spain, New York and Port of Spain, and in the summer, Trinidad and Tobago and The Dominican Republic.

TravelSpan and Venezuela’s CONVIASA are the most recent airlines to enter the Guyana market.

miss guyana world ruqayyah boyer and another prospective flight attendant embrace following their interview

Finance minister Dr. Ashni Singh

Govt is committed to developing communities across Guyana

People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee has condemned the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) for apparently misleading Guyana into believing that Regions Seven and Eight have been neglected by the Donald Ramotar administration.

Rohee told reporters on Monday that the PPP/C has noted the opposition’s move to grossly misinform and mislead Guyanese and the world at large.

APNU, during a recent press conference, said poor health services, deteriorating roads, and an education system that leaves much to be desired are among key issues plaguing the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region (Region Seven). On another occasion, the coalition contended that the two secondary schools which serve the PotaroSiparuni district (Region Eight) are overcrowded and lacked certified teachers.

According to the PPP/C general secretary, investigations were launched into the allegations peddled by the opposition, and they have revealed that developmental activities are ongoing in both regions, while corrective steps are being taken to address existing problems.

Addressing another allegation, Rohee said contrary to reports that the Bartica Regional Hospital is dilapidated, underequipped and understaffed, the health facility has been upgraded, with sections undergoing extensive repairs.

It was noted too that the Bartica hospital is being extended to house

Nothing unlawful about Lusignan terror suspect testifying for state, says DPP

Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Bibi

Shalimar Ali-Hack said that there is nothing unlawful about the state using a suspect in the Lusignan Massacre to testify against other accused persons.

Her comments were made in response to Attorney Nigel Hughes, who accused the DPP of making a plea-bargain deal with a man who admitted to participating in the Lusignan, Bartica and Lindo Creek massacres, in which 33 people were killed in total.

the DPP, why the state, which is responsible for protecting and serving them, would let a selfconfessed murderer of 33 citizens go free without a single charge. No other person in the history of this country has enjoyed such a pardon,” the attorney stressed.

additional services.

Health centres throughout the region remain stocked with the requisite medical supplies, he added, but acknowledged that there might have been a few cases of shortages within the health system.

In the area of education, APNU has contended that the Waramadong Secondary School is overcrowded and has a shortage of certified teachers.

Rebuttal

In rebuttal, the PPP/C general secretary explained that the school was built to facilitate 500 students and 21 teachers, noting that it currently has a population of 487 students and 19 teachers, with two other teachers attending the Cyril Potter College of Education.

Government was also accused of spending millions of dollars to facilitate emergency medevacs, simply because the Kamarang Hospital lacked critical equipment. Among equipment needed is a portable X-ray.

In response, Rohee said the health facility is slated to undergo massive rehabilitation from this month. Additionally, it was noted that an X-ray machine and an ultrasound machine are being procured to enhance the level of health services offered within the community.

“The APNU’s strategy for casting aspersions, misrepresenting the facts and creating their own stories has been used in the National Assembly by the senior officials,” he said.

Rohee stressed that the PPP/C administration remains dedicated to developmental activities across Guyana.

“The people of Lusignan and Guyana appear not to have been made aware that the person who admitted and confessed to being with ‘Fineman’ and participating in the Lusignan, Bartica and Lindo Creek massacres, Mr Dwane Williams was not and will not be prosecuted by the state for any of these 33 murders he participated in. He

has been granted a free pass by the state for killing not only the people of Lusignan, but those in Bartica and Lindo Creek,” the attorney pointed out.

Hughes further referred to the court documents in which Williams admitted in his testimony to being in the company of Fineman during several massacres.

Williams was charged along with two others for the death of those persons who were killed dur-

ing the 2008 Lusignan Massacre; however, he subsequently became the prosecution’s main witness during the trial last year after the charges were dropped.

The attorney alluded to the fact that just a week before the trial commenced, the charges against Williams were mysteriously dropped by the state and he was released. “Perhaps the people of Lusignan may wish to inquire of the attorney general and

However, Williams testifying for the state is very evident, but he was also charged, which contradicts other aspects of Hughes’ contention that Williams was allowed to go free without a single charge.

“Based on the facts from the investigations, Dwane Williams was an accomplice. lt is an old common law practice to allow an accomplice to an offence to testify for the prosecution. lt has always been done in the criminal law practice, and continues to be done. lt is a lawful practice with which all criminal law practitioners are quite familiar,” the DPP said.

Granger gets clearance to appeal budget case

The Full Court on Monday granted Opposition Leader David Granger leave to move to the Appellate Court to seek redress for a decision it made earlier this year to exclude him from the just-completed 2012 budget cuts case.

Should Granger succeed in his appeal, it would create a whole new dimension of the issue, with the budget just around the corner and the opposition intent on cutting the estimates.

In a statement, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said on January 22, the opposition leader’s attorney, Basil Williams, filed an application for leave to move to the Court of Appeal after the Full Court ruled that it had no jurisdiction in the matter of the striking out of Granger as a defendant by acting Chief Justice Ian Chang in the budget cut case.

On Monday, the matter came up before Justice James BovellDrakes and Justice Rishi Persaud, APNU said, and after a short hearing, leave was granted for an appeal to the Appellate Court.

The Full Court on January 13 had ruled that it did not have jurisdiction over whether or not Granger should be excluded from the case dealing with whether the

opposition had the right to cut the 2012 national budget. It, therefore, said that Chang’s ruling stood.

In a brief ruling, Justices Bovell-Drakes and Persaud noted that the Full Court had said it did not have the jurisdiction to overrule or go against a decision handed down by the acting chief justice. The two judges had presided over the Full Court hearing of an appeal filed by Granger, challenging the ruling of Justice Chang. Justice Chang, on June 18 last, ruled that Granger and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh will be barred from the 2012 budget cuts case.

The two judges’ ruling had concurred with initial contentions expressed by Attorney

General Anil Nandlall that the appeal was illconceived.

Nandlall said that the order made by the acting chief justice was final and brought all matters of contention to an end between the attorney general and the two defendants in the High Court.

Contentious

He explained that the law states that when a final order is made by a High Court judge, the next court to approach is the Court of Appeal; however, the opposition appealed to the Full Court.

As such, he noted that his first submission was for the Full Court to satisfy itself whether it has jurisdiction over the decision of the acting chief justice.

Granger had pointed to his exclusion from

the case as one of the unresolved issues following Chang’s recent ruling that the opposition cannot cut the budget. He said back then that having struck him out as a defendant in the case without giving him a hearing, the acting chief justice refused to let the law take its course in the appellate courts, and rushed to finish the case before the ruling of the Full Court on his application for leave to appeal its decision to the Court of Appeal.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman has already said that Chang’s ruling has far-reaching implications for the Commonwealth parliamentary system, arguing that the National Assembly’s capacity to approve as well as amend budgetary estimates is a long-established right. Trotman said the ruling of the acting chief justice provides an interpretation of the rules and standing orders of the National Assembly relative to their conformity with the Constitution of Guyana. He argued that Article 171 of the Guyana Constitution is the same as those provisions in the constitutions of all Commonwealth nations as the standing orders and rules of the parliaments of Commonwealth nations.

attorney nigel Hughes dPP bibi Shalimar ali-Hack

opposition leader david granger

attorney basil williams

PPP general Secretary clement rohee

Babysitter in assault case granted bail

-Father of child responds to allegations published in media

Fatima Martin was Tuesday granted bail in the amount of Gy$100,000 after her attorneys Sase Gunraj and Emily Dodson filed an application for bail, pending the results of an appeal which they had previously submitted to the court.

Gunraj, who appeared in court on behalf of Martin pro bono, related that he thinks the sentence delivered by Magistrate Sueanna Lovell to the defendant was too harsh.

He also opined that he is representing the defendant because he wishes to see justice adequately and righteously dispensed in the case.

Martin was on Thursday sentenced to 60 months in prison after she appeared in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Lovell. She pleaded guilty to the charge of inflicting grievous bodily harm on one-year-old Sanjana Edmond.

Subsequent to her sentencing, several women’s rights activists took to the streets in protest,

describing the penalty as harsh and biased, noting that Martin might have been scared to express herself adequately because of the social status of the virtual complainant’s family.

They also claim that Martin was assaulted by a police officer, Magistrate Geeta Chandan-Edmond and her husband Joel Edmond, allegedly threatened to shoot her and put her in a bag.

Red Thread Director Karen DeSouza said the allegations of assault against the magistrate and her husband are reflected in the police’s statement.

Martin admitted to family members who visited her on Monday, February 17, at the New Amsterdam Prison, that she did hit the child. However, she said that she was beaten by the parents when she told them about the incident at the house.

According to a relative, Martin claimed that she was beaten again at the police station in the presence of a female police officer.

Not true

Meanwhile, Joel Edmond, the father of the infant, in a statement on Wednesday said he nor his wife at any time assault the accused.

The statement also refuted several claims that have appeared in sections of the media as it relates to the story.

He stated that Martin was employed by him and his wife in November 2013, subsequent to an advertisement in local newspapers for a nanny. He added that when she came for the interview, she gave her address as 719 Kaneville, Grove,

East Bank Demerara.

He noted too that Martin was only hired because she showed some persistence in wanting the job, returning just one week after her interview, pleading with the couple to hire her as their babysitter.

“It would be a malicious misrepresentation of the facts to say that, either my wife or I trafficked Fatima Martin from Lethem to work with us in Georgetown.”

Edmond further stated that upon commencement of the job, the accused was given a room with modern ameni-

ties and was not made to sleep with the baby as was earlier reported, noting too that she was paid Gy$10,000 a week.

The father of the baby also stated that medical reports given to him by doctors at the St Joseph Mercy Hospital indicated that the baby was assaulted on several occasions.

The medical reports also indicated the injuries suffered were caused by blunt trauma of a fist and signs of being strangled. These reports did not correspond with what would have been the injuries had the baby fallen off the bed as reported by Martin.

Alleged admittance

He said that it was only after another visit to a medical institution that they confronted Martin, who reportedly told them “Sir Joel, I want to tell you the truth, I cuff up the baby.”

Edmond also denied allegations that his wife influenced the ruling of Magistrate Lovell. He said he will not allow the focus to be shifted away from the real victim in the

story. “I will be Sanjana’s voice” he declared.

With regard to the accused being granted bail, Edmond related that he was not surprised at the development. He related that the attorneys had done their work. “All the publicity was to incite the granting of bail,” he contended.

Meanwhile, Magistrate Lovell, who has faced mounting criticisms in recent days for sentencing the babysitter to five years in prison, has defended her judgment.

Lovell, when approached by members of the media on Wednesday, said “I don’t think it would be appropriate for me to comment at this time, I understand that the matter is the subject of an appeal and I prefer to let the Appellate Court speak,” she said, adding that “I operated within the confines of the law.”

The magistrate stated that she identifies with the reason for the perception in the delivery of her ruling, but said the views expressed in the media are not true.

Fatima martin was jailed for five years

City Magistrate geeta chandan-edmond

Berbice resident allegedly beaten, stabbed to death during row over money

Aconstruction worker was on Monday morning beaten with a rolling pin and brutally stabbed to death at his friend’s house at Rosignol, West Coast Berbice.

Dinesh “Kelvin” Harrylall, 20, of Lot 38 B Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice was allegedly stabbed seven times with a kitchen knife and beaten in the head with a rolling pin. The knife was later found hidden in a Hindu temple owned by the suspect, while the rolling pin was found on the floor in the kitchen area.

The suspect, Satrohan “Bluie” Madray reportedly confessed to the killing after he was interrogated by police ranks. He is expected to be charged with the capital offence of murder. Initially, the suspect reportedly told investigators that he and

the victim were in the house when they were attacked by three bandits who struck Harrylall in the head.

He alleged that during the ordeal, the bandits demanded money and jewellery and said if he did not comply, they would kill Harrylall.

Madray told investigators that he handed over Gy$600,000 to the bandits to leave his friend alone, but they stabbed him in the back and escaped.

Investigators did not buy that story, since there were visible marks of violence about the suspect’s body. When police visited the scene, the house was ransacked and upon further investigation and interrogation, Madray led them to the murder weapons. Police are also working on the theory that other persons are involved in the murder.

The deceased’s father, Jagdesh Harrylall, stated that the suspect and his son were very close friends. He explained that he was at home on Sunday when he overheard his son answering a call from Madray who asked him to come collect some jewellery that he had borrowed a few

weeks ago.

Madray claimed that he had the jewellery at home, so the young man asked his father to drop him off at Rosignol to collect it. Before leaving the house, the father told Guyana Times International he telephoned Madray and enquired about the jewellery and was told that he did not have them but would get them the following morning.

The distraught father added that he attempted to talk his son out of going to the man’s home, but he insisted on going. He dropped off his son about 22:45h at his friend’s home and saw him enter the house.

Bad dream

In a hoarse voice, the man stated that he went to bed and had the weirdest dream about his son calling out to him for help, but was awakened by the sudden tooting of a car on his bridge. He said it was about 12:30h

and he thought that it was his son who had returned home.

As he looked out, he realised that it was one of the suspect’s friends who claimed that he received a call from “Bluie” who informed him that something was amiss.

“He tell me that he was in Georgetown with his wife and on their way back he got a call from “Bluie” telling he that something was wrong… He said after he dropped home his wife, he went to Bluie’s house and found him fluttering on the ground and there was no sign of Kelvin.”

Upon hearing this, the dead man’s father instructed the man to report the matter to the police and he rushed to Madray’s house.

The elder Harrylall said that as soon as he opened the house, he was greeted by his son’s motionless body on the floor. There was a gash over his right eye and his

forehead was swollen, he added. He panicked and started to call for Madray, but there was no answer. Madray, who was hiding in the house, surfaced after the dead man’s father started to call his mobile phone and it was then that he claimed that Harrylall was killed during a robbery. Harrylall’s father then drove to the police station, collected two ranks, and went back to the house.

It was during the course of the initial investigation, he learnt that his son was stabbed seven times in the region of his back and neck. He leaves to mourn his parents and younger brothers.

In a release, police said, based on investigations so far, Harrylall and Madray were involved in an argument over money during which he was stabbed and struck to his head.

Eyewitness fails to ID Rose’s killer

One of the main eyewitnesses to the fatal shooting of designer Trevor Rose has failed to positively identify the shooter during an identification parade at the Police Headquarters, Eve Leary.

Latoya Towler, the mother of Rose’s twoyear-old son who was with the designer at the time of his demise had described the shooter to the police and based on the description given, two men were arrested.

Crime Chief Seelall Persaud on Wednesday

confirmed that the two men were taken into custody, but after Towler could not identify any of them, they were subsequently released. He added that the second witness, Troy Nieunkirk, who was driving the car in which Rose was travelling, showed some reluctance when he was called to view the ID parade and did not show up. It was not clear why he was reluctant to show up, but the crime chief stated that if they were going to crack this case, the police force would need as much cooperation as possible from the two witnesses. The police are continuing their investigations and are optimistic that they will be successful soon.

Rose, 32, of Lot 232 East Street,

North Cummingsburg, Georgetown, was executed two Sundays ago when a lone gunman opened fire on the car he was in near the traffic lights at Eccles, East Bank Demerara.

Nieunkirk and Towler were also injured. Towler was reportedly shot to the buttocks while Nieunkirk sustained a gunshot wound to his left arm.

It was reported that the father of eight was heading into the Eccles Housing Scheme to drop off Towler, and as the vehicle approached the traffic lights, another motor car, which was heavily tinted, drove up alongside theirs.

Its driver then taunted Nieunkirk about the way he was driving, and an argument ensued during which the driver exited his vehicle and opened fire.

Nieunkirk managed to drive away and went straight to the Georgetown Public Hospital, but it was too late for Rose.

A post-mortem performed on the body of the designer revealed that he was shot five times with a .9mm pistol. It is believed that Rose, Nieunkirk and Towler were trailed as they left an eatery in the city.

dead: dinesh “kelvin” Harrylall

trevor rose

Bayney Karran appointed ambassador to Mexico

Guyana’s Ambassador to the United States, Bayney Karran, has been accredited, on a non-resident basis, as Guyana’s ambassador to Mexico.

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto accepted Ambassador Karran’s credentials at the Presidential Palace in Mexico City on February 14, and expressed the wish that the new diplomatic appointment would serve to strengthen the good relations between Guyana and Mexico.

According to a Foreign Affairs Ministry statement, Karran indicated to President Nieto that he was honoured to be accredited to Mexico, a country whose history and culture had so enriched the world and which is of such importance to regional and global affairs. He pledged to improve upon the already warm and friendly relations between the two countries during his tour of duty.

The ambassador cit-

ed a number of recent examples of the significantly strengthened bilateral ties, such as cooperation on technical and language training, as well as the fact that a Mexican company is currently the largest private employer in Guyana.

The Guyanese envoy also pointed to the existing scope for bolstering relations between Caricom and Mexico, in addition to increasing the already good level of cooperation in other multilateral bodies such as the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC); the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS).

Following the accreditation ceremony, the ambassador was saluted by a military guard of honour and made a statement to the Mexican press conveying good wishes to the government and people of Mexico from the government and people of Guyana.

Terror threat level lowered at airport - but stringent security measures still in place

The threat level at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has been lowered, according to the entity’s Public Relations Officer Anneka Edwards.

The CJIA in a release on Monday evening explained that despite the threat level being lowered, stringent security measures still remain in place to ensure the safety of passengers.

Last week, a call was received at the Barbados office of Caribbean Airlines (CAL) where the threat was delivered against a specific Caribbean Airlines flight scheduled for departure from Guyana on February 10.

Speaking with Guyana Times International on Tuesday, CAL Country Manager Carl Stewart said all flights that were scheduled for departure from the CJIA after the threat was received have been successful, with no report of any incidents.

The Barbados security forces are currently piloting the investigations into the threats CAL received, the airline’s Corporate

Communications Manager Clint William told this publication last Friday.

In a telephone interview from his Trinidad and Tobago office, Williams indicated he was optimistic that the person or persons responsible for the threats will be brought to justice.

Once the findings are known, the media will be advised accordingly, Williams indicated, but reiterated that additional security measures are still in place.

The U.S. embassy in Guyana in an ad-

visory had warned all American citizens not to travel on CAL flights from Guyana to the U.S. on Monday, February 10, citing an unconfirmed security threat.

“Out of an abundance of caution”, the embassy advised all U.S. citizens in Guyana travelling on CAL to the U.S. from Monday, February 10 through Wednesday, February 12, 2014, to make alternate travel arrangements. It was reported that the call originated out of Barbados and while the airline was not sure if it was a hoax or a ploy, it

took precautionary measures in order to keep its passengers safe.

The local authorities also implemented measures to ensure passengers’ safety, by placing the CJIA under heightened security alert for several days. Investigations were subsequently launched into the incident. The investigation involved officials from Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana, and U.S. With respect to passengers travelling out of Guyana, the response has been overwhelming, despite the negative publicity.

cheddi Jagan international airport

Rohee says no decision yet on Ganga Persaud

Former Local Government

Minister Ganga Persaud, who was encouraged to resign and whose seat in Parliament now is in the balance, has landed himself a job with the Health Ministry, working with the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS).

Persaud had resigned as a minister, citing personal reasons amid allegations of misconduct.

At the time, however, he did not indicate whether he will also resign as a parliamentarian.

Guyana Times International was told that for the next three months, Persaud will coordinate a survey on behavioural change for NAPS.

Persaud’s new job was revealed to the public when he recently attended a workshop hosted by NAPS, and was named as one of the senior functionaries.

On Monday, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee said it was unclear whether Persaud would return to the National Assembly in the capacity of a Member of Parliament. Rohee said the party is considering replacing him.

Decision

Speaking at a news conference at Freedom House on Monday, Rohee said: “Up to this point in time, we have discussed continued on page 25

Whittaker rejects high deficit City Hall budget

Acting Local Government and Regional Development Minister

Norman Whittaker said he will not approve the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) budget for 2014, which is currently at his office for review.

Speaking with Guyana Times International on Tuesday, Whittaker said he will not approve the financial estimates for the cash-strapped council because of the heavy deficit and a number of other reasons.

Whittaker told this publication that not only is the budget a deficit, but it also lacks the assent of Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green and Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Greene.

He said the budget was submitted with expected revenue totalling some Gy$2.1 billion and Gy$2.3 billion in expenditure, which reflects a Gy$0.2 billion deficit.

The minister said he is not willing to assent to any budget that has a deficit unless the monies recorded in the deficit are to be used for

emergency works. Provisions

He noted too that there were some provisions in the budget for local government elections, among other things, provisions which according to him should not be in the budget for the City Council. Whittaker further indicated that his staff is currently going through the council’s budget.

Meanwhile, Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green said he is not even aware that the council’s budget for 2014 was submitted to

the ministry for review.

“I don’t know that the budget was sent out in the first place, I am not aware that it was sent out to him (Minister Whittaker).”

Mayor Green contended that he has set another statutory meeting for next Tuesday, where the budget would be discussed. He noted that this was yet another violation by the Town Clerk Carol Sooba, who according to him, has violated protocol several times in the past.

Sooba has also expressed the view that

the budget has allocations for some things that should not be provided for under the City Council. The revised budget proposal was presented to the local government minister for approval a few weeks ago.

Earlier rejection

The first budget, which was presented to the city council in November 2013, was not approved by the council. The council had objected to the budget, citing that the Finance Committee did not take into consideration various issues that were indicated as being pertinent to the effective functioning of the council.

Among the issues were the upgrade and rehabilitation of all municipal departments and funds for the daily cleanup exercise of the city. They also looked at the council’s liabilities, making special reference to the M&CC’s huge Guyana Power and Light (GPL) deficit, which has caused some concern over the years, among other expenses.

georgetown mayor Hamilton green

acting local government minister norman whittaker

Former local government minister ganga Persaud

Ali underscores importance of tourism to national development

Acting tourism Minister Irfaan Ali has expressed the view that the tourism sector has the capacity to become the largest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as becoming the largest source of employment in Guyana.

Speaking at the 11th meeting of the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) held at the Office of the President on Thursday, the minister said tourism cross-cuts every other sector and all Guyanese need to embrace it as a source of national pride and patriotism.

He added that government is fully supportive of the sector and that work will begin shortly on a state-of-the-art, internationally accredited Hospitality Institute at the University of Guyana, where individuals from across the world can access high quality training in order to launch careers in the service and hospitality sectors.

Package deals

He also challenged the private sector to of-

fer package deals and all-inclusive type events which would simultaneously benefit the local hotel, airline and entertainment sectors.

The meeting, the first for the year, was addressed by both government and private sector officials.

Finance Ministry, Project Cycle Management Division head Tarachand Balgobin; Institute of

Applied Science and Technology (IAST) Director, Professor Suresh Narine; and University of Guyana (UG) Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi made presentations on behalf of the government. They spoke on infrastructure, human resources and energy respectively.

Presenting on behalf of the private sector were Private Sector

Commission (PSC) members Ramesh Dookoo, who spoke on non-Caribbean trade; Michael Correia, who spoke on aviation; and Captain Gerry Gouveia, who touched on tourism.

Gouveia highlighted several areas that priority should be given to including marketing, accessibility, nation branding, product development, pricing and safety and security.

He also commended the Tourism Ministry and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), particularly in the areas of accessibility to Guyana and nation branding.

His private sector colleague Dookhoo said the small size of Guyana’s domestic economy and the importance of trade as a major source of economic growth and employment make trade a critical policy area.

Dookhoo outlined some of the challenges in the sector, including weak public-private dialogue on international trade negotiations, significant non-tariff barriers from trade partners, poor infrastructure, outdated import/export procedures and weak institutional structures.

Among the recommendations highlighted were the strengthening of trade agreements, introduction of the single window system, a certification laboratory for sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, improved monitoring of ports for illegal drugs, investments in infrastruc-

ture, particularly the road to Lethem and the deep water harbour, reengineering of Go-Invest and challenging consulates and embassies/high commissions overseas to identify opportunities for trade.

Aviation policy

Correia recommended the drafting of a national aviation policy which should address inter alia airspace, the regulatory framework, market access for foreign carriers, efficient and user-friendly airports, international safety standards and regulations governing fuel and lubricants and systems for crisis and disaster management, including search and rescue.

Professor Opadeyi highlighted some of the challenges to human resources development, including the low level of adult literacy and numeracy, inadequate levels of performance in STEM subjects (science, technology, English language and mathematics), undertrained teachers and trainers and low Internet and information continued on page 21

Surama ecolodge, Surama Village north rupununi region nine

Suriname

diplomat

appointed Caricom Deputy Secretary General

Caricom has appointed Surinamese national Manorma Soeknandan as its new deputy secretary general, the secretariat announced on Wednesday.

Ambassador Soeknandan assumed duties at the Caricom Secretariat on February 1. She succeeds Ambassador Lolita Applewhaite.

A familiar figure in the community, Ambassador Soeknandan served as resident ambassador of the Republic of Suriname to Guyana from 2001 to January 2013. She was accredited as that nation’s ambassador to Caricom and to Jamaica in January 2002. During her tenure as resident ambassador in Guyana, she became the dean of the diplomatic corps. She has represented her country, including as head of delegation, in several meetings of Caricom’s organs and bodies.

Ambassador Soeknandan has extensive diplomatic experience in the international/regional arena, with competencies in managing inter-state relations through diplomatic channels, negotiating cooperation arrangements between states and institutions, and negotiat-

ing with international development partners.

The new deputy secretary general also has experience in a wide range of areas, such as managing human and financial resources; strategic leadership and operational management; negotiating treaties, agreements, protocols; public awareness and public education.

Ambassador Soeknandan holds a Bachelor of Laws degree (LL B.) from Anton de Kom University and worked for 27 years as a lawyer with the government of Suriname. She also served as head and manager of several departments with the Justice and Police Ministry, including manager of computerisation projects.

Full Gospel church in Guyana celebrates 50th anniversary

The Full Gospel Fellowship of Churches (FGF), one of the leading Christian denominations in Guyana, is celebrating its 50th year of existence.

The year-long activities planned to coincide with the fellowship’s Golden Jubilee anniversary were officially launched last Saturday with a prayer breakfast held at the Marian Academy located on Carifesta Avenue.

Among the hundreds in attendance were Prime Minister Sam Hinds, Opposition Leader David Granger, Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman, other political leaders and heads of various Christian denominations in Guyana.

Presenting the fellowship’s history was Professor Winston McGowan, who noted that it started out of a vision God gave to the late Philip Mohabir, a Guyanese who had migrated to the United Kingdom.

Mohabir returned to Guyana and along with several other persons started the fellow-

ship in April of 1964. Today, the FGF consists of about 120 churches located all across the 10 administrative regions. McGowan, who is also a member of the fellowship’s highest leadership body, highlighted that the FGF was a unique denomination as it was native to Guyana.

He pointed out that the majority of the workers were Guyanese and the organisation was not at any stage overly

dependent on overseas sources for financial and other support.

Superintendant of the fellowship, Apostle Elsworth Williams, declared the celebrations open. Acknowledging God’s faithfulness to the fellowship over the years, he stressed that there is much more to achieve. He called for leadership in the churches and nationally.

The theme of the celebrations is “Let’s cele-

brate! Together we build; together we achieve!” The fellowship has several activities planned for the rest of the year, particularly during the month of July. These include a relay torch run, a march of witness, community projects, evangelistic outreaches and a youth extravaganza. The celebrations will culminate in December with a celebration rally in Corentyne, Berbice.

Prime minister Sam Hinds, Superintendent of the assemblies of god church, reverend John Smith, his wife Pastor Jean Smith, apostle elsworth williams (in jacket) and his wife Pastor carmen williams at the prayer breakfast

new caricom deputy Secretary general manorma Soeknandan

Times Notebook

Blackmail politics hurting Guyana

Times Notebook is concerned that opposition politicians have descended into blackmail politics in a treacherous political agenda designed to grab power through the backdoor.

The opposition leader is blackmailing the president when he insists that he will not support the appointments of the acting chief justice and the acting chancellor of the judiciary.

It is blackmail politics intended to intimidate the chief justice and the chancellor who have proven that they would make judgments in accordance with the law.

Blackmail politics was used by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) against the home affairs minister in 2013. They voted against a bill to eliminate illegal and illicit arms and ammunition into the country.

By rejecting the bill APNU and the AFC allowed criminals access to illegal and illicit arms and ammunition that kill

people daily in our country. The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) was brought to a halt because APNU and the AFC did not want a particular person to be on the ERC.

On February 10, Basil Williams announced that if roads in “their communities” are not in the budget, they will cut the budget when it is presented in Parliament. We thought that politicians from any party would want development in every community. What does a politician mean by “our people”? Will the opposition reject the no-

tion that there are people in Guyana who are not “their people”?

Violent protests

The use of violent protests is one of the oldest forms of blackmail politics. The Linden protest in 2012 was nothing less than blackmail politics to destabilise the country. Miners and foresters could not do their business because of the violent blocking off of Linden in 2012. This is not dissimilar to the tactics promoted by the People’s National Congress (PNC) and the United Force (UF) in the

early 1960s when they promoted violent protests in Georgetown and other parts of Guyana.

The fiasco surrounding the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill is a good example of blackmail politics practised by APNU and AFC. Guyana will face treacherous consequences if it is blacklisted.

After 10 months, APNU could not tell the country what amendments it wanted in order to pass the AML/CFT Bill. Yet, at the last moment before Parliament on February 10, APNU proposed amendments.

Among the amendments APNU wants is to give power to the police to stop and seize money from citizens or visitors if that amount is more than Gy$2 million. Does any citizen in Guyana, regardless of which political party you support, want this power in the police?

It is a strategy by

APNU and the AFC to use blackmail every time in order to create as much pain for our people and country so that they could grab power through the backdoor.

PPC

AFC leaders have said from the beginning that they have no objection against the present bill. Yet, in the worst example of blackmail politics, they have tied their support in Parliament to the appointment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC).

The AFC leaders are guilty of blackmail politics because they are part of a mechanism in Parliament that must nominate the members of the PPC for the president to appoint. Can the AFC demonstrate that those nominees have been submitted for appointment?

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), made up of a majority of APNU and AFC members, agreed to a public advertisement for persons to be recommended or for persons to apply to be

possible nominees for the PPC, and the deadline for submissions was extended. The PAC will consider these names and then make nominations from among these persons to be submitted to the president.

The president is still waiting on Parliament, through the PAC, to submit these names to him in order for him to appoint the PPC. Yet the AFC insists that the president must name the commission now before supporting the AML/CFT.

Narrow political agendas

Clearly, these political parties pursue narrow political agendas to defer, reduce, and destroy development in Guyana. The only motivation of APNU, AFC and their partners is to subvert development. The stubborn use of blackmail politics by APNU and AFC is an insult and an assault on the people of Guyana.

In Belize where the AML/CFT Bill can harm their off-shore banking industry, Belizean politicians came together to pass the bill, because they know the consequences would be far worse than any impact on the off-shore banking industry.

If our politicians cannot be patriotic and do the right thing for our country, Times Notebook urges the people of Guyana to stand in solidarity to protect the interest of our country by rejecting blackmail politics.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email or Facebook to times.notebook@gmail. com.

Guyanese students explore career options at UG event

The University of Guyana (UG) last Friday hosted its annual Career/ Open Day Fair under the theme “Honouring the past, moulding the present, transforming the future”.

The opening ceremony held in the George Walcott Lecture Theatre, was attended by hundreds, many of whom were students from various schools across the country.

This year, 38 organisations participated in the fair, including the Global Networks Group, Banks DIH, Hits and Jams Radio, the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Revenue

Authority.

In addition to these organisations, the university also had on hand, members from the Berbice campus, its religious societies and representatives from the different faculties of the university.

UG School of Earth and Environmental Sciences Coordinator Linda Johnson- Bhola said the university embodies the hope of Guyana’s future.

“This is not just a celebration for us; it is not just another open career day, it is a unique one, one that coincides with 50 years of the existence of this university.”

According to Johnson-

Bhola, when the university was founded 50 years ago, it was intended to prepare the best and brightest minds among the nation’s children to develop Guyana and despite limited resources, the school is on its way to achieving this objective.

UG Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr Phillip DaSilva in an invited comment said the university is happy to be playing a role in assisting students to be able to identify suitable careers which they may wish to pursue, and in doing so, receive whatever guidance is necessary through the annual career day activity.

even at the last minute, guyanese politicians could not abandon their combative, fruitless way of doing business to save guyana

Legal fraternity weighs in on Sukul’s controversy

Members of the legal fraternity in Guyana have weighed in on the Rabi Sukul controversy, describing the incident as unfortunate and a slap in the face of the country’s judicial integrity.

Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General Anil Nandlall when asked whether the court matter involving Sukul was ongoing in the UK at the time he was appointed as a judge at the Court of Appeal in Guyana last July, Nandlall said “it appeared so”.

The attorney general explained that the appointment of judges is done by the president, based upon recommendations by the Judicial Service Commission.

“The Judicial Service Commission is an independent body under the Constitution and they are supposed to conduct all the background checks when making recommendations for appointments,” he stated.

On this note, Nandlall directed all further questions on the Sukul issue to the commission. Nevertheless, he noted that it is expected that the commission recommends persons who are fit to hold a high office of a judge or, as in this instance, an appeal judge.

The attorney general explained that when a first recommendation is made to the president, and he does not find favour with it, he returns it to the commission for reconsideration.

He noted that if after the reconsideration, the commission still recommends the same person to the president; the president will be obliged to concur with the decision.

However, the minister said that this was not the case with Sukul, pointing out that the president had accepted the recommendation for him.

“Sukul’s recommendation

was accepted at first because his application to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) was supported by the recommendations of distinguish people in the legal fraternity in the United Kingdom,” he explained.

Efforts by this newspaper to contact the chancellor of the judiciary for a comment proved futile.

Surprised

Guyana Bar Association (GPA) President, Attorney Ronald Burch-Smith said he is surprised to learn about the situation. The attorney highlighted that the former judge was recently appointed and the association is concerned about whether at the time of his appointment the matter was already in progress and he intentionally withheld it from the Judicial Service Commission.

This, Burch-Smith said, is a matter of concern for the bar association. He questioned whether the commission was aware of Sukul’s matter in the UK or had requested information from the UK authorities on Sukul’s character. “These are relevant questions I intend to address with the JSC,” he stated.

However, Burch-Smith acknowledged that the acting chancellor acted swiftly by asking for Sukul’s resigna-

tion after confirming his disbarment in the UK.

“So there was no ambiguity and he seemed to have been taken by surprise by this entire situation,” GBA president noted.

Sukul was disbarred from practice in the UK by the Bar Council of England and Wales for misleading his client by drafting false grounds of appeal. According to the Law Society Gazette, the bar’s disciplinary tribunal heard that Sukul, who was with the Balham Chambers in London, drafted a document to the Court of Appeal setting out initial grounds for an appeal against conviction on behalf of his client, who was convicted of drugs-related offences.

The tribunal found he had created the document, knowing it to be false, with the intention of misleading his client into believing he had grounds to appeal his conviction, when Sukul knew there were no grounds of appeal.

The five-person tribunal, chaired by Michael Baker, QC, found unanimously that Sukul had intentionally misled his client and engaged in conduct likely to bring the legal profession into disrepute. Sukul was ordered to be disbarred in the UK; however, that decision is open to appeal.

Govt partnering with NGOs to tackle teen pregnancy

With Guyana recording the second highest rate of adolescent pregnancy in the Caribbean and South America, the Health Ministry is pushing for greater partnership with non-governmental organisations to bring the numbers down.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) “State of the World Population 2013” Report, issued in November, indicated that 97 out of every 1000 girls between the ages of 15 and 19 are giving birth in Guyana. In South America, Guyana followed Ecuador, which recorded the highest rate with 100 out of every 1000 within the age range of 15-19 years giving birth. The Dominican Republic was cited as having the highest rate in the Caribbean, with 98 teens out of every 1000 getting pregnant.

Speaking with Guyana Times International on Sunday, Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran said the ministry is looking to partner with a vibrant group that has made its name across the globe – the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO). Dr Ramsaran noted that the GWMO, over the past two years, has been very instrumental in rescuing victims of human trafficking, primarily women, in interior locations. He said the Health Ministry could capitalise on the vigour of the organisation, headed by U.S. State Department 2013 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Hero Simona Broomes.

According to the health minister, teenage pregnancy in the

hinterland is becoming more and more alarming, with teenagers indulging in sexual activity at a very tender age. He stressed that partnership with organisations such as the GWMO can reduce the numbers.

At the Health Ministry, major emphasis is being placed on teenage pregnancy and its complications.

Meanwhile, prior to the release of the UNFPA’s “State of the World Population 2013” Report, the government of Guyana had informed the United Nations Rights of the Child Committee that approximately 3000 girls become pregnant on a yearly basis.

In the UNFPA report, it was stated that impoverished, uneducated girls living in rural areas are more likely to become pregnant than other girls who are educated and wealthy. “Girls from ethnic minorities or marginalised groups and those who have limited or no access to sexual and reproductive health are also at great risk,” the UNFPA pointed out.

According to the report, approximately seven million girls in poor countries give birth before reaching the age of 18 every year, with two million of them being 14 years old or younger. Every day in developing countries, 20,000 girls below age 18 give birth, while girls under the age of 15 account for two million of the annual total of 7.3 million new adolescent mothers. If this trend continues, three million girls under the age of 15 will give birth every year by 2030.

Ali underscores importance of tourism to national development...

technology (IT) penetration due to high costs.

He outlined some of the proposed initiatives which included establishment of a National Education Planning Secretariat, support for online and distance education programmes, a strategic IT penetration programme, resuscitation of the National Science Council, increasing the minimum qualification for a high school teacher to be a first degree and inclusion of more foreign languages and exchange programmes in schools, particularly in Spanish and Portuguese.

He added that the University of Guyana (UG) plans to launch four online degree pro-

grammes by March 2014 so that prospective students do not have to physically attend the university.

He added that this would be particularly beneficial for prospective students who live far away from the two established UG campuses.

Professor Narine noted that all of the issues related to energy are well documented in the public domain. These included high costs for energy and the need to develop alternative sources of power generation.

Taskforce

He added that the major recommendation of his group was the need for a taskforce to be set up by President Ramotar

for the purpose of drafting a national energy policy.

in two years) and longterm actions (10 years).

The key short-term actions included upgrading of the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, the Bartica/Issano Road, the East Bank Essequibo Road and the Parika Backdam Road, which is to benefit from a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) grant.

and a deep water harbour.

He suggested that the taskforce should include a wide cross-section of members from the government, private sector, opposition, academia, the Guyana Energy Agency and the Office of the Prime Minister.

Balgobin, the other government representative, outlined urgent short-term actions (with-

The longer-term actions include the Kurupukari/Mora Road, paving of the Linden/ Lethem Road, developing an alternative road between the East Coast and West Coast of Demerara (WCD), reconstruction of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, dredging of the Demerara River, establishment of a container terminal on the WCD

President Ramotar empowered the aviation group to continue their work by drafting the policy for review and adoption by Cabinet. He lauded all the groups for the work done and proposed that all recommendations by the thematic working groups be adopted across the board and that the responsibility for monitoring and implementation of these policies will rest with the National Competitiveness Strategy Steering Committee chaired by Minister Ali. This motion was unanimously agreed upon and carried by the NCC.

rabi Sukul

attorney general anil nandlall

ninety-seven out of every 1000 girls between the ages of 15 and 19 are giving birth in guyana

Professor Suresh narine

Dakara creek murder victim was raped and strangled

Apost-mortem conducted on the body of Savatri Gangadeen-Parma, who was found aback Dakara Creek, Timehri, on Sunday, proved that she died from strangulation and a broken neck.

The post-mortem was performed by pathologist, Dr Nehaul Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital on Monday and was witnessed by the dead woman’s sister, Sharon Gangadeen, who confirmed that under her sister’s nails had pieces of skin that were probably scraped off from her attacker.

Sharon said her sister met a horrible death, pointing out that after her attacker strangled her, he admitted to breaking her neck.

The suspect, whose name was given as “Carlos”, reportedly told investigators that after he ordered the woman out of the car, he raped her, then bound her hands and feet and made her walk to a location about two miles from where her car was left abandoned.

Thick vegetation

After reaching an area among the thick vegetation, he raped her again, but was met with some resistance. It was at this point Carlos ripped out his boot lace and strangled the mother of two. Not satisfied, he twisted her neck and left her nude body in a clump of bushes.

With scratches on his face and body, he reportedly told police that he never meant to hurt the woman, but after she put up a fight, he resorted to violence.

dead: Savatri gangadeen-Parma

The woman reportedly pleaded to the man for mercy, claiming that her son was in the car, but he did not show any remorse until he was arrested.

Guyana Times International was told that after the woman’s screams were heard from the bushes, members of the community policing group and her relatives were willing to find her location, but were told by a CID rank attached to the Timehri Police Station to “stand down”, suggesting that the woman might have been with her lover.

The said rank was present at the murder scene and was bombarded by the woman’s relatives for discontinuing the search. Relatives were furious with the decision, contending that if he did not pass the order, the woman would have been alive.

The nude body of the mother of two was on Sunday morning found aback Dakara Creek, Timehri, East Bank Demerara, in a heavily forested area.

Gangadeen-Parma was discovered about 06:00h by her husband and oth-

er relatives.

The suspect, a loader/operator attached to a well known trucking service on the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, was arrested on Sunday afternoon with one of the woman’s rings in his pants pocket.

It was reported that on Saturday evening, Gangadeen-Parma contacted her husband while he was in St Cuthbert’s Mission, informing him that she was going to drop off two passengers at a “loam pit” in Timehri and was taking her younger son as company.

Conflicting reports

After some time elapsed and there was no word from his wife, Kissoon Parma called her and she gave him conflicting reports, claiming at one time that she was coming, and another time that she was at the airport. She was reportedly forced by the suspect to give those reports.

After some time passed, he called her again and was told the same thing, so, he decided to drive to the location she told him she was heading.

As he approached the area, he saw his wife’s car and his son sleeping in the back seat, but there was no sign of the woman. As he looked around, he found his wife’s clothing and thought that something was amiss; hence, he telephoned the CPG, relating his concerns.

Gangadeen was found lying face down with her footwear and other belongings found along the track leading to where her body was discovered.

The race To The alTer Couples get early 'honeymoon' at Arrowpoint Nature Resort

The five couples participating in the Roraima Wedding Expo “The Race to the Altar” competition were treated to a day of fun and adventure at the Arrowpoint Nature Resort.

The couples vying for the prize of a fullysponsored grand wedding, which will be held on March 29 at the Duke Lodge, are: Felicity Smith and Denzil Dublin, Pride Bacchus and Devina Narine, Fareeda Ghanie and Nigel Canterbury, Ryan Fletchman and Maria Prince, and Romel Mc Lean and Nazeema Kalil.

This is the second time the competition has been held. On Friday evening, St Valentine’s Day, the couples were introduced to the public and treated to a romantic dinner. Then very early on Saturday morning, they left Georgetown for the resort, which is located approximately 45 minutes up the Demerara River in the Kamuni River (Pokerero Creek).

When they arrived, the couples were treated to breakfast after which they were briefed on the activities for the day. During this time, they

had discussions on social issues and were given a brief history of the resort and the area. The couples also had an interactive session where they spoke about themselves, their partners, and their relationships.

Jungle trails

They then set out on a tour of the ‘jungle’ trails where they trekked side by side. Half way through, the couples were challenged to a race. They then continued deeper into the woods until they came across a small lake from where they had to kayak back to resort.

According to the couples, it was most challenging and they all realised that they could not have done it alone. They said it took a lot of patience, communication, and cooperation for them to accomplish the task.

Kayaking is very strenuous, so after they returned and had relaxed a bit, the couples had lunch. They were then back at it again with a friendly competition of volleyball. This too, they noted, showed them that cooperation was important in their relationships as it allowed them to get the task done more easily.

The rains came and so the couples got a chance to cuddle up indoors and take in the wonderful day they have had. Then came the biking, the last activity which they enjoyed immensely.

Roraima Group of Companies Chairman, Captain Gerry Gouveia had a sit down with the couples, advising them on the importance of a relationship and family. He then enquired what they had learnt from the day’s activities. A quick snack and short relaxation period ended a memorable day for the five couples. Meanwhile, on Thursday, the couples were treated to a breathtaking aerial tour of Georgetown, compliments of Roraima Airways. Captain Gouveia himself flew the couples over the capital.

The next event for the couples will be a visit to their home by “The Race to the Altar” cameras, giving them a chance to show a bit of themselves and talk in a more comfortable environment. All of this will be aired on television, and the public can vote for the couple of their choice via Facebook or phone to help chose a winner, who will be announced on February 27.

PPP/C expresses support for Maduro

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has extended solidarity with the government of Venezuela in what appeared to be a well orchestrated attempt by the opposition parties with backing from local and overseas reactionary groups to destabilise the democratically-elected Maduro administration from office.

The ruling party in a statement said it has been following closely developments in that neighbouring state and wished to condemn in the strongest possible terms the loss of innocent lives by provocateurs, whose only objective is to reverse the clock of history

and restore the old order, based on privileges for the wealthy class at the expense of the poor and the downtrodden.

The party said it applauds the enormous economic and social gains made by the Venezuelan government under the

charismatic leadership of the late President Hugo Chavez and now President Maduro on behalf of the Venezuelan

people, in particular, the ordinary working people.

The PPP/C said the political opposition had hoped that with the passing of Chavez, the Bolivarian revolution would have lost momentum. However, much to their chagrin and disappointment, the aspirations and dreams of Simon Bolivar for a free, democratic and just order in Latin America is continuing unabated. Contest

“The current unrest in Venezuela has to be seen in that context. The party calls on the opposition forces to respect the will and the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people and to desist from all at-

tempts to incite violence and unrest in the society.

“The PPP/C empathises with the Venezuelan government in its attempt to raise the quality of life of the Venezuelan people in the face of a hostile political opposition, a situation all too familiar with what is taking place in Guyana where the combined political opposition is using its one-seat majority to blackmail the country and thwart the developmental agenda of the PPP/C government,” the statement said.

The PPP/C said it is confident that the will of the Venezuelan people will prevail over the forces of backwardness and reaction.

the march against President nicolas maduro’s government descended into violence

The five couples pose for a group photo before their aerial tour of Georgetown

Kwasi “Ace” trumps at soca monarch

Two-time Carib Soca Monarch

Jumo Primo had dreamt of defending his title for another year, but his dream was shattered after a “tongue-licking” performance by Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson early Sunday morning at the National Park arena.

Edmonson performed his song “Still In the Game”, and sealed the deal with his creative and poetic skills. Outshining 13 other artistes in this year’s competition, Edmondson’s “hip hop/hard talk” presentation had the audience in a frenzy as he bashed several of his colleagues.

He did not spare Primo indicating to him that his reign was over, since he was there to take over. He then turned his attention to Orlando “Bonesman” Johashen who sang “Blow”. He also had a few words for “Shelly G” who he said is back “in the game” but “Mr Limpy” cannot help her to win the monarchy. His tremendous impromptu talent on stage definitely did justice to his performance, adding the spice and humour the crowd was starved of.

Coming in at second spot was Primo who dished out “On The Road”. The overconfident soca sensation thought that he had the title in his pocket, but his performance lacked certain elements. His stage performance was undoubtedly one of the best for the evening which saw his fans waving and jumping, but clearly it was not enough for the judges.

In third spot was “Bonesman” who was the first to launch attacks on fellow artistes as he dished out his popular song. It was more like stand-up comedy with lots of energy. He zoomed in on the X2 singers, as well as Edmondson and others. He too had the audience screaming and bursting out into hearty laughter.

Copping the fourth place was Jonathan “Lil Red” King with his song, “Who We Are”, as he invaded the National Park arena in grand style, creating a carnival-like atmosphere. His entire costume and set was, appropriately enough, red with a touch of gold. He had the audience gyrating to his vibes and was very creative, with a truck that elevated him into the air. He performed to the delight of his audience but the judges had their own criteria.

Best newcomer

The best newcomer prize of

Gy$100,000 went to “Kemmy” who performed “Designated Winer” and was the first to start the competition, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

All in all, the night saw some very rowdy performances and some that put you to sleep. One such performance was that of Ernesta Nelson, who performed “Ridiculous Wining” and, believe it or not, the name spoke for itself. For more than 15 minutes on stage, she made sure that all her dancers showed the audience and the judges how to wine. Kudos must be given to her for her excellent costume that captivated the crowd’s attention. At the beginning of the competition, she performed a little “R&B”-like piece that did not go down well.

In Berbice, she had underlined her name in the semi-finals, but with a totally different routine in the final, “Lady T” was just not ladylike as she climbed onto the roof of the stage to perform her piece, “Hit the Road”.

Some of the other performances that were outstanding but did not place were Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts with “Yada Yada”, Clinton “Passion” Adolphus with “Cost of Living”, and that of Abigail AJ James who made her way to the front of the stage on a CBR. “Shelly G” also had the audience behind her, but the judges did not see the need to give her a place.

Roger Bowen performed satisfactorily before the audience, but there was another unimpressive performance by Quacy “Avalanche” Coates. As the judges made their decision, guest artiste Kes the Band, specifically lead singer Kees, had the audience in the palm of his hand with his excellent stage performance. As usual, he dished out some of his best soca songs, which had the crowd going wild.

After a while, he switched gears and tried a few reggae songs much to the delight of his fans. As is a norm during his performances, he started to stripping, starting with his tie and then his shirt, and lo and behold, the ladies were uncontrollable.

In addition, he invited a young woman onto stage who showcased her dancing talent and can be described as steamingly hot. His time, though, was cut short by the police who stopped the band from playing for reasons unknown. Just after 04:00h, the emcees Kirk “Chow Pow” Jardin and Leslyn Lashley rushed through the results.

Rupununi music and arts festival attracts international performances

The three-day Rupununi Music and Arts Festival concluded Sunday evening with organisers hailing it as a great success.

The festival had an auspicious start at the Rock View Lodge in the Annai community of Region Nine on Friday. It was formally opened by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who commended the organisers for launching an event that brought performers from across the world to Guyana’s interior. He said tourism has been identified as a sector that can foster development by attracting overseas visitors to experience Guyana’s unique flora and fauna. To this end, new airlines and the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport are in train to take advantage of the new opportunities available, along with the construction of the soon-to-beopened Marriott Hotel, the prime minister said.

The fact that Guyana has been listed as one of the top 21 places to visit in 2014, by the prestigious National Geographic Traveler Magazine, was also noted. The prime minister

also took the opportunity to present a Gy$5 million cheque to the organisers as a show of government’s support for the inaugural event.

For acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, the event was about being able to experience global music. “Music is one of the most beautiful forms of bringing people together, culture together and having humanity embracing each other.”

Minister Ali, observing the large influx of overseas guests and performers, reminded them that they could always extend their stay in what he described as the cleanest and most beautiful area in Guyana. The minister also commended the organisers for initiating the programme and using local talent and skills to ensure its success.

The event was also described by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett as a unique way to showcase the interior of Guyana to many who believe that Guyana basically starts and ends on the coastal region. It will also benefit surrounding indigenous communities, she noted, and they will learn from it.

Coordinator and

Rock View owner Colin Edwards said the event was not easy to organise, and while he acknowledged that some mistakes may have been made inadvertently, next year’s festival would build on and improve on what was described by many who attended as a wonderful event.

Edwards thanked all the entities that made the event possible. These include government, the tourism and Amerindian affairs ministries, embassies, local banks, and a myriad of private sponsors.

Annai’s Toshao Mark George also welcomed the hundreds of visitors and urged them to enjoy what he termed “the most beautiful part of Guyana”. He asked them to encourage others to come and experience what the community has to offer. The performers included Marc Mathews (spoken word); Keith Waithe (jazz & world flautist); Chuckie (Marlon Adams) and the Buxton Children’s Group; Fusion African drumming; Raghu’s Indian Tassa drummers; Ras Camo; Indus Voices and Dance Worqs; Trevor Rogers; Desmond Atherly; Desmond Atiwell; and the Surama Cultural Group. The international performers were Zambian Namvula, Filligar (U.S.A.); Iryna Muha (UK/ Ukraine); Ramon Goose (UK); Pavel Ván? (Czech Republic); Aref Durvesh (UK); and Drew Gonsalves (Canada via Trinidad), the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Jumo Primo performing at the national Park on Saturday evening

the new king, kwasi “ace” edmondson

roll the drum: guyana’s acting tourism minister irfaan ali trying his hand at drumming

Former U.S. army sergeant dies in bike accident

Vincent Indallall, 37, a former member of the U.S. Army and of Cromarty Village, Corentyne, was on Monday morning killed when he allegedly lost control of his motorcycle CC1042 and crashed into a utility pole on the Clifton Public Road.

The motorcycle ended up on the southern side of the road in a trench, shattering a lamp post in the process. He was picked up in an unconscious state with his left hand severed and was rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to reports, Indallall, in the company of two other bikers were proceeding east along the Tain Public Road after attending a Car and Bike Show in East Canje, Berbice. The group made

a stop at Tain, where he dropped off one of the bikers. He was on his way home when the accident occurred.

When Guyana Times International visited the family, his sister was in a state of disbelief as she could not have come to grips with the news of his tragic death.

According to the dead

man’s sister, Crystal Indallall, “My brother was coming home and he was braced off the road by one of his friends (name given) from what people are telling me. I saw my brother last night before he left to see his friends at Canje. The next was when I saw his body and it was the most devastating thing to see. His left arm was severed, his intestines were protruding and his head was badly smashed,” she said as she wept uncontrollably.”

Indallall was described as a wonderful person with a golden heart. “He never refused anyone anything, even if it was his last, he would give, he was a true gentleman,” one elderly person said.

Meanwhile, the dead man’s family is refuting claims by certain sections of the media that Indallall

was under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred.

According to his friend “Rish”, whenever Indallall rides, he would not drink or if he does, he will park his bike.

He and other close friends and relatives are suspecting foul play as Vincent would never ride at a speed which he cannot control. The bike Indallall was riding at the time was described as a 1300 High booster, one of the biggest bikes in Guyana.

According to reports, people were always tempting him to see the full power of the bike, but he would never comply, only going at a pace that was controllable. When this newspaper visited the accident scene, the burgundy and black bike was torn into pieces.

According, to eyewit-

De Professor retains calypso crown

retaining the calypso monarch 2014 crown

Lester “De Professor” Charles out of the mining town of Linden lived up to his name, teaching his rivals a lesson as he retains his calypso monarch title on Friday evening.

Performing before a huge crowd at the Demerara Park, De Professor for the second time in succession outshone his 10 competitors, leaving the judges with no difficulty in deciding who the winner is.

Taking full advantage of the stage, he belted out “The Truth”, creating a whirlwind among fans, who enjoyed every minute of his performance.

Coming in second for the second consecutive year was Roger Hinds also called “Young Bill Rogers”.

Decked out in a short trousers and jersey, he dished out “I Ain’t Singing About That” and in third spot was Kenroy “Mighty Believer” Fraser, who sang “Cant

Tek The Government No More”.

Immediately after being crowned the 2014 calypso monarch, De Professor told Guyana Times International that he was fully ready for competition night and did not expect to retain the title, claiming that every contestant brought their A Game.

It was during and after his performance, he realised that based on the crowd’s reaction, he knew that he had the edge over the others.

De Professor said he respected his challengers and congratulated them for their performances during the competition.

He said he was happy to retain the title, but feels that calypso has been sidelined by the administration.

De Professor reiterated that calypso is an art form that gives artistes an opportunity to highlight the ills of society and did not agree when it was banned from local airwaves; hence, his tune “The Truth”.

Thanks

He, however, thanked the Almighty for giving him the strength to perform and be successful while praising his sponsors, manager and fans for supporting him.

His arch rival, Hinds, said his song had all the elements of an excellent calypso and thought that he did well on stage, but concurred that De Professor was better.

While, he was seemingly not too happy with the judges’ decision, he said the judges had their criteria to which they were guided. He felt that the judges should have paid more attention to topic, composition, melody, originality and compatibility rather than crowd reaction.

After the results were released, the “Mighty Believer” disappeared, thus getting a reaction from him was futile.

Meanwhile, the competition started about 21:00h with Garfield “The Mighty Roots” Campbell performing modestly before the crowd.

There were also some exciting performances from Daria Barrow, who dished out “Vote Chiney Fuh Cup”; Dawn “Lady D” Edwards who sang “They Banned That”; and reigning junior calypso monarch, Shontelle Gittens who sang “Chinese Taking Over”.

Veteran journalist Enrico Woolford was the chief judge of the competition.

He was ably assisted by several other judges, including Cecil Semple, Hugh Dembo, Sean Bhola, Margaret Lawrence, Tyrone Arjune and Sandra Hooper.

nesses, they heard the bike approaching and shortly after a loud impact.

Based on their accounts of the accident, the bike first hit a traffic signboard, then crashed into a lamp post, catapulting several hundred feet in the air, hitting a streetlight at the top of the pole, before landing into a nearby trench, littering the sur-

rounding with debris.

According to police, the two other bikers are assisting with investigations.

Indallall, a former U.S. Army sergeant, leaves to mourn his wife and four sons ages eight, 13, 14 and 16. He re-migrated to Guyana in 2012 and would occasionally visit the U.S.

Guyanese-born curator to present “Modern-Guyana” at N.Y. exhibition

Last month Guyaneseborn curator Grace Ali was awarded a landmark curatorial fellowship by the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, to research and present “Modern Guyana”, the first major New York City exhibition featuring Guyanese contemporary photography, in 2015.

This April, at New York Public Library’s Schomburg Centre for Research in Black Culture, she will host a discussion with some of the participating photographers. She will return to Guyana as part of her research for the project.

Over the past several years, Ali has been collecting and sharing scholarship about Guyana. In 2003, she leveraged a Fulbright scholarship to travel to India, excavating the transplanted roots of her Indian background.

As a “Young Global Shaper” at World Economic Forum’s 2013 annual meeting, she participated in high-level conversations focused on raising awareness of Guyana’s art and culture.

That same year, she wrote the cover story and curated a landmark issue of the Nueva Luz Journal featuring Guyanese photographers. She is, perhaps, the only individual doing this work, looking at

guyanese-born curator grace ali

the artistic and cultural production from Guyana, a nation stereotyped by poverty and the People’s Temple suicide tragedy decades ago. Ali is also the founder and editorial director of OF NOTE, one of the first online magazines focused on global artists using the arts as catalysts for activism and social change. She is an adjunct professor of literature for the City University of New York. Ali currently hosts the Visually Speaking series at the Schomburg Centre, which examines the state of photojournalism through the lens of contemporary photographers and image-makers. Ali was born in Guyana and immigrated to the U.S. when she was 14 years old. Guyana continues to inform and influence her worldview. The artist can be reached on telephone number (646)421-4283 or via e-mail at havelockn@ gmail.com.

lester “de Professor” charles reaching out to fans moments after

Second place winner roger “young bill rogers” Hinds performing before fans at the demerara Park on Friday evening

Vincent indallall

the mangled motorcycle following the accident

Rohee says no...

the matter… but we have not come to any formal decision on it.”

However, he told reporters that the party, in the not-so-distant future, will make a public announcement on the matter. “The comrade has taken positions on a voluntary basis,” he said.

Currently, Junior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker is acting as the substantive minister.

Persaud had shocked the nation when he announced that he had tendered his resignation, owing to personal reasons and additional responsibilities.

“I, Ganga Persaud, do hereby announce my resignation as minister of local government and regional development with effect from January 31, 2014,” the minister, who was appointed in December 2011, along with 19 other Cabinet members, said in a press statement.

“My resignation as minister of local government and regional development is based on personal issues presently engaging my attention, as well as some additional responsibilities to which I am committed,” he explained.

Tenure

He said it was a pleasure to serve in the capacity of a minister, as he extended gratitude to President Donald Ramotar for investing confidence in him. Reflecting on his tenure, he opined that the ministry made tremendous strides.

According to Persaud, he worked to strengthen the Local Government Department, centrally and regionally.

He pointed out that the department now gives support to neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs) and municipalities across the country.

Persaud had pledged his continued support to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, expressing his full confidence in President Ramotar’s ability to lead the country to greater heights.

Persaud previously served as the permanent secretary of the legal affairs, education and the local government ministries respectively.

Opposition Leader David Granger had said while the resignation came as a surprise, Persaud had done much damage.

Jagdeo versus Kissoon libel case continues

The attorneys in the Jagdeo versus Kissoon libel case are expected to commence arguments on the admissibility of fresh evidence into the defence’s case as the trial continued before Justice Brassington Reynolds on Tuesday.

Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos, representing former president Bharrat Jagdeo at the last session, objected to evidence given by defence witness and trade unionist, Lincoln Lewis. Lewis had begun giving evidence to the effect that the former president was neglecting certain trade unions and the Critchlow Labour College.

The senior counsel had told the court that there are no particulars of the allegations that his client had practised “ideological racism” during his tenure as president.

De Santos had further stated that there are no particulars of general assertions which give the defence the right to lead specific evidence, while adding that if they

proceeded to do so, then the evidence should be inadmissible. The attorney had even opted to lay over authorities to support his stance against the admission of the evidence.

In response, Kissoon’s attorney, Nigel Hughes, stated that the defence case is one of a plea of justification, and as such, witnesses are being called to testify on areas of public and social services where “ideological racism” was practised.

The senior counsel had pointed out that the defence does not have

the right to produce witnesses, but prove that the justifications rely on particulars and not assertions. The defence lawyer subsequently applied for leave to provide the particulars requested by De Santos; however, the senior counsel objected on the grounds that it was premature given the fact that the court had not ruled on his objections.

The presiding judge had then fixed the matter on Tuesday for arguments on these issues and a possible ruling. On that day, however, the senior counsel was not present but Attorney

Sase Gunraj had stoodin, further arguing his senior’s position on the matter.

During the proceedings, the presiding judge had inquired from Hughes what relevance the Critchlow Labour College has with the whole issue of “ideological racism”, to which the attorney responded saying that the principal beneficiaries of the school are predominantly of a certain race, linking it to the fact that the former president had cancel subventions to the school.

After several back and forth arguments, the court set today’s date (Wednesday) for commencement of arguments along with the submission of authorities by De Santos. When the court rules on this matter, Lewis will proceed to continue his evidence in the trial. Jagdeo had sued Kissoon along with Kaieteur News publisher Glenn Lall and Editorin-Chief Adam Harris for Gy$10 million for writing in one in of his columns that Jagdeo is an ideological racist.

Former President bharrat Jagdeo

columnist Freddie kissoon

Buxton pride steals show at Republic Bank’s Pan-o-rama

Steel pan music, the lifeblood of many Caribbean festivities, has taken on a whole new dimension in Guyana, thanks to Republic Bank Limited. At the sixth annual Republic Bank Mashramani Pan-o-rama Steel Pan Competition on Sunday, lovers of this once-fading musical artform were able to experience the spectacular beauty its soulful sounds offer.

Members of the audience could hardly contain themselves as delightful melodies reverberated throughout the main auditorium of the National Cultural Centre (NCC). The event got off to a slow start

around 16:00h with junior and senior solo performances. But by the time contestants in the pan duet and pan jazz categories took to the stage, the audience was hardly able to keep still. The simple pieces were transformed into radiant performances, thanks to the brilliant innovations of the arrangers. Then it was time for the school band segment. And if nothing else pinpointed them, this was the time that the true steel pan enthusiasts were noticed. Patrons were on their feet, waving their hands and screaming at the top of their lungs, because, although the performers of this segment were be-

tween the ages of 11 and 15, they gave vivid life to sticks and pans.

The crowd was even more frenzied when firsttime performers Buxton Pride Steel Orchestra put on an impeccable,

show-stealing performance, eventually winning the school band category. The Pan Wave Academy was also a force to be reckoned with, as their colourful stage presence was uniquely in sync with their enchanting piece.

Heart-warming

For the senior solo category Ray Sparman took the title, while Jerrick Mentore and Clayton Daniels walked away with the duet title. The Guyana Defence Force took the win in the inaugural pan jazz contest, while the Culture, Youth, and Sport Ministry copped the trophy for the large band category.

Republic Bank will present close to Gy$3

million in prizes to each winner. However, Buxton Pride Steel Orchestra will receive 50 per cent of its winnings in cash and the other 50 per cent in instruments. Winners will receive their prizes on March 6 at the Umana Yana.

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said the competition was among the many programmes engaging the ministry, as the country prepares for Mashramani celebrations next Sunday. He explained that the ministry has taken a threepronged approach – intellectual, cultural and social – to the celebrations.

Republic Bank Camp Street Branch Manager

Sherwyn Greaves said the resurgence of the steel pan artform and the inclusion of young players were indeed heart-warming. He said the financial institution remains committed to serving communities, with special emphasis being placed on the empowerment of the nation’s youth. The competition exposed a wide cross-section of Guyana’s children to the artform, enabling them to appreciate a style of music that forms an important part of Guyana’s cultural heritage. The response was so overwhelming in terms of participating schools that a preliminary competition was held on February 14.

members of the buxton Pride Steel orchestra delivering a well-arranged piece

the culture, youth and Sport Ministry Steel Orchestra steals first place in the large band category

The screening of four Guyanese films in the U.S., at the upcoming, prestigious arts event CaFA, is expected to be a showcase of imaginative talent.

Films scheduled for screening are “The Seawall”, “Beached”, “Tin City Voices” and “Rebecca’s Story”.

“The Seawall”, by U.S.-based Guyanese filmmaker Mason Richards, is a narrative short film shot entirely on location in Georgetown and centers around Marjorie, a Guyanese woman, as she prepares for her 10-year old grandson’s move to America to be with his mother. Struggling with loneliness, and abandonment, Marjorie sacrifices her happiness for her grandson’s future. The film debuted at the Cannes Film Festival’s Short Film Corner in 2011.

“Beached”, a 2012 film by Guyanese Kojo McPherson, tells of Nyoike (‘Nyo’) who, in an attempt to get back into the rhythm of his life, returns to his bar after spreading the ashes of his wife, Hope, on

is a story of survival in a slum. Marchand explores a shantytown in Georgetown with the purpose of finding hope among the struggles of an unnoticed population. The film is based on the story of an abused woman, a pregnant mother, and a man struggling to find redemption for his violent life. Their stories do not intersect but run parallel. The film uncovers the psychological environment that confines each of the characters. As Elijah searches, camera in hand, through alleys that form the puzzle pieces of the ghetto, he takes his audience through a stirring story of rebirth and forgiveness among despair and violence.

the Georgetown seawall. Still reeling from the loss he is not in a hospitable mood when his long-time friend and photographer, Fargus, shows up uninvited. Fargus fails to engage Nyo and leaves a picture he had taken of Nyo and Hope on the counter. Nyo’s wedding ring and the picture are all that he has left of his wife.

“Tin City Voices”, by Elijah Marchand, is a documentary filmed in Guyana last year. It

“Rebecca’s Story”, a 2014 film by youths of the Guyanese group Witness Project, is a dramatic short film of an orphaned young reader who yearns to escape from her grandmother’s punitive custody. It gets more interesting when a sudden visit from a neighbour reveals a better way out.

For more information on CaFA and the films, visit cinecaribes.com

'The Seawall' film poster

'Tin city voices' poster

'Beached' film poster

Aflurry of emerging young designers, equipped with a keen sense for fashion, was the highlight at one of Guyana’s premiere fashion events, Guyana Fashion Week (GFW).

The gala event, held last year, provided a catwalk for all creative and youthful designers to showcase their stylish collections.

Three designers who received accolades from GFW’s CEO Sonia Noel were Ashanti Nelson, Keisha Pilgrim and Lushana Walters. Their skills in fabric designing, leather and painted t-shirts, were applauded by veteran designers, both local and international.

The three designers, who are graduates of Burrowes School of Arts, displayed their collections under the ‘Courts/Fly Jamaica

Showcase’. The showcase was wellreceived by critics, and the designers were commended for their ingenious designs.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Lushana Walters stated that her GFW experience was remarkable. “I got a chance to showcase my talent in designing and also got a chance to view professional designer work which helped to give me confidence in my work. I also had the privilege to talk with a few designers who gave me helpful tips and advice about designing. I hope, in the future, to have my own fashion show one day,” she relayed.

The other designers shared Walters’ sentiment and expressed their appreciation for the platform they were given at GFW.

(Photos by Donn Thompson)

32 arts & Culture

For Andrew Dos Santos, art is cathartic because through it, he can express his emotions.

Developing an intrinsic love for art has propelled the artist to pursue it relentlessly, despite negative notions that art is a dead-end career.

In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Andrew revealed that he developed an interest in art during childhood. This interest grew into him passionately pursuing art. Consequently, he attended Burrowes School

of Art, where he honed his talent and graduated with a diploma in Fine Arts.

“Growing up, I always

had an interest for art. I was further inspired to chase after this dream after watching the movie “Titanic”, where I felt the character Jack’s emo-

tions as he passionately drew a portrait of the woman he was in love with,” Andrew recalled.

Initially, the artist employed basic geometric shapes, used to create human figures, trees and other objects, but later developed his skills in using advance art techniques.

“Most of the times I am inspired by emotions; different emotions bring about different types of inspirations and ideas, and I just go with that feeling. Art makes me calm, happy; and it can even be like a puzzle sometimes waiting to be

solved,” he noted.

Apart from painting, graphics and drawing, Andrew is a sculptor who enjoys building models and teaching aids.

The artist has competed in the National Visual Arts Competition 2012 and in the Ninth National Drawing competition 2013. Andrew has extensively exhibited his work. His most recent exhibition was at the Ninth National Drawing Exhibition 2013 held at Castellani House.

“My greatest desire is to establish my own advertising agency. As a young artist myself,

I would like to advise young artists to be patient because once you dedicate your time, you will develop. Reading also plays a vital role. Additionally, learning about past artists and their work will help to develop your own creativity and individuality. Art is as serious as any other profession; a lot of sacrifices need to be made. You have to prepare to deal with criticisms. Keep focused regardless of what others say, and follow your passion,” Andrew encourages. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

artist andrew dos Santos

collage done in 2011

"colonial days in guyana" (2013)

Abdur-Rahman Slade Hopkinson (1934 – 1993)

B y P etam B er P ersaud

Slade Hopkinson was a man of many parts: New Amsterdam, Berbice, Georgetown, Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and North America; parts of the world in which he lived and left his inimitable imprint. Parts he played in the world as head teacher, universi-

out by government departments in the then colony of British Guiana were stamped with the slogan “Freedom Year”, in anticipation of the achievement of independence.”

Abdur-Rahman Slade Hopkinson was born in New Amsterdam, Berbice, in the year 1934. His father, Leonard, was a well known barris-

ty lecturer, journalist, poet, actor, playwright and painter.

And that’s only part of the story; he also played a part in producing the Caribbean first sci-fi writer, Nalo Hopkinson.

Hopkinson would have played a more meaningful part in the arts and literature of Guyana if the country had proper dialysis treatment to offer him while he was here during the late 1960s. But we are mindful if his brief teaching stint at the University of Guyana and his contribution to literature. And the government of the day showed its appreciation by facilitating the publishing of some of his work.

During this short sojourn in his homeland, he found himself caught up in two informal groups – one discussing politics and the other literature. The latter group included Milton Vishnu Williams, the Carter brothers - Martin and Jerome, Ivan Van Sertima, Wilson Harris and Sydney Singh, surveyor, writer and critic.

A political creature, the blurb of “Snowscape with Signature”, describes him as a “preeminent recorder of 20th century Caribbean upheaval”. In a note to the poem, “Guyana: Freedom Year”, he writes, “In the year 1962, all letters sent

in 1954. Two years later, his poetry was featured in Edna Manley’s ‘Focus’ which was quite an achievement in those days.

His poems found their way into other significant outlets like Bim, Caribbean Quarterly, Caribbean Voices, The Gleaner, Breaklight, Savacou, Commonwealth Poems of Today and New Voices of the Commonwealth.

In 1962, he moved to Trinidad with his wife and first child where he joined Derek Walcott’s Trinidad Theatre Workshop. As his wont, wherever he went, he left a greater mark on the society with his acting. This time it was playing the celebrat-

ed Corporal Lestrade in Walcott’s “Dream on Monkey Mountain”. It was during the sixties, he became a Muslim, reflected in his later writing.

Wanting to do something meaningful in drama for the region, Hopkinson founded the Caribbean Theatre Guild in 1970, but increasing kidney failure truncated his theatrical endeavours.

Back in Guyana, he tried to beat the odds in order to give back something more tangible to the society that spawned him. According to Ingrid Fung, during the mid-seventies, he had to abort a theatre workshop for teachers he was running.

Despite his failing health, he managed to put together two collections of poems, “The Madwoman of Papine” and “The Friend”. Both books were published by Curriculum Development Centre, Ministry of Education & Social Development in 1976.

In 1977, he was appointed Vice-Consul of Guyana to Canada, a country where he eventually became a citizen.

His plays include “Sala” and “The Long Vacation”. His short story, “Marcus Aurelius and the Transatlantic Baakoo” was published in the Faber Book of Modern Caribbean Short Stories. Slade Hopkinson

died in 1993, the same year his collection of poems, “Snowscape with Signature” was published. A man of many parts, he left his signature everywhere he went. Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo. com

What’s happening:

• Coming soon, the first reprint of “An Introduction to Guyanese Literature” will be available from the author at the above contacts, Austin’s Book Service (226-7350) and at the National Library (226-2690).

ter and his mother, Neibert, was a nurse and staunch Roman Catholic. Perhaps, it was this religious leaning that accounted for Slade Hopkinson going to St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School, Camp Street and Brickdam, and for him being more studious than athletic as Jerome Carter opined. Hopkinson later attended St. Stanislaus College for a short time. After his father died, Hopkinson moved with his mother to Barbados in 1947. He completed his secondary school education at Harrison College. In 1952, he won an open scholarship to the University College of the West Indies in Jamaica where he gained a B. A. and a Dip. Ed. He played an active role in the university theatre, leaving an indelible mark on the drama fraternity with his remarkable performance in ‘Lear’. While in Jamaica, he met his wife, Freda, worked as a teacher, newspaper editor and information officer for the government of that country.

Hopkinson started writing at university. According to Mervyn Morris, Hopkinson was “already a serious poet” when they met in the early fifties. “The Four and other poems”, his first collection, was published in Barbados

abdhur rahman Slade Hopkinson

The spectacular showcase of costumes on Mashramani day is certainly a highlight of this national celebration. “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44”, this year’s Mash’ theme, is what the minds behind the costumes are working feverishly with to create their masterpieces.

Two such designers are Dorian Obermullar and Surida Nagreadi. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, the designers outlined their plans for the upcoming Mash celebrations and how they intend to create excitement on the roads.

Dorian Obermullar

Designing comes naturally for Dorian. His career in designing started while in high school, where he was designing costumes for students.

“I started costume designing in school and was very involved in the arts. After graduating from high school, I decided I want to make designing a career. I went to Burrowes School of Art and did various workshops with renowned costume designers from the Caribbean.

and Mash. A highlight of my career was competing in a designing event in Trinidad, and placing fourth out of twelve persons. I also took the opportunity to do workshops there, which really helped to sharpen

I learnt about the basics of costumes designs and developed my skills over the years,” he recalled.

The designer’s first major costume design was “Green Dynasty” for Miss Mash International 2006. He received accolades for the design, he noted, and many were impressed with his talents as a young designer.

“As I garnered more experience, I kept designing creative costumes for pageantries

my talent,” Dorian reminisced.

Although Dorian enjoys designing for adults, he prefers to create costumes for children. He disclosed that working with children is more manageable, which gives him scope to fully express himself as a designer.

“For adults’ costumes, entities usually do not have sufficient funds. This somewhat stifles my concepts be-

cause I cannot get to express myself the way I want to because I am confined to a strict budget. However, with the children’s costumes it is a much smaller band and although I do not do as much, it is still grand,” he declared.

He noted that for two years he designed costumes for Diamond Secondary and they won both years. These achievements have motivated Dorian to continue to work with children.

“I have more time to focus on the floats because the children’s band is small and I do not have to design a lot of costumes. The floats are usually mythical figures, which I enjoy creating. Once I did a float themed ‘Golden Goddess of El Dorado’ and it was a winning piece,” the costume designer narrated.

This year, Dorian is designing costumes for the Department of Education, Region Four, and for various schools countrywide. Additionally, he has designed a stunning piece for a Carib Soca Monarch competition contestant.

“I try to reflect the Mash’ theme in all my designs. This year, I am focused on the Mash’ theme on cultural folklore. My costumes’ concept is awakening our folklore to refresh people’s memories of them. It is a very dimensional and spiritual piece,” he revealed.

Other than designing Mash costumes, Dorian is a fashion designer.

band, Xcite Gy.

“I have always been into designing but decided to do so professionally last year. I have been getting excellent responses from the public, since I launched my Mash band last year. I love fashion, and it motivates me to be a good designer. I also love a project, and seeing the desired end results inspires me to be better,” Surida disclosed.

join my band. We have a complete package for all those who join us. My costumes’ theme is ‘Love and Colour’ but it also relates to this year’s Mash theme,” she revealed.

The Mash band has four sections- the VIP section is themed “Allure”, the frontline section is “Serenity”, the backline section is “Fusion” and in the party section, persons will be wearing Xcite Gy

He enjoys designing fashionable clothing for those who prefer a distinct look.

“My future plan is to pursue studies in designing abroad and get all the training and experience I can get. I also want to come back to Guyana to impart my knowledge to those who share my passion for designing,” Dorian declared.

Surida Nagreadi

Sharing a similar passion for designing, is 24-year-old Surida Nagreadi. Surida is a costume designer and the founder of Mash

Surida noted her aim is to enhance the Mash fete experience. She believes Mash is a “stepping stone” for encouraging tourists into our country, which will ultimately help to develop the economy.

“I have designed costumes for those who do not mind showing extra skin and those who are a bit more conservative. Spaces are open to the public who want to

branded t-shirts.

“My plan is to hold Mash-related events throughout the year in order to build anticipation for the celebration. The party will start midyear with the launching of my costumes in August. Although it is a fairly new band, my aim is to make Mash an exciting experience for all,” the designer declared.

(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

dorian (right) on the catwalk with his model presenting one of his pieces

a model wearing one of dorian's creative adult designs

dazzling pieces by Surida

designer Surida nagreadi

Panwave Steel Band Academy is the epitome of passion. It is fascinating to watch the band members –all youths –play the steel pan. Their passion for getting every music note on key is admirable. Most importantly, they passionately hone their talent to keep steel pan music alive.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Cary Gillis, a music teacher, member of the Parkside Steel Orchestra and steel pan instructor, stated Panwave is an afterschool programme to help youths learn steel pan and also develop music literacy.

In collaboration with

ing the youths, and this has not changed.

“There was an overwhelming response from the youths, and so we then decided to expand the programme. We have trained over 400 children from various schools. We target anyone below the age of 18. Many of the students presently have been with the band since they were very young and have grown together as a band,” Gillis pointed out.

After completing the programme, Gillis said, the youths are encouraged to join Parkside to continue playing steel pan. They have honed their talents and can relate the theoretical aspect of music using the

the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the programme targets students coming from depressed backgrounds and those who have a desire to learn steel pan but do not have access to the instruments.

“I started playing steel pan at my school, President’s College. I graduated from there and went on to pursue my tertiary education. My brother, at that time, was playing steel pan and encouraged me to join Parkside, and I have not turned back since. Steel pan has a unique sound which you cannot get electronically. Steel pan is not only about the music but also about the show and the vibes you give off. If the players cannot do that then the audience would not enjoy themselves. For students and myself, it is also a means of selfexpression,” Gillis noted.

Initially, Panwave’s programme was held at St Gabriel’s Primary School, targeting the primary school children there. The aim, according to Gillis, was to preserve steel pan by teach-

ing and writing and this helps me to be a wellrounded individual. I invest a lot of energy and time and I enjoy it a lot. I have a passion for it and will continue to play as long as I can.”

Darius Austin, who has been with the band for two years, was encouraged to join the steel band when a group of steel pan players visited his school. “I used

to play the drum so I decided to join Panwave to learn more about music. It takes a lot of dedication to play steel pan but it is very fun and a good sweat out. Also, steel pan has helped me to be a more responsible and focused individual.”

With Panwave for two years, Miriam Gaskin stated that she always had a passion for music, sing-

ing and playing the piano. Encouraged by her mother, Miriam decided to learn about steel pan. “Now, I fully enjoy it. I understand a lot more about music. It is my life and I am very passionate about it. I would encourage everyone to be part of this programme, even if you may not know anything about it.”

(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

steel pan.

“Generally, music teaches you discipline. It keeps you focused and helps with your memory. Being focused and dedicated, students excel in their school work.

Panwave practices twice a week for an hour because we do not want to engage students mentally for a long period because they are coming from a long day of school. Our programmes are fun, and the youths enjoy playing together and sharing a mutual energy and passion for steel pan,” expressed Gillis.

In 2005, Panwave had its first win in a steel pan competition, but sadly the programme went into hiatus until 2009 when it was resuscitated. Classes have been ongoing since at the Christ Church Parish on Waterloo Street.

“In March, I am hoping to start a new beginners group. Students who have an interest in steel pan, though they may not know how to play, can join. Initially, it will be challenging, but after training it will come easily,” the in-

structor encouraged.

Panwave continues to play at concerts throughout the year, and competes in various steel pan competitions. Although they have not won any competitions since 2005, Gillis said they are determined and prepared to take the winner’s trophy in their next competition.

Sponsorship is important for the band’s survival as the programme is free of cost. Gillis thanked its recent sponsor, New GPC Inc, for their financial support, and said the donation will be instrumental in maintaining the band.

Speaking to Sunday Magazine, a few band members expressed their appreciation for the programme because it has helped them become well-rounded individuals.

Dannika Giddings said she has been with Panwave for three years and was encouraged by her sister, who played steel pan, to learn about it. “I saw her passion and it motivated me to get into it. In learning steel pan, I get to learn all about music read-

Panwave band members practising on the steel pan

new gPc inc marketing associate livasti bhooplall (second from left) handing over the cheque to Panwave academy members

This week's Crossword

J kes

Where is my paper?

The irate customer calling the newspaper offices, loudly demanded to know where her Sunday edition was.

“Ma'am,” said the employee, “today is Saturday. The Sunday paper is not delivered 'til Sunday.”

There was quite a pause on the other end of the phone, followed by a ray of recognition.

“So that's why no one was in church today.”

Observation

A lecturer teaching medicine was tutoring a class on 'Observation'. He took out a jar of yellowcoloured liquid.

"This,” he explained, "is urine. To be a doctor, you have to be observant to colour, smell, sight, and taste."

After saying this, he dipped his finger into the jar and put it into his mouth. His class watched on in amazement, most, in disgust.

But being the good students that they were, the jar was passed, and one by one, they dipped one finger into the jar and then put it into their mouth.

After the last student was done, the lecturer shook his head.

"If any of you had been observant, you would have noticed that I put my second finger into the jar and my third finger into my mouth."

Kicking myself

Bob was playing football with his local team. He got a breakaway and headed towards the goal. He missed an easy shot to tie the game, which meant the other team won.

“I could kick myself,” he groaned, as the players came off the field.

“Don’t bother,” said the obviously irate captain, “you’d miss.”

Advice from dad

A young boy and his dad went out fishing one fine morning. After a few quiet hours out in the boat, the boy became curious about the world around him. He looked up at his dad and asked, "How do fish breathe under water?"

This week's Puzzle

His dad thought about it for a moment, then replied, "I really don't know, son."

The boy sat quietly from another moment, then turned back to his dad and asked, "How does our boat float on the water?"

Once again his dad replied, "Don’t know, son."

Pondering his thoughts again, a short while later, the boy asks "Why is the sky blue?"

Again, his dad replied. "Don’t know, son."

The inquisitive boy, worried he was annoying his father, asks this time "Dad, do you mind that I'm asking you all of these questions?"

"Of course not son." replied his dad, “How else are you ever going to learn anything?"

Satan

People were talking in their church pews. Suddenly, Satan appeared at the front of the church. Everyone started screaming and running for the front entrance, trampling each other in a frantic effort to get away from evil incarnate.

Soon everyone had left the church except for one elderly gentleman who sat calmly in his pew without moving, seeming oblivious to the fact that God's ultimate enemy was in his presence.

So Satan walked up to the old man and said, "Don't you know who I am?

The man replied, "Yep, sure do."

"Aren't you afraid of me?" Satan asked.

"Nope, sure ain't." said the man.

"Don't you realize I can kill you with a word?" asked Satan.

"Don't doubt it for a minute," returned the old man, in an even tone.

"Did you know that I could cause you profound, horrifying, AGONY for all eternity?" persisted Satan.

"Yep," was the calm reply.

"And you're still not afraid?" asked Satan.

"Nope," said the old man.

More than a little perturbed, Satan asked, "Well, why aren't you afraid of me?"

The man calmly replied, "Been married to your sister for 48 years."

Alexander Arjoon is a national squash player who has represented Guyana at both junior and senior levels. As a junior, he was part of a winning streak of seven consecutive junior Caribbean titles, capturing two individual Caribbean titles of his own. In 2013, he led the national senior team to their first Caribbean Senior title since 1996. His accomplishments include multiple junior national squash titles in every age group, as well as three consecutive senior national titles over the past three years. He currently attends Franklin and Marshall College in the United States and represents their squash team, which is ranked sixth in that country. Squash has been a huge part of Alexander’s life, and it has not only taken him to different parts of the world and fostered many cherished relationships, but in the process, he has seen benefits of hard work and commitment. As a young athlete, he has developed a passion for the game of squash, and as

he matures he is becoming aware of the range of opportunities, direct and indirect, that the sport offers. After a significant improvement in his game over the past few years, he is keen to explore competing on the professional squash circuit. Fortunately, he has been blessed with world class coach Gavin Jones; a relentless fitness trainer Kezqweyah Yisrael, and the unconditional support of his family. He feels that he would be wasting the opportunity of a lifetime to represent his country at the highest level if he does not pursue his passion towards a professional squash career. Consequently, in 2014 he plans to launch his professional career by competing in a series of upcoming tournaments in Australia. This would be highly productive for him because this series of consecutive tournaments in Australia, over two months, at a high level, would be an opportunity to gain significant points and experience on the professional circuit.

My Multi-Ethnic Friends & Other Stories by Cyril Dabydeen, Guernica Editions, Fall 2013, 206 pages

Reviewed by Jody Freeman

Iwaded into these short stories with no inkling of what shoreline I was leaving, what stones were underfoot, what spirits were alive in the water. It took me some time to get used to the questions lapping at my ankles in the mysterious shallow waters of the first stories. Why were Cyril Dabydeen’s narrators all making assertions and then calling them into question in such an annoyingly Canadian way? C’mon, man, I just want to be drawn in way over my head!

But Dabydeen follows the pull of his own currents, reflecting the careful insights of the outsider and the multilayered consciousness that comes from co-habiting many worlds. His narrators bear none of the arrogance of the conqueror, the cocky squint of the predator, the guile of the charmer. They pick their way along the shifting faultlines wrack-

ing those of us who wonder where (if anywhere) is our place. And they carry a myriad of places within them, some from a distant past, some dreamed, some from childhood, some imagined. There are ancestral and shamanic forces at play, and it is no coincidence, I think, that the rare moments of connection and bonding take place in the wilderness near Thunder Bay and involve Native characters whose ties to their own ancestral land are still, in some essential way, intact.

This collection of fifteen short stories covers a lot of ground. Guyana-born Dabydeen is an author steeped in ancient and modern history and in the legends and spiritual experiences of the world’s peoples. In his stories, “continents inexorably (are) coming closer”. Africa and Asia, as two of his characters put it, are “places we keep close to us”. But Europe and the Middle East

are never far, either.

The often obscured course of slavery subtly weaves into this book’s consciousness, as does the onslaught against aboriginal peoples on every continent, stretching far back in time. Parallels are drawn with Beowulf: “Long ago there was a great sadness on the earth.” The death of a young Ojibwa artist who hanged himself in an Ottawa jail is at the heart of one of the most poignant stories in the collection.

There is a kaleidoscopic quality to these short stories, a shifting and colliding of the bits of coloured glass held up to the light. Much to share that is not necessarily easy to render in a short story format. Dabydeen sifts through centuries of racism and eases us effortlessly into post-9-11 Canada. And he does so without rancour, through ironic questions, as when philosophical reflections on love (agape, eros) end

in a pointed challenge: “Love of refugees everywhere, maybe?”

Dabydeen recognizes the pioneering spirit of those grappling with a sense of place (and placelessness)* – no victimhood here, but questing and “sensitive souls, as we turn out to be”. Holding their cards close to their chests, perhaps, retreating to the attic or to the wilds when necessary, yet nonetheless pushing for a breakthrough into some unknown freer territory.

Like one of his characters from a tropical island, I too have “a cold north deep in my veins”. Wading into these Visnuvian currents and stumbling at first on the unfamiliar ground, I nonetheless ended up way over my head –just not in the way I expected. I look forward to wherever Dabydeen will take us next.

First published in Montreal Serai, Jan. 24, 2014.

Jamaica’s population not likely to exceed 3 million, says PIOJ

The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) says that Jamaica’s population is not likely to exceed three million, based on reduction in current fertility rates, high external migration, and declining mortality.

“There has been discussion about Jamaica’s population growing out of control and that is not the case,” said PIOJ’s manager, Population

and Health Unit, ToniShae Freckleton.

“Data from the Population and Housing Census and projections coming out of the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin) indicate this on all levels” she stated.

Freckleton was speaking at a recent JIS Think Tank in observance of Safer Sex Week, which was observed from February 10-14.

She noted that Jamaica’s population is ageing, with a decline in fertility rates causing the 0-14 segment of the population to fall below 30 per cent. “The last Housing and Population Census indicates that this particular age group is shrinking,” she stated.

Concomitant with this, is an increase in the working age population (15-64) and an increase in the over 60 age

group, which is the fastest growing segment of the population, and this is a direct result of improvements in life expectancy and health care.

Freckleton told the JIS Think Tank that total fertility rates have declined from an average high of six children per woman in the 1960’s to 2.4 children per woman in the last Reproductive Health Survey of 2008.

Freckleton indicated that the country has reaped the benefits of the 'Two is Better Than Too Many' campaign in the 1980’s, noting that the drive has impacted current declining fertility rates. Chairman of the National Family Planning Board, Dr Sandra Knight, explained that “with that campaign, we had encouraged and advocated for one woman to have

two children based on the population analysis data that we had coming in and the probability of the population being too great for the resources that were present at the time.”

In the Population Sector Plan of Vision 2030, the goal is to achieve replacement level fertility (2.1 children per woman) by 2010 and maintained thereafter. (JIS)

Kris ‘KI’ PERSAD has again taken home the Chutney Soca Monarch title.

It was a night of fierce competition, but in the end Persad, performing at the second-to-last position of 19, took home the 2014 title.

It was the second win for Persad, who in 2012, was the youngest competitor to win the Chutney Soca Monarch title.

The event was held at Skinner Park, San Fernando.

Persad who won with ‘Single Forever’ in 2012, proved he had what it took to take back the crown with his 2014 hit ‘Meh Wife Runaway.’

Last year’s winner Raymond Ramnarine

opted not to defend his title this year.

An excited KI said, “It was a tough fight going up against the best in Chutney Soca and I am just thankful to everyone for putting me first this year. I promised never to ‘let down’ the people, but to keep the flag of Chutney Soca flying high.”

Speaking Sunday from the Trinidad Hilton, where he was carded to perform hours after his win at the Chutney Soca Monarch finals, Persad said a combination of factors contributed to his success—the fans, his family and the music.

Persad, 28, won a TT$2 million first prize and he plans to use the money to invest in better equipment while trying

to open up the Chutney Soca market in Europe. He said his band 3Veni had developed a brand throughout the years and he hopes to keep improving on the standard of the music for everyone to enjoy.

International brand

The young winner who wants Chutney Soca to become an international brand also composed the songs which saw him take the Chutney Soca Monarch crown in 2012 and this year.

He thanked his band, which is led by his father Varendra Persad, for the love and support through the years.

Six-time winner, Samraj ‘Rikki Jai’ Jaimungal and former Chutney Soca Monarch Ravi ‘Ravi B’ Bissambhar tied for second position.

The two will receive TT$400,000. Kenneth Supersad placed fourth taking home TT$100,000 and Nishard Mayroo came in fifth also winning TT$100,000.

Jai, who has been in Chutney Soca for 25 years, paid tribute to legends Drupatie Ramgoonai and Sundar Popo.

Ramgoonai was presented with a bouquet of flowers during his performance and he also brought on stage a Sundar Popo impersonator.

Jai collaborated with Nigel Rojas, lead singer of the rock band Orange Sky, for his presentation.

He congratulated both Persad and Ravi B and felt proud of his own achievement since he has consistently placed

in the top three in as many years. Judges votes Chutney Soca Monarch 2010 Ravi B was pleased with his performance of ‘Bread’ and he too congratulated Persad on his win. Seepersad who again placed fourth for a second consecutive year, performed ‘Raging Bull’ and said he was happy with his high score in the competition.

He expressed the hope that the competition would return to the system of “judges’ vote” instead of “text voting” which determines the winner by the number of text votes received from the public.

“You see the young people will vote for the youngsters in this competition and this is why they stand a better chance at winning,” Seepersad said.

This year’s event, which is in its 19th year, featured guest performances by Bunji Garlin and his wife Fay Ann Lyons-Alvarez.

Organisers of the competition also paid tribute to the late singer, Rajin Dhanraj.

Chairman of Southex, George Singh said this year’s production was the best that he has ever done.

“It was laced with what I would call the best performances we have ever seen in the history of the competition,” Singh said.

He said it was obvious that the performers stepped up their game and it showed with the quality of the performances in this year’s final competition. (TT Newsday)

chutney Soca king kris 'ki Persad during his performance of ‘meh wife runaway’ at the chutney Soca monarch competition at Skinner Park, San Fernando on Saturday night. (TT Newsday photos)

ravi b

Three actresses spice up local theatre

Stage fright is not an option for local acting group, the Drama Queens. Loving the spotlight and the adrenaline that comes with acting in front of a huge audience, the ‘queens’ of drama are bringing something different to theatre in Guyana.

Three years ago, notable actresses Lloyda Nicholas, Leslyn Fraser and Tashandra Inniss decided to form the group.

“It was not planned or discussed, just three friends referring to themselves as ‘Drama

of drama,” Tashandra revealed to Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

Together, the dramatists successfully produced their debut show “Love & Madness” last year. It was a “raunchy” production that highlighted different relationship issues.

“Acting was never something I dreamt of doing, but I wanted to challenge myself to be bold. My first role was in Errol John’s "Moon on a rainbow Shawl" where I played a prostitute named Mavis. But because I was so green, I felt I did no justice to

Queens’ because of our own personal issues that we were going through. Since three of us lived for the stage, we saw it fit to start our own production company, and since then it has been nothing short

ery opportunity to develop herself. She has received training at the Carifesta Acting Workshop, is an active member of Theatre Guild Workshop and is currently a student at the National School of Theatre.

A playwright and director, Tashandra has written and directed “A Darker Side” for last year’s Drama Festival. In 2012, she wrote her first play “Till Death”, which won in the ‘Open Short Plays’ category at the National Drama Festival Awards.

‘Mavis’. Give me that script now and Mavis would come alive!” Tashandra recalled.

Although acting comes naturally, Tashandra, an actor for six years, has seized ev-

“With the friends I have, I am constantly reminded of how talented I am; but with every character I do, I try my best to portray it as if it were me sitting in the audience and judging myself,” she pointed out.

Speaking with another drama queen, Leslyn Fraser stated she has been acting for more

than 28 years and loves every moment on stage.

“My mother always thought I was very dramatic as a child, so when she heard that Harold Bascom was doing an August holiday workshop on acting, she sent me and I fell in love with it. I was only 10 years old at the time,” she recalled.

Leslyn’s debut was in the play “Old Firewood”, written and directed by Harold Bascom.

Drama queen Lloyda

Nicholas recalled when she was 7 years old, her mother took her to see “Moon on a Rainbow Shawl” at Theatre Guild. She reminisced that she was entranced by the world created onstage, and knew at that moment acting was her calling.

In addition to acting, Lloyda is also a spoken word artist.

In preparing to go on stage, Lloyda disclosed she does a breathing exercise to calm her as she

reviews her script.

“But when I step on stage it is like a light comes on inside me, and the character I am portraying takes over. To be an actor you have to be willing to learn with each production you are in. You have to be willing to go through the process of putting off yourself and putting on and growing into becoming the character. You have to be committed to what you are doing and be disciplined. Generally, while you are in a production your whole life is consumed by it,” noted the actress.

Lloyda is currently in the process of completing two new plays.

The Drama Queens are excited about their upcoming second production, “7 Deadly Sins”.

“Since we’re all passionate about the arts, we would like to see our company prosper in this aspect. We have no intention of biting off more than we can chew but just enough to keep Drama Queens alive,” Tashandra declared. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

the 'queens' during a scene at a recent drama production

the drama Queens. From left are tashandra, leslyn and lloyda

42 travel & tourism

week ending February 23, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

In Moruca in Region One, there is a cluster of small Amerindian villages which, during the rainy season, become islands in the savannah. One such village is Santa Rosa.

The village spreads out in the savannah wetlands along a 10-mile stretch of the Moruca River. In Santa Rosa, stands the well-known Santa Rosa Mission, also known as “White Chapel on a Hill”. It has been serving now for more than 100 years not only as a religious building but as a significant part of the Santa Rosa community, keeping it together.

To experience rich indigenous culture, Santa Rosa is an ideal destination. (Photos by Michelle Kalamandeen. Visit Michelle Kalamandeen Photography on Facebook to see more wonderful photos of beautiful Guyana)

Parking lot for canoes

Enjoying a breezy stroll in canoes along the river

Beautiful landscape

Serene image of the sky's reflection in the calm river waters

Stunning sunset

week ending February 23, 2014 |

Jamaica was still experiencing the teething pains of a new nation when singers Freddie McGregor and Marcia Griffiths started their careers in the early 1960s.

On Saturday, it was pure pleasure as they were lauded for their endurance by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), at its sixth awards ceremony.

Griffiths and McGregor turned in outstanding performances at the Courtleigh Auditorium in St Andrew, giving no hint they were scheduled to catch an early morning flight to Atlanta Sunday.

The exuberant Griffiths was in her element, performing ‘Dreamland’ and ‘I Wanna Be With You’ before addressing the audience which included a number of her contemporaries.

“I made it through the broken glass because of you. And I truly love you,” she said.

McGregor, dapper in a shiny-grey suit, made his mark with a number of hits like ‘I See it in You’, ‘If You Wanna Go’ and ‘Let Them Try.’

Hedley Jones, a musician/ engineer whose contribution to the music business is largely understated, was recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Popular music

Most of JaRIA’s Class

of 2014 got their start in the 1950s and 1960s when Jamaica’s popular music was taking shape.

Among them, the gifted trombonist Don Drummond of the Skatalites who died in 1969; singer/songwriter Joe Higgs; drummer Winston ‘Sparrow’ Martin; dub visionary Osbourne ‘King Tubby’ Ruddock; the Zap Pow band; musician Mikey Chung of Now Generation and In Crowd fame; percussionist Herman ‘Bongo Herman’ Davis; rock steady group the Heptones and the revered drum-andbass team, Sly and Robbie.

Singer Johnny Clarke, who came of age during the rootsreggae explosion of the 1970s, showed why he is known as the ‘Hit Machine’ with a robust set.

Shortly after accepting his Iconic Artiste award, Clarke had the housing jumping to ‘None Shall Escape the Judgement’, ‘Rock With Me Baby’ and ‘Move Outa Babylon’. He also did an acapella version of ‘Left With a Broken Award.’

Carlene Davis also received an Iconic Artiste trophy. Not as flamboyant as Clarke, she was effective on a

well-received version of ‘Like Old Friends Do.’

Asley ‘Grub’ Cooper, whose prolific work is responsible for the success of numerous acts, most notably the Fabulous Five band, was recognised for his work as a composer.

Similar recognition went to musician/producer Paul ‘Computer Paul’ Henton and engineer Mervyn Williams.

The Grace Thrillers and Adina Edwards, were cited for their achievements in the field of gospel.

Edwards, a blind accordion

Those Guns.’ Members of Nexxus and Las Voces Melodiosas from the Mico University, performed ‘Can’t Even Walk’, the Thrillers hit that took gospel into the mainstream almost 30 years ago.

Other awardees were Alfonso Walker for his work in media; Reggae Sumfest for Outstanding Contribution to the music industry and the Bass Odyssey and Stone Love sound systems.

player and singer, died in 2008.

Led by the impressive singer Sarnia Constantine, students from the Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts, delivered a heartfelt rendition of her song ‘Lay Down

Singer Jah Bouks’ 'Call Angola' was selected Song of The Year, while Kabaka Pyramid won Breakthrough Artiste of The Year.

Singer Tessanne Chin received a special award for winning NBC’s talent show, The Voice. (Jamaica Observer)

Freddie mcgregor admiring his trophy at the Jamaica reggae industry association’s (Jaria) sixth awards ceremony held at the courtleigh auditorium in St andrew on Saturday. (Karl McLarty/Jamaica Observer photos)

Marcia Griffiths and Johnny Clarke

44 Caribbean news

February 23, 2014 |

Jamaica’s police deny mass burial site claim

Jamaica’s police on Saturday denied the existence of a mass burial site in East Kingston, saying that its "intensive investigations" and "days of thorough searches" yielded no human remains.

However, the Jamaica Observer newspaper reported that the police went to the area only one day and they were not equipped to dig deep to determine the veracity of the claims made by a former gangster.

According to the police force's Corporate Communications Unit, the police high command ordered the investigation in response to a January 26 Jamaican newspaper lead story that reported the claims of the former gang member.

The ex-gangster had told the newspaper that gunmen, assisted by rogue policemen, have been killing people and burying their bodies in the vicinity of a sand mine in Eastern Kingston.

The gunmen, he said, are based between the East Kingston community of Rockfort, and the adjoining Harbour View in East Rural St Andrew.

The former gangster took reporters to the area, called 'Crusher', and pointed to the general area where, he said, bodies were buried.

However, on Saturday, the police said they were "refuting the existence of any such site".

Allegations

"After the article was

published, the Police High Command instructed senior detectives of the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) to carry out an intensive investigation into the allegations, employing assets from the Forensic Scenes of Crime and the Canine

Divisions," the Corporate Communications Unit said. "With the assistance of the 'former gang member', the police were able to locate the 'sites'.

And after days of thorough searches, assisted by highly trained cadaver dogs, the lawmen

were only able to find the body of a decomposing dog that was recently dumped in the area," the police release said.

"It should also be noted that the sites where it is claimed that several bodies are buried is one of the busiest areas in

Barbados’ hotels full despite the recession

Despite the ongoing economic recession, Barbados’ tourism industry appears to be on the rebound with most hotels reporting occupancy levels in the region of 7590 per cent.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport Richard Sealy, expressed renewed op-

timism in the industry’s future while addressing the official opening ceremony of the Infinity on the Beach Hotel in St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church, on Saturday.

He said: “From the polling that we have done, all of the hotels that we spoke to had occupancy in the 90’s except for one property,

which reported occupancy of 75 per cent. So, we are doing pretty well right now and…let me congratulate you [hoteliers] because the hotels are full and it is a credit to you that the hotels are full.”

He said the Infinity on the Beach Hotel project had come at a time when there were oth-

er projects in progress on the popular party strip, including upgrades to Pisces Restaurant, Reggae Lounge night club and the opening of The Beach Restaurant at the Divi Southwinds Beach Resort.

Minister Sealy said attempts to revitalise St. Lawrence Gap showed that: “The confidence

level is very high and it is important that we see St. Lawrence Gap fight to come back.”

The tourism minister also alluded to other ongoing investments in the Gap including repairs to the board walk at the entrance to the Gap–a project being undertaken in collaboration with the Barbados Tourism

East Kingston. A quarry, which employs several people, is located in that area. If claims were true, it is very likely that at some point the employees would have stumbled on some bodies," the police release added.

"Although we are certain that what was said in the article about this story is not true, we are willing to act on any future information provided to us," deputy commissioner of police in charge of the crime portfolio, Carl Williams, was quoted in the release.

The former gangster had also told the police in a meeting that bodies were buried deep in the sand, with the use of heavy-duty equipment.

(Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

Investment Inc. He further stated: “We have to get the street lighting in order, we have to get the Dover market fixed and what is going on at the front of the Gap is not intended to be a one off [situation]. But, we are going to find the resources to do the simple things to make the difference.” (BGIS)

Jamaican police and soldiers head to the site in east kingston last Friday where a former gang member said the bodies of murdered people are buried. (Jamaica Observer photos)

LegaL corner

Is bankruptcy for a business a good thing?

By RichaRd Kistnen, esq.

As the economy of the United States continues to grow, and access to lines of credit is opening to people, new businesses are starting to proliferate. Unfortunately, though, the reality is that many new businesses fail. Whether it was due to poor planning, inefficient distribution of resources and capital, or just bad luck, many new businesses often take on liabilities in order to get through the first years of starting. When a business is failing, individuals ought to understand the options available for them.

One of these options is bankruptcy – maybe. People file for bankruptcy, generally, to obtain a discharge of debts. That is, a discharge provides that a creditor can no longer take any action to enforce the claim owed to it by the debtor. In chapter 7 and chapter 13 cases, if the debtor obtains an Order of Discharge, those debts that do not survive bankruptcy are no longer enforceable. Business associations, however (such as corporations), are not entitled to a discharge. So why do so many big companies in the news file for bankruptcy?

The reason for a business

to file for bankruptcy would be to centralize the affairs of the business as it is winding down, or to give it a chance to reorganize. If a corporation files a chapter 7 bankruptcy, it is not entitled to any discharge. It would provide, however, one forum for all creditors to submit claims, and one forum for the marshaling and liquidation of assets. A business owner might prefer this rather than having to fight several lawsuits in different courts. If a corporation files a chapter 11 bankruptcy, there has to be a realistic prospect that the company can come out of bankruptcy successfully by putting forth a plan acceptable to creditors that pays some of their claims back.

Outside of bankruptcy, a business can shut down its affairs with the state. Many times, though, creditors will continue to pursue and hound the business and its principals, often resulting in costly litigation. Ultimately, when dealing with a new business, be sure to understand what kinds of liabilities are being undertaken (secured, unsecured, personal, etc.). If you would like to speak to an attorney, please call the Law Office of Richard Kistnen at (718) 738-2324, or visit www. kistnenlaw.com.

heaLth corner

Beware of the 'Fat' talk

By tisha Boston

Individuals with anorexia nervosa are obsessed about looking or becoming fat, even though they are underweight. The intense fear of gaining weight causes these individuals to diet and exercise excessively. This eating disorder is most common among pre-teens, teenagers and young adults for it is during this time that people become more self conscious about the appearance of their body. The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is not yet known, but studies have shown that social attitudes that promote very thin body types are contributing factors.

Due to the growing emphasis on physical appearance (the ideal body type) and fitness in the media, “the fat talk” has become so common in today’s society. As a result, it may be difficult to recognize and help people who genuinely have anorexia nervosa. On the other hand, some people who struggle with anorexia nervosa or other eating disorders may try to keep it a secret or even deny that they have a problem. Nonetheless,

here is a list of symptoms to consider when determining whether or not you, a friend or family member have anorexia nervosa:

- Intense fear or weight gain, though underweight

- Obsession over body weight or shape

- Refusal to keep the appropriate body weight for his or her age

them around

- Bathroom breaks immediately after meals

- Misuse of pills to allow constant urination (water pills), bowel movements (laxatives), and weight loss (diet pills).

Other warning signs of anorexia nervosa include: blotchy, yellow dry skin, covered with fine hair; poor memory and judgment coupled with confused, slow thinking; depression; high sensitivity to cold; loss of bone strength and wasting away of muscles and body fat. This chart below further illustrates the physical damage anorexia does to the entire body.

and height

- Refusal to admit dangers of weight loss

- Distorted body image

- Absence of three or more menstrual cycles in women

- Excessive exercise

- Refusal to eat around people

- Pretense eating by cutting food into small pieces or moving

Nydam, Hannah and Brittany Larson. “Anorexia affects your whole body.” Chart. n.d. Eating Disorders. VUSC-Biol210BioTopics. Web. 19 Feb. 2014.

It is important to understand that anorexia nervosa does not only affect the physical body, but the mind as well. Like many other eating disorders, anorexia nervosa controls the way you feel and think about food and your body image, as well as how you see food and your body image.

Umana Yana, African Liberation Monument

Guyana is a nation that has a colourful history and is home to several cultures. For this reason, this richness and diversity of our past, it is critical to preserve our heritage. The relevant organisation, The National Trust of Guyana, is a government enterprise whose mandate propels its commitment to the preservation and conservation of historic buildings and sites in Guyana. Therefore we aim to enlighten the public about various events, aspects, symbols, landmarks and structures which has moulded our rich and diverse heritage.

The Umana Yana, currently one of the gazetted monuments of Guyana, is a conical shaped palm thatched hut also referred to as a benab.

Shaped like the WaiWai benabs found in Guyana's hinterland the word Umana Yana is of Wai Wai Amerindian origin meaning, “meeting place of the people.”

Constructed to host the inaugural meeting

of the Non – Aligned Foreign Ministers Conference in 1972, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was charged with the erection of the building. Seeking assistance from the Department of Interior Development, an all Amerindian team of the Wai Wai tribe led by Chief Elka, accompanied by some sixty others, was recruited for the job, although architectural drawings and plans

Preserving

were commissioned from architect George Henry.

Located on the lawns of the former Mariner's Club at the north eastern end of High Street and Battery Road, next to the Pegasus Hotel, it is now a permanent and much admired part of Georgetown's scenery, often used as an exhibition and conference centre. The structure measuring 55 feet (16.78 meters) in height with a

diameter of 26.8 metres occupies an area of 460 square metres making it the largest structure of its kind in Guyana.

Utilising traditional materials and building techniques used by their ancestors, it is made from thatched allibanna and manicole palm leaves, wallaba posts bound together with mukru, turu, and nibbi vines. Notably, nails were not used in its construction.

veiled by former president Forbes Burnham on August 26, 1974. This monument like many others across Guyana is collectively our heritage and the history from which we have all emerged. For this reason it is imperative that we ensure its continuity, although monuments or structures alone do not constitute our heritage. Our heritage is made up of both tangible and intangible elements. These too, ought to be preserved for the benefit of the future generations.

Completed in a mere eighty days at a cost of $26,000, on August 8, 1972, the flags of more than eighty nations fluttered proudly along

The National Trust of Guyana, which undertakes to promote and safeguard the nation’s heritage wishes to remind citizens that preservation is a task which requires the cooperation

the eastern edge of the Umana Yana's compound as the conference was convened.

Housed in the compound is The African Liberation Monument "in memory of all of those who have struggled and continue to struggle for freedom from Human Bondage", it was un-

of all Guyanese as our heritage is conserved for the enjoyment of all. We wish to encourage the community to take an active role in ensuring the long term survival of Guyana’s patrimony by exercising care and respect at all times when visiting monuments and heritage sites.

the umana yana with the african liberation monument (r)

umana yana interior

Activities planned for Republic Day

Mashramani exhibition at National Museum to spread awareness of cultural history

On Mashramani day, Guyanese of all races converge to celebrate Guyana's being a Republic. It is not just a mere fete, but a significant facet of our history.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, in collaboration with the National Museum, recently launched its annual Mashramani exhibition as part of a series of activities to commemorate Guyana’s 44th Republic anniversary under the theme “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44”.

At the launch, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony, stated that the event has become one of the ministry’s traditional activi-

of the exhibition to keep our cultural heritage alive.

“This exhibition helps to propagate the unique history that Guyana possesses. I encourage persons, especially school children, to visit the exhibition which will give them an insight into the local artefacts,” Minister Anthony said.

History

The Jaycees of Linden, since Guyana became independent in 1966, had been arranging and organizing an Independence Carnival in Mackenzie. With the advent of Guyana becoming a Republic in February 1970, the Jaycees of Linden, under its president Nobreiga, formed a Jaycees Republic Celebrations

ties to ensure that the country’s cultural heritage is highlighted.

The exhibition showcases various aspects of Guyanese culture and the annual activities held in celebration of Mash.

Minister Anthony noted that the exhibition has been growing in its quality over the years, and if youths are not encouraged to appreciate and value the rich heritage of Guyana’s folklore, they will be lost. Therefore, it is the aim

val’ began, and it was suggested by Butcher that an Amerindian name be chosen. Several individuals, including Allan Fiedtkou, an Amerindian, were contacted. Fiedtkou held discussions with his grandfather who explained a type of festival that was held by Amerindians whenever they gather to celebrate a special event. This event he said was like “Muster Many” (or Mashirimehi in Amerindian) and sounded in Arawak like Mashramani. Steps were taken to confirm this with the help of Adrian Thomson, who was the District Commissioner of the interior and was considered an authority on Amerindian affairs.

After investigations could not confirm or

Committee.

Basil Butcher was selected as chairman but due to his subsequent selection to tour Australia with the West Indies Cricket Team, Jim Blackman was appointed as the deputy to carry on.

A broad-based committee such as Wordsworth McAndrew, Arthur Seymour, and Adrian Thompson, began the organization of the carnivals activities.

The search for a name to replace ‘carni-

massive crowds and level of competition, David Singh, a government official, held discussions with the Jaycees Committee about bringing the event to Georgetown. Approval was also given by thethen President Forbes Burnham for Mash' to be a national event for the Republic celebration.

Mash' activities were rotated in Linden, Berbice and Georgetown

but due to sponsorship, the costume bands’ contest remained in Georgetown. This year’s exhibition is open to the public at the National Museum until March 6.

Activities

Mash activities continue with a steel band competition on Feb 16 at the National Cultural Centre. On Feb 19-21 a series of steel band con-

certs would be held in the Botanical Gardens, Stabroek Market and at the seawall band stand. The Flag Raising Ceremony would be held Feb 23 at the Parliament Buildings. On Feb 26, a Republic lecture series workshop would be held at Umana Yana. There would also be a folk concert on Feb 28 at the National Cultural Centre. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

deny that the Arawak word for festival was ‘Mashramani’, and in keeping with Fiedtkou’s interpretation, it was decided that the festival could be called Mashramani.

On February 23, 1970, Mashramani was a huge success, with people drawn from all regions of Guyana to Linden welcoming Guyana's status as a republic with more than three days of frolic and fun.

After witnessing the

Exhibit depicting prominent figures in Mash celebrations

Costumes on display at the current exhibition

In over 25 years that she has dedicated to the Hindi film industry, Juhi Chawla has witnessed several trends. But she believes the current generation of actors has too much pressure to handle as far as competition and visibility are concerned.

"I thank god that I was there (at the peak of my career). I think there's too much pressure now," Juhi told media during a recent chat.

"There are so many newcomers... Earlier once you made a mark, at least you had a chance of getting ahead. I think today you really have to stand your ground to be able to sustain. There is so much noise around like size zero, public relations, marketing...I hope these girls are also enjoying themselves," added the 46-year-old, as she shared how she is "not really happy" about this aspect of Hindi filmdom today.

During her prime, the entertainer charmed moviegoers with her milliondollar smile, innocence and charm. A former Miss India Universe, she made her cinematic debut with 1986 film ‘Sultanat’. (TOI)

Vidya Balan finds Shah Rukh Khan

Vidya Balan unabashedly admits that she finds Shah Rukh Khan very charming.

"Amongst the married men, Shah Rukh is so charming," she said recently, adding: "He's not been a co-star, but there's something about Shah Rukh. Also, he and my husband Siddharth Roy Kapur have the same initials and I get away with a lot because of that. When I went for the screening of 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' and he puts out his arms in the song ‘Mitwa’, for a minute I saw myself running to him! I remember I was young when the television show ‘Fauji’ released, but I knew my sister and her friends were crazy about him. At that point, I was going through the I-don't-likeboys phase, so I didn't

Madhuri Dixit does not buy into the myth that Bollywood actresses have a short shelf-life or they can't get work post marriage.

"Age is just a number according to me, talent is the same whether you are 10, 20 or 100. I think it gets better with age. I also don't believe in the myth about married actresses. I think it is crazy. Sharmila Tagore worked after marriage, Rakhiji worked after marriage...Yes, some of them quit but that was their own decision. There were so many who did work. There are no hard and fast rules," Madhuri said.

very charming

like him. I actually fell in love with him when I saw ‘Dil Se’ and that's not a film, a lot of people mention in context to SRK."

The actress is sure SRK knows about her liking for him. "Of

course, he knows. I think he has read about it and he keeps saying, 'Tum galat SRK ke saath chali gayi', to which I say, 'Par aap toh kahaan ghaas daal rahe the'. All of this is a joke," she concluded laughing. (TOI)

Hrithik and Katrina bond as they recover from heartbreaks

2013 was not a year Hrithik Roshan will remember with a smile. The actor was knocked out of action by a freak accident on the sets of ‘Bang Bang’. The surgery that followed went smoothly, but Hrithik landed another hard knock when his marriage of 13 years came apart following irrevocable differences.

Hrithik took off on a holiday alone and returned rejuvenated. Earlier this month, he flew down to Shimla to resume work on ‘Bang Bang’, determined that the film would keep its October 2, 2014 date with the theatres. Towards the end of the schedule, which wrapped up on February 12, Katrina Kaif joined the unit and Hrithik, who has been trying valiantly to come to terms with his separation from childhood sweetheart Sussanne, has found a good friend in her.

A source from the

unit said that the growing proximity between the lead pair is evident during the shoot in Manali.

While Katrina was one of those who tried to boost his morale when he broke up with his wife, Hrithik responded by offering her a comforting shoulder following her New Year's tiff with Ranbir Kapoor on the subject of marriage.

"Both are recovering from recent heartbreaks and have found an anchor in each other," added the source, pointing

out that when Hrithik was hospitalised, Katrina went straight to meet him after returning from her famous Ibiza trip with Ranbir.

"His injury delayed ‘Bang Bang’ and Katrina's schedule was knocked for a six. But she stood by his side and accommodated all the date changes without complaining. On the contrary, she was always trying to cheer him up by calling him up or sending his text messages,” the source said. (TOI)

‘Ash didn't marry me because I am star or I am a Bachchan’- Abhishek Bachchan

Adid not marry him because he is a film star or the son of megastar Amitabh

Bachchan.

In an upcoming episode of ‘Koffee with Karan’, when asked by the host Karan Johar about the "insecurity" coming from being married to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, "the most beautiful woman on the face of earth", Abhishek said there was none.

"I believe she is and to me she is the most beautiful thing on earth. I see myself in the mirror every day and it is a horrific sight. So I am not competing, I can't. The reason why we got together wasn't cosmetic," Abhishek said.

"She is one of the most down to earth….normal people you will ever meet. She hasn't married me because I am a film star or I am a Bachchan and I haven't married her because she is the most beautiful woman on earth or one of the biggest stars on earth, so that never comes in the equation," he said. (TOI)

Deepika almost faints after working for 30 hours at a stretch

Deepika Padukone is known for her professional conduct and all her directors and producers have always had good things to say about her. She is extremely punctual and pushes herself to her utmost capacity.

Last week, the actress worked for 30 hours straight. After shooting for ‘Happy New Year’ for 16 odd hours, Deepika rushed for her dance performance at an awards function. Not only did she perform, she also did a thorough rehearsal with the team before that.

However, the young actress had a sudden bout of ill health over the weekend. Deepika was shooting into the wee hours last Friday and almost fainted. She woke up with running high temperature on Saturday and felt extremely weak. A doctor, who was rushed home, advised strict bed rest for the ac-

tress. Deepika's spokesperson confirmed that, "Deepika's health has taken a toll. The doctor has strictly advised her complete rest for couple of days." (TOI)

bhishek Bachchan says that his actress wife Aishwarya

Madhuri ruled Bollywood in the '80s and '90s as one of the top stars, but she shifted to

the U.S. post her marriage to Sriram Nene only to return in 2011. (TOI)

Bullock nervous of meeting ex-boyfriend Ryan Gosling?

Actress Sandra Bullock is reportedly nervous and uneasy about bumping into her former boyfriend Ryan Gosling during the 86th Academy Awards.

The 49-year-old actress, who has earned an Oscar nomination this year in the best actress category, had dated Gosling, 33, for a year in 2002, reported Radar Online.

"She is nervous about coming faceto-face with Ryan this awards season because he really broke her heart years ago. Sandra is totally mortified about being around Ryan, even though she's

the one who helped launch his career more than ten years ago," a source said.

"Sandra has her fingers crossed that Ryan is a no-show on Oscar night, even though everyone on her team has told her to relax and that no one can even remember their romance," the source added.

The actress reportedly takes time in getting over heartbreaks.

"Everyone's moved on, but Sandy's the type to take things really to heart. If anyone hurts her, it's very hard for her to forgive and forget," the source added. (TOI)

Reynolds sells house for $1.4 million

Actor Ryan Reynolds sold his Hollywood Hills house last month for $1.405 million, lesser than what he expected to fetch.

The 37-year-old had put the two-bedroom home on the market three times. But he had to settle for $495,000 less than he had first hoped for when he first listed it for sale back in 2009, reported dailymail.co.uk.

According to real estate website Truila, the actor purchased the property in October 2007 for $1.715 million.

The very private, over 1,700 square home, is located on a cul-de-sac and has high walls all around it. It features rustic wooden floors, a cook's kitchen, working fireplace and two and half bathrooms.

(TOI)

Cameron Diaz was ''horrified'' when Jim Carrey took his face off after a day's filming on 'The Mask'.

The actress' first ever film role saw her appear opposite the funnyman in the titular role as the green-faced, sharp-suited cartoon hero brought to life.

Asked if Jim had scared her on the set of the film, Cameron replied: ''The process of taking it off is terrify-

ing. It's just like, glue and chunks of sponge would stay on his face...''

While she told this to talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, she played a prank on her, as a man dressed up as The Mask crept up on Cameron and surprised her, leaving her in fits of giggles.

The beauty-now 41also reminisced about coming of age on the set of the movie.

Kit Harington learnt his real name at 11

Actor Kit Harington says he found out that his real name is Christopher only when he was 11.

However, he said he was called Kit from day one.

"It was very strange, I went to school, and I remember that you had to do these tests to find out what set you're in-how clever you are. I put down Kit Harington, and they looked at me like I was completely stupid, and they said, 'No, you're Christopher Harington, I'm afraid'," Harington said in a statement.

"It was only then I learnt my actual name. That was kind of a bizarre existential crisis for an 11-year-old to have, but in the end I always stuck with Kit, because I felt that's who I was. I'm not really a Chris," added the actor, who will be seen in ‘Pompeii’. (TOI)

Ellen Page confesses she's gay

Actress Ellen Page has come out of the closet and said that she is gay.

She made the revelation at the Human Rights Campaign's Time to Thrive event held recently.

Page, who has been seen in films like 'Juno', 'Smart People' and 'Inception', said that she did this to make this confession easier for others as well, reported contactmusic.com.

"I'm here today because I'm gay...and because maybe I can make a difference--to help others have an easier and more hopeful time," Page said.

"Regardless, for me, I feel a personal obligation and a social responsibility. I also do it selfishly, because I am tired of hiding and I am tired

of lying by omission. I suffered for years because I was scared to be out.

"My spirit suffered, my mental health suf-

She said: ''What an amazing first experience in film to do that movie with Jim Carrey.

''I turned 21 on the set of that film, and I'll never forget it, because obviously you turn 21 and you're like 'Wooo, 21!'

''And we were working nights, so Jim kind of helped me celebrate, the whole crew helped me celebrate that night,” she stated.

(TOI)

fered and my relationships suffered. And I'm standing here today, with all of you, on the other side of all that pain," she added. (TOI)

Kim Kardashian 'surprised' by marriage proposal

Socialite Kim Kardashian says rapper-fiancé Kanye West's marriage proposal was the "surprise of a lifetime".

Nicholas Hoult has confessed that he feels a bit awkward while filming sex scenes in a movie.

The 24-year-old actor claimed that it's all very technical and the actors are quite exposed naturally, Metro.co.uk reported.

Hoult, however, asserted that being a gentleman in such situations, he has to try and be polite and not do anything that could be misinterpreted.

He added that it doesn't matter how bad he feels as a guy in a room full of guys who are shooting and filming the scene, the actress is definitely going to feel a lot worse. (TOI)

The ‘Stronger’ hitmaker asked the brunette beauty to be his wife in front of all her loved ones at AT&T Park in San Francisco on her 33rd birthday and Kim, who has eight-month-old daughter North with Kanye, later admitted she had no idea what was going to happen.

"I'm, like, shaking. It is so crazy to me that this is all happening. Kanye really outdid himself. It feels like I'm in a dream. It's just the most amazing experience. I am the biggest investigator, so the fact that I didn't see one sign of this happening is the surprise of a lifetime," contactmusic.com quoted Kim as saying. (TOI)

AGG in difficult times – Fortune believes she deserves South American spot

By TreisTon Joseph

Alot of controversy has arisen over the past few days, ranging from the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) questioning the competence of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) at the AAG’s award ceremony on February 15, to well known distance coach blasting the president of the AAG.

The warning came about due to Alika Morgan’s withdrawal from the South American Games in Chile, set for March, citing short notification of her selection and unpreparedness, when in fact the GOA was informed by Morgan that she is pulling out of the games.

According to Black, Morgan’s unpreparedness stemmed from the AAG, which was given notice by the GOA since last year to shortlist a team, informing Black about Morgan’s selection on February 8.

Further, Black in an interview with GTI Sport on Monday labeled the president a dictator, who has made decisions

on teams by himself, while indicating that the council agreed that Natasha Alder would have replaced Morgan on the team.

However, Morgan has been replaced by track stalwart and the best female local sprinter for Guyana over the past decade Alisha Fortune, a situation

GCB selects regional fourday first round squad

Guyana has named a 13-man squad for the upcoming West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) regional four-day first round matches, which begins later this month.

In preparation for the tournament, the national team will be engaged in a warm-up match that bowls off tomorrow against a Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) reserve team at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara, starting at 10:00h each day.

The Guyana squad for the regional four day first round matches reads: Sewnarine Chattergoon, Assad Fudadin, Leon Johnson

(captain), Ramnaresh Sarwan, Narsingh Deonarine, Shivnarine Chanderpaul (vice captain), Anthony Bramble, Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Keon Joseph and Vishaul Singh. Manager is Alvin Johnson and Coach is Esuan Crandon.

The reserve team reads: Rajindra Chandrika, Trevon Griffith, Robin Bacchus, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Royston Crandon, Rajiv Ivan, Jonathan Foo, Zaheer Mohamed, Anthony Adams, Jason Sinclair, Paul Wintz, Raun Johnson, Rayon Fredricks, Collis Butts, Andre Stoll and Ricardo Adams

The Guyana squad will depart on February 25for Jamaica where they will take on the defending champions in the first round on February 28.

Prior to the warmup match, the players on the squad who were not a part of the NAGICO Super50 squad in Trinidad and Tobago, were in encampment from February 5-7, which gave the selectors an opportunity to look at their fitness levels.

Chairman of GCB Senior Selection Panel Reyon Griffith advised that players not selected for the first round must continue to practice and stay fit for possible selection in future rounds of this year’s competition.

RHTGG, Albion, Port Mourant, Young Warriors through to semis

Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets, Albion, Port Mourant and Young Warriors have advanced to the semi-finals of the Busta Champion of Champions tournament, after winning their respective preliminary game last Saturday at separate venues in the ancient county.

Defending champions RHTGG crushed Upper Corentyne by nine wickets at the Area ‘H’ ground. Batting first, Upper Corentyne were restricted to 173-9 in their allotted 50 overs. Deoprakash Ramdat top scored with 27. He received support from Somedat Singh, 17, Lakeram Latchman, 16, and Fawaz Mohamed, 14.

Captain Shawn Pereira who claimed 3 for 27 and Shailendra Shameer, 2 for 15, were the most successful bowlers for RHTGG. In reply, the eventual winners reached 177 for 1 in 32.1 overs, with Delbert Hicks and Dominic Rikhi adding 139 in 22.1 overs. Hicks was eventually dismissed for an aggressive 85. Rikhi was left unbeaten on 65, while Jason Sinclair was on 22 not out when victory was achieved.

At the Port Mourant

ground, the home team brushed aside the challenge of Bermine by 75 runs. Port Mourant were bowled out for 189 in 47 overs, with Joshua Ramsammy leading the charge with a polished 55. He received good support from Andrew Lyght Jr, 27, and Yogendra Harrinarine, 25.

Kevin Pellow, 3 for 27, and Stephen Latcha, 2 for 22, were the successful bowlers for Bermine, who in reply were bundled out for a paltry 114 in just 29.2 overs.

Only Keon De Jesus, 45, and Joemal La Fleur, 19, offered any resistance to the destructive bowling of left-arm spinner Robert Moore, 6 for 13, and off spinner Devindra Thakurdeen, 2 for 21.

Young Warriors held their nerves to squeeze past Blairmont by three runs at the Cumberland ground in Canje. Kevin Ramdeen top scored with a patient 53, as the home team were dismissed for 149 in 41 overs. Suresh Dhanai, 28, and Vishal Mohabir, 22, were the only other two batsmen to offered meaningful support to Ramdeen.

Promising spinners Kevin Jawahir and Deveshwari Prashad were the main destroy-

ers for Blairmont, claiming 4 for 23 and 3 for 27, respectively. In reply Blairmont were dismissed for 146 in 42.1 overs Jawahir, 45, Altaz Khan, 21, and Parmanand Ramdhan, 20, were the top scores for the losing team.

Suresh Dhanai, 2 for 28, Shanquille Williams, 2 for 19, and Hubern Evans, 2 for 13, were the best bowlers for the home team.

Meanwhile, home team Albion defeated West Berbice by six wickets. West Berbice, who won the toss and elected to take first strike, were restricted to 140 all out in 46.2 overs. Leroy Bristol top scored with 28. West Indies Leg spinner Devendra Bishoo was the destructive force with 4 for 26, while Veerasammy Permaul and Jonathan Foo supported with two wickets each.

Albion powered to 141 for 3 in 32.1 overs, with Kandasammy Surujnarine smashing an unbeaten 50 not out, inclusive of six boundaries, while Bishoo scored an unbeaten 48 with seven boundaries. The semi finals are billed for Saturday, with Port Mourant hosting Albion, and RHTGG at home to Young Warriors.

delbert Hicks devendra bishoo kevin ramdeen

leslie black ka Juman yassin aubrey Hutson

continued on page 53

alisha Fortune

Fraser Pryce second in 60m indoor

Jamaica’s ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce, in her only indoor race before the World Indoor championships, finished second in the 60 metres at the Sainbury’s Indoor Grand Prix in Birmingham on Saturday.

Fraser-Pryce, who had an explosive start and finished in 7.10 seconds, was given the same time as Ivorian Murielle Ahoure.

Asha Phillip of Great Britain finished third (7.12) and Tahesia Harrigan-Scott of the British Virgin Islands was seventh (7.23).

“When I came here and I heard the cheer from the crowd I couldn’t help but smile and I think that helped me to relax,” said FraserPryce.

“I love coming here and I’m looking to coming here again.”

“One thing like about

ladies–we never hide, we always come facing each other and I think that’s good for the sport and it helps to just bring out the best in us,” she added.

In the men’s version, James Desaolu of Great Britain maintains his impressive form this season to win in 6.50, ahead of Jamaica’s Nesta Carter (6.53) and Kim Collins of St Kitts/ Nevis (6.55).

Jamaica’s Kaliese

Spencer posted an indoor 400m personal best of 52.14 to finish behind Nigeria’s Regina George (51.78).

Edino Steele of Jamaica was fourth place in the men’s 400m in 46.43. Nigel Levine of Great Britain (45.71), Luguelin Santos of the Dominican Republic (46.08) and Luke Lennon-Ford of Great Britain (46.16) took the top three positions. (Jamaica Observer)

Smith looking to revive Windies career

While dynamic Barbadian all-rounder

Dwayne Smith is hoping to resuscitate his international career against Ireland, Twenty20 captain Darren Sammy says West Indies won’t be taking the unfancied visitors lightly in their three-match series bowling off at Sabina Park this week.

The two teams arrived in Jamaica on Sunday and are slated to face off in two Twenty20 Internationals and a one-off One-day International.

“As a West Indian team we always respect our opponents, no matter what. The Irish have not done well in the just-concluded NAGICO Super50, but no doubt we won’t be underestimating them as that could be a recipe for failure,” Sammy said.

The series, one of two before West Indies depart next month to defend their ICC World Twenty20 title in Bangladesh, bowled off Wednesday with the Twenty20s. The second is set for Friday.

The two teams are due to meet in the OneDay International on Sunday. Keep focus

“We will just have to go out there, keep our focus and try to execute as best as we can,” said Sammy.

Meanwhile, Smith, who has been recalled for the two T20 Internationals, is delighted to gain selection after being named the Most Valuable Player in

the Nagico Super50.

“I’m excited to link up with the West Indies team again. I worked myself very hard to get back into the team,” Smith said.

He added that he hoped his performances against the Irish would propel him into West Indies’ limited-overs squad for the home series against England, as

“I’m enjoying the role as opener once more. It’s a position I get to play and score freely. I showed it in the IPL and in the Champions League.

“The selectors and coaches who backed me for this position, I’m repaying them. Also, for Mumbai, I got to bowl more than expected. I’m always willing and up to

the team prepare to defend their World T20 title in Bangladesh.

Top batsman Smith finished as the top batsman in the Super50 with 232 runs at an average of 58, and credited his opening role with the Mumbai Indians in the Champions League T20 as a crucial element to his resurgence.

He admitted the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave him stability in his role as an opener after floating around between the top three spots.

Chris Gayle back in the game

Chris Gayle says he is “99 percent” fit and ready to take on Ireland this week. The big left-hander has been out of the game since an injury in India last November. He returned to intense training as the Windies assembled on Monday at Sabina Park.

“I’m 99% fit,” he said with a laugh. The bighitting left-hander had just come off the field after entertaining a few fans with some massive shots into the stand.

“As everyone knows I had an injury last year, but I have done my work and I’m happy to be back in the set-up,” he told local journalists. “This is

just my first training session back at the ‘peak’ level so I will see overnight how the body come through and I will gradually ease back into the team after assessing the body.

“It's good to be back again and I’m looking forward to the first game and getting that feeling back out there in the middle again. I haven't trained this intensely for a couple months so I hope to get a kick-start and get back into the groove of things as soon as possible.”

West Indies started the series with a T20 International on Wednesday. The second match is on Friday.

Gayle said he expected the locally-born players to step up in front of the home crowd as he saw the series as a “special occasion”.

“We have a few Jamaicans in the team. We have Santokie, Marlon's back and Russell too. Santokie’s did pretty well and he was the best bowler in the CPL so it's good for him to be given a crack at it in front his homecrowd,” Gayle noted.

“This is a big boost for us going into the World T20s. West Indies have a lot of cricket to play leading into this tournament so we're just looking to get past this (Ireland) series,” he said. (WICB)

do the best job I can, as an all-rounder.”

With Chennai Super Kings snapping him up for the 2014 IPL, Smith said that he was excited to test new pastures, especially as he feels at 30 he needs to be maximising on his playing opportunities.

“Mumbai was quite an experience. The Champions League was too. But The MVP title was one of the biggest highlights ever. Now, it’s onto newer things and I’m looking forward,” the cricketer stated,. (Excerpted from Nation News)

chris gayle and teammates

Shelly-ann Fraser-Pryce. (Jamaica Observer file photo)

dwayne Smith

All-round ECCCC topple Rising Star by four wickets

Spurred on by a brilliant all-round effort from several players, the Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club (ECCCC) outplayed Rising Star Cricket Club by four wickets in an invitational match played on Sunday last at Huist-TDieren, Essequibo.

Batting first after winning the toss, Rising Star recovered from a wobbly 35-5 to post a more respectable 131 all out in 29 overs.

The hosts’ top order was rocked by fiery opening spells from young fast bowlers Ranjeet Hiralall and Gavin Moriah, who shared five wickets.

Hiralall, the rightarmer, picked up 3-22 from five overs, while left-armer Moriah bagged 2-13 from four

overs. Yuvraj Dyal was also among the wickets, claiming 2-22 from six overs.

Topscoring for Rising

Star was K. Lakhan with 37, while J. Dindyal and C. Latchman chipped in with 22 and 20 respectively.

The ECCCC lads were then given a rousing start by skipper Bheemraj Ramkellawan, who smashed 34 from

just 18 deliveries to set the tone for the runchase. His innings included two sixes and three boundaries.

Man-of-the-match

Dyal returned to hit 29 to crown a solid allround effort, while Hiralall (25*) was at the crease when victory was achieved at 132-6 from 29.3 overs.

Meanwhile, the ECCCC will be in action again on Sunday when a three-team T20 friendly series is hosted at the Enmore Community Centre ground, East Coast Demerara.

In the opening match at 09:00 hours, Lusignan will take on Bush Lot, with the winner meeting the ECCCC in the ‘final’ during the afternoon session.

Also on Monday, the ECCCC, Dundee and Bush Lot will contest a three-team T20 friendly series hosted by Bush Lot.

Johnson celebrates birthday with table tennis victories

National junior player Elishaba Johnson celebrated his birthday in fine style by playing his way to three titles in the National Sports Commission (NSC) Mashramani table tennis tournament on February 16 at the National Gymnasium.

Johnson started his day by teaming up with Stephan Corlette to win the boy’s double competition, before going on to capture the 15 and under category in easy fashion by defeating Kyle Edghill 4-0 in their final encounter. However, Johnson’s doubles partner would

soon become his greatest challenge as he and Corlette battled in the final of the boy’s 18 and under category.

Johnson started hot, running away with a 2-0 lead, with the sets ending 11-9 and 11-3, before Corlette stormed back to bring the game level, 3 setting up a

mouth watering final set.

However, Johnson displayed his skill as he used his spin shots and aggression to win the final set and the game at 11-6.

Meanwhile, Chelsea Edghill was in top form, running away with three titles of her own, as she captured the mixed doubles, the girls doubles and the girls 18 and under category, while Nevaeh Clarkston won two titles in the girls 11 years and under and the girls 13 years and under categories.

TT’s cyclist Kwesi Browne joins Njisane for training in LA

Arima Wheelers cyclist, Kwesi Browne, has joined Trinidad and Tobago Olympian Njisane Phillip in Los Angeles, California, to train in preparation for the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) and Commonwealth Games later this year.

Browne arrived in Los Angeles on Monday and revealed that he will be undergoing special developmental programmes under the watchful eyes of Phillip’s manager Peter Maharaj and American cycle coach, Travis Smith.

Speaking to the Browne earlier this week, he indicated that he is intent on improving his consistency as an upcoming national representative. He will be primarily focusing his training on the Sprint and Keirin events.

“The goal right now is to get ready and in good form for the coming CAC

and Commonwealth trials in May. I hope to be training with Njisane and his team until 2016. I am certain to learn a lot with these experienced tutors guiding me and with the support of Njisane,” he explained.

Last year, Browne was specially chosen by Phillip to join him in Germany to train with world renowned German rider, Robert Forstemann. However, after a few weeks of gruelling training in frigid temperatures, Phillip returned to his base in California while Browne headed back to TT.

After only his first week of training last week, Browne noted that the technical aspects of training varied significantly as compared to Germany.

“I’m enjoying it so far. It’s a really different training style when comparing it to Germany, but it’s good and I know I’m in good hands at this

point. Njisane plays a good brotherly role for us younger national cyclists and I’m definitely pleased to be here with his well-equipped managerial team,” he added. Additionally, Phillip’s Rigtech Sonics club-mate, Varun Maharajh, began his challenging six to eight-week long training regime in Bogota, Colombia, last week. He, along with 2012 Tobago International Cycling Classic winner, Darren Matthews of Barbados, has opted to visit the South American continent to better prepare themselves ahead of yet another hectic year of endurance and criterium competition.

The Commonwealth Games is scheduled to ride off in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 3 and the 22nd CAC pedals off in Veracruz, Mexico, from November 15-30. (TT Newsday)

The Mashramani table tennis tournament will continue on Friday with the novices and under 21 categories, while Saturday will see the senior segment being played.

elishaba Johnson chelsea edghill

members of the ecccc team in a jubilant mood after their fourwicket win over rising Star cricket club on Sunday last

Young Chanderpaul stars again in Under-19 win against Canada

West Indies entered the quarter-finals of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2014, beating Canada by 63 runs in a Group C fixture at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium Nursery 1 in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday (February 18).

This was West Indies’s second win of the tournament, and it finished second behind South Africa in Group C. It was led by Tagenarine Chanderpaul, who followed his 84 not out in a 167-run win over Zimbabwe with a 127ball 93 that laid the platform for an eventual total of 289 for 4 in 50 overs.

Chanderpaul shared in a 62-run opening stand with Shimron Hetmyer

tagenarine chanderpaul

AGG in difficult...

which has brought into question yet again the AAG’s competence, given that Fortune is nearing 40 years old and would not benefit from the exposure, due to her age, as well as a plan to send young athletes to the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.

While the criticism

might be true with regard to Fortune’s age and her selection, the veteran sprinter believes that she is worthy of the spot, and noted that age is not an issue.

“This doen’t have anything to do with age, if the athlete is performing, these are senior games

and when you would have looked at it, there is no one else.

“If you look on the international scene you would see there are athletes competing at older ages and doing good… Merlene Ottey competed at the Olympics at 40,” Fortune said.

(39), and then added 95 with Jeremy Solozano (50) before Solozano was trapped lbw by Nitish Kumar.

Nicolas Pooran then built on the foundation and attacked Canada's bowling, smashing 67 not out off 41 balls, including three fours and four sixes, to take West Indies to a daunting total.

to Dubai to play in its quater-final on February 23 against the team that tops Group B. (WICB) week ending February 23,

slipped from 197 for 3 to 226 all out.

Canada started its chase reasonably, but fell away at the end, losing seven wickets for just 29 runs to be all out for 226 in 49.3 overs. Canada was 56 for 2 in the 14th over when Nikhil Dutta shared in two good stands to revive the innings. Dutta put on 53 with Nitish Kumar and then 88 off 104 balls with Talha Shaikh. But when Shaikh fell, Canada

Jerome Jones, Ray Jordan and Ramaal Lewis took two wickets each for West Indies.

West Indies will now head

alika morgan (centre)

Australia top table with win against Bangladesh

- set to face Windies in Quarterfinal on Sunday

Ataut, final round of group B games in Abu Dhabi saw Afghanistan and Australia progress to the quarter-finals of the ICC U19 World Cup, at the expense of Bangladesh. Until very late in the proceedings on Wednesday (February 19), three sides had a chance to go through.

But Australia ultimately beat Bangladesh by 74 runs and coupled with Afghanistan’s storming four-wicket win over Namibia - with just under half its overs to spare - the results contrived to put Bangladesh out. Bangladesh ended up on four points – the

same as Australia and Afghanistan – but with a lower net run-rate.

Australia will now face West Indies in its quarterfinal match on Sunday in Dubai.

Having been in the driver’s seat as the day began with two wins out of two, that loss and elimination hit Bangladesh hard.

The pain will not be eased by the knowledge that it mostly had itself to blame. Bangladesh, who chose to bowl, had reduced Australia to 61 for 4 at one stage, before a Jake Doran-inspired recovery allowed the side to put up 244 for 6. Doran was dropped on 38 but

his unbeaten 99 stabilised the innings, and a last-over blitz by Tom Andrews (18 off 6 balls) that yielded 21 runs ensured the innings ended on a high.

Then, in the chase Bangladesh were comfortably placed at 128 for 2 and with nearly 18 overs left, looked to be coasting. Around the same time, next door at the Nursery Oval, Afghanistan had romped home to its target of 193 against Namibia in 25.3 overs, which assured it second place in the group.

The effect of that on net run-rates within the group meant that Bangladesh could af-

ford to lose and still go through: had they reached 231 and not the victory target of 245, they would have gone through ahead of Australia.

But panic set in once Shadman Islam was run out on 49. Australia’s bowlers sniffed it and pounced, the last eight wickets falling in a heap for just 42 runs in ten overs. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 170 in 42 overs.

Doran’s innings was a patient one, and in true Australian fashion, he was not worried about not getting the hundred as long as the team won. It was also the fruits of working with Greg

and

Hick in the

as well as a preparatory tour to Sri Lanka

George named AAG’s athlete of the year

By TreisTon Joseph

The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) held their award ceremony on Saturday evening at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), where Olympian Winston George was named male athlete of the year.

Before the awardees received their trophies for their hard work during 2013, the AAG received a stern warning from Senior Vice President of

the GOA Charles Corbin.

The warning came about due to local distance athlete Alika Morgan withdrawing from the South American team, citing that she was given short notice and was inadequately prepared, despite being shortlisted for the event since last year.

“It will mean that, when we have recommendations coming from the AAG, which have to be considered where I’m a member of the panel, the position of whether that person should be

on the panel will become questionable. Because, if at the time after selection, the athlete is saying I’m not prepared. Did the AAG not know this before the person was included on the list?” Corbin questioned.

However, earlier, President of the AAG Aubrey Hutson, who explained the rigours of 2013, was positive that the association will produce good athletes.

“This council is committed to producing the caliber of athletes that the nation could be proud

of. For 2013 we had a good–but as I said at the congress¬–we did not have a great year, but it was a good year,” Hutson stressed.

The event concluded with the athletes receiving their awards before interacting informally with their other athletes and officials.

List of award winners: Male Athlete of the Year (Winston George), runner-up (Stephan James), Female Athlete of the Year (Alika Morgan), run-

ner up (Jevina Strake), Junior Male Athlete of the Year (Kevin Abbensettes), runner up (Clarence Green), Junior Female Athlete of the Year (Jevina Straker), runner up (Alita Moore), Youth Male Athlete of the Year (Jason Yaw), Youth Female Athlete of the Year (Cassey George), runner up (Tirana Mitchell), Coach of the Year (Julian Edmonds), Official of the Year (Kendra Squires-Rose), runner-up (Nigel Hope).

Chappell

Graeme

coaching staff,

before coming here. He played it as people remind him to keep playing it: simply. (ICC)

Jake doran of australia scores an unbeaten 99.

Pathetic! Ireland embarrass poor Windies in T20 opener

IRELAND inflict-

ed a surprising and historic six-wicket win over world champions West Indies in yesterday's (Wednesday) opening encounter of the two-match Twenty20 (T20) International series between the teams at Sabina Park in Kingston.

As both teams cast their eyes on match practice ahead of the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh next month, the West Indies won the toss and took first strike on a glossy, dark-hued batting surface which suggested a bit of preparation moisture.

After losing openers Dwayne Smith and Christopher Gayle following a brisk start, the uninspired-looking hosts were restricted to a paltry 116-8 by Ireland, one of the minnows of international cricket.

Guided by Ed Joyce’s unbeaten 40, the Irish reached 117-4 with five balls to spare.

Scores: West Indies 116-8 (20 overs); Ireland 117-4 (19.1 overs). The loss was particularly embarrassing for the West Indies, given that

Ireland, who were invited to play in the recent Regional Super50 tournament, were badly beaten by territorial teams Guyana and Jamaica.

Ireland have tasted victory against the West Indies before in unofficial One-Day encoun-

ters. In the late 1960s the Irish were said to beat the West Indies on a tour of the United Kingdom, and they pulled off a similar feat, beating the Caribbean men in a 50-over practice game in Ireland in 1995.

Yesterday, the coach

of the winning team, Phil Simmons — a former West Indies opener — told reporters after the game that it was “a big confidence builder to come into the backyard of the world champions” and pull off a firstever T20 win over the Caribbean outfit.

Limacol CPL bearing fruit

The inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has been hailed by organisers and players as a “massive success”.

The players have used the platform to make their presence felt, not only at the regional level, but also at the international stage. However, at least one player has had his presence felt on the international platform.

Guyana’s Amazon Warriors and Jamaican medium fast bowler Krishmar Santokie is the only first-timer on a list of eight West Indians to be part of this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) tour-

nament. Santokie was selected by defending champions Mumbai Indians on the second auction day of two, last Thursday, for US$50,000. Widely regarded as one of the best Twenty20 bowlers in the region, given his ability to swing the ball and vary his pace, Santokie entered the IPL auction on the back of an outstanding season last year in the inaugural Limacol CPL.

He guided Guyana Amazon Warriors to the final against Jamaica Tallawahs, before going on to cop the Most Valuable Player award, after finishing with a tour-

nament-high 16 wickets from nine games. The other West Indians drafted during the auction were seam bowlers Ravi Rampaul ($150,000 – Royal Challengers Bangalore), Jason Holder (Sun Risers Hyderbad – US$125,000) and Kevon Cooper (Rajasthan Royals – US$50,000); all-rounders Darren Sammy (US$583,000 – Sun Risers Hyderbad) and André Russell (US$100,000 – Kolkata Knight Riders); leg-spinner Samuel Badree (Chennai Super Kings –US$50,000); and batsman Dwayne Smith (Chennai Super Kings –US$750,000).

West Indies captain Darren Sammy said the loss was “very disappointing, but just a bump in preparation”, while adding that his team is “going to bounce back” in tomorrow’s second and final T20 game.

Earlier, the lefthanded Gayle, returning

from injury, top-scored with 18 as several batsmen appeared to find timing difficult due to the slow-paced nature of the Sabina pitch, especially early in the match.

Marlon Samuels, also coming off an injury layoff, contributed 16, while Lendl Simmons (16), Andre Russell (15), and Smith (14), all got starts but failed to carry on.

Medium pacers Alex Cusack and Kevin O’brien ended with identical figures of 2-17 for the Irish. In reply, the visitors, helped by the departure of much of the pitch moisture as the afternoon sun belted down, shrugged off an early scare to comfortably reach the target.

Andrew Poynter supported Boyce with a knock of 32. West Indies wrist-spinner Samuel Badree took 2-18 off four overs, while highly rated off-spinner Sunil Narine had 1-16.

After Thursday’s T20 game at Sabina Park, the teams will turn their attention to the lone OneDay International game of the tour on Sunday, at the same venue.

(Jamaica Observer)

West Indies batsman Marlon Samuels (left) looks back in dismay as Ireland’s wicketkeeper Gary Wilson completes a stumping for 16 runs off the bowling of George Dockrell in their opening Twenty20 International at Sabina Park on Wednesday. (PHOTO: BRYAN CUMMINGS)

Krishmar Santokie