Guyana Times International

INTERNATIONAL

‘Come clean’ THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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ISSUE NO. 339

WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017

…Opposition calls for “full disclosure” on controversial G$605M drug purchase …several questions submitted for Health Minister to answer in Parliament

See story on page 3

The Mayors and their deputies of the various Towns were on Thursday sworn in by President David Granger at an official ceremony at State House in Georgetown

Former Secretary Guyanese in NY General to UNESCO, remember Cheddi Carmen Jarvis dies and Janet Jagan Page 9

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WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘Come clean’

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he Opposition Peoples Progressive Party Civic is calling for “full disclosure” in relation to the over G$605 million emergency drug purchase for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and has moved to have the subject minister provide answers to a raft on questions on the matter, in the National Assembly.

This publication understands that the questions were submitted to the Parliament, seeking written answers from Minister Volda Lawrence on general procurement procedures by her ministry and the G$605 million drug purchase.

“Let me tell you what we are hoping to get, what we seeking to achieve; full disclosure,” PPP/C parliamentarian Juan Edghill told a press conference held at the office of the Leader of the Opposition, on Wednesday.

Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira

Both Edghill and Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira told this newspaper that they had submitted questions to the National Assembly.

According to the MPs, Minister Lawrence has not provided the nation with clear answers on the controversial matter. “The nation is being told there was a shortage… But you all could recall the Minister of Health saying during a motion that there was no shortage,” Edghill stressed.

He explained that a few questions were sub-

mitted to the National Assembly, and they were “by no means all the questions” the party has on the matter.

The PPP had made an aggressive call for the governing Board of the GPHC, to provide information, by way of minutes of its meeting, to show who gave the go ahead for the G$605 million contract to ANSA McAL “This cannot be right, everybody has cried out against it,” Edghill had told the news conference.

According to the MP, if there is a crisis at the hospital; it is not for the minister to intervene but the Board.

Edghill had said the situation is a case where a political decision was made, after which, it would seem that the officer of the tender board was expected to comply administratively to facilitate “an improper transaction”.

Moreover, he posited

NEWS 3 …Opposition calls for “full disclosure” on controversial G$605M drug purchase …several questions submitted for Health Minister to answer in Parliament

that Lawrence’s justification of the whole sole sourcing scandal was very poor, especially since the advertisements for drug procurement for the medial facility were cancelled on four prior occasions.

The Parliamentarian had further stated that Lawrence was no stranger to the procurement laws in Guyana and since she chaired the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament, she should be well informed of the concerns of the Auditor General with regards to sole sourcing.

Since the scandal broke local manufacturers have come forth and shown that the public treasury could have saved as much as half the amount being spent with ANSA McAl had the health ministry utilized the other available agencies to provide the very items at much cheaper prices than what was quoted by ANSA

PPP/C MP Juan Edghill

McAL. Local manufacturer, NEW GPC INC, in a statement had said that it could have supplied many of the items instantaneously, since there is usually inventory on hand. In a worst-case scenario, the company said, the delay would have been less than a few days to get the products manufactured right in Guyana.

Lawrence in her initial speech on the scandal recused herself and laid blame squarely at the feet

of the suppliers, the procurement body and staff of her Ministry and GPHC among others she deemed as “moles.”

She had outlined in her initial statement that her impetus for giving the contract to the Trinidadian company ANSA McAL, was because procurement for the “engineered shortage” of pharmaceuticals needed to be expedited and “ANSA McAL not only airfreighted the drugs (this helped spike the cost to import the items) for the public health sector, but also donated four refrigerators to GPHC to store the emergency supplies at the internationally acceptable temperature of 20 to 80 C.” Head of State David Granger had stated that disciplinary actions will be taken against anyone found to be at fault as it relates to the recent sole scouring of pharmaceuticals for the GPHC.

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INTERNATIONAL To contact: Guyana Times International

New York Office 106-15 Sutphin Blvd, Jamaica NY 11435 Email: guyanatimesnyint@gmail.com Tel no: 718-658-6804 Fax no: 718-849-2286 Preferred method of contact via EMAIL Guyana Office Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana.

Tel no: (592) 227-0704, 227-0709.

Fax (592) 225-8696, 227-0685 Email: guyanatimesint@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Policies that hurt

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he most recent report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after a visit here by a high-level team from that institution has once again vindicated the position of various stakeholders that the economy is in tatters and the coalition Government must act with haste if it were to lessen the impact its policy decisions, taken over the past months, would have on the masses.

The IMF, in its 2017 Concluding Statement detailing its findings on Guyana’s economic outlook, as part of its annual consultations under Article IV of the Articles of Agreement governing borrowing, noted that Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth was uneven, buoyed by the new gold mines, while the non-mining sector saw a contraction.

The economic indicators are not very promising, and experts are predicting that the situation will even get worse if the necessary corrective actions are not taken immediately. So far, we have seen very little effort by the Government to stimulate growth in the economy. Instead, it has chosen to increase the burden on major sectors with a slew of tax measures and other policies that constrict their potential for growth.

The IMF statement referred to above has confirmed that the Government slavishly followed the recommendations of the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) on extending the Value Added Tax (VAT) regime to crucial sectors, without regard to the social impact on citizens. In fact, we are witnessing almost daily the implementation of certain policies that hurt businesses and increase hardship on the average citizen.

Additionally, in the last year, there have been no major announcements regarding Foreign Direct Investments in Guyana, or any major job creation initiatives. The IMF has projected real economic growth of 3.5 per cent driven by an increase in public investment and a recovery in rice production. However, as stated before, most of the major sectors are declining, including rice, which recently saw one of the major players closing its doors after being in operation for 25 years.

Additionally, the increased borrowing by the Government has been a major point of concern, particularly over the last few months.

The IMF has said that the debt-to-GDP ratio is projected to reach 61 per cent of GDP by 2019 and has recommended fiscal adjustments.

However, Government continues to “bank on oil money”, as local authorities have informed the IMF that once oil production starts, the debt-to-GDP ratio will decrease.

The IMF has also noted the recent “increase in exchange rate flexibility”; however, Government has failed to acknowledge that there is a problem and advance measures to address the issue.

Most importantly, on the issue of the impending closure of more sugar estates, the IMF has reiterated previous calls from various stakeholders for careful decisions to be made about the future of the industry. Considering the fact that no economic and social impact assessments were carried out, the Government is being accused of basing its decisions regarding the future of the industry purely on politics. In this regard, the IMF has warned the Government to be “mindful of the large social impact” and the need “to protect those affected” by the process of change in the industry.

Everyone knows that no matter how the authorities try to spin the issue, the resulting impact on individuals and communities would be quite significant and, perhaps, it would take decades before they fully recover.

We had said before that the Government and GuySuCo’s management should have engaged in serious consultations with all stakeholders and do the necessary impact assessments before making such decisions. After all, this is people’s livelihoods that will be affected and they deserve to be fully engaged on what matters to them.

It could be recalled that in 2016, the IMF staff had urged the authorities to adopt a restructuring plan for the sector that will improve cost efficiency, productivity, and alternative revenue streams, drawing upon the reforms proposed by the Commission of Inquiry. At the time, the delegation had said that the scope and pace of reform should take into account social implications. This aspect was certainly ignored by the powers that be. We urge the Government to stop being in denial regarding the current crisis facing the country and rethink its policies in the interest of everyone.

Sunset at Kitty Sea Wall: The Kitty Sea wall is a 280-mile sea-wall that runs along much of Guyana's coastline, and all of the coastline in the capital city of Georgetown. It protects settlements in the coastal areas of Guyana, most of which are below sea level at high tide.

Guyanese in NY remember Cheddi and Janet Jagan Granddaughter of Cheddi and Janet Jagan, Vrinda Jagan, speaking at the event to honour the former presidents

By Vishnu Bisram

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he Guyanese American diaspora (from greater New York area) held a seminar and cultural variety programme last Sunday afternoon in tribute to the late former Presidents Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan in Richmond Hill, Queens to celebrate his (Cheddi) 99th birth anniversary and to memorialize and commemorate the 20th anniversary since his death and 9th anniversary since her (Janet) death.

Glowing tributes were paid to both former Presidents in their role as freedom fighters; first against the colonial rulers and subsequently against the PNC dictatorship.

Some dozen speakers paid tribute to Dr. and Mrs. Jagan. The keynote address was delivered by former Minister of Government and Ambassador to Brazil and Canada, Mr. Harry Nawbatt.

Both Cheddi and Janet were among the founders (Ashton Chase and Jocelyn Hubbard were the others) of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) which was later transformed into the PPP (1950). Jagan served as leader of PAC founded in 1946 and PPP from 1950 till his death in March 1997.

The NY event was hosted by the Guyana Solidarity Movement (led by Rhuben Khusial) comprising of dozens of non-government organizations including splinter groups of the Association of Concerned Guyanese (PPP support group).

Some of the splinter groups supported the AFC-APNU coalition in the 2015 election because of what they claim was disrespect from the PPP leadership. The members of all of these groups expressed disappointment with the direction of the coalition government. They have called for a reformed PPP to which they commit their support in order to remove the APNU-AFC from office.

Sunday’s program featured brief speeches from several prominent community activists and PPP stalwarts including from former PPP Exco members Cyril Belgrave, Prof. Chuck Mohan,

ACG founding member Mel Carpen (who broke with the PPP in the 2015 election), Dr. Tara Singh, Richard Hyuen (a Chinese Jamaican) who described Dr. Jagan as his hero; Hyuen also saluted Janet who he met several times in New York. Everyone gave anecdotes and snippets of their relations with the Jagans. The program also included scintillating dances, poems, and singing. Everyone performed for free in tribute to their heroes.

Speakers noted how Dr. Jagan was raised on a sugar estate and how he was successful in school going to the US to further his studies.

They described how Cheddi and Janet dedicated their lives, income, work and teachings towards national ending colonial rule and the PNC dictatorial rule. Mention was made of how the British and American Anglo axis toppled the PPP and Jagan from office in 1953 and 1964 and installing the pro-imperialist PNC in office.

Speaker after speaker spoke on the incorruptible honesty of the Jagans. They noted how they fought for the rights of the working class and the dispossessed. Some speakers lamented that the PPP has deviated from Jaganism and that the leadership had become too arrogant. The speakers urged the party leadership and the Guyanese public at large to emulate Jagan’s legacy and commitment to uplifting the lives of the poor and working class.

Speakers also urged the PPP leadership to reform the party and make it inclusive to re-attract former members (who became alienated and left because the party lost its Jaganite moorings). One speaker in particular called for the party to embrace youths and for the older generation to make way for new youthful leaders.

Speakers also feel the party should be inclusive to attract supporters of other parties and that it should collaborate with other (minor) parties to stand guard against what they see as increasing authoritarianism in Guyana under the coalition regime.

The event was coordinated by Rhuben Khusial of West Coast Demerara, who also served as Chairman of the proceedings. Faiuze Alli moved a vote of thanks. The event attracted a near packed house at Royal Princess catering hall. Guests were served a full complimentary dinner and a variety of drinks.

NEWS 5

WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Opposition says civil society finding it difficult to satisfy President’s criteria for GECOM chair

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ollowing several rounds of consultations, civil society groups have made several submissions with regard to their nominees for the chairmanship of the Guyana Elections Commissions (GECOM) to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Opposition.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had on March 21, met with 55 representatives of 33 civil society organisations, which included leaders of the Christian, Hindu and Muslim faiths; the Private Sector, the Guyana Trades Union Congress and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana; Amerindian organisations, the National Toshaos Council and the Justice Institute.

During the consultation last week, the civil society bodies were given up to March 27 to submit the names of nominees that met the new requirements set out by President David Granger.

According to Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, at a press conference on Wednesday, some of the groups have made their submissions while oth-

ers are having difficulties finding persons to fulfil all the criteria set out by the President.

“We’ve got about 12 to 15 (submissions)…but there are some civil society bodies who’ve indicated that when they examined the criteria, even when they come up with names, not one name can fulfil all the criteria,” she stated.

Teixeira explained that while the proposed nominees may meet one requirement, such as exercising jurisdiction in civil matters, they may not fulfil the other part of the criteria which is a wide electoral knowledge.

She added that should one go “strictly” by the new requirements, even the nominees submitted by civil society may not fulfil the criteria. To this end, the Opposition Chief Whip insisted that the criteria set by the President undermined the constitutional provisions and were causing extreme duress in finding nominees.

“His Excellency, the President, has gone beyond the Constitution and place undue restrictions and pressure and duress on the se-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and members of the PPP engaged members of the religious community during last week’s consultations

lection of the position of Chairperson, which the Constitution itself did not contemplate. The focus of the Constitution was the integrity and the independence of the post holder, and we stand firmly by that position,” she noted.

According to Teixeira, the remaining submissions of nominees from civil society for the GECOM chairmanship are to be handed over by the end of Wednesday.

She added upon the receipt of all the nominees, the Party would then examine the next step forward.

After rejecting the initial list submitted by the Opposition Leader, President Granger has

since outlined the qualities that the nominees for the GECOM chairmanship should possess in order for him to consider them for the post.

The President’s criteria state that the candidate should be qualified to be a judge of the High Court or an Attorney for a minimum of seven years.

In the absence of those requirements, the President said any other “fit and proper person” should have wide electoral knowledge and be capable of handling electoral matters since he/she was qualified to exercise unlimited jurisdiction in civil matters.

That person should not be an activist in any form – gender, racial or

religious nor should that person have any political affiliation or belong to any political party in any form, apparent or hidden.

That person must be able to discharge his/ her functions neutrally, between the two opposing parties, as he or she would have done in court between two opposing litigants.

Additionally, the person must be able to discharge the functions without fear or favour, not allowing any person or organisation to influence him or her to compromise his or her neutrality.

The President also said that the person should have a general character of honesty,

integrity, faithfulness and diligence in the discharge of their duty as Chairman of GECOM. However, following the consultations with the civil society bodies last week, a statement from the Opposition Leader’s office noted that the criteria were considered “an imposition on the Constitution which makes no such demands”.

The statement said most disconcerting was the stipulation that the candidate must not be an activist in any form. “(It) was thought to be discriminatory and violated the anti-discrimination articles of the Constitution,” the statement explained.

During the consultations, Jagdeo said he had grave reservations about the legality and constitutionality of these criteria outlined by the President. In fact, he expressed his intention to bring these concerns to the attention of the Head of State.

Nonetheless, the Opposition Leader said he remained committed to submitting six more names as requested by the President.

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Guyana Govt’s decision to VAT APNU/AFC scared of running against Jagdeo private education is immoral Dear Editor, Withoutdoubt, the greatest obstacle to an APNU/AFC re-election bid in 2020 is the man who now holds the strategic positions of Leader of the Opposition and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Mr Bharrat Jagdeo!

Now that the Guyana Court of Appeal has cleared the way for his re-election, the PNC/APNU fear of Jagdeo is justified; and for good reasons. That is why this ruling will soon be challenged in the nation’s highest court, the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Although the PPP/C has not made a decision as to who the presidential candidate will be, the thought of running against this political maestro must be nerve-racking for the coalition leadership.

For many years while in opposition, the APNU/AFC cleverly executed a long, sustained campaign of destroying the character and credibility of the People’s Progressive Party by painting the Party and its leadership as corrupt and racist.

The questions remain: Was the PPP/C Administration corrupt? And is the former President and now Leader of the Opposition, Mr Bharrat Jagdeo, a racist? Who else is more qualified to answer these questions than someone who had, for a long time, been a major critic of both the PPP/C and Bharrat Jagdeo?

You see, years ago, while living in New York, I was a known critic of the Jagdeo Administration, writing regular letters to the press demanding transparency and accountability. But back then I had allowed myself to be influenced by all the negative news coming out of Guyana from the independent press, and the daily criticism of the Jagdeo-led PPP government by Mark Benschop on his Internet radio, a medium popular among Guyanese in the diaspora.

Over the years since, I’ve tried to right a wrong and to recognise and support the PPP/C for good governance; for rescuing Guyana from economic disaster caused by the policies of the then Minister of Finance in the PNC Government, Carl Greenidge; and for improving the quality of life of every Guyanese, more so those living in opposition strongholds like Linden and Buxton, and our Amerindian brothers and sisters who have long been neglected by the PNC regime.

I had good reasons to justify my apologies to former President Bharrat Jagdeo for the harm I’ve caused to his credibility and character. For without knowing the facts, I had committed an injustice by judging him too harshly.

As a PPP/C Member of Parliament, I am living proof that the man holds no grudge, and is committed to work with anyone who genuinely holds the national interest at heart. Knowing Mr Bharrat Jagdeo as I do now, the conditions under which he was able to transform a bankrupt Guyana into a thriving economy while dealing with an obstructionist, non-cooperative PNC parliamentary Opposition has strengthened my resolve and confidence in his leadership, his love of country, and his desire to improve the quality of life of all Guyanese, regardless of race or ethnicity.

And despite the many accusations made against him by his enemies, I can honestly and unequivocally say that Bharrat Jagdeo is not racist. The APNU/AFC will be convinced of this after the 2020 elections results are announced.

The attack on Jagdeo’s character is a deliberate, sustained effort to undermine the PPP by discrediting the Leader of the Party.

Sincerely, Harry Gill, MP (PPP/C)

AFC has lost credibility and political support Dear Editor, In my conversations with Guyanese voters in travels around Guyana over the last several months, I found that the AFC has lost its credibility and virtually all of its support in its coalition arrangement with the PNC (APNU=PNC as the other parties in the coalition have no support).

The population had much faith and confidence in the AFC to lead the country away from poor governance. Instead, the AFC has been seen as contributing to, and aligning itself with, the worst form of governance since independence in 1966.

The political goodwill that people had for the AFC has been completely frittered away because of the party’s inability or unwillingness to rein in the PNC from its corrupt acts and dictatorial ways. Many describe the party’s behaviour as opportunistic and unworthy of continued support. AFC supporters complain about the AFC endorsing and supporting the PNCled coalition regime’s policy of terminating workers, many of whom supported the AFC; and of victimizing those who are perceived as PPP supporters, while at the same time protecting PNC supporters.

As found in surveys and obtained from so many conversations with people from all walks of life, those who supported the AFC in 2006, 2011 and 2015 (in coalition with the PNC) spoke of how the

leadership has failed to deliver on promises and carry out the Cummingsburg Agreement. They say the party has betrayed them by entering into a coalition with the PNC and by failing to force the PNC to honour its commitments in the Cummingsburg Accord — sharing political power and office.

If an election were held now and the AFC were to contest as a separate entity, it would be hard-pressed to win a seat.

However, many of those (former PPPites) who supported the AFC are not returning to the PPP. They say they will not vote for the PPP unless the party completely reforms and sheds some of the characters in its leadership. Some of the former AFC supporters say they will support the URP or some new political movement, because they can’t bring themselves to return to the PPP that ill-treated them. Those PNCites who crossed over to the AFC have returned to the PNC, with a small number saying they would stay out of another election unless there is a new political party that is worthy of their support.

For the AFC to redeem itself and recover lost support, it would have to take a tough line against the PNC, withdrawing support for policies of the PNC that have been hurting its supporters and the nation at large.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Dear Editor, The Guyana’s Private Schools United is heartened by the support we received for our first peaceful protest exercise outside the Finance Ministry.

The turnout, we hold, is indicative

of the groundswell that is emerging against the imposition of VAT on education. Our presence also confirms that the Government’s intention to have a more socially cohesive society is being spurred by what we hold is not only a wrong, but immoral, decision.

We reiterate that education is a right and we should not be penalised for our choices. We, like all right-minded parents, are only seeking to have a ‘Good Life’ for our children. Our

body holds that the issue of tax compliance is a red herring meant to distract from the additional burden that is being placed on our already overburdened backs. The Government and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) should fulfil their mandate and not seek to make us victims of their laxity.

Our movement as is demonstrated is made up of persons from all strata of society and united in a common cause against this injustice meted out against us.

Important as we forge ahead and trumpet our clarion call is the need for us to encourage others to join our movement. Do not be despondent and afraid; let us not be lulled. In unity, there is strength and our strength will take us to victory!

We need to be the voices for our children and as the Song of Guyana’s Children says let us show: “What Guyana’s sons and daughters can be”.

Education is a right! No to VAT on education!

Sincerely, Dr Brian O’Toole

Some Govt Ministers not suited for those positions Dear Editor, I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to the President for being the only President in our country’s history to clearly outline the requirements for someone to fill the vacant position of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission.

Bravo, Mr President!

Now that you have done that, can you now

let us know what is/are the requirement(s) for someone holding the position of a Minister of the Government? It would appear to me that most of the persons currently serving as Ministers may not be able to confirm with your standard. Some of them are total failures and an embarrassment to our Government and people.

While you are at that,

Mr. President, it would be helpful if you can also let us know what qualities a person must possess to respectively be President and Prime Minister of our country.

My gut feeling is that the current holders are not qualified to hold those positions.

I need your help, Mr President.

Sincerely, Charles Sugrim

Town Clerk should proceed on leave Dear Editor, The Minister of State has indicated the Government’s policy is to ensure that officers do not accumulate annual leave and in turn request pay in lieu of such. He said that this was the practice that they have embraced since they came into office and this sounds quite reasonable.

But why then doesn’t this same law apply to the Town Clerk of Georgetown, Royston King, who has years of annual leave accumulated.

Indeed, there could be no better time than now, for him to be made to take his leave, as there has been a suggestion that an audit in some shape or form may soon be undertaken at the Council.

Additionally, with the Minister of Communities suspending the operation of the by-laws, which governs the parking meter project for three months to allow for the review of the agree-

ment, again it would be a good idea to have the Town Clerk, a major player in the process, recused because of a potential conflict of interest or lack of impartiality.

There is an old saying, “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” Or is King above the law? One gets the feeling that he is indispensable, and should he take his leave then the entire City Council would collapse.

Time off work is important for health and well-being, and it also helps increase productivity. Creating an environment that encourages taking accrued holiday leave offers the opportunity to improve the mood and productivity of workers.

The Human Resources Manager of the Council should be sanctioned for encouraging this malpractice and unprofessional conduct.

Sincerely, Mateo Phelephe

WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

news 7

‘What apology’!

Fisherman busted with Williams continues to shift blame ganja on bed AG for ‘outburst’ in Court

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ity Magistrate Judy Latchman remanded to prison a 50-yearold resident of Oronoque Street, Georgetown, when he appeared to answer to two charges of narcotics possession.

It is alleged that Mark Stephens on March 24, 2017, at Da Silva Street, Kitty, Georgetown, had in his possession six grams of cannabis plus an additional 70 grams of the drug for the purpose of trafficking.

The fisherman denied the charges.

When asked why Stephens was charged separately with regard to the offences, the prosecution related to the court that the man had initially admitted to ownership of the six grams while denying any knowledge of the second parcel of cannabis. The court heard that on the day of Stephens’ arrest, he was sleeping on a bed in a Kitty house when Police Officers searched the premises and unearthed the substance on the said bed.

Stephens’ Attorney contended that the substance was found in a general area, which his client had no control over, as he was a mere occupant of the premises at the time of the raid.

Bail was granted in the sum of G$60,000 for the first charge (six grams), but the defendant was remanded for the second charge.

The matter continues on April 10 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

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lthough Justice Franklin Holder has called on Attorney General Basil Williams to apologise for his outbursts in court, the State’s chief legal adviser has expressed an unwillingness to do so.

“What? I don’t know about apology,” Williams declared on Wednesday during a brief press conference when prompted by reporters on whether he would heed the Judge’s desires and issue an apology.

Justice Holder had written to the acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards complaining of the behaviour of the Attorney General during the hearing of a prominent court matter involving trade unionist Carvil Duncan.

But Williams maintained his innocence as he continued to cast blame on his predecessor, Anil Nandlall for causing Justice Holder to abruptly walk out the courtroom – even though the Judge has since clarified that the issue stemmed from the Attorney General’s “egregious” and “disrespectful” behaviour during the court proceedings.

“Nandlall was the one who caused the problem…we can’t allow Nandlall to create this problem and leave it unresolved.

The Judge and I will resolve this issue,” Williams stated, in contradiction to the Judge’s explanation, which was published in snippets in the State-owned

newspaper.

In fact, the Attorney General even defended his actions and his statements.

“Everything I dealt with in that short time was to disabuse the learned Judge’s mind that his interpretation was not (so),” he stated.

Williams believed that the Judge fell prey to “transferred frustration” as a result of Nandlall’s “barracking” of nearly three hours.

“Perhaps his detaining the learned Judge again as he was preparing to leave the bench, seeking clarity on whether the witness’s answer of ‘no’ was recorded, induced certain misapprehensions in the Judge’s mind in all the circumstances and the Attorney General became the victim of transferred frustration,” Williams said in a statement circulated during the media engagement.

But according to articles published in the State newspaper, Justice Holder, in a letter dated March 24, 2017 to Justice Cummings-Edwards, said he “took umbrage to his (Williams’) tone and what he was insinuating, which was in effect that the court was being selective in recording the evidence”.

The Judge said Williams responded by saying that the last person who told him what he should not say was a magistrate and he was now dead.

“He further said all morning

Attorney General, Basil Williams

Mr Nandlall disrespecting you and you have not done anything about it,” Holder wrote, adding that he told Williams that this was not a true statement of what had occurred.

“This was followed by a most egregious statement by Mr Williams, which is: “I could say what I want to say and when I want to say it; I have always been like that.” At this point, Justice Holder said he left the bench without adjourning the matter. “Immediately after hearing these words, I rose from the bench and went into my chambers. I did not adjourn the matter, nor did I give any instructions to the parties,” Justice Holder outlined.

In the letter, he also expressed that the Attorney General should apologise to him in an open court. Nonetheless, Williams said he was prepared to work with the Judge to resolve the issue. In fact, the Attorney General said he would

Justice Franklin Holder

be responding to the complaint in writing.

Nandlall – who was Duncan’s lawyer during the court proceeding – had interpreted Williams’ statements as a death threat against the Judge and condemned the Minister’s actions.

But, during a press conference Friday last, Williams threatened to file legal action against news outlets that reported on the allegations of him issuing death threats.

Meanwhile, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has called on the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to launch an investigation into the allegations.

Despite the Attorney General’s pleas of innocence, the PPP insists the matter warrants an extensive probe as it believes the threats should not be viewed in isolation, but in conjunction with other incidents where the Government has attempted to subvert independent offices.

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WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Govt optimistic Crab Island ECD estates closure: Cane onshore base will create jobs fertilising stopped by GuySuCo for Berbicians

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President David Granger meeting with ExxonMobil executives at State House on Wednesday

overnment is optimistic that a US$500 million onshore facility at Crab Island, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) will in effect create job opportunities for residents of the Ancient County.

Government announced on Wednesday that it would be investing the US$500 million in the construction of an onshore oil and gas facility at Crab Island, which would cater for the expansion of exploration and subsequent production of oil in Guyana.

Construction on the facility, which will serve as a logistics and supply base to the offshore production, should get underway during the course of this year.

The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission has been advertising leasehold lands close to the Island.

The facility is expected to create some 600 jobs, which could bring significant relief to residents of Berbice who continue to complain about lack of employment.

According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), the supply base could consist of sections including maintenance, fabrication, warehousing, spares, housing, and spares handling.

Technical skills such as welding would also be in demand during and after construction.

Last year, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had said that jobs which would be created through the establishment of the onshore supply base facility would enable and enhance the labour force.

Explaining why Crab Island was selected as the site for the onshore base, Trotman said that the current traffic congestion along Water Street, Georgetown makes that location unsuitable. However, the wharves along Water Street will be used for the first phase of the Liza development.

Earlier this month, oil giant ExxonMobil advertised for onshore service

providers. John Fernandes Limited (JFL) and Muneshwers Limited were among the shortlisted companies. These companies have port facilities along Water Street.

However, Minister Trotman pointed out, “Everyone is thinking in terms of Exxon’s operations only, but suffice to say we can’t find ourselves thinking of one discovery and one company.”

ExxonMobil and its partners struck black gold when significant hydrocarbon reserves were found in the Liza Field. The oil find was officially declared to be of commercial quantity last year. The company has presented to the Government and stakeholders its development plans for the Liza field with the year 2020 projected for oil production.

Additionally, there are several other companies that were issued licences to explore Guyana’s deep waters. Those companies include Repsol, Tullow Oil, CGX, JHI, Eco Atlantic and Ratio Oil. “Some point in time, all will be looking to reengage and so the idea is to find an available piece of land or property which can accommodate all the operations,” Minister Trotman pointed out.

Meanwhile, President David Granger on Wednesday gave Government‘s commitment to ExxonMobil, when he met with the oil company’s executives at State House.

The Head of State said the Administration was committed to the development of Guyana’s oil and gas sector in an atmosphere of transparency and trust so that the parliamentary Opposition and the people of Guyana were fully involved in the process.

The President met with the executives to discuss matters related to the status of exploratory and appraisal work in the Stabroek Block. He said it was important that there are regular and accurate announcements on matters pertaining to the development of the sector.

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A number of the aggrieved workers who visited GAWU on Wednesday

he signs are becoming even clearer each day for the workers of the Enmore and LBI Estates of the closure of those East Coast Demerara (ECD) facilities. Back in 2016, the Enmore and LBI estates were combined into the East Demerara Estate in an effort to save both facilities.

On Wednesday morning, the workers of the estate responsible for applying fertiliser to the canes informed the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) that they were ordered to halt such proceedings.

The workers engaged the Union’s General Secretary Seepaul Narine and revealed that they were informed by Estate Management that they were no longer required to apply fertiliser.

However, the female workers were told by management that they were still required to weed and the males to harvest the canes.

This, according to the workers, is adding weight to reports of the closure of the estates to which they strongly oppose.

The workers continue to voice their dissatisfaction, noting that they would be unable to find jobs should the decision be fully pursued.

Early last week, GAWU met with 40 workers attached to the estates after they were informed that GuySuCo’s Management had instructed the workers, those responsible for planting cane that their services for such would no longer be needed.

However, they were told that the cane cutting procedure would be continued. As such, the workers began calling for their severance pay as their services

were no longer needed.

According to GAWU, even though the announcement was not made, the ending of cane planting activities is a clear indication that GuySuCo is gearing to close down its operations at the estate.

“The decision by the Corporation to end cane planting is testimony that the Estate is being geared for closure,” GAWU contends. “Interestingly, so far, no official announcement to that end has been made, either by the Government or by the GuySuCo, yet the Corporation is implementing steps indicating the estate’s closure,” GAWU had said after meeting with the workers.

This revelation, according to GAWU contradicts the words of the Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo that “sugar will not die”.

The Union had informed that it learned through a meeting with GuySuCo that plans to end cane planting at the East Demerara Estate and at the Rose Hall Estate in East Berbice were afoot.

Early in this Month, this newspaper was informed by workers of the Enmore Estate – who took to the streets in protest – that they were given letters from the Agriculture Ministry which stated that the East Demerara Estate would stop proceedings after the 2017 crop harvest.

GAWU noted that the East Demerara Estate employs some 2200 employees in the field, factory, security, administrative and managerial sections.

All will be unemployed if the estate is to be closed.

Carifesta XIII launched in Barbados I t was yet another colourful display when the Government of Barbados launched Carifesta XIII on Monday, with a live broadcast of the occasion.

The event was held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre in Bridgetown, Barbados. Barbados has set aside Bds$6 million for the hosting of the regional cultural arts festival later this year, August 17-27.

Some 3000 artistes are expected to attend Carifesta from 15 countries, while interest had been generated in the United States, Canada, Brazil and Cuba.

The Carifesta Secretariat has already been established, with a logo and jingle created, while the website had gone live, CMC reported.

Under the theme, “Asserting Our Culture, Celebrating Ourselves”, Barbados is hoping to host the best Carifesta yet. In addition to the Grand Market, there will be a number of entertainment events at various venues across the island “where the extensive talent of this region will be showcased”, the Barbados Culture, Sports and Youth Ministry was quoted in lo-

cal media as earlier saying.

According to the Ministry, plans are being made for two super concerts, three signal events and nightly performances from the various country delegations.

Many of the venues, including some schools, are currently at various stages of refurbishment in preparation for the festival, last hosted in Barbados in 1981.

Barbados Culture Minister Stephen Lashley is urging local businesses to use the Festival as an opportunity to showcase their services and their goods to the world.

“I hope you’ve thought a lot about the creative sector. There are many opportunities, within the Carifesta experience…I want you to factor in how business and entrepreneurs will respond to the opportunity of Carifesta,” Lashley recently said.

“This event is not just another Carifesta, it focuses on the empowerment of men and women through the creation of business ideas that can be transformed into products and services the rest of the world wants,” the Culture Minister noted.

NEWS 9

WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyana’s 2013-2020 Former Secretary national NCD blueprint a General to UNESCO, model for best practices Carmen Jarvis dies

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Minister within the Public Health Ministry, Dr Karen Cummings along with Dr Beverley Barnett, consultant to PAHO/WHO and Ministry staff during the meeting on Monday

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he 2013-2020 national NCD blueprint for the health sector called the ‘Integrated Prevention and Control of NonCommunicable Diseases in Guyana’ is modelled after existing best practices from regional, hemispheric and global approaches.

This is according to Minister within the Public Health (MOPH), Dr Karen Cummings who on Monday met with Dr Beverley Barnett, consultant to PAHO/ WHO said her visit is part of a wider initiative to undertake “a qualitative analysis” of the NCD strategies of four Caricom states.

Guyana is the first country to be visited by Dr Barnett under the regional plan. She is also scheduled to hold similar discussions with Barbados, Jamaica and St Kitts/Nevis.

Monday’s talks were part of “a deeper analysis” with Dr Cummings were to elicit her perspective on Guyana’s NCD multi-sectoral plan, Barnett said.

The plan notes that Guyana will pursue a Health-in-All-Policies (HiAP) approach which envisions “strong leadership and political will”.

It encourages civic and private sectors participation while simultaneously challenging them to embrace the new approaches to combating NCDs which are also called chronic diseases.

The 4 main types of chronic diseases are cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and stroke), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (such as chronic obstructed pulmonary disease [COPD] and asthma) and diabetes.

Ageing, unplanned urbanisation and the popularisation of unhealthy lifestyles help fuel NCDs. Use of tobacco, lack of physical activities, un-

healthy diet and abusing alcohol increase the risk of NCDs which disproportionately affect low and middle-income countries. Global statistics show that some 75 percent of all deaths from NCDs occur in low and middle-income countries.

That is why Barnett’s visit is so timely since Guyana has reached the half-way point in its programme implementation.

Prioritising their efforts in the sector “will be the key to implementing the NCDs strategy successfully. This will help individual countries better allocate human and financial resources and determine the best courses of action” to support their vision she said.

Establishing priority will also “greatly assist individual territories make timely interventions” to benefit their populations according to the consultant to PAHO/ WHO. In addition, Barnett suggested the MOPH establish partnerships with individual local sectors, its development partners and civil society for the success of the NCD strategy.

In his Foreword, former Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsarran, noted that NCDs have “emerged as a new frontier in the fight to improve health globally.

The increase in such diseases means that they are now responsible for more deaths globally than all other causes combined.”

“The new Guyana NCD Strategic Plan will position our Nation to mount an effective, sustainable response,” Ramsarran said.

The country’s NCD strategy is built on five planks: Risk factor reduction and Health Promotion; Integrated Disease Management and Patient self-management Education;

P r o g r a m m e M a n a g e m e n t ; Surveillance, Monitoring and Evaluation and Public Policy, Advocacy and Communication, according to Dr Kavita Singh, MOPH Chronic Disease Director.

Singh described the seven-year plan as “very comprehensive (and) if implemented accordingly will provide optimum health care and risk factor reduction” for its beneficiaries.

Dr Cummings likes the strategy and like Singh also emphasized the issue of implementation which she indicated will most likely include a redirection of human and financial resources “without losses where gains are made”.

Probing questions by Dr Barnett should assist Guyana with identifying its strategy’s strengths and weaknesses, spotting any existing gap and helping to generate recommendations to improve the MOPH 7-year NCD guide.

uyana’s former UNESCO S e c r e t a r y General, Carmen Jarvis, 91, died on Wednesday evening in the United States.

Following is a statement issued by her daughter.

It is with the deepest sadness and a full heart that Alison and I announce that our dear mother Carmen Enid Peterkin Jarvis, made her transition early last evening in Atlanta, GA. She passed peacefully in her sleep. My mother was a phenomenal woman – a tower of love and strength to her immediate and extended family and a shining example of godly womanhood.

She shared herself and her God-given gifts freely with others and with her community and always exhorted others to aim for excellence in everything they undertook. As a result she leaves behind an inimitable legacy of achievement in many areas,

Carmen Jarvis presenting a copy of her autobiography to President David Granger in October

including education, international development, Girl Guiding, civic and charitable involvement and two books. I am so happy that I was able to take her home to Guyana and to New York for the launching of her autobiography last October, because she derived so much pleasure from being able to meet and greet dear family members and longtime friends. It is hard to imagine what life will

be like without having my Mum to speak to almost on a daily basis, because she was lucid until the end; but she was ready to go. Hers was a life well-lived and even while we mourn, we celebrate this fact and the substantial legacy she has left. May the angels carry her safely on their wings and may God receive his faithful servant with open arms. Rest in eternal peace, dearest Mum.

ExxonMobil announces new oil discovery offshore Guyana

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RVING, Texas– ( B U S I N E S S WIRE)–Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) announced On Thursday positive results on the Snoek well offshore Guyana, confirming a new discovery on the Stabroek Block. Drilling targeted similar aged reservoirs as encountered in

previous discoveries at Liza and Payara.

“The latest discovery at Snoek demonstrates the continued success we have achieved in this technically complex play, which is just part of the significant exploration province offshore Guyana,” said Steve Greenlee, president of

ExxonMobil Exploration Company.

ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd. commenced drilling of the Snoek well on Feb. 22, 2017 and encountered 82 feet (25 meters) of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs. The continued on page 10

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WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

ECD family terrorised by bandits during home invasion

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Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara (ECD) family is now left traumatised after members were terrorised and robbed by two armed men.

The robbery occurred about 19:30h on Tuesday at the family’s Lot 4C Section B Chateau Margot home and lasted for some 45 minutes.

According to reports, 49-year-old Mohan Lall, along with his 24-yearold daughter, Salomie, and three-year-old granddaughter, was at home sitting in the living room, in the lower flat of the two-storey house when the two bandits, one armed with a gun and the other with a pair of scissors, stormed into their home and held them up.

In an effort to save their lives, Lall handed over a quantity of cash to the bandits, but not before he was beaten in his head and face. The perpetrators also escaped with a laptop, two cellular phones and several watches.

Speaking with Guyana Times International on Wednesday morning, Lall recounted the ordeal, relating that his wife had gone out and did not secure the padlock on the grill door unbeknownst to them. He added that about an hour later, the bandits gained entry

Mohan Lall

into the house through the door after scaling the fence along the western side of the yard.

“Two men walked in, an Indian one and a negro one – he start beat me since he reach in the house. He ain’t ask me or tell me anything, he just start beat me and punch me in my face and then after, he say he want the money or else he gon kill we. Me turn and say ‘Oh friend, is money you want, take the money, nah kill we’,” the man, whose face was swollen, recalled.

He said his daughter handed over about G$105,000 in cash to the perpetrators but they were unsatisfied and one of them said they knew Lall had money. At this point, Lall said he complied with the bandits, who escorted the three of them upstairs and one of them took him into the room where he handed over some US currency to

them.

“I had $617 US dollars under the mattress and I take it and give him. They then take the three of us and push us in a room and lock the door. Then like them come downstairs and them check around and carry way the computer, couple phones and some watches that went in a bag. After that, they come out and jump over the (eastern) fence and get away,” he related.

Lall added that about 10 minutes later, after they were sure the bandits had left, they came out of the room and contacted the Police, who came sometime after.

He was then escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated for a wound on his head and bruises to his face, before being sent away.

Nevertheless, the man noted that the following morning they discovered a pair of slippers in the yard which they believe belonged to one of the bandits, who may have lost them after scaling the western fence to enter the yard.

Additionally, they also found a band from one of the wristwatches that were stolen.

Meanwhile, in a release on Wednesday, the Police said that no arrests have been made.

20-yr-old welder perishes in Berbice accident

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rshed Mamood became the latest road fatality when the motorcycle he was driving collided with a car on the Springlands Public Road in Upper Corentyne, East Berbice on Sunday at about 21:00h.

The 20-year-old welder of Lot 51, Number 77 Housing Scheme, Corriverton had reportedly been hanging out with his girlfriend, Rishma Ramdatt, at the Sukhpaul Service Station in Springlands, but rode out to meet someone at the same time that motor car PNN 7736 attempted to turn into the gas station, thus the car and motorcycle collided. Mahmood, who had left his helmet on a bench at the gas station, was thrown into the air, and landed some 30 feet away.

This newspaper understands that the driver of the car abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene, but ranks of the Springlands Police Station intercepted a car along the Corentyne Highway on Monday

Dead: Irshed Mamood

morning and arrested the suspect.

Investigators later found out that the car involved in the accident on Sunday belongs to a car rental company.

The suspect, 31-yearold Jomeshwar Brijlall of Number 61 Village, Upper Corentyne, told investigators that he was on his way to the police station when they arrested him. Giving investigators details of the accident, he said he was turning the car into the gas station while another vehicle was passing, and as it passed he attempted to pull into the gas station when the col-

lision occurred. Brijlall claimed that the vehicle which passed had prevented him from seeing what was behind.

Rishma Ramdatt, said she was right there and saw her boyfriend die on the road. She said the car drove across the road and into the path of the motorcyclist, making it impossible for him to avoid the accident.

However, an eyewitness told this publication that Mamood was speeding at the time.

Ramdatt had moved in with Mamood six days prior to his death. The couple was expected to get married on April 30.

The dead man’s mother, Violet Kanhai, said his neck might have been broken after he had been thrown through the air for 30 feet. The only mark on the body, she said, was on the neck.

The motorbike was purchased three months ago. This is the second motorbike Mamood had owned. Police are investigating the accident, while the driver remains in custody.

Bus service for Lethem’s students

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ommunities in Upper Takutu/ Upper Essequibo will now benefit from a timely initiative of the Lethem Mayor and Town Council to provide transportation services to hundreds of students there.

The council purchased a 32-seater bus at the cost of G$9M after recognizing the plight of families within the communities.

The 32-seater bus began its inaugural route on Thursday and transported the students to school free of cost on Thursday and Friday.

The payment system took effect as of Monday, March 27, 2017.

The bus will provide service to six schools within the municipality including the St Ignatius Secondary School, two primary schools and three nursery schools.

Each child will be required to pay G$1,000 per week (G$200 per day) and teachers will

The newly commissioned 32-seater bus

also benefit from the transportation service as well.

Lethem Mayor, Carlton Beckles said that a second bus will also be purchased in the coming months to address the many concerns as it relates to transportation.

Beckles disclosed that council has a responsibility to parents to ensure that children have the necessary transportation service to attend school.

He noted that although many hinter-

land communities across the country benefited from President David Granger school-bus initiative, Lethem has so far not been a recipient.

“So from the municipality we have purchased this bus to get the children to school at an extremely reduced fare,” Beckles remarked.

In addition to providing much-needed financial relief to the parents in the communities, the bus service is intended to be of economic benefit to the municipality.

Soldier slapped with narco possession charge

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rank of the Guyana Defence Force was arraigned before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with the offence of narcotics possession.

Troyston Cort pleaded not guilty to the charge read by Magistrate Judy Latchman, which stated that on March 23, 2017, at Stabroek Square, Georgetown, Cort had 15 grams of cannabis in his possession.

The court heard that the 25-year-old was busted with the illicit substance by Police officials on patrol duty. A body search conducted on the person of the accused led to the discovery of the said narcotics in one of

Troyston Cort

his pockets while other portions were said to be contained in zip lock bags in his backpack.

Defence Attorney Patrice Henry requested that the soldier be released on reasonable bail arguing that the drugs

were never found on his client’s person.

Magistrate Latchman granted bail to the sum of G$70,000, adjourning the matter to April 10, when Cort is expected to again face the courts.

ExxonMobil announces new ...

from page 9

well was safely drilled to 16,978 feet (5,175 meters) in 5,128 feet (1,563 meters) of water on March 18. The Snoek well is located in the southern

portion of the Stabroek Block, approximately 5 miles (9 km) to the southeast of the 2015 Liza-1 discovery.

Following completion of the Snoek well, the Stena Carron drillship has moved back to the Liza area to drill the Liza4 well.

“As we continue to evaluate the full potential of the broader Stabroek Block, we are also taking the necessary steps to ensure the safe, cost-efficient and responsible development of this world-

class resource, which can provide long-term, sustainable benefits to the people of Guyana,” said Greenlee.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometers). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest.

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WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2016| guyanatimeSinternational.com

US Diplomat urges Guyana US-based Subraj to carefully consider how oil Foundation spearheads medical mission to Guyana wealth will be distributed

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he United States Government is encouraging Guyana to give careful consideration to the ways it will invest the revenues that will develop from its promising oil and gas sector.

The admonition was given by Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Embassy, Terry SteersGonzalez on Sunday evening, as he addressed stakeholders and other participants during the opening of the first oil and gas conference hosted by the Guyana Oil and Gas Association (GOGA).

The event was held at the Marriott International hotel, Georgetown.

Steers-Gonzalez was exploring the very prospect of the Liza oil find in Guyana’s waters and what the revenues garnered could do for the country’s economy and its citizens.

“The confirmed reserves guarantee the

…12 corneal transplants conducted

Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman

Estimates, he said continue, to change; each time growing larger and with the growth of the numbers, so do the expectations of citizens here.

According to him, legislation and regulations that protect Guyana’s interest and promote transparent resource management at all levels are key components to success.

“The list of important legislations is vast and spans across the spectrum from a petro-

continues to develop new industries and the regulatory structures that will govern them, (and) the role of citizens and stakeholders will grow in scope and importance.”

He said Guyana was at the crossroads of a transformation.

Meanwhile, addressing the forum, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman said Government dubbed 2016 as “the year for preparation” and 2017 “the year

One of the exhibitors, Trinidadian company Quintana Sales & Services Ltd at the Conference

revenue to allow it to develop industries and infrastructure and to create a broad-based economy with true value added, which means jobs and prosperity, if done right,” Steers-Gonzalez said.

The US diplomat said the revenue would also mean that Guyana would have enough money to allow it to fund activities that would see it becoming even greener than it already was. He said it would also be critical to think strategically now of ways to invest the revenues that would develop diverse industries, physical infrastructure, citizen security, quality education and health services.

According to him, these are areas that will create significant job numbers. He said recent estimates confirmed that offshore oil deposits may be as large as 1.6 billion recoverable barrels of oil, with additional resources yet to be quantified.

leum act to regulation to a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), licences and fees for the new industry and occupational health and safety standards,” the envoy said, noting that not just the Government but the people have an opportunity to define the future, which starts with a carefully calculated plan of action formed from the collaboration of all stakeholders that targets job creation, investment and long-term revenue management. Speaking on the economic prospects of the sector, the diplomat noted that overall Guyana’s economy has been doing well and was projected to continue along this path.

“The view from the United States from this exciting industry for Guyana is that the Private Sector will play an integral role in sharing the responsibility of shaping the future of the company as the country

of implementation”.

He said experts were retained and were currently assessing ExxonMobil’s and other operators’ applications for production and exploration licences.

“Further, we are considering a proposal from one of the world’s leading offshore supply companies to establish a worldclass base at Crab Island, Berbice, and are examining the possibility of utilising some of the available natural gas from the Liza field for energy generation as we transition to renewables.”

Government is also addressing the viability of a refinery or refineries in Guyana.

The conference, held under the theme, “The initiation of transformative industry, sought to improve knowledge and understanding of the opportunities that the oil and gas sector holds for Guyana’s economy.

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Dr Shailendra Sugrim receiving the corneas from Tony Subraj, son of the founder of the Subraj Transplant Foundation

total of 12 corneal transplant surgeries were conducted at the Georgetown Public Hospital over a one-week period.

The surgeries were supported by the Subraj Foundation Transplantation Team as they paid tribute to the late founder.

Following a number of visits to Guyana, the US-based team were able to contribute to one of the first mass corneal transplants in Guyana. Twelve Guyanese benefited from this philanthropic venture as the medical team were able to source and donate the corneas to be used in the transplants.

The group was unable to arrange a corneal transplant surgeon during this visit and as such, nine of the 12 transplants were done by Dr Shailendra Sugrim, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology.

Dr Sugrim worked along with his local team of nurses in the ophthalmology theatre as the first Guyanese oph-

thalmic surgeon to have completed a corneal transplant in Guyana.

Corneal transplant surgeries cannot be performed without donor corneas. There are proposals to establish an eye bank in Guyana to facilitate the sourcing and perseveration of these specimens locally.

Dr Stephen Waller, a surgeon who has worked in many countries, is the coordinating surgeon, and has been working dedicatedly over the past few months in the USA to procure corneas to bring to Guyana. He is a strong advocate for the establishment of the eye bank for which the Georgetown Public Hospital has confirmed that one of the local eye surgeons, Dr Celeste Hinds will be proceeding on a threemonth Cornea Fellowship training.

On her return, the Department of Ophthalmology plans to proceed with the laying of the groundwork for establishing the eye bank in Guyana.

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WEEK ENDING April 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Govt pursuing national Father dies, son injured after framework for energy kerosene lamp explodes A policy – Patterson

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Public Infrastructure Minister, David Patterson

n its quest to realise a green Guyana, Government is moving to establish a national framework for energy policy, to encourage the use of sustainable and renewable energy.

Addressing the opening of the first energy forum hosted by the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and The Energy and Resource Institute (TERI), at Palm Court in Georgetown recently, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson reported on Guyana’s rich endowment of energy power, including that from hydro, solar, wind and bio-energy; and the recently discovered oil and gas resources. However, he said that despite the country’s considerable potential, it is still heavily dependent on fossil fuel for its energy needs.

Government is thus seeking to ensure that an appropriate framework is in place, and Patterson expressed that the development of energy resources can support a diversified pattern of energy supplies.

“In order to support the transition of the use of fossil fuel towards the use of indigenous and renewable energy resources, Government is working to ensure that an appropriate framework is in place,” Patterson told the small gathering of stakeholders.

He reported that Government had last year begun the review and update of Guyana’s National Energy Policy, which he said seeks to move Guyana from an economy that is inefficient in energy use and wholly dependent on imported market-sensitive fossil fuels to one largely based on economically efficient indigenous en-

ergy resources.

The first phase of the study included a draft energy document, Patterson noted. He said the document was completed in December last year, and the second phase — which seeks to involve stakeholders’ consultations towards the finalisation of the National Energy Policy — will soon commence.

He said that within the next month, Government will officially begin consultation with relevant bodies to collectively craft the policy.

Additionally, Patterson reported the completion of a National roadmap for Guyana, which identifies tasks together with specific projects and responsible parties. According to the Minister, natural gas from Guyana’s offshore exploration suggests a transitional energy source. He said funding for the roadmap will be based on the monetization of the recently discovered offshore oil and gas resources, public/ private partnership, international donors, and national government resources.

“Guyana Energy Plan seeks to harness resources such as hydropower, solar, wind and biomass; and encompasses various scales of projects, including micro-hydro plans for the hinterland electrification, medium-size renewable projects for the National Grid, and larger projects for the export of electricity,” he explained.

According to Patterson, energy efficiency is now considered the “low hanging fruit” to climate action.

He said technological and behavioural changes can lead to improved efficiency, less wastage, and significant reduction

in energy consumption.

A small shift in demand, based on increased energy efficiency, can result in the saving of millions of dollars in the country’s oil import bill, he explained.

He said there have been fiscal incentives to motivate energy efficient behaviours by promoting the use of more efficient vehicles, compact fluorescent and LED lamps.

“By improving energy efficiency, local businesses will be able to enhance their productivity due to lower cost structure and improved cash flows, and savings can be used to maintain the viability of these measures and subsequently reinvest further in social economic projects and development, he explained.

According to Patterson, Government is also acting on the charge given by President David Granger — that the Public Sector should lead the way in transitioning into a greater renewable energy use. As a consequence, Government will this year be introducing an energy programme which will see at least 64 Government buildings each being outfitted with 1.3MW solar systems.

A 400 KW solar farm will be created in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima Waini), and similar farms will be created in Lethem, Mahdia and Bartica. He related that the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc is also seeking to establish a National Grid Code for the integration of disruptive generation, which will provide a commercial and technical framework to accept electricity from renewable energy resources into its distributing network and streamline feeding mechanisms.

He said there is need to optimize all energy resources, even as the country strives to transition to renewable energy resources.

Expanding more on Governments blueprint, Patterson said the Energy Development Plan seeks to harness resources such as hydro power, solar, wind, and biomass, and encompasses various scales of projects, such as micro-hydro plan for hinterland electrification, medium size renewable projects for the National Grid, and larger scale projects for the export of electricity.

man is now dead and his son hospitalised after a kerosene lamp exploded in their Warren Village, East Coast Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) home.

Dead is Deodat (only name), called ‘Ziggy”, age 58, while his 16-year-old son, Mark Deodat, is now a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital suffering third degree burns.

According to reports, the incident occurred on Tuesday evening. Deodat was being treated at the New Amsterdam Hospital for his injuries but died last Thursday evening.

Guyana Times International understands that the lamp was alight when Deodat

attempted to refuel it. In the process it exploded, showering the man and his son, who was in close proximity, in the flammable liquid which ignited.

Neighbours heard

screams and saw fire in the house at about 20:00h on Tuesday. The cane harvester’s wife quickly summoned her 21-year-old son; Mark Deodat, who was out of the house and he reportedly gathered clothes and used it to extinguish the flames from his father and then his brother.

Neighbours assisted by throwing water on Deodat while his son jumped into a barrel containing water which was situated nearby.

The 16-year-old received burns to his upper body while his elder brother received minor burns in his attempt to save his father and younger brother.

The house was extensively damaged from the explosion.

Citizens take protest against used tires ban in front of State House

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n light of the total ban on used tyres, which takes effect from April 1, the members of the Guyana Used Tyres Association (GUTA) will picket State House on Tuesday, with the aim of getting the attention of the President.

At a press conference at Georgetown Club on Friday, the Association reminded that motorcars, minibuses and oth-

sons and contributes in excess of G$100 million in revenue. Hussein also pointed out that new tyres generate around “50 per cent less” revenue on a yearly basis.

Highlighting the claim that used tyres cause more road accidents, Hussein challenged the authorities to provide the statistics cited that show such a correlation.

According

er vehicle operators will have to purchase new tyres, which will drive up transportation cost. As such, the Association has called for more consultations with Government.

“The Guyana Used Tyres Association is not seeking a confrontation with any authority but rather a consultation with the authorities,” GUTA Public Relations Coordinator Nazim Hussein stressed.

He, along with the organisation’s Vice President Mustaak Mohamed, and Treasurer Abdool Hamid met with the media on Friday.

Notably, the used trye industry provides jobs for around 5000 per-

to his contention, more accidents are caused by speeding, alcohol consumption and inattentiveness, especially by use of mobile phones while driving.

The group challenged the Finance Minister’s legal framework for implementing the ban.

“Presently, there is no minimum requirement for a tyre in law, in Guyana,” Hussein claimed.

It was further contended that the Bureau of Standards should employ technology to differentiate between “good used tyres” and “substandard new tyres”.

The GUTA suggested that if the ban is instituted, there will be “sig-

nificant increase of wear trye use” on the country’s roads, adding that the high cost of new tryes will force drivers to continue using their current tryes for longer periods. This, the group reasoned, will cause more road accidents.

President of the Minibus Association, Ian Andrews, feels that the rising costs will be passed on to passengers and suggested some persons may want to smuggle tyres.

“Guyanese are very innovative persons and if we are not careful and persons cannot afford to buy those tryes but they need it, you can have a smuggling culture that is going to develop whether through the borders or by boats,” he reasoned.

Andrews further noted that if the maintenance, along with its associated costs increase, some bus operators may be forced to discontinue their operations, rendering them jobless.

During the National Budget 2016 presentation, Finance Minister Winston Jordan announced Government’s intention to ban the importation of used tyres, in a noted effort to promote the “green economy” and protect the environment.

In April 2016, hundreds of concerned stakeholders had signed a petition to convince Government to rescind its decision to ban the importation of used tyres into the country but the measure was allowed to move forward.

Truck tryes and agriculture machinery tryes are exempt from the ban.

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Ali underscores need for Govt to stimulate export sectors

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umping foreign currency into the market will not solve the crisis facing the local economy, according to economist Irfaan Ali. The Opposition Member of Parliament said in order to address the problem in the long run, Government must implement policies which stimulate export sectors that generate foreign revenue.

He said the recent move by the Bank of Guyana to intervene in the foreign exchange market validated the position that the foreign exchange market was not clearing.

“It took some time for the Bank of Guyana and Minister of Finance (Winston Jordan) to accept the bitter reality that businesses are unable to access foreign currency and were

Opposition MP Irfaan Ali

placed in queues when they approached the cambios. However, as the good book says ‘confession is always good for the soul’,” Ali said in a statement to Guyana Times International.

However, the MP, who is also Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Parliament, said while intervention by the central bank would address the prevailing market imbalances, it could only serve to provide temporary ease.

“This measure cannot and should not be treated as a permanent or long-term solution to the turbulence in the foreign exchange market. A permanent solution requires measures that would ultimately increase the supply of foreign currency as well as reduce pressures on the demand for foreign currency,” he explained.

Controls

Ali pointed out that the foreign exchange market, referred to as the cambio system, was established in the early 1990s after the adoption of the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP). In this market, buyers and sellers can trade foreign currencies at market determined prices in accordance with Dealers in Foreign Currency Licensing Act, No 19, of 1989.

According to the Act, cambios are permitted to buy, hold and sell foreign currency, and are also allowed to determine the buying and selling rates and display these prices in a prominent position at their business places. The only restriction for cambios is they are not allowed to borrow, lend and accept deposits. Given the legal framework governing the trade in foreign currencies, market prices are expected to be determined by demand and supply conditions.

Therefore, Ali argued that the action by the Bank of Guyana to directly control the bidask spread (that is, the difference between the buying rate and the sell-

ing rate) and force cambios to trade (buy and/or sell) and hold currency could, therefore, be regarded as a subtle form of bullyism and was certainly illegal.

He explained that the supply of foreign currency is derived primarily from the export of our major commodities, namely rice, sugar, bauxite, gold, and timber. The other major sources of foreign currency include: workers’ remittances, short-term inflows, Foreign Direct Investments, long-term foreign loans and grants.

Poor performance

Based on the 2017 Budget speech, the foreign currency earnings from every major export, except gold, declined during 2016.

The poor performance of the key export sectors may be linked directly to the actions of the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) Government, he noted.

“For instance, upon assuming office, the coalition disbanded the Petro-Caribe deal which provided a guaranteed market for rice at preferential prices. To date, the same Government has failed to find alternative markets or re-negotiate the Petro-Caribe deal to help the rice sector. The forestry sector, on the other hand, witnessed sharp decline because of the deliberate efforts of the coalition Government to expel some export companies,” he stated.

Moreover, the economist predicted that the decline in export revenue from key sectors was likely to persist in 2017 and beyond. He noted that this was due to the decreased investment in the key export sectors given the unfavourable business climate and onerous taxes that increase the operating cost of export businesses.

Demand

Meanwhile, the demand for foreign currency is driven by imports, Ali highlighted.

Available forecasts suggest that imports will increase further over the next five years by an annual average of 6.8 per cent. It, therefore, means the demand for foreign currency will increase in the near future.

But given the contraction in supply of foreign currency and demand pressures, the market participants anticipate continued shortage of foreign currency.

He reasserted that the only viable solution was to stimulate the export sectors.

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G$10M games arcade opens in Bartica A

dream of over seven months finally became a reality when a Bartica businessman cut the ribbons to his fun park establishment, the first of its kind in the newly acclaimed town.

Gray’s Family Fun City provided a more than G$10 million investment into an economy that has been stuck in a coma owing to the

falling gold prices and the comparatively poor performances of several other sectors.

Miner Richard Gray conceptualised the idea in July 2016 following years of lamenting the dismal fact that there was no appropriate place to take his children for an afternoon or weekend of entertainment.

“Bartica needed something more for children

to enjoy. So one day I was thinking about what more I can do for children, something that my children can enjoy, not just other children. You don’t wanna just pour everything into mining, you wanna diverse into something else so I started to research on this fun park,” he told this newspaper during an interview.

Bartica, renowned

From left to right: Bartica Mayor Gifford Marshall, businessman Richard Gray and Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford during the ribbon cutting ceremony

as the “Gateway to the Hinterland”, is located in Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven) and is relatively known for its tourism attractions such as waterfalls and aqua resorts.

The once-booming community was bestowed with its township status in 2015 by President David Granger.

However, the town barely boasts entertainment hotspots, especially for children.

There is a seaside playground with a few swings, slides and seesaws as well as a time-honoured game shop with a wide selection of popular video

games.

“I have two kids and they always like going places; my daughter went to Disneyworld with me and then when my son born, you always wanted somewhere to carry these kids and in Bartica, there was nowhere appropriate for children to go play and have real fun. They have a park where they sell ice-cream and so, but I think Bartica needed something more,” he explained.

Currently, Gray’s play park has several arcade games such as basketball, shooting games, car and motorbike racing and the gift machine.

But it does not stop there as the business-

man has great plans to develop the facility.

In fact, he may probably act sooner than later as a result of the long lines of excited children who flock the fun park for a chance to partake in the frolic.

“I have plans to develop the facility. Currently, the site is not big, there are long lines and kids have to wait before they can go on a game,” he stated.

Notably, Gray said he has employed very strict control measures to ensure children do not ditch schools to play in the arcade.

Gray’s Family Fun City is located at Second Avenue, Bartica.

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PAC Chairman warns accounting officers of looming sanctions

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he Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has put officials, including Regional Executive Officers (REOs), on notice that sanctions will be inevitable if areas of concern raised by the Auditor General’s 2015 report are not addressed.

This comes in the wake of several PAC meetings, which have seen regional officials being grilled by the Committee over red flags raised by the report.

According to PAC Chairman Irfaan Ali in a recent interview, the PAC will exercise its responsibility to ensure that public officials expend public monies.

“The PAC has made it very clear that public officials must take (integrity) seriously when they come before the PAC. We have a responsibility to ensure that public resources are expended in an accountable and transparent manner.”

“We had brought all the REOs together with the elected officials. And we would have highlighted to them some of the consistent weaknesses we have seen in the system. And we have highlighted areas where we would have no tolerance with and their improvement is needed,” Ali pointed out.

“The Financial Secretary, who is an adviser to the PAC, has already written a number of accounting officers

President urges acting Chancellor, Chief Justice to uphold Constitution

in relation to breaches and warnings in terms of sanctions. So the PAC is looking at those accounting officers who are not improving their work.”

Ali stated that there would definitely be disciplinary measures through the relevant agency, which he noted is the office of the financial secretary, for recalcitrant accounting officers.

He was also asked about the fate of REO of Region One (Barima-Waini), Leslie Wilburg. He stated that that matter would be addressed when the PAC meets on March 27.

In February 2016, Wilburg was questioned by the PAC about some G$30 million in overpayment to contractors in 2010 and 2011.

He had stated that they were written to in order to inform them of the monies owed.

But it was when Wilburg claimed to have sought legal advice from the Communities Ministry that things went downhill.

The PAC ascertained from the Communities Ministry Permanent Secretary, Emil McGarrel, that a letter he had sent to the contractors was sent to the PS, but no legal advice was actually sought. This and the fact that some of the overpaid contractors were still working with the Region caused Ali to eject Wilburg from the chambers.

Newly-appointed Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards taking her oath of office on Tuesday

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he helm of the Judiciary has been revamped after Appeal Court Judge, Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards, was sworn-in as acting Chancellor while Justice Roxanne George, was sworn-in as acting Chief Justice.

The two female judges took their oath of office before President David Granger Tuesday morning at State House.

In brief remarks during the swearing-in ceremony, the Head of Stare noted that the offices of the Chancellor and the Chief Justice are the highest in the Judiciary and as such, he charged the two new appointees to uphold the Constitution in the discharge of their functions.

“The appointment of persons to perform the function

as the leader of the Judiciary is necessary to upholding the Constitution and the administration of justice… I urge you to continue to uphold the high traditions and standards of the Offices of the Chancellor and Chief Justice – the functions of which they will be performing in occurrence with the oath they have sworn. I urge members of the Legislative, Executive and Judicial Branches of Government to continue to respect the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana – our highest law,” the Guyanese Leader charged.

The appointments of Justice Cummings-Edwards as acting Chancellor and Justice George as acting Chief Justice were made effective since February 24 and according to

President Granger, these appointments were made following “meaningful consultations” with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo in accordance with the Constitution. At the time Jagdeo had requested seven days to review the nominees but Government moved ahead and made the appointments.

These appointments came following the retirement of former Chancellor Justice Carl Singh last month and former Chief Justice Ian Chang’s retirement last year.

Justice Cummings-Edwards was initially appointed acting Chief Justice after Justice Chang retired, however her post in the Judiciary was bumped up a notch to become the second female Chancellor.

Acting Chief Justice Roxane George affixing her signature to official documents related to her new post in the presence of President David Granger

DDL records G$296M after-tax profit

Komal Samaroo

– company preparing for oil production benefits

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he Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) Group has raked in some G$296 million taxed profits for the 2016 financial year.

According to Chairman Komal Samaroo in the company’s 2016 Annual Report, the Group’s profit for the year before taxation was G$2.920 billion, compared to G$2.797 billion in 2015, thus reflecting an increase of G$123 million, or almost 4.4 per cent. The after-tax profit was recorded at G$2.191 billion, compared to G$1.895 billion earned in 2015, representing a 16 per cent increase in profit.

The Chairman noted that an Interim Dividend of G$0.16 per share was paid in December 2016.

The Directors, he continued, have recommended a Final Dividend of G$0.47 per share, which, if approved by members at the upcoming General Meeting set for April 7, would result in a total of G$0.63 per share being paid for the year 2016.

As it relates to the group’s subsidiaries, Distribution Services Limited (DSL) recorded a profit before tax of G$358 million in 2016, as against

G$313 million in 2015.

However, this increased profitability escaped the Demerara Shipping Company Limited (DSCL), which raked in a profit of G$102 million in 2016, compared with G$146 million in 2015. This decline, Samaroo explained, was as a result of the reduced volume of cargo handled by the lines represented by the shipping company.

The profitability trend completely evaded Tropical Orchard Products Co Ltd (TOPCO), which experienced a loss of G$16 million last year, whereas it had recorded a G$20 million profit the previous year.

“This was due primarily to the loss of the school feeding programme contract (which had already been awarded to an overseas company), a matter which TOPCO successfully contested at the Bids Protest Committee…

TOPCO had to write off inventory totalling G$21.2 million in packaging material and finished product,” the Chairman explained.

He explained that the performance of the Group’s overseas subsidiaries had nevertheless made up for these losses by contribut-

ing G$185 million in profit before taxation for 2016, compared with G$172 million recorded in the previous year. The Demerara Distillers St Kitts Ltd recorded a profit of G$25 million, Demerara Distillers USA Inc. recorded G$41 million profit, Demerara Rum Company Ltd recorded G$31 million profit, and the subsidiary in Europe recorded a profit of G$88 million.

According to the Chairman, notwithstanding the Group’s complete withdrawal from the commodity bulk rum market in 2016 and the consequent absence of any sales in that segment for the year, the Group’s overall revenue for 2016 increased, though marginally, over 2015 by G$89 million, or 0.5 per cent.

He added that increased sales from branded products and high-value bulk rum fully compensated for the sales foregone from the unprofitable commodity bulk rum segment, and noted that if the previous year’s revenue from the latter segment is omitted from the comparative results, the Group’s revenue would have increased by almost five per cent.

Samaroo said the revenue garnered from international sales of branded and high-value bulk rum increased in 2016 by 9.5 per cent over what had been garnered the previous year, while domestic revenue also increased in 2016 by 2.5 per cent over what had been garnered in 2015.

The DDL Chairman boasted about his company’s El Dorado brand, which continues to win accolades on the international market, once again being named in the ‘Top 10 Best Selling Rum Brands’ and the ‘Top 10 Trending Rum Brands’.

He noted that the introduction of the Diamond Reserve brand in the regional and international markets in April last year was well received, adding that the company would continue to carefully promote and reinforce its market position in the value segment until it carves its niche in the rum market.

Samaroo asserted that the launch of the ultra-premium limited edition – the 50-Year-Old Rum – strengthened the positioning of the El Dorado Rum in the high end of

the market. Additionally, in the latter part of 2016, the company launched the limited El Dorado Rum Creme Liqueur in Butter Pecan, and successfully launched the Diamond Splash Cranberry Water and Soca Ginger Ale. Going forward, the Chairman outlined, uncertainty in the global business environment presents a major challenge, which is compounded by intensified regulatory pressures locally. He nevertheless noted that the Group stands both well prepared and positioned to expand the global footprint of its rum brands, and continue its growth in this vital segment of its business.

Samaroo said Guyana’s economic outlook has been improved with the announcement of significant petro-carbon deposits offshore. To this end, the DDL Group would be expanding its several businesses to take full advan-

tage of the opportunities that may arise from improvement in the domestic economy.

“Notwithstanding the predicted uncertainties ahead, the Group remains well poised for continued growth as well as revenue and profitability expansion in the foreseeable future,” the Chairman noted.

He noted, too, that presentation of the 2017 National Budget last year was welcomed, adding that such a move allows for more effective and improved business planning for the year.

In this regard, he expressed hope that such a move to make the national economic environment more predictable, which is important to attract more investments, will be followed by an equally timely National Development Strategy and/or a National Development Plan, so that companies can align their business strategies with national policies.

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Leonora residents say facing tough times

…Opposition Leader warns more difficult times ahead

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eclining sales, piracy woes and a slowdown in the construction industry were among the issues raised by stall holders and residents at the Leonora Market, on the West Coast of Demerara, when Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, met with them on Saturday.

Jagdeo, in his capacity as People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, met with party activists in the area, and eventually departed on an impromptu walkabout through the nearby Leonora market.

This was most welcome by residents and vendors, who unburdened their problems to the former President and team, which included Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Chairman Irfaan Ali and Regional Chairman Julius Faeber.

According to Virendra Singh, the owner of two sand trucks, his business was once a thriving and integral part of the construction industry.

But times have changed and Singh told Jagdeo that he has been forced to park them and turn to cash crops in a bid to make ends meet.

Singh related that

Piracy

President Bharrat Jagdeo meeting residents of Lenora last Saturday

his daughter attends a nearby private school but the advent of 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on school fees, coupled with his crippled sand truck business, has caused him to contemplate removing her from the school.

I selling lettuce now, planting a garden. I got children going to school. Look this girl going to Swami School,” Singh said, pointing to his daughter. “They charging VAT now (on private school education), I don’t know how I will able pay the VAT. I (am) selling to maintain the family. And I own the sand trucks and I have loan in the bank.”

“When you go for the

sand, they say when the four lane done (they will) loose you early in the morning, they will loose you from six o’clock till nine o’clock, which (slows down) progress.

A morning I had to get money to send this girl to school and she couldn’t go school because they hold me up.”

Only a few days ago, sand truck operators who traverse the East Bank Demerara highway, were hit with an abrupt decision to prohibit them from plying their trade along that corridor.

The sand truck operators are especially upset over the inadequate notice given to them in regard to this decision.

When some truckers arrived at their usual area, in the vicinity of DSL Supermarket, they were greeted with “No parking for lorry” signs freshly painted on the sides of the road.

The sand truck operators formerly plied their trade on Lombard Street, but were removed by the authorities to ease traffic. They were placed in front of a paint supplier on the East Bank Highway, but were subsequently removed to the opposite side of the road after the owner complained about dust particles getting into the paint. Now the operators have been removed once again, much to their annoyance and frustration.

Meanwhile, vendors who were selling fish spoke of other challenges such as reduced customers and even piracy. One fish vendor who spoke to Guyana Times International stated that business has, of recent, been very slow.

“Right now, for the short while business (is) real slow, because the people (that) buy from you (aren’t) getting enough money. See how the market deh right now?” She queried, pointing around the market. “The price (is) real low. When it cheaper, it more hard to sell. When it rise, (it’s easier). When it plenty, everybody got.

I have five children and six grandchildren.”

Nadira (only name given), a 47-year-old vendor, has been selling fish for 15 years. Her husband is the one who braves the rain, sun and turbulent tides off the coast in order to bring home the fish she then sells. She related that her business largely fluctuates. She also spoke about pirates attacking fishermen, including her cousin.

“Sometimes it goes good, sometimes it don’t go good. I hear the fuel

gone up. Right now the fish is very cheap,” she said. “Pirates does take away them engine and so. It never happened to him (husband), but other people. Lately they (robbed) one of my cousin.”

Stalls

But while vendors situated on the roadway complained of the slowdown in business, a sojourn deep into the market revealed that things were equally rough. In fact, vendors within the market consistently complained of customers preferring to buy from vendors selling outside and close to the road.

The problem, according to the market vendors, is that some of them do not pay the market rental fees. According to Samsundar (only name given), a vendor and father of three who sells fresh vegetables deep within the market to make ends meet, these vendors on the road absorb the little customers the visit the area.

According to Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) Chairman Julius Faeber, the matter of persons selling at advantageous spots outside the market continued on page 23

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Online transportation services launched in Guyana

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ROP, an online transportation service provider, has officially launched operations in Guyana. This announcement was made via a radio broadcast and through advertisements on the company’s social media page.

DROP joins the market as the second transportation service provider conducting operations through an online mobile application. This business initia-

make transportation quick, easy and reliable for both passengers and drivers, while guaranteeing safety.

The unique business initiative allows passengers to save money with much lower rates, while giving anyone in possession of a car the opportunity to work part-time or full time in providing rides to earn an income.

Chief Executive Officer of DROP, John Singh, has said that unlike its local

Hundreds of potential passengers have already downloaded the DROP app within the few days it has been launched. Numerous drivers have also indicated interest, and have already grasped the opportunity to earn an income through this technologically-advanced approach, replacing the many conventional taxi services which have been operating throughout the country.

DROP is therefore

Integrity Commission Act: Amendments will lead to further deterioration of accountability

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

President David Granger

resident David Granger may be exempted from facing disciplinary action if he violates any of the provisions under the Integrity Commission Act, which was intended to uphold transparency and accountability in public officials.

Government has said that its proposed amendments to the Integrity Commission Act will further strengthen transparency and accountability in public office-holders, but the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) believes it is all just a veneer.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has warned that the amendments will lead to a further deterioration of transparent and accountable governance, as the Act will now bestow disciplinary powers in the hands of the Head of State and the State Minister, Joseph Harmon.

The new article stipulates: “The authority for ensuring the observance of the provisions of this Code shall rest with the President in the case of the Vice-Presidents or Minister, and the Minister of State in the case of other persons in public life.”

It further states: “A person in public life may be removed from office when he or she contravenes any of the provisions in this Code.”

Since the President and the State Minister are the authorities for ensuring public officials abide by this Act, they ultimately have the power to remove persons from public life should they believe those individuals are in breach of the Act. Therefore, Jagdeo questions: If the President has the ultimate power to remove ministers from public life, who disciplines him if he breaches the Act? Jagdeo also observed that the Act gives Minister of State Joseph Harmon the power to remove parliamentarians from office − a move which he emphasises is illegal.

According to the former President, the proposed amendments are only an attempt to destroy the Integrity Commission, but Government is contending that those pow-

ers were already vested in the President. Jagdeo has, however, outlined that the Integrity Commission had only a reporting relationship with the President. “In the past, all he had was a relationship (wherein) the Integrity Commission reported to him, and this report should be made public,” he contended.

According to the existing Act, “Where a person who is required to do so fails to file a declaration in accordance with this Act, or to furnish particulars under section 18, the Commission or the President, as the case may be, shall publish the fact in the Gazette and in a daily newspaper.”

“We saw a slew of misinformation coming from Government and their public relations apparatus. They are just arrogating more powers to the Executive; (but) without improving accountability, transparency will deteriorate with this new Act. Public relations matter more to this Government than reality,” Jagdeo stated.

He added that there appears to be a new trend in Government, wherein its ministers “openly lie” to the public, as with the case of the 50 percent salary increase. “They obfuscate issues by making excuses; they deliberately sidetrack people by subterfuge; they give comments that are ambiguous; and they equivocate on issues, all with the intent of misleading the public,” he stated.

The Opposition Leader contends that all Government Ministers should be in jail right now for committing numerous breaches of the Code of Conduct. The Code stipulates that Ministers must declare all private interests relating to duties of public officials; demonstrate objectivity in executing business; and make decisions based on merit and solely in the national interest, without benefit or personal gain.

Jagdeo had previously announced his intention to file criminal charges against members of the Government for a variety of issues for which he believes they are criminally liable.

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tive reached Guyana following the emergence and success of similar business entities, such as UBER and LYFT in the United States.

But while offering services that are similar to those which are already in existence, DROP promises to go the extra mile in providing added features which will benefit its customers. Drop claims to be Guyana’s ultimate on-demand taxi/transportation application, connecting thousands of passengers to independent drivers all across the country.

DROP is currently creating a vast network to

competitors, DROP is USA developed, engineered and supported, which means the DROP’s apps are more likely to be safer and more secure to use than any other similar apps that may be released in Guyana.

It is important to note that while customers are comparing DROP to UBER, this transportation service differs to some extent, especially in regard to plans to offer a much more customized service for Guyanese.

Furthermore, the CEO indicated, if successful in Guyana, DROP plans to roll out services throughout the Caribbean.

pleased to announce that it has been receiving excellent responses in the short period since commencing this service, and is currently recruiting drivers from all corners of Guyana. Interested car owners are invited to contact DROP at 227-0873, or to visit its offices at 20 Bel Air Road, Lamaha Gardens Georgetown to register as a driver with the company.

The DROP app is now available for download on Android and Apple iOS App Stores on mobile devices worldwide.

Leonora residents say ...

from page 22

is subject of a court case, adding that he is optimistic that it would soon be resolved.

The Opposition Leader who took note of all the concerns raised by stallholders, at one point expressed concern that the economic woes may get even worse. He noted that the Government has its priorities in disarray and also chided the Government for its expenditure.

“And there is no attention being paid to those sorts of things. All day long (they’re) running after people and their taxes,” Jagdeo decried.

Region Three is well known for its rice

and sugar cultivation. But since Government has taken the decision of closing down Wales Estate and moving some workers to Utivlugt, the PPP has warned about the potential social impact on the region. This impact had included a reduction in cash circulating.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released the preliminary findings of their report after a visit to Guyana from March 6 to 17 to hold discussions for the 2017 Article IV Consultation. In its report, IMF also warned about these effects.

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Govt challenges GTT to show company can meet needs of Guyanese …if Digicel’s Suriname bypass link be discontinued

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overnment has asked the telephone giant GTT to prove it has the capacity to meet the needs of most Guyanese, should there be a discontinuance of the Digicel link to Suriname.

GTT recently complained that this bypass was “illegal”, and called on the Government to immediately launch an independent audit into this trans-border link, although same has been active for more than five years.

P u b l i c Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes on Sunday explained that the matter has been engaging Government’s attention. She said the

Telecommunications Ministry has been in active discussion with both service providers on the matter of the unlicensed transmission of voice and data traffic by Digicel, grounded in GTT’s claims to exclusivity over all international transmissions. Hughes said her intention is to arrive at a resolution that would be in the best interest of the people of Guyana.

However, she said Government’s approach to the matter should not be misconstrued to mean that it condones acts of illegality. “This has proven to be a complex matter, exacerbated by demands of the market for adequate voice and data services. Among the issues to

Public Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes

be considered are whether GTT has sufficient data capacity to meet the needs of the market, and the degree of congestion of its network. GTT has been invited to submit relevant information and data to

clearly demonstrate that (it has) the network capacity to ensure that the people for Guyana will not be adversely affected by discontinuance of the Digicel link to Suriname,” she explained in her statement.

The Minister emphasised: “This does not mean that the Government is in any way eager to condone this activity, but in this age of such high dependence on telecommunications and the Internet for the conduct of business, learning and many activities of life, we must be satisfied that there is adequate communications available for the people.”

Hughes said that while the Government is committed to ensuring that applicable license

terms and conditions are honoured, it must similarly ensure that relevant obligations in the licences that provide for adequate service are met, and also that the needs of the people are met. “The Ministry is keenly aware that increased investment and greater network capacity (are) needed to meet the demands of consumers,” she stated.

According to Hughes, the Ministry believes that a fully liberalised and competitive sector would prevent the resurgence of claims such as those made

by GTT. However, Digicel in a statement on Sunday said that it notes GTT’s most recent statements to the press in which allegations were made in relation to the conduct of “illegal” activities by Digicel.

Digicel said that it considers these statements to be yet another irresponsible attempt by GTT to deflect from the material issues that have now been brought to bear upon the company by the onset of liberalisation in Guyana.

“Digicel wishes to state that any question of the illegality of any conduct on the part of Digicel and as to the services that Digicel can properly provide to the public can only be determined upon the judicial construction of the respective licences of both Digicel and GTT and upon consideration of all the relevant facts. At present there are matters before the court in which the court is called upon to make determinations in relation to the same issues.

One such matter is the Constitutional Motion filed by Digicel against GTT in which Digicel challenges the fundamental legality of GTT’s authorisations to operate in Guyana and the extent to which these run counter to the tenets of the Constitution of the

Republic of Guyana. It is Digicel’s view that it is only when the court has ruled on these fundamental legal principles can any determination be made in relation to legality.

GTT said on Saturday that the Digicel bypass is causing significant harm to Guyana, financially.

“With liberalisation on the horizon, the practice of equity and transparent conduct of all players is of paramount importance. It is essential that both the public and our leaders have the complete details about Digicel’s bypass operations, and that they understand the full consequences of the company’s actions, which are illegal and in direct violation of their licence,” GTT said in a release to the media.

GTT is also calling for Digicel Guyana to release documentation to show where it has made tax payments on the revenue generated by the ‘illegal’ bypass operations.

This, it stated, will determine whether or not the company has failed to pay some US$30 million to the Guyana Treasury for the past five years.

Apart from the loss of taxes, valuable spectrum is being used by Digicel Guyana, GTT contends.

“We all have a right to know whether this spectrum has in fact been stolen by Digicel,” the release stated.

Only last Tuesday, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) held a hearing to determine whether GTT’s promotions are anti-competitive, as claimed by Digicel Guyana. As a result of that hearing, it has since been determined that an assessment of the services will be conducted. This is according to Chairman of the PUC, Justice Prem Persaud. The promotion in question is the “GET MORE PAY LESS” promotion.

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Jagdeo blames Govt for foreign currency shortage

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uyana has been hit with a foreign currency crisis where supply is progressively shrinking and there is a growing demand to hoard because of the expectation that the rates will slide, according to former President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Jagdeo, during a press conference on Thursday, said Government’s lack of economic policies was to be blamed for driving the foreign currency market into panic.

“What is picking up is the demand to hold foreign currency because of the expectation that the rate is sliding. If not of transactional purposes, it is because of the expectations in people’s mind that the rate is going to slide and they want to hedge,” he reasoned.

The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) reported that the exchange rate stood at G$230 to US$1, but the Central Bank has refuted these reports.

The Opposition Leader, one of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) leading point men on the economy, said Government’s anti-business policies and burdensome tax regimes were most likely the root causes for the high level of uncertainty, which ignited the hoarding of foreign currency.

Jagdeo warned that the current state of affairs, if allowed to progress, would harm the future of all Guyanese as it would spark a major spike in prices of commodities with import content and “the little increases the Government boasted about” would be wiped out in real terms.

There will be increases in a wide range of goods, from household products like food and clothes to commercial items such as equipment and machinery.

“Someone who works at a pharmacy explained to me that the exchange rate moved by five per cent and the cost of (imported) drugs to drugstore went up to about five per cent; when you add the VAT, they would have to now charge people for drugs at least 20 per cent more than they were paying,” he explained.

The cost of local flights has already escalated as a result of the unstable foreign curren-

cy rate, which is compounded by the 14 per cent VAT. Jagdeo highlighted that expensive domestic air travel went against President David Granger’s dream to connect the hinterland and the coastal regions.

“I can only urge the Government to drop the VAT on interior flights, but then I have been calling on them to drop the taxes on everything else, which is counterproductive to their own stated objectives and the calls are not falling on receptive ears,” Jagdeo stated.

Reports are that the Chief Executive Officer of the Roraima Group of Companies, Captain Gerry Gouveia has already instructed that tickets for his flights must be sold in US currency instead of Guyana dollars.

Jagdeo emphasised that Government, which he labelled as either unconcerned or incompetent, needed to shift its focus from burdening the citizens with taxes and start implementing policies which encourage production, especially in areas which generate foreign revenue like mining, forestry and agriculture.

Failure to do so, Jagdeo predicted, will result in an underground foreign currency market.

In fact, he shared the view of Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma, that the black market was already in operation with cambios conducting underground deals by selling to preferred customers at rates above the market value.

“The cambios themselves will, maybe in some cases, post one rate on the receipt and people have been doing this already. So you are my preferred customer, you pay me G$225 or 230, but I will put G$215 on the receipt for the central bank purpose,” Jagdeo said, noting that this move would cause the Government to lose taxes.

Jagdeo also said he has received information that officials of Government’s “finance apparatus” have been going around to non-bank cambios, instructing them that the US dollar must not be sold for more than G$215.

“They are saying if you sell beyond G$215, it will affect your licence,” Jagdeo said.

WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

The benefits of having pets

By Ashley Anthony

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realise that in many of my articles I speak about my interests, which for the most part have been academic-centric, but rarely venture into the different aspects of my life that I care about. A large part of my identity is that I am a pet owner and animal lover. I believe that having pets has enriched my life. I know that not everyone will share this view, but for those considering getting a pet and are on the fence, hear me out.

Pets can help you grow socially. They can be used to teach children (and sometimes young adults) the responsibility of caring for a living thing. This is perhaps the most obvious way that pets help one to grow socially. Once you have a pet, you have instant connection to other pet owners. You can meet people who

share your interests at the vet, in the park, or even just on the street. Pets can also help cheer you up. If you are lonely, or feeling down, a happy puppy wanting to play can sometimes be just what you need.

Pets also come with health benefits. Although it may seem counterintuitive to some budding parents, exposing children to animals at a young age makes it less likely that they will develop allergies in the future, and according to research produced from the University of Wisconsin, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, children who are exposed early on to animals have stronger immune systems on average. Pets can also give great motivation to exercise. If you’ve wanted to take up jogging, but haven’t found the will power, an energetic dog can be your companion.

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Of course, pets are a great responsibility. They need to be cared for with love, and they are sometimes expensive to upkeep. However, having a pet can mean making a lifelong friend. It’s up to you to decide if you’re up to the challenge.

On the note of treating animals with love, even if an animal is not your pet, you should still treat it kindly. If there are strays in your area, do not go out of your way to frighten, agitate or chase them. Yes, they might pose a health risk, but instead of trying to harm them, why not contact the Guyana Society for Prevention of Cruelty against Animals, and see if they can take them off your hands? And if on the flipside, you’re looking to get a pet, a good idea might be to adopt one of the lovely animals they have right there.

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Legendary music composer, concert pianist Joyce Ferdinand-Lalljie

A cover of one of her music albums

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Joyce Ferdinand-Lalljie

oyce FerdinandLalljie was a Guyanese child prodigy who began playing one of her mother’s piano pieces when she was just three years old.

She and her younger sister, Mavis, both became concert pianists and were known as the “two Ferdinand girls”.

Joyce is credited as being the first black woman to play a full piano concerto.

In his article on radio in British Guiana for the 1951 Chronicle Christmas Annual, Albert E L Isaacs described Joyce FerdinandLalljie (later Joyce Ferdinand-Saunders) as one of the “Big Finds” of local radio (and stage) during 1951. Isaacs’ article stated that Joyce Ferdinand-Lalljie’s genius was shared with the people of British Guiana through the radio programmeBerbice Calling, produced by Olga LopesSeale on ZFY. Joyce was born in 1923 in New Amsterdam, Berbice. Her mother, Edith Ferdinand, was an important musical personality in New Amsterdam. She was a music teacher and organist at both St Patrick’s Anglican Church and Mission Chapel Congregational Church.

Joyce’s other teacher in British Guiana was Mrs Ruby McGregor. It was under her tutelage that Joyce earned the Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music (Piano Performing) in 1948.

By 1951, Joyce was the toast of the nation.

She dominated classical music and was celebrated for her performances

on the British Council broadcasts.

As mentioned earlier, Isaacs described her as one of the “big finds”, and the Guiana Times voted her ‘Musician of the Year’ in 1951.

Charles Knights remembers her as the first Guyanese to perform a piano concerto with the British Guiana Philharmonic Orchestra. This was before the performance by Winifred Atwell, the celebrated Trinidadian pianist.

In 1946, Joyce married Rev William Lalljie.

He was very supportive of her and encouraged her to continue her musical career. Joyce’s musical career took her to the United Kingdom, the United States, and back to Guyana.

Before leaving for the UK on a British Council scholarship in the early 1960s, Joyce relocated to Georgetown, where she established herself as an innovative teacher, performer and composer.

The British Council scholarship enabled Joyce to study at the Trinity College of Music in London. There she completed diploma programmes in piano education and the teaching of music in schools.

She was awarded the Fellowship of the Trinity College of Music in 1964.

Between 1964 and 1976, Joyce taught music in Birmingham.

According to the Snijders and Loncke, editors of “One Hundred Years of Classical Music in the Guianas: Selected continued on page 35

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ften when people explore the rainforest, there is much interest in the birds and other rainforest animals.

But the world of plants is equally enchanting and Guyana’s forest, with an excess of 8,000 plant species, presents a haven for plant lovers.

The Soft Wallaba (Eperuafalcata) is a super important tree for Guyana. Often we see our electrical wires strung from wooden poles, which are made from this species and it takes a very special skill

Soft Wallaba flowers

to create this important value added timber product.

Soft Wallaba is a tree with a straight trunk, and can be distinguished by long reddish hanging fruit pods (once fruiting) that adorn the tree like Christmas tree decorations.

According to Guyana Forestry Commission’s “Guyana Woods – 21 Species” publication, (revised 2004), the heartwood of the Soft Wallaba is reddish-brown in colour, with dark gum streaks which tend to spread over the surface.

Soft Wallaba seedling

The sapwood is pale in colour and is sharply defined from the heartwood. The texture is coarse and the grain is typically straight. The bole, or trunk, is 15-20m in length and diameter is approximately 60cm and occasionally up to 100cm.

The publication added that Soft Wallaba heartwood is highly resistant to decay and subterranean termites, and is fairly resistant to dry wood termites.

Due to its resistance being extremely high, Soft Wallaba has excellent properties for transmission poles, flag staffs, marine and bridge construction in non-teredo areas owing to its strength and durability.

It is suitable for general heavy construction, utility and industrial floors and chemical vat staves.

Additionally, the timber is used to make fence staves, fence posts and shingles for roofing.

A leguminous tree, the seeds may be eaten by rodents in events of the scarcity of other fruits. The flowers are a staple resource for monkeys (howlers, spider,

and sakis) during the dry season.

It is a generalist species so it can be found in all forest types, but is codominant in Wallaba forest type on white, highly drained sands. When you visit Iwokrama you can find it on all the tourist trails. It certainly will be one of the tree species the Iwokrama’s guides will be happy to show you.

Ecotourism is one of the important components of Iwokrama’s strategy for financial self-sufficiency. Visits to Iwokrama directly contribute to the communities in and surrounding the Iwokrama forest.

Tourism there supports the development of an eco-friendly sustainable model, which is being shared locally, nationally and internationally.

The Iwokrama forest and the Rupununi wetlands and savannahs offer visitors exceptional natural and cultural experience set in a learning context. Iwokrama is a place for all ages and all interests and you choose what you want to do.

At Iwokrama, you can retrace the footsteps of the Makushi people, wander the extensive trail system and discover the unforgettable flora,

Soft Wallaba pods hanging from the tree branches

fauna and Amerindian history so special to this tropical paradise.

The Iwokrama forest is an extraordinary destination for naturalists, birders and anyone seeking an authentic retreat to the jungle.

For more of the tours that Iwokrama offers, call the Iwokrama of-

fice on (592) 225-1504 to speak with Chauncy or Diana or email tourism@iwokrama.org.

Visit http://iwokramariverlodge.com or check out Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development on Facebook. (Photos by Dr. Raquel Thomas)

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The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

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'Jahaji - An Anthology of Indo-Caribbean Fiction' by Frank Birbalsingh

he anthology has an invaluable role to play and an unenviable task in collating, packaging, preserving and distributing a country’s literary and cultural heritage.

Consequently, the anthology ought to be a flexible instrument to execute a number of exploits. The anthology ought to bring out the best; bring attention to bear on the lesser known, but significant; have a fair representa-

tion of the literary landscape; and to provide writers with a wider audience. Additionally, the anthology ought to be able to form a link between the writer and the reader, stimulating discussion and debate; it ought to be some sort of record of achievement of a people, serving to build a sense of national pride. The anthology ought to provide periodic assessments, acting as a barometer of a nation’s progress in certain areas

'Sky Dance, An Anthology of Poems by Guyanese of Indian Ancestry'

of certain periods.

Significantly, anthologies mark certain momentous periods in the history of a country, like a golden jubilee, a centenary or any other significant milestone.

This is a tall order for an anthology of any country during any era.

Such a mandate very often results in omissions due to lack of space excluding longer materials, and therefore a true representation of the landscape (littered by prolific writers, writers with a small oeuvre of lengthy pieces or writers straddling different periods) may be absent. An anthology may suffer from inadequate funding, lack of access to certain works, copyright constraints, and a subjection to an anthologist’s personal preferences and prejudice. This last challenge - to be precise, shortcoming - can be overlooked, except when the omission is blatant as with the case with Guyana’s first anthology of poetry. This first anthology of poetry did not include any Guyanese writers of Indian ancestry, even though they were known of by Cameron who said in his “Introductory Essay” that Joseph Ruhomon and C. E. J. Ramcharitar-Lalla are “adding their contribution to our stock of religious poetry”. That anthology came out in 1941.

In response, Ramcharitar-Lalla produced the first “Anthology of Local Indian Verse” published in 1934, so the above omission can be taken as a blessing in disguise.

Why it took half of a century for the next such anthology to surface is open to speculation. What we know, however, is that it took a cultural icon with a passion and leaning towards Indian predicament and wellbeing to make that bold move. So we find in 1986, Laxhmi Kallicharan producing “SHRAADANJALI”, another slim volume but important in that it marked a sort of turning point in the Indian literary tradition.

Five years later, Kampta Karran produced “An Introduction to the Poetry of the East Indian Diaspora 1901-1991”. This was a substantial collection and aptly subtitled,“A Celebration of Guyanese East Indian Poets”.

That anthology was divided into six sections, namely “Section One:

Patriotism”, “Section Two: Estate”, “Section Three: Protest”, “Section Four: Nature”, “Section Five: Culture” and “Section Six: Children’s Perception”. The book included works by established writers, emerging writers and little-known writers.

“They Came In Ships - An Anthology of Indo-Guyanese Prose and Poetry”, selected

by Lloyd Searwar, Ian McDonald, Laxhmie Kallicharan and Joel Benjamin, was published in 1988 to mark the 150th anniversary of the arrival of East Indians from India to Guyana.

At the time of publication of the book, it was felt that the contribution of Indians to the development of Guyana was well-documented,‘save and except’ their contribution to society in the arts. So there was a need for such a document, and what a source document it turned out to be. The fact that it remains relevant to this day is a testimony of its scope and import.

In the wake of “They Came in Ships”, anthologies seem to be rolling off the press at a brisk pace. In 1997, “Sky Dance, An Anthology of Poems by Guyanese of Indian Ancestry” was edited and published by Roopnandan Singh. In 2000, “Jahaji: An Anthology of IndoCaribbean Fiction” by Frank Birbalsingh was released, followed in 2001 by “Just a Number” (poems) by Roopnandan Singh. In 2008, “An Anthology of Caribbean Poetry for Carifesta X”, edited by Petamber Persaud with introduction by Al Creighton, was published. This was followed by “An Anthology of Contemporary Verse from Guyana”,which was edited by Petamber Persaud with an introduction by Dr. Lynn Macedo and came out in 2013.

It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the ‘national’ and international anthologies which included the works of Indians. Those include “Voices of Guyana” edited by Donald Trotman (1968), “Independence Ten” produced by the National History and Arts Council (1976), and “A Treasury of Guyanese Poetry” edited by A. J. Seymour (1980).

With such mandate attached to the anthology, we now look forward with great expectations to an anthology marking

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'They Came in Ships - An Anthology of Indo-Guyanese Prose and Poetry'

the centennial end to indentureship (2017) and one to mark the bicentenary (2038) of the arrival of Indians.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-

0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com What’s Happening: Coming soon - A new pocketbook, “Guyanese Writers of Indian Ancestry”

Legendary music...

from page 31

Pieces for Pianoforte”, Joyce returned to Guyana in 1976 to accept an appointment as a lecturer at the Cyril Potter Teachers’ Training College.

Although her stay in Guyana was relatively short, she did engage in a number of activities that influenced her music creativity. Among the activities were renewing her contact with Guyanese folk music and her engagement with ‘Broadcast to Schools’.

In the late 1980s, Joyce made another trip to Guyana. The period following those visits has been marked by compositions celebrating the Guyanese landscape.

In her correspondence with the editors of “One Hundred Years of Classical Music in the Guianas: Selected Pieces for Pianoforte”, she explained: “The effect on me was profound, and thoughts of Guyana and the difference in lifestyle produced acute nostalgia. I was compelled to use the only means of expression at my disposal, and it was this feeling that impelled me into composing.”

Joyce has composed for viola, flute, voice, and pianoforte. Her “Carousel for Flute” was premiered by Guyanese flautist Keith Waithe.

Among her compositions for pianoforte are “Odyssey of the Demerara River”, “Three O’Clock in Bourda”, “The Legend of Kai”, “Stabroek Blues”, “Water Lily Canal by Moonlight”, and “Janie Gal”.

In a Jan 2015 letter to a local newspaper, in which E B John wrote that he learnt about the passing of Joyce Ferdinand-Lalljie, he stated that Joyce’s “devotion to Guyanese music and song was steadfast, and not long ago she recorded Seymour’s “Legend of Kaieteur” there in Birmingham”.

Joyce is, without doubt, a Guyanese music legend. (www.guyanesegirlsrock.com)

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This week's Crossword

This week's Puzzle

see solution on page 47

Criteria…

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…for GECOM’s chair

o choose a new Dalai Lama for Tibetian Buddhists, Grand Lamas scour the land interviewing young boys to discern who might be the last Dalai Lama’s reincarnation. Now you know this can’t be easy…and it takes years. But at least they have some criteria – including which direction the smoke blew when the last Dalai Lama was cremated! You won’t be surprised, dear reader, to discover the process takes years.

Well, it’d appear we’re in a similar process of reading smoke signals to select the next chair of GECOM. After the PNC’d gamed the electoral system for two decades by having a Judge as the Elections Chair, President Carter, as the referee, had brokered a deal between the PPP and PNC to add “or any other fit and proper person” to being a Judge to select the Chair. Everything was hunky dory for another two decades until now.

Prezzie, who though “sober as a judge” but NOT a judge, had been nominated once by the PNC’s Hoyte, suddenly decided he only wanted judges to be proposed by the Opposition. Some unkindly persons suggested he wanted to return to the days when the PNC routinely rigged election with a Judge guarding the “sanctity of ballots”. But your Eyewitness didn’t think Prezzie would do that, would he?

Anyhow, after a painful period of the lawyers on both sides hurling explications and hermeneutical exegeses of esoteric words like “or”, “other” and “fit” (“persons” seemed to be uncontested!) Prezzie decided to issue the criteria for the GECOM Chair.

Some naïve (or battle weary) souls breathed a sigh of relief – but not your (jaded) Eyewitness. And he’s now vindicated.

Since the person proffered by the Opposition must be “not unacceptable to the President”, Prezzie appeared reasonable to at least signal “where he was coming from”. But he stated, “The individual must not be an activist of any form (gender, racial, religious, etc); that the person must have no political affiliation; and that the person should have the general characteristics of honesty, integrity, faithfulness, and diligence.”

Whew!! And here your Eyewitness though finding a Dalai Lama was tough!! “No activist of any stripe need apply!” Would a person like Prezzie who’s taken a firm stance for Reparations, justice for African Guyanese and their culture, etc, be rejected as an “African activist”? “NO political affiliation”? Does such a political unicorn exist in divided Guyana? Forget “honesty, integrity, and diligence”…how the heck does one ensure “faithfulness”??

But what the heck. Didn’t Caesar divorce his wife – not because she was unfaithful – but that even an accusation could be made against her?

In Guyana, GECOM’s Chair must be purer than Caesar’s wife. …for firing Town Clerk What’s going on here? Bulkan can beat up on Linden Town Clerk Jonellor Bowen by revoking her appointment – but not Royston King? Between Bowen and King, who’s been more “disruptive” and “disrespectful”? King was not only dissed the other City Councillors and the Deputy Mayor, but even Bulkan on several occasions. Not to mention the Cabinet on the request to suspend the Parking Meter Contract. All Bowen did was to object to the high-handed attitude of the Linden Mayor…something others have also pointed out.

So, we wonder if it’s because Bowen is female?

When a male like King makes his point forcefully, he’s showing “leadership” qualities. But when a female does the same, she’s being “disrespectful” and even “hysterical”! But it’s also clear Bowen doesn’t have the godfathers in the PNC like King does when even Bulkan can’t touch him.

But Bulkan has revealed why he and the Cabinet have refused to comply with the law and launch the Local Government Commission.

They can “do what dey want wid” Local Government!! …for curfew Ramjattan quite portentously announced as to how he was mulling to bring down the curfew against bars opening, to 12 midnight.

Until Harmon bitch-slapped him something silly!!

Ouch!! Silly man thought he had authority!!

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Encouraging art for the environment

Haymesha Persaud

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Poonraj Lall

he Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), developed by the United Nations, are the world’s timebound and quantified targets for addressing extreme poverty in its many dimensions-income poverty, hunger, disease, lack of adequate shelter and exclusion, while promoting gender equality, education and environmental sustainability.

For 2017, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) has chosen to focus on the seventh MDG, Environmental Sustainability, by using art to encourage youths and others to preserve their environments.

GBTI believes that policies, institutions, and strategies for protecting, conserving and enhancing natural resources should be strengthened to deliver an enabling environment.

In light of this, GBTI provided an avenue, via its Calendar Art Competition, for Guyana’s children to illustrate how we all can ensure environmental sustainability. The winning art pieces are showcased on the Bank’s 2017 calendar.

The aim of this initiative is to encourage people to reflect on ways they can preserve the environment.

Twenty-seven schools across the administrative regions of Guyana were randomly chosen to participate in this year’s Calendar Art Competition. These schools were chosen based on previous years’ schools participation in the competition.

The theme “Ensuring Environmental Sustainability”was chosen. Additionally, this is in keeping with the Bank’s push for a ‘green’ economy.

Out of the 27 schools that were contacted, 12 schools submitted entries, which amounted to 106 art pieces.

North West Secondary School, Anna Regina Multilateral School, Annandale Secondary School, Bishop’s High School, Marian’s Academy, School of the Nations, West Demerara

Poonraj Lall's art

Secondary School, Cove and John Secondary School (renamed Hope Secondary School); Patentia Secondary School, Skeldon Linepath Secondary School, Waramadong Secondary School, and Bartica Secondary School were this year’s participants.

The targeted age groups for the competition were 11-17 years old taken from Grades 7 to 11, inclusive of the Sixth Form level. The students were required to send in their artworks along with a write-up explaining their artistic representation of the theme, “Ensuring Environmental Sustainability”.

Three judges were chosen from the Burrowes School of Art and the Guyana Women’s Artist Association.

Six winners emerged: Mya Hall, 13, and Rennata Nickram, 13, both from Bishop’s High School; Haymesha Persaud, 14, from Marian’s Academy; Aaron Gangadeen, 12, from Skeldon Line Path Secondary School; Somita Paul, 16, from School of the Nations, and Poonraj Lall, 14, from Anna Regina Secondary School.

Describing her artwork, Mya Hall said: “My poster depicts ways in which we can sustain the environment. It shows the planting of trees, recycling, saving energy and the use of solar panels.”

Haymesha Persaud pointed out that her “drawing illustrates changing our ways of doing things. If anything can be done without the overuse of resources, we can try to get the task done without wasting these resources”. She added that her art piece states that “it is your choice if you want to make the world a better place”.

“The background of the scene [in artwork] is mostly mountainous containing a bright red barn with magnificent hilly fields enriched with agricultural crops, which are grown neatly in beds. At the right side of the field is a beautiful blue lake where fishing is done. On

the right is a temporary park closed due to cleaning which is done by the environmental agencies.

In the centre of both parks is a majestic blue rapidly flowing river forming three waterfalls. In conclusion, this scene is magnificent and is associated

with mostly everything in the ecosystem; big, small, colourful and most splendid landscape God has created on the Earth”, youngAaron Gangadeen added.

From School of Nations, Somita Paul noted: “Our environment and the world we live in have amazing abilities when we consider all the different kinds of organisms.

The earth itself is capable

Haymesha Persaud's art

of replenishing used up resources to sustain these organisms.

However, mankind has pushed the limits of the earth’s ability to replenish because of the ever increasing rate of how fast we use these resources and it is damag-

ing the environment. We are depleting millions of years’ worth of fuel in mere decades. It is not going to last forever. What will we do then? Well, the earth has provided us with an alternative uscontinued on page 40

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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 (Nelumbonucifera) is an aquatic plant that produces individual leaves and flowers directly from a root system. Its leaves float on the water or are 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 flower spreads about four to eight inches across and has pink petals. The receptacle holds the seeds (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

An edible, useful utensil

A man, partially submerged in water, cuts the leaves of the lotus for use as receptacles

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 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 post-Vedic 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 somebody who carries out their tasks with little concern for any reward and with a full liberation from attachment.

Inspiring manmade objects

Lotus plants stay dirtfree, 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 selfcleaning 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 adhesion 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.

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, “seven-curry” is only enjoyed in lotus leaves at Hindu 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 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.

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WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Graduates of Medex programme still awaiting employment

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early two years after completing the Public Health Ministry’s Medex programme, several graduates are still awaiting employment.

Guyana Times International was told on Tuesday that 25 graduates who successfully completed the four-year training programme in 2015, are still awaiting placements at health facilities. This situation has persisted despite the students having completed their three-month internship requirement in early 2016.

One of the aggrieved medical personnel explained the group was first promised placements at health centres across the country, almost one year ago.

“After [receiving training between] 20112015, they (Public Health Ministry) had us on internship.

Afterwards

in April 2016, they said we’re gonna start working because we were assigned to the various health centres, who [would be] going to region Eight or Nine,” the student highlighted.

It was further disclosed that their grievances were initially communicated through the then Chief Medex, and Director of Health Sciences and Education Faculty, Public Health Ministry, Wilton Benn.

This newspaper understands that Benn was expected to undertake measures to revise the medex curriculum, to award students with a University qualification.

“The curriculum was supposed to be revised and we were supposed to be accredited by the University of Guyana with an associate diploma. With revising the curriculum, he (Wilton Benn) was supposed to submit it to the University of Guyana. Four years passed during the time of the training and he apparently didn’t revise it,” another frustrated student pointed out.

It was noted that the medex graduates were “promised” that as soon as their training finished, they would commence work.

“We’ve been home over a year; we were supposed to start working and that never happened and we called to find out what’s going on, they gave us different story [saying] that some of the documents already gone up to UG [but] when you called up to UG, there’s nothing there,” this publication was told.

This newspaper however understands that current Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence met with several persons within the University but

it is unclear if the students’ concerns were discussed or addressed. The students claim that they made attempts to contact the Minister.

“We asked this year to get an audience with the now Minister of Health, [Volda Lawrence] but we never got through to her office but we got an email saying that she is meeting with the University of Guyana .

The students have recently sought legal advice in efforts to seek redress for their non-placement.

“Since it’s been a year, [we met] with a lawyer because our contract is nulled as a year is finished, meaning the Government doesn’t have a contract with us anymore. We are trying to work around that but it seems to be in vain too,” this publication was further told.

A delegation of students took their concerns to the Ministry of the Presidency but they were reportedly told at the gates to leave their contact information. The students claim that to date, they have not been contacted. “We called and never got through so everything was like a dead end because everybody is saying that they’re gonna get back to us”.

Earlier this month, several students who graduated from the University’s pharmacy programme had claimed that their lives were at a virtual standstill as they had been waiting for several months to commence their internship programme at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

This programme is necessary for those students to obtain their licences to practise their craft.

GBTI 2017... ing renewable energy resources; solar, hydroelectric and wind power. This is what I decided to be the focus of my poster. By implementing these three things in our daily life, we can ensure that the environment is sustained in a way beneficial to nature.”

Thirteen-year-old Rennata said her poster “depicts people saving the environment by planting trees and flowers. Not only planting them, but taking care of the trees and flowers.”

Poonraj Lall stated in his description that “our environment reflects us.

It is our home; therefore, it is extremely important to take into consideration our activities and how theyaffectthe environment. It is our duty to ensure a healthy, green and safe environment for all. This can be done by ensuring clear water in

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drains, practising proper waste disposal; avoid contaminating the water with pollutants such as garbage. Clear water also contributes towards the survival of our marine species/lives. Planting of trees alongside roadways can help to bind/hold the soil together to prevent the land from eroding. We can dispose of waste products by burying instead of burning as burning emits harmful gases such as carbon dioxide which becomes trapped resulting in air pollution and global warming. Let us practise these actions and we will definitely experience less environmental issues”.

The winners were given GBTI’s Early Savers Gift Voucher for the sum of GYD$20,000.

For more information, visit www.gbtibank.com (Information and photos

by GBTI)

WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

The Indian Guyanese aesthetic

By Ryhaan Shah

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anga Ship 1917: The Long Journey” is a visual arts exhibition that celebrates the Indian Guyanese aesthetic on this historic centenary of the abolition of the indentureship programme, and is named for the last ship, the SS Ganges, which brought indentured labourers to Guyana and Trinidad.

The exhibition will be held at the National Library, Georgetown starting Tuesday, March 28th, and is sponsored by the Arts Forum and GIIAA (Guyana Indian Indentureship Abolition Association).

It celebrates the aesthetic and creative sensibility which survived the long journey to Guyana and has become part of the cultural weave of our plural society.

The domes and minarets of mosques and mandirs; the Indian drums and the Muslim call to prayer; the jandi flags and the smells and taste of Indian cuisine; the intricacy of filigree jewellery, and the bright rose pinks, saffrons and golds of Indian dresses are all part of the local scene, and are all Guyanese to the core.

There has been some evolution due to Western influences, but the traditional sensibility towards colour, form and pattern has been retained by the descendants of the first arrivals, and continues to provide a good measure of authenticity to Indian Guyanese artistry and design.

In India, art is not restricted to gallery exhibits, but stretches to other forms, like pottery, home decorations, ornaments, fabrics and jewellery. This living art is ever present in saris and tunic designs, in henna paintings and home decor through rangoli creations and sequinned wall hangings, and in the festivities of weddings and other celebrations.

Art is intrinsic to India’s cultural identity, and this heritage is readily embraced

by Indian Guyanese through an aesthetic that is shaped from diverse communities since our fore-parents arrived here from various Indian regions with their respective customs and traditions.

They came from southern India through the port of Madras; and from the north east, from the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, through the port of Calcutta; and even from their first step into the immigration depot, they had to put aside caste and other differences and bond together in jahaji

groups, a shipboard bond that was unifying and which helped them survive life in a new world.

Retaining their beliefs and culture was a major part of that survival, and this initial fusing of various Indian strands has created a distinct artistry that is recognised as Indian Guyanese expression.

Because it embodies the majestic classicism of the Taj Mahal and the vibrancy of folk art, the body of work created by artists from this community brings a unique perspective to the nation’s collection of creative design.

One of the exhibition’s participating artists, Betsy Karim, has constructed installation costumes that pay homage to the Hindu gods Ganesha, Shiva and Durga, working with her signature beaded and sequinned designs on fabric.

These pieces were displayed by live models at the exhibition’s formal opening on March 28th at 5pm.

Darshani Kistama, an emerging artist, also works with fabrics, and will be showing one of her Rajput sari designs along with more traditional works on canvas done in acrylic and water colour.

Two other newcomers whose pieces will be showcased for the first time in an art exhibition are Brian Tamkund and Ramroop Mahase; and other more recognised artists participating will be Michael Khan, Philbert Gajadhar, and Bernadette Persaud, whose works have won national and regional acclaim.

In Guyana, artistic expression by way of fine art – as opposed to street art – is not well valued or understood for its importance to national life. Such works go beyond photographic representations and can inspire discussion and pose thought-provoking ideas about the nation’s politics, society, and cultural life.

However, many businesses do not view support for the visual arts as a corporate responsibility, and many local artists are therefore dependent on governmental support, even when such funding can undermine the independence needed for the creation of good work that is untainted by propagandist and political bias.

Art is important to a nation’s collective consciousness. It begins where words leave off or even fail because of their structural and expressive limitations.

Art is limited only by the individual artist’s imagination, and for the Indian Guyanese artist who

By Ryhaan Shah has both traditional forms, techniques and colours, and ideas from postmodern constructs to draw on, the possibilities are endless.

“Ganga Ship 1917: The Long Journey” offers a glimpse into this narrative of creative expression. The exhibition starts on March 28th and runs until Saturday, April 1st at the National Library.

There is no entrance fee, and everyone is invited to the formal opening at 5pm on Tuesday, March 28th.

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42 Travel & Tourism

WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Foothills of the Kanuku Mountains

Scenic view of the Kanuku Mountains from Maparri River

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he Kanuku mountain range lies in the southern half of Guyana, Region Nine, and runs east to west,dividing the north and south Rupununi. These mountains are internationally recognised as being extremely rich in biodiversity.

The Kanukus contain habitats as diverse as gallery forests, lowland forests and montane evergreen forests and savannah. It is home to 70% of all mammals and 53% of all birds known to exist in Guyana.

At least five of the South American giants live at the Kanuku Mountains the Harpy Eagle, Black Caiman, Giant River Otter, Arapaima fish and the Giant Anteater.

The Macushi and Wapishana peoples make up the populationsliving in communities in or near to the Kanuku Mountains, caring and wisely using the resources in traditional ways.

Nappi, a Macushi Amerindian community, is found sitting in the hills of the Kanuku Mountains.

A house in Nappi with the Kanuku Mountains in the background

Nappi Creek, Kanuku Mountains (Photo by Julie de Carvalho)

WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

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Policymakers discuss way forward for Region’s sugar industry

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he ability of the regional sugar industry to survive after the removal of production quotas in the European Union (EU) on September 30 will depend on improved competitiveness and pragmatic diversification options, according to a Caricom Secretariat official.

The end of the EU’s quota management system for sugar is expected to lead to a fall in prices towards the international sugar price and a decrease in sugar imports from the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states, with particular impact on Caribbean producers.

During an address at

the opening of a Regional Policy Workshop in Kingston, Jamaica, recently that examined the Caribbean Sugar Industry Post-2017, Caricom Secretariat Programme Manager (Agriculture and Industry) Nisa Surujbally spoke of the challenges facing the Region.

“We have witnessed major structural changes in the operations of our sugar industries, including the exit from sugar production of two member states, Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts and Nevis. Nevertheless, we are mindful of the vital role and contribution of the sugar sectors to the economies of Barbados, Belize, Guyana and

Jamaica. Survivability of these industries, after the removal of production quotas in the EU on September 30, 2017, will – in no small measure – be a function of improved competitiveness, securing more remunerative markets, value addition, an enabling policy regime within the Caricom Single Market and Economy, and, not lastly, practical and pragmatic diversification options.

“I say this as a technical official while being acutely aware of the emotional associations we have with our Region’s oldest economic sector.

This industry is responsible for us being here and has coloured our history from colonisation to

slavery to indentureship and to independence. It is not an easy time! Now is crunch time,” she told the gathering.

The workshop was convened by the Sugar Association of the Caribbean (SAC) and hosted at JAMPRO with the advice and support of The Caribbean Council, the Caricom Secretariat, and JAMPRO. It was funded by the EU, United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Office, ASR Group, and the Inter-American Development Bank

(IDB). The workshop brought together industry leaders and policymakers to inform and facilitate an in-depth discussion of how the Caribbean sugar industry now needed to adapt to the new market realities and the policy options available to both industry and regional Governments.

The sessions focused on an outlook of the global sugar market and sugar prices; the 2017 EU sugar reform and short-term threats to the Caribbean sugar industry; access to new markets and opportunities; increasing productivity and competitiveness; managing the politics of transforming sugar industries; and adapting to climate change.

There were also panel discussions that explored the trade and tariff policy options that are open to Caribbean policymakers, as well as the policy measures that they could adopt to support a viable sugar industry.

Surujbally gave the assurance of the Secretariat’s continued support to the sugar industry of Caricom, through its active participation in the dialogue and framing of the policy options for decisionmakers. The Caricom Secretariat has a longstanding relationship with the SAC, which es-

tablished in the 1930s.

SAC is an accredited organisation at meetings of the Council of Trade and Economic Development (COTED,) and has regularly brought recommendations to the Ministers of Agriculture and Trade for decision-making. The Secretariat, Surujbally pointed out, also participates in SAC meetings, and through this close association has facilitated the regional sugar industry in resolving several matters.

SAC Chairman Karl James said “with our exports still focused on EU markets, the Caribbean sugar industry faces a period of instability and change, and must urgently adapt in order to meet the challenge of competing with other sugar-producing nations worldwide which have lower production costs or in a global market heavily distorted by trade barriers and Government support. The prospect of the exit of the United Kingdom from the EU further adds to the uncertainty ahead.”

He said the focus must be on identifying the practical next steps that the industry and Governments could take as priority measures to reinvigorate the sugar sector and provide it with the means to prosper and grow in the 21st Century.

Golden Grove man dies after car slams into culvert

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27-year-old employee of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was killed on Tuesday after he reportedly slammed into a culvert along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

Dead is Nizamudeen Muhammed, also known as “Dwain”, of Lot 616 Section A, Block Y, Golden Grove, (EBD).

Reports are that about 00:10h, Muhammed was proceeding north along the western side of the road when his motor car, with registration number PRR 4768, collided with the metal rail of a culvert in the vicinity of Land of Canaan Public Road. This caused the

vehicle to topple several times, before coming to a halt. Muhammed was thrown out of the vehicle as a result of the impact. He was picked up in an unconscious state by public-spirited persons and rushed to the Diamond hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

This newspaper was told that Muhammed was returning home from work when the accident occurred. Reports are that Muhammed was the only child of his parents who reside overseas.

His body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Parlour to await a postmortem examination.

WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Sleaze and maleficence

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atiricus was on a roll. He’d just polished off a very nice meal with his wife, Caustic, at the new New Trusting Restaurant for his wife’s birthday. She was so pleased, she didn’t even protest when Satiricus said he was joining the fellas at the Back Street Bar. Thank heavens for Dim Sun and Roast Duck! Then there was the promise his leader had just made.

“You hear what Nagga Man just said, fellas?” he burst out to his friends who were just downing their first beer. “No more sleaze and maleficence!!”

“Me know wha’ sleaze,” confessed Bungi.

“But wha’ a “mali-fish-sense”? Da like six sense??”

“No Bungi…Maleficence mean to do bad thing,” said Satiricus patiently. “Nagga Man emphasised he’s in charge of governance and there will be no more sleazy behaviour and people doing bad things in his government.”

“So Nagga Man is charge of governance, eh?” ask Hari said as his eyebrows arched. “So how come he was on the pharma warehouse investigating committee and Barry still collecting rent?”

“Well, he is in charge of governance, but Trotty was the Chair of the Committee, you know,” said Satiricus defensively.

“But if ‘e na want sleaze?” asked Bungi, “wha’ mek he na bring out de Code fuh control dem Minista suh dem na guh do mali-fish-sense?”

“Well, he pushing the law behind the scene,” said Satiricus. “And as soon as it’s finished, no more sleaze and maleficence!”

“But if he doesn’t have the rule in place,” pointed out Hari. “Ministers will keep on saying they didn’t know their maleficence was maleficence!”

“Yes!’ exclaimed Bungi. “After Nagga Man and Trotty seh dat Barry can keep de warehouse and still collect rent fuh store candum, look wha’ Volga do!”

“What Volga do?” asked Hari with a grin as he looked at Bungi. “Didn’t you hear that Trotty said he understand what she did because she is he friend?”

“Da soun’ like sleaze AND mali-fish-sense to me, Sato!!” said Bungi with a wider grin. “$605 million wort’ of sleaze and mali-fish-sense!’

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

Maha Navaratri

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“Ya Kundendu Tusharahara Dhavala Ya Shubhra Vastravrita Ya Veena Varadanda Manditakara Ya Shveta Padmasana Ya Brahmachyuta Shankara Prabhritibihi Devaih Sada Pujita Sa Mam Pattu Saravatee Bhagavatee Nihshesha Jadyapaha

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Anu Dev

alutations to Devi Saraswati, Who is pure white like Jasmine, with the coolness of Moon, brightness of Snow, and shines like the garland of Pearls; and Who is covered with pure white garments. Whose hands are adorned with Veena (a stringed musical instrument) and the boon-giving staff; and Who is seated on pure white Lotus, Who is always adored

by Lord Brahma, Lord Acyuta (Lord Vishnu), Lord Shankara and other Devas. O Goddess Saraswati, please protect me and remove my ignorance completely” -Saraswati Vandana Mantra On Tuesday, Hindus all over the world will begin fasting and offering prayers for Navaratri. And we observe Navaratri twice a year — once in the spring and again in the fall.

Navaratri means ‘Nine Nights’. Nine nights when we worship God as

female. As a Saraswati devotee, Navaratri is especially important to me. The nine nights are divided into groups of three – in which the Devi is worshipped in each of the three major (Maha) manifestations: Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati.

It is trite — but unfortunately necessary in our multi-religious Guyana — to reiterate that in the Hindu tradition “God” is beyond human conceptions, and the best we can do is to use metaphors drawn from our own mundane experience. Thus, it is a tribute to our ancestors in faraway India, thousands of years ago, to recognise that the essential “energy” of all creation is “female”. Hence the imperative Godesses.

Saraswati, the goddess who is worshipped for knowledge — both spiritual and for inspiration for music, art, and poetry — is the consort of Brahma (the creator). In Hinduism, symbolism is often used to project the truth sought to be conveyed. For example, Saraswati is dressed in white to rep-

resent the purity of the illumination that knowledge gives you. In one of her four hands she holds prayer beads to represent spiritual knowledge, in another hand she holds a book to represent other knowledge, and in her other two hands she holds a Vina (a type of Sitar) to represent music and art. It is also unfortunate that in Guyana we do not stress the arts enough in the transmission and reception of knowledge.

Then there is Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and consort of Vishnu, the preserver.

We need wealth for sustenance: Hindus make no bones about this. Poverty is the greatest challenge.

But wealth doesn’t just mean money and a new Ferrari, not that these are scorned once one is not controlled by them; wealth also means good health and a wonderful family life, and that’s what Lakshmi represents. Two of her hands hold lotuses to represent the pure immaterial gifts she bestows; and coins pour down from her other two hands to represent

material wealth. She accompanied Vishnu in each of his incarnations.

She was the Sita to his Ram and the Rukmini to his Krishna.

Durga is probably the fiercest goddess; she represents the power of a woman to the fullest. Every aspect of her represents Shakti (power) – she rides a tiger (or a lion), and in her many hands she holds every conceivable weapon. Persons worship Durga for strength, determination and power.

She is the counterpart of Shiva in the dissolution phase. Kali was born from the furrowed brow of Durga to defeat the demon Raktabjija who had threatened the gods. There are many people who worship Kali for power and strength.

Kali represents untamed power. Hindus need to understand that knowledge and wealth can only be sustained on a foundation of power.

The Hindu goddesses are diverse, and represent qualities that we should all aspire to have.

Happy Navaratri!

Roiling…

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…the oil funds

ack in the day, when the sugar industry came into a windfall through a spike in world prices, the PNC Government imposed a levy that scooped off all profits – but promised to invest it in the country’s “development”. But in so doing, they prevented the industry from replacing its aging factories – which then were run into the ground. And creating the crisis they’re now in.

Your Eyewitness brings this up not to beat up on the PNC – but to remind their successors in office that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Burnham really thought the hydro project up the Mazaruni was for the benefit of the country. But he didn’t involve anyone outside of his tight little PNC circles and when a series of unfortunate events followed – Guyana “lost corn and lost husk”. Over half-a-billion dollars went down the tube – along with the dreams of sugar workers when they couldn’t receive profit sharing for the next quarter of a century.

And this is where history seems to be repeating itself with the oil revenues that are supposed to be coming down the pike starting in 2020. PM Nagamootoo assured an oil and gas forum earlier this week that Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman assured HIM that Guyana will be launching a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) into which all revenues will be funnelled. After all, Trotman had been soliciting advice from the Americans, the Canadians, the British and gosh knows who else. And they all emphasised the funds have to be sequestered, invested and deployed in strategic investments for the benefit of future generations. So far so good – so can we can hope they won’t blow the money and just leave Guyana with hydro , again?!

Trouble’s signalled when we read the fine print of the plan they’re revealing piecemeal. We discover the Government will be using moneys from the Fund

to fill budgetary gaps – through the first of the three “sub-funds” to be established: 1) Stabilisation Fund, 2) Infrastructure and Social Development Fund and 3) Citizens Participation Fund. Through this subterfuge, the Government will spend whatever they want on all sorts of boondoggles like they’ve been doing since they came into office – and then say they need money from the SWF! So much for saving for future generations!! To make matters worse, this Eyewitness has been insisting the Government’s counting chickens before they’re hatched. Just yesterday the Chronic headlined oil being at US$127/pb in 2020! Maybe the Cabinet could invest their salaries in oil futures!!

But even if oil were to make profit, it’ll all be frittered away. That’s how these fellas think. …the Border controversy Just as your Eyewitness predicted, the Venezuelans have signalled they’re not going to go easily into the night on the border controversy they created back in 1962. The new Good Officer of the new Secretary General of the UN had said very clearly if his mediation doesn’t lead to a settlement by year end, he’s sending the controversy to the World Court. Now this is a big victory for us – since this is what we’ve been demanding and Venezuela’s been resisting.

Going by previous rulings on similar border issues brought to the World Court – they’ve shown no inclination to change borders fixed over a hundred years ago. That’ll be opening up a Pandora’s Box in so many countries that we might as well close down the UN! In our case, we have an open and shut case and that’s why Venezuela will avoid the World Court like the plague.

Guyana should avoid roiling the waters and just wait the Venezuelans out.

Time and the tide – not to mention the US – is on our side! …forex markets Just when businesses thought the forex markets was safe, up comes the new PNC-led Government bringing back controls. By another name.

We all know where we’re headed, don’t we?

Economic ruination.

48 Bollywood

WEEK ENDING April 2 , 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Khanna doesn’t regret Jagga Jasoos: Katrina Twinkle not being successful in films Kaif starts shooting T in ‘lovely weather’

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atrina Kaif made a scintillating fiery red appearance at the Hall of Fame Awards last night. And as much as we are drooling over her hourglass figure and perfect panache at the red carpet, she doesn’t mind going all deglam on the sets.

Almost all her colleagues have time and again called her one of the most hardworking actors in the industry.

Be it getting her Hindi dialogues right or

getting her dance moves in place, she surely makes it a point to never disappoint. And she is doing exactly that in her upcoming film Jagga Jasoos too. We can deduce that from the latest picture Katrina herself shared on her Facebook page, where she is thoroughly soaked in the look of her character.

Katrina had recently injured herself on the sets of Jagga Jasoos.

But looks like it hasn’t stopped her and she is

back to the sets after a brief rest. Kat posted a picture where she is in the get-up of her character from the film. Her total deglam avatar is as appealing as always.

She captioned the image, “Jagga continues.

Outdoor shoot …. in this lovely weather.”

Katrina will be sharing screen space with her alleged ex-boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor in the Anurag Basu directorial. The film has been in the news more for the two lead actors having issues on the sets post their break-up than anything else. But the professional that Katrina is, she is making it a point to fulfil her commitment to the project, keeping aside her personal matters. (Indian Express)

Sunny Deol is having lots of fun on the sets of son Karan’s debut film in Manali

winkle Khanna is set to turn producer with Padman, which stars her husband Akshay Kumar in the lead role.

She started off as an actress, became an entrepreneur and she is now creating waves with her books and column.

Twinkle Khanna, famous on social media as Mrs Funnybones, doesn’t regret that she couldn’t score a success story in films.

Asked if she finds it ironic that she didn’t receive as much praise for acting as opposed to her writing career, Twinkle told IANS over phone from Mumbai: “Maybe I am better at writing.

So I console myself with the fact that I have a career that lasts me a lifetime.”

Twinkle, the daughter of veteran actress Dimple Kapadia and the late superstar Rajesh Khanna, featured in films like Barsaat, Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai, Mela, Baadshah and Joru Ka Ghulam.

But failed to make a mark.

She then became an entrepreneur, exploring her interest in interior designing. Her writing skills came to be known via her column in a daily, and eventually she turned an author. She calls her professional journey gratifying.

“Considering that I’m here at this platform at this point of time, I think it’s been quite gratifying,” she said.

Be it her books “Mrs Funnybones” and “The Legend of Lakshmi Prasad”, her comments on social media or even the columns she writes, Twinkle has always managed to see the funny side of life.

What makes her do that?

“Humour is nothing else but a part of

candour… There is nothing that you can ever say which is funny unless it has a nugget of truth in it. All I do is unwrap a little bit conditioning and present it slightly in an incongruent manner,” said Twinkle, who is the wife of actor Akshay Kumar and a mother of two.

Asked why she doesn’t star with Akshay in films, Twinkle, who is the brand ambassador of Loreal Professionnel, quipped: “You’ve just asked me a question that I am doing better as a writer. So why would I do something that I wasn’t doing as well as?

Logic.”

Currently, Twinkle is busy with her film production Padman, which stars Akshay and Radhika Apte.

Directed by R. Balki, the film is inspired by Padma Shri awardee Arunachalam Muruganantham, and will chronicle his journey of finding a way to make cheap, affordable sanitary napkins for women in his village.

Talking about the film, she said: “Padman is something which is a very important topic and I am just glad to be a part of a project that’s bringing awareness.” (Indian Express)

Don’t write stories keeping actors in mind: Neeraj Pandey

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unny Deol is a doting father. He is gearing up to launch his elder son, Karan Deol, under his home production Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas.

This actor-filmmaker seems to be working hard to give his son Karan a perfect launch. The shooting of the film is on in the mountains of Manali in Himachal Pradesh.

Sunny shared a picture of himself from the sets, and wrote along, “Work Mode!! #manali #palpaldilkepaas #ppdkp #work #team #workday #lovemyjob #happy #movie #actor #filmmaker #life #thankful.”

Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas is a romantic drama. The 59-year-old star is also directing the project, which is being produced under his home banner Vijyeta films. Sunny shared the first look of the

movie last year in September.

Sunny has been sharing pics from the sets, though we still await to catch a glimpse of his son’s look from the film.

Sunny also shared his shirtless picture frolicking in the snow, earlier. Along with the pic, he wrote, “Weekend Vibe!! #freshsnow #playful #manali #love #palpaldilkepaas #ppdkp #lovemyjob #gratitude #thankful #films #creatingdreams” Known for his iconic roles and dialogues, Sunny Deol decided to make a comeback in Bollywood after a sabbatical with the sequel to the action-packed film Ghayal, titled Ghayal: Once Again.

While Sunny is known for his serious roles in films, his posts on Twitter only show his lighter side. (Indian Express)

eeraj Pandey has frequently collaborated with actors Anupam Kher, Akshay Kumar and Manoj Bajpayee but the filmmaker says he never creates characters keeping them in mind. “I don’t write anything in particular for any actor be it for Akshay, Anupam or Manoj. The actor has to fit into the part.

There is nothing like a tailor-made role for an actor except for ‘Naam Shabana’ where the characters are already in place,” Neeraj said.

“I don’t keep actors in mind. I write the story, then offer it to actors who I feel will be apt,” he adds. Kher and Neeraj have worked together in films like Wednesday, Total Siyapaa, Baby, M S Dhoni: The Untold Story, while Akshay and the director have collaborated for Baby, Special 26 and

Rustom.

Neeraj, whose last venture was M S Dhoni: The Untold Story, is planning to take a break from direction and focus on producing films. He is currently geared up for the release of “Baby” spin-off “Naam Shabana” starring Taapsee Pannu in lead role. Neeraj says he is open to make more films under “Baby” franchise if the film works.

“It depends on the feedback for ‘Naam Shabana’.

We would love to explore different and more stories.” The film will also feature Akshay and Kher,

who will be reprising their roles from “Baby”.

Bajpayee and Prithviraj Sukumaran are the new entrants.

Neeraj says he has deliberately shown less portions of Akshay in “Naam Shabana” as he does not want to mislead the audience. “We don’t want to mislead the audience in believing that everyone is part of the film and it’s on the lines of “Baby”. It’s based on her (Taapsee) character it’s a spin-off.

She leads the cast,” he adds. The film is scheduled to release on March 31. (Indian Express)

Have done well without any guidance, says Neha Sharma

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ctor Neha Sharma admits the work she has done in Bollywood may not be “path-breaking”, but says she has picked the best from what she got. In that sense, she feels she has done well in her career without having any guidance.

Neha ventured into Bollywood in 2010 with the film “Crook: It’s Good To Be Bad”. She then featured in films like “Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum”, “Jayantabhai

Ki Luv Story”, “Yamla Pagla Deewana 2”, “Youngistaan”, “Kriti” and “Tum Bin 2”, and she has a special appearance in “Mubarakan”.

Asked if it’s a conscious decision to not be a part of too many films, Neha told IANS: “Yes. The reason I am in cinema is because of the passion I have for cinema…. So, for me to convince myself to do anything and everything becomes impossible.

“I’m not trying to say that

the work I have done in the past is path-breaking, but I have definitely tried to pick the best from what I was offered and being an outsider with no one to guide me I think I have done well.”

Neha’s last film was Tum Bin 2 and Indian Express critic Shubhra Gupra wrote in her review, “Amar (Aashim Gulati) and Taran (Neha Sharma) love each other, and then something terrible happens, and he drops out of

the picture. She grieves and mopes, along with Amar’s `papaji’ (Kanwaljit Singh) and her two sisters, and then one day the personable young Shekhar (Aditya Seal) turns up on their doorstep, and things start to change.”

She further added, “Two guys, one girl, and the mess they can create amongst themselves may be the oldest story in the book, but it can quite easily be refreshed given the right story and treatment.

Unlike the first one which brought these elements together nicely, it doesn’t happen here, despite some well executed moments.” (Indian Express)

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Part of ‘Mission Impossible Actor and father-to-be George Clooney: I’m happier than before 6’ to be shot in India

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om Cruise had already given a sigh of relief to his fans when he announced that he would be a part of Mission Impossible 6 last year. Now, the Hollywood actor has given more reasons to feel excited about his film, especially to his fans in India. Tom Cruise will be shooting a portion of the film in India.

Tracking-Board’s Jeff Sneider shared, “Mission: Impossible 6 filming in London, India, Paris & New Zealand.

Will be released in IMAX 3D on July 27, 2018. NO MENTION of Renner!”

Well, that’s definitely something to celebrate for Tom’s Indian fans.

The news of the film being released in IMAX format was announced during Paramount’s presentation at CinemaCon, which was held yesterday in Las Vegas.

Tom had earlier promised that the sixth instalment of his Mission Impossible franchise would have incredible stunts, more intense than what we’ve seen in the previous films, and also have an entertaining and compelling story.

Apart from Tom, the film will star Rebecca Ferguson as Ilsa Faust, Ving Rhames as Luther Stickell, Simon Pegg as Benji Dunn, Alec Baldwin as Alan Hunley and Sean Harris as Solomon Lane.

Interestingly, Ving Rhames is one of

Kate Winslet extremely intuitive, emotional: John Downer

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ctress Kate Winslet is “an extremely intuitive and emotional person”, apart from being a master in her craft, says John Downer, director of the documentary “Snow Chick – A Penguins Tale”. Winslet has narrated the documentary — which tells the story of an emperor penguin chick battling for survival in Antarctic region — and also highlights climatic changes.

“I met Kate Winslet long time ago.

We hit it off so well. She is such a wonderful person and a fine actress. It’s the freshness she brings to the show,” Downer told IANS over email from Britain. Downer also pointed out how Winslet’s voice in the series “personifies her own inner feeling”.

He added: “One great thing about her is the fact that though she hasn’t seen the film but her voice personifies her own inner feeling about the snow chick’s emotion. She isn’t just reading the lines but actually is feeling it. She is an extremely intuitive and emotion person at the same time an amazing actress which comes across when she speaks and narrates.” Downer says he wants people to know and understand the “harsh environment” that they shot in.

“People must also understand the complexities of the climate that the production has to face. We would want them to empathise with the crew and at the same time enjoy the cute penguins,” he added. Kate Winslet has acted in some many successful movies including The Revolutionary Road, Titanic and The Reader. (Indian Express)

the actors who has appeared in all the Mission Impossible films.

However, there is no confirmation if Jeremy Renner would continue to be a part of the franchise. The actor had appeared in the fourth and fifth films in the series.

Mission Impossible 6, which will be directed by Christopher McQuarrie, is set to begin shooting from April 10 this year in Paris, London and New Zealand. It is set to release on July 27, 2018.

(Indian Express)

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ctor-filmmaker George Clooney, also a first-time father-to-be, says that he is happier than before. During an interview with eonline.com, he spoke about his wife Amal Clooney and their babies.

“Can you believe it?!

Yeah, (I’m) even happier (than before),” he gushed.

“I didn’t know that we’d have kids. I was very happy that we were going to get married and then (a pregnancy) seemed like the next

step.”

Asked if he’s busy baby-proofing their home or practising how to change diapers, George said: “Hang on for a minute. I played a paediatrician on ‘ER’ (medical drama).”

George continued: “So I know how to work on extra children… If there’s any accidents I’m there. I’m the guy.”

They are yet to name their twins.

Explaining their reluctance to do so before meeting them, he teased: “Because I’ve had friends

pick out names around their parents and then it becomes… whatever name you pick they’re like, ‘Oh, I don’t like that. That guy’s a prime minister… Can’t name her Susan. You remember your Aunt Susan?'”

When the news about George Clooney and his lawyer wife Amal Clooney expecting twins broke last month, George, during an interview had said, “We are really happy and really excited. It’s going to be an adventure. We’ve sort of embraced it all… with arms wide open.”

George Clooney and Amal Clooney tied the knot in 2014. Their hand-in-hand appearance at the Cannes Film festival last year, had won several hearts, as their pictures from the red carpet went viral online. (Indian Express)

Priyanka Chopra takes Baywatch to CinemaCon

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he entire star cast of Priyanka’s Hollywood debut, Baywatch, came together to promote the film and share glimpses from the upcoming film.

Cinemacon gives Hollywood studios the chance to show off some of their upcoming projects to cinema chains and journalists ahead of their release.

So, what happened when Baywatch met Cienmacon?

A mix of fun, laughter and a lot of drama. We know about the camaraderie the actor shares with Zac Efron and Dwayne Johnson but this time, she was having

too much fun with the girls of her film’s team. In a video shared by a fan, Priyanka can be seen singing ‘I am not that innocent’ with her costars Alexandra Daddario and Kelly Rohrbach. The

actor who plays the character of Victoria Leeds is having too much fun being bad. While her videos have made us drool over the actor who is making every Indian proud, her pictures

are something you should look out for.

Priyanka, who recently nailed it as an international celeb, when Marie Claire had her on their cover and tagged her ‘Most Bankable Badass”, was in her elements in Cinemacon too.

The way we look at it, the pictures clearly mark the kind of compatibility and comfort the actor shares with her Baywatch team.

In other pictures, we see PeeCee, Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron laughing out loud about something, making us wonder what it is all about. (Indian Express)

Dwayne Johnson starrer ‘Jumanji’ sequel gets new title T he Jumanji sequel has officially been titled Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. A short clip of the film was shown to an audience assembled at Sony’s CinemaCon presentation attended by its cast members Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, Nick Jonas and Jack Black. The film, set in the present day, takes everyday high school students into a body swapping situation with the characters in the game (i.e. the nerdy kid in the game becomes Dwayne Johnson and the beautiful popular girl becomes Jack Black). The footage featured four high-schoolers in detention who, after being ordered to clear out the school basement, discover a video game console featuring a version of the game Jumanji, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

After picking a character, you are transported to the jungle — meaning the main cast are playing a different version of high-school students (a teenage girl ends up as a character played by Jack Black). Following the release of the first Jumanji still,

many criticised the skimpy costume worn by former “Doctor Who” actor Gillan. However, Johnson, who will next be seen in Fast & Furious 8 and Baywatch, assured fans there was a good reason for the outfit.

“We wanted to make a movie that was not only phenomenal, not only paid homage to the original, but something that had evolved, something that could be global, something that could

be fun,” Johnson said. He remembered meeting the late Robin Williams at CinemaCon years ago and being too nervous to talk to him.

The original Jumanji, released in 1996, was directed by Joe Johnston and starred Robin Williams and Bonnie Hunt in the lead roles. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle hits theaters on Dec. 22. (Indian Express)

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Afghanistan, West Indies to play three T20Is, three ODIs in June Afghanistan's first full series against a Full Member other than Zimbabwe will be played concurrently with the Champions Trophy (Photo: Associated Press)

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fghanistan's first bilateral series against West Indies will include three T20Is and three ODIs, beginning in the first week of June. The series will be played concurrently with the Champions Trophy, which begins on June 1 in England.

West Indies, who haven't won a bilateral ODI series since 2014, beating Bangladesh at home, failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy.

All three T20s will be played at Warner Park in St Kitts, beginning from June 2. The ODIs, all of which will be played at the Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St Lucia, will begin a week later, on June 9.

The tour's original schedule included five ODIs and three T20Is. This series will also be Afghanistan's first full series against a Full Member other than Zimbabwe.

"It will also be an important series for our side," Roland Holder, WICB Manager of Cricket Operations, said, "as they look to move up in the ICC World Rankings in the two formats, and continue their quest to qualify for

India take million-dollar prize for finishing No. 1

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India won in Dharamsala to seal the series against Australia 2-1 (Associated Press photo)

the 2019 ICC World Cup in England and Wales."

West Indies are currently placed ninth in the ODI rankings, followed by Afghanistan. West Indies will be hoping to climb up the rankings as only the top eight teams as of September end this year will gain automatic qualification for the 2019 World Cup. They lost their last ODI series 3-0 to England earlier this month and have three more coming up against Pakistan in April.

West Indies and Afghanistan have never played an ODI against each other and the last time they squared up in a T20I, Afghanistan won by six runs, in a league match in the World T20 last year.

The upcoming three T20Is will start at 7pm and the day-night ODIs will start at 2.30 pm. (ESPNCricinfo) WI v Afghanistan schedule: June 2 - First T20I June 3 - Second T20I June 5 - Third T20I June 9 - First ODI June 11 - Second ODI June 14 - Third ODI

ndia have finished at the top of the ICC Test rankings for the second successive year after beating Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series.

As a result of being No. 1 by the cut-off date of April 1, India will be presented with a cash award of $1 million by the ICC. India had gone into the home series against Australia needing to win one Test to guarantee their No. 1 ranking. The series victory also meant that India currently hold Test titles against all other teams, a feat previously matched only by Australia (twice) and South Africa.

Virat Kohli received the Test mace and cheque at the post-match presentation ceremony in Dharamsala. "The longest format of the game really tests a team's character and I'm proud that

we have proved ourselves to be the best," he said.

The race to No. 2 is still on. It will be decided on the fifth day in Hamilton, where South Africa need to come away with at least a draw against New Zealand to hold on to the No. 2 ranking and claim the prize money of $500,000.

If they lose, Australia will pip them to second place.

The ICC also announced that India offspinner R Ashwin will be awarded the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for being the ICC Cricketer of the Year for 2016. Ashwin, who was also named ICC Test Cricketer of the Year for 2016, took 48 wickets and scored 336 runs in the eight Tests he played during the period under consideration September 14, 2015 to September 20, 2016. (ESPNCricinfo)

Richardson hints at ICC Olympic approval

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avid Richardson, the ICC chief executive, has indicated that the governing body has come around to the idea of cricket becoming an Olympic sport, and that it is close to making a decision on whether to apply to the IOC for involvement in the 2024 Games.

The question of cricket's inclusion at the Olympics has long been fraught with difficulties but, speaking at the SportPro conference in London, Richardson reportedly gave his backing to the move, which would likely take the form of a T20 tournament fea- David Richardson, the ICC chief executive turing six to eight teams.

"We need to make a decision by July Graves, signalled a change in stance this year so we can make an applica- after taking office in 2015. Making tion in time for September, when, as cricket part of the Olympic programme I understand it, the IOC will consider has been seen as a way to gain access new sports for 2024," he said. "I think to increased funding and help spread the majority of the members - and cer- the game globally, with the MCC a tainly myself - think the time is right consistently strong advocate.

Richardson said the IOC had deand we've come to the conclusion that the overall benefit to the game in terms creed the best players must be involved of globalising and growing it, outweigh if cricket is to win inclusion - "They've told us we mustn't send beach cricket any negatives, so I'm hoping."

The host city for the 2024 Olympics or six-a-side teams, it must be a forhas yet to be determined, with only Los mat played at international level and Angeles and Paris left in the running it must be our top players" - and moot(Rome, which has withdrawn from the ed the possibility of regional qualifybidding process, had previously given ing tournaments to decide which counits backing to cricket being played). tries get to take part at the Olympics.

Cricket has only featured at one previ- He also suggested that England would be able to compete as Great Britain ous Olympics, the 1900 Paris Games.

"T20 is the ideal format and we'd and potentially select Scottish or Irish say even better than rugby sevens as players.

"From an ICC perspective, the fixit's actually one of the mainstream formats of cricket," Richardson said. ture calendar is the most challenging "Neither LA or Paris would be a disas- part of it," he said. "In the northern ter for us, in fact both would be oppor- hemisphere, the Olympics are held in the English summer, so that's a probtunistic, especially the US option."

The BCCI has been seen as the ma- lem for them if they've got an Ashes jor obstacle within the ICC. The ECB series on. So there will be issues and was previously opposed to the idea, England in the past have said 'are we fearing it would clash with the English sure we want to go down this route?'" season, but the new chairman, Colin (ESPNCricinfo)

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Grass Track Championships 2017….

Team Nexus’s De Nobrega runs rampant at Anna Regina

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Team Nexus’s Steven De Nobrega was simply unstoppable at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground, winning a perfect seven races in as many starts (Photo courtesy of Ackeem Thomas Photography)

fter finishing third overall at last year’s National Grass Track Championship Series, Team Nexus Rider Steven DeNobrega produced a thrilling display at the first leg this year which was held at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground on Sunday, by winning seven races in as many starts.

In the professional category he swooped the five races, while in the open category, he did the same in the two races.

Guyana Times International Sport

spoke to the rider when he returned to the city, where he expressed elation over the performances since having troubles with his Honda CR 125 early in the day’s proceedings.

“The feeling was very good, the crowd had a very good response to it; I turned up the morning and put in a few practice laps, we had few problems with the bike since before the races I fell and broke the handle but the guys helped me get a new one so I could compete,” the rider stated.

The 21 year-old initial plan was just to se-

cure points ahead of the lengthy championships, explaining that, “Initially, the plan was to basically to go there and come back with some points I really was not going there expecting it to be so easy as the others guys were practicing constantly, [while] I basically rode for the first time in the last finals of the championship in November.”

With a support base including persons such as Kevin Jeffrey among other motor racing stalwarts, DeNobrega says consistency will be the key going forward for

him.

He said, “It is just basically consistency, in any race you must be consistent in your approach and they encourage me to stay fit to be ahead of my competition; we are in a great position, we will just look to make improvement on my bike and me get fitter.”

The young rider revealed that he had no intentions of riding this year, as he wanted to some personal time but his encouraging support base pushed him to compete. “I was not planning on racing this year but with so much support behind me I had just had; at the end of last year I had other personal thing I wanted to do things with but with the sponsors behind me I decided to have a go, we basically finished the bike up there [Anna Regina] since the bike was rebuilt the night before in Georgetown,” the disclosed.

The rider expressed great appreciation for the support of Gregory Nexus, who also sponsors him in Go-Kararting where he and teammates Matthew Phang and Carlos Rodrigues recently won the 600lb class at the monthly GT Motorsport Endurance Cup. In addition, much

Steven De Nobrega (right) collects his Champion rider trophy

praise went to his family, Harold Hopkinson, Rover World, Fast Grafix, Sankar Auto Color and the Jaigobin Family at Henrietta on the Essequibo coast.

Meanwhile, amidst the stellar performance of DeNobrega, RavinRamcoomar and Raj Rajkaran had some good performances fighting for the second and third spots in the Professional races. In the Novices, SudeshRajkaran at the age of 13 won a race,

while Daniel Hardin and AbdoulNeuzan also had commendable performances.

Organizer Sheik Yassin told this publication that the event went well, adding that the spectators thoroughly enjoyed the battle on the grass.

Yassin also stated that the next meet is tentatively slated for this month end at Better Hope Community Centre ground, East Coast of Demerara or at Bath settlement, West Berbice.

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Eastern Wakenaam Garnett Street whips rule the domino table GHB/Smalta U-14 Indoor Hockey…

GCC Thunder Bolt

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s the Guyana Hockey Board’s Smalta Under 14 Indoor Hockey League winds down, Garnett Street were on fire last Friday, whipping GCC Thunder Bolts 12-0.

The Garnett Street boys were red hot at the St. Stanislaus College auditorium with half of their goals coming from the stick of Baraka Garnett. In the second minute of play, Samuel Garnett had already found the back of the net with Baraka scoring three minutes later.

Samuel then returned to score his second while Tahrea Garnett and Jamal December contributed one goal each, all within the span of two minutes, closing the first half of the 20 minute battle with Garnett Street leading 5-0.

The second half saw

Baraka scoring two more times before Michael D’Andrade slotted in his first goal. Tahrea scored again in the 17th minute before Baraka scored in the 18th and 19th to signal the GCC Thunderbolts’ demise.

In the Girls division, GCC Challengers played Saints Hockey Club (SHC) Sensations to a tight 4-4 draw with Sensations throwing away a game they could have easily won. Genesia Samuels opened up the door for Sensations with Abosaide Cadogan equalizing within seconds, however, Kiera Williams ensured a lead was on the cards for Sensations by scoring a minute later and then scoring once more to close the first half 3-1.

But in the second half, Sensations allowed Challengers to score

three valuable goals, two of which came from Cadogan and one from Tamar Bhagwandin.

In the other matches, SHC Silencers stole a 2-0 victory over Hikers in the other girls match while the top two teams, SHC Scalpels maintained their top ranking with a 2-1 win over second placed St. Joseph High.

SHC Scorchers burned GCC War Dogs 7-1 with Oshazay Savory registering a hat trick. Hikers Hatchet was victorious over GCC Thunderbolts, who suffered their second defeat, this time 6-2.

SHC Samurai made light work of War dogs who folded for 3-0.

The action resumes Friday where the tournament gets into the business end at St. Joseph High.

The winning side were all smiles after winning the tournamen

astern Wakenaam marked 62 games to win the final of Good Success SC dominoes tournament which was contested last Sunday at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground.

Sea Shore finished second on 60 games while All-Stars placed third on 50. Egbert Johnson made 12 and James McAlmot 11 for the winners while Anil Ramrattan and Mohamed Sheriffudeen made 12 and 10 respectively for Sea Shore. Tom Singh and Vijay Persaud made 14 and nine in that order for All-Stars.

All-Stars won the opening round with 85 games ahead of Sea Shore 84 and Quick Pick 70. Vijay Persaud 17, Tom Singh 16, Khemraj Surujpaul

14 and Anand Dhannyshure 12 were the leading players for All-Stars.

SurajHarnarine made the maximum 18 games for Sea Shore while VinoodRamadeen supported with 16, Anil Ramrattan 15 and Andrew Osbourne 10. Heera Sukram made the maximum 18 games for Quick Pick.

Sea Shore chalked up 80 games to win the second round while Eastern Wakenaam placed second with 69 and Melville third on 61. Vinood Ramadeen scored 16 and Ramrattan 16 for Sea Shore while Johnson and Mitroy Solomon got 16 and 14 respectively for Eastern Wakenaam. LokramNarine and Jermaine Wolf made 14 each for Melville.

More international football possible for Linden – Forde

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Banks DIH Public Relations Officer, Troy Peters

resident of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde made a declaration on Monday while speaking at a press conference ahead of tonight’s match between Guyana and Martinique that more international fixtures will be played in Linden town once the community can show overwhelming support at the match.

“I issued a challenge to the Linden Community and the challenge I laid out to them is that if we can have an atmosphere similar to the one we have come so accustomed to when we look at the Barclay’s Premier League, the other international friendlies that I have lined up, at least two more will go to Linden,” the President revealed.

From a financial point of view, Forde believes Linden is one of the ultimate venues to host international football in Guyana.

The Linden Community presents to the Guyana Football Federation the best financial opportunities in bringing off a big game, the cost for the venue is low, the logistics is low, marketing the game is low became we are talking about a community with a decent population and if you can get a third of the population into a venue, it is a big win for us,” the GFF boss explained.

He added, “we have seen evidence of a decline of football attendance in Georgetown and some of the other venues and even though playing the game

GFF President Wayne Forde

of football is our main priority, we have to do this in an economical way and we simply cannot continue to incur in excess of G$3M to take a game to a venue and don’t have a single chance of recovering that money.”

Commenting on the restoration work done on the facility, Forde stated that community has responded well and there has been lots of preparation work since “we will do everything in our power to bring prominence of football back to Linden as part of our overall strategy of the GFF.” On the holistic view of football in Guyana, the President posited that “the goal of the executive is to bring back the prominence to the Golden Jaguars brand and we cannot keep doing that by simply participating in regional tournaments.”

Adding that “It’s not just a brand it is doing things that can influence the quality of play as well as if they can play against high class opponents; If they can do this, Guyana can be seen a force to reckon with in CONCACAF and CFU [Caribbean Football Union] and higher in the not so distant future.”

In the distant past, the mining down had its fair share of international football at the McKenzie Sports Club Ground with the last exposure being May 19, 2011, when Guyana defeated Barbados 1-0.

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Guyana to host U20 SA C/ships

By Romario Samaroo

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uyana’s National Track and Field Faculty at Leonora, West Coast Demerara will be set ablaze as the country is expected to host the South American Under-20 Championships in June.

This comes on the heels of Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) President, Aubrey Hutson’s trip to Brazil for the Consudatle Congress

AAG President Aubrey Hutson (left) along with President of the Consudatle, Roberto Gesta De Melo and Vice President Wilfredys Leon

which is hosted in Sao Paulo.

By virtue of this announcement, Hutson

noted that the country is expected to have an influx of intense competition, something that we have seen over the years but only to be increased at a rapid rate as the world class facility will be on show.

When Guyana Times International Sport contacted the man at the helm of the AAG, he was in high spirits as he un-

folded a list of the positives that can be found from this hosting.

“We have to throw our hat in the ring and show the world that we are here and we are ready. I see a lot of positives coming from this like exposure; our athletes will be exposed to international competition, something some of them may not have been seen by them before, we saw when we brought two Peruvians and the high level of competition they brought and challenged Cleveland Forde.

Also it will test our athletes, the Shantoba Bright and company especially on home soil.

I think this will also be a good way for our fans to see international athletes without travelling and see where our ath-

letes are and actually judge for their own,” the AAG boss said.

Hutson went on to say that this will also create the opportunity for us to bid for more international championships including the PanAm Games or even the Commonwealth Games, highlighting that this is just a stepping stone for us and we have to ensure that we are up to standard when it comes to putting on a good show.

This championship will be held on June 3 and 4. Members of the South American competition committee will be visiting Guyana shortly, even as early as within the next two weeks to inspect and assist in the preparation for the championships.

Leonora will see an invasion of international athletes on June 3-4

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