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ARCHIVES FOR NOVEMBER 04, 2009

Ministry in vigorous campaign to fast-track Amerindian Development
- team returns to address Region Nine issues
THE People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration is fulfilling its promise made prior to assuming office in 1992 by ending the discrimination and neglect against Amerindians. This is being done through the execution of various policies to accelerate their development.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai making a point to Sand Creek residents. In this GINA photo are Coordinator, Hinterland Affairs, Harripersaud Nokta; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Nigel Dharamlall; Project Officers within the Ministry’s Project Unit, Kalima Ali and Julie Sookram; Regional Chairman Region Nine, Clarindo Lucas and Sand Creek Toshao, Ken Faria.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai, after several weeks of visiting some indigenous communities located in the South and North Rupununi in Region Nine, again led a core team over the period October 28 to November 2 to several other hinterland areas, including Sawariwau, Katoonarib, Rupunau, Sand Creek, Shulinab and Potarinau (South Central Rupununi), Parabara, Achawib, Karaudarnau, Awarewaunau, Maruranau and Shea (Deep South Rupununi) and Nappi (Central Rupununi) to examine the issues and challenges affecting residents and to inform them about her Ministry’s plans to proliferate development in the communities.

Accompanying the Minister on her visit to Region Nine were: Coordinator of Hinterland Affairs, Mr. Harripersaud Nokta; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Mr. Nigel Dharamlall and Project Officers within the Ministry’s Project Unit.

The Government Information Agency (GINA) noted that during the past few years many of the administration’s objectives have been realized. It noted that while much more work remains to be done, the administration intends to continue its programme to fast-track development.

Minister Sukhai and team greeting students of Sawariwau, (South Central Rupununi) in Region Nine.

To fashion community management and development New project unit

programmes, the Ministry has established a new project unit to provide support to hinterland settlements.

The unit which consists of six staff with specialized skills will effectively help to formalize economic plans for the communities.

Minister Sukhai told the residents that the unit will assist communities to develop programmes for their villages that will not only seek to improve social services but also the economies of those villages.

“The PPP/C administration, since taking office in 1992, came in with a very significant plan to support Amerindian development…since then it has ensured that Amerindian development is on its agenda,” Minister Sukhai said.

Nokta said while the team will examine the many projects completed in the communities, much more resources will be allocated for development to continue.

Students and residents of Katoonarib (South Central Rupununi), Region Nine

He noted that millions of dollars over the years have been invested in Region Nine for community advancement. This year approximately $204M was allocated towards development for the Region.

Meanwhile, Dharamlall stated that the Ministry recently created a database to garner feed-back on the various issues affecting hinterland communities.

The database will capture the issues evolving out of interactions with residents by Community Development Officers (CDOs). This will, in turn, assist the Minister on village issues so that the Ministry can be responsive to needs of Amerindians, he said.

Advancing secondary education
Residents were further informed about additional investments which are currently being pursued by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry.

They were told by the Minister that the administration is aggressively advancing the delivery of secondary education in hinterland regions with the construction of secondary schools.

She indicated that a new secondary school is being constructed at Sand Creek, South Central, Rupununi which will open up accessibility to secondary education.

On October 1, approximately $77.7M was approved by Cabinet for the construction of the new secondary school.

“This is another development which seeks to provide more access to secondary education…of course our government recognize that we have to work with limited resources…however, our attempts are commendable since hinterland communities now have much more access to secondary education,” she said.

Land titles
Turning to the focus of land titles, Minister Sukhai informed residents that her Ministry will be advancing the demarcation of lands and the granting of titles for several hinterland communities in 2010.

She noted that her Ministry has recognized that some communities have had their land issues unresolved and assured residents that the Ministry will aggressively pursue this aspect.

However, the Minister indicated that for the villages that have received a title but are not demarcated, they must prepare a letter requesting demarcation since it is part of the requirement to speed up the process.

GINA reported that in the near future, more Amerindian communities will be granted titles, and these include: Eclipse Falls, Four Miles, Kariako, Tasserene, Batavia, Kambaru, Tuseneng, Karisparu, Erfoimo/Parabara, Achawib and Riversview. Today, there are 96 titled villages.

Dharamlall also made mention that the number of titles issued to Amerindian villages represents 15 percent of the land mass of the country and with the Ministry’s efforts to accelerate the granting of more titles, Amerindians will own by legal right 20 percent of the country’s land mass.

On July 27, at the third biennial National Toshao Council meeting, 11 land titles were handed over to several Amerindian communities including Chinese Landing, Muritaro, Great Falls, Malali, Nappi, St Ignatius Homestead and St Ignatius Farmlands, Tobago and Wauna Hill, Karau, Kwebanna and Waikrebi.

She noted that communities are titled according to the processes and procedures stipulated in the Amerindian Act.

Enshrined in the amended Amerindian act is a clause that obligates the state to grant land titles to Amerindians who have been living in communities for over 25 years with a population of over 150.

Land titles give Amerindians the rights to fish, farm and hunt on the land, as well as utilise timber on reserved lands and occupancy rights.

Improving village governance
As a result of the many issues which affect village council and villagers to adequately manage their community affairs, Minister Sukhai further enlightened residents that her Ministry, in collaboration with the National Toshao Council, will be embarking early next year on a training programme for village leaders of hinterland communities.

Transparency, accountability, management skills and conflict resolution are prominent issues which will be targeted in the training programme.

“The Ministry seeks to support and build capacity of Amerindian leaders to ensure that they provide effective leadership and management to the community and government,” Minister Sukhai stated

Transforming village economies
Recognizing that government continues to invest in the social sector by providing more social services for both urban, rural and hinterland areas, Minister Sukhai noted that many of the indigenous communities continue to have constraints in improving their local economies.

To this end, she noted that the Ministry has developed a new programme (National Hinterland Secure Livelihood Programme) that will help to advance Amerindians’ village economies. This programme is in its pilot stage and is being implemented in Region One. It will be extended to Region Nine.

“The pilot programme…is enjoying investments and finances from Government to the tune of $79M to start economic projects in the 15 communities and therefore Region Nine must come on board,” she stated.

Through a supplementary provision for the period July 16 to December 31, 2009, a sum of $88.4M was approved by the National Assembly towards the implementation of programme, by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in collaboration with the Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO).

A team of VSO officers represented by specialists in agriculture, aquaculture, pest control, business development, food technology and marketing and finance has been deployed to several communities in the Mabaruma sub-region to assist in promoting developmental initiatives.

Hinterland water strategy
The outreach also saw meaningful discussions and interactions among residents, the Minister and team as it relates to various issues affecting communities. Some of the notable concerns were water supply and the effects of the prolonged dry season on crops.

She apprised residents at the various communities she visited that the Ministry of Housing and Water has developed and reviewed the hinterland water strategy and within the plan the Ministry intends to examine how it can better deliver and make more accessible, water supply to hinterland communities.

The Hinterland water strategy seeks to ensure that safe water is available to or supplied to 80 percent of all settlements in the hinterland, through sustainable and cost effective locally appropriate means.

Residents were also enlightened about Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy and its benefits to hinterland communities and the country as a whole. Several administrative offices were also commissioned on the visit.

Corbin’s list grows
THE list of persons allegedly killed by confessed drug trafficker Shaheed ‘Roger’ Khan and drawn up by Opposition leader Robert Corbin has grown to 455 from around 200.

Mr. Corbin on Monday handed over to the police a list of 455 names after they asked him to provide the names of those he claimed were killed under Khan who was jailed for 15 years last month in New York for drug running in the United States.

Corbin’s list is of unsolved murders committed between March 1993 to July 2009 and he told reporters it is up to the police to determine who were allegedly killed by Khan.

Corbin said the Police visited his office on October 23 and requested a copy of the list of persons allegedly killed by Khan.

An official yesterday wondered at the more than twice the expansion of the size of the list submitted by Corbin, also leader of the main Opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR).

“He at first claimed 200 were killed by Khan; now he’s saying it’s 455. What’s really happening here?”, the official queried.

In a cover letter he presented to the police, Corbin argued that any investigation/inquiry into the atrocities committed over several years in Guyana “resulting in the deaths of over 400 persons, allegedly by a ‘phantom squad’ headed by Roger Khan in collaboration with elements of the Guyana Police Force, and sanctioned by senior government officials, ought to be conducted by an international body”.

The Police Force in mid-October, just after Khan’s sentencing, set up a special investigative team to “enquire into the alleged murders which surfaced during the court hearing for drug dealer Shaheed ‘Roger’ Khan.”

“The Government had made it clear that the Guyana Police Force is the agency that is legally responsible for investigating any allegation made against Khan or any other person or persons; we still maintain that position,” Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said in a statement Monday.
He said the government is committed to pursuing anyone engaged in any criminal activity, including drug trafficking and money laundering.

Controlling Climate Change
– setting the Ceiling at 1.5 Celcius
By Navin Chandarpal
(An abridged version of this article was carried in Monday’s edition of the Chronicle. The following is the full text of the article by Mr. Navin Chandarpal, written exclusively for this newspaper)

Chart showing changes in Global temperatures, sea-level and Northern Hemisphere snow cover between 1850- 2000. (Source: IPCC, 2007)

CLIMATE change is a reality. Until recently, the planet’s largest contributor to the change was, at the governmental level, in a state of denial together with a few other large contributors. Political changes in these countries have led to the welcome policy change of now accepting the reality.

The first round was won by Science. The Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), ably led by the renowned Physicist Dr Rajendra Pachauri, won the Nobel Prize in 2007 for the outstanding results captured in their 4th Report. Their hard scientific facts were brilliantly related to the harsh socio-economic consequences of climate change by the renowned Economist, Prof Nicholas Stern.

As a result of these profound reports, there is no Government or Nation that can plead ignorance of the reality and the consequences of climate change and hence the need for decisive action.

The current round is now being fought over the meaning of “decisive action”.

In a preliminary fight in the previous decade, the result was a tie called the Kyoto Protocol. There were some good results for those who wanted to mitigate climate change but there were also big concessions to satisfy those whose vested interests were threatened by mitigation measures. Since this Protocol will end in 2012, the world is engaged in the process of developing a successor agreement.

Global annual emissions of anthropogenic GHGs from 1970 to 2004. (Source – IPCC, 2007)

Ideally, this is a tremendous opportunity to correct the mistakes of the past and to develop the framework for action that will be effective. The sad reality however is that there are still very powerful vested interests that are resisting the introduction of measures that are necessary to minimize the extent of climate change.

A key indicator of the extent of climate change is the global average surface temperature of the earth. An increase in this temperature is described as global warming. The extent to which our counties will be affected by climate change depends on the number of degrees by which the average temperature rises.

Among the key issues addressed in the 4th Assessment Report of the IPCC are:

• The observed changes in climate.

• The causes of change

• The changes which have occurred in the concentration of greenhouse gases etc.

• Human activities which contribute to increases in greenhouse gases.

• The projected temperature rises related to varying greenhouse gas concentrations.

• The expected physical impacts resulting from different temperature increases.

The IPCC Report displays graphically the pattern of change in the global average surface temperature of the earth, the sea level and snow cover from the middle of the 19th century to the end of the 20th.
The top graph shows very clearly that the global average surface temperature has increased at a greater rate in the last few decades of the 20th century. This pattern has continued in this first decade of this century.

The IPCC concluded as reflected in these graphs that:
Warming of the climate system is unequivocal, as is now evident from observations of increases in global average air and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of snow and ice and rising global average sea level.”

In considering the causes of climate change the IPCC examined the role of greenhouse gases and declared:

“Global atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide have increased markedly as a result of human activities since 1750 and now far exceed pre-industrial values determined from ice cores spanning many thousands of years. The global increases in carbon dioxide concentration are due primarily to fossil fuel use and land use change, while those of methane and nitrous oxide are primarily due to agriculture.

“Carbon dioxide is the most important anthropogenic greenhouse gas. The global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has increased from a pre-industrial value of about 280 parts per million (ppm) to 379 ppm in 2005. The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide in 2005 exceeds by far the natural range over the last 650,000 years (180 to 300 ppm) as determined from ice cores. The annual carbon dioxide concentration growth rate was larger during the last 10 years (1995–2005 average: 1.9 ppm per year), than it has been since the beginning of continuous direct atmospheric measurements (1960–2005 average: 1.4 ppm per year) although there is year-to-year variability in growth rates.”

The chart below shows the actual quantity of emissions of greenhouse gases in the years shown.

The actual emissions are measured in Giga-tonnes Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (GtCO2-eq). This type of increase results in the higher concentration over the years.

The IPCC has considered various scenarios in terms of the approaches to development and the varying results that are possible in terms of the levels of emissions. These scenarios are based on six ranges of GHG concentrations. The graph below shows the predicted range of annual emissions for the 21st century under each of these scenarios.

For each level of concentration there is an expected range of temperature rise shown in the chart below.

Combining these estimations, the IPCC developed an assessment for Surface warming under these scenarios reflected in the graph below.

The sad reality is that the current pattern of emissions will take our planet towards the higher levels of temperature rise. The task before the international community is to make the choices that will keep us at the lower end. This was expressed by Dr Pachuri when he said:

“If we take no action to stabilize the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, then average temperature by the end of this century would increase anywhere from 1.1 degrees to 6.4 degrees C, with a best estimate at the lower end of 1.8 degrees and at the upper end of 4 degrees C.

The world is increasing its emissions at a rate that may take us to the upper end of the range projected, which implies a total increase in these two centuries of over 7 degrees C, that is, over 12 degrees Fahrenheit. Yet between 1970 and 2004 global GHG emissions increased by 70% and carbon dioxide by 80%. We must halt this unacceptable trend.

The IPCC has clearly specified that if temperature increase is to be limited to between 2.0 and 2.4° C, global emissions must peak no later than 2015. That is only six years from now. But the 2.0° ceiling too would lead to sea-level rise on account of thermal expansion alone of 0.4 to 1.4 meters. This increase added to the effect melting of snow and ice across the globe, could submerge several small island states in the Caribbean, those in the South Pacific and the Maldives islands.”

Based on this reality, the Association of Small Island States (AOSIS) is demanding that even the 2 degrees ceiling is not acceptable. The necessary target should be one and a half degree.

The current negotiations which will be intensified in Copenhagen must therefore be guided by the need to identify measures which will ensure that necessary ceiling.

The IPCC Report has also highlighted the severe impacts of every level of temperature rise as reflected in the table below.

The debate over the level of the ceiling is not a trivial matter. It is the central issue.

Climate change is real. It can no longer be denied. The accumulated effects of high concentrations of greenhouse gases will cause a continuation of global warming for several decades to come. The impacts of climate change are already being felt and will continue to be felt by all countries. But there can be control over the extent of the warming and hence the level of the impact. The task is to create the conditions and to take the required steps to restrict emissions to the lowest possible level. For this to happen, the temperature ceiling must be set at 1.5 Celcius.

(In a following article, we will look at measures such as energy options and incentives for avoided deforestation which are key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.)

In daring daylight robbery on Regent Street…
Gizmos employees tied-up with shoe laces and duct tape
- bandits escape with $146,000 cash, undisclosed number of cell phones
By Michel Outridge
TWO employees of the popular Gizmos and Gadgets Auto Zone/Money Gram store in the City were yesterday tied up with shoe laces and duct tape by a gang of five bandits – two women and three men – who entered the business place on the pretext of purchasing cell phones.

Reports are that the two employees, cashier Amelia Khan and sales clerk Kiran Persaud, were held up and robbed by the gang, two of whose members were armed with a handgun and a screw driver.

The robbers tied up their victims with shoe laces and duct tape and locked them in a washroom before escaping the scene with an undisclosed number of cell phones and $136,000 in cash belonging to the company along with three cell phones, a pair of sunglasses and $10,000 in cash belonging to the two victims.

Employee Kiran Persaud shortly after the robbery yesterday.

Recounting the traumatic ordeal to reporters yesterday, the cashier said that shortly after 14:00 hrs, she and another employee were alone in the store – located at 105 Regent Road, Bourda - when a woman came in.

The woman ‘customer’ said she wanted to transact a ‘money transfer’ via Money Gram, but her documents were not in order, Ms. Khan recounted.

According to the visibly shaken cashier, the woman did not even have an identification card to make the transaction and was told to return with the necessary documentation before the transfer can be effected.

The cashier said the woman returned shortly after, but this time she was accompanied by another woman and three men.

RECOUNTING THE ORDEAL’: Amelia Khan, the traumatised female employee minutes after the robbery.

Khan explained that she was tending to the woman, who began pricing all the items in the store, while her accomplices went to the male employee, Kiran Persaud, when she was suddenly grabbed by her throat and told to shut her mouth.

At this time, Khan said the bandits began beating Persaud, while they bound and gagged her. The two employees were then shoved inside a washroom. While the two employees were locked away, the bandits took whatever they could from the store and fled in a gold-coloured Toyota Carina AT-170 motorcar, with number plate, HB 3971.

Khan said that somehow her colleague managed to free himself and they opened the washroom door and ran out of the store and summoned help.
She was assisted by employees from the store next door and the police were summoned but by then the bandits had already fled in the waiting motor car.

McCoy reacts to US via revocation
THE United States embassy in Georgetown has reportedly revoked the US visa of Press and Publicity Officer at the Office of the President Mr. Kwame McCoy.

But an angry McCoy last night indicated that the US embassy did not even had the courtesy of informing him about the revocation and it was only via queries from the privately-owned Stabroek news that he was made aware of this development.

“It is useful to note that my US visa was always the property of the US who at anytime reserve the right to determine its cancellation or withdrawal,” McCoy said in a statement late last night.

“I am comforted by the fact that my revocation does not stand alone on a list…,” McCoy stated, while lamenting the “gross, unethical behaviour on the part of the US authorities” who choose to divulge such information to Stabroek news before doing so to him.

The following is the full text of the statement issued last night by Mr. McCoy:

“Information about the revocation of my US visa was first brought to my attention by the Stabroek news this evening (November 3, 2009). This scenario represents gross unethical behaviour on the part of the US authorities who choose to divulge such information to Stabroek news before doing so to me. I have had no correspondence thus far indicating this decision and it is through the media I was made aware of the action of the US authorities.

Further to that, the revocation is a clear demonstration of their unfair and imbalance approach as the US authorities has taken this course of action on the basis of a mere allegation, while it provides protection in the US for confessed drug killer Selwyn Vaughn.

It is useful to note that my US visa was always the property of the US who at anytime reserves the right to determine its cancellation or withdrawal. I am comforted by the fact that my revocation does not stand alone on a list and I hope the media would use the same level of aggression and enthusiasm to find out why the publisher of Kaieteur news had his visa revoked.”

‘STAYCATION’
- New tourism concept gets tripartite endorsement on introduction at Aracari resort
By Vanessa Narine
THE free and stable economy of Guyana, coupled with a developing tourism sector, is poised to embrace the concept of ‘Staycation’ in an effort to advance the latter and keep the dollar at home, Tourism Minister Mr. Manniram Prashad said Monday.

President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) Mr. Paul Stephenson; Tourism Minister Mr. Manniram Prashad; and Chief Executive Officer of Aracari resort Mr. Sase Shewnarain at the launch of the ‘Staycation’ concept on Monday last. (Adrian Narine photo)

Speaking about the ‘Staycation’ concept, at Aracari Resort at Versailles, West Bank Demerara, where it is being piloted, Minister Prashad said this country is introducing it for the first time as an added incentive.

Through the initiative, guests are being offered 20 per cent discount on all hotel packages for staycation holidays and Prashad said Aracari is a vacation resort, not an eco-resort.

It is also a base from which the vacationer can access all local attractions and tours including to eco-resorts.

A ‘staycation’ is a period of time during which an individual or family stays at and relaxes at home or takes day trips to area attractions and it has achieved high popularity in the United States (U.S.) and the United Kingdom (UK).

Noting that, Prashad said: “We are developing and growing in the tourism industry and a concept like ‘staycation’ is both timely and welcome.”

He said the local tourism industry has seen significant developments in various areas and arrivals here have, to date, increased by 9.4 per cent.

Prashad also said that, since 2007, hotel capacity has increased, from under 300 rooms to at least 2,000 rooms and there has been success with birding and other eco-tourism products and recognition in the international market.

However, while recognising that Guyana as a tourism destination was performing well internationally, he said more works are being undertaken to boost the enterprise locally.

In this regard, Prashad said ‘staycation’ is good, as it allows Guyanese to experience their own country.

He observed that a number of new events have been taking place across the country at Bartica, Orealla and Mainstay regattas; Moruca Expo, Wakenaam Night; Mahdia Expo; Rockstone Fish Festival; motor racing; cricket matches; horse racing and mega concerts and fashion shows, all providing avenues for the advancement of tourism.

Prashad said, from his ministry’s perspective, projects are ongoing to develop destinations like Number 63 Beach, Corentyne, Berbice.

He acknowledged, though, that tourism is not the Ministry’s effort only but requires the contribution of a cross-section of stakeholders.

In that context, Prashad lauded the contribution of the management of Aracari resort, particularly its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Sase Shewnarain.

The Minister noted that, unlike in countries like Barbados where 95 per cent of the industry is owned by foreigners, in Guyana that percentage is owned by Guyanese.

CONFIDENCE
“It shows the confidence that they have in the product, the confidence they have in the industry and in the Government to invest,” he said.

Prashad said Guyana has one of the most free and more liberal economies in this part of the hemisphere and is open for investment.

Shewnarain said ‘staycation’ is in response to a need and would serve the national good.

During times of economic hardships, ‘staycation’ is a means of conserving foreign currency and reducing expenses and, to save money, families can choose to stay home and enjoy the local attractions instead of travelling abroad, he suggested.

According to him, ‘staycation’ has evolved to mean not only spending time at home but vacationing in your country and Guyana and Guyanese have much to benefit from promoting it.

He said a simple survey of Guyanese abroad would indicate that a majority of them have not seen the attractions in their homeland nor experienced any local tours.

“Many left the shores of Guyana having never been in a decent restaurant, much less an international hotel. Many of those that can afford vacations pass up on the local attractions and tours and, instead, travel abroad. Many Guyanese who have been to Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Las Vegas, Miami, New York, Toronto, London and other foreign places have never seen Kaieteur Falls nor experienced a cruise in the Essequibo River or visited an Amerindian community or spent a week relaxing at a local international hotel,” Shewnarain stated.

Consequently, he said promoting ‘staycation’ not only helps the fledgling tourist industry but will also make Guyanese more aware of what Guyana has to offer for rest, relaxation and recreation.

Shewnarain urged employers, among them Government being the largest, to develop deliberate policies to direct that their allowances for vacation and travel be spent in the local tourist industry.

He said that will not only keep the dollar at home but also aid in the discovery of local attractions.

Shewnarain noted that each village, town, city, or region has its own uniqueness and should be defined and communicated to the area residents and the country as a whole.

He advocated a multi-faceted approach to define ‘staycation’ in the circumstances of Guyana to ensure its sustainability.

President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) Mr. Paul Stephenson pledged that his organisation will be supportive of the innovation.

“We are committed to ensuring that this concept succeeds,” he assured.

Stephenson concurred that ‘staycation’ addresses the needs of the local people and is good because, for too long, attention has been concentrated on the international market.

He said the timing to introduce the concept within tourism month sends the message that echoes the need to provide an outstanding experience.
Tourism Awareness Month observance in November is themed ‘Promoting Quality and Sustainable Tourism in Guyana’.

At Berbice Assizes
Witness admits intimate relationship with murdered married woman
By Jeune Bailey Vankeric
MARK Bangroo, alleged lover of the victim in the murder case at the Berbice Assizes, yesterday denied a suggestion that he did not go to the crime scene because he knew what he had done.

The witness was under cross-examination, by Senior Counsel Marcel Crawford, while testifying, before Justice Winston Patterson, at the trial of Eric Sookshine.

The accused is indicted for the unlawful killing of his wife, Jashorda Sookshine, at their Whim, Corentyne home, on June 3, 2005.

Bangroo, a minibus driver, admitted that he had an intimate relationship with the victim that began on January 5, 2005 and said, during that time, they went to hotels in New Amsterdam.

He said the affair was never drawn to the attention of the accused, his cousin, who lived four house lots away but his lover’s mother and other villagers used to gossip about them.

Bangroo said his wife had gone abroad and, although he was friendly with the 24-year-old Sookshine, he was never in love with her.

He said he did not know she was eight weeks pregnant at the time of her death, but agreed that, if she was indeed carrying his child, it would have posed a problem with his overseas based wife.

The witness, still being cross-examined by Crawford, said the Police arrested him at 07:00 h on the day the woman died and kept him in custody for five days before releasing him.

Earlier, led through evidence-in-chief by State Prosecutor Dionne Mc Cammon, Bangroo said, while doing household chores, he heard his neighbours and others shouting as they ran in the direction of the Sookshines home.

He said he stepped unto his bridge before returning into his yard and continued his domestic work when Police arrested and detained him.

Bangroo said, after four days in detention, a confrontation was held between him and the accused and he told a detective that, during an altercation, Sookshine had stamped him on his chest.

The witness said, in January 2005, Usha as he used to call the dead woman, had been to his home to borrow $5,000 and, after then, they became friends.

He said, on June 2, the night before she was killed, she, her husband and children visited his home to borrow $15,000 but he only had $4,000 which he lent them.

In her opening address to the jury last week, State Prosecutor Mc Cammon said the case is based on circumstantial evidence.

According to her, on the morning of June 3, 2005, Jashorda Sookshine was found motionless on her kitchen floor, with what appeared to be bloodstains on her clothing.

Mc Cammon said the Police were summoned and a cutlass, believed to be the murder weapon was found three feet away from the victim’s body.

She said the woman having been pronounced dead at Port Mourant Hospital, her corpse was examined by Government Pathologist Dr. Vivikanand Brijmohan, who recorded the cause of death as shock and haemorrhage, resulting from stab wounds to the heart.
The trial is continuing.

Woman City Constable trampled in horse cart accident
By Shirley Thomas
A WOMAN member of the City Constabulary, 26-year-old Abiola Trim was admitted to Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) in a serious condition yesterday, after being hit by a cart and trampled by the horse pulling it in Georgetown.

Member of the City Constabulary, 26-year-old Abiola Trim at the Georgetown Public Hospital yesterday, shortly after she was run-over by a horse cart and trampled by the horse. (Shirley Thomas photo)

The injured constable, of Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, tearful and writhing in pain reported that, around 15:15 h, she was riding her motorcycle and stopped briefly at the Croal Street and Avenue of the Republic traffic lights, when the cart passed without heeding the signal and crashed into her.

She said, after she fell, the cart ran over her and her lower left leg was pinned under the motorcycle. The horse began trampling her as she lay screaming and helpless on the roadway before public-spirited citizens rescued her.

The Constabulary was hurriedly contacted and other ranks took the injured woman, who was on duty at the time, to hospital, while the driver of the horse cart was taken into Police custody.

The rank who accompanied her said Trim was dealt several kicks by the horse, in her back and chest and x-rays will determine whether she suffered broken bones.

The patient arrived at the GPH shortly after a team from the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), accompanied by Deputy Superintendent of police Hugh Denhart of the Traffic Department had completed a tour of the accident wards, visiting persons who suffered injuries in road accidents.
Their visit was a planned gesture as part of the continuing National Road Safety Month observance.

Road safety a matter of great concern
The issue of safety on our roads is undoubtedly becoming a matter of greater concern because as living standards rise and people have greater disposable they naturally move towards owning vehicles and the inevitable end result is that the amount of vehicles plying the roadways increases almost on a daily basis and this has become a worldwide phenomenon.

So as roadways become busier they also become more dangerous, especially if drivers and other road users do not observe the basic rules and regulations governing traffic. And that is why road safety is an issue of utmost priority particularly against the backdrop of the large number of accidents and even worse the large number of fatalities or serious injuries that result from these accidents. Of course this could be avoided if only road users, motorists in particular, were careful and observed traffic rules and regulations.

Traffic accident fatalities have grown into a major social issue around the world. Globally, the number of fatalities caused by traffic accidents is estimated at 500,000 a year (1999 IRTAD data). In Japan, accident-caused fatalities have remained roughly constant at 10,000 a year while the number of traffic accidents has grown to about 800,000 per year.

The World Health Organization in 1996 published research (Murray &

Lopez,1996) estimating that in the rank order of leading causes of " years lost due to death and disability", road accidents would change from being the 9 th leading cause in the world in 1990 to the 3rd most major cause by 2020.

Developing countries bear the brunt of the fatalities and disabilities from road traffic crashes, accounting for more than 85% of the world's road fatalities and about 90% of the total disability adjusted life years(DALYs) lost due to road traffic injuries.

The problem is increasing in these countries at a fast rate, while it is declining in all industrialized nations(Odero, 2004).

About 10 percent of global road deaths in 1999 took place in Sub- Saharan Africa where only four percent of global vehicles are registered. Conversely, in the entire developed world, with 60 percent of all globally registered vehicles, only 14 percent of road deaths occurred (Jacop&Aeron-Thomas,2000). However, given the widely recognized problem of under –reporting of road deaths in Africa, the true figures are likely to be much higher.

The annual cost of road crashes is in excess of US$ 500 billion, and in the developing world the estimated cost is about US$ 65 billion each year. A considerable waste of scarce financial (and other) resources, typically costing between one and four per cent of a country's gross national product per annum (Jacobes et al., 1999).

These statistics are spine-chilling but do no not tell the whole story because the trauma and psychological/emotional damage and agony, which sre sometimes indelible, which these accidents cause are immeasurable.

In Guyana the problem of traffic accidents has become a critical and challenging and according to statistics from the Traffic Department there have been 600 fatalities between 2006 and September of this year. When this is mirrored against our relatively small population this is a very high figure which the Home Affairs Minister has alluded to and expressed his concern.

It has been widely recognised that determined efforts are needed to reverse the terrible traffic culture that has enveloped our country so as to stem the spate of accidents on our roadways.

On this score it was most heartening to note that as we observe Road Safety Month the minister at the launch of the School Road Safety Patrol Booklet, which is a very commendable move, made a most pertinent exhortation when he asserted that school children are important agents for spreading road safety messages to other people. In fact they are important agents of change in general and not only in terms of traffic culture, but he noise nuisance, the use of indecent and vulgar language and so many of the other social ills that are becoming an increasing problem in our society.

THE PARROT
Why Is Chris Back?
THE Parrot used to be a cricket fanatic. Now, the “fan” has lost interest as Waste Indies, oops…West Indies cricket seems to be a faded memory which is usually locked away in an attic.

That said, many have stopped wasting their time in trying to understand decisions taken by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB). Any cricket enthusiast would not hesitate to describe some Board decisions as tantamount to being ludicrous. This may be an understatement.

The team has performed poorly over the years despite the then presence of world record holder, Brian Lara. Now, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who not so long ago was the world’s number 1 Test batsman and Ramnaresh Sarwan, once the leading batsman in limited overs cricket are still integral members of the team. Many obvious reasons have been cited for the dismal performances. The Region is too small for the Board to be oblivious of the sentiments that permeate across.

Amongst the reasons for poor performance are players indiscipline, the Board’s inability to deal with such, the Board’s lack of vision, the general absence of commitment to be innovative in developing domestic cricket in the face of challenges from other sports, the absence of “pride and country” commitment from some players, the lure of money and the lack of basic respect between players, their association and the Board.

These are just a few. If Coaches’ reports are to be made public, a general trend would be revealed; some players then and now, because of their perceived status, were and are still immune from being disciplined.

Much has been said about Lara’s attitude. Some feel that despite his immense talent and achievements, he was not a team player.

This was at times confirmed by his public demeanour. This attitude, in many ways, led to division among players. One Coach hinted at this.

The leaked report was never officially released. It is believed that then, Lara was the “anointed” one. The same sentiments are felt with regards to Chris Gayle. His ability is not questioned; his commitment must be.

Here is the Captain, who like Lara, never hesitates to withdraw his services and that of the players at crucial intervals of the Regional cricketing schedule.

Yes, the Board has many faults. Yes, players must be adequately compensated. But, they must be paid their worth. The team constantly loses. The team is towards the bottom of the International Cricket Council’s ranking. The team no longer attracts large audiences as before. How then can these players, through its association, demand exorbitant fees? Fees must be tied to performance. Demands must be accompanied by excellence.

Cricket is now a business. If the West Indies team was winning and attracting large crowds across the globe, then fine; pay them what they truly deserve as seen in winning teams like Australia and India. Players who are so guilty have no grounds to make the demands they did.

When Gayle withdrew the services of the first tier players, the fans were robbed and as such, stayed away. Visiting teams were deprived of a formidable opposition as were those that hosted tours. The Board and local clubs were denied projected revenue from ticket sales. Did this matter to Gayle and his players?

From public display, it seems not. A few months back, in an interview with an international journalist, Gayle boldly announced his disinterest in Test cricket. He subsequently turned up two days late for a Test match. How is it by such public pronouncement and display, he can convince fans and Board alike, about his commitment to Regional cricket? Players from other countries have been disciplined for less. Some were even stripped of their responsibility. Chris Gayle was untouched.

True to form, the Board has once again turned a blind eye and named him Captain for the upcoming Aussie tour. Those who literally turned their backs on West Indies cricket have been rewarded with contracts. Those who, despite some deficiency in ability, but as evident from their performance played with commitment and pride, were bypassed. The Parrot is not suggesting that the best players should not be chosen. Those chosen must be convincing, not only in ability, but for their commitment to play for pride and country and who would not just be there for the money.

By these standards, Chris Gayle should not even be in the team chosen for Australia. Daren Ganga should have. Sulieman Benn should not have been chosen ahead of Nikita Miller. Once again fans and businesses will be asked to support the team. This seems a challenge. The Board has once again not failed to disappoint. Heads of Territorial Boards must be asked how Gayle’s reappointment was unanimous. Local Sports journalist must ask “Chettie” this. They must ask the WICB: Why Is Chris Back?

The Board used to be known as the WICBC; West Indies Cricket Board of CONTROL. The control part was dropped a few years ago. Is it a coincidence that since that happened, problems intensified? The Parrot’s attic will stay closed for the Australian tour. Squawk! Squawk!

What President Jagdeo, Yesu Persaud and Keith Burrowes have in common
BY PARVATI PERSAUD-EDWARDS
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo and Dr. Yesu Persaud both stride tall in their respective arenas, and merging their ideas, initiatives and endeavours can only redound to the benefit of this nation which they have both served so well.

A simple incident was blown out of proportion by opportunistic elements to create divergence in the pathways of two men who tower in the dynamics of Guyana’s developmental paradigm, but a confluence of these great men was inevitable, and parallels can be drawn from the merging of rivers in the scriptures they both adhere to, where the resultant merger have provided a boon down the ages that benefit all mankind.

Those who have been distressed at the alienation between President Jagdeo and Dr. Yesu Persaud, recognizing that this does not bode well for the country they both love and contribute to so overwhelmingly, have certainly been appeased by the restored cordiality between the two men.

Indeed, the dissonance was not of their own making, because they are both mature and intelligent individuals who deal with larger issues that supersede personal egos, and would most likely not allow a few words spoken in agitation by a besieged President to have snowballed into a magnitude of discordance, because, above all things, Guyana’s President evolved from a culture that demand respect for elders, and it is unlikely he meant any disrespect to Dr. Persaud, as was suggested ad nauseum by those who have vested interests in a discrete relationship between Guyana’s President and Guyana’s primary and most respected entrepreneur.

But these men are too big – in every way that matters, to let petty issues obfuscate their patriotism and endeavours toward the national good, and testimony to this was President Jagdeo’s presence at the commissioning ceremony of DDL’s state-of-the-art bottling plant on Thursday 15th October.

The establishment of this plant and the invitation to President Jagdeo to do the honours portend an expression of faith in Guyana’s economy and viability as a nation under the current administration, and Dr. Yesu Persaud is displaying his maturity and magnanimity by this public acknowledgement of this faith.

At the Commissioning ceremony Dr. Yesu Persaud said that he knew from the time he was asked to take over the company in 1975 that it had to change direction and from that day products were set aside in warehouses for aging

Mentioning some of the products that have become very valuable because of their rarity on the markets, Dr. Persaud said the 25-yr-old rum is a limited edition that has run out and that the very popular product will take another couple of years before it becomes available on the market.

Dr. Persaud said that the company had survived the difficult period when everything was banned and foreign exchange was not available, rising to accrual heights after the economy was liberated and the business climate improved after the change of government in 1992.

He enumerated the many and expanded achievements and the diversified ventures that DDL had successfully initiated.

Saying that the company has come a long way, Dr. Persaud explained that in 1992 it was recognized that the Company needed to move away from commodities into brands, so the idea of producing a product of distinction was then conceived and the El Dorado was born.

The rest is history.

President Jagdeo, in his feature address, said that he can certainly embrace the enthusiasm and the vision that DDL has displayed and congratulated the company for this new venture that will significantly improve their competitiveness globally and transform their operational methodologies in many ways.

He commended DDL for focusing more on efficiency, stating that many people look on this, in particularly the biogas project and the move by the company to green its operations, and think that third-world countries should not focus too much on greening their economies because this should be something for the developed world as they are the ones contributing to the majority of the concentration of greenhouse gases.

Observing that there is merit in that line of argument, he argued that we should also see opportunities in this, and that if we constantly complain about the deficiencies in appropriate actions by the other side, then maybe we will miss extant opportunities.

The President stated: “We may not contribute to a major reduction in greenhouse gases because we are not a large-scale producer of greenhouse gases, but we can benefit from the efficiency associated with the greening process through better and more efficient use of energy, less resources used in our production processes so that we achieve a competitive edge.

“There will be a premium in the future for greener products and maybe if we are early starters then maybe we can benefit from that premium in global markets that reward good green products.”

There is no guarantee that the full measure of projected costs for Guyana’s climate change adaptation programmes would be realized through President Jagdeo’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), which he is justifiably lobbying for from the developed nations, who are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

Developed nations have generated immense revenues from the industrialization of their countries, even while they have drastically depleted their forest resources. Today the world expects developing countries like Guyana that have huge expanses of virgin rainforests to sacrifice their developmental processes to breathe for the world, including first countries that have most contributed to the conditions that have impelled savagely-destructive, catastrophic occurrences around the world – el nino/la nina, tsunamis, savage hurricanes, et cetera, which are all phenomena of the climate change phenomenon.

Yet in the context of Guyana, our people are suffering – especially farmers of this nation, who contribute an approximate 33 percent of GDP, because of unseasonal weather patterns, and the Government can only afford ad hoc interventions to mitigate disastrous effects of climate change because of fiscal constraints. Our President is seeking compensatory mechanisms to be instituted by first-world nations to enable us to adapt to climatic changes that affect our revenue sources and consequently our developmental paradigm by way of a barter system, where the dynamics of sustaining life are interchangeable, one by the other – the developed world to pay us to breathe for them, and we sacrifice income-generation avenues by avoiding the deforestation of our rainforests to benefit the world.

Since we are innocent victims of the industrialization policies of first-world nations, which are being funded to reforest their denuded lands, why is it not considered justifiable that our country benefits financially from preservation of our ecological plentitude, if this in turn contributes to the general wellbeing of the entire earth? Every country is paid for their natural products – such as oil; so why should Guyana not be paid for the natural potentials residing in its rainforests?

Over and above that, the dangers of the earth being laid waste if nations continue to recklessly ignore the signs and symptoms of an ailing world – with the various species of denizens of sky, earth and water in peril of total decimation, have been largely ignored by the masses.

However, it is persons like President Jagdeo who have determined as an imperative the need of everyone – man, woman and child, to recognize the dire necessity to take control of our actions with a view to saving Planet Earth for future generations.

His taking the lead in such an initiative denotes visionary leadership in a global context, and he is being lauded the world over for this dynamic thrust in bringing to the world’s attention all the ramifications of the climate change issue, especially as it relates to mitigation and adaptation of vulnerable nations to the interrelated security and socio-economic threats that could very well derail their developmental momentum.

Guyana is being internationally-recognized today, not because of Jonestown, but because our tiny country has been placed on the map as possessing what is currently one of the world’s greatest treasures – vast tracts of intact rainforests, and for the visionary initiative that the President of this country has created to barter our natural resources, an initiative, if proven successful, that would catalyze the development graphs of our nation to skyrocket to unprecedented heights.

But the success of this initiative would disadvantage the agents of destruction in this nation, because the only initiatives they could drive are the X-13 Plan and “slo’ fiah, mo’ fiah” strategies, and the only support they give is to those such as the architects of Jonestown, which defines their modules for national development.

A letter-writer has posited that DDL would do better for Guyana if it diversified away from alcohol, because “rum has taken its toll on Guyanese lives and lives abroad.”

DDL, so ably spearheaded by Dr. Yesu Persaud, has produced prize-winning alcoholic beverages that are enjoyed the world over. It has contributed significantly to the exchequer and has been a direct and indirect employer of thousands of Guyanese and people – both locally and internationally - where its products are consumed.

The company expanded its operations to effect more efficiency and costing viability in its operational methodologies when it commissioned its bottling plant recently, and rum is not the only product it manufactures that needs bottling, because its diversification programme has been sustained by massive investments in non-traditional areas, even before these initiatives became popular in the national construct.

To condemn the company in a wholesale way, without considering the wider socio-economic implications, both for individuals and the nation, is irresponsible in the extreme. People have the option of choice in a democratic society. One cannot blame God for creating the apple that heralded discord in the world, but one can certainly blame Adam and Eve for choosing to disobey the Lord, who had been so good to them, which consequenced many subsequent ills in the world – all the ills, for that matter.

Thus it is a person’s right to choose whether to abuse a substance, which may create suffering in his life and that of his family, or to act responsibly and keep his indulgences to controllable levels. Neither Dr. Yesu Persaud nor DDL are contributors to the abhorrent lifestyles of those who succumb to selfish indulgences, so why the condemnatory fingers being pointed to two national institutions that have benefited this nation for decades? People need to make responsible choices in every aspect of their lives.

The blame-game for the misdemeanours of individuals within our society has become endemic and is perpetuating selfish and irresponsible actions by persons who relinquish their social obligations because someone else, or something else is always found blameworthy for the bad choices they make.

Mr. Keith Burrowes wears many caps and works like a Trojan in various areas to help national development, even neglecting his health and his family to effectively deliver on his various portfolios. Yet, instead of being accorded the kudos he deserves, he is constantly being attacked by those who cannot measure up to his perfectionist standards.

Today his family has also become targets for those whom are incensed by his no-nonsense approach to work ethos and work ethics. His integrity is impeccable and he expects the same from those with whom he interrelates, otherwise his ire knows no bounds, thus creating enmity with those whose standards are considerably lower.

As Commissioner of Inquiry charged with investigating the operations of City Hall, Mr. Burrowes conscientiously discharged his mandate, to the extent where he expanded his investigations because of unfolding evidences of fraud and unprofessional and/or suspicious conduct by several members of staff, among other anomalies.

For this he came under constant criticisms by someone who falls far below Mr. Burrowes’ impeccable standards, who may even be culpable of certain unacceptable practices that contributed to the dilemma in which the M&CC found itself.

The media also was supportive of this official and relentlessly hounded Mr. Burrowes and queried the extended timeframe for the investigations, instead of letting the job be done in the comprehensive manner in which the Commissioner was attempting, because, as he explained ad nauseum to his critics, he was not interested in a cosmetic exercise, but in an eventual configuration that would herald meaningful changes to the operations at City Hall.

The announcement by the Minister that an implementation committee would be established to effect the changes as necessary to reconstruct and revitalize the operations of the municipality, which it is hoped would fructify into more effective operational methodologies, has been welcomed by city residents, especially since one of the primary recommendations in the Burrowes Report is that the citizens, who Mr. Burrowes refers to as “shareholders” of the city, would be involved in the processes of change.

The all-inclusive report, which is compiled in three volumes, is so comprehensive that the implementation committee only has to create the mechanisms and methodologies to effect those recommendations.

Volume One contains all the recommendations, but Volume Two has detailed information on Wards, road measurements and linkages, and details providing infrastructural information that would greatly aid the work of the implementation committee.

The citizens of Georgetown have much to be thankful to Mr. Burrowes for, but instead of praises and appreciation, he is facing unwarranted attacks on himself and family.

Further adding to his stature is his stoic acceptance that once someone serves the public that person would be subject to unjustified criticism, which comes with the territory.

Yet the criticisms of these men continue – openly, and secretly by those who disguise their identities by code names. They are targets of critics, even while they are pursuing productive avenues of engagements that would optimize the dynamism in the development of this country, with all the socio-economic implications.

It is, however, sad that those who contribute to national development cannot enjoy the fruits of their achievements without being subjected to the vileness of abuse by those who themselves aspire to, but cannot achieve, the heights that the brilliant, the competent, and the productive members of this nation have scaled.

Copenhagen failure will be a failure for us all Freddie
FREDDIE Kissoon’s obsession with the President has resulted in his inability to see that a failure at the World Climate Change Forum slated for Copenhagen in December of this year will be a failure for planet saving efforts. So while he continues on his anti-Jagdeo, anti-PPP campaign, on this instance, masturbating the warning issued by the British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown in an article titled “Bad news for President Jagdeo”, published in the Kaieteur News of the 30th October 2009, the issue of climate change and its effects is one of a serious nature and could impact on all of us.. Hence, like Jagdeo, we should all take interest in the Copenhagen summit.

Surely Freddie cannot be that daft so as not to take cognizance of the predictions of scientists in relation to the threat of rising sea levels. He must be aware that the sea level rises for two reasons. Partly because of the melting ice and snow, as well as the thermal expansion of the sea. Thermal expansion takes a long time, but even an increase in temperature of two degrees Celsius is expected, in due time, to cause a rise in the water level of almost a metre.. Surely this must be worrisome for Freddie as his home is located on Guyana’s low coastal plain and for whom such a situation could prove to be disastrous.

So while Freddie pontificates that Jagdeo’s legacy is dependent on the climate change talks at Copenhagen so too is his (Freddie’s) very livelihood and existence on this very planet. As failure to come to consensus on tackling global warming will have far reaching implications. Also a point to note is the warning of Connie Hedegaard, Danish Minister for Climate and Energy, “If the world fails to deliver a political agreement at the UN climate conference in December, it will be the whole global democratic system not being able to deliver results in one of the defining challenges of our century”

One would’ve thought that Freddie would’ve made use of the many books available to him in an earnest effort to enhance his thinking ability; instead it is quite the opposite.
CEDRIC LORD
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EveryChild Guyana condemns the torturing of 14 year old
EVERYCHILD Guyana condemns the torturing of the West Demerara 14 year old boy. In the wake of the new children’s legislation that places greater emphasis on the protection of children and highlights the responsibilities of the Police and key government agencies’ staff it is most alarming to discover that children in police custody are allegedly experiencing such traumatic violations.

This type of practice must be challenged by communities, religious leaders and civil society organizations to ensure that this case is investigated and the perpetrators dealt with according to the law. EveryChild Guyana encourages parents and guardians and all those who have the responsibilities over children to take an active role in this case and to join forces with like minded agencies to stop the violence against children. No violence against children is justifiable and all violence against children must be condemned.
EveryChild Guyana
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Toronto’s Pranav Ashram applauded for compassionate service
I write to applaud the Pranav Ashram of Toronto for its charitable activities and for honouring those who rendered compassionate service to their communities as well as for recognising the positive contributions of distinguished members of the organisation.

The Pranav Ashram is a community-based organisation comprising of several well known Guyanese and non-Guyanese activists. It has performed fantastic services for communities in Canada. The honorees crossed religious boundaries. It is similar in its objectives to Guyanese organisations in Queens, NY.

The organisation’s dinner is held annually for the last ten years as an expression of gratitude for selfless individuals. The Indo-Caribbean World newspaper, published by a Guyanese, says it offers “a chance to commemorate the commitment of the ashram’s devotees who, unhesitatingly supports the ashram’s philanthropic mission”. Proceeds from the banquet are used to spread goodwill and uniting the community through religion and public service.

At a dinner banquet last month, the organisation honoured the late Shri Prakash Gossai in whose memory the event was dedicated. His son and daughter jointly received the honor in their father’s name.

Others honored by Pranav Ashram included Dr. Muhammad Hack and Sew Sankar. Dr. Hack has provided medical support services to the poor and Sankar has performed yeoman service to members of the ashram and beyond. Pt. Gossai has promoted Hinduism worldwide the way no one else did.

The President of Pranav Ashram, Sat Purushuttam, extolled the astronomical achievements of Guyanese in Canada. In a report in the Indo-Caribbean World, he said: “In a matter of only a few decades, the Guyanese community elevated themselves from an arduous life in Guyana to esteemed individuals in Canada, working humbling jobs to ameliorate the lives of their off springs.”
VISHNU BISRAM
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GAWU urges Kaieteur News to return to even handed principles
WE of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) hesitate to accuse your well-read newspaper (Kaieteur News) and its editorial policy of any bias, discrimination or one-sidedness.

GAWU, therefore, regards your omission in carrying our comprehensive brief, as a letter, “GAWU presses for investment in sugar workers,” which was forwarded to you, as an irregular but serious lapse. We are also very cautious to accuse your medium of any partiality in the current impasse between the Union and Guysuco. However, since the government’s spokespersons and government friendly letter writers are weighing in on the issue, we urge that you resume your principled even-handedness and balanced reporting, in the interest of both journalistic fair-play and the principle of both parties in a dispute being treated equitably.
SEEPAUL NARINE
General Secretary
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Those guilty of torturing youth will stand before God
IT is appalling and atrocious to say the least at the mere sight of the young boy who during this past week was viciously attacked by custodians of the law (law officers). Let it be known that the church (custodians of the Gospel) abhor and detest this heinous crime perpetrated against a human being.

Never in my civilised mind could I conceive such as act possibly by lawmen, no not in the 21st century.

But let me hasten to say with all boldness as always Mr. Editor, those who are guilty of such act will one day stand before God Almighty and give an account of their actions and if found guilty in the courts of God shall be cast into everlasting fire – a place call hell where the worms never die and the fire is never quenched. There is a place called hell whether we believe it or not, scientists have discovered, hell below the fact of the earth where there are millions of offenders screaming endlessly. Let them be reminded that there is no mercy in hell, there is no light in hell, there is no water in hell, there is only darkness and destruction of human souls that hate another human being.

Let them be reminded also that for every evil work committed God will judge them, except they repent of their ways.

Know for sure, these are extortionist, terrorist and tormentors. There are many of like nature out there.

What is more appalling is when we have an administration that surreptitiously support such acts and callously labels them ‘roughing up’.

I ask myself the question, is God removed from the hearts of men?
APOSTLE VANRICK BERESFORD
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NADF condemns of brutality on youth
THE National Amerindian Development Foundation condemn the brutal and horrific criminal act against the teenage son of Doodnauth Jaikarran and Shirley Thomas. NADF expect that these perpetrators shall face the full force of the law.

The thought of setting someone's genitals ablaze comes from desperate and retarded minds. NADF is encouraged by the fact that the sick persons have been arrested and commend the Guyana Police Force for their quick response.

This is not what the Guyana Police Force is about, youths see them as protectors and enforcers of the law, persons to be respected and not feared.

NADF stands with all concerned citizens and express without reservation our support for justice to be served. We hope that this inhuman experience will pave the way for children to be recognised as resources for the next generation and given the opportunity to excel towards making Guyana a better place for all.
NADF
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Pattensen CDC condemns brutality meted to youth
THE brutality meted out to a child while in custody of the Guyana

Police Force as reported in the print media shows the level of

depravity in sections of our disciplined services. We, the members of

the Pattensen Community Development Council (PCDC) condemn the

actions of the officers who participated in this brutality and who

sought to cover up.

We call on the government to ensure that the child receives all the

medical attention which is needed and any other support to recover

from this traumatic incident.

The PCDC is a partner in the Pickney Project. We were happy to host

officers of the Guyana Police Force in March 2009 at a training

workshop on Child Protection. We believe that the leadership of the

Guyana Police Force should recognize the efforts of those who are

ensuring that children who come into contact with law enforcement

agencies are treated humanely.

We however note that fact that a picture was taken and presented in the public from that seemingly inhumane environment where the person(s) responsible were involved in that brutish and despicable behavior, it means some one(s) with integrity and a heart for justice was present there.

We salute those who did the 'right ' thing in making that picture available, he/she/they are the bastions of the nation's hope and trust in our Police Force.
PCDC EXECUTIVE
O. ELLIS, C. MARKS, M. MOORE, C. PATTERSON, S. OGLE
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Measures should be taken to safeguard our interests
I read where a gold prospecting company will be building an airstrip, wharf etc in Guyana. With the rising price of gold, one wonders if the government has the capability to ensure that Guyana is receiving its fair share of the profits.

The first thing that should be done with monies received from foreign investments is to spend some on proper safeguards and experienced personnel to protect our interests. If experienced advisers are utilised in making the original agreements, it would help contribute to safeguards in future operations and changes.
N. AUGUSTUS

Guyana storm into WICB President’s Cup final
… to clash with T&T tomorrow
By Calvin Roberts
HOST country Guyana stormed their way into the final of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) President’s Cup limited overs competition where they will face defending champions Trinidad and Tobago, following a comfortable six-wicket victory over the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) at the Guyana National Stadium last night.

Man-of-the-Match Shivnarine Chanderpaul receives his prize from Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) president Chetram Singh. The `little’ left-hander was left unbeaten on 50. (Sonell Nelson photos)

Winning the toss in brilliant sunshine and opting to take first strike, the University students found the going rough against the spin-based home team bowling and were bowled out for 151 from 48.4 overs, to which Guyana replied with 152-4 from 40.3 overs.

Kjorn Ottley 26 (1x4), Kevin McLean 23(1x4) and Omar Phillips 22 (3x4) were the leading batsmen against the bowling of Royston Crandon (4-25), Devendra Bishoo (3-27) and Veerasammy Permaul (2-30) for Guyana.

After being 11-2 at one stage in their reply, the home team who have not won a Regional limited overs title since 2005 when they defeated Barbados at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground in the KFC final, were taken to safety by Shivnarine Chanderpaul (50*) and skipper Ramnaresh Sarwan (37*).

Phillips and Romel Currency (14) posted 25 for the first wicket for CCC, with the latter cutting Christopher Barnwell through backward point for four while Phillips drove Esaun Crandon twice for four in successive overs, before Currency was run-out by Travis Dowlin when he attempted a sharp single to Travis Dowlin at mid on in the eighth over.

Four overs later, Nikolai Parris (26), who struck Barnwell for back-to-back boundaries through mid-on and extra cover respectively, was bowled by Royston Crandon’s first delivery of the match which kept low and knocked back his off stump.

And when Shivnarine Chanderpaul took an easy catch off Phillips who had struck Bishoo back over his head for four at extra cover, CCC, who got their first 50 from 16 overs, were 71-3 at the halfway stage of their innings.

A batting slump took place for CCC, who lost three quick wickets inclusive of Kurt Wilkinson (1), Ottley and Chadwick Walton (2) to Bishoo and Permaul respectively, to be 83-6 in the 30th over of their innings.

Skipper Floyd Reifer (13) and McLean added 37 for the seventh wicket, with McLean getting a thick outside edge past Dowlin to third man for four, before Reifer, who led a makeshift West Indies team to the ICC limited overs championship in South Africa, holed out to Chanderpaul at long on off Royston Crandon.

McLean did not hang around long enough to cause the home team bowlers any trouble after his skipper’s demise, as he played over a delivery from Royston Crandon and was bowled, as the Guyanese spinners kept a tight rein on the opposition’s batting, leaving them on 134-9 in the 44th over.

Their innings came to a close 39 minutes before the scheduled time, when Kavesh Kantasingh (11) was caught by Narsingh Deonarine running back from short fine leg off Permaul, leaving Ryan Austin unbeaten on 5.

Guyana began their reply 28 minutes before the scheduled interval break and lost Dowlin who was bowled by McLean, but not before he had pulled him through midwicket for four and was quickly followed by Barnwell who was caught at the wicket by Walton two balls later off the same bowler, leaving Guyana on 11-2 off seven overs.

The in-form Deonarine who, like Sarwan, Chanderpaul and Dowlin, will be going to Australia with the West Indies team in less than two weeks, fought fire with fire when he pulled Catlin through forward square for the first maximum of the game.

Sewnarine Chattergoon (13), who was at the other end of the wicket when Dowlin and Barnwell were dismissed, joined the boundary-scoring act after the break with a sweetly timed cut through point off Kantasingh for his first boundary, while Deonarine punched Catlin through point off the back foot for four.

The 26-year-old Deonarine who became the first batsman to score over 1 000 runs in a WICB first-class season, took a liking to Catlin when he flicked him neatly off his legs and into the Red Stand for his second maximum, prompting a ball change, while Chattergoon struck the same bowler over square leg for four off the final delivery of the 13th over, taking Guyana to 51-2.

Guyana lost Chattergoon who was caught by Austin at mid-on off Kantasingh, bringing an end to a 41-run third-wicket partnership with Deonarine that took 8.5 overs to compile, before Deonarine holed out to Phillips at long-on off Austin for 31 (2x6, 2x4), leaving Guyana on 61-4.

Guyana’s experienced players in Chanderpaul and Sarwan came together at the fall of Deonarine’s wicket and after a cautious approach, with the pair taking singles and even converting ones into twos, Sarwan played his trade-mark cut shot for four through point off Parris, as they added an unbroken 91-run stand for the fifth wicket.

The 100 was posted in the 32nd over, after which both Chanderpaul and Sarwan struck Wilkinson for double boundaries in an over which cost CCC 17 runs, the most expensive of the match as Guyana moved to 132-4, and 20 runs away from victory.

The two, who had brought up their 50 partnership from 14.2 overs, never looked to be threatened by a bowling attack that was bent on waiting for something to happen instead of making it happen, hence they capitalised and took their team to victory.

The writing was on the wall for the students, when the two took the batting power play at the start of the 40th over, in which Chanderpaul reverse-swept Parris through forward square for four, followed by a six over long-off to push the score to 146-4.

Chanderpaul brought up his 50 and the team’s victory with a four to backward square leg off Catlin, facing 85 balls and hitting four fours and his maximum off Parris in the previous over, while Sarwan was unbeaten on 35 from 54 balls with two fours, ensuring Guyana face T&T in tomorrow’s final from 1330h at the same venue.

McLean ended with 2-7 from 3.1 overs before he was forced to leave the field with an injury, while Kantasingh and Austin ended with one wicket each, as Chanderpaul was declared the man-of-the-match at the presentation ceremony that followed.
SCOREBOARD
CCC innings
O. Phillips c Chanderpaul b Bishoo 22
R. Currency run-out (Dowlin/Hicks) 14
N. Parris b R. Crandon 13
K. Ottley c Sarwan b Bishoo 26
K. Wilkinson lbw Bishoo 1
F. Reifer c Chanderpaul b R. Crandon 13
C. Walton c Dowlin b Permaul 2
K. McLean c wkpr Hicks b R. Crandon 23
K. Catlin b R. Crandon 1
R. Austin not out 5
K. Kantasingh c Deonarine b Permaul 11
Extras: (b-5, lb-4, w-11) 20
Total: (all out, 48.4 overs) 151
Fall of wickets: 1-25, 2-42, 3-71, 4-73, 5-80, 6-83, 7-120, 8-126, 9-134.
Bowling: E. Crandon 6-0-18-0, Barnwell 6-0-24-0 (w-1), R. Crandon 9-0-25-4 (w-5), Deonarine 8-1-21-0, Bishoo 10-1-27-3 (w-1), Permaul 9.4-0-30-2 (w-4).

GUYANA innings
S. Chattergoon c Austin b Kantasingh 13
T. Dowlin b McLean 7
C. Barnwell c wkpr Walton b McLean 0
N. Deonarine c Phillips b Austin 31
S. Chanderpaul not out 50
R. Sarwan not out 35
Extras: (b-1, lb-1, w-11, nb-3) 16
Total: (for 4 wickets from 40.3 overs) 152
Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-11, 3-52, 4-61.
Bowling: Mc Lean 3.1-1-7-2, Kantasingh 10-4 11-1, Catlin 7.2 0-49-0 (w-7, nb-2), Austin 10-2-20-1 (nb-1, w-1), Parris 7-0-35-0, Currency 1-0-7-0 (w-2), Wilkinson 2-0-21-0 (w-1).

Records can tumble once again at `Riding for Life 3’
By Michael DaSilva
RECORDS can tumble once again when the 3rd edition of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/Ministry of Health `Riding for Life’ Five-Stage Cycle Race gets under way tomorrow from Corriverton, Berbice.

In the inaugural event in 2008, records were set for all five stages of the gruelling 226-mile event that traversed the three counties of Guyana (Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo).

In 2008 the record of one hour 51 minutes 37 seconds (1:51.37) was set for the 46.6 miles first stage (Corriverton to New Amsterdam), but last year, that was broken by Robin Persaud who returned 1:49.10.

Last year, the time of 2:35.53 that was set for the second stage (Rosignol to Georgetown) in 2008, was erased by Alonzo Greaves who clocked 2:32.05 for the 96-mile stage.

The 2008 time for the third stage (Wales to Parika) was 1:06.14, but last year, Marlon `Fishy’ Williams, in winning the stage 60-mile stage, returned 1:03.19.

The 2008 time for stage four was 2:52.34, but last year Trinidadian Colin Wilson registered 2:3054, while Williams returned the following day and recorded 2:38.11 for stage five (Linden to Georgetown) a distance of 100 miles, erasing the 2:49.23 set in 2008.

This year, however, is expected to be even more competitive than last year with the presence of two of Guyana’s more experienced road riders, Dwayne `Road Hog’ Gibbs and Godfrey Pollydore in the lineup.

Apart from the two duo, keen competition is also expected to come from riders from Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago who were expected to arrive in Guyana yesterday for today’s 12:30 h departure to Berbice.

According to national cycle coach Hassan Mohamed, over 50 cyclists are expected to face the starter at 07:30 h tomorrow morning outside the Corriverton Police Station.

This number includes defending champion Junior Niles, who, despite not winning any of the five stages last year, came out champion as he returned bunch times with the top finishers in each of the stages. He completed the 226-mile event with an overall time of 10:38.13.

Christopher Holder is the defending junior champion and will be keen on retaining his title, but he too can expect keen rivalry from the likes of Geron Williams, Christopher Persaud and Enzo Matthews.

Meanwhile, cycle clubs are reminded that only accredited motor vehicles and cycles will be allowed to follow the race and anyone found breaking this UCI rule will be dealt with accordingly.

This warning was given by Minister of Sport Dr Frank Anthony at a press conference recently.

Chairman Butts says Gayle was the overwhelming choice
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Chris Gayle was the unanimous choice to lead West Indies on the three-Test tour of Australia, chairman of selectors Clyde Butts revealed Monday.

The languid Jamaican, who has led the regional side for the last two years, was retained for the post despite speculation selectors would have explored other options.

Butts told CMC Sports while a few names were considered, Gayle was the overwhelming pick for the panel that also comprised Raphick Jumadeen and Robert Haynes.

“I think when you look at what took place over the last year, Chris Gayle was our captain before we had the impasse and we had Denesh Ramdin as his vice-captain,” Butts said in a telephone interview from Guyana.

“You had Ramnaresh Sarwan who has captained before and Dwayne Bravo who has also captained before.

“Those four names were considered for the captaincy of the West Indies team and at the end we though that Chris Gayle was at this time and at this moment, the most suitable person to captain West Indies and take them to Australia.”

Trinidad & Tobago captain Daren Ganga had been mooted in several quarters as a possible choice to captain the side, especially after he led the national team to the final of the Twenty20 Champions League in India earlier this month.

However, Butts said the panel was not convinced the right-handed opener could command a place in the Windies team, pointing to his past performances and his outing in the regional four-day championship earlier this year.

Ganga, who has played 48 Tests with modest success, finished with 749 runs at an average 46.18.

“His name actually came up but I don’t think we thought that Daren Ganga at this time would have gotten into a West Indies team,” said the former Guyana and West Indies off-spinner.

“Looking at the history of his batting and looking at how he has batted over the past year or so in the regional tournament, I don’t think he’s actually made a lot of runs in the tournament and it would have been difficult to see him in this team.”

Selectors on Monday announced the 15-man squad for the tour of Australia which will see Tests in Brisbane (November 26-30), Adelaide (December 4-8) and Perth (December 16-20.

NAMILCO/Fruta Conquerors 3rd Annual F/ball festival ...
Joseph’s triple strike tumbles Seawall FC
… Quarter-final action commences this evening
By Michael DaSilva
VICTORIA Kings’ Pierre Joseph launched a triple strike on Seawall FC that saw them (Seawall) tumble out from further participation in the NAMILCO-sponsored Fruta Conquerors’ 3rd Annual Football Festival.

Playing the feature match of a triple-header card at the Tucville ground on Monday evening, East Coast team Victoria Kings brushed aside West Demerara’s Seawall FC by a 4-0 margin to secure a place in the round of eight which commences tonight at the same venue with a double-header card.

Also registering victories on Monday evening were Georgetown’s GFC who edged East Demerara’s Buxton Stars 1-0 and Georgetown Football Association’s (GFA) 2010 Premier League debutants Riddim Squad who continued their 2009 season unbeaten dream run with a 1-0 win against Premier League team Pele.

In the feature match, Joseph landed his first blow in the 42nd minute and found his target again in the 44th and 46th minutes.

He was ably assisted by Dwayne Stevens who found the back of Seawall’s net in the 55th minute.

In the main supporting game, Peter Parks booked GFC’s place in the quarter-final round with an 11th minute goal from the penalty spot, while in the opening game, Sheldon Hope recorded a 63rd minute goal to secure Riddim Squad’s place in the round of eight.

Riddim Squad played unbeaten in the 2009 GFA/Western Union Division One tournament, finishing at the top of the points standing ahead of Santos.

Monday’s triple-header card was marred by a power outage that caused a delay in the start of the main supporting game between GFC and Buxton Stars as well as poor sportsmanship on the part of Buxton Stars who refused to continue the game, trailing 0-1 with one minute of regulation time remaining after team member Vernon Halley was shown the red card by the officiating referee for dangerous play.

Earlier in the game, two other team members, Owain Bobb and Neville Gulliver were issued yellow cards for similar offences.

Parks had sent GFC into the lead with a well-placed penalty shot that beat Buxton Stars’ custodian flat to his left and from there onwards the East Coast side tried desperately to find the equaliser and winning goals, but their efforts were thwarted by some stout defence from the Bourda team.

But once things got going in the feature match, football fans and supporters were treated to some entertaining football from the Kings side.

The three winners from Monday’s fixtures will join Georgetown’s Sunburst Camptown, BK International Western Tigers, GDF and Santos, as well as New Amsterdam United in the round of eight which commences this evening. From 18:00 h New Amsterdam United tackle Victoria Kings in the opening match and Sunburst Camptown take on Riddim Squad in the feature match which is scheduled to get under way from 20:00 h

Sunburst Camptown booked their place in the quarter-final round with a 4-1 win against Uprising while Western Tigers, GDF and Santos recorded 2-1, 2-1 and 2-0 victories over BV/Triumph, Buxton United and Topp XX respectively.

Trophy Stall Masters win at GYO Ground
LAST Friday night softball fans witnessed three softball matches which were played at the Gandhi Ground, Woolford Avenue in aid of GYO Cricket Club.

Floodlight skipper Ramesh Sunich receives trophy for winning the first semi-final against Guysuco from Khemraj Ramjattan.

Floodlight XI went down by 11 runs in the 10-over final after the Trophy Stall Masters made 129 for four with Danny Mohanram top-scoring with an undefeated 49.

Floodlight were off to a good start with Imtiaz Mohammed making 69 not out but eventually fell short to reach 119 for 4 wickets, due to some good bowling from Ryan Singh and Ricky Persaud of Trophy Stall Masters.

Earlier Floodlight XI defeated Guysuco in the first semi-final when they restricted Guysuco to 120 for 9 wickets off 20 overs with skipper Azahrudin Shaw top-scoring with 39.

Goverdhan Arjune with four wickets for 20 runs and Jailall Deodass 3 for 21 bowled brilliantly for Floodlight XI.

Floodlight XI then raced to 121 for 4 off 11 overs with Reyaz Husein making a quick-fire 29 and Patrick Khan 17 not out being the chief scorer.

In the second semi-final between Trophy Stall Masters and Industry Super Kings, Trophy Stall Masters, batting first, made a mammoth 212 for 7 off 20 overs with guest player Ejaz Mohammed hitting the ball all around the ground for a brilliant undefeated 109.

Industry Super Kings were restricted to 176 for 8 with Kayume Haslim 41 and Ishwar Singh 33 being the main scorers. These matches were sponsored by Rice Lab, South American Lumber, Jagroop Auto Electrician and Anil Manickchand.

Zimbabwe fold for 44 to surrender ODI series
BANGLADESH'S top order has rarely been in prime form over the past year, but if there was a game in which they could afford to fail, this was it.

After the home side's bowlers demolished Zimbabwe for 44, the fifth lowest total in one-dayers, even a familiar failure at the top couldn't stop Bangladesh from taking the series by knocking off the runs in 11.5 overs. Scores: Bangladesh 49 for 4 (Tamim 22) beat Zimbabwe 44 (Shakib 3-8, Enamul 3-16) by six wickets)

Despite two big wins in the previous two matches Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan had been unhappy with his team's performance, demanding an improved show.

The bowlers delivered again, but the batting again wobbled, and the fielding was a mixed bag. Zimbabwe could have been in for even more embarrassment had Bangladesh not grassed three catches.

After three games in Mirpur the action shifted to Chittagong, where the pitch offered plenty of turn and bounce, but Zimbabwe can't use that as an excuse as most of the wickets were due to some poor shot selection from the batsmen rather than due to gremlins in the track.

Stand-in captain Hamilton Masakadza, Zimbabwe's most impressive player this year, had a horror game.

First, in a decision that is sure to give him sleepless nights, he opted to bat on a juicy track. "Obviously, we misread the wicket. It was slower than we thought," he said. And five deliveries into the innings, he mistimed his attempt to clear mid-on to start the procession of wickets.

Left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak, who has been one of the standout players this series, then got a big breakthrough with his third delivery, inducing Brendan Taylor to chip the ball back to the bowler. Zimbabwe were three down in the third over when Charles Coventry played down the wrong line to nick the ball to the keeper.

Mark Vermuelen is one Zimbabwe batsman who can construct a dour, defensive innings, but even he lasted only nine deliveries. A straight delivery from Razzak foxed him as he played for the turn, to be struck in front of off.

Zimbabwe's top-order had done a decent job so far in the series, but the batsmen lower down showed little backbone. Alistair Campbell, the chairman of selectors, was hoping at this stage for a reversal of roles between the two, and for a while Malcolm Waller and Stuart Matsikenyeri gave him hope with the longest partnership of the match, lasting eight overs.

The visitors seemed to be staging a fightback through the pair, who even lashed the 12th over for 10 runs after only 20 had been cobbled together before that. Matsikenyeri, though, undid the good work by throwing his wicket away: a short and wide ball was carved to Mohammad Ashraful at backward point.

That brought on another domino-style batting collapse with Zimbabwe losing four wickets in four overs. Two of them were due to athletic fielding efforts: Waller fell to a blinder at cover by Nazmul Hossain (a full-length dive to his left), and Elton Chigumbura took the visitors past the lowest score ever in ODIs (35) before offering a low return catch to Enamul Haque Jr.

Shakib and Enamul then polished off the tail. "When we started playing, we thought it was a flat track but when our spinners came in, it was doing a bit and they landed the ball in the right areas," Shakib said.

Zimbabwe's innings barely lasted an hour-and-half, and the fans were still trickling into the stadium on a sleepy Tuesday morning when Bangladesh openers strode out for the chase. A straightforward victory seemed on the cards when local Tamim Iqbal and Junaid Siddique made a confident start.

They had coasted to 33 for 0 before the spinners, Ray Price and Graeme Cremer, snared three wickets in the space of nine deliveries to give Zimbabwe fans something to shout about. It was another failure for both Junaid and Ashraful, whose places will come under scrutiny for the dead rubber.

Naeem Islam became the fourth Bangladesh batsman to be dismissed before a swipe over midwicket from Mushfiqur Rahim sealed the series. (Cricinfo)

ZIMBABWE innings
H. Masakadza c Mohammad Ashraful b Nazmul Hossain 2
MA Vermeulen lbw b Abdur Razzak 3
BRM Taylor c & b Abdur Razzak 0
CK Coventry c Mushfiqur Rahim b Nazmul Hossain 1
MN Waller c Nazmul Hossain b Shakib Al Hasan 13
S. Matsikenyeri c Mohammad Ashraful b Enamul Haque jnr 11
CJ Chibhabha b Enamul Haque jnr 0
E. Chigumbura c & b Enamul Haque jnr 4
AG Cremer not out 7
RW Price lbw b Shakib Al Hasan 0
KM Jarvis c & b Shakib Al Hasan 0
Extras: (w 3) 3
Total: (all out; 24.5 overs) 44
Fall of wickets1-2 , 2-3 ,, 3-4 , 4-8, 5-32, 6-32 7-36, 8-36 , 9-39.
Bowling: Hossain 6-2-10-2, Razzak 5-0-10-2, Enamul Haque (Jr) 7-2-16-3 (w-2), Shakib Al Hasan 6.5-1-8-3 (w-1).

BANGLADESH innings R M B 4s 6s SR
Tamim Iqbal c Cremer b Price 22 27 26 3 0 84.61
Junaid Siddique c Vermeulen b Cremer 8 34 19 1 0 42.10
Mohammad Ashraful Lbw b Price 0 2 3 0 0 0.00
Raqibul Hasan not out 9 20 17 0 1 52.94
Naeem Islam c Chibhabha b Cremer 0 3 3 0 0 0.00
Mushfiqur Rahim not out 2 9 5 0 0 40.00
Extras: (lb-2, w-4, nb-2) 8
Total: (4 wickets; 11.5 overs) 49 (4.14 runs per over)
Fall of wickets: 1-33 , 2-33 , 3-36 , 4-38.
Bowling: Jarvis 2-0-21-0 (nb-2, w-1), Chigumbura 1-0-1-0, Matsikenveri 2-0-9-0, Price 4-2-5-2, Cremer 2.5-0-11-2 (w-1).

Afridi stars with bat and ball in Pakistan’s win over NZ
ABU DHABI - Shahid Afridi hit an aggressive half-century and took two wickets to cap Pakistan's 138-run win over New Zealand in the first day/night international here yesterday.

Afridi's 50-ball 71, supplemented by Kamran Akmal's undefeated 43-ball 67 and Khalid Latif's steady maiden, fifty lifted Pakistan to an imposing 287-9 before they shot New Zealand out for 149 in the 40th over.

The victory, which gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match one-day series, was also sweet revenge for the winners who lost to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy semi-final last month.

The remaining two matches will be played here on Friday and Monday, before the two teams move to Dubai for two Twenty20 internationals on November 12 and 13.

Chasing a daunting target, New Zealand were never on course as Gul shook them by bowling Brendon McCullum (21) and Martin Guptill (four) by the tenth over.

Teenager Mohammad Aamir accounted for Ross Taylor (nought) and Abdul Razzaq sent Scot Styris (five) back as New Zealand reeled at 50-4.

Aaron Redmond (52) and Daniel Vettori (38) provided the only resistance during a 69-run fifth-wicket stand before five wickets fell for 10 runs.

Earlier, it was Akmal who gave Pakistan's innings the final touches with a belligerent 43-ball 67 laced with four sixes and five boundaries as Pakistan ran rampant, making 107 in the last ten overs.

He built on vice-captain Afridi's innings, who was instrumental in initially stepping up the run-rate with his bold hitting as he smashed three sixes and four boundaries during his 30th half-century.

Afridi added 101 runs for the fifth wicket with Latif after New Zealand paceman Shane Bond dismissed opener Salman Butt and Younus - both without scoring - in his incisive five-over spell.

Latif, who scored 19 in his only previous one-day match in January last year, was also involved in a 57-run stand for the third wicket with Mohammad Yousuf, who shaped well for his 30 before being run-out.

Afridi hit Vettori for a six before smashing two off successive deliveries off Nathan McCullum. He hit Bond for a straight drive to reach his half-century off 36 deliveries, his first in 33 matches.

Afridi's last ODI fifty came against Zimbabwe at Multan last year.

Latif hit only two boundaries during his 112-ball knock.

Kamran's innings was special as he made full use of the power-play, and added 86 off just 37 balls for the seventh wicket with Abdul Razzaq, who made 20-ball 26.

The limited over series was relocated to Abu Dhabi after New Zealand refused to tour Pakistan over security fears.

PAKISTAN innings
Salman Butt c B. McCullum b Bond 0
Khalid Latif b Vettori 64
Younis Khan c B. McCullum b Bond 0
Mohammad Yousuf run-out (Guptill) 30
Umar Akmal b Vettori 9
Shahid Afridi c Butler b Oram 70
Kamran Akmal† not out 67
Abdul Razzaq c Styris b Butler 26
Umar Gul run-out (Vettori/Butler) 0
Mohammad Aamer c B. McCullum b Southee 0
Saeed Ajmal not out 0
Extras: (lb-8, w-11, nb-2) 21
Total: (9 wickets; 50 overs) 287
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-0, 3-57, 4-75, 5-176, 6-184, 7-270, 8-271, 9-277.
Bowling: Bond 10-2-61-2 (w-3), Southee 10-2-54-1, Butler 7-0-54-1 (nb-2, w-2), Oram 10-0-47-1 (w-1), Vettori 10-1-34-2 ,N. McCullum 3-0-29-0.

NEW ZEALAND innings
B. McCullum b Gul 21
AJ Redmond lbw b Ajmal 52
MJ Guptill b Gul 4
LRPL Taylor c Akmal b Aamer 0
SB Styris c sub. Farhat b Razzaq 5
DL Vettori b Afridi 38
JDP Oram b Razzaq 9
NL McCullum lbw b Afridi 0
IG Butler run-out Gul 4
SE Bond not out 4
TG Southee lbw b Ajmal 1
Extras: (lb-8, w-2, nb-1) 11
Total: (all out; 39.2 overs) 149
Fall of wickets: 1-30, 2-34, 3-35, 4-50, 5-119, 6-139, 7-139, 8-139, 9-144.
Bowling: Bond 10-2-61-2 (w-3), Southee 10-2-54-1, Butler 7-0-54-1 (nb-2, w-2), Oram 10-0-47-1 (w-1), Vettori 10-1-34-2, N. McCullum 3-0-29-0.

Tiger prowls in Shanghai as WGC comes to China
By Nick Mulvenney
BEIJING, China (Reuters) - Tiger Woods makes a third trip to Shanghai this week still looking for a first HSBC Champions title but now with the added incentive of bagging what would be his 17th World Golf Championship (WGC) victory.

The world number one compared this year's elevation of the $7 million tournament to one of the four annual WGC events and the first in Asia with last month's vote to include golf in the Olympics.

"Olympic status will help grow the sport in so many of the emerging golf markets, including China. But holding our first WGC event here is another key moment," Woods, second in both of his previous attempts to win the title, said in a news release.

"This tournament will play a big part in spreading the recognition and appeal of golf worldwide. I am excited to be playing this tournament, and I am equally excited that it is being contested in China."

The tournament also offers Woods a chance to dole out a double dose of revenge on Yang Yong-eun, who held off the American to win the 2006 title and then repeated his feat to become Asia's first major champion in August.

South Korean Yang believes his Champions victory helped him keep his head in the final round of his PGA Championship triumph at Hazeltine.

STRONG FIELDS
"I was drawing on the feelings I had when I won in Shanghai," the 37-year-old said. "I was trying to recapture the calmness and the serenity, and it worked."

Phil Mickelson is also a former Champions champion after his victory in 2007 but Spain's Sergio Garcia took away his title - and the world number two spot - last November.

"It has always attracted strong fields and has a great reputation worldwide and I'm really looking forward to trying to reclaim my title," said Mickelson, now restored to the number two ranking and taking on Woods for the first time in Shanghai.

Garcia has slipped back to number nine in the rankings but also returns to the Sheshan International Golf Club in a formidable field that includes 20 of the world's top 30 players.

"I'll be defending champion on a course I really enjoy and it goes without saying I'd love this to be the first tournament of my career that I successfully defend," the Spaniard said.

Golf has a new status in China after last month's Olympic vote and that was illustrated when deputy sports minister Cui Dalin appeared at yesterday's opening ceremony.

"Our first WGC event, Olympic status and Asia's first man to become a major champion all open new avenues for golf to grow in China," China Golf Association chief Zhang Xiaoning told the ceremony.
"Now we must work hard to capitalise on the opportunities."

Arreola receives ban for swearing
DEFEATED WBC world heavyweight title contender Chris Arreola has been banned for six months for swearing after his loss to Vitali Klitschko in September.

The 28-year-old, who failed to come out for the 11th round of the WBC title bout, has been suspended for swearing in an emotional post-fight interview.

The ban will be back-dated to the date of the fight, which means the American can box again at the end of March.

The WBC approved the sanction at their annual convention in South Korea. (BBC Sport)

Siddle joins Australia's casualty list
AUSTRALIA'S injury list from their tour of India has grown again with the news that Peter Siddle will return home after suffering stiffness in his left side during Monday's win in Mohali. Siddle bowled five overs during the victory and the team physio Kevin Sims said the decision was in part a precautionary measure.

"Peter's injury does not appear to be a serious problem but it is unlikely he will be able to safely bowl within the next week which would therefore not allow him to have any further participation in the tour," Sims said.

"With this in mind we have made the decision that Peter will return to Australia where he will reviewed by Cricket Australia medical staff to ensure he is available for selection at the beginning of the Australian summer."

Australia's selectors are yet to decide on a replacement player and the depth of the nation's bowling stocks has already been tested during the tour. Brett Lee and James Hopes have flown home from India mid-series and the squad was already without Nathan Bracken, who has a knee injury.

Clint McKay and Moises Henriques have joined the squad to boost the attack and the selectors will need to scour the state ranks for a third fast man to add to the group.

Their options will include Dirk Nannes and Brett Geeves, both of whom have been part of the squad over the past year. (Cricinfo)