Guyana Times International

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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You can also read Guyana Times daily edition online at www.guyanatimesgy.com ISSUE NO. 233

week ending March 8, 2015

Exxon begins drilling for oil in Guyana's Basin See story on page 3

Political parties get busy as E Day draws nearer

See stories inside

Earlier this week President Donald Ramotar met with young people from all across Guyana at State House to listen to their concerns and answer their questions about his vision for youth and for Guyana's further development.

APNU-AFC Presidential Candidate, David Granger delivered the feature address at the formal launch of the coalition on Wednesday at the Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown, where he detailed his plans for Guyana’s development if successful at the May 11 polls.

“Govt did not pay for my medical evacuation” - Jagdeo slams Opposition, media for distorting the truth

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NEWS 3

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Exxon begins drilling for oil in Guyana's Basin

By Alexis Rodney

U

nited States-based oil company ExxonMobil’s oil exploration ship, the Deep Water Champion is in position in the Stabroek Block off Guyana’s Essequibo Coast and will commence its US$200 million exploration project today (Thursday), Country Manager Jeff Simons has said.

The company is locked in what could be a possible showdown with Venezuelan authorities who have warned it not to proceed with the drilling, which was sanctioned by the Guyana Government.

Venezuela has repeatedly laid claim to the area to be explored, ignoring an 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which was declared as the full and final settlement of the boundary between the two South American nations. With Venezuela’s obdurate insistence on its position, Guyana is considering judicial settlement of the boundary.

Following Venezuela’s warning to the oil company, Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, dispatched a diplomatic note to her Venezuelan counterpart, warning against any action to prevent the oil rig from carrying out its work in an area off the Stabroek Block known as Liza.

Her note was in response to Venezuela’s Foreign Minister, Delcy Rodriguez Gomez, saying to ExxonMobil: “The Government of the Bolivarian

President Donald Ramotar, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud and ExxonMobil’s Country Manager Jeff Simon during a tour of the company’s head office at New Market Street, Georgetown

Republic of Venezuela wishes to express its strongest protest against this serious situation and, accordingly, I take this opportunity to request the cessation of such activities as they will not be acknowledged or accepted under any such circumstances, since this will constitute, moreover, a hostile violation of the Venezuela territorial space,” Gomez told Simon in her letter.

She also cautioned that Venezuela would not recognise any law or contractual obligations by third states, agencies, international financial institutions or private corporations that engages “Guyana over the sovereignty or existing resources on the seafront of the

Essequibo”.

Gomez also expressed concerns that the drilling of oil at such depths could cause untold environmental damage.

“The drilling in the mentioned sea area involves a major impact on the environment, given that the intervention in such significant depths could cause unacceptable environmental disturbances, which are prohibited by our legal framework and international agreements on environmental protection,” the Venezuela Foreign Minister stated. “Guyana has no valid land titles on the territory of Essequibo, including the seafront, which entitles such country to carry out projects of

this magnitude.”

Guyana has asked Venezuela to desist from taking any actions that would stymie this country’s development.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested that the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela desist from taking any actions that could only result in the stymieing of the development of Guyana and its people and that would be in contravention of international law,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said.

Meanwhile, President Donald Ramotar, along with Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud visited the

ExxonMobil’s head office located on New Market Street on Wednesday, where they were given a tour of the facility and briefed on the scope of its operations by the company’s Country Manager.

According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) release, ExxonMobil, the largest public traded international company in the world, is an industry giant that has the leading inventory of oil and gas projects, and the world’s largest refiner of petroleum products. It has a long history of using science and innovation to find safer and cleaner ways of bringing energy to the world.

The total area allotted to Exxon for exploration (the Liza Area of the Stabroek Block) covers 26, 806 square kilometres. The company intends to drill at a depth of 1750 metres.

According to GINA, President Ramotar, who was impressed with the size of the company’s operations, described the exploratory staging area as a “small village”, noting that it ought to take a lot of effort to manage and execute all logistics. “I’m quite impressed with what is taking place, and looking forward to going out myself,” the President noted.

Additionally, Minister Persaud urged the company to ensure that the activities envisioned are within the specified timeframe. Persaud also stated that “all Government agencies are fully mobilised for an continued on page 11

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EDITORIAL

Facing the Venezuelan threat

T

he news that the Venezuelan Government, through its Foreign Affairs Minister Delcy Rodríguez, has objected to Esso/Exxon about their oil rig preparing to explore for oil off the coast of Essequibo in a concession granted by the Guyana Government, should be cause for concern for all Guyanese.

Informing the United Nations Secretary General; the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR); the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Commonwealth, the Government of Guyana reacted with alacrity to the provocative action: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested that the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela desist from taking any actions that could only result in the stymieing of the development of Guyana and its people and that would be in contravention of international law.”

This action is even more serious than the last response to Guyana’s effort to exploit its mineral resources in the area. Back in October 2013, the Guyanese Government had hired the oil drilling company Anadarko to conduct studies for future oil concessions in the Roraima Block off Essequibo’s coast, where it was concentrating on petroleum exploration. The Venezuelan Navy intercepted the ship and forced it into a port at Venezuela’s Margarita Island. The captain, a Ukrainian national, was charged with violating Venezuela’s Exclusive Economic Zone while the rest of the crew were released.

As in the present situation, our Foreign Affairs Ministry made a stern response: “The Government of Guyana is of the firm belief that the actions taken by the Venezuelan navy vessel constitute a serious threat to the peace of this sub-region and the Government of Guyana, therefore, strongly condemns these actions.”

From the statements of the Venezuelan Opposition, it was clear that they were behind the objections to the Guyanese petroleum exploration efforts in light of the accommodative posture adopted by then President Hugo Chávez to the Venezuelan pretensions to two thirds of Guyana. The Venezuelan Opposition claimed that the Government of Nicolás Maduro was now in favour of the idea of Guyana exploring for oil in waters off the Essequibo contra to Venezuelan claims that the Roraima Block was located in Venezuelan waters off Delta Amacuro state, in eastern Venezuela.

In the subsequent effort to deal with the matter, the Foreign Ministers of Guyana and Venezuela met on October 17 in Trinidad and hashed out an agreement that a technical team would meet within four months “to explore mechanisms within the context of international law to address the issue of maritime delimitation”.

As Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett noted at the time, both sides restated that their individual and contradictory claims were valid, but in an evident coup for Guyana, the maritime demarcation was delinked from the fallacious claim Venezuela had been making for Essequibo.

This latest objection to Guyana developing its petroleum resources off Essequibo by the Venezuelan Government – without explicit arms-rattling by its Opposition – suggests that the Maduro Government is extremely weak and is attempting to preempt Opposition criticisms in the face of their necessary equivocation in the face of the mega US oil company being involved in this venture.

For us in Guyana, it is a salutary reminder that no matter what might be the personal relationships developed with the leaders of Venezuela, the border controversy is so deeply embedded in Venezuelan nationalistic politics, it can never be taken for granted.

It is very heartening to note that Opposition Leader David Granger has supported the Government’s stance on the issue, just as Cheddi Jagan had done when the Venezuelans had invaded our portion of Ankoko Island. Not a blade of grass then and not a barrel of oil now.

Our Government and its diplomats must intensify their efforts to have the signed commitment by the Venezuelan Government to demarcate our maritime border – with no linkage to any other claims, pursued to its natural conclusion: that our demarcation is the legal one as was the case with the Surinamese claim back in 2000.

Ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday, President Donald Ramotar hosted an appreciation afternoon to reflect on progress made and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities. In photo, President Donald Ramotar and PPP/C's Prime Ministerial candidate, Elizabeth Harper with some of the recognised women at Wednesday night's event at State House.

Guyana joins world in observing World Wildlife Day A mid prevailing challenges, Guyanese must push for tangible results in the area of sustainable wildlife management and conservation, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud said on Tuesday, as he rallied for support.

At the time, Minister Persaud was speaking at a Stakeholders’ Forum to mark World Wildlife Day, which was held under the theme “Wildlife crime is serious; let’s get serious about wildlife crime”.

He said the theme should not be taken at face value, as it puts the spotlight on illegal trade and exploitation of wildlife. “As wildlife stewards, you have a responsibility to ensure that your hunting and trapping practices are done according to the regulations.

With that said, we recognise that the regulations and other pieces of policies that protect wild flora such as the National Policy on Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture 2014 are only as good in practical terms as the partnerships that we are able to forge,” he told those present.

He said collaborative partnerships would aid in the promotion of innovative initiatives that conserve wildlife and combat illegal activities related to wildlife. On the part of the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, he said though the air was clear on all the technicalities of wildlife management such as the implementation of a licensing system for wildlife dealers, and the establishment of quotas for harvesting targeted wildlife species, it was also cognisant of the challenges that must be overcome before these are implemented.

“Some of those challenges include: building capacities of staff within the Wildlife Division and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for scientific research, the provision of the requisite

training and equipment to detect, investigate and prosecute wildlife offences; and educating the general populace on the importance of wildlife resources and the need to conserve such resources,” Minister Persaud explained.

Nevertheless, he said the Natural Resources and the Environment Ministry has embarked on a number of initiatives that seek to address the issue of wildlife management and conservation.

Central among these is the establishment of the Wildlife Management Steering Committee in November 2014.

This committee, he explained, acts as an advisory body in providing general oversight and guidance in the development of strategies and programmes for wildlife management and conservation in Guyana.

Additionally, the Ministry has collaborated with an international Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) – Panthera – to develop a project in the south of Guyana on sustainable hunting practices as a foundation for managing wildlife harvest.

“This project when completed will be scaled up to the other regions of the country. Rest assured forums of this nature will be replicated with key constituencies that are not adequately represented today such as the Amerindians and stakeholders in other far-flung regions. Our intention would be as it is today to not only educate stakeholders on responsible hunting practices but to encourage self-regulation and voluntary reporting of wildlife hunted,” he further explained.

Ongoing partnership

The development of a targeted communication strategy to achieve compliance with the regulations, the development of a wildlife management and conservation booklet with key messages and themes on wildlife for distribution to Wildlife

Hunters and Trappers, and a closer working relationship with Wildlife Stakeholder Groups are among the gains to be achieved from this ongoing partnership.

Guyana became a party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) in 1977. This mandates the adoption of appropriate measures for effective implementation of the convention. Failure to enact legislation to implement the Convention can lead to compliance measures being instituted against the defaulting party including recommendations to suspend trade. Guyana was previously subjected to a recommendation for trade suspension for inadequate legislation.

However, the suspension was lifted after the enactment of the Species Protection Regulations in 1999. This regulation along with the Wildlife Management and Conservation Regulations 2013, which provide for the collection, hunting, sale and possession of wildlife govern the international and domestic trade of wildlife respectively.

In an effort to strengthen the regulation and management of the international wildlife trade, a Wildlife Import and Export Bill was tabled in the National Assembly in 2014.

This Bill seeks to repeal the Species Protection Regulations and establish the Wildlife Import and Export Authority to replace the Wildlife Division.

These regulations make provisions for among other things, penalising the harvesting of prohibited species of wildlife, exporting, re-exporting or importing wildlife without permits and the use of prohibited devices and methods to hunt wildlife. Penalties for offenders range from Gy$30,000 to Gy$750,000 along with prison time.

NEWS 5

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Granger details Coalition plans if successful at polls

Election Day and to cast their votes without hesitation.

According to Nagamootoo, there is nothing to fear in giving the coalition a vote since it will be making a giant step towards national reconciliation, national unity and a better living standard. He told the gathering that “we shall defeat the monster of racism”.

Both men expressed confidence that the people of Guyana will vote for change.

By Gomatie Gangadin

T

he newly formed A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU-AFC) coalition had its official elections campaign launch on Wednesday at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown.

Presidential Candidate, Opposition Leader Brigadier David Granger told the gathering the country was suffering from severe “unhappiness” and this must be addressed since it would lead to social crises.

The Presidential hopeful told the crowded room of supporters and media operatives that the state of unhappiness in the country was seen in the number of suicides recorded every year.

“The People’s Progressive Party/Civic has dragged us to the very pit of the human development index.

“The record rates of arson, armed robbery, murders, suicides, road fatalities, illiteracy, and unemployment, trafficking in persons and trafficking in narcotics have made our country a pariah state in this hemisphere,” Granger told the gathering.

He noted that it was out of this situation that the coalition was formed, as the time has come for the change that the country so needed, adding that it has the potential to change the landscape of several of the country’s systems including

Race politics

Presidential Candidate David Granger with his wife Sandra and Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo with his wife Sita at the launch on Wednesday

those in the health, education and social services sectors.

“The APNU-AFC coalition is the boldest step taken in six decades to replace political hostility with unity, confrontation with cooperation, dictatorship with democracy. The coalition has chosen hope over despair and faith over fear.

“The coalition will give Guyanese an education system that will produce citizens of quality who will be happy, employment opportunities, a security policy that protects our citizens and our territory,” he said.

Granger stated that the APNU-AFC would ensure a “real Government of national unity and democratic renewal” if it wins the elections.

He added that the formation of the partnership between

the two parties was not to be mistaken for the fulfilment of the self-interest of any one person, but rather it was an agreement born out of the need for the country to reach its potential, noting that a government of national unity would serve all Guyanese across the country.

“We assure you today that the Cummingsburg Accord is not a crass, short-term, office-sharing bargain. It is a visionary initiative, it’s actually a public covenant between the combined majority and the people to create a just society, a stable political environment with a prosperous economy,” the Opposition Leader said.

Prime Ministerial candidate of the coalition Moses Nagamootoo, in alluding to his

biblical namesake, declared May 11, the date for General and Regional Elections in Guyana as the day of deliverance for the country proclaiming that the country has experienced enough at the hands of the incumbent party.

“As we prepare to take office, we note how utterly depraved this Government has become by shamelessly misusing public funds. Our alliance has said it is enough!

“There will be and must be a stop to this madness! A new day must come and it will come, in the words of Martin Carter, ‘inevitably and inexorably’. May 11 is deliverance day!” he declared.

Nagamootoo also issued a call to all Guyanese to turn up at the polling stations on

However, many observers have been particularly vocal over the last few weeks with respect to the race-based politics of the APNU-AFC coalition, and are calling on both parties to move away from the established fundamentals and scour for new ground.

Many persons have noticeably taken to social media to express frustration at this method, calling for a change in the modus operandi.

One event that kept taking centre stage in the online discussions and is still being referenced is the APNU rally at Square of the Revolution. It was noted that the AFC took a decision to send only AfroGuyanese to mount APNU’s platform.

Additionally, the AFC refused to join the APNU protests which followed the rally.

Despite these concerns being ventilated on social media, the AFC was adamant that this was not the case.

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Albert Boodhoo supported our struggle for democracy in New York Dear Editor, It is with sadness that I learned of the passing of New York-based Albert Boodhoo who was a grass roots activist of the PPP/C and a strong trade unionist who served GAWU and the working class with distinction.

He greatly admired Dr Cheddi Jagan for his self-less struggle against the exploitation of the working class, and he took a page out of his book to serve the sugar workers. He also fought against the PNC dictatorship for the restoration of democracy.

Albert, as we called him in New York, came from humble beginnings on the Corentyne with his parents, grandparents and great grand tied to the sugar estate. Not surprisingly,

he grounded with the poor and the working class and committed to improving their lot.

I first met Albert around 1991 in Richmond Hill at a public forum when I was a discussant on the freedom struggle against the PNC dictatorship. He gravitated towards me for my political analysis on Guyana. He was at several political meetings thereafter, even after the restoration of democracy, and he attended several cultural events, including the annual Phagwah parade.

Boodhoo was also a supporter of the Association of Concerned Guyanese (ACG), New York branch, though not an activist like others who were members of the ACG, or the handful of us who were

deeply embedded in the struggle against the dictatorship.

Albert attended several meets when Dr Jagan, Janet Jagan, Sam Hinds, and Bharrat Jagdeo visited our community in Queens and addressed the public, giving updates on the political situation.

He also admired the political work and intellect of stalwarts like Ralph Ramkarran and Moses Nagamootoo and he was most disappointed that both left the party they so long served for almost 50 years each.

He was especially praiseworthy of Ramkarran, whom he felt, would have made an excellent President. I did not see Boodhoo when President Donald Ramotar visited over the last several years; under-

standably, he was wheel-chair bound.

In our limited interaction, Albert gave a lot of details about Guyana’s politics, race relations and labour affairs.

He would query about my polls and was concerned about Guyana’s politics and the direction of the PPP/C. He was a source of information for several topical issues. He possessed a tremendous amount of knowledge on labor issues. He was a human library on labour matters; he knew virtually everything about the history of labour even though he was not college educated.

Albert was a fine gentleman who exuded compassion and care for the dispossessed and poor working class. He

was professional in his demeanor and spoke candidly about politics in his former homeland.

He was not afraid to speak out against what he perceived to be errors made by the PPP/C Administration. He felt the working class was being neglected and not much was being done to alleviate the hardship of sugar workers.

I join with friends and former sugar workers in saying farewell to a former stalwart of GAWU for his outstanding contribution to labor activism and workers’ rights in Guyana.

His deeds in the fight for the restoration of democracy and for the dignity of the working class in our homeland will remain deep in our memory.

Vishnu Bisram

No reputable literary award accepts Political campaign seeks to ignore self published works as entries pre-1992 events in Guyana Dear Editor, Because Ruel Johnson and I have had friendly exchanges in the past, I feel that I have been too harsh in my public criticism of him.

However, I think he has become grandiose and wholly insufferable, especially over the Guyana Prize which he speaks about with authority as if it is his personal property.

But what is the Guyana Prize other than a substandard literary award tailored to Guyana? No reputable literary award accepts self published works as entries. Nor manuscripts – I understand that manuscripts can also be submitted. Given that publishers are now available to everyone everywhere, shouldn’t this policy be revised?

Yes, Martin Carter self published but we, none of us, are as grand as Martin Carter. And everyone knows that he never cared about awards and never wrote with the idea of winning any. As with every serious poet and writer, he wrote for his personal satisfaction, because he had talent, and because he had a whole lot to say, and in beautifully stirring ways.

In a news report of February 27, Johnson complains that the University of Guyana (UG) never invites him to speak or lecture to its students.

Universities abroad do not usually use self published books in their curriculum.

However, given that UG manages the prize and accepts self published works as entries, perhaps their standards, too, are different.

In a nutshell, Johnson has won prizes because this is Guyana and the Guyana Prize does not operate to internationally accepted standards. Is this Government’s intent or would they rather have a prize that stands as one of the world’s reputable literary awards?

I do not believe we have enough good writers and poets around to sustain such an award which is probably why the prize has become corrupted by cronyism and worse.

I would advise restructuring it to a purely local award for promising writers with the winners getting medals or trophies. Perhaps, it should be tied to schools’ reading and comprehension classes. And it should be under new management.

I do believe Johnson and I are engaged in some cross talking.

Bocas, Small Axe, Guadeloupe and Amsterdam do not register on my antenna as a writer, but given that Johnson is obviously satisfied with such accolades from abroad, why does he still crave public and official recognition in Guyana?

Does he value the approbation of our mostly ill-qualified state officials that much?

There are other writers and artists who are never invited to participate in official Government delegations. This is not victimization. I see it as a feather in my cap that I upset the powers that be. It is a tribute to your independence to be ignored by every official around.

It appears that Johnson is expecting to be a grand public official himself in a new post-elections Administration and insults me with his anticipated patronage, saying he will invite me to sit on a forum. Eh-eh! But he tek his soand-so eyes pass me!

Unlike Johnson, I do not crave participation in any forum. All his criticisms of the current Administration would be commendable, except that they are now exposed as mere self aggrandizement, geared to gaining him a position with a possible new dispensation. Such machinations do, however, make him perfectly suited for a position as a public official in Guyana.

With all his busyness with policy making, etc, he does appear to be more of a typical local politician than a writer.

In a conversation I had with Johnson a while back, I told him, vis a vis the idea of a cultural policy, that culture is something of the people, by the people, for the people and from the people, and that Government has no business in any of it.

I also questioned the anachronism of having a Ministry of Culture. We are still being moulded into what the state wants?

Writers and artists of integrity do not usually sit in committee rooms to make policy. They are most often found outside looking in, armed with their criticisms. That’s where the revolution happens. If Johnson does become a grand official, he knows where I will be.

Ryhaan Shah

Guyanese lining up for basic food items during Burnham's PNC rule

Dear Editor I am one of the younger members of society.

I grew up in the time of the PPP/C. I have seen many developments in my country. I understand the importance of elections to a modern day society.

I also value the informed opinion of the people. Recently, I’ve come across the MoveFoward campaign on Facebook.

Their campaign includes posting a picture of themselves, along with their opinion.

This campaign is targeted at the youths of Guyana, mostly those born post-1992. The main objective of the campaign is to drive youths away from looking at what happened before 1992.

I was born in 1994, but that shouldn’t stop me or anyone my age from knowing what went on before my birth.

As I was looking at the television show “Da Vinci’s Demons”, I came across a statement that I think is of great importance to this movement.

The statement was, “History is a lie that has been honed like a weapon by people who have

suppressed the truth”.

I find this statement of particular importance because I think this movement, whether consciously or not, is in some way suppressing the truth.

History is very important. It has a lot of relevance in a modern society. I’m a firm believer that the present state of the country should be compared and contrasted with the past.

Judging the present in isolation would not give a proper representation of the truth.

Knowledge of the past gives us a better understanding of where we have come from. This movement is preventing the population to see how far we have come as a nation.

How would we possibly know what progress we have made if we don’t know where we’ve come from?

The PNC Administration ruled Guyana for 28 years. In that time, Guyana became the second poorest country in the western hemisphere; the Guyana dollar inflated 3150 per cent; Guyana moved

from 50th ranked country in per capita GDP to 133rd; racism was much more prevalent; the press was muzzled; elections were rigged; Guyana was highly indebted; the health sector fell through; among others.

This movement has shown strong support of the same party, with some of the same members. We have come a really long way as a country. This movement is based on the flawed principle that this time period should be viewed in isolation.

I find it mind boggling that members of the society are showing a public ignorance of history and are refusing to accept its relevance. Many members of the previous administration that mismanaged the country’s resources are still here today.

It’s a shame to see this blatant negligence of history. I think that no one should try to hinder the delivery of education.

I would like youths of our society to help foster education in history and not try to halt it.

Davendra Kissoon

NEWS 7

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyanese nabbed Rodney COI: Luncheon says with cocaine at JFK PNC has last chance to testify

…says thought he was smuggling diamonds

A

ccording to a report from the New York Daily News, a Guyanese man has been arrested in the United States for allegedly smuggling cocaine inside cans of diced fruit

as though it contained liquid or syrupy material,” US. Department of Homeland Security special agent Edward Gonzalez said in a Brooklyn Federal Court complaint.

The cans were X-rayed and showed they contained material of a uniform, not liquidy, composition, according to the complaint.

Colin McKenzie alleged that someone in Guyana gave him the suitcases with the cans of cocaine in A Guyanese man has been arrested in them, and offered to the United States for allegedly smuggling pay him thousands cocaine inside cans of diced fruit of dollars to deliver them to a man in the came up with story that’s nut- US. tier than a fruitcake.

The material tested posiColin McKenzie alleged- tive for cocaine and the gross ly told investigators that he weight of white powder was thought he was smuggling di- 10 kilograms. McKenzie may not have helped his cause by amonds.

McKenzie, 48, and his two admitting that he thought suitcases were selected for in- the cans contained diamonds, spection Friday by Customs not dope. He allegedly said and Border Protection offi- that someone in Guyana gave cers after he stepped off a him the suitcases and offered Caribbean Airlines flight at to pay him between US$5000 Kennedy Airport. Inside the and US$6000 if he delivered suitcases were three large tin them to an identified person cans that McKenzie claimed in the U.S., the complaint states. McKenzie was held contained diced fruit.

But the cans “felt unusu- without bail. His lawyer did ally heavy and did not feel not return a call for comment.

T

he Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry has been extended for a final round, and according to the Government, surviving PNC officials who had served under the Linden Forbes Sampson administration, are being offered a final opportunity to face investigators.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday informed reporters of government’s decision to extend the life of the commission for a four month duration.

This round, which comes to an end on March 31, has been extended to July 31 later this year.

This is the fifth extension of the commission which was established in April of last year, and which seeks to ascertain who was responsible for the death of founding member of the WPA, Dr Walter Rodney.

The Cabinet Secretary said with this extension, government would expect surviving members the then People’s National Congress (PNC) government to come forward with their testimonies.

“So far the witnesses have confirmed strongly held suspicion about the then PNC role in his death. The remaining gaps are so visible that Guyanese must be wondering why in the face of openness of this inquiry; the proceeding so far has not addressed those glaring gaps”, Luncheon said.

Fingers have always been pointed in the direction of the PNC government as the mastermind in the death of Rodney,

Robert Corbin

who met his demise when a bomb, said to have been planted in a walkie talkie exploded in his lap.

“Why have those surviving PNC government personnel of that era not risen to the occasion and volunteer to testify as yet.

What is so preventing them from doing so?”, Luncheon questioned.

Luncheon said the current crop of opposition members is very much aware of the occurrences back then.

“Mr. Corbin, Mr. Harmon, Mr. Granger have apparently declined participation even in the face of what appears to be testimony of their involvement attested to by previous witnesses” According to the Cabinet Secretary, the proceeding so far has been “illuminating,” and the body of “evidence that points squarely to the role of the then Burnhamite PNC Government in Dr Rodney’s assassination in

1980.”

Rodney, a Historian and one of the major players in the establishment of the Working People’s Alliance, died at the age of 38 on the evening of June 13, 1980.

At the time of his death he was in the company of his younger brother Donald, who had moments before collected the walkie-talkie; a device Dr Rodney reportedly had a growing interest in.

The brother has testified that before the Commission that the walkie-talkie was handed over to him by former Army Sergeant and Electronics Expert William Gregory Smith. Smith was said to have been used by the PNC government to carry out the act.

Granger, who was at the time Commander of the Guyana Defense Force had made it clear that he, nor the PNC would not be cooperating with the CoI and expressed several reasons including concerns about the Terms of Reference (TOR).

He maintained that he was not afraid of the truth, pointing out that the commission, set up

by President Donald Ramotar, has political motives.

Joseph Harmon had said if the Commission found it necessary to summon himself or any other PNC member, it would.

The three-member Commission, headed by Barbadian Queens Counsel Richard Cheltenham, includes Jamaica Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline Samuels Brown and Trinidad Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam.

8 NEWS

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Caribbean observes World Birth Defects Day

W

ASHINGTON, USA: The Caribbean Tuesday joined the international community in observing World Birth Defects Day with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) noting that congenital anomalies, or birth defects, are the second-leading cause of death in children under five in the region.

PAHO said that combined with prematurity, asphyxia and sepsis, birth defects account for 44 per cent of deaths among children. Globally, birth defects affect one in 33 babies and cause 3.2 million disabilities each year.

“The commemoration of this day aims to raise awareness about this common, costly and challenging problem but also to foster the development and implementation of prevention programs and to expand healthcare services for all people with birth defects,” said Suzanne Serruya, Director of PAHO’s Latin American Center for Perinatology (CLAP).

PAHO said congenital anomalies can have genetic, infectious or environmental origins, although in most cases it is difficult to identify a cause.

It said the most common serious birth disorders are heart and neural tube defects and Down syndrome.

By Bhisham Mohamed

P Each year, an estimated 270,000 newborn babies die in the first 28 days of life from congenital anomalies, which are the fourth-leading cause of neonatal deaths after complications of premature delivery, neonatal infections and complications of childbirth, according to World Health Organization (WHO) data.

For babies who survive and live with these conditions, birth defects increase their risk of long-term disabilities, which greatly impact the individuals affected, their families, health systems and society, PAHO said.

It said many birth defects can be prevented or treated. Sufficient folic acid and iodine consumption during pregnancy, vaccination against rubella, which can be transmitted to children during pregnancy, and proper prenatal care are all key prevention measures.

“Our vision is for every child to be born with the best health possible and with the potential for a full and productive life.” (CMC)

International art photography competition to be hosted in Dominica

R

O S E A U , DOMINICA: After spending 25 years in Canada, two seasoned artists are relocating to Dominica bringing the International Ozone Zone Photo Salon and Competition there.

The event, already in its third year, is recognized as one of the most ambitious and attractive international art photography contests. Run under the patronage of the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) it attracted thousands of photo entries in 2014.

Police hunt duo over teen’s execution

The competition's organizers, Derek Galon, a seasoned photographer and a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society, and Margaret Gajek, a writer of multi-awarded Caribbean-themed coffee-table books, are enthusiastic about it.

“It was a simple decision,” said Galon, a winner of over 50 top international awards and medals received for his art photography. “While we travelled extensively working on our books Exotic Gardens of the Eastern Caribbean and Tropical Homes of the

Eastern Caribbean, we fell in love with the whole region. However, every time we passed through Dominica it felt especially close to our hearts. We decided to move to Dominica and bring the competition here with us.”

The Ozone Zone Photo Salon and Competition is to run yearly from early summer, with winners announced in November. Works from previous competitions can be viewed at www.internationalphotocompetition.com.

(Caribbeannewsnow)

olice have launched a manhunt for Jermaine Simon and his aunt, Tessa of Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara (EBD) who were allegedly fingered in the execution of Ryan Sooklall, 19 of Lot 27 Providence, EBD on Sunday night.

The young man was reportedly shot twice in the back by the suspect who is also referred to as “Lapsy” and who had accused him of throwing an improvised bomb on his aunt’s house in Bagotstown. According to information, the teenager and his friends were at a shop in Parker Street, Providence when the man suspected to be in his 20’s stormed into the yard and opened fire. From reports received, Sooklall ran towards the backyard but he was shot twice from behind. He reportedly ran some distance but collapsed.

The incident occurred at about 18:35h but his body was found in a clump of bushes at about 21:30h by his friends who had launched a search party.

An eyewitness, Brenda Robe told Guyana Times International that she was sitting on her front step when she saw the suspect running towards her home with a gun in his hands. By the time she could have raised an alarm, Simon started to shoot indiscriminately hitting the front of the shop with the first bullet. The now dead teenager, she added ran to save his life but the man discharged two bullets in his direction. At

Ryan “Plywall” Sooklall

that time they were not aware that Sooklall was shot.

Robe added that the suspect escaped on a pedal cycle. According to her, as night approached efforts to locate Sooklall were futile. Several calls to his mobile went unanswered. “I left to make a report at the Providence Police Station but as I was there, I received a call telling me that they find Ryan… me and the Police hurried home but they de hurrying with he to the hospital”, the woman stated.

She later learnt that the teenager had two bullets wounds to his back. He was found a short distance away from where the shooting occurred. Robe reiterated that it was bright and as such got a clear view of the shooter. GTI understands when the Police visited the home of the suspect; the house was cleared of its belongings.

At the home of the teenager, his mother Shanaz Ali told this publication that on the day of the incident, she was at the creek with family members and it was while they were on their way to home, her daughter, Amanda received a call informing her about the shooting.

The motive is not yet established but she recalled a resident of Bagotstown called “Tessa” visited her home of Sunday morning along with a Police to enquire about her son but he was not at home.

“They claim that he and he friend went to the village and trouble she and her family and if the Police can’t find he, they go find he and finish he off… and that is what exactly happen”, the woman stated.

The grieving mother stated that after they received the call, she visited the Diamond Hospital where she saw her son’s lifeless body and was told that by the time he arrived at the medical institution he was already dead.

She recalled seeing her son on Sunday morning during a vis-

Beepat Taijram

it to her relative’s home on the West Bank Demerara (WBD). They had requested that the young man joined them during the outing at the creek but he refused, she added. In tears, the woman dismissed a report in a section of the media which referred to her son as a member of a gang. She defended her son’s character and stated that he did not have to steal and be a part of a gang since he was living a luxurious life.

“Everything he wanted, we gave him…

He used to work with me at my store in Lombard Street and he would get paid… he has his room close to mine and after he comes home from work, he would go and meet he lil girl friends but most of the time, he stayed in his room listening to music”.

Contrary to her story, the Police have stated that the young man had several brushes with the law and is well known to law enforcement officers. He is allegedly part of ring that indulges itself in stealing mirrors and other parts from vehicles.

However, his mother stated that her eldest son died about five years ago. He was killed in an accident and now to perform her second son’s funeral is heart rendering.

Meanwhile, the Police in a statement said investigators have since retrieved at least two spent shells at the scene. Sooklall’s execution is the third such incident to occur on the EBD in the past two weeks. Minibus driver, Beepat Taijram, 28 of Albouys Street, Albouystown was shot by two men in Campbell Street, Grove, EBD during a robbery two weeks ago. On Friday last, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Engineer Trevor Abrams was executed by a high powered assault rifle while driving along the Diamond Public Road. He was shot at least four times.

The Police are continuing their investigations into the murders.

NEWS 9

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Jamaicans with Progress made in improving AML/ disabilities to benefit CFT regime via non-legislative moves from Ja$8.2-million G IDB project

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Government has set aside a sum of Ja$8.2 million to be spent on strengthening their capacity to better cater to the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) for this year.

The funds are being made available under the Support to Improve the Lives of PWDs project, as outlined in the 2015/16 Estimates of Expenditure that is now before the House of Representatives.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security, through funding from the Inter-American Development Bank, is implementing the project.

The project aims to improve the framework for the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to advance social protection policies that would impact the welfare of PWDs. One such objective of the project is to strengthen the capacity of the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) Department to identify and target those persons with disabilities for social benefits (rehabilitative benefits) on a continuous basis, through the establishment of a database for individuals with disabilities.

The project also aims to improve the quality of life for children living with developmental disabilities through technical support and early intervention strategies.

The office of the JCPD will be retrofitted with the sum of Ja$1.41 million, and to maintain the main server. Additionally, J$1.1 million will be used to conduct public education activities.

Another Ja$5.72 million will go towards the payment for data collection officers and for data entry for conducting a study on the needs of persons with disabilities.

As of December 2014 the project achievements include: the start of data collection for registering persons with disabilities; the completion of quantitative study on the needs of persons with disabilities; a total of 38 data collection officers were contracted; and 28,533 of the targeted 50,000 PWDs were registered as at September 30, 2014.

A public education and promotion strategy activity commenced, registered PWDs were sensitised on their rights and where to locate services; and stakeholders were sensitised on the types of disabilities that exist in Jamaica.

Other achievements were: social workers of MLSS and JCPD trained in counselling with PWDs; Early Stimulation Programme for children with disabilities strengthened; and parents of disabled children trained in behaviour modification, speech therapy and strategies to prevent child disabilities.

(Jamaica Observer)

uyana, at the end of February, was deemed to have made progress with the non-legislative actions needed to improve its compliance, relative to the antimoney laundering and countering the financing of terrorism framework. Therefore the country did not have to field a delegation to the Financial Action Task Force’s five-day plenary in Paris, which ended last Friday.

The disclosure was made by Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon during his weekly post-Cabinet press conference held at the Office of the President on Wednesday.

He explained that since Guyana was regionally blacklisted by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force in November 2013, for not having legislation in place, the country was referred to the international watchdog body and subjected to a targeted review.

Under that targeted review, an action plan detailing several nonlegislative actions to improve compliance was proposed and September 2015 was set at the dropdead date for enacting legislation.

The action plan requires Guyana to: (1) adequately criminalizing money laundering and terrorist financing; (2) establishing and implementing adequate procedures for the confiscation of assets related to money laundering; (3) establishing and implementing an adequate legal framework for identifying, tracing and freezing terrorist assets; (4) establishing a fully operational and effectively

Ramsammy receiving medical treatment in US

H

ead of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday confirmed that Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy is currently undergoing medical treatment in the United States of America. He is scheduled to return to Guyana to continue serving as a Government Minister after he has completed his treatment.

Ramsammy, who was also Guyana’s Health Minister, has been suffering from a heart condition which saw a pacemaker being implanted.

Luncheon said the Minister has been absent from his office for close to a month and has indicated to his colleagues that he would be seeking medical assistance in the US. Ramsammy has a pre-existing heart condition and, several years ago, had suffered an almost fatal attack

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

and underwent triple bypass surgery overseas. Back in 2013, Ramsammy was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) after complaining of feeling dizzy.

functioning financial intelligence unit; (5) establishing effective measures for customer due diligence and enhancing financial transparency; (6) strengthening suspicious transaction reporting requirements; and (7) implementing an adequate supervisory framework.

According to Dr. Luncheon, the progress under that action plan is reviewed by the Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG).

He added that this progress in implementing the actions outlined in the action plan, as approved by ARRG, was communicated to FATF

by CFATF. Additionally, the President of FATF, Mr. Roger Wilkins has written to President Donald Ramotar, in response

to a letter which the President wrote pledging on behalf of Guyana, the Government’s high level political commitment to implement the action plan.

The letter recognised the high level political commitment which President Ramotar has given to bring Guyana in compliance with the international anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism regime.

President Ramotar’s letter was hand delivered by Attorney-General Anil Nandlall in Paris, France, in October, 2014 – the date when the action plan was developed.

Meanwhile, the HPS highlighted that the next assessment, specific to the non-legislative actions Guyana needs to put in place, will be done

by ARRG at the end of May 2015.

All considered, Dr. Luncheon stressed the importance of having legislation in place to address an anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism framework that meets regional and international standards.

The AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill to meet CFATF’s and, by extension, FATF’s requirements was first tabled in the National Assembly in April 2013, but was referred to a Parliamentary Special Select Committee and was eventually voted down by the combined Opposition in November 2013.

The Bill was re-tabled in December 2013, and was again referred to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee, where it has since been languishing.

Since then, Guyana’s Parliament was prorogued, due to political gridlock, and subsequently dissolved, paving the way for General and Regional elections on May 11.

10 NEWS

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

30 Berbicians graduate from ICT training programme — budget cuts will not stop resources for IT training, Finance Minister vows

“N

o budget cuts by the Opposition, no antics and shenanigans by the PNC and the APNU will stop me from making resources available for IT training,” said Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh during the feature address at the graduating exercise for Information Technology trainees at Glasgow, East Bank Berbice.

“Notwithstanding that the Opposition is putting pressure on us, I said [to the coordinator], despite the cuts on the budget, we will make the resources available for the training programmes because nothing can substitute for the training of our young people. There can be no greater satisfaction, than to see our young people get qualified, get jobs, and earn incomes and become professionals, and self -sustaining individuals.

There is no greater satisfaction. And no budget cuts by the Opposition, no antics and shenanigans by the PNC and the APNU will stop me from this satisfaction,” he emphasised whilst pounding his fist on the podium at the Glasgow Community Centre.

Earlier, the minis-

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds presents Esther Jonas with the Best Graduating Student award

ter had told the lone male amongst the 30 graduands that, as a Government, they want every single young Guyanese to be equipped with the skills that are required of the modern world.

“In my time for literacy, Mathematics and English were the basic skills. They are still basic skills and we would like to ensure that you are equipped with those

basic skills.”

However, with the changing trend of the world, Singh noted that information and communication technology is now a critical prerequisite without which one cannot possibly survive.

“Computer literacy, and computer skills are assumed as a given. You go into the place of work, and you are automatically expected to have them.

When you send your

CV [Curriculum Vitae], whilst applying for a job, and list computer literacy and familiarity with certain computer packages, you automatically have an advantage.

“However, that is not unique to Guyana, because if [you] speak to your relatives overseas, they tell you if you are not computer literate, you have no chance in the world of today.”

The minister un-

derscored the commitment of the Government with respect to bridging the domestic digital divide which allows every Guyanese person to be a beneficiary, despite where they live, where they come from, and their socio-economic circumstances.

“Every single Guyanese person must enjoy the benefits of modern technology. No Guyanese person must be left behind. That is why we are implementing the One Laptop Per Family Programme, under which 90,000 [laptops] have been distributed, we have already distributed 55,000. We have said, even in our most vulnerable homes, where perhaps because of affordability, a computer cannot be purchased for the benefit of persons of that home, we will put a computer in that home. That is why we are implementing training programmes like this, and are building IT laboratories in the secondary schools. Because in our view, every single student leaving secondary school must be IT literate, that’s why we are mounting training programmes such as this, to

allow you to have a second chance if you had missed it in the secondary school.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds in his brief remarks reflected on the changing face of technology and expressed great satisfaction with the achievements of those who have achieved certification in Information Technology, which is an area of study he will pursue after his retirement.

Meanwhile, trainer Leah Moses said students were taught, Basic Office Ethics, Introduction to computers and Window XP, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, Office Outlook, Office Access, MS Publisher, Power Point, Numeracy, Literacy, Basic Math and English, Sexual and Reproductive Health, along with HIV/AIDS and prevention.

Those receiving special awards were the Best Graduating Student, Ms. Esther Jonas, the most improved student, Ms. Bhanmattie Jugmohan, and the most persevering student who overcame difficulties and constraints was Ms. Tiffany Joseph.

NEWS 11

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

2 in custody for execution of GGMC employee

P

olice have now arrested two persons who are assisting with the investigation into the execution of a Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) engineer, Trevor Abrams.

Crime Chief Leslie James told this publication that in addition to the suspect whom the Police have found a false license plate with, another person has been taken into custody. The Crime Chief noted that the two suspects are working along with the Police as the investigation continues.

James further revealed that the Police have received other leads and are currently following those. “We are doing everything to ensure that we get justice,” he stated.

Abrams, 31, of Lot 129 Samatta Point, Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was executed on Friday while driving along the Little Diamond Public Road, EBD. According to information received, the young man was driving his Silver Grey Toyota Allion bearing registration number PSS 6855 when another car pulled up alongside him. Several gunshots were reportedly heard as the two cars sped away.

However from all indications, Abrams attempted to escape and accelerated, but crashed into a utility pole and ended up in a nearby canal. The man was rescued by public-spirited citizens and rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police have since confirmed that a high powered assault rifle was used to carry out the attack on the Government employee.

However, the first suspect, who resides at

T Trevor Abrams

Covent Garden, EBD, was taken into custody along with a motor car suspected to be the getaway car.

According to information reaching this newspaper, a false number plate was found in a drum on the man’s premises on Sunday which he claims was placed there by someone. Sources also stated that upon the arrival of the Police at his residence, he went into hiding but eventually came out to be questioned by the investigators.

During questioning, his story had several loop holes hence he was taken into custody along with the car bearing registration number PLL 5966 at the Diamond Police Station.

The man claimed that the car was rented to someone on the day of the shooting. When asked to produce the name and telephone numbers of the client, he was adamant to reveal same. The Toyota Carina AT 212 Silver grey car had damage consistent with a vehicular accident.

Investigators are of the view that the man along with an accomplice might have committed the murder but there needs to be circumstantial evidence, a senior Police rank stated.

He added that the Police are verifying whether the man was a deportee. The motive behind the murder is yet to be discovered.

Exxon begins ...

from page 3

efficient and effective exploration”.

The project is expected to be executed over a 10-year period divided into three sections including two phases in each section which lasts for one to two years. The scope of operations include a drillship, with approximately 200 crew and contractors; helicopter support, with two from Ogle including a utility and a Search and Rescue at all times; four support vessels and two shore bases running from Georgetown and Trinidad, and a waste treatment facility at the John Fernandes Site at Houston, Greater Georgetown.

PPP/C consulting civil society on manifesto

Guyana has been receiving sustained international attention from huge companies, especially in the oil sector.

The US Geological Survey said in 2000 that the Guyana-Suriname Basin has the second largest unexplored oil potential in the world after Greenland. Guyana first struck oil in the 1980s in the Takutu Basin, and there is much optimism that oil will be found in commercial quantities.

ExxonMobil will now join other investors such as CGX Energy, Repsol, Anadarko Guyana Co, and Gas and Nabi Oil and Gas in exploring oil in Guyana’s offshore Atlantic basin.

he incumbent Peoples Progress Party Civic (PPP/C) says it continues to consult a wide cross section of Guyanese as it finalises its plans for the advancement of Guyana, should the party be reelected on Many 11, 2015.

An executive within the party told this publication that these consultations include the views, ideas and considerations of members and non-members of the PPP/C. “The ongoing interactions with various sectors of society will ensure the document reflect the aspirations of the people,” the PPP/C executive explained adding that the intent is to have the document available for release at the official launch of its campaign.

Themed ‘working together for a better Guyana’, the party’s 2011 manifesto was premised on continuity of social and economic progress. “Focused on realising the vision to which we have committed ourselves, the next PPP/Civic Government will build on the foundation laid, expand on the substantial progress already achieved, and implement a comprehensive agenda of policies and programmes aimed at achieving the objectives set,” read the 2011 manifesto.

It boasted of the efforts in the past decade at maintaining macroeconomic stability and then committed to continued intent to ‘manage the economy prudently and soundly,

with the principal aims being accelerated real economic growth, preservation of debt sustainability by ensuring a steady decline in the fiscal deficit and prudent incurrence of new debt, and maintaining external sustainability by promoting rapid growth in exports and reduced dependence on imported inputs espe-

cially fossil fuels and food items.’

Describing the document as a contract with Guyanese, Presidential Candidate, D o n a l d Ramotar stated that it spelt out a number of policies and projects which we intend to pursue to achieve the objective of a diversified, modern, competitive and resilient economy.

Amongst the many initiatives which we will complete are the development of hydroelectricity, a new fibre optic cable and the construction of a deep water harbour, an all-weath-

er road to Brazil and a bridge to Suriname.

According to observers, many major projects under the PPP/C 2011 manifesto that needed opposition support in the National Assembly were unable to be realized. This is as a consequence of the one set majority that the combined opposition held in the 11th Parliament, which has largely been considered a failure.

One such project is the Amaila Falls Hydropower initiative, which ended after the investor opted out because of political and media opposition in instances. President Ramotar had committed to finding other investors.

12 NEWS

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyanese woman, children charged Selman is an following Brazil drug bust insignificant loss to the party, says Harmon O

L

ongstanding member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) arm of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Africo Selman (MP), has resigned from her position as a Member of Parliament.

According to APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon, Selman had resigned from the National Assembly on February 26 for reasons unknown to him.

However, her official resignation from the party was accompanied by a letter stating that she is “tired of the infighting in the APNU”.

Harmon told this publication that Selman expressed her disgust with the confusion within the party which prompted her resignation.

Nonetheless, Harmon boldly claimed Selman is an insignificant loss to the party. “We have been able to attract more persons than when Selman was here… her resignation is not a complete loss in APNU,” Harmon bluntly declared.

When questioned as to whether the party has suspicions of anyone else leaving, Harmon responded in the negative. “I can’t read people’s minds… and I don’t like to make speculations.”

On that note, he reassured that everyone on the APNU team is fully engaged with their work in the party.

Speculations about Selman’s future with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) surfaced following her resignation

Africo Selman resigned from her position as APNU Member of Parliament

but Harmon said he is not in a position to say whether or not it is true.

Instead, he noted that if Selman does join the PPP/C, then she will only “confine herself in the life of the Opposition again.”

Selman, who attended Queens College and the University of Guyana, is a youth development activist.

According to the PNCR website, Selman was described as an effective speaker and a very articulate representative of the issues affecting young people.

Selman’s resignation comes in the wake of a series of defections from APNU’s coalition partner, the Alliance For Change (AFC), including more recently former General Secretary Sixtus Edwards and businessman Balwant Persaud.

ne week after two Guyanese and two Brazilian nationals were held in Brazil with a huge quantity of compressed marijuana, another Guyanese family was on Thursday evening arrested with almost nine pounds of marijuana.

Those arrested are 49-yearold Khumwattie Narine Adams and her two children Abiola Adams, 28, and Joseph Adams, 25.

They were subsequently charged with the act of trafficking and association for trafficking.

The mother and daughter were reportedly sent to the women’s jail while the son was taken to the Agricultural Penitentiary of Monte Cristo. He is also being investigated for his possible involvement in a murder in Brazil.

According to information received, the family was being monitored for about two months after an anonymous call revealed their involvement in drug trafficking.

The group, according to the Drug Enforcement Agent, was supplying the capital with marijuana stocks.

At the time of their interception, some of the il-

The three Guyanese in Police custody in Brazil

licit drugs were found in the women’s handbag while the rest was found hidden inside the vehicle in which they were travelling.

In addition to the drugs, Brazilian authorities also found G$23,500, US$4 and BRL$242.

Several mobile phones belonging to the family were also seized. This publication understands that the family is well known in the Lethem/Brazil area for such activity.

In February, two Guyanese were among four persons arrested in Boa Vista, Brazil attempting to smuggle over 25 kilograms of compressed marijuana into the neighbouring country.

The dried illicit plant was found stashed in the doors of the vehicle in which they were travelling.

The men were identi-

fied as Eric Eldon Bobb, 34 and Clyve Lloyd King, 38 of Guyana and Jose Rodrigues Montague 58 while the lone female is Magdalene Romao, 30 of Brazil.

According to reports, Brazilian authorities say they received a tip that a quantity of drugs was expected to flood the market for Carnival celebrations.

The four persons were charged for trafficking and association for trafficking. The men were remanded to the Penitentiary Agricultural Monte Cristo in Brazil while the woman was referred to the Public Women Jail.

With the two recent busts, Guyanese Drug Enforcement Officers are working closely with the Brazilian authorities to put a dent in the drug trade which has now become rampant at that port of entry.

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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14 NEWS

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

“Govt did not pay for my medical evacuation”

- Jagdeo slams Opposition, media for distorting the truth

I

n the wake of fresh allegations, most recently last Sunday’s Editorial in the Stabroek News, about his medical evacuation from Guyana in February 2014 being paid for by Government, former President Bharrat Jagdeo has again confirmed that his expenses were not funded by the State.

According to figures released on July 10 last year in Parliament, there were absolutely no Government payments related to a medical evacuation of the President back in February 2014, which the Opposition had claimed.

When the former President took ill, upon medical advice, he was taken to a hospital in Florida in the US to be treated and upon his

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

recovery, returned to Guyana.

Immediately, some sections of the media speculated and then reported as fact that the arrangements were all paid

for by the Government of Guyana.

The Opposition politicians also jumped on the bandwagon to suggest the funds were paid for by the Government.

Taking note of all the allegations, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the time pointed out that the Party has never questioned the urgency or necessity of any Opposition politician or public official travelling abroad upon the instruction of their medical advisors or caregivers.

“The PPP/C wishes to remind the Opposition that several of its members, including former Opposition Leader Robert Corbin and the late Sheila Holder, benefited from assistance from the State to seek medical attention abroad when it became necessary.

“Even to this day, the self-proclaimed independent press has never questioned the quantum

of Corbin being medivaced.

“In the most recent past when former Deputy Speaker Deborah Backer was ill and flown abroad for medical attention, this Party offered nothing but best wishes and hopes of a speedy recovery,” the PPP/C said in a statement.”

The same courtesies had been extended to Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairman Nigel Hughes when he fell ill in the interior.

Against the background of no payment being made by Government for Jagdeo’s expenses,

the Kaieteur News and the Stabroek News obdurately refused to report the truth of the matter.

Instead, they again went on to imply that they had been covered by the State.

From the onset of the former President’s medical evacuation, the Opposition refused to even consider that the trip was not funded by the Government.

Speaking with this publication, the former President reiterated that his medical evacuation and treatment at the time of his illness did not come from Government.

New UK envoy to Guyana accredited

T

he new High Commissioner of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, James Quinn was received

by President Donald Ramotar when he presented his Letters of Credence at the Presidential Complex on Monday.

The president in brief remarks, offered his sincere wishes for the continued well-being of Queen Elizabeth and of the people of the United Kingdom.

President Ramotar said that Guyana views its relationship with the UK as a “very important one”, hence he was confident that the high commissioner’s appointment would advance and further strengthen it.

Guyana, the president added, has had “very good cooperation initiatives” in the areas of debt relief, education, water supply, restructuring of the sugar industry, public sector reform and the strengthening of the judiciary and law enforcement, adding that, “we

look forward to working with you to build on these and other initiatives”.

Mention was also made of the planned increase in the number of Chevening Scholarships offered, a move that the president said he was pleased with. The top UK official noted that the two countries possess a long and varied history, recalling the “impact of many Guyanese figures on the UK” such as Baroness Amos, Trevor Phillips and Clive Lloyd.

He said that he was looking forward to many “productive and effective years” during his posting in Guyana. “We have much to do, be it on politics, be it on economics, be it on culture. I look forward to interesting and stimulating conversations in the coming years.” He added that the friendship between the two countries is also made stronger by the honest, productive and truthful exchanges, and expressed the hope that many more such activities would occur in the coming years.

Happy Holi to all our readers and supporters

NEWS 15

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

AFC’s Ramayya ordered to George Correia: ‘Nagamootoo apologise to PPP/C official has lost his sense of direction’

A

lliance For Change (AFC) Executive Member, Dr Verasammy Ramayya, has been ordered by the court to publicly apologise to Executive Secretary of the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Zulfikar Mustapha for libel in 2011.

On November 19, 2011, Ramayya had spread lies about the PPP/C official via a television programme called “Issues of the People”, aired on controversial DTV Channel 8 in Berbice.

Both the owner of the television station, Gregory Rambarran and Ramayya were slapped with a libel lawsuit in 2012.

The charges claim that Ramayya made libelous claims regarding Mustapha during the height of the elections campaign in 2011.

W

Dr Verasammy Ramayya

PPP/C's Zulfikar Mustapha

The duo was represented by AFC Leader and Attorney Khemraj Ramjattan while Mustapha was represented by Attorney Adrian Anamaya before Justice Nareshwar Haranand at the New Amsterdam High Court.

After losing the court case against Mustapha, Verasammy will have to publicly apologise via print and electronic media within the next seven days.

He is expected to is-

sue the electronic apology on Saturday on his television programme which airs at 08:00h on DTV Channel 8.

He is also expected to pay the sum of Gy$250,000 to Mustapha, which the politician says he will donate to charity.

Mustapha’s Attorney explained to this publication that his client was not keen on receiving money, but thought it best to do so as an act of detriment.

Govt resolute in improving Amerindians’ livelihood – Benn

A

Public Works Minister Robeson Benn addressing residents

merindians are the most at-risk group in Guyana and the ruling party is committed to improving their livelihood and living standards, Public Works Minister Robeson Benn told residents of Kumaka, Region One (Barima-Waini) on Sunday.

“We recognise that our Amerindian people throughout the country need to access and benefit from all aspects of the social, economic and developmental spheres irrespective of where they are living,” Minister Benn told residents. “The party I represent has been making great efforts to improve their livelihood and living standard.”

He said that the combined Opposition’s refusal to approve funds for hinterland airstrips’ maintenance was a thoughtless act which has denied many Amerindians their basic

rights. In 2014, Gy$248 million was allocated for rehabilitation of airstrips in Matthews Ridge, Imbaimadai and Kamarang and the maintenance of 43 airstrips in Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight and Nine.

The Minister, who is responsible for the transport sector, emphasised that the airstrips were critical for the movement of goods and services “in and out of these communities”.

The failed Amaila Falls Hydropower Project was also addressed by the Minister.

“Amaila was so important for our country.

The light bill for all of us would be reduced, and particularly we would have savings for renewable sustaining energy project. That way, we can make the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) facilities available to communities that have inadequate power supply,” he disclosed.

There were a number of missed opportunities to attract new investments, the Public Works Minister further stated, as a result of not having cheap, renewable energy.

Improved road network

Approximately Gy$70 million has been set aside this year to improve the road networks in Moruca sub-region, Minister Benn announced. “13.5 kilometres of new roads were developed in the area; however, some of them are not up to standard. We have to make a change. I have instructed my Engineer so that we make that change quickly,” Benn stated.

Lamenting that the General Election was less than three months away, Benn called for unity and peace. He also opined that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has the best, most talented, most committed leaders to move Guyana forward.

ith his party’s recent decision to form an alliance with the main opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), executive member of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and Prime Ministerial candidate in the APNU-AFC coalition, Moses Nagamootoo has been deemed a man who “has lost his sense of direction” by political commentator George Correia.

Correia’s comments were made against the backdrop of the AFC making a decision to join forces with APNU to “defeat the PPP” at the upcoming May 11th polls”.

The decision taken by the party has reaped heavy criticism in the public domain and even resulted in some longstanding members resigning from the party. Additionally, just recently, Executive Member of the party, Raphael Trotman publicly admitted that the party had been losing support due to its decision to coalesce with APNU. As a result of this, Correia lamented that he is of the firm belief that “Moses Nagamootoo has lost his sense of direction.”

He said also that he is unaware whether the decision was supported by Nagamootoo because of “passion, hatred or just ig-

George Correia

norance.”

But the decision, he opined, is one which will cause the AFC to lose their support, resulting in the coalition’s defeat. “Yes, they will lose the support they got in the last elections,” he said.

Commenting on the considerations that the AFC would have taken prior to making a decision to join APNU, a passionate Correia said that, “If you love your people, you will not send them to something they do not want; they are not your property or your slaves.”

Reflecting on what has transpired in previous times; Correia related that if the election is running the way it has been running for years, then this coalition “will not last”.

He noted that the first attempt at a coalition did not last, as the PNC’s bul-

lyism prevailed, which leaves room to predict that this coalition certainly will not last either.

“The Constitution gives the President the power to do what he wants, when he wants and how he wants.

And my prediction is that if APNU should win, men like Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan will be disbanded some time or the other from the Party and put away, because if you are a traitor to your own house, I cannot trust you in mine,” he added.

Meanwhile, he sought to dismiss any claims that he has a personal vendetta against these men, stressing that, “I have nothing against these men but for the love of my country, I will do anything necessary to ensure that tomorrow holds a better future for Guyana.”

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IDB balks at WPA’s objections GECOM under fire for ties with to loan disbursement to Guyana US IRI-funded youth group

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he Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has distanced itself from any political affiliations in Guyana, pointing out that its loan agreements and disbursements in any country are strictly on a procedural basis.

In response to the concerns raised and allegations levied by the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), which forms part of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), that it needed to question the financial institution’s commitment to transparency, accountability, ethics and the rule of law, the bank told this newspaper that it has a responsibility to carry out its duty.

“IDB adheres closely to its publicly available policies and procedures that ensure the operations we finance are independent of the political cycle in any borrowing member country,” the Bank told this newspaper in an invited comment on Friday.

Established in 1959, the IDB is said to be the leading source of development financing for Latin American and Caribbean countries, with a strong commitment to achieving measurable results, increased integrity, transparency and accountability. It also has an evolving reform agenda which seeks to increase its development impact in the region.

The WPA had last week raised concerns over the Bank’s approval of a second loan to the Government of Guyana, while it had failed to declare whether a prior loan has yet been disbursed.

It was concerned too that the bank inked the agreement during a time when the country’s Parliament was prorogued, in the absence of parliamentary supervision and a few months before the holding of General and Regional Elections.

The party, had also raised eyebrows, noting that with all that the bank has so far done, the only thing left is for it to endorse the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

“The bank’s collusion with the Government at this stage would leave the WPA, in consultation with the members of the joint Opposition, no choice but to re-examine the validity of the loans, and by extension its repayment.

We are appalled that the IDB could assume arrogantly that it could ignore the legitimate calls by the WPA and indeed the entire parliamentary

… Dr Surujbally defends partnership

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Dr Rupert Roopnarain

Opposition to show some restraint in its dealings with the PPP/C Government on the eve of General Elections…It is entirely up to the IDB whether it wishes to further tarnish its developmental record by going into the political bed of the PPP/C,” the WPA had said.

However, the IDB related that bank loan contracts establish the conditions to be met prior to disbursing loans. It said Guyana’s Government had complied with all prior conditions for loan 3422/BL-GY (Strengthening of the Environment Sector II) and noted that the funds were disbursed in accordance with the loan contract.

The preparation of the project began in 2013 and culminated with its approval by the bank’s board early last month, the IDB said.

The WPA was quite vocal in its objections to the IDB claiming that the bank continued to “disrespect Guyanese in tandem with Government’s electioneering.”

“To date the IDB has refused the Guyanese public and their parliamentary representatives the courtesy of a response. We wish to place on record our strongest condemnation over the egregious actions of the IDB in the face of repeated calls from the Opposition, Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) and other Guyanese stakeholders to tread carefully on issuing loans to the Guyana Government on the eve of national elections,” the WPA said.

he People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has expressed its strong objection to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) partnering with the Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC) to encourage more youths to cast their votes in the upcoming general and regional elections, saying that the role of a US-funded project in the group meant that there was interference from the United States.

The ruling Party through its General Secretary, Clement Rohee on Monday noted that it was alarmed when it learnt that GECOM was teaming up with the youth body to implement a programme aimed at bringing out more youths to the May 11 polls.

The General Secretary sought to question the credentials of the group stating that as far as the party was concerned, it was a “self-anointed” entity. He further went on to state that based on his Party’s analysis the Council has no authority to represent

GECOM Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally

Guyana’s youths who make up more than 60 per cent of the population.

According to him, the youth group was a creature of “external interference” through the USAID Leadership and Democracy (LEAD) Project that was executed by the International Republican Institute (IRI).

“As far as the PPP/C is concerned, this youth grouping is a creature of external interference through the LEAD Project and is nothing more than partisan persons who are attempting to hijack the name Guyana National Youth

Council,” the general secretary stated.

In North Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East , Honduras and Venezuela, the IRI worked through youth groups tilted to the Opposition to effect regime change.

He said the decision to engage the Guyana National Youth Council in getting more youths to vote was not made by the seven-member Commission and as such steps should be taken to have the “imposition on the electorate of Guyana” addressed.

“This matter was never under discussion by the Guyana Elections Commission.

The PPP/C rejects this and the proposition on the electorate. The matter should be brought to the highest level for review and discussions.

We are concerned that officials at GECOM have entered into a formal relationship with this body,” he said.

When questioned on whether the party was afraid that youths will be drawn to the Opposition if they are convinced of the need continued on page 20

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Afro-Guyanese have been ‘miseducated’ – ACDA head

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frican Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) Director, Dr Eric Phillips said Guyana’s education system was not doing enough to inculcate identities in its people – something which was hindering the country from reaching its fullest potential.

Friday marked the last day of the Black History Month; however, little was done to mark the occasion in Guyana. It has been pointed that Guyana should move away from the US tradition of celebrating Black History in February, and do so in August – which is known throughout the world as the period when enslaved Africans gained their emancipation.

Phillips told this publication that the lack of knowledge of the African culture and its people can be laid at the feet of Guyana’s education system, adding that the same held true for other ethnicities in Guyana. Schools in Guyana teach only the basics of where its people came from and what they were known for, but he said more was needed.

The ACDA Director cited the various be-

The COLAACO students in their African dress

liefs of who black people were or what they have come to be known for in Guyana and around the world. He said that black people were commonly called “lazy”, “corrupt” and a host of other negative and derogatory adjectives, adding that even the colour black inspires no warm image.

Dr Phillips elaborated that lack of education of Africans, their history, their culture, their values, their strengths and their inventions have made black people around the globe try to be everything they were not.

All ethnicities affected

The African enthusiast stated that Guyana’s education system need-

ed to do more for its people, being quick to note that the lack of education on the history of the various ethnicities of Guyana did not only affect Afro Guyanese but all other citizens.

He said that each school needed to have a standard history programme, libraries with books that not only talked about where the various peoples came from but details on who they were as a people in an effort to create a greater link.

Dr Phillips told this publication that although ACDA wished to stress on this and promote African culture in Guyana, it was handicapped in the fact that it was unable to access

the schools. He stated that ACDA has tried several times to get the Education Ministry to give the Association some time to go into the schools to present on the rich African history that many Guyanese were missing out on.

However, he said these efforts were usually ignored with the excuse that it was not African History Month for the organisation to want such an activity with students.

However, Dr Phillips pointed out that February, which is African History Month, is filled with Mashramani activities which a number of schools participate in.

Thus, ACDA yet again was unable to educate the schools effectively.

It is due to this, more than anything else, that the organisation has taken steps to open its own school.

The ACDA Director stated that at the school – COLAACO, students learn their African history, their true culture and the

importance it has for all cultures in various parts of the world along with African teachings.

He said that the students quite literally live Africa with their toys, their dress, their foods and the songs they sing.

Dr Phillips said it was important to be able to find that identity in oneself for true confidence and purpose to be found in one’s character. In the end, he noted, this can help bring all peoples together, no matter how different they are. He explained that respect of one’s own culture made for respect of others, thus ensuring peace and the discontinuity of racial hatred.

In addition, Dr Phillips had posited that without a cultural identity there can be no real Guyanese identity.

Vybz Entertainment officially launches ‘Linden Town Week 2015’

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Linden Town Week organisers, Vybz Entertainment Group

y b z Entertainment Group has officially launched Linden Town Week (LTW) 2015 under the theme “Enhancing mutual relations as we celebrate the richness of our town”.

The annual event, which showcases Linden, was launched through an interactive session on Friday evening at the National Communications Network (NCN) Inc’s Linden branch.

The team, consisting of Devin Sears (Chairman); Akelo Elliot (Events Manager); and Jenella Harry (Secretary) has signed a three-year pact with the Linden Town Council for the hosting of the activities in the mining town from 2015-2017. This year’s event is slated to be officially opened on April 26.

During the launch which was broadcasted live on NCN Channel 13, Sears acknowledged that the main focus of the LTW activities under the entertainment group would be on re-

vamping cultural activities and standardising new cultures, with more focus on education. In addition, he stated that the team would be focusing on branding, advertising and marketing the community of Linden. As such, he said, a magazine showcasing the town will be launched during this year’s observances, which runs from April 25 to May 4.

“This is a stepping stone of greater things to come in Linden,” Sears said, adding that the magazine would give insight of what Linden is about. “We are reaching out, promoting Linden … this is not just about making money, but showcasing Linden. Linden Town Week is for all of our efforts; everyone can get involved. Linden Town Week must benefit everybody. We have a responsibility to ensure that Linden Town Week grows from strength to strength.”

Sears also outlined some challenges with accommodation in Linden, adding that persons travel from outside the

community to be part of the event. He stated that as such, the team would focus on creating markets for bread and breakfast services. He also noted that New Era Entertainment Group which usually promotes the signature ‘All Black’ party event no longer had that franchise.

Elliot said the event would incorporate a fusion of trade, cultural activities, exposition and fete. “We’re going to ensure that safety comes first … this year promises to be exciting,” he stated. He also outlined a number of activities to be held over the 10 exciting days, including Inter-Primary Spelling B Competition; gospel concert; a health fair and fitness walk; science and job fair (April 29); Big and Bold Pageant (April 30); international night; Champion of Champions athletics (April 30); and a comedy show (April 29).

New additions to the week of activities this year include a Regional Culinary Display and a heritage and culture show.

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Caribbean universities too deficient to compete globally – UWI Vice Chancellor

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ice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Professor Eon Nigel Harris said that universities in the Caribbean Region lack the necessary tools to compete in the global tertiary education sector.

The Professor made his remarks at the Rotary Club of Georgetown’s World Understanding Dinner held on Friday at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston where he spoke on the topic of “Transforming Mid-21st Century Caribbean Societies through Tertiary Education”. There were representatives from various Caribbean countries present at the event.

“I believe that to be a successful university, you must have an adequacy of talented academic staff. You must have up-to-date facilities. You must have, very importantly, financial resources necessary to fund the profoundly complex research environment necessary to foster cutting-edge knowledge for growth,” he mentioned.

Despite growth in tertiary education institutions and students and student access in the Region, the Professor pointed out that the percentage of the workforce in Caribbean countries with tertiary degrees is less than 15 per cent, a goal which was set by the Caribbean Community (Caricom) more than a decade ago.

According to Harris, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries have at least a 40 to 60 per cent tertiary educated workforce, while countries such as Korea and Taiwan have even a higher percentage of tertiary educated workforce. “Indeed, there is a long way

Professor E Nigel Harris addressing the regional gathering at the Rotary Club Dinner on Friday evening

for us to go,” he stated. The UWI Vice Chancellor further noted that the labour force in the Caribbean did not require the necessary certification that would cause students to attend universities.

Unprepared

On this note, the Professor disclosed that only a mere 20 per cent of students in the Region secure passes in Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC ) examination) subjects, with only 37 per cent passes in Mathematics and 50 per cent in English.

As it relates to the prospective of entering university, the cohort of students eligible from secondary schools is very low, he noted. Harris continued that in order to address these issues relating to tertiary education in the Caribbean, efforts have to be uncontinued on page 25

Linden too dependent on bauxite – PM Hinds P rime Minister Samuel Hinds said the town of Linden was struggling to adjust after losing advantages previously offered by the once thriving bauxite industry.

Speaking with Guyana Times International via telephone on Saturday, Prime Minister Hinds said: “It is very wrong to think that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is what’s wrong with Linden.” The Prime Minister further explained that the backbone of the problems and disagreements emanating from the Region 10 town was the fact that it has always been a single product/company town.

Hinds explained that Linden’s situation is a familiar one as faced by many mining towns when market demands change.

He pointed to the town of Aninoasa, which was the first Romanian town to file for bankruptcy in 2013.

Hinds said the PPP/C Government was well aware of the problems faced in Linden and has done all it could thus far to aid in developing the mining town. Once a bustling town, Linden has now lost a lot of its financial stability, as the bauxite industry began to suffer some years

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds

ago.

There have been assumptions by persons in many quarters over the years about the present state of Linden’s economy and they have accused the Government of neglecting the region. Further, the Prime Minister said the PPP/C Government has done all it could to promote countrywide development and the successes were visible countrywide.

Being a minority Government following the 2011 elections, Hinds said, the Party did not allow that to hold back the development of Guyana, rather, it bent backwards and negotiated with the Opposition parties to ensure progress.

He spoke of the instances where the Party made provisions and al-

located funds, such as facilitating an increase in Old Age Pension over what was proposed in the National Budget in keeping with the demands of the combined Opposition.

“We took all the steps, gave in and compromised.

It is quite untrue to say the Government did not make any attempt to reach a working relationship,” Hinds said.

In the 2011 elections, the Opposition gained a one-seat majority in the National Assembly, which put the leading PPP/C Government in a position where it needed the approval of the Opposition to move forward with developmental projects.

Projects such as the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project, the Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill (AML/CFT) were shot down by the combined Opposition. Hence the life of the 10th Parliament was cut short after a NoConfidence Motion put forth by the Alliance For Change (AFC) was set to be debated. But, President Donald Ramotar prorogued Parliament with the aim of preserving its life. Hence, Guyana now faces early elections as the political parties prepare for the polls on May 11.

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Guyana/Venezuela border GECOM under fire controversy: Govt mulls judicial for ties with US... settlement for finality from page 17

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he Guyana Government said it was considering initiating judicial proceedings to settle the decades-old border controversy with its western neighbour Venezuela over the mineralrich Essequibo.

Although no firm decision has been made on the issue as yet, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said that the Administration has already determined that the United Nations Good Offices process has yielded little over the years and it was about time they explore other options.

The revival of talks to settle the border controversy has taken on greater significance in light of Venezuela’s recent warning to US oil giant ExxonMobil to desist from proceeding on planned oil exploration activities in the Stabroek Block off Guyana’s Essequibo Coast – an area the Spanish-speaking nation claimed was her’s despite an 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which was declared as the full and final settlement of the boundary between the two South American nations.

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, Dr Luncheon said: “What is really obvious is not only to Guyana, but also to the UN Secretary General and our partner, the Government of the Bolivarian Republic that we are not really getting very far with the Good Offices process and its facility.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon

Former Foreign Affairs Minister Rashleigh Jackson

“Indeed, I follow the line that we have pretty much exhausted what could indeed come from the Good Offices.”

In an invited comment on Tuesday, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett had expressed similar sentiments about the Good Offices process.

“We are, therefore, looking at the other options under the Geneva Agreement,” she added, suggesting that the Good Offices process suits Venezuela.

The Good Offices and mediation are roles taken up by the UN Secretary-General in the prevention and the peaceful settlement of disputes, as enshrined in the UN Charter. These roles can be set in

motion at the Secretary-General’s own initiative, in response to a request from one or more of the parties to a dispute, or as a result of a request from the Security Council or the General Assembly.

“The other options – either of them – will have to be exercised by the UN Secretary General. Indeed prior to [Good Officer] Professor [Norman] Girvan’s death, he was given just a six-month’s extension, which is a sign that the UN was also weary of no solution,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.

According to the UN, the role of the Secretary-General as an important peacemaking actor has evolved through extensive practice. The continued on page 21

to vote and as such, this was the reason the PPP/C was lashing out at the partnership, Rohee admitted that indeed this was a concern of the party and they’d wish to have clarity on it. “That is what we would like to have clarity on because we don’t see how GECOM can enter into this kind of formalistic relation with a youth organisation led by the LEAD project.”

The controversy surrounding the USAID LEAD Project began in late 2013 when Government rejected the project, stating that it was not consulted when it was being drafted and further when the Washington, DC-based International Republican Institute (IRI) began implementing the project.

Government had subsequently made several calls for the project to be halted; however, that was not done until they revoked the work permit of the project head, Glen Bradbury.

While the Guyana National Youth Council has declined to comment on the matter when contacted by this publication, Chairman of the Guyana Elections

Commission, Steve Surujbally, in an invited comment related that the decision taken by the Commission to utilise the youth organisation to assist in voters education was in keeping with its mandate and as such, no rule has been broken.

He noted that the Commission was ready and always willing to work with any and all civic organisation including the University of Guyana to ensure that the young people of the country are encouraged to play their part in the elections process.

Asked to respond to statements made

by Rohee that the decision was made with no input whatsoever from GECOM’s Commissioners and other officials, Surujbally said that there is no need for the sevenmember Commission to have an input or to approve the Elections Commission’ partnership with the Guyana National Youth Council since an open decision had already been made with regards to the body’s mandate of maximizing participation at the General and Regional Polls.

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Jewan Ka Nritya steals Health Ministry slams release the show during Indian of private medical assistance records of Govt officials Folk and Dance Festival

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The Kanhaiya Dance Troupe performing a Punjabi wedding ceremony

he Guyana International Conference Centre came alive last Friday night with a flood of lights, music, colours and professional dancing as the Indian Folk and Dance Festival was held.

The exuberant Jewan Ka Nritya Dance Troupe copped the top spot after giving a performance that was well deserved for a spot on the stage of the Bollywood Movie Awards.

The much anticipated annual Indian Folk and Dance Festival, hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, was the place to be on Friday with performances that showcased rich culture and talent. The Jewan Ka Nritya Dance Troupe exemplified this by displaying strength, innocence and aggression during its performance that began with the theme song of Jodha Akbar, a Bollywood movie that had gotten overwhelming reviews for its mixture of war and love.

The members of the West Coast Demerara dance troupe were decked out as royal warriors with the glittering colours of gold and a zealous black, armed with swords and pitchforks to defend themselves against their attackers. This publication had the opportunity to talk with the choreographer of the performance, Roshini Boodhoo. The talented young woman shared that her warriors were preparing for battle as they flexed their swords and also tested their sense through blindfolds.

She explained that the children were their reason for fighting, the chance to give them a life free of violence and death, thus all swords and symbols were put away when the children were around in their bid to make them see only the good the world

The Jewan Ka Nritya Dance Troupe performing at the Guyana International Conference Centre

has to offer. In the end, Boodhoo stated that her warriors died to protect the children from such a life, and such was seen as one by one the warriors sunk to the floor in death with the cries of the children ringing after losing their brave protectors.

The claps of the relatively quiet crowd were loud after this performance as Jewan Ka Nritya was declared the winner without even seeing the others.

Meanwhile, the Kanhaiya Dance Troupe from Essequibo, who was the first to perform, put up just as much of a fight for the top spot as the Jewan Ka Nritya. The troupe’s performance depicted a Punjabi wedding ceremony where the groom wore his traditional turban headwear to celebrate his marriage to the woman of his dreams.

The groom and also the choreographer of the piece, Ravindra Deowattie told this newspaper that his team was showcasing a folk wedding as it was done by their ancestors years ago even as it is practiced today. His troupe came in second.

Placing third in the competition was the Better Hope Dance Troupe which had a jovial little woman who caught the attention of a few in the audience.

The young lady genuinely appeared to be enjoying herself as she performed her piece as one of the friends of the heroine. However, her exuberance and also unrestrained performance made her the star of the piece.

Meanwhile, the Mon Repos Dance Troupe came in fourth. During its performance, the troupe depicted a group of marriageable girls going to a river with their water pots. The girls had their own little party at the well as they danced and sang and even talked about boys and their potential life partners.

Coming in fifth was the Golden Home Berbice Troupe that showcased the majesty of Lord Krishna and his love affair with his lovely Radha, who was all over the stage. Even so, Lord Krishna truly showed his flair for dancing as he twisted and flowed with Godlike grace. However, the overall performance was somewhat confusing as the God appeared to have had many roles apart from Godly duties.

In addition to these performances, the audience was treated to a concert where a flow of Indian songs, old and new, was sung by the one and only Purnash Mahase, who hails from Berbice but currently resides overseas.

he Health Ministry is peeved at the release of information on the medical assistance given to Government officials – one of whom received as much as Gy$2 million for dental services.

In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry voiced what it described as its “absolute consternation at the unethical and disingenuous exposure of private medical details, concerning selected Government officials”.

According to the Ministry, certain media outlets and personnel, in taking ‘cheap shots’ for political mileage, have revealed not only their political biases, but also an insensitive and inimical culture of journalism, towards the Government of Guyana and the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

“The Ministry of Health notes that it is well established that private details, particularly those dealing with the health and finance of citizens, are not normally exposed, except under certain ‘extreme’ conditions, and even so, not in a manner to besmirch people’s character, nor negatively sway public opinion against any person or group.”

The Ministry said it should be recalled that in May 2009, Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan did enquire about the then People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Leader Robert Corbin’s medical expenses being

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran

APNU Executive Basil Williams

offset by the Government, stating that a substantial amount of taxpayers’ dollars has been spent, and “there must be a balance between that and accountability”.

However, at the time, he was met with silence concerning the nature of Corbin’s health issues and the sum of the expense incurred, the Ministry said in its statement. “In this vein, the Ministry of Health highlights that it is not ‘decent’ to expose these sensitive issues, as they can redound to both medical and impecunious embarrassment.

However, some media operatives went this route, clearly targeting a select few from the ruling party, and in so doing have engendered unease among the family members and other concerned relatives and friends.

“The Health Ministry once again condemns the behaviour of those responsible for the report, and deems their actions as ‘vendetta for no known reason’.”

The Health Ministry also sees the reportage as

intentionally skewed with portions being mischievously selected or incomplete, with ulterior and sinister motives.

“Also, it should be emphasised that the Ministry of Health embraces and practices a policy, to render assistance indiscriminately and in a holistic manner, depending upon the nature of the medical condition and the financial needs of those seeking to obtain same.”

Last Friday, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) registered concern over the Ministry of Health spending approximately Gy$361 million in health benefits with more than half of that amount being given to several of Government Ministers and officials.

According to APNU Executive Member Basil Williams, the National Assembly were unaware of the spending, further pointing out that there was obscurity when it came to the basis of the Ministers and other officials qualifying for the amount of monies spent on healthcare.

Guyana/Venezuela border ...

from page 20

range of activities carried out by the SecretaryGeneral has included Good Offices, mediation, facilitation, dialogue processes and even arbitration.

Venezuelan experts have reportedly insisted that their Government sticks to the current mechanism. Venezuelan newspaper El Universal has quoted the Retired Colonel Pompeyo Torrealba, the head of the Essequibo Advisory Unit of the Venezuelan Foreign Office as saying, “Venezuela should continue the procedure of the Good Offices because it enables us to hold a direct negotiation, without middlemen.”

Former Foreign Affairs Minister Rashleigh Jackson said the recent move by the Venezuelan Government was nothing more than an “act of provocation and

aggression”, primarily because the Venezuelan Government was fully aware of the facts. “I can’t see it any other way,” Jackson told the Guyana Times International on Monday, pointing out that the move “must be dismissed out rightly”.

Jackson, like many other Guyanese, is quite peeved about the recent move by Venezuela, which is seeking to prevent the US oil and gas company ExxonMobil from drilling in what it contends is within its territorial border.

The company, which is expected to commence the drilling activity by the middle of this month, has already brought in its oil rig, which is currently moored some 110 miles north of Port Georgetown.

The recent action by the Spanish-speaking oil-rich nation is not the

first of its kind in recent times. Back in October 2013, the Bolivarian Republic seized a US hired oil survey ship RV Teknik Perdana with its 36-member crew, which was carrying out seismic surveys in Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone in the Essequibo River.

The Panama-flagged Teknik Perdana was carrying out a seabed survey for Texas-based Anadarko in collaboration with Guyanese authorities when Venezuela’s navy boarded it and escorted it to Margarita Island.

Venezuela had accused the ship of violating its maritime territory.

That move had also sparked condemnation from the Donald Ramotar Administration and the main Opposition coalition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

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Guyana seen as one of the best sport fishing destinations

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filming crew from GM Productions, out of the United States, has just concluded the filming for a new documentary in Guyana titled ‘The Obsession of Carter Andrews’ to be aired on the Outdoor Channel in May 2015.

The Sport Fishing Documentary was shot in the Rewa Area, North Rupununi, and follows renowned angler and guide Carter ‘Big Boy’ Andrews as he tackles his single obsession: fishing.

With a household reach of 40 million, the Outdoor Channel spotlights Carter who journeyed to Guyana to wrangle our ‘river monsters’. He has led expeditions with friends and clients to 15 different countries and manages nearly 300 days of fishing annually, and he has earned the reputation

GTA’s Director, Indranauth Haralsingh, Carter Andrews and crew at the Princess Hotel after filming

of being the most ‘complete’ angler on the water today.

The power of his obsession is strong enough to reverberate through incredible television stories and even social media, where fans can participate with him.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Indranauth Haralsingh was quick to highlight the benefits such international exposure will have for the country, with efforts to promote Guyana as a sport fishing destination

well underway.

“Guyana will be featured on the Outdoor Channel for the first time. Often called the “Land of Many Waters” or the “Big River Country” Guyana’s rivers are still unspoilt and Sport Fishing is a

new area of tourism attraction in Guyana with many unchartered river terrains virgin to man,” Haralsingh explained.

In the waters surrounding Rewa Village, anglers can target Peacock Bass, Arapaima and Pyara among many others; the rivers hold plenty of fishing options to explore in an exciting catch and release experience. “I just got back last night from one of the greatest fishing experiences of my life, fishing for Arapaima in the Jungles of Guyana…”

Andrews commented.

Rewa Village is situated on the confluence of the Rewa and Rupununi Rivers. This remote Amerindian settlement is a fast growing tourism destination, known for its wildlife

and fishing adventures.

All of the fresh water fish species known to the Amazon Region can be found in the Essequibo, Rupununi and Rewa Rivers including the Payara, Arowana, Himara, and what is considered by professional anglers worldwide as the world’s most popular fresh water game fish, the Peacock Bass (Lukanani).

Local Handler, Deborah Sutherland from Travel Experts facilitated the trip and provided logistical support to the crew and cast. OCEARCH (Ocean Research) and Costa Del Mar companies, GTIS/ USAID in the past, assisted with the development of sport fishing regulations in Guyana.

(GTA)

GuySuCo to release lands to meet housing demands – Dr Luncheon

T

Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon

he Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has committed to releasing more lands to the Ministry of Housing’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) in an effort to meet the growing demands for housing across the country.

This was revealed by Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday during his weekly media briefing at the Office of the President. The HPS pointed out that whilst there are many development achievements by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration over its years in office, none can touch its achievement in the housing development.

Nevertheless, the CH&PA has made it clear, that whilst access to land is not threatening the housing drive, the needs are unmet.

“Every day there are complaints: we have applied and we are waiting,” the HPS noted.

Even with the One Stop Shops, he explained, there is a backlog “in no

mean order and land is necessary for a developmental task, that is unquestionably benefitting Guyanese from all walks of life.”

With the efforts of the administration’s response to the housing drive, he explained that whilst GuySuCo has available lands, this could be made available for the CH&PA. This would then enable it to discharge the housing drive and obligations, across the whole of Guyana, including the hinterland.

The reach out to GuySuCo is a means to obtain available lands for consideration so that the CH&PA would meet its obligation in this issue, the HPS declared. Under the PPP/C Administration about 100,000 Guyanese families have received houselots in several regions including Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight and Ten. On these areas developed for housing purposes, the government has spent huge amounts of money for infrastructural development, and the lots are also subsidised.

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WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Transport woes hit TT commuters Neurosurgical Dept making an

impact at Georgetown Hospital

T

P

PTSC buses for the luxury coach service remain in the parking lot at the San Fernando terminal on Wednesday

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Commuters who usually use the Public Service Transport Corporation (PTSC) bus services on Wednesday opted to heed the warnings that bus drivers were on a work-to-rule protest action and sought alternative transport.

In anticipation of this, the Water Taxi Service stepped in and added two additional sailings to its schedule to accommodate stranded passengers. The new sailing times are 9 am from San Fernando and 4 pm from Port-ofSpain. The service already offers six sailings throughout the day. A staff member told the TT Guardian that while the service utilises two

ferrys on most days, a third vessel will be added on Wednesday, to accommodate the anticipated increase of passengers.

When the TT Guardian visited the usually bustling San Fernando bus terminal, at Kings Wharf, early Wednesday, few passengers could be seen waiting on the Port-of-Spain service. The transport hub seemed deserted.

One employee, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said by 7 am only two buses, both filled to capacity, had left San Fernando bound for Port-of-Spain. The Coach service, which offers a limited stop service from San Fernando to Port-of-Spain, along with all services to rural areas had been cut

for Wednesday.

Passengers also jostled each other at High Street for taxis to get to the capital city.

The Water Taxi terminal, however, was filled to its capacity, with signs stating that the 6.30 am sailing was sold out up until Thursday morning.

A representative of the Transport and Industrial Workers Union (TIWU), which represents PTSC workers, who spoke to the TT media on Wednesday said a tentative meeting has been set with between the PTSC management, the Ministry of Labour and the union.

Transport Minister Stephen Cadiz has also indicated his willingness to meet with the union. (TT Guardian)

hough still in its initial setup stage, the newly specialised Neurosurgical Department, at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has already recorded many successes.

Neurosurgeon, Dr Amarnauth Dukhi, who was recently placed at the Georgetown Public Hospital, told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that the department has already made an impact, as over the past few weeks, it has managed to successfully complete 15 surgeries. Dr Dukhi said that one of the surgeries carried out was on a 28-year-old male, with a massive temporal-lobe tumour.

This patient had shown high-grade symptoms, which were only diagnosed three months ago, when he visited the department.

“He was being asked to go overseas, but then he came to GPHC, I saw him at my clinic, he was diagnosed and we prepared him for surgery, ” Dr Dukhi said, adding that the patient had surgery and “I was able to remove the brain tumour”.

The patient, Keyon Gonsalves, recovered

A smiling Keyon Gonsalves a few days after his surgery

and was discharged from the medical facility on February 9, the day of his 29th birthday. “I am very thankful to the doctor for a great job that he has done, and to God for saving my life. It is like I have a second chance,” Gonsalves said.

He also noted another successful neurosurgical intervention; this time a neural-tube defect, a baby born at the Georgetown Public Hospital with this congenital type of malformation.

The doctor explained that this child was born with part of his brain outside of his skull.

With the corrective surgery performed successfully, the baby has

been discharged from the hospital. He is just around 60 days old, Dr Dukhi said.

Commenting on the scenarios of the patients operated on, the specialist declared: “I think that they would have deteriorated over a period of time, because most of these cases, especially that of the 29-year old male, he would have gotten all the complications associated with increased intracranial pressure, which most likely would have cut short his life.

“However, now he is fine and we are hoping that with co-management, with oncology, he would be able to have some level of quality of life.”

Neurosurgical Consultant, Dr Ivor Crandon, also a Guyanese with many years of experience in the field, has been providing service to the Georgetown Public Hospital during periodical visits, and still does.

Dr Dukhi was one of many young Guyanese who were afforded the opportunity to study medicine through the Guyana-Cuba Scholarship programme.

Studies and practical sessions were done in the Spanish speaking island.

24 NEWS

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

“I am ready for the challenge” – Harper

By Michael Younge

T

he lone woman vying to become Guyana’s next Prime Minister (PM) under the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) says she is ready for the campaign trail and believes that she can make a difference in the socio-economic affairs of the country if given the chance.

Fifty-seven-yearold Elizabeth Harper who hails from Kitty, Georgetown, speaking during an interview broadcast on the National Communications Network (NCN) on Saturday evening, said she accepted the offer made by the PPP to run as its Prime Ministerial Candidate alongside incumbent President Donald Ramotar after praying and consultation with her family.

“I hesitated because I had to pray about it.

That was my number one priority and secondly I had to consult with my family. I felt led to accept the offer”, she remarked.

Harper, clad in an or-

ange dress during the interview, believes that she can influence the affairs of the country positively and become one of the leading role models for Guyanese especially women.

Explaining that she felt excited and honoured to be selected by the PPP/C, Harper said if the party were to be successful at the upcoming polls, she would be offering a “public service” as Prime Minister.

“I believe that I can use the almost 40 years that I have spent in the Foreign Service promoting Guyana’s interest abroad to contribute even further to Guyana’s development, particularly in the areas of the creation of jobs, a better education system, reducing crime…” a relaxed and low toned Harper said.

She also spoke about the need for youths to be further encouraged to remain in Guyana and to participate in the building of its future.

Harper spoke about the need for efforts to be made to further improve the education system

PPP/C's Prime Ministerial Candidate Elizabeth Harper

which she believes can have redounding positive effects on the moral stock of the population.

The former Director General of the Foreign Affairs Ministry also advocated for equal opportunities to be made available to all Guyanese

regardless of the socioeconomic differences.

“So once you have an educated population and workforce, you have a better standard of living and better life and the society becomes more comfortable”, she articulated.

In fact, Harper is very concerned about championing the preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

She also wants to work to secure more economic growth which is key to building Guyana’s future.

“I believe that we must have a zero tolerance policy on crime… families must be strong… children must be secure”, she said during the interview.

On a more personal note, Harper said that she is treating the negative criticisms about her decision to run as the PPP/C’s Prime Ministerial Candidate differently.

The new coalition has alleged that Harper would not draw votes and would pose no threat to their bid to remove the PPP/C from office while admitting that she was a competent and professional woman.

“I am trying to look at it differently because I am trying to understand that this is a new role. I will be in the spotlight, my family will be, but for

me I want the issues to be highlighted that people in Guyana want us to focus on”, she stated.

According to the PM Candidate, she would not allow herself to be daunted by the criticisms.

“I am ready for the challenge because whatever I put my mind to, I like to succeed. This is not for Elizabeth Harper; this is for Guyana, the country that I have lived and served for just about four decades”, the former diplomat said.

Anti-domestic violence stance

Harper admitted that she suffered physical abuse at the hands of her first husband, and vowed to work closely with all concerned to eradicate the scourge from society.

“Being able to tell my story from where I came and how I did it… I feel I can encourage women and interest groups to help us…rid us from this scourge”, she insisted.

Harper also spoke about being denied the opportunity to further her education and career continued on page 26

Local writer calls for open-door policy for Guyana Prize

L

ocal novelist, Ryhaan Shah, is calling on the management committee of the Guyana Prize for Literature to adopt an open-door policy in the process of selecting a winner.

Over the past few weeks, there has been a string of debates in the

local media on the process of selecting winners for the prizes. Local writers had even made calls for an investigation into the competition.

Shah, in a letter penned to the media, pointed out that the “secret society, back-doordeal” process that has been adopted in select-

ing the winners is unacceptable. She opined that the pieces that are submitted for the competition should be published so that the public can also have an input.

“Hopefully, we will not see the same old faces, those multiple-time winners who are proud of their multiple wins

Guyanese Author, Ryhaan Shah

and never stop to ask themselves why they have won one, two, three times,” she stated.

The three-time published author questioned whether such persons win the competition frequently because of a lack of good local writers or because they are “favoured to win” regardless of the type of work they submitted.

“Either way, this is more than enough reason to scrap the prize and mount an investigation… Since Mr (Ruel) Johnson has written to the media on so many occasions to hold Government accountable, I am sure he too will insist on this investigation by whoever forms the next Government,” Shah mentioned.

Shah referred to Johnson’s recent arti-

cles/letters in local newspapers that claimed that this discussion is too important for the media and needs to be done by “bringing serious, knowledgeable people together.”

However, she outlined that since free press is fundamental to democracy and good governance, “providing a free and open forum where ideas can be exchanged and debated, one must wonder what Mr Johnson hopes for in a post-elections Guyana.

Tables around, which a privileged, hand-picked few will meet to make decisions for all of us?

This will constitute a free expression of ideas rather than the cross talking that a free press supports?”

According to Shah, Johnson is hopeful of a new dispensation where writers and artists would be free of fear from victimisation, adding sarcastically that he has been so victimised. The writer further pointed out that maybe Johnson can show when and how this (victimisation) occurred, especially given the fact that he won his two Guyana Prizes under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration.

“Mr Johnson is proud that he succeeded in getting the Guyana Prize deadline extended and continues to exhort

writers to network and workshop to get their work ready for the competition and the goal of a prize, because he is well aware that the milliondollar prize can go to the best of a bad lot. It can be won by work that is poor, badly edited and shows only some promise, making it incomplete,” she opined.

Nevertheless, Shah advises new and upcoming writers to maintain their personal integrity; a quality she said is an extremely rare commodity in Guyana. She further encouraged them to stand above it all and take time to think, write, review and reflect then rewrite.

Shah added “when their work is good and ready, and is the best they can do, then they submit it. They should have their own standard of excellence since Guyana has none”.

Shah is the author of three novels: her first A Silent Life, A Death in the Family and her most recent Weaving Water.

She had won the Guyana Prize for Literature First Book Award in 2007 for “A Silent Life.”

The Guyana Prize for Literature was established in 1987, by former President Desmond Hoyte to provide encouragement and development of good creative writing among Guyanese.

NEWS 25

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APNU denies drugsCaribbean universities too... tainted campaign funds from page 19

dertaken to improve education delivery in primary and secondary schools.

Nevertheless, Professor Harris highlighted that there were several regional schools that were doing well, making special mention of Guyana’s Queens College. “I think too that we need to examine our tertiary education system. I believe that we have to get together – the University, the Private Sector, Rotary and other groups – to think about how do you best tailor tertiary education to fit the necessary requirements for a 21-st Century society,” he posited.

The UWI Vice Chancellor went on to talk about the advances of technology and the effect it has on the evolution of the workforce.

He said that before students were prepared for a single job for their lifetime, but in this modern age, students were being prepared for a lifetime of jobs. As such, he added, tertiary institutions are now challenged to frame their academic curriculum to adapt to these changes.

Professor Harris believes that universities in the Caribbean have to re-condition themselves

to provide courses and programmes that fit better with the 21st century workforce.

On another note, the Professor underscored that all stakeholders should have a hand in the development and advancement of tertiary education, since they are the ones to benefit from it. Harris called on all stakeholders to get involved in the transformation of tertiary education so that the Caribbean societies can advance along with the rest of the world.

He continued that the Private Sector should also play a role in shaping tertiary education since ultimately, it also benefited from a tertiary educated population.

Professor Harris, MPhil, MD, DM, assumed office at the UWI back in October 2004.

A born Guyanese, he is known internationally for his work as a rheumatologist. After becoming the VC, he has been focusing on programmes that seek to enhance the contribution of UWI to Caribbean Governments, strengthening services of the University to its stakeholders, broadening funding and enhancing alumni relations and marketing.

…“Let Rohee prove his allegations” – Harmon

G

eneral Secretary of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Joseph Harmon has rubbished the accusations of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary, Clement Rohee that the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) was guilty of having links to the criminal underworld, and that drugs money was funding its elections campaign.

Harmon has since challenged his counterpart, Rohee, to prove his allegations.

Speaking to this publication in a telephone interview last Thursday evening, Harmon related that his party had no ties or linkages to any drug dealer and as such would have never benefitted from any monetary contribution.

He went on to state that if the General Secretary who is also the serving Home Affairs Minister was so confident of his information and his allegations, then he must endeavour to prove it and make it public.

“Let him prove it. He makes wild statements and without any facts

APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon

PPP/C General Secretary, Clement Rohee

or evidence. As Minister of Home Affairs, he has the power, the tools and the access to information to provide the evidence if there is indeed any link. I don’t take him seriously. I will not inject life into those statements Rohee is making,” Harmon said.

stood on the side of law and order and we have never received dirty money, we’ve never received money from criminals, we’ve never been the beneficiary of the proceeds of crime, so I cannot see what Mr Rohee is talking about,” Granger said.

On Tuesday, Rohee told media operatives at the party’s weekly press briefing that the Opposition had refused to pass the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill since it was benefitting from the transactions of drug lords.

“It seems to me that the question must be

Upheld laws

Meanwhile, in another section of the media, the Leader of the Opposition, David Granger was quoted as saying that his party has always upheld the laws of the country and as such, Rohee’s claims had no merit.

“I can say with absolute certainty that the People’s National Congress has always

asked in relation to drug trafficking that it is our understanding that the AML Bill which was floundered in the Parliamentary process, floundered because huge sums of money were doled out by certain persons who are involved in drug trafficking to certain political parties,” Rohee related to media operatives.

However, when questioned by the media, Rohee, who is also the country’s Home Affairs Minister, could not provide any evidence or say from where he had received his information. President Donald Ramotar has made similar statements in the past. He said that the combined Opposition was guilty of sheltering drug lords and other unsavoury criminal characters by refusing to pass the AML/CFT Bill 2014.

“Who is the Opposition defending when they are going against this Bill?” the President had asked, contending: “Objectively, they are defending the drug lords everywhere.”

The Opposition has been accused before of protecting these people.

26 NEWS

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

President Ramotar commissions “I am ready for the Gy$45M restaurant, hotel at Aurora challenge” ... from page 24

H

ead of State, President Donald Ramotar has commissioned a spanking new multimilliondollar hotel and restaurant located at Aurora, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

The new restaurant and hotel is owned and managed by Essequibo Businessman Nazeer Buksh and his wife Bibi Shaleeza who have invested over Gy$45 million into the project.

Speaking at an official commissioning ceremony, President Ramotar lauded the investment, expressing his satisfaction with the magnitude of the investment made thus far.

He said the fact that such an investment was made is indicative of the confidence that domestic Private Sector officials have in the Guyanese economy and Government’s prudent fiscal macroeconomic policy initiatives.

Owner of the new “Gold is Gold, Family Hotel and Restaurant”, Nazeer Buksh said that he is impressed with the positive economic growth in Region Two and this encouraged his investment in the multimilliondollar venture.

President Donald Ramotar cuts the ribbon to officially commission the new $45 million investment along with owners Nazeer Buksh and his wife Bibi Shaleeza, as other officials look on

The 50-year-old father of one, said the hotel and restaurant was opened eight months ago and has been constantly upgraded since then.

Buksh said he decided to embark on the venture since there were no other conveniences of this nature around the southern end of the Essequibo Coast (towards Supenaam).

He added that often, families in communities in and around Supenaam do not have a proper family dining facility to go to in the evening to relax and enjoy family time apart from the confines of their own homes.

He said having noticed the desire for such an entity, he proceeded to construct the modern facility that caters for the needs of families and relaxation. Buskh said his business not only addresses the taste buds of his customers but most importantly, provides employment for 10 staff members.

He said persons are employed as cooks, maids, housekeeping, receptionists and care-takers. The restaurant also does catering. The rooms are fully air conditioned and self contained with prices ranging from Gy$8000 for a single room to $12,000

for a double room.

After commissioning the new modern edifice, President Ramotar and other officials including Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Alli Baksh; Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud; and Regional Vice Chairman Vishnu Samaroo were given a tour of the building.

They also tasted some of the delicacies prepared by the hotel’s chefs. Only recently businessman Ganesh Jaigobin opened a three-storey Chinese restaurant “Red-Bud” at Cotton Field. That restaurant also created employment for 10 persons.

in her first marriage and being subjected to poor treatment.

“My first marriage did not last because he did not support my decision to further my career at the University.

“He became abusive and I just felt that that was not right… for me to subject myself to that environment… it was not healthy”, she confessed.

She opened up about becoming pregnant at 17 and the fact that her mother did not make her feel less loved. “… she was disappointed because I was about to do my A levels… but my four sisters were supportive. I know that mom had it hard because she was a single parent and my dad died while I was 12 years old. But she was strong and I believe that I took my strength from her, Harper informed.

She expressed gratitude to her current husband, Mark Harper, describing him as “extremely supportive and interested” in what she does.

She explained that he lends a lot of support to her within the home and is very concerned about her overall wellbeing.

“He takes care of everything. We are a blend-

ed family because he also has a daughter and she lives with us and I consider her my daughter too”, Harper stressed.

She recalled starting back in 1976 as a clerk in the registry within the Foreign Affairs Ministry and then giving service at the High Commission in London for four and half years. She returned to Guyana in 1996 and was appointed Director General of the Ministry in 2001.

Recalling one of the things that steered her in the right direction, Harper referred to “an instance where I had passed a file to the desk officer and I had made a notation on it with some advice and he took it to the Permanent Secretary and both of them thought I had some potential and I was moved from the registry into another department.

“I believe that was a turning point in my career. It thought me that to take initiative was not such a bad thing”, she said.

Harper has three biological children – Melissa, Regan and Natasha whom she declared that, she is very proud of. She also has two grandchildren and a step-daughter.

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Simonette just wants to make great music in Trinidad

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O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Four years ago, he told the TT media he was not interested in becoming a household name too quickly, rather his focus was on perfecting his craft. Fast-forward to 2015, Hashim Simonette who lived in Tortola since childhood, has moved back to TT to pursue his music career.

The 22-year-old has been knocking on soca’s doors for a few years well. In 2011, he offered the self-written composition 'Ready to Jam', which he entered in the Groovy category of the International Soca Monarch competition, but failed to make it to the finals.

Despite the disappointment he remained consistent, putting out material every year.

This year he again entered the competition with his songs 'Free Up', produced by DarellFahie, and 'Sweet Carnival', produced by Precision Sound.

However, for yet another time, he did not make it to the finals.

But, the Diego Martin

P

J’can Gov’t allocates Ja$380m to UTech for upgrading

A section of the University of Technology’s campus at Papine, St Andrew

Hashim Simonette

resident is not being sappy about it.

He is always grateful for the opportunity to have even made it this far.

This year is also particularly special for the former R&B/pop singer as it was the first time he penned a song for another artiste.

Simonette is the composer of 'Out on D Road' sung by Roy Cape All Stars’ Darnella Simmons.

The song appears on the popular KanKanRiddim which also features 'Phenomenal' by Benji,

'Ola' by Olatunji Yearwood, 'Best Gal'

by Sekon Star and 'Her Love' by Flipo.

Asked about this experience, Simonette said he was happy but also humbled.

“I am just happy that they took a chance on the song and me as an upcoming entertainer in this business.

“I have always said I am here for the fun of it. I work hard but I also give myself the opportunity to enjoy my work. It is not always about competitions. Sometimes it’s just about making great music.” (TT Guardian)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The love of Trinidad’s wondrous natural heritage is beautifully expressed in Clint Quintal’s recently published work Trinidad’s Northern Range Mountains- vistas/ water/ life.

This charming pictoNorthern Range Mountains, Trinidad rial essay captures the and to enjoy the pleasures of these sesteep forested hills, our rivers and waterfalls, and the bounteous cret places. But he also shows us fawildlife living there. The beautiful pho- miliar places, the vistas, the beachtographs are highlighted with brief text es and the roads that wind through descriptions so that the reader never the hills. Many of us know the North Coast Road to Maracas, Las Cuevas has to wonder what they are seeing.

He is a Southerner like myself, so I and Blanchisseuse. Fewer know the wonder if Clint’s love of the Northern only road which crosses the Range— Range came from the same source as the Arima Blanchisseuse Road, and had my fascination. From long drives just the adventurous, the lucky ones up North from the South, gazing at the are familiar with the hidden secrets of steep green hills rising majestically out the Northern Range.

Clint’s fleeting glimpses of these of the Caroni Plain? The hills which, except for that panorama we see from places should encourage more of us— the south and central, remain mostly especially our younger citizens—to dishidden from view and then hiding even cover our Northern Range. But as he more within hidden valleys and below cautions, we must enter these forests thick green canopies. It is these hidden with respect and understanding, and valleys, with their waterfalls, streams, do nothing to degrade or damage them and abundance of wildlife and flowers, or any of the wildlife they harbour.

Trinidad’s Northern Range that Clint now shares with us in his Mountains- vistas / water/ life is a dework.

Looking through it—it is more of a lightful read, and an invitation to exview than a read—I felt that Clint was plore beyond its pages. It is availsharing an intimacy of secret places. able at the Asa Wright Nature Centre Some of these I have known, and some Gift Shop, all Nigel Khan and RIK were new to me, and now they call Bookstores, Ishmael Khan at Piarco me to explore further, to discover se- and Nigel Khan Bookstore in San cret streams and waterfalls and pools, Fernando. (TT Newsday)

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The University of Technology (UTech) Enhancement Project will get a Ja$380 million allocation next fiscal year to undertake work to upgrade facilities at the institution.

The Caribbean Development Bankfunded project aims to enhance the university's capacity to provide quality-level education in Jamaica through expansion and upgrading of the school plant, and to further the development of staff and improve financial sustainability.

Details of the allocation are outlined in the 2015/16 Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House of Representatives.

The targets for this year include upgrading the laboratory facilities and installing equipment at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Physical achievements under the project, up to last September, include the expansion of sections of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; electrical and laboratory upgrades; construction of

new classroom blocks; procurement of equipment; and construction of administrative offices for the School of Business.

Institutional strengthening has also been carried out, including improvements to human resources capacity and the carrying out of a market needs analysis and a graduate tracer needs study.

The project, which commenced in July 2008, has seen several extensions and is scheduled to continue beyond June 2015.

(Jamaica Observer)

TT Martial arts group empowers youths

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: A south-based mixed martial arts (MMA) organisation has started an island-wide exercise, visiting schools and community-based groups, to channel positive energy to youths through the sport.

Empowering the youth of today for tomorrow through the sport of mixed martial arts and sambo, is the theme of the initiative headed by sensei Kerry Grant of Southern Warriors of Mixed Martial Arts.

Started since last November, Grant and his team have visited several schools in south and central and intends to expand to North Trinidad very soon.

Grant said they have been well received at every institution they have visited so far.

“We are not just focusing on schools, we are also focusing on developing communities in a positive way and trying to show kids something positive they could do with their time, instead of liming and smoking on the block and falling into a life of crime,” Grant said.

Grant said it was imperative that leaders, teachers, guardians and parents find positive ways of steering youths on the right path, in the face of negative influences.

He said: “Our main goal and vision is to educate society and empower the youths through martial arts to stand up individuals in society and to make their country proud.”

Given concerns of increasing school violence and bullying, Grant believes that the sport could help curb those problems because it teaches among other things discipline, self control, self confidence and team spirt.

Through MMA, which is a fairly

Head instructor of Southern Warriors Martial Arts, sensei Kerry Grant, displays the Martial Arts skills to the students during his visit to the Lady Hochoy Centre in San Fernando earlier this month.

new sport in TT, he said youths are exposed to several opportunities, including travelling all over the world to compete in competitions.

“There are a lot of opportunities in this sport. Youths can get scholarships and jobs,” said Grant.

“Most people don’t know that judo and boxing are part of the school curriculum, you could write that for CSEC. Most people have the wrong concept of MMA, it is not brutal.”

Although his club is facing its own problems, mainly finding a home, Grant has also pledged their assistance to Lady Hochoy Centre with the centre’s fund-raisers. Two weeks ago, the team had visited the Lady Hochoy Centre in Gasparillo, which caters for students with special needs.

“While I was there my heart melted,” Grant said.

“They are not government funded and I think they are being forgotten.”(TT Guardian)

30 feature

T

he lotus, because of its abundance in murky ponds and trenches, is often taken for granted and even considered a nuisance by some as it clogs up canals, but this plant’s self-cleaning mechanism and religious significance make it worthy of a second look.

The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic plant that produces individual leaves and flowers directly from a root system. Its leaves float on the water or are

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

held up about six inches above water by their stems. Its flowers are held up by their stalks about six inches from the surface of the water. Each flowerspreads about four to eight inches across and has pink petals. The receptacle holds theseeds (the seeds are known locally as “water nuts”) of the flower, and is located in the centre of the flower.

James Rodway writes in “The Story of Georgetown”(1920) that the Nelumbium, or Lotus was introduced

to the Botanic Gardens “in the early eighties…”

(1880s)

Religious symbolism and significance

The lotus, sometimes called the Indian lotus or the sacred lotus, is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers.

Over time, throughout many cultures, the lotus has been a powerful image and a spiritual symbol. In Hindu, Buddhist and Egyptian religions, the lotus is considered a sacred

A bright pink flower stands out among lotus leaves

flower. Among its many meanings and significance, the lotus represents divine birth, spiritual development and creation itself.

“The Story of World Religions” (2005) states: “The lotus is the cosmic plant of Hinduism.

When the divine substance of life is in the process of bringing forth the universe, a thousand-leaf lotus grows out of the cosmic waters and is the opening, gateway and mouth for the development of the universe. The cosmic lotus is the organ of procreation of the Absolute that gives birth to the universe and symbolizes the never-ending succession of existences. In pre-Vedic times, the lotus was the symbol of the Great Mother Goddess or “Earth Goddess”, Shri or Lakshmi. In the postVedic period the image of the one born of the lotus was transferred to Brahma, and shortly after a number of gods were depicted sitting on the lotus.”

Many of the gods and goddesses of Hinduism are linked to the flower.

The goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, is usually depicted as being seated atop a fully opened lotus flower. Likewise, Brahma, the god of creation, is depicted as emerging from a lotus that crawls from the naval of the sustainer Lord Vishnu.

The lotus is able to emerge from muddy waters un-spoilt and pure; it is considered to represent a wise and spiritually enlightened quality in a person, representative of somebodywho carries out their tasks with little concern for any reward and with a full liberation from attachment.

Lotus' seeds known locally as 'water nuts'

sion and water repellency – the keystone in its self-cleaning mechanism.

Surface finishes inspired by the self-cleaning mechanism of lotus plants have now been applied to paints, glass, textiles, and more, reducing the need for chemical detergents and costly labour.

An edible,

weddings and other Hindu functions.In Chinese cuisine, mature lotus leaves are used to wrap steamed food.In many parts of the world, they function as water vessels for fetching and drinking water.

In bas-reliefs of the goddesses Ganga and Yamuna on the doorframes of Hindu temples, the lotus leaf served as a parasol for the deities. They were

The lotus flower in full bloom

useful utensil

The lotus flowers, seeds, young leaves, and "roots" (rhizomes) are all edible.

Lotus leaves are circular and indented in the middle, giving the leaves a funnel-like shape, ideal for usage as a receptacle not only because of its sturdiness but also because of its known symbol of purity.

In Guyana, “sevencurry” is only enjoyed in lotus leaves at Hindu

also used as hats when tied inverted under the chin in ancient Egypt.

Hung upside above the head in the artwork, the leaves are said to be still in use as sun protection today in some parts of India.

Because of the lotus’ incredible history and biology, there is on-going research in many parts of the world on the biological and technological importance of the lotus. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Inspiring manmade objects

Lotus plants stay dirt-free, an obvious advantage for an aquatic plant living in typically muddy habitats, and they do so without using detergent or expending energy. Leaves of the sacred lotus are self-cleaning thanks to hydrophobic nanoscale bumps.

In a research done overseas, the lotus was artificially contaminated with various particles and subsequently subjected to artificial rinsing by a water sprinkler.

In the case of water-repellent leaves, the particles were removed completely by water droplets that rolled off the surfaces. This is because of the lotus’ surface roughness, reduced particle adhe-

Krishna and Radha sitting on a lotus blossom (Miniature of the Parkarischool, Basohli, 1715)

feature 31

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

D

avid Blair Stiffleris a man who has dedicated his life to documenting humanity: the sounds we make and how we make them. Born in the USA, David’s fascination with Guyanese culture, especially traditional songs, is admirable.

“I had a hobby of listening to short wave radio and I heard this gamelan music, which is originally from Indonesia, but the radio signal was very strong.

I said this cannot be because Indonesia is all the way around the world.

Then I heard someone say New Amsterdam and Suriname. So I got a handbook on South America, a few inches thick on Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, read it and was fascinated,” David recalled in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

A former fashion designer and currently an artist, David decided to visit Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, to record traditional music. He visited French

David Blair Stiffler

Guiana then went on to Suriname, but was told Suriname was experiencing a coup, which was around the 1980s, and so he eventually came over to Guyana. David immediately fell in love with the country.

“I would go back and forth between Guyana and the US recording the traditional songs of the Amerindians, AfroGuyanese (que-que and comfa) and Hindus (poojas and Kali Mai rituals) and others,” he

An album available on the Smithsonian website of David's recordings of African ritual music of Guyana

pointed out.

David’s songs are compiled in the Folkways catalogue, which is now owned by the Smithsonian. Folkways catalogue has more than 2,000 titles of music and spoken word from all around the world. The Smithsonian, according to David, said the catalogue is a “national treasury” and bought the entire collection, which also includes David’s songs from Guyana.

Religious rituals, marriage ceremonies, and ancestor worship are conveyed in the traditional songs, dance and drumming recorded

by David. The songs with liner notes, including Guyana history and song descriptions, are available on Smithsonian’s website.

“I have recorded traditional music from other countries around the world, which are also added to the catalogue and owned by the Smithsonian.I encountered many challenges too, including being kidnapped in one country, and sleeping with a ma-

chete under my pillow in another country because of an upheaval. I cannot recall experiencing anything terrible in Guyana. That is why I keep coming back here, enjoying its rich culture.

Also, what made staying in Guyana easy was people’s willingness to help and being able to freely communicate with everyone,” David noted.

According to David, to record and compile the songs were not easy because of a lack of funding. However, he continued to record the music because he enjoyed learning about the traditional music and culture

in Guyana.

Notably, David has recorded songs of anow extinct group in Guyana named Atorai, which is closely related to the Wapishana tribe. His procedure was to record everything and edit it later. David disclosed he still has lots of recording and he hopes someone could help to fund in getting the songs compiled into albums and shared with the world.

“People forget their roots and are now enamoured by technology, so my hope is tocontinue to share the history of the Guyanese people through songs. I hope

someone can collaborate with me to do this. I collected these songs for future generations to know about their ancestry and I hope persons can enjoy these songs as much as I do,” David declared.

His website, www.

ETHNIX.com, goes deep into his released and unreleased discography, and doubles as an online store that sells many traditional instruments and artefacts in his museum located in Manhattan, USA. David can be contacted by email at stiffler@earthlink.net (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

David (right) recording traditional songs in Guyana in the 1980s

32 feature The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

Part I

By Petamber Persaud

T

he ‘Night of Stars’, produced by the Theatre Guild of Guyana and presented Sat, Jan31, 2015, was an occasion when the spotlight focused both on offstage and onstage players. That event was the playhouse’s annual award ceremony thatalsosaw recognition going to non-members.

The original idea was to acknowledge the contribution of members who were involved in production at the Guild.

In 2015, in a magnanimous move – one of many in the reinvention of itself – the Guild has included non-members who have made significant contribution to the playhouseon its honour roll.

For theatre to remain relevant in a society, it must continuously reinvent itself. Except for some bad patches in its long history since it was founded in 1957, the playhouse was always modifying its role to better serve the community. One such example is the renovation and reopening of

the Guild in time for the Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta X) 2008, heralding a new phase in dramaturgy and the performing arts in Guyana.

The Theatre Guild embraced this new phrase with a passion, resulting in sustained training and education workshop sessions, playwriting competitions and, more importantly, by providing a space to assess this investment in the performing arts.Obviously, this new phrase produced new ideas and new players, including playwrights, directors, actors, stage managers, makeup artists, lighting and costume designers.

The ‘Night of Stars’ saw more than 50 awards in 15 categories presented to individuals and organizations for varying contributions to the preservation and enhancement of the Guild.

Following is a list of the various award recipients: Lifetime Award: Patricia Liverpool, Bert Carter and Ian McDonald Memory of Service Award (posthumous): Ulita Anthony and Rosamunde Addo

Icon of the Arts Awards:Hector Stoute,Nitrageet Dance Troupe, Gerry Gittens, the Yoruba Singers, and Dave Martins Starlight Award for Best Non-Guild Musical Production Staged at the Theatre Guild: Clemsville Orchestra, CARICOM Secretariat,US Embassy – three years of touring jazz band – Embassy of Argentina – guitar duo; Rotary Club of Stabroek – three international jazz players Starlight Award for Best Non-Guild Dance Production staged at the Theatre Guild: Crystallite Dance School and the National Dance Company Starlight Award for Best Children’s Productions staged at the Theatre Guild: Allied Arts, The American School, and Purple Hearts Productions Starlight Award for Best Guild Production: Derek Walcott’s “Pantomime” directed

by Ron Robinson and “Sauda” written by Mosa Telford and directed by Tivia Collins Starlight Award for Best Guild Director: Malcolm De Freitas

Francis’ journey to film TT roots

P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Film student Reneissance Francis migrated to the United States many years ago but recently returned home to shoot a documentary about her life in Trinidad and Tobago.

“I want to tell a story about our strengths as a nation and a people,” she said.

Francis’ family moved to New York when she was four, opening her to a new life and a different culture but according to her, “Trinidad was never far away.”

The food, music, and local customs were a part of her childhood in the United States and when she got older, Francis kept abreast with the news. In January this year, 19-year-old Francis returned home to retrace her early years living in Diego Martin and Valsayn.

“This return was important to me because I’ve been away for so long. I wanted to come home and capture this experience on film, to document my journey and to tell a story about

how much Trinidad has changed.”

Film has been a constant in Francis’ life since she got her first camera at age ten years – she started out taking pictures of her family and progressed to shooting videos at school.

One of her first videos, which captured a friend at school asking his girlfriend to a dance, featured on a local newscast in New York.

“I was so blown away when they featured my video on the news. That’s when I knew I had to pursue my passion and get into film school,” Francis explained during an interview. She managed to purchase better equipment and worked on professional videos to gain entry into film school.

Francis recalled applying to film school in New York two years ago, but missed a crucial deadline and was unable to get in. Determined to get in, she re-applied last year and was accepted.

She is interested in writing scripts, documentaries and exploring cinema and the school curriculum includes cine-

ma as a global art, a business and a technology.

Speaking specifically to her project in TT, she said the documentary shot in TT will count as her second-year final thesis.

“The focus is to capture the essence of Trinidad and help people to see it for what it is; a beautiful country populated with a resilient people.”

Francis said many of her peers often lump the Caribbean as one and would rarely differentiate one island from another.

She explained that the project is an opportunity to set the record straight and also to tell a different story about Trinidad beyond the stories about Carnival and the rising crime rate.

During her recent visit Francis spent time at the museums and library in Port-of-Spain and also travelled across the island reconnecting with family and friends.

She stressed that it was important to learn and understand the history of the country. (TT Newsday)

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

andNkosi Layne Starlight Award for Best Guild Producer: Tashandra Inniss Starlight Award for Best Guild Designer: Neilson Nurse and Clinton Duncan; Spotlight Awards for Consistent Coverage of the Arts in the Media: Al Creighton, Michelle Gonzalves, Tash Van Domien, Barrington Braithwaithe, Hits and Jams, Alex Wayne, Jairo Rodrigues, MBCTV, GTV, and Petamber Persaud Starlight Award for Best Guild Performer (Female): Kimberly Fernandez and Sonia Yarde Starlight Award for Best Guild Performer (Male): Mark Luke Edwards, Keon Yearwood, and Sean Thompson Starbright Award for Current Consistent Service to the Guild by a Current Guild Member: Simoen Dowding, Jennifer Kendall, Tashandra Inniss, Roderick and Rodero Holder Starbright Award

Theatre Guild Awards 2015 (Photo courtesy of The Theatre Guild of Guyana)

for Current Consistent Service to the Guild by a Non- Guild Member: Woodside Choir, Michael Smith, Mark Hall, Kenrick Cheeks and Kirk Noel A Special Award went to Mr H Zypher, caretaker of the Guild for the past 30 years.

The listabovegives just a glimpse as to the magnitude, meaning, value and impact of such awards. Moreover, this outline does not include the substantial role played by the premier driving force of the Guild, Dr Paloma Mohamed. The whole story will amount to volumes of writing.

The presentation of awards was seamlessly

B

asil Bactawar, a County Extension Director and Assistant Professor who exemplified University of Florida’s efforts to help solve global issues has earned an international award from the institution.

According to the University’s Vice President Jack Payne, “This is a great distinction and honour that reflects the global stature of his career accomplishments, and the high esteem in which he is held not only here at University, but also worldwide.”

Upon receiving the award, Bactawar said, “I feel humbled and happy because I was able to make a difference in the lives of people who needed my help the most. If we from the University who have the knowledge cannot help the folks overseas, then who would?”

Bactawar spent over a decade working with farmers and agricultural enterprises as a volunteer in nine countries while carrying the duties of his full-time job in Canada and later in the USA.

Basil Bactawar

During 2013 to 2011, he collaborated with stakeholders to develop feeding programmes for the cattle, swine and poultry industries in Mali, Liberia, Ghana and Uganda.

In 2010 he collaborated with Kenyan Bureau of Standards and Kenyan Feed Manufacturing Association to develop standards for the production of quality poultry feeds that brought about much needed improvement in this sector.

This initiative has reduced complaints by poultry farmers who were dissatisfied by the poor quality of feeds that they were being sold.

In 2007 to 2009 he found himself working with dairy farmers in

woven into a top quality performance that included extracts from past and future productions.

One category of the awards was of grave significance since it is a neglected area of recognition – media coverage of the arts. Coverage of the arts is very important for the promotion, for garnering support, and for the sustainability of such an institution. The Theatre Guild of Guyana must be commended this innovation on the local scene.

Long live the Theatre Guild of Guyana.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 2260065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

Belize, Bolivia and Egypt to reduce the cost of production of milk by feeding cheaper agro-industrial by-products to dairy cattle. The outbreak of avian influenza crippled the poultry industry in Azerbaijan at the start 2006.

This volunteer was invited to Azerbaijan to formulate concentrate feeds for beef cattle in March of 2006 so that the millers could stay in business.

The feed millers requested his service again in November of the same year to formulate feed concentrate for dairy cattle. One of these mills is now the leading producer of livestock feeds in country.

Bactawar is no stranger to exceptional achievement. In 2010 he received a Meritorious Service Award in recognition of 16 years of dedicated and valued service to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food in British Columbia, Canada.

His career began in 1972 when he began his studies at Guyana School of Agriculture and later at the University of the West Indies.

feature 33

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Health care and costs

Dutch and British transportation in Essequibo

By Anu Dev

“Health care is one-sixth of our economy.

If the Government can control that, they can control just about everything. We need to understand what is going on, because there are much more economic models that can be used to give us good health care than what we have now” – Benjamin Carson, US Neurosurgeon and Presidential candidate.

O

ne of the courses we have to take in Medical School at UWI is “Professionalism, Ethics and Communication in Health” (PECH). It’s new and in fact it was introduced in 2013 when I started my studies.

Even though sometimes I’ve gotten a bit testy, sometimes thinking that some of the topics take away from “real medicine” I’ve grown to appreciate the course, since it does provide a context for practicing medicine.

Last week, we were shown a documentary that featured the US health care industry and its connections with the insurance industry. I’m using the word “industry” advisedly since the US is the only country in the world in which medical care is so dependent on the “for profit” private insurance companies.

It is an INDUSTRY. This serves to distort medical care in the US – not only in pushing its already astronomic costs upwards (a concern for patients) – but also in heavily influencing doctor-patient relationships because the doctors also have their (stratospheric) medical malpractice woes.

This makes them double think – and double test – everything, pushing medical costs even higher.

I got into a bit of an argument with my colleagues because I thought since the premises of providing medical care in the Caribbean are completely different, we were off a bit of a wild goose chase.

Here, we follow the British system in which the state is supposed to provide free medical care to its citizens.

Since it’s our tax dollars that eventually pay for the care, it’s not really free…but you know what I mean.

In both the British and our models there are of course, private medical hospitals at which patients have to pay for the care provided. And these are supported very heavily by people who may have private medical coverage.

In Guyana we have our National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to which employed persons made contributions along with their employers and which cover payments (or parts of them) to private hospitals.

For us in Guyana, it is useful to understand what goes on in the US by imaging that if you didn’t have NIS or free medical care at hospitals, what would happen to you. You’d be dead, that’s what! And that’s no laughing matter. In the US, medical care for the rich is no problem… They have oodles of money.

The very poor also get free care through MedicAid. But it’s the middle and lower class workers that get the shaft and the brunt of paying for medical insurance.

Almost half of them go without any coverage or very minimal ones that ensure they become bankrupt if they ever have a major illness. They have to pay Russian Roulette with their lives.

Another effect that private insurance has on US medical costs is that tests and medicine are over prescribed since patients with health insurance think, “the insurance will pay for it”.

We’ve heard so much criticism about “Obamacare” in Guyana and of President Obama. All it is, is an attempt to make Health Care insurance coverage accessible to more Americans.

That is, he’s trying to make health care in the US closer to our system in the Caribbean. Affordable and caring- and for that he has been accused of being a “socialist”. That’s a curse word in the US, apparently!

Very sadly it’s used by some of the very people that Obama is trying to help.

The “argument” I alluded to above had to do with one of my classmates from Trinidad claiming that “their system” was no different from the US. Apart from the usual Trini chest-thumping that we Guyanese are inherently backward, her answer really demonstrated that most folks here and abroad really have no clue as to what our governments do… including medical care and how they’re funded.

Thankfully, apart from adopting American traditions like Halloween and Thanksgiving, we in the Caribbean haven’t adopted the American dogma that “socialised medicine” is on par with dancing with the devil!

MV Sandika (1995)

By Isahak Basir, CCH

T

he Dutch occupancy of Essequibo began in the early seventeen century even though this territory had changed its name at certain periods, from Maracro Coast to Arabian Coast in the early 19th century.

T h e Dutchestablished Fort Island in the Essequibo River as their command centre, and communicated to those in Essequibo by boats. Several human manipulators and oars propelled these huge wooden boats.

The ordeal from Airy Hall to Fort Island by such a boat can take about three hours. A huge silk cotton tree – a Dutch landmark – identifies Airy Hall, parallel to Plantation Adventure.

This point of embarkation was prominent up to 1872. The revolutionary Damon of 1834was marching towards this point with his protestors when they were slaugh-

tered at Plantation La Belle Alliance.

The upheaval by disrupted sugar workers in 1872 at Plantation Devonshire Castle was

Under British rule, the transport route from Essequibo to Georgetown was from Airy Hall to Boerasirie Creek where the rail-

one-deck flat Jerry.

In the early 1900s, Adventure Stelling was established, and several passenger boat services travelled the route. The MV BASRA was replaced by The SS ORANJE, a grave design of engineering. Forthe two and half hour-drive to Parika, passengers had to endure the jolt of the steam engine, and the heat in second class was very much unbearablethat death was inevitable.

Another vessel by the name of The MV HASSAR was used when The MV NORTH COTE or The MV

MV Malali on the Essequibo River

also involved in a march to Airy Hall, but was stopped at Queenstown and persuaded to return, where six sugar workers were killed; the first time indentured workers were killed in Guyana.

Silk cotton tree at Hoft Von Orie

Adventure Stelling

way ended. By 1900, the Good Hope Stelling was established, as well as the telegraph cables, which usedMorse codeas the means of sending telegrams,laid from this point across Wakenaam, Leguan and Parika.

The Dutch had a command centre at Capoey in the Pomeroon, but that closed in 1943.

Several Dutch graves are still visible in the area,and a police station is located at that point. From Good Hope Stelling to Parika,a ferry named The MV BASRA travelled that route.

This ferry was unique since it was propelled by huge wooden paddles attached to a large steel barrel at the stem of the

LUCKANANI was occupied elsewhere. The MV HASSAR capsized at Wakenaam Stelling in 1952, when the captain made a faulty mooring.

The first and secondclass systems in all our trains and ferries were abandoned when the PPP government built three new ferries; The MV MALALI was earmarked for Essequibo in 1961.

Another apartheid culture ended when the Demerara ferry The MV CARR, which travelled the Linden route, was overtaken by the Linden/Soesdyke Highway, built in 1968.

However, time and civilization have not eliminated some important signs of history.

Both Dutch and British landmarks are still visible in Essequibo.

The tall palm trees at Golden Fleece estates, Anna Regina, and the 300-year-old silk cotton tree at Hoft Von Orie foreshore, still in existence,were used as navigation aids to guide sugar punts.

(Photos by Marco Basir) (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

34 feature

F

or Black History Month, celebrated primarily in the month of February, the African Cultural Development Association, under the theme “Is African inventions reclaiming and benefiting from our stolen legacy”, aims to focus on those of African descent who have significantly contributed to the world with their inventions. This article features some of the women in the USA who have done so.

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

electrical switch. Brown’s invention was patented in 1969, and became the framework for the modern closed circuit television system that is widely used for surveillance, crime prevention, and traffic monitoring.

Dr. Shirley Jackson

Marie Van Brittan Brown

Born in 1922 in the US, Marie Van Brittan Brown was the first person to develop the patent for closed circuit television security. Her mechanism consisted of a motorized camera and four peepholes. The camera could be moved from one peephole to the next, and the camera’s images were displayed on a monitor. The door could also be unlocked remotely using an

Dr Shirley Jackson was the first black female to receive a doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and is the first black female president of a major technological institute (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute). However, she also has a staggering list of inventions to her credit. Her experiments with theoretical physics are responsible for many telecommunications developments including the touch-tone telephone, the portable fax, caller ID, call waiting, and the fibre optic cables that make overseas phone calls crystal clear.

Dr. Betty Harris

Madame C.J. Walker

After earning her Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico, Dr Betty Harris became a research chemist at Los Alamos National Laboratory. She worked extensively in the area of explosives, and in 1986, she obtained a patent for identifying and determining the sensitivity level of explosives.

Her contributions were so significant that in1996, Dr Harris was one of only eight people selected for inclusion in the National Science Foundation’s “Women in Science” profile.

As an adult, she experimented with several types of homemade remedies developed by Annie Malone, another black female entrepreneur. However, Walker soon conducted independent experiments and developed her own hair care system. After marrying Charles Walker in 1905, she began selling Madame Walker’s Wonderful Hair Grower. This led to the development of the Walker System, which included healthier alternatives for black women who wanted to straighten their hair, and it also included other products designed to condition black hair and skin. She also set up schools, where she provided employment for over 3,000 people, and trained them as licensed Walker Agents. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Undoubtedly, the most famous inventor on the list, Madame C.J. Walker was the first black female self-made millionaire. Born Sarah Breedlove in 1867, Madame Walker suffered from a scalp condition that caused hair loss.

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

feature 35

A brief history of the Georgetown Hospital

T

Pathway to the Emergency Unit

he Georgetown Public Hospital

Corporation,managed by the Ministry of Health,provides a variety of health services to Guyanese free of cost. To care for the sick and the elderly has been its mandate for more than 177 years.

In 1759, a Jaques Salignac applied for a grant of 500 acres of land for cotton and coffee cultivation. Granted permission by the Court of Policy, Salignac named this tract of land La Bourgade. In 1807 Thomas Cumming, a Scotsman, became the owner of the es-

tate and renamed it Plantation La Bourgade, Cummingsburg.

The Public Hospital occupies one and a half blocks of Cummingsburg.

The hospital is bordered by Lamaha Street, Thomas Street and Middle Street. Its oldest section, the Seaman’s Ward, was first built in 1838, mainly for the benefit of seamen.

In the book “The Story of Georgetown”,James Rodway stated that the buildings were the “finest collection of buildings next to the Eve Leary Barracks”.

Rodway added, “As may be supposed, the beginnings of the Seaman’s

and Public Hospital were in a very small way. Like most of our other institutions, it was introduced by the British. In the Dutch period, there was a Military Hospital at the back of the town and a Yaws House in the bush, probably on the site of the Orphan Asylum.

[The Ministry of Health building on Brickdam, prior to being destroyed by fire, was once the Orphan Asylum.] In 1799 it was enacted that every captain on clearing his vessel must pay for every man or boy to the Receiver of the poor chest in aid of the hospital”. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

The current Maternity Ward at the hospital

A recently renovated section of the Georgetown Public Hospital

East Bank United Bus Co., Ltd in the background. Persons attentively awaiting the arrival of a boat service for transportation and goods n.d

Messrs Sproston's Timber Flats at Wismar n.d.

(Photo from 'Historic Photographs of Guyana' by National Trust of Guyana)

36

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

This week's Crossword

This week's Puzzle

see solution on page 47

Debates… …for Presidential Candidates?

There are calls for “Presidential Debates”. Of course! Why not?? They have them in the US, no?? Then we should have them too. Well, this Eyewitness is still trying to find out which great US President those debates produced.

“Slick Willie” Clinton? Sure…we really saw his true character from those well-crafted soundbites, didn’t we? And Obama really kept those promises made during his debates to end the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

From where this Eyewitness sits, if we need “debates” to help us make up our minds on who to vote for, we’re confirming all the doubts about “democracy” that’ve been expressed since old Plato penned his “Republic”. How do you get “leaders” to do what’s “good” for the country when they just have to say things that “please” the voters??

And Presidential debates do nothing more than exacerbate this flaw in an otherwise salutary form of governance.

Debates favour the glib over the thoughtful.

And is a degeneration of our “doctor politics” that was derided by some of our more thoughtful commentators over the years. At least the “doctors” like Eric Williams – who impressed followers with their “wit and wisdom” – had a bit of theory to guide them in some of their policy choices.

But as we found out from our own dictator Burnham, who was the “glibbest” of them all, good sound bites don’t necessarily lead to good programmes. On the contrary, glib politicians come to believe they can “talk” their way through all the mess they create.

To judge politicians, we have to look at their actions – and while that’s true for all folks, it applies in spades to homo politicus. “Actions speak louder than words!” should be our guiding principle.

Right now we’ve got to look at the past actions of the individuals who’ve lined up on opposite sides to run the Government. But this is where incumbents like the PPP/C have quite a disadvantage: they have a record that had to be defended while the Opposition APNU/AFC challengers can literally promise voters “the moon and the stars”.

If you’ve done nothing – you have nothing to defend!! The PPP/C Government has been “doing” for 22 years….Sure there are a whole heap of things they could’ve done better. But are there some things they did get right?? Elections aren’t meant to be occasions when “the good is interred with their bones”, while the “bad” lives on.

As for the Opposition – let’s look at the things they did do. Like the AML/CFT Bill they refused to pass even though they had no problems with it and simply wanted to “stick it” to the PPP/C. But stuck Guyana. …by two writers There’s quite a healthy debate going on between Ryhaan Shah – who’s had three novels published abroad – and Ruel Johnson who’s been waging a battle with the Government for not doing enough for writers in general and him in particular at home.

Now these kinds of debates are OK…these are folks who work with words so it gives us a chance to see them behind their veil of words to see what makes them tick.

Shah reiterated what this Eyewitness has been saying for a long time: it’s not healthy for a writer to be fighting so fiercely to become a member of the establishment. The establishment means “the status quo” and writers are supposed to be always exposing the ligaments of power that keeps that exclusionary status quo in place.

People like Johnson just want to get their hands into the State Treasury. While pushing his “Canecutopia” agenda to exclude and oppress you know who. …missed The Muckraker keeps trotting out Dr Fenton Ramsahoye to support Glenn Lall’s application for a radio license. Maybe the good doctor can help him fill out the application form properly? The defects noted by Ms Shaddick were fatal.

feature 37

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I

A child playing in a tree near to the school

mbaimadai is a small mining town deep in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of Region Seven, founded by miners. It is now well known for its gold, diamond and other precious mineral deposits.

The mountains surrounding Imbaimadai, part of the Pakaraima range along the Guiana Highlands, the hundreds of miles of jungle, and its cold nights and steamy days, make it an adventure destination not for the faint of heart. (Photos

by Sam Rich) (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Imbaimadai airstrip

View of the mountains from a hill

Cascading waterfall upriver of Imbaimadai

Getting to Imbaimadai via the Mazaruni River

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From simple beginnings, the National Collection over the years has gathered and exhibited the artwork of Guyana’s best artists

G

uyana’s national gallery of art, officially known as the National Collection, is housed at Castellani House, the name given to the building in honour of its designer and builder Cesar Castellani.

The art collection’s unofficial beginnings developed in the 1950s when public subscription was mustered to purchase a Denis Williams painting, “Human World”.

Its official start came in 1962, when the National History and Arts Council was established, which began to acquire works of art by Guyanese artists. The council acquired important pieces for the fledgling collection, but since it had no actual gallery, many pieces were held in various government buildings and in Guyana’s foreign embassies.

After a change in government in 1992, it was realized that the thendisused residence would make a good home for the national collection, so on May 24, 1993, it was designated the home of the National Collection

and renamed Castellani House.

With this move, the collection at last gained a permanent site and space in which its pieces could be displayed.

Everley Austin was appointed first curator in 1994, and he was succeeded in 1996 by Elfrieda Bissember.

The National Collection is now managed by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and it has grown to approximately 1,200 pieces of fine art by major and lesser-known Guyanese artists.

The collection encompasses work from early Guyanese masters such as E.R. Burrowes, Vivian Antrobus and Hubert Moshett, to the second generation that includes Denis Williams, Stanley Greaves, Ron Savory, Donald Locke and others who followed them.

It also includes other artists who contributed to the visual imagination of Guyana over the years – major names such as Aubrey Williams, Philip Moore, Gary Thomas, and others, including contemporary names such as Winslow Craig,

'Loading Cane' by Gordon Welcome n.d.

Bernadette Persaud, George Simon, Oswald Hussein and many others.

Containing many artistic treasures, the National Collection is a symbol of Guyana, an invaluable resource, and a priceless national asset. (Text based on “Panorama: A Portrait of Guyana. Images from the National Collection of Guyana”) (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

'Country Houses' by Jerry Barry (1985)

'Cutting Lianas' by Edward Fredericks (1980)

Castellani House located on Vlissengen Road

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Holi – Festival of Colours By: Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh

Foul play… …at Police Stations?

If not “rotten”, something’s definitely “spoiled” with the state of our police-apprehension procedures. We can’t just sweep these deaths of persons in Police custody under the rug any longer.

They’re piling up. Pretty soon there will be so many bumps in the rug that no one’s gonna be able to traverse it. Meaning that our social order would’ve broken down.

Added to these killings while in the “care” of the Police, the well-publicised cases of torture, the burgeoning number of cops and ex-cops fingered in assorted crimes – not to mention the quotidian harassment by the traffic cops – and you have a police force that’s actually deprofessionalising rather than professionalising.

Now none of this is anything new…and that’s what makes the situation even more depressing.

The rot in the Police Force started right from the start. Very bluntly, the British just wanted a bunch of armed men to “police” whoever they ruled. In essence, this deeply ingrained orientation of the Police to view the civilian populace as people to “keep down” has never been challenged, much less reversed. And this is what has to begin pronto.

Up to the recent past, the Police Force had been made into a political football by the PNC when it refused back in 1965 to implement the recommendations of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) to professionalise it. Fifty years down the road – and dozens of investigations with thousands of recommendations – have all been for naught because every administration’s played ducks and drakes with the elephant in the room blocking any real reform – the need to have the composition of the Police Force reflects the demographics of the country.

As in the law of evidence’s “fruit of the poisoned tree doctrine” – if the original construct of the Force was defective, whatever flowed out of it had to’ve inherited that defect. As late as 2004, the Disciplined Forces Commission – of which David Granger was a sitting member – recommended that the original 1965 ICJ’s proposal for altering the composition of the Police Force be implemented. Now that he is trumpeting his desire for a “love and unity” approach to Government, why doesn’t he take up cudgels for the reforms he helped to craft. Rather than just criticising the Police from the sidelines.

It’s quite possible that this one “bad” lapse of the Force had “spoiled” the entire barrel of cops. Let us quit beating around the (Police) bush – and have real root and branch reform in the Police Force! …at elections Once again, Leader of the Opposition David Granger has reiterated that neither he nor the PNC has anything to apologise for. And that if anyone has proof of any PNC wrongdoing, they should step forward with evidence!! Pleeeeease!! This is just too much. Granger must be called out. Let’s just talk about one of the criminal acts of the PNC that compel apology – rigging of elections.

Was Granger, who studied history at UG, so badly miseducated by his lecturers that he doesn’t know about the declassified files of the US Government?

They recount, in excruciating detail, how Burnham started election rigging in 1968? Or is he saying that the US Government wanted to give Burnham “bad name” so they incriminated themselves? Jeez!!

There’s got to be a limit to how much stonewalling zealots like Granger will be prepared to commit for the Burnhamite cause.

But this Eyewitness has a bit of (gratuitous) advice. His refusal to apologise for elections rigging will lead to his Waterloo, come May 11. …off Essequibo For decades we’ve known there was oil in “them thar waters” off the Essequibo Coast. The problem, however, was always the Venezuelans and their ridiculous claims. This time this Eyewitness thinks they’ve bitten off more than they can chew.

Unlike 1962, the US wants THEIR Government out – and it’s a US oil company that’s being threatened.

W

ith the air filled with colours, the homes of many filled with the aroma of sweetmeats and everyone dripping wet with abeer, Hindus will be celebrating the festival of colours as they usher in the season of spring –the beginning of the Hindu New Year, on Friday.

Holi, which was originally known as Holika (but commonly known as Phagwah in Guyana) is an ancient festival of India. It is a time to rejuvenate. The significance of the festival of Holi has crossed many pages in history to arrive here, as a time to celebrate renewal. Every festival has its own traditions in the backdrop, but what really matters is the spirit of festivity.

Colours speak louder than words at times.

Holi goes beyond the custom of smearing colours on each other. It crosses the realm of traditional customs to reach new dimensions of the renewal and spirit. It is a time to create new bonds, reach out to others and forget the past worries. Hence, the common meaning “good over evil” that is taught to children in schools.

Every year, this land of six races embrace the occasion with growing enthusiasm that bridges over their historical memories. Besides exchanging sweets, colours and well-wishes, there is something more to it; it is the spirit of unity, friendship and a will to forget the past and let the present take over our lives.

Holi is one of the major Hindu festivals in Guyana which is the most vibrant of all. The joys of Holi know no bounds. This festival is filled with so much fun and frolic that the very mention of the word 'Holi' draws smile and enthusiasm amongst the people.

Many Hindus begin their preparations for this auspicious day months before as they welcome the season of joy and hope. Many observe fasting during this time as it is believed that it brings good luck to one’s life. The sounds of “Phagwah music” can be heard emerging from many homes as the festive day approaches.

There is also a tradition of cleaning homes, removing all dirty articles from around the house and burning them.

Holi is one of the oldest festivals of India.

There are many interesting stories associat-

ed with the festival's origin from each coordinate point in India. Paintings and scriptures depict the roots of the festival.

Mythology plays a very important part in narrating the festival of Holi.

There are many stories that are matted with this festival such as the legend of Kaamadeva, the legend of Dhundhi, and that of the Demoness Pootana. However, the most popular stories of Holi origin relates to 'HolikaDahan' (known as the traditional story of Holika and Prahalad) and legend of RadhaKrishan.

Integrally entwined with Holi, is the tradition of 'HolikaDahan', which is actually lighting of bonfires. The ritual is symbolic of vic-

tory of good over evil and has its root in the legend of demon king Hiranyakashyap who wished to end his blessed son, Prahlad's life with the help of his sister, Holika.

Holika was granted with a boon whereby, she could enter the fire unscathed. Upon knowing this, her brother ordered that she made use of the magical powers which she beheld.

Treacherously, Holika coaxed young Prahlad to sit in her lap and she herself took her seat in a blazing fire.

The legend has it that Holika had to pay the price of her sinister desire by her life. Holika was not aware that the boon worked only when she entered the fire

alone. Prahlad, who kept chanting the name of Lord Naarayana (Lord Vishnu) all this while, came out unharmed, as the lord blessed him for his extreme devotion.

Thus, Holi derives its name from Holika and is celebrated as a festival of victory of good over evil.

As the legend depicts that anybody, howsoever strong, cannot harm a true devotee. And, those who dare torture a true devotee of God shall be reduced to ashes.

On behalf of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (Guyana), we extend “Shub Holi” to all Guyanese and everyone across the globe. May the beginning of this New Year and season bring peace and happiness to every home.

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K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Italian reggae band Mellow Mood is in Jamaica filming a documentary and recording songs by emerging acts for their Dub Files project.

According to vocalist Lorenzo Garcia, Dub Files is a new musical style which combines freestyle and deejaying.

"We brought our own producer and we are currently operating from a mobile studio. In addition to recording established acts, our aim right now is to give unheard talents a chance to shine," he said.

So far, the band has recorded upcoming artistes such as Hempress Sativa, Juba Lion, Daddy John and Philip Krucial.

The five-member band, who are all in their 20s, consists of twin brothers Jacopo and Lorenzo Garcia, Giulio Frausin, Federico Mazzolo and Pilippo Buresta.

"Reggae music has the best feelings attached to it. All of the emotions that one experienced throughout the day are often expressed in a song. Reggae gives off a positive and spiritual message, one that is soothing," Frausin explained.

The musicians made their debut performance in Jamaica in Papine recently and said the recep-

Guyanese Nicketa Campbell is treading the path to become a celebrated makeup artist and model

B

Italian producer Paolo Baldini (centre) is flanked

by Mellow Mood members Giulio Frausin (left), twin brothers Jacopo and Lorenzo Garcia and reggae act Forelock (second right)

tion warmed their hearts.

"We played at some of the largest venues in Europe, but to come to Jamaica and perform for just a few has been our greatest achievement. We heard that the Jamaican audience is the hardest to please, so to get a positive feedback from even a small gathering is just a blessing," Lorenzo said.

"It's not that easy getting it right because we were not born in Jamaica. Therefore, we had to study the genre and we decided to come to Jamaica to get first-hand knowledge," Frausin added.

Mellow Mood formed in Pordenone, Italy, in 2005. Four years later, they released their debut album called Move!

Produced by close associate, Paolo Baldini,

Move! was an unexpected success, according to band members. Two singles, ‘Only You’ and ‘Dance Inna Babylon’, received more than 10 million views on YouTube.

Three years later, Mellow Mood released their second album called Well Well Well.

The tour to promote that album took them to 12 European countries. They performed at top festivals on the continent such as Rototom Sunsplash, Sziget Festival and Sumol Summer Festival.

During the second half of 2013, Mellow Mood did several collaborations with Jamaican artistes. Among them, ‘Extra Love’ with Tanya Stephens and ‘Wipe Away’ featuring Jah9.

(Jamaica Observer)

orn in Peter’s Hall on the East Bank of Demerara, at the age of 15, US-based Nicketa Campbell once worked as an understudy for her cousin, veteran makeup artist Paula DeSouza, and “fell in love with the creative aspects and freedom” of makeup artistry.

She competed in the Miss Bartica Regatta pageant a few years ago, and emerged first runner-up. She enjoyed the glitz and glamour of pageantry and decided to pursue a career in makeup artistry.

“My first job, believe it or not, was working in a commercial campaign for Courts furniture store. I was 15. From then on, I appeared in many of Courts’ commercials and campaigns, and I enjoyed every minute of it.” Nicketa recalled in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

“I then went on to do numerous commercials for various businesses, promoters and modelled for quite a few

Nicketa's recent makeup job on former Miss Guyana World Rafieya Husain

of Guyana’s leading designers, such as Michelle Cole, Roger Gary and Olympia Small - to name a few.”

Nicketa would later migrate to the United States.

Now, fully established in New York, Nicketa is sought after by some of the city’s finest photographers, show producers and even magazine editors, for her talented makeup capabilities.

In the past, she has worked for both Plitzs New York City Fashion Week

US-based Guyanese makeup artist Nicketa Campbell

and Couture Fashion Week. In addition, Nicketa has also worked with Hype Hair Magazine – the number one hair and beauty source for women of colour. Other notable clients include former Miss Guyana Universe 2012 and Miss World Guyana 2013, Ruqayyah Boyer, among many others.

“As a model, I am surrounded by people that are creative and inspiring.

When you are surrounded by fellow makeup artists, you get to share tips and creative ideas. With makeup, you never stop learning. Your brush is an extension of your arm. There are times when I feel like giving up, but because I love what I do I keep pushing and will never stop pursuing my passion,” Nicketa declared.

The makeup professional’s advice to women who want to pursue a career in makeup artistry is to “accept that you will fail in most things you first try.

Your ability to keep trying is what will help you succeed. Surround yourself with people that support and encourage you; be determined in whatever you choose, whether makeup or otherwise.

Most importantly, have fun with it and do not take yourself too seriously. Do not be afraid to take risks. Remember with makeup you can always wipe it off and do it again”.

Nicketa is never afraid of trying new things and so there are no boundaries in her interests, just opportunities.

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Times Notebook Empowering women

t is difficult to fathom the tired allegation that the PPP/C has nothing to offer women.

We find these efforts to denigrate the PPP/C’s record on women farcical and incomprehensible.

Attacks on the PPP/C for nominating Elizabeth Harper as their Prime Minister represent an anti-women position and we deem these attacks as shameful.

There is no political party in the Caribbean with a more proud record than the PPP/C when it comes to women.

Janet Jagan as one of the founding leaders of the PPP/C fought from the inception to ensure women have equal status in our society. Guyana has one of the highest ranking in the world when it comes to women and gender equality.

Because of the political and social struggles led by the PPP/C, women have achieved the highest levels of office in our country. If the PPP/C wins the election, Mrs Harper, the first woman Director General of Guyana, would become another woman who would have been Prime Minister of Guyana.

Janet Jagan already had the distinction of being Guyana’s first

woman Prime Minister.

She also was Guyana’s first woman to serve as President of Guyana.

The first woman Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues, was appointed by the PPP/C. The appointment of Jennifer Webster in the Ministry of Finance during the Ninth Parliament was the first time a woman was in that position in Guyana.

There are many other firsts for women that resulted because of direct policies of the PPP/C. The first time a woman was elected as a Deputy Speaker of the Parliament was when the PPP nominated Janet Jagan.

When Desiree Bernard was appointed first as the Chief Justice and then as Chancellor, those were the first times that a woman occupied those important positions in Guyana. These appointments were under the PPP/C. The first woman to be appointed in the Caribbean Court of Justice was nominated by the PPP/C Government.

Sonya Roopnauth is the first ever Budget Director for Guyana. It was the PPP/C that appointed the first woman Treasury Secretary.

PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper

During the PPP/C regime, women became heads of trade unions and of the Guyana Trades Union Council.

It is under a PPP/C Government that the reformed Constitution furthered the advancement of women by providing for women to be at least one-third of the political candidates in our elections.

This is the only country in Caricom that provides for equity in representation in our Parliament and that is the reason Guyana ranks highly in women representation in Parliament among countries of the world. Today, Guyana’s Parliament is among a handful where women

make up more than 30 per cent of the MPs. The PPP/C Government led the way in creating a constitutional Commission on Women and Gender Equality. Women have equal pay for jobs in Guyana. Even the USA cannot boast that women have equal pay in their civil service. Our laws also prohibit the private sector from paying women less than men for the same level of appointments.

Girls have equal access to education in our country. Guyana today has achieved universal primary education and is close to attaining universal secondary education.

Since 1992, the

Government has increased access to secondary education to almost 100 per cent. In terms of nursery education, Guyana has moved from under 10 per cent in 1992 to almost 80 percent today, under a PPP/C Government.

There are more women in university in Guyana and more female university graduates today than males. Women have achieved equity in professional life in our country. From just a few women who were lawyers and doctors, there are now almost equal or even greater numbers of women who are among new lawyers and doctors in Guyana.

Women are even entering professions never imagined for women, like engineering. Let us not ignore women in sports and entertainment – it is under the PPP/C since 1992 that women flourish in sports and entertainment to heights never envisaged before 1992.

In addition, maternal and child health services have increased enormously in our country.

There is 100 per cent access to maternal and child health services.

Access to advance services such as c-section for risky pregnancies, ser-

vices for cervical cancer, immunization against cervical cancer are provided free of cost to all women and girls that need the services.

Guyana is one of the few countries in the world that provide immunization against cervical cancer for young girls. Guyana was one of the first developing countries to provide universal access to prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and is about to be certified as eliminating HIV transmission to babies.

One area of note is the avalanche of women-owned small and medium size businesses in Guyana.

Domestic violence and sexual abuse of women and girls in our country are major impediments towards attaining higher development for Guyana, not just for women. Under the PPP/C Government, there are strong domestic and sexual abuse laws to protect women and girls.

For those who criticize the nomination of Mrs Harper, they need to know that this is a signature of the women agenda of the PPP/C and is the very essence of the DNA of the party.

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Race to the altar concludes A

fter a series of compatibility tests and quizzes, Winston Waddle and his beautiful bride-tobe Natasha Goodridge were announced the lucky winners of the 7th Annual Wedding Expo’s “Race to the Altar” at the Roraima Duke Lodge on Friday evening.

Amid the bittersweet ambiance, the excited couple could not help but share an intimate kiss for they are now winners of an all-inclusive wedding scheduled for March 29. The other participants of the competition also walked away winners of complimentary trips, quite suitable for their honeymoon.

Couple number one: Michael Demattos and Iyana McLennan who

Winston Waddle and Natasha Goodridge expressing their love through a spectacular dance performance

placed second won a trip to Kaieteur Falls, while couple number three:

Previous winners Ryan and Maria Fletcher reflect on their year together as husband and wife

Rayburn Johnson and Tandica McGarrel won a trip to the Arrow Point Resort.

The fourth competing couple, Daison Blackett and Latoya Benn, were absent from the event.

Meanwhile, the exhilarating competition was held as a part of a countdown to the spectacular Wedding Expo slated to commence on March 27.

The “Race to the Altar” began on the renowned ‘Day of Love’ February 14 as the four couples ventured on a romantic journey at the Arrowpoint Nature Resort, Pokeroro Creek,

Santa Mission where their love was put to the test.

The day kicked off with a nature walk through the rainforest, followed by a sprint up to the Wabini (a mounted platform used for hunting above the scent range of wild animals).

The couples then hit the water where they kayaked through “Alligator Alley” while being tested on their communication, coordination and strength.

At the finale event, the couples were faced with one last quiz that assessed each partner’s knowledge of their lovers.

They were presented with personal questions such as “Where is the strangest place you’ve ever made love”, tricky questions such as “What is the month of her mother’s birthday”, and romantic questions such as “Describe in as much details, what your bride is wearing right now.”

The couples were also tasked to collectively perform an item of their choice.

Couple number one expressed their love through a beautiful song, while couple number three performed a romantic skit through a poem which highlights that love has no boundaries.

But couple number two stole the spotlight with a passionate dance that surely made everyone in the room feel in love.

Last year’s winners Ryan and Maria Fletcher also graced the audience with their presence.

Roraima Duke Lodge’s Wedding Expo is an event that provides couples preparing to be wed, as well as those assisting them, with an excellent opportunity to see and interact with local businesses that offer the services necessary for planning and executing a seamless wedding.

UG workers sign deal for 10% pay hike

…strike called off, classes resume

A

fter weeks of fighting for better working conditions, some level of normalcy will be returned to the University of Guyana, as the bodies on Monday signed an agreement on the terms of resumption.

Most students are scheduled to resume classes this week, as the official accord between the University Administration, the UG workers’ Union (UGWU), and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) was signed in the presence of Pro Chancellor Bibi Shaddick and Vice Chancellor Professor Jacob Opadeyi.

Already several classes had restarted on Monday afternoon.

The terms of the resumption agreement, which includes an interim salary offer of ten per cent (10 %) payable from January 1, 2015 for all categories of staff, also promises that there shall be no victimisation or harassment by either side, no break in service, no loss of pay for strike days and no loss of work for the University.

The parties will resume negotiations at the bilateral level within seven days of resumption of duties, and will first address allowances and other conditions of work in the memorandum of demands.

The parties will then address the multi-year salary agreement. And should they fail to resolve their differences

by June 30, 2015, the Ministry of Labour will conciliate in the matter.

In a press Statement moments after the signing, President of the UGSSA Dr Melissa Ifill related that the signing of the documents “represents the end of a very protracted period of industrial unrest which ultimately resulted in a virtual standstill at the University of Guyana”.

“The collapse in negotiations between the UG administration and the UGSSA/UGWU on salary and non-salary benefits following the cancellation of the negotiation meeting scheduled for January 15, 2015 by the University of Guyana Council on January 14, 2015; the attempt to impose a Workload policy without any attempt to get the input of the academic community and the UGSSA; the refusal of the University to negotiate with the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association – the Union long recognized by the UG Administration as the legitimate represen-

tative of the academic staff”, Ifill said in the statement made on behalf of the two unions.

In response to these events, Ifill said the Unions demanded that the UGSSA be recognized by the University Council as the bargaining unit for academic and non-academic staff and that the university must negotiate with a joint UGSSA-UGWU team, the UG negotiating team must be given the remit and negotiations must recommence with both Unions.

Staff members are expecting too that the workload policy document be withdrawn from the Council and face the academic community and negotiations with the UGSSA before approved by the University Council.

These agreements underscore the unions’ standing as important stakeholders at the University of Guyana.

“The five weeks of industrial action were about more than money, benefits and improved working conditions for staff, though these were all extremely important matters that have been pending for over three years. The industrial action was also about: demanding respect for our work and sacrifice (not just manifested in monetary terms); resistance to dictatorial impositions from either the Council or the VC; insisting that tertiary education must be a national priority; and demanding better education for our students”, the statement said.

Staff members, for over five weeks beginning late January, had been clamouring for, among other things, a 60 per cent salary increase, a 200 per cent increase in their travelling allowance, a better medical scheme, increases in allowances for books and other materials, duty-free concessions and yearly research grants.

The UGSSA and UGWU have for years been in a prolonged struggle with the University Administration and the Council.

Dr Ifill had claimed that there was never any true attempt by either side to address the issues affecting the University’s workforce.

Due to the continuous gridlock, Dr Ifill and the UGSSA had begun calling for the realignment of the Council and the Administration.

According to her, only then better management would prevail.

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Fidel Castro’s revolutionary lover dies at the age of 89

N

atalia Revuelta, a Cuban socialite who emptied her bank account and sold her jewellery to support Fidel Castro when he was planning his insurgency, has died at the age of 89 in Havana.

She caught the eye of Fidel Castro when he was a young revolutionary in 1952.

They later had an affair that produced a daughter, Alina, but they never married.

Natalia Revuelta was considered one of the most beautiful women in Cuba.

Blonde and greeneyed, she was a noticeable figure in Havana’s social scene when she met Fidel Castro in 1952.

She was married at the time to a heart surgeon nearly twenty years her senior but observers said she appeared to have had an appetite for revolution and adventure.

Pawned jewels

She allowed Castro to use her home for meetings when he was beginning to plot his insurgency. She handed over all her savings to support his movement and later pawned her sapphires, emeralds and diamond jewellery for his cause.

The couple never married and Fidel Castro ini-

Fidel Castro

tially refused to recognise his daughter. When he did, she was twelve years old and struggled to reconcile with her natural father. In 1993, Alina left Cuba disguised as a Spanish tourist to live in the US. Her mother Natalia was “one of an extraordinary contingent of beautiful and highly intelligent women who dedicated their lives to Castro and his cause”, said one of his biographers, Tad Szulc.

Although Mrs Revuelta had little contact with the Cuban leader once their affair was over, she remained in Cuba holding various Government jobs.

In an interview she once said she was never bitter that Fidel Castro put his revolutionary project first. But she added, “it took years to get him out of my heart.”

(BBC News)

Adumb like lash, but cant tek lashin

M

edia wuk is serious wuk. Any body who wuk in de media know that it ain’t no easy wuk.

Some people in de media does use it as a weapon to lash people fuh no good reason at all, and mek it look like that is part of de wuk.

De problem is every lash got lash back, and some people in de media can’t handle de lash back, nor de back lash. A lotta dem on de other hand simply prefer a lash in de back, and that does make dem happy.

When yuh in de media, yuh does have to lash every body at some time. From politicians to de business people to de ordinary man does have to tek some lashin. But it always got some crooks who don’t expect any lashin because dem got friends in de media.

Some times de very people in de media does lash one another. De Muckraker does want to lash every body and every other media. But when de Stabber lash back de Muckraker boss man de other day, de boss man lose he appetite, then wind build up in he stomach and he start to fart.

And when that boss man fart, Adumb does have to say “excuse me”. So both Adumb and he boss man try to lash de Stabber and Hanand de headitor. But Hanand could tek a real good lashin and he could also lash back.

When de Muckraker lash from Harry Wrong to Harry Right, that is press freedom, but when de Stabber and any other media lash de boss man, that ain’t press freedom. Adumb and he boss man call that spite. Yea, rite.

Now it look like Adumb wanna tek out spite and lash Kwame. But while Kwame could tek a good lashin like Hanand, he ain’t tekkin no lashin from Adumb. In fact, Kwame run behind Adumb to give he a good lash back.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! But clearly at that age, old Adumb ain’t able with Kwame lash back!

Jamaican Sean Paul gets busy K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Sean Paul's 2003 Billboard chart-topper ‘Get Busy’ is showing no signs of slowing down.

The single is one of several featured in the upcoming animation flick ‘Home’, slated for release on March 27.

The international act said he was elated by the news.

"I love that fact. My music is full of energy and it reflects a good time, so I'm glad people can still feel energy from it," said Sean Paul, in response to the Jamaican media’s queries.

Originally released in 2002, ‘Get Busy’ is on the Steven 'Lenky' Marsdenproduced Diwali riddim. The single is on Sean Paul's sophomore, Grammy-winning album Dutty Rock. That set was re-released the following

Jamaican Dancehall artiste Sean Paul

year for the international market.

"That song was written by me and my brother, JigZag, and was number one on the Billboard charts for a couple of weeks. It was a big accomplishment for myself,

everyone involved such as producers, other artistes on the riddim and dancehall music, in general. I am proud to be part of a big staple dancehall riddim like Diwalil," he said.

This is not the first time ‘Get Busy’ will be

listed in the movie credits. The song's remix was featured in Grind (2003), Chasing Liberty (2004), and Baby Mama (2008).

"This only means that you've made cultural history!!! You never can tell which songs will be the big ones. You have to just love music and do work.

Each player brings their own flavour to the game.

There's space for everyone," he added.

Home -- based on the 2007 Adam Rex's children's book The True Meaning of Smekday -- is an American 3-D comedy film starring Barbadosborn international recording star Rihanna and American actor Jim Parsons. The voices Jennifer Lopez and funnyman Steve Martin are also featured in the DreamWorks Animation project.

(Jamaica Observer)

44 news

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

TT cops in search for missing designer P

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Police searched the Maloney district from Sunday night into on Monday for a white Nissan AD wagon belonging to missing businessman Kirby Mohammed but came up empty-handed.

Investigators said they received a call from someone saying the white wagon, registered PDC 5152, was seen driving through the area but could not identify

the driver. Police also were awaiting a print out of Mohammed’s phone records to see who were the people he last contacted on Saturday before he went missing.

Mohammed’s mother, Linda, said the last known contact her son made was a text message to a friend, saying he was returning from Port-of-Spain and would be back by 7 pm. In an interview at her office at Trinzuela College on Monday, Linda said she even went to the bank

Kirby Mohamed

to see if there were any suspicious transactions.

She said after the bank learned of his disappearance, they froze his account. Both mother and son are directors at the college and she said she had not received any ransom calls.

She said there were no known disputes between Mohammed and anyone and he was not known to have any enemies. “We are hoping that he is alright. My concern now is not for the car. They can keep

it but just return him to us. “Nobody has called for money and I have his passport so it could not be that he left the country. “ If any of my boys go out, they would always call and tell me where they are and if they are going to be late.

“On this occasion I got no call and whenever I call his phone, it goes straight to voicemail,” Mohammed said.

Mohammed, 47, of St Joseph Village, San Fernando, is also a Carnival costume

designer with Trini Revellers and an interior decorator. He was last seen around 3.30 pm Saturday when he left home for Port-of-Spain to buy supplies for costumes he was contracted to design for upcoming carnivals in Bahamas, Grenada and Miami.

He was expected to return later that day to attend the annual World Laugh Festival at 8 pm at the Naparima Bowl, San Fernando, but has not been seen since. (TT Guardian)

news 45

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Who get off and who get half

A

man who wife get a baby de other day start to cuss out he in-laws. Accordin to de son-in-law, he in-laws behavin like outlaws and he lookin to de laws to help he see he own pickney.

He further believe that de law should allow fuh that. He also hopin that de in-laws don’t get off from de law like de outlaws in de cowboy days.

No body can blame de son-in-law fuh tinkin like this, because nuff people gettin off from the law these days. It got some who runnin from de law and it got some who hidin from de law, even in de snow.

So de country gettin more lawless.

A man from Moco Moco get off from de law even though he do some ting to a lil gyal and people ketch he. A presidential guard get off de other day too.

Then a Guvament Minister get off and yuh hear nuff people mouth when de Dee-P-P seh no charge.

But when Uncle Rafeel as well get off, dem same people stay quiet. Uncle Rafeel even put duct tape pun Lil Johnny mouth, so not even Lil Johnny coulda open he mouth, except when he deh with Uncle Rafeel.

Then of course it got Police men and women who does beat up people and get off. Some get beat up till dem drop down dead and some get burn all over dem body parts. But de Police still get off every time.

A woman from West Coast was supposed to turn up and ID de Police who beat up she husband and kill he. But she so friken that she also gon get beat up, she ain’t bother to show up. And de Police get off again.

A man who want not one but two Lexus get off not one but two time de other day from de Tax Man, who don’t let any body else get off.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Some body seh while de Lexus man get off, de Tax Man get half!

USA Praant hosts first Chowtaal Sammelan to usher in Holi celebrations

By Vishnu Bisram

T

he first Chowtaal Sammelan (celebration with songs and other cultural presentations) organized by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (USA Praant) was held at the Prem Bhakti Mandir, Jamaica, on Sunday March 1st , 2015. Over a dozen Chowtaal singers from different mandirs from New York City area partook in singing all types of traditional Holi songs, to usher in the Hindu Celebration of Phagwa or Holi.

Participants were decked out in traditional Indian garb associated with the festival. There was also bhajan singing and classical dancing related to Holi done by mandirs and various dance groups.

Dave Thakoordeen, one of the key organizers, formerly of Tain and founder of the Tain Humanitarian Society, described the Sammelan “as a success for attracting over a dozen Chowtaal goals (singing groups) to entertain the large gathering”.

He lauded the participants of all age groups,

for their participation in the festivities. He said, “it was encouraging to see so many youngsters (from Prem Bhakti, Sanatan Mandir, and Shanti Havan Mandir) engaged in chowtaal singing in America”.

Due to the great success of this year’s Sammelan, the Organizing Secretary of the USA Praant, Bhai Benard Sankar, promised that with the help of the present Chowtaal goals “the organization will attempt to form

goals in all Mandirs.

Come next year we will have Chowtaal presentations from all the Mandirs”. There are some fifty mandirs in the greater New York area.

The observance of Phagwa was introduced in the West by indentured Indian laborers after 1838. It is believed that Phagwah was first observed in Guyana and then spread to other colonial territories. The celebration of the Phagwah festival was transplant-

ed in the United States and Canada by immigrants from Guyana, Trinidad and Suriname.

Chowtaal is folk singing that is central to the celebration. In N.Y, on weekends mandirs host chowtaal singing.

Chowtaal is a cultural practice popular in the northern Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh where most indentured laborers were recruited to work on the sugar, cocoa, and coffee plantations of the colonies.

46 news

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Cost of utilities a major challenge for J’can businesses

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: W a y n e Cummings, the senior director for administration and business processes at Sandals Resorts International, has cited the high cost of utilities as a major challenge for businesses operating in Jamaica.

"The cost of doing business has to be the primary focus for any business, first of all, but it needs also to be the same for any regulator and governance structure because your viability is a viability of the economy," Cummings said.

Cummings was speaking on the topic: 'The cost of utilities to businesses', during a panel discussion at the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry Power Brokers' Workshop and Luncheon held last Thursday at the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort in Rose Hall, St James.

According to Cummings, companies such as Sandals, currently pays Ja$1.5 billion annually to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) for electricity, noting, however, that a re-

(L)CUMMINGS… the cost of doing business has to be the primary focus for any business & (R)Kelly Tomblin, president and chief executive officer of the Jamaica Public Service Company addressing the workshop

cent drop in the price of oil had resulted in a reduction in electricity bills.

He stressed, though, that he was concerned that there was apparently no clear measures in place to keep the cost of electricity low.

Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Phillip Paulwell, and President and Chief Executive Officer of the Jamaica Public Service, Kelly Tomblin, who also addressed the function, pointed out that steps were being taken to lower the cost of electricity, and to improve stability.

Paulwell said these include the establishment of the Caribbean's

largest 24- megawatt electricity generating solar system in Clarendon, for which ground is expected to be broken before the end of this month. That project, he said, is expected to cost Ja$7 billion.

Just over two weeks ago, ground was broken for the creation of Wigton III in Rose Hill, Manchester, at a cost of Ja$5 billion. The project, which is scheduled to be completed within another 12 months, is also expected to supply 24 megawatt of electricity.

And more recently, ground was also broken last Wednesday for the creation of another farm in Malvern, St Elizabeth,

set to cost of Ja$10.2 billion. The 36.3-megawatt farm is being developed

by BMR Jamaica Wind Ltd. M e a n w h i l e , Cummings reiterated his call for a review of how sewerage rates are calculated.

Currently, the amount charged by the National Water Commission for sewerage is 100 per cent of the domestic water consumed.

Emphasising that this should not be the case, Cummings argued that "domestic water is also used for cooking and watering lawns, resulting in less water returning to the NWC treatment plant as waste".

Cummings had raised his concern about sewerage charges with Water Minister Robert Pickersgill and officials of the National Water Commisison at a consultation meeting in Negril in January.

Paulwell and head of legal and regulatory affairs for LIME, Rochelle Cameron, sought to dismiss the concern, stressing that the deal will work positively for Jamaica. (Jamaica Observer)

De fightin and de in-fightin

S

ince before de elections announcement, dem Opposition politicians was fightin fuh elections.

From Nagga Man, to Rum Jhaat, to Green Jah to Joe de Hard Mouth was fightin.

De Prezzi finally give dem whah dem want, and up to now dem still fightin. Even dem ABC people who don’t know Guyana ABC was fightin at one time.

Well, elections ain’t reach yet and de fightin get more bad. Prezzi had only just mek de announcement fuh de prorogation and de Nagga Man was already fightin to be Prezzi, although that ain’t nutten new. Is since de Pee-P-P days he been fightin fuh position.

Even after de Nagga Man a** get haul out from de Pee-P-P, he was still fightin to be Prezzi. But wid all that fightin, Green Jah still knock he down, and he had to settle fuh whah he get, not knowin yet whah he gon get.

Rum Jhaat is another one who been fightin since he was in de Pee-P-P. And he does wanna haul every body a** when he fightin. Some lil boy musta haul Rum Jhaat a** real good when he was growin up in Number 47 Village and leff all de way in 69. Till now he spittin out when he talkin.

De Pee-P-P announce Harper, who is a damn good woman, fuh de Prime Minister position and more fightin start. First, de Kissmoon woman run to bet up Edghill and push he over de edge of a cliff in Linden.

But Edghill shoulda know bettter than to trust every body just because he is a pastor, because is de same Kissmoon woman who had create a big fight when Oscar de bite man had try to get de poorkey fuh a buildin, which he know Kissmoon had in she purse.

Then Nagga Man start harpin bout Harper till he get hoarse. Now de Selman woman sell out and resign.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! But before Selmnan done wid dem, she let out a lotta secrets bout de in-fightin that causin de fightin.

news 47

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Return of RAW Corban

S

atiricus sighed with delight. After more than five years off the scene – political, social and otherwise – the announcement that RAW Corban was going to be back on the hustings warmed the cockles of his heart.

The theatre scene in Guyana wasn’t very vibrant, if the truth be told. But every five years – excepting when the Pee-an-See riot in the streets and upset the schedules – elections provided enough theatre to last more than a decade…much less five years.

But ever since Corban had handed off the baton to GrainJa things had really gotten deadly dull. Satiricus had always wondered about that handing over. Of course, there had been calls for Corban to go… that he had lost the fire in his belly.

Some had even dared to suggest that Corban had sold out!! His explanation that he was trying to change his image (and the Pee-an-See’s) didn’t play well. There were mean mutterings about leopards not being able to change their spots and such like.

One well-placed comrade said that Corban had become seduced by his position at the helm of the Pee-an-See and was beginning to think he was a BurntHam or Hite. He forgot he was only given the spot because all his middle-class comrades thought he was the man to manners that uppity PPCEE. Jagdesh had given them the spunks to actually challenge the Pee-an-See in the streets??!! That was Pee-an-See’s territory and street Corban would show them!!

He would deal with them “condignly” – as the Comrade Leader used to say. Corban had earned his stripes when he was just a kid…taking care of business for Robert Jordan during the ethnic cleansing of Wismar. Once a sidekick of Green Ham, he had vaulted that old duffer with his vicious inside moves.

But Satiricus had to confess that Corban hadn’t been the Corban of old after Jagdesh had whupped him in 2006. Seemed to have defanged him. “But hold it!” thought Satiricus. “Maybe that’s why Corban had handed off to GrainJa! He knew after three years, GrainJa was going to look like Rambo!”

And now Corban was back on the campaign trail. Maybe he’d been laying low to grow back some fangs? Or had some inserted. Unfortunately, his old nemesis Jagdesh was also back!!

Satiricus rubbed his hands thinking of JagdeshCorban II. Jagdesh was going to wipe the floor with him again!

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

Cocoa industry returning to path of growth in Jamaica K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Battered by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the island’s cocoa industry is slowly returning to a path of growth.

Secretary Manager at the Cocoa Industry Board (CIB), Leroy Grey says the industry returned to positive growth during the 2013-2014 crop year with a 10 per cent increase.

He notes that production moved from 400 metric tonnes in 2013 to 440 metric tonnes in 2014.

He attributes the growth mainly to the Government’s post-Sandy injection of Ja$13 million to assist farmers with fertilizer and rehabilitation.

“To ensure that the sector maintains a growth path, the CIB also gives sustained technical, advisory and extension services to farmers,” Mr. Grey tells JIS News.

He further states that under a project sponsored by the European Union (EU) two years ago, 250,000 seedlings were guaranteed to assist farmers.

However, that has been exceeded and to date, over 350,000 seedlings have been disbursed for rehabilitation and new planting, he says.

“We average 500 metric tonnes per year, earning some Ja$225 million, unfortunately we are coming from a situation when we used to produce some 2500 metric tonnes 20 years ago,” he says. Mr. Grey also informs that an estimated 6000 registered farmers engage in cocoa farming across the country with 90 percent being small farmers, while adding that he wants this number to expand.

He explains that there are plans to get back into the school gardens through the 4-H Clubs, by providing technical and advisory support, so that the youth can get interested in planting cocoa.

Jamaica produces cocoa beans and the CIB purchases the beans from farmers in the wet form, which is then put through a process called fermentation where it is dried under controlled conditions in preparations for export. The parishes that are heavily involved in cocoa farming are Portland, St. Mary, St. Catherine, with Clarendon being the largest producer. These parishes enjoy conditions

Cocoa pods: Jamaican cocoa is considered to be among the best in the world. Battered by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the island’s cocoa industry is slowly returning to a path of growth.

that are conducive to cocoa farming.

The plant takes five to seven years to come into full bearing, but has a life span of 30 years. It is one of the easiest crops to grow, reap and market.

The country is looking to create the foundation for a modern, viable cocoa industry that will flourish and attract new investors, enhance

rural livelihoods, encourage self-employment and maximize Jamaica’s opportunity to continue receiving a premium price for the product on the world market.

A signatory to the 17-member International Cocoa Organisation (ICCO), Jamaica is one of eight countries recognized as a producer of fine or flavoured cocoa. Jamaican

cocoa is of premium quality, which means that the locally grown crop is used as a spice to give flavour to cocoa that is produced in other parts of the world.

“We produce exclusive fine or flavoured cocoa, which is not returned to Jamaica in cocoa powder form but in premium chocolate,” Mr. Grey informs. Currently, the island exports 98 percent of its cocoa to Europe, Japan and the United State of America.

Reports show that during the 2011-2012 crop years, the sector experienced an increase of 190 per cent growth in production which moved from 215 to 650 metric tonnes. However, 20122013 was negatively impacted by Hurricane Sandy, as a result there was a 49 percent decline in 2013. The sector was also adversely affected by drought.

The Cocoa Industry Board is the sole marketing agent for Jamaican cocoa. Processing normally takes place at the four fermentaries located in the parishes of Hanover, Clarendon, St. Mary and Kingston.

(JIS)

48 Hollywood

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Cara Delevingne dating St. Vincent

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J

ennifer Lawrence has boarded Warner Bros 'What I Do: A Photographer's Life of Love and War' which will be directed by Steven Spielberg. Based on the memoir by Lynsey Addario, the project was be-

ing eyed by a number of Hollywood bigwigs as a starring or production vehicle but Warner finally managed to win the right.

Addario travelled to war-torn countries like Afghanistan, Libya and Iraq and was part of the New York Times team that won a Pulitzer Prize in 2009 for International Reporting for her work in Waziristan, reported Variety.

She was jailed for several days in Libya in 2011.

Spielberg is currently busy with the post-production work on his upcoming Cold War thriller, starring Tom Hanks while Lawrence is shooting for David O Russell's 'Joy'. Other bidders for the project included Working Title Films with Reese Witherspoon starring, Darren Aronofsky with Natalie Portman as the lead and The Weinstein Company with George Clooney and Grant Heslov involved and Margot Robbie starring. (TOI)

odel-actress Cara Delevingne is reportedly dating singer St. Vincent. According to a source, Delevingne was spotted kissing Vincent at the Universal Music after party on February 25, reports aceshowbiz.com. "They made no effort to hide their affections," The Sun newspaper quoted the source as saying.

Delevingne reportedly met Vincent in December last year and has since been following her around the globe on her tour. The 22-year-old attended Vincent's seven concerts including in Tulsa and Tokyo in the last four months. Also, Delevingne recently tattoed Vincent's real name initial "AC" on her ring finger. She revealed the tattoo on Instagram photograph she shared as a hint at Beyonce Knowles collaboration. (TOI)

Zelda Williams: My hummingbird tattoo dedicated to father

Meryl Streep's daughters land fashion campaign

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ctress Meryl Streep's daughters -- Mamie Gummer, Grace Gummer and Louisa Gummer -- front Clare Vivier's new collection for H&M s sister brand, & Other Stories.

The stunning sisters -Mamie, 31, Grace, 28, and Louisa, 23 -- showcase shoes and handbags by the accessories designer, reported People magazine.

Vivier's latest collaboration with the online retailer features everything from nail polishes to tote bags to fanny packs, and the entire collection will be available starting Thursday. "This collection was inspired by the urban busy woman, and like all my pieces

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O

scar-winning actor Robin Williams' daughter, Zelda, has revealed she got a hummingbird inked on her hand last year after

these are utilitarian, but distinctively chic and fun," Vivier said of the inspiration behind the new pieces.

In the pictures, the sisters wear colourful button-down shirts and jeans, showing off different styles of loafers and handbags. Louisa is the only professional model among them, hav-

yan Phillippe has revealed that he went through a lot of emotional struggles of his on-screen characters and has felt like tortured at

ing been signed to IMG Models agency. The other two are actresses, like their famous mother.

Grace has appeared on 'American Horror Story', 'Extant' and HBO's 'The Newsroom'. Mamie, who has a recurring role on 'The Good Wife', played the title role on the shortlived CW series 'Emily Owens, M D'. (TOI)

times.

The 'Cruel Intentions' actor, who plays a tormented man suspected of murder in the new ABC series 'Secrets and Lies', said in an interview with Elle.com that depression has been a huge obstacle for him ever since he was a child, and thought that that would decrease with age but it actually didn't, People Magazine reported.

The 40-year-old actor explained that he is empathetic, and take on the feelings of others and transpose himself into the position of others, and even admitted that if given choice then he would prefer to suffer through the sadness of others, rather than being a complete moron with no feelings.

After asked by multiple fans on social media about the reason behind the sadness, Phillippe replied back that the list includes more than acting, like his goals range from producing more films to launching a startup to 'helping liberate a small country' with 'Isolated', a documentary that he produced about the genocide in West Papua. (TOI)

his death to honour him.

Robin committed suicide last year.

He was 63. Zelda paid homage to her beloved father and his humanitarian side at the Noble Awards in Beverly Hills on Friday, reported Us magazine.

While paying tribute to him, she said the Hollywood star can never be forgotten.

"For me it's easy to continue remembering someone that is impossible to forget. It comes and goes in the sense of actual visceral moments, but as anyone who has lost someone knows, it's not like they were never there, it just means that they're not there anymore.

You can continue enjoying those memories, and inhabiting them as much as you like, as long as they don't stop you from continuing to live, and doing wonderful things." (TOI)

Jessica Biel gets surprise visit from husband on set

A

ctress Jessica Biel got a surprise visit from her husband Justin Timberlake while filming in New Orleans.

Biel may have thought she was filming just another scene with co-stars Jason Sudeikis and Maisie Williams on Thursday afternoon in New Orleans.

But in between takes, the pregnant star was joined by Timberlake on the star-studded set, reports eonline.com.

The couple was all smiles as they reunited in chilly temperatures.

Timberlake opted for a black hoodie to keep warm while Biel tried to conceal her growing baby bump in an oversized jacket. She completed her look with

A

biopic on Bruce Lee is in the making by his family, it has been reported. Shannon Lee, the late 32-year-old actor's daughter, announced that she was developing a definitive biopic on the action icon with Hollywood help, Deadline.com reported.

denim jeans and blue loafers. The reunion is a special treat for the 32-yearold actress who has been working tirelessly on her latest project even though she's due to give birth as early as April.

(TOI)

Shannon said that there have been projects out there involving her father, but they've lacked a complete understanding of his philosophies and artistry. She continued that the only way to get audiences to understand the depth and uniqueness of her father was to generate their own material and find amazing like-minded partners to work with.

The untitled film is being produced by Bruce Lee Entertainment, which opened last year to create content about the martial artist, and it will be the first movie of its kind to be produced with the full support of his family. The last movie to attempt to tell the martial arts expert's life story, 'Dragon', was a well-received effort when it hit theaters in 1993. (TOI)

bollywood 49

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Rani Mukerji awarded for highlighting women's safety

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anisha Koirala has been in a spiritual bent of mind for a while now. Even before her tryst with cancer (she is currently cancer-free), the beautiful actress was drawn to the teachings of a spiritual guru who has an ashram on the outskirts of Chennai.

Of late, the actress has been spending much more time in the ashram.

And the latest piece of news is that she herself has started to conduct classes where she teaches students the art of meditation and chanting. (TOI)

R

Unexpected rains cause huge losses for Sunny Deol

S

unny Deol, who is directing 'Ghayal Once Again', was in for a rude shock when the city woke up to an unexpected downpour on Saturday. The actor, on reaching Kamalistan Studios, saw his unit hands running helter- skelter as rain water started dripping onto the lavish

set.

One hears that they did their level best to salvage the situation, but to no avail. It is estimated that the losses may run into crores. Dan Bradley, the foreign action director and the rest of the foreign crew that consisted of nearly 300 members could do nothing but sit back and watch as water played havoc on their set.

To add to their woes, another set standing at Madh Island also suffered.

A distressed unit hand said, "Our set at Madh Island has also suffered extensive damage due to gusty winds and rain. We were to shoot there from March 8 onwards, but our shooting will need to defer because it will take a while for repairs."

It is also learnt that the actor-filmmaker had hired a hundred vehicles and was planning to shoot in a South Mumbai location yesterday because permission for such expansive shoots are only given for Sundays when the streets are deserted and the traffic situation is under control. However, because of the mishap suffered in the suburbs and the cloudy, overcast skies through the better part of Sunday, even this shooting was cancelled.(TOI)

Tina Desai: Bollywood very hard to crack for me

T

ina Desai has made all the right noises in the west ever since starring in 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' but the actress fails to understand why the success has not made much of an impact to her Bollywood career. The 28-year-old actress has starred in Hindi movies like 'Yeh Faasley', 'Sahi Dhandhe Galat Bande', 'Table No 21', but none of the films have seen the success that the British film has enjoyed.

"Yes, it worries me.

I don't know why but Bollywood seems to be very hard to crack for me. I certainly hope I get big budget Bollywood films as soon as possible. I want to know what that complete Bollywood experience is.

When anyone asks me to compare Hollywood and Bollywood, I find it very hard because I have done bigger projects in the west in terms of films, directors, budget

ani Mukerji was felicitated for the kind of work she has been doing to create awareness about child trafficking in New Delhi by Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury, the chairperson for the National Institute of Gender Justice.

The past awardees include Anna Hazare, Pratibha Patil, Pandit Jasraj and Mahashweta Devi. Rani is the first ever film personality to be felicitated with this prestigious award.

Rani is being honoured not just for her incredible work in cinema but also for the kind of work she has been doing to create awareness about child trafficking. It's been a natural extension of her character in Pradeep Sarkar's sleeper hit Mardaani, where Senior Inspector (crime branch) Shivani Shivaji Roy tracked down child trafficking cells and protected the girl child like no other.

"It's really heartening to see that not only has the film been loved by audiences worldwide, but it has transcended the realm of filmmaking and become something that inspires the people who have been tirelessly working for years for the cause of child trafficking, and are the real heroes. I feel humbled to meet these people and I am glad that I am able to contribute in a small way. This award is special as it recognises my contribution to cinema

in a different manner," said Rani.

Known for her fearless rehabilitative actions towards the homeless and abandoned citizens, especially women and children, women's rights activist Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury, Chairperson National Institute for Gender Justice said, "The powerful and fearless performance of Rani Mukerji in Mardaani idealises the role of police in prevention of crime against women, especially trafficking of girl child for commercial sexual exploitation. I feel she symbolizes the pride of uniform and inspires change. That's the reason we decided to felicitate her for excellence in artistic performance." (TOI)

Bhumi Pednekar: Weight has never been an issue for me

F

or Bhumi Pednekar, putting on oodles of weight for her debut film 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha' was not a problem as the actress says being a plump girl almost all her life she has always been comfortable in her skin. The 25-year-old actress, who has earned wide-spread praise for her character Sandhya in the film, said being a hard-core foodie she loved preparing for the part that only required gorging on delicacies.

'Dum Laga Ke Haisha', directed by Sharat Katariya, has received rave reviews for its honest story and endearing performances by both Bhumi and Ayushmann Khurrana.

Bhumi, a former cast-

ing member at Yash Raj Films for six years, has trimmed down post the shooting of the film, which began in February last year. The actress, who has a three-film contract with YRF, said she does not mind altering her body size for movie roles.

"My aim was never to become skinny. I started eating home-made foods

and began losing weight.

Definitely, if a certain part requires me to be extremely fit I will do it.

It is not a thing for me.

If I have to gain weight again I will do that as well," she said. Bhumi welcomed the acceptance of plus-size actresses in Bollywood and said that their success in the film industry motivates newcomers like her. (TOI)

Dharmendra wanted to play Sanjeev Kumar's role in ‘Sholay’ and I have done smaller budget productions in India... I have not had the experience of working in popular films in Bollywood. I absolutely look forward to such opportunities," Tina told .

The actress said 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' has given a major boost to her career in the west.

She has not only bagged the sequel of the film 'The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' but also a role in upcoming American science fiction drama series 'Sense8', which has been created, co-written and co-directed by 'The Matrix' trilogy creators Andy and Lana Wachowski. (TOI)

A

ccording to a report on ndtv.com, Dharmendra was keen to play the character of Thakur Baldev Singh and he was told that Sanjeev Kumar would then play Veeru and get the girl (to be played by Hema Malini).

Finally it was Dharmendra who got to romance Hema in the film. The report further stated that Hema Malini had no scenes with Thakur Baldev

Singh played by Sanjeev Kumar as she had just turned down his mar-

riage proposal and didn't want to be anywhere near him. (TOI)

50 sport

WEEK ENDING March 8, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

WI vs India Golden Jaguars, St Lucia to Ambrose warns WI seam attack square off March 22 in Guyana against bowling ‘too short’

W

W

Flashback! The Golden Jaguars players take a break from training ahead of the Barbados game

ith the aim of affording the Golden Jaguars every opportunity to play competitively ahead of the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers, set to start in June,the Normalisation Committee of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has finalised an international friendly game against St Lucia on March 22.

The match will be played at the Guyana National Stadium, marking the return of international football to the venue after a brief hiatus.

“In keeping with its mandate of playing more football at every level, the Guyana Football Federation’s N o r m a l i s a t i o n Committee is pleased to formally announce

that we have successfully negotiated with the St Lucia Football Association to play an international friendly match. The game has been confirmed for Sunday March 22, 2015 at the Guyana National Stadium Providence, kicking off at 19:30h,” the Normalisation Committee said via a release.

The game will be the Golden Jaguars’ second international friendly of the year, following their 2-2 draw with hosts Barbados on February 1.

The release continued, “In a similar vein, this St Lucia engagement will serve to also give the Head Coach and Technical Team another chance to further assess where our competitive game is as we contin-

ue to prepare for the CONCACAF preliminary qualifying round in June for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. More players would be given the opportunity to impress the technical staff as we aim to put together the best possible team to represent Guyana.”

The Head Coach and Technical Team for the upcoming game will be assembled this week and the Normalisation Committee will host a press conference on Wednesday to announce the appointments.

The Normalisation Committee is also currently exploring the possibility of hosting another international friendly against a yet to be named country, almost immediately following the St Lucia game.

est Indies fast bowling icon Sir Curtly Ambrose has urged discipline from his pace attack when they face reigning World champions India on what is expected to be a lively pitch tomorrow.

Sir Curtly, the Windies bowling coach, said it was important the Caribbean side’s seamers found the right lengths and resisted the temptation to bowl overly short at the Indian batsmen on the encouraging WACA strip.

“The pitches here in Perth are usually bouncy and supportive of fast bowling. However, the mistake I think most bowlers make is that they pitch the ball a bit too short because of the extra bounce,” Sir Curtly told media here yesterday.

“Here at Perth, you have to find that good length, that is the key to being successful here in Perth. Bowling short and all that stuff could be waste.

I’m not saying you shouldn’t bowl a short ball or two, but more often than not, you have to pitch the ball into that good area which will force the batsman to play a lot more.

“Good batsmen usually leave the ball on length because more often than not, the ball will go over the stumps anyway. So you have to get that length correct … and that’s how you will get that success here. [You shouldn’t get] carried away with the extra bounce.”

Sir Curtly was renowned for his impeccable lengths during an illustrious career which yielded 225 wickets from

176 One-Day Internationals and 405 Tests scalps from 98 Tests.

He was particularly successful at the WACA, with 24 wickets in three Tests there.

With West Indies boasting a relatively inexperienced attack, Sir Curtly also warned of the Fremantle Doctor – a stiff breeze blowing across the WACA which often made life difficult for bowlers.

“It’s always difficult to bowl into a strong breeze. I [didn’t] do it a lot during my career … but it’s a challenge bowling into a strong headwind,” Sir Curtly pointed out.

“It can put off your rhythm quite a bit but as a professional you have to find ways and means of getting through that strong headwind and getting on with the job.”

West Indies will enter tomorrow’s contest following a 257-run thrashing at the hands of South Africa last week in Sydney.

They have won two and lost two of their four encounters to date and know victory against India would see them take a giant step towards the next round.

Though India are unbeaten in three outings, Sir Curtly believes Windies can hand them their first defeat.

“The game coming up against India on Friday is a big one,” he smiled.

“India are the reigning World Cup champions. They are a great team. They haven’t lost a game yet but we will take care of them on Friday.” (CMC)

Jamaican U-17 Boyz on salvage job against Guatemala

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AN PEDRO S U L A , HONDURAS — Jamaica’s Under17s will be hunting their first points of the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship when they tackle Guatemala in the Estadio Francisco Morazan at 3:30 pm Jamaica time.

In the other Group A encounters, the United States of America (USA) play Trinidad and Tobago (TT) before host Honduras take on Cuba to complete the triple header.

The USA, Honduras and Guatemala are all on three points, but the Americans are on top with a better goal difference. Caribbean teams Jamaica, TT and Cuba are all pointless.

Jamaica, who lost 0-2 to Honduras in their opening game on Friday, need a positive result against Guatemala to rekindle their campaign and head coach Andrew Edwards is confident his charges can deliver.

“We have been studying the Guatemalan team from the first game. I did some scouting of them in November and I believe that what I have seen, we are a better team,” Edwards told the Jamaican media.

“But obviously we have to go out there and put the performance to

Head Coach Andrew Edwards (stooping) explains his game plan to his charges during Sunday's training session at the Complejo Deportivo Muebles Herrera facility in San Pedro Sula, Honduras

match that belief. But they showed some signs of weakness against Trinidad on Friday and we are looking forward to the opportunity to exploit those weaknesses and get our first three points in the win column,” Edwards added.

The young Reggae Boyz had their final training session on Sunday morning at the Complejo Deportivo Muebles Herrera facility and a few players sat out training nursing minor injuries. Centre halves, Ajeanie Talbott and Jahwahni Hammond picked up knocks in the first game, while midfielder Deshane Beckford picked up his in a freak accident in the hotel’s elevator.

“We have a few concerns with Hinds, Beckford and Talbott, but I don’t think any of

those will be out of the game based on the doctor’s report. We took them out of the session for precautionary reasons,” Edwards explained.

“It was a very good session, I thought. We were focusing on our pressure game and our activity in front of the goal. I thought both of those areas of the park we did quite well and they really understand what we want them to do in terms of defensive shape,” he added.

“We trained at 10 o’clock, very deliberate, because we wanted to give ourselves an extended time for recovery and training at that time we would escape the sun at its peak and rehydrate ourselves in the recovery process,” Edwards noted.

(Jamaica Observer)

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Bounty Farm Handicap squash tournament…

Guyanese Khalil retains title with dazzling display

By Treiston Joseph

G

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Defending champion Jason Ray Khalil dazzled those in attendance at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts on Sunday to retain his title in theDigicel-sponsored Bounty Farm Ltd Handicap Squash Tournament.

Khalil with a handicap of -24 defeated Nyron Joseph with a handicap of -16 in three thrilling sets.

Although both players were athletic and gifted at their craft, Khalil showed how domi-

nant he can be in his first set by quickly overcoming his handicap to level the scores at 5 all.

The rallies were long between the two as they showcased their speed, athleticism and at times power before Khalil went on to win the first set 1513.

The second set was a different story, as Joseph brought his arsenal of shots to the fore and pulled away from Khalil who showed signs of frustration, losing the set 15-4.

However, Khalil quickly refocused and started hot in the third set to easily overcome

his handicap, but he fell behind 8-0 to Joseph who was beginning to look fatigued.

Khalil on the other hand kept his composure and battled back with variety of shots to level the score at nine all before going on to win the game 15-11.

Meanwhile, in the Category A final, Lucas Jonas (-3) came up against his brother Ethan Jonas (-1).

In the first game, Lucas won the first eight points before his brother secured his first point, but Ethan got no further than seven as Lucas won the first game 15-7.

Fireworks on and off the track at 39th Gibson/McCook Relays in Jamaica

All of the winners pose with their trophies

The second game was no different to the first as again Lucas won the first eight points before Ethan secured his first point and the set ended 15-9 win.

In the Category A third place playoff, Michael Alphonso (-1) defeated Demetrius De Abreu (-1). De Abreu won a close first game 15-13, but lost the next two to Alphonso 15-10 and 15-6.

Full Final Results:

Open Category: Jason

Ray Khalil (-24) defeated Nyron Joseph (-16) 15-13, 4-15, 15-11; third place: Nicholas Narain won by walkover from Raphael De Groot.

Open Category Plate: Final: Alexander Cheeks (+7) beat Joe Mekdeci (0) 15-11, 15-12; third place: Tiffany Soloman got a walkover from Stephen Fernandes.

Category A Final: Lucas Jonas (-3) beat Ethan Jonas (-1) 15-7, 15-9; third place: Michael

Alphonso (-1) beat Demetrius De Abreu (-1) 13-15, 15-10, 15-6.

Category A Plate Final: Jason Gomes (+4) beat Kamir Khan (+7) 15-11, 15-13; Third place: Paige Fernandes (+10) defeated Chad De Abreu (+11) 15-9, 15-7.

The presentation of prizes was done by Stephen Fernandes and Dr Peter De Groot, representatives of the sponsors Bounty Farm Ltd. (Guyana Times)

Windies take time out to party with Caribbean fans UTech’s Tyquendo Tracey (2nd right) wins the 100-metre open in 10.34 seconds to cap a fine day at the Gibson/McCook Relays at the National Stadium on Saturday.

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: While most of the excitement was concentrated on the track, Nicholas Gordon sparked fireworks of his own at the 39th Gibson/ McCook Relays, leaping a distance of 7.95 metres to win the men’s long jump open on Saturday.

Gordon, who jumped unattached, retained his title after topping the event last year with a leap of 7.72 metres while representing Eagles Track Club.

What was significant about Gordon's performance was that it surpassed Jermaine Jackson's sixyear-old record of 7.86 metres set in 2009.

However, Gordon was assisted by a positive wind speed of 4.6 metres per second, which made the jump illegal thereby allowing Jackson's record to remain intact. Kamal Fuller of Eagles Track Club was second with a leap of 7.55 metres, while Jamaica College's Obrian Waysome was third with 7.53 metres.

Another Jamaica College standout, Clayton Brown continued his rich vein of form when he outjumped opponents to top the men’s

high jump open with a height of 2.10 metres. Romario Douglas of St Jago and Akeem Robertson of UWI Mona claimed the runners-up spots at a height of 2.05 metres.

I m m a c u l a t e Conception's Safia Morgan has placed herself in contention for the top spot in the high jump at Boys’ and Girls' Championship after she expertly got the better of the highly-talked-about Hanifah Abdulqadir of St Jago High. Both athletes cleared the bar at 1.75 metres, while Meisha Gay Dacosta of UWI Mona was third at 1.70 metres.

The impressive Lamara Distin of Rusea's High finished a disappointing fourth at the 1.70-metre mark.

Shaquille Shaw of Kingston College cleared 4.00 metres on his third and final attempt to top the men’s pole vault open ahead of Hugh Lewis (3.80m) and Arnold Franz (3.70m), also of Kingston College.

M e a n w h i l e , Tyquendo Tracey returned to win the men’s 100-metre dash open in 10.34 seconds, after running a superb anchor leg earlier to hold

off the world's fastest man Usain Bolt, leading UTech to victory over Racers Lions in the men’s clubs and institutions 4X100-metre relay.

Tracey won ahead of Kwisi McFarlane (10.40s), also of UTech, and Oshane Bailey (10.43s) of AKAN Track Club. Christine Williams of UTech easily took the women’s event in 11.30 seconds with Jenelle Kelly (11.54s), also of UTech, and Shaneil English (11.63s) of St Jago finishing second and third, respectively.

Young Tiffany James of Papine High did just enough to get by MVP's Janique Day after the two were locked in a heated battle for the final 50 metres of the women’s 400-metre open. James won in a time of 53.86 seconds, while Day clocked 53.92 seconds with Sashel Frater (58.91s) of St Jago high back in third.

The men’s onemile open run was won by Darryl Oliver of UTech in 4:22.21 minutes, followed by teammate Chadoye Dawson (4:23.83) and Holmwood Technical's Kajay Walker (4:26.85).

(Jamaica Observer)

P

West Indies batting star Chris Gayle poses with excited fans

E R T H , AUSTRALIA: West Indies were on Sunday feted at a Caribbean Day organised by the Western Australia government, as the team took time out from their preparations to mingle with the large West Indian community here.

The side arrived in the coastal city on Saturday to begin preparations for their fifth game of the ICC Cricket World Cup against reigning world champions India on Friday.

Caribbean music mainly calypso and reggae - and the smell of West Indian food filled the air at the Perth Cultural Centre as fans got the chance to meet with the West Indies stars.

As expected, among the biggest drawing

cards were talismanic opener Chris Gayle and former Test and OneDay International captain Darren Sammy, who took photos with and signed autographs for numerous excited fans.

Team manager Sir Richie Richardson and bowling coach Sir Curtly Ambrose, both former stars, were also mobbed by eager fans.

However, it was Gayle who stole the show. He joined the live band on stage to showcase his singing and dancing skills, and was joined by fellow Jamaican Andre Russell, who also entertained the crowd.

West Indies turned their attention to their preparation on Monday with a full training session at Murdoch University.

They have had a

mixed run in the World Cup to date, losing two and winning two of their four games, with form that has lurched between spectacular and substandard.

They opened their Group B campaign with a shock four-wicket defeat to minnows Ireland before rebounding to hammer Pakistan by 150 runs in Christchurch.

The Windies then scaled new heights when they piled up 372 for two to beat Zimbabwe by 73 runs in Canberra, but then plummeted to the joint worst-ever defeat in World Cup history with a 257-run loss to South Africa in Sydney just days later.

A victory at the WACA ground on Friday would see them take a huge step towards qualifying for the second round. (CMC)

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Shabazz, Dover appointed to top posts T

rinidad and Tobago national Jamaal Shabazz and Guyanese Wayne “Wiggy” Dover have been appointed by the Normalisation Committee of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) to two substantive posts for the next two years.

At a press briefing on Wednesday at the GFF office in Campbellville, Chairman of the N o r m a l i s a t i o n Committee, Clinton Urling, announced that Shabazz has been appointed Head Coach, while Dover is his Assistant. Both officials will preside over the senior national Men’s team and the national Under-23s.

They have both been given contracts for two years, according to

Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz makes a point in the presence of Technical Director Claude Bolton (centre) and Assistant Coach Wayne Dover

Urling.

Shabazz and Dover were in charge of the Golden JaguarsGuyana’s senior national Men’s team- first game for 2015 against Barbados, which ended 2-2 in February, and according to Urling, the pair was given a longterm contract based on their performance.

Shabazz, who has been appointed for a third time, after previously serving as Technical Director in two separate stints, said it is an “exciting time to pick up a new challenge.” The national footballers have a busy year with several regional and international engagements, key among them is the 2018

World Cup Qualifiers, starting in June.

Shabazz said while he is proud of the achievements of the Golden Jaguars in the past, the time has come to move on and aim for higher heights. Shabazz, in the company of Dover, was at the helm of the technical team when Guyana reach the third

round of the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers for the first time.

“Let’s stop basking in the past and create new achievements” was Shabazz’s message to football’s stakeholders, as he called for a united approach to move the game forward.

Dover, who is the Head Coach of Alpha United, the country’s leading football club, thanked the Normalisation Committee for another opportunity to serve his country. He promised to work in the best interest of the development of the game.

Meanwhile, with the Normalisation Committee’s tenure is set to end in September.

Urling noted that should the new governing executives of the GFF wish

to replace the two officials, they must follow the Terms of Contract, and their decision must be based on performance and merit.

He noted that should the Normalisation Committee not be satisfied with the performance with the duo or either of the two, it will terminate their services based on what is contained in the Terms of Contract.

Urling also noted that while the GFF is “broke”, it has “just enough” in the coffers to honour what is stipulated in the contracts of the two officials.

He later revealed that the GFF has received a US$300,000 bonus from FIFA, the world governing body, from which two officials will be paid.

WICB PCL 4-Day cricket…

Fudadin back in Guyana Jaguars squad for Jamaica clash

W

est Indies middle-order batsman Assad Fudadin is now fit and ready to join the Guyana Jaguars squad for the eighth round of the West Indies Cricket Board’s (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-day match against Jamaica, starting on Friday.

The match will be played at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, and will be the first for Fudadin for 2015 after picking up an injury to his hand on the

Assad Fudadin going through fielding drills earlier this week

West Indies tour of South Africa late last year.

Fudadin replaces fellow left-hander and Berbician, Shemron Hetmyer in the Guyana Jaguars’ 13-man squad.

At the completion of seven rounds in the competition, Guyana Jaguars lead the points standing with 107, followed by Barbados Pride (82), Windward Islands Volcanoes (80), Jamaica (60), Trinidad and Tobago Red Force (47) and Leeward Islands Hurricanes (17).

The Guyana Jaguars team reads: Rajendra Chandrika, Assad Fudadin, Leon Johnson, Narsingh Deonarine, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Vishaul Singh, Raymon Reifer, Christopher Barnwell, Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Keon Joseph and Ronsford Beaton.

The Coach is Esaun Crandon, while the Assistant Coach/ Manager is Rayon Griffith

‘Players who quit India tour should have been fired’ – St Lucia PM

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t Lucia’s Prime Minister Kenny Anthony says that all the players who quit the tour of India in October last year should have been fired.

“For my part, I would have started with a new fresh team,” said Anthony, who was speaking at the Caricom Leaders Lecture series hosted on the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies last Tuesday evening.

Emphasising that he didn’t think politicians should interfere in the administration of West Indies cricket, Anthony said that Caricom leaders nonetheless needed to review the West Indies Cricket Board of Control and set up a better system. “The WICBC are not answerable to the people of the region,” he said, adding that, once the board’s structure was changed, the

politicians should leave it alone.

The St Lucian prime minister was speaking on the topic “Delivered or Denied: The Dividends of Integration”, arguing that the problems in WI cricket were part of a larger breakdown plaguing the Caribbean.

“Caricom is in crisis,” he told the audience who filled most of the auditorium at Daaga Hall. “It is a crisis of our institutions, our societies, our economic models, and our governance.” Referring to the global economic contraction, Anthony said, “What is happening in the Caribbean now, especially the Eastern Caribbean, is traumatic.

It has never happened before – never!”

Trinidad and Tobago, he noted, had failed to assist its less well-endowed neighbours, despite promises to do so.

“There is tremendous continued on page 53

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Guyanese Bisham Singh to manage Ontario cricket team in Dubai

OCA executives and members of the advisory board strike a pose with President Gulwant Bajwa (fifth from left) while the Guyanese trio of treasurer/junior coordinator Vish Jadunauth, vice-president Bisham Singh and secretary Azad Khan are at right.

By Ravendra Madholall

T

O R O N T O , G U Y A N A : Guyanese Bisham Singh will be managing an Ontario Cricket Association (OCA) 14-member squad for the forthcoming limited-over tournament scheduled to be held in Dubai, compliments of International Cricket Council (ICC).

At a press conference recently in Scarborough, Singh, the vice-president, stated that he wants his team to perform well and the players selected are highly optimistic of their performance.

Apart from the qualified umpire Singh, Azad Khan, another Canadianbased Guyanese is the secretary while Vish Jadunauth, a former veteran Guyana’s softball player currently serves as both Treasurer and junior coordinator.

Singh also took the opportunity to relate that the team toured Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago

early last year and was deemed very successful and confident and hopes the outing would also benefit the players significantly.

“I think the exposure would be great again; the ICC has done a very excellent job in ensuring these North American players get international trips to enhance their promising cricketing career,” Singh mentioned.

Speaking also at the function Jadunauth expressed delight to see the growth of cricket in Ontario and by extension Canada.

“I just want to congratulate the ICC for having this trip where our boys would play three 50-over matches and they will also involve in training camps to help by developing their skills,” Jadunauth commented.

President of OCA, Gulwant Bajwa declared that the experience should be exciting for the under-25 players who can capitalise on the

opportunity to make an impression.

“This could be an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a lot of budding players to train and play at the ICC Oval in Dubai; The 7-day camp will focus mainly on improving batting and bowling skills, fielding, physical fitness which includes bio-mechanics, mental preparedness, technical analysis and strategy, Bajwa revealed.

The OCA, which was formed in 1949 and incorporated in 1977, is responsible for managing administering, growth and development of cricket in the province of Ontario with special emphasis on the development of youth cricket from the grassroots level.

It also aims to foster relationship among its member leagues and invites other non-member leagues to partner and become members.

The OCA noted with much regret that Canada had lost its

‘Players who quit India tour... vacillation in what T&T will invest in – natural gas, petroleum, a pipeline,” he revealed. “The other islands have given up on getting an answer, and are busy investing in alternative energy.”

While supporting the concept and ideals of Caricom, Anthony said that the body had not paid many dividends.

“Caricom is out of touch with the realities of the region,” he said. “It has lost a golden opportunity in this time of economic transformation by ignoring the needs of member states.” He was very critical of the manner in which issues were handled by the Caricom Secretariat.

“Procrastination is often disguised as documentation,” he said, adding, “We have confused conversation with implementation.”

The prime minister also noted that “many governments are not paying their dues” to the regional body, but revealed that automatic payments had been accepted in principle at last month’s Heads of Government meeting in

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ed that all three candidates should be withdrawn and a board of eminent persons be set up to choose one candidate from the region.

(Trinidad Express)

St Lucia’s Prime Minister Kenny Anthony

the Bahamas. “There has been a breakdown in the arrangements of functional cooperation,’ Anthony said, as he touched on issues such as the buyout of Columbus Communications by Cable & Wireless, saying that there should have been a regional authority to deal with that matter.

In respect to the inability of regional heads to agree on one candidate for the post of Commonwealth Secretary General, Anthony recommend-

Associate Member status in the ICC to Affiliate Member, resulting in the country losing One-day International status.

It also disclosed that Canada had been relegated to Division Three.

In this regard, the OCA has set up what it termed a dynamic advisory board which is being chaired by Khalid

Usman.

“It is now imperative that we practice articulate and sound governance to help grow this sport from grassroots and once again make us worthy competitors on the international stage; it has become important for us to have people with clear vision, great management skills

and a thorough knowledge of the game to help us get back to our World Cup status and beyond.”

Usman stated.

Meanwhile, Canada participated in several ICC World Cup tournaments but missed out on the current one that is taking place in Australia and New Zealand after failing to qualify.

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