Guyana Chronicle

Son-in-law suing for $4.5M in property dispute

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:07:08 +0000

ANDSON Monkhouse has, through Attorney-at-Law Mr. Lester Caesar, filed a writ in the Supreme Court Registry, claiming $4,500,000 as a sum unpaid through a breakdown in agreement.
In the case, expected to engage Bail Court on September 10, the plaintiff is the son-in-law of the defendant, Susan Velloza and he, sometimes, resides at 1803 Nereid Avenue, Bronx New York.
She hails from Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice.
On or around February 25, 2009, the defendant granted the plaintiff permission to construct a three-storey building, measuring 30 feet by 48 feet on the ground and first floor and 34 feet by 48 feet on the second floor, in accordance with a plan dated February 24, 2009, on plot of land owned by the defendant and situated at Lot 47 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice.
Monkhouse is contending that, during the year 2009, he spent a substantial sum to build up the entire plot of land and prepare the foundation work for the three-storey building and constructed columns and beams, way up to the second floor, as part of the initial work done to construct the said building.
He said he returned to the United States (U.S.) during the latter part of 2009 in order to source funding to complete the house and on or around July 3, 2012, Velloza, without notifying him, allowed his sister, Edris Lambie-Forte Babb, to use his plan to carry out construction upon the initial work.
Monkhouse said he agreed to accept $4,500,500 from Velloza for the work done but, despite repeated demands by him, the latter has neglected, failed or refused to pay the said sum, which remains due, owing and payable to him.
As a consequence, he is claiming the sum as owing and payable to him by the defendant.

Police seeking foreign pathologist for teen murder probe

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:08:13 +0000

POLICE Crime Chief Seelall Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that efforts are being made to get a pathologist from overseas to perform a second post mortem on murdered teenager Basmattie Moonsammy.
The mutilated remains of the victim were taken from a shallow grave in a rice field on August 4 and the first autopsy, by Dr. Vivekanand Bridgemohan, did not determine the cause of death.
As a consequence, three suspects who were assisting police with the investigations were released on bail.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement) said the second post mortem will guide the course of action to be taken but, for now, arrangements are being made to acquire the services of a foreign pathologist for the exhumation of the corpse.
Initially, three men, from Number 11 Village, West Coast Berbice were held for questioning about the murder, days after the teen’s partly decomposing semi-nude body was discovered by a rice farmer on his way to tend to his crop.
Following the discovery, she was identified by her mother who recognised the clothing she was wearing at the time of her disappearance from home. The 15-year-old, of Woodley Park, another West Coast Berbice village, had left home for an unknown destination on July 29, while her mother was at work.
A missing person report was made to the police and her mother began a search for her that lasted days.
Residents, shocked by the brutal demise of the teen, lent their support to the family in making funeral arrangements.
It is believed that the teen was either lured or forcibly taken to the rice field aback of the village in which she lived, where she was gang-raped and murdered.

Back to school shopping fever picks up momentum

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:11:41 +0000

22 intern doctors added to Suddie Hospital staff

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:16:43 +0000

HEALTH care delivery will be significantly boosted at Suddie Hospital on Essequibo Coast with the addition of 22 intern doctors being added to the staff.
The interns, who recently returned from Cuba, are on attachment to the hospital until July 2013, after which they will graduate.
Administrator of Suddie Hospital, Mr. B. Ramnarine, during a meeting in the Hospital Boardoom on Monday, called on them to be committed, dedicated and display a true sense of love for the job.
He urged them to do their best and comply with the rules and regulations of the institution.
Ramnarine said the interns will be monitored by supervisors and would be working along with Cuban specialists.
Chairman of Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Mr. Parmanand Persaud welcomed the doctors and congratulated the Governments of Guyana and Cuba for signing the bilateral agreement in an effort to allow young Guyanese the opportunity to study in a foreign country.
He challenged the young doctors to give of their best while serving the people of Essequibo.
Persaud called on them to always remember why they wanted to be doctors.
This Government, since it took office in 1992, has invested hundreds of billions of dollars in providing quality and free health care for all Guyanese.
New and modern hospitals, health centres and huts were constructed while existing ones and others were rehabilitated and new equipment installed.
The Government also constructed several diagnostic centres which have greatly improved the delivery of health care services.
The Government, in collaboration with the Cuban Government, has trained hundreds of new doctors and nurses to provide health care and services to the people of Guyana at the hospitals, health centres and huts across the country.

Ministers meeting Essequibo co-op societies members Wednesday

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:17:12 +0000

MINISTER within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Alli Baksh and Minister of Labour, with responsibility for cooperatives, Dr. Nanda Kishore Gopaul will be meeting with members of the Devonshire Castle Land Co-op, Henrietta-Richmond Land Co-op and Queenstown Land Co-op Societies, on Wednesday, September 5.
They will meet in the Regional Boardroom at Anna Regina, on Essequibo Coast, to discuss problems and chart the way forward for the development of the co-op societies.
The Ministers will be accompanied by Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hydar Ally and Region Two (Pomerooon/Supenaam) Chairman, Mr. Parmanand Persaud.

Rice harvesting in progress on Essequibo Coast

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:17:44 +0000

RICE farmers on Essequibo Coast have begun harvesting paddy from their fields.
They are enjoying the very hot, sunny weather that has dried their land and made reaping easier.
Those in the Affiance/Columbia areas have already drained their cultivations in preparation for the harvest while the process is in progress at Taymouth Manor, Hoff Van Aurich, Three Friends and Riverstown.
Reports said the yield per acre is very good and production at the end of the crop is expected to, again, surpass the set target of one million bags.
The Regional Administration is also busy working to grade and level access dams in the rice cultivation areas, especially where harvesting is ongoing.
Meanwhile, farmers at Windsor Castle, Sparta, Lima, Hampton Court and Devonshire Castle are also draining and drying their fields.
Some 32,000 acres on Essequibo Coast are planted with rice.

Justice sector modernisation advances

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:18:19 +0000

“THE current administration has long realised that the modernisation of its laws and an effectively functioning justice system bear a causal relationship to economic development and, ultimately, the advancement of its people. And it is against this background that the administration has made continuous strides over the years to ensure Guyanese have a fair and ready access to justice.
“In this regard, the Government spent more than $1.7B during 2011 for the continued development of the sector; and this year, we will spend approximately $2.1 Billion in the sector.”
Those were the words of Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, during an exclusive interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA).
“Substantial progress has been made towards completing the revision of the Laws of Guyana up to 2010. The last time this exercise was conducted was in 1977. Both hard and soft copies of the Laws shall be made available for distribution shortly,” the AG stated.
“The compilation of the law reports for the period 1932 to 2007, along with a consolidated index, will also be made available.
“In the last Parliament, several pieces of legislation were enacted, such as the Time Limit for Judicial Decisions Act, which imposes a time limit on judges for writing up their decisions; the Amendment to the Evidence Act, which allows for the admissibility of audio visual testimony; the Contempt of Court Act, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, the Judicial Review Act, the Paper Committal Legislation, the Plea Bargaining Act, the Lay Magistrates Act, the Legal Practitioners’ Act and the Act to increase the jurisdiction of the Magistrate’s Court to deal with more civil matters.
“The Alternative Dispute Resolution Act provides for the settlement of disputes out of court.
“The common thread in all these legislation is that they are designed to bring speed to the resolution of legal disputes,” the AG emphasised.
The administration has also embarked on these transformational changes under the Modernisation of the Justice Administration Sector Project, an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)-funded project.
This project embraces several concepts that are intended to modernise the system and make it more accountable, transparent and efficient.
“The programme is now going through its final stages,” Nandlall stated.
The final stages will see the establishment of a Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) office in New Amsterdam, Berbice, for the first time in the history of the country. The establishment of such an important office in the Ancient County will see the delivery of an important service to the region.
Meanwhile, the current DPP office in Georgetown is undergoing renovations to the physical structure, and in respect of its institutional building, to foster inter-connectivity with various important and relevant agencies, the minister continued.
A new magisterial district is being established in Linden, to aid efficiency and to improve accessibility to justice.
Currently, Linden is part of the Magisterial District of West Demerara, with the office of the magistrate’s court in Wismar being located in Vreed-en-Hoop, Region Three.
“The creation of such a district and a magistrate’s office in that district means that those desirous of filing matters no longer have to travel to Vreed-en-Hoop to do so,” he stated.
Moreso, women would no longer have to travel to Region Three to uplift their child support or maintenance payments, the Minister stated.
In excess of $300M will be spent during the year to construct, rehabilitate and maintain court facilities countrywide, especially in Bartica, New Amsterdam, Lethem, Wales and Mibicuri; whilst $25M would be spent to construct a new Mediation Centre in New Amsterdam.
These are all examples of Government improving access to services within the justice sector.
Magistrate’s courts that are being constructed in Bartica, Berbice, Lethem and other outlying areas will now have facilities to house and accommodate a magistrate, thereby allowing for more frequent sittings of the court in these areas, to address the increase in workload and backlog cases, according to the AG.

Family Court
The Family Court will soon be operational, as its rules have been laid in the National Assembly and plans are underway to furnish it.
“Government’s objective in conceiving the concept of establishing a Family Court lies in the philosophy that the family is central to the development of a country; because, as a social unit, it is integral to the advancement of a people and of the society,” the AG pointed out.
Whilst Government has already invested significant sums on youths, and has enacted laws revamping the entire landscape of the legislation in relation to children and women, the establishment of the Family Court will deal with family-related matters, most of which impact on every aspect of life of a family, specifically children.

Deeds Registry
“A Commercial Registry is to be established, which will migrate away from the Deeds Registry commercial matters that are being dealt with at the Deeds Registry which should not, in principle, be there; such as the incorporation of companies’ bills of sale, the filing of bills of sale, filing of debentures, filing of business registration, amongst other types of transactions which are now being done at the Deeds Registry,” Minister Nandlall explained.
He added that “this new registry will exclusively deal with such activities, and will be physically housed away from the Deeds Registry, as Central Government has approved the lower flat of the building owned by CLICO at Parade and Lamaha streets for this purpose.”
The Minister also announced that the Deeds, Land and the Commercial registries will be converted into semi-autonomous agencies, delinking them from Central Government so that greater efficiency can be obtained.
In this new regime, a new fee structure will also be implemented at the Deeds Registry, as the current one being charged for services is out of sync with reality.
The example of $20 for the filing of a power of attorney is testimony to the fact that the unrealistic fee structure has been overtaken by reality, the Minister argued.
These reforms all form part of Government’s initiative and policy to improve efficiency, not only in the justice sector, but also in the public sector and in the quality of services which Government is rendering to its citizens.

Syrian situation… Abstention vote has to do with evolving situation on the ground

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:23:12 +0000

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said it has taken note of recent comments in the media and by the opposition in respect to Guyana's abstention vote on General Assembly Resolution 66/253 B.
Consequently, the Ministry has issued on the matter a statement which said:
1. The Government of Guyana has followed with grave concern the unfolding situation in the Syrian Arab Republic and the increasingly heavy toll it is taking on the people of that country. According to United Nations reports, serious violations of human rights and of international humanitarian law have been perpetrated by all sides to the conflict.

2. The Government of Guyana has, on two previous occasions, supported resolutions of the General Assembly strongly condemning violations of human rights and of international humanitarian law by the Syrian authorities, even though the said resolutions paid scant attention to the actions of other parties. The most recent of these was General Assembly resolution 66/253 A which, inter alia, mandated the appointment of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League.

3. Guyana's abstention vote on August 3 has to be seen in the context of the evolving situation on the ground, the urgent need for a political settlement and for an efficacious response by the international community within the framework of the United Nations Charter and international law. As some local reporting has illustrated, the situation is evidently complex, with multiple interests being prosecuted by various actors, both internal and external.

4. A number of changes have taken place on the ground, which have led to a reconsideration of Guyana's position:
The situation has become increasingly militarized, and the presence of terrorist elements has been recognised as contributing to the intensification of the conflict.

The international community has grown more divided, resulting in the inability of the Security Council to agree on an appropriate response. As the outgoing Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League has observed, the challenges within Syria have been compounded by the lack of unity on the part of the international community.

5. The Government of Guyana is of the view that the interests of the Syrian people will be served by an immediate end to the violence and bloodshed by all parties, and the provision of the necessary humanitarian and other support, as envisaged in the six-point plan endorsed by the Security Council.

Whatever the perceptions of the parties involved, the focus of attention has to be on the search for a viable political solution. For the response to have any realistic chance of succeeding, the international community needs to be united, and to adopt a comprehensive approach addressing all sides to the conflict. The mere singling out of one party will not suffice.

6. In the considered opinion of the Government, the resolution as drafted did not contribute to the achievement of these objectives. Instead of unifying the international community, it essentially reproduced within the larger General Assembly the divisions that were evident in the Security Council. In this regard, it was a missed opportunity.

7. Furthermore, the resolution contained specific provisions which the Government of Guyana viewed as unacceptable.

The resolution welcomes an Arab League resolution calling on the President of Syria to step down, a call that Guyana could not logically support, since this was outside the accepted international norms of democratic governance processes.

The resolution also encourages cohesion among the opposition, many of whom are unknown to the international community, and some of whom are identified by the UN Human Rights Council’s Commission of Inquiry with the perpetration of human rights violations and with contributing to the escalation of the conflict.

Guyana could not blindly support opposition elements under such circumstances.

The Government of Guyana believes that the situation in Syria is a complex one, exacerbated by differing interests of the many actors on the ground, that have seen the people of Syria being the greatest casualties. As a concerned member of the international community, Guyana continues to urge a peaceful resolution in accordance with the principles of international law.

WPO disgusted with Dem boys seh…” column for its disrespect for women

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:23:58 +0000

The Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), the women’s arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), said in a statement that it wishes to express its total disgust at the demeaning way in which some media houses refer to women in their reporting of news, events and even satires.
The “Dem boys seh…” column of Kaieteur News of Friday, August 31, 2012 is a typical case in point. The opening paragraph states: “Some man does see woman pun de road wid nice, nice face and fancy clothes, but when yuh peep under dem dress, things does be dirty.”
“Publishing such an insensitive statement not only shows outright disrespect for women, but also underscores a greater problem – limited intellectual capacity of some media decision-makers to understand that women are no longer pawns that can be shoved around at the whims and fancy of any and all.
“Women have fought their way out of the troughs of a once male-dominated society, and today they have a voice – a voice that can no longer be ignored nor stifled.
“No one has a right to make mockery of women’s hard-earned right to equality and freedom, to be treated with respect and dignity,” the WPO said.
It added: “On behalf of all the women of Guyana, the WPO calls on KN to withdraw their undignified statement and to express an immediate and unqualified apology to all Guyanese, in particular our women.”

PYO concerned about APNU/PNCR 1G withdrawal from corruption debates

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:24:34 +0000

THE Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party, said in a release that it is concerned at the sudden and unjustified withdrawal by A Partnership for National Unity/PNC/R 1G from the ongoing public debates on corruption.
The PYO, in a release, said the opposition, APNU included, has enjoyed the freedom to level unjustified accusations of corruption against the People's Progressive Party and the PPP/C government. However, when they have been invited on live broadcast programmes to confront the PPP/C on these accusations, they have tucked their tail between their legs and run away.
“Over the past few months, the opposition has been allowed to peddle countless accusations of corruption against the PPP/C, and this was given additional fuel by some sections of the media, who have apparently fallen into the trap of the opposition,” the PYO said.
It added: “Against this backdrop of conflicting information, the PYO, which represents youths from across the country, was pleased when this series of debates was announced, as it afforded everyone, particularly the younger generation, ready access to the facts which will empower them with information and aid them in making more informed decisions.
“This is even more crucial, as a number of projects brought under scrutiny by the opposition were transformational ones which would open new sectors in Guyana, or revolutionize existing ones such as renewable energy, conservation, information technology, tourism, land and air transport, and health, among others.
“Better information would assist our youths in career planning. As such, the PYO finds it unpardonable that every effort has been made by both the APNU and AFC to delay these initiatives, either by using their one-seat majority in the National Assembly to slash funding, lobby against them because of personal business interests, or create as much misinformation and vilify the projects using some in the media, so as to discourage these investments.”
The PYO observed that even more disconcerting is the fact that the opposition grouping never misses an opportunity to expound how much they care for the youths of our nation; yet, by their actions, the future of our youths are threatened.
“With APNU’s announcement that it is withdrawing from the public debates and then seeking to downplay the issue of corruption by statements such as it is a ‘narrow window’, (they are exposed) as completely devoid of any intellectual fortitude.
“This obviously fair process has allowed the PPP/C, the APNU and AFC equal access to the public, with the involvement of professionals and the private sector.
“Unfortunately, the APNU-PNC/R 1G, knowing their diatribes are fanciful and not based in reality, have decided to shirk fairness.
“We should not be surprised. This has been their modus operandi over the decades, numerous name changes notwithstanding,” the PYO charged.
The PYO noted that the opposition parties have turned to the only avenue available to them. They have been well schooled in the Goebbels art of propaganda, and with duplicitous help of certain media houses, have again engaged in a campaign of disinformation.
“The ongoing debates provided the opposition with the ideal opportunity to embarrass the PPP in a very public and national way, an opportunity that a mature and competent political organization would have grasped, the PYO asserted.
“However, they are well aware that their accusations are based on innuendos and outright fabrications. They knew that with the PPP given the opportunity to confront its accusers in a public forum, the PPP would have resoundingly embarrassed them. The opposition has already experienced, and is still smarting from, such defeats. The NICIL debate and the recent corruption debates reveal beyond a shadow of a doubt that the opposition has no basis for their accusations. They have shown that the opposition, like a magician, has to rely on the sleight of facts,” the PYO said.
The PYO stated: “Therefore, they have decided to take the road of the goon, the hoodlum, the gangster. They peddle lies, rabble rouse, and then fan the flames -- flames that do not discriminate! Flames that have already taken a toll in places like Linden, where a school, health centre and the economic image of a town were completely destroyed.
“The opposition has shown that they care little for the magnitude of their collateral damage. They have shown that they will employ every deceitful gimmick afforded to them. They have shown themselves to be utterly craven and vile. Their flight from further debates has denounced them as curs not worthy of representing the Guyanese people.”

National Library hosts Annual Award Ceremony –students and inmates win prizes

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:25:13 +0000

HOPES, fulfillment and happiness were certainly aroused yesterday when the National Library hosted its Awards Ceremony for its annual competitions.
The conference room of the library was filled to capacity with excited and proud students and prison inmates as they gathered to be honoured for their achievements in reading, quiz, essay and short story writing and debating.
The students were accompanied by equally proud parents and the slightly abashed inmates by beaming officers.
Others came too. Popular radio DJ ‘Basil P’ was there. As was Hajji Roshan Khan and Captain Gerry Gouveia. And there were many others - representatives of the sponsors, judges of the competitions, library staff, Ministry of Education Officials, members of the media and other friends and well wishers of the celebrants.
The programme got off to a warm start with brief comments from the chairman, Literacy Advocate Petamber Persaud.
Special remarks were delivered by the diminutive Mr. Parikhan Ram – Senior Subject Specialist for English at NCERD.

“Literacy arouses hopes, not only in society as a whole but also in the individual who is striving for fulfillment, happiness and personal benefit by learning how to read and write. Literacy... means far more than learning how to read and write... The aim is to transmit... knowledge and promote social participation.” - UNESCO Institute for Education, Hamburg, Germany

Mr. Ram said he views the enterprise of literacy as undertaken by the National Library as important as feeding, clothing and housing the nation. And added that the country cannot go back to the days when our great great grandparents could neither read nor write and as a result were exploited.
He called on the participants to ‘be inspired’ and ‘Grab all the help they can from organizations like the National Library.’ Then he issued a clarion call to them, ‘Be encouraged to write.’
The audience was entertained by several readings.
Some of the winning short stories were written and read by Kenny Bisnauth, Shuntia Johnson, Charlyn Elliot and Rossana Bisnauth.
Ashley Drakes read an excerpt from Black Beauty; Shinella Johnson read from The Great Gatsby; Tramangra Williams of New Amsterdam from ‘Jane’s Career’ and Angelie Persaud from ‘Peter Pan.’
Drakes, Johnson and Persaud were all winners of the National Library and Digicel’s Annual Champion Readers’ Competition 2012.
Tramangra Williams gained first place in the 21 – 35 years category of the National Library and P&P Brokers Inter – Correctional Institutions Essay and Short Story Writing Competition 2012.
Inmates from Georgetown, Timehri, New Amsterdam and Sibley Hall/Mazaruni also won in this competition.
In the National Library and Digicel’s Inter – Correctional Institutions Champion Readers’ Competition 2012 - Courtney Frank, Shatess Valentine, Richard Craigen, Shondell Petrie, Reinhold Charles and Harlon Dey placed first in their categories.
The categories were by age: 17 – 20 years; 21 – 35years and 36 plus years for both competitions.
In brief remarks to the audience, Director of Prisons Dale Erskine thanked the library for giving the inmates the opportunity to hone their developmental skills.
He added that given the information age we live in, people who cannot read will be at a disadvantage.
South Ruimveldt Primary School won the Quiz Competition through its students Cecil Hines, Kimesa Seaforth and Sonelle Nurse. Leonora Primary School was the Runner up.
Zeeburg Secondary School won against West Demerara Secondary School. All prizes for this competition were donated by Gafoors.
P&P Brokers rewarded the winners in the Essay Writing and Short Story Competition. Shuntia Johnson of Clonbrook Primary, Candacie Holder of Bishop’s High School, and Kenny Bisnauth, Rosanna Bisnauth and Charlyn, all of Queens College, also placed first.
The unsponsored inter-secondary schools’ debating competition had many winners. Best speaker prizes were earned by Laurine Johnny, Waveney Primo, Anil Persaud, Matthew Corriea and Christophe Damon. The winning school was St Roses High and runner up Christ Church Secondary.
The coordinator of the Competition was loud in praise for corporate sponsors Digicel, Gafoors and P&P Brokers. She also made an appeal to the rest of the corporate world to support the drive for Literacy.

All striking Blairmont Estate workers return to work -all outstanding payments made

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:29:41 +0000

CHIEF Executive Officer (acting) of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO), Mr. Paul Bhim has indicated that all factory workers of Blairmont Estate who were on strike have returned to work from yesterday.
He also advised that all outstanding payments have already been made, with yesterday being the workers’ pay day.
Meanwhile, Assistant General Secretary of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Mr. Derek Thakur said that workers were advised to return to work yesterday following a meeting with officials from the union and GUYSUCO last Thursday.
Although operations were resumed today, Thakur advised that workers on the first shift had to carry out maintenance work and after these works are completed by the second shift, grinding will begin in the factory.
GAWU was also reassured that all unsettled queries will be dealt with within one week.
Thakur further explained that GUYSUCO intended to take disciplinary action against the workers who participated in the strike. However, he advised that GAWU does not agree with this decision and if the corporation should go through with it the union will take further action.
The corporation’s CEO, however, said that no disciplinary action has been decided upon to date. Nevertheless, GUYSUCO plans to try to educate workers on the consequences of such actions, as it not only affects the workers themselves, but also their colleagues and the entire corporation.
Bhim further explained that workers lost wages because the entire estate had to be shut down due to the strike actions of the factory workers. This in turn affected the national economy, since spending power was lowered.
He couldn’t say exactly what the financial implications were for GUYSUCO itself, but he advised that approximately 150,000 tonnes of sugar were lost. Bhim explained that the 400 punts of cane which were left unattended will still be processed. However, the amount of sugar that would have initially been gained would be reduced.
He further stated that the crop will now have to be extended but they are still hoping to reach the target of 236,000 tonnes for this year. He is optimistic that this target can still be reached if the dry weather prevails.
Bhim reiterated that the strike caused a loss of valuable opportunity time to harvest sugar cane since the factory was shut down for four days.
When asked whether the industrial action affected the export market, he stated that sugar will be exported late to Suriname and Trinidad. However, it hasn’t really had an effect on the European market since other estates were still producing and there is an adequate supply of sugar to supply that demand.
The vessel from Europe arrived today and the sugar is expected to be shipped shortly.

Court told… Man obtained $2M in food, beverages on forgeries

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:32:19 +0000

A MAN who, allegedly, stole cheques from a Georgetown businessman and bought food and beverages to the value of $2M from Palm Court Restaurant and Bar, appeared in Court yesterday.
Steve King, 37, of Lot 64 Premniranjan Street, Prashad Nagar, also in Georgetown, was not required to plead when he faced 18 charges of forgery, obtaining upon a forged instrument and uttering a forged instrument before Magistrate Hazel Octive-Hamilton.
The allegations against him are that he:

* on July 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, and 27, obtained food and beverages from Palm Court Restaurant and Bar by virtue of six forged Guyana Bank for Trade Industry (GBTI)
cheques and

* forged the instruments by signing as Paul James and uttered six forged cheques to Asha Wong of Palm Court.

Attorney-at-law Mr. James Bond, for the accused, said King is innocent of the charges.
Police Corporal Kerry Bostwick, prosecuting, had no objection to bail but requested that King report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) every Friday until October 5.
Meanwhile, he was ordered to post $3M surety.

One robbery accused granted bail, other remanded

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:32:59 +0000

KELON Bishop, of Lot 87 Hunter Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Hazel Octive-Hamilton yesterday, on an indictable robbery with violence charge.
Particulars of the offence said, on August 21, he robbed Basil Blackman of $300,000 and, at the time, made use of personal violence on the victim.
Police Corporal Shevon Jupiter, prosecuting, had no objection to bail but requested that the accused report to Alberttown Police Station, every Friday until October 5.
Meantime, he must post $100,000 surety.
Bishop was one of two robbery accused who made their appearance in the same Court.
The other, Orin Okra, 25, of Lot 461 West Ruimveldt, also in the city, was remanded to prison.
He was also charged indictably, with having, on August 30 being armed with a knife, robbed Vilma Sukdeo of a quantity of items valued a total of $18,280.
The prosecutor successfully objected to bail for Okra, stating that he admitted robbing the virtual complainant and produced the caution statement in which he made the admission.
The prisoner, too, has to be back in Court on October 5.

Several schools reopening delayed due to unforeseen circumstances

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:33:50 +0000

The Ministry of Education wishes to advise the general public that due to various unforeseen circumstances, the reopening of the some schools will be delayed. The details of the proposed dates for reopening are as follows:
Region 4
Covent Garden Primary School will reopen on September 10, 2012, to facilitate the completion of critical rehabilitative work.

Region 8
Due to the contractors’ inability to transport the necessary material to Region 8 as a result of the closure of roads in Region 10, the scheduled rehabilitative work to the dormitories at Mahdia Secondary and Paramakatoi Secondary schools have been delayed. As a result, the Dormitories at these two institutions will open on Sunday, September 16, 2012. Please note however, that both schools will open as scheduled on September 3, 2012.

Region 10
Due to the burning of One Mile Primary School and delays in the construction of furniture caused by the period of protest, the placement of pupils of One Mile Primary School will be as follows:
Pupils of Grade 6 will report for classes at the Block 22 Multi-Purpose Hall on Monday, September 3, 2012 at 07:50hrs.
Grade 1 pupils will commence at the One Mile Nursery School on September 17 2012.
Grades 2,3,4 and 5 pupils will commence at Wismar Hill Primary School on September 17, 2012.
Pupils of Grades 1 to 5 will work an extra half-hour every day for the first two terms of the school year to make up for lost time.

Georgetown
St. Joseph High School will open on Monday, September 10, 2012, to facilitate ongoing sanitization of the building and compound as a result of completed rehabilitative work done at the institution.
Parents are also reminded that as of September 3, 2012, pupils of East La Penitence Nursery will attend Liana Nursery and pupils of East Ruimveldt Nursery will attend Roxanne Burnham Nursery.
Teachers of the affected schools are required to report to the Department of Education in their respective areas on Monday, September 3, 2012. The Ministry of Education wishes to extend its sincerest apologies to affected stakeholders, particularly, students, teachers and parents.

Morgan, Trott help England level one-day series

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:38:55 +0000

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Half-centuries from Eoin Morgan and Jonathan Trott steered England to a series-levelling victory over South Africa in the third one-day international at The Oval yesterday.
The home team, chasing 212 to win, got home with four wickets and 12 balls to spare after Morgan bludgeoned his way to 73 and Trott scored a painstaking 71.
Earlier, South Africa were bowled out for 211 in 46.4 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Openers Hashim Amla (43) and Graeme Smith (18) put on 50 for the first wicket but England slowly whittled their way through the batting order.
James Anderson led the way with four for 44 while fellow paceman Jade Dernbach picked up three for 44.
Dean Elgar made 42 for South Africa and JP Duminy chipped in with 33.
The visitors then reduced England to 64 for three in reply, captain Alastair Cook falling for 20, fellow opener Ian Bell for 12 and Ravi Bopara for a duck.
Trott and Morgan then combined for a match-winning stand of 108 for the fourth wicket.
Morgan lashed 73 in 67 balls with seven fours and two sixes while Trott dropped anchor, compiling 71 in 125 deliveries.
After the pair fell in quick succession, it was left to Samit Patel to guide England home with an unbeaten 13.
South Africa had won the second game in the five-match series after the opening encounter was washed out by rain.
The fourth match is at Lord's tomorrow.
SOUTH AFRICA innings
H. Amla b Dernbach 43
G. Smith b Anderson 18
D. Elgar b Dernbach 42
AB de Villiers c Bell b Tredwell 28
F. du Plessis b Bopara 1
JP Duminy c Bell b Tredwell 33
W. Parnell c Kieswetter b Dernbach 13
R. Peterson not out 23
D. Steyn b Anderson 1
M. Morkel b Anderson 7
L. Tsotsobe lbw b Anderson 0
Extras: (lb-1, w-1) 2
Total: (all out, 46.4 overs) 211
Fall of wickets: 1-50, 2-73, 3-120, 4-122, 5-141, 6-155, 7-195, 8-203, 9-211.
Bowling: Anderson 9.4-0-44-4 (w-1); Finn 8-0-42-0; Dernbach 9-0-44-3; Bopara 10-1-31-1; Tredwell 10-0-49-2.

ENGLAND innings
A. Cook c Elgar b Peterson 20
I. Bell lbw b Steyn 12
J. Trott c de Villiers b Parnell 71
R. Bopara c de Villiers b Morkel 0
E. Morgan c & b Peterson 73
C. Kieswetter run-out (Parnell/de Villiers) 14
S. Patel not out 13
J. Tredwell not out 1
Extras: (lb-1, w-6, nb-1) 8
Total: (6 wkts, 48 overs) 212
Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-61, 3-64, 4-172, 5-189, 6-207.
Bowling: Steyn 7-0-32-1 (w-2); Tsotsobe 7-0-55-2 (w-2); Morkel 10-1-41-1 (w-1); Parnell 10-1-23-1 (nb-1); Peterson 10-0-39-2; Elgar 4-0-21-0 (w-1);

Strauss 'a great man' - Flower

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:39:39 +0000

ANDY Flower, the England team director, has said he will treasure his time working alongside Andrew Strauss and that he should go down as one of the country's greatest captains.
Speaking for the first time since Strauss retired as England captain on Wednesday, bringing a 10-year spell at international level to an end, Flower spoke with emotion about the three-and-a-half years they worked together as captain and coach which included two Ashes series victories and England's climb to the top of the Test rankings.
"He's a great man," Flower said in an interview with Sky Sports broadcast yesterday. "Very simply he's a great bloke, a very strong man with a good sense of what is happening around him and an understanding and empathy of other people which is a great quality.
He was a kind person and often saw things from other people's perspective which is important in a leader and earned him a lot of close friendships in the changing room.
"He should be remembered as one of the great England captains. He has made other people better players and helped them grow as people; he has brought people together and people have been keen to follow him.
"We didn't agree all the time, absolutely, but usually we'd be sensible enough to negotiate a position. In the main it's been a very successful partnership and one I'll treasure."
Flower said Strauss' final decision to retire did not come as a great surprise but the initial conversations the pair had a few weeks ago had come a little out of the blue.
He admitted he had seen the strain grow on Strauss during the South Africa Test series, but that he would still have backed him to come through if he had wanted to stick it out. During his retirement speech Strauss said retirement had been on his mind for a significant part of the year.
"When he first brought it up a few weeks ago we talked about why he might be feeling the way he was and I asked a number of questions to see how he might view the future, to check on his motivation and hunger to do the job," Flower said. "You need an incredible amount of motivation to throw yourself into this and make it work. When he came back I could see he'd made up his mind and was comfortable with it.
"I definitely didn't see any lack of motivation. I'm surprised he said he's been thinking about it for that long. But he's 35 years old and is very aware of himself. That's been one of his great strengths, understanding how he scores runs and as a leader understanding how he interacts with others. He has decided the time is right and he's a pretty accurate judge of most things.
"I could see he was battling with himself but he's a strong bloke and never made a big show of any feelings of doubt.
Of course I was slightly concerned but I thought he could battle through. I don't think there was ever a case of him being carried in any way. He always contributed in some way or other. I do know that in moving on he can feel immense pride in his contribution to English cricket and to the lives of the people he played with."
In a hint of the ruthlessness that Flower has brought to his time with England he made it clear he was already focused upon a future with Alastair Cook as Test captain.
"I will miss his friendship but we need to move on," he said. "Alastair Cook is taking over. I know him pretty well from his early days at Essex and we need to forge a strong partnership. I'm definitely looking forward to it.
Alastair is a good young man. He's done a lot of growing up and he's a mature young man. He is without doubt a strong enough man to take on the challenge." (ESPN Cricinfo)

Jamaica wants to host a IAAF diamond league event

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:40:31 +0000

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) - Jamaica, a powerhouse in world athletics, is considering the possibility of hosting a diamond league event, Sports Minister Natalie Neita-Headley has announced.
Neita-Headley has confirmed that Jamaica has already indicated its interest to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
However, while hotel accommodation and stadium facility in general may be adequate, the sports minister said some work needs to be done to ensure the country is ready to host an event of such international stature.
“I have been to Diamond League events where the stadium wasn’t bigger than ours, but certainly was far better equipped than ours” the Jamaican sports Minister said in an interview on the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) television programme.
“We have had proposals on how we could retrofit and we have had discussions with the team out of Brussels, which hosts the number one Diamond League event in the world, and we have indicated to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) our interest in staging such an event here in Jamaica,”.
The Samsung Diamond League is an annual series of track and field meetings started in 2010.
It was designed to replace the IAAF Golden League, which was held annually since 1998.
“We have been, prior to the Olympics (in London), looking clearly at how we could stage world class events here,” said Neita-Headley.
“That would bring not only the sporting champions from across the world here, but also capitalise on the broadcast rights”.
Jamaica’s interest in hosting a diamond league event comes at a time when the country’s athletes have been dominating sprint events around the world.

Platini snipes at autocratic FIFA president Blatter

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:40:59 +0000

MONACO, Monte Carlo (Reuters) - UEFA president Michel Platini criticised FIFA president Sepp Blatter's autocratic style yesterday saying that important decisions regarding soccer's future had not been discussed by FIFA's executive committee.
The 57-year-old Frenchman is against the use of goalline technology which was approved by FIFA in July, following a change of heart by Blatter two years ago.
"When you talk about technology, FIFA didn't decide on goalline technology, President Blatter did," Platini told reporters at an informal gathering in Monte Carlo.
"No one in the executive committee was consulted, nor was anyone in any other FIFA committees invited to give their views.
It was just the FIFA president along with IFAB (the body that determines the laws of the game). He's in charge and it's up to him."
Blatter made no secret of his dislike of technology until an incident in a 2010 World Cup match between England and Germany when a Frank Lampard shot clearly crossed the goalline but was unsighted by officials.
Earlier that year Blatter had said the matter was off the agenda, but then began to embrace technology, saying if it could prove to be 100 percent reliable he would fully support it.
Platini said the decision by the law-making International Football Association Board (IFAB) this July to sanction goalline technology was purely down to Blatter.
IFAB comprises the four British associations, who have four votes and FIFA, who also have four votes and proposals need a majority of six to become law.
Platini, a member of FIFA's Executive Committee, said the issue was never discussed by him or other members of the committee.
Platini is against goalline technology and instead prefers the additional assistant referees (AAR) system which UEFA has adopted. AAR involves having two additional assistant referees behind the goalline to assist the man in the middle.
"I respect the tradition and the fact that the four British associations for 125 years have always taken a traditional decision and I respect that.
"I think the four votes for the British are okay, it's the four votes for FIFA I don't understand.
"The president has the four votes and he decides what he wants, he never speaks about the IFAB in the executive committee (ExCo). The four votes of Blatter are not correct.
"Many people are against the four votes of the British, they say Wales and Northern Ireland are not very important, but I don't agree with them. If the ExCo or the Congress decided on the technology I will accept that more because it's a democratic decision. He never discussed it with the executive committee. Blatter has four votes and he decides."
No one from FIFA was available to make a statement on Platini's comments.

TOO EXPENSIVE
In reiterating his objection to goalline technology he added: "I am 57 years old, I am not going to change my mind now, you will never convince me. We haven't even seen any results of tests, we don't know how it works, and besides, it won't be possible in every match, it would be too expensive. It's absolutely impossible."
Platini's opinion is not shared by everyone, with the English Premier League keen to introduce goalline technology as soon as is practical.
"Fine, let England do it as a trial and see if it works," said Platini.
"It's good that we have two systems. I don't have a problem with that. But in UEFA competitions we will never have technology."
He also said that referees who come from countries who adopt the five-man officiating system in their domestic leagues would be given priority at European competitions in the future.
Platini said that UEFA had successfully employed AARs in over 1 000 matches, adding: "The additional assistant referee is the solution we want at UEFA.
"We are trying to show the national associations that it's a good idea. Some associations will take longer than others and some can't afford it.
"But if they want to have referees in big European competitions we will give priority to those coming from associations who are implementing the system so that there is understanding among the team of five referees."

Cook to now decide on Kevin Pietersen's England fate

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:41:42 +0000

LONDON, England (ANI): New Test captain Alastair Cook along with England team bosses Andy Flower and Hugh Morris will now decide on Kevin Pietersen's fate, as reports appear that there will be no quick return for the disgruntled batsman following Andrew Strauss' retirement.
Pietersen must still confess all to Flower and Morris and come clean with reassurances about his future behaviour.
"He must still make a full apology for the text messages he sent. There is still a process we must go through, and he needs to explain himself at meetings with Andy and myself before we can go any further, and that will be behind closed doors," Morris said.
The Pietersen saga could see the announcement of the Test squad to tour India and the awarding of central contracts being pushed back until after the World T20.
England's selectors will be meeting before then and had wished to announce both the squad and the contracts before the players headed off to Sri Lanka, but that is far from guaranteed, The Daily Mirror reports.
Cook will also get involved in the discussions now.
"I've been on the outside for a lot of the saga. The issue hasn't changed though. Clearly I'll get involved over the coming weeks, but this will happen behind closed doors before we can move on," said Cook.

Second Test in Bangalore ... Captain Taylor sets tone with attacking century

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:42:07 +0000

BANGALORE, India (Reuters) - New Zealand captain Ross Taylor kept his promise of attacking India's spinners by smashing an entertaining hundred as the visitors reached 328 for six at the close of the first day of the second and final Test in Bangalore yesterday.
Kruger van Wyk (63 not out) and Doug Bracewell (30 not out) carried on the good work after Taylor's dismissal, adding an unbeaten 82 runs for the sixth wicket before bad light ended play 35 minutes early.
The 28-year-old Taylor had promised a positive approach at the Chinnaswamy Stadium after New Zealand lost 18 wickets to the Indian spinners in the first Test in Hyderabad, which the hosts won by an innings and 115 runs to go 1-0 up in the two-Test series.
New Zealand opted to bat first after Taylor won the toss and their intent was immediately clear as the batsmen attempted to put India on the backfoot.
"Ross is a class player and some of the shots he played were really special," opener Martin Guptill, who started the fireworks with a quick-fire 53, told reporters.
"We had a meeting on how to go about it and about the positive intent. We executed our plans really well today."
Taylor hit 16 boundaries and two sixes and attacked the bowlers from the outset to complete his seventh Test century, and his third against India, off just 99 balls.
He slog-swept the spinners effectively, played the cut shot fiercely and added 107 runs with Daniel Flynn (33) for the fourth wicket at a breathtaking scoring rate.
Taylor and Flynn combined to add 72 runs off the first 10 overs after lunch before Flynn fell leg-before to off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin while attempting another sweep shot.
Pragyan Ojha kept India in the hunt by picking up his fourth wicket shortly after the tea break when Taylor was also out leg-before trying to sweep the left-arm spinner.
In the morning, India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni handed the new ball to Ojha to capitalise on New Zealand's spin frailty but it was paceman Zaheer Khan who struck the first blow in the second over of the innings.
Opener Brendon McCullum was the first to fall for a duck when Zaheer caught him plumb in front of the stumps in his first over.
Guptill, dropped on 17 by Virat Kohli in the slips off Zaheer, went on the attack and completed his half-century, helped by eight boundaries.
The right-hander mistimed a drive against Ojha to be caught at mid-wicket by Gautam Gambhir.
"We have to keep up the positive intent. If we put 400-450 on the board and attack them then it's going to put some pressure on India," Guptill added.
"There is a bit of swing and seam on this wicket and if we can pick up a few wickets early on, it'll be great."
Ojha then dismissed Kane Williamson (17) leg-before and also got rid of all-rounder James Franklin (eight).
"It was a good first-day wicket and they were trying to be aggressive," Ojha said. "I think that was their game plan and Ross played quite well too.
"I think taking six wickets on this kind of a pitch was a good effort."

NEW ZEALAND 1st innings
M. Guptill c Gambhir b Ojha 53
B. McCullum lbw b Zaheer 0
K. Williamson lbw b Ojha 17
R. Taylor lbw b Ojha 113
D. Flynn lbw b Ashwin 33
J. Franklin c Raina b Ojha 8
K. van Wyk not out 63
D. Bracewell not out 30
Extras: (b-2, lb-9) 11
Total: (for six wickets, 81.3 overs) 328
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-63, 3-89, 4-196, 5-215, 6-246.
Bowling: Ojha 27-10-90-4, Zaheer 18-2-74-1, Yadav 12.3-1-71-0, Ashwin 24-5-82-1.

‘Jaguars’ on show in CONCACAF Champions League

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:43:12 +0000

GOLDEN Jaguars captain Chris Nurse, striker Gregory ‘Jackie-Chan’ Richardson, full-backs Walter Moore and Aubrey David and winger Trayon Bobb; have been involved in intense CONCACAF Champions League action in recent weeks, as they prepare to join up with the national team ahead of next Friday's World Cup qualifier in El Salvador.
This tournament is the Caribbean version of the Europe's well publicised and established UEFA Champions League. In the competitions’ 49-year history, Mexican clubs have been crowned champions on 28 occasions.
In the first match-up Moore, David and Bobb, playing for Trinidad Pro League side Caledonia AIA versus Major League Soccer (MLS) team Seattle Sounders in two-leg encounters played on August 2 and 29 respectively, lost both matches 3-1.
While Nurse and Richardson playing for North American Soccer League (NASL) team Puerto Rico Islanders, locked horns versus MLS powerhouses LA Galaxy who have established global football stars such as David Beckham, Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan and Salvadoran team Isidro Metapan over two legs also on August 1 and 29 and suffered 4-0 and 3-1 losses.
Both of the games that were played a few days ago on the 29th, was notably televised live on the cable television sports network - Fox Soccer Channel.

Shabazz echoes thoughts
With most of the established foreign-based players not participating in the ongoing national camp in Guyana, playing in such high-level club matches before they tackle El Salvador, national coach Jamaal Shabazz who was coaching Caledonia AIA during these games, gave his assessment on it, reasoning it was very good exposure for the players involved.
"For Guyana players it a good exposure, since, apart from the qualifiers, the CONCACAF Champions league is the highest level of football in the region. Along with some of the experienced guys, youngsters such as Colin Edwards, Sheldon Holder and Colin Nelson are also being exposed to the atmosphere of these matches and this can only benefit the country and their individual development," stated Shabazz.
He continued in a speculative tone on the future of the national team: "However too much emphasis is placed on competition. We need more emphasis on development, we have got to answer the question - where is our next generation going to come from - and put things in place to ensure they get the necessary exposure, that would equip them to play at CONCACAF level more often in the future.
"Our youth teams have never qualified for CONCACAF level and although our senior team is there now, based on the results versus these higher level teams, we see that a huge gap still exists, between us and the best teams at senior level.
Shabazz concluded his thoughts on the matter, with his usual call for the fans to continue to support the team and for the Government to recognise how they can use football to be a unification tool in Guyana.
"The challenge is to bridge the gap and this can only be done on a collective basis. The fans have a role to play in continuing to support the team through victory and defeat, the government must do much more and recognise the role that sports can play, especially football in the unification of a country divided on racial and political lines. The other stakeholders also in football fraternity must come together and embrace this challenge. Once this is done, I see a bright future for Guyana's team".
Football fans are reminded that the Guyana Football Federation will be allowing free parking at the National Stadium up to 19:00hrs for the home game against El Salvador on September 11.
Thus national football fans are once more being encouraged to be at the stadium an hour before kick-off to set the perfect atmosphere for the home team and inversely an intimidating atmosphere for visiting Salvadorians.
Tickets for that fixture are currently available at Ashmin's on High Street at $3 000 each. For Private Boxes persons can contact the Guyana Football Federation on 225-2906 or 227-8758.

Djokovic, Stosur win, Robson pulls off another upset

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:44:00 +0000

(REUTERS) - Defending champions Novak Djokovic and Samantha Stosur continued their easy paths through the U.S. Open yesterday, while China's Li Na became the latest victim of British giant-killer Laura Robson.
Djokovic blitzed Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 on sun-drenched Arthur Ashe Stadium court, while Stosur used the same venue to send off American Vavara Lepchenko 7-6, 6-2.
But it was Robson's gritty 6-4, 6-7, 6-2 triumph over former French Open champion Li, who triumphed in Cincinnati earlier this month, that created the biggest buzz at the year's final grand slam.
Robson sent four-time grand slam champion Kim Clijsters into retirement in the second round but her upset of ninth-seeded Li surely made believers of those who thought she might be a one-hit wonder.
Next up in the fourth round is Australian Stosur.
"I have had a fairly tough draw, haven't I?" the soft-spoken 18-year-old told reporters with a laugh.
"You have to beat who is in front of you ... That's what I managed to do so far. I play Stosur now, who is defending champ. That's going to be really tough.
At 2-2 in the third set, Robson thought she had broken serve but umpire Louise Engzell ruled that the point should be replayed, even though Li had missed with her return.
The 89th-ranked Robson, however, refused to bend, breaking Li's serve twice to lead 5-2 before serving out the match.
"I wouldn't say I wasn't distracted. I was a little bit annoyed," Robson said of the umpire's call. "But that's what happens from time to time, so you've got to deal with it."

LOVE AFFAIR
While Robson's star is rising, Andy Roddick's is on the way out as the American faces up-and-coming Australian Bernard Tomic under the lights later Friday at Ashe Stadium in what could be his last career match.
New Yorkers have always loved Roddick and the 24 000 in attendance will surely bring that love affair to a new level given Roddick's announcement on Thursday that he is retiring after the tournament.
After the Roddick match, top seed Victoria Azarenka of Belarus takes on China's Zheng Jie, the 28th seed.
In other matches, third seeded Russian Maria Sharapova, the 2006 U.S. Open winner, advanced easily, as did Spain's fourth seed David Ferrer on the men's side.
Djokovic dropped just two games in his opening-round win over Italy's Paolo Lorenzi and Silva managed only three more as the second-seeded Serb was in a different class.
"I didn't know much about my opponent," said Djokovic. "Never saw him play. So that could have been difficult at the start in order to figure out what his game plan is. But I played well from the start to the end."
Stosur was broken in the opening game of her match, setting the tone for a gruelling first set, which lasted 59 minutes. But the Australian secured the tiebreaker 7-5 and blew through the second set over a frustrated Lepchenko in 29 minutes.
"As the match went on I probably became a little bit more comfortable, got used to her spin, and maybe the wind a little bit more," said Stosur, who lost only five games in her first two matches. "Once I got that first set then maybe I relaxed a little bit more."

Walcott to receive Trinidad’s highest award

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:44:41 +0000

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC)-Olympic gold medalist Keshorn Walcott will receive Trinidad and Tobago’s highest award as the twin republic celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence.
Walcott, who became the country’s second Olympic gold medallist, will be presented with the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for his service in sport.
The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was established in 2008 replacing the Trinity Cross as the decoration for distinguished and outstanding service to the country.
Walcott threw the javelin a distance of 84.58m in London to become the first non-European to win the men's javelin since 1952
The world junior champion at 19 threw a national record with his second attempt beating Oleksandr Pyantnytsya of Ukraine and Antti Ruuskanen of Finland.
His triumph was only the second time Trinidad and Tobago won gold at the Games, following Hasely Crawford's success in the 100m at the Montreal Olympics in 1976.
19-year-old Walcott was given a massive homecoming and rewarded with gifts from the government including £100 000, a new home, 20 000 square feet of land and a lighthouse named after him.

Hero’s welcome for Kirani James

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:45:22 +0000

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (CMC - Grenada’s first Olympic medallist Kirani James was given a hero’s welcome when he arrived Thursday evening for a weekend of celebrations following his historic feat in London earlier last month.
Hundreds of jubilant fans flocked the Maurice Bishop International Airport Thursday to welcome James who demolished a field of seven other competitors on August 6 to win gold in the 400 metres.
James arrived on a chartered flight from Barbados around 19:00hrs Eastern Caribbean time to be given a red carpet welcome.
“This gold medal didn’t just drop from the sky. The torch he has lit is a light that we all can see and we all must use ourselves to show others how they can get there,” said Governor General Sir Carlisle Glean who also hails from James west coast fishing town of Gouyave.
“As a proud Gouyave man we congratulate Kirani for showing us that out of humbling beginnings great things can happen.”.
He was greeted by a delegation which included the Governor General, Prime Minister Tillman Thomas, Sports Minister Patrick Simmons and his parents.
“It’s good to see the faces of everyone here and the pride being displayed,” said the 19-year-old who turns 20 today.
“It’s really humbling seeing everybody here and I am really looking forward to a weekend of celebration and you know I really want it to be a weekend of celebration and nothing else.” .
James arrived to a festive atmosphere on the airport highlighted by steelpan music on the inside, DJ music blasting on the outside and hundreds cheering and waving flags.
“Everything else ... I wish everyone could throw it out the window,” said the quarter-miler nicknamed Jaguar.
“Just do this for me and for the country. Enjoy this weekend and don’t worry about anything.”
Hundreds burst into loud cheers when James, dressed casually in black jeans, black shirt beneath an official Grenada Olympic Committee (GOC) green blazer, stepped outside.
The country’s most celebrated athlete waved to the crowded, thanked them for the support and said he has been inspired to achieve greater things.
Today, James will attend a ceremony at a Boulevard in St. George’s named in his honour, and participate in a round-the-island motorcade which will climax with a rally at the national stadium.
“This a very proud moment for all of us as Grenadians and a proud moment for the eastern Caribbean too,” said Prime Minister Tillman Thomas.
“You have made an indelible mark in the sporting arena coming from such a small country You have created enormous possibilities and opportunities for us as a nation and it’s up to us now to put the mechanism in place to benefit from what you have done for us,” the Prime Minister added.
James Olympic gold medal was also the first for the OECS sub grouping.

Windies begin final preparations for World T20

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:46:02 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – West Indies will put the finishing touches on their preparations for the Twenty20 World Cup when they launch a week-long camp here from today.
Most of the players, including captain Darren Sammy, have arrived for the camp which will be staged at the High Performance Centre at the UWI Cave Hill Campus.
Over the next week, the Windies squad will be put through rigorous fitness and net sessions, and are also scheduled to play the High Performance Centre and Combined Campuses and Colleges in warm-up matches.
In addition to the 15-man squad announced the earlier this month, West Indies selectors have also invited fast bowler Tino Best, wicketkeeper Devon Thomas and temperamental left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn to the camp.
Best was a member of the successful Test and One-Day teams for the recent New Zealand series while Thomas played in the last two matches of the one-day series against Kiwis.
Benn, however, has not played for West Indies in 17 months because of disciplinary issues, though he was recalled to the West Indies A team for a two-match Twenty20 series against India A last June.
The ICC World Twenty20 which runs from September 18 to October 7, with West Indies set to do battle in Group B alongside Australia and minnows Ireland.
With the likes of Indian Premier League stars Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo included, the Windies have already been installed as one of the pre-tournament favourites.

SQUAD – Darren Sammy (captain), Dwayne Bravo (vice-captain), Samuel Badree, Darren Bravo, Johnson Charles, Fidel Edwards, Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, Denesh Ramdin, Ravi Rampaul, Andre Russell, Marlon Samuels, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith.

Guyana’s Road to 2016 Olympic Games has begun

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:46:42 +0000

THE London Olympics has gone. Much has been said – speculation, opinions, views and thoughts.
However, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has no intention of wasting time with idle talk. Instead, it will walk the walk.
As a matter of fact, the Director of Sport Neil Kumar has, over the past three weeks, held serious discussions and formal meetings with the executives of National Sports Associations including Guyana Amateur Boxing Association, Guyana Amateur Swimming Association and the Athletics Association of Guyana.
It is the intention to also have monthly meetings with the associations. It must be noted too, that the Guyana Boxing Board of Control which was headed by its president Peter Abdool was invited to and he attended one of the meetings held with the GABA to specifically address the issue of amateur boxers turning professionals.
The meetings agreed that the associations will prepare and submit to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport comprehensive plans and programmes entitled ‘From Now to Brazil’.
The principal purpose of this initiative is to direct our attention and endeavours towards the achievement of not merely commendable, but spectacular performances at the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil. Dismal performances must now be relegated to our history.
Strategies were discussed and decisions made, including:
Maximum utilisation of available facilities; Areas of development at the facilities to be activated e.g. extension of bleachers, improving lighting system, establishing of fitness gym and swim bench training at the National Aquatic Centre.
Converting the floor at Sixhead Lewis Gym to wood and redesigning it for more comfort.
Specific attention to be paid to athletes living in the interior of Guyana, identifying athletes living in the interior who have potentials to become top class and arranging for them to relocate to Georgetown, paying special attention to their education and welfare and immediately identifying athletes and coaches for specialised training.
Associations will, as a priority, participate in regional and international meets during the preparations for 2016 Olympic – Goodwill Games, CARIFTA, ALBA, South American Championships, PAN-AM, Commonwealth Games, CISC, CAS, South America U23, CAC, World Games, Junior Carifta, World Juniors, World Seniors and other competitions with international recognition.
There must be proper and adequate encampment for athletes, equipment to be readily available and arrangements for qualified local and high level foreign coaches and officials to be involved in preparation of athletes.
With cohesion, proper planning, commitment, dedication, coordination and the will and passion for success, Guyana, at the 2016 Olympic Games, will definitely match strides with the rest of the Caribbean and the world.
There is unlimited talent in Guyana. We must identify, nurture and develop these athletes for Guyana’s success in the future. This will materialise only if the National sports associations, the Government of Guyana and possibly a functioning and interested GOA can unite to nurture and guide our precious young athletes.
United we stand. Divided we fall.
The Government of Guyana will continue to push forward with its mandate to effectively play its role in the development of sports and sportsmen and sportswomen in Guyana.

Lack of funding hampered ruggers defence

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:47:24 +0000

DURING a press briefing at the Olympic House yesterday with members of Guyana’s Senior team that competed at the recently concluded NACRA Sevens Regional RWC Qualifiers, they disclosed that the major issue which led to the poor performance was lack of funding.
Managers of the team and Chairman of Selectors for the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Mike McCormack said there were numerous factors that played a part in this tournament that caused the team not to be on top of their game.
Firstly he said, “Our preparation was deeply affected by the weather and even though we got the stadium when we asked, it was not as effective as when we would have the rugby field in the National Park.”
McCormack went on to say that Guyana never got a chance to practise or play together as a team prior to the August 25-26 event. Three of the players joined the team in Canada three days before the opening of the tournament and this was so because of the funding situation.
Meanwhile, the opposing regional teams that have been at Guyana’s mercies for six consecutive years were quite prepared for the tournament and Guyana were upset by Barbados on the opening day.
McCormack disclosed that teams such as Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica were on tours to either the USA or Canada leading up to the qualifiers.
The funding issue caused Guyana to play without senior player Kevin McKenzie who was a critical addition to the lineup.
A Guyanese/Canadian group greeted the team and helped them raise a total of Cdn$1 700 for the three days before the tournament. McCormack felt if they had been in Canada at least a week prior to the tournament the funding issue would have been helped a bit more.
However, he said, in the coming year the GRFU will be looking to utilise many more resources and to restructure their system in the hope of getting back to where they were.
Head coach Theodore Henry implied that there is still hope for Guyana. “It was just the lack of finance that impeded us to not get to that goal that we set. All is not lost, with the right kind of support we can get back to the top in a hurry,” he said.
“I think that the other associations were better equipped than we and it showed. While we practised at home they were able to get tours and get more acquainted with playing as a unit,” Henry stated.

GCA/BRAINSTREET UNDER-15 Tournament - Paul stars with ball as DCC ‘A’ retain title

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:48:11 +0000

THANKS to some incisive fast bowling from Kemo Paul, defending champions Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ‘A’ team managed to retain their Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)-organised Brain Street Under-15 title with an authoritative 155-run victory over Transport Sports Club (TSC) at the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) ground yesterday.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, the defending champions who, with the win completed the double-double after they retained the League title of the tournament, scored 249 for 5 from their 50 overs and bowling out their opponents for 94 from 26.5 overs, thanks to Paul’s 6 for 29.
When DCC batted, their skipper Tevin Imloch, who topscored with 73 (115 balls, 5x4, 5x6) and Nomechandra Persaud (23, 2x4) added 65 for the first wicket from 17.2 overs, before they slipped to 90 for 3 within 10 overs, losing Paul (0) and Travis Persaud (12) in the process.
Imloch, who brought up his half-century from 86 deliveries with three sixes and a similar number of fours, and Clitus Johnson who made 62 off 55 deliveries with four fours and three sixes, added 86 for the fourth wicket from 15.2 overs.
During their partnership, Johnson brought up his half-century from 48 deliveries, counting three fours and two sixes in the process, before he saw the demise of Imloch who was caught at deep sqaureleg by Shemroy Kendall off the bowling of his opposite number, Joshua Ram.
Two overs later and Johnson, who was looking to up his team’s scoring rate, failed to get his bat down in time from an Ewart Samuels (1-36) delivery which kept low, before some lust hitting from Keanu Harry who was unbeaten on 36 (3x6, 2x4), guided DCC ‘A’ to their eventual total.
The late arrival of the lunch forced the umpires and players to take the field after a 10 minutes break, which saw TSC lose the important wicket of Ram, who was caught by Imloch at slip off the second delivery of his team’s innings from Paul.
The fiery fast bowlers followed it up with the wicket of Kevin Marks 11 (2x4), who was forced to pull a short delivery to Johnson on the backward sqaureleg fence, at which point the umpires called a halt to the proceedings, following the arrival of the lunch with TSC on 35 for 2 from 6.2 overs.
When play resumed, they slipped to 49 for 4, losing the wickets of Reon Sumair (17) and Samuels (4), who were both dismissed by Paul, before Joshua Wilson who struck two fours in his 13, chanced his arm to push the score to 74 for 8.
With former Guyana and West Indies skipper Clive Lloyd, who celebrated his 68th birthday yesterday, and president of the GCA Roger Harper witnessing the proceedings, Imloch introduced Deron Crandon into the attack and the lively medium pace bowler offered tremendous support to Paul, by taking 3 for 12.
DCC ‘A’ exhibited lots of patience in their march to victory and duly got same, which enabled them to complete the double-double, when Paul was reintroduced into the attack to wrap up TSC’s innings, which he did with the greatest of ease.
At the brief presentation ceremony that followed, both Harper and Lloyd applauded the victorious team for their superb showing, while urging TSC and the other teams which participated in the tournament, to strive for a better placing next year.
Presentation of prizes was done for both the League and Cup format of the competition, with Bel Air Texaco’s Akshay Persaud receiving a trophy for the Best Bowling performance, following his 7 for 39 against TSC.
GYO’s Dwayne Debarros won the Batsman with the Highest Score award, following his 118 against Malteenoes Sports Club, while Queen’s College player Shameer Khan who took 24 wickets and GYO’s Bhaskar Yadram 316 runs earned them the Best Bowler and Batsman trophies respectively.
Thakur Pooran took seven catches and won for himself the Best Fielder award, while national Under-15 player Sherfane Rutherford, who plays for Everest Cricket Club, won the League’s Most Valuable Player trophy for his 308 runs, 17 wickets - with a best of 5 for 19 - and 3 catches, complemented by a run-out.
GYO received a trophy, 15 medallions and $35 000 for their second-place finish in the League competition, while DCC ‘A’ received a trophy, 15 medallions and $50 000 as the victors of that stage of the competition.
In the Cup stage of the tournament, Imloch was adjudged the Best Batsman of the Final, Paul the Best Bowler and Johnson the Best Fielder, for which they all received trophies, while Paul received a trophy for his Man-of-the-Match efforts.
Both DCC ‘A’ and TSC received a trophy, 15 medallions and a cheque for $50 000 and $35 000 respectively, for their top two placing in the Cup stage of the competition which was hailed as a success by vice-president of the GCA, Neil Barry.

Leadership standing tall above the fray

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 04:54:26 +0000

The equations and definitions constraining human and humane conduct have largely become statistics by a society saturated in the sensual and the sensational.
Value systems relate to the dynamics of materialistic configurations instead of the applicability of good conduct, consideration for others, respect for authority and even parents.
The resilience of the human spirit may endure, as it has in centuries of natural and man-made catastrophes, and evolved over time to predominate over individual and societal anomalies, but to what extent has the human collective transmigrated into the quintessential replica of that divine lifeforce most of us pray to for charting the course of our lives?
How many of us see ourselves as our brother’s – and sister’s keepers? And how many of us can see a suffering child and feel constrained to intercede on its behalf, even if it creates problems for us in our personal lives?
The quality of mercy is largely constrained within the parameters of our individual comfort zones – and this also applies to leaders of nations.
Former President of Guyana, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, was the lone David – without even the support of the people for whom he was battling, against the monolithic European Union.
During the height of the Linden fracas, His Excellency President Donald Ramotar maintained his composure at all times in the face of great hostility of opposition media and the entire opposition cabal; and intense provocation by those who wanted to precipitate a state of anarchy in the land.
It is now a matter of history that both former President Jagdeo and incumbent President Ramotar faced and prevailed over the challenges that could have cost this nation its sovereignty and its progress.
To be a real leader, and a good human being, one has to adopt and maintain principled positions, even when the world turns against you for refusing to compromise integrity for the convenience of popularity.
It is a rare human being, and one whose self-respect and moral code are unshakeable, who can withstand the buffeting of a societal, national, regional, and global tsunami and emerge with moral pristinity.
Too many persons are like chaff blowing hither-thither in the wind of public opinion, without consideration for truth and the greater good.
But the Lord adjured us to build our houses upon the rock of truth so that they can withstand the elements and endure – and all our religions teach us that good triumphs against evil, light over darkness.
It is extremely difficult to refuse our peers in the pursuit of wrongdoing, especially when ostracism from their society would ensue as a consequence, unless one has a strong and in-built moral code that transposes one above the norm to rise unsullied by the machinations of those who take joy in marginalising the existence of others – or policy-makers who gain satisfaction in strategising the dislocation of the socio-economic contours of vulnerable societies.
The sad reality that has hallmarked the evolutionary processes of societies is that moral integrity has majorly been relegated to a dimension of alienation within the mainstream norm, and the acquisition of power and wealth have taken precedence over the adjurations of all our holy texts.
The hypocrisy of many elders who attend mosques, mandirs, temples, churches, and other places of worship, whose lifestyles cannot bear scrutiny, have created agnostics and cynics out of the younger generation, so authority figures – and consequentially the supreme being they purport to worship, have become suspect and unworthy of respect.
This phenomenon has fractured societies, because the various religions of the world have historically and traditionally been the grounding force melding families and societies into a cohesive unit, mainly harmonising within the philosophies of their doctrines to create communities and countries with soul.
The churches may today be full, but the mechanical, materialistic applications have, except for exceptional instances, created poverty of the soul of humankind.

Clint Eastwood just made my day

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:40:00 +0000

REGARDING Clint Eastwood’s speech at the U.S. Republican National Convention:
Clint Eastwood just "made my day" with his "Invisible Obama" speech at the Republican National Convention.
Four years ago, Obama campaigned for the "audacity of hope," appearing as an "angel of light." Since becoming president, he has militantly and forcefully fought to establish and entrench in the minds, hearts, souls and behaviour of Americans the dark evils of abortion, sterilisation, homosexuality, contraception and embryonic stem-cell research. Where religious freedom and the economy are concerned, he has become the "invisible president".
Now that his mask is off, Americans can no longer sit on the sidelines and allow themselves to be ruled by a president drunk with power. They must engage Obama’s challenge. They must take up the good fight to ensure that he is not given another term in which to destroy the very soul of America with his anti-life, anti-family, anti-religious policies.
It’s nice to see that there are still some "beautiful people" left in decadent Hollywood that have not been totally taken in by the charlatan Barack Obama and his Godless agenda.
Hopefully, other bigshot movie stars and starlets will take the hint and leave their egos at the door long enough to become a "Magnum Force" for Romney to take the White House this November.

Rommel Roopnarine replies to Archie Cordis

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:41:56 +0000

I am compelled to respond to Mr. Archie Cordis constant griping on the contents of my television programme in Region 2, Let’s Talk Essequibo.
This individual who is an AFC Regional Councilor is seemingly desperate to be featured on the very television programme where in a previous letter to the press he was critical of the presence of no other than the Regional Chairman.
In fact, Cordis seeks to justify his desperation for attention by indicating that he knows the arithmetic of Region 2 better than myself. Yet, in this latest letter attacking my programme he mentions everything else except the concerns highlighted by the people of Region 2. So much for his ‘genuine’ interest in addressing issues affecting the people in that region.
Even more surprising for a man who claims to have the people of Region 2 at heart is the fact this AFC councilor publicly stated that he is against the Regional Chairman Mr. Parmanand Persaud interacting with certain residents in Essequibo because he is of the opinion that their problems are minor.
Well I have a message for this AFC Councillor, Let’s Talk Essequibo will continue to engage all the people of Region 2 irrespective if their concerns are minor or major, with a view of highlighting their experiences to have them addressed.
The dishonesty of this AFC Councilor is even more revealing as despite all his griping he has not admitted that he is allowed to call in and air his views however jaundiced as he has done in the past.
Let me now deal with the issue of Linden as he seeks to draw comparisons with the Linden protests and the Arab spring uprising which is totally flawed.
Mr. Cordis exposes himself once again by stating that he has followed the Arab Spring uprising and no journalist would think of asking the protestors if they were or will be better off. Well the truth of the matter is that I am not sure what Mr. Cordis has been following but he is completely wrong once again.
This is one of the most common questions and in fact it was even a topic on the Doha Debates.
I conclude by sincerely wishing Mr. Cordis a speedy recovery from his injury/ailment which was evident when we spoke last Saturday.

Total disregard for protocols at Anna Regina Town Council

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:42:34 +0000

I wish to bring to your attention the malevolent use of resources and the clear collusion among key stakeholders of the Anna Regina Town Council Kindly note that the exploitation of people’s properties continue almost uninhibited by the monitoring agencies. At a juncture when all efforts should be concentrated on building declining taxpayers’ confidence after the erection of a modern Town Hall under my tenure, efforts are underway to accumulate personal wealth by key figures of the Town Council.
The latest in a series of questionable transactions is the senseless selling of one International 444 tractor; contracts for the second pavilion at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground; the disappearance of 12 mobile radio sets which were donated by Mr. Patrick Matthews, an overseas-based Essequibian; the shady contract of the Bush Lot Market car park; the rehabilitation of the community centre by NBS and “millions” worth of other things.
What is the ministry’s policy on selling of equipment and machines? Had this seemingly “unserviceable” tractor ever been verified by a qualified mechanic to confirm its status as “unserviceable?” Why is it that this tractor was sold unknowingly to the previous councillors who have chosen after normal working hours to remove the items from the compound? Why were the items moved on specific days of absence of the town –clerk, who should be the sole, authorised holder of the keys to the office? Was the real value of the supposed “unserviceable tractor” ever truly ascertained? If the items were written off by the auditors, shouldn’t the practical thing be to hold a public auction? It seems no one, and even the councillors weren’t informed of the “barter.”
As the public continues to be barraged with the inordinate trade prices of many of the ‘bartered “unserviceable” items’ by the “fortunate” buyer, one is left to wonder as to how can the Ministry of Local Government and the Regional Democratic Council simply accept a 444 International tractor worth approximately One Hundred thousand dollars ($100, 000.00) for all the bartered tractors. The questions seem to accumulate as the answers seemingly have dwindled.
Moreover, it is understood that there is strong resistance from the Council in the appointment of RDC representative on the Tender Board of the council. For some years now calls for a RDC representative have fallen on deaf ears. Could these shady transactions be the reason?
What is truly surprising at a large institution like this in which millions of taxpayers’ dollars are poured through subventions - is the fact that a senior member of the council has been overpowering the functioning Municipal Treasurer. How fitting is this? Isn’t there a policy against this as in the private sector?
It is further noticed at this council that the Mayor regularly goes on overseas trips sponsored by NGOs and the Ministry of Local Government, setting a dangerous precedence for his Deputy Mayor. He constantly blames his personal business engagements in Georgetown and elsewhere as the core reason for his absence at local seminars and meetings.
It is my opinion after these quite profound revelations, that there needs to be closer monitoring by the relevant agencies, failing which this institution will transgress into another “white elephant.”

Where is Miss Wilson?

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:44:44 +0000

THE adopted country of Jamaica-born Sanya Richards Ross (400m gold medalist at the London 2012 Olympics) paved the way towards international stardom for her.
Once again, I stand firmly with my words that overseas- based Guyanese, Miss Kadecia Baird will only be propelled to international stardom should an avenue open up for her to compete under the USA"s flag. She will encounter major and unbearable hurdles representing Guyana and this is due to the fact that Guyana is not currently in a position to undertake the task of funding her with some serious financial aid which will be needed for her quest towards the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. We are talking U.S. Dollars.

Mr.Seeraj conducted a live NCN coverage with guests, Mr. Colin Boyce (AAG) and Mr. Lyndon Wilson (Renowned Coach) on Wednesday, August 29 on the Track and Field fraternity. Mr. Boyce did indicate that to some extent he will not agree with the freelance writer who said that K. Baird will represent the USA. I believe that I am currently the only person who has penned my views recently on this subject and as much as he didn't mention a name, I will accept that he was referring to my publications which is absolutely fine with me and he has every right to disagree.
He went on to say that plans are in place for K. Baird to compete and represent Guyana in Rio; he will soon be making contact with her parent; he is in constant contact with her coach; he had a meeting on Friday August 31 with Mr. Neil Kumar (Director of Sports); a five-year plan of action will soon be available etc..
Well done as a start and I sincerely wish you success.

Case scenario:
Amerindian and locally based Miss Wilson from Lethem in 2010 created history at the National School Championships when she performed excellently running bare feet and she was the talk of the town for her accomplishment and coming all the way from one of Guyana's remote regions.
Where is she currently? Lost, forgotten and dismissed from the Track and Field fraternity. Guyana could not afford to maintain her expenses with local Guyanese currency for her development. So, where in God's name will Guyana source U.S. currency to offset K. Baird's expenses for her track and development towards Rio?

The Ministry of Sport has only been allotted x amount for sports development via the budget (thank God the opposition didn't make an objection) and that has to be shared among the various sports fraternities. So, isn’t it wiser to use whatever is available to Track and Field for the development of the other locally based track athletes with their preparations for Rio?
We recently jetted off three track athletes to Jamaica for high-performance training with the hope of them going to London. We know the one from the Guyana Police Force was in London recently.
Are the other two from the Guyana Defence Force still currently training in Jamaica?
If not, I hope they haven't ended up like Miss Wilson from Lethem...Lost forgotten and dismissed...
It would be educational to learn from the latter two about their experience and training from Jamaica and what preparations are currently in place for them towards Rio. Come on sports journalists: get up from your fancy chairs in offices and hit the fields. It's called investigative journalism. Not many may know about that profession.
I would love to know which sports journalist will be hitting the trails to Lethem to locate Miss Wilson and if/when you do, make an effort to locate the other Amerindian track athlete who also did wonders at the 2011 National Schools Championships. I expect the mode of transportation is the bus service and not on a flight to Lethem from Ogle Airport. I fully agree with Mr. Neil Kumar when he stated that some journalists only suck up to sports associations and are given awards.

If I also remember correctly, it was Air Services Limited who came on board and gifted the 2011 female Amerindian athlete with a seat on one of their flights back home. Brilliant gesture by ASL.

Mr. Lyndon Wilson (renowned coach), you said on national television during that interview that sports have become a business and no longer fun.
Are you saying/indicating that the "Jeffords/President annual Linden Track Meet” along with other track meets in Guyana have become businesses?
If that was what you meant, it is telling me that "business" has overtaken "sports development" and it all boils down to personal gains. I believe you may need to revisit Mr.Seeraj and clear the air because you could now come under fire by your colleagues and friends within the track fraternity. I understand that Mr. Colin Boyce is also the co-organiser of the Linden Meet.

Bayney Karran’s statements should not be withdrawn

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:45:32 +0000

THE opposition and some union members claim that Mr. Bayney Karran made statements to the Organisation of American States that were ‘one-sided’ and ‘abysmal’ and the remarks should be withdrawn.
There is no way any of the statements made should be withdrawn. The opposition and critics cannot say what statements they are objecting to. We find that certain sections of the press and TV make statements daily without any basis as their comments are born out of speculation and conjecture.
There is a particular writer who continues to destroy people’s characters and reputations by making statements without any proof. He sometimes admits he cannot prove certain things, but he believes what he is saying is true. The regret is that Guyanese love a gossip and they tend to accept as gospel what is written in the press.
Karran allegedly spoke about the ‘precarious situation’ in Guyana. Is this situation not true? Look at what is happening in Parliament. Do you think the politicians care a pig’s foot for the concern and welfare of Guyanese? It is sickening to see Members of Parliament reading their speeches, which is against the rule of the House, but neither the Speaker nor anyone else seem concerned. It is a pity that the TV stations give publicity to them when they read. The opposition goes on to speak of the violation of human rights in Linden. Is this out of laugh? Karran also spoke to the promotion of ‘ethnic hatred’. We cannot forget that David Granger had agreed with the government concerning the rates for electricity for Linden. Then Khemraj Ramjattan went up there and told the people that the government was increasing their tariff because of race and because the blacks in Linden did not vote for the “coolie” PPP. Was not that the start of the problems in Linden?
The opposition is embarrassed by Karran’s disclosures and cannot find fault. They should identify what are not factual in the statements made by Karran and then call on him to respond.
I hope this letter will see the light of day in our freedom of speech newspapers.

Major General (rtd) Joseph Singh issues disclaimer

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:46:03 +0000

I shall be most grateful if the following Disclaimer can be published on the contents of a book written by John Gimlette and titled: The Wild Coast. The book contains what I consider to be the very unprincipled and subjective descriptions and embellishments, of Gimlette's brief interview with me a few years ago.
Following is my Disclaimer:
"In his book: The Wild Coast, the author, John Gimlette, refers to his brief interview with me (conducted in a public place at the Pegasus pool-side) and then proceeds without my knowledge or sanction to embellish the scenarios, using his author's licence. This has caused me much annoyance and distress as it could be misinterpreted by readers, especially my former colleagues from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), that Gimlette was my appointed interlocutor and was representing my points of view.
This is furthest from the truth.
The Ministry of Tourism and John Gimlette contacted me sometime in 2009 and asked if I could grant him an interview as he was a travel writer and wished to be advised of some routes and places in the hinterland of Guyana which could help to promote Guyana as a destination for persons from overseas. He had obviously spoken with other Guyanese before seeing me because he seemed well briefed. He mentioned that he had heard of my military service and of my involvement in the Rupununi Uprising in 1969 (I had written on this subject as the Archives of Stabroek News would reveal, in refuting allegations of GDF troops being involved in the massacre of Amerindians and speculations that there were unmarked graves in the Rupununi) and in the aftermath of the Jonestown tragedy of 1978. He had also spoken with a former Commissioner of Police about the transition from the PNC-led government to the PPP-led government in 1992 and of the role of the GPF and GDF in that transition.
Clearly, in his book, Gimlette used these bits of information to embellish my role, much to my embarrassment. What I find particularly offensive and distasteful is the subjective reference to me in my capacity as Chief of Staff, as an officer of Indian descent commanding a Force comprising a high percentage of Afro-Guyanese.
Those of my colleagues who have served alongside me in the GDF would know that I am a very private person, unwilling to beat his drum in public or to score cheap points at the expense of others. In all of my writings, reports and public utterances, including at my farewell parade in 2000 as Chief of Staff, I have always emphasised the team approach; the importance of demonstrating unselfish leadership by the Officer Corps; the officers' professional and interpersonal relationships with the Warrant Officers, NCOs and soldiers; and the debt we all owe to the rank and file whom we command.
I therefore wish to unequivocally and unreservedly dissociate myself from the references made by Gimlette to his perception of my role in operations and in command and especially so, where these diminish the significance of the contributions and involvement of my former comrades-in -arms.
I cannot direct what someone writes but I can certainly seek to clarify and to dissociate myself, as I hereby do, from utterances or writings which border on racism or denigration of the quality of service and performances of co-workers and especially of my former colleagues and comrades-in -arms.
I extend my best wishes and high regards to all officers and ranks who served in the Guyana Defence Force and in those particular operations referred to in Gimlette's book."

Missing laptops probe continues – six sent home

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:06:57 +0000

AS the investigations into the missing laptops at the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) Project continue, six staff members have been sent home with immediate effect to facilitate the completion of these investigations by the Guyana Police Force, the OLPF said in a release issued yesterday.
The missing 150 laptop computers were reportedly stolen from the OLPF’s warehouse on Forshaw Street, Queenstown, Georgetown.
The OLPF project was the brainchild of former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, and is aimed at bridging the digital divide between Guyana and the rest of the world. A target of 90,000 laptops is to be given out to families across the country during the life of the project.
Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, earlier this week, told media personnel that while the investigations are continuing, investigators have declined to provide day by day reports on their findings.
“They however insisted on completion of the investigation before information on the findings is provided to the management of the One Laptop Per Family programme,” he said.
The police will submit a formal report to the management of the OLPF once the investigations are completed.

Police issue traffic reminder ahead of school reopening

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:08:28 +0000

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), noting the imminent reopening of schools countrywide for the new term, reminded all road users, yesterday, to be on the lookout for children.
Acknowledging that September 3 will see an increase in traffic on the roads, the GPF said it should be borne in mind that some children will be attending school for the first time, while others will be going to new schools and may be unfamiliar with their surroundings.
The GPF urged motorists to be cautious and drive defensively, especially when approaching schools, and look out for children who may use the roads carelessly, whether doing so as pedestrians or pedal cyclists.
Children were also advised to always walk on the right hand side of the road, so as to face oncoming traffic; use sidewalks, pavements, other footpaths and pedestrian crossings, where provided, to cross roads.
The GPF called on road users, as well, to be alert and make a determined effort to reduce accidents on roads by exercising the five Cs - Care, Caution, Consideration, Courtesy and Commonsense.
Meanwhile, statistics from the GPF Traffic Headquarters, at Eve Leary, Georgetown, recorded 59 road accidents, resulting in 62 deaths, three of which were children, for the year, so far.
That compared with 73 accidents and 79 deaths, including eight children, for the corresponding period last year.

Police piecing together information on Sookdeo execution murder

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:09:06 +0000

POLICE detectives are trying to piece together bits of information they have gathered, so far, while investigating the execution style killing of taxi driver Sean De Freitas Sookdeo.
The victim’s bullet riddled corpse was found early Tuesday morning at Thomas Lands, Georgetown, and Crime Chief Seelall Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle that, at the time of the murder, Sookdeo’s motor car, which he was attempting to sell to a neighbour, was carrying a false number plate.
The vehicle was parked outside his sister’s home at Mc Doom Village, East Bank Demerara, relatives said.
The Crime Chief said statements have already been taken from several persons who did business with Sookdeo, in relation to the importation of vehicles for which they had made substantial down payments but not received delivery.
The Deputy Commissioner (Law Enforcement) said, as the investigations continue, they are also tracing calls Sookdeo made from his cell phone before he was killed, to probe into the business transaction he had made.
However, up to press time, no one was arrested for the crime although several leads were being followed.
Persaud disclosed that the passport that was discovered on the corpse is genuine but the United States (U.S.) visa in it had been revoked, and a background check is being done on the well travelled Sookdeo, who had been threatened by one of the persons who gave him money before the murder.
Sookdeo, 25, of Lot 12 Block ‘CC’ Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, was discovered early Tuesday by passersby, who summoned the police.
His injuries suggested that he had been severely beaten and tortured, having suffered gunshot wounds to the hands, head and abdomen, while there were burn marks to the back of the neck and abdomen.

Caribbean must address chronic under-diversification – Finance Minister

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:09:40 +0000

FIFTY years after some Caribbean countries gained political independence, Caribbean economies remain chronically under-diversified, a situation they must address as soon as possible if they are to make lasting gains in the fight against poverty and for equality.
So said Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh at the launching of a publication entitled “Structural Change for Equality: An Integrated Approach to Development” by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC).
The minister was at the time serving as a panellist at a high level seminar organized by ECLAC on the occasion of the launch of the document in El Salvador on Thursday. Minister Singh welcomed the publication, stating that many of its conclusions would resonate with policymakers across Latin America and the Caribbean.
He highlighted the unique circumstances of small states such as the Caribbean islands, and emphasized that the policy options and policy instruments available to the small states of the Caribbean to confront economic challenges were often much more limited than those available to larger states.
Minister Singh pointed out, in particular, that the limited extent of diversification and limited opportunities for diversification in such states were well known. He stated that the international and development community had devoted considerable policy effort to defining the problem faced by small states, but despite this effort, credible solutions remained elusive.
He urged ECLAC to consider that a gap existed in the knowledge products currently available as it relates to strategies for overcoming the chronic under-diversification faced by the Caribbean. Were ECLAC to embrace such work, its outcomes would be very helpful to policymakers in those countries.
Similarly, the Caribbean needs a strategy to achieve and maintain fiscal, debt, and external sustainability, given that the Region is known to include some of the world most indebted nations, including a few that were actually middle income countries. Under pressure to scale up social spending and investment in critical infrastructure, the options available to those countries to achieve fiscal consolidation were extremely limited. Crafting a solution to this dilemma required support from agencies such ECLAC.
Guyana’s finance minister welcomed the emphasis placed by the publication on the need for Latin American and Caribbean economies to diversify into more knowledge-based and technology-based industries, arguing that these add more value to the economy, bring more stable jobs, and are more resilient to volatile economic cycles.
He drew attention to the fact that many of the recommendations made in the document were reflective of paths already adopted by the Government of Guyana, including the move to diversify the domestic productive economy, investment in infrastructure and social services including education and ICT, scaling up public investment as a means of catalyzing higher levels of private investment, and mainstreaming environmental sustainability as articulated by Guyana’s pioneering Low Carbon Development Strategy.
Without a doubt, the minister added, the policy choices exercised by the government had contributed to the marked strengthening of the Guyanese economy over the past decade or so, and he drew attention to the achievement of uninterrupted growth since 2006, despite the recent global economic crisis that has wreaked havoc in many other Caribbean economies and from which many are still to recover.
The event was held to coincide with the 34th session of ECLAC.

Police seeking foreign pathologist for teen murder probe

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:10:58 +0000

POLICE Crime Chief Seelall Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that efforts are being made to get a pathologist from overseas to perform a second post mortem on murdered teenager Basmattie Moonsammy.
The mutilated remains of the victim were taken from a shallow grave in a rice field on August 4 and the first autopsy, by Dr. Vivekanand Bridgemohan, did not determine the cause of death.
As a consequence, three suspects who were assisting Police with the investigations were released on bail.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement) said the second post mortem will guide the course of action to be taken but, for now, arrangements are being made to acquire the services of a foreign pathologist for the exhumation of the corpse.
Initially, three men, from Number 11 Village, West Coast Berbice, were held for questioning about the murder, days after the teen’s partly decomposing semi-nude body was discovered by a rice framer on his way to tend to his crop.
Following the discovery, she was identified by her mother who recognised the clothing she was wearing at the time of her disappearance from home. The 15-year-old, of Woodley Park, another West Coast Berbice village, had left home for an unknown destination on July 29 while her mother was at work.
A missing person report was made to the Police and her mother began a search for her that lasted days.
Residents, shocked by the brutal demise of the teen, lent their support to the family in making funeral arrangements.
It is believed that the teen was either lured or forcibly taken to the rice field aback of the village in which she lived where she was gang-raped and murdered.

Police seeking foreign pathologist for teen murder probe

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:10:58 +0000

POLICE Crime Chief Seelall Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that efforts are being made to get a pathologist from overseas to perform a second post mortem on murdered teenager Basmattie Moonsammy.
The mutilated remains of the victim were taken from a shallow grave in a rice field on August 4 and the first autopsy, by Dr. Vivekanand Bridgemohan, did not determine the cause of death.
As a consequence, three suspects who were assisting Police with the investigations were released on bail.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement) said the second post mortem will guide the course of action to be taken but, for now, arrangements are being made to acquire the services of a foreign pathologist for the exhumation of the corpse.
Initially, three men, from Number 11 Village, West Coast Berbice, were held for questioning about the murder, days after the teen’s partly decomposing semi-nude body was discovered by a rice framer on his way to tend to his crop.
Following the discovery, she was identified by her mother who recognised the clothing she was wearing at the time of her disappearance from home. The 15-year-old, of Woodley Park, another West Coast Berbice village, had left home for an unknown destination on July 29 while her mother was at work.
A missing person report was made to the Police and her mother began a search for her that lasted days.
Residents, shocked by the brutal demise of the teen, lent their support to the family in making funeral arrangements.
It is believed that the teen was either lured or forcibly taken to the rice field aback of the village in which she lived where she was gang-raped and murdered.

NOC BOARD OF INQUIRY NAMED

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:11:19 +0000

IN aftermath of the recent breakout and arson by students of the New Opportunity Corps (NOC), the national juvenile correctional facility at Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, members of the Board of Inquiry have been named, as promised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.
The Board of Inquiry now comprises its Chairman, Mr. Prem Persaud, Former Judge and Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission; and members Alfred King, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Christopher Griffith, Senior Superintendent and Divisional Commander of Police “D” Division; Trenetta Scott, Senior Probation Officer in the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security; and Mr. Maydha Persaud, retired headmaster and member of the Teaching Service Commission.

The Board of Inquiry will commence immediate enquiries into the events prior to and during the breakdown in order at the facility. Amongst the tribunal’s terms of reference are:
1. All pertinent matters prior to, during, and after the escape on the 22nd August 2012.
2. All pertinent matters prior to, during, and after the fire on the 23rd August 2012.
3. Culpability of the person or persons involved in the escape.
4. Culpability of the person or persons involved in the fire.
5. Recommendations as to the appropriate disciplinary actions to be taken against those found culpable.
6. Review existing arrangements, and make recommendations to prevent any such recurrences.
7. Such matter or matters as may, in the opinion of the Board, be considered relevant for the purpose of the inquiry.
8. The Board can, if necessary, co-opt other skills and expertise that in its view will aid in the inquiry.

It is expected that, early in the new week, the Board members will meet to plan their work schedule. The Board is interested in receiving submissions from all relevant stakeholders who are interested in contributing to its work.

All logistical and other relevant support will be provided by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; and the Board is expected to have ready its Final Report by 30th September 2012.

After 18 years… Visual Arts Competition resuscitated under President Ramotar’s patronage

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:11:57 +0000

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, yesterday, resuscitated the Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition (GVACE), through which prizes of $1M will be available to competitors 16 years an older, under the patronage of President Donald Ramotar.
The others present at the ceremony, at Office of the President, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown, were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony; Permanent Secretary in that Ministry, Mr. Alfred King; Director of Culture, Dr. James Rose; Chief Education Officer, Mr. Olato Sam, artists and lecturers of the E .R. Burrowes School of Art and other special invitees.
The contest, which was last held in 1994, is aimed at stimulating work of the highest standard by visual artists in support of efforts to provide encouragement for those artistically talented Guyanese.
The renewed rivalry is meant to be more than a forum for the judging and displaying of art work and, in this regard, it will have some special features, which are meant to enhance its development impact. This would see it being part of a week of activities which will specially focus on the visual arts.
These activities would include a master class for artists conducted by one or more of the judges and a public lecture, also delivered by one of the judges.
Another feature of the GVACE is that a special ‘promise award’ will be given to the youngest artist, under 25 years old, who the judges believe should be encouraged because of his or her outstanding talent shown.
Anthony, in his remarks yesterday, emphasised on the high standard of current artists and made mention of their works displayed during the 2008 Carifesta and just concluded Inter Guianas Cultural Festival.
Biennial
He recalled that the last competition was staged in 1994 after the previous years’ were called off due to poor quality of art work submitted. He noted that this competition is expected to be a biennial and national event.
President Ramotar spoke of the talent which would be showcased, noting that, with vast scenery, raw materials, a multi-ethnic society and culture, a keen and interesting competition is expected, since the works of the artists will bring food and pleasure in their vision.
The Head of State congratulated the responsible Ministry and all the others who worked on the organisation and wished them all success.
One of the coordinators, Mr. Philbert Gajadhar, who outlined the categories, rules and prizes for the rivalry, sought the assistance of the media to inform the public.
The judging will be done in six categories - paintings, drawings, sculpture, textiles, ceramics and photography - by a panel of five judges, who would include persons from Guyana and abroad, well experienced in the field of visual arts. Works may be entered on any theme of the artist’s choice and executed in any chosen style.
First prize winner will receive $500,000; second $300,000 and third $200,000. Gold, silver and bronze medals will go to the respective winners, while the special ‘promise award’ of G$200,000 goes to one person.
Registration forms are available from next week online at www.mcys.gov.gy and must be submitted to the E. R. Burrowes School of Art, Carifesta Avenue, Thomas Lands, also in Georgetown, by Friday November 23, 2012 not later than 15:00hrs.

Amerindian Heritage Month ushers in with Inter-faith service

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:12:32 +0000

USHERING in Amerindian Heritage Month 2012, the Ministry of Amerindian affairs yesterday held an inter-faith service at the Umana Yana, Kingston.
The event which was chaired by Ms Yvonne Pearson and Mr. Deon Johnson saw a large turnout of representatives from the different faiths in Guyana.
Representatives from the Guyana Conference of Seventh Day Adventist, as well as Mr. Fenton Parks and his team from “Circle of love” engaged the audience with renditions of gospel songs.
Reverend Marilyn David of the New Life Anointed Ministries engaged the audience with her prayers and readings from the book of Joshua in the Holy Bible. The reverend prayed for the unity and success of the indigenous peoples, and urged them to be proud of their heritage.
According to her, our success is not measured by what or how much we have, but by what we do with what we have. She noted how involved the indigenous people are in Guyanese society today, and advised them to utilize their talent, resources and intelligence to become successful individuals, and make Guyana proud. Celeste David, daughter of the Reverend, also treated the audience to her rendition of a gospel song.
Representatives from the Roman Catholic Church, Father John Persaud and his team treated the audience to prayers in the Amerindian languages of Wapishana and Patamona, as well as songs in Wapishana and Macushi.
Father Philip Edwards of the Diocese of Guyana, prayed for the President and ministers of Guyana, law enforcement personnel, and all the people of Guyana, especially the indigenous people.
There was chanting from the Hallelujah Group who came all the way from Region 7 (Cuyuni/Mazaruni), Tassarene. The group sang in Akawaio, and also knelt and prayed in their native language.
For the first time, members of the Rastafarian community were involved in the inter-faith service. Representatives from the Rastafarian Council engaged the audience with song, poetry, and drumming about showing more love and trust, and uniting as one people. They said that the indigenous people and the Rastafarians are one, as they are all “people of the most high.”
Members of the Baha’i Community were also present at the service, and treated the audience to a song in the Amerindian language of Macushi.
Representing the Islamic community was Imaam Shaheed Mohammed from the Islamic Organisation. He prayed in Arabic, as well as English, asking Allah to bless all ten regions of Guyana, and to guide the indigenous people in their celebrations. The Imaam said that “we are all one” and we should live that way.
Pandit Omadat Persaud of the Guyana Hindu Dharma Sabha spoke on behalf of the Hindu community. He said that we should all stand in unity and respect each other’s religion. According to him, the theme of Amerindian Heritage month 2012: “Embracing our identity, celebrating our culture” is very fitting, and we should all stand firm with those words.
Representatives from the various faiths were presented with tokens of appreciation for their participation in the inter-faith service.
Also present at the service was Minister of Amerindian Affairs. Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Agriculture, Leslie Ramsammy, and Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran. The Grand Launching of Amerindian Heritage Month 2012 will take place today (September 1) at the Amerindian Village, National Exhibition Complex, Sophia at 17:30hrs.

Book Review…‘Uses of medicinal plants in Guyana’

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 19:46:30 +0000

‘USES OF medicinal plants in Guyana’ is a 94-page booklet that is basically a compendium of all the known types of local plants that can be used as alternatives for conventional medicine. This booklet is replete with advice on food and nutrition herbal treatments and preparations, teas, and folk medicines, and is the first ever known local compilation of such information in the pages of one book.

It also may be a source of nostalgia to the folks over fifty, who may have benefited from the use of such staple folk or ‘bush’ medicine as bitter aloes, carrion crow bush, teasam and cure-for-all in their childhood days .

The author of this recently released publication is Mr. Fitz H. Ogle, Chairman and founding member of the Evergreen Nature Study Club based at BB 2-3 Mandela Avenue, La Penitence, Georgetown.

The design, layout and printing were done by Communication Concept of 51 Norton Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown.

Ogle, who holds a Diploma in Agriculture with an Associated Masters of Science Degree, said that research for the information in the book started in 2000, and was countrywide.

The information on each medicinal plant in the booklet provides its common name, its scientific name, its habitat and distribution, and its medicinal uses.

For example, the scientific name of the plant commonly known as ‘Soldier Rod’ is given as Achyranthes Indica, and its family name is given as Amaranthaceae.
Under habitat and distribution, it is explained that Soldier Rod is a weed of cultivated waste places throughout the subtopics and tropics, including Guyana.
In respect to its medicinal uses, the booklet says of Soldier Rod: “A decoction of the leaves is taken for relief of high blood pressure, and as a “tea” substitute. A decoction of the whole plant, either alone or mixed with buck-cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), is drunk for relief of colds, stomach troubles and thrush. An infusion of the entire plant alone is taken for heart problems.”

In the booklet, there are one hundred and two other traditional medicinal plants in Guyana similarly identified and explained.
The booklet also lists medical conditions ranging from acne to bedwetting, to bachelor’s buttons, to latta marks, to insomnia, to constipation, to lack of libido, and lists the plants and herbs that can and have been traditionally used as cures, and how they should be used.

Most of these medicinal herbs are available at city markets, many markets along the entire coast of Guyana, and in the hinterland, so the booklet can serve as a handy shopping tool for those who believe in the value of the use of such alternative forms of medicine.

“You may not know the bush, but the people, for example at Bourda Market, know it.
You can get the herb from them, and when you go home you can use the booklet to know how to use it,” Ogle said.

In a foreword on the booklet Robert D. Forrester, a Development Consultant, said Ogle has once again demonstrated his versatility and repertoire of relevant knowledge in creating a publication that concerns and touches all peoples. The book can be termed ‘How to live harmoniously with nature’.

“Needless to say, the publication is timely, since, as we seek to craft a Low Carbon Development Strategy, it is imperative that we live in harmony with nature, accept her gifts, and save ourselves. The solutions propounded here are both imperative and preventative.”

Ogle himself said he strongly believes that Guyanese need to undergo a change of attitude in regard to appreciation of their tropical environment and biodiversity and agriculture, along with consumer tastes.

He added: “The information in ‘Uses of medicinal plants in Guyana’ is mainly educational. With respect to treatments(traditional or non-traditional) for the ailments mentioned, though long and graciously accepted by many, there is no guaranteed measure of success regarding their applications.
“The medicine may work on some but may not work on others. A main factor could be diet. If you use a lot of coffee or aerated drinks, for example, that may neutralize the effects of some of the mentioned herbs.”

‘Uses of medicinal plants in Guyana’ by Fitz Ogle and the Evergreen Nature Study Club is on sale at Austin’s Book Store and at the Headquarters of Channel 9 Television Station.

Local bard says…Time to invest ‘serious capital’ in culture industry

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:01:11 +0000

REPRESENTING Guyana at the recently concluded Inter-Guianas Cultural Festival Symposium on Artistic Enterprise in the Guianas, local editorial consultant and author, Ruel Johnson posited that the time has come for Guyana to give serious thought to investing serious capital in the development of the culture industry. The conference, held at the Umana Yana, sought to explore the enterprise of artistic production: The literature, the creative energies, industry and cultures in French Guiana, Guyana and Suriname.

Johnson, the author of Ariadne & Other Stories, financed by furniture giants Courts and advertising icon Guyenterprise; and Fictions, Volume One, sponsored by GT&T, individual supporters, and his own agency -- Janus Books - noted the need to expand into entrepreneurial pursuits. “What I’ve been learning is that if you are a writer and you intend to live here [in Guyana], you need to become a businessman or woman,” he said.

Citing the example of Shakespeare, he said: “We remember Shakespeare for his plays, but it should be noted that Shakespeare was arguably the model of the artist as cultural entrepreneur, evolving from a mere player to hired playwright, to co-owner of the Globe, where many of his plays were performed.”

Giving a background into the problems facing the development of a writing industry, Johnson noted that the Guianas – individually and collectively -- represent anomalous linguistic areas within continental Latin America, both in terms of language spoken as represented by country, and in terms of individual speakers.

He explained that, out of the 13 countries in Latin America, the Guianas represent a collective minority of a little less than 25 percent. He stressed the minority status of the Guianas in numbers, citing population figures: Guyana – 750,000; Suriname – 400,000 and French Guiana – 250,000.   He compared this with Uruguay, which, as the smallest of the non-Guianese countries, has a population of 3.3 million, more than double the combined population of the Guianas.

He pointed out that although the Guianas’ neighbour,   Brazil, is technically a linguistic minority, because it has 200 million persons, it automatically means that most South Americans speak Portuguese.

Belem, one of Brazil’s smaller cities, is scheduled to hold a similar cultural festival next month, he said, and that city has over three million persons.

This, Johnson surmised, means that the Guianas individually lack the economies of scale necessary for creating from scratch an industry that has peaked, and is arguably declining in more sophisticated and sustainable markets.

He attributed this mainly to a lack of internal economies of scale, and the language barrier blocking access to a combined continental Spanish and Portuguese market of some 400 million; in addition, of course, to the respective English, Dutch and French markets.

He explained that there was a problem of poor developmental infrastructure and/or environment: No writing workshops; little or inadequate avenues for publishing; a decline in literacy and literary education; inadequate policy/legal environment; and in Guyana, political suppression of, or discrimination against, writers.

Johnson suggested that in order to create opportunities for industry green housing and growth, there needed to be merged markets (inter-Guianas), technical cooperation, extra-community market push, and technological innovations.

He also presented suggestions to some key challenges, including a skewed international electronic financial system, financing, and lack of political support.

Johnson stressed that the   basis for almost every facet of cultural industry is writing.

The symposium also featured distinguished guests such as Patron of the festival, Dr. E.R. Braithwaite, who declared the festival open; Professor Ian Robertson, who spoke on “Artistic Enterprise”; Mr. Barrington Braithwaite, who spoke on “Cultural Industries in the Guianas”; and Curator of the National Gallery, Ms. Elfrieda Bissember, who spoke on “The Challenges of Hard work, Imagination and Skill”.

Winner of a Guyana Prize for Literature special award, Roopnandan Singh, read extracts from his own work to illustrate “The work of a Guyanese writer”.

Representing their respective countries alongside Johnson were French Guianese writer Andre Paradis and Surinamese writer Ismene Krishnadath.

Inter-Guiana Cultural Festival…French Guiana, Surinamese contingents enthrall audience with scintillating performances

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:03:20 +0000

RED-faced devils, strange masked women, supple dancers and splendidly attired Amerindians all took to the National Cultural Centre stage last Saturday, as contingents from French Guiana and Suriname showed off their respective cultures as part of the recently held Inter-Guiana Cultural Festival. The French Guiana contingent went first, members highlighting their country’s carnival celebration, which is a major aspect of their culture.

Though rooted in the Creole culture, it is an event in which everyone participates.

Opening the spectacular evening was the Touloulous, the most famous element of the French Guiana Carnival. The Touloulous played out the story, and danced with other characters as a narrator told the tale.

Touloulous are women who, during the nights of carnival, dress in elaborate costumes and masks to become unrecognizable. Each costume is designed to mask the wearer’s identity; skin colour; and beauty, or lack thereof.

During carnival season in French Guiana, Touloulous enter the dance hall for free, and are given condoms to help prevent social diseases from spreading in the towns. Men have to pay admittance, are not in disguise, and can’t refuse a Touloulou’s request for a dance.
Carnival in French Guiana is a time for a woman of any status and beauty to have power. If an undisguised woman gets up to dance, the orchestra stops playing. Alcohol is served, and Touloulous pick up men, whispering, "Touloulou thirsty." She drinks through a straw, so her identity is not compromised.

In recent carnivals, men have tried to regain the upper hand by organizing soiree touloulo in which the men wear disguises and try to woo out-of-costume women. The effect just isn’t the same, and carnival remains the Touloulous’ chance to be on top.

In French Guiana, other mythical characters appear regularly in the parades, including Karolin, a small person dressed in a magpie tail and top hat; the Les Nèg'marrons, who are groups of men dressed in red loincloths, bearing ripe tomatoes in their mouths and having their bodies smeared with grease or molasses. These men deliberately try to come in contact with spectators so they can soil those spectators’ clothes. Then there are Les makoumés -- men in drag (out of the carnival context, makoumé is a pejorative term for a homosexual); and the Soussouris (the bat), a character dressed from head to foot in a winged leotard, usually black in colour. Traditionally malevolent, this character is liable to chase spectators and "sting" them.

Other elements of French Guianese culture showcased that evening included the retelling of folk tales with the aid of a boot; and marionettes, young artists showing off their painting skills against tantric images on a projected backdrop, dancing and pulsating African beats done by live performers.

After a brief intermission, the Suriname took charge of the second half of the evening. Their presentation was based on a Surinamese play, “The Confrontation”, which featured the indigenous people of Suriname living in a natural rainforest environment.
The Surinamese had been wowing visitors even before the start of the evening, welcoming visitors to the NCC with an energetic display of dancing and drumming, pausing only to take photos with admirers.

They continued the show during intermission as well. One musician showed his skill playing along, outside in the foyer, to the strains of a popular pop song, alternating between the pan pipe and the flute.

On the stage, the Surinamese charmed their audience with beautiful costumes, dances and drumming.

This time last week, the second ever Inter-Guiana Cultural Festival (IGCF), hosted by Guyana, was in its final day.

The objectives of the festival were to explore and identify common historical and other ties between the Guianas, regardless of political borders; to conduct interactive workshop sessions between the artistes, artisans of the Guianas; and finally, to showcase aspects of the culture in six stipulated disciplines, thereby fostering unity and understanding among the peoples of the Guianas.

The disciplines explored were: Performing Arts, Literature, Culinary Arts, Fashion, Film, and Visual Arts.

The festival lasted between August 23 and August 27, 2012, in Georgetown, Guyana. The inaugural festival was held in Paramaribo, Suriname, from August 26-28, 2011.

Tales from way back when…(A look at some of the stories that made the news ‘back-in-the-day’ with CLIFFORD STANLEY)

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:10:34 +0000

Transport and Harbour’s Department traffic notice
--Closure of East Coast railway
(Daily Chronicle: June 21, 1972) THE Management of the Transport and Harbour’s Department wishes to notify the general public that the final phasing out of the East Coast Passenger Train services will take effect from Saturday, July 1,1972 as all passenger trains between Georgetown and Buxton will cease to operate after Friday, June 30, 1972.
Special Goods Train Services will continue to be operated between Georgetown and Burma for the purpose of transporting the dismantled railway track.
Holders of unexpired Contract Tickets are asked to submit such tickets to the Traffic Manager, Head Office, for the consideration of any refund to which they may be entitled.
A.B. Adams
Traffic Manager
Transport & Harbours Department Head Office
Main Street, Georgetown
June 19, 1972.

(2)
Farewell train ride June 30
(Daily Chronicle: June 14, 1972)
THE trains will roll no more in Georgetown and along the East Coast Demerara from this month-end.
As the last stage of the phasing out of this stretch of railway is implemented on June 30, a colourful chapter in the country’s history will come to an end.
Then the long, green, swollen “snakes” crawling across Georgetown under billowing smoke will move no more, and the sharp hooting of the whistle will be silent, no longer to wake the sleeping Capital.
To some people, it will be a sad passing of a familiar part of the nation’s life. Yet, to others, it will be sad, because they have never quite had the time to take a train ride.
But if you are one of the sentimental ones, or you have never had a train ride, or taken your children for a train ride, the Transport and Harbours Department, in a splendid gesture, has arranged a special trip on Saturday afternoons.
A train will leave the Georgetown Station at 4:30pm for Buxton, returning at 6pm. And the special fare for this ride is 50 cents for adults, and 25 cents for children.
The special Saturday afternoon “Farewell Ride” began last week, and will continue for the next two weeks.
“It is a gesture that the Department is making to those people who never had a chance to ride on the trains, and those who want to take that final ride before the trains stop running,” T&HD General Manager, Winston Griffith said.

(3)
Giant benab
(Daily Chronicle: June 19, 1972)
THE giant benab being built by a team of Wai Wais is nearing completion. It is to be used as a Delegate’s Lounge for the Foreign Ministers Conference in August.
Proper paths connecting the benab with the Community Development Department, located in the same grounds, are also being completed.
On Saturday, Captain Elka and the Wai Wais of Konashen were praised by Mr. S. S. Ramphal, Attorney-General and Minister of State for External Affairs, “for the quiet efficiency with which they have carried out their work through some of the worst weather we have ever encountered in the City.”

(4)
Two donkeys for sale
(Daily Chronicle: June 14, 1972)
WANT to buy two donkeys?
Well then, contact Town Clerk, Elmo Mayers. He has two on his hands, with instructions from City Councillors to get rid of them at any reasonable price.
The donkeys became redundant, so to speak, when the Council scrapped its old methods of catching stray dogs, and acquired a motor vehicle for this purpose.
For the past two weeks, advertisements have been appearing, offering the donkeys and the dog cart for sale.
But while offers have been received for the cart, no one seems to be interested in the donkeys.
“What should I do?” Town Clerk Mayers asked Councillors on Monday.
He was told: “Try and get a fair price.”
(Clifford Stanley can be reached to discuss any of the foregoing articles at cliffantony@gmail.com or cell phone # 657 2043)

‘Ratoon’, by Christopher Nicole

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:12:07 +0000

THE year 2012 marks the 50th Anniversary of the publication of the novel, ‘Ratoon’. This time in our history also marks an anniversary of the subject of the book: The 1823 Demerara Slave Revolt. The novel was released in 1962, when Guyana was troubled by racial strife, reasons enough to revisit the book. There were many critical moments in the history of the enslaved people of Guyana contributing to the proclamation of freedom on August 1, 1838. One of the more crucial events leading to Emancipation was the Demerara Revolt of August 1823.
Of course, historians and social scientists have examined (and will continue to examine) that event. But, so far, there is only one major fictional reconstruction of that event, and that is the historical novel titled ‘RATOON’, written by a prolific Guyanese author, Christopher Nicole.
‘Ratoon’ is based on an improbable romance birthed in the hearts of two humans, but it was a love where ‘ratooning’ was constrained by social factors. However, the two protagonists -- a White female plantation heiress and a black male slave and freedom fighter/rebel leader -- were able to consummate their love on the battlefield, in the heat of the slave uprising, and its swift defeat by government’s forces.
Nicole used this improbable romance to reconstruct one of the most defining revolts of enslaved Africans in the British West Indies. This revolt, labelled variously as ‘the Demerara Revolt’, ‘the Mahaica Revolt’ or ‘the 1823 Demerara Slave Uprising’, was spawned by the promise of freedom and freedom delayed.
There were many other factors spawning that revolt, such as the inherent desire for freedom, overwork due to a decline in labour force, increased hours of work, the switch from cotton cultivation to sugar and personal grievances.
Religious considerations played a major role in the revolt. There were subtle ways employed the plantation management to restrict the enslaved from attending church, including working on Sundays, teaching from the Bible that portrayed all men as equal in the sight of God, and the story of the deliverance of Jews. Some of the enslaved revolted for complete freedom, while others wanted Sundays off and additional days of rest.
In August 1823, thousands of slaves from about fifty-five sugar plantations on the East Coast of Demerara banded together by their erroneous belief that freedom was already granted to remonstrate. What actually happened was that the British parliament dictated to the planters ways of ameliorating the living and working conditions of the enslaved. That decree was another effort in the fight for complete emancipation following on the heels of abolition of the slave trade in 1807.
After the abolition of the slave trade, there was a tightening of the screws on available labour force, which meant the condition of slaves worsened. The awful condition of slavery on the Demerara plantations was graphically described by Rev. John Smith in his journal covering the years (1817-1824) he lived, leading up to his death, in British Guiana.
He described the long hours of labour in the field, from sunrise to sunset, ending the day with slaves fetching fodder from the backdam to the stables. Smith also reported how those who attended his church were persecuted, and that inhumane whipping was the order of the day, with some slaves receiving hundreds of lashes each day.
Posted to British Guiana, Smith and his wife sailed from Liverpool, arriving in Demerara on February 23, 1817. Apart from the rough welcome from the muddy Demerara River, Smith was greeted by Governor Murray with the ultimatum which forbade him teaching the slaves; if he did, then the governor threatened to banish him immediately from the colony.
Despite that warning, Smith revived the mission station (Bethel Chapel) at Plantation Le Ressouvenir vacated by Rev. John Wray. Smith’s evangelism was an instant success. He preached to large congregations often spilling out of the chapel. That response encouraged him to start a class preparing slaves converted to Christianity for catechism and baptism.
Of course, he raised the ire of the governor and many planters. So, at the time of the insurrection, in 1823, it was not difficult for Smith to fall foul of the law of the land. Martial law was imposed, hundreds of slaves were butchered, many hung and displayed in public for months, and John Smith was arrested.
A frail and sick man, he was incarcerated for some seven weeks, then tried in a court martial lasting some twenty-eight days. He was condemned to death. A reprieve by the Home Government was granted, but before this news reached the Colony, he died in prison from consumption.
Although Smith’s work was influential in the revolt, it was the Christianised slaves who planned and executed the revolt; slaves like Jack Gladstone, Quamina, Seaton, Manuel and Richard of Plantation Success, Telemachus and Joseph of Plantation Bachelor’s Adventure, Sandy of Plantation Non Pareil, and Paris of Plantation Good Hope.
Against that backdrop, Nicole placed his main invented characters, Joan Dart, heiress to the plantation, and Jackey Reed, Christianised slave and leader of the revolt. The novel also included the role of John Smith and Governor Murray.
The novel opens with a family feud over Elizabeth Plantation House, giving also a graphic picture of slave life and massa days, building up to the slaves’ discontent and failed revolt, and ending with Joan Dart regaining control of Elizabeth Plantation House.
The book covers events from Thursday, July 24 to Friday, September 19. The actual start of the revolt was August 18, and by August 20, it had fizzled out.

(To respond to this author, either call him on (592) 226-0065 or send him an email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com)

What’s Happening:
• The current issue of The Guyana Annual magazine will be dedicated to Braithwaite. Tributes, reviews of his publications, and related articles are invited for possible inclusion in the magazine.
• Look out for the airing of an interview on my television programme ‘Between the Lines’ with E. R. Braithwaite this Sunday night, September 2, on NCN; check press for exact time of airing.

PYARG 2012 holds successful Gold Expedition to Kaieteur Falls

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:13:36 +0000

FOLLOWING five days of exhaustive journeying through Guyana’s rainforest to reach the awesome Kaieteur Falls, irresistibly cascading in all its breath-taking majesty down the gorge, thirty-one participants of the President Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG), together with three unit leaders, two award staff and five members of the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) 31 Special Forces Squadron, concluded another successful Gold expedition. The contingent commenced the expedition last Monday Morning from the Award Secretariat on Middle Street, and journeyed to the Soesdyke Junction to team up with members of the 31 Special Forces Squadron of the GDF, before arriving in Linden to be joined by participants of the PYARG from that town.

The dynamic mining town, reposed in solitude after three weeks of disturbances, openly displayed its evidence of destruction by protesters as we journeyed through en route to 58 Miles, our first official stop.

That journey took about three hours along the rough and bumpy trail, even as participants explored the vista of seemingly unending hinterland confronting their gaze before arriving at the first stop, where they obtained a light snack and an opportunity to relieve themselves at the washrooms.

The journey continued with the contingent headed for the police outpost at Mabura, where an identification check was made; and the contingent continued to the crossing at Mango Landing, where we awaiting a pontoon to cross before continuing to Tramacumari Junction, the second official stop along the route.

At that location, the contingent was briefed on commencement of the expedition, which was scheduled for Tiger Hill.

The contingent arrived at Tiger Hill, and the participants were briefed even as torrential rainfall descended; and the expedition thereafter resumed, with the physical journey of walking the trail to Mahdia.

This undertaking took the expedition just over three and a half hours, as the advance team arrived in Mahdia to set all logistics in place for the participants.

On arrival, the participants were debriefed of the overnight activities; and cooking and erecting tents for sleeping began in earnest, as the expedition was set to resume journeying at 06:00 hrs on Tuesday, the destination being Pamela Landing.

The expedition received support in equipment -- three aluminum boats with three 25HP outboard engines -- from the Region Eight Regional Democratic Council, with other support coming from the Regional Education Officer, Mrs. Marcia Paddy-Andrews, and finance staff member, former awardee Ms. Sharon George.

The expedition was unable to meet the Regional Executive Officer Mr. Ronald Harsawack, a former Gold awardee and united leader of the PYARG programme, who was out of the district on other business.

The advance team loaded the boats and engines on a trailer being drawn by a tractor from the Campbelltown Village Council, and journeyed to Pamela Landing, where the 31 Special Forces ranks took charge.

The contingent boarded the small boats with guidance from Godfrey, a shop owner at Pamela Landing, as they journeyed to Amatuk Falls.
In this trip down the Potaro River, the expedition saw first-hand river dredging at two locations, and other large-scale land mining on the east and west banks of the river, among the large rocks and rapids.

On arrival at Amatuk Falls, some of the participants disembarked on a nearby sand bank, since the large boat taking the group with the fuel could not reach to the bank at Amatuk, and the smaller boats had to transport the participants.
There, at Amatuk, the overnight camp was set up, cooking commenced in earnest, and participants enjoyed a bath and began their second interaction with each other, before turning in to bed under their tents. They awoke at about 05:00 hrs on Wednesday, prepared a hot snack, and got saddled for the second day of water travel, this time to Waratuk Falls.

The third day’s journey began with the crossing of the Amatuk Falls, lifting of the boats and engines to the other side of the falls; and boarding began as another captain escorted us down the river to Waratuk Falls.

The journey to Waratuk Falls was an experience of a lifetime, and the expedition was awed all along that journey.

One of the boats got stuck on a rock at Waratuk Falls; and in trying to get it unstuck, the river current caused the vessel to sustain a hole, through which it began taking in water.

The 31 Special Forces ranks were able to get the expedition quickly and safely to shore, and the punctured boat was taken out of the water and replaced by another boat from the Kaieteur National Park, as the expedition continued on to Tukyte.

We arrived at Tukyte at about 17:30 hrs on Wednesday afternoon, and begin the climb to the top of the Kaieteur Falls, where the contingent slept overnight, viewed the majestic falls early Thursday morning, and began descending the mountain to return to Tukyte.

We arrived at Tukyte at about 09:00hrs, and began the return process to Waratuk and Amatuk Falls, where the contingent overnighted; and headed for Pamela Landing on Friday morning.

At Pamela Landing, the final journey to conclude the expedition – trekking – commenced, and there was an uneventful return to Mahdia.

The contingent arrived at Mahdia Primary School at 13:00 hrs, and began cleaning and cooking in groups, as we prepared for Talent Night, when members of the expedition would express in cultural form their experience of the award and the expedition.

The participants thanked the staff leaders, and especially the five ranks of the 31 Special Forces of the GDF, for shepherding them on a safe and exciting adventure over the past five days.

Jean Seberg: Movies versus real life

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:14:20 +0000

THE FILM career of Jean Seberg, a unique and hauntingly attractive actress born in the State of Iowa in the US in 1938 and died in 1979 of an overdose of barbiturates -- probably an intended suicide -- is a good example of how the screen appearance of an actress/actor can leave a beautiful visual impression which contrasts sharply with their complex roles and eventual traumatic/tragic life. Though Seberg’s screen career really only took off with her second film, ‘BONJOUR TRISTESSE’ of 1957, directed by one of Hollywood’s renowned directors, Otto Preminger, of fabulous classic films about stunning female characters, films like ‘LAURA’ 1944; ‘DAISY KENYON’ 1947; ‘CARMEN JONES’ 1955, or of couples, like ‘PORGY & BESS’ 1958, Seberg’s first film, an immature Preminger direction of the George Bernard Shaw play, ‘Saint Joan’, in retrospect seems to cast significant light on the stubbornly erratic and mentally anxious development Seberg’s real-life off-screen would increasingly take.
Preminger’s film, ‘SAINT JOAN’, was about Joan of Arc, the 15th Century French girl who was burnt at the stake at age 19 for heresy, witchcraft and sorcery, the trumped up charges of those times for European women suspected of anti-conventional habits.
Joan of Arc was certainly special in an extremely un-feminine way. Though intellectually precocious for her young age, she was somewhat of a megalomaniac; messianic and belligerently religious; war-like, nationalistic, embracing martyrdom, also masculine and pragmatically un-romantic, dying a virgin.
How much did such a role for which Seberg, a college freshman at the time, was chosen out of hundreds, uncannily suggest or project this actress’s real-life interests, or preoccupation in later years? Director Preminger had a knack for spotting the possible relation of the role to an actress’s surmised psychological makeup; and Seberg seems no different from Joan Crawford, Gene Tierney, or Dorothy Dandridge in this respect in other Preminger films.

‘Bonjour Tristesse’
Seberg’s second film, ‘Bonjour Tristesse’ -- also directed by Preminger, adopted from the excellent first novel by French teenager, Francoise Sagan, that became a runaway bestseller in several languages -- was perfect for her, since it offered the theme of female defiance and youthful emotional egotism that would begin to pulse like a major artery in Seberg’s emerging roles.
Seventeen-year-old Sagan had written ‘Bonjour Tristesse’ after failing her exams at the Sorbonne, finding her true profession, which resulted over the coming years in a succession of colourful and audaciously perceptive novels about the egos of men and women.
Preminger must have thought the novel’s text on a bright teenage girl’s jealousy of the attractive new woman in her bachelor playboy father’s life connected with Seberg’s personality. But something else was brought by the actress to her role; and that was the cultured fashion of her boyish hairstyle, beatnik clothes, intellectual affectations, and most noticeable of all, the flaunted sexual qualities of her short, shapely body. These beautiful qualities began to contrast sharply with Seberg’s subsequent brooding, complex, contradictory roles of mental competition and advantageousness.

‘Breathless’
Seberg’s popular claim to fame, which rests with ‘BREATHLESS’ of 1959 -- Jean Luc Godard’s first film, which made his name in film history indelible -- seems predictable if we take note of her intellectual yet fashionable style of acting.
With ‘Breathless’, Seberg firmly established the beatnik New-Wave female look, again with her boy-cut, striped boat-neck jersey, dark shades, peddle-pushers, and shorts.
Was this style only the result of director Godard’s demands?
Hardly, since Seberg was known to identify with beatnik culture, and her role in ‘Breathless’, a subtly moral film, is a criticism of American Film Noir stereotypes, as glorified by Jean-Paul Belmondo, the charming French gangster she picks up with in Paris, and eventually betrays to the police, thereby negating a tendency in America and elsewhere to sensationally associate beatnik culture with petty criminality because of its unpretentious lifestyle, its association with literature, visual art, acting, Jazz, and intimacy with Blacks in the arts.
Seberg was one of many outstanding celebrity artists, such as Eartha Kitt, Marilyn Monroe, Ava Gardner, Shirley Maclaine, Francoise Sagan, James Dean, Marlon Brando, Montgomery Clift, Frank O’Hara, etc, who were part of beatnik culture.

‘Moment to Moment’
Godard, however, accented the contradiction of Seberg’s physical attractiveness juxtaposed with the mental distaste of her role in ‘Breathless’. It could have been this director’s insight into this actress’s development on screen, where her physical beauty and sensuality struggles with a brave obsessive intelligence. Her role in Robert Rossen’s brilliant film, ‘LILITH’ of 1964, as the sensual schizophrenic girl who captivates and seduces her male therapist proved Seberg’s ability to exemplify roles of such contradictory qualities.
In 1966 came one of the best films of her career, ‘MOMENT TO MOMENT’, where, in this rare and touching mature rendition of a married woman’s infidelity on the French Riviera, she left the screen a resolved example of passion and visual beauty possible with movies.
‘Moment To Moment’ remains one of Seberg’s best films, hauntingly unforgettable for its integrated instrumental theme and song sung by Matt Monroe, which added the perfect touch of sentiment to its visual surprises.
Seberg’s subsequent films with directors (some her husband), especially in Europe, affected a life gradually shattered by pressure for her social radicalism, a nervous breakdown, and a miscarriage. Yet, like a fertile text, her films achieved more than their intended and obvious content. We are left her screen creations which preserve that unfathomable magic of visual surface beauty captured like a reprieve after the accumulated pitfalls of her real life.

Tablet PC: Touch ‘n’ go

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:16:37 +0000

THE WORLD of computing is at a junction. The primary computer for most users today is not a PC; it's a phone. While the PC sits on a desk at the office or on a coffee table at home, smartphones go everywhere with us, and assimilate into every part of our lives. But despite getting smarter and smarter, phones are too small to replace PCs completely. We need a device that bridges the gap between what PCs do and what mobile phones do. That device has arrived. Welcome to the age of the tablet! And no! It’s not a medication! It’s a device! A device that will blow you away; one filled with enormous applications and features.
The tablet computer has made massive strides in the last few years. Thanks to popular tablets like the iPad, the thin, touchscreen-operated computers have become the weapon of choice for many computer users as they offer a great experience when browsing the web or using one of thousands of dedicated apps.
Today's tablet is exactly what the name implies: A thin slab, dominated by its screen. These slender systems generally max out at 1.5 pounds, and few of them take up more space in your bag than an old-fashioned composition book would.
In the coming year, we are bound to see an astounding array of new tablets, including offerings from every major computer and phone maker, in many different sizes, colours and shapes, some that will be flexible enough to fold and carry in our pockets.
Most tablets use a special operating system designed to make the most of a touch interface.
Like all devices, tablets do have their advantages and disadvantages when compared with the normal computer, especially the laptop.
1. A Tablet PC / Tablet computer is the best mobile PC solution.
It’s compact and convertible, which allows you to use your computer in places it would be awkward to use a laptop. You can even use it while standing up. With the wireless Internet support, a Tablet PC is extremely convenient to use while being about town.

2. Write notes rather than type with the use of its ‘touch-screen’ feature.
You can interact with people sitting across from you while writing notes, rather than having a computer screen between you. It’s great, because you can use technology and still have that personal interaction with others.
3. Taking notes — easier in meetings or classroom.
Tablet PCs are especially great for students, or in a classroom situation. They are also great for meetings. You can quickly write notes, and then organize and search them notes later. You can even include audio files or presentations with your notes.
4. A Tablet PC is more personal
Write emails using your own handwriting. Send messages to friends and family (even those without a Tablet PC.) It brings back the personalized touch of handwritten cards, rather than the impersonal feel of regular emails. Your family will love it.
5. Make comments easily.
Tablet PCs make it easy to make comments (like sticky notes, and highlighters). Personalize what you are reading. Make notes in margins. Draw right on the screen while making presentations.

6. Convert handwriting to text.
Once you have your handwritten notes, your Tablet computer can easily convert those notes into typed text.

7. Search handwritten text.
You can also search your own handwritten notes; this is the coolest feature. You will be the envy of your friends once you show them how you can write their name and then find it just by searching your notes.

8. Keyboards and docks.
Nevertheless, there are quite a few situations in which a tablet can benefit from the addition of a keyboard or keyboard-equipped docking station. While it's possible to type on the face of a Tablet, an attached keyboard can make this process much easier.

9. Cameras.
Most of the current-generation tablets also have forward and rear-facing cameras. These cameras are meant to make it easy to use video-conferencing apps, and to take a quick ‘high-res’ photo.

Newer Tablets have serious power, and numerous apps to take advantage of that power. They're an ideal way to browse the Web, read an eBook, or play games. Tablets are a casual type of computer, although they do have professional applications (especially for doctors, lawyers, IT Professionals, etc.). They can be extremely engaging and useful.

While Tablet computers have a lot of features and benefits, they also have quite a few downsides. It's important that you carefully consider the disadvantages before you buy a Tablet. That way, you can ensure that the gadget truly meets your personal or professional computing needs

At Wakenaam Night…President Ramotar unveils exciting developments for Wakenaam

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:17:59 +0000

THE Ministry of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority
(GTA) collaborated with the Wakenaam Night Committee to successfully hold Wakenaam Night activities, last Saturday evening at the Wakenaam Community Centre Ground. Activities were held in concert with other weekend festivities around that Essequibo River community of Wakenaam Island.

Entourage
Events were graced by the presence of President Donald Ramotar, who was making his first visit to the Wakenaam community as President of Guyana.

The presidential entourage, comprising acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, and Private Sector Commission member Jerry Gouveia -- all of whom were garlanded by the children of Wakenaam -- was greeted in a very warm welcome at the Wakenaam Airstrip, with dancing and tassa drumming, minutes before the highly anticipated Fifth Annual Wakenaam Nite activities officially commenced.

President Donald Ramotar was greeted at the Community Centre Ground by Wakenaam’s top CSEC performer, Omeleta Balgobin, who gained one distinction, seven grade ones and five grade twos at the recent sitting of the CSEC.

Hailing from Karia Karia, Essequibo River, President Ramotar stated that at the time he lived there, Wakenaam was one of the main centres from which Karia Karia residents got their supplies; so, in a way, he considers Wakenaam a second home for him.

The President hailed Balgobin’s high-quality performance as an indication that Government’s investments in education have been beneficial.

He said: “Before the PPP/Civic came to government, you only had a few schools, all of them concentrated in Georgetown, where you had these kinds of results. Nowadays, we see that our passes have increased. More and more of our children are writing examinations.”

The President related that there are 1000 or more schools Government has built since taking office in 1992; and opportunities available in the hinterland at the primary and secondary levels are now tremendous.

President Ramotar noted that Government has a vision to revolutionise Guyana’s economy with construction of a deep water harbour, hydropower, oil and gas extraction, and the important role agriculture continues to play, especially in the promotion of food security.

New developments
In brief yet meaningful remarks to the community, Minister Benn spoke of all the work his ministry has done for the island of Wakenaam. He also mentioned that two new airstrips are in the pipeline for Wakenaam and Leguan islands, but he did not specify when works will begin on those projects.

Minister Benn also noted that he has been working for a better Guyana, and he promised that people will see even more work being done to the infrastructure at Wakenaam.

Residents and visiting dignitaries present lauded his disclosures.

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister(acting) Irfaan Ali, during remarks made at Wakenaam Night Concert, held to showcase Guyanese talent and bring in revenue to cover some of the expenses of the event, said Wakenaam Night would open new opportunities, new economic frontiers, for the Wakenaam residents.

While the event is mainly tourism-based, the minister said, the GTA is looking at utilizing same as a platform to launch micro-enterprise business projects on the island.

Minister Ali said “It is our belief that Wakenaam has tremendous potential in the tourism sector, and we are going to work with the people of Wakenaam to develop what we call ‘community-based tourism’, where we are going to involve the community in the development of a tourism product that is sustainable.”

In a pamphlet distributed at the event, the GTA said that in continuing to place focus on promoting the development of tourism at Wakenaam, the Wakenaam Night event also sought to create and expand signature projects and activities for the island.

Various delights
Omeleta Balgobin was awarded a trip to Kaieteur Falls for her performance at the CSEC; and two free tickets -- to the United States of America (USA) and Canada respectively – were awarded to lucky winners of EZJet’s promotion, to the delight of patrons at the event.

Terry Gajraj, Brandon Harding, and the Angels Caribbean Band from the USA provided musical entertainment at the event, along with a few other local and international artistes.

There was also an African Fashion Show chaired by the sensational Joel Ghansham, which patrons at Wakenaam Night, who attended in their thousands, deemed a fantastic, fun-filled event.

Tourists who bought packages from GTA faced a fun filled weekend, as they were treated to various attractions on the island, such as the “pottery man”, who displayed his talents with pride; followed by demonstrations from his five-year-old daughter, who awed the visitors with her exceptional skill and talent in pottery making. There was also the coconut oil factory, and a rice mill.

Visitors were satisfied that the $10,000 they had expended on the trip were well spent, and they promised their patronage to the GTA for other trips and packages.

Some visitors were even reluctant to leave the island and return home.

At trial of rape accused…Court upholds defence objection against prejudicial evidence

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:27:34 +0000

IN 1962, British Guiana High Court Judge Harold Bollers upheld a defence objection to the prosecution introducing prejudicial evidence at the rape trial of an accused, Gomes. The judge found that the ‘similar facts’ evidence which was available to the prosecution at the preliminary inquiry was not led then; and that such evidence which they now attempted to lead at the trial at the Supreme Court was inadmissible.

Allowing the objection, the judge observed, “At any time before the sitting of the court to which the accused person has been committed for trial, however, the Director of Public Prosecutions may, under Section 77 of the Criminal (Procedure) Ordinance, Chapter 11 [B.G.], cause the preliminary inquiry to be reopened for the purpose of taking such evidence.”

At the hearing, Mr. J. Gonsalves-Sabola represented the Crown. Mr. J.O.F. Haynes, Q.C., appeared for the defence.

Delivering his ruling, Justice Bollers said in part: “In this indictment for rape, insofar as the case against the accused Gomes was concerned, the prosecution sought to adduce evidence of similar facts, to which objection was taken by the defence.
“In dealing with the issue, it is not necessary for me to state the details of the evidence proposed to be led; it is sufficient for me to say that the new and additional evidence was, of course, highly prejudicial.

“ Preliminary investigation of the matter took place on the following days in August and September, 1962: August 29 and 30; and September 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, culminating in the committal of the accused on September 21, 1962. And the statement of the witness whose evidence the prosecution proposed to adduce was dated August 8, 1962, and referred to events alleged to have taken place some 12 or 15 months before the date of the alleged offence.

“It was conceded then in court on both sides that, at the time of the preliminary inquiry into this matter, the prosecution was in possession of the statement of the witness, and that the witness was available for the purpose of giving the necessary evidence.

“This important point was therefore argued on that basis, and proceeded on the footing that the witness was available to the prosecution at the time of the preliminary inquiry.

“It was submitted by counsel for the defence that the evidence which the prosecution proposed to lead was inadmissible by reason of the fact that it was available to the prosecution at the time of the preliminary inquiry, and
they failed to make use of it; and as a result, it would be contrary to the notions and principles of British justice and fair play if the prosecution were allowed at this late stage to introduce the evidence, the main effect of which would be to cause embarrassment and surprise to the accused person, who, if he denied the incident, would have to commence searching for witnesses and other material in setting up the defence of alibi.

“He argued that if the evidence were led, it would defeat the very object of the preliminary inquiry, the purpose of which was to make the accused aware of the case he was called upon to meet.

“Counsel for the Crown, on the other hand, urged that there could be no element of surprise or embarrassment to the defence, as notice in writing of the evidence and a copy of the statement of the witness had been served on the prisoner at least one week before the date it was sought to be adduced; and even if there were (surprise and embarrassment), the position could be cured by granting the necessary adjournment of the trial.
“It is clear that this section does not create the right to the prosecution to lead additional or further evidence at the trial of an accused person, where that evidence does not appear on the depositions. The section assumes and recognizes the existence of that right, but sets out the procedure to be adopted where the right is exercised by the Crown, and emphasizes the importance of an adjournment to avoid the element of surprise.

“This right to lead further or additional evidence is not to be found in any section of our Criminal Law (Procedure) Ordinance; and indeed, as stated by Lord Goddard in R. v. London Quartere Sessions (Chairman), Ex p. Downes (5), there is no statutory authority for leading new and additional evidence, but such a right exists at common law founded on practice.”

Continuing his ruling, Justice Bollers said, “The head note to this case is most interesting. It speaks to the production of fresh evidence on behalf of the prosecution (not known or forthcoming at the preliminary investigation; and previous to the trial, not communicated to the other side), which may be ground for a postponement of the trial if it appears necessary to justice.

“To my mind, the words in parentheses explain the meaning of new, fresh and additional evidence. The evidence which the prosecution seeks to lead in this case, and which was available to them at the time of the preliminary inquiry, was in reality not new or additional evidence, but a stale evidence based on a statement in their possession at least three weeks before the preliminary inquiry, and as such, inadmissible.

“I must not be understood as having decided that, in all cases where the prosecution may be in possession of material or a statement from a witness at a preliminary inquiry, if they fail to make use of such material, they cannot properly do so at the trial.
“
To my mind, the answer as to whether they would be prevented from so doing at the trial depends upon the availability of the material of the evidence. It may be that they may be in possession of a statement, but the witness at the relevant time may be abroad, or his whereabouts may be unknown, or he may be too ill to travel; in which case, on notice being given that they intend to rely on this evidence, it might be led at the trial.

“I have come to the conclusion, therefore, that the contention of counsel for the accused is sound, and it would be wrong, unfair and contrary to the principles of British justice and fair play to admit this evidence sought to be introduced by the prosecution at this stage, even though notice in writing of it was served on the accused person one week before the application for leave to lead the evidence was made; and I rule that they are not competent so to do.

“In any event, even if my opinion is wrong that this evidence is not admissible, in the exercise of my discretion, I would exclude it in the circumstances. I would consider that its prejudicial effect at this late stage would greatly outweigh its probative value. Objection allowed!” Justice Bollers declared.

An Officer and a gentleman

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:29:15 +0000

I WAS out with friends the other day and met a handsome fellow who is a military pilot. He approached me, and we began to chat up a storm. We talked about everything, from our families to our favourite movies. I'm 25; he's 29. Before I left, he asked for my number, and we exchanged the digits. Later that night, he texted me and told me how nice it was meeting me, and how he hoped he would see me again sometime. After I replied with similar flattery, he asked me out to dinner… The next day!
The next day, he texted asking if I wanted a fancy or casual dinner, and if I had any other preferences. All the texts were super cute and exciting. He picked me up at 7pm; came to the door and everything.
We went out for a nice dinner on the water, and had the most amazing conversation. He talked about why he enlisted; where he's been; and some of his goals. I then shared mine. The whole date was at ease and flowed well.
The waitress made the comment that it looked like we'd known each other forever. We made each other laugh, too. After dinner, we walked by the river, and sat on a swing bench and talked some more. He asked if I was cold, and put his arm around me.
After more wonderful conversation, he asked if I would like to watch a movie at his place. I agreed. After renting a comedy and watching about an hour of the movie, he leaned in and grabbed my face with both hands and began to kiss me. We had a make-out session, which did not lead to sex, but was pretty intimate nonetheless.
After we were done getting physical, I lay on his chest while we talked some more, and he brushed my hair with his fingers. I normally do not get intimate on the first date, but there was such a strong connection and chemistry, both physical and emotional.
Anyway, he drove me home, walked me to my door, kissed me again, twice, and told me he’d had an absolutely wonderful night. He then said he has to fly overseas for a few days with his crew, but would get back to me when he returns.
He said he wasn't allowed to text while overseas, and wanted me to know that, so I didn't think he was ignoring me. He then said he would love to get together when he returns and has more free time.
By my calculations, he should be back in the next day or so. How does this sound to you? Do you think he will call? I am trying not to get too excited in case he doesn't, but I really like this guy.
Sierra

Sierra,
Some scientists, including a few Nobel Prize winners, say nothing in physics prevents information from flowing backwards. That means, sitting here in the present, some people may be able to reach into the future and know what will happen.
But it doesn't work that way for most of us. We are like the elderly woman who wrote Stephen King and asked him to finish "The Dark Tower" saga quickly, because she wanted to know what happens before she died.
You talked to this man for hours; you've been close to him. What does your gut tell you? That is your best guide.
One thing we will say is: You went too far on the first date. Let it develop from here on out. Time is the measure of a man, and love builds in time spent. Get to know him and those he is close to. Don't get ahead of yourself.
You offered a prayer to the unknown that things go as you want them to. We hope they do.

Beware the pitfalls of do-it-yourself dental prophylaxis

Admin2 — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 20:29:58 +0000

WHAT makes homecare efforts so vexing for the dentist or dental hygienist (we call them Dentex in Guyana), and so frustrating for their patients who find out their efforts aren’t working is that many people think that state-of-the-art homecare is basically just brushing well two or three times a day, and flossing at least once a day. Most people now know to brush and floss after every meal, three times a day, and to floss thoroughly at least once a day, probably because this message had been drummed into their heads over the years in toothpaste or mouthwash advertisements that induce them to buy and use certain products.
Unfortunately, the public has been grievously misinformed about brushing, flossing, and using some advertised product; they all still fall short of what is required for genuinely effective oral (systemic) health maintenance, by far, even though, together, they make up the current standard for oral care.
Let us begin with the shortcomings of brushing. One has to obey the Rule of Thoroughness. This Rule states that the total time spent cleaning the mouth during every 24 hours must be equal to the amount of natural teeth in minutes. For example, if a person has 20 teeth, they should spend at least 20 minutes every day, brushing and flossing, etc.
Compounding the frequently ineffectual homecare regimen is the notion that flossing somehow cleans under the gums. It does; but only so far as the soft tissue on the tongue side and cheek of the tooth will let it. The depth below this level is where most of the disease occurs (gingivitis excepted).
While flossing has definite benefits for many who perform this important task, it has been said that only two (2) per cent of the population flosses every day. Even doubling that to four (4) per cent still leaves 96 per cent of the public not flossing even once a day. And those who do floss cannot clean the bacterial stew out from under the gums.
In fact, although flossing does move the plaque and food debris that builds up between the teeth, and does dislodge some of it so it can be cleansed out of the mouth, the balance of the debris is forced into the sulcus (crevice between tooth and gum).
The pitfalls of homecare can be made even worse if you use a toothpaste or mouthwash containing ingredients that carry such warnings as: “Seek professional help, or contact a poison control centre immediately,” and are known to cause harm.
And these products that are supposed to help us get healthy! My professional advice is to stay away from them. Products containing ingredients that can kill people, induce oral cancer, cause allergic reactions, burning, itching, redness, and soft-tissue sloughing, and degrade tooth-coloured fillings and cosmetic dental bonding agents not improving the health of the user.
But having said that, let me tell you a personal secret without the intention of being biased. I personally have the greatest confidence in any dental product that has the label, ‘ADA approved’. And that is not because I am a member of the American Dental Association.
People with gum disease already have enough problems, without adding toxic products to their oral health programme when they use products with ‘hazardous warnings’. I am concerned. Oral health can best be accomplished by exclusively using healthy products and techniques.
I would like to make it clear, just for the record, that I am all for brushing and flossing. Both of these activities are fundamental oral health procedures, and both offer benefits, if they are done frequently (brushing and flossing have to be done often enough to keep plaque, and other debris removed by these activities, at sufficiently minimal levels to ensure that the gum tissue remains healthy).
I especially want a patient’s brushing and flossing efforts to be effective and non-injurious, but unfortunately, I often see just the opposite. It is extremely common for dentists to see toothbrush abrasion from improper brushing, or the effects of the wrong kind of brush.
As I’ve said in previous articles, hard and medium brushes should be used for cleaning small motor parts and boots; not teeth. I have no problem if these types of brushes are used on dentures.
As far as flossing is concerned, gingival clefts (cuts) can occur if not performed with care. Otherwise, there could be inflammatory injury to the gums also allowing germs into the body. Also, it can cause gum and bone recession, with even occasional tooth loss. (For some reason, I have seen moderate to severe flossing damage almost exclusively in women, some of it requiring surgery to repair the damage!) These are very poor rewards for such vigorous efforts intended only to improve health. Brushing and flossing can both be performed effectively, and without injury.
The public’s perception of periodontal (gum) disease and its consequences is, unfortunately, still not yet in tune with the health consequences associated with what is in fact a systemic infection. Until those perceptions change on a widespread basis, the medical and dental professions, as well as in the public domain, we will continue to lose the battle.
However, perceptions and concepts can occasionally change almost overnight, and I am encouraged that the public and the health professions may soon start viewing periodontal disease and its potentially lethal toll in a total new light. Only then will any meaningful improvement occur.
I don’t know if a person’s cause of death will ever be listed as gum disease, since it was perhaps a heart attack or stroke that will ultimately be the cause of death, but I do know that it would certainly help elevate the public’s awareness of how serious this health problem is.

Bradman was right in many ways: Chappell

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:26:51 +0000

WORLD Series Cricketer and former Australian captain Greg Chappell sympathised with Sir Donald Bradman’s post-WSC concerns about cricket becoming a business rather than a pastime.
But Chappell also believes the game is better as a result of the WSC revolution and doesn’t see the clock being turned back.
Talking to Sir Donald at the SACA one day, well after WSC, Chappell says he took the opportunity to ask Bradman why he resisted the revolution so strongly.
“His answer was that sport was not meant to be a business, it was meant to be a pastime and lost something when it became a business – and I think he was right in some ways,” Chappell told www.cricket.com.au, citing the impact on spontaneity and excitement for players.
However, Chappell also believes the game and the players emerged better for the WSC experience, with players improving their skills and toughness while the administration, and marketing and promotion of cricket improved, as did cricket’s understanding of the value the players brought to the game
Other sports also benefited from the WSC experience, with players being better respected for their value across sports other than cricket as administrators elsewhere noted the cricket experience.
Chappell believes Kerry Packer understood the game – he even played it a little with some ability – and rates him highly for his respect of and loyalty to the cricketers he signed for WSC, even at a time when WSC looked like it might be a bottomless money pit for him and at a time when his own advisers were expressing their concern.
And he supported Packer’s decision to appoint Ian Chappell as WSC Australian captain rather than himself, despite the fact that Greg was Australian captain at the time of the WSC signings.
“I was not surprised Kerry Packer wanted Ian as captain … he was a natural captain of that group,” he said.
World Series Cricket was the toughest cricket Greg Chappell has played and forced him to lift his own game at a time when he now believes he had been getting away with succeeding without seeking to reach 100 per cent of his own potential.
“We really had to work hard to make runs,” he said.
The quality of the cricket, and the constancy with no respite and no ability to drop back to first-class cricket to retune if necessary, made it particularly tough.
The quality of the drop-in pitches varied but he rates the Sydney Showgrounds drop-ins as the best pitches he has played on.
In the end, it was the quality of WSC’s cricket above all else, including its innovations, that made it the success it became, he said.
Chappell said he enjoyed the just-concluded Channel Nine mini-series Howzat and, once he got used to the actors’ faces representing the players he knew well, found the series true to history.

Federer and Serena march on at U.S. Open

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:29:01 +0000

NEW YORK, NY (Reuters) - Top-ranked Roger Federer continued his dynamic U.S. Open form in near-tropical conditions yesterday while fourth seed Serena Williams avenged a shock defeat she suffered in January.
With a possible semi-final showdown with Federer looming, Britain's Andy Murray remained in the hunt for his first grand slam crown by defeating Spain's Feliciano Lopez to reach the fourth round.
Women's second seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland set up a fourth-round tussle with Italy's Roberta Vinci by easing by former world number one Jelena Jankovic 6-3, 7-5 at a steamy Arthur Ashe Stadium.
"With the hot conditions you really have to fight yourself more than your opponent," said Radwanska, a sentiment echoed by several players.
Federer cruised past Fernando Verdasco 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in two hours and two minutes, blasting seven aces and 30 winners against the 25th-seeded Spaniard.
The five-time U.S. Open champion, who has not dropped a set in the tournament, next faces American Mardy Fish or Frenchman Gilles Simon for a place in the quarter-finals.
Verdasco, 28, had 35 unforced errors and 10 double faults as he lost to Swiss Federer for the fifth time in as many meetings.
Williams, seeking her fourth U.S. Open title, needed a break of serve in the final game of the opening set to grab the momentum as she ousted Russian Ekaterina Makarova 6-4, 6-0.
Makarova buckled under the pressure of her first-set letdown and was blown away in the second in just 32 minutes.
The Russian knocked out Williams in the fourth round of this year's Australian Open and the American said she was "motivated" to turn the tables at the year's final grand slam tournament.

PAINFUL VIDEO
The 30-year-old Williams, a 14-time grand slam champion, said it was painful to watch a video of her defeat by Makarova.
"Knowing that I lost (I thought it) could definitely happen again," said the Wimbledon and London Olympic champion. "I did not want that to happen.
"Whether I learned something from that match, I don't know. I really hate watching matches that I lose unless I'm punishing myself."
Williams punished Makarova yesterday, enjoying a 31-10 advantage in winners and claiming all eight of her service games.
Murray, who also won Olympic gold last month, recovered from a mid-match lapse to defeat Lopez 7-6, 7-6, 4-6, 7-6 in three hours and 53 minutes.
The Briton was leading 4-2 in the third set before Lopez fought back to send the match into a tense fourth set.
Third seed Murray next plays American wildcard James Blake or 15th-seeded Canadian Milos Raonic.
"It was challenging on both fronts, mentally and physically," said the Scot.
"I usually have three weeks in Miami before the U.S. Open but I couldn't this year because of the Olympics. It was a nice problem to have though."

Warwickshire to meet Hampshire in final

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:30:16 +0000

WINS for Warwickshire and Hampshire set up a Clydesdale Bank 40 final between the two sides at Lord’s on September 15.
Varun Chopra's century proved crucial as Warwickshire Bears clinched a second final appearance in three years with a resounding semi-final win by 23 runs over Lancashire Lightning at Old Trafford.
A candidate to be England's new Test opener, Chopra anchored the 2010 winners' score of 250 for six with 110 off 124 balls, including nine fours and a six.
Lancashire then crumbled to 90 for five in reply as they went on to lose for the first time in seven matches at Old Trafford this season.
This was also Lancashire's 11th semi-final defeat in the last 12 in all forms of limited-overs cricket as they were bowled out for 227 with two balls left.
Hampshire followed up their success at t20 finals day by booking their spot in the final with a comprehensive eight-wicket semi-final victory over Sussex at Hove.
New ball bowler Neil Carter excelled with four for 38, while Paul Horton top-scored for the hosts with 78 off 63 balls.
Openers Michael Carberry (68) and James Vince (58) launched a blistering assault before Simon Katich (47 not out) and Jimmy Adams (44no) completed the job as Hampshire chased down Sussex's total of 219 for eight with 42 balls to spare.
Luke Wright had made a brilliant 122 for Sussex but they collapsed from 195 for three to 199 for eight as Sean Ervine took three for 36 and Danny Briggs two for 32. (PA Sport)

Old hands lift Man City while Spurs booed off

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:30:51 +0000

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Manchester City again splashed the cash on transfer deadline day but it was old hands Yaya Toure, Edin Dzeko and Carlos Tevez who secured a 3-1 Premier League victory over Queens Park Rangers yesterday.
New Tottenham Hotspur signing Moussa Dembele came off the bench to score on his debut although coach Andre Villas-Boas was left waiting for his first win in charge after Robert Snodgrass's late goal earned Norwich City a 1-1 draw at White Hart Lane.
Spurs, who have two points from their three games this season, were jeered off.
Ivorian Toure fired Manchester City, who memorably needed two stoppage-time goals on the final day of the season against Rangers in May to win the top-flight title for the first time since 1968, ahead at Eastlands.
The hosts then needed Dzeko's header on 61 minutes, which quickly cancelled out Bobby Zamora's equaliser, to restore control.
Tevez sealed the points in stoppage time with a scuffed effort that sank a new-look Rangers team.
"We played well in the first half but we have one problem at the moment - when we have a chance to score we don't score and the game can change," City manager Roberto Mancini told ESPN television.
"In the second half we didn't play well. We were too slow but in the end it's important that we took the three points."
Abu Dhabi-owned City, the world's richest club, spent more than 37 million pounds in the final 24 hours of the transfer window, bringing in Javi Garcia, Matija Nastasic, Scott Sinclair and Maicon on Thursday and Friday.
None of the quartet figured yesterday as Roberto Mancini's side moved up to fourth in the table.
Swansea City, despite a fourth goal in three league games for Spanish striker Michu, missed a chance to go top when the Welsh side were held 2-2 at home by Sunderland.
Everton also lost their 100 percent record after goals from Shane Long and Gareth McAuley secured a 2-0 victory for West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns.

CHELSEA LEAD
Chelsea, who are not in league action this weekend after losing 4-1 to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup on Friday, are top with a maximum nine points followed by Swansea, West Brom and Manchester City all on seven.
Today, Liverpool host Arsenal (13:30hrs), Newcastle United welcome Aston Villa (16:00hrs) and Manchester United travel to Southampton (16:00hrs).
Striker Andy Carroll enjoyed a bitter-sweet debut for West Ham United after joining on loan from Liverpool, helping set up a first-minute goal in a 3-0 demolition of Fulham.
Carroll then suffered a second-half hamstring injury that could sideline him for England's opening two World Cup qualifiers.
Swansea's impressive start to the season was checked by Sunderland and their new signing Steven Fletcher at the Liberty Stadium.
Having scored eight times without reply in two games, Michael Laudrup's side conceded for the first time when Sunderland's 12 million pounds ($19.06 million) acquisition Fletcher netted twice in the first half, either side of a fine Wayne Routledge goal.
Michu continued his rich seam of form with a 66th minute equaliser but Swansea's hopes of pressing for victory suffered a blow when Spanish central defender Jose Manuel Flores, known as Chico, was sent off 19 minutes from time.
Swansea also said later that left back Neil Taylor had fractured his ankle in the first half.
West Brom, who beat Liverpool on the opening day, notched a notable city double by proving too strong for Everton.
Substitute Peter Odemwingie made an instant impact by picking out Long for the opening goal on 65 minutes before McAuley made sure of the points with a late header.
Belgian playmaker Dembele lifted Tottenham's spirits with a fine goal after moving across London this week from Fulham but fans filed out of White Hart Lane in despondent mood after Snodgrass won a deserved point for Norwich.
Dembele rifled past keeper John Ruddy on 68 minutes but Spurs substitute Tom Huddlestone was then sent off and the final whistle was greeted by a chorus of boos.
"We didn't play well, we have to do much better," Villas-Boas said.
"(The boos) are disappointment from the fans. Nobody likes to draw two games at home, everyone is in need of the win, but we will make sure we put the effort in for them."
New Spurs signings Hugo Lloris and Clint Dempsey were not registered in time to play.
West Ham eased past Fulham after Kevin Nolan netted after 53 seconds at Upton Park. Winston Reid and Matt Taylor added further first-half goals but Carroll, who impressed on his debut, limped off midway the second half.
Manager Sam Allardyce said the striker will "probably be on our treatment bench for a while".
Wigan Athletic twice led at home to Stoke City but had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

Second Test in Bangalore ... Kohli leads India fightback against New Zealand

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:31:29 +0000

(REUTERS) - Virat Kohli led India's fightback with an unbeaten 93 after early strikes from the New Zealand pace duo of Tim Southee and Doug Bracewell had the hosts in a spot of bother in the second and final Test in Bangalore.
India reached 283 for five in their first innings, replying to New Zealand's 365, at stumps on the second day at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
Kohli added 99 runs for the fifth wicket with left-hander Suresh Raina (55) and a further 104 for the unbroken sixth wicket with captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni (46 not out) to lift India out of trouble.
The 23-year-old right-hander hit 12 boundaries and a six on the way to his fifth half-century in Tests.
Bracewell dismissed experienced batsmen Virender Sehwag (43) and Sachin Tendulkar (17) in the afternoon session after India had lost Gautam Gambhir (two) and Cheteshwar Pujara (nine) to Southee before lunch.
Raina, 25, started the counter-attack and hit eight fours and a six to bring up his seventh fifty in Test cricket but was lucky to survive a stumping chance when on 48. The third umpire ruled the delivery from off-spinner Jeetan Patel a no-ball.
Southee, who was drafted in for the second Test replacing pace colleague Chris Martin, dismissed Raina caught down the leg side in the final session to pick up his third wicket.
"It's unfortunate for me to get out twice in the same manner, I am very disappointed," said Raina, who was dismissed in the same fashion by Patel in Hyderabad.
"Virat and I had a good partnership and hopefully we can put a lot of runs on the board and the match is going to be interesting in the next three days."
The innings had not started well for India with Gambhir, who looked uncomfortable during most of his short stay at the wicket, the first to be dismissed, clean-bowled as he shouldered arms to an incoming delivery from Southee.
Pujara, a centurion in the last Test in Hyderabad, was then caught at deep fine leg trying to hook Southee.
"Obviously with the new ball it was nice to bowl and swing it, and we were lucky to pick up a few wickets there," Southee told reporters.
"India came back well after lunch as the ball got a bit older. The wicket is a pretty good wicket.
"So I guess now it's a pretty important time for us with the second new ball to see if we can pick up the rest of the wickets."
Sehwag hit eight boundaries and looked in good touch before he flicked one straight to mid-wicket off Bracewell in the first over after lunch.
Tendulkar hit a glorious straight drive past Bracewell, one of his three fours, but on the very next delivery the New Zealander had his revenge by clean-bowling the 'Little Master'.
Earlier, left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha took his third five-wicket haul to halt New Zealand's progress.
The visitors, who opted to bat first after winning the toss, had added just 37 runs to their overnight score of 328 for six before India wrapped up the innings 45 minutes into the morning session.
The first wicket to fall came when Raina took a diving catch at second slip off paceman Zaheer Khan to end an entertaining knock from wicketkeeper Kruger van Wyk for 71.
van Wyk added 99 for the seventh wicket with Bracewell, who was unlucky to be run-out for 43 when the ball burst through Zaheer's hand to hit the stumps at the non-striker's end with the batsman short of his crease.
The partnership helped New Zealand get past the 350-run mark, an improvement after they made 159 and 164 in their two innings in losing the opening Test in Hyderabad by an innings and 115 runs.
Ojha, who had taken four wickets on Friday, polished off the New Zealand innings by dismissing Southee leg-before for 14.

NEW ZEALAND 1st innings (o/n 328-6)
M. Guptill c Gambhir b Ojha 53
B. McCullum lbw b Zaheer 0
K. Williamson lbw b Ojha 17
R. Taylor lbw b Ojha 113
D. Flynn lbw b Ashwin 33
J. Franklin c Raina b Ojha 8
K. van Wyk c Raina b Zaheer 71
D. Bracewell run-out 43
T. Southee lbw b Ojha 14
J. Patel c Gambhir b Yadav 0
T. Boult not out 2
Extras: (b-2, lb-9) 11
Total: (for all out, 90.1 overs) 365
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-63, 3-89, 4-196, 5-215, 6-246, 7-345, 8-353, 9-353.
Bowling: Ojha 28.1-10-99-5, Zaheer 22-2-83-2, Yadav 16-1-90-1, Ashwin 24-5-82-1.

INDIA 1st innings
G. Gambhir b Southee 2
V. Sehwag c Flynn b Bracewell 43
C. Pujara c Boult b Southee 9
S. Tendulkar b Bracewell 17
V. Kohli not out 93
S. Raina c van Wyk b Southee 55
MS Dhoni not out 46
Extras: (b-10, lb-2, nb-5, w-1) 18
Total: (for five wickets, 78 overs) 283
Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-27, 3-67, 4-80, 5-179.
Bowling: Boult 19-2-75-0 (nb-2), Southee 15-4-35-3 (nb-1, w-1), Bracewell 15-4-66-2, Franklin 10-4-17-0 (nb-1), Patel 19-5-78-0 (nb-1).

Clarke shares blame for Pakistan loss

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:32:14 +0000

AUSTRALIA skipper Michael Clarke admitted yesterday that he had been wrong in choosing to bat first against Pakistan in the second one-day international between the two teams in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
Pakistan thumped Australia by seven wickets to level the three-match series at 1-1, leaving the prospect of an intriguing third match in Sharjah tomorrow. Australia won the first match by four wickets in Sharjah.
Scores: Pakistan 249 for 3 (Jamshed 97, Azhar 59*) beat Australia 248 for 9 (M. Hussey 61, Ajmal 4-32, Junaid 3-52) by 7 wickets).
Clarke said that electing to bat first after winning the toss had backfired.
"We trained here and there was nowhere near that much dew, so it was certainly a surprise for all of us once we walked out to field," Clarke said. "So it was the wrong decision after winning the toss, to bat first."
Sparked by a resolute 61 from Michael Hussey, Australia posted a score of 248-9 in their 50 overs with Pakistani off-spinner Saeed Ajmal taking four wickets for 32 runs.
Australia's bowlers then found the ball hard to grip because of the excessive dew, with the pace pair of Mitchell Starc and James Pattinson in particular struggling.
Opener Nasir Jamshed smashed a 98-ball 97 to put Pakistan on track before Azhar Ali (59 not out) and Misbah-ul Haq (39 not out) helped Pakistan chase down the target with 6.2 overs to spare.
"I think full credit to Pakistan. I thought they played really well, they bowled really well, then they came out and played really well with the bat, so I don't want to take anything away from Pakistan, they outplayed us," said Clarke.
"We were off (on Friday), we didn't play as well as we'd have liked, no doubt about that, but we beat Pakistan in the first one-dayer in conditions we're about to go back and play in, so we can take a lot of confidence out of that."
Misbah agreed it was a good toss to lose.
"It was a good toss to lose," said Misbah. "Both the teams were not sure about what was going to happen because there wasn't so much dew on Thursday night. But dew was a major factor on Friday."
Misbah praised youngsters Jamshed and Ali.
"The way Jamshed and Azhar batted it made it easier for us. Jamshed and Mohammad Hafeez are aggressive players and the start was the key for us, it set us to chase that total," said Misbah of the 66-run start to the innings.
Misbah hopes his team builds on the win in the next match.
"It depends on what sort of wicket we get and one more thing we have to keep in mind is that if we bowl second then there will be problem for the spinners as well, so we need to build on the win," he said.
Pakistan will wait to decide on the fitness of all-rounder Shahid Afridi, who missed Friday's game because of a back injury.
Australian paceman Starc complained of a chest injury and is an unlikely starter for the series-deciding match. (AFP)

Essequibo leg fixtures for GFSCA competition announced

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:32:46 +0000

THE Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) has announced fixtures for the Essequibo leg of the competition which gets under way today and. will see four teams battling against one another.
In the first match that is set to bowl off at 10:00hrs, Adventure Sports Club tackle Eldorado Sports Club. This match will be played at the Ariel ground while over at Affiance ground, Richmond Titans take on Smith Eleven starting at 12:30hrs.
Cotton Field Wild Oates and Die Hard Brothers have drawn the bye.
The teams are slotted in two zones with matches to be played on Sundays.
According to the GFSCA official the competition in Essequibo is expected to be keenly contested, taking into account that the top two teams in the county were eliminated during the Georgetown edition.
One of the major highlights is the sponsoring of a team by Phillip Smith Mining Establishment. They expressed satisfaction and sincere appreciation for what they dubbed as a golden gesture. Smith Eleven would be presented with their sponsorship package and cheque at the start of their first game.
A GFSCA official disclosed that among the sponsors are 4R Bearings, Mike’s Pharmacy, Trophy Stall, Ariel Enterprises, Motor trend, Petama Enterprise and Survival Supermarket.
The official said that the winners of the national final will receive $100 000 while the runners-up will pocket $50 000.
He said that other prizes include $10 000 for the player-of-the-series while another $10 000 will go to the player of the final. A trophy will accompany all these cash prizes.

Windies Women target England series win, then World T20 title

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:33:40 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - West Indies Women’s team departed from the Caribbean on Friday for their Twenty20 tour of England. The Windies will play five matches against England before moving on to Sri Lanka for the International Cricket Council’s T20 World Cup.
Speaking ahead of their departure, captain Merissa Aguilleira was confident her side could handle the challenge of facing a tough England team in their home conditions.
“It’s good to be back in West Indies colours and it feels great to be leading the team on this tour in England and on to the Twenty20 World Cup in Sri Lanka.
“We believe we can win the series in England and we will plan well and look to execute. We know conditions in England will be quite different from those we experience at home, but we are capable of adapting quickly and we will give England a strong challenge,” said the 26-year-old wicketkeeper.
“We will have training sessions and warm-ups (matches) before we play against England, so that should be ideal preparation for the bigger matches. We played against India and Sri Lanka at home earlier this year and did really well, so we hope to continue the good year with a win against England, which would be the right tonic as we head to Sri Lanka.”
The two teams will start with the first two games at the Durham ICG and Old Trafford, on September 8 and 10 respectively, scheduled directly before England men take on South Africa in T20 Internationals and broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The other matches will be played at the County Ground, Northampton (September 13), County Ground, Hove (September 15) and at the Arundel Cricket Club in Sussex (September 16).
“The World T20 in Sri Lanka is the ‘big’ prize. It is what every team wants and we want it. We know that to win it we will have to be at our best and go out there and take it – no one is going to hand it to you on a platter – so we are mentally and physically up to the challenge.
“We have some of the best players in the world in our team and we also have some younger players waiting for their opportunity to break onto the world stage,” Aguilleira said.
The West Indies will be without world-leading all-rounder Stafanie Taylor for the first half of the series in England.
The 21-year-old, who won the ICC Women’s Cricketer-of-the-Year award last year, has remained in Jamaica to complete exams. She is expected to join the team after the second match.

FULL SQUAD
Merissa Aguilleira (captain/wicketkeeper), Stafanie Taylor (vice-captain) Shemaine Campbelle, Britney Cooper, Shanel Daley, Deandra Dottin, Stacy-Ann King, Kycia Knight (wicketkeeper), Anisa Mohammed, Subrina Munroe, Juliana Nero, Shaquana Quintyne, Shakera Selman, Tremayne Smartt.

GCA/NBS SECOND DIVISION - Gittens ton powers MYO past TSC … DCC and Everest record wins

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:34:34 +0000

THANKS to Chien Gittens’ unbeaten ton, home team Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) recorded a three-wicket victory over Transport Sports Club (TSC), when action in the New Building Society (NBS)-sponsored Georgetown Cricket Association, (GCA)-organised second division limited overs tournament continued yesterday.
Also recording victories were Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) who took less than 25 overs to demolish Ace Warriors and Everest Cricket Club (ECC) who defeated Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) by seven wickets on their opponents’ home ground.
Gittens struck 12 fours and eight sixes in his unbeaten 101, which guided MYO to 198 for 7 from 29.1 overs against the bowling of Azim Azeez and Shawn Massiah who took two wickets each for 34 and 48 runs respectively for TSC who were earlier limited to 195 for 9 at the MYO ground.
Keon Morris made an unbeaten 52 (7x4, 1x6), Stephon Sampson 32 (7x4) and Sunil Singh 20 (4x4) for TSC, whose innings was bolstered with 29 extras, while Richard Latiff (3 for 28), Satesh Jaikaran (2 for 18) and Imtiaz Pooran (2 for 30) did the damage with the ball for MYO.
At the GYO ground, the home team were bowled out for 171 from 33 overs by ECC, with Loakesh Reid contributing 42 that was decorated with eight fours and received support from Yogeshlall Persaud 28 (6x4) and Anand Goolsarran 21 (4x4).
Saeed Mohammed took 3 for 21 for ECC, who were indebted to Rishi Heralall’s unbeaten 64 (8x4, 2x6), Sherfane Rutherford’s 66 (14x4) and Mohammed’s unbeaten 28 (5x4), as they reached 175 for 3 from 21.3 overs to complete the win, with Goolsarran taking 2 for 33 for GYO.
At the ECC ground, DCC bowled out Ace Warriors for 76 from 18 overs, with only Levar Douglas 18 (1x4, 1x6) and G. Bess 13 (2x4) reaching double figures, while Dennis Squires (3 for 11), Joel Brown (3 for 20) and Cavell Reece (2 for 16) led DCC’s bowling.
Omesh Dhanram then struck five fours in his 29 while Squires returned to hit two sixes in his unbeaten 25, as DCC reached 79 for 1 from a mere 7 overs, to complete the win inside the first session of the contest.

Mahaica beat Buxton Stars 3-0 to lift Under-13 League title … Shamar Scott is MVP

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:35:38 +0000

A DOUBLE off the boot of Kadeem Blackman either side of play and another from Diquan Gomes propelled Mahaica to a comfortable 3-0 win over Buxton Stars and the championship trophy in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) Under-13 League which concluded on Friday afternoon at the Buxton Community Ground, East Coast Demerara.
The size of the Mahaica players was surely a big challenge for the home team and as much as they showed great heart, Mahaica more or less had things their own way in taking home the winning trophy.
In the third place game, another Buxton-based side Youth Developers had to ward off a spirited challenge from Melanie Tritons to win that encounter by the lone goal of the game that came off the boot of Shawn Rodney in the 50th minute, 10 minutes to lemon-time.
Mahaica, coached by former Pele FC coach Peter Gulliver, came with a plan and worked same to their benefit.Despite the height advantage, Buxton’s little stars took the fight to the Mahaica side early in the piece and were doing a fine job until the 22nd minute when Kadeem Blackman tucked in the first of his double from a scrimmage in front of the goal.
That advantage increased in the 45th minute from a powerful shot off the boot of Diquan Gomes with the sealer coming two minutes to game time (60th) from Blackman.
Adjudged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player was Buxton Star’s Shamar Scott who apart from scoring three goals was the bedrock of his team’s defense. Tafari Rogers of Melanie Tritons ended as the tournament’s leading goalscorer, hitting the network on four occasions.
BV/Triumph United’s Shamar Singh was named the Best Goalkeeper while the Fair Play Award went to Youth Developers.
Special medals for their contributions to their teams, donated by coach of Buxton Stars, Sherry Abrams, were awarded to Nigel Manifold of Mahaica, goalkeeper of Buxton Stars Elton Sullivan; Shamar of Youth Developers and Joshua Liverpool of Melanie.
Nine teams participated in the competition that was sponsored by the Guyana Football Federation as part of their ongoing policy of supporting youth development.
The next youth tournament that the federation will be supporting in the EDFA will be played at the Under-17 level and that is expected to kick off in mid-September.

GCA/HEROES CUP - Christian, Hassan and Bacchus blast tons … MSC, GCC and DCC take first innings points

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:40:38 +0000

NATIONAL wicketkeeper/batsman Derwin Christian, Imran Hassan and Robin Bacchus all struck opening-day centuries, as their respective team took first innings honours over their opponents, when the fourth round of action in Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)-organised Carib Beer/Friends of Cricket/Heroes Cup competition bowled off yesterday.
At the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Christian struck a whirlwind 119 to steer the home team to 353 for 7 declared, after seeing Christopher Barnwell grab 5 for 7 to bowl out Transport Sports Club (TSC) for 75, following which Andrew Lyght Jr struck a pugnacious 99.
At the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, the home team bowled out Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) for 114 with Winston Forrester snaring 4 for 22 and replied with 213 for 1, thanks to Bacchus’ unbeaten 112.
At the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) ground on Thomas Lands, MSC asked Police Sports Club (PSC) to take first strike and bowled them out for 114, with Danny Narayan taking 4 for 20 and replied with 305 for 6 at the close, with Hassan hitting a belligerent 102.
At Queenstown, TSC, asked to bat first, found it difficult to handle the bowling of Barnwell in the hazy conditions and crumbled easily, with Extras topscoring with 29, while Carl Rambharose led all batsmen with 20 that included four fours.
Barnwell received support from Totaram Bishun and Paul Wintz who took two wickets each for 16 and 18 runs respectively, before Lyght Jr. tore into the opposition bowling with disdain blasting 99 off 54 deliveries with 10 sixes and 7 fours.
He added 126 for the second wicket with Andrew Gibson 33 (3x4), reaching his 50 off 27 deliveries with six sixes and four fours, before he struck a delivery back to Kevin Ross (3-101), who also removed Gibson and bowled Barnwell, for 16.
However, Christian’s innings which took him 73 deliveries to accumulate and was decorated with 13 sixes and four fours, piloted DCC to a comfortable 258-run first innings lead, with his first 50 taking him 41 deliveries, of which he struck five sixes and one four.
Oslyn Batson supported Ross with the ball, by taking 3 for 105 for TSC, who were rocked by Andre Stoll (2 for 8) in their second innings, to be 46 for 4 at the close with Quinn Proctor who struck two fours in his 20, being their leading batsman.
He was, however, dismissed off the final delivery of the day’s play, caught and bowled by Barnwell, leaving Rambharose who was unbeaten on 10 and the remaining batsmen to score a further 212 to avoid an innings defeat.
At GCC, GYO were given an early setback, when they lost the wicket of national Under-19 opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul (0), from which they never recovered and were bowled out for 114, with Abdool Rahim topscoring with 32 that included five fours.
Forrester received support from Raj Nannan who took 3 for 22 and Bernard Bailey (2 for 22), following which Bacchus struck 14 fours and two sixes in his unbeaten 112, while Jeetendra Sookdeo has so far struck 10 fours and two sixes in his unbeaten 70, with Forrester being the lone casualty for GCC who ended the day at 213 for 1, when he was dismissed for 21 (3x4).
At the MSC ground on Thomas Lands, the home team asked PSC to take first strike and bowled them out for 114, after being 86 for 8 at lunch.
Ryan Rajmangal led his team’s batting with 24 (4x4), while Trevor Benn and Leon Crawford both made 15, with Steven Jacobs and Dion Ferrier offering support to Narayan with the ball, when they took two wickets each for 9 and 13 runs respectively.
When MSC batted, Hassan and Carlos La Rose carried their score to 117 without loss at the tea break, with Hassan being unbeaten on 84 and La Rose 32, the former posting his half-century from 33 deliveries with nine fours and one six.
When play resumed, Hassan took 31 more deliveries to get to his ton, counting 14 fours and five sixes in total, before he holed out to Rajmangal at long off, when he looked to hit Vishal Jaigobin over the boundary.
La Rose got to his half-century from 49 deliveries, hitting four fours and one six in the process before he was dismissed in similar fashion to Hassan, off the same bowler, while Jacobs rode his luck to hit six fours and two sixes in his 59, before he was caught off Benn.
Orin Forde was unbeaten on 21 (1x6) at the close of play, as MSC hold a lead of 191 and three wickets in hand, heading into the final day today, which will see all matches being completed.

‘Favourites’ tag must be backed with performance - Sammy

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:41:21 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Captain Darren Sammy believes his star-studded West Indies have an excellent chance of winning the World Twenty20 Championship starting later this month but says the label of favourites means nothing unless they can back it up with strong performances.
Several pundits have already named West Indies among the pre-tournament favourites for the championship that runs from September 18 to October 7 in Sri Lanka.
“We have a few of the most experienced guys in T20 cricket in our squad and the squad looks very good,” Sammy said here yesterday at the start of the West Indies camp at the High Performance Centre.
“Once we go out there and play to our full potential, the way we know we can play, we stand a very good chance.”
West Indies will be bolstered by a battery of Indian Premier League stars, including opener Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard.
Gayle was the leading batsman in the IPL last season for Royal Challengers Bangalore, hammering 733 runs with an average of 61 with one hundred and seven half-centuries.
Narine, meanwhile, finished with 24 wickets in his first season for Chennai Super Kings, earning the Man-of-the-Series honour as he helped fire them to their maiden IPL title.
West Indies will also have the likes of pinch-hitter Dwayne Smith, Marlon Samuels and Darren Bravo as part of their armoury.
Sammy said despite the quality of the side, the Windies needed to remain focused and play consistently.
“Once we go out there and play like we’ve been playing in the last series, we could win,” Sammy pointed out.
“We’re going to be focused because people saying that we are favourites doesn’t guarantee you a place in the final. You’ve got to go out there and play and we as a team we’ve got to be cognisant of that and make sure we stay focused and take it game by game.”
West Indies launched their week-long camp yesterday, hoping to prime their preparation after a break following the successful New Zealand series.
The players will undergo rigorous training and are also expected to face the HPC side and the Combined Campuses and Colleges, in two practice matches.
Sammy said the camp would be important in making the transition from the recent series.
“We had a good end to the Digicel Home Series and the guys got a well deserved break,” he noted.
“We’re back here now and the guys are fine-tuning themselves, working hard and doing everything to make sure we’re ready to go to Sri Lanka and try and win this World Cup.”
West Indies have been installed in Group B alongside Australia and Ireland for the WT20.

MoA-led survey finds Guyana free of Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 05:53:48 +0000

GUYANA continues to successfully maintain its status as being free from the dreaded Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), as has been confirmed by surveillance studies done by the Ministry of Agriculture.
The studies were done between December 2011 and February 2012, and involved the PAHO/WHO and PANAFTOSA, a Brazilian laboratory for animal health.
According to a Ministry of Agriculture release, the cattle industry enjoys the coveted status of being free from Foot-and-Mouth Disease without the use of vaccines.
This success in disease control among Guyana’s cattle, the agency says, is the result of a very effective surveillance programme.
Although the actual testing for FMD had to be done in the laboratories of PANAFTOSA in Brazil, by the end of this year, the Ministry of Agriculture hopes to develop local capacity to test for FMD in its Animal Health Laboratory.
PANAFTOSA will assist Guyana to establish this capacity, and will assist Guyana in certifying its Animal Health Laboratory.
In the face of these successful test results, Guyana is also presently ensuring it implements control programmes for Brucellosis and Bovine TB.
The staff of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) must be commended for their efforts to ensure Guyana remains free of the devastating FMD.
Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy commended GLDA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dindial Permaul, the veterinarians who work with the GLDA, and the surveillance and laboratory staff of the GLDA for their excellent work in maintaining a strong surveillance of Foot-and Mouth Disease in Guyana. He also commended the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) for supporting Guyana’s efforts to eradicate Foot-and-Mouth Disease from Guyana.
As part of the Agriculture Ministry’s commitment to ensure a reliable supply of safe and healthy beef, and in order to comply with obligations to the OIE as those relate to the disease-free status, it is imperative that regular surveillance activities be carried out, and the results documented and submitted to the relevant agencies.
It is also important that surveillance results be communicated to Guyana’s farmers and its citizens.
The Agriculture Ministry is part of the efforts of informing the Guyanese people of the work being done in preventing the emergence of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Guyana.
Minister Ramsammy noted thus: “In our efforts, and as part of the surveillance activities, sample collections were conducted in Regions 9 and 6 during the period December 2011 to February 2012.”
He also said, “Sample collections involved the taking of blood specimens from animals in the (mentioned) regions. Officers from GLDA Head Office, laboratory and regional staff participated in these exercises.”
According to Minister Ramsammy, the groups were sub-divided into three (3) teams to cover the three (3) sub-districts in each region, and a total of 825 blood samples were collected; serum from each sample was processed, and then stored prior to dispatch to Brazil.
The minister said the serum samples obtained from animals in Regions 6 and 9 were taken to the PANAFTOSA Laboratory in Brazil for further testing by the veterinary officer in charge of the Laboratory, Dr. Dane Hartley.
Dr. Hartley participated in the processing and testing of the samples, and all of the samples were non-reactive (negative) for Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
In FMD testing, test results are expressed as T/C values. Values below 0.8 T/C are negative for FMD. Values equal to or greater than 0.8 T/C are suspicious for FMD. All specimens from Guyana tested below 0.8.
“We are proud of our partnership with PANAFTOSA, one of the growing Guyana/Brazil partnership initiatives.” Minister Ramsammy declared. He related that through this partnership, Guyana is building capacity for the development of strong animal disease surveillance programmes.
“Indeed, our partnership with PANAFTOSA has grown to the extent that PANAFTOSA is working with us to further develop our laboratory capacity, and we expect that we will be able to develop the capacity to test for FMD fully in Guyana by the end of the year,” Minister Ramsammy noted.
Dr Ramsammy also stated that Dr. Dane Hartley has been working with PANAFTOSA to develop the knowledge and skills to lead the laboratory operation to test for FMD.
The Ministry of Agriculture, through the GLDA, is strengthening the Animal Health Laboratory to ensure it has the necessary equipment to conduct routing FMD testing.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Foot-and-Mouth Disease,also called Hoof-and-Mouth Disease, is an infectious and sometimes fatal viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including domestic and wild bovines, sheep, goats and swine; all economic species are affected. In susceptible populations, morbidity may approach 100%; cattle are the most susceptible.
The FMD virus causes a high fever for two or three days, followed by blisters inside the mouth and on the feet, which may rupture and cause lameness.
FMD is caused by an aphtovirus belonging to the family Picornaviridae. Seven distinct serotypyes are recognised: Serotypes A, O, C, Asia 1, Southern African Territories (SAT 1, 2 and 3).
According to the Agriculure Ministry, FMD occurs throughout much of the world; and whilst some countries have been free of FMD for some time, its wide host range and rapid spread represent cause for international concern.
Guyana is free of FMD, and has been able to maintain this FMD-free status without the use of vaccines. In South America, Chile, southern Argentina, Guyana, Suriname and the region of Colombia bordering Panama are FMD-free.
The foregoing indicates how devastating the FMD disease can become for an infected country, be it economic, social or otherwise.

Surveillance in Guyana
The Agriculture Ministry’s passive surveillance programme includes strict monitoring of all ports of entry. At such ports, no animal or animal products are allowed to enter Guyana without a valid import permit from the Animal Health Unit of the GLDA, Ministry of Agriculture.
It is a policy decision of Guyana not to import animals or animal products from countries affected by Foot-and-Mouth Disease. Some of the products used for disinfection at these ports are Virkon-S and Biocide (viricide).
Should the veterinary officer of any region or district suspect that FMD is threatening that region or district, (as in the presence of vesicles, fever etc.), that information should be communicated immediately to the Head, Animal Health Unit, GLDA, who will immediately inform the Minister of Agriculture, who will in turn inform the Minister of Health and activate the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Emergency Plan.
The susceptible livestock population is approximately forty thousand (40,000), of which thirty-five thousand (35,000) are cattle and the rest are small ruminants.
Region #9 is equipped with one central abattoir, located in Lethem within close proximity to the central marketing centres.
Animal movement is only permitted within Region #9.
The mode of transporting animals is over land, and it requires a permit to that effect which would have to be presented at every police station along the desired route.
The animals have to be transported during the day (6.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.), as it is illegal to transport animals during the night (6.00 p.m. – 6.00 a.m.).

Efforts made to eradicate FMD in Guyana
In Region #9 in 1978, Guyana woke up to the unpleasant experience of having an outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
That outbreak was eradicated the said year, using the stamping out method (slaughtering of all animals). When the laboratory analysis was done, Type “O” of the virus was detected. As a method of control, no live animals were allowed to be transported from Region #9 to other regions. The use of vaccines was never implemented in Guyana’s eradication programme.
Guyana has been free of Foot-and-Mouth Disease without using vaccination since May 30, 2001, and has been declared thus by the World Organization for Animal Health. It is thus prohibited to vaccinate susceptible animals.
Importation and use of any type of vaccine is monitored by the Animal Health Unit of GLDA.

Afghanistan: The Underpants Option

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:13:41 +0000

“A DEFEATIST position (in Afghanistan) is not possible for us. We cannot leave in our underpants...or without any.” That was Mikhail Gorbachev addressing senior Soviet officers in 1987, two years before the Soviets pulled out. Two years before NATO pulls out, the same frantic search is underway for something that could be called a victory, or at least “peace with honour”. Meanwhile, NATO soldiers die, together with many more Afghans.
The French are smart: all their troops will be gone from Afghanistan by the end of this year. The Canadians were even smarter: almost all their troops left last year. But the rest of the NATO countries dumbly soldier on towards the scheduled departure date of 2014, even though the situation is clearly spinning out of control: one-quarter of the 48 Western troops killed in Afghanistan this August were murdered by Afghan government soldiers.
The most striking thing about these so-called “green-on-blue” killings, according to a 2011 Pentagon analysis reported by Bloomberg, is that only 11 percent of them are the result of infiltration by the Taleban. Most of them are due to grudges or disputes between coalition and Afghan army troops, which suggests that NATO’s current focus on training Afghan forces to “stand up” on their own is just as futile as all its previous strategies.
Last year a team of US Army psychologists investigated the nature of these grudges and quarrels, conducting interviews with dozens of American and Afghan focus groups. Their report, “A Crisis of Trust and Cultural Incompatibility”, concluded that the Afghan troops see the American soldiers as “a bunch of violent, reckless, intrusive, arrogant, self-serving, profane infidel bullies hiding behind high technology.”
The U.S. troops, in return, generally view their Afghan allies as “a bunch of cowardly, incompetent, obtuse, thieving, complacent, lazy, pot-smoking, treacherous and murderous radicals.” This does not constitute the foundation for a successful collaboration.
The view of the Afghan soldiers is more positive, despite all that, than the civilian population’s attitude towards the foreign forces. A poll conducted in late 2010 by the Afghan Centre for Socio-Economic Research reported that nearly 60 percent of civilians wanted all the foreign soldiers gone within a year. Forty percent would still want the foreigners out even if their departure meant that the violence got worse.
In the main conflict areas, 60 percent of the population believed that roadside bombings and other attacks aimed at killing U.S. and other foreign forces were justified. And almost everybody hates and despises the gang of warlords and racketeers who make up the U.S.-backed government of Afghanistan.
Yet less than 10 percent of Afghans, according to the same poll, actually want to see the Taleban back in power. They are not being inconsistent. They just don’t buy the standard Western line that only the foreign occupation has kept the Taleban and their alleged al-Qaeda allies from returning to power.
There is some evidence that the Taleban themselves don’t really believe that either. They remember that even when a Taleban government ruled in Kabul in 1996-2001, they never succeeded in extending their authority to the northern parts of the country where the non-Pashtun minorities live – and taken together, those minorities account for 60 percent of the population.
In an interview published in the “New Statesman” last month, a senior Taleban commander known as “Mawlvi” told Michael Semple, a former United Nations envoy to Kabul during the period of Taleban rule, that “the balance of power in the Afghan conflict is obvious. It would take some kind of divine intervention for the Taleban to win this war.”
The foreigners have lost their war, but the Taleban, still overwhelmingly Pashtun, will not be able to defeat all the other ethnic groups in the civil war that follows NATO’s departure. In fact, they won’t even do as well as they did in the similar civil war after the Soviet withdrawal in 1989: “The Taleban capturing Kabul is a very distant prospect,” Mawlvi said.
He may be wrong about that. His assumption is that after the foreigners leave the Afghan army, which is overwhelmingly recruited from the non-Pashtun groups, will break apart into the same Tajik, Uzbek and Hazara militias that thwarted the Taleban’s drive to control all of Afghanistan after the Soviets left.
But those ethnic militias no longer exist, and their former commanders have grown fat and corrupt in the service of the foreigners. It might prove impossible to rebuild them fast enough to thwart a post-occupation drive by the Taleban to seize the whole country – although they would probably be unable to hold the non-Pashtun areas in the long run.
The Taleban have won their war against the foreign occupiers, but they probably won’t win a decisive victory in the civil war that follows. And the only remaining way that the foreigners could still influence the outcome would be to dump their puppet president, Hamid Karzai, and start rebuilding the ethnic militias now.
They won’t do that, so their continued military presence over the next two years is irrelevant to the ultimate outcome. And public opinion in Afghanistan is turning against them so fast that they might still end up leaving without their underpants.
(Gwynne Dyer is a London-based independent journalist, and military historian.)

Focus on CARICOM and OAS in Guyana’s ‘Linden crisis’ --probe team takes oath on Wednesday

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:14:38 +0000

THE GUYANA Government announced at the weekend that the members of the independent, high-level Commission of Inquiry into the killings of three people in Linden on July 18 are expected to be in Guyana to take the oath of office from President Donald Ramotar this Wednesday.
Both the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of American States (OAS) have separately become involved, in assisting Guyanato deal with the

complexities of political and socio-economic problems in Linden after a month-long crisis involving violent protests, costly acts of arson and the killings of three protesters, reportedly by the police.
First, on August 20, the Georgetown-based CARICOM Secretariat disclosed in a statement released by Secretary-General Erwin LaRocque, that, at the request of the Guyana Government, it had “recommended three distinguished CARICOM nationals to serve on a Commission of Inquiry” which is expected to enquire into and report on “matters related to the events of July 18 in Linden...”
The Secretariat’s statement avoided alluding to any of “the matters related to the events of that day” (namely, July 18). However, the reality, as known to the people of Linden and Guyana as a whole, is that the particular focus of events on July 18 relates to the deaths from police gunfire during a clash with violent demonstrators, some of whom had earlier blockaded a bridge linking the Wismar community with Linden.
The three “distinguished” CARICOM nationals identified for the coming probe are: Jamaica’s former Chief Justice, Lensley Wolfe (currently chairman of the Public Service Commission of Jamaica); K.D Knight, a senior counsel and former Minister of National Security and Foreign Affairs of Jamaica; and Dana Seetahal, a senior counsel and former independent Senator of Trinidad and Tobago, and currently a columnist of the ‘Trinidad Express’.

Restricted probe
What has emerged as quite puzzling is that while the government of President Donald Ramotar and the combined parliamentary opposition—with a one-seat majority in the 65-memberNational Assembly—have welcomed the team of commissioners, as recommended by CARICOM, there was no consensus on the original terms of reference for the independent inquiry.
The opposition wanted the probe restricted to the deaths of three protesters by the police, while the government naturally felt that the circumstances of the killings of the trio should also form part of the inquiry—if not the subsequent extensive destruction by arson and general disruption of business and normal life after July 18.
Nevertheless, while the government and opposition were still focused on an evidently flawed terms of reference—with a text without context--as a consequence of political expediency or opportunism---the OAS was announcing its readiness to provide support for Guyana.
This “support”, as expressed in a statement, is to help in the government’s “requirements to maintain peace and security and strengthen human rights and democracy following the recent unrest in Linden…”
What Jamaicans, Trinidadians , Barbadians and other nationals of our 15-member Caribbean Community would naturally be interested in learning is how any team of “distinguished” commissioners, as those named, can appropriately carry out an inquiry into the disturbances, the human and other tragedies in Linden, without a meaningful inquiry into ALL related aspects of what combined to represent the “crisis” in that mining town in Region 10 of Guyana.
Relatedly, there remain questions about the modalities of operations by the OAS in fulfilling its own commitment to be of assistance to Guyana in the interest of ensuring “peace and security and the strengthening of human rights and democracy…”
The OAS Secretary-General would, of course, be aware that there is no political love between the parliamentary opposition and Guyana’s long-serving ambassador to the hemispheric body in Washington, Bayney Karran, a lawyer by profession, who had provided a brief with the guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Insulza’s caution
The opposition would be aware that Secretary-General Insulza’s statement of pledged “support” had followed an earlier reaction from the Inter-American Convention on Human Rights (IACHR) on the deaths of the three protestors with a reminder that force by the police should be in strict conformity with established international obligations.
For his part, Insulza thought it necessary to observe in his statement -- without a specific mentioning of the IACHR -- that there should be “no rush to judgment” on this particular issue involving the security forces.
Incidentally, both the parliamentary opposition leader, David Granger, and the Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee, had openly called for the immediate transfer from his command post in Linden, the police officer in charge on the day of the shooting deaths of three protestors.
Amusingly, however, Granger was to subsequently secure rushed permission by the Speaker of Parliament, then former leader of the minority Alliance For Change (Raphael Trotman) to successfully move a “no confidence” motion against the Home Affairs Minister for claimed involvement in the police clashes with Linden protesters. Assured of its one-seat majority, Granger’s motion was approved, even as some well known opposition activists kept stirring the pot of discontent and disorder in Linden.
Now we await the coming work programmes in Guyana by the three-member Commission of Inquiry with a very restricted mandate and that of a wider nature by the OAS.

Principal Rajkumarie Singh says... Hindu College moulds characters and educates students

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:24:22 +0000

WHEN higher education was limited merely to elitists and primary education could have been obtained by other than European races only if they had changed their names and religions; and when education for girls was an exception rather than a norm in society, the Guyana Sevashram Sangha opened its doors to all and sundry.
The sanyasis from the Ashram knocked on doors of the homes of even the poorest and most vulnerable in society -- people of all creeds, religions, and races -- and encouraged even the suspicious parents to send their children to the Swami Purnananda School to pursue an education.
Today, decades later, the Ashram has produced some of the brightest and the best spanning the globe, most of whom have never forgotten from whence they first received their education and moral values that took them places they would never have dreamt of going.
Principal Rajkumarie Singh says that, except in a few rare cases, the school receives students brought by despairing parents whose children were assigned to schools that are at the lowest spectrum of the secondary schools education system; and the school takes those children and begins afresh, tutoring them in the basics to bring them to a level where they can be on par with their peers, while simultaneously providing them with the secondary education that their progression in academia warrants and is a prerequisite of the educational system.
Singh cited an instance in which Cliffon Chichester, the daughter of a former principal of President’s College, had done well at the SSPE and had been assigned to President’s College; but her parent had the girl transferred to the Hindu College after she began failing all her classes at President’s College. That student eventually topped the school at the CXC Exams.
Prayers are mandatory, although students are encouraged to worship in the context and practices of their own religion, but many students became so enamoured of the spirituality of the extended but optional facilities of the Guru Mandir, that they themselves opt to follow the precepts of Hinduism, and religiously make pilgrimage, especially during Shivratri, to pay obeisance to their Supreme Acharya.

Wisdom encapsulates an entire spectrum of educational processes
Learned and holy monk of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Guruji Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj, who originated from the Guyana Sevashram Sangha (Cove and John Ashram) and is the first Swami in the West, had said that the attainment of education (in all its dimensions and ramifications) has its roots in absolute faith in the guru; because education is the manifestation of the entire gurukul system, which is grounded in subsuming the individual consciousness to better inculcate the values, mores and lessons being imparted by the guru (teacher).
This was reiterated by acclaimed and accomplished General-Secretary of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Pujya Shrimat Swami Vividishanandaji Maharaj, who elucidated to the effect that wisdom does not merely stem from academic knowledge, but encapsulates an entire spectrum of educational processes wherein the Vyas is the person who compiled the vedas and all the shastras, including the Mahabharatta.
In the passage of time, the divinely prescribed way of the spiritual path has been forgotten; but then, whenever such circumstances prevail, Lord Shiva manifests himself to restore the sublime glory of dharmic principles.
Thus was the Acharya incarnated as the embodiment of the Lord.

Acharya exhorts disciples to be educated children of humanity
As an example of such absolute self-sacrifice and self-immersion in service to God through serving mankind, which is in essence the work in progress of the Sangha, Swami Vividishanandaji spoke about the Founder of the Sangha, and his propagation of the philosophies, teachings and traditions of Hinduism, especially through education. He explained the Acharya’s vision, and the goals encapsulated in this vision as follows:
From his early childhood, Acharya Srimat Swami Pranavanandaji Maharaj, then Binode, had dedicated himself to meditation and service to the Lord; and he struggled to overcome hurdles and establish the Sangha -- an organisation through which he hoped to serve humanity worldwide, primarily in the area of education and through inculcating spiritual and moral values in the young people of the world – because, as a young man of merely 20, the Acharya had already gained “everything”.
Guruji Vidyanandaji Maharaj described him thus: "In some ways, he stands most authentically for ancient Hindu values, which can easily be overlooked by modern commentators, scholars, and interpreters of religion.

The Guyana Sevashram Sangha
Founded by Swami Purnanandaji Maharaji in obedience to the supreme Acharya, the Guyana Sevashram Sangha was established on 20 acres of formerly undeveloped land at Cove and John in the early 1950s, and was transformed into its current dynamic and dynamism by the "blood and sweat of the Swamis, Bramcharis, and selfless devotees" over the decades of its existence.
He adjured the devotees to follow ideal precepts which evolve in the perfection of life. Elucidating on the precepts as expounded in the Gita, the Guru said that revering one’s parents and teachers and respecting one’s fellow man in general are in effect paying obeisance to God.
“Mother is the teacher of society,” expounded the learned guru. “Do not neglect mothers; and worship the goddesses. Sacrifice for the people who have been neglected in the society.”
Swami Purnandaji went door-to-door to preach Hinduism in particular, and the benefits of a holistic education in general, with both being conjunctive to the other. “Do not forget your forefathers, for we are the song of the rishis and the saints of yesteryears. Recite the mantras, and don’t forget you come from the Hindu community. You may be away from India, but don’t forget your traditions and culture, while still respecting the other cultures of your fellowman.”

Rites of passage and a new generation of educators
Over the decades of its existence, the Sangha has evolved to encapsulate the dimensions of teaching capacities that parallel the best in the world, even as global dynamics are transcending boundaries of research and discoveries in various disciplines. The Sangha keeps apace through its intermediaries, with special interventions of former students and ardent devotees scattered the length and breadth of the globe; and here special mention should be made of Jay and Sylvia Sobraj, Sarvan Budhu, and Naresh Singh, who have literally transformed the aesthetics of the Cove and John Ashram, as well as added to its educational capabilities in Information Technology, with Naresh Singh giving his personal care and attention to the quality of education imparted in this field of his own particular expertise.
Head of the IT Department of the Hindu College and the PRANAV Computer Centre and Library, young Sham Sundar is one of the new breed of educators who are particular about students not merely learning about usage of computers, but also about their maintenance and care; so tuition at the classes is holistic in approach and execution.
Soon to come on stream at the Ashram is technical vocational training, with the facilities under construction and continuing apace. This addition to the already varied dimensions to education, already on offer, will allow and enable students with facilities for various specialized skills to enhance and hone
those skills while simultaneously acquiring their basic academic education, which is a tertiary component being added to the multi-dimensional facets of education already being provided to the students by a family of educators, with a new breed of modern thinkers that span the globe under the blessings of the Supreme Acharya and founder of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha -- Jagad Guru Acharya Swami Pranavanandaji Maharaji.

Surge of patriotism for Guyana

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:31:19 +0000

THE Republicans in the U.S. do not recognise and understand facts when they see them; they still see genuine facts wrongfully as ideas. This was the theme in Bill Maher’s current episode of Real Time on HBO. For instance, he noted that Republicans refuse to accept the scientific facts of climate change, even when those facts are facts, not ideas.
Locally, we see the Bill Maher theme playing out among some people, where they belligerently and disingenuously refuse to accept facts. And where something is a fact and is good for the country, there should be acceptance of this fact.

‘On the local scene, there are people whose pastime is to reject the fact when that fact works in the country’s interests. Under such circumstances, we may require a surge in patriotism to stop the rejection of facts. After all, a fact is a fact, not an idea anymore. But people continue to battle genuine facts which they wrongfully see as ideas. Perhaps, a surge of patriotism may end this battle’

Inadequacies of accountability and transparency in implementing any fact should not camouflage its truth and goodness, especially when that fact promotes national development. We should, nonetheless, remove any pathology, such as, accountability and transparency problems from the fact, so as to sustain its true nature. And a surge in patriotism should accompany any fact that makes Guyana a better place.
Nevertheless, that surge in patriotism seems to be on the missing list in this country. For on the local scene in a specific sense, we seem to want to extinguish the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), a fact with significant revenue-bearing potential for Guyana.
One of Jagdeo’s signal achievements is the LCDS, which is both a historical triumph and a political albatross. For, since the November 11 national and regional elections last year, there has been a really concerted effort to demonize an effort that has graduated to international proportions, catapulting Guyana on to the global stage, permanently symbolizing Guyana as a major contributor to mitigating climate change.
da Fonseca, Rodriguez, Midgley, Busch, Hannah, and Mittermeier in ‘No Forest Left Behind’ in PLoS Biology (2007) reported on studies (Stephens et al., 2007; Bala et al., 2007) that showed that reduced tropical deforestation may mitigate climate change. Subsequently, the western world some five to six years ago started to see the wisdom of tropical rain forests as a massive player in toning down climate change. For this reason, reduced destruction of tropical forests became a new ‘money’ phenomenon, whereby countries with low deforestation rates could generate revenues.
Nonetheless, in those early years, the high forest cover and low deforestation rate (HFLD) countries were not part of the scheme of things in the trading of saved carbon through decreased deforestation. And da Fonseca et al. (2007) noted that it would be a mistake to exclude these countries, as they store about 18% of tropical forest carbon, and without carbon credit incentives, HFLD countries may have little motivation to protect their rainforests. These HFLD countries are Panama, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Peru, Belize, Gabon, Guyana, Suriname, Bhutan, Zambia, and French Guiana.
At 2005, Guyana, with 77% forest cover and a 0.0% average deforestation rate per year, was expected to earn US$57 million per year (da Fonseca et al., 2007). That is the fundamental idea in bringing to the fore the LCDS concept, to earn money for Guyana’s development. The fact is that Guyana’s forest cover can generate revenues. There is, nevertheless, an opposing view that Guyana’s forest cover is less than what the LCDS suggests. But that view is largely irrelevant. The important point is the fact that Guyana’s rainforest is a revenue generator.
In fact, Guyana is the first HFLD country to spearhead the LCDS concept. And to further fortify its status in the HFLD countries, Guyana needed a protected area network, which became a reality in October 2011 – the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area (611,000 hectares) and the Shell Beach Protected Area (125,000 hectares).
Notwithstanding all these efforts, the Norway-Guyana US$250 million relationship vis-à-vis the LCDS continues to take a beating, without ‘beaters’ taking a long, hard look at the bigger picture of how tropical rain forests mitigate global climate change, and the fact of LCDS as a revenue earner. If there are problems with accountability and transparency in that relationship, then the thing to do is to address this pathology, but not simultaneously to demonize the fact of what the LCDS is.
Demonizing the Beal Deal of the 1990s was another example of a fact not seen as a fact. Dr. Frank Beckles, Sherwood Kendall, Jonathan Adams, Ashton Simon, and Kathleen Rajkumar challenged the agreement between the Government of Guyana and the Texas-based Beal Aerospace Corp. in the High Court. In addition, the People’s National Congress resisted the agreement, claiming poor financial return from the land transaction. In the end, there was no deal.
Facts are facts. The LCDS can be a huge revenue earner. Norway is just a start, as other countries could follow, producing a multiplier effect on revenues for Guyana. The Beal Deal had the potential of attracting other high-tech companies to Guyana, but people discarded that fact, and several other nation-building facts.
Where pathology (accountability, transparency, other management diseases) exists in the implementation of a fact (as LCDS, etc.), we must eliminate such pathology without eliminating the true fact itself. A similar thing is with the human body; we rid the body of the disease (pathology), but not the body (fact) itself.
On the local scene, there are people whose pastime is to reject the fact when that fact works in the country’s interests. Under such circumstances, we may require a surge in patriotism to stop the rejection of facts. After all, a fact is a fact, not an idea anymore. But people continue to battle genuine facts which they wrongfully see as ideas. Perhaps, a surge of patriotism may end this battle.

Guyana’s stand on the UN Syria vote

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:33:31 +0000

IT is not the least surprising that APNU, which constitutes the main parliamentary opposition, has found the time to expediently criticise the Guyana Government for exercising its right to abstain from voting on a United Nations General Assembly Resolution which was overwhelming in its condemnation of the Syrian administration of President Bashar al-Assad in the use of military force.
The non-binding Resolution of August 3 was supported by 133 member states; opposed by a dozen, and with 31 others abstaining, among them countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa and Asia.
Here in Guyana, unlike elsewhere, the APNU opposition, which, like its junior partner the AFC, is deeply obsessed with criticisms against the government as a substitute for constructive proposals and engagement on the way forward, seems to have much time for misrepresentations and political mischief.
First, evidently stung by the response of the Organisation of American States (OAS) to be of assistance to Guyana, following the disturbances in Linden, the opposition parties chose to lampoon Guyana’s representative to the hemispheric body, Ambassador Bayney Karran, for his intervention. The opposition went as far as calling for a withdrawal of statements made by the ambassador. Is this a case of the truth (by the ambassador) hurting the opposition?
Then came an APNU broadside against the government for exercising its judgment, through Guyana’s ambassador to the United Nations, George Talbot, in doing what at least 30 other nations opted to do: It abstained from exercising a vote on a Resolution deemed quite “unbalanced” in its text. Others that did likewise included Guyana’s border neigbours, Venezuela and Suriname, as well as CARICOM partners such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines; St. Lucia; and Antigua and Barbuda, and not forgetting also the abstention by India and Cuba.
While no political storm is known to have surfaced between governments and parliamentary opposition in this and other regions that also abstained from voting on the condemnatory Resolution against the Syrian government, the local opposition, forever anxious to engage in media-oriented harangues against President Donald Ramotar’s administration, lost no time in coming forward with some very specious thinking. Like, for example, APNU’s Rupert Roopnarine telling a press briefing when commenting on Ambassador Karran’s statement at the OAS about the “precarious” nature of the political situation that emerged in Linden.
For, Dr Roopnarine, as reported on the media event: “Frankly, the abstention of the Syrian vote and the OAS statement should be seen as on-line argument, the line of argument that has come about because of the activities of the opposition (in both Syria and Guyana)…”
In the case of Guyana, as he reasoned, “since the November elections, we are in a precarious position because the opposition controls the National Assembly…” What infantile thinking from a once eloquent and frontline theoretician and activist of the “glorious period” for the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), now expediently subsumed in alliance with the People’s National Congress (PNC)!
It was good to know that instead of reflecting the historical arrogance of the PNC, from the administrations of Forbes Burnham to Desmond Hoyte for almost a quarter-century, the post-November 2011 Donald Ramotar administration thought it appropriate to explain, for the benefit of Guyanese at home and abroad, why Guyana abstained from that UN General Assembly vote on the civil war in Syria.
Our own hope is that in the face of the daily bloodbaths across the political divide of the year-old civil war, which is being partly sustained by foreign interventions, and despite valiant efforts of the UN to achieve a truce, good sense will triumph and soon prevail for an end to the slaughter and enormous sufferings of the Syrian people -- irrespective of ideological, religious and cultural orientations.
No people, no nation should have to confront the horrors facing the people of Syria. Iraq and Libya serve to remind us of the horrendous human tragedies that can also occur with foreign interventions in the domestic affairs of a sovereign State.

Seven steps to jump-starting your anti-fraud programme

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:39:45 +0000

FRAUD, whether it occurs in the form of carefully crafted ponzi scams, fudging financial reports or theft from one’s own employer, is reaching alarming proportions and is not without its costs. Businesses and government agencies worldwide suffer hundreds of billions in lost or misused funds, diminished value, and irreversible damage to company reputation and customer trust.
Consider the alarming stats from the 2010 Report to the Nations on Occupational Fraud and Abuse from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). According to the study, organisations worldwide lose an average of five percent of revenues to fraud each year for an average of $160,000. Applied to the estimated 2009 Gross World Product, this figure translates to a potential total fraud loss of more than $2.9 trillion.
Making matters worse (and no thanks to the economic downturn), many organisations have been forced to cut staff, freeze spending and skimp internal control and process assurance, which has left organisations more vulnerable to risk and fraud.
The focus on fraud detection and prevention is shifting increasingly to internal audit departments. PricewaterhouseCoopers’s Internal Audit 2012 survey reports that “Although anti-fraud roles vary in business today, top management generally owns the anti-fraud responsibility, the audit committee oversees anti-fraud efforts, and internal audit provides a critical line of defence against the threat of fraud by focusing on risk monitoring in addition to fraud prevention and detection.”
Now is the time for Internal Audit teams to step up fraud prevention and detection measures. However, knowing where to start can be overwhelming.
Here is a quick list of priorities to kick-start your programme.

1. Build a profile of potential frauds.
Take a top-down approach to your risk assessment, listing the areas in which fraud is likely to occur in your business and the types of fraud that are possible in those areas. Then qualify the risk based on the overall exposure to the organisation. Focus on risks that have the greatest chance of reducing shareholder value — for example, processes that affect the extended supply chain such as safety, quality, reliability of suppliers and processes.
Develop fraud-risk profiles as part of an overall risk assessment and include necessary stakeholders and decision makers. You’re not likely to make friends throughout the organisation by conducting this on your own. For example, if you think fraud is happening with purchasing cards, include the p-card manager in the discussions. That way it’s a joint effort that will benefit both parties and hopefully result in a more comprehensive approach to fraud risks in that area.

2. Test transactional data for possible indicators of fraud.
You must test 100 percent of the data, not just random samples. While sampling may be effective for detecting problems that are relatively consistent throughout data populations, that isn’t always the case for fraud. Fraudulent transactions, by nature, do not occur randomly. Transactions may fall within boundaries of certain standard testing and not be flagged. Further, using the sampling approach, you may not be able to fully quantify the impact of control failures and you may not be able to estimate within certain populations. You could miss many smaller anomalies and sometimes it’s the small anomalies that add up over time to result in very large instances of fraud.
In order to effectively test and monitor internal controls, organisations need to analyze all relevant transactions.

3. Improve controls by implementing continuous auditing and monitoring.
Strengthen controls over transaction authorisations and use continuous auditing and monitoring to test and validate the effectiveness of your controls. Repetitive or continuous analysis for fraud detection means setting up scripts to run against large volumes of data to identify those anomalies as they occur over a period of time. This method can drastically improve the overall efficiency, consistency and quality of your fraud-detection processes. Create scripts, test the scripts and run them against data so you get periodic notification when an anomaly occurs in the data.
You can run the script every night to go through all those transactions for timely notification of trends and patterns and exceptions reporting that can be provided to management. For example, this script could run specific tests against all purchasing card transactions as they occur to ensure they are in accordance with controls.

4. Communicate the monitoring activity throughout the organisation.
A big part of fraud prevention is communicating the programme across the organisation. The old adage, “an ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure” rings true for fraud detection. If everyone knows there are systems in place that alert to potential fraud or breach of controls, and that every single transaction running through your systems is monitored, you’ve got a great preventive measure. It lets people know that they shouldn’t bother, because they will get caught.

5. Provide management with immediate notification when things are going wrong.
It is better to raise any issues right away than explain why they occurred later. Create audit reports with recommendations on how to tighten controls or change processes to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. And, don’t forget to quantify the impact to the business. Data analysis technology can quantify the impact of fraud so you can actually see how much it’s costing the organisation and provide a cost-effective programme with immediate returns.

6. Fix any broken controls immediately.
Segregation of duties is important. If you can initiate a transaction, approve the transaction, and also be the receiver of the goods from the transaction, there is a problem.

7. Expand the scope and repeat.
Re-evaluate your fraud profile, taking into account both the most common fraud schemes and those that relate specifically to the risks that are unique to your organisation, and move your investigative lens. Use analytics to find out where controls are not working or are ineffective and don’t forget to look for controls that cannot be governed by application control settings. Investigate patterns and fraud indicators that emerge from the fraud-detection tests and continuous auditing and monitoring.
Summary
Fraud is a significant business risk that must be mitigated. A well-designed and implemented fraud detection system, based on the transactional data analysis of operational systems, can significantly reduce the chance of fraud occurring within an organisation. The sooner that indicators of fraud are available, the greater the chance that losses can be recovered and control weaknesses can be addressed. The timely detection of fraud directly impacts the bottom line, reducing losses for an organisation. And effective detection techniques serve as a deterrent to potential fraudsters – employees who know that experts are present and looking for fraud or that continuous monitoring is occurring are less likely to commit fraud because of a greater perceived likelihood that they will be caught.
Given increased regulatory requirements and compliance demands, the decision is no longer if an organisation should implement a complete fraud detection and prevention programme, but rather how quickly that programme can be put into place. The use of technology is essential for maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of a fraud-detection and prevention programme.
(Robert Gates is the director of Strategic Advisory Service, a local firm that prides itself on providing private investigation and security consultancy services, and training in investigation, intelligence and security techniques.)

Regional forum highlights achievements, gaps in HIV responses across LATAM

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:44:06 +0000

THE Sixth Latin American and Caribbean Forum on HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), held from August 28 to 31, 2012, provided an opportunity for delegates to deliberate on the progress, challenges, and lessons learnt in HIV responses across the region.
The Forum was hosted by the Government of Brazil, in collaboration with the Horizontal Technical Cooperation Group: PAHO, UNAIDS, UNDP, UNESCO, UNICEF, and civil society regional networks; and more than 4,000 delegates — including Government officials, health experts, community leaders, scientists, indigenous populations, youth, and people living with HIV -- attended.
Participants engaged on a range of issues, from AIDS financing and new HIV prevention technologies to strategies for closing treatment access gaps.
According to Violeta Ross, Co-founder and Chair of the Bolivian Network of People with HIV and AIDS, AIDS is no longer seen as a major problem, especially in Latin America, where high treatment coverage is recorded; but the data is misleading, because treatment is expensive.
Several countries still have enormous difficulties in ensuring access to treatment for everyone. The Ministry of Health of Brazil announced that it would expand its national AIDS treatment programme to include at least 35,000 more people. Brazil currently provides free antiretroviral treatment to 223,000 people living with HIV — a coverage of 69%, according to Government estimates.
Prior to this week’s announcement, Brazilians with a CD4 count of 350 cells per cubic millimetre of blood were eligible for antiretroviral treatment.
Under Brazil’s new policy, treatment eligibility will start at an earlier stage of HIV infection — at a CD4 count of 500 cells per cubic millimetre of blood.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, August 28, Brazil’s Health Minister, Alexandre Padilha, explained that this decision was based on recent studies that have shown improvement in the quality of life of people living with HIV, and a reduction of adverse effects in the immediate and long terms.
“Brazil’s AIDS programme sets an example not only for Latin America, but for the world,” said Dr Luiz Loures, Director of the UNAIDS Political and Public Affairs branch, and a participant in the opening ceremony of the forum.
He noted that Brazil’s decision to provide earlier treatment for people living with HIV may trigger a “snowball effect,” and influence health policies in other countries around the world.
Many other countries in Latin America have scaled up access to HIV treatment in recent years. According to the latest data from UNAIDS, an estimated 70% of people eligible for antiretroviral treatment in the region were receiving it at the end of 2011.
Wide access to treatment has helped reduce annual AIDS-related deaths from 63,000 a decade ago to 57,000 in 2011; but despite progress, key populations across the region -- particularly men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender people -- continue to be disproportionately impacted by the epidemic, and have limited access to HIV prevention and treatment services.
This message resonated throughout the forum in Sao Paulo.
An estimated half of all HIV infections in Latin America result from unprotected sex between men. According to national estimates, the reported HIV prevalence among transgender people in Argentina (34%) and Peru (20.8%) stands in sharp contrast to that of the general population: 0.4% and 0.23% in these two countries respectively.
Advocates at the forum emphasized the importance of community mobilization in accelerating HIV responses among vulnerable populations.
“Evidence-based strategies presented at the forum show that strengthening community work, including among sexual minorities, can transform national HIV responses,” said Simon Cazal, Executive Director of Somosgay, an organization that works to promote the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and inter-sex (LGBTI) people. “The LGBTI movement has set priorities, giving rise to stronger activism. We have shown that, with few resources, we can accomplish a lot if we are strategic and if we work alongside communities.”
Many delegates underscored the need to bridge the AIDS response with other social movements. "We have to evolve. We cannot just fight for more condoms and medicines,” said activist Enrique Chaves, Director of Advocacy for the non-profit organization AID for AIDS International. “We must acknowledge that the struggle for access to health and HIV services is also a matter of access to employment, housing and education. We have to connect our agenda with the broader agenda of development, the struggle for social justice,” he added.

Agriculture Ministry to consult experts on standard of locally produced poultry feed

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:44:56 +0000

THE Agriculture Ministry will tomorrow be holding a special meeting with a number of experts in the field of poultry rearing on one of the major constraints facing the poultry industry in Guyana, namely: The availability and affordability of quality feed stock.
According to a release from the Ministry, while both production and consumption of chicken have increased this year, the poultry industry has been confronted by serious challenges.
In recent weeks, there has been a rise in the prices of stock feed from the major producer in Guyana, and this increase has been introduced without notice to farmers or to the Agriculture Ministry.
“Poultry farmers have been complaining for some time now about the cost of stock feeds. But the major complaints from farmers, particularly small farmers, have been related to the quality of stock feeds.
“Farmers have been complaining that the stock feeds being purchased do not meet the quality standards, and do not support healthy growth of their poultry”, the press release stated.
The Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has been investigating the quality of stock feeds on the market, and carrying out studies to determine whether the farmers’ allegations have any merit.
The GLDA has also been conducting an exercise to determine the chemical and physical composition of the stock feed.
“We are extremely grateful for the cooperation from the Guyana Poultry Association. We, however, will urge all stakeholders to support the GLDA as we try to put in place mechanisms to strengthen the poultry industry”, the press release stated.
Not all stakeholders have been cooperative, according to the press release, and the full force of the law and regulations will be utilized to ensure cooperation.
The Ministry of Agriculture will work with the Bureau of Standards and the Ministry of Commerce, Tourism and Industry to finalize standards for stock feeds, the press release disclosed
It also stated that the Ministry will strengthen provisions to ensure certification of feed plants, and ensure quality of standards.

‘Bully’ charged with the murder of Kumar Singh

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:45:33 +0000

REPEATED offender, Robert Rollins, 38, called 'Bully' of Kingston, Corriverton appeared at the Whim Magistrate Court charged with the murder of Kumar Singh, whose autopsy report revealed that death was due to manual strangulation.
The defendant, who was released from prison a week prior to the alleged commissioning of the offence, having been charged with assault, was not required to plea when he appeared before Magistrate Krishendat Persaud.
He is expected to attend the Springlands Magistrate Court tomorrow when the Preliminary Inquiry will commence.
The 49-year-old Singh, a furniture maker who lived alone at Line Path, Coriverton, Corentyne, was discovered in an unconscious state shortly after 01:00hrs on Wednesday August 22, after a neighbour observed that three wooden paling staves from his fence were missing and that his front door was ajar.
On seeing this, the neighbour raised an alarm, thereby alerting fellow villagers, who, on entering Singh’s home, saw him lying motionless on the ground. He was rushed to the Skeldon Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
His sister, Devi Singh, told the Guyana Chronicle that her sibling began living alone two years ago after developing an ailment within the throat.
She also recounted that her brother, who was childless, had ceased operating his joinery shop, which is housed beneath his home, due to ill health.
He was cremated at the Number 66 Crematorium two Fridays ago.

In the Berbice Courts Carnal knowledge case… Investigating rank ordered to have all records in her possession

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:46:16 +0000

JUSTICE James Bovell Drakes has ordered investigating rank Corporal Rosanne Frank to have in her possession the Station Diary, along with the Occurrence Book, and any other literature which records the investigation of Steven Alert, who is indicted with carnal knowledge, when the trial continues on Tuesday.
The Judge made the order at the Berbice Assizes, after the accused denied that he had given the caution statement to the investigator on March 3, 2009. Instead, he said, it was given the previous day.
In her evidence in chief, Corporal Frank recalled that the man in the dock had opted to give a written statement, which he elected her to write at his dictation.
Alert is recorded as saying: “Officer, yesterday March 2, 2009 me and ‘Shorty’ was alone at home, and she made advances to me. She laid on the bed and pulled me upon her. I felt nice. I placed my penis into her vagina, and she started to cry and I stopped. She got up and went outside and reported to her Aunt Alexis, who in company with others came and quarreled and thereafter took me to the police station with ‘Shorty. ‘I am sorry for what happened.’
Cross-examined by the unrepresented accused, the witness said, she did not see him on March 2, 2009 and therefore could not say whether he was taken half-dressed to the Number 51 Police Station.
The accused suggested that what was written in the statement was not exactly what he had given, as there were additional words. However, the plain clothes officer rejected the suggestion and confessed that she wrote what was told to her.
In response to the jury, Corporal Frank said, that it was customary that statements can be taken days after the commissioning of a crime.
She posited that an evaluation was carried out to determine the literacy level of the accused, and that he had signed his statement.
Additionally, before the virtual complainant was taken to the hospital, the witness said she had asked where the accused was and was told that he was in the lock ups.
Responding to questions by the Judge, the accused who struggled to identify the underlined figures 2009-03-03, initially could not comprehend its meaning, but later stated it was a signature.
Corporal Frank, who was also addressed by the Judge, responded that she was the investigating rank, and would be surprised to learn that there was a confrontation between the accused and the complainant, as she was not at the station when the report was made.
Meanwhile, in her opening address, State Prosecutor Rhondel Weaver, said on March 2, 2009, the virtual complainant, then 14 years old, lived with her mother, brothers and sister at Number 35 Village, Corentyne, and Berbice.
The accused lived in the said community and had shared a common law relationship with a relative of the complainant.
On March 3, 2009, at about midday, the virtual complainant was doing home-work with her younger sibling when the latter was sent on an errand by the accused.
‘Alert, asked the complainant to get the pillow and sheet which was in one of their bedrooms, and as she was getting the items he followed her, placed his hand around her waist, threw her on the bed, raised her dress, pulled her underwear aside, pushed his penis into her vagina, and proceeded to have sexual intercourse with her for a few minutes.
The alleged victim was taken to the Number 51 Police Station, where a report was made, followed by a visit to the Skeldon Public Hospital where she was medically examined.
The State Counsel stated that the elements of the offence are that it was the accused who had sexual intercourse with the teenager, and that the complainant was under 15 years old.
She urged the jury to consider some key terms - in that this is an offence of carnal knowledge and not rape, and as such consent is irrelevant.
Additionally, the state’s case is that the complainant was 14 years, and under the law she is incapable of giving consent to sexual intercourse.
Similarly, Weaver noted that it was immaterial for the accused to know or not to know that the alleged victim was under 15 years when he had sexual intercourse with her on March 2, 2009.
Meanwhile, Alert has pleaded not guilty to the carnal knowledge indictment. Four witnesses are to testify during the trial. The case is continuing.

The income gap

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:47:00 +0000

ACCORDING to a recent World Bank Report, deep structural reforms are needed to close the income gap between the rich and the poor in Latin America and the Caribbean, which is regarded as one of the regions of the world with the greatest inequality. This income inequality, according to the Report, has worsened with the richest one-tenth of the population earning 48% of its total income while the poorest tenth earns a paltry 1.6%.
One consequence of this has been high levels of social and economic marginalization among an increasing number of the region’s population who are pushed further into the backwaters of human development. This inequality slows the pace of poverty reduction in the region and undermines the process of development itself, according to the Bank.
The income gap is much more pronounced in some countries in the Region such as Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and Venezuela . Race and ethnicity were identified as key factors in determining the opportunities and welfare available to people in the region. According to the Report, indigenous and Afro-descended people are at considerable disadvantage with respect to whites, with the latter earning the highest wages in the region. For example, the Report found men and women of African descent earn about 45% of their white counterparts even though there had been some improvements in Mexico and Brazil where the economy has become healthier.
One positive development has been the relative closing of the gender gap with girls and young women overtaking their male counterparts in the field of education.
To overcome the inequality that undermines their chances to get out of poverty, the Bank recommends that poor people must gain influence within political and social institutions, including educational, health and public service institutions.
In the United States of America, there has been rising concern over the skewed income distribution which has resulted in the marginalization of not only the poor but the middle-income group as well. A recent poll found that most Americans believe that the rich is not paying their fair share of taxes and that the tax burden is falling disproportionately on the low and middle-income earners. This is likely to be a major challenge for the Republican Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney who is seeking to unseat incumbent President Barack Obama in the November Presidential elections. So far the polls are indicating a tight race with President Obama enjoying a slight lead in the polls. His major problem is high unemployment rates and sluggish economic growth which is not showing signs of any recovery.
The issue of better income distribution and greater social justice is one that has been at the centre of the current PPP/C administration programmatic and policy interventions. This is manifested in the increasing share of the national budget in the social sectors, more particularly in education and health both of which are central to the physical and cultural advancement of the Guyanese people. This is particularly true for the hinterland and Amerindian communities which historically were marginalized by the colonial administration and subsequently by the PNC regime. The income gap between the coastland communities and hinterland communities has narrowed even though significant levels of income disparities still continue to persist.
Overall the rate of poverty in the country has been reduced significantly since the ascension to office of the PPP/C. This resulted largely from the several policy interventions by the PPP/C administration over the years. It is no exaggeration to say that the quality of life of the Guyanese people has improved continuously over the past years as reflected in the expansion of the entertainment and services industry. The number of Guyanese who are today the proud owners of their own homes and vehicles have increased dramatically, not to mention the increase in consumer spending. Today, the range of consumer items on display at stores and supermarkets compares favourably to those of the developed world, an indication of a growing prosperity and more sophisticated consumer taste.
No objective and unbiased individual can deny the fact that the quality of life today has improved markedly over the past decade or so. Of course, we all would like to see a bigger basket of goods and services from our incomes, but this can only be realized as the economic pie gets larger. Paying wages and salaries beyond the capacity of the economy would only fuel inflation and a deterioration of the purchasing power of the Guyana currency.

CH&PA hands over six new housing schemes to Bath/Woodley Park NDC --NDC to robustly oversee development of communities

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:47:41 +0000

THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), through the Ministry of Housing & Water, officially transferred management of the following housing schemes to the Bath/Woodley Park Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) at West Coast Berbice, Region Five, last Wednesday: Hope, Hope Phases One and Two, Experiment Phases One and Two, Waterloo Phases One and Two, Block ‘D’ Bath, and Waterloo.
These schemes contain 1,976 house lots, 75 percent of which has already been occupied.
Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Ganga Persaud, related that the handing over of these schemes to the NDC requires that the NDC assumes additional responsibilities.
These communities are now ratable, and the NDC will launch an evaluation programme, using existing ratable mechanisms, to assign a rate to properties in the short term.
The Government of Guyana, with support of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and in affiliation with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), will soon embark on a programme that will see approximately 120 persons being trained to assist the Local Government Ministry to accomplish objective reviews of properties, which will in turn update residents of the true ratable worth of their properties.
Minister Persaud also called on both the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to play a more robust role in overseeing development of the neighbourhoods.
He related that the NDC will need to ensure that the lawful surroundings are preserved, and that whatever is being assembled or constructed would remain within the laws administering construction of the buildings.
Minister Ali assured that this modification will see a stronger partnership between the CH&PA and the NDC. He noted that the Ministry of Housing is not going to be lax in its responsibility, but stands prepared to provide necessary assistance for further development of the communities.
Anticipating that management of these areas will pose some challenges, due mainly to the multi-use of land, the minister said, “A lot of persons are integrally involved in the agriculture sector, and, as such, it poses a lot of challenges to planners in ensuring that the rightful utilisation of land is adhered to.
“We have to balance how we continue to deliver to you a service that is efficient and reliable, whilst at the same time fulfilling all your expectations.”
The minister also clarified that were the levels of service the Ministry of Local Government and the NDC deliver to the people to be contingent on the rates and taxes being paid -- not only in this area, but also in many other NDCs as well -- the services would be of poor quality, because the rates and taxes being charged cannot meet the actual expenditure that is required to enlarge and sustain these communities.
Although focus is being placed on the advancement of new communities, there are several existing communities that require better infrastructure, and thus the Community Roads Improvement Project (CRIP) was implemented.
He mentioned that in the Bath/Woodley Park NDC alone, over $187M has been earmarked for expenditure under the CRIP, therefore, 14 of the 15 streets in this NDC were completed by the end of May. The last street is anticipated to be completed by the end of next week.
Ali noted that when new roads are being completed in any area, it attracts expansion in the development sector of that community.
He lauded development of the streets in the Bath/Woodley Park NDC as a good sign, and stated that the people of Guyana are looking at ways and means to improve their lives.
Minister Ali noted that these community investments are seen as dramatic changes just as the ventures such as the Amaila Falls Hydropower and the Marriot Hotel project are seen at the national level.
He said that uninhabited lots in the schemes would be repossessed, as the CH&PA worked very hard in making the lands fit for human habitation, such as sending up teams to remove squatters and unwanted vegetation.
He said that the past five years in Region Five have seen the Housing Ministry investing over $730 billion dollars in the housing sector, together with a household advancement and investment of over $251,000 per household, bringing benefits to over 11,830 people.
The minister said that the setting in Guyana, particularly relative to housing, has been altered considerably over the years. As such, in today’s society, many have forgotten what had obtained a few short years ago.
He said also that neighbourhoods in Region Five have not been left out of this transformation, as is evident with the development of well-structured societies, inclusive of the necessary communication and other essential services.

Nations University gearing for third intake of students --for 12-month AIB/MBA programme

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:52:57 +0000

LESS than one year after launching the 12-month Australian Institute of Business Masters Degree in Business Administration (AIB MBA),Nations University in Guyana is gearing up for its third intake of students to do the programme, which is due to come on stream in October.
Launched last year, the programme has since been recruiting every three to four months, said AIB’s Marketing Director, Mr. Joel Abraham, who, along with AIB’s International Support Manager, Mr. Bojan Mandic, arrived here last Sunday on a 2-day visit to conduct an inaugural information session with prospective students for the upcoming intake.
The highly interactive information forum was held on Monday evening at the University’s campus at New Market Street, South Cummingsburg; and the AIB officials departed Guyana last Tuesday, upbeat and very elated over the programme’s prospects.
Heartened at the response to the programme, Director of Nations University, Dr. Brian O’Toole, said it’s been a very impressive start, adding that there’s been a lot of interest here locally, with no major difficulties being experienced so far.
“We’re going now into our third batch. We have one batch that’s nearing completion with about 23 students; a second batch of 19, and we’re about halfway through the process for our third intake.”
The trio who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle last week is putting a lot of energy into promoting the programme. On the afternoon of the information session, at which Dr. O’Toole and the visiting duo met with prospective students, there were just ten places remaining, and the trio was optimistic that those places would be taken in a very short time. Each batch accommodates about 25 students.
Marketing Director, Joel Abrahim, on his third visit to Guyana promoting the MBA programme, remarked: “The response has been fantastic! The programme is expanding and we’re really excited to be here, because we believe in the market. We believe there’s a really great opportunity here.”
The visit also gave him and AIB’s International Support Manager, Mr. Bojan Mandic, the opportunity to meet and have discussions with faculty students as well, and the partners registered their commitment to addressing any issue that may arise.

Citing some of the benefits of the 12-month AIB MBA programme, Abraham highlighted:
* Students, on successful completion, get a degree which is internationally recognized and fully accredited, without leaving home, and it comes at a very affordable cost.
* It is both manageable and assessable for working adults here. The study hours are amazing: It’s very practically-oriented, so as to allow people to continue with their work even as they study. Students do not have to be in class room every day of the working week. The classes are conducted on designated Saturdays and Sundays of each month.
* At Nations University, students have access to a whole range of materials that are provided by Australia: up-to-date text, learning materials, sample exam papers, and access to online library.
Abraham said accreditation is based on the Australian Accreditation framework which is fully recognized. In addition, they are in the process of getting accreditation locally, through the National Accreditation Council (NAC) here.
Visiting with Joel and making his maiden trip to the Caribbean was AIB’s International Support Manager, Mr. Bojan Mandic, whose mission was to meet with the owners of the centre; see how the information sessions are run; and meet and dialogue with faculty students they have only been communicating with via phone book and e-mail. He, too, said he was very impressed with what he’d seen, adding: “Definitely it is an experience I can share with colleagues back in Australia.”
In Australia, Mandic runs the international support team, basically working closely with teaching centres to provide the academic and administrative support to the teams.
“Essentially, we dialogue, invite a lot of feedback on changes required (if any) to make relationships function better, and listen to suggestions for improvement.”
For him, providing the highest level of support and continually striving for that goal is of the essence. That achieved, he said, the experience of the teaching centres working with AIB as well as students would be much more enjoyable, effective and efficient.
“We don’t want to have a situation where students feel like they’re just left on the ledge. We want to hear your concerns and ensure we get back the responses to you as quickly as possible,” Mandic concluded.

Dakari Jordon completes entire PYARG programme

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:55:07 +0000

AFTER his February 19, 2004 misfortune outside the St. Gabriel’s Primary School in Georgetown, where a live power line from an exploding electrical transformer entangled him when he was just seven years old, Dakari Jordon lost his right arm, and suffered a memory loss and multiple burns on his body.
Nevertheless, this young man of steely determination and an iron will has successfully completed all three categories of the President Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG) programme.

What handicap?
Dakari Jordon was one of the thirty-one participants who concluded a successful Gold Expedition to the Kaieteur Falls last week. Although having a physical impairment, he matched his fellow participants in every activity of the programme in the expeditions he attended.
It was very interesting to watch him, after the first stop of the 2012 Gold Expedition at Mahdia Primary School, tucking his bath towel around his waist in going to have a bath. One could not help admiring this young lion who was bravely soldiering on despite his serious accident.
Asked by a 31 Special Forces Squadron rank of the GDF what had happened, he bravely explained; after which the rank asked, “Are you a Christian, Dakari?”
He answered in his usual soft and cultured voice, “Yes!”
I began to closely monitor his movements, and asked him a few questions about and apart from the expedition. He was firm and confident in all his answers.
Upon arriving at Pamela Landing, where movement and transportation were different from what had hitherto obtained, and travelling by boat down river, I keenly observed his actions and saw that he was not afraid of the challenges.
I asked him if he was afraid of the river, and he promptly replied in the negative, saying that he could swim, but not for long distances and periods.
The expedition travelled to Amatuk Falls by boat, and in observing him, I soon realised that he was just like, and in some cases better than, the other youngsters. Also, he was excited to achieve the objectives of the expedition and award.
As we reached Amatuk Falls and disembarked, the boat preparatory to cooking a hot meal and having a bath where we were spending the night,
this young man was involved in every activity of his group: preparing the hot meal and setting up the tents for sleeping over night.

A different challenge
I witnessed his first challenge when two participants tried to bully him by taking away the garbage bag he used as a protection for his clothes in his backpack. He physically and verbally defended himself, causing the bullies to abandon their enterprise as ranks of the 31 Special Forces watched and laughed.
He assisted in lifting the boats through the islands as we passed Amatuk and Waratuk falls; and he was in the first group to arrive at the top of the falls, and among the first to descend from the falls.

Experiences
During this interview, Dakari spoke of the award experiences, noting that it was rewarding to travel and explore the country, seeing places he had never heard of, and being able to contribute in some areas of community activity during the three years of his involvement.
He spoke of the physical activities in which he was able to learn a skill – swimming -- which he could do today with one arm; and he spoke of plans to improve this with practice.
We spoke about his present academic situation, and his challenges in deciding what field he wanted to enter as a career in the world of work.
Dakari smilingly replying that he wanted to be everything. He said that he attended three secondary schools before moving to the private school he presently attends, where he is preparing to write the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) examinations, and will decide in a matter of days how many subjects he would write.
Dakari told me that he presently reads for 10 subjects, but the school he attends does 15 subjects at the examination level, and he wants to sit all the subjects the school is offering at the CSEC examinations.
Speaking about his mishap, Dakari told me that his family had sued the Guyana Power & Light (GPL); and with legal representation from Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes, they were given a compensation of G$17M, which Dakari cannot access until he reaches the age of 18 years. He currently receives subsistence of $80,000 to assist in providing academic fees and other support.
He explained that he also receives assistance in school books and other academic funds from Dr. Colin Watson, whom he indicated has been one of his main mentors.
Dakari will receive his Gold award from the PYARG in the month of October, and after his examinations, will be looking to rejoin the award as a prospecting unit leader. He has vowed never to forget the experiences this prestigious programme has afforded him.

Local cell-phone business directory passes pre-selection process --now recognized worldwide

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 07:02:10 +0000

BEING one of the apps to make it through the national pre-selection process of the World Summit Award (WSA) mobile selection process, Guyana’s Mobile Directory, www.oi.gy settled the race in the category ‘Mobile Business & Commerce’, and may soon rock the international stage.
What is Oi.gy?
Oi.gy is the first business directory service in Guyana designed specifically with mobile phone users in mind.
It is a web-based directory service that offers a mobile optimized website for users who access the service from their mobile phone, and it has a regular desktop version website for visitors using a computer.
Oi.gy also provides other useful information services to the consumer, which include Guyana’s airport flight schedules, key bridge opening/closing schedules, news headlines, events guides, and free end-user-contributed classified advertisements.
Access to all content is free of cost and unrestricted to end-users; however, businesses and organizations are charged a fee to have their telephone and other information listed.
The concept for the oi.gy directory service was formulated by Mr. Ajay Baksh of Perception Public Relations; and development of the website, database and other technical requirements for the directory service was done by David Goolsarran.
Oi.gy is headquartered at the office of Renaissance Marketing Agency at 219, Yubani Avenue, Eccles, EBD, and can be contacted on 592-233-2151 or 592-621-0812.

What is the World Summit Award?
This month (September), an international (panel) ‘jury’ of renowned IT experts and industry leaders will evaluate the nominated products under the auspices of the World Summit Award (WSA). ‘Jurors’ come from all continents, and have backgrounds in the following creative industries: Telecommunication, advertising, journalism and research, as well as in teaching. The ‘jurors’ also include representatives of international organisations in the ICT-for-development field.
Peter A. Bruck, Chairman of World Summit Award (WSA), states that, consequently, it is not a product’s commercial success that matters most for the ‘jury’ (panel). The ‘Grand Jury’ will judge the value of the content, as well as the product’s design and its technical realisation.
In addition, each nominee’s contribution to bridging the digital divide will play a central role in the jury’s consideration.
The goal of the WSA mobile selection process is to find out: a)what works in different markets and in different parts of the world; and b)what really makes a difference for the people in remote villages and global mega-cities.
The WSA desires to show decision makers what can be done to foster mobile (cell phone) communication’s potential to create a true information society.
For Guyana’s producers, the WSA mobile selection process is a chance to raise global awareness of their products, and to access the international arena.
Those projects that will feature most positively in the Jury’s decision will be invited to the WSA mobile selection process Winner’s Events, to be staged from February 3rd to 5th, 2013 in Abu Dhabi, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates.
The event will host an exhibition that offers a platform for the awardees to present their services and projects to potential partners and investors.
Additionally, the event will include a conference attended by renowned experts, opinion leaders and government representatives, placing Abu Dhabi in the hot spot of the mobile world.
Organised by International Center for New Media (ICNM) in Salzburg, Austria, the World Summit Award mobile selection is a global initiative within the framework of the United Nations World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).
The award takes place on a biannual basis, in collaboration with UNESCO, UNIDO, UNGAID and WSA-mobile’s key partner -- Abu Dhabi Systems & Information Centre.

Energy and Education

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 07:38:30 +0000

AT THE United Nations Millennium Summit in September 2000, world leaders placed development at the heart of the global agenda by adopting the Millen¬nium Declaration from which the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were later extracted. The MDGs are solid objectives that aim at reducing extreme poverty throughout the world by tackling income poverty, hunger, disease, exclusion, and lack of infrastructure and shel¬ter, while promoting gender equality, education, health, and environmental sustainability.
There are eight MDGs and the second goal is to “Achieve universal primary education”. The target is to ensure that by 2015 all boys and girls complete a full course of primary schooling.
One of the major factors in meeting this goal is access to a reliable supply of energy. Energy services play a significant role in both social and economic development. Energy strengthens economic activity, enhances productivity, and provides access to markets for trading purposes. It enables fulfilment of the basic human needs of nutrition, warmth, and lighting, in addition to education and health. Therefore, ensuring energy access to all is important in achieving the MDGs.
However, current energy systems are failing to meet the needs of the world’s poor. Worldwide, 2.6 billion people rely on traditional biomass, e.g., charcoal, animal dung, for cooking and 1.6 billion people – about a quarter of the human race - do not have access to electricity. In light of this, the United Nations has designated 2012 the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All, recognising the need for all persons, rich or poor, young or old, to have access to a regular supply of electricity. The United Nations also recognises that without sustainable energy, we cannot meet the MDGs.
A feature of modern education which enables students to be competitive is the use of teaching aids to complement teachers’ normal instructive skills. Sometimes operating these aids require high-quality electricity. Students who lack exposure to these aids and skills struggle in the modern world. Additionally, these students will not have access to modern knowledge and techniques such as those relating to computing, which is very important in this technological age and for which electricity is necessary.
In poor homes that have no access to electricity, children spend a significant portion of their time doing household chores: collecting firewood, fetching water, or in other physical work, resulting in them having less time for schoolwork. Most importantly, they do not have lights to study at night. This means that they will be unable to do homework and assignments or review their lessons sufficiently. Therefore, a few hours of electricity to students can result in major improvements in their performance (UN 2005).
Furthermore, indoor air pollution from low-quality, solid cooking fuels (wood, charcoal, dung) imposes a major health burden on those who spend their days close to the cooking area, responsible for more than 1.5 million deaths per year. The solutions are available, and often cost little: it takes only a small amount of energy to pump water for cooking and agriculture and to provide improved fuels. This provides females especially with more time to develop themselves.
Another important element to the provision of efficient education ser¬vices is the availability of qualified teachers. One of the most often cited fac¬tors affecting teachers’ retention in rural areas is the lack of access to modern energy services, in particular lighting and power that enable a minimum qual¬ity of life and connectivity. Energy and ICT in schools can also enable access to educational materials, distance learning, and continuing education for teachers.
To summarise, energy plays an important role in providing education through the following:

•    Lighting allows children to study at night.
•    Energy services reduce time spent by school-going children on basic survival activities, such as fetching water and firewood.
•    Electricity enables the use of educational media, computers, and Internet access at schools.
•    Energy access can help rural schools to attract teachers.
•    Improved cooking facilities free up time spent collecting wood, for education.
Activity
Unscramble the following words found in the article, then use the circled letters to find out one important way in which energy can be used in the world today.

udng       ________________
eriwdfoo ________________
tnireent ________________
tuoindcea ________________
eryeng     ________________
hoctolygne ________________
ctopuerm ________________
colrcaha ________________
etlryiticec ________________

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com.

Surge of patriotism for Guyana

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 07:55:31 +0000

Focus on CARICOM and OAS in Guyana’s ‘Linden crisis’ --probe team takes oath on Wednesday

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 07:55:59 +0000

Time to make Burrowes a Government Minister

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 08:39:12 +0000

I WOULD like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Keith Burrowes on his appointment as Presidential Advisor on Financial Matters. In making the announcement, Dr. Roger Luncheon, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, described Mr. Burrowes as “a man of many talents”, and I would like to add a true patriot and highly competent in all the different hats he wears. This extraordinary individual will be a valuable addition to the team advising the President.
I have followed his work and writings over the years and would describe most of it as brilliant, innovative and practical. It is hoped that Mr. Burrowes could persuade the President to implement some of the ideas he has been writing about; it would be disappointing if he does not.

While this is not a lobbying position, I believe that the Government may want to consider appointing him as a Minister.

It has been brought to my attention that his board fees from the several institutions on which he sits go back to the staff. While this new appointment is not a salaried position and it is an honorable thing to donate his board fees to staff welfare within the organization, I believe he should consider donating the money to an established charity or trust fund to contribute and support the causes and ideals in which he believes.

Use Linden track meet proceeds for AAG website

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 08:39:48 +0000

AS we are currently in the designated Month of Education, and after some careful thought, I decided to find the time to pen an idea that came to mind… It's all out of goodwill.

The following is an avenue I believe the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) should consider for educating the entire globe about its life… Last time I checked, I couldn't locate a web page. The following are only a few important areas; other areas can be covered by others.

1. A website needs to be put in place with the AAG's Mission Statement and objective.

2. All registered track clubs from all regions should be featured, along with their athletes.

3. Events should be covered with still photographs and possible videos, so that sponsors/sports enthusiasts can have an idea of a particular day’s event(s).

4. There should be a gallery of images of past athletes.

I believe there are associated with the AAG more than enough sports journalists with the resources available who could very well manage this task towards the development of Track and Field.

Why not let the organisers of the Jeffords/President Linden Track Meet be the first to make a monetary contribution towards this very important project?
There is indeed a cost factor attached to the above mentioned project; and from three years hosting the Linden meet, which generated income/proceeds, there has to be some money available, because I don't believe there was ever any mention of 'funding' in place for sports development of Linden by the organisers.

If one exists, I would excuse the Linden Meet organisers and pledge a donation towards the creation of a website for the AAG via a fund.

That is the least I can do, and I would also like to educate the AAG that I have included the Track Sport in the past with my photography education project of Guyana to the globe.

Isaac's remnants bring rain to drought-hit Midwest

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 09:40:39 +0000

(REUTERS) - The remnants of Hurricane Isaac brought rain to drought-stricken parts of the lower U.S. Midwest yesterday after the storm killed at least 30 people on its trek across the Caribbean and Louisiana and Mississippi, authorities said.
Rainfall totals of no more than 3 inches were expected through the lower Ohio River Valley by Saturday night after Isaac lost much of its punch while passing over Missouri.
Top sustained winds had dropped to 20 miles per hour and flash flood threats were diminishing, the National Weather Service said.
Flood warnings were still in effect for the Kansas City, Missouri, area as well as south-central Illinois, but Dan Petersen, a forecaster at the National Weather Services' Hydrometeorological Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland, said flooding was not expected to pose much of a problem.
"The rain is going to be occurring in areas that are parched and have greater capacity for accepting rainfall," Petersen said.
At least five deaths in Louisiana and two in neighboring Mississippi were blamed on Isaac and residents of the two states still suffered from power outages and widespread flooding on Saturday, authorities aid.
President Barack Obama, who declared a disaster in Mississippi and Louisiana on Wednesday, is scheduled to visit the region tomorrow.
Isaac was the first hurricane to strike the United States this year and it hit New Orleans almost exactly seven years after Hurricane Katrina devastated the city, causing an estimated 1,800 deaths.
More than 500,000 homes and businesses remained without electricity across Louisiana yesterday, leaving them without air conditioning under sweltering temperatures, local government officials said.
In other lingering effects from the storm, U.S. regulators said 93 percent of daily oil production and 65 percent of national gas output in the U.S.-regulated part of the Gulf of Mexico remained shut yesterday due to Isaac.
Producers returned only a small amount of crude oil production by yesterday, while the return of natural gas production was also proceeding solely, according to U.S. regulators. Many producers said they continued restaffing offshore platforms and production was expected to ramp up quickly in the coming days.

TEST OF FLOOD PROTECTIONS
Isaac lingered over New Orleans for the better part of two days, providing a first, successful test of the city's $14.5 billion flood-control system assembled after Katrina. Areas outside those flood protections fared worse.
At least one levee was overtopped southwest of New Orleans, leaving some homes under 12 feet of water. New Orleans was struck by 20 inches of rain, and many other locations in Louisiana and Mississippi logged more than 10 inches of rain.
Isaac was expected to be a mixed blessing for the drought-parched Midwest farm belt, since experts said its rains came too late for this season's crop of corn and most soybeans.
The worst drought in nearly half a century remains deeply entrenched across nearly two-thirds of the United States.
Isaac's rains could help speed up pasture recovery, however, and get the U.S. winter wheat crop off to a good start.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is to release estimates on Tuesday of Isaac's damage to cotton and rice crops in the Mississippi Delta and lower Mississippi Valley region.
Isaac killed 23 people in its passage over Hispaniola, the Caribbean island shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti, before barreling into the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.
On the heels of Isaac, Tropical Storm Leslie churned over the open Atlantic Ocean on Saturday, hundreds of miles east-northeast of the Caribbean's Leeward Islands.
Leslie had top sustained winds of 70 mph. But U.S. forecasters said it posed no immediate threat to land and was not expected to become a hurricane before veering away from the Caribbean and heading farther out to sea in s north-northeast direction on Tuesday.

‘Pepe’ perishes in Breda Street fire --at least two left homeless

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 09:41:09 +0000

ANTHONY Brummel, called ‘Pepe’, of 79 Breda Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, was yesterday burnt to death when a fire razed the small wooden cottage in which he resided, trapping him in the midst.
An inconsolable Kamrool Azeez, Brummel’s reputed wife, told this newspaper that at the time of the incident, she was washing wares outside of the house, and Brummel was inside cooking on an old kerosene stove, which was apparently the origin of the fire.
She revealed that, mere minutes before tragedy struck, she had told Brummel not to cook because she had intended to purchase food, but he insisted on cooking.
Azeez said she looked up from her washing and saw the house afire, but the horrendous sight of her house in that state, coupled with the fact that ‘Pepe’ had been trapped inside, left her speechless. Azeez currently has no idea where she would now reside, as she has no relatives and is not acquainted with Pepe’s relatives.
Syra Rahamat, a neighbour, said she was at home sewing when the smell of smoke assailed her nostrils; and when she approached the engulfed house, she saw Azeez fetching water in a pot, attempting to extinguish the fire.
Rahamat described the late Brummel as a very nice person, who very willingly did odd jobs in the community. According to her, before tenders of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) arrived, community residents rushed with buckets and tubs to dip water out of nearby trenches in efforts to extinguish the fire.
Rahamat praised the GFS for diligent work in preventing the fire from spreading. However, she said the GFS did not manage to save anything from the house.
She said the house was divided into two apartments, with Azeez and Brummel residing in one apartment, and the visually impaired Winston Goodridge occupying the other.
Fortunately or unfortunately, Goodridge was not at home at the time of the fire. Nevertheless, he spoke to this publication upon his arrival on scene, saying that he was at a shop in the same street when he was informed that his house was on fire. He noted that persons had unsuccessfully attempted to save some of his belongings, and that all he now has are the clothes on his back.
Goodridge was unsure as to where he would now stay, since most of his family members reside overseas. He disclosed that he is a pensioner, and is due to migrate sometime next year.
The house adjacent to the Brummel house in the same yard was scorched, while the windows of a house in an adjoining yard were shattered by the fire.

At Amerindian Heritage Month launch… President pledges to help preserve Amerindian way of life --event opens with usual pomp, ceremony

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 09:41:30 +0000

THE Amerindian Heritage Village at Sophia, Georgetown, yesterday afternoon was the venue for the traditional launching ceremony commencing activities celebrating Amerindian Heritage Month 2012.
Under the theme, “Embracing our Identity, Celebrating our Culture”, a very significant crowd, which included President Donald Ramotar; Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai and staff members of that ministry; ministers of the government; members of Parliament; members of the Diplomatic Corps; the Executive and members of the National Toshaos Council; the visiting Miss Canada; special invitees and members of the media, witnessed the opening ceremony; which
began with arrival of his Excellency, President Donald Ramotar, and the traditional Guard of Honour drawn from indigenous ranks of the Guyana Defence Force.
His Excellency entered the venue to the accompaniment of a rich cultural indigenous presentation heralding the month of events and celebration.
In his presentation, he expressed government’s support in the preservation of the indigenous people’s culture and languages. He noted that development was evident in a number of social and economic areas across Guyana, and that a number of services are being made available to Amerindian communities.
He made mention of water, roads, air links and airstrips,and electricity in solar-powered units to Amerindian communities.
He indicated that with the help of the Amerindian Development Fund, a number of agricultural projects have been submitted, and these signal growth and sustainability in development and in feeding the people of Guyana.
He commended the Amerindian Ministry for collaborating to bring off such a massive hosting of Amerindian Heritage Month, and wished all the indigenous peoples long life and prosperity.
Earlier in the ceremony, Community Development Officers of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, Mr. Anil Roberts and Ms. Leslyn Lowe, started the afternoon’s proceedings rolling with the former welcoming everyone in a particular indigenous language.
The first item of the agenda was performed by Mr. Allen Alfred from the Hallelujah Group praying for the leaders and people of Guyana
in another indigenous language. Chairman of the National Toshaos Council, Mr. Derrick John,then delivered remarks to the gathering on behalf of the members and executives of that body.
John, who welcomed all to what he described as a grand occasion, noted the significance of observing Amerindian Heritage Month under the theme “Embracing our Identity, Celebrating our Culture”. He indicated that Guyana is a multi-cultural society, which makes it a unique country, and that Guyanese share a vast, rich cultural heritage.
John noted that Amerindians today play a significant role in development of Guyana, “and when we talk about our identity, we don’t only talk about our physical features; we talk about spiritual identity, and our cultural identity, and all that make up our indigenous people of Guyana.”
John opined that Amerindians today are a proud people, and reiterated, “We are proud of who we are!” He mentioned his experience in Georgetown a few days ago when a fellow called out to him, ‘Hey buck man’. He said he felt proud to know who he was, and in being identified as a ‘buck man’.
He said that persons who had known ‘buck men’ 15 or 20 years ago see them today as different persons.
He made mention of his proud people, who have made many diverse and significant contributions to this country, and he identified a few of those contributions.
Making mention of the National Toshaos Council meeting with the President of Guyana, he mentioned that His Excellency, President Donald Ramotar, was from an Amerindian village, and noted that that was great.
He went on to identify the Minister of Amerindian Affairs and the Minister of Foreign Affairs as Amerindian women, and said there are a number of other Amerindian persons who sit in Parliament to make decisions on behalf of the people of Guyana.
He spoke of the unique Amerindian culture, which he described as “a rainbow in the Guyanese culture” as he announced commencement of a packed month of activities.
Touching on the vast forests that the Amerindians call home, John noted that they have been playing a significant role in promoting Guyana’s low- carbon development strategy; and as such, he was proud of that, because “we have been good managers of the forest, and the world has seen and has compensated us, the Amerindian people, for this.”
John concluded his remarks by inviting all to the hinterland to witness the beauty of Guyana, as Amerindian Heritage Month would be celebrated at Micobie village, Mahdia, a Region 8 sub-district.
He respectfully opined that the presence of all at the launching ceremony of Amerindian Heritage Month 2012 showed that they respected the Amerindians as a proud people living together under the national motto “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”.
The ceremony saw a dance item from the Surama Dance Group, hailing from the Deep South Rupununi, and the Kranderawu Culture Group of Region 9. Those items were followed by greetings from the Heritage Village, which was presented by Campbelltown Toshao Ms. Marbell Thomas on behalf of Micobie village Toshao Ms. Julie Johnson.
Toshao Thomas welcomed all present, and apologised for the absence of her fellow Toshao Johnson, whose absence from the launching ceremony was occasioned by unforeseen circumstances.
Toshao Thomas indicated how proud her colleague was to host this year’s Heritage Celebrations.
She invited all to visit the Heritage Village next Saturday, when activities would be in full gear.
The Katowai Group of Sand Creek took the stage next with a cultural dance item, and made way for Mr. Ashton Simon, who made a presentation on behalf of the National Amerindian Development Foundation in first extending best wishes to all Guyanese, especially the indigenous peoples of Guyana in the 2012 Heritage Month. He noted that it has been one year since the last heritage celebrations, and said he was proud of the inputs of the indigenous peoples into making the celebrations a reality.
“This year’s theme, ‘Embracing our identity, celebrating our Culture’, is fitting for the many challenges we have to confront, particularly in areas of our economic, social and environmental sectors,” Simon said.
He indicated that the ancestors of the indigenous peoples should be remembered for their steadfastness in showing that indigenous peoples can learn to be steadfast, to watch and continually improve their existence. He extended joyful greetings on behalf of his organization to the elected leaders and leaders of the National Toshao Council, and noted that all must be reminded that their vision is what will ultimately direct their decisions for development, where their people will enjoy a better tomorrow.
He begged the gathering not to forget the indigenous heroes and those who have passed away to the Great Beyond, since they have made significant contributions to the development of our country. He mentioned Stephen Campbell and Desire Caesar-Fox.
Special thanks were extended to President Donald Ramotar, and former President Dr. Bharat Jadgeo as well as Minister Sukhai, as he thanked a number of other organizations and foreign ministries for assisting the Amerindian people.
The performance from a cultural group from the Deep South Rupununi caught the audience with their rich cultural music and dance. It was one of the best performances of the evening, before welcoming the Honorable Minister Sukhai to deliver her address.
Minister Sukhai welcomed all to the launching ceremony, as she indicated that Amerindian Heritage Month is a much-anticipated activity today, “in which we are celebrating under the theme Embracing our identity, Celebrating our Culture”.
She noted that this year’s theme sends a great message as it signalled the need to recognise oneself, to remember who we are, and that “we must make mention of our achievements as the indigenous people must always be proud”.
She noted that we all lived in a proud country where our economic advances have been strengthened, resulting in greater livelihood opportunities for development.
Noting the PPP/C government has never used remoteness as an excuse in addressing the issues of Amerindian people, and continues a developmental agenda which seeks to accommodate economic progress, she said
the general consensus is that there exist challenges and gaps, which is a fact, but those are being addressed by the government.
With development on board, the Amerindian people will experience greater intervention, which would challenge and transform the way of life for all, and improve the lifestyles and greater demand for all.
She indicated that Amerindians should never neglect their lifestyle as indigenous peoples, and compromise their rich culture, but should always promote same.
Special gifts by Amerindian scholar and the reigning Heritage Queen were presented to Minister Sukhai and President Ramotar respectively, as the ceremony came to a close with a cultural dance performance, which was the best of the evening.

Economic growth pegged at 2.8% at mid-year --testimony to country’s resilience in face of adversity

Admin2 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 09:41:51 +0000

SIGNS that Guyana’s economy might be on a roll for a sixth consecutive year were confirmed yesterday when Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh declared that growth, as at mid-year, had reached the 2.8 per cent mark.
Noting that this sort of performance was self-evident of the country’s resilience in the face of economic and other global challenges, Dr Singh said a comprehensive assessment of its economy over the course of the first half of the year has demonstrated that the trend of positive real economic growth had in no way slowed.
“This growth reflects continued progress on the diversification of the productive sector, where we have now arrived at a point where we are no longer as we were 10 years ago: entirely dependent on one, two or three dominant sectors,” he told media operatives during a press conference called late yesterday at the National Communications Network (NCN) on Homestretch Avenue to review the findings of the Mid-Year financial report for 2012.
He credited the significant strides made in diversifying the economy with being largely responsible for the realisation of the 2.8% growth, despite the contraction of a key production sector of the sugar industry.
“Given the significance of sugar and the volatility of sugar production in recent years,” he said, “we have been computing a non-sugar GDP and, if you excluded sugar for the purposes of computing this non-sugar GDP…this non sugar GDP actually grew by 6.2% in the first half of the year.”
Consistent with the real growth of 2.8%, the minister said, is the growth of total export earnings by 9.2% to US$592.1M.
Another sector that significantly contributed to the economy’s growth was gold, production of which grew by 13.2% to 184,929 ounces, with export earnings amounting to US$268M, which latter figure the Finance Minister says represents a 16.8% increase over the corresponding period last year.
“This is supported by continued strong economic prices, but in addition supported by a favourable and attractively strong policy environment, that promotes and encourages investment in the sector, and one that has seen continued investment in productive capacity in the gold industry,” Dr Singh explained.
Another sector that also grew significantly over the period was that of bauxite by some 41.9%, with export earnings amounting to US$79.4M, which represent an increase of 21.8%. Not to be left out was the rice sector, production of which expanded by 1.4% to 210,395 tonnes, with export earnings amounting to US$84.6M.
“This, of course, is an extremely positive [and] encouraging development. We have worked hard to attract overseas investment in the bauxite sector…We now have BOSAI and RUSAL as international investors, who we were able to attract in Guyana, because of the work that we have done to make Guyana a place where international investors would want to come and do business,” Minister Singh said.
Speaking directly to the performance of the bauxite sector, Minister Singh asserted that normalcy continues to play an important role in bauxite operations at Linden, hence the extreme importance for Linden to continue to be a place where investors want to do business, as there are good natural resources and talented people in that location.
The Finance Minister also indicated that the fisheries industry expanded by 13.8%; interest rates trended downwards and inflation remained within acceptable norms at 1.8%. Private sector credit expanded by 8% to $145.3B and Foreign Direct Investments amounted to US$167.2M in the first half of 2012.
Minister Singh called for all national stakeholders to pledge their energies, and work together to maintain/sustain the favourable policy environment that has obtained thus far in the country, which welcomes international investments.
He indicated that although progress has been made, traditional sectors remain important as such a natural interest for the continued profitability to remain, which means that in spite of the challenges, lasting commitments are being sought as there is a need for not only the Skeldon sugar factory, but also the sugar sector to achieve its desired production.
The Finance Minister noted that in light of the performance of the economy, citizens have access to finances with low (4%) interest rates on mortgages.
“We’ve done a lot of work with NBS (New Building Society) …One can now borrow at an interest rate of 4.25% per annum…Every day I see young people who are able to say that ‘I went to the bank; got a low-income home loan; and have completed my home.’ That is progress in the right direction!” Minister Singh said.
He indicated that economic growth must not and cannot wait on one particular project.
“Were the Amaila or any other source of power supply become available today, rapid and accelerated growth will be seen in the economy,” Minister Singh asserted.
Budget 2012 was taken to Parliament in March of this year under the theme “remaining on course, united in purpose, prosperity for all”. In the budget speech, Minister Singh had stated that this year’s budget came at a time when the country’s economy was at an exciting juncture in the history of its evolution, as the foundation was laid for resilience and robustness with demonstrated stability and uninterrupted, positive growth since 2006.

He Destroyed Himself

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 03:55:48 +0000

I gently spoke to him, of evil and good,
Of love and hate
But he thought it wise not to listen
And I could not blame him
For the sweetness of evil
Triumphs over the bitterness of good

I spoke to him of the temporal
But he would not listen
I spoke to him of the eternal
But he would not listen
And when he walked away into the mist
I knew he was lost to himself.

I whipped myself for playing the counsellor
For within me I too harboured a hurt
That not even the divine can heal
Wait for me, I shouted
And I joined him in his hate
I the better of the two.

Good start towards preparing for 2016 Olympics

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 03:56:24 +0000

PERHAPS the motto "United we stand, United we grow" as the conclusion of the strategies discussed at the just concluded Sports Development Forum towards Rio Olympic Games 2016 might have been a more positive ending. The one reason I am not a fan of the motto "United we stand, Divided we fall" is that it is much more of a difficult task to rise than from falling in Guyana.
Anyhow, great start of the initial process of a forum chaired by the Ministry of Sport's rep. Mr. Neil Kumar and attended by representatives of The AAG, GASA and GABA.

However, at the next forum, invitations should be extended to the following groups because they are key members towards sports development in Guyana...Representatives from the Ministry of Education; Ministry of Amerindian Affairs; The Private Sector;the Guyana Olympic Association; and perhaps someone from the private Chartered Auditing Body of Guyana.

For starters, it is my opinion that the forum was the birth towards the development of sports (RIO) and in all fairness, one has to allow it to be nurtured and executed in a structured and timely manner. During the process, it is my expectation that all responsible officials involved along with stakeholders will showcase professionalism along with transparency and accountability during and after the completion of the venture.

Having said that, it's time for me to begin my preparation of my photography project in covering the 2012 National School Championships for my Tourism contribution and I am rooting for the National Stadium to once again be the host venue.

More should gather courage to speak out against misinformation

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:02:54 +0000

RECENTLY, Mr. David Stoby rejected charges that the synthetic track was located in Leonora for some racial reason. He give in detail what sites in Georgetown were considered but not available and why Leonora became the ultimate site. This and other statements rejecting similar charges against some government projects and programmes tend to be ignored by accusers and their supporters.
I have often wondered why so many people who are not PPP party members or not of Indian descent do not speak out and even challenge some of the misinformation that is fed to so many for political purposes. These charges are meant to foster the idea that government does nothing for them and simply seeks to marginalise them for the benefit These ideas tend to destabilise a nation.

Irrespective of some questionable instances such as the failure to appoint more non-Indian ambassadors, there is strong evidence to show that there are a great many non-Indians in positions of some power. Surely, these persons are not all sellouts, who would disobey the laws and their consciences by discriminating against any race because of fear of losing a job. It should be pointed out that in the USA, when a party comes to power, the other party- appointed government officials are replaced by the new party members. In Guyana the primary race of a party's supporters will very likely end up as the most appointed. This raises the question: should an Afro-Guyanese or others remain silent because they fear if they were to speak out against unsubstantiated charges they will be subjected to criticism and suspicion? Hopefully, more people will have the courage to speak out against all forms of misinformation or biased action whether coming from the government or a party or individuals. These would be the real patriots by their action of doing and saying what is right as often and as publicly as possible. They may be our last hope for real change and for one Guyana.

We must face reality

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:03:20 +0000

I WAS just about to write on the Linden fiasco, having witnessed it first-hand on my recent visit home, when I happened to stumble on an unfinished article of mine. The subject of that article is of such great importance that I have decided to settle this issue first before going on a detailed roundup of Linden. A few months ago the opposition cabal led by political activists Freddie Kissoon and Mark Benschop held a protest vigil outside the office of the Guyana Chronicle newspapers showing their outrage at the contents of an editorial which they deemed racist. Part of the protest action included a few bonfires fuelled by some copies of the Chronicle newspaper itself, all actions which awakened jocular interest. I read the article in question and found it to be a well written piece of factual information which highlighted what we all as right-thinking Guyanese know. The editorial just reiterates what all of us are acquainted with. But, for the base mentality of some who are afraid to face up to the reality of its contents, that article was considered offensive. My only concern is, more strength and validity could have been given to that story if the following clause could have been included (but for a few misguided individuals) when making reference to Black Youth because the entire race is callously branded as thugs and criminals when any writer fails to make that distinction.
However, I am heartened by the fact that the vast majority of us are not like the thieves and thugs , but are peace-loving and law-abiding, not forgetting the majority of us that are ambitious, hard-working Black men and women. So I am in no way taken aback by the miniscule few Black misfits.
Those who form the majority grouping are proud that we can make a positive mark in society, which, sadly, some of these low lives fail to emulate. But for the actions of a few gullible souls, this shameful label is attached to the Black race. Truly, I find no fault with the article and quite frankly more of this stuff needs to be published so that sanity, decency and most of all dignity can return to certain sections of the Guyanese community.
Hiding our heads in the sand as the protesting group is suggesting, will not help this pathetic and disgraceful situation either, in fact, this only makes it worse. Making lame excuses for these fools only pamper them into a false sense of security; instead of helping they are hurting the cause of the Black Man. I am on record saying if the Black man cannot sit down and constructively criticise himself then, we are doomed as a people. We are doomed as a race.
All across the world we hear the same sad story of a people who are perpetuating that "thuggish mentality"; something that has caused us to become the banal repulsion of others. In North America, Europe even Africa where most of us reside, the remarks smack of repugnance for the race. Why? Why the contempt? It is not without reason that this seems to be the case because certain elements have given them the ammunition to say such things. The attitude of a few who believe that "everyone owes them something" has earned us the title of a people whose destiny is bound up in failure.
One is again forced to ask the question, why? In Guyana the Chinese and the Brazilians are amongst us, most of them are dirt-poor people; they can make a comfortable living right here but the Black Man cannot? The other races can but Black people cannot?
Lest I forget, they blame it on slavery; the Black man has suffered over 400 years of abuse so let’s blame it on the system? Then as a consequence we should possibly take another 400 years to get our act together? It seems logical to me. Let me educate those who pamper the race with foolish talk with the lyrics of Reggae Legend Bob Marley to "emancipate yourself from mental slavery none but ourselves can free our minds." Slavery ended more than 174 years ago and it is high time the Black man emancipates his mind from that slave mentality. In fact, the massive strides the freed men made immediately after slavery is a rebuke to present-day Black lawlessness. Etched in our historical records are the "phenomenal acts of ex-slaves; something I am proud of."
So, a lot of emancipation needs to be done in the Black community and my call is not from the bottom up - that has already been proven by the freedmen and women of yesteryear;the emancipation I am advocating must come from the top down. Those in the educated assembly of Blacks must stop placating the race hence inciting the race into believing that they are being discriminated against, that no one likes them and to lift their minds to the higher level of the emancipated Black of bygone days.
Putting it in simple layman's language, it is high time to stop this nonsense racial talk and move on with progressive lives. The Guyana picture is one where the rabble rousers are having a field day with the race question. Persons of the likes of Freddie Kissoon can with convenience say that he is not an Indian, then go into the Black community and incite them to do violent acts then sit back in the comfort of his home and watch them being punished by law enforcement. This is what I call enslaving the Blackman all over again. Instead of inciting them to violence, why not teach them how to earn a living? That will indeed help.

The other races have done it. They have lifted themselves from the downward spiral of retrograde actions, whatever those were, dusted themselves off and are heading the right way. So why can't we? After all the Black image, Blackness or things pertaining to the race is under threat and all important issues that can be tabled geared towards the development of the race must be discussed and meaningful changes implemented. Being Black is sacred to me. Its sacredness tells of my great ancestry bold and assertive; ours is a rich heritage that is incomparable. For that image to be dragged in the mud worries me greatly. Therefore, for that good image to be restored will require a lot of work for those involved in the restoration of the race. The damage done by that shameless arm of ethnic conglomerate has caused us to be ashamed and no amount of denials can erase it.
So for us to lift ourselves from the "yard fowl mentality" and become the people others once envied we must raise the bar in the way we conduct ourselves. Things that would elevate, enlighten and bring pride to my race I shall uphold even if it means criticising the race.

Guyana is not insulated from global food prices

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:06:26 +0000

Even though Guyana is a net exporter of food it is not insulated from the impact of global food prices.
Guyana is the only country in the Caribbean basin which can claim the status as a net exporter of food; but this fact does not necessarily cushion us against the impacts of the price of food, as the prices of the world's commodities are a function of global supply and demand. And of course, we are particularly vulnerable to the inexorable rise in the cost of fuel and other inputs needed for food production…
So what is necessary, and has resulted in the PPP/C administration unveiling several pivotal important economic interventions to cushion the impact on Guyanese, especially the most vulnerable groups. This is a holistic effort within the agricultural community to diversify production and rotate crops in order to sustain viability of the sector, especially in view of the global economics and the impacts of the climate change phenomenon.
All across the world the crisis has been unfolding at an alarming speed, whereby food prices have been increasing on a daily basis, with many communities in various countries even facing starvation.
The devastation of crops by natural phenomena, as well as other man-made disasters is expected to continue to have a significant impact on the price of staples.
As Joachim von Braun, Head of the International Food Policy Research Institute in Washington has said “world agriculture has entered a new, unsustainable and politically risky period, shown by the food riots that have erupted in countries all along the equator.”
However, the productive capability of countries clustered around the equator is climactically advantageous, and the region, rather than being the early indicators of social upheaval when food prices are affected, can begin to look at these situations as opportunities.
Guyana, although relatively better off, due to the aggressive steps taken by the government to cushion prices by zero-rating more food items and significantly reducing taxes on fuel, whilst significantly increasing disposable income, among other interventions, is poised to take advantage of the opportunities. However, a concerted, patriotic effort is needed across the entire spectrum of our society to begin to grapple with the changes we must make.
Our future can be a bright one, even as the world faces a dawn on a horizon on which looms the issues of climate change and the increasingly erratic weather phenomena associated with it, unaffordable and increasingly unavailable fuel, and increasing demand for food as consumer patterns change in emerging economies and competition for food acreage from bio-fuel.
The nexus of climatic impacts, geo-political strategies, energy inflation and fertiliser inflation, and shifting consumer patterns have formed an inter-related population of factors which all contribute to increasing food prices, whether they are emerging and their effects only now being felt, or they have been around for a significant length of time.
What is clear is that the combination of global factors is now fuelling the current high prices across all continents, as well as here at home.
The identifiable contributory factors minister include, inter alia: Record oil prices have increased the cost of agricultural production by boosting the cost of fertilizer and pesticides, mechanized cultivation and transport of inputs to production and processing centres and outputs to markets. Also to be taken into consideration is the increased demand for food and changes in eating habits, as well as rapid economic growth in many developing countries, especially China and India.
Thus the continuum of interventions by Government in all sectors, with special focus on the agriculture sector, has assured Guyana of food security, while yet being constrained by the influences of global imperatives and impacts.

Miss Guyana Universe 2012 Pageants in glamorous photo shoot

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:09:14 +0000

Seated from left to right are: Delegate 1 Nikita Barker, Delegate 2 Nikeshia Alexander, Delegate 3 Onesha Hutson, Delegate 6 Kenecia Christian, Delegate 4 Eumani Bourne, Delegate 8 Drusilla Johnson, Delegate 9 Faydeha King, Delegate 12 Melinda Singh, Delegate 5 Ruqayyah Boyer, Delegate 7 Shameka Jones, Delegate 10 Tashini Sitaram and Delegate 13 Demi Austin. Not in photo is a Canadian Guyanese delegate who will meet the press at a later date.

The pageant celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Swim Suit Finals will be held on September 9th at a location to be announced with the Question and Answer segment to be held at the National Communications Network (NCN) on September 13th. The finals of the segment of the pageant will complete on September 15th at the Princess Hotel.

Button enjoys Spa win after Alonso crashes

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:21:04 +0000

(REUTERS) - McLaren's Jenson Button won the Belgian Grand Prix from pole position yesterday after a first corner pile-up ended the hopes of team mate Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari's Formula One leader Fernando Alonso.
Button enjoyed an untroubled afternoon in the Spa sunshine, making just one stop and taking the chequered flag 13.6 seconds clear of Red Bull's double world champion Sebastian Vettel, who won from pole last year.
Finland's Kimi Raikkonen, the 2007 champion, took third place for Lotus to strengthen his title challenge in his comeback year with a fourth podium in five races.
Alonso, who started the race with a 40 point lead over Red Bull's Australian Mark Webber, had hoped for a record-equalling 24th successive points finish but that was shattered in a cloud of carbon-fibre after a matter of metres.
His lead was slashed to 24 points, less than a race win, with Vettel rising to second overall. Webber dropped to third, 32 points adrift of Alonso. Raikkonen is one point behind in fourth.
The Spaniard could at least consider himself fortunate not to have been hit on the head by the flying Lotus of Frenchman Romain Grosjean, whose car took off after colliding with Hamilton and flew over the front of the Ferrari.
Grosjean was handed a one-race ban for causing the collision, which brought out the safety car, meaning he will miss next weekend's Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
Sauber's Sergio Perez also retired on the spot in a miserable afternoon for his Swiss team after a Saturday qualifying session that had promised so much with both their cars in the top four.
Kamui Kobayashi, only the second Japanese driver to start from the front row, was also caught up in the first lap mayhem and went to the back of the field and finished 13th.
His brakes had already started smoking before the start, which was jumped by Venezuelan Pastor Maldonado - who was handed a 10 place penalty for Monza for that and a later collision that ended his race.

SPECIAL ONE
Button's 14th career win, and first at the classic Spa circuit, came in his 50th race for McLaren and his satisfaction was evident as he posed for a team photograph with father and girlfriend in 'rocket red' T-shirts.
"This circuit is such a special one to most drivers, the way it flows and the history, so to get a light to flag victory is very special," said the 2009 champion after his second win of the season.
"It's a massive long shot to win the title but today proves that you can claw back 25 points very very quickly," added the Briton, now 16 points behind Hamilton and lagging Alonso by 63 with eight races remaining.
"If we can keep fighting for victories like this...there's still a small chance that I can really fight for that championship."
Champions Red Bull edged a point further ahead in the constructors' standings, with 272 points to McLaren's 218.
Force India's German Nico Hulkenberg came fourth, his team's best result of the season, ahead of Ferrari's Felipe Massa and Webber.
Seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher marked his 300th grand prix with seventh place for Mercedes after running as high as second at the circuit where he began his F1 career in 1991 and took his first win in 1992.
Toro Rosso pair Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniel Ricciardo were eighth and ninth in a strong turnaround for the little Italian team ahead of their home race at Monza next weekend.
The stewards were given plenty to ponder with a stack of incidents investigated after the race.
While Grosjean and Maldonado were punished heavily, and Caterham were fined 10,000 euros for the unsafe release of Heikki Kovalainen at a pitstop, Webber and Schumacher escaped sanction.
Schumacher had cut across Vettel sharply to get into the pitlane after the two had battled for fourth place with 20 of the 44 laps gone.
Vettel, who started 10th and also did one stop as he battled through the field, described the race as 'crazy'
"I'm not bothered in terms of points and gaps at the moment. There are a lot of races ahead and... bloody hell, if you saw the first corner, you can see how quickly things can change. That's racing," said the German

Bell and Trott lead England to easy victory

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:22:04 +0000

REUTERS - Ian Bell and Jonathan Trott shared a second-wicket partnership of 141 to lift England to a comfortable six-wicket win over South Africa in the fourth one-day international at Lord's yesterday.
South Africa were restricted to 220 for eight but when England captain Alastair Cook was bowled lbw by Dale Steyn for just two that total looked a long way off for England.
However, Bell and Trott, who was struggling with a hand injury, recorded their fourth century partnership to set England on their way to reach their target with 20 balls to spare and take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
South Africa's Dean Elgar broke the partnership when he trapped Trott lbw on 48. The original appeal was turned down but South Africa reviewed it and were vindicated.
Ravi Bopara only survived 14 balls, scoring six, before he was sent back to the pavilion after edging behind off the bowling of Ryan McLaren.
The Essex batsman has only scored a total of 22 runs in three innings this series.
Bell survived a dropped catch when his attempt to hit Lonwabo Tsotsobe over the top went all wrong but fortunately for the batsman Robin Petersen was off balance and the ball slipped through his fingers.
Bell went on to make 88, his 23rd one-day half century, before falling to Steyn, edging behind, with England needing 35 off 40 to win.
Eoin Morgan (36) and Craig Kieswetter (15) wrapped up the victory with the latter hitting a six off Steyn to clinch it and delight the Lord's crowd.
A seventh-wicket partnership of 40 between Petersen and Elgar helped South Africa salvage a respectable total.
Petersen came to the crease with the visitors on 174 for six and little over six overs remaining but the 33-year-old hit a quickfire 31 off 20 balls to lift the touring side.
An 51-run partnership between captain AB de Villiers and Elgar had steadied things for the South Africans after they were reduced to 115 for four in the 29th over.
James Tredwell continued to make the most of his chance in the team, finishing with figures of three for 35, and Bopara did considerably better with the ball than the bat by claiming two wickets in three overs including that of Hashim Amla.
The opener scored 45 having been dropped on five by Tredwell who also failed to hold on to an edge by Graeme Smith on 26 but England did not pay too dearly for those missed chances.
England extended their lead at the top of the ODI rankings with the win and South Africa, the world's top-ranked test teazm, slipped to third.
The final match of the series is at Trent Bridge on Wednesday.

SOUTH AFRICA
G. Smith c Kieswetter b Dernbach 29
H. Amla b Bopara 45
JP Duminy st Kieswetter b Tredwell 18
AB de Villiers st Kieswetter b Tredwell 39
F. du Plessis b Bopara 1
D. Elgar c Kieswetter b Finn 35
W. Parnell st Kieswetter b Tredwell 5
R. Peterson not out 31
R. McLaren run out (Dernbach) 1
D. Steyn not out 3
Extras (lb7, w6) 13
Total (8 wkts, 50 overs) 220
Fall of wickets: 1-68 (Smith), 2-100 (Amla), 3-106 (Duminy), 4-115 (Du Plessis), 5-166 (De Villiers), 6-174 (Parnell), 7-214 (Elgar), 8-215 (McLaren)
Did not bat: L Tsotsobe
Bowling: Finn 10-0-33-1 (1w); Anderson 7-0-32-0 (1w); Dernbach 9-0-51-1 (1w); Bopara 9-0-34-2 (1w); Patel 7-0-28-0; Tredwell 8-0-35-3

ENGLAND
A. Cook lbw b Steyn 2
I. Bell c de Villiers b Steyn 88
J. Trott lbw b Elgar 48
R. Bopara c de Villiers b McLaren 6
E. Morgan not out 36
C. Kieswetter not out 21
Extras (b3, lb7, w11, nb2) 23
Total (4 wkts, 46.4 overs) 224
Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Cook), 2-143 (Trott), 3-156 (Bopara), 4-186 (Bell)
Did not bat: S Patel, J Tredwell, S Finn, J Anderson, J Dernbach
Bowling: Steyn 9.4-0-47-2 (2w); Tsotsobe 8-0-36-0 (3w); McLaren 9-0-52-1 (6w); Elgar 5-0-15-1; Parnell 8-0-39-0 (2nb); Peterson 7-1-25-0

Brazilian fans name World Cup match ball 'Brazuca'

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:22:46 +0000

BRASILIA,(Reuters) - Soccer fans in Brazil have voted to name the official tournament ball 'Brazuca', a playful slang word for native Brazilians which received nearly 80 percent of the votes in an online poll by event sponsor Adidas.
More than a million voters in the 2014 host nation chose Brazuca over Canavalesca, denoting someone who revels in the raucous annual carnival celebrations and Bossa Nova, the famous samba-jazz music genre popularised in Rio de Janeiro in the 1950s and 1960s.
The winning name was announced on television where former Brazil captain Cafu made a guest appearance. Brazuca was also the choice of Brazilian midfielder and Real Madrid player Kaka
who revealed his vote in a recorded video from Spain.
The concept of naming the World Cup ball began in Mexico in 1970 with the Telstar. Among the more memorable balls in the years since were the Tango in Argentina in 1978, the Azteca in Mexico in 1986 and the Jabulani in South Africa in 2010.

Van Persie hat-trick seals late win for Man United

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:23:09 +0000

LONDON, (Reuters) - Robin van Persie struck twice late on to complete his hat-trick and seal a dramatic 3-2 victory for Manchester United over Southampton in the Premier League yesterday.
The Dutch striker's earlier penalty miss with his side trailing 2-1 looked to have condemned United to a second defeat in their opening three league games but he made amends with two poacher's goals in the dying minutes to steal the points.
Van Persie's thumping 92nd-minute header was his 100th Premier League goal and his fourth in three appearances for United since he joined from Arsenal for 24 million pounds ($38.12 million) in the transfer window.
Earlier, Lukas Podolski, the man tasked with filling the prolific Dutchman's boots for Arsenal, opened his account in English football in a 2-0 victory at Liverpool.
It was Arsenal's first win, and first goals, of the season after two 0-0 draws, while Liverpool's solitary point from their opening three fixtures is their worst start for 50 years.
In the day's other match, Newcastle United were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Aston Villa, leaving Southampton as the only top-flight side still without a point. Van Persie scored 37 times for Arsenal last season to clinch the Premier League's Player of the Year award and has carried that prolific form to United.
"He's got four goals in two starts which is a great statistic and he'll get better," United manager Alex Ferguson, whose side climbed to fifth with six points, told Sky Sports.
Until the 87th minute, however, it was Van Persie's fluffed penalty which was set to make the headlines.
Shortly after Patrice Evra's slip allowed Morgan Schneiderlin to restore the home side's lead, Van Persie was felled in the area by Jos Hooiveld.
After placing the ball on the spot he dispensed with his usual penalty-taking style, electing instead to try and dink the ball past Kelvin Davies but his execution was poor and the keeper was able to claw the ball away.
Newly-promoted Southampton had taken the lead after 16 minutes when Rickie Lambert climbed high to head past Anders Lindegaard after United had lost possession in midfield.
Van Persie levelled eight minutes later, chesting down Antonio Valencia's pass and smashing left-footed past Davis.
United never looked secure at the back, though, and Schneiderlin headed Lambert's cross past Lindegaard after 56 minutes, finding himself unmarked following Evra's slip.
After Van Persie's penalty miss the home fans were preparing to celebrate a famous win, only for Van Persie to ruin the party. First he prodded home from close range after Rio Ferdinand's header rebounded off the post.
Then, deep into added time, he made sublime contact with a corner to flash a header past Davis.
"We were a bit lucky with the 2-2 and the dramatic end," Van Persie told Sky Sports. "I have to say a big thank you to Paul Scholes. When he came on, every single pass he hit was the right one. With him you are always on your toes. For me, he was the man of the match."
Of his penalty blunder, he said: "I don't know what I was thinking with the penalty. I was going to hit it hard but at the last second I changed my mind."

FURROWED BROWS
Van Persie's departure had caused furrowed brows among Arsenal fans but the north London club kick-started their season with German striker Podolski proving that they may still prosper despite the sale of the Dutch goal-machine.
When Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard gave the ball away after 31 minutes at Anfield, Arsenal swept down the other end in a flash and Santi Corzola, another of Arsene Wenger's new
signings, played a perfect pass for Podolski to lash a first-time shot past Pepe Reina.
Liverpool, for whom strikers Luis Suarez and Fabio Borini rarely threatened, were lightweight in attack and there was no way back for Brendan Rodgers' side when Spaniard Cazorla sealed the points after 67 minutes.
"Overall, I am pleased with the quality of our performance,"
Wenger told the club's website. "Everybody understood very quickly that Cazorla would not take six months to settle and Podolski is deadly when there is a chance."
Rodgers, who has few attacking options after Andy Carroll was loaned to West Ham United, finds himself in the bottom three.
"We created enough chances but were not clinical enough," he said. "There is a lot of good to come from the game but we lost and we need to improve. We'll get better as our season progresses."

Djokovic eases through, Roddick delays retirement

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:23:49 +0000

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Novak Djokovic continued his stroll through the U.S. Open draw yesterday as former champion and fan favourite Andy Roddick staved off retirement by ousting Italy's Fabio Fognini in raucous Arthur Ashe Stadium.
While Djokovic had a workmanlike 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory over Frenchman Julien Benneteau to reach the fourth round, the stadium turned rowdy watching Roddick's 7-5 7-6 4-6 6-4 triumph.
Another player quietly working through the draw was fourth seed Spaniard David Ferrer, who stopped 2001 champion Lleyton Hewitt of Australia 7-6 4-6 6-3 6-0 in a three-hour, 12-minute slugfest in Louis Armstrong Stadium.
If Roddick does not win the tournament, it will not be due to a lack of crowd support.
The Texan announced Thursday he would retire after the tournament and immediately became the fans' sentimental choice to provide an encore in the only grand slam he ever won.
The pro-Roddick crowd jamming the stadium cheered the American's every move and repeatedly broke into chants of "Let's Go An-dy, Let's go, An-dy."
When Fognini's service return slammed into the net on match-point, the crowd, including his model/actress wife Brooklyn Decker, erupted.
"I'm just enjoying this," a emotional Roddick told the crowd during his on-court interview. "I love this place, I love all you and I'm having a blast."
Roddick, the 2003 champion at Flushing Meadows, blasted 10 aces and struck 39 winners in the three-hour match.
"These last couple of days have been very humbling," the 30-year-old Roddick said. "I appreciate the support, I really do. I'm trying to keep my emotions together."
Roddick will next play seventh seed Juan Martin Del Potro, the 2009 U.S. Open winner, who beat Argentine compatriot Leonardo Mayer 6-3 7-5 7-6.
Later yesterday, women's top seed Victoria Azarenka of Balarus was to face Georgia's Anna Tatishvili, while number three Maria Sharapova and number 19 Nadia Petrova were set to square off in an all-Russian match.

DJOKOVIC SHINES
While Roddick and five-times U.S. Open winner Roger Federer have grabbed most of the headlines, Djokovic, the defending champion, has progressed through the draw without losing a set.
The Serb took time off after reaching the final in Cincinnati this month and it paid dividends.
"The attention comes and goes," said Djokovic. "It's normal. This is sport. Obviously Andy and his retirement attracted a lot of attention, so everybody is excited to see him play and see how far he can go.
"I have been playing really well in the U.S. Open the last five years. My goal was to, in these seven, eight days I had off after the Cincinnati final, to really try to recover, charge my batteries, work on some things in my game, and come out strong from the start.
"That's what I've done. I feel great on the court. I'm really trying to keep that up."
He thoroughly dominated Benneteau, hitting 13 aces, enjoying a 41-15 advantage in winners, and never facing a break point despite landing only 59 percent of his first serves.
"Winning the first set obviously brought me a lot of momentum and confidence to continue on playing well," said Djokovic, who won three majors in 2011, including the U.S. Open.
"I felt from the start that from the baseline, I was very comfortable, defense, offense. So I tried to be aggressive and not allow him to come to the net because he plays good when he's in control."
Djokovic will next face 18th seed Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland.
Ferrer took advantage of 72 unforced errors by Hewitt to set up a fourth-round match against Richard Gasquet of France or American Steve Johnson.
"He's not going to blow you off the court out there, but he's going to make you work for every single point," Hewitt said of Ferrer. "He's a quality player, a great competitor. You're going to be out there for a long time to beat him."

Ashwin's five torments New Zealand again ...second Test century for Virat Kohli

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:24:21 +0000

BANGALORE (Reuters) - India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin once again turned out to be New Zealand's tormentor with his fifth five-wicket haul that left the visitors at 232 for nine at the close of the third day's play in the second and final Test yesterday.
New Zealand, trailing 1-0 in the two Test series, have a lead of 244 runs with their number 10 batsman Jeetan Patel (10) and number 11 Trent Boult (nought) at the crease.
Batsman Virat Kohli, who completed his second Test century in the morning, said India had enough time to chase down any target with two more days left in the match.
"When you have a lot of time you don't have to think about the target, you just play normal cricket," Kohli said.
"I don't think the wicket is doing so much that we have to be worried about the target that's been set.
"If we think to bat three-four sessions, we should be in a good position to win the match."
Ashwin, who took 12 wickets in the first Test at Hyderabad which the hosts won by an innings and 115 runs, and left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha (2-48) got into the act after paceman Umesh Yadav (2-62) sent back the openers.
Right-hander Martin Guptill (seven) fell in the first over after the lunch break when he played a full toss from Yadav on to his stumps.
The paceman returned in his next over to dismiss the dangerous Brendon McCullum (23), who got a feather edge to wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni behind the stumps.
Kane Williamson (13) was caught by Virender Sehwag at slip off Ashwin while Ojha dismissed first innings centurion Ross Taylor (35), out leg before trying to play the sweep.
Left-hander James Franklin (41) and wicketkeeper Kruger van Wyk (31) added 55 for the sixth wicket to extend New Zealand's lead before Ashwin ended the resistance by trapping Van Wyk lbw.
The New Zealand batting tail failed to wag after Franklin was out stumped, trying to dance down the wicket to the 25-year-old off-spinner.
Bob Carter, the New Zealand assistant coach, hoped their lead would be sufficient to press for a series-levelling victory.
"Now we have a handy lead and that has given us an opportunity in this game," Carter told reporters. "We have three young bowlers who are raring to go.
"We are going to go out there and look to a fresh guard. We are going to look to make the ball swing and get into a good enough position to press for a win."

SOUTHEE'S SEVEN
Earlier, Tim Southee mowed down India's batting lineup with the second new ball to pick up a career-best seven wickets as the hosts were dismissed for 353 in their first innings.
Paceman Southee, 23, who took three wickets on Saturday, destroyed India's hopes of a first-innings lead with figures of seven for 64, the best by a New Zealand bowler in an innings in India, to give his team a slim 12-run lead.
"I really thought it was a wonderful performance. In this Test after being selected, he really paid back the selectors and I think he really bowled very well to the overnight batsmen today," Carter added.
"To get Kohli, who was on a hundred, the way he did was an outstanding piece of bowling.
"Seven wickets in India is not just something that he would remember, that's what we all would remember as well."
Kohli, unbeaten on 93 overnight, struck two boundaries to complete his second test century before he became Southee's first victim of the morning.
The 23-year-old Kohli (103) hit 14 fours and a six and added 122 runs for the sixth wicket with captain Dhoni.
He misread an incoming delivery from the right-arm paceman, who was drafted in for the second test replacing pace colleague Chris Martin, and was caught plumb in front of the stumps.
Dhoni (62), who hit his 26th half-century in Tests, was also out lbw to become Southee's 50th Test victim.
Zaheer Khan (seven) and Ojha (nought) were next to go, both edging Southee deliveries to wicketkeeper van Wyk in the same over.
Ashwin (32 not out), put down by Guptill on 13 off Southee, added 33 crucial runs for the last wicket with Yadav (four) to cut New Zealand's advantage.
But left-arm seamer Boult finally broke through the stubborn resistance by bowling out Yadav to end the innings.
NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 365 (R. Taylor 113,
K. van Wyk 71, M. Guptill 53; P. Ojha 5-99)
India 1st innings (overnight 283-5):
G. Gambhir b Southee 2
V. Sehwag c Flynn b Bracewell 43
C. Pujara c Boult b Southee 9
S. Tendulkar b Bracewell 17
V. Kohli lbw b Southee 103
S. Raina c van Wyk b Southee 55
MS Dhoni lbw b Southee 62
R. Ashwin not out 32
Zaheer Khan c van Wyk b Southee 7
P. Ojha c van Wyk b Southee 0
U. Yadav b Boult 4
Extras (b11, lb2, nb5, w1) 19 Total (for all out; 96.5 overs) 353
Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Gambhir), 2-27 (Pujara), 3-67 (Sehwag), 4-80 (Tendulkar), 5-179 (Raina), 6-301 (Kohli), 7-312 (Dhoni), 8-320 (Zaheer), 9-320 (Ojha), 10-353 (Yadav).
Bowling: Boult 23.5-2-90-1 (nb2), Southee 24-6-64-7 (nb1, w1), Bracewell 20-4-91-2, Franklin 10-4-17-0 (nb1), Patel 19-5-78-0 (nb1).

NEW ZEALAND 2nd innings:
B. McCullum c Dhoni b Yadav 23
M. Guptill b Yadav 7
K. Williamson c Sehwag b Ashwin 13
R. Taylor lbw b Ojha 35
D. Flynn c Sehwag b Ashwin 31
J. Franklin st Dhoni b Ashwin 41
K. van Wyk lbw b Ashwin 31
D. Bracewell lbw b Ojha 22
T. Southee b Ashwin 2
J. Patel not out 10
T. Boult not out 0
Extras (b4, lb12, w1) 17
Total (for nine wickets; 69 overs) 232
Fall of wickets: 1-30 (Guptill), 2-31 (McCullum), 3-69 (Williamson), 4-111 (Taylor), 5-140 (Flynn), 6-195 (van Wyk), 7-216 (Franklin), 8-222 (Southee), 9-222 (Bracewell).
Bowling: Zaheer 12-2-37-0, Yadav 14-0-62-2 (w1), Ojha 20-6-48-2, Ashwin 22-1-69-5, Raina 1-1-0-0..

Half a million EC dollars in bonds for James ..to be appointed Tourism Ambassador

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:25:12 +0000

.GEORGE’S, Grenada, (CMC)-Prime Minister Tillman Thomas Saturday night announced that EC half a million dollars in Government bonds will be given to Kirani James for winning Grenada’s first Olympic gold medal.
Prime Minister Thomas also revealed that James will be appointed a tourism Ambassador, an athletic stadium to be built by China will be named after him, and commemorative stamps will be published in his honour.
The Grenadian leader told thousands who attended a rally at the national stadium that a museum, and a resource and fitness centre will be built in Gouyave, Kirani’s hometown.
“Cabinet will appoint a national project team which will be mandated to go to every parish and to give guidance to all important interest groups sporting associations businesses and the church community” said Prime Minister Thomas.
“The results of the work will reflect the wishes of all the people as to the kind of legacy we dedicate to the honour of our national hero. In doing these things we recognized that we may never be able to repay you for what you have done for our island”.
James, both world and Olympic 400 metre champion who turned 20 Saturday, also received a quantity of jewelry including a necklace, bracelet, a ring and a watch from Columbian emeralds and EC100,000 dollars from Republic Bank.
His parents were also presented with his and hers gift hampers from Duty free Caribbean.
Performances from Calypsonians, poets, dancers and singers all serenaded James as part of a three hour rally that climaxed with an impressive fireworks display that lit up the St.George’s skyline.
‎"Kirani James, you are the only one who can unite us.” declared Opposition leader Dr.Keith Mitchell in a short address at the rally.
“You better stay because I don't know what will happen when you leave" Dr.Mitchell said.
A four feet long cake made in the symbol of an athletic track was brought unto the stage by four persons as the Royal Grenada Police Force band performed a happy birthday song for James.
The rally climaxed a series of activities celebrating James Olympic success which began with a massive home coming Thursday attended by hundreds at the Maurice Bishop International Airport.
“The success of Kirani is no surprise to us because we knew his talent and ability” said Phillip Thomas Principal of the Grenada Boys Secondary School, James’ Alma mater.
“We however were amazed just like the rest of the world that this 20 year old from a small village in Grenada will progress so quickly to the top of the athletic ladder”.
Earlier in the day, a convoy of hundreds of vehicles with thousands of people crawled around Grenada in what is believed to have been the biggest island wide motorcade ever.
People packed in buses, cars and vans and clad in national colours waved flags at crowds gathered in coastline villages as patriotic music blasted from huge speakers on trucks.
With his upper body through the sun roof of an SUV, James waved constantly to villagers as the motorcade passed through rural communities.
James is due to leave the island today to continue his under graduate studies in Business at the University of Alabama.

Strong Guyana squad leave for El Salvador World Cup tie

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:25:40 +0000

GUYANA have named a strong 21-man squad for their second round 2014 World Cup Qualifying tie against El Salvador, as they continue to chase their first win in the competition.
The side will be led by Puerto Rico Islanders midfielder Chris Nurse and includes several overseas-based players.
Guyana’s home-based players, who have been involved in a camp over the last week, were scheduled to leave early Sunday to link up in Panama with coach Jamaal Shabazz and the overseas-based players.
Guyana will have a short camp in Panama before heading to El Salvador for the first leg of the tie on Friday. The return game is set for the National Stadium here next Tuesday.
The 27-year-old Nurse will be joined in midfield by Ricky Shakes, who plays for Kidderminster Harriers in the Conference National and Kayode McKinnon, who campaigns in the USL Professional Division for Antigua Barracudas.
Their front line includes veteran striker Carl Cort of the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the North American Soccer League and Gregory Richardson who like Nurse, plays for the Puerto Rico Islands.
Guyana’s backline will be anchored as usual by Trinidad-based veteran 38-year-old Charles Pollard and 27-year-old Walter Moore who also plays in the Trinidad and Tobago Pro League for Caledonia AIA.
Guyana sits bottom of Group B, having lost both their matches in the World Cup qualifying campaign.

SQUAD – Chris Nurse (captain), Richard Reynolds, Colin Edwards, Charles Pollard, Walter Moore, Colin Nelson, John Paul "JP" Rodrigues, Jamaal Smith, Kayode McKinnon, Konata Mannings, Nick Millington, Dwight Peters, Dwain Jacobs, Kester Jacobs, Ricky Shakes, Trayon Bobb, Carl Cort, Gregory Richardson, Vurlon Mills, Anthony Abrams, Shawn Beveney.

GCA/HEROES CUP - DCC, GCC and MSC crush their opponents by an innings

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:26:13 +0000

HAVING taken first innings points over their hapless opponents the previous day (Saturday), Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) all completed innings victories on the final day yesterday.
Playing in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) organised Carib Beer/Friends of Cricket/Heroes Cup two- day first division competition, all three teams defeated Transport Sports Club (TSC), Gandhi Youth Organization (GYO) and Police Sports Club (PSC) to heighten the battle for supremacy in the tournament.
At Queenstown, the home team who had a commanding first innings lead of 258 runs, reduced TSC to 46 for 4 at the end of the first day and wasted little or no time in bowling out their opponents for 103 inside 34.1 overs yesterday.
Carl Rambharose started the day on 10 and added 7 more before he was dismissed, hitting three fours in the process, while Oslyn Batson also struck three fours in his 17, against the bowling of Totaram Bishun who took 3 for 39, Derwin Christian 2-0 and Andre Stoll 2 for 8, which ensured DCC won by an innings and 155 runs.
At the MSC ground on Thomas Lands, the home team which resumed on their overnight score of 305 for 6 with Orin Forde on 21, declared their first innings closed at 354 for 8 and a handsome lead of 240 with Forde going on to make 53 (5x4, 1x6) while Kellon Carmichael contributed 19 (2x4, 1x6).
Seon Crawford took 4 for 53 and Vishal Jaigobin 3 for 71 for PSC, who were limited to 137 for 9, before declaring their innings close, following Randolph Knights inability to bat due to a fractured left shoulder.
Trevor Benn struck five four sin his top score of 27, Crawford three fours and one six in his 26, Imran Mohammed three fours in his 26 and Shameer Fazal four fours in his 22 for PSC, who found it difficult to negotiate the bowling of Anthony Atwell (3 for 9), Steven Jacobs (2 for 28) and Danny Narayan who also took 2 for 37.
At the GCC ground, the home team who had earlier dismissed GYO for 114 on the first day and replied with 213 for 1 at the end of the day’s play, went on to score 333 without any further loss, thanks to Robin Bacchus’ unbeaten 200.
The left handed opener who began the day on 112, struck 31 fours and two sixes in his unbeaten double century, while Jeetendra Sookdeo who was unbeaten on 70 when play began, reached 102 at the declaration, counting 13 fours and one six.
Trailing their host by 219 runs, GYO’s second innings got off to a disastrous start when they lost the wickets of Abhilash Dookie and Ryan Shun, who were both dismissed without scoring by Joshua Wade (2 for 24) in the first over.
At lunch, they were 20 for 2 with Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Anthony Ifill on 10 each and after the luncheon break, they set about ‘Operation Recovery’ for their team by adding 53 for the third wicket before disaster in the form of Winston Forrester struck.
The spinner ended with 4 for 17 and along with Devon Lord who took 2 for 7, help catapult GYO’s innings for 80 in their second innings, of which Chanderpaul topscored with 33 (2x4) and Ifill made 18.

‘Overseas Invasion’ carded for Guyana

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:26:47 +0000

HAVING partnered with Holland Entertainment Promotions (HEP) less than two years ago, when that entity staged a card that was dubbed ‘Caribbean Fury’, Hurry Up Promotions which is led by Leon ‘Hurry Up’ Moore, will be bringing to local boxing fans, ‘Overseas Invasion’ set to punch off at either the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall or Banks DIH, Thirst Park ground in the not too distant future.
In a telephone interview with Moore, the present Pan American Boxing Association (PABA), North American Boxing Association (NABA) and Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) Super Bantamweight champion said the final logistics for the card, including the budget is being worked out as he intends to leave no stone unturned in making this a success.
Moore will headline the card against an unknown opponent, while national featherweight champion Clive ‘Wonder Kid’ Atwell will have the opportunity to prove he is better than Mark ‘Iron Chin’ Austin, when the two meet on the undercard.
Other fights on the undercard pits James Walcott facing Germany based Colombian Joseph Angolu, Anthony ‘Six Pack’ Augustine matching gloves with 1996 Olympian and USA based Guyanese John Douglas and Kelsie George meeting Martin Abdool.
According to Moore, negotiations are in the pipeline for former European champion Howard ‘Battersea Bomber’ Eastman to face Frank Galaze from the USA, a bout the American is eagerly looking forward to, based on Howard’s ring experience.
“My aim is to make this card a successful one. Ever since my partnership with Carwyn Holland, I wanted to pull off something like this, but I guess the time was not right back then as it is now, given the activeness of the boxers who will be involved.”
The 32 year old Moore who is also Guyana’s super bantamweight champion and has a record that reads 28-2, was making reference to the monthly held ProAm Friday Night Fights, which is being used by many pugilists in the Caribbean to boost their records.
“Some of them (fighters) have been more active than some of their opponents, including me, and I must give thanks and extend an undisclosed amount of appreciation to the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) and its president Peter Abdool for introducing the FNF.
With this card, I will be looking to get 100% support from the GBBC to make it a success and even though I have been caught up with training for my fight on the card and working out the logistics to make the card a success, I am happy to say that things are progressing in an efficient manner at the present moment,” stated Moore.
Reflecting on his previous relationship with Boxing 360, a promotional company he recently severed ties with, Moore said they were going back and forth when it comes to his handling rights, which ended in several disputes.
“Following several disputes with Boxing 360, I found it difficult to remain focus on certain fight plans which were not healthy for me, forcing me to sever ties with that promotional company, a fact that was confirmed when I received a letter from the arbitrator, who told me we are no longer together.
I am now a free agent, but looking to partner with Jim Folley’s Boxing Promotions, a promotional company who promotes fights in the USA and Dominican Republic, and is interested in promoting fights in Guyana, commencing with ‘Overseas Invasion’,” said Moore.
When quizzed on the inclement weather conditions that Guyanese experience along with certain hiccups that would prevent him from using the CASH, Moore said he plans to meet with Minister of Sport Dr. Frank Anthony, with regards to the CASH, as he has it in mind to use that venue on October 13 for the card.
“I would certainly like to use the Sports Hall, since my aim is to not only put on the card, but ensure the paying patrons are comfortable in more ways than one. But if that is not possible, then I will have to use the outdoor facility at Thirst Park and set the card for 29th September.”
Whichever date is conducive for the hosting of ‘Overseas Invasion’ it will be welcomed by the GBBC and boxing fans and enthusiasts alike, especially with the cancellation of the GBBC’s card that was dubbed ‘Redemption’, which would have featured former World Boxing Association light heavyweight champion Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Brathwaite taking on Shawn Corbin for the WBC/CABOFE title.

Heavy investment in infrastructure for first half of 2012 -Mid Year Report

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:44:46 +0000

DESPITE the unprecedented parliamentary challenge of a minority government, coupled with a one-seat majority opposition that instituted threatening budgetary cuts that were later deemed as unconstitutional by the courts, Guyana’s economy achieved real growth of 2.8%. Significant performers were gold, rice and bauxite.
Giving highlights on the economy’s progress for the period under review, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh reported that overall growth has been projected at 3.8 %. He said further, that while the non-sugar gross domestic product expanded by 6.2%, its growth will be 3.9%
There was heavy investment during the first six months of the year in developing infrastructure. The allocation of $11.8 billion to sustain and improve roads and bridges network saw a sum of $2.7 billion being expended at the end of June with $2.5 billion being spent on roads and $255 M on bridges.

Infrastructure
Since infrastructure forms the pivot of most of the government’s socio-economic transformation programmes now taking place much has been achieved in this critical area in the first half of 2012.
According to Dr Singh, $370M was expended on the asphalting of 16 kilometres of all-weather roads in Black Bush Polder, and in East and West Canje, Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne). This will facilitate access to over 18,500 acres of agricultural lands.
Urban, rural, community and hinterland roads were constructed, rehabilitated and maintained to the tune of $1.5B, while $451M was invested in the construction of access roads from Mabura Hill Road to Amaila Falls.
The important preparatory works for the expansion of the four-lane access road to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), as well as the similar extension from Providence to Diamond, and the widening of the highway from Better Hope to Golden Grove, attracted some $525M.
Other important infrastructure works done were commencement of reconstruction and rehabilitation of 20 critical structures from Belladrum to Rosignol, for a sum of $228M; the rehabilitation of pontoons and cluster piles that undergird the Demerara Harbour Bridge that cost $270M; while $950M was spent for the rehabilitation and levelling of earthen embankments of sea and river defences in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.
A total of $11.2 M was spent for the maintenance of aerodromes in various hinterland communities. Preparatory works for the upgrade, expansion and modernisation of CJIA commenced including geotechnical investigations to support the final design of the project with civil works expected to begin in the last quarter of the year.
Rehabilitation of airstrips in Lethem, Imbaimadai and Ekereku Bottom will start in the third quarter of this year.
Over $146 M was expended for the docking of vessels and acquisition of spares while work to accommodate the operation of the two roll on roll off ferries on the Parika and Supenaam stellings progresses and it is anticipated that following test runs, operations will commence this month.

Bellamy Canal being used to drain Profitt-Benn

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:47:17 +0000

MINISTER of Public Works Robeson Benn told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that spring tide with waves led to overtopping at Profitt, West Coast Berbice, and resulted in damage to a section of the sea defence that was under active construction.
The Public Works Minister explained that water is currently being taken out on the East Bank Berbice tide via the Bellamy Canal.
The overtopping which occurred as a result of high tides between Thursday and Friday last, has affected a number of farmers in the area.
Minister Benn said that high tides are expected to last until Tuesday, when repairs to the damaged sea defence section are expected to be concluded.
The constant threat of climate change along with the fact that Guyana is below sea level, sees government investing significant sums to enhance the integrity of its sea defence structure.
Whilst $2.7B was spent in 2011 for the protection of approximately 10 kilometres of sea defence in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 for critical and emergency works, $2.9B has been allocated for the continuation of such works in 2012.

Gov’t spent $419M to improve access, quality of potable water -in first half of this year

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:47:47 +0000

DURING the first half of this year, government expended $419M of the $2B that was budgeted for the water sector to improve access to water, as well as the quality of water supplied to citizens of Guyana according to the Mid-Year Report 2012.
The main objectives of the sector continue to be ensuring increased coverage, improving quality of water supplied, improving efficiency and reducing losses in the production and distribution of potable water.
During the reviewed period, one borehole was completed in Onderneeming, Region Two (Charity/Supenaam) and will be activated in the third quarter of the year.
Works to upgrade the water supply system in West Watooka and Christianburg, Region Ten (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice) are about 95 percent completed, while contracts have been awarded for works at Richmond Hill, Wisroc and Canvas City.
The Energy Efficiency Pilot Project is currently ongoing and was 40 percent completed at mid-year.
This project addresses the need to improve energy use within Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI’s) facilities through the installation of energy efficient devices. A pilot exercise using 12 pumping stations to assess potential means of saving energy is ongoing and the monitoring of these stations is expected to be completed in the third quarter of the year.
Meanwhile, according to the report, in keeping with Government’s mandate to develop hinterland communities and improve the quality of life of the indigenous people, contracts were awarded to install 10 photovoltaic systems, upgrade five existing water supply systems and construct medium depth boreholes. These works are expected to be completed within the second half of the year.
In the upcoming half of the year, it is expected that upgrades to the Rose Hall, Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne) and Fellowship/Pouderoyen, Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) Water treatment plant systems will be completed; while the laying of transmission mains in Providence to Mocha, Eccles to Providence and Bush Lot to Eversham will be completed in the final quarter of the year.

Two weeks after Guyanese still fascinated by Indian Science and Technology Exhibition

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:58:54 +0000

TWO weeks after the official opening of the Indian Science and Technology Exhibition, the Guyanese population still appears to be fascinated by the exhibits, attracting approximately 300 visitors every day.
According to Mr. K. Madan Gopal from the National Council of Science Museums, Ministry of Culture, India, who is currently managing the exhibition in Guyana, the exhibition is quite successful so far. An interesting fact, he noted, is that people keep coming back after their first visit.
The Indian officials are also hoping that with the reopening of school today, more students will get a chance to visit the exhibition at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall with their schools.
Gopal stated that the Guyanese people, especially children, are attracted mostly by the interactive exhibits and the daily science demonstrations.
In addition to these, there are also exhibits showcasing India’s growth in science and technology dating back 7,000 years, the various industries in India such as metal ores, and how modern India is progressing in various fields such as biotechnology, communication technology and transport.
There is currently one artist who makes jewellery and other items using silver filigree. This is an ancient, manual way of making these items with very intricate designs. Gopal advised that another artist will be arriving in Guyana this evening and will begin work at the exhibition from Tuesday. This artist will be using a material called solapith to create art work such as models of buildings.
This newspaper caught up with Shazad Sookram who was visiting the exhibition yesterday with his three children. Sookram said that he was visiting the exhibition for the second time and he was now returning to bring his children.
“I think it’s really good. It’s amazing how much India has accomplished over all these years and these are the things that we in Guyana need to become aware of because we don’t learn this in our history and in science class. It’s good if we as adults know about it and children as well,” said Sookram.
Neafor Dawson was visiting the exhibition for the first time yesterday and thought it to be “very informative and exciting”. She especially noted that a lot of people seem to be enjoying the interactive section and thinks that it’s very important for school children to visit the exhibition since Indian culture is an important part of our society.
Karen McBean was visiting the exhibition with her two nephews, seven year old Rafael Gomes and 13 year old Renaldo Gomes. She wanted to bring the boys to view the exhibition before school reopens so that they could go back to school with some new information and knowledge. Both Gomes boys enjoyed the exhibits they could play with, and noted that they will encourage all their friends to visit the exhibition when school reopens.

PYO re-paints pedestrian crossings

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:14:17 +0000

-as part of its 60th anniversary celebrations
THE Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has been engaged in the re-painting of pedestrian crossings across the coastland as part of its 60th anniversary celebrations which will be observed on September 6, 2012. A release from the PYO said that in celebration of this important milestone it has planned several events countrywide.
Included in the series of activities is an exercise held on Sunday, September 2, 2012 where more than 30 pedestrian crossings across Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 were renewed/repainted.
Among the locations where these pedestrian crossings were renewed/re-painted were: Region 2: C. V Nunes Primary (Anna Regina) and Cotton Field; Region 3: San Souci Primary (Wakenaam), Zeeburg Secondary, Uitvlugt Primary, Leonora, La Grange, Mc Gilvery Primary, Two Brothers’ Primary and L’Aventure Primary (Canal # 1), Kawall Primary and Endeavour Primary (Canal #2); Region 4: Providence Primary, Diamond, Grove, Craig, Plaisance, Better Hope, Success, Mon Repos, Lusignan, Good Hope, Enmore, Nooten Zuil and Unity; Region 5: Mahaicony, Blairmont and Cotton Tree/Zeizight; and Region 6: Tain, Whim, Auchlyne and Port Mourant.
This exercise coincided with preparations for the beginning of the new school year today through the selfless effort by hundreds of youths who came out under the PYO banner to play their part in improving road safety has also been recognized.
“We also take this opportunity to appeal to all road users, especially drivers to use the 5 C’s – Care, Courtesy, Consideration, Caution and Commonsense, and this message is amplified with the start of the new school term where a number of children will be on our roadways,” the PYO exhorted
It added: “The PYO wishes to encourage the young people of our country to join in celebrating our organization’s rich history and invite you to work along with us towards, the continued growth and development of our beautiful nation, Guyana.”

On bluffing and bluffers

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:15:53 +0000

ANYONE who has experienced the trial that examinations can be would remember with some amusement the preference you had for the difficult essay-type question over the difficult multiple-choice ones.
With the multiple-choice question, sure you had a one-in-four chance of getting the right answer, but, conversely, you had a three-in-four chance of getting it absolutely wrong. A wrong answer in a multiple-choice question wasn’t open for interpretation; couldn’t be given the benefit of the doubt. With an essay-type question, however, you could dance around to hide your lack of knowledge; pad a sentence here and there; present a lean cook-up with nuff rice and only a little meat, and hope that your paper lands in front of a sympathetic marker. In short, you had the option of the bluff.
Now, I know there were some artful bluffers in my day, and while I personally have bluffed through more tests than I wish to recall, there are some people who took that fine art to a whole other level.
For many of those people, however, the bluff does not stop at school; and a significant number of them seem to have made it into the Public Service. Seriously, though, I have sat through a great many public discourses and watched as persons basically just bluffed their way the duration of the event.

‘Now, I know there have been some artful bluffers in my day, and while I personally have bluffed through more tests than I wish to recall, there are some people who took that fine art to a whole other level’

Let me put forward the position that bluffing may not be a bad thing in absolute black-and-white terms, and while it is easy to develop the tendency to label someone a bluff, it is a brush that tars us all. This reminds me of the Biblical story about Jesus and the woman who was about to be stoned for adultery by a crowd, and how Jesus intervened and said to the crowd, “He who is without sin, cast the first stone.” In essence, he who hasn’t bluffed in his life, feel free to accuse others of doing so.
But bluffing can be a useful tool assessment. For example, the person who is as good at bluffing may not be as incompetent in a particular area of knowledge as you might suppose – a bluff is only as effective as the system it is tested against, and if you succeed in doing that in a sound system, then you not only get points for a certain quantum of knowledge but for ingenuity and intellectual dexterity as well. In school, you get the results of your exam and you see that you score near perfect marks on a paper you told yourself that you bluffed through and you smugly pat yourself on the back for getting away with it – the person marking the exam had to have been some ‘mook’, some ‘paccoo’, right, some sweet old lady in glasses deciding to give you an A for the effort. It never occurs to you that maybe it is that hard-marking teacher, that one who is anything but a stickler for nonsense and who, following a clearly defined code of assessment, has given you that high grade.
In adult life, very often it is the same thing. The great bluff gets the promotion because that bluff not only possesses a basic knowledge of the challenge presented but is ingenious and committed enough to at least offer a solution to it. I confess to being an occasional bluff in this sense. If it is that I am completely out at sea in a situation, what I do is ask for time to assess the situation at hand and then re-engage at a later date. Otherwise, if it is that I am not au fait with every single aspect of the issue, rather than stall the process, I bluff my way through and I end up learning from the other more knowledgeable persons involved. The same principle applies in what we call immersion learning in language – instead of a structured teaching environment where a person learns, say, Portuguese by books and lessons alone, you just dump that person in a Portuguese speaking environment armed with only rudimentary Portuguese and soon that person will move from bluffing in conversations to actually having them.
Of course, all that said, there can be absolutely no substitute for complete competence and preparation – it has to do with the degree to which you bluff and knowing when to stop. I know that I haven’t visited U.S. politics for a while, but I can cite the example of presidential hopeful, Mitt Romney who has made a great deal of money on Wall Street and who is running on his record to manage money in order to turn around the sluggish U.S. economy – Romney, although clearly bright in financial matters, has now had the myth of his financial wizardry being torn apart in article versus article. For example, Matt Taibbi, in a searing expose entitled “Greed and Debt: The True Story of Mitt Romney and Bain Capital”, published in this month’s issue of Rolling Stone, writes:
“Everyone knows that he is fantastically rich, having scored great success, the legend goes, as a "turnaround specialist," a shrewd financial operator who revived moribund companies as a high-priced consultant for a storied Wall Street private equity firm. But what most voters don't know is the way Mitt Romney actually made his fortune: by borrowing vast sums of money that other people were forced to pay back. .. By making debt the centrepiece of his campaign, Romney was making a calculated bluff of historic dimensions – placing a massive all-in bet on the rank incompetence of the American press corps.”
While that bluff seems to have gotten him through the Republican primaries, it seems to be an increasing hurdle as his record with Bain and the issue of his refusal to release his taxes becomes more and more glaring.
The lesson is that bluffing can only get you so far – if you’re lucky enough to have gotten away with one in a surprisingly sticky situation, the solution is not to bluff again but to make sure that you’re not in that same position. In past instalments of this column, I’ve argued for better preparatory work to be done in a wide range of areas, from systematic orientation of persons appointed to state boards, to research support for parliamentarians to general public service training. If the question is whether to bluff or not, my answer is to bluff if you can do it well, but prep yourself so that you don’t have to do it all.

Housing Ministry moving towards implementation of CRIP Two

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:19:07 +0000

THE Ministry of Housing and Water is currently working towards the realization of Community Roads Improvement Programme (CRIP) Two following the success of the first propramme which saw the enhancement of living conditions of residents in several communities
This disclosure was made by Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali last week during the handing over of six housing schemes to the Bath/Woodley Park Neighbourhood Democratic Council.
Ali stated that the current CRIP programme is about 75 percent completed and is very much ahead of its 2014 deadline, chiefly in Regions Five (Mahaica/Berbice) and Six (East Berbice/Corentyne),.
The minister related that this project will be brought to a close before the end of this year and that the ministry is looking at approaching the Ministry of Finance for an expansion/extension in order for the commencement of CRIP Two.
He noted that the CRIP Two programme will not only involve infrastructural development, but will include a cost-effective component as well which will see the formation of economic opportunities.
The Housing Ministry is determined for a more integrated planning and has set up a Community Development and Planning Department at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).
CH&PA is responsible for the progress of community enhancement plans that will see the socio-fiscal conditions of communities conspired in an analytical way so as to come up with a premeditated vision for each of them.
As an example, the minster noted that the Mocha Main Road is now being paved and the ministry has just completed the development plan for that area as well as several other areas in Regions Five and Six.
He disclosed that the ministry wishes to integrate those plans into a new programme under CRIP Two.
Ms. Karen Roopchand, CRIP Project Coordinator stated that the current CRIP programme includes capacity building and institutional strengthening of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), which at the end of the day, will be responsible for the preservation of these roads.
Roopchand said that training on road maintenance has begun with the various NDCs, RDCs and small-scale contractors and training on property valuation, accounting, information technology and local governance issue will also be conducted.
Additionally, ten NDC buildings have been improved to date in an effort to advance the working environment of the staff and computers will be provided to them as well.
CRIP is a US $18.7M project, when completed; this project will see the construction and rehabilitation of 244 roads, 206 of which are funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) while 38 are being funded by the Government of Guyana.

Catapulting and sustaining hinterland development

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:19:30 +0000

UNDER the PPP/C administration the move to ensure that the development of Guyana’s Amerindians is catapulted speedily into the 21st Century has borne fruit and, today, Amerindian leaders are testifying to better lives for their people and development for their communities due to numerous interventions by the Government.
GRIF
he Guyana REDD + Investment Fund (GRIF), a trust fund established between Guyana and Norway in 2010, will finance activities identified under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). Funding to the tune of $1.2B will be deposited in the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) through which an initial $360M will be made available for the execution of projects earmarked under the Community Development Projects (CDPs).
The funding will continue to ensure that land titling and extensions and demarcation of Amerindian lands continue and guarantee the rapid development of solar electrification in hinterland communities. The latter will see information technology being advanced and the enhancement of business opportunities set up under CDPs.

Transportation
Improved transportation accessibility in hinterland communities has aided the transformation of village economies while bridging the development gap between Guyana’s hinterland and coastland regions.
Vehicles have been purchased through Presidential Grants for a number of villages in the hinterland which allow for the transport of farmers’ produce and villagers to market and children to and from school. Several communities have benefitted from minibuses, pick-ups, boats, tractors to bolster agricultural activities and All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). Improved roads have given way to more economic activities, as it becomes easier and less costly to transport agricultural produce to the coast.

Road networking
Last year, $20B saw the continuation of the hinterland roads project which encompasses 600 miles of interior road networks linking Amerindian communities to centres of commercial and social activities. Region One, received $1.3B to facilitate rapid development of road networks to bridge the distance between hinterland communities in that region.
The previous year, $1B was spent in developing various hinterland roads, inclusive of Lethem, Aishalton, Meritzero Junction, Karasabai, Ituni/Kwakwani, and Santa Rosa. The communities of Matthews Ridge, Port Kaituma and Baramita have already been linked through the hinterland road strategy providing easier access for persons and goods to travel. Another road connecting the Manawarin and Macabra villages which could not be easily accessed will be completed shortly.
The Matarkai Sub-Region of Region One the Matthews Ridge to Baramita road now allows for easy transportation to Baramita, which was once a very remote community that could only have been accessed by airplane or after an 8 to 10 hour trek.
Works on the Yarakita road have also commenced while access to several communities including Kamwatta, White Water and Wauna is now easier while a massive infrastructure project of $600 M will improve accessibility into Region Nine.
Linking the hinterland and the coastland will be facilitated through the road from Linden to Lethem for which $291M was budgeted last year. An additional sum of US$1.1M was invested for the completion of a feasibility study for the construction of a four-lane all-weather road from Georgetown to Lethem.
Over the past year, close to $700M in contracts were awarded for the construction and upgrade to roads and structures in Regions 7, 8 and 9.

Education transformation
Heavy investment in education has seen much wider access not only to formal education but at the technical, vocational and university levels for the fast rising Amerindian population and other Guyanese.
Hundreds of schools, primary and nursery, have been built in the hinterland regions making it easier for children to access education closer to their villages, while several secondary schools have also been constructed as the Administration makes strides in increasing the percentage of children accessing education at this level. Among the secondary schools are; Aishalton and St Ignatius in Region Nine, Four Miles, Bartica and Waramadong, Region Seven, Paramakatoi, Region Eight, Mabaruma, Region One and St Cuthbert’s Region Four. The most recently built school is at Sand Creek, Region Nine.
All these schools have dormitories to cater for students from far off areas.
The formative years of a person’s development are critical and as such Government is providing a nutritional diet for students in hinterland communities with a hot meal from nursery to Grade Two. The hot meals and cassava bread and juice programme were implemented in the Hinterland communities, in Regions 1, 7, 8, and 9.
The programme was initially implemented through the Ministry of Education’s Fast Track Initiative (EFA/FTI) in a number of communities in Region Nine and was expanded to include additional regions.
The hinterland school uniform programme was initiated in 2003 to boost school attendance, to ensure children acquire an education. Raw materials are distributed to hinterland communities, while contracts for the sewing of the uniforms are awarded to residents of the respective villages.
The new Students’ Dormitory at Liliendaal caters for approximately 120 students from the hinterland, who have been awarded scholarships.
The students being under one roof are more effectively supervised and they support their peers both academically and socially. The dormitory also provides medical care for students who may fall ill, computer training and internet access, library facilities, games, development of farm plots and other extra curricula activities.

Hinterland Scholarship
Over the past 11 years, more than 450 students have benefitted from scholarships while scores more have accessed technical and tertiary education at institutions such as the GSA, GTI, Carnegie School of Home Economics and the University of Guyana.
The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate Examination (CSEC) written by hinterland students has recorded 90.4 percent passes in grades 1 to 3 and, many of the graduating scholarship students have returned to their Regions and are today serving in the post of Education Officer, Graduate/ Trained Head Teacher, Doctor, Medex, Dentex, Staff Nurse, Midwife, Engineer, Lawyer.
Several are also in Cuba undergoing training in various disciplines.

Health
Twenty years of wide ranging national health transformation, supported by successive, annual multi-billion dollar budgets, has focused on infrastructural development and personnel upgrade, around the country and in Amerindian communities.
Mabaruma and Kumaka, Region One and Lethem Hospital complex, Region Nine is outfitted with modern equipment and facilities including theatres, in-patient and out-patient facilities, pharmacy and laboratory.
New health centres were built where none existed previously, staffed with adequate medical personnel in every hinterland area that offers health care services which were unavailable in the past whilst prior services, have been upgraded.
Several Medex Training Programmes conducted by the Ministry of Health have seen many Amerindians returning to their communities to serve in these positions.

Agriculture
From largely subsistence farming, involving mostly cassava, technology has been introduced to enhance the production of this staple, with an eye towards export markets.
There is a vibrant peanut and vegetable programme in Regions One and Seven; a multimillion dollar rice and beans project at Moco Moco, Region Nine that will supplement the development of the Rupununi; and a promising cultivation of spices, inclusive of black pepper, nutmeg, and tumeric in Regions One, Seven and Eight.
These projects are supported by NAREI through the training of Amerindians in modern agriculture methods such as laboratory techniques for soil testing; pests and diagnosis control and improved irrigation methods; as well as a shade house for cultivation in a controlled environment.
The National Hinterland Secure Livelihood Programme (NSLP) is ongoing in 15 communities in Region One, apart from others in Regions Seven and Nine. Costing $180M, the NSLP emphasises the establishment of sustainable agriculture ventures, generating income, providing employment, whilst introducing scientific methods that enhance production yields.

Potable water
Amerindian communities are accessing more potable water as the government strives to meet the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) among which is halving the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water by 2015.
Residents in most Hinterland regions are receiving potable water as new boreholes have been completed in several Regions while PVC systems have also been installed along with new distribution systems and the completion of elevated storage facilities.
Several communities have received black tanks for storage of potable water. Additionally, in some communities, there has been the installation of solar pumping systems.
Wells fitted with hand pumps and rainwater catchments are installed in a majority of the villages and Government provides funds to rehabilitate and repair the systems.

Electricity
The aggressive pursuit of the Hinterland Electrification Project includes distribution of 11,000 solar panels to Amerindian communities that cannot be connected to the national grid.
This will boost economic ventures and allow for children to complete assignments and be involved in more advantageous ventures.
The Programme is linked to Amaila Falls Hydropower project which is a major aspect of government’s Low-Carbon Development Strategy.

Amerindian Act
The Amerindian Act of 2006 followed the establishment of the first Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in Guyana. Together, they allow for policy measures to promote the expression and development of culture and languages whilst building awareness of the rich culture of the first peoples of Guyana.
Further, the principle of collective rights and the revised Amerindian Act of 2006 created the legal regime for the protection and enforcement of collective rights to land and internal self-government. The Mining and Forest Acts for instance respect Amerindians’ traditional rights to lands and the Environmental Protection Act ensures that traditional activities are not constrained.

NTC, IPC
The National Toshaos Council (NTC) also has the mandate to propose policies on Amerindian welfare and allows leaders the opportunity to meet under one roof, to have discussions at the highest level.
The most recent NTC meeting in August 2012 saw the election of a new executive body, chaired by Derrick John. It also saw the signing of an agreement for the release of the Guyana Redd+Investment fund (GRIF), through which Amerindian Development will take centre stage.
The IPC’s mandate is to establish mechanisms to enhance the status of indigenous peoples and to respond to their legitimate demands and needs.
Specific areas of focus include the promotion and protection of the rights of indigenous people, awareness raising of the contributions and problems facing indigenous people and the promotion of empowerment of indigenous people regarding village councils in the local government system.
The elevation of Amerindians in Guyana to high public office in Government has been a significant hallmark of the PPP/C administration, and they are being elevated at all levels of both the local and international scenes through the opportunities being offered to them.
Among them are; Ashton Simon- Indigenous Relations Specialist at Ministry of Natural Resources & the Environment; Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett – Minister of Foreign Affairs; Pauline Sukhai, current Minister of Amerindian Affairs; and Bertie Xavier – member of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII). Vibert De Souza was appointed the first Minister of Amerindian Affairs by the PPP/C administration while the late Dr. Desrey Fox served as Minister in the Ministry of Education.

Legislation and Amerindian rights
The catalyst for supporting Amerindian rights was the passage of the Amerindian Act that has ensured that every facet of Amerindians’ political, social and economic rights, in addition to being fulfilled, is also practically executed via the many structures of governance established.
It started with the pivotal issue of land titling, where government has set the policy objective of resolving all land titling issues by 2015, for all Amerindian villages.
Also, the extension of Amerindian lands is guided by the legislative process governing such activity, and which is clearly defined by the relevant articles of the Amerindian Act#6 of 2006.

Motor cyclist fatally struck by car at Goed Fortuin

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:20:13 +0000

A MOTOR-CYCLIST was fatally struck about 20:30 hrs last night on the Goed Fortuin Public Road on the West Bank of Demerara.

The dead motor cyclist is Kenrick Junior Roach, a 26-year old mechanic and father of five, who was living in Roxanne Burnham Gardens Georgetown, apparently was heading back home when he was struck by a car (PLL 4254) in the vicinity of a turn along Goed Fortuin Public Road and died on the spot. He was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was identified by relatives. (More details in tomorrow’s edition)

Naya Zamana-17 A theatrical spectacle

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:20:36 +0000

President Ramotar urges Amerindians to preserve their culture

Admin2 — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 07:21:08 +0000

AMERINDIAN Heritage Month celebrations kicked off with zest and vigour as Guyana’s first people began their annual month-long celebrations under the theme: Embracing Our Identity, Celebrating our Culture.
The grand official opening of celebrations at the Amerindian village, Sophia Exhibition Site was dominated by youthful spirits during the cultural extravaganza and surrounded by a wide variety of indigenous foods, drinks, and craft.

‘A person who is not rooted in his heritage loses his identity, and is thus akin to a rolling stone’ - President Ramotar

President Donald Ramotar during his feature address urged Amerindians to preserve it. He also warned that if they allow their languages to die, it would be the beginning of the end of their culture. Focusing on the theme of the celebrations, the Head of State said “a person who is not rooted in his heritage loses his identity, and is thus akin to a rolling stone”. He added that Amerindians must continue to pass on their culture to the younger generations.
He reiterated government’s support towards the preservation of the Amerindian culture and languages, which is indispensible for the protection of their identity.
President Ramotar outlined government’s agenda towards the continued development of Amerindian hinterland communities through major projects, road networks, electrification and easier access into communities. He noted that the delayed attempts by the parliamentary opposition to correct their mistake of cutting the national budget had delayed a number of initiatives.
The President stated however, that “this experience has strengthened the resolve of Government to reject and resist attempts to stymie Government’s support for greater development in the hinterland”. He stated that in order to move Guyana forward and not imperil national development, all political parties need to be responsible and work together.
That the indigenous people will be the central part of Guyana’s development clearly shows that there is reason for celebration, the President added.
“It is only when we practice our traditions and culture, that we don’t allow our heritage to die,” he urged the gathering as he invited the rest of the nation to join with the Amerindians in their celebrations.
Meanwhile, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai stated that government had taken great steps to preserve the Amerindian rights and heritage. “Cultural protection has also found a place in the Amerindian Act of 2006,” she stated.
She said that leaders are legally mandated to preserve the Amerindian traditional and cultural way of life.
Ms. Sukhai echoed the President’s sentiments on the preservation of the culture and identity of Amerindians and recommitted her ministry’s support towards this.
Other activities during Amerindian Heritage Month will include the continuation of cultural presentations, indigenous craft exhibitions, food and craft tents and other events at the Amerindian Village, Sophia.
On Heritage Day September 8, the Grand heritage village celebrations will take place at Micobie Village, Region 8, while the Sports & fun weekend will take place in Georgetown at the Carifesta Sports Complex on September 15 and 16.
The annual Heritage Walk showcasing the active lifestyle of the Amerindians will take place on Sunday Sept 23 while the children will be involved in mural painting at the Kitty seawall on Sept 22 -23 from 09.00 hrs daily.
The celebrations wind down with a dinner on September 28 at the Regency Suites Hotel in Hadfield Street, Georgetown.

Malaysians interested in agri projects

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 03:53:08 +0000

Rev. Moon, religious and political figure, dies in South Korea at 92

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:01:06 +0000

(CNN) -- THE Rev. Sun Myung Moon -- a controversial religious and political figure who founded the Unification Church, a major institution in East Asia and beyond that gained fame decades ago for its mass weddings -- died early Monday in South Korea, the church said.
The Universal Peace Federation said on its website that Moon died early Monday morning of complications related to pneumonia. He was 92.
"Our True Father passed into the spiritual world at 1:54 AM Monday, September 3rd, Korea time," a message on a Unification Church English-language website said.
His funeral will be held on September 15 after nearly two weeks of mourning, the church said in a statement. Moon's mortuary will be open for visitors to pay respects from Thursday until the funeral, it said.
"Rev. Moon died from overwork, from frequent trips aboard, including to the U.S., and from morning prayers which caused respiratory disease," Ahn Ho-yeol, a church spokesman said.
He will be buried on Mount Cheonseong in the northern South Korean province of Gyeonggi. In its statement, the church described the mountain as the "holy land" of the church.
The Washington Times, one of several publications that Moon founded, similarly reported Moon's death.
"Words cannot convey my heart at this time," Thomas P. McDevitt, the Times' president, said in a story on the newspaper's website. "Rev. Sun Myung Moon has long loved America, and he believed in the need for a powerful free press to convey accurate information and moral values to people in a free world."
McDevitt added that the Times is a "tangible expression of those two loves." In 2010, the newspaper was sold to a group operating on Moon's behalf, according to a statement on the paper's website.
Doctors put Moon in intensive care in a Seoul hospital last month after he fell ill, said Ahn, the church spokesman, at the time. Physicians then gave him a 50% chance of survival.
Days later, one of his sons, the Rev. Hyung Jin Moon, noted in a sermon posted on a church website that his father had multiple health problems in recent years, including heart surgery performed in the United States about 10 years ago. But still, he pushed on with his life's mission.
"Father, who is responsible to save the world, pushed himself way beyond his limits," said the son, who himself has a leading role in the church.
Moon had been a high-profile international evangelist for decades, having said that Jesus Christ came to him in the 1930s and "told him to finish (Jesus') mission," according to James Beverley, a professor at the Tyndale University College and Seminary in Toronto.
The Unification Church believes Jesus was divine but that he is not God, a stance that puts it outside the bounds of traditional Christianity. Followers regard Moon as the messiah.
His church officially started in the 1950s, with missionaries being dispatched around the world by the end of that decade. His was one of several religious movements that emerged after World War II and the Korean War in South Korea and Japan, drawing from "a tremendous pool of people ... looking for answers as to why the world had turned (against them)," said Virginia Commonwealth University professor David Bromley.
Globally, the church's reach may have peaked in the 1970s and early 1980s, as hundreds of thousands joined the singular religious movement, said Beverley. Critics have said the controversial Moon leads a cult whose followers were colloquially known as "Moonies."
"Rev. Moon demanded a lot of members -- a lot of (them) left their families and they lived very sacrificially, especially in the 1970s," said Beverley. "Moon claims to be the true father of humanity, (and) his wife is the true mother."
Today, the professor estimates that the Unification Church has hundreds of thousands of followers still in South Korea and Japan, with far fewer elsewhere around the globe.
In his role as church leader, Moon is famous for conducting mass weddings, including one in 1982 at New York City's Madison Square Garden and one in 1995 in South Korea uniting 360,000 couples.
"It was his way of emphasizing the importance of the family, plus all these couples get married under his blessing and that is basically their path to heaven," said Beverley.
Arranged matches are a common practice for members of the Unification Church. Howard Self, a spokesman for organizers of a 1997 mass ceremony at Washington's Robert F. Kennedy Stadium, said after that event that those blessed by Moon could then be legally married later "in their own countries."
"Even before you're matched, you know that you're going to base your relationship on internal aspects because you don't know what the person's going to look like," said a man before his 1997 union to a woman he had met less than a week earlier.
Moon has had influence in other ways as well. He grew a massive, diverse business empire -- including holdings in industries such as chemicals, arms manufacturing, mining and pharmaceuticals -- at the same as his church grew, providing him with wealth "that allowed him to ... pursue his religious agenda," said Bromley.
Even after his church's membership in the United States dwindled in recent years, Moon stayed relevant by appearing frequently and sponsoring events for journalists, politicians, scientists and others at which he sometimes offered high-profile individuals large amounts of money to appear, noted Bromley.
He also helped create news publications, universities, religious institutions and other groups. Some such organizations Moon founded stress interfaith dialogue and peace, like the Universal Peace Federation, which advocates "building a world of peace in which everyone can live in freedom, harmony, cooperation and prosperity."
He's also run into trouble with the law, serving a federal prison term in the United States for tax evasion. From 2003 to 2005, the British government prohibited him from traveling to that country, according to a U.S. State Department report.
Still, Moon continued to be regarded highly elsewhere -- including in Washington.
A video from 2004, posted on the website of what was then known as the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace, showed a ceremony taking place in a U.S. Senate office building attended by Moon and several members of Congress. Speaking Korean, Moon declares himself the messiah and says he'd spoken to the spirits of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, both of whom he said found strength in his teachings and mended their ways.
Rep. Danny Davis, D-Illinois, is seen reading a poem and wearing white gloves and carrying a crown on a pillow to Moon and his wife. Davis said later he thought it was all part of an interfaith peace ceremony, adding that Moon didn't ask his "permission to call himself the messiah."
Moon was traditionally a strong supporter of Republican politicians, including Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, said Eileen Barker, a professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
He was also known for being "virulently anti-communist," having been imprisoned in North Korea during the Korean War before being freed by the allies, she said.
Moon softened his hard line on North Korea, though, over time -- even meeting North Korea's founder (and grandfather of its current leader), the late Kim Il Sung, and investing money in the north. He also took pride in talking with Mikhail Gorbachev before the Soviet Union's collapse, calling such meetings a part of the unification movement that connects with the "messiah" and therefore was part of "the restoration," according to Bromley.
In the sermon from August 19 posted online, the Rev. Hyung Jin Moon talked about his father's illness and praised his efforts over the years, as well as stating some of the family's political positions as regards China, Russia and others.
The younger Moon also made a point to thank those who have been praying for his father's health.
"We need to remember, father is not just a normal person," said the Rev. Hyung Jin Moon. "Father's body is not just a normal body."

The truth versus the news

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:12:44 +0000

EVERY day we are bombarded with headlines from the various media outfits. We are inundated with information in the print media, radio, television, internet and mobile phones.
Many of us may agree that readers are much more interested in bad news and scandals than they are in good news and spectacular achievements. Indeed, the bad news and scandals grab our attention in ways that excite and stimulate our interest.
Some of us may be tempted to read a headline and assume that the headline is reflective of the truth. Many times the headlines are placed there to grab our attention; and in some instances, the actual details of the article may present very different findings.
The reality is that we in Guyana are not unique in this regard. News publications around the world are replete with examples of sensational headlines.
One may ask why are they so often used , but the simple truth is that sensation sells.
In more practical terms, a sense of crisis is good business for news….Like sex, murder, corruption, intrigue – this is the sensationalism that sells! What helps circulation? Gossip, intrigue, scandal…It is all good business. Ask the publishers and editors of notorious local media houses.
Entertainment by sensationalising stories has driven outfits posing as media houses; and trial by media has become the bread and butter, with much cheese (pun intended) for our society. Not to pick on the soaps on TV these days….but they are a good example of the type of intrigue and issues that spark our interests.
Some headlines easily excite, inflame and seek to profess facts and truths with fictional twists, because these make a good sell, of course! Good circulation equals good business!
The problem is that society should be able to depend on media to filter out the chaff and provide the unvarnished, unprejudicial truth, because we should expect that when we read a headline or a story, we are reading work being presented after some clinical examination of fact and opinion and presented to us free from bias - or at least as free from bias as is possible. And if there is a mistake made, then it should be an honest mistake, with clarifications and an apology provided in a timely and conspicuous manner.
We know that plain truth without sensationalism does not sell, but do the perpetrators realise, or even care, about the extent to which the innuendoes, as Christopher Ram admitted to doing “conjectures”, as the publisher and editor of a local print media house admitted to doing, merely printing politicians’ accusations and destroying the characters of persons, the credibility of businesses and institutions, and ultimately the investment climate – not to mention the inhibition of developmental funding, are actually devastating our people and our country?
And although the headlines grab our attention, how many of us, in any effective way, are working to counteract their negative impacts on the nation?
The Latin expression, “Cum grano salis” is one that we as Guyanese should apply when assimilating our newscasts and items – a term which we are very familiar with: “With a grain of salt”, which urges us to look at local information dissemination with skepticism, suspicion and caution; to whit: Is the media outfit merely parading itself as a news agency? Does it have an agenda? If so, what may that agenda be?
So the public needs to ask of itself if it is buying news or entertainment, or the advertisers that support media houses.
Simply put, don’t rely on headlines alone for the source of information. Read more than one newspaper to get the facts, and then assimilate and judge for yourself the veracity of the contents.
One should not just read the headline and form an opinion. Read the story that follows; and before you form an opinion, make sure you examine as many other perspectives as you can find and then think critically about the issues before forming an opinion.
Because in Guyana, the truth is often stranger and most often, different, than the news reported

Klinsmann ready to 'zoom in on' Jamaica

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:14:56 +0000

FOR the next week and a half Jurgen Klinsmann's full attention will be on Jamaica. But this is no vacation. The United States play the Reggae Boyz twice in four days in World Cup qualifying, with the first match in Kingston on September. 7.
"We know we have to give everything we have in order to beat Jamaica," Klinsmann said. "We are well aware of their strengths. It's a good side, especially at home. They will try everything to beat us."
Klinsmann's efforts were prematurely undermined by the absences of Landon Donovan and Michael Bradley through injury and the fitness questions hanging over Clint Dempsey and others early in the European seasons.
"There will be never a game when you have everybody 100 percent on board," the ever-zen Klinsmann said. "It's just the way soccer works. You always have to deal with injuries, with some players not being in form, or whatever it is.
"We'll try to joggle things as good as we can."
The upbeat German coach has a habit of buoying above criticism or potential pitfalls. The 48-year-old pointed out that the critics were snickering before he took a second-string roster into the Azteca Stadium last month and posted the Stars and Stripes' first-ever win on Mexican soil.
"Some people smiled. The Mexican media made jokes about it," Klinsmann said. "And then we did it."
This year the United States have also beaten Italy by a similar 1-0 scoreline as the one posted against El Tri. Klinsmann, who led Germany to third place in the 2006 World Cup, says the next step is submitting quality performances consistently, instead of sporadically.
"Our goal is, going from game to game, to become more consistent, to become more efficient and hopefully to give the players tools that they know how to be really consistent," Klinsmann said. "There's a mental side of it, there's a physical side of it, there's a lifestyle side of it. There are so many elements that play into that whole thing. We're trying to develop that."
An obvious boost to building consistency would be to fly into Jamaica and grab a tough CONCACAF away win. That's exactly Klinsmann's plan, though he's not taking any result for granted.
"If we really do our homework, if we give everything we have and we really are prepared to take every little piece of our work seriously, yes, we can beat also big nations away from home," he said. "But it doesn't give you a guarantee for tomorrow. Tomorrow is another whole new animal."
Jamaica's roster for the upcoming duo of games features eight MLS players, a cluster of European-based exports and a handful of homegrown stars. Klinsmann said that each member of his coaching staff had watched Jamaica's recent games and that the United States knew what to expect.
"They have tremendous physical qualities. They have a lot of speed in there," he said. "They're dangerous in transition."
After the match in Kingston, the U.S. will host the return game in Columbus on September 11, a "special day and moment" which "excited" Klinsmann. But it's too early to think about that fixture.
"Nobody should think one second about the home game at the moment," Klinsmann said. "Everybody really has to zoom in and focus only about the game in Kingston. Once that game is over we can think about the return leg." (Goal.com)

Glenn McGrath takes over MRF Pace Foundation

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:19:37 +0000

CHENNAI: Former Australia fast bowler Glenn McGrath assumed directorial responsibilities at the MRF Pace Foundation here, taking over from countryman and legend Dennis Lillee, who served at the establishment for 25 years.
“It's a great honour for me to work with the MRF Pace academy. I know it won't be possible to replace someone like the great Dennis Lillee.
His legacy will be hard to live up to, but I will try my best in my role as the Director at the Foundation,” said the 42-year-old McGrath.
The former exponent of corridor bowling acknowledged the role of the Pace Foundation in unearthing and guiding talent in the country. “MRF Pace academy's contribution to world cricket is immense. I have trained under Lillee at the foundation and have experienced the first-hand world class facilities on offer,” he said.
Lillee, after an extended stint in Chennai, said he would have fond memories of working here. “It was an extremely hard decision to leave the foundation. Chennai is like a second home for me. I will definitely miss being at the Foundation, working with the staff and trainees which was an integral part of my life for the past 25 years. It has been a long journey.
“We had to begin from scratch, building facilities and slowly developing into a world class academy. Our efforts and hard work have paid off and it pleases me to see bowlers trained at the foundation leading the Indian attack,” he said.
Lillee maintained that McGrath was the right person to succeed him and hoped the academy would continued to grow under its new helmsman. “McGrath is the perfect choice to carry the vision of the Foundation forward. I am happy for him and wish him all the best in his new role. I am certain that the MRF Pace academy will produce many more international fast bowlers under his guidance. (Yahoo Cricket)

Under-23 athletes to be selected soon

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:20:10 +0000

THE top performers of the Under-23 trial that was held at the Police Sports Club (PSC) ground last Sunday will know their fate when the executives of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) meet to decide who will represent the Land of Many Waters.
According to one executive from the AAG, a meeting is to be held today when the issue of who qualifies to represent Guyana is addressed.
From the trials, Under-23 athletes can qualify for the North American, Central America and Caribbean Athletics Association’s (NACAC) Under-23 Track and Field Championships in Brazil while the youth athletes can qualify for the South American Youth Championships 2013 which is to be hosted in Argentina.
On Sunday there was mediocre athlete participation which also led the day’s schedule to include a few invitational races. Some senior athletes were also included in events to give the juniors a push to better their performances.
In the male Under-23 sprinting division, Stephan James ran a blistering time of 47.9s in the 400m finishing behind Olympian Winston George (senior) who ran 47.6s. James also won the 200m in an impressive time.
The 100m was won by Chavez Ageday in a time of 10.5s (hand timing), while Akeem Stewart was second with a time of 10.8s.
Another impressive performance came from the two-time 1500 gold medallist at the CARIFTA Games Jevina Straker. She was unchallenged as she won the Under-23 800m in a time of 2:16.9s and also the 1500m which she won on Saturday.
Another performance to review was that of Tevin Garraway who won the youth sprint double over the two days. On Sunday he closed his performance with a time of 21.9s in the 200m.

Ronaldo: I'm unhappy at Madrid

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:20:33 +0000

CRISTIANO Ronaldo has publicly revealed he is unhappy at Real Madrid due to a mystery "professional issue”.
Ronaldo scored his 149th and 150th goals in 149 games for Madrid in a 3-0 win over Granada on Sunday evening but pointedly refused to properly celebrate at the Bernabeu.
When quizzed by journalists in the mixed zone following the Liga game, Ronaldo sparked speculation over his future by revealing he is not content with life at the Spanish champions.
"I'm sad because of a professional issue and the club know why," Ronaldo said. "That's why I didn't celebrate the goals, because I'm not happy. The people (at the club) know why.
"It's nothing to do with Andres Iniesta (winning UEFA's Best Player in Europe award). I won't talk about this anymore and I will concentrate on Portugal for now. There are more important things (than this).
"The people at the club know about this. I cannot say any more."
It is also reported that Ronaldo was spotted crying in the Madrid dressing room following the victory over Granada.
Marca, the leading newspaper covering Real Madrid in the Spanish capital, says Ronaldo told president Florentino Perez on Saturday he did not feel wanted at the club.
The paper speculates that Ronaldo may have fallen out with some of his team-mates.

Nerveless Maxwell takes Australia home

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:21:05 +0000

A LITTLE calmer when it mattered most, Australia completed a victory more testing than the scoreboard ultimately showed to defeat Pakistan in Sharjah and claim the overnight ODI series 2-1.
It was a result achieved as much by perspiration as inspiration, Michael Hussey and the nerveless tyro Glenn Maxwell forming the critical union to rescue their team from the uncertainty of 159 for 5 when Matthew Wade fell to Abdur Rehman.
Hussey could so easily have been out lbw to Saeed Ajmal before he had scored, amid a mesmerising spell in which the off-spinner claimed what appeared a pivotal 3 for 11.
But Misbah-ul-Haq made a pair of judgements that were to prove too timid - failing to refer the umpire Billy Bowden's decision, and then taking Ajmal off after five overs when another wicket or two might have sealed Australia's fate.
Pakistan's hesitation could perhaps be attributed to the weight of history, having not defeated Australia in an ODI series since 2002.
There was to be little such trepidation about the way Michael Hussey and Maxwell closed in on the target, which had been reined in to manageable proportions by Mitchell Johnson and Mitchell Starc after Pakistan's openers made their team's best start against Australia since 1985.
Mohammad Hafeez's stand of 129 with Nasir Jamshed should have allowed Pakistan to soar well past 250, but Australia's bowlers stuck admirably to their task to limit the rest.
It was Johnson who started the salvage operation, claiming two wickets while keeping his economy-rate down, and thus allowing Starc to strike four times to continue his decent form.
As had been flagged as a possibility by the assistant coach Steve Rixon earlier in the series, Wade's exertions during 50 overs in the field were deemed too much for him to back up immediately as an opener.
His replacement at the top of the order was unexpected - David Hussey opening for the first time in his ODI career - but provided a useful left-right contrast with David Warner in a stand that showed plenty of brio if not total safety.
Warner and David Hussey both smote huge sixes, causing the umpires to twice call for a replacement ball, and denting the previously tidy series figures of Hafeez. Rehman hurried a Warner pull shot and claimed his wicket to break the partnership at 44, but Michael Clarke was typically fluent and with David Hussey he kept Australia ahead of the asking-rate.
However Ajmal's introduction brought a marked change to proceedings, as he found spin despite the moist night air and yet again confused the Australians with his variations. Clarke had struck one significant blow in drawing blood from the left hand of Shahid Afridi with a fierce drive, but he advanced too early to Ajmal and was well stumped down the leg side by Kamran Akmal.
Michael Hussey seemed palpably lbw, but Pakistan chose conservatively not to refer Billy Bowden's not-out verdict.
David Hussey perished in pursuit of another six, and George Bailey gloved an attempted paddle-sweep. Ajmal's spin had turned the innings, but he was then withdrawn to allow Wade and Michael Hussey some desperately needed breathing room.
They steadied things until Wade's exit, bowled between bat and pad, whereupon Maxwell made another free-spirited contribution to a series in which his batting comfortably outshone his bowling as he ransacked Afridi for 16 runs in the 43rd over. Michael Hussey was out to a tired slog and Dan Christian did not endure, but Maxwell kept his cool and his timing to guide the weary Australians home.
They had been grateful to win the toss and avoid the worst excesses of the evening moisture. Bolstered by happy memories of game one when they had topped and tailed the Pakistan innings, Pattinson and Starc took the new ball with some intent.
Starc looked initially short of rhythm and comfort having shrugged off a side/chest complaint to take part, but Australia's opening duo made Jamshed and Hafeez work hard to survive the early overs.
Both batsmen top-edged attempted hook shots and were fortunate to see their respective strokes fall safely. Nonetheless, the shots signalled their ambition, even as a sluggish pitch, slow outfield and tidy Australian fielding made scoring difficult.
Gradually, Hafeez and Jamshed wrested the initiative, seeing off a useful spell by Johnson and profiting more from the others.
The all-rounder Christian shelled a difficult return catch when Hafeez was on 26, but it was the only hint of a chance offered by the openers as they strode to Pakistan's first century opening stand against Australia in ODIs since 1985.
Jamshed's innings was a worthy follow-up to his match-shaping innings in Abu Dhabi, while Hafeez was finally showing the Australians the worth of his batting after some years of underachievement. The six off Pattinson was a particularly compelling reminder.
Australia were so desperate for a wicket that Clarke sacrificed his one referral to a speculative appeal for a leg-side catch off Jamshed. The stratagem was indirectly helpful in securing the breakthrough, distracting Jamshed enough for Johnson to have him touching a bouncer behind in the same over.
Afridi was promoted in the order to make a flash-in-the-pan seven, and Hafeez's innings was ended when Clarke struck him in front while attempting to sweep.
Asad Shafiq, Misbah-ul-Haq and Azhar Ali did not go beyond their starts, keeping the target within Australia's reach. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Kohli, Dhoni carry India to series victory

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:23:09 +0000

(REUTERS) - Virat Kohli and Mahendra Singh Dhoni bailed India out with an unbroken 96-run stand that took the hosts to a five-wicket victory in the second and final Test for a clean sweep in the series against New Zealand yesterday.
Off-spinner Jeetan Patel picked up three wickets and India were reduced to 166 for five at one stage, chasing 261 for victory, before Kohli (51 not out) and Dhoni (48 not out) came together to guide their team home.
The 23-year-old Kohli, who made 103 in the first innings, defended resolutely at the start, became more fluent as his innings progressed and got to his half-century with three boundaries in an over off paceman Tim Southee.
"It was a tricky situation when I went in to bat," Kohli, voted man-of-the-match, said during the presentation ceremony.
"But we both decided that we will take it 10 runs at a time and try to see the team through and the plan worked for us.
"My natural game is to be positive. But I need to control my shots every now and then. I thought throughout the Test match that I need to be more patient and I need to apply myself more.
"I had a plan in my mind and luckily it worked for me."
Captain Dhoni was the more attacking of the two and finished the match with a boundary and a six in consecutive balls off Patel to spark the celebrations.
Patel looked the most dangerous of the New Zealand bowlers and extracted sharp turn and bounce off the pitch at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
India, who won the first Test in Hyderabad by an innings and 115 runs, lost the wickets of Sachin Tendulkar (27), Cheteshwar Pujara (48) and Suresh Raina (0) after tea.
Youngster Pujara and veteran Tendulkar survived some nervy moments after the loss of openers Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir in quick succession and added 69 for the third wicket.
Tendulkar was once again bowled for the third time in as many innings in the series while Daniel Flynn ran backwards at short leg to pull off a superb bat-pad catch off Patel to dismiss Pujara.
Brendon McCullum, filling in for regular wicketkeeper Kruger van Wyk who was hit on the forearm while batting on Sunday, missed an easy stumping opportunity to dismiss Pujara on 37 off Patel.

BRISK START
"We had our chances ... we always knew we were close," New Zealand captain Ross Taylor said.
"But the way Kohli and Dhoni went out and batted was outstanding and they took the game away from us.
"We came here with some standards we wanted to maintain and we did that in patches.
"I am proud of the whole team of how they came back from a terrible Test in Hyderabad and I am sure we will come out of this as a better team."
Sehwag (38) and Gambhir (34) started India's second innings with great purpose, swatting the New Zealand pacemen around the ground to bring up a 50-partnership in eight overs.
The duo added 77 for the opening wicket before Sehwag, who hit seven boundaries and a six, was bowled by Patel when he danced down the wicket to the off-spinner but swiped inside the line of the ball, which went on to hit his off stump.
New Zealand captain Ross Taylor was forced to introduce his spinner in the 12th over after the quick bowlers had made no impact, and the move immediately bore fruit.
Sehwag greeted Patel with a six over long-off and hit another four before he fell trying to repeat the shot.
Left-hander Gambhir looked in fine touch and hit some expansive drives for seven boundaries before he edged left-arm seamer Trent Boult to Taylor at first slip.
Earlier, India needed little time to wrap up New Zealand's second innings, taking the final wicket in the fifth over of the day to dismiss the visitors for 248.
New Zealand's final pair of Patel (22) and Boult (unbeaten on four) added a crucial 26 runs for the 10th wicket to take the lead past the 250-run mark.
Resuming on their overnight score of 232-9, Patel was given caught behind off paceman Zaheer Khan but was clearly unhappy with the decision and television replays suggested he had missed the ball completely.
Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin finished with figures of 5-69 to register his third five-wicket haul in the last four innings against New Zealand.

NEW ZEALAND first innings 365
India first innings 353
NEW ZEALAND second innings (o/n 232-9)
B. McCullum c Dhoni b Yadav 23
M. Guptill b Yadav 7
K. Williamson c Sehwag b Ashwin 13
R. Taylor lbw b Ojha 35
D. Flynn c Sehwag b Ashwin 31
J. Franklin stp. Dhoni b Ashwin 41
K. van Wyk lbw b Ashwin 31
D. Bracewell lbw b Ojha 22
T. Southee b Ashwin 2
J. Patel c Dhoni b Zaheer 22
T. Boult not out 4
Extras: (b-4, lb-12, w-1) 17
Total: (all out; 73.2 overs) 248
Fall of wickets: 1-30, 2-31, 3-69, 4-111, 5-140, 6-195, 7-216, 8-222, 9-222.
Bowling: Zaheer 14.2-2-46-1, Yadav 15-0-68-2 (w-1), Ojha 21-6-49-2, Ashwin 22-1-69-5, Raina 1-1-0-0.

INDIA second innings
G. Gambhir c Taylor b Boult 34
V. Sehwag b Patel 38
C. Pujara c Flynn b Patel 48
S. Tendulkar b Southee 27
V. Kohli not out 51
S. Raina b Patel 0
MS Dhoni not out 48
Extras: (b-4, lb-6, w-5, nb-1) 16
Total: (five wickets; 63.2 overs) 262
Fall of wickets: 1-77, 2-83, 3-152, 4-158, 5-166.
Bowling: Boult 16-4-64-1, Southee 18-3-68-1 (w-1), Bracewell 14-3-52-0 (nb-1), Patel 15.2-3-68-3.

GCA/NBS SECOND DIVISION - Squires steers DCC past MSC; GNIC and GCC also record victories

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:23:59 +0000

HAVING piloted his club to a commanding victory over Ace Warriors the previous day, Dennis Squires returned the following day (Sunday) to steer Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) past Malteenoes Sports Club in their Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)-organised New Building Society-sponsored second division limited overs tournament fixture.
Also recording victories were Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) and Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), who both defeated Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) and Vikings by 143 and 142 runs in their respective matches.
At the Everest Cricket Club ground, DCC, who recently celebrated their 100th anniversary, won the toss and asked the Thomas Lands-based MSC side to take first strike on a straw-coloured pitch and in hazy conditions.
It was a move that paid dividends, as the Queenstown-based club, whose Under-19 ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams will be contesting the GCA/David Persaud Investments final at the same venue this Sunday, bowled out their opponents for 183 in 36 overs.
Skipper Shaquille Williams faced 64 deliveries for his 62 that was decorated with four fours, but apart from Delvon McEwan’s 31 and Nichosie Barker who supported with 21, the MSC batting lineup struggled against the bowling of Squires, Lyndon Lyght and Omesh Dhanram, who took two wickets each for 14, 41 and 43 runs respectively.
Despite Steven Sankar, Terrence Poole and Kareem Naughton picking up two wickets each for 8, 39 and 49 runs respectively for MSC, it was all in vain as DCC reached 184 for 6 to win by four wickets, thanks to Squires’ unbeaten 85 that was scored off 59 deliveries, and Dhanram’s 20.
At the GYO ground on Woolford Avenue, the home team asked GNIC to take first strike, to which the visitors said thank you by rattling up 248 before they were bowled out in the 37th over of their innings.
Jason Melville led GNIC”s batting with a belligerent 74 that included eight fours and fours sixes and got support from Matthew Marks who struck seven fours and one six in his unbeaten 63 and Premchand Sookdeo who made 37.
Anand Goolsarran took 4 for 61 from 7 overs, while Richard Hoyte and Mark Hamilton supported with two wickets each for 28 and 38 runs respectively for GYO, who were bowled out for 155, in their turn at the crease.
Opener Loakesh Reid topscored with 45 which included seven fours and one six, while Hoyte made 25, and Garfield De Rouche 21 against the bowling of Orlando Kirton who snared 5 for 24 from 8 overs, to secure GNIC’s victory by a whopping 143 runs.
At the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) ground, GCC won the toss and opting to bat first, scored 233 for 6 from their 40 overs, with Almando Doman leading the way with 83 that was decorated with nine fours and a solitary six.
Martin Pestano-Belle and Shamar Graham offered support with 31 and 20 not out respectively, while Kenny Thomas took 2 for 45 from 8 overs for Vikings, who were bowled out for 91, with Doman returning to claim 6 for 12 for 4.3 overs, while Adrian Persaud led his team’s batting with 23.

Bravo all smiles on return to Windies colours

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:24:47 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Darren Bravo says he is back to his old self, feeling 100 percent fit, and West Indies cricket fans can expect to see him at his best during the upcoming International Cricket Council’s World T20 tournament in Sri Lanka.
The stylish left-hander was sidelined with an injury earlier this year but made a full recovery after completing his rehabilitation in Trinidad. He arrived at the West Indies camp “healthy, strong and focused on the mission ahead”.
“It is a great feeling to be back and representing the West Indies. I’m fully fit. I am just looking forward to the Twenty20 World Cup and the rest of the season ahead this year,” the 23-year-old said as the West Indies players had another full training session at the Sagicor High Performance Centre.
“The most important thing is to spend as much time out in the middle and try to understand my role and try to execute as best as possible in the practice matches, so that when it comes time for Sri Lanka I will be confident enough to go out there and represent the West Indies and make our people proud.”
Bravo has looked relaxed and at ease in every net session so far. He said he is eager to get padded up “have a good hit” in the two warm-up matches set for the 3Ws Oval on Thursday. He added that he is eagerly looking to head back to Sri Lanka where he made a good start to his Test career back in 2010.
“I will try to use those two matches to get fully back into the groove. I played in the T20 tournament in Trinidad recently and I felt comfortable at the crease again. Thursday will provide another opportunity to see where I am with my comeback. It’s up to me to get out there and make it count. I feel good and back to my old self, so time in the middle should do be fine,” Bravo said.
“I made a good start to my Test career in Sri Lanka a few years ago so it is a place that has good memories for me. I enjoy the conditions, the atmosphere and the overall environment there. I have done quite well in Asia in general so this World Cup is something that I’m looking forward to.
The camp has gone well so far and we are gearing up nicely. You just have to look around and you will see everyone is smiling as we all look ahead to the tournament.”
The World T20 tournament features the 12 best teams in the world and will be played from September 18 to October 7.
The West Indies have been drawn in Group B alongside Australia and Ireland. Both first round matches will be at the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. West Indies open against the Aussies on Thursday, September 22 followed by a clash with the Irish on Monday, September 24.

GFF & NCN strengthen partnership to further develop the game

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:25:23 +0000

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) recently met with the Management of the National Communications Network (NCN) to discuss ways or further ways of strengthening the partnership between the two entities.
Having enjoyed a good working relationship in the past, the top brass of the two entities met with the view of assessing the current relationship with a view to further enhancing same.
The meeting took place in the Boardroom of NCN with the federation’s delegation led by president (ag) Franklin Wilson including general secretary Noel Adonis and marketing director, Faizal Khan.
CEO (ag) of NCN, Michael Gordon, led NCN’s team which also included Wendy Hermanstine, Raymond Azeez, Kenneth Jones, Sharda Lall and Stephan Sookram.
Wilson stated that the GFF is keen on further strengthening the relations with NCN especially as it relates to the development of their flagship team, ‘Golden Jaguars’ and football in general across Guyana.
Gordon committed to the promotion of the national unit and football as a whole, pointing out that features of biography as well as edutainment on the sport were areas in which the partnership would continue to grow and evolve.
NCN recently aired the Friendly International between Guyana and Bolivia and collaborations of this nature will continue according to both entities and is not limited to overseas matches but also local matches.
Both sides agreed at the end of the very fruitful meeting that decisions made will positively impact the promotion and development of the sport through strengthened partnership.

Facing other charges… Freed murder accused remains imprisoned for illegal gun

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:47:18 +0000

TIMOTHY Sampson, who was found with a duffel bag containing a cache of guns, including an Israeli made Uzi semi- automatic weapon, at Adelphi, East Canje, in May 2010, was freed of a murder charge last Wednesday.
It happened when Magistrate Fabio Azore upheld a submission by Defence Counsel Mursulene Bacchus, at Whim Court, Corentyne, also in Berbice and ruled that a prima facie case had not been made out against the accused.
However, despite that ruling, Sampson is currently serving a two-year prison term, imposed on him last year, for being in possession of one .32 semi-automatic pistol and a live matching round without being the holder of the relevant licences.
In addition, the prisoner faces several charges for having two AK-47 assault rifles, one Uzi submachine gun and one double-barrel shotgun and ammunition, also without licences.
Those charges followed his arrest on May 21, 2010, when it is alleged that Police Constables Darrel Ramsey and Gladwin were bitten in an escape attempt.
Sampson had been accused of having unlawfully killed forty-seven-year-old security guard Arjune Gobin known as ‘Buddy’, of Bloomfield, Corentyne, during a robbery attack at the home of businessman Surendra Ganesh and his wife, Basanti, at Wellington Park, Corentyne.
Police had said the victim was accompanying Rajendra Persaud, the Chief Executive Officer of Nand Persaud Group of Companies, to the scene after the boss was informed that his sister’s house was being attacked by bandits. But, on arrival, they were greeted by rapid gunfire and Gobin suffered gunshot injuries to his head from which he succumbed shortly afterwards.

New Amsterdam Lions Club outfits 20 schoolchildren

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:50:02 +0000

THE New Amsterdam Lions Club, in an act of benevolence, donated complete school outfits to 20 schoolchildren in the Berbice township and its environs.
Coordinator and third Vice-President Donna Austin told the media, at the handing over in their Vryman’s Erven Den last Friday, that, while the annual event is in recognition of education being the key to one’s success, the organisation has utilised the opportunity to contribute to such an improvement.
She noted that, when a child is properly attired with the necessary tools, he/she is much more comfortable and is more apt to learn.
Club President Samuel Singh said members of the international organisation were asked to sponsor two children who were in dire need of help from their respective communities.
Additionally, he said funds were garnered from bar-b-que sales and a donation of US$200 was received from businessman Sherlock Sohan and G$5,000 from the Buxton Restoration Committee.

Previously convicted robber refused bail

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:51:30 +0000

CORWIN Duff (no address given), who pleaded not guilty to robbing taxi driver Arjune Nankumar of $12,500 whilst he was a passenger in the victim’s car on August 28, has been remanded to prison until September 21.
When the defendant appeared before Magistrate Roby Benn yesterday, he said he had, initially, put a $500 bill in his pocket but, on arrival at his destination when he sought to pay the virtual complainant, he did not find the money.
Duff claimed he told Nankumar he would give him the cash the next time he sees him but the latter did not wait.
Police Corporal Joseph, prosecuting, in New Amsterdam Court,objected to bail on the ground that the defendant is a regular offender and was previously convicted for similar offences.
The prosecutor sad Duff was armed with a knife when he staged the robbery.

Father of 12 facing trial for threatening wife

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:52:00 +0000

A FATHER of 12 was yesterday ordered to post $20,000 bail on a charge of using threatening language to his wife, Jackie Rambarrat.
Magistrate Roby Benn set the surety for Chanderpaul Rambarratt, at New Amsterdam Court where the 46-year-old defendant pleaded not guilty to having committed the offence at their home on August 29.
Police Corporal Joseph, prosecuting, said the husband was previously convicted twice on charges of assaulting the virtual complainant and warned several times.
In addition, the delivery clerk is, currently, on a six months bond to keep the peace.
The New Amsterdam Court was told that on the latest occasion, the probationer had returned home under the influence of alcohol and threatened to cut off the woman’s neck and divide her face in two.
He is to face trial at Reliance Court, Canje, also in Berbice, to where the case has been transferred, on September 20.

Single parent agrees to remand of uncontrollable son

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:52:24 +0000

A FOURTEEN-YEAR-OLD lad, who was previously convicted of narcotic possession, appeared before Magistrate Roby Benn yesterday, charged with wandering.
The teen, who made his appearance at New Amsterdam Court, denied that he, being under the age of 17 years and not an orphan, has parents who do not exercise proper guardianship.
The Adelphi Village youth had attended Canje Secondary School but absconded from classes since last year.
His mother, a sales clerk, confessed to the magistrate that she is unable to control her son who is always getting away from home and involving himself in illegal activities with bad boys.
The single parent of four, two of whom are older than the defendant, agreed that he be remanded to the juvenile detention centre pending trial on September 17.

Jailed, fined for cultivating marijuana plants

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:53:17 +0000

TERRENCE Waldron, of Caracas Village, Vryheid, West Canje, was sentenced to three years imprisonment yesterday for cultivating cannabis sativa (marijuana).
He appeared before Magistrate Krishendat Persaud, at Whim Court, Corentyne, on a joint charge with Anthony Thompson, who pleaded not guilty to the charge and was remanded to prison pending trial at New Amsterdam Court, also in Berbice, on September 12.
Police, after receiving information, swooped upon a fenced yard on August 26 and found Waldron with eight of the prohibited plants, about two feet in height, being cultivated in a pot.
In addition to the jail term, Waldron was fined $10,000 with the alternative of three more months in prison.

Mainstay/Whyaka planning heart of palm cultivation

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:55:13 +0000

FARMERS of Mainstay/Whyaka Amerindian community want to start organic cultivation of heart of palm, to keep the pineapple factory rolling during the out of crop season.
The Toshoa, Mr. Joel Fredericks told Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Alli Baksh, at a meeting last week, that the venture will have them actively involved and provide employment when pineapple is out of season.
According to Fredericks, the alternative fruit is easy to grow and requires less attention than pineapples. He said the community is looking to cultivate an experimental one acre before moving into larger spread that can be found growing abundantly in the interior, especially near rivers and creeks.
Minister Baksh said he is fully supportive of the idea and said value-added products must be looked at seriously.
He said the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI) and New Guyana Marketing Corporation (NGMC) will continue to work with Mainstay/Whyaka farmers to push agriculture development and add value to products.

Essequibo Coast harvesting paddy but prices unknown

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:55:42 +0000

HARVESTING has started on the Essequibo Coast and paddy is being sold without the planters knowing what prices they will receive for it.
Reports said, some 400 acres have already been harvested and the yield is at least 33.5 bags per acre, and while farmers are pleased with the production, they are looking forward to good prices from millers.
It is reported that all buying centres have not yet posted up offers for the A, B or C categories but are purchasing farmers’ produce.
One farmer confessed that he cannot keep his grains and has to sell to a miller although he does not know for how much.
Meantime, the reaping of the golden grains is continuing in the hot, sunny weather and the culling is expected to be done from some 32,500 acres across the Essequibo Coast and transported by tractors and trailers or trucks from fields to factories.

Victim loses eye, wounding accused granted $150,000 bail

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:56:25 +0000

RAVI Chadra Harilall, 36, of Lot 173 Eccles Old Road, East Bank Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty yesterday, charged with felonious wounding.
The indictable charge said, on August 18, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Ronald Mangal with intent to maim, disfigure or cause grievous bodily harm.
After the virtual complainant told the Court he lost his left eye due to the injuries he suffered, the magistrate granted the accused $150,000 bail and put off the case to November 20.
Defence Counsel Paul Fung-a-Fat had requested reasonable surety and the prosecution had no objection.

Remanded on marijuana trafficking charge

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:57:10 +0000

NICHOLAS Burnett, 24, of Lot 647 Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway was remanded to prison yesterday, on a charge of trafficking narcotics.
He pleaded not guilty to the offence before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty, denying that, on August 30, he trafficked in 30 grammes of cannabis (marijuana).
The defendant will make his next appearance on November 20.

Three cops, civilian charged with corrupt transactions

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:58:01 +0000

THREE members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and a civilian appeared before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty yesterday, all charged with being involved in corrupt transactions.
The cops, Colin McIntosh, of Lot 119 Stewartville, West Coast Demerara, Glendon Sergeant, of Lot 224 Lamaha Springs and Damion Bynoe, of Lot 226 Garnett Street, both in Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to having, on July 12, at D’Urban Street, Lodge, being agents of the Government of Guyana, obtained $360,000 from Raphael De Souza as an inducement or reward for forgoing prosecuting him for offences of possession of narcotics, illegal firearm and ammunition.
Attorney-at-law Mr. Patrice Henry, for the policemen said they were all charged departmentally and bringing them before the Court to answer charges is an attempt to embarrass the Force.
The lawyer said the trio are all serving members of the Force and not flight risks and they were each put on $50,000 bail until October 8.
The charge against De Souza (no address given) said, also on July 12, he offered Mc Intosh, Sergeant and Bynoe $360,000, knowing them to be agents of the Government of Guyana, to forgo prosecuting him for possession of narcotics, firearm and ammunition.
Attorney-at-law Mr. James Bond represented De Souza and following his request for reasonable surety, it was set at $50,000. as well, and he also has to be back in Court on October 8.

Transport forgery accused granted $75,000 bail

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:58:35 +0000

COMPTON Sealy (no address given) appeared in Court yesterday, charged with conspiracy to commit a felony.
In front of Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty, the indictable charge said, between January 1 and August 30, he conspired together with persons unknown to forge a transport, purporting to show that it was issued by the Deeds Registry knowing same to be false.
On the application of attorney-at-law Mr. Paul Fung-a-Fat, the accused was allowed freedom on $75,000 surety until October 8.

Eight new teachers join nursery, primary & secondary school staff at Mahdia

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 04:59:21 +0000

- 58 new students expected to join secondary school pupil complement
WITH the celebration of Education Month 2012 and the commencement of the 2012/ 2013 academic year,
THE education system of the Region 8 sub-district of Mahdia has been improved with the inclusion of eight new teachers to the nursery, primary and secondary schools for the 2012/2013 academic year.
The teachers are Onickia Green for the nursery school; Shaemika Paddy for the primary school; and Kenny Pereira, Marcus Webster, Natascia Baird, Vanessa Taylor, Winnette Griffith and Euna Simon for the secondary school.
The district is due to receive one head teacher for the primary and another for the secondary schools.
The first day of school at the Mahdia Day Care Centre yesterday saw 10 of the 21 pre-school students on roll being promoted to the nursery level, leaving the Day Care Centre with an attendance of 11 when this publication visited.
Teacher in charge of the Day Care Centre, Mrs. Leah Warner, indicated that parents are still finalizing arrangements for more pre-schoolers to be enrolled at the Day Care Centre during the week.
The Mahdia Nursery School has some fifty-one students in attendance. The teacher in charge, Ms. Debra Carter, said the staff of four includes newcomer Ms. Onika Green, a former student of Mahdia Secondary School; along with the head teacher and another teacher which was promised by the Education Department. These teachers will undergo classes designed to help them mould young children into the education system.
Over at the Mahdia Primary School, where Senior Teacher Ms. Pauline John was in charge, a total of 253 students were present on the first day of school.
That school now has eight classes and eight teachers, including newcomer teacher Ms. Shaemika Paddy.
John noted that an additional two teachers are needed to supplement the other teachers, in order to adequately address unforeseen circumstances, like absenteeism.
The Mahdia Secondary School, which caters for live-in as well as non-resident students attending from surrounding villages and areas, saw an inclusion of six new teachers to take the staff complement to 15, including the head teacher who is yet to arrive.
The school, which has eight classes, has just concluded its first year as a full secondary school, since it was once a high school; and students wrote CSEC exams for the first time last June.
A total of 254 students were present for the first day, and teacher in charge, Ms. Shuaneille Jordon, explained that the new staff will complement two subject areas -- Clothing and Textiles and Industrial Technology. The others will fill the twelve-subject areas as the school receives the full complement of teachers.
Jordon indicated that another 38 students were expected from the North Pakaraimas, and 20 from Micobie, Princeville and El Paso; and space and furniture would have to be located to accommodate these students.

Heritage Month showcases Amerindian craft, food variety

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:01:25 +0000

THE first week of Amerindian Heritage Month 2012 kicked off with a variety of events all around the capital city and surrounding areas.
Following the inter-faith religious service last Friday and the grand launch ceremony on Saturday, a craft and food exhibition is being staged at the National Exhibition Complex, Sophia.
The food show, started last Saturday, the first day of Heritage Month, begins at 11:00 hrs daily and the craft display begun Sunday, continues every day, as well, from 10 hrs to 18.00 hrs. Both will conclude on Wednesday, September 5.
The craft exhibits feature work by people from various Amerindian villages and include jewellery, ornaments, footwear and hats and bags, among other things. Most of the items displayed were previously hand created while others were being made on site.
Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle at the location yesterday, Helen Gomes, from Moruka in Region 1 (Barima/Waini), pointed out her creations, such as embroidered pillow cases. She said it takes an entire day to make one pair, which is being sold for $2,000.
Ruth Shuman, from St. Cuthbert’s Mission, showed off her tibisiri place mats which also take a great deal of time and patience to produce.
Elizabeth Dundas, also from St. Cuthbert’s, said she and other women from the community who have a craft shop in the area make bowls, the jewellery boxes and other items that they are selling.

Fastest selling
Sharon Peters, from Leguan Island in Essequibo, has slippers, hats, skirts, Amerindian headdresses, also made from tibisiri, on sale. She said the headwear is the fastest selling of the products which she markets in wholelesale quantities countrywide.
Valentine Stoll, from Suddie, on Essequibo Coast, is offering handmade sculptures from local woods. They, mostly, depict the history and culture of the indigenous peoples and are priced from $5,000 upwards.
The exhibits were not only pleasing to the eye but to the nose and taste buds and the foodstuff on sale included cassava bread; piwari, also made from cassava; wine, produced from black potato and wild meat such as labba, cooked in different ways.
One of the food exhibitors, Susan English, from Mabaruma, North West District in Region 1 (Barima/Waini), who is helped by her mother, is a regular caterer at Heritage time. They will be at the Sports and Family Fun Day, at Carifesta Sports Complex, Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, on September 15 and 16.
Most of the exhibitors, however, said business was not doing as well as expected yet but they are all hopeful that it will pick up soon.

Minister Manickchand makes surprise visits on first day of school

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:05:22 +0000

EDUCATION Minister, Priya Manickchand, yesterday paid a visit to the Diamond Primary School, East Bank Demerara, which opened its doors for the first time yesterday and will be accommodating one thousand students.
The minister said she was extremely pleased with the first day’s turnout at the school. She referred to the widely believed myth, and in some cases reality, which says the first day at school is usually the day that nothing really happens.
During yesterday’s visit, the minister received a resounding response from the students with whom she interacted as she walked into their classrooms.
After her visit, she expressed pleasure that despite her visit being a surprise one, all the classes were already into the academic programme and work was already on the chalk boards, with teachers in front of each of the classes.
The minister said similar visits were being made at schools all across the country by the various education officers in their respective districts.
Minister Manickchand said the Diamond Primary School will be given a playfield and other amenities for the convenience of children in attendance. She acknowledged that the school was still under construction, but noted that that phase would eventually pass and the finished building would be comfortable for the nation’s children attending the institution to acquire their primary education.
The minister expressed disappointment at the state of the unfinished north-eastern wing of the school, which has not yet been outfitted with windows.
She said the contractor had informed the Education Ministry that a boat bringing the windows had been delayed and was unable to make the delivery on schedule. That circumstance,
she said, has set back the operations at the school; and when things like this happen, they affect mostly the children.
She said there will have to be tougher sanctions for the contractors, and the Education Ministry is already in the process of finding a new approach to doing business with contractors hired by the Ministry of Education.
Deputy Head Teacher, Wendy Chichester, who is currently acting as head teacher in absence of her superior who is away on leave, spoke with the media yesterday in the presence of the Minister of Education. She said how pleased she was that the school would go down in history as the first to be opened by its deputy head teacher; and added that the teachers, including herself, are happy to be in a position to ensure the children are able to achieve their potential with a quality education.
She promised that teachers would strive together to make the school one of the most child-friendly schools on the East Bank of Demerara, and by extension the country. Ms. Chichester said that, up to assembly time yesterday, the school had about four hundred children who turned out for classes. She said that others have been identified to attend the school, but have to await their transfer papers from the various schools they had attended.
Apart from classrooms, the school has a library, a kitchen, and a rest room; and the deputy head invited the business community and other kind-hearted persons to make donations to the school’s library.
Following that visit to the Diamond Primary School, the minister made a stop at the Diamond Secondary School, where she interacted with the staff, and also those students, who were attending the school for the first time.
The minister encouraged students to make the best of their learning opportunity, cautioning them about the importance of taking their education seriously.
She noted that the Diamond Secondary School was built to achieve universal secondary education, and was developed to accommodate the students who did not gain passes at the then common entrance examinations, now known as the National Grade Six Assessment.
Prior to the Diamond Secondary School being built, students were accommodated in primary schools that had upper levels.
Head teacher of the school said that enrollment and first day experience was not a hassle, since the school facilitated an orientation session in which students had a chance to familiarise themselves with the environment.
She said that following the morning assembly, the students went directly to the classrooms ready to do the academic programme.
The Education Ministry last week announced that several schools were not going to reopen yesterday for classes, as critical works were not fully completed there. Those schools will be reopened next week Monday, September 10.

AFC leader stoops low in questioning President Jagdeo’s acquiring his home

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:20:41 +0000

As a very keen observer of politics in Guyana and a contributor by way of comments to the series of debates on corruption hosted by the National Communications Network(NCN), last night's debate(2012-09-02), which was supposed to focus on the former President's benefit bill, just proved me right once again. As usual, the Alliance For Change (AFC) continue to deceive their supporters to avoid shame and A Partnership for National Unity(APNU) decided to quit showing up.
With all the claims that were made about the former President's pension package, explaining and defending them should've been a cake walk for Nigel Hughes. Instead what we had, as with every other issue discussed so far, was a shifting of the goal post and in this instance, the hurling of spurious allegations and the casting of a shadow over the former president's acquisition and ownership of a property that was legally acquired.
I was so surprised that the AFC Chairman would stoop to the level of questioning the value, size and model of the house that the former president chose to erect for his own comfort during his days out of office. It is as if Hughes is saying that being a past president prevents persons from living in comfort, erecting properties etc.
So instead of arguing on the merits or demerits of their opposition to the pension package which mirrors that of the opposition leader-and mind you, I only learnt of this from following last evening's discussion- Hughes used the opportunity to spread opposition propaganda and make unsubstantiated claims against the former president.
This shows the vindictiveness which permeates the minds of these individuals who seem interested only in getting back at President Jagdeo, whose achievements they are unable to match.

APNU staying away from debates as their arguments are baseless

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:22:37 +0000

I have seen that the opposition APNU has decided to withdraw from the debates on corruption that is sponsored by the state television NCN.
This is really sad, because it is the same APNU that complained that they did not have access to the state media. Here they have a golden opportunity to have face-to-face debates with the government.
By their refusal to participate, they are actually showing that they have no faith in their arguments and they are afraid of being exposed as the frauds they really are.
APNU/PNC have now concluded that confronting the issues publicly is not in their political interest, since their positions are not based on truth and facts.
They obviously assume that they will have more benefits by spreading distortions and slander. This is how they instigate the uninformed and continue to plug their young supporters with racial nonsense.
That is why confronting the issues on national television is not in their interest.

The government should have gone further

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:23:25 +0000

The PNCR and Rupert Roopnarine (I am not sure if Roopnarine was speaking for the WPA or not), criticised the government for its abstention from the vote at the UN on the resolution to sanction the Syrian government in the conflict that is going on there.
Granger and Roopnarine both attacked and condemned the government’s position.
I wish to support the stand taken by the administration; in fact, the government should have gone further and voted against that resolution.
The U.S. has a tendency to get these resolutions and then expand on them to take military action. This was the case in Iraq and was the same thing with Libya.
In both cases, hundreds of thousands of people were brutally killed. The countries are in total disarray and a complete mess. A look at most of the places where the U.S. intervened will reveal that the situation invariably gets worse.
They are also strangely silent on the real government oppression that is taking place in Bahrain, where anti-government demonstrators are mowed down by helicopter gunships. This is a mere footnote on BBC & CNN.
In relation to Syria, it is important to note that from the beginning, there was outside interference. It is not by chance that the “uprising” began in Syrian’s border town and from the inception was well armed.

It is now being reported (reports that are being suppressed by the mainstream press in the U.S.) that many foreign fighters are with the Syrian rebels, including Al Qaida fighters. Strangely,the U.S. and Al Qaida are on the same side.
The rebel group is so well informed that they were able to strike a serious blow to the Syrian government in which four top leaders of the Assad government were assassinated.
The opposition is shooting down Syrian airplanes from the skies.
Guyana should not have abstained; the better position would have been a vote against, since the internal fighting was instigated, financed and armed from outside. Turkey for sure is involved. I am sure the U.S. and NATO are similarly playing a negative role.

Is Jeffrey reflecting a racial view?

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:23:54 +0000

About a week ago I saw an article in the news that moved me to write this letter. I am not a regular writer to the press; however, I felt compelled to do so because after more than 46 years of independence, I could not believe that some important persons in our society have not lost their colonial mentality.
The article that caught my attention was Henry Jeffrey’s article in the Stabroek News of August 29, 2012. In the first paragraph of that letter, Jeffrey once again repeated that the U.S. “…..was correct to keep the PPP at bay until that (U.S.) interest was secured……” This is not the first time that he expressed this view.

It is amazing that Jeffrey seems to not know that the UN had long ago recognised the Right of Nations to self-determination.” Jeffrey always seems more concerned with the U.S. interests than the interests and rights of the Guyanese people. Didn’t we have the right to a government of our choice? Why does Jeffrey concede the right to the U.S. to overthrow any government it wishes. Strangely, Jeffrey has never said anything about the U.S. supporting the PNC during its worst excesses against the Guyanese people. Is it because Jeffrey sees the PPP government as Indian? Is he reflecting a racial view?

The logic of Jeffrey will also lead to the conclusion that he also agreed with the U.S. and UK to keep Mandela in prison for 28 years because of U.S. interests, as they saw it, was more important than the black people in South Africa.

Obviously he would not say that because now he is in the PNC’s camp which had been working overtime to push racism in our society. Maybe he thinks that that is in the U.S.’s interest.

Jeffrey is clearly a white man trapped in black skin.

I wish to advise him to listen to Bob Marley’s advice and “emancipate yourself from mental slavery.”

Hughes income tax comes under fire

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 07:19:06 +0000

CHAIRMAN of the Alliance for Change, Nigel Hughes, has come in for criticisms again after making a public disclosure that he only paid $5M in income taxes last year back into the public coffers.
Hughes made the comment after a member of the public allegedly upbraided him for his conduct and poor contributions during the fourth edition of the corruption debate series aired on National Communications Network on Sunday evening.
The member of the public had noted that Hughes was attempting to cast aspersions on all and sundry but did not necessarily expose his shortcomings with respect to paying his taxes.
“I paid $5M income tax last year and I challenge the Guyana Revenue Authority...I don’t get the government work”, he disclosed on the programme.
Already, scores of lawyers and other political commentators have said that they marvelled at the disclosure, arguing that this could not be the sum total of his income tax payments given the scope of his operations and the prominence of the cases that he provides defence services for.
“I would call on the Guyana Revenue Authority to launch an investigation into the authenticity of Hughes income tax payments...further I am convinced that something may be amiss here, and could provide insight into his disclosure”, a prominent legal luminary said after viewing the debates.
But the AFC Chairman further stated strongly that he was “not familiar with many lawyers that paid $5M in income taxes for last year or previous years”, after eyebrows first rose on the programme.
The comments came on the heels of revelations made by the Guyana Revenue Authority which accused one of Hughes businesses of tax evasion. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) obtained two judgments against Harvest Company Ltd, a company under the legal stewardship of the AFC Chairman for failure to remit PAYE and one judgment under Section 44 of the Value Added Tax Act No.10 of 2005.
Hughes had rushed to the media alleging discrimination and misrepresentation by the Guyana Revenue Authority, which he accused of singling him out for special treatment. He even accused the commissioner general of exposing his lack of independence and “overt enthusiasm to do his master’s bidding”. The Commissioner General, Khurshid Sattaur, had taken umbrage at statements by Hughes explaining that he was engaging in a publicity stunt, noting that the company has defaulted in remitting workers VAT and PAYE to enrich themselves.
He vowed that the GRA will not be intimidated by anyone as it seeks to carry out its lawful duties.
Noting that the GRA was a fully professional body, Sattaur flayed Hughes for accusing the entity of being politically-motivated in seeking to redeem the taxes his company defaulted on.
The GRA had obtained two judgments against Harvest Company Ltd for failure to remit PAYE; and one judgment, under Section 44 of the Value Added Tax Act, Number 10 of 2005. The particulars of the said judgments are as follows:
“On the 7th October, 2011 (Action Number 814/CD 2011), judgment was granted for the sum of $621,967 (being PAYE principal in the sum of $468,183, penalties in the sum of $106,814 and interest in the sum of $46,970) for the periods January to August 2010. On the 24th June, 2009 (Action Number 105/CD 2009), judgment was granted for the sum of $7,236,032 (being PAYE principal in the sum of $2,337,110.00, penalties in the sum of $2,692,231 and interest in the sum of $2,206,691) for the periods August 2005 to December 2005 to July 2006 to December 2006 and January 2007 to December 2007. On 7th January, 2010 Section 44 Certificate was filed for the sum of $1,439,644 (being VAT in the sum of $942,803 and interest thereon in the sum of $496,841) for the periods April 2007 to July 2007 and December 2007; January to June, September and November 2008; January 2009, February 2009 and April to July 2009.
“On 13th October, 2011 a writ of summons was filed in the High Court to recover $4,429,450 (being PAYE in the sum of $1,230,727 and interest and penalties thereon in the sum of $3,198,723) for the periods January to December 2008 and July to December 2009. On the 18th January, 2012 Justice Persaud granted an Unless Order, giving the company five days to file an affidavit in defence. On the same day, the company filed the said affidavit, denying that the PAYE in the sum of $1,203,727 was deducted. The matter was called on 24th July for pre-emptory trial and has been adjourned to 17th September, 2012.”

Guyana and United Kingdom discuss collaboration on climate change

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 07:19:28 +0000

The Office of Climate Change, Office of the President, yesterday received a delegation from the Government of the United Kingdom as part of ongoing bilateral engagements on climate change.
The delegation, led by His Excellency Andrew Ayre, British High Commissioner, also included Mr. Ian Bolton, Climate Change and Energy Desk Officer at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Mr. Matt Nottingham, Political Officer at the British High Commission in Port of Spain.
The delegation met with Presidential Adviser and Head of the Office of Climate Change, Mr Shyam Nokta
The visit was geared towards gaining a better understanding of how the UK and Guyana can work more closely and establish areas for greater cooperation on climate change. Among the areas discussed were progress on Guyana’s climate initiatives, the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), and the Interim REDD+ mechanism being implemented through the Guyana-Norway partnership.
Guyana’s LCDS has won international acclaim as a workable model for forested developing countries of the world to achieve national development goals through sustainable exploitation of natural resources.
Guyana has been leading the way through a landmark agreement with the Kingdom of Norway, which will see this country receiving payments for avoided deforestation and other climate change related forest services.
The partnership represents the world's second largest Interim REDD+ scheme and the first national-scale effort, with Guyana being one of a few countries in the world that is being paid for the climate services its forests provide.

Quiet! School’s in session

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 07:19:48 +0000

It’s the first day of school and the land is awash with colours.
Crisp shirts and well-seamed trousers compete for admiration with stiff skirts and kimonos and boots and shoes and socks of every kind.
The book bags are a pageant in themselves. They are pushed, pulled, wheeled, dragged, hoisted, piggybacked and slung with the care given to puppies or birthday gifts.
Notebooks, textbooks, assorted pens and pencils, the inescapable erasers and the ever present cellphones present themselves impeccably. And dainty little food containers wrapped in the best towels will be displayed and shared later on.
Fussy parents, guardians, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, siblings and friends accompany the “future” of our country with big hopes and even bigger dreams. It really does take a village.
The wide smiles and big laughs hang side by side with the loud screams from frightened little boys and girls. Love struck parents face tough decisions. And teachers like Ms. Williams of St. Agnes Primary School, step in to save the day.
It’s the first day of school. Notebooks are clean and pencils are well sharpened. Entire legacies are handed over to unsuspecting boys and girls. Friendships will begin today that may endure for a lifetime. And mothers all around are so relieved.

Opposition has no issue with former president’s pension - more obsessed with his personal property

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 07:20:10 +0000

THE Parliamentary Opposition was given the opportunity to have the issue of the former president’s benefit package cleared up, but when the debate on the issue was held on Sunday evening, the Alliance For Change (AFC) was more obsessed with how the former president acquired his real estate instead of debating the pension package.
The debate aired on the National Communications Network (NCN) was the fourth in the series and saw the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) staying away again. It was that party that took to the National Assembly a motion in August to review the benefits and facilities of the former president.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul, Civil Society Representative/ Guyana Labour Union President, Carvil Duncan, Chief Labour Officer, Charles Ogle and AFC Chairman, Nigel Hughes participated in the exercise.
AFC’s questioned the means by which the former president acquired his current property, alleging that he was only offered the opportunity to acquire the state owned land for this property and another at below market prices because of the office and status he then held.
Minister Nandlall noted that the presidential pension package was a pertinent issue which the public needed to be informed about, since the parliamentary opposition before and after the recently concluded general elections continued to peddle misinformation. He therefore welcomed the opportunity to set the record straight.
The Attorney General, addressing the issue of the former president’s acquisition of the land, said that he acquired the first house lot when he was Finance Minister by the same process through which thousands of Guyanese got theirs.
Minister Nandlall said that the difference between former President Jagdeo and any other president in this country was that he assumed office in his early thirties, and had no property at the time. Every other president, including Presidents Forbes Burnham, Desmond Hoyte, and the Jagans (Cheddi and Janet) owned property at the time when they took office.
The minister said that Jagdeo was at the time earning a tax free salary of close to $1M and was able to build a house he could afford.
As it relates to the acquisition of the other land, Minister Nandlall stated that lands in that area were targeted for persons of a particular category of office holders, within which the president fell. The same procedure which was used to sell and allocate land to the other persons in that area was used in respect of President Jagdeo’s land.
The minister said that for Hughes to give the impression that the president embarked on this conquest and acquired land in an improper way and improper procedure is one that must be wholly rejected.
Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul stressed that there was no objection to parliamentary pension packages approved for presidential widows that is Doreen Chung, Viola Burnham and Janet Jagan. He added that the pension package must also be seen in the context of the seven- eighths pension scheme which all former members of parliament, senior government officials and even the former opposition leader benefitted from.
Dr Gopaul added that while former President Jagdeo's finances are on public record via the Office of the Integrity Commission, those of the opposition leaders were not.
Claims by the AFC Chairman that the former president's acquisition of prime real estate was unethical were rebutted by the Attorney General and the Labour Minister, who noted that contrary to opposition opinions, lands were offered to persons within a particular sector of society at prices consistent with government’s policy. This policy, formulated by the Housing Ministry, has also resulted in many Guyanese acquiring lands for housing at very affordable costs, throughout Guyana.
In closing, the Attorney General added that the president's pension package was merely passed in 2009 to formalise an existing policy and to codify and statutorise the benefits and facilities which have been enjoyed by every past president upon their retirement.
He explained that this was done so that future generations will know with certainty what a president is entitled to upon retirement, and this entitlement will not be at the whims and fancies of any administration.
Minister Nandlall contended that when one examines the type of benefits and facilities a past president enjoys, one sees striking similarities with that which the leader of the opposition enjoys in terms of free electricity, phone bills, medical treatment, domestic staff, office staff, and duty free exemptions for motor vehicles, among others.

Foreign Housing Development Company interested in Guyana -- officials meet President

Admin2 — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 07:20:27 +0000

OFFICIALS of Baupanel Systems Limited, a diverse worldwide group of companies with a commitment to affordable and sustainable homes and a more ecologically friendly environment, met President Donald Ramotar and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh yesterday.
They included Chairman, David Kendrick, Managing Director, Kou Hurst and Marketing and Communications Official, Paul Khullar, who, having done their homework, are confident that they can contribute to quality housing here.
Baupanel is a seismically resistant, thermally insulating building system based on a set of structural panels made up of expanded polystyrene (EPS) with a basic frame attached to the side of the panels. The frame consists of highly resistant steel mesh and corrugated bars linked together with electrically welded steel connectors.
Headquartered in Gibraltar, with ongoing projects in the Caribbean, Spain, Bangladesh, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and India, Baupanel Systems Limited is counting on its experience at offering low cost, improved building construction methods as the convincing tool.
“We build communities not houses, so we are looking at the fully integrated system, infrastructure, finance, making houses available at reasonable price… listening to what the people want and then delivering those houses,” Kendrick said in an invited comment to the Government Information Agency.
Through its share ownership basis, the official said the company makes it easy for aspiring homeowners who are often constrained, by offering financial packages to stimulate the market.
The officials have scheduled a meeting with Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, who in July announced that the Guyana Government, through the Ministry of Housing, is in receipt of bids from several international building companies willing to plug in excess of US$500M in housing development here.
Under the Ministry’s One-Stop-Shop exercise, 6700 lots will be made available this year, topping last year’s distribution of 6000 that were developed at a cost of $6.3B.
The ministry has set a target of 30,000 houselots for distribution within the next five years.
The launch of last year’s re-migrant housing programme to spur the return of Guyanese living in the diaspora to their place of birth has shown positive results, with interest of over 2,700, some of whom will be pulling their lots soon.
Under the programme also, 250 overseas Guyanese are expected to return home and another 200 in November, under a pact with the government that requires them to invest in home development within six months.

Key stakeholders engaged as… Local Government Ministry in consultations on solid waste

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:01:24 +0000

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Ganga Persaud told a press conference, on Monday, that, over the past two weeks, his ministry has sought to engage key stakeholders in consultations and discussions on the current solid waste management programme.
Speaking at the ministry, in Kingston, Georgetown, he said visits were also made to various prospective landfill sites across the country.
Persaud said persons involved in this round of discourse, at the level of Regional Administrations, were the Regional and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) officials, contractors and others.
According to the minister, those taken on the site visits were solid waste management contractors who expressed interest in the initial stages of the programme and who, after several rounds of talks at the ministry level, maintained it.
He said that, after the site visitations, the contractors were given ten days to submit their modified proposals, following which an assessment will be done and those submissions will be ranked and then an offer will be made to the contractor with the highest ranking.
Persaud said the ministry hopes to reach the stage of making offers no later than October 15 and he explained that “the process is simply to allow the contractors to operate landfill sites across these regions and for those sites to be established, operated and managed, based on the Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines.”
He added that these guidelines were shared with a total of 13 contractors who made known that they are interested in the landfill sites countrywide, with varying numbers for each Region.

Roraima Airways investigating cocaine

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:05:05 +0000

CHIEF Executive Officer of Roraima Airways, Captain Gerry Gouveia, has directed a full internal investigation into the discovery of cocaine during the delivery of catering services under security escort by the Aviation Security Division (AVSEC) of the company, for which one of AVSEC staff has been arrested.
Aviation Security and Ground Handling Services are divisions of the Roraima Airways Group and is contracted by Delta Airlines, amongst others, to provide services at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
Captain Gouveia noted that, in spite of the comprehensive and highly professional security systems in place, constant and persistent attempts are made to breach the systems and target the personnel.
Capt. Gouveia said that AVSEC staff are rigidly screened by an independent security agency and approved by the airport management prior to recruitment, and are trained professionally to the highest standard by an international security company accredited by Delta Airlines. All AVSEC staff undergoes annual retraining and examination.
AVSEC staff and Roraima’s security systems are frequently subject to random audits by Delta Airlines and the US Transport Security Agency (TSA) and it is these systems, along with the CJIA airport security, that contributed to the discovery and the prevention of this attempted breach of the airport security perimeter.
“Roraima Airways would like to reaffirm its commitment to the highest professional standards of safety and security ,” according to a press release last evening.

Tel #: 592 225-9648 Fax #: 592 225-9646
R8 Eping Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown, Guyana
Email: ral@roraimaairways.com / debs@roraimaairways.com
Website: www.roraimaairways.com

Robbery accused already facing similar charges remanded

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:05:43 +0000

ALISTON Henry, 31, of Lot 98 Grove Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, was remanded to prison yesterday, on charges of robbery with violence and attempt to commit a felony.
Before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty, he was charged indictably, with having on August 31, robbed Edward Bannister of a bicycle valued $15,000 and $10,000 cash, making use of personal violence on that victim at the time and attempted to rob Seeta Outar the same day.
Police Corporal Wynette Hubbard, prosecuting, successfully objected to bail for Henry, pointing out that he has other similar cases pending in Court and committed the latest offence after having been granted pre-trial liberty.
Henry has to return to Court on November 1.

$750,000 bail in $6M break and enter case

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:06:31 +0000

LESTER Hopkinson, 17, of Lot 79 William Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was granted $750,000 bail yesterday, when he faced a $6M break and enter and larceny charge.
He appeared before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty, charged indictably with committing the offence between August 8 and 9.
It is alleged that he broke and entered the dwelling house of Michelle Mc Kenzie and stole electrical appliances, clothing and footwear to the value.
Although he was not required to plea, the accused denied knowledge of the crime and claimed that the police kicked him on his mouth.
The prosecution had no objection to the grant but requested that the surety be a substantial amount.
Hopkinson will make his next appearance on October 9.

Sexagenarian Night Shelter orderly on larceny charge

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:07:03 +0000

NORMA James, 67, employed as an orderly at the Night Shelter in Georgetown, appeared in Court yesterday, charged with simple larceny.
The defendant, of Lot 8 West Ruimveldt, pleaded not guilty, before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty, to having on August 15, stolen $9,400 belonging to Dolly Kato.
The sexagenarian was put on $7,500 bail until October 9.

Fined $100,000 for attempting birds export in crotch

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:07:33 +0000

A MAN who attempted to export three ‘towa towa’ birds in his pants crotch was fined $100,000. with the alternative of six months imprisonment yesterday.
Shivastil Ramrattan (no address given) pleaded guilty to the charge before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty, admitting to exporting protected species. Particulars of the offence said it was committed on September 3 at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, without obtaining a permit or certificate from the management authority.
The defendant claimed he was taking the birds as pets, but in answer to a question by the magistrate, he confessed that he had them in his pants crotch.
He maintained, however, that he was not taking the birds to sell but to keep as pets.

At Demerara Assizes… Murder case postponed to October sessions

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:08:07 +0000

JUSTICE Roxanne George yesterday, at the Demerara Assizes, postponed the murder trial of Kenise Glasgow to the October criminal sessions.
The case should have started yesterday but the judge granted the postponement, because Defence Counsel Basil Wiliams will be out of the jurisdiction for a few days.
Justice George, who returned from leave and was to continue the criminal sessions where she had left off, said Williams, had communicated with her.
Glasgow is facing a two-count indictment - for unlawful killing and wounding with intent, committed on August 28, 2004, having allegedly murdered Christine Sookra.
The prisoner is also accused of discharging a loaded firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm the same day.

Jury sworn for other murder case

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:08:54 +0000

THE 12-member jury was sworn yesterday for the trial, at the Demerara Assizes, of murder accused Tekeram Latchanna.
The prisoner is indicted before Justice Roxanne George for the unlawful killing of Mohamed Rafeek Sheriff called Sheriff on July 18, 2007.
But, because the judge will be engaged in civil matters today, the criminal case would not resume until tomorrow.

After long delayed trial… Quartet jailed for $24M Avinash stores textiles theft

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:10:02 +0000

FOUR former employees of the Avinash branch stores complex were each sentenced to 56 months imprisonment on Monday, on being convicted of stealing $24M worth of textiles from the company’s La Bonne Intention (LBI) bond in 2004.

Dennis Ramkarran, Dinesh Singh, Deoroop Sugrim and Kumar Kalladin faced trial before Magistrate Judy Latchman at Sparendaam Court, also

on East Coast Demerara.
The case, that eventually started on June 5, 2012, had prolonged through an eight months period because the quartet had approached the High Court to abort the proceedings and there were previously numerous delays, due to the changing of magistrates.
Particulars of the offence said the convicts stole 1,549 rolls of fabric valued $24 M, property of the Avinash stores.
The Prosecution, conducted by Police Superintendent Fizul Karimbaksh, led evidence that the prisoners stole keys, for a bond, which they duplicated and used to remove suiting materials that they took to Zeeburg, West Coast Demerara.
The thieves were placing the booty in a vehicle to transport it elsewhere, the next day, when Police, accompanied by one of the company’s directors, caught them.
During the Police investigations, the defendants had given caution statements, to which their Defence Counsel Euclin Gomes objected during the trial but his objection was overruled and the attestations were admitted in evidence.
In her ruling, Magistrate Latchman noted testimony from 16 witnesses who testified and said that, with the caution statements, collectively they were sufficient to prove the case against the men.
Before conviction, the men were on $1.2M bail, individually.

Toolsie Persaud Ltd fighting to receive $865,126 judgment -defendant delaying payment

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:14:30 +0000

WHEN Toolsie Persaud Limited won a 2009 court battle, it was granted judgement in the sum of $865,126. But that matter has not yet been finalized, because the defendant, Jagnanan Singh, has not paid the judgement.
The parties are now at the stage in which the plaintiff, Toolsie Persaud Limited, is opposing a transport being passed by the defendant, Jagnanan Singh, in an effort to get Singh to pay on the judgement in their matter before being able to sell his property.
The trouble started on April 22, 2009 when Toolsie Persaud Limited obtained judgement against Jagnanan Singh in the sum of $865,126, with interest on the said sum at the rate of 6% per annum from May 20, 2006 to April 22, 2009, and thereafter at the rate of 4% per annum until the money has been fully paid, together with costs in the sum of $2,000.
Despite repeated demands from Toolsie Persaud Limited for the sum to be paid, the defendant Jagnanan Singh has failed and/or refused to so do.
On August 11, 2012, Jagnanan Singh and second-named defendants caused to be advertised in the Official Gazette of Guyana -- numbered 64 therein for the County of Demerara -- the passing of a transport to Lochan Atchana and Shelly Ann Pereira.
On August 20, 2012, Toolsie Persaud Limited, the plaintiff, entered an opposition to the passing of the said transport.
According to the plaintiff, the reasons for opposing the passing of the transport are as follows:
On April 22, 2009, Toolsie Persaud Limited obtained judgement against Jagnanan Singh for a sum of $865,126, with interest together with costs.
Despite repeated demands for payment of the said sum, together with interest thereon, Jagnanan Singh has failed and/or refused to pay.
On March 2, 2011, Toolsie Persaud Limited filed in the High Court, Action No. 54/5 of 2011, opposing the passing of transport to another portion of land owned by Jagnanan Singh in an effort to get him to pay the said judgment.
Toolsie Persaud Limited pointed out that, to date, Jagnanan Singh has made no payment on the judgement, and the proceedings in regard to their opposing his passing of transport to another property he owns are still pending.
Attorney-at-law Robert Ramcharran is representing Toolsie Persaud Limited. He has asked the court for an order “which is legal and well founded” to compel Jagnanan Singh to pay his client the sum of $865,126.
Ramcharran is also asking for an injunction restraining Jagnanan Singh from passing transport to the property advertised for sale until Singh has fully paid Toolsie Persaud Limited.

Lawlessness and vulgarity have become endemic to the society

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:15:48 +0000

THEY cut across the racial and cultural divides – those gyrating, gesticulating contortionists who get on stage in places of public entertainment and replicate formerly unimaginable positions of the sex act so explicitly, that they leave nothing to the imagination.
No wonder so many marriages are going on the rocks, because the average housewife cannot begin to compete with the sensational acrobatics on public display, which may or may not be doable, but which send wrong signals on the priorities of adult relationships, and to the young adults in societies.
And the lyrics of the songs, many of them sung by women, who certainly cannot be used as role models, because they announce that they are primarily objects to appease men’s lust, mere receptacles for incidental spermatozoa – these lyrics go beyond the suggestive. They are tasteless, vulgar, demeaning to the feminine gender, and destructive to the psyche.
What is absolutely sad is that these songs (sic) are sung by young children, and everyone is aware that sentiments are absorbed best through songs. The lewd gyrations are also mimicked by youngsters, even toddlers. Parents, who either do not know or do not care of the effects of these actions on the psychological make-up of their children, are often amused at this simulation of the sex act by their little ones.
So how does a young child recognise that they are in imminent danger of being sexually abused if such a scenario within the framework of what is supposed to be his/her secure environment – their home, or their school, hallmarks normal family activity? One step beyond may not seem at all strange or wrong to a sexually exploited child.
There is a local television station which churns this bilge out relentlessly, day in and day out and, believe it or not, it is probably the most-watched television channel. And when mom and dad are watching, so are the children.
What was encouraging during the children’s Mashramani activities this year was a marked change from the lawlessness and lewdness of the previous years, when the children were encouraged to mimic the adults, to well-choreographed items that were a delight to behold, and which far surpassed anything the adults put on display – which most often were themselves – in all their glorious mountains of shaking rolls of fat.
What was absolutely horrifying one year was the item adjudged the winner in the singing category. With all the songs, so well sung, carrying relevant messages of safe sex, stop the abuse, etc, the winning entry epitomised all that is degenerate in the society.
Maybe we need to look at the backgrounds of our judges and their priorities in life.
Mashramani is the one event that fully embraces the Guyanese nation in totality, and whatever is portrayed, at least through an official mandate, must be reflective of where we are as a society.
While one does not want to be categorised as a morals police, it is certainly essential that we determine where we want to go as a nation and not emulate the formations that celebrations in other lands assume if they are destructive to the national psyche and identity.
Guyana’s identity and strength are rooted in the diversity of its peoples’ cultures, but each of those cultures is by and in itself grounded in strong moral ethos and resonances, peculiar to themselves, but with a common thread that uplifts the human spirit.

Pomeroon house collapses …three left homeless

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:53:09 +0000

SIXTY-SEVEN-YEAR-OLD Clement Evans and his two grandchildren escaped serious injuries Monday morning, when their three-bedroom wooden house supported by timber posts collapsed and fell some 10 feet to the ground.
The family members, of Grant Two Brothers, Lower Pomeroon River, were getting dressed to travel to the busy Charity Monday market when the incident occurred.
The pensioner said he felt the house moving as it slid quickly and, in seconds, he was on the floor, miraculously escaping what surely could have been death or serious injuries.
Evans, who is a farmer, said it was the ‘Hand of God’ that saved him and his two grandchildren.
The building, built several years ago, was situated not far from the Pomeroon River. Now Clement and the children are without a shelter and are appealing to the general public to help them rebuild.

Devonshire Castle residents thankful for sea defence project

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 03:55:39 +0000

RESIDENTS of Devonshire Castle on the Essequibo Coast are loud in praise and thankful to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government and the European Union (EU) for the construction of the new rip/rap sea defence to protect the village and several thousand acres of rice and other cultivated lands from the roaring Atlantic Ocean.
The beneficiaries said the Government and the EU spent millions of dollars to construct the wall with tons of boulders and sand and the completion of the project points to another dream fulfilled under good management.
The rip/rap design structure has replaced a very old eroded concrete type that was built many years ago and which villagers were afraid would have collapsed under extreme high tide and wash them away.
The project, which took several months to be completed, was successfully executed by B.K. International.
The entire earthen sea dam was also rebuilt with several thousand tons of earth and B.K. also did repairs to several sections of the existing seawall at Devonshire Castle, Hampton Court and Walton Hall.
The contractor, on behalf of the Government, also carried out construction work on the Exmouth and Elisa sea defence, where rip/rap seawalls were also erected and the earthen embankment is being rebuilt by work in progress.
Government, over years, has created new sea defences at La Belle Alliance, Richmond, Henrietta, Columbia, Affiance, Taymouth Manor, Capoey, Zorg, Johanna Cecelia, Good Hope and other places to protect residential and farming areas on the coastland.
The EU has made grants to execute the works, in collaboration with the government, on some of the projects.

Nine of 10 administrative regions have submitted 2013 budget estimates --Region 10 still out in the cold

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:01:13 +0000

LOCAL Government & Regional Development Minister, Ganga Persaud, stated at last Monday’s press conference that nine out of ten administrative regions have met the Finance Ministry’s deadline for budgetary submissions for the year 2013.
With the exception of Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Berbice), all regions were able to make their presentations at the various levels by the August 20th deadline.
Minister Persaud noted that a submission was made by Region 10, but that submission did not have the full benefit of discussion at the level of the Regional Democratic Council.
Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, was therefore approached by Region 10 Chairman, Sharma Solomon, and an extension was granted to facilitate the late presentation of the budget proposal.
According to Minister Persaud, budget discourses on the regional proposals at the Finance Ministry level are set to begin during this month, and would conclude in the month of October.
He noted that all six municipalities in Guyana had received subventions for 2011. However, only three of these were able to fulfill their 2011 subvention programmes.
Linden, Georgetown and Rose Hall Town still have not completed their programmes, and Minister Persaud advised that, through its Municipal Service Department, the Local Government Ministry is working with these municipalities to aid in the successful completion of their 2011 subvention programmes.
He also stated that the 2012 subvention programme has started, and four municipalities have made submissions to the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. Of these, Rose Hall Town, Corriverton and Anna Regina have each received part of their subvention.
The proposal from New Amsterdam is currently being reviewed, while Linden and Georgetown are still working on their proposals.
Speaking more specifically on the municipality of Georgetown, Minister Persaud noted that the acting Town Clerk, Ms. Carol Ryan Sooba, and her team were making efforts to remove illegal vending from Regent Street. However, according to the minister, their efforts have been thwarted by the Mayor of Georgetown on his return to Guyana, who immediately ordered that the vendors be allowed to remain on Regent Street unhindered.

Unfortunate that a former Head of State must be subject to unmerited media attacks

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:09:04 +0000

IT is very unfortunate when the person of a former Head of State/Government has to be the object of continuous personal attacks by the media, particularly when those assaults are without cause or merit. Not only is this disrespectful and even libellous; but it is also teaching our younger generation of Guyanese to be slanderous to our national leaders, especially those who would have served this nation and its people without fail.
After viewing the usual sensational pictorials that illustrated the home of former President Jagdeo, and realising the motive behind such a display, the first conclusion was that the particular publisher was at great mischief, attempting to create in the minds of the readership the false impression of a home that either was too grand for a retired president, or one which he did not acquire legally. In fact, this has been the story that ever since Sunday night’s debate, Nigel Hughes and company have been slanderously peddling. Of course, lest we forget, KN has for a long while been the official media mouthpiece of the political opposition.
Is the nation to understand that the former president does not have the right of choice as to the type of home he must have? And is one to understand that because of the size of the home, as shown via the pix, that one has the right to speculate as to means of acquisition?
Sure enough, Mr. Jagdeo had been earning a salary, as all those prior presidents were, during his 12 years in office, and would have certainly made honest provision for such a project. Like every other Guyanese who would have paid for his/her house lot – he purchased his; and even if he had been granted any concession, such is absolutely understandable, and would have been no more nor less than would have been granted to such a category in general. Simply stated – it comes with the turf.
Here is a young man who came to the nation’s highest office, and worked only in the interests of the nation, serving in a time of great peril. During such a period, one never witnessed him, in the indulgence of ostentatious living and wealth. He lived very simply, devoting his time and energies to the service of the nation and his people. And so, for this publication, through its dark politicos, to insinuate that the former president used his office to acquire assets is not only unfair, but libellous and scurrilous. A former leader owning a house of whatever size does not mean that he used his office to acquire the means of construction/purchase. If this is not a malicious accusation , then it is evil and wicked!
Former presidents and prime ministers do not live in sub-standard dwellings or shanties, as KN seems to want to suggest. Because of their former office, that would have entailed such an expansive reach and interaction on the international stage, they would as a result still be receiving important persons, even after retirement. Thus it is only logical that any former president, inclusive of Mr. Jagdeo, live in dignity and comfort, as befitting such a former office holder.
And this prominent AFC leader, who idolises a former president, must be reminded that his hero had expropriated many holdings without the permission of its rightful owners? And what about a former occupant of State House who, on his departure, took out, according to reports, almost every available artifact from this historical residence.

Lall’s personal vendetta against Bharrat Jagdeo

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:10:52 +0000

THE last five years have delineated a pattern that has become household in the tradition of private print media here in Guyana – the Kaieteur News’ continuing, relentless attacks on the PPP/C administration, with its centrepiece being an obsession with now former President Bharrat Jagdeo. Certainly, this must be a record anywhere in the Caribbean, for the flagrant abuse that continues to flow as freedom of expression from this journal.
It is particularly disturbing for a publishing house that has usurped the role of defender of the public’s right. Does it really understand what such responsibility is? How many times have the consequences of irresponsible reporting, which, in KN’S tradition, means slandering particularly high state officials, inclusive of the former President Jagdeo, and defaming persons’ characters, especially those who would have made invaluable contributions to the ongoing modern development of Guyana? Surely, this medium has introduced an unprofessional and dangerous ethic which has been posing a threat to proper journalism as it ought to be.
The fact that it has continued to attack the person of the former Head of State/Government is proof that its publisher has a personal vendetta against one who, through selfless devotion, hard work beyond the call of national duty and exemplary service, has done for Guyana what those who would have trod prior, have not done. What other reason(s) can one ascertain to rationalise those continuous slanderous and malicious attacks that are designed to call into question the personal integrity of the most outstanding Guyanese leader within its modern history? There is simply no discernible reason that one can possibly think of, that supports such a daily staccato of obscenities that flow from this particular print medium as public information.
Lall is definitely jealous of Jagdeo’s great achievements. He never expected a humble rural lad to rise to such national eminence, and well known international acclaim. Such resentment emanates from a mind that is as much mentally deranged as it is wholly anti-national; for any intelligent and patriotic countryman/woman would be happy as to what benefits their country has gained, as a result of such visionary leadership that has led this nation to its current status as one in transformative mode.
This has to be some of the most naked abuse of media freedom that can be found anywhere, done under the guise of press freedom.
Is such a desultory track record, the kind that a media house must continue to execute every day? Is not this a desecration of all the good tenets of journalism?
And how long must the readership continue to tolerate this serious violation of media principles?

The Drunk Man and the Good Samaritans

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:11:35 +0000

This past summer my children and I spent their summer vacation from school in Guyana. It was by far the best vacation and education in helping others they have ever had. One night, while we were out having dinner, we saw a drunk man sitting outside the restaurant. We didn't think he would be safe if he remained there, so we tried to get him to a safe location.
The problem was that he was not cooperating with us. We asked the restaurant security guard to help us put the drunk man in a taxi, but the guard refused. He said he doesn't like dealing with drunk men.Then, we asked the taxi driver to help us, which he did.

Next, we took him to a hotel to spend the night, but the hotel clerk refused to accept him because of his intoxication. She was afraid that he might jump out of the hotel window and hurt himself. However, we managed to convince her to let him stay by assuring her that we will be liable for anything that happened to him.

We took the drunk man to his hotel room and tucked him in bed and prayed for him. Then, we left. The next morning, I went to check on him. He was sober. He didn't know who I was and how he got to the hotel. He didn't know why I brought him to the hotel. He didn't know where I came from. He didn't know what made me stop to help him. He didn't know if I would return to the hotel because I wasn't staying at the hotel.

While we were having breakfast, he began to tell me the story of how he ended up drunk and not able to make it home. He told me that he was drinking with some friends, and he had had too much to drink, and his friends left him. He couldn't make it home because the Demerara Harbour Bridge was shut down because of damage.

Then, he asked me several questions: why you and your daughters who are strangers took the time to help me, when my own friends abandoned me? Why didn't you take any of my money, wristwatch, or cell phone? He had several thousand dollars on him. He told me that he was well off financially. Then, he asked me why didn't you take my firearm?

I told him that is not what Good Samaritans do. They don't steal or take advantage of people. Instead, they help people.

Next, he asked me, how you being black stopped to help an East Indian? Then, I had him read the story in the Bible about the Good Samaritan, which he had never heard, being a Hindu.

I told him that I am a Christian and when I saw him drunk and unable to take care of himself, that I felt compassion for him, even thought he is East Indian. In spite of his being East Indian, he was my neighbour, I told him. In spite of the fact that some East Indians and Africans don't like each other, he was my brother because we came from the same parents, Adam and Eve.

The next day I did Bible study with my children. We read the Good Samaritan story. When I asked my daughters what they learned from the story, my 10-year-old daughter told me that she learned that we have to put the Bible stories into practice in real life, as we did to help the drunk man.

This experience had a profound impact on my life. What would happen if only more citizens would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then Guyana would be a better country. If only more politicians would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then politics wouldn't be such a dirty game. If only more clergy would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then more people’s lives would be changed. If only more presidents would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then more people would live in peace.

If only more leaders would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then more people would follow them. If only more teachers would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then more students would learn from them. If only more parents would remember what it means to be a neighbour, then more children would listen to them.

For too long, Guyana has been divided by race. The land of six races. I believe
no longer Guyana should be divided by East Indians , Africans , Asians , Europeans , or Amerindians; no longer Guyana should be called the Land of Many Nations. Rather, Guyana should be called the Land of One Nation. That nation is the Guyanese Nation.

When you see a drunk man on the streets, his ethnicity shouldn't matter. You need to feel compassion for him because he is your neighbour. And he needs your help. That is all that matters.

Here is the story of the Good Samaritan
One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?”
Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”
The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’”
“Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!”
The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?”
Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was travelling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.
“By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. A temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.
“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbour to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.
The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”

End of the road for Sachin?

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:26:43 +0000

AFTER being bowled out thrice in a row, pundits pick faults in the Little Big Fella’s technique
It looked as if it was waiting to happen. A rare sight which is fast becoming a common one — stumps all over the place and Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar walking back amid the ruins.
Since the time Sachin took guard on Monday, with India at a precarious 83 for two chasing 261, New Zealand knew what exactly they needed to do to get rid of the world’s best batsman.
The plan was set - attack the stumps, and Sachin’s defence would be breached. Twice in the series, the master blaster had been bowled through the gate.
A hat-trick followed in the second innings of the Bangalore Test. Fast bowler Tim Southee crashed through Sachin’s defence and was fittingly rewarded with the prized wicket. Not one to let emotions get the better of him, it was uncharacteristic of Sachin to lift his bat in rage with the intention of almost smashing it to the ground. On his way back to the pavilion though, he pulled himself back and shook his head.
Sachin faced 34 balls and hit five fours for his 27, but all the while New Zealand bowlers kept the ball up to him, making him play every delivery.
They waited patiently for Sachin’s defence to fall apart. After 78 minutes of battle in the middle, Sachin caved in, setting tongues wagging it is time for him to retire.
Senior cricketers have also started suggesting that Sachin should call it a day. Captain of the 1983 World Cup winning team Kapil Dev said: “From what we have seen in the last three months, he (Sachin) should have announced his retirement after the World Cup (2011) or even earlier.
It's important to know that every cricketer has his time. Having served India for 22-23 years, there surely is no greater cricketer than Sachin. But he should have announced his decision to retire from the shorter format soon after the World Cup.”
Sunil Gavaskar and Sanjay Manjrekar wondered whether age has made Sachin slow on his feet after he was clean-bowled in the first innings of the Hyderabad Test. When his stumps were shattered for the third consecutive time on Monday, Abbas Ali Baig felt Sachin was perhaps overconfident.
Ajit Wadekar, also a former coach of the Indian team, said it was wrong shot-selection that caused his dismissals. “He seems to be going through a bad patch,” Wadekar added.
So what ails Sachin’s batting? Is it the fact he has not scored a Test century in 24 innings, spanning more than a year? Or is there something wrong with his technique? Or is it, if someone dare ask, a mental thing? Fact is that Sachin’s last century came in January 2011, against South Africa in Cape Town, and since then he has got out twice in 90s and once in 80s.
And he hasn’t scored a half-century in the last seven innings.
Sachin has ruled out retirement as of now. Even if he is thinking about his future, he hasn’t shared it with the media so far.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly felt the little master’s presence was justified in the team. “Sachin knows when he has to retire. He is just going through a lean patch as he is playing after quite some time. There is no dip in his ability. He cannot be judged in just three innings. And he is obstructing no youngsters’ entry into the team,” he said.
If the captain’s words make any difference to a player’s performance, Sachin has every reason to believe Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
Backing the senior-most player in the team, the India captain said: “The good thing is that whenever people talk about Tendulkar’s form, he comes up with a brilliant performance and I’m waiting for that. I don’t really get worried about that.”

Clarke says Australia proud of win over Pakistan

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:27:56 +0000

CAPTAIN Michael Clarke yesterday praised a professional Australia on foiling Pakistan's bid to win a limited over series, saying the players were really proud of their performance.
Australia edged out Pakistan by three wickets in a hard-fought third and final match here early yesterday, preventing their rivals from winning a limited-over series for the first time in ten years.
Australia won the first match here by four wickets before Pakistan levelled the series with a seven-wicket win in Abu Dhabi.
The victory meant Australia, who had fallen to world number four in one-day rankings, bounced back after their 4-0 thumping by England in a one-day series in July.
"The feeling around the group is great, especially after losing 4-0 to England," said Clarke. "The guys should be really proud of this series. It was a tough victory against a very good one-day team."
Australia successfully chased down a challenging 245-run target on the back of contrasting half-centuries from Michael Hussey (65) and Glenn Maxwell (56 not out), overcoming a serious threat from off-spinner Saeed Ajmal who took 3-37.
Australia not only combatted the spin well but also the sapping heat and perturbing humidity during all three matches, with the temperature rising to 35-plus even though the start to the matches had been delayed to 18:00hrs in the evening.
"We worked really hard before coming on this series. We were up in Darwin as a team and worked hard against spin bowling. We found conditions so different to what we tried to prepare in Darwin, especially in the heat.
"I've never played in heat like this, in humidity like this. The most pleasing thing is the whole series was won by the whole team, it wasn't one individual player."
Clarke said the team combination was important.
"As captain of this team and the Test team it's important for me to have a mix of youth and experience. I think that showed. You saw Maxwell, who is young and hasn't played too much cricket go out and play his natural game."
For Pakistan captain Misbah-ul Haq it was a third one-day series loss, after going down to England and Sri Lanka.
"I think we have to improve in every department of the game, especially we have to find the right combination of fast bowling and also we have to improve our batting and fielding," said Misbah.
Pakistan dropped as many as four catches and a stumping, the most costly of which was Maxwell when dropped by Azhar Ali off paceman Junaid Khan on 34.
Pakistan also wasted good starts in batting in the first and third matches.
"At important stages of the game we collapsed in batting and we have to make good use of batting power-plays," said Misbah, who will not be part of the Twenty20 squad.
Pakistan and Australia play three Twenty20 matches -- all in Dubai -- on September 5, 7 and 10. (AFP)

Lee blasts 'wrapped in cotton wool' approach to prevent injuries

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:28:24 +0000

SYDNEY, (ANI): Former Australia fast bowler Brett Lee has said young quicks should focus more on sharpening their core strength by bowling, and pay less attention to building their bodies through gym sessions.
Lee, one of just two Australians to claim more than 300 Test and one-day wickets, believes in this way quick bowlers would be less prone to injuries and would be groomed properly.
"There are a lot of theories out there that bowlers should be wrapped up in cotton wool. I don't agree with that. A bowler has to build up his body through bowling," the Daily Telegraph quoted Lee, as saying.
"There must be a balance. The whole mindset these days is to get in the gym and get fit and get strong. I don't necessarily agree with that. A bowler who is 17 or 18 and bowling at 140kph must have good core strength, that's the most important thing," he added.
"They're not beach weights, your big pecs, your big biceps. I don't agree that is the best thing for young quicks coming through. A bowler still has to be flexible and be able to run fast," he said.
Lee added: "If you've got a teenager who is bowling rapidly and he's given a weights programme they'll get tight through their upper body and I don't agree with that."

U.S., Germany in final of women's U-20 World Cup

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:29:54 +0000

TOKYO, Japan - The United States beat Nigeria 2-0 yesterday and will play defending champions Germany for the women's Under-20 World Cup title.
Morgan Brian scored in the first half and Kealia Ohai added another goal in the second to send the Americans to the final for the third time. The U.S. won in 2002 and 2008.
''It was a difficult match physically,'' U.S. coach Steve Swanson said. ''Nigeria gave us all we could handle and a little more. Getting that first goal was key for us.''
Germany, trying to become the first team to win consecutive titles, beat hosts Japan 3-0. Japan will face Nigeria for third place on Saturday before the U.S. meet Germany. The Germans also won the title in 2004.
Brian opened the scoring with a header in the 22nd minute. In the 70th minute, Ohai took a through ball from Samantha Mewis and sent a 12-yard right-footed shot past goalkeeper Ibubeleye Whyte.
Nigeria pressed forward after the second goal but the Americans denied them a chance to get back in the game.
''I thought our back four did a very good job of keeping possession and allowing us to get out of our end,'' Swanson said.
Germany scored three goals in the opening 20 minutes against Japan.
Melanie Leupolz scored in the first minute when she took a pass from Dzsenifer Marozsan and beat goalkeeper Sakiko Ikeda with an angled shot. Marozsan doubled the lead in the 13th with a lob over Ikeda. Lena Lotzen made it 3-0 with a header in the 19th for her sixth goal of the tournament.

Foreign tours positive for Indian cricket - Rajput

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:30:22 +0000

LALCHAND Rajput, the India A coach, has praised the BCCI for arranging more overseas tours for the side, as it exposes India's future cricketers to different conditions for their all-round grooming.
The India A squad is about to embark on a tour of New Zealand, which begins on September 18, after playing in the West Indies in June this year.
"The BCCI is doing a great job to send 'A' tour abroad more often," Rajput said. "These are the players who are the bench strength of the Indian team. Once these players go to other countries and get accustomed, and when they play for the country and tour, they are well-prepared."
The squad has assembled at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore for a training camp and Rajput was confident that the preparation would benefit ahead of the tour. The India A team that toured the West Indies had missed out on practice and that had reflected in their 2-1 loss in the unofficial Test series.
"We just had two days (before the West Indies tour), and we never had any practice games in the West Indies because it was raining, so we straightaway went to the Test match. There is no excuse, but I think a camp prepares you better for a tour.
We are preparing as per New Zealand conditions, so it is good we are in Bangalore because it is as similar to New Zealand as possible. The main aim is to develop all our players to perform in New Zealand conditions.
"Any outstation tour is difficult. But I am sure the players are well prepared now, because when you go on away tours you must be mentally strong and that is the key for success."
The side includes Unmukt Chand, the captain of the Indian team that won the Under-19 World Cup in Australia. Rajput said the performance in the 'A' side would be a step in the right direction as these tours act as a bridge between the Under-19 and the international levels of the game.
"You can't directly jump from Under-19 to senior team; there are steps to take. There is a process, and I think India A is part of the process. So you get success in India A and go to the Indian team.
"Chand is a very strong player. This is a real test for him. I am sure that if he can pass this course, next step is Indian team."
Yet, he said, the performances in the 'A' tours would ideally have to be backed by at least a season of domestic cricket. "To judge a player, it is very important to play at least one season of first-class cricket. It could be Elite or Plate group, but one season of first-class makes them mature. They know what's coming at that level, and they are mentally better prepared."
India A is scheduled to play three one-dayers and two unofficial Tests in New Zealand.

India A squad: Abhinav Mukund (capt.), Naman Ojha (wkp.), Mandeep Singh, Anustup Majumdar, Unmukt Chand, Ashok Menaria, Ambati Rayudu, Suryakumar Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Akshay Darekar, Vinay Kumar, Shami Ahmed, Jalaj Saxena, Rahul Sharma, Rituraj Singh and Jaydev Una. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Azarenka outlasts Stosur in U.S. Open classic

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:31:08 +0000

(REUTERS) - Victoria Azarenka survived a ferocious comeback from defending champion Sam Stosur to reach the U.S. Open semis as the remnants of Hurricane Isaac left tournament organisers scrambling to catch up with the playing schedule.
The eagerly anticipated quarter-final matchup between Maria Sharapova and Marion Bartoli was postponed until today after just four games were completed. Dozens of junior matches were also held over because of the heavy rain.
Azarenka traded blows with Stosur for nearly two and a half hours on a blustery Arthur Ashe Stadium court to beat the foul weather and her opponent in a 6-1, 4-6, 7-6 thriller.
The world number one will play either Sharapova or Bartoli in Friday's semi-finals and will remain atop the world rankings regardless of how much further she goes in the tournament.
"It means a lot, but it's nothing like lifting a trophy," said Azarenka. "I definitely don't want to stop. I really want it bad."
For Stosur, it was a bittersweet result. The big-hitting Australian showed her surprise win here last year was no fluke and that she can match it with the best but her efforts were still in vain.
"That proves to me that I am capable of doing it," she said.
"To have another showing here at the Open like this, it for sure gives me confidence to think that maybe one day I can do it again."
The match was suspended for over an hour midway the opening set when the heavens opened and drenched Flushing Meadows. The pair returned to finish their clash but play was stopped after another downpour began and before either of the other two singles matches in action was finished.
Bartoli was leading Sharapova 4-0 when play was halted.
At least 30 people were killed by Hurricane Isaac during its deadly trek across the Caribbean, Louisiana and Mississippi and while the storm has weakened, rain and flash floods have been forecast for the U.S. East Coast where the U.S. Open is played.
In each of the last four years, the tournament has stretched into a third week because of thunderstorms, triggering an annual debate and complaints from players and paying spectators over why there is still no roof over the courts.
The centre courts at both the Australian Open and Wimbledon have retractable roofs while organisers of the French Open plan to cover up their main court by 2014.
However, the United States Tennis Association has baulked at the idea because of the enormous cost of covering Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest tennis stadium in the world.
Azarenka, who won her first Grand Slam title at this year's Australian Open, had won her previous six matches against Stosur in straight sets and seemed to be cruising to another easy win when she romped through the opening set in just 30 minutes.
But Stosur, who upset Serena Williams in last year's final, found her rhythm after the initial 75-minute delay, landing more of her booming first serves and hitting her groundstrokes deeper and with greater conviction.
The seventh-seed won the second set then recovered from a break down in the third to draw level and force a deciding tiebreak, which Azarenka won 7-5 after blowing a 4-0 lead.
"I enjoy the fight," said Azarenka. "I enjoy the struggle, that pain that we go through, that incredible moment that you feel relieved after you know you gave it all in every point you had.

BCB/NBS Second Division … Motie’s 6 for 15 and Cameron’s 75 see ACC and RHT Bakewell through to quarter-finals

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:32:13 +0000

ACTION in the 2011 Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)-organised, New Building Society (NBS)-sponsored second division 40-overs-a-side competition recently resumed after being suspended because of the prolonged rainy season with Albion Community Centre (ACC) and Rose Hall Town Bakewell advancing to the quarter-finals.
National Under-19 left-arm spinner, Gudakesh Motie, fresh from his successful stint for Guyana in the just concluded Regional Under-19 competition, nabbed 6 for 15 from 8 overs to bowl ACC to a 36-run victory over Bush Lot Challengers in their play-off encounter, thus earning the right to advance.
Berbice Under-17 batsman Nicholas Cameron slammed 75 to steer Rose Hall Town Bakewell to 203 for 6 from 35 overs against Cotton Tree Die Hard who could only respond with 138 all out, as Berbice t20 spinner Eon Hooper picked up 4 for 31 for Rose Hall Town Bakewell.
In scores from the matches played:
At Albion: Albion Community Centre beat Bush Lot Challengers by 36 runs. Albion Community Centre 196 in 39.4 overs with Veerapen Permaul 61, Dudnauth Lallbeharry 46, Kandasammy Surujnarine 25 and Agnadeo Sooklall 3 for 33. Bush Lot Challengers 160 in 38 overs with Agnadeo Sooklall 32, Brandon Balkissoon 29 and Gudakesh Motie 6 for 15.
At Cotton Tree: Rose Hall Town Bakewell got the better of Cotton Tree Die Hard by 65 runs. Rose Hall Town Bakewell 203 for 6 in 35 overs with Nicholas Cameron 75, Devin Baldeo 32, Ravi Narine 30 not out and Fizul Khan 2 for 37.
Cotton Tree Die Hard 138 in 23.3 overs with Ishwar Singh 34, Jagdeo Persaud 33, Eon Hooper 4 for 31, Dominique Rikki 2 for 22 and Ravi Narine 2 for 38.

WBCA/Hand-In-Hand Second Division - D’Edward and Hopetown United advance to semi-finals

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:33:20 +0000

THE semi-finalists of the West Berbice Cricket Association (WBCA) Hand-In-Hand second division limited overs competition were decided when the action resumed recently at the quarter-final stage after a long break due to the rainy weather.
D’Edward and Hopetown United took the opportunity to win their matches comfortably over Sundown and Bath respectively, to earn their places in the semi-finals.
At D’Edward, the home team batted first and made 141 all out in 31.1 overs with Jaipaul Heeralall topscoring with 39.
Bowling for Sundown, Krishna Shiwtahal took 2 for 22, but when they batted, they were bowled out for 93 all out in 28.2 overs with Imran Ally topscoring with 33, against the bowling of Eon Abel who took 3 for 32, Derrick Narine Lalsa Jr 2 for 10 and Sam Ramanand 2 for 24.
At Bath, Hopetown United beat Bath by 41 runs after batting first and scoring 174 in 38.1 overs with Delon Wayne 31 and Kevin Blair 25.
Bowling for Bath, Tamesh Surujballi, took 4 for 23 and Naipaul Ramnauth 2 for 35, before Emerson Benjamin (3 for 32), along with Steffon Adams and Carwyn Wayne who took two wickets each for 17 and 21 runs respectively, bowled out Bath for 133 in 34.3 overs.

BCB/Memorex/Leslie Amsterdam Memorial Under-17 Inter-club … RHT Bakewell defeat Albion to retain title

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:34:14 +0000

THE ALREADY large Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club trophy collection got another addition when their Bakewell-sponsored Under-17 team defeated Albion Cricket Club by 74 runs to successfully defend their Berbice Cricket Board/Memorex/Leslie Amsterdam Memorial Under-17 Title at the Area “H” ground last Friday.
The final, which was played over two days, saw several outstanding performances from several players, namely Devin Baldeo, Shailendra Shameer and Arif Chan from the defending champions’ lineup.
Albion won the toss and to the surprise of everyone, invited their opponents to take first strike on a wicket noted to take spin as matches progressed to the latter stage, to which RHT Bakewell scored 137 in their first innings, thanks to Baldeo’s unbeaten 49 which included eight fours.
Baldeo shared a valuable 52-run ninth-wicket partnership with Joshua Holder (16), coming together with their team struggling at 82 for 8.
Brandon Prashad (16), Daniel Lewis (18), Vienna Gooniah (11) and Shailendra Shameer (10) were the other batsmen from RHT Bakewell to reach double figures, as Sharaz Ramcharran 5 for 46 from 23 overs and David Latchaya 3 for 36 from 23 overs bowled well for Albion.
Albion in reply reached 105 for 9. The innings closed with national Under-19 player Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai failing to take the crease, due to his presence with the Guyana team that was still in Barbados awaiting the outcome of the final round of matches in the Regional Under-19 limited overs tournament.
Latchaya returned with the bat to score an unbeaten 34 and received support from Balchan Baldeo 18 and L. Bishram 17, while Shameer claimed 5 for 30 runs from 15 overs of off-spin and his spin-twin Arif Chan, 3 for 17.
Batting a second time with a first-innings lead of 32 runs, RHT Bakewell reached 135 all out with the impressive Baldeo again topscoring with 37 while Daniel Lewis 16, Vienna Gooniah 24 and Dimitri Cameron 19 offered good support.
Latchaya bowled well to claim 3 for 60, Ramcharran 3 for 40 and Balchan Baldeo 2 for 9, while Motie-Kanhai was unable to bowl, due to his absence on the first day of play.
Set to score the highest total of the match, 168 runs in 3 hours of play to record a come-from-behind win, Albion found the off-spin bowling of Shameer and Chan too difficult to handle on a turning pitch and crumbled for 94 in 37 overs.
Batting at number seven, Motie-Kanhai led his team’s batting the second time around with a responsible 35 before he was dismissed. He received support from Latchaya who made an attacking 28 and Baldeo who chipped in with 15. Shameer finished with 5 for 25 (match figures of 10 for 55) while Chan claimed 4 for 29 runs.
At the presentation ceremony BCB secretary Angela Haniff expressed gratitude to Tony Amerally and the management of Memorex for their sponsorship of the tournament and for investing in the development of new talents in the ancient county.
She congratulated both teams for their display of discipline, dedication and high standard of cricket. Devin Baldeo was named Man-of-the-Final for his valuable innings of 49 not out and 37 and received $10 000 and a trophy.
Albion carried home the runner-up prize of $25 000 while the champions received $40 000 and the winning trophy. Both Shameer and RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster both dedicated the championship victory to Bakewell Chairman Mr Naem Nasir and General Manager Rajendra Ganga.

T&T’s Sinnette loses fight for WBC title

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:35:17 +0000

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) - Trinidad and Tobago’s Super Middleweight champion Kirt Sinnette has lost his bid to win the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) International Lightweight title.
Sinnette was knocked out in the fourth round by London-based African champion Joey Vegas of Uganda after changing his tactics from as early as the second of the 12-round bout.
Sinnette, 38, was leading in the first two rounds using his jabs to contain his 30-year-old opponent in the main draw at the Woodbrook Youth Facility at the weekend.
However, midway the third round, Sinnette survived a standing eight-count after Vegas countered a right hook which caught the Trinidadian on his jaw and sent him crashing to the canvas.
The former Olympian came out in the fourth round chasing his younger opponent and without the advantage of his jabs for protection.
Vegas once more saw the opening and unleashed a quick combination as Sinnette hit the ground again only to barely survive a second standing eight-count.
However, the dazed local fighter was not fully recovered to make it to the end of the fourth round as Vegas pounced with a killer combination that landed him on his back.
Guyanese referee Eion Jardine, realising the T&T champion was in trouble waved the contest off at two minutes 30 seconds into round four.
“In my humble opinion I did not see Kirt Sinnette show up to his best; .it is not the Kirt Sinnette that I am accustomed to because I know that the Kirt Sinnette that I am accustomed to would have dealt with that fight differently,” said promoter Giovanni Potts .
“Joey Vegas got hit and he was hurt in the second round and he was dazed and after that you saw he changed his stance. He changed his attack and he ended up the aggressor in the fight.”
In addition to claiming the WBC International belt, Vegas is now expected to get a shot at the WBC Lightweight title.
However, Sinnette is expected to have another shot at the title as a result of a rematch clause.
“The safety net in all of this is that we always tie title fight like this to a rematch,” said Potts.
“So there will be a rematch clause in there. So it’s well protected and Kirt has the opportunity to come again and get a shot at the title.”

‘Atmosphere can make a big difference at this level of football’ ... says Guyana captain Chris Nurse

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 04:35:59 +0000

PANAMA City, Panama - Golden Jaguars skipper Christopher Ronald Nurse has highlighted the importance that the atmosphere of the respective home crowd support in both El Salvador and Guyana could be, as a deciding factor in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers between the two nations.
Speaking from the team camp in Panama, Nurse, who has played 13 internationals for Guyana since making his debut in 2008, articulated the aforementioned, as the Guyana Football Federation continues to encourage the nation to come out an hour before kick-off for the home game on September 11 at Providence Stadium.
He also touched on a few other topics regarding the national team's ongoing preparations.
"All the players certainly agree that atmosphere can make the big difference at this level of football; we need the support for our team and our players.
“However regardless of this, we will go out and play our best to make those who support us proud and by God's grace we will be victorious come the end of 90 minutes," said Nurse in a passionate tone.
He continued: "We have come a long way as a foot-balling nation to be competing at this level and we are by no means out of our depth. For every experience the team is growing stronger. Defeat is never the desired outcome. However, some of the best lessons are learned in defeat, they make you stronger going forward. The future for the national team is very bright as long as the support and belief remain strong".
The 28-year-old central midfielder also noted that although he is the national skipper, one of the great things about the team, is that essentially on any given day, all eleven that start a match for the Jaguars can be a leader on the pitch.
"Being the named skipper has no bearing, there are 11 experienced professionals on the field each with his own leadership techniques and with loud voices. This has been one of the team’s strengths - the number of leaders that we have within the squad.
“The fight will always be present amongst this team, as long as we remain unified and together, the task before us is in our own hands. We believe in one another as players and staff,", stated Nurse.
When asked what he hopes to see accomplished during the camp in Panama and the final preparations when the team arrives in El Salvador before the big night on Friday, Nurse elaborated further by saying: " We will obviously work on the tactical element, and the disciplines we are to execute as part of the game plan. But it is also a chance to bond as a team, because the more unified and the better the team spirit is in camp, that is what we will carry onto the field. So it is a chance for team-bonding and listening and executing the desired game plan going forward."
Recently on August 1, Nurse and fellow Guyanese striker Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, while playing for their North American Soccer League (NASL) Puerto Rico Islanders, had a good experience of a sojourn to El Salvador to face the Salvadoran domestic club champions, Isdiro Metapan, in the CONCACAF Champions League.
Nurse concluded his thoughts by noting what he gathered from that game, life at this new NASL club that he joined after previously representing Carolina Railhawks and one of Jaguars new recruits - Nick Millington whom he was team mates with at his former club.
"Puerto Rico Islanders is a fantastic club, the passion of the fans carries to the players and the experiences gained from the CONCACAF Champions League games are invaluable.
“We faced LA Galaxy who had David Beckham, Robbie Kean, Landon Donovan etc, plus we came not too long ago in El Salvador and played Metapan, so we have a idea of what we can expect from the El Salvador style of play."
"Nick Millington is a very good footballer, he has been unfortunate not to see more first team football, but is still very young and has a very bright football future, both in domestic and international football"

Guyana elected to chair UN Economic and Financial Committee

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 05:34:00 +0000

GUYANA will serve as Chair of the Economic and Financial Committee (Second Committee) of the United Nations General Assembly for the 67th session. The Assembly yesterday elected Guyana's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, His Excellency Ambassador George Talbot, by acclamation to the post. Ambassador Talbot is the first representative of a CARICOM member state at the United Nations to hold the position.
The Second Committee, which deals with a wide range of development matters, will have a full agenda of issues to consider, among them macro-economic policy questions, sustainable development issues, including follow-up to the Rio+20 conference, challenges associated with poverty eradication, globalization, international migration and development, and the situation of countries in special circumstances, such as Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States.
Guyana’s priorities for the upcoming session will include a focus on food security and agriculture, poverty eradication, climate change related issues, and the developmental impact of inequalities both within and across countries as well as on greater effectiveness and efficiency in the conduct of the work of the Committee. During Guyana's tenure, the Committee will also undertake the first quadrennial comprehensive policy review of the UN's operational activities for development.
Ambassador Talbot was nominated and endorsed for the post by CARICOM and by the Group of the Latin American and Caribbean States (GRULAC). Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Bangladesh were also elected to the Bureau of the Committee. Ambassador Talbot, who holds a Bachelor's Degree in Modern Languages from the University of Guyana and a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, is a career diplomat with vast experience in multilateral affairs.
In a related development, Ambassador of Suriname to the UN, His Excellency Mr. Henry Mac Donald, was yesterday also elected to chair the Third Committee, making this the first time that two CARICOM representatives will chair Main Committees of the General Assembly during the same session.

The vendetta against Bharrat Jagdeo is unfolding

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 05:34:32 +0000

SUPPORTERS of the Alliance For Change (AFC) must be livid at their Chairman, Attorney-at-Law, Nigel Hughes, for the embarrassment he caused them during the last debate organised by NCN. Clearly the embarrassment was two-fold, since not only did the learned attorney totally misunderstand the topic, but his venomous and vengeful decorum must have instilled a sense of utter disappointment in those, who in and out of the Party, pride themselves with decency and who may have held him in high esteem.
His utterances during the debate in question did much to effect an evaporation of the high regard some may have held him in. Conversely, it effected a further precipitation of journalism devoid of any semblance of adherence to ethics, professionalism and fairness in some sections of the media. Not surprisingly, it provides fodder to the Kaieteur News which has never been indisposed to demonstrate its ability to sensationalise and to gloat about its propensity to disseminate misinformation.
The said medium has also continued to unashamedly display its proclivity to publish material that is disparaging to the government and its officials, especially former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. For sometime now, the paper has devotedly embarked on maligning his character in an effort to deliberately discredit him from the immeasurable contributions he would have made to the development and technological advances Guyana experienced under his tenure.
While such discrediting would be an expected function of the opposition, the Kaieteur News seemed to have not only usurped that task, but blatantly persists in expressing itself, in an irrefutable manner, as the opposition; hence, surprise, surprise, the prominence it gave to Mr. Hughes’ rants on its front and centre pages. A better text-book example of biased, unfair and self-serving journalism cannot be cited. Given the anti-government and anti-developmental positions taken by the Kaieteur News, it would not be challenging to conclude that Mr. Hughes knew in advance that he was assured of preferential space in the said newspaper.
One may also undoubtedly conclude that, given the tendency of both Mr. Hughes and the Kaieteur News to engineer misleading information, the assurance of space was never a concern. However, what must be of concern is the collaboration of the two and their cohorts to deceive the public. While space here will be a constraint to address all the falsehoods pedalled by the AFC Chairman and the Kaieteur News regarding Dr. Jagdeo, the allegation that the former president acquired the most wealth than any other Head of State must not be allowed to go unchallenged.
What the ambitious Attorney and the disingenuous Kaieteur News deliberately circumvented was the fact that Dr. Jagdeo’s assets which they questioned, were acquired and paid for by his hard-earned salary when he executed, with distinction, his duties as Executive President and other positions he held prior. What they also skilfully circumvented is the fact that Dr. Jagdeo’s assets were not acquired through the method of confiscation which former President Forbes Burnham, who has now become the idol of the AFC and the Kaieteur News, was repeatedly accused of.
Guyanese must not allow Mr. Hughes and the Kaieteur News to conveniently forget the many properties which were allegedly forcibly taken away from innocent citizens by Mr. Burnham. During that tyrannical reign of the country’s first Executive President, allegations of such confiscations were rife. An estate, a cinema, a luxury vehicle and apartment complexes and other properties were just some of the assets that Mr. Burnham had allegedly commandeered thereby depriving Guyanese of the fruits of their sweat. In addition, it was also believed that Mr. Burnham amassed enormous wealth to the point of being touted as the fifth richest person of African ancestry in the world at that time!
Related allegations of accounts in overseas banks dominated that period; allegations that were vehemently articulated by some who now occupy prominent position within the AFC! To date, Dr. Jagdeo is the longest serving President of the country. Clearly his salary would have accrued and like any other Guyanese, just like Mr. Hughes and Mr. Glenn Lall, free to utilise his disposable income in a manner he sees fit. Just like thousands of other Guyanese, Dr. Jagdeo acquired a house lot though the prescribed process, built a house, sold it for a price that the buyer agreed to pay and utilised his hard-earned financial resources to build the house that clearly has become the envy of the Kaieteur News and the Opposition.
Dr. Jagdeo’s house became the issue of the debate alluded to rather than its intended topic; the former Presidents’ Pension. What’s ironic is that both the Kaieteur News and the opposition (maybe to save space it may be easier to just say the opposition), prior to the debate, alleged corruption in the bill relating to the former Presidents’ Pension, but none was found! As a matter of fact, Mr. Hughes accepted that he and his party, and by extension, APNU, have no objection about the bill. Such pronouncements glaringly beg the question, what’s the issue with Dr. Jagdeo?
Clearly, it wasn’t the pension. Clearly, it cannot be about a Guyanese legally selling and building a house. Barring that, clearly it’s a case of personal vindictiveness as demonstrated in the debate by the AFC and its Chairman, and what was subsequently carried, or continues to be carried, by the Kaieteur News. Clearly, the vendetta continues to unfold under the guise of freedom of expression. Maybe it’s also a vendetta following the non-conferral of the status of SC to someone who seems infatuated with such a title.

Hughes cannot function as a politician and diplomat – AG - he has no monopoly on competence in diplomacy

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 05:35:01 +0000

PROMINENT Attorney at Law, Nigel Hughes cannot hold the position of Chairman of the Alliance for Change and seek to promulgate himself into the post of Honorary Consul of Italy to Guyana.
This is the position of Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall who said that Hughes was making a mountain out of a molehill, even though he too is aware of the basic facts that would support government’s reason for not finding favour with his name as proposed for the position.
Nandlall, speaking during an invited comment on the issue, which has benefited from widespread media attention with the AFC Chairman laying discrimination charges at the feet of the administration, said that Hughes “cannot function” as an ambassador or diplomat.
“There are international norms, rules, practices and conventions which govern the appointment of diplomats. It’s a process that is based on mutuality”, the Attorney General argued.
Nandlall submitted that both countries must be satisfied with the competence, character and conduct of the individuals being proposed on either side of the divide to hold office as ambassadors or diplomats. The AG reminded Hughes that the process is left up to the sending and receiving countries that rely heavily on international laws and norms to govern their interactions and relations.
“The two countries must arrive at a candidate that is acceptable to both; that’s international practice everywhere and it is an axiomatic practice”, Nandlall said passionately.
Nandlall, advancing his arguments, said that “when you are in active politics in a country, you ought not to be appointed an ambassador....it is a norm and practice which, over the years, have crystallised into almost a rule”.
The Legal Affairs Minister said that the Government of Guyana takes note of all of the comments and allegations as well as the misinformation being peddled by Hughes through various sections of the media, with the aim of using this issue to achieve narrow political objectives “but it simply wouldn’t work”.
“Mr. Hughes is the Chairman of the Alliance for Change. He has thrown his hat into the ring as an active politician”.
Minister Nandlall has also rubbished the accusations made by Hughes that the government was engaged in practicing double standards when it had appointed other persons who were Ministers of Government to diplomatic posting. He referred to an incident which saw Manniram Prashad holding the post of Honorary Consul from Trinidad and Tobago to Guyana, while he held the office of Tourism Minister.
Nandlall said that Prashad was not a politician, but rather someone who was appointed to the post from the civic component of the ruling party. He also cautioned Hughes about making statements about Prashad’s appointment, explaining that the minister held the portfolio for a short period of time while in office.
“The important thing is that they are persons who are not in the hierarchy of any political party”, Nandlall advised, explaining quickly that other professionals such as Clifford Reece and Richard Fields have held positions with the diplomatic corps without holding any political office at the time.
Asked to comment on accusations that the government has deprived Italy of probably the most competent person to hold the post as honorary consul, Nandlall said, “I don’t know that Mr. Hughes wields the monopoly of competence in the area of diplomacy and I don’t even know that he has formal training in the area of diplomacy...and I certainly don’t know that he is a person that has monopolized the speciality of representing this country in the international arena”.
The minister has since dismissed Hughes as a person who is always allegedly engaged in race and discrimination banter. “If the rain fall too hard, is because of something to do with race and ethnicity”, he opined.
The Government of Guyana maintains the view that Hughes should seek answers from the Italian Government about the withdrawal of his name as a possible nominee for the diplomatic posting of honorary consul of Italy to Guyana.
Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon, speaking during an invited comment, had said currently no one is substantively appointed to the post. Luncheon appeared to be saying that the government did not interfere in the process that it outlined to appoint persons to diplomatic postings, but rather followed established protocols and conventions.
“The Italian Government does not have an honorary consul in Guyana and until the Government of Guyana appoints or agrees to the nomination from the Government of Italy, then the appointment of an honorary consul is not possible,” he said when quizzed by the media.
He was adamant that Hughes’ quest for answers was directed in the first instance to the wrong administration, while opining he should not have any difficulty in obtaining the requisite information from the right administration. “He obviously is questioning why he is not appointed and the reason may very well have come from Italy”, Dr Luncheon said.
Hughes has reportedly been acting as Italy’s honorary consul to Guyana for the past 18 months, but Dr Luncheon did not seek to confirm or deny this. Hughes, who is an attorney, has now turned into a political figure, with his ascension to the chairmanship of the Alliance For Change (AFC).
The post is voluntary and does not offer any remuneration.

Manickchand warns contractors of penalties for failures

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 05:35:26 +0000

EDUCATION Minister Priya Manickchand has warned that her ministry will be taking a strong stance against inadequacies of contractors and other persons who are hired to do work and fail to deliver.
She said the Ministry will be moving, from now, to apply liquidated damages for every single day that a contract is delayed.
Ms. Manickchand said, when contractors bid and promise to deliver a certain quality of work within a certain time, they must stick to those commitments.
Failure to do so will see them being marched to the Courts where the Ministry of Education would be applying for all the penalties that the contract would allow to be applied against errant contractors, she indicated.
The Minister said it is hoped that the Ministry will be sending a strong message to all other contractors when it makes the first errant one an example.
Manickchand declared that it is almost criminal for a small developing country like Guyana to be paying so much of monies to build educational infrastructures and end up with finished products that cannot be considered value for money.
She said when contractors bid for projects and promise that they can complete jobs within a specific timeframe, for a specific sum of money and fail in that bid, it becomes a burden to the persons who are expected to benefit from the finished projects.
Her comments were made while visiting Diamond Primary School, East Bank Demerra, on Monday where it was discovered that an entire section of the building was not outfitted with windows, despite the period under which the construction was in progress.
She said she was informed that the contractor claimed his inability to install the windows was because the shipment was on a boat that did not arrive in Guyana on schedule.
The Minister said, from now, for every major project that the Ministry awards to a contractor, the details and bills of quantity along with other specifics of the projects will be posted up at strategic locations in the communities where they are being executed.
It is believed that such a move will see the community being able to monitor the projects and, where necessary or wherever they feel that the government and, by extension, the taxpayers are being shortchanged, they will inform the Ministry.

Keith Burrows fed up with City Hall problems …Seeks to fix issues among Town Clerk, Union and Workers

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 05:35:56 +0000

Chairman of the Implementation Committee of Georgetown Mayor and City Council, Keith Burrows, said yesterday that had the council used the guidelines and implemented some systems that were outlined in the “Keith Burrows report” the council would not have many of the issues it faces today. He said that he believes that the issues at the council still exist because the junior staff continues to have difficulties with their monthly salaries.
Keith Burrows said that he raised the concern with the acting Town Clerk who indicated to him that she has a good relationship with the union and its members. He said that he has decided to meet with the union because he has reached a point of frustration with the issues that continue to be plaguing the council month after month. He said that what is even more frustration is that after the review into the operations of the council was done, and the findings sent to the council, there were no objections to the recommendations, thus giving the impression that everything was okay.
Burrows made the remarks while addressing senior union representatives of the Local Government Union and the senior union representatives of the council. According to the chairman, one of his recommendations in the report was the paying of salaries from the bottom to the top, meaning: that instead of paying senior and top officers of the council first at the end of the month, the junior workers should be paid first as the salaries that pay some senior officers and councilors can pay at least ten junior council workers in some cases, he added. He said that there is no reason why the workers should not have been paid on time last month since several meetings were held prior to the pay day at the council.
Last week, City Hall workers downed tools after they did not receive their salaries on the due date. However, some of the workers have since been paid but today there were still several workers who gathered in the compound of city hall and outside of its gates in an apparent protest of the amount of monies some of them have received.
He said that there seems to be two major problems why some staff members are not paid on time, and those he listed as: administrative problems and the treatment meted out to the junior staff. Burrows noted that the union continues to complain of the treatment of some workers of the council by certain senior staff.
In an apparent reference to the accounting system of the council, Burrows said that he continues to urge the council to clean up the books and get their figures in order since in some cases there are figures that do not match up to anything when you do an in-depth audit and analysis of the financing and accounting of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council.
Burrows warned that the longer it takes City Hall to sort out its issues, the more the situation will evolve to one that will end up being bigger and a worst case scenario. He said that while it remains his private view, shutting down the entire operations of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council for two weeks and embarking on a rehiring and reapplying exercise for all posts of the council may very well see the end of the troubles of the council.
The head of the implementation committee also spoke to the issue of what seems to be a dead lock between the management of the council and the Town Clerk, Carol Ryan Sooba. The two continue to be at logger heads with each other on practically everything. Yesterday he assured the union representatives and the members that the issues with the Town Clerk will be sorted out.
Meanwhile the union representatives from the Guyana Local Government Officers Union, Dale Beresford, and Clarence Whitehead, of the Guyana Labour Union, were not too pleased with the way Burrows carried on the meeting with them as they believed that he failed to address their major concerns, which are the treatment of the union members by some staff including the Town Clerk, Carol Ryan Sooba, and the refusal of the Town Clerk to respond to critical correspondence from the union to the council among other things.
Beresford said that in the past they were written to by the pervious Town Clerk whenever it was realized that the council would be unable to pay workers’ salaries on the due date. He said that since Carol Ryan Sooba took over the office she has refused to respond or even acknowledge letters that were sent to her by the union.
Mr. Beresford pointed to the case recently, where the union sent the City Council a letter through the town clerk of the union’s intention to take industrial action if the council failed to respond in 72 hours to a letter asking for explanations why workers were not paid on time. The union executive said that despite the indication by the union that failure on the part of the Town Clerk to respond to and or meet with the union on the issue will see industrial actions, the Town Clerk, Carol Ryan Sooba, did not budge.
He told the gathering that the actions of Ms. Carol Ryan Sooba are a clear disregard for the union, and can be seen as her unwillingness to have any relationship with the body that looks into the affairs of the workers of City Hall.
The union said that they have exhausted all the avenues trying to meet with the Town Clerk but to no avail. It was also noted that requests for the council to supply the union with copies of the deductions that are being taken out of workers’ salaries are yet to be honored by the council. The union also pointed to the failure of the council to also supply union records of other deductions that have no paper trail, and which the council union will like to be informed about.
Yesterday too, Mr. Clarence Whitehead accused the Town Clerk of being biased and on a campaign to victimize certain workers of the council. The union representative also pointed to a case where the Town Clerk is threatening to send home an officer of the council because she is unable to reach that individual by telephone.
Another union representative said that they wrote the Town Clerk, Ms. Carol Ryan Sooba, on ten issues that the union will like to be addressed in its members’ interests.

Former president’s personal security has been compromised – Senior Police Official

Admin2 — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 05:36:23 +0000

The publication of aerial photographs of former president Bharat Jagdeo’s house and surroundings by the Kaieteur News constitutes a serious breach of security, according to a senior police official who, when contacted yesterday, said that such a move was unprecedented and totally uncalled for.
He noted that despite the freedom of the local press, the offending publication should have been cognisant of the fact that such photographs could serve to embolden those who have ulterior motives. It was noted that as a former Head of State, Bharat Jagdeo should be afforded the respect that comes with the office and the security implications arising from such an esteemed position.
The decision to publish the photographs which indicate the lay of the land of the compound is a security breach, and the motive to take such action must be considered, the official added. Dignitaries and other high officials are protected by the state and such actions can be compromised by those who claim to act in the name of press freedom.
Certain actions should be sacrosanct and should be upheld, particularly by those who see themselves as guardians of press freedom and democracy, the police officer noted.
The decision taken by the medium should be condemned in the strongest terms and the possibility of legal sanctions should also be considered, according to the senior rank. Those who aided and abetted in the action should also be sanctioned if possible, he further added.
Meanwhile, Member of the National Commission on Law and Order (NCLO), Captain Gerry Gouveia, condemned the publication, stating that, “It virtually compromises our former president’s personal security, because what you are actually doing there is exposing the perimeters of his personal residence to all kinds of reconnaissance and scrutiny. I think it was done in very bad faith actually. So while there is nothing illegal about taking photographs from the air, I believe that what is needed more is the whole concept of moral suasion and good sense and decency by a news agency to respect the privacy and security of our former President,” Mr. Gouveia stated.

GBL launches first tournament dubbed ‘Swinging for the Stars’ … G$5M in cash prizes up for grabs

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:37:57 +0000

FOLLOWING the successful launching of the Guyana Baseball League (GBL) early last month, the executives of the body yesterday launched their inaugural Softball Home Run Derby dubbed ‘Swinging for the Stars’, in which over G$5M in cash prizes will be up for grabs.
The tournament which gets under way on Saturday, September 29 caters for persons in six different categories, beginning with Under-7 and ending at the Open stage, for both male and female players, who will seek to earn lucrative prizes .
According to the Marketing Officer of the GBL Don Singh, the Derby is being held at the GBL’s ball park, located at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, with the aim of introducing the game to Guyana through a fun and action-filled format that is easy to play and understand.
“We want to get you to come in and hit, so we decided to use a friendly introduction called the Home Run Derby, where we will be using basically the softball for the various age categories that will be battling for cash prizes.”
In outlining the respective prizes for the winners, Don Singh said there will be no differentiation between male and female with the GBL, which means both category winners, will walk away with an equal amount of money as their rewards.
Furthermore, there will be no second-, third- or fourth-placed prizes being awarded, as the GBL seeks to reward the top place finisher (both male and female) in all the categories. The GBL’s Marketing Officer stated that no other sport on local soil, apart from boxing, offers such lucrative individual prizes.
“Yes we have heard about tournaments being sponsored to the tune of millions of dollars, but they are all team events, where the winning team divides the prize among its members, while in this case, the winning competitor in each category pockets his/her winnings individually.”
President of the GBL, Robin Singh, told his audience which included president of the Guyana Olympic Association K. Juman-Yassin and Parliamentary Representative for the Area James Bond, the GBL is looking at long-term development.
“We know the sport of baseball is fresh in the minds of Guyanese, so we are looking at developmental stages in the game, wherein at the end of the day, Guyana can have a semi-professional or even professional player competing on the world stage.”
The GBL head said that they sought and got specifications towards the construction of a beach volleyball court from the Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF), upon completion of which the GVF expressed its gratitude and has commenced planning a tournament.
The GBL head added, “The goal of the derby is to provide opportunity for all to put a bat in hand and have a swing at winning a hefty prize purse and beautiful trophy. The GBL wants to create a lifelong memory and hopes that one day these kids will fall in love with the great game of baseball. I strongly believe in grassroots baseball and the necessity of baseball.”
Both Juman-Yassin and Bond applauded the Singh brothers for the initiative taken to introduce and develop the sport of baseball in Guyana, with the GOA head adding that the sport was once played at the level of the Pan American Games and will soon be re-introduced there as well.
“You are starting at an advantage to some other associations, seeing that you have your own facility, which in fact is a multi-purpose one that you have extended an invitation to other associations to use from time to time. I commend you and wish you well in the future,” added Juman-Yassin.
Bond viewed the GBL as a springboard for rural and inner city youths, while he publicly exhibited his beliefs that sport and education should go hand in hand and called on the Guyanese population to cash in on the ability to learn the basics of baseball, through the GBL.

Rules for the upcoming competition are as follows:
Competition will be in 12 divisions of age and gender - Divisions U-7, U-10, U-13, U-16, U-18 and Open. Male and Female
Entrants are placed into groups of ten persons. Entry fee of $1 000 Open Divisions
Entry Fee of 500 for age/gender/ Divisions.
A contestant may enter multiple divisions, but can only win prize money in one division.
Proof of Date of Birth for all age divisions must be presented before prize money is collected.
A Division Registration closes on reaching its limit.
Entries are limited to ensure the competition runs on schedule.
Under-7 Division batters will hit off a Tee.
A Pitching Machine will pitch the softball to the batter.
Batters will compete in groups of ten. Each batter will have 8 swings. Batters receive one practice swing and 8 competition swings. Since a pitching machine is used, every pitch should be the same. However, there are times that a pitch is either too high or too low and this is determined by the UMPIRE. If this happens, the batter receives another pitch. Batters have to swing at every pitch.
A home run will have to cross the white line in the air located in the outfield. The top player of each group of ten will advance to the following rounds. Ties will lead to a sudden death round. Each batter will receive 4 swings.
Bats and balls will be provided, but players may use their own bats at the approval of the judges.
Each division will have a designated Home Run Boundary. The Tournament Director may Increase/Decrease the boundary in the event of deadlocks. The top male and female will win their divisions.
The GBL tournament director is the final arbiter of all rule interpretations; disagreement is cause for elimination from the event.
The cash prizes are as follows: Under-7 $100 000, Under-10 $150 000, Under-13 $200 000, Under-16 $250 000, Under-18 $300 000 and Open Category $1.5M, with both the male and female winners of each category pocketing the aforementioned prizes.
Registration can be done at Electronic City, Sheriff Street, The Trophy Stall in Bourda Market and The City Mall, or in bulk via the GBL website www.baseballguyana.com and at the GBL Ballpark in Turkeyen.

Pakistan humiliate Australia in T20 opener

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:48:50 +0000

DUBAI, UAE (Reuters) - Pakistan crushed Australia by seven wickets in the opening Twenty20 international yesterday.
Australia were dismissed for 89 in 19.3 overs after being sent in to bat - their second lowest completed innings in Twenty20 history - only managing three fours, all of which came in the first four overs.
Pakistan made light of their modest target, cruising home in 14.5 overs for the loss of only three wickets, with the ease of Pakistan's win marking them out as one of the favourites for the ICC World Twenty20 tournament which starts in Sri Lanka on September 18.
For Australia, it was a chastening loss just two days after the joy they experienced in winning the one-day international series 2-1.
"If there was just one reason why we only made 89 then we would rectify it but hopefully it's just one bad performance and we'll try not to repeat it again," Australia captain George Bailey told reporters.
Pakistan impressed in the field and their spinners once again proved effective at shackling the Australian batsmen.
The wickets were shared among the bowlers, with Sohail Tanvir capturing three, spinners Saeed Ajmal, debutant Raza Hassan and captain Mohammed Hafeez two apiece, and Umar Gul one.
"We were very sure about our plans and the bowlers did well to restrict Australia to that total. Our batting and bowling were excellent and the energy (in the field) was good. It's a great sign for Pakistan cricket," Hafeez told reporters.
Australia's total was only 10 runs more than their lowest completed T20 innings.
Only three players made double figures for Bailey's side, opener David Warner (22), Bailey himself with 14 and Cameron White who made 15.
Faced with such a modest target, Pakistan did lose the wickets of Hafeez for 17, miscuing fast bowler Patrick Cummins to midwicket, Nasir Jamshed (10), bowled hitting across the line from Ben Hilfenhaus and Imran Nazir (22) who drilled a full toss from Watson to David Hussey at extra-cover.
But Kamran Akmal (31 not out) and Shoaib Malik (nine not out) showed their experience and eased their side across the line, much to the delight of the thousands of Pakistan fans at the Dubai International Stadium.
In contrast to Australia's innings, the Pakistan batsmen proved hitting boundaries was perfectly possible, striking 11 fours and a six.

Umpires and fixtures released for GCA action this weekend

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:50:24 +0000

CRICKET action in the Capital City, run under the auspices of the Roger Harper-led Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), continues with matches being played at the first and second division levels, along with the eagerly anticipated Under-19 final.
On Saturday, Everest Cricket Club (ECC) will journey to the red-hot Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) ground at Thomas Lands, to take on the home team in the GCA/Carib Beer/Heroes Cup/Friends of Cricket two-day first division competition, under the guidance of Hortence Isaacs and Cyril Garnath.
At the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground in Queenstown, Transport Sports Club (TSC), who suffered a humiliating innings defeat at the hands of Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) in the last round, will take on Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC), with Colin Alfred and Delvin Austin being the men in charge.
The GCA/ New Building Society second division limited overs tournament will have three Zone ‘A’ and ‘B’ matches occurring on Saturday, with Vikings taking on GNIC at YMCA under the supervision of Randolph Rose and Andrew Allen in a Zone ‘A’ encounter.
Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and the Guyana Defence Force will do battle at GCC, Shannon Crawford and Nolan Hawke officiating and Third Class will oppose ECC at GNIC, with Linden Matthews and Daniel Richmond taking charge of that matchup.
In Zone ‘B’, DCC and the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) face each other at MYO, under the guidance of Matthew Kissoon and Mario Nichols, Ace Warriors tackle TSC at Gandhi Youth Organisation, Heuvel Cunha and another umpire to be named will take charge while Police Sports Club (PSC) will look to arrest MSC at the PSC ground, with Nankumar Shivsankar and Gavin D’Aguiar being the witnesses.
On Sunday, Viking will oppose GDF at YMCA under the guidance of Joseph Jeffrey and Randolph Rose and ECC will do battle with GNIC at GNIC, with Linden Matthews and Robin Kendall calling play, to close off the Zone ‘A’ fixtures for that day.
The lone Zone ‘B’ match will pit Ace Warriors against MSC at the MYO ground, with Matthew Kissoon and Mario Nichols calling play, while on that same day, Shannon Crawford and Nolan Hawke will be the men responsible for the GCA/David Persaud Investments-sponsored Under-19 final between DCC ‘A’ and DCC ‘B’, at the ECC ground.

Amla, de Villiers guide South Africa to easy win

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:50:55 +0000

(REUTERS) - Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers shared an unbroken stand of 172 to steer South Africa to a comfortable seven-wicket win over England in the fifth and final one-day international in Nottingham yesterday.
England were bowled out for just 182 but opening bowlers Jimmy Anderson and Jade Dernbach gave their side hope of defending the meagre total by ripping out the top order to leave South Africa reeling at 14 for three in the fourth over.
However, de Villiers and Amla, the standout batsman of the series, put together a South African record fourth-wicket partnership against England to lead the Proteas to victory and level the series at 2-2 after the first match in Cardiff was abandoned.
Amla hit the winning runs to leave himself stranded on 97 off 107 balls and captain de Villiers, who has had a quiet series, finished on 75 off 79.
It looked as if the chase would be a struggle after a strong start by the English attack left the South Africans in trouble, after Dernbach had captain Graeme Smith caught at the second attempt by James Tredwell at second slip for one in the second over.
Out-of-form Faf du Plessis was caught behind by Craig Kieswetter for three when Anderson found the edge of his bat with a seaming delivery and the same pair combined to get rid of Dean Elgar for one.
de Villiers and Amla had other ideas, however, as they went about resurrecting the innings in positive fashion.
They consistently picked up singles and found the fence with regularity when the England bowlers strayed off target.
Amla passed fifty off 63 balls and de Villiers reached his half-century off 54.
They continued to increase the scoring rate and showed the application lacking from the England batsmen as they eased to their target with more than 15 overs to spare.
Captain Alastair Cook top-scored for England with 51 but when he fell pushing a low full toss back to part-time bowler du Plessis his side were in the mire at 99 for five.
He had previously been involved in a 55-run partnership with Jonny Bairstow which repaired some of the early damage after the dismissals of Ian Bell for 10 and Ravi Bopara, whose miserable form continued when he went for a second-ball duck.
South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn captured two for 24 off nine overs and left-arm spinner Robin Peterson claimed three wickets.
Craig Kieswetter made a useful 33 before skying Morne Morkel to Amla and Chris Woakes made an unbeaten 33 before England were bowled out in the 46th over.
The result failed to knock England off the top of the one-day rankings but ended a run of seven consecutive home one-day series victories dating back to 2009.

Bermuda names seven uncapped players

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:53:57 +0000

HAMILTON, Bermuda CMC - Bermuda's new head coach Andrew Bascome has named seven uncapped players in a 20-man squad for the Digicel Caribbean Cup qualifiers in Haiti, with John Barry Nusum replacing Khano Smith as the team’s captain.
The team was due to fly out yesterday ahead of Tropical Storm Leslie which is bearing down on Bermuda.
Bermuda, known as the Gombey Warriors, have been boosted by the availability of two Canada-based players.
Reggie Lambe, who has recovered from a knee injury, and goalkeeper Freddy Hall have both been given permission to play for their country by Toronto FC, but striker Nahki Wells has put his club career before country, having chosen to remain in England with his Division Two club Bradford City.
Clay Darrell, David Signor, Lejuan Simmons, Ian Coke, Jahnai Raynor, Shakir Smith and the head coach’s son Drewonde Bascome have all been handed first-time call-ups.
Bermuda will compete in a group that includes Puerto Rico and hosts Haiti, with the top two advancing to the next stage of the competition.
Bermuda's opener is against hosts Haiti tomorrow.
A concern for Bascome’s side will be their lack of preparation, having not played an international match since beating Barbados at home in a World Cup qualifier last November.
National Academy boss Richard Todd, who will act as Bascome’s assistant in the absence of Dennis Brown due to work commitments, believes the professional experience Lambe and Hall have gained at Toronto this season will work in Bermuda’s favour in Haiti.
“It’s great that Freddy has been getting some regular games for Toronto. His confidence will be high and match sharpness will be good having started multiple games,” he said.

Former F1 driver Zanardi enjoys golden day

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:54:35 +0000

(REUTERS) - Former Formula One driver Alex Zanardi, who lost his legs after a horrific crash in 2001, enjoyed a golden finale to his "magical adventure" by winning the Paralympic men's individual H4 hand-cycling time trial yesterday.
At the Brands Hatch circuit, former hosts of the British Formula One grand prix, the 45-year-old Italian blitzed to gold over the 16-km course in 24 minutes 50.22 seconds.
Zanardi finished more than 27 seconds ahead of German Norbert Mosandl, with American Oscar Sanchez taking bronze.
"This is a great accomplishment, one of the greatest of my life," Zanardi said. "I worked very hard to get here. It was great to live such an experience at 45."
Zanardi had both legs amputated above the knee after crashing in the Champ Car series in 2001.
The Italian was leading a race at Germany's Lausitz track when he lost control of his red Reynard-Honda in the final laps and Canadian driver Alex Tagliani ran into him at more than 350 kph (220 mph).
Earning praise for his recovery, he returned to racing only a year and a half after the crash and continued in the World Touring Car championships until 2009, by which time he had taken up hand-cycling.
"Three years ago I stopped motor racing, at age 42," he said.
"It seemed a stupid thing to do to drop everything. It was against all odds. But it's not the first crazy thing I did in life. In the end I was right. You should not chase pipedreams, but if you have a horizon to look into, happiness is just around the corner."
Zanardi was a former track record holder at Brands Hatch in the Formula 3000 category but admitted the circuit was hillier than he remembered.
"With an engine pushing me, I didn't realise it was so hilly. It was very hard, but if I had to design a course, this is what I would have done. It is beautiful, hard ... it suits my characteristics of an old man," he said.
"When you are 40, you appreciate what you do every day. I enjoyed every day of training. I've had a magical adventure and this is a fantastic conclusion."
All the Paralympic road cycling events will take place at Brands Hatch, Kent, 20 miles south east of the Olympic Stadium.
It began as a grass track for cycle racing in 1928. It staged the British F1 Grand Prix for the first time in 1976 and the last time in 1986.

Grant-Stuart - top Guyanese cyclist at 4th Annual Bigi Bergi … Officiating deemed poor by RBC president

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:56:01 +0000

FORMER national road race champion Walter Grant-Stuart, who represented Team Cocos in the recently concluded fourth annual Bigi Bergi four-stage cycle road race in neighbouring Suriname, placed fourth overall to end as the top Guyanese cyclist.
Grant-Stuart overall timing for the event was 8h.15m:13secs, as he finished behind Suriname’s Moses Ricketts who won in a time of 7h. 42m: 11secs, and Eric Vincent and Michel Sebico of French Guiana respectively.
Roraima Bikers Club’s (RBC) Alonso Greaves, who won the first stage on Friday afternoon with a time of 2h.21m: 37 secs ahead of Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club’s Rastaff Oselmo who was two seconds slower that Greaves and Grant-Stuart, a further two seconds behind Oselmo, occupied the seventh position overall.
According to reports reaching Chronicle Sport, Greaves, Oselmo, Grant-Stuart and the vast-improving Raynauth Jeffrey, broke away from the peloton on the upward journey of the first stage and stayed together up to the turning point.
Midway during the return to the finish line, Jeffrey was dropped by the front trio and was caught by a chasing peloton that included Enzo Matthews, Paul De Nobrega and Raul Leal, among other cyclists.
Jeffrey did enough to finish in fourth position, while he took the top junior category prize for the first stage which covered a distance of 95km, while faulty officiating from the Surinamese officials, saw several Guyanese cyclists being placed in positions lower than where they finished.
Ricketts won the second stage which covered a distance of 105km, in a time of 2h. 29m: 57secs, ahead of Jean Michel Clet, Vincent and Sebico respectively, while LBFCC’s Orville Hinds, Grant-Stuart and Leal occupied the fifth, sixth and seventh positions, with Greaves finishing ninth.
Ricketts proved his superiority over his opponents, when he stopped the clock at 12.22:7 to take the top spot in the 10km Time Trial last Sunday morning, while Jeffrey and Greaves placed 6th and 11th respectively with their times being 13:13:4 and 13:28:1 respectively, while both Jeffrey and Greaves were given unofficial group times of 1:52:00 for the fourth and final stage.
Despite his impressive showing throughout the event, Jeffrey was forced to settle for the runner-up position in the Junior category which was won by Shane Meerberg of Suriname, with Leal and De Nobrega placing third and fourth respectively.
According to president of RBC Brian Allen, the registration process was flawed - names and numbers did not correspond - resulting in total confusion at the end of the first stage, to an extent where persons were credited with other persons’ time.
The outspoken Allen added that the officiating at the finish lines was grossly inadequate, with the camera which was being used by the officials, being handled manually, focusing from side on to the finish line, making it difficult to pick up the cyclist’s number which was affixed to the lower back of their shirts.
“This made placing and positioning inaccurate because the officials had to identify persons by team colours with the help of their respective team officials, which put us at a distinct disadvantage because we were not centrally located,” stated Allen.
He used the first stage as an example, wherein Oselmo placed second to Greaves, but the official result sheet credited Michael Nelson with that position, while Enzo Matthews who finished in the second group, saw his position being given to Mario King, coupled with numerous other mix-ups that were not rectified.
“Added to that, reports for each stage were not received until the start of the following stage. Hence, checks and queries to authenticate these reports were very difficult to make, because the officials were very shifty and they procrastinated.
Time was always against the entire Guyanese contingent since we were located away from the control centre and the other teams, - approximately two hours drive - and this put us at a distinct disadvantage.
Based on checks that I did, and queries that were not properly addressed, I am of the firm conclusion that the Guyanese contingent did better than was reported by the Bigi Bergi officials, with Greaves holding a place on the podium, and the juniors, Jeffrey, Leal and De Nobrega making a clean sweep of the top three junior positions,” stated Allen.
Despite the complaints, Allen took the opportunity to express heartfelt thanks to RBC’s list of sponsors, namely Marco Trading of North Road, CIDI and Ansa McAl Limited, who all made their trip a successful one.
“On behalf of the executives and members of Roraima Bikers Club, we would like to thank our sponsors for making this tour possible, and to assure them that it was indeed an investment well spent, since our guys gained invaluable exposure, in addition to doing well. Once again, thank you.”

Manchester United sign Chilean striker Henriquez

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:57:05 +0000

(REUTERS) - Chile Under-23 striker Angelo Henriquez has completed his move to Manchester United, the Premier League club said on their website yesterday.
Henriquez, 18, has joined from Universidad de Chile for an undisclosed fee. British media said the player underwent a medical and was granted a work permit last month.
"Angelo has made a tremendous impact on the game in his short career so far," United manager Alex Ferguson told manutd.com.
"His pace is a great asset and he reads the game really well for someone of such a young age. We have a proud record of developing young talent, and Angelo fits the profile of a United player - skilful, attacking and someone who plays the game with real flair."
He also told Inside United magazine: "We scouted him when he was 14 years old and just monitored him. When he turned 18, we knew we could take him; it's the first time we can sign them in this country, at 18."
Henriquez said: "Manchester United is a great team and has a great manager. To be able to be part of that is a huge honour, and I can't wait to get started."

Merlyn to the rescue

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:57:35 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados CMC - West Indies batsmen have been seeking to improve their ability to play spin as the squad fine-tune their preparations in a training camp in Barbados ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka.
Team management has imported a special leg spin bowling machine which allows the ball to spin and dip and is being used regularly by the players as part of their practice sessions this week.
The 15-man squad, including captain Darren Sammy, is attending the weeklong camp at the High performance Centre at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus.
“I think it’s going to be of great help to playing spin. We expect wickets in Sri Lanka to turn a little bit. They tend to on the sub continent,” explained West Indies Assistant Head Coach Toby Radford.
“So we think the best way of preparing is playing on that machine”.
The machine, called Merlyn, can replicate a range of spin deliveries such as leg-breaks, off breaks, top spinners and arm balls and has been greeted with praise by professional players and coaches alike.
Among the players who have been concentrating heavily on practising to play spin using the Merlyn spin bowling machine during the one week camp is Darren Bravo who has recovered from injury.
“Darren has been on it as much as anyone. Yes he is playing well almost looks like if he has not been injured. I know he has been out for a period of time but he is of good spirit. He has worked hard on the bowling machine,” said Radford.
Apart from using the Merlyn spin bowling machine, the players have been involved in vigorous training routines including gym and fitness training, as well as indoor and outdoor nets and match scenarios.
As part of their preparation the West Indies will play two warm-up matches against the High Performance Centre and Combined Campuses and Colleges today.
“We know they are a very talented side. We know they can do well and everything is gearing up to flying off on Sunday in good shape,” Radford told reporters.
“We have worked hard in the gym, the fitness trainers really pushed them pretty much, doing some fitness every single day and then we are in the nets, indoor nets, bowling machines, outdoor nets”.
West Indies will contest Group B alongside Australia and minnows Ireland in the ICC World Twenty20 which runs from September 18 to October 7.

McLaren say no truth in Hamilton to Mercedes report

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:58:06 +0000

(REUTERS) - McLaren rejected a BBC report yesterday suggesting Lewis Hamilton was set to leave them and replace Michael Schumacher at Mercedes next season.
"We have been told by Lewis Hamilton's management team that the story is untrue," a McLaren spokesman said.
Former Formula One team owner Eddie Jordan, who gave Schumacher his debut in the sport in 1991 and is now a F1 analyst for BBC television, told the broadcaster he had heard talks were advanced with Mercedes.
"I believe Hamilton and Mercedes have already agreed personal terms and a deal could be imminent," the BBC quoted the Irishman as saying ahead of Sunday's Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
"Some weeks ago I said on TV that I felt Lewis was on the move and I had an idea at the time he had been speaking to Ferrari, which we now know is true," Jordan said. "But I can now confirm his people have had meetings with Mercedes."
A spokesman for Hamilton told Reuters his management was "in advanced negotiations with McLaren regarding a new contract. More importantly, Lewis is focused on Monza and competing strongly for the championship."
Seven-time world champion and former Ferrari great Schumacher, 43, is in the last year of his contract with Mercedes and has said he will not make any announcement about his plans until next month.
The German has not won a race since his comeback in 2010 and appeared on the podium just once.
Hamilton, 27, has been backed by Mercedes-powered McLaren since he was in his early teens and has only ever driven for the Woking-based team. Contract talks between the two sides have been going on all season.
Mercedes are seen as Hamilton's best bet outside McLaren, with champions Red Bull already having a confirmed line-up for 2013 and a move to Ferrari unlikely, given that the Briton and Fernando Alonso had a difficult relationship at McLaren in 2007.
One paddock source told Reuters it would be amazing if Hamilton's management had not talked to rival teams and Mercedes were sure to be one of them.
Mercedes are also one of the few teams with winning potential who would be able to pay the sort of salary Hamilton is looking for.
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone fuelled further speculation about Schumacher at last weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, the German driver's 300th, when he spoke to Jordan before the start on live television.
"I'll be sad to see him go," said the 81-year-old Briton. "I would have liked to see him win again." Ecclestone then said he did not know if Schumacher would be retiring.
There was no immediate comment from Mercedes about Hamilton.

Ferrer reaches US Open quarters in soggy New York

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:58:49 +0000

(REUTERS) - David Ferrer carried Spanish hopes into the US Open quarter-finals after the fourth seed beat Frenchman Richard Gasquet 7-5, 7-6, 6-4 in a match spanning nearly eight hours due to rain delays.
It was the only men's match to be completed on a day when play was continually interrupted by heavy showers at Flushing Meadows.
Former US Open champions Andy Roddick and Juan Martin del Potro were locked in a first-set tie-break, defending champion Novak Djokovic was two games up early in the opening set against Stanislas Wawrinka and Janko Tipsarevic was 5-2 ahead against Philipp Kohlschreiber when organisers eventually called off play in the evening session.
Ferrer, the last Spaniard left in the men's field, withstood two rain delays before completing a straight-sets win that took less than three hours of court time but stretched from dayside into night at the National Tennis Center.
The victory improved Ferrer's career record to 8-1 over the 13th-seeded Gasquet.
"We almost had to start over two times in the match," said the 30-year-old Ferrer, a five-time winner this season, who moved up in the seedings following the withdrawal of compatriot Rafael Nadal due to injury. "It took a lot of focus."
It also took a lot of effort in the final game for Ferrer to end the match, clinching his spot in the last eight on his fifth match point when Gasquet sent a backhand long in the fourth-round match in Louis Armstrong Stadium.
The victory made Ferrer the second Spaniard after Nadal to reach at least the quarter-finals of all four Grand Slam events in a season since tennis went professional in 1968.
"I'm very happy for that. This season was the best of all my career. I've played consistently all year," said the Spaniard, who is aiming to reach his first Grand Slam final.
The match was close in nearly every statistical category, but it was Ferrer who won the big points, taking advantage of five of 12 break point chances while fighting off eight of Gasquet's 11 opportunities to break serve.
"I think I have luck in important moments," said Ferrer, who faced three set points in the second set.
"The first round with (South African Kevin) Anderson I had also three set points down. With (Dutchman Igor) Sijsling in second round also the same, no?"
Despite those threats, Ferrer has reached the last eight without the loss of a set and will meet either eighth seed Tipsarevic of Serbia or 19th-seeded German Kohlschreiber in the quarter-finals, while the winners of the other two outstanding matches will complete the last-eight line-up.

TT $5 million for Red Force

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:59:20 +0000

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad CMC - The Trinidad and Tobago Government has promised an extra TT$5M to assist the Red Force in their preparation for the Champions League T20 tournament in South Africa next month.
Sports Minister Anil Roberts made the promised after the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) failed to secure the services of three of the country’s star players contracted to the IPL for the event.
Kieron Pollard, 25, has chosen to play for the Mumbai Indians, Dwayne Bravo, 28 has opted for the Chennai Super Kings and Sunil Narine, 24, will suit up for the champions Kolkota Knight Riders after talks between the IPL and the TTCB broke down.
“The Trinidad and Tobago senior cricket team has been promised an additional five million dollars in funding to adequately prepare for the upcoming Champions League T20 tournament which will be staged in South Africa next month,” a released from the TTCB stated.
“This pledge comes from Minister of Sports Anil Roberts on behalf of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago which is committed to have the cricketers in the best shape possible for the Champions League 2012 T20 campaign. Roberts will also place on the cards valuable incentives for the team to win the competition,” the statement said.
The Government’s promise appears to have settled a much publicised row between the TTCB and the sports minister over the board’s failure to secure the services of the three players.
Trinidad and Tobago debuted as Finalists in the inaugural Champions League in 2009. However, last year the Red Force were without Pollard and Bravo and did not enjoy much success after having to play a qualifying tournament to gain entry into the main draw.
They will begin their campaign in the Champions League with a qualifying match against English County T/20 runners-up Yorkshire on October 10.

Injured Trott expected to be fit for India series

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 04:59:43 +0000

(REUTERS) - England batsman Jonathan Trott will miss the rest of the domestic season but is expected to be fit for next month's tour of India after suffering a broken hand, the England and Wales Cricket Board said yesterday.
Trott was ruled out of the fifth and final one-day international against South Africa after his right hand was broken by a short ball from Dale Steyn at Lord's on Sunday.
He will also miss Warwickshire's final County Championship game on September 11, as well as their 40-over final against Hampshire four days later.
"Although initial X-rays were clear, a subsequent MRI scan revealed a fracture at the base of his third metacarpal," the ECB said on their website (www.ecb.co.uk).
"No intervention is required and the 31-year-old should be able to resume batting in three to four weeks and is expected to be available for the tour of India next month."

England Women clinch series against Pakistan

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:01:20 +0000

ENGLAND Women wrapped up a 2-0 series win over Pakistan with an 81-run victory in the Twenty20 international at the National Cricket Performance Centre in Loughborough yesterday.
Danielle Wyatt scored 41 and Sarah Taylor hit six boundaries in her 35 as the home side scored 162-7 in their 20 overs.
Laura Marsh then claimed two for 15 as Pakistan were restricted to 81 for five, with Wyatt, Katherine Brunt and Jenny Gunn taking a wicket apiece.
“It was another good team performance today, we got the runs on the board and put them under pressure with the ball," said Danielle Wyatt, who won the player-of-the-match award.
"I was pleased to contribute and it was very satisfying to set a new highest score. We’ll take momentum from these matches into the series against the West Indies."
England won the first match, also at Loughborough, by seven wickets on Wednesday, knocking off the target of 88 with 25 balls to spare, with Taylor and Arran Brindle (not out) topscoring with 31 apiece.
England will play the West Indies over five T20 matches, beginning in Durham on Saturday.

Hypocrites and sycophants on the socio-political landscape

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:05:49 +0000

THE opportunists who submerge their realities under many guises proliferate on the social landscape.
They pander to the egos of newly-emerging powerbrokers, who largely ignore the real face of protagonists, new friends and supporters, which are indelibly painted on the landscape of this nation’s history, and abandon their defence mechanisms as they fall victims – willingly- to the inventive ploys structured to win undeserved trust, because the real motivation behind these newly configured, ostensible friendships has the imprimatur of the Bank of Guyana and the map of Guyana.
And they are succeeding – immeasurably, riding the crest within every sector because they know the right words, and even though those words camouflage their real sentiments and intent, honourable people who have proactive, nation-building agendas do not look beyond the surface to find the caricature lying beneath.
However, switching identities to access, even to forge opportunities, is a natural human trait. In Guyanese parlance it is called “drinking soup.”
These two-legged chameleons are the parasites to be found within every society, but they are extremely hard to detect because they burrow themselves into easy income-access frameworks, and then entrench their presence like so many larvae that give birth to flesh-eating maggots, who transform into resource-consuming parasites that rob any nation, especially developing nations such as ours, of much-needed resources that could benefit the infrastructure of social development and economic growth in a more meaningful way.
A deeper and wider scrutiny by national stakeholders would reveal the true visage of these charlatans and set the stage for the ultimate cleansing of the Augean stables this has become, where pretence has superimposed itself over actuality to an extent where it has assumed a visage of sincerity.
Actually, equating these pretenders with the chameleon is insulting the poor creature, as it changes colours only to protect itself from predators, whereby the sycophants are the real predators.
Do you know where to find them? Just look right next to you – and under any rock.

‘Barnyardians’ hand over newly refurbished and extended staff room to St. Stanislaus College –dedicated to the memory of Father Fred Rigby

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:10:23 +0000

TEACHERS of St. Stanislaus College were this morning presented with a newly refurbished staff room valued in excess of $3M, by a group of students from the Class of 1979 numbering approximately 30 and calling themselves the Barnyardians, in dedication to the memory of Father Fred Rigby, a Jesuit priest who had taught French at the College for many years.
After his retirement, Father Rigby went on to perform his priestly duties in the interior. He died from cancer 10 years ago.
According to Raj Singh, a representative of the Barnyardians, the refurbished staff room is “a demonstration of the lasting impact a good teacher has on an entire generation of students, and the gratitude of those students.”
The ‘Barnyardians’ reside in countries such as the USA, Canada, Antigua and Guyana, among other places. They have been hosting their own reunions for the past three years. The idea for the project was spawned in group discussions pertaining to how they could contribute to the college and honour the contribution of Father Rigby to their own lives.
Funding for the project came from the ‘Barnyard’, other friends and past students of the college.
Mr. Chris Fernandes, Chairman of the St Stanislaus College Board of Governors, oversaw the entire project, and teachers of the school provided guidance on its scope and timing.
Tristan Gomes, past student now quantity surveyor, provided all the technical plans free of charge. Allan Fernandes and Robert Lewis were the contractors.
St. Stanislaus College turned out stellar performances at the CSEC examinations this year, obtaining 100% passes in English A; 98% in Literature and 95% in Mathematics - Grades 1 to 3.
Present at the handing-over ceremony were Chris Fernandes; District Education Officer Rabindra Singh, representing the Ministry of Education; Father Malcolm Rodrigues; College Headmistress Mrs. Paulette Merell; representatives of the ‘Barnyard’; President of the PTA; teachers and students, and other well wishers.

National Broadcasting Authority members named

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:17:14 +0000

GOVERNMENT has approved the appointment of a governing board for the newly created Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA), in keeping with the Broadcasting Act of 2011.
Comprising seven members, it will be chaired by former Human Services Minister, attorney-at-law Ms. Bibi Shadick.
The others are Presidential nominees Margo Boyce, Gerry Gouveia, Norman Mc Lean, Charles Ramson (Jr) and Dindyal Permaul and Opposition nominee Sherwood Lowe.
The appointments were announced yesterday by Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon at his usual post-Cabinet media briefing.
The Broadcasting Act, which was passed in July last year, provides for the licensing of agencies and the encouragement of production and broadcast of television and radio programmes having relevance, generally, to life and culture of the Guyanese people.
Luncheon said the Board, for the time being will be accommodated at the current office of the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU), on Hadfield Street, D’Urban Park, Georgetown.
But there are plans for building new accommodation from which the staff is expected to provide expanded services, the HPS said.

Veteran educator Mrs. Elaine Carmichael laid to rest at St James-the-Less Cemetery --after moving tributes in her honour

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:17:51 +0000

Veteran educator, counsellor and mentor Mrs. Elaine Joycelyn Carmichael, who had entered the teaching profession in the mid-1960s and had rendered yeoman service within that sector, passed away at the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital on August 28, following a period of illness. Her death came just one week ahead of her 73rd birth anniversary.
She was, on Tuesday, laid to rest at the St. James-The-Less Anglican Cemetery in Kitty, Georgetown, following a well-attended thanksgiving service for her life held at the St. Phillip’s Church at Durban and Smyth Streets, Georgetown.
Mrs. Carmichael had spent more than 50 years in the education sector as a teacher and a headmistress, and later counsellor within the Ministry of Education.
She was the wife of Mr. Fitz Uriel Carmichael of the United States of America, who himself was, for several years, also a headmaster and former Regional Minister of Regions 1 and 9, and the Minister of Forestry in Guyana.
Mrs Carmichael had been the mother of Kenwyn Carmichael of the Ministry of Health in Brickdam.
Amidst glowing tributes in her honour, she was remembered as a wonderful woman who had touched the lives of thousands with whom she had come into contact through the years - both in coastal and hinterland Guyana.
Born at Maria’s Lodge, Essequibo Coast in 1939, Elaine was educated at Abram Zuil school on the Essequibo Coast, and had worked at a number of schools during her long career, including at Hackney Primary School in the Pomeroon; Port Kaituma, Region 1; St. Ignatius, Rupununi; Comenius Moravian Primary at East La Penitence; and Tucville Secondary in Georgetown.
After retiring from the teaching profession, she had been re-employed by the Ministry of Education as a Counsellor, and had served in Georgetown.
Mrs. Carmichael was eulogised as one who had led an exemplary life by any standard. A role model worthy of emulation, she had been gentle and always pleasant, even in her time of pain. She had been a lady in every sense of the word, and had lived a life of caring and sharing.
To her credit and to the delight of friends, she had that special art of ‘tastefully’ celebrating a ‘truly Guyanese Christmas’, as mentioned in some of the tributes.
To her parents – Norman and Mary George of Maria’s Lodge, Essequibo Coast -- she had been caring and attentive; a loving and nurturing mother, and an equally devoted and supportive wife, who had stood by her husband in and out of season. Her unwavering support, understanding of the issues at hand, and endurance had formed vital pillars on which the regional system was built in Region 1 in the mid-1970s.
With the advent of regionalism in Guyana, her husband Fitz Uriel Carmichael was appointed the first Regional Minister of Region 1 – a challenging task performed under a virtually new dispensation.
“Her value to the family was unparalleled, and she excelled in her role as a mother,” her childhood friend Carol Maison, who read her eulogy, attested. Maison noted that Elaine’s firm and abiding faith in God allowed her to accept the challenges of life, which she weathered with courage and endurance.
With discipline as her hallmark, and being a stickler for excellence, Elaine Carmichael, who made tremendous contributions to the lives of her students and people within the communities in which she lived and worked, insisted that such values be transferred to, and upheld by, those under her tutelage, Maison recalled.
A woman with a great humanitarian touch, Elaine Joycelyn Carmichael had had many plans which had seen her positively impacting the lives of others –especially those she had taught.
With a desire to see Elaine’s dreams for the development of young people materialise, Maison, on a very emotional note, made a poignant appeal to the congregation (with a predominance of persons from the education sector): “To all those still young, energetic and involved in moulding the minds of children, I urge you – mould those lives just as Elaine did.”

Confessed house rent fraudster fined $100,000

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:21:02 +0000

JERMAINE Henry (no address given) was fined $100,000 with the alternative of six months imprisonment yesterday, for obtaining money by false pretence.
Magistrate Judy Latchman imposed the monetary penalty on him after he admitted that he obtained $150,000 from Meena Salick, on May 9, by falsely pretending that he was in a position to rent her a house, situated at Lot 38 Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, knowing it to be false.
The magistrate told the convict she would not impose a custodial punishment on him because he did not waste the court’s time and the virtual complainant, who was reimbursed, did not wish to proceed with the case.
Police Sergeant Gordon Mansfield, prosecuting, said Henry, who is known to Salick, was contacted by her to rent a property and he told her he is renting a house for one of his relatives.
The prosecutor said Henry told Salick she would have to pay $300,000 in total but she can advance $150,000 and take occupancy but, when she went to the place, she discovered that it had been sold.

Barber in scissors murder case makes court appearance

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:21:33 +0000

THE barber who is charged with fatally stabbing another with a pair of scissors, in the Stabroek Market area several days ago, was remanded to prison on a murder charge yesterday.
Alvin Barclay, of Lot 1778 Nineteenth Street, Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman. He is charged indictably with having murdered Yohan Hunte on September 2.
The accused was unrepresented by a lawyer but had a number of supporters in court. Looking remorseful, he burst into tears while being escorted to the lock-ups on the precincts.
Barclay has to make his next court appearance on October 25.
Reports of the tragedy said it occurred while the two artisans were plying their trade and became involved in an argument over the use of electricity.
It is alleged that Hunte was the aggressor, armed himself with a knife and attacked the accused who had a pair of scissors with which the fatal injury was inflected.
Hunte succumbed at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) and Barclay, subsequently, turned himself into the police.

Continental Agencies truck driver charged with embezzlement

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:22:14 +0000

A CONTINENTAL Agencies Ltd truck driver appeared in court yesterday, charged with embezzlement.
Donovan Vickeri, 29, of Lot 8 East La Penitence, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to having, between June 27 and August 2, being employed by the company, embezzled the sum of $874,471 taken into possession for his employer.
On the application by attorney-at-law Mr. Gary Ramlochan, the defendant was granted $100,000 bail, pending his return to court on October 24.

With UNICEF collaboration… Indigenous Peoples’ Commission launches five-year strategic plan

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:22:46 +0000

THE Indigenous Peoples’ Commission (IPC), with support from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), yesterday launched a five-year strategic plan aimed at building competence and promoting their rights.
The IPC said, within the next five years, it will have recommended, promoted and actively contributed to the implementation of relevant policies on rights, empowerment, consultative processes, training and technical assistance, protection and preservation of the cultural heritage of a more informed and conscious peoples.
It stated, further, that, with stronger partnerships, more stable resources and improved services, it will be a fully recognised and respected commission representing indigenous peoples’ rights.
In his presentation at the forum, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IPC, Mr. Autry Haynes said some of the areas with which the strategy will deal are education awareness and labour, advocacy and governance, monitoring, assessment and research, capacity building and improving administrative capability.
He said the IPC plans to educate employers and the public, make recommendations to improve employment practices related to indigenous peoples, as well as raise awareness of the contributions and problems faced by them, among other things.
UNICEF Representative, Dr. Suleiman Braimoh commended the IPC Commissioners for carving out the document, acknowledging that it is a very good starting point.
He said he hopes it serves as a model for other rights advocates, as they fulfill their respective mandates.
The diplomat said is a good thing that IPC is not trying to replace the government but rather to make sure the latter is doing what it should do.
He assured that UNICEF stands ready to support the IPC’s mandate.
Chairperson of the IPC, Ms. Doreen Jacobis thanked UNICEF and all the other commissioners for their role in the formation and pointed out that only when a plan is made can they know what they want, how they are going to do it and by what means.
She acknowledged that each commissioner contributed experience from different backgrounds.
Apart from dignitaries, also present were other Commissioners including Mr. David James, Ms. Patricia Singh, Mr. James Singh and Captain Gerry Gouveia.

As municipal strike continues… Unions maintain demand for removal of Town Clerk

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:24:01 +0000

THE Guyana Local Government Officers Union (GLGOU) and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) have made it clear that they and their members are not prepared to work with Acting Georgetown Town Clerk Carol Sooba.
The unions made the declaration after their representatives met with Mayor Hamilton Green, Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and other Councillors, for almost five hours yesterday, to address issues affecting municipal workers.
Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle following the meeting, GLGOU President Dale Beresford disclosed that pay was not the only issue affecting the membership.
He said there are several other matters that continue to affect workers of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) and were conveyed to Sooba but she has failed, in every meaning of the word, to settle them and even communicate with the union.
Beresford said the Town Clerk also had not acknowledged their many letters to her but the union has been able to meet all the other parties with whom it has concerns.
The trade unionist said that they expect to have an appointment today at the Local Government Ministry, where some critical matters will be discussed and at the top of that list will be the removal of the Acting Town Clerk, with whom workers are determined they are unable to work.
Asked about the next move should the Town Clerk remain in the position, Beresford said, if that happens, the strike will continue.
He said the workers are adamant that they will not be working with Sooba for several reasons.
The today meeting had been scheduled for earlier in the week but was put off after Sooba, who set the date, did not turn up and forced the cancellation.
Beresford maintained that, if today’s appointment is not kept, the union’s demands, including the removal of the Town Clerk, would still be pressed and the members have nothing to lose.
He said that the Ministers in the Local Government Ministry will have to decide if they would allow the city to be shut down by one person, who has no respect for people’s time and the welfare of workers.
GLU representative Clearance Whitehead said he hopes for a resolution to the issues affecting workers today through compromise but not compromising over the removal of Sooba.
He said anyone who understands the reason for their actions and management will also see the importance of settling the issues.

National Broadcasting Authority members named

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:26:59 +0000

Third batch graduates from Essequibo cooking course

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:27:20 +0000

A THIRD batch of students, this year, has successfully completed a course in vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes at the Johanna Cecelia Learning Resource Centre on the Essequibo Coast.
The teacher and coordinator of the centre, Ms. Parbittie Singh said the training focused mainly on the preparation of several rice meals.
She said the trainees were taught to make fried rice, raisin rice, peas and rice, biryani rice, rice pie, lazanne, baked macaroni, baked fish, jerked, baked fried and pot roasted chicken and prepared and displayed them at the centre last week.
Singh inspected the finished products, said they were excellent and presented each student with a certificate.
She said one of the objectives at the centre is to teach youths, single parents and housewives the skills of cooking and preparing meals and snacks to sell, so as to earn an income to help their families and themselves in cases of unemployment.
Chairman of the Learning Resource Centre, Mr. Doodnauth Singh congratulated the graduates and thanked them for attending the course.
They, in turn, said they are thankful to teacher Singh for spending time to teach them new cooking skills and pledged to make full use of their new knowledge and share with friends and relatives.
The next course will commence on September 8 and concentrate on cake making and decoration

Minister Gopaul announces probes into Region 2 Co-ops

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:27:47 +0000

MINISTER of Labour, with responsibility for Cooperatives, Dr. Nanda Kishore Gopaul has said investigations will be conducted into the operations of the Devonshire Castle and Queenstown Land Co-ops and Lima/Reliance Livestock Development Association Co-operative Societies.
Addressing members of the three organisations, in the Regional Boardroom at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast yesterday, he said the Devonshire Castle Co-op will be fully investigated to unearth financial irregularities concerning the sale of a piece of land that belonged to it, without the knowledge of most members and the absence of documents to show the financial transaction.
He said a probe will also be done into a contract concerning the excavation of blocked drains in the society’s estate and the amount of money paid to the contractor.
Minister Gopaul also advised the executive committee of the co-op to hold a general meeting of members to chart the way forward.
He called on all the membership to sit and work together as friends and comrades and not fight each other to sort out problems in the society.
The minister said cooperative societies have to develop their own plans to fix and maintain dams and trenches in their respective estates and all expenses incurred for the purpose will have to be met by them.
The Devonshire Castle Coop never had a bank account and owes the Government more than $25M in taxes, it was disclosed.
The Secretary, Pooran Persaud said the previous committee of management, headed by Lakhan Lall, cannot give account of the society’s records from 2002 to 2011 and the transport for the estate is missing.
A member of the Queenstown Land Coop, Bridgemohan (only name stated) told the minister that the society has 20 members but the committee of management is not functioning because the Co-operative Department took all its records for safe keeping several months ago and it is difficult for the co-op to function without them.
Bridgemohan said the co-op is claiming some 234 acres of land as ancestral property but some members have sold out their parcels.
Minister Gopaul, after listening to the problems of the Queenstown Co-op, concluded that the only thing to speak for the society is its records. He said an inquiry will be done and the membership will be established from its records.
After listening to an executive member of the Lima Reliance Livestock Development Association Coop Society, about its concerns, the minister suggested that a list with names of its members be prepared with the number of acres awarded from a field of 166. The Coop has 26 members and their enterprise was cattle and other livestock rearing but members ventured into rice farming instead because of aerial spraying which affected their animals.
Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Alli Baksh, who was with Gopaul, said the transferring of lands on transports will not be done unless arrears rate and taxes are fully paid.
The team that met with co-op members also included Permanent Secretary in the Public Service Ministry, Mr. Hydar Ally, Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) Chairman, Mr. Parmanand Persaud and Vice-Chairman, Mr. Vishnu Samaroo.

The PYO is 60 today …issues a clarion call for all Guyanese youth to join this dynamic, progressive movement

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:31:09 +0000

THE Progressive Youth Organization, on the occasion of our 60th anniversary, recognizes the countless individuals who have played a part in the struggles of our youth movement over the past six decades, who are too numerous to mention.
The PYO has also served over these years to mould the future leaders of the PPP and our country.
Maintaining such a mass based youth movement was never without its fair share of challenges.
However, the PYO today remains very active and vibrant, as was illustrated in the national road safety campaign on Sunday, September 2, 2012 which saw the participation of hundreds of youth across the coastland in an effort to make our roadways safer.
The PYO has a very proud legacy of fighting for issues important to the constant development of young people at all levels be it locally, nationally, regionally and internationally.
In the beginning, our struggle was for independence from our colonial masters, then against a dictatorship and a struggle for the restoration of democracy, and then for the rebuilding of our nation, after it moved from being one of the most progressive in the region to one of the poorest in the span of 28 years.
Today, Guyana stands once again as one of the most progressive economies in the Caribbean. It is indisputable that never in the history of our nation have so many youth had access to various levels of education, including university and overseas scholarships.
It is indisputable that never in our history have so many families enjoyed the security of owning their own homes and the benefits that this brings, especially our young people.
It is indisputable that never in our history has our economy been this strong, with the proliferation of businesses all around us, constantly creating jobs for our young people.
It is indisputable that never in our history has so many in our nation’s workforce found employment.
It is indisputable that never in our history has media freedom and freedom of expression by our citizens prevailed as they do now.
It is indisputable that our nation’s infrastructure, roads, schools, hospitals, transportation has never been close to what currently exists.
It is indisputable that never in our history have so many Guyanese had access to health care, irrespective of where they live in our country.
It is indisputable that the number of remigrants and tourist arrivals to Guyana has never been as high as they are now.
This list, which could go on almost endlessly, underlines the fact that Guyanese and Guyana as a nation is currently the most progressive it has ever been at any other time in our history.
However, this, by no stretch of the imagination, does not mean there are no challenges, as with any dynamic and rapidly evolving society there will always be constant hurdles.
It is this reality that has fashioned the current focus of the Progressive Youth Organization to safeguard our progress thus far, and work with all like-minded youth to advance our development as a nation in this new era.
On this our 60th anniversary, the PYO issues a clarion call to progressive youth across our nation and further afield, irrespective of race, creed or class, to join us in our effort to assist in nation building and advance the agenda of our young people at all levels of society.
Our email address is: progressiveyouthorganization@gmail.com

WPO salutes PYO on its 60th Anniversary

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:31:57 +0000

The Women’s Progressive Organization (WPO) extends warm fraternal greetings to the Progressive Youth Organization (PYO) on the occasion of its 60th anniversary today.
These 60 years were fraught with many difficulties and challenges since the decision to create a “junior section of the Party” was taken at the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Second Congress in 1952. But these have also been 60 years of great achievement by the PYO for Guyanese youth.
On the 6th September ,1952, the Pioneer Youth League (PYL) was established, seven months before the first ever national elections under the system of universal adult suffrage. Young people for the very first time were allowed to vote at the age of 21, even though they did not own property or have a high-paying job. This was a catalyst which helped to propel the organization forward in helping the party to mobilize young people to come out and vote.
All Guyanese who have followed the country’s history would have recalled the triumph of the PPP at the first ever elections held under adult suffrage in which the PPP won 18 out of 24 seats. Because of its activism, the PYL developed quickly into a dynamic organization with groups around the country.
When the constitution was suspended in 1953, the PYL was banned, but the organization resurfaced with a number of new names, until it assumed the name Progressive Youth Organization (PYO) which it has retained up to now.
During the six decades of its existence, the young people in the PYO, in each decade, undertook their political activism with commitment, dedication and personal sacrifice.
The organization supported the PPP while it was in and out office at the various junctures in ensuring that the youths were organized to fight for their specific needs. In the periods of the PPP in office, the PYO greatly helped the government to deliver many of the important measures to satisfy the many needs of Guyanese youth.
A most crucial period for the organization was from 1964 -1992, when the PNC government sought to marginalize and alienate the organization.
Notwithstanding the oppression, the organization was able to stay alive and remained relevant with strong and dynamic leadership.
We salute all the members from the formation of the organization who struggled with the party to make Guyana a better place. We extend our sincerest appreciation to all those who worked beyond the call of duty when the going was tough; and we express our heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of foot soldiers whose names are too numerous to mention, for their dedication and commitment.
The bonds of fraternity between the PYO and WPO have always been a strong and enduring one. We recall the collaboration in the formation of the Pioneer Organization of the PYO (POP) which resulted in levels of cooperation between the PYO and WPO.
Many of us in the WPO who joined the PYO as young girls recall with nostalgia the common bonds of friendship, whether it was on the picket lines, the days of sports, the selling of newspapers at the markets, the gymkhanas, the Valentine dances, or in the other events that we shared. Those periods are forever etched in our hearts.
As we pay tribute to the PYO on this momentous occasion, we once again would like to sincerely thank those who made it possible to arrive at this juncture. The challenges of yesteryear and today are different and we are quite confident that the organization will be able to surmount all new and ongoing challenges for it to continue on its historical path of helping to make a better Guyana for the young people, as well as for all Guyanese.
Long live the PYO!

PPP CONGRATULATES PYO ON ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:32:50 +0000

The People’s Progressive Party salutes Guyana’s oldest youth movement, the Progressive Youth Organization on its 60th Anniversary.
The PPP, from the time of its formation, saw youth as a vital section of the population which had to be effectively mobilized, if the ultimate success – freeing Guyanese from the shackles of colonialism and persisting oppression-- was going to be achieved in a lasting manner. Thus, work began to create a youth arm and the establishment of a youth arm of the PPP was ratified at the party’s second congress in March 1952, and was implemented on September 6th of that year – just two years after the PPP was formed in 1950.
The name adopted at the formation of the section was the Pioneer Youth League and it shared the aims and objectives of its mother organization, the PPP.
These included the struggle for Independence, the need for constitutional reform to provide for self Government at all levels; the need for economic development to provide equal economic opportunities for all; the need for employment opportunities to be given to Guyanese on a priority basis; labour legislation to ensure the rights of workers, especially the young labour force.
However, just 133 days after the PPP was elected to government, the British sent warships to then British Guiana, suspended the constitution and ejected the PPP Government from Office on October 9, 1953. In moving to drastically halt the Independence movement, in which the PYO was a key actor, the organization was deemed illegal and forced to go underground. It made brief appearances under various names – the Guiana Youth Movement, the Guiana Union of Democratic Youth, and later, Guiana Union of Patriotic Youth; but these also felt the wrath of the colonial authorities.
History stands testimony to the fact that the PYO was indeed the first youth group, which courageously and fearlessly brought the youth to the forefront of the struggle for national Independence. The sacrifice was such that a number of its members were jailed and lives were lost. The most dastardly one was Michael Forde, killed while removing a bomb planted by PNC agents at the bottom of Freedom House, in the bookshop. Forde, a few months prior to his death, had led a PYO Independence march from Corentyne to Georgetown in February, 1964.
Not only was the PYO actively involved in marches, literature campaigns and picketing exercises, but it also aligned itself with international youth organizations, and it received active support for its cause. But in the fight for Independence, the PYO’s battle was not all political – there was a PYO football team, a PYO “Revolution” steel band and a PYO choir.
The PYO efforts came to fruition on May 26, 1966, despite Whitehall’s (British) earlier reply to the Independence demands of the PYO by insisting that it could never – a famous word – surrender its responsibilities. They had imposed emergency laws, imprisoned several PPP-PYO-WPO leaders, called in the Army, but failed in the end to prevent the result that has been inevitable from the start – Guyana’s Independence.
After a period of dormancy, the PYO was reinvigorated after a party congress in 1967.
A new challenge however emerged – that of freeing the country from internal oppressors where wide-scale discrimination, witch-hunting and victimization were being carried out by the PNC administration.
After many years of continuous struggle, freedom was restored in 1992 with the return of free and fair elections which was won by the People’s Progressive Party.
Today, the PYO is still active across our country and the party recognizes the recent national road safety campaign,during which hundreds of our youths came out to repaint pedestrian crossings in several regions.
Even if this selfless act contributes to saving at least one life, it would have been worth the effort.
Interestingly however the party notes that such a worthwhile act by the youths of our nation was not deserving of recognition by the Stabroek and Kaieteur News which both refused to publish a PYO press release which was sent to them.
This is not the first such occasion, but the PPP respects the right of these media organizations in refusing to publish/highlight the work of our youths as it is a sacred right the PPP/WPO and PYO fought many years to establish.
The 60th anniversary of the PYO comes at a crucial juncture in our history when the decisions we make today will determine whether we embrace the future and take a giant leap forward in the modern transformation of our nation, or fall into the trap of those who historically have fought to erase any gains we have made as a people.
Youth from all across our country will play a pivotal role in this process as they will have to lead us into this new era which successive PPP/C Governments have worked tirelessly to realize.
History has shown that the PPP placed enormous emphasis on the development of our youth, and the fact is it is the PYO which has provided and continues to provide many of our great leaders.
The People’s Progressive Part salutes the countless numbers who have served the PYO and those who continue to do so.
Long live the PYO!

St Margaret’s Primary continues to shine …one of the top city schools in Grades 2, 4 and 6 Assessments

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:34:45 +0000

THE St. Margaret’s Primary School continues to shine, emerging as one of the top schools in Georgetown in the recent Grades 2, 4 and 6 Assessments.
With over 81 percent of its students scoring more than 50 percent at the last Grade 6 Assessment, St. Margaret’s Primary had the highest percentage among public schools in Georgetown.
In addition, two of their students, Dante Romalho and Omesh Seeraj, tied for the top spot in Region 4 (Demerara/Mahaica) at the Grade 4 Assessment, while seven of their students placed in the top 10, also in that region, at the Grade 2 Assessment.
Dante Romalho of Herstelling, East Bank Demerara, said he is very proud of himself and so are his parents. The aspiring doctor said although he was quite confident, he did not expect to do this well. He was pleasantly surprised and plans to continue to work hard so that in two years time, when he sits the National Grade 6 Assessment, he could be awarded a place at Queen’s College.
Omesh Seeraj, who tied with Dante Romalho for the top spot in Region 4, explained that he knew he was going to do well since he put a lot of hard work into preparing for the examinations. The young man, who lives at Diamond, on the East Bank of Demerara, is overjoyed at his results and said his parents are also very happy. He hopes to one day become a soldier.
Now in Grade 3, Isaiah Jackson gained the top spot in Georgetown at the Grade 2 Assessment, with 131 marks. The future doctor said he is very proud of himself, and so are his parents.
The very shy Aliyah Bowlin gained 130 marks and said she is very happy that she did so well. She is a dedicated student and plans to continue working hard since she wants to become a doctor.
Next on the list is Victoryne Mohabir, who is very confident for her age. The Grade 3 student scored 129 marks and was elated that she did so well, noting that she put a lot of effort into her school work. She travels to St. Margaret’s Primary every day, all the way from the West Bank of Demerara, and plans to become a teacher when she is older.
The very enthusiastic little Luke Chung gained 128 marks. He said he is very happy about his performance and so are his parents, who even got him a present for his hard work. He wants to become an engineer when he is all grown up.
Another aspiring doctor, Makhi Adams, scored 127 marks and is a very proud young man. He said he worked really hard at his exams and he is glad that his parents are happy with his results.
Little Ebonann Greene also gained 127 marks at the Grade 2 Assessment and she is quite excited about her good performance. Ebonann’s parents are, naturally, very proud of her. She puts a lot of effort into her school work and plans to continue to work hard towards becoming a pilot one day.
Meanwhile, Miss Claire James, one of the Grade 4 teachers, explained that she is very proud of her students, noting that the headmistress and staff at St. Margaret’s all work very hard to bring out the best results. She noted, however, that parents need to pay attention to and spend time with their children more.
“Of late parents have not been spending time with their children. One thing I would just like to say to parents: spend more time with you children and you will see the best results coming out of them,” she said.
Miss Georgegeania Lewis, the headmistress of the school, noted that she is very proud of all the children who excelled in the various assessments. She stated that although there are many challenges, everyone works hard to overcome them and she feels good that the school continues to shine.
“Whatever the circumstances, we work around them and we still try to produce excellent results, and I’m proud of the children,” said Miss Lewis.
She also noted that they are still working to improve their results at all levels.

Should a President be allowed to own a home of his choice?

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 05:39:47 +0000

THE Alliance For Change seems to be obsessed with former President Bharrat Jagdeo’s house and has been using the media to highlight Jagdeo’s real estate, alleging that the former leader acquired more wealth than other presidents.
The Government Information Agency (GINA) solicited the views of the ordinary Guyanese as to whether the former President ought not to, like every other Guyanese citizen, be allowed the opportunity to construct and possess a home.

Roy Wilkinson
Yes, because he is just a citizen of Guyana, and he has served his term and you cannot just let somebody who would have served our country to go and live like a pauper. So I have no problem with a President building his own home. One President, he didn’t mind that much and that was his choice; the late President Hoyte. He lived a simple life and that was his choice. But I think every President deserves to do what he wants after serving.

Brian Wishart
Yes, why not. Everybody should have the choice to choose what they want to build. I don’t see any problem with it. The President has the right, I have the right. It’s a democratic choice, whether you are President or whoever you are, it is our choice. That is one thing that God has given us, the liberty of choosing. The only thing is that we have to do it in the right way, according to the law of the land.

Carol Blair
Yes, why not, if he can afford to build that home.

Mr. Latunga
He is a free individual and we live in a free country and if a President wants to build a house of any sort, as long as he gets it legally, that is his option.

Raj Beharry
Everybody has a salary of his own. Everybody wants to have his own house, his own car, and his own choice of everything, so I think that the President should have whatever choice, five-storey, four-storey, because he earned it, he worked for it.

Two more Chevening Scholars for Guyanese

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:55:00 +0000

JOEL Simpson and Chuvika Harilall were presented with the prestigious Chevening scholarship awards by British High Commissioner to Guyana Andrew Ayre, at a reception hosted in their honour Tuesday evening.
Chuvika Harilal, who hails from Berbice, is a Senior Environmental Officer at the EPA. She has done extensive work on protected areas in Guyana, including the Kanuku Mountains and Shell Beach. She was also instrumental in the process leading up to the passage of the National Protected Areas Legislation, the Protected Areas Act 2011.
Chuvika heads for the University of Kent to study for a Master’s Degree in Conservation and Rural Development.
Joel Simpson, a human rights activist, will pursue studies in Human Rights Law at Nottingham. He is a member of the Society against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) and has worked tirelessly over the past three years, promoting the rights of Lesbian, Bi – sexual, Gay and Transgender (LBGT) persons in Guyana.
Attorney at Law Gino Persaud was the guest speaker. He advised the awardees to value the opportunity to study at a First World university and to enjoy the cultural diversity of England. He also urged them to be cognizant of their responsibility to return to Guyana and assist in confronting the challenges facing the country through their scholarships.
Mr. Persaud is also a Chevening Scholar of 2004 and President of Transparency Guyana International.
High Commissioner Ayre said more than 80 applications were received in areas of climate change and development, economics and human rights.
The scholarship is valued at 15,000 pounds and is provided by the British Government.
Other Chevening scholars include Finance Minister, Ashni Singh, former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran, and Iana Seales, a former reporter with Stabroek News.

Father killed, son critical in hit and run accident - Jonny Walker found in driver’s vehicle

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:57:52 +0000

TWENTY-NINE-YEAR-OLD Rajindra Sugrim, of 61 Mon Repos, was killed on the spot last evening, while his three-year-old son, Lakhram, was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital after they were involved in an accident.
The Guyana Chronicle was informed that the man and his son were struck down by motor pickup PMM 607 while they were attempting to cross the Mon Repos Public Road. Eyewitnesses are claiming that the man and his son were using the pedestrian crossing at the time of the accident.
Up to press time last evening, the child was said to be in critical condition at the hospital where he was rushed by an ambulance following the accident.
The Guyana Chronicle was told that the accident occurred sometime after 19:00hrs while Sugrim, who works as a carpenter, was heading to purchase items to make dinner for his family.
Last night too it was reported to the police that the driver, whose name was given as Mark Narine, of Cummings Lodge, attempted to flee the scene of the accident without rendering assistance to the injured child and his father. The eyewitnesses said that that for some strange reason the man’s vehicle came to an abrupt stop a few yards from the point of impact and he exited the vehicle and again attempted to flee the scene.
He was however apprehended and taken into police custody at the Beterverwagting Station. Meanwhile back at the scene the man’s vehicle was locked and police officers used a flash light to peer inside. It was during this exercise that the police noticed a bottle of Johnny Walker whiskey lying on the floor of the vehicle.
When this newspaper arrived on the scene last night, scores of persons, including the family of the carpenter and his son, had gathered on the road to get a glimpse of the man’s lifeless body that was already covered with a sheet.
At the home last evening relatives, friends and neighbours gathered to console the wife of the dead man.
The man’s body was taken away from the scene by undertakers from the Lykens Funeral Parlor. The police are continuing their investigations into the matter.

AFC, Kaietuer News ploy to jeopardise Jagdeo security condemned - represents one of the grossest invasions of privacy – Dr Luncheon

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:58:16 +0000

CIVIL SOCIETY and Government have strongly taken Alliance for Change Chairman, Nigel Hughes and the Glen Lall owned Kaieteur Newspapers to task for the distortions and attempts to sensationalize the details pertaining to the process through which former President Bharrat Jagdeo acquired his private property.
Hughes and Kaieteur News have also come in for heavy criticisms for being either party or individually creating the atmosphere, and by extension providing enough materials for criminal elements and other misadvised persons to launch attacks, whether physical or otherwise, against the former President and Head of State.
Member of the Law and Order Commission, Captain Gerry Gouveia, is quoted as saying that the move to publish the news article in such a slanted manner and to support it with a distorted picture is just malicious and dangerous... because it puts Jagdeo at risk of undue public ridicule while presenting opportunities for unlawful elements to execute their ploys against the former president.
Gouviea said that nothing was wrong with a president retiring to a home that was befitting his stature after giving years of dedicated service and virtually reshaping both the social and economic landscapes of his country through prudent and realistic policies. “A case of envy and jealousy is seen here for those who have worked hard and tirelessly to achieve private assets and economic wealth,” he advised.
Businessmen have strongly objected to both the posture and attitude adopted by the learned AFC Chairman, Hughes, who himself professes to be a crusader of justice and facts. “Hughes did not bring any facts to show what corrupt practice Jagdeo was involved in when he bought his house. He just threw out perceptions and misleading figures and other information which he hoped someone would have confirmed on the debate on NCN. It was another publicity stunt orchestrated by the AFC to further drag Jagdeo’s legacy through the mud”, a concerned businessman said.
Hughes has also been criticised allegedly by members of his own profession for his demeanour during the interview and his apparent lack of ability to address the issue at hand which centred largely on the president’s pension and benefits, but he chose to disclose his “obsession with Jagdeo’s house” in the most unscholarly manner.
Meanwhile, Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon officially articulated cabinet’s concern over the spate of articles and the publishing of images in the Kaietuer News which, he said, largely possess the damming potential of compromising the former president’s security.
“I believe that the sentiment definitely among the members of the administration is that this represents one of the grossest invasions of privacy... this position has resonated among other members of our community who have, in one or the other, expressed their apprehensions about the pursuit by the opposition and the way in which elements of the hostile media have been party to that trend of behaviour”, Dr Luncheon informed media.
Luncheon, in asserting the view of the Donald Ramotar administration, also said that it is clear that the aim of the statements of Hughes and the publishing of the photo by Kaietuer News was to open up Jagdeo to public ridicule and harm.
“I think that it is quite clear that it is a general advertisement, not only to the general public spelling out in great detail what is and what isn’t, but it could also be seen as an invitation to the maladjusted and criminal intent to use that information to perpetrate invasions of the privacy of the former president,” Luncheon who is also Secretary to the Defense Board opined.
Senior Law Enforcement officials have also confirmed that were any harm to come to the former president or any attacks launched on his premises, Kaietuer News would have taken some sort of responsibility.
Similarly, Hughes has landed himself in the melting pot of controversy by accusing a former president of wrong doings without providing an iota of evidence. This adds, now according to several political analysts, to his long string of other publicity stunts, with the most recent being his discrimination cry over his non-appointment as the Honorary Consul to Guyana from Italy.
“Hughes, who has been accused of tax evasion and other improprieties, should be ashamed to allow himself to be consumed by greed and envy. But then again it’s not totally uncharacteristic of Hughes if we examine his track record”, one of the analysts said.

Opposition creates imaginary nexus with procurement system – no single credible example of corrupt transaction in procurement – Finance Minister

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:58:45 +0000

DESPITE charges of bribes, kickbacks and the misuse of office to further gains, the Alliance for Change (AFC) failed to present any credible example of a procurement transaction by the Government of Guyana that was subject to corruption.
The fifth in the series of corruption debates on the National Communications Network (NCN) last evening focused on procurement with a four-member panel and chaired by Professor Al Creighton, Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana. The panellists were Finance and Agriculture Ministers, Drs. Ashni Singh and Leslie Ramsammy respectively; Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Board (NPTB), Donald De Clue, and General Secretary of the AFC, David Patterson, who presented the charges.
Patterson, however, failed to stick to the subject under debate, and focused on the non establishment of the Public Procurement Commission and the execution of contracts after procurement was done.
During his presentations, Patterson sought to create an imaginary nexus between the absence of a Public Procurement Commission (PPC), the execution of contracts and corruption in the procurement of contracts.
De Clue, in his description of the functions of the NPTB, pointed out that the body is currently exercising the duties of the PPC, which it has the mandate to overlook. Minister Singh, adding to this, pointed out that while the Constitution of Guyana in the Procurement Act has provision for a PPC, there are also laws and regulations included which show that the system does not need one.
Minister Ramsammy, in his contribution to the debate, admitted that there are times when the system would lapse, but emphasized that government has put a number of laws and regulations in place in a move to reduce and eliminate these lapses.
The Agriculture Minister challenged the AFC General Secretary to produce evidence where there were no lapses in any country around the world, and to point to specific cases of corruption in procurement in Guyana.
Patterson protested that the system was not working due to the absence of a PPC, and pointed out that it was government’s fault that one was not established. This charge was rebutted and the AFC member was pointed to the Opposition dominated and led Parliamentary Accounts Committee which has the mandate to approve the names of the members for the establishment of a PPC.
On the charge of Fedders-Lloyd being refused the contract for the construction of the Specialty Hospital, because of evaluators of the tenders being hand-picked, Minister Singh stated that the evaluators were professionals and not politicians, and slammed Patterson for the attempt to besmirch the reputation of Guyana’s professionals across the sectors.
The Finance Minister also challenged the AFC for trying to push government to award the contract to Fedders-Lloyd, stating that the leader of that party, Khemraj Ramjattan, had a vested interest in that happening, since he was the local representative of that company as well as its legal advisor.
Patterson was unable to refute this charge and admitted that Ramjattan did indeed represent Fedders-Lloyd.
He then turned to the Supenaam stelling and was advised that his points put forward dealt with the execution of the contract rather than the procurement of it.
On the issue of the charges of breaches of procurement through a Cabinet waiver for the acquisition of drugs for the Ministry of Health from the New GPC, Minister Ramsammy pointed out that government was carrying out to the letter, recommendations made by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for developed and developing countries for their sourcing of drugs for their national health systems.
Minister Ramsammy reiterated that even though the New GPC was granted the pre-qualified status for the supply of drugs, government nevertheless still put forward an advertisement for bidders to become pre-qualified. New GPC again won the bid.
As the debate wrapped up, Minister Singh posited that the AFC had yet again attempted to discredit the government and ordinary Guyanese people, and to bring shame to Guyana with its unsubstantiated claims.

Fogging exercise conducted in several City wards – other areas to also benefit

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:59:14 +0000

IN AN effort to reduce the mosquito population in city wards, the Health Ministry’s Vector Control Services unit Tuesday evening carried out a fogging exercise in the West Ruimveldt, Shirley Field Ridley Square, Roxanne Burnham Gardens and Laing Avenue areas. This phase will also include communities as far as Plaisance.
The exercise is a continuation of a similar one conducted in the Diamond/Grove community, and is expected to be expanded to communities along the East and West Coast Demerara.
Chief Inspector, Vector Control Services, Karanchand Krishnalall noted that the exercise’s objective is to reduce the mosquito population as the vector is responsible for diseases such as filaria, malaria and dengue.
He is appealing to citizens to cover water storage containers such as tanks and barrels and to be aware of their surroundings, particularly areas where mosquitoes breed.
Krishnalall said targeted communities will be notified prior to fogging, hence people are urged to cover their food supply and protect children who are asthmatic.
The Vector Control Services unit is collaborating with the City Council to execute this exercise.
In 2010, the Ministry of Health introduced a new alternative, the BTI bacteria to also aid the reduction of the mosquito population. The BTI bacteria – Bacillus Thuningiensis Irsaelensis, is able to kill 72 species of mosquito larvae, when released into mosquito breeding areas.
The bacteria, when ingested by the mosquito larvae, eat the larvae’s brain and intestines. This method is not harmful to humans, the environment and other animals.
The ministry is encouraging citizens to appropriately discard tyres and unwanted containers, and to keep their surroundings clean so as to eliminate breeding grounds for the vector.

With Linden Commissioners sworn… President Ramotar hopes for quick resolution of issues

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:59:32 +0000

JUSTICE Lensley Wolfe and former National Security Minister, Keith Knight, both from Jamaica; Trinidadian Senior Counsel, Dana Seetahal and retired Guyanese Appeal Court Judge, Claudette Singh were all sworn in yesterday, to serve on the Commission of Inquiry into the shooting death during the recent Linden unrest.
They took the oath, to enquire into the circumstances surrounding the killings amidst protests over electricity tariff rates, before President Donald Ramotar in the Credentials Room at Office of the President (OP), Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown.
The fifth member of the Commission, retired Chancellor of the local Judiciary, Justice Cecil Kennard was absent and OP Press Officer, Kwame Mc Coy told the media he is on annual leave abroad and will be sworn on his return.
Following yesterday’s swearing, President Ramotar said he hopes this country will be able to quickly get to the bottom of the July 18 issues.
The Head of State is also hopeful that the Commission would come up with the answers for the many questions that still linger in the minds of citizens on what occurred on that day, some of which answers people have already decided.
Mr. Ramotar commended the Commissioners, who hail from sister Caricom countries and lauded their willingness to serve on the Commission, stating that it is a reminder that the Regional Community and its members are there to assist each other in times of need and dispels rumours that cooperation among member states is non-existent.
True reflection
He called on persons who have relevant testimonies and evidence to step forward so that the Commission can get on with its work and come up with the true reflection of what transpired on July 18.
President Ramotar said the testimonies of those who have things to say will put an end to doubts and he suggested that there be a “speedy inquiry” so that the period under review “can be put behind us and allow us to move forward.”
Justice Singh, who also spoke at the forum, said the most important thing for the Commission will be to get settled in and start work.
Asked about the suggestion that the Commission sit in Linden, she said she was not aware of it nor of the likelihood of a permanent presence in that township.
The establishment of the Commission was announced after three protesters, Shemroy Bouyea, 18, 19-year-old Ron Sommerset and Lyndon Lewis, 54, were shot dead and several buildings destroyed by arsonists amidst violent protests over the increased in electricity rates for residents of Linden in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice).
Since then, the hike in charges for the electricity was put on hold, pending its re-examination by a special technical committee.
The Commissioners were agreed by the Government, Opposition parties and the Region 10 Administration and their representatives signed terms of the agreement just over two weeks ago.

Jagdeo’s personal acquisitions are clear cut and above board –legality of former President’s wealth clarified

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 06:59:48 +0000

THE contention by the Parliamentary Opposition that Bharrat Jagdeo, while serving as Head of State, acquired more wealth than any other president of Guyana can be viewed as a justifiable non-issue and a clear case of fixation with the former leader.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs of Guyana, Anil Nandlall clearly indicated that the issue is nothing more than obsession, as the former president received what other Guyanese got under the Ministry of Housing’s programme.
“The difference between Mr. Jagdeo and every other President in this country is that he took power in his thirties. He didn’t own anything, he came back from studies, he worked and he acquired as he was working. He was the only President that is distinguished in that respect,” Mr. Nandlall said. The former president’s record reflects this.
He obtained a Master’s Degree in Economics in 1990, and worked as an economist in the State Planning Secretariat until the October 1992 election. After this he became Special Advisor to the Minister of Finance. Jagdeo was appointed as Junior Minister of Finance in October 1993. In the Cabinet, he was promoted to Senior Minister of Finance in May 1995. On August 8, 1999, Janet Jagan announced that she was resigning as President for health reasons, and that Jagdeo would be her successor.
Because the Prime Minister is the President’s legal successor, Jagdeo took office as Prime Minister on August 9, so that he would be positioned to succeed Jagan. He was then sworn in as President on August 11 – at age 35, making him one of the youngest Heads of State in the world. Jagdeo was re-elected for another five-year term on August 28, 2006, and in late 2011 he completed his tenure.
This record indicates very high-paying positions that come with numerous allowances and benefits. Why then should Jagdeo not have acquired wealth and property?
AG Nandlall stated that Jagdeo, as President, netted a tax free salary of close to $1M per month, along with other benefits. He therefore, had the wherewithal then, and had, even before from his savings garnered from his previous jobs, to construct a house, and sell it for G$120M.
The selling price is a non-issue since any real estate agent could explain the “buy low sell high” mode of the property dealership environment.
By this time, Jagdeo’s two- term tenure as Head of State was approaching its end; he did then what any sensible man would do; he prepared to retire from the Presidency without losing his social standing locally, regionally and internationally.
When another piece of land was made available for distribution to a certain quality of Guyanese office holders, a category in which the former president fell, he naturally took advantage of it. So did other ministers of the government, former Commissioners of Police and CARICOM Secretariat officials, who were also publicly offered land for sale.
Jagdeo had no property at the time he ascended to the Presidency of Guyana, unlike every other president. Forbes Burnham, Desmond Hoyte, and the Jagans (Cheddi and Janet) all owned property at the time they took office.

Pictures of world leaders published by KN had to be vetted by security agencies

Admin2 — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 07:06:19 +0000

The latest response by Kaieteur News to publish the homes of two former world leaders is indeed a sad attempt to mislead Guyanese. The photos which are available through the Google search engine were released by the said governments after being vetted by security agencies for obvious reasons.
The fact that the photographs had to be checked and cleared for publication is an accepted practice, particularly given the times in which we live.
The move by Kaieteur News has rightly been condemned by many right-thinking Guyanese as reckless journalism and indeed as a security breach. It should be noted that when Google decided to make available online satellite views of certain key facilities, many governments objected and some areas were redacted. It is disturbing that the publisher of the newspaper is willing to take what can only be described now as a personal vendetta to new heights. Given the measures many key figures in society take to insure their personal safety, the move by the publication was slammed by a senior police official as a flagrant security breach and an abuse of press freedom. He likened it to publishing the schematics of the homes of private individuals and noted that the response from those so offended would be swift.
The fact was noted that many countries have had to adapt to a constantly evolving security situation and the press should be cognizant of this fact. The home of the former president should be considered sacrosanct and indeed this applies to all former heads of state across the world. The two former world leaders have at their disposal far greater resources with which to guarantee their security; indeed, the airspace around many of those homes and facilities are tightly controlled, much less access by ground. Closer to home, I challenge anyone to find online a clear aerial photograph of the Prime Minister’s residence of Trinidad and Tobago. The pictures online of the residence show shots from certain angles and interior shots, all of which are officially vetted and sanctioned.

Chinese National in custody on immigration probe

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:07:18 +0000

PREGNANT Chinese National Jiam Xin He, who it is believed over stayed her seven-day time in the country, is in custody awaiting habeas corpus proceedings.
The matter came up for hearing at the High Court before Acting Chief Justice, Mr. Ian Chang yesterday with the woman being represented by Mr. Adrian Thompson, who made an application for a writ of habeas corpus.
According to reports it was originally thought that the woman was in possession of a forged visa but upon investigation it was disclosed that the visa was genuine.
But it was learnt that the visa upon which the woman entered Guyana had expired and during that time she attempted to walk over to Brazil, hence she was arrested and charged for being a prohibited Immigrant.
In court yesterday during the habeas corpus proceedings in the C.J. Chambers were lawyer Adrian Thompson, the Deputy Chief Immigration Officer and Inspector Reid from Eve Leary Headquarters.
Further hearing in the Chief Justice’s Chambers was adjourned to today.
The woman is in police custody.

Brooklyn explodes with Guyanese culture, food and entertainment

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:07:50 +0000

GUYANESE turned out in their numbers to attend the annual Guyana Family Fun Day organized by the Guyana Cultural Association on Sunday last. The numerous patrons were treated to over two hours of nostalgic cultural items from all aspects of Guyanese culture.
Pulsating performances by Eze Rockliffe, Michelle “Big Red” King, Charmaine Blackman and the Mighty Enchanter were among the many Guyanese who made the trek to the Big Apple to also receive awards from the GCA as part of their annual award presentation at the Brooklyn Borough Hall which was hosted by the President of the borough of Brooklyn – Hon. Marty Markowitz. City Councilor – Eon Andrews representing the Georgetown City Council also received a proclamation from the Brooklyn Borough President in celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the naming of Georgetown. The municipality was also the recipient of a Senatorial Proclamation from Senator John Sampson – New York State Democratic Majority Leader. Each of the honorees also received citations from the New York City Council Members –Dr. Mathieu Eugene and Hon. Jumaane Williams.
Prospect Heights School Campus the venue for the Family Fun- Day was filled with an aroma of good smells as a variety of Guyanese dishes, art craft and fun-filled games showed evidence. Maypole platting, hoo-la-hoop, Saul, Roller and a Unique Wooden Scooter (as was built in the old days) formed part of the excitement.
Numerous local politicians and elected officials also attended and paid tribute to the continued efforts of the GCA to maintain Guyana’s Cultural identity. Guyana’s Consul General in New York – Brentnol Evens opened the festivities. Also evident was a display by the Ministry of Tourism. Bobby Vieira, who was Co-MC with Rose October, highlighted the opportunities to invest in Guyana by inviting interested person to visit the upcoming GuyExpo 2012 at the end of the month. He also reiterated the Minister of Tourism’s initiative on the “Rediscover Home” program, which is to be launched in New York shortly.
The annual “Guyana Folk Festival” is held in the last week of August just prior to the Labor Day weekend. Highlights of the popular event are a Summer Camp for children, the “Kwe-Kwe” display, Awards Ceremony and Family Fun Day. This year’s theme “Masquerade Lives” was also given significant highlight.

Masquerade Lives!
Masquerade, rooted in African festive custom, has been and continues to be, an art form primarily expressed through street performance that traces its development and survival to multi cultural traditions. Emerging in Guyana before emancipation, this “new world” phenomenon is characterized by melodious rhythms, with the principal dance performers including flouncers, Mad Bull, Mother Sally and later additions, Bam Bam Sally and Stilt dancers. They dance energetically to the fife, the snare (aka kittle) drum, the tenor drum, and the steel or triangle. The brightly colored costumes represent the festive mood, while characters, such as Mother Sally parodied the colonial ruling class, thus providing at least temporary psychological and visceral relief. In the colonial and postcolonial history of our country the dancing, music and general participation reflect the ethnic inclusivity of masquerade. The melding of African, East Indian and European cultures features prominently in the festivities. Earlier characters such as Barbadian “Joe Flounce”; “Goblet Joe”; flautist extraordinaire, and later ones like “Potagee”; dance steps influenced by “Scotts Boy”, and new performers in contemporary Guyana masquerade, the peacock and vaquero, are testimony to the Diasporic nature of this unique art form. It is this tradition, survived to the 21st century, that the Guyana Cultural Association will highlight this year. Indeed, Masquerade Lives!

GAWU detects campaign to besmirch its image

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:09:29 +0000

THE Guyana Agricultural and general Workers Union (GAWU), the largest union in the English-speaking Caribbean, has said it has detected a campaign its image.
A release from the union noted that two Guyana Times articles dated September 1 and 2, 2012 constitute, in GAWU’s view, an effort to besmirch the image and undermine the effectiveness of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), an institution in the labour movement of this country. Moreover, they also sought to denigrate Komal Chand, long standing member and President of the Union.
GAWU said is perplexed at the article of September 1 which is sprinkled with falsehood and coming right after its highly successful 20th Congress.
“It should be noted that GAWU and several of its leaders, in the recent past, have had to confront both subtle and overt challenges to the Union by certain political parties and rival union groupings especially amongst its sugar sector membership. Against that background, GAWU sees the slanted and biased Guyana Times reportage as yet another aspect of the assault on the Union and thus, the members who constitute the union.”
“What is indeed baffling is just who could so easily use the pages of the Guyana Times to launch such an assault on the Union, using as weapons, obviously manufactured data as they have no truthful basis. The Union urges that “the hidden hand” at the Guyana Times comes forward.”
“The genesis of the issue lies in the September 1, 2012 issue of the Guyana Times which carried a headlined story captioned “Support for Chand dwindles at GAWU – places 30th in 52-member general council set up.” Besides being factually inaccurate the article casts various aspersions on Chand’s character and professional integrity as a Union leader. A second-paragraph sentence, for example asserts that “Chand, a People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament has been at the helm of GAWU for well over a decade now, and has presided over the virtual decline of the sugar industry, orchestrated by almost weekly strikes and other industrial unrest,” GAWU asserted
The union said it challenges this bit of opinion-oriented writing by pointing out that the union, does not manage the nation’s sugar industry and it is the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) is the entity which sets policy and executes the day-to-day management of the industry. GAWU, on many occasions, has had caused to acknowledge that the Corporation is beset by a plethora of problems both from internal and external sources.
“ GAWU, however, maintains that as both a responsible and patriotic union which has to preserve its members Constitutional right to strike when industrial action is appropriate to influence employers’ attitudes to their workers’ welfare,” the union pointed out
It added that in attempting to portray Chand’s alleged “dwindling support” the Saturday article states that “Komal Chand said he plans to run again for the office despite placing 30th among 52 officials elected recently at the union’s Congress to sit on the General Council.” This is so-far from the truth about Chand’s ranking in the elections.
“It begs the question as to who is the real author of such malicious mis-information. The female reporter who spoke with the GAWU leader on (Saturday) September 01, 2012 following the article’s publication, has already disclaimed authorship of that specific portion,” the union charged
GAWU said it should be noted and emphasised that the Congress’ election procedure itself nails the lie contained in the Saturday piece of the Guyana Times. In actuality, there was no election for any 53 members of the General Council at the just-concluded GAWU Congress. The fact is and the record will show that forty-seven (47) candidates vied for twenty-six (26) places on the 53-member General Council as twenty-seven (27) are usually elected before Congress at Branch Conferences. This is in keeping with the union’s constitution and is a guarantee of a representative General Council reflective of all our constituents. Komal Chand then could not have placed “30th among (any) 52 officials”, when only 26 elected members were required of Congress elections. The Guyana Times Saturday piece can, therefore, only be considered as mischievous and wicked and damaging to Chand. A promise to correct these falsities in the (Sunday) September 02, 2012 story captioned “Guysuco needs EU funds more now than ever before – Chand”, did not materalise adding to the Union’s belief that some “hidden hand” and pen has an outright agenda to discredit and undermine GAWU and its President.
The union said while strongly condemning the outright lies, as outlined above, and from which biased opinions are given intends to pursue the matter at other levels as well as seek legal advice. It’s one thing to claim the right to an independent opinion, it’s quite another to propagate out and out falsehood.
“It is hoped that the return of democracy, including freedom of expression, in which the GAWU played a key role will not be jeopardized, in the future, by low levels of journalism,” GAWU noted.

Lawyer with fabulous education background admitted to practice

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:12:23 +0000

EUSI Alvon Anderson, who hails from Bachelor’s Adventure, East Coast Demerara was admitted to practice at the Bar on Wednesday by Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang.
Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall, who presented his petition, said he has a fabulous education background, having excelled at a British university after attending Queen’s College (QC) and Hugh Wooding Law School.
Mr. Nandlall was loud in praise of Mr. Anderson’s record, attesting to his long acquaintance with the family of the 25-year-old lawyer, especially his father, who also showed concern for the welfare of the AG and his education.
The young lawyer will be attached to his chambers, the AG disclosed, recalling that Anderson received his early education from Stella Maris Primary School and highlights of his stint at QC showed that, in 2002, he won the J.O.F. Haynes Debating Competition.
In 2004, Anderson became the first winner of the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Essay Competition and, in 2005, he was Guyana’s top A- Level Student, the same year he was awarded a Guyana Scholarship.
Anderson received a Bachelor of Laws and Politics from Queen Mary and Westfield College of the University of London, also obtaining an Upper Second Class Honours in 2008 and his academic activities included a prolific mooter and debater while at university, which formed the foundation for his nomination by Inner Temple to represent England and Wales at the World Debating Championships in 2009.
Among other things, he also secured a Graduate Certificate in Public Finance at the London School of Economics and Politics, with special emphasis on pension funds and public sector expenditure.
Anderson has, as well, a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management from the Goldsmith International Business School, obtaining the highest marks in England and Wales at the 2009 examinations.

Other qualifications
His other qualifications include a Post Graduate Certificate in the Bar Vocational Course at the College of Law in London, United Kingdom 2009. In 2010, he was awarded Very Competent status, the second highest possible classification and got top marks for Advocacy in Cross-Examination and Examination-in-Chief, ranking amongst the top performers in Criminal Procedure at the 2009-2010 examinations.
He was called to the British Bar at Inner Temple Inns of Court in 2010 and attended the Hugh Wooding Law School Transitional Programme 2012, following which he interned at Trinidad and Tobago’s number one law firm, JD Seller and Company, where he was tutored by the islands’ best in corporate commercial legal practice.
Anderson also got the MPhil qualification with special emphasis on Politics, Development and Democratic Education at the University of Cambridge.
He holds the April 2012 Legal Education Certificate from Hugh Wooding Law School, too.
At his Wednesday afternoon admission, in the courtroom packed with relatives and friends, the Chief Justice told Anderson: “You are a man of many parts but don’t assume that you know it all.”
Anderson thanked those in attendance and, especially, the judge and Nandlall for their kind advice and pledged to use his energies to help the legal profession.

Mexican Ambassador donates books, catalogue to National Library

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:13:32 +0000

MEXICAN Ambassador to Guyana, Francisco Olguin Uribe, donated several books to the National Library on Wednesday during a courtesy call to Chief Librarian, Ms. Gillian Thompson.
The Ambassador donated seven books on the history of international relations of Mexico 1821-2010 - Africa and the Middle East, Asia, Europe, South America, Caribbean, Central America, and North America.
Additionally, six books on Cultural Diplomacy Education and Human Rights; Philosophical, Political and Sociological Thinking; Hispanic American Literature; the Music of Latin America; Mexico and the Invention of American Art 1910-1950; the Electronic Medium of Diffusion and the Information Society, were donated.
Ambassador Uribe also donated a catalogue for "Fragmented Nature, Contemporary Artists in the Collection of the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs.
Ms. Thompson said the donation by the Mexican Ambassador is highly appreciated and will further boost the National Library’s rapidly growing collection of material.

Blood bank benefits from two more collection drives

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:15:42 +0000

THE National Blood Transfusion Unit (blood bank) conducted two collection drives within the past week at the Ministry of Health and at the Davis Memorial Hospital, both in Georgetown.
Through those activities, the blood bank was able to acquire 18 units of blood from 38 donors at the Health Ministry, and nine additional units from 24 donors at the Davis Memorial Hospital.
Phlebotomist(a person skilled in extracting blood), Ms. Radha Radhari said the blood bank relies on donations from public-spirited citizens to assist in situations where transfusion may be the only way to save lives.
She said the blood bank is thoroughly thankful for every viable drop of blood donated.
Ms. Ramdhari said the blood bank would always welcome donations of blood, as blood is always needed to alleviate life and death situations.
She invited other organisations to take the initiative in sponsoring similar blood donating exercises.
She was happy to see persons cooperating and showing a positive attitude towards donating blood, while organisations have been involved themselves in the mission to acquire blood throughout the years, and have been pledging to continue doing so.
Health Minister Dr. Bheri Ramsaran witnessed the blood bank and Red Cross Society staffers assisting in the exercise conducted at the Ministry of Health.
Dr Ramsaran said he was pleased at the number of persons who donated blood and was satisfied that the host institution had made the receipt an annual event.
He noted that the Health Ministry has been playing the leading role in blood collection drives and acknowledged the importance of every unit of blood donated.
He could not have been present at the exercise conducted at the Davis Memorial Hospital, but extended his deepest gratitude to the donors, and encouraged those who have not yet donated blood to prioritise the experience.

Two charged in house lots scam probe remanded

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:16:20 +0000

A MAN and a woman, charged in connection with house lots scam, were remanded to prison yesterday when they appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.
Danica Griffith and Balkarram Lillie (no addresses given) are alleged to have sold house lots to persons, under the false pretence that the land was from the Ministry of Housing.
Particulars of one of the indictable charges said, on June 5, with intent to defraud, they obtained $250,000 from Ramkumar Rajbar, by falsely pretending that they were in a position to acquire a house lot at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, through the Ministry of Housing knowing it to be false.
Another charge accused them of having, the same day, taken $660,000 from Beena Stanislaus, by falsely pretending that they were in a position to acquire a Diamond house, through the Ministry, knowing it to be false.
A third charge said, between May 23 and June 30, they took $380,000 from Latchmi Manbodh, by falsely pretending that they were in a position to acquire a house lot at Diamond, through the same process knowing it was false.
Police Sergeant Gordon Mansfield, prosecuting, successfully objected to bail for the duo, informing the court that the prisoners are likely to face more charges and, if granted pre-trial freedom, will not return.
The prosecutor said the police investigation is continuing.
Earlier, Defence Counsel Rexford Jackson had said Griffith poses no flight risk.
Lillie, who is a laboratory technician at Demerara Distillers Ltd.(DDL) was unrepresented by counsel.
The magistrate told the prosecutor that, if no additional charges are filed before September 14, when the cases are called again, she will consider bail.

Court told… Man threatened shopkeeper for refusing to make change

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:16:49 +0000

CHARLES Moore, of Lot 300 North East La Penitence, Georgetown, was ordered to post $25,000 bail yesterday, on a charge of threatening behaviour.
Before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, he pleaded not guilty to the offence, particulars of which said, on September 5, he made use of the threat to Otis Khan, whereby causing a breach of the peace.
Police Corporal Shevon Jupiter, prosecuting, said the defendant had gone to the virtual complainant’s shop and asked him to make change for a $1,000. bill but, when the shopkeeper refused, Moore became annoyed and threatened to burn down the business place and the man’s bus.
The prosecutor said, Khan became fearful and reported the incident.
Moore has to be back in court on September 10.

Recent drug bust… Water Chris driver, Roraima guard charged, remanded

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:17:30 +0000

A DRIVER employed at Water Chris Restaurant, and a security guard attached to Roraima Airways, have been charged in connection with the recent drug bust at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
After cocaine was found wrapped in Delta Airlines blankets, Mark Fredericks, 51, of Lot 310 Republic Park, also on the East Bank Demerara and Sydney Matthews (no address given) appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday.
Particulars of the joint charge, to which they pleaded not guilty, said, on September 3, at CJIA, they both trafficked in one kilogramme 856 grammes of the narcotic.
Police Sergeant Gordon Mansfield, prosecuting, said, that day, around 05:30hrs, Fredericks left Water Chris in Georgetown to deliver meals for the airline and was in possession of a Delta Airlines bag.
The prosecutor said Matthews was then seen with the same bag, which he threw onto a forklift and a female security guard was attempting to search it when Fredericks made a desperate attempt to retrieve it.
The prosecutor said the female security guard took possession of the bag and conducted a search which yielded the prohibited substance wrapped in Delta blankets.
He said the men were arrested because they both came into contact with the bag.
Defence Counsel Glenn Hanoman, for Matthews, claimed he cannot disclose any personal information about the latter because his life was threatened but requested an early trial date.
Defence Counsel Roger Yearwood, representing Fredericks, said the defendant has been driving for Water Chris over 20 years and was never before the Court for any such allegation.
Yearwood declared he does not know how the prosecution intends to prove that Fredericks was in possession of the drug, but the prosecutor maintained that no special reason was advanced for bail to be granted and the case was transferred to the Providence Court, on East Bank Demerara, too, for October 7.

Lower Corentyne and New Amsterdam/Canje clash in Under-15 final

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:18:51 +0000

THE CUMBERLAND Cricket Ground in Canje will come alive tomorrow, when the best Under-15 players in Berbice clash in the final of this year’s Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)-organised, National Communications Network-sponsored Under-15 Inter-zone competition.
Defending champions Lower Corentyne will be hard-pressed to defend their title against a formidable and confident New Amsterdam/Canje team, while losing semi-finalists Upper Corentyne and West Berbice will go face to face for third place at the Port Mourant ground.
Daniel Lewis will lead the Lower Corentyne team and will have in his support cast, Brandon Prashad, Balchan Baldeo, Tyrone Poornauth, Joshua Holder and Vemen Ramoo.
Exciting national Under-19 opening batsman Shimron Hetmyer will be the key to the hosts’ success, and he will be supported by Leon Andrew, Clinton Lindie, Jermaine Henry and Richard Henry.
Clearly disappointed with their semi-final performances, West Berbice and Upper Corentyne will surely seek to improve and win the third place, with West Berbice having in their lineup, Greisan Grant, Parmanand Ramdhan and Akeem Miller, while Upper Corentyne will be led by skipper Deon Esau, Jameel Jackman and Rajiv Bickram.
Both games commence at 09:00hrs and the first innings will be limited to 55 overs per side, with the winners taking home a trophy and $40 000, the runners-up $25 ,000, while the third- and fourth-placed finishers will receive $15 000 and $10 000 respectively.
The man-of-the-final will receive $3 000 and a trophy, while officials of the state-owned NCN and BCB will meet the teams before the start of the final and also participate in the distribution of prizes at the conclusion of the games.

Sir Bobby Charlton dismisses England 2014 World Cup chances

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:22:00 +0000

ENGLAND'S record goalscorer Sir Bobby Charlton has written off the current national side's chances of success at the 2014 World Cup.
England begin their qualifying campaign for the tournament in Brazil with a match in Moldova today.
But 1966 World Cup winner Charlton, 74, believes Roy Hodgson's side are "a way off" competing for trophies again.
"They haven't got a lot of top-quality players so you must feel it is going to be difficult to win things," he said
"You cannot see it happening in Brazil at the next World Cup, for instance.
"Perhaps, if the right group of players come together and stay together for a while and gel into a team, with the right manager, then perhaps it might happen, but I have to be honest and say it's a way off.
"Since the European Union and the influx of so many foreign players, there is a definite shortage of English players from which the England manager can select and it has become far more difficult.
"I feel sorry for the England manager, whoever he is, as he simply doesn't have enough players to choose from."
Charlton's stance differs from his assertion ahead of England's last-eight clash with Italy at Euro 2012, when he claimed Hodgson's side could win the tournament. Italy ended up winning that game 4-2 on penalties following a 0-0 draw in Kiev.
Many believe that England's hopes of success lie with Wayne Rooney, who has struggled to shoulder such expectation since excelling in his first major international tournament - the 2004 European Championships in Portugal, in which they were knocked out by the hosts in the quarter-final. (BBC Sport)

Players still confused over ball-out-of-play rule

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:22:34 +0000

NYON, Switzerland (Reuters) - Players are still voluntarily kicking the ball into touch when an opponent goes down injured despite directives that they should wait for the referee's whistle, UEFA said yesterday.
There were several instances at Euro 2012 of players looking to the referee to stop the game when an opponent went down injured in line with the old fair play principle and sometimes kicking it out themselves.
Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger, speaking after a meeting of some of Europe's top coaches at UEFA headquarters, said his players sometimes ignored his advice to continue with the game.
"You have a conflict between the new rule, where it is left to the referee, and the old fair play attitude, which is culturally accepted in our game and which is that when a guy is really injured, you have to kick the ball out," he told reporters.
"I believe it's right that the responsibility goes to the referee because you never know how genuine the injury is when a player is down.
"But still, we are not completely clear yet about how to behave. I say to my players to leave it to the referee, but sometimes they kick the ball out. They are scared of being unpopular or criticised by the media if they don't do it."
UEFA's technical director Andy Roxburgh said all 16 teams at Euro 2012 had been told to wait until the referee whistled before kicking the ball out because the old system had been abused by players feigning injury.
"Our refereeing instructors went to every one of the 16 teams in advance and told them what the interpretations would be," he said.
"It's one of the reasons why the behaviour of the players was so good at the Euro, because we told them what the referees would jump on and what the emphasis would be.
"One would be that the referee would decide when to stop the match, but old habits die hard.
"They know it should be the referee who decides and the reason that was brought in is because there was too much misuse ... sometimes a team would have a counterattack and suddenly they had to stop, that kind of thing."
"There was a lot of misuse and when you gave the ball back, they would put it down in the far corner and would press, which was totally against sporting spirit, so this is why the referee has the responsibility to stop the game when it needs to be stopped.
"But we still get it; they put it out because it's habit."

World Cup dream flickers for European teams

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:23:05 +0000

BERNE (Reuters) - The dream of a first World Cup appearance will flicker for 22 European teams, albeit briefly in most cases, as the region's qualifying competition for the 2014 finals in Brazil kicks off today.
Other sides who have made a mark in the past, such as Austria, Belgium and Hungary, will be hoping to return after a long absence as the nine-group tournament gets under way.
A total of 53 teams are involved in the European qualifiers, ranging from European and world champions Spain to tiny San Marino with a population of 30 000 whose national side have only ever won one game.
The nine group winners will go straight to the finals in Brazil while the best eight runners-up take part in two-leg playoffs for four more places in November next year.
The runner-up with the worst record will go out at the end of the qualifiers.
For the likes of Luxembourg, who have tried and failed a record 18 times before to qualify, Andorra and San Marino, past form suggests the dream is likely to be quickly extinguished with a couple of early defeats.
Others such as Bosnia, Latvia, Montenegro and Belarus harbour more realistic hopes of qualifying.
Finland, who have tried to qualify since 1938 and have endured 17 failed campaigns, are unlikely to end that run after being lumped with Spain and France in Group I, the only one that comes anywhere near deserving the cliched ‘Group of Death’ tag.
Finland host France today while Spain have to wait until Tuesday before visiting Georgia.
Unlike most other regions, which hold preliminary rounds to remove the minnows, the European qualifiers consist of only one phase with all 53 teams going into the hat.
UEFA president Michel Platini has stood by the system, saying it allows the smallest teams the chance to learn and improve against the bigger sides.
Critics say it subjects the likes of Germany, Spain, Portugal and Italy to an endless sequence of matches which are little more than formalities.

EASY START
Of the group favourites, Germany have been given an easy start with a home match against tiny Faroe Islands in Hanover in Group C.
Netherlands have a tough start at home to Turkey in Group D, arguably the evening's top game, while Italy may not relish kicking off with a visit to Bulgaria in Group B.
The Italians will be without their Euro 2012 strikeforce as Mario Balotelli has undergone a minor eye operation and Antonio Cassano was left out by coach Cesare Prandelli, who did not consider him fully fit.
England, surprisingly ranked third in FIFA's world ranking table, also travel east as they visit Moldova, ranked 141st, in Group H.
Of the teams hoping for a return to the spotlight, Belgium appear to have the best hopes though they are also under the most pressure.
They begin by visiting Wales in Group A as they attempt to qualify for their first tournament since the 2002 World Cup, while the Welsh, now playing under Chris Coleman following the suicide of coach Gary Speed last year, are looking to reach their first World Cup since 1958.
Belgium, who qualified for six consecutive World Cups between 1982 and 2002, have a highly talented crop of players with Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard and Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany among their 14 English Premier League players.
Despite this, they lost out to Turkey, themselves subsequently beaten by Croatia in a playoff, in the race to reach Euro 2012.
"We have a great generation but we have to do it on the pitch," said Hazard.
"For the country and fans, the next two games are really important. With the squad we have now, we should be able to do something. In a way it's now or never for Belgium."
Austria, who last qualified in 1998, also have high hopes of their new generation of players, many of whom are doing well in the Bundesliga, although they have to wait until Tuesday's game against Germany in Vienna to enter the fray.
Hungary, who revolutionised football in the 1950s, have not qualified for a senior tournament since the 1986 World Cup but are now on the way up again having reached a best-ever 27th in the FIFA rankings last year.
They should at least get off to a winning start at lowly Andorra, who will probably never come closer to the World Cup than they did when they played Brazil in a friendly in Paris and lost 3-0 just before the start of the 1998 finals in France.

Warwickshire beat Worcestershire to win the County Championship

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:25:35 +0000

WARWICKSHIRE wrapped up the 2012 County Championship title as they completed a local derby win over Worcestershire at New Road to effectively relegate their Midland neighbours to Division Two.
Resuming on 100-2, the home side faced a thankless task, needing another 311 runs to make the visitors bat again.
Scores: Warwickshire 471-8 dec beat Worcestershire 60 & 209 by an innings and 202 runs.
But, despite 72 from ex-Warwickshire youngster Moeen Ali, the home side were bowled out just after lunch for 209.
That completed victory for the jubilant Bears by an innings and 202 runs.
First-innings heroes Chris Wright and Keith Barker, who routed Worcestershire for just 60 on Tuesday morning, were again among the wickets as the Bears secured their seventh title - their first since 2004.
Barker weighed in with 3-39, getting the key wicket of home skipper Daryl Mitchell, who jabbed the ball into his stumps without adding to his overnight score of 42.
Wright took 4-65, the last three of them all clean-bowled inside half an hour after lunch for a match return of 9-89 - to take the Bears new-ball pair's combined haul to 112 wickets this summer.
Former Warwickshire fast bowler Alan Richardson (who played in the visitors' last Championship-winning team) was his final victim, meaning that there were two Bears old boys at the crease when the end finally came.
Warwickshire, who cruelly missed out on the title on the final day of the season to Lancashire a year ago, made no mistake this time round, their sixth Championship win of this rain-ruined summer earning the title with still one game to spare - against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge next week.
Worcestershire's young side, by contrast, have won just once in 15 games - to stand on the brink of relegation for the fourth time since the County Championship became a two-tier system in 2000.
With seventh-placed Surrey and eighth-placed Lancashire playing each other at Aigburth next week, only a freakish set of circumstances in that match, coupled with a 24-point victory for Worcestershire at Taunton, can save them from the drop.
The Bears' triumph, in which England duo Ian Bell and Jonathan Trott played just six games between them (also achieved under the handicap of losing fast bowlers Chris Woakes and Boyd Rankin for half their matches) means that Ashley Giles has now won the Championship as both player and coach.
Warwickshire captain Jim Troughton, who also played a big part in the Bears' 2004 title triumph under Nick Knight, admitted that he was "proud" to lead his side to Championship glory.
"It couldn't have gone any better for us on the final day," Troughton told BBC Sport. "It's been a great effort all season and deserved reward for all the work we've put in since last year.
"We said in the dressing room at Southampton a year ago 'let's use that disappointment to fuel us for next year to do it with a game to spare' and it's amazing the way it's worked out that way.
"It's a proud moment for me to get my hands on that trophy again. I probably took it for granted when we won it in 2004, when I was a youngster, but this win means the world to me.
"Every single man in that dressing room has contributed. We've got a big squad and everybody has put his hands up with bat and ball. It's not just the ones wearing the whites."
Worcestershire coach Steve Rhodes added: "You have to pay tribute to Warwickshire. They almost got there last season and to do it two seasons on the trot is testament to the way they've batted.
"You've seen the difference over the last three days between a side with as much confidence as they have and a team like ours, who have had a few of our frailties exposed.
"When you're down, things kick you in the teeth and we haven't had the rub of the green. But, although we've had limited resources this season, I still feel we could have done better." (BBC Sport)

Richards urges England officials, Pietersen to make peace

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:26:07 +0000

MELBOURNE, Australia (ANI): Cricket legend Barry Richards has urged England officials and Kevin Pietersen to make peace, fearing a tragic loss for the game if the disgruntled England batsman is not able to make a return to international cricket.
Pietersen, 32, was dumped from England's side for the third and final Test against South Africa at Lord's last month for reportedly sending text messages to Proteas players about teammates, particularly skipper Andrew Strauss.
Strauss retired after the 2-0 loss of the series and No.1 Test mantle to South Africa and Pietersen belatedly apologised for the text messages.
While South Africa's apartheid policy sabotaged supremely gifted Richards' Test career, a fall-out with England coach Andy Flower shouldn't end Pietersen's international journey.
"I just think it is a tragic loss for world cricket, not just for England cricket or South African cricket," News.com.au quoted Richards, as saying.
"I think it is difficult. You think back to Ian Botham, he was an enormous talent as well and I think you need to have a little bit of leeway for someone like that," he said.
Richards endured the pain of international exile through politics, restricted to 508 Test runs at 72.57 in a 4-0 home thrashing of Australia in 1969-70.
It was still enough for Sir Donald Bradman to include the svelte South African opener in his dream XI.
Now, England teammates Ravi Bopara and Eoin Morgan have called for Pietersen's reinstatement.
It is understood Pietersen met with Flower last weekend in London triggering hopes he could be reinstated for the November Test tour of India.

Albion, Bermine to use Tenelec semi-final as fund-raiser to assist in Dever’s surgery

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:26:42 +0000

ALBION and Bermine will square off in the first semi-final of the 2011 Tenelec 50 Overs First Division Semi-Final tomorrow at the Albion Community Centre ground.
The eagerly anticipated encounter will see several of Berbice and Guyana’s top cricketers in action as, apart from the two teams battling for a place in the final, the match is also being used as a fund-raising venture to assist in Sean Devers’ brain tumour surgery.
Devers, an international cricketer commentator/journalist will be undergoing brain tumour surgery at the St Clair Medical Centre in Port of Spain, Trinidad on October 2 and in an effort to financially assist the former Guyana Under-19 off-spinner, the management of the two clubs have taken a decision to donate all funds generated from the gates towards this cause.
An entrance fee of $100 will be charged at the gate while cricket fans, cricketers and business entities can also make individual monitory contributions by contacting either Mr Carl Moore on 6148364, Mr Vemen Walter on 6912211, Mr Orvin Mangru on 640-0540 or Mr Muthusammi Permaul on 661-4843.
Apart from the gates receipts, both the Albion and Bermine cricket clubs will also be making a donation.
Devers also a former Berbice senior inter-county cricketer, represented the Bermine Cricket Club in Berbice first division cricket for many years and has contributed tremendously towards providing media coverage for cricket in the ancient county.
Several top cricketers are expected to be on show as Albion will include the likes of Test players Narsingh Deonarine, Devendra Bishoo and Sewnarine Chattergoon together with Test hopeful Veerasammy Permaul and the hard-hitting Jonathan Foo.
Bermine, on the other, will be counting on players such as Anthony D’Andrade, Steven Latcha, Eugene La Fleur, Jamoul La Fleur and Devon Clements.
Meanwhile the management of the Albion and Bermine clubs are calling on other clubs participating in Berbice first division cricket this weekend to do likewise to assist Devers in his time of need.
The Edinburgh Cricket Club has already agreed to raise fund in their Ramcharitar 50-Over first division match against Bush Lot United Rising Star on Sunday at the Edinburgh ground.

Martinique crush BVI to launch Caribbean Cup

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:27:04 +0000

LE LAMENTIN, Martinique (CMC) – Hosts Martinique annihilated 10-man British Virgin Islands 16-0 to launch the 2012 Caribbean Football Union’s Caribbean Cup with fanfare here Wednesday.
Playing at the Stade Georges-Gratian, 24-year-old striker Kevin Parsemain netted six times to help the French side crush the BVI.
In the other game of the Group Three double-header, Suriname wasted little time in disposing of Montserrat 7-1.
Parsemain was supported by braces from Stephane Abaul and Jordy Delem, while Gerald Dondon, Steve Gustan, Jacky Berdix, Djenhael, Gaetan Sidney and Alex Balmy grabbed a goal each.
Martinique led 7-0 at the half-time whistle and pumped in nine goals in the second half after Jevone Demming got his marching orders for a deliberate hand ball in the 52nd minute.
In the opening contest, Giovanni Waal and Stefano Rijssel netted doubles to underscore Suriname’s domination.
Romano Sordam, Jurmen Vallei and Giovanni Drenthe also got on the scoresheet for the Surinamese.
Waal opened the scoring in the third minute and added the second in the 11th before Sordam put his side 3-0 up in the 16th minute.
Rijssel’s brace came in the last five minutes of the game.
The group continues today and concludes on Sunday.

Jamaica wants to be a force in longer distances

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:27:31 +0000

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) - Sprint powerhouse Jamaica is working on a plan to improve its medal prospects over the longer distances.
President of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAA) Dr Warren Blake says discussions on developing a programme to carry out this plan are advanced with several countries including Kenya.
While Jamaica has been dominating sprints such as the 100 and 200 metres Kenya and other east African athletes continue to reign supreme in the long distances.
Dr Blake says an agreement in principal has been reached between Jamaica and Kenya following talks with the head of Kenya’s Athletic Federation, Isaiah Kiplagat, on the sidelines of last month Olympic Games in London.
“I had a long discussion with him about a mutual assistance programme, about the possibility of Kenyan coaches coming to Jamaica to help with our middle and distance programme,” Dr Blake revealed on Hitz FM’s Sports Grill Tuesday night.
“.. and also our coaches going to Kenya to see how they operate and how they train their athletes and also the question of exchange of athletes between the two countries. It’s a work in progress and we have in fact exchanged letters since I have come back home to Jamaica. .
Jamaica outshone rival United States to win an impressive 12 medals, mostly over the sprint events, in the Olympic Games.
Meantime, the JAA has reached an agreement with the University of Birmingham in England for a promising Jamaican high school student athlete to obtain a scholarship starting next year.
Jamaican athletes lived and trained at the University of Birmingham before moving into the Games village for the Olympics.
“A specific criterion as to how this athlete will be selected is to be worked out,” disclosed Dr Blake who will be running for reelection as JAA president in November.
“But in the next academic year a scholarship to study sports science will be offered to a Jamaican athlete.”

McKenzie - Guyanese Rugby star eyes the big league

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:28:01 +0000

QUEENSLAND, Australia (CMC)-An internationally capped Guyanese national who is now playing professional rugby in Australia says his ultimate dream is to compete in the highest standard of the sport there, the National Rugby League (NRL).
Kevin McKenzie, who is playing in the lower ranked Intrust Super Cup, says he is determined to compete in the prestigious NRL involving 16 leading clubs.
McKenzie, 26, has been representing the Sunshine Coast Sea Eagle, a relatively new team among 12 clubs vying for honour in the Intrust Super Cup.
“I still want to play in the highest standard here in Australia,” declared Mc Kenzie who signed up with the sea eagles a year ago.
“So that’s what I’m working hard on it now.”
McKenzie, who represented his native Guyana at the IRB World Sevens and the Commonwealth Games and has played for England and Ireland, is now settled in Queensland with his Australian wife Christine.
He grew up with his mother and seven siblings in the rough Waterloo Street neighborhood of Georgetown before he was spotted by a rugby scout.
The former student of St George’s High who once dodged cars in Guyana to play street ball says his passion is to break into the NRL.
“I’m hoping to break into the National Rugby League soon, as that is the highest standard,” said McKenzie, CEO of ‘Kevin McKenzie Massage Spas, Beauty and Personal Care Therapy’.
“I would be very elated just to make it to the NRL, which is the National Rugby League.”

Gayle only Windies batsman in ICC top 30

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:28:29 +0000

DUBAI, United Arab Emirate, (CMC) – Talismanic opener Chris Gayle is the only West Indian in the top 30 of the latest International Cricket Council One-Day International batting rankings released yesterday.
The table is headed by prolific South African right-hander Hashim Amla who consolidated his top rated status with heavy scoring in the ongoing series against England.
Gayle has risen one spot to 25th, following on from his impressive form in the recent series against New Zealand where he lashed a century and a half-century.
This is despite spending nearly 18 months on the sidelines because of an impasse with the West Indies Cricket Board.
Big-hitting Kieron Pollard lies 32nd in the rankings with exciting all-rounder Andre Russell, 35th.
In the bowlers’ rankings, mystery off-spinner Sunil Narine remained unmoved at 12th as Pakistani off-spinner Saeed Ajmal took over the top spot from teammate Mohammad Hafeez.
Right-armer Narine finished with 13 wickets in the five-match series against the Kiwis to claim the Man-of-the-Series honour.
Fast bowler Kemar Roach lies 22nd with Ravi Rampaul 25th.
Selected positions from the latest ICC One-Day player rankings:

BATSMEN
1. Hashim Amla (SA) 901
2. Virat Kohli (IND) 858
3. AB de Villiers (SA) 852
4. Kumar Sangakkara (SL) 773
5. Jonathan Trott (ENG) 749
6. MS Dhoni (IND) 745
7. Michael Clarke (AUS) 718
8. Alastair Cook (ENG) 707
9. Gautam Gambhir (IND) 689
10. Mike Hussey (AUS) 688
25. Chris Gayle (WI) 633
33. Kieron Pollard (WI) 581

BOWLING:
1. Saeed Ajmal (PAK) 759
2. Mohammed Hafeez (PAK) 747
3. Lonswabo Tsotsobe (SA) 690
4. Ravi Ashwin (IND) 681
5. Morne Morkel (SA) 676
6. Steven Finn (ENG) 668
7. Graeme Swann (ENG) 661
8. Shakib Al Hasan (BAN) 655
9. Kyle Mills (NZ) 647
10. Dale Steyn (SA) 644
12. Sunil Narine (WI) 634
22. Kemar Roach (WI) 598

2014 World Cup qualifiers ... Golden Jaguars, El Salvador lock horns today

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:29:07 +0000

… We want to get a good result in El Salvador and will do our best to make Guyana proud - Coach Shabazz
... Teenage winger Trayon Bobb to start, Charles Pollard returns to starting XI
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador - Guyana’s Golden Jaguars and El Salvador ranked 122nd and 64th in the FIFA world rankings respectively, lock horns in the first game of a crucial Group B home/away, match day-three encounter, of the North, Central American and Caribbean Zone, third round 2014 World Cup qualifiers, at the Estadio Cuscatlan San Salvador, this evening from 19:30hrs (21:30hrs Guyana time).
Both teams currently languish at the bottom of the group, behind CONCACAF powerhouses Mexico and Costa Rica who will be facing off in simultaneous double- header as well.
This game carries much importance for the Jaguars as they seek to move into a qualification place in the group at the end of this round.
Especially if the proposed hypothetical scenario plays out, in which Costa Rica lose both their matches against Mexico; and Guyana can conjure up a pair of wins or a win and a draw versus El Salvador, which would conceivably put them back into second place in the group.
Similarly for El Salvador who are affectionately known as ‘La Selecta’ as they continue their goal to reach the third FIFA World Cup in their country’s history, after previously qualifying for the Mexico 1970 and Spain 1982 tournaments.
Speaking from El Salvador, National coach Jamaal Shabazz spoke about the make-up of team he has selected to do battle, the mood in the camp and further encouragement to the Guyanese public to continue to rally behind the team.
"We have gone for an interesting blend of youth and experience, with recalls for veteran defender Charles Pollard and goalkeeper Richard Reynolds along with 19-year-old left-winger Trayon Bobb and newly found 20-year-old United States-born midfielder Nick Millington into the starting line-up. We are focusing on starting the players who are in season and playing week in week out, since obviously they will have better match fitness, explained Shabazz.
He continued: “The mood in the camp is great and we are going in ambitious but very aware that we need a big performance if we are to take points from El Salvador".
Popular local striker Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams is out with an injury. He is the second major injury blow to the Jaguars following that of senior defender Leon Cort who got his injury on duty for his English Championship side, Charlton Athletic, which is why he was not selected initially in the final squad.
Due to Abrams’ absence, this is the reason coach Shabazz has decided to wait until the very last moment to announce which of Carl Cort, Vurlon Mills or Shawn Beveney will partner Gregory Richardson in attack.
While the Guyanese public home and abroad have been disappointed with the Jaguars losing start away to Mexico and home to Costa Rica, Shabazz is not fazed.
"We must not be a fickle people like a nation with a glass jaw. Last year this time the Jaguars were heroes and now because we are struggling to battle on this higher level, the people have become weak. We must be stronger than that and must support our team, get behind them and send good vibes", urged Shabazz.
Skipper Chris Nurse is back to full fitness and the hard-working right-winger Ricky Shakes is also in the line-up.
Shabazz has also chosen to start with veteran Charles Pollard ahead of the 19-year-old Colin Nelson as a partner for Sweden-based, Canadian-born defender Jamaal Smith. Versatile defender John ‘JP’ Rodrigues and Walter Moore will hold down the wing back positions.
"As a team we are enjoying this challenge and living the moment. We want to get a good result in El Salvador and will do our best to make Guyana proud,” promised Shabazz.
National Communications Network (NCN) will be broadcasting the game live from 21:30hrs, as the Jaguars step on to the largest arena in Central America, which is commonly referred to as La Catedral del Espectaculo.

Guyana squad reads: Richard Reynolds, Colin Edwards (goalkeepers), Charles Pollard, Walter Moore, Colin Nelson, John Paul ‘JP’ Rodrigues, Jamaal Smith (defenders), Chris Nurse (captain), Kayode McKinnon, Konata Mannings, Nick Millington, Dwight Peters, Dwain Jacobs, Kester Jacobs, Ricky Shakes, Trayon Bobb (midfielders), Carl Cort, Gregory Richardson, Vurlon Mills, Anthony Abrams, Shawn Beveney (strikers).
Coach Jamaal Shabazz, Assistant Coach Wayne Dover, Trainer Americo Falopa, General Manager Rawle Adams, Assistant Manager: Mark Xavier, Equipment Manager Trevor Burnett, Goalkeeper Coach Andrew Hazel, Physiotherapist Debita Harripersaud.

El Salvador squad reads: Dagoberto Portillo, Benji Villalobos, Carlos Romeo Moneagudo, Dennis Alas, Isidro Gutierrez, Osael Romero, Elder Figueroa, Alexander Larin, Ramon Alfredo Sanchez, Eliseo Quintanilla, Nelson Bonilla, Christian Castillo, Alfredo Pacheco, Darwin Cerén, Steven Francis Purdy, Victor Turcios, Herbert Sosa, Mark Lester Blanco, Jaime Alas, Rafael Burgos, Milton Molina, Ricardo Ulloa, Xabier Garcia, Jonathan Aguila Joya, Derby Carillo, Cuellar Yimi, Irving Valdez, Julio Martinez, Omar Mejia. Coach: Juan Castillo.

Officials: Referee: Jair Marrufo (USA), Assistant Referee 1: Charles Morgante (USA), Assistant Referee 2: Eric Boria (USA), Fourth official: Ricardo Salazar (USA)

Ethics and selfish motives

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 04:32:47 +0000

THE society has devolved to the extent that those who are creative in the art of deception are the ones who are assumed to be credible and thus can convincingly and successfully appeal to all the justice systems.
The really decent and law-abiding citizens are not versed in aggressively pursuing their own causes and thus can rarely achieve the supreme feat of accessing fair and impartial adjudication that would guarantee them their rights enshrined in Guyana’s constitutional framework.
Even the high-priced lawyers often do not provide the services to their clients that they are paid for because they have either greedily taken on more cases than they can handle, or else they are reluctant to tread on someone’s corn; or, as in the case of a very prominent politician cum attorney-at-law, they have joined with the other party to defraud their own clients.
A case that comes readily to mind is one involving two businessmen, both very prominent within Guyana’s entrepreneurial framework. One (whom we will call Mr. Smith, who is not an Afro-Guyanese) was born with a silver spoon and then opportunistically clawed and manoeuvred his way into hierarchal landscapes, while the other (whom we will call Mr. Ram) worked diligently, untiringly – but always with a great degree of honesty and integrity to establish his business, which started from humble beginnings but, because of his trustworthiness and consequential support from the business world, expanded over the years to become a hugely-successful entity.
Mr. Ram never lost his humility and decency, but continued to contribute to the community in equal measure with his success, while Mr. Smith indulged in orgies and a personal lifestyle that, while one should concede is no-one’s business but his own, one cannot because it is intrusive and disruptive to the life and the business of his neighbour Mr. Ram.
What is even more disgusting is that when Mr. Smith was encountering difficulties of both a personal and financial nature Mr. Ram was very accommodating and supportive until Mr. Smith turned his life around then, when the latter had firmly grasped success within his hands he began a campaign to destabilize the business and demolish the credibility, peace, and peace of mind of Mr. Ram.
And one wonders where are the administrators of the city who readily demolish the illegal structures of a poor man, but who have no qualms in allowing the worse infringements to the city’s by-laws by rich, powerful and influential persons.
Mr. Smith currently has a huge generator located in a spot that is not allowed under the city’s by-laws; his very raucous, drunken, and abusive clients often block Mr. Ram’s entrance to his premises without redress to Mr. Ram; while there should be a 4-ft clearance of all structures from Mr. Ram’s fence Mr. Smith instead has his structures overlapping – with a complete overhang of the guttering, into Mr. Ram’s property; Mr. Smith’s electrical posts are located inside Mr. Ram’s property, to mention a few of the many intrusions a social maverick is allowed to get away with because of his bully-boy tactics.
However, Mr. Ram, being the very nice and accommodating neighbour that he is, says that for the sake of peace he is willing to overlook all the intrusions into his personal space, except for the disruptive music played at all hours, with speakers strategically-located to amplify the sounds at its loudest in every direction, which denies Mr. Ram his right to a peaceful and quiet life within the sanctuary of his own home; and the effective pursuit of his business ventures.
Mr. Smith is so confident of his power that, instead of adopting a conciliatory approach to Mr. Ram, who has the right of many legal sanctions against the former, attacks his neighbour verbally, through the media, and by way of highly-vituperative letters, leading to the conclusion that the city’s by-laws are only applicable to be enforced against some, while some have proven themselves to be absolutely untouchable.
The syndrome of self pursuits has transcended ethics in the socio-political and economic landscape of Guyana as the good and decent are trampled into obscurity, while the unethical but powerful hypocrites and fraudsters prevail.

Steps taken to rectify Kwakwani, Port Kaituma roads

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:47:20 +0000

MINISTER within the Local Government Ministry, Norman Whittaker, yesterday said that steps have already been taken to rectify the road rehabilitation issues that residents are faced with at Port Kaituma and Kwakwani, but the inclement weather delayed the start of those works.
Whittaker said in a press conference yesterday that there are several issues that can be resolved with some dialogue among parties.
“That’s the situation with the council. In the meantime, services that should be provided suffer because some of the staff are out there, but we continue to monitor (the situation) because we would wish that the workers resume (duty) so that the work of the council can continue,” he stated.
He said that, in the Port Kaituma, there are reports of over 50 persons protesting the state of the internal roads in the area while the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region One, the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Natural Resource and Regional Development have all identified in each area specific internal and main roads that they would wish to see being extensively rehabilitated and upgraded.
The minster attributed delay in the start of rehabilitative works on the inclement weather, stating that only remedial works could have been undertaken so far.
“We would appreciate that road works are better done in sunny weather conditions. So even though people might want it to be done now, it would be a waste of taxpayers’ money if we do it in rainy weather; and that has been a contributing factor that we haven’t been able to do anything about,” Whittaker highlighted.
He said that roads would have to be done as a matter of urgency, and within a week’s time works will commence in this regard.
Whittaker deemed untrue a perception that government has to be prodded by protest to take any action. He said plans had already been finalized for road works to be done.
“I wish to make that clear, and I know out there is this perception that when we begin to roll with the work, people say we are responsive only to protest; but I want the press to know that these works were planned and were on our programme, but due to the weather, we could not fix these roads in inclement weather conditions,” he reiterated.
According to the minister, works undertaken in inclement weather would only be a waste of time, and the roads would deteriorate easily, once more putting the region through the same situation if care isn’t exercised.
“They (the road works) would only last a couple of months, and hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ money would go down the line; so those roads are being addressed, but step by step,” Whittaker emphasised.
On the issue of Kwakwani, and the selection of persons to deal with that community’s affairs, he disclosed that meetings were held with the regional chairman and vice chairman, along with councillors and the mayor, to discuss the way forward in this regard.
“The press would know I was in Linden a few days ago, and during a meeting with the vice and regional chairman, some councillors the mayor and others on several other issues, I did raise concerns (about the spectacle of having a parallel IMC in that community) because that’s unheard of. I did advise the chairman not to go down that road,” Whittaker said.
However, the minister said a meeting was held at Kwakwani on Wednesday, as is evident from reports in the press, but the Local Government Ministry has not been officially informed of this.
“I don’t know who supervised the elections, but what I do know is that the Local Government Ministry was not part of it. We recognise the (duly installed) IMC because that body was installed and appointed in keeping with the procedures and legislation. We did not break any laws, and therefore that is the only constitutional body that we would recognize handling the affairs of Kwakwani.”

Gov’t promises urgent repairs to Port Kaituma Road

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:51:19 +0000

CABINET Secretary and Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon said Wednesday that the rehabilitation of hinterland roads has been high on the agenda over the last two to three weeks, both at the level of the Office of the President and Cabinet Subcommittee, and Cabinet itself.
The statement came during the post-Cabinet media briefing and shortly after reports that residents and miners of Port Kaituma had blocked off the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) office and the main road to protest the deplorable condition of the road in the community.
Dr. Luncheon stated that Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn has provided evidence to Cabinet and conceded that the Bartica road and the Port Kaituma roads are in need of significant rehabilitation of some urgency. The HPS said that in both instances, Minister Benn provided evidence of weather related phenomena, and the fact that the design work “has not really withstood the impact of the weather, and the ongoing events and interventions.”
He noted that at Bartica the situation was made “a little complicated by the ill-advised residents who have ditched the road in a variety of ways.” This, he explained, has made the actions of the Work Services Group and the Public Works Ministry more difficult than it ordinarily would be.
Minister Benn has assured Cabinet that the Public Works Ministry is intending rehabilitation with those interests in mind, Dr. Luncheon reported.
Meanwhile, Chairman of Region 1, Paul Pierre, said that shortly after noon yesterday, he received a call about the protest and road blocks.
Pierre also conceded the bad conditions of the road, saying, “It is in a very bad state and some major work may fix it.” He pointed out that the IMC has been doing some work but they were only “minor repairs, nothing major… the weather over the past three months has seen further deterioration of the road.”

Minister Persaud tells intergovernmental conference – Sustainable use of natural resources critical for lasting prosperity

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:51:50 +0000

GUYANA has emphasised that the sustainable development and use of natural resources is critical for the prosperity of the world’s population, and must be seen as part of the response to wider environmental challenges.
Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, at the Inter Governmental Conference on Sustainable Development yesterday in Tbilisi, Georgia, said, “We cannot ignore the role of developing mining and forestry and other extractive activities if we are to bring about a better life for our people. This reality must be incorporated into any effective environmental educational programme for sustainable development.”
Addressing the high level segment of the conference under the theme “Educate Today to Sustain the Future”, Minister Persaud pointed to Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy where the emphasis on the use of its natural resources is done in tandem with the country’s and global communities’ sustainable development. He made it clear that as part of Guyana’s model, there is, and will continue to be, the expansion of the natural resources/extractive activities, while taking into account the need for sustainability and environmentally-friendly approaches.
He further stated that the achievement of sustainable development and the MDGs therefore consists of a “people element”. It is education that provides the linkage between people and the successful implementation of developmental plans.
Guyana, he told the conference, has taken bold steps to boost education for sustainable development. These include an Environment, Information and Training Division which was established within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the launching by the University of Guyana of a BSc. in Environmental Science.
Minister Persaud also made reference to the recently launched Pick it Up – Guyana campaign, another national programme which aims to infuse greater consciousness in the Guyanese populace to keep their environment clean. He explained that the campaign goes beyond just creating awareness and moves into the realm of greater citizen involvement in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, through the recognition of its linkage to health and provision of environmental services.
In going forward, Minister Persaud stated that “we must ensure that our environmental education takes stock of people’s social and economic circumstances. It must be grounded in the reality of our people’s aspirations to use and develop our natural resources in a sustainable way to create a better life for generations”.
The minister also urged the international community to support both multilateral and national initiatives that will promote sustainable development, especially given the outcome of the RIO +20 Conference. He pointed to the seeming loss of momentum by some in the global community in dealing with climate change and similar challenges, as well as the many missed opportunities for substantive progress.

At Berbice Assizes… Carnal knowledge accused claims not aware of incident

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:57:36 +0000

CARNAL knowledge accused Steve Alert, in an unsworn statement at the Berbice Assizes, denied being aware of the incident which led to him being charged.
Following the close of the case for the prosecution, he opted to remain in the dock and give his evidence to Justice James Bovell- Drakes and the mixed jury.
Unrepresented by counsel, Alert declared:”I don’t know anything about the incident that happen. I told Corporal Frank I don’t know about the incident that happen. Sir, I never had sex with the girl.”
The prosecution, led by State Counsel Rhondel Weaver, alleged that, on March 2, 2009, the virtual complainant was doing homework when the accused sent her for a sheet and pillow.
But whilst retrieving the items from a bedroom, the accused came from behind, placed his hands around her waist and threw her on a bed, raised her dress, pulled aside her underwear, pushed his penis into her vagina and proceeded to have sexual intercourse with the then 14-year-old.
The alleged victim was taken to the Number 51 Police Station, where a report was made and, subsequently, to Skeldon Hospital where she was medically examined.
The trial continues on Wednesday, September 12.

Christians unite in prayer for better Berbice roadway

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:59:19 +0000

MEMBERS of the Christian Faith laid aside their denominational differences and united in a prayer walk aimed at seeking divine intervention for the rebuilding of the East Bank Berbice roadway.
The 25 miles route, which links the once thriving farming community with the New Amsterdam township, had caught the attention President Donald Ramotar who, on assuming office, had pledged to have the main thoroughfare rehabilitated.
However, residents, showing that they are unable to wait for the fulfillment of the promise by the Head of State, have staged numerous protest actions, including by hire car drivers and sugar estate workers.
Coordinator Rosemond Samuels–David told the media that, while the demonstrations bore no fruit, they are utilising a better weapon, which is prayer, as they believe in God.
“We are not burning tyres but we believe that we are the strongest on our knees as we pray continually,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senior Probation and Welfare Officer Mitford Ward, who traverses the road daily, declared it is more than enough time to get a good thoroughfare.
“We never had a good road. Some people have left their farmlands because of the poor condition of it. Initially, persons had to be transported by tractor and trailer and, while others opted to travel along the river, several lost their lives in the process,” he said.
Ward pointed out that there is an abundance of agricultural lands which can be utilised to boost the economy and he suggested that the budget cuts can be used for the rehabilitation.
Last Thursday, the march commenced at Overwinning Bridge and proceeded South, concluding at the first entrance of the Glasgow Housing Scheme.
During the walk, in which scores participated, prayers were said intermittently for the President, the Cabinet, Minister of Public Works, the Regional Chairman, others responsible for road construction, available funding for a new road and that the contractor work according to specification, and there be development in the entire East Bank Berbice area.
Amongst those making petitions to the Almighty were Pastor Romeo Green of the New Testament Church of God, Sister Lynette Edgillo of the Assemblies of God and Ward of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church .

Another paper committal case thrown out

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:00:36 +0000

JUSTICE Diane Insanally has granted an Order Nisi of Certiorari, directing Magistrate Adela Nagamootoo to show cause why her decision, to commit Mukhtaar Ali to stand trial for rape, should not be quashed on the grounds that the committal is null, void, unlawful and unconstitutional.
The service and notice of the motion with affidavit in support is to also be served on the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
According to Court documents, the magistrate committed the applicant for High Court trial under the provision of part of the said Act Number 7 of 2010.
Ali, through his counsel, Mr. Mursalene Bacchus, contended that the committal on August 13, 2012, is null, void, no legal effect and contrary to his fundamental rights under Article 144 [2] [e] of the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana.
Consequently, the Sexual Offences Act Number 7 of 2010, which purports to give jurisdiction and power to the magistrate to commit Ali for trial, is unconstitutional and of no legal effect.
Ali, a cane harvester and a married father of two, of Adelphi Village, East Canje, is accused of having engaged in sexual penetration of a girl, aged 15, between October 1 and 31, 2011 at Lot 94 Glasgow Village, East Bank Berbice.
On August 22 last, Justice James Bovell-Drakes discharged school teacher Ronald Forde, who had faced four indictments which stemmed from allegations that he had penetrative sex with a student of Fort Wellington Secondary School.
That ruling was based on the precedent set by Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang on August 10 following a referral from Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry who had asked whether an accused could be lawfully committed pursuant to the provision of a paper committal under the Sexual Offences Act Number 7 of 2010, without having been given an opportunity to be heard.

Everyone talks about their rights but never about their responsibilities

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:04:43 +0000

EVERYONE talks loudly about their rights but never about their equal need to be responsible in exercising those rights. Politicians and others insist in their right to speak and protest, but many times fail to do either in a legal or responsible way.
It is legal to protest but not to impede access by others, threaten or damage or destroy property, neither is it advisable to be too aggressive in confronting armed police. Unfortunately, these two factors helped to contribute to the untimely death of three persons. The right of Lindeners to know what actions led up to these deaths were denied by their Chairman, when he failed in his responsibility to support such an inquiry.
APNU was given an opportunity to debate the President's pension which they have vigorously opposed, although the Leader of the Opposition also enjoys pretty good benefits. When given the opportunity to have the right for access to NCN, they decide not to debate this issue on public media. In effect, they failed to act responsibly. The Lindeners had a right to hear directly from government officials why there was a need to increase the electric rates, before including it in the budget. Unfortunately, this responsible action appears not to have been done. Without responsibility, rights may not survive.

Why so many Guyanese are so angry?

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:05:52 +0000

THREE weeks ago, my four daughters, ages 10 through 15 years old, visited Guyana. Everywhere we went, my children heard people cursing each other. My children never heard so much cursing in their lifetime.
My family lives in a small town in America where most people still treat others with respect. So my children's experiences in Guyana were new. My children were shocked to hear the frequent cursing.

It seems like a lot Guyanese are angry. I don't know why. I asked several people why so many Guyanese are so angry. I was told that it was because of the Value Added Tax (VAT), lack of jobs, and inability to provide for family.

It seems like many Guyanese are so angry that they are like a time bomb waiting to go off. So the slightest thing you do to them they explode on you.

One example of this time bomb exploding took place on a minibus we were traveling on. The driver and a passenger got into an argument over where the passenger was dropped off. The passenger wanted to be dropped off in front of Survival Supermarket. The bus driver said he can't stop at Survival he can only stop at the bus stop.

The passenger argued that the driver was willing to pick him up at a non-bus stop, but he wasn't willing to drop him off at a non-bus stop. In front of my young children, the driver and passenger cursed each other out for about five minutes. I tried to intervene to prevent my children from hearing the offensive language but was unsuccessful.

To me, the verbal argument had nothing to do with where the bus stopped. It had everything to do with a bigger and hidden issue. Where the bus stopped was the effect and not the cause of the argument. Arguing about where the bus stopped wasn't the real issue. It was just the symptom. The real issue that caused the argument is that people are angry. Where the bus stopped gave these men an opportunity to vent their anger and frustration out on each other.

There was a simple solution to this problem. The driver could have said he was sorry, and kept driving and the argument would have been avoided, but he didn't because he is so angry himself and needed to blow off some steam. This is why the argument escalated, and my innocent children and passengers were subjected to the offensive languages.

When people are angry like many Guyanese are, it is dangerous to be around them because you never know what might set them off. And when they are set off, you don't know what they might do and even the innocent children may get hurt.
As a child, I grew up in one of the toughest areas in Guyana, Alboystown. During those days, most people were angry and would curse out each other out daily. Today, it seems like the old Albouystown people has extended to the whole of the country and Guyana has become like Albouystown with a lot of angry people who like to curse out others.

I wished that my children didn't have to experience the cursing during their vacation, and I hope and pray for the people of Guyana to be less angry and happier. May God bless Guyana!

Health Ministry’s response to Fedders Lloyd Corporation Limited

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:06:42 +0000

THE Ministry of Health has diligently pursued the process of tendering and awarding the contract to Design, Build and Equip the Specialty Hospital for Guyana with due diligence and full transparency, adhering throughout the process to good, sound and proper policies and procedures. It is obvious to the ministry that in such an open and competitive process that attracted five bids from reputable Indian firms, only one firm will be successful.
In such a competitive environment it is natural that the non-winning bidder/s may wish to seek clarification/s pertaining to their bids. Naturally our National Procurement Procedures allow for such an eventuality and the Ministry of Health is willing and ready at all times to offer guidance and clarifications to such requests. However, this process requires that the matters of concern/s be addressed officially to the relevant and appropriate authorities. The Ministry recognizes your letter UNDER EARLIER REFERENCE as such an endeavour and effort on the part of Fedders Lloyd Corporation. It is with great regret that Fedders Lloyd Corporation has only now sought to utilize this “official mechanism” in preference to their several press announcements and press interviews that were obviously designed to castigate the integrity of our professional evaluators and, in the end, politicize a most judicious and transparent process.
In the spirit of this review mechanism which your Corporation has officially requested, the Ministry of Health hereby responds to the 6 points you have raised in numerical sequence as follows:-
1. We acknowledge that the letter from our High Commission in India dated April 13th 2012, announced to all prospective bidders the official “ pre-bid meeting and site visit” to be held on Monday 23rd April 2012 , the “bid opening” date on 15th May 2012 and our intention of no further extension to the bid opening date. However, by our letter to all bidders dated 4th May 2012, we officially announced to all bidders “additional information to Bidders” following the pre-bid meeting of 23rd April 2012. In that letter our Project Manager wrote as follows “Further, two of the contractors during the recent pre-bid meeting and site visit requested an extension of the closing date for submission by at least one more month. The closing date for the submission was 15th May 2012. The client has considered this request and has decided to grant a further extension for the submission of bids to Tuesday 26th June 2012.” As is usual in such circumstance, and in order to allow for the most competitive process by facilitating the largest number of interested bidders to participate in the bidding process, the Ministry of Health took the decision it did at the pre-bid meeting. This DOES NOT IN ANY WAY OR CIRCUMSTANCE VIOLATE ANY STIPULATION OF INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING. On the contrary this is a standard procedure and is intended mainly to facilitate the widest participation in the bidding process.
2. Addendum No 6 dated 20th June 2012, which you referred to, constituted mainly clarifications of questions raised at the pre-bid meeting and other clarifications raised by bidders who were not present at the pre-bid meeting. As is the standard international practice these clarifications must be circulated, in writing, to all bidders. The issue raised that only 6 days rather than 14 days separated the official date of notification and the opening of bids could have been grounds for Fedders Lloyd or any other bidder to request a further deferral of the opening date of the bid by the appropriate number of days. No Bidder (including Fedders Lloyd Corporation) made such a request having regard to the already generous consideration of the client for earlier extensions. The Ministry of Health is satisfied that this matter does not constitute a material breach of process for Fedder Lloyd to be aggrieved. If indeed this was such a contentious matter Fedders Lloyd could have requested a deferral of the bid opening date.
3. The question of the Bid Security and the originating source has been a matter of numerous press commentaries by Fedders Lloyd Corporation and now finally a matter of concern in your official correspondence to the ministry. The ministry wishes to make pellucid its position on this matter. The Pre-Bid meeting and decisions taken thereat are binding on all bidders and override all other previous instructions to bidders. In the particular circumstance, the pre-bid decision clarified the general conditions in the instructions to bidders Clause 13.2. The clarification and instructions emanating from that meeting- at which Fedders Lloyd was present at very senior representation- and which record was communicated to and received by Fedders Lloyd, in writing, clearly stipulated that the bid security must be from an Indian Bank. FeddersLloyd Corporation submitted its bid security from the Bank of Nova Scotia in Guyana. There is no evidence that the bid security was supplied by the Axis Bank of India with correspondence Bank relations in Guyana. This is in breach of the instructions to bidders and on technical grounds Fedders Lloyd should have been disqualified on this ground alone. Nevertheless, the evaluation committee did not disqualify Fedders Lloyd on this ground. On the other hand, the winning bidder supplied its bid security from an Indian Bank with correspondence banking relations with a local Bank. The ministry trust that this puts to rest the concerns of Fedders Lloyd Corporation and that in the same manner that it outrageously made false, grossly inaccurate and derogatory public pronouncements, it will have the humility to be a gracious non-winner in this particular bid and inform its publicity campaigners and spokespersons of the pertinent facts.
4. The NPTAB acknowledged and announced the official bid price of US$22xxxxxxx as per the Contractor’s Bid. The NPTAB also acknowledged and announced the 23% discount offered on a supplemental attachment within the bid document, after, this was brought to the attention of the NPTAB at the time of opening. Several matters are pertinent here:
The official price of a bid is what is contained in the Contractor’s Bid which is an obligatory, non-contestable issue.
No supplemental document can compromise that bid price irrespective of wherever else such adjustment in the price is made in the body of the bid.

*If Fedders Lloyd is offering a price discount then that discount MUST be clearly made on the Contractor’s Bid.

*The fact of the matter, however, is that Fedders Lloyd’s bid was not deemed non-responsive on the grounds of the discount being offered and or the manner in which it was offered.

*With the discounted price of 23% of the bid price Fedders Lloyd correctly assumed that it offered the “lowest priced bid”. What is most pertinent to point out here is that it is not necessarily the “lowest priced bid” that is the successful bidder. The NPTAB rules prescribe that the winning bidder will be the “Lowest evaluated Bid”.

5.The Ministry of Health is not responsible for the lack of knowledge and or understanding of Fedders Lloyd to the evaluation criteria. The evaluation criteria utilized for the assessment of the bid-as is the standard operating procedure for all tenders in Guyana- is administrative compliance, followed by technical compliance, followed by price. Clearly neither technical nor financial compliance is of any material value if the tenderer fails administrative compliance.

6.The association of Fedder Lloyd with other companies is purely a matter for Fedders Lloyd Corporation and is not a matter for the attention of this bid. The bid was made in the name of Fedders Lloyd Corporation Limited and not as Fedder Lloyd in consortium with NOUS Hospital. If Fedders Lloyd intended to bid as a consortium then the legal arrangements of the consortium would have had to be made clear in the bid proposal. In such a formulation, the bid security would have had to be in the name of the consortium and not Fedders Lloyd alone. Clearly
Fedders Lloyd is unclear of what it wants to be and is guilty of trying to modify the process to fit its nebulous state.

The other matters raised in your letter pertains to personal aspects of the corporate nature of Fedders Lloyd Corporation and are all immaterial to the consideration of the bid for the “design, build and equip” of the Specialty hospital. That Fedders Lloyd work in many areas and in several countries and is engaged in an assortment of activities is not a unique nor propriety feature of the Fedders Lloyd Corporation. While it is information that is useful to know such information is not factored into the rigorous and detailed criteria used to assess the “lowest evaluated bidder” for the project.
The Ministry of Health wishes to thank the Fedders Lloyd Corporation for participating in the bid for the “design, build and equip” of the Specialty Hospital in Guyana. We trust that your concerns have been allayed and that your corporation has accepted that we have endeavored to openly and transparently assess the best offer made to the country.

Adam may be changing his stripes

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:08:01 +0000

THE name Adam Harris is well known throughout Guyana and as a journalist and media practitioner, he was well respected. The latest machinations from Kaieteur News leads one to believe that, ”Adam” as he’s popularly known maybe changing his stripes or compromising his stance on many issues of the day. Adam as editor of the aforementioned publication was known for using his vast skill and astute experience in managing various media houses. Like or hate his politics, persons always respected his acumen in dealing with media issues due to his decades of experience in the field. By allowing his publication to go on the attack against the former president due to what can only be described as a personal vendetta by the owner and publisher is surprising indeed.
Adam served as editor for various media houses and was known to stand his ground on various contentious issues. Many of these issues, he said were not to be compromised and he would stress that persons deal with issues and not get personal. He was known for saying that he would never allow his core beliefs to be compromised in order to make a fast dollar or belittle another person. Given his experience in dealing with both the previous and current governing administrations, it makes one question his journalist skills in managing his current mandate at Kaieteur News, skills which were not in question until now. The decision to publish the photos of homes of two former world leaders as justification for publishing the home of former President Bharrat Jagdeo should indeed be seen as shocking. This juxtaposition would have been unthinkable even a few years ago but then again his current employer is no stranger to controversy and one can only hope that some bit of class and common sense can still prevail in the editor, a man who was known to stand for fairness and certain principles.

GRA New Amsterdam office deals with motor vehicle licences

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:08:31 +0000

REFERENCE is made to a letter published in your newspaper dated August 30, 2012 and captioned “Passport office and the Berbice Bridge.” The letter written by Mr. Ray Chickrie, stated that “Berbicians are bitterly complaining about the long journey to Georgetown to the passport and motor vehicle offices’ and further, that ‘unless one is not willing to bribe, the process can’t be expedited quickly and that they are intimidated not to do so”.
Mr. Editor, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) applauds Mr. Chickrie on bringing the issue to the public’s and by extension, the GRA’s attention. Notwithstanding this, the GRA believes it is an unfair assessment of the process for obtaining documents for motor vehicles from the authorised motor vehicle licensing authority which falls under the purview of the GRA.

The GRA cannot speak for other entities mentioned in Mr. Chickrie’s letter. However, as it relates to GRA’s Regional Integrated offices countrywide, including New Amsterdam, these offices have been dealing with motor vehicle related services for some time now and have been providing other licensing services in their respective locations to facilitate taxpayers.

Despite publications and advertisements released by the agency, it seems the general public is still unaware that they can access the aforementioned services at our regional offices.

In the case of the bribery allegations, the GRA has a zero tolerance policy against bribery. In fact, the agency recently published notices that members of the public should desist from offering incentives, in the form of cash or kind, to its Officers. Officers requesting such must be reported by members of the public. The only monies members of the public are expected to pay are the fees charged for licensing services or applicable duties or taxes, as is necessary. When such payments are necessary, it must be made to a GRA Cashier and a receipt must be obtained.

The GRA hereby wishes to inform the general public that should any officer solicit incentives to expedite or process transactions, they can contact the Enforcement Hotline on 226-2060.

Obsession with former President Jagdeo continues

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:09:18 +0000

PERMIT me to respond to a letter published by the Stabroek News on September 4, 2012 and written by Cindy Sookdeo, in respect of statements I made in the recently aired NCN debate series in respect of former President Bharat Jagdeo pensions.
In the letter, Ms. Sookdeo, whom I understand to be an executive member of the Alliance for Change (AFC), contends that Mr. Jagdeo received “preferential treatment” in so far as he was allowed to sell a plot of land purchased from the government, which was the subject of a prohibition against such sale.
I have clarified this matter, publicly, two years ago. I will do so again. In 1997, Mr. Jagdeo purchased from the Government of Guyana, a plot of land situated at Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara. He did so like thousands of other Guyanese who benefitted from the government’s housing policy. At the time, he was not President. He was the Finance Minister. Like thousands of Guyanese in like circumstances, his transport was subject to a condition that he could not have sold the land which is the subject of the transport until after the expiration of ten years of the issue of the said transport. President Jagdeo faithfully observed that condition of the transport to its letter. He sold the said plot of land in the year 2010. The condition had expired.
Ms. Sookdeo next argues that the allocation to a former Chairman of Region 10, of a house lot in the area where Mr. Jagdeo current property is located, constitutes “empirical data” in support of her contention, that the offer to sell two acres of land was only made to Mr. Jagdeo. By any standard, this is befuddling logic. The simple and plain fact is that the Regional Chairman could only have been allocated that for which he made an offer to buy. Is there any evidence whatsoever that he made an offer to buy a larger portion than that which he was allocated? No such evidence has been made available. The contention of Ms Sookdeo, therefore dies a natural death.
The remainder of the letter consists of inferences drawn and conclusions made, all predicated upon the two aforementioned false premises. They are not, therefore, deserving of a response.
And the obsession with former President Jagdeo continues. It has now shifted from his pensions to his property. I wonder what is next.

Health Ministry responds to Fedders-Lloyd Corporation Limited

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:15:18 +0000

THE Ministry of Health has responded to a letter from Fedders-Lloyd Coproration Limited concerning the design, building, and equipping of a specialty surgical hospital at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.
Following is the text of the letter from the ministry:
The Ministry of Health has diligently pursued the process of tendering and awarding the contract to Design, Build and Equip the Specialty Hospital for Guyana with due diligence and full transparency, adhering throughout the process to good, sound and proper policies and procedures. It is obvious to the ministry that in such an open and competitive process that attracted five bids from reputable Indian firms, only one firm will be successful.
In such a competitive environment it is natural that the non-winning bidder/s may wish to seek clarification/s pertaining to their bids. Naturally our National Procurement Procedures allow for such an eventuality and the Ministry of Health is willing and ready at all times to offer guidance and clarifications to such requests. However, this process requires that the matters of concern/s be addressed officially to the relevant and appropriate authorities. The ministry recognizes your letter under earlier reference as such an endeavour and effort on the part of Fedders Lloyd Corporation. It is with great regret that Fedders-Lloyd Corporation has only now sought to utilize this “official mechanism” in preference to their several press announcements and press interviews that were obviously designed to castigate the integrity of our professional evaluators and in the end, politicize a most judicious and transparent process.
In the spirit of this review mechanism which your Corporation has officially requested, the Ministry of Health hereby responds to the 6 points you have raised in numerical sequence as follows:-
1. We acknowledge that the letter from our High Commission in India dated April 13th 2012, announced to all prospective bidders the official “ pre-bid meeting and site visit” to be held on Monday 23rd April 2012, the “bid opening” date on 15th May 2012 and our intention of no further extension to the bid opening date. However, by our letter to all bidders dated 4th May 2012, we officially announced to all bidders “additional information to Bidders” following the pre-bid meeting of 23rd April 2012. In that letter our Project Manager wrote as follows “Further, two of the contractors during the recent pre-bid meeting and site visit requested an extension of the closing date for submission by at least one more month. The closing date for the submission was 15th May 2012. The client has considered this request and has decided to grant a further extension for the submission of bids to Tuesday 26th June 2012.” As is usual in such circumstance, and in order to allow for the most competitive process by facilitating the largest number of interested bidders to participate in the bidding process, the Ministry of Health took the decision it did at the pre-bid meeting. This does not in any way or circumstance violate any stipulation of international competitive bidding. On the contrary this is a standard procedure and is intended mainly to facilitate the widest participation in the bidding process.
2. Addendum No 6 dated 20th June 2012, which you referred to, constituted mainly clarifications of questions raised at the pre-bid meeting and other clarifications raised by bidders who were not present at the pre-bid meeting. As is the standard international practice these clarifications must be circulated, in writing, to all bidders. The issue raised that only 6 days rather than 14 days separated the official date of notification and the opening of bids could have been grounds for Fedders- Lloyd or any other bidder to request a further deferral of the opening date of the bid by the appropriate number of days. No Bidder (including Fedders -Lloyd Corporation) made such a request having regard to the already generous consideration of the client for earlier extensions. The Ministry of Health is satisfied that this matter does not constitute a material breach of process for Fedders-Lloyd to be aggrieved. If indeed this was such a contentious matter Fedders-Lloyd could have requested a deferral of the bid opening date.
3. The question of the Bid Security and the originating source has been a matter of numerous press commentaries by Fedders-Lloyd Corporation and now finally a matter of concern in your official correspondence to the ministry. The ministry wishes to make pellucid its position on this matter. The Pre-Bid meeting and decisions taken thereat are binding on all bidders and override all other previous instructions to bidders. In the particular circumstance, the pre-bid decision clarified the general conditions in the instructions to bidders Clause 13.2. The clarification and instructions emanating from that meeting- at which Fedders-Lloyd was present at very senior representation- and which record was communicated to and received by Fedders-Lloyd, in writing, clearly stipulated that the bid security must be from an Indian Bank. Fedders-Lloyd Corporation submitted its bid security from the Bank of Nova Scotia in Guyana. There is no evidence that the bid security was supplied by the Axis Bank of India with correspondence Bank relations in Guyana. This is in breach of the instructions to bidders and on technical grounds Fedders-Lloyd should have been disqualified on this ground alone. Nevertheless, the evaluation committee did not disqualify Fedders-Lloyd on this ground. On the other hand, the winning bidder supplied its bid security from an Indian Bank with correspondence banking relations with a local Bank. The ministry trust that this puts to rest the concerns of Fedders-Lloyd Corporation and that in the same manner that it outrageously made false, grossly inaccurate and derogatory public pronouncements, it will have the humility to be a gracious non-winner in this particular bid and inform its publicity campaigners and spokespersons of the pertinent facts.
4. The NPTAB acknowledged and announced the official bid price of US$22xxxxxxx as per the Contractor’s Bid. The NPTAB also acknowledged and announced the 23% discount offered on a supplemental attachment within the bid document, after, this was brought to the attention of the NPTAB at the time of opening. Several matters are pertinent here:
* The official price of a bid is what is contained in the Contractor’s Bid which is an obligatory, non contestable issue.
* No supplemental document can compromise that bid price irrespective of wherever else such adjustment in the price is made in the body of the bid.
* If Fedders-Lloyd is offering a price discount then that discount MUST be clearly made on the Contractor’s Bid.
* The fact of the matter, however, is that Fedders-Lloyd’s bid was not deemed non-responsive on the grounds of the discount being offered and or the manner in which it was offered.
* With the discounted price of 23% of the bid price Fedders-Lloyd correctly assumed that it offered the “lowest priced bid”. What is most pertinent to point out here is that it is not necessarily the “lowest priced bid” that is the successful bidder. The NPTAB rules prescribe that the winning bidder will be the “Lowest evaluated Bid”.
5. The Ministry of Health is not responsible for the lack of knowledge and or understanding of Fedders Lloyd to the evaluation criteria. The evaluation criteria utilized for the assessment of the bid-as is the standard operating procedure for all tenders in Guyana- is administrative compliance, followed by technical compliance, followed by price. Clearly neither technical nor financial compliance is of any material value if the tenderer fails administrative compliance.
6. The association of Fedders- Lloyd with other companies is purely a matter for Fedders-Lloyd Corporation and is not a matter for the attention of this bid. The bid was made in the name of Fedders-Lloyd Corporation Limited and not as Fedder-Lloyd in consortium with NOUS Hospital. If Fedders-Lloyd intended to bid as a consortium then the legal arrangements of the consortium would have had to be made clear in the bid proposal. In such a formulation, the bid security would have had to be in the name of the consortium and not Fedders-Lloyd alone. Clearly
Fedders-Lloyd is unclear of what it wants to be and is guilty of trying to modify the process to fit its nebulous state.
The other matters raised in your letter pertains to personal aspects of the corporate nature of Fedders-Lloyd Corporation and are all immaterial to the consideration of the bid for the “design, build and equip” of the Specialty hospital. That Fedders-Lloyd work in many areas and in several countries and is engaged in an assortment of activities is not a unique nor propriety feature of the Fedders-Lloyd Corporation. While it is information that is useful to know such information are not factored into the rigorous and detailed criteria used to assess the “lowest evaluated bidder” for the project.
The Ministry of Health wishes to thank the Fedders-Lloyd Corporation for participating in the bid for the “design, build and equip” of the Specialty Hospital in Guyana. We trust that your concerns have been allayed and that your corporation has accepted that we have endeavoured to openly and transparently assess the best offer made to the country.

Best Regards
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Health.

PYO marks 60 years with spectacular cultural evening

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:17:24 +0000

THE Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) yesterday evening celebrated its 60th anniversary with a grand cultural evening at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (Red House) High Street, Kingston, Georgetown.
Guests were treated to cultural displays of song and dance from PYO members across the country.
Reminiscences of the path of the organisation were delivered by Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, Omar Sharif and Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali.
President Donald Ramotar, the key note speaker, congratulated the organisation on the milestone and exhorted its members to be ready to defend the democracy and to work to build the country.
The PYO was founded in 1952 by the late President Cheddie Jagan to assist in the fight for social and national liberation and Independence. It is the youth arm of the ruling party, the PPP.

One dead, two injured in horrific early morning two-truck smash-up at Kairuni

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:18:06 +0000

ONE man is dead and at least two have been injured in a horrific ‘smash up’ involving two trucks at Kairuni, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, at around 02:30 hrs yesterday.
The dead man has been identified as 27-year-old Ramesh Praimlall, also called ‘Sharook’, of Lot 14 Supply, Mahaica. The owner of the vehicle and another employee travelling with Praimlall in the cab of the truck have also been injured and had to be admitted to the Mackenzie Hospital.
Praimlall was reportedly pinned under the truck for a prolonged period, and suffered extensive injuries. He was pronounced ‘dead on arrival’ at the Mackenzie Hospital. Late yesterday his body remained at the Mackenzie Hospital mortuary. His grieving relatives told this newspaper that, earlier in the day, they had been advised by authorities at the Mackenzie Hospital, that Praimlall’s body would be transported to the Lyken Funeral Parlour, and that they could go there to identify him. However, late into the afternoon, the body had still not come to Georgetown.
A police report said that at around 02:30hrs yesterday, Ramesh Praimlall was driving motor lorry GPP 2252 when, in the vicinity of Kairuni on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway, he collided with the rear of motor lorry GLL 1645, which was parked on the roadway.
Police said Hardat Singh and Arjune Persaud of Mahaicony, ECD received injuries and were taken to the Mackenzie Hospital, where Ramesh Praimlall was pronounced dead on arrival while the others were admitted for medical treatment. One of the injured was discharged later in the afternoon.
Praimlall’s grieving mother told the Guyana Chronicle that he had left home on the previous afternoon (Sunday) to pick up the truck and his bossman at Montrose, Lower East Coast Demerara, as they were heading for the Rupununi, where they would work in the backdam. She confirmed that a tractor/trailer was mounted on the truck her son had been driving.
Other reports reaching this newspaper said that one of the trucks was damaged beyond repair. The driver was said to have been pinned after his vehicle hit the parked truck in foggy weather conditions, with no lights in the area. The parked truck ended up on its side, but its driver did not suffer any life-threatening injuries.

Wood-ants infested lamp post crashes onto Guhoc Park house - Three children escape injuries

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:18:29 +0000

A GUYANA Power and Light (GPL) wood-ants infested lamp post crashed onto a Guyhoc Park house last night with three children narrowly escaping injuries.
The lamp post broke at the base and landed precariously on the building.
The children – two girls aged 12 and eight and their four-year-old brother were in the home and their mother, Atesha Rodrigues had just stepped out into the yard and was speaking with a neighbour when the accident happened. Atesha’s husband, Chad who works in down-town Georgetown, was still at work and on receiving the message, immediately alerted GPL.
Atesha said the pole fell around 19:30 hrs, landing heavily on the building and causing wires to go sparking in the building. “When I looked I saw fire sparking from the roof and my children were in the house. I ran towards them, and the four-year-old boy jumped over the verandah while his sisters ran through the door,” she related nervously.
Neighbours ran to the rescue and began dousing the building, first with water, and later with sand, on being advised of the danger of using water on an electrical fire.
Considerable damage was done to the house, and the occupants were discommoded for the remainder of the evening with sand and water everywhere in the building. But Atesha and Chad are both thanking God for spared lives, and that the building was not engulfed. Long after GPL had left and persons began moving off the scene, the woman and her children remained badly traumatized.
Meanwhile, they lamented having made several complaints to GPL about the condition of the lamp post which was taken over with wood-ants at the base. They said the inside of the post was eaten out by the ants, rendering it hallow.
But fire officials on the scene cautioned that now the pole is down, the pressure on the wires in the entire network at that location has been greatly increased. As a result, there is imminent danger of a greater catastrophe occurring.

Chairman Wolfe assures… Linden Inquiry Commission will not prejudge occurrences, persons

Admin2 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:18:51 +0000

THE Commissioners for the Inquiry into the tragic events of July 18 at Linden, in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice), met with the media yesterday and pledged that there will be no pre-judgment of the occurrences or persons affected or involved.
“We are not going to prejudge any situation. We will make our decisions based upon the evidence and the evidence alone,” was the affirmation offered by the Chairman, former Jamaica Chief Justice, Lensley Wolfe.
The venue was the Law Library of the High Court where the proceedings will be conducted and those present at the briefing included Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Ronald Burch-Smith.
Other attorneys–at-law, Mr. Ganesh Hira and Mr. Euclin Gomes, who are Counsel to the Commission; Mr Hugh Denbow, Administrator and Commissioners, retired Guyana Appeal Court Justice Claudette Singh; former National Security Minister of Jamaica, Queen’s Counsel K.D. Knights and former independent Senator of Trinidad and Tobago, Senior Counsel Dana Seetahal.
Absent was another Commissioner, Ex-Guyana Chancellor of the Judiciary Cecil Kennard.
Burch-Smith disclosed that Kennard should return to Guyana next week and is expected to take the Oath of Office immediately and commence work with the others.
Commission members spoke yesterday about their current activities and plans to complete their assignment in a timely manner, given the social and political importance of the issues involved.
Secretary Burch-Smith announced that all sittings will be open to the public, as well, the only exception being any instances where a decision is taken to hold the hearing in camera or behind closed doors.
The sessions will not be continuous but the Commission may meet every day for two to three weeks and then take a break, he said.

Now determining
Burch-Smith said that the members are now determining the Rules of Procedures (ROP) to be followed in keeping with the Commission of Inquiries Act, Chapter 19:03 of the Laws of Guyana.
He said procedures to be adopted will be finalised when Commissioner Kennard joins the team and they will be made known to the public by way of print and other media.
Burch-Smith explained that the ROP will comprise not only how the Inquiry will be conducted but also contain provisions for how persons who may have information of importance to the Commission should communicate it.
“There will soon be publicised information which sets out a location for persons to deliver statements that they wish to be considered by the Commission,” he said.
He said persons will be free to write their statements on their own or with the assistance of an attorney or some other person who is familiar with how they are prepared but such attestations must be relevant to the Terms of Reference of the Commission.

‘We are not going to prejudge any situation. We will make our decisions based upon the evidence and the evidence alone,’ - Chairman of COI, former Jamaica Chief Justice Lensley Wolfe.

Persons who may not want to prepare the documentation themselves would be assisted by the two counsels to the Commission, Hira and Gomes.
Burch-Smith also mentioned plans to set up a branch office in Linden where, on specified days, persons from the Commission will be available to assist members of the public who have information to put in their statements.
Chairman Wolfe stressed that any person who has knowledge of what took place on July 18 at Linden can elect to give a statement and, having looked at it, the Commission will decide whether the individual or all of such persons will be invited to testify.
He said the Commission would, first, look at statements and then decide who will be called to testify under oath, based on relevance of the information provided.

Selective approach
“If 300 persons are saying the same thing, why would you call the 300 persons to say the same thing,” he asked, explaining the selective approach.
Commenting on the involvement of senior officials like the Minister of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of Police, Justice Wolfe said, if the Commission is of the view that their testimony can assist in the resolution of issues that must be decided, the members would be willing to call them to testify.
On the question of recommendations for compensation, Commissioner Knights said persons who are found to be eligible will be adequately compensated since many of them are expected to be represented by local lawyers who will make their recommendations in terms of what obtains in Guyana.
About getting at the truth and fairplay for those who may be implicated, Senior Counsel Seetahal said lawyers will be representing such persons and would be cross-examining witnesses.
“So, if a witness seeks to hide matters or misrepresent a situation, then the testimony of that witness will be tested. There will also be other evidence given by other witnesses who may contradict it and that is what the Commissioners will be looking at; finding out what is true and what is not true,” she said.

Champions Lancashire relegated

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 05:55:58 +0000

REIGNING champions Lancashire were relegated from the First Division of England's County Championship yesterday.
Lancashire, who last season ended a 77-year wait for the outright title, had to beat Middlesex at Lord's after relegation rivals Surrey defeated Nottinghamshire across London at The Oval.
Instead, and despite 10 wickets in the match from captain Glen Chapple, Lancashire lost by 109 with Australian seamer Steven Crook, who started his county career with the 'Red Rose', taking five for 48 as the visitors were dismissed for 194.
"You don't win the Championship then go into the following season thinking you might get relegated," veteran paceman Chapple told the BBC.
"It's something we'll have to look at as to whether we might have been complacent after last year. One for the psychologists maybe. But we certainly worked hard enough.
"All the lads have given everything they had this season, but we have just not put ourselves in enough winning positions and, when we have, we haven't capitalised on them.
"I don't want to talk about the weather. I don't want the supporters to think we're making excuses. We've still played enough cricket to get points on the board but we've made mistakes at bad times." (AFP)

Pietersen not given an England central contract

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 05:56:40 +0000

KEVIN Pietersen has not been awarded an England central contract for the 2013 season, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced.
Ten players have been given them though, and a further four have been handed incremental contracts.
Talks with Pietersen, 32, are ongoing and remain private, the ECB said.
The Surrey player was dropped for the third Test against South Africa for sending text messages to rival players, allegedly criticising team-mates.
The new contracts are the first to be issued in the post-Andrew Strauss era.
Former England opener Strauss retired from all forms of the game, including his role as Test captain, last week.
Pietersen's omission comes after he had admitted sending "provocative" texts and issued a public apology, before dismissing them as "banter".
The South Africa-born batsman and part-time bowler spoke to Strauss before and after his resignation as Test captain and held talks with England team director Andy Flower.
National selector Geoff Miller said: "Contracts are ongoing recognition for those players who have regularly been selected for England and have performed consistently, as well as players who we feel could play an important role for England over the next 12 months."
The 10 players that have been awarded central contracts are James Anderson (Lancashire), Ian Bell (Warwickshire), Tim Bresnan (Yorkshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Alastair Cook (Essex), Steven Finn (Middlesex), Eoin Morgan (Middlesex), Matt Prior (Sussex), Graeme Swann (Nottinghamshire) and Jonathan Trott (Warwickshire).
The four players who have been awarded incremental contracts are Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Ravi Bopara (Essex), Craig Kieswetter (Somerset) and Graham Onions (Durham).
Miller said: "Congratulations to Graham Onions, who is the one addition to the list of players who have been awarded increment contracts, and is in recognition of the effort he has put in since his return from injury in 2011 and an indication that we feel he has plenty to offer England in the coming months.” (BBC Sport)

Bhajji set to begin new chapter ... ‘It's always tough when you are out’

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 05:57:28 +0000

VISAKHAPATNAM: Harbhajan Singh has said that his comeback in the T20 series against New Zealand will be the beginning of a "new chapter" in his career, following an extended international downtime of over a year.
"I won't say this is a second debut but yes, it's going to be a new day and a new chapter for me," he said.
The 32-year-old last played international cricket in August, 2011, before being sidelined by injury and R. Ashwin’s rising star.
"It's not that I was dropped for the first time last year. But it has been for the longest period of time. It makes you feel as if you are doing it for the first time," he said.
Despite an experience of 98 Tests and 229 ODIs, the off-spinner said a return to India colours always involved the constant challenge of passing critical assessment.
"It's always tough when you are out. Making a comeback is tougher than earning your maiden international call. It involves a lot of things. When you're out, you get injured and then again out. It's always been challenging."
Harbhajan has been playing for English county Essex, where he picked up 11 wickets in two matches, before single-handedly (5/37, 22) blasting his team to a win over Netherlands in a Pro-40 game.
"I was ready to work hard and take challenge. You get your family and friends’ support, but at the end of the day you're all alone fighting it out there in the middle. With Almighty's help, I'm here again and now I'm looking forward towards doing well," he said.
Harbhajan said he was always eager to perform well for the country without resting on the past laurels, and that it was his willpower ad desire to play for the country that had brought him into contention again.
"You cannot live in the past glory. For anyone, it does not depend on what you've done in the past but what you do in the present and future. In my case, I had the willpower and the desire to wear the India jersey again - it's the biggest thing for me. It makes me proud."
It will be a double comeback against New Zealand as cancer survivor Yuvraj Singh also returns to the international fold.
"We all are proud of Yuvraj,” Bhajji said, “He has always been a true fighter. There was fear and doubt about the life-threatening disease. But he never had any doubt and was always positive."
"The sufferer only feels the real pain. The days must be quite long for him when he was taking chemotherapy... Glad that he has come out strong. Obviously, it will inspire all the cancer patients. Hats off to him for the way he fought it with his mother by his side. He is a role model," he added.
Harbhajan was part of the 2007 World T20 winning side. He called the experience a life-changing one. “It was a tournament that changed Indian cricket. We were never the favourites. Nobody actually felt that we could win it. Everybody wrote us off saying we're a young side. Moreover, the format was new to us. Despite all odds, we did it.”
“Now with IPL, the guys are really doing well in this format. It's always an honour to represent the country in World Cup.
“We all are looking forward to it. Hope to enjoy the moment playing in the World Cup and come out with flying colours,” he added.
On his rivalry with Ashwin, Harbhajan said, “He has done very well for India. It's great to see Indian bowlers doing well. I've always stated that healthy competition is always good. I'm looking forward towards forging a potent partnership with him.”

Hosts Sri Lanka ready for the show

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 05:58:12 +0000

INDIA - Twenty20 is the flavour this cricket season in Sri Lanka. The T20 fever hit the Lankan fans with the inaugural Sri Lankan Premier League and the party will continue with the World T20 Cup starting in the country on September 18.
While last month's Sri Lanka Premier League was played in Colombo and Pallekele, the Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium in Hambantota will be a third venue for the World T20.
"All arrangements are done, it's an honour for us to host the event. It's a momentous occasion in Sri Lanka," says SLC president Upali Dharmadasa.
"We've always looked to India as our big brother. So, we're hoping to see Indian fans during the tournament as they had come last year when we jointly staged the 2011 World Cup."
The SLC ran up a massive $69M debt after staging the World Cup last year, for which they built new stadiums. As a result, their cricketers were not paid for over a year. However, the matter was recently sorted out.

DRAWING CROWDS
"We have governmental support, especially a key role by the ministry of tourism.
The economic and tourism sectors want to take advantage of the situation. The world is suffering from recession, but Sri Lanka has been able to hold on," Dharmadasa says.
So, will one get to see full stadiums during the tournament? "The tickets went on sale on August 1, and by the next day, the last batch was sold out. The ICC has worked out a deal whereby SLC gets $3M from ticket sales," the president informs. (Hindustan Times)–

Cash-strapped IPL franchise Deccan Chargers up for sale

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 05:59:17 +0000

(REUTERS) - The cash-strapped Hyderabad franchise of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has invited bids for its Twenty20 team in what is perceived as yet another sign of the league's diminishing sheen.
Deccan Chronicle Holdings, the owners of Deccan Chargers, issued a tender notice on Thursday putting the team up for sale after getting the nod of the Indian cricket board (BCCI) which discussed the issue in a meeting on Monday.
"Of course, they have the go-ahead from the BCCI," Ratnakar Shetty, the board's chief administrative officer, told Reuters yesterday.
The new franchisee owner will be announced on September 13.
"The winning bidder will acquire ... the right to own and operate the IPL team currently known as the Deccan Chargers which is and will continue to be based in Hyderabad," the tender notice said.
Indian consumer electronics maker Videocon Industries is interested in buying the franchise while the Chennai-based Sun Group is also tipped by the local media as one of the contenders.
"Yes, we are interested and will place our bids for buying out Deccan Chargers. It's a good fit for our brand and will be used to connect to our consumers," Venugopal Dhoot, chairman of the Videocon Group, told the Times of India newspaper.
Deccan Chronicle paid $107 million in 2008 to bag the franchisee for 10 years. The team finished last in the inaugural edition of the IPL but came back strongly to win the next edition in South Africa in 2009.
Sri Lankan batsman Kumar Sangakkara captained the team in the 2012 edition of the cash-rich IPL, which also included South Africa paceman Dale Steyn.
Since its 2008 inception, the IPL dazzled fans and offended purists with player auctions, post-game parties and heavy advertising.
The league's celebrity franchise owners include Reliance Industries chief Mukesh Ambani, India's richest man, as well as spirits and airline magnate Vijay Mallya and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan.
However, a series of scandals has tarnished the league's image.
The BCCI sacked IPL Chairman Lalit Modi in 2010 following corruption charges and viewers' fatigue has prompted a dip in TV ratings.
Last year, the board terminated the contract of the Kochi franchise for payment default while DLF, India's largest real estate firm, terminated the title sponsorship of the league last month ending a five-year association.

Pakistan take T20 series after Super Over

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:00:03 +0000

SELDOM has the fickleness of Twenty20 been more evident. Pakistan claimed the series against Australia, but did so in circumstances as far removed from the hiding dealt out in the first match as could be imagined.
Mohammad Hafeez's team celebrated their victory in the minutes after midnight in Dubai, yet George Bailey's Australians could also take solace from a much-improved display.
Two days after being routed for 89 on the way to a seven-wicket hiding, Australia scrapped to an enthralling tie.
They owed much to the captain George Bailey, who on his 30th birthday compiled the most critical and substantial innings of his T20 career to date, proving his worth as a batsman as well as a captain in the process.
But it would be Pakistan's players who were to be jubilant after the extra deliveries were completed. Umar Gul conceded only one boundary in his Super Over while claiming David Warner's wicket, and the 11 runs Pat Cummins had to defend were to prove too few, the teenager delivering a motley collection of short balls that betrayed the draining effect of the contest and offered meat and drink to Umar Akmal and Abdul Razzaq.
It was unfair that Cummins be left the loser, for it was he who struck a mighty six to tie the match up.
Warner and Shane Watson had earlier given Australia a suitably quick start before the top order experienced their now familiar difficulties with the high-class spin bowling of Saeed Ajmal.
After three overs he had the figures of 2-10, but Ajmal's last ball was to be crashed over the boundary by Bailey to ease the pressure on Australia's chase.
Ten were required off the final over, bowled by Razzaq, and Pakistan were expectant when Bailey fell. Cummins conjured a stunning six from the penultimate ball to level the scores, before miscuing the final delivery for a simple catch to force the use of the Super Over.
Mohammad Hafeez and Nasir Jamshed provided the spine of Pakistan's innings with a stand of 76, broken only by a superlative catch by Dan Christian, before Umar and Kamran Akmal hit out freely at the finish in a union of 46.
Mitchell Starc bowled with swing, speed and economy on his T20I debut to follow up some fine 50-over efforts in Sharjah, but Brad Hogg endured a more difficult outing and was attacked with some relish by Pakistan's batsmen.
Warner has struggled for batting momentum at times on this trip, but he made a swift start to the chase, punching Hafeez's first ball for six and prospering against the pacemen in the company of Shane Watson. However he was to prove no closer to extricating himself from Ajmal's web, bowled in the off-spinner's first over having tried unsuccessfully to switch-hit his first ball.
The wicket brought an immediate halt to Australia's momentum, the rate slipping from almost 10 to less than seven in a handful of balls. Michael Hussey and Watson rallied briefly, before Ajmal's reintroduction had the vice-captain sweeping fatally. When Cameron White was thrown out from backward point the next over, Pakistan sensed a series win.
However Bailey, on his birthday, summoned some telling blows off both spinners and pacemen, overcoming a nervy start to make his most meaningful batting contribution since he was named Australia's T20 captain at the start of the year.
Michael and David Hussey both perished, but Bailey kept the equation within sight when he pulled Ajmal's final delivery for a towering six.
Bailey brought the equation down to 12 to win from nine balls with consecutive boundaries off Gul, before Matthew Wade was run-out to keep Pakistan breathing. Their pulse strengthened with Bailey's exit, but Cummins forced the contest into extra balls.
Having lost the toss, Australia's opening bowlers found some new ball movement. Hafeez snicked and stroked 12 from the first over of the match, while also surviving a desperately tight lbw appeal to a sharp in-swinger. Starc showed the swing and speed that had made him man of the ODI series, swerving one through Imran Nazir’s second ball.
Hafeez and Jamshed then combined for a noteworthy partnership, which alternated between the considered and the cantankerous in terms of strokeplay.
Jamshed was the beneficiary of an uncharacteristic dropped catch by Michael Hussey from the bowling of his brother David, and capitalised by taking to Hogg in his first overseas international since 2007.
Jamshed's stay was ended by a stupendous diving snare from Dan Christian, sprinting with the flight of the ball and sticking out a despairing hand, then finding with great delight after he landed that the ball had stuck. Watson turfed a less difficult chance from Hafeez off Starc, though he atoned for the error by having Pakistan's captain caught in the deep the following over.
The run-rate had hovered around seven, and helped by a steady diet of full tosses the brothers took it past 7.5 in the closing overs. Umar would be called on for an encore, as Pakistan enjoyed the right side of the nearest run thing many of them will have seen. (ESPN Cricinfo)
PAKISTAN:innings
Mohammad Hafeez c Warner b Watson 45
Imran Nazir b Starc 0
Nasir Jamshed c Christian b Cummins 45
Kamran Akmal not out 43
Umar Akmal c White b Christian 13
Abdul Razzaq not out 2
Extras: (lb-1, w-2) 3
Total: (for four wickets, 20 overs) 151
Fall of wickets: 1-13, 2-89, 3-97, 4-143.
Bowling: Cummins 4-0-37-1 (w-1), Starc 4-0-17-1 (w-1), Watson 4-0-29-1, D. Hussey 1-0-7-0, Christian 3-0-22-1, Hogg 4-0-38-0.

AUSTRALIA:innings
D. Warner b Ajmal 31
S. Watson lbw b Ajmal 33
M. Hussey c Malik b Gul 23
C. White run-out 5
G. Bailey c Arafat b Razzaq 42
D. Hussey b Tanveer 1
M. Wade run-out 6
D. Christian not out 2
P. Cummins c Nazir b Razzaq 7
Extras: (lb-1) 1
Total: (for eight wickets, 20 overs) 151
Fall of wickets: 1-40, 2-79, 3-84, 4-109, 5-117, 6-142, 7-143.
Bowling: Tanveer 4-0-30-1, Hafeez 3-0-28-0, Gul 4-0-32-1, Ajmal 4-0-20-2, Raza 4-0-31-0, Razzaq 1-0-9-2.
Super Over: Australia 11-1 in one over; Pakistan 12-0 in one over.

2014 World Cup finals.. England, Germany, France win but Italy stumble

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:01:08 +0000

LONDON, England (Reuters) - England, Germany, France and the Netherlands all started the long road to the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil with victories but Italy stumbled out of the blocks when the European qualifying campaign began yesterday.
World champions Spain do not begin their bid to reach the finals until Tuesday, but apart from the Italians, held to a 2-2 draw in Group B in Bulgaria, there were no major problems for the continent's big guns.
England won their opening Group H match 5-0 in Moldova, while Germany strolled to a relatively modest 3-0 Group C win over the Faroe Islands.
A first-half goal from Abou Diaby gave France a winning 1-0 start in their Group I campaign against Finland in Helsinki, while the Netherlands beat Turkey 2-0 in Amsterdam in Group D with Robin van Persie and Luciano Narsingh, who hit the second in stoppage time, scoring for the Dutch.
Italy, who have been world champions four times, had a topsy-turvy start in Sofia before drawing 2-2 with Bulgaria with Pablo Osvaldo scoring both their goals to put them 2-1 up after they conceded first.
Georgi Milanov equalised for the home side with 24 minutes to play and Italy could not find a winner.
Two Italians who had better nights than their national team were Fabio Capello and Giovanni Trapattoni, the managers of Russia and Ireland respectively.
Ireland's bid to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 2002 began with a dramatic win as two goals in the final two minutes from Robbie Keane, who netted a penalty, and a volley from Kevin Doyle gave Trapattoni's men a 2-1 win in Kazakhstan in Group C.
Capello's Russia also started with a win, with goals from Viktor Faizulin and Roman Shirokov, who scored from the spot, giving them a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Moscow.
The highest scorers of the night were Bosnia, who began their quest for a first appearance in the finals by thrashing Liechtenstein 8-1 in Vaduz in Group G.
Edin Dzeko, who scored a hat-trick, became Bosnia's all-time leading scorer with 25 goals.

LAMPARD DOUBLE
England were also among the goals, snubbing out any chance of a Moldovan upset with Frank Lampard scoring twice in the opening 29 minutes, the first after three minutes from England's 100th all-time penalty, as he took his England goal tally to 25.
Jermain Defoe marked his 50th appearance for England with a trademark strike after 32 minutes with James Milner and Leighton Baines scoring their first England goals in the second half. Mesut Ozil was on target twice, scoring both his goals in the second half following Mario Goetze's first half opener as Germany beat the Faroes 3-0 in Hanover.
The Netherlands also picked up three points after a shaky start when Turkey went close to a first-minute opener through Omer Toprak but they recovered to win with van Persie and later Narsingh scoring. Portugal did not have things all their own way either before winning 2-1 in Luxembourg after the unfancied hosts took a shock lead through Portuguese-born Daniel da Mota after 13 minutes.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who hit the headlines after failing to celebrate two league goals last weekend for Real Madrid and telling reporters he was "sad", levelled 15 minutes later.
He greeted the goal with a clenched fist, celebrating the equaliser not too exuberantly but apparently happy.
The visitors kept pressing and deservedly took the lead with a coolly-taken drive by Helder Postiga in the 54th minute.
Belgium, whose emerging squad includes a number of players now with high profile clubs in England, reinforced their claims for a place in the finals with a winning 2-0 start in Wales where Manchester City's Vincent Kompany and Tottenham Hotspur's Jan Vertonghen scored.
There was a tense atmosphere, two red cards and firecrackers in Podgorica where Montenegro and Poland, in the same group as England, fought to a 2-2 draw.
Jakub Blaszczykowski put Poland ahead from a fifth-minute penalty but the Poles were angry after their goalkeeper Przemyslaw Tyton was struck by a firecracker thrown from the crowd, with more objects landing nearby.
Nikola Drincic and then, on the stroke of halftime, Mirko Vucinic, gave the hosts the lead, only for Poland to grab an equaliser through Adrian Mierzejewski 10 minuites into the second half.
Tempers became frayed with referee Kristinn Jakobsson sending off Montenegro's Savo Pavicevic and Poland's Ludovic Obraniak within two minutes of each other.
"This looked very similar to a war," said Poland's new coach Waldemar Fornalik.
"Because of this one point is even more valuable."
A total of 22 qualifiers were played yesterday with two more today before the second round of European matches next Tuesday which sees world champions Spain start their campaign in Tbilisi against Georgia who will take confidence from their 1-0 defeat of Belarus.

Serena to meet Azarenka in US Open women’s final

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:02:36 +0000

SERENA Williams thrashed Italy's Sara Errani 6-1 6-2 to reach her sixth US Open final, where she will play top seed Victoria Azarenka.
The 14-time Grand Slam champion, who won Olympic singles gold at London 2012, dispatched 10th seed Errani in just 64 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Williams has lost just one of the 26 matches she has played since her French Open first-round defeat on 29 May.
She will bid for a fourth New York title against Azarenka tomorrow.
Belarusian world number one Azarenka came from a set down to beat Maria Sharapova in yesterday’s opening semi-final
Azarenka will hope to cause a huge upset with victory over Williams, who goes into the match as the overwhelming favourite.
The American has dropped only 19 games in six rounds and is hoping to avenge her loss to Sam Stosur in the 2011 showpiece.
"It's awesome to be back in the final again," said 30-year-old Williams. "I dreamt about this all year and I'm really happy.
"It would be great to win again, but Victoria also wants it. I love playing here. It's always an honour and such a pleasure."
Victory against Errani looked likely from the moment she broke serve with a forehand winner for a 2-0 lead in the first set.
Another stinging forehand sealed the double-break as Errani, the first Italian woman to reach the US Open semi-finals in the Open era, struggled to get her racquet to the ball.
The French Open runner-up did not get a look-in on the Williams delivery and an ace left her 5-0 behind.
Cheers rang out round Arthur Ashe as Errani finally held serve, but Williams closed out the set with a backhand winner before striking in game one of the second set with a similarly brutal stroke.
Errani reeled off an inch-perfect forehand to remain in contention at 6-1 2-1, but she was having to hit the lines to stand any chance.
Three booming aces took Williams to 3-1 and a second break arrived when Errani dumped a forehand into the net.
Williams easily moved to within a game of victory and, although Errani saved one match point, ace number nine ended the contest. (BBC Sport)

Afghans beat T&T in thriller as Bangladesh also win

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:03:10 +0000

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Afghanistan stole a last-over thriller against hosts Trinidad and Tobago while Bangladesh beat Barbados in a rain-ruined game, on the opening day of the Asia vs the Caribbean Twenty20 tournament here Thursday.
Playing at Queen’s Park Oval, Afghanistan chased down 172 for victory, reaching their target with two balls to spare in an exciting finish to the second game of the double-header.
They were piloted by Mohammed Nabi who top-scored with 57, a knock that came off 36 balls and included six fours and two sixes.
He was supported by Gulbodin Naib who smashed an unbeaten 35 off 20 balls with one four and six.
At 140 for seven, the game could have still gone either way but Naib combined with Dawlat Zadran (15 not out) in an unbroken 32-run stand to see the Afghans home.
They needed 10 runs off the last over and clinched victory thanks to a six by Naib off seamer Reyad Emrit (2-25).
Fit-again West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel snared two for 35.
Earlier, opener William Perkins smashed 49 and partner Adrian Barath, 27, to give T&T a rousing start after they won the toss and batted.
They added 78 before Barath perished, after facing 21 balls and hitting three fours.
Perkins, meanwhile, occupied the crease for 31 balls, striking a four and five sixes.
Former T&T captain Daren Ganga stroked a fluent 33 off 29 balls, hitting two fours and a six.
The preceding game was reduced to eight overs per side after rain ravaged the encounter.
Barbados, winning the toss, made 65 for four with Kyle Mayers getting 18 and opener Omar Phillips (15) and Ashley Nurse, 15 not out, chipping in.
Bangladesh reached their target off 6.3 overs with Mushfiqur Rahim hitting a top score of 18.

Windies has attack for all seasons, says confident Gibson

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:03:46 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Head coach Ottis Gibson believes West Indies boasts a bowling attack that will thrive in whatever conditions the team meets during the World Twenty20 Championship starting next week in Sri Lanka.
Conditions in the Asian subcontinent usually favour spin but Gibson said the 15-man squad comprised a well-balanced bowling unit that would be prepared to face the challenges of the surfaces during the September 18 to October 7 tournament.
He said that though the lineup comprised just two specialist spinners, Chris Gayle could be called upon to provide his off-breaks.
“I think we’ve got a squad to suit any conditions. We’ve got two quality spinners in (Samuel) Badree and Sunil Narine, we’ve got some spin from Marlon Samuels … and Chris also bowls,” Gibson said here Thursday.
“If we get there and the wicket is spinning and the captain feels that spin is the better option than pace then of course Chris then becomes a very good option.
“He’s done well all across the world in this format bowling his off-breaks so I’m sure if he’s called on he’ll do that for us as well.”
In a practice match against a UWI Select XI on Thursday, Gayle claimed three for 28 as West Indies won by 77 runs at 3Ws Oval.
Gibson said he was confident about his seam attack which will be led by fast bowlers Fidel Edwards and Ravi Rampaul, and also includes Dwayne Bravo and Andre Russell.
All-rounder Dwayne Smith also bowls sharp medium pace.
“We’ve got quality seam and we’ve got quality spin as well so we’ve got certainly a bowling attack that we believe will be able to strive in any conditions,” Gibson stressed.
West Indies have been in camp at the High Performance Centre since last Saturday in preparation for the WT20.
They played warm-up matches against the HPC and a UWI Select XI on Thursday and will play a final practice game today, before leaving for Colombo tomorrow.
The Windies will clash with Sri Lanka in their first official warm-up fixture on Thursday before facing Afghanistan in the second and final warm-up on September 17.
They will then do battle with Australia and Ireland in Group B, as they chase a spot in the all-important Super Eight second round.
“We know that we have got a very strong unit in this format and we are not really focusing on what other people think of us,” said Gibson.
“We’re getting together every day and training hard in the gym, working hard in the nets and making sure that we have all our bases covered.”

Chanderpauls guide GCC past PSC of T&T

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:05:52 +0000

FOR the first time in the history of local cricket, dependable Guyana and West Indies middle order batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul took the field to participate in a cricket match with his son Tagenarine and father Hemraj.
The occasion was yesterday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, where a GCC Old Boys took on the visiting Perseverance Sports Club (PSC) of Trinidad and Tobago in a 30 overs-a-side encounter.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, PSC, who will be playing their final game here tomorrow, scored 168 for 5 from their allotted overs, with Richard Chatory leading the way with 49 that included two fours and a similar number of sixes.
Demetrius Edwards offered support with an unbeaten 31 (3x4) while Extras was the next best scorer with26.
National Under-19 opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul took 2 for 14, Dru Bahadur 2 for 36 and Hemraj Chanderpaul who opened the bowling with his son Shivnarine, ended with 1 for 32 for GCC who in reply, reached 175 for 2 from 29 overs.
Tagenarine led their batting with an unbeaten 80 that included six fours and received worthy support from his father Shivnarine who was unbeaten on 38 (4x4) when victory was achieved, Richard Jodah 31 and former national wicketkeeper/batsman Sheik Mohammed 22.
Tagenarine and Mohammed had earlier added 59 for the first wicket from 13.2 overs before the latter was dismissed, following which the younger Chanderpaul added 49 for the second wicket from a mere 6.4 overs, with Jodah.
When Jodah was controversially given out run-out by the umpire, even though it was clear to all at the venue that he had passed the popping crease, Shivnarine Chanderpaul joined his son and together they added an unbroken 67 runs for the third wicket from 9 overs.

GTTA expresses condolences at the passing of its president

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:06:49 +0000

FOLLOWING the tragic loss of former Commissioner of the Guyana Police Force and president of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) Henry Greene, General Secretary and former national champion Godfrey Munroe yesterday expressed the Association’s condolences.
Below is the full excerpt of the GTTA’s condolence message:
“The executives and general council of the Guyana Table Tennis Association wish to express heartfelt condolences to the family and relatives of the serving president of the GTTA.
Being an ardent fan and a former player, his zeal and passion for the sport was truly amazing; many times he would be at tournaments from the commencement to the finish.
Upon his ascension to the helm of the sport he brought an unprecedented level of enthusiasm, vigour and vibrancy to the sport and truly lifted the profile and propelled the sport to new heights.
He truly embraced the strategic vision of the sport and worked assiduously to point the association in developing the institutional structures which would lay the foundation for the progression of the sport in the future, while being passionate about the development of human resources and structures.
This resulted in high-level training for our elite athletes which saw Nigel Bryan, Trenace Lowe, Joel Alleyne, Priscilla Greaves and Edinho Lewis benefiting from high-level training at the Lily Yip Table Tennis Training Centre in the USA.
He was a firm advocate in incentives and rewards for athletes’ efforts and a believer that this was a key driver/motivator for the sport.
One of his legacies would surely be the drive for the decentralisation of the sport which saw several committees set up across Guyana that also led to many more players participating in tournaments and being able to access the game.
He was a firm advocate for capacity building with his advocacy for Guyana’s hosting of two International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Level 1 courses which saw over 40 coaches being trained and certified in addition to three Level 2 two coaches being accredited and Guyana hosting an international referee and umpires course which realised over 24 trained umpires.
He was also instrumental in Guyana’s hosting the 53rd Senior Caribbean Table Tennis Championships in 2011 which saw him being recognised by the Caribbean Regional Table Tennis Federation for his excellent organising skills and the organising of the tournament.
It also paved the way for Guyana to be given the status to host a Latin American Championships or world Junior circuit event in 2014-2015.
He was a key driver in the association’s revenue generation planning for which committee he chaired as oresident. He always felt that revenue was key to the realisation of the Association’s plans and programmes and worked very hard with members of this committee.
At the last GTTA’s council meeting he was working until 22:00hrs with members to finalise plans for the national table tennis championships, National Schools Championships, the Ministry’s/Inter-Corporation and business entity championships and for other key international engagements for our cadet players along with the commencement of initial planning and formulation of committees for Guyana’s hosting of the 2013 Caribbean Pre-Cadet championships next July.
He was very methodical in his leadership and would always implore upon his executives and council members to go the extra mile.
Undoubtedly, the sport made great leaps and bounds under his stewardship and he would have surely left a void to be filled, while he would be dearly missed by members of the table tennis fraternity, both locally and regionally.”a

MCYS and DCSL give update on Leonora track - Media fraternity to be updated every two months

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:07:20 +0000

FOLLOWING several enquiries from members of the public and even the sporting fraternity, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) and the engineering firm Design and Construction Services Limited (DCSL) yesterday give an update on the Leonora-based synthetic athletics track.
Present at yesterday’s briefing were MCYS Deputy Permanent Secretary Steve Ninvalle along with Director and Civil Engineer of DCSL, Patrick Pitt and Devi Prashad, with Ninvalle informing those gathered of his Ministry’s desire to engage the media fraternity every two months with regard to the track.
“The MCYS has decided to engage the media on a two-month basis, whereby we can have information as it relates to the track. I think this is the best way to go forward, so as to try to minimise any distortions that may arise,” said Ninvalle, who also stewards the Guyana Amateur Boxing Association.
However in his remarks, Pitt outlined the progress of the Leonora, West Coast Demerara-based track which is expected to cost within the vicinity of US$5M upon completion.
“The project in our estimations has more than 12 phases or lots. We started off with three of those phases which have several lots which should exceed 12 in total, with the first lot that was sub-contracted to Courtney Benn Contracting Services Limited expected to last for a period of six months.
“What we encountered when we started the track was within four to five months, we experienced a flood whenever GUYSUCO would have released its water from down at the back or even high tide, some amount of flooding would occur at the venue,” said Pitt.
He added, “The track was designed to be three feet or more above the road level and to bring you to the point of delay, when we started and encountered rain, it is impossible to take a machine that weighs over 20 tons; it cannot go in and do any work as the ground would be soft.
The other thing is by the time we get down to excavating the earth and set out the area, we encountered obstacles that had to be backfilled in six-inch layers which also took up some time, while BSW Regupol, who was employed to lay the track, needed to be there to give supervision.”
Pitt said that should the Germany-based BSW Regupol who gives warranties on their job discover any problems with the soil, they would have to restart all over, since the track which is of level 11 standards, was being built to international specifications.
“When all that is done, we had to consult with another overseas firm called Tensar International Corporation who specialises in track and what they do, is desire and manufacture fabric/grid for synthetic tracks and in our case, we took grid which is Triax160 to Linden to have it tested and send it to Tensar, who analysed it and designed the fabric/grid which would counteract or reduce the amount of settlement for a period of years,” stated Pitt.
He further explained other processes which Guyana could have gone through, but unfortunately, the funds is not available to have same done while he outlined a four-month wait for an answer from Parliament, that forced DCSL to suspend the works that were being done by the various contractors.
“In December when we got the No Objection to proceed from Parliament, then Tensar was closed for the holiday and even though their local dealer here was Mings Products and Services Limited, the contractor still had to wait for the delivery,” Pitt stated.
Looking at getting things right for the track and at the same time explaining the delays, Pitt said there are many small things that may seem unimportant that need to be done, as the protection of the athletes who will be competing on the track when it is completed should be a priority.
“There are times when the contractor finishes a layer and we experience rain, when they come to test the soil, the moisture content would be too high and you cannot have him put on another layer, as the moisture content is not conducive enough for that and we have to wait until that is possible.
“It is not an ordinary road where you can just add more bitumen or red lume and proceed with it, so I need you guys to understand what needs to be done in order to have this track built according to the specifications set out and, if you have to give a contractor time based on the results you are looking for, then so be it,” stated Pitt.
Ninvalle added that everybody including the Government would like the track to be completed as quickly as possible.
“There are certain things we cannot shift and some that we can and have done so. We’ve had some delinquent contractors who were dealt with forthwith by the MCYS, a trend the Ministry is embarking on, wherein delinquent contractors will be dealt with immediately.
“We want to deliver, but at the same time we want to make sure that when we do that, it is something that is properly done because we know there are concerned citizens out there,” said Ninvalle, while both Pitt and Prashad said seven other locations were looked at before Leonora was chosen.
According to Pitt they are up to Lot five on phase one of the contract, which was signed during the past week and until they have concluded all the lots with the aim to having the track completed, a date with regard to the completion of the track is not available, maybe until after the budget is read next year.

At schools competition launch - IICA, FAO announce financial aid for hydroponics promotion

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:13:13 +0000

THE Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Co-operation on Agriculture (IICA) on Thursday inaugurated the sixth annual Secondary Schools’ Hydroponics Competition at Leonora Secondary School, West Coast Demerara.
Assistant Chief Education Officer Doodmattie Singh, who chaired the programme, said 45 schools from Regions 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam),6 (East Berbice/Corentyne) and 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice) will be participating this year and the official launch was by First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar.
Mrs. Ramotar said she believes that this initiative is necessary in creating awareness of agriculture and agricultural economics, noting that it is becoming an important area of study for food securty, not only in Guyana but in other places worldwide.
“Initiatives like this will, thus, provide our young people with hands-on experience. Moreover, competitions like this will expose our farmers to innovative and new agricultural techniques which would allow them to build agricultural practices that are more efficient and effective,” she said.
Her Excellency also noted that hydroponics is not a new method of agriculture but has been around for a long time. Nevertheless, she believes that it has special relevance to Guyana, given this country’s vulnerabilities to flooding and extreme heat.
Alternative
She said hydroponics is an alternative means of cultivation that needs to be utilised more by local farmers and people who tend kitchen gardens since its benefits are great, one such being that the process aids in saving water.
“Despite the abundance of water in Guyana, there is a cost to its distribution and accessibility. We need to avoid wastage and encourage conservation of our water resources. Hydroponics, by ensuring the more efficient usage of water, achieves this goal,” the First Lady observed.
Mrs. Ramotar observed that, given the practical benefits, any attempt at encouraging hydroponics in agriculture is to be commended and she used the forum to congratulate IICA for its role in promoting the practice and sponsoring the secondary schools’ competition.
She continued:“I want to encourage our schools to take part in this competition because it is not just about agriculture but also about expressing the creativity of our young people. I am confident that this year’s competition will see some very interesting submissions from our schools which can be applied nationally.”
Also present on the occasion was research scientist, Soil & Water Management Department, National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI), Mr. David Fredericks.
He pointed out that NAREI has been involved in judging the rivalry and, according to him, the agency views hydroponics not only as a way to provide sustainable agriculture but also to adapt to climate change.
Utilised
In addition to conserving water and preventing floods, fertilisers are also more fully utilised in hydroponics, he informed.
Country Representative of the United Nations (UN) Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Dr. Lystra Fletcher-Paul expressed delight at being involved in promoting hydroponic production in Guyana.
She also expressed gratitude to the First Lady for being the patron of the 2012 competition and remarked that the launching of it is only one component of a bigger project entitled ‘Expansion of hydroponics activities in Guyana’ which FAO is funding in collaboration with IICA.
Fletcher-Paul revealed that the project budget is approximately $2.2M of which FAO is contributing $1.5M. It will be implemented in three phases.
Firstly, there will be training workshops for agricultural science teachers and students, extension officers of the Ministry of Agriculture and members of the Blue Flame Women’s Group.
The second phase is the establishment of five hydroponic units and the final phase will be transplanting the seedlings of selected crops into the growing medium, under the supervision of IICA.
The start of the competition is a part of phase two of the project and the five hydroponic units which FAO will be financing, will be established in two practical institutions in Georgetown, one on the East Coast of Demerara, one at St. Ignatius School in Lethem, Rupununi and another on the premises of the Blue Flame Women’s Agro-processing Group in Mabaruma, North West District.
Hopeful
Fletcher-Paul said they are hopeful that, at the end of this project, there would be an increase in the number of teachers, students, extension officers and agro-processors trained in hydroponic technology. It is also hoped that there will be more students completing their practical requirements in hydroponics for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) syllabus.
She said that the FAO is also proud to be contributing to the achievement of two of Guyana’s objectives for its Poverty Reduction Strategy, which are to facilitate sustainable and stable production systems among vulnerable groups to increase availability of and accessibility to food and to promote systems of use and consumption of healthy foods for increased nutrition in Guyana, especially among vulnerable groups.
“It is a powerful tool from which you can learn some very important lessons. Firstly, it exposes you to new climate smart technology which would provide you and your school with healthy food to add to your diet. Secondly, it’s a viable means of income generation which does not require back-breaking work which you usually associate with farming and agriculture. Thirdly, it allows you to see the practical application of the theory which you will learn in text books and will, therefore, reinforce the knowledge that you will receive from your teachers,” she lectured the audience.
Representing the IICA in Guyana was Sustainable Rural Development Specialist, Mr. Arnold De Mendonca, who said, through the Hydroponics Competition, the Agriculture Ministry in Guyana has adopted hydroponics technology as an integral component of the Agricultural and Environmental Science syllabi and it also forms a part of the School Based Assessment for CSEC.
He commended the Ministry of Education for partnering with IICA to launch the competition, stating:“This technology offers a pivotal link to agricultural diversification, disaster mitigation and food security,”
This year’s competition will be divided into two phases - training for teachers and students and the actual preparation and planting of the various schools’ hydroponic gardens. The schools will be evaluated by a team of agriculturists over a six-week period.

Despite challenges… Skeldon Sugar Factory modification works to begin in November

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:23:26 +0000

CHIEF Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO), Mr. Paul Bhim has announced that works to modify the Skeldon Sugar Factory will begin some time in November, just after the second crop.
He said although it is in operation, modifications are needed to make it more efficient and an estimated US$7M will be needed to fix the problems.
Bhim said the South African firm, Bosch, has been contracted to do the designs needed for the plant and that is currently in progress and expected to be completed by this month end.
He said the materials required should arrive in Guyana by next week and the actual physical work should set to commence by November month end and conclude before the first crop in 2013.
The factory, which was commissioned in 2009, had been touted as the flagship of the sugar industry, but since it became operational, there have been a number of issues affecting its efficient functioning.
Meanwhile, despite the challenges GuySuCo is facing with the Skeldon factory and recent industrial actions by workers, Bhim said it remains optimistic of being able to achieve the revised production target of 236,000 tonnes.
Favourable
He explained that the current weather conditions are favourable for the industry and they are hopeful that the sunshine will prevail for an extended period.
President of Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Mr. Komal Chand echoed the same sentiments, adding that, once the dry weather persists GUYSUCO should be able to meet the targeted tonnage.
He said, although GUYSUCO is behind schedule in production that is understandable because, for the first three weeks in August, bad weather was experienced. Heavy and consistent rainfall prevented the reaping of sugar cane both manually and mechanically.
However, Chand acknowledged that, due to better weather for the past two weeks, more sugar is yielded from the quantity of cane. He attributed it to the fact that sunshine increases the sucrose content in the canes.
With regards to the recent industrial actions undertaken by factory workers at Blairmont Estate, Bhim advised that normalcy has returned and the factory is proceeding towards its expected production.

Prompt GPL response to house damaged by fallen utility pole

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:24:09 +0000

The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) company responded promptly to the situation in which one of its utility poles fell onto a house at Lot 1A Guyhoc Park on Thursday evening, causing considerable damage to the property and minor injuries to its occupants.
Shortly after 19:30hrs on Thursday, the wood ants-infested pole broke from its base and fell onto the house owned and occupied by Chad Rodrigues and his wife, Atasha, and their three children.
Minutes later on receiving the report made by Chad Rodrigues, GPL dispatched an emergency crew to the scene of the disaster and an assessment of the situation was done. Temporary arrangements were put in place, which saw electricity being restored to a section of the community.
The workers returned to the area early yesterday morning and got to work. By 10:00hrs, they had replaced the broken utility pole with a new one, and power was fully restored to the neighbourhood. The crew also repaired the family’s damaged fence, and has promised to return today to repair the damaged roof of the building.
Mrs. Rodrigues said that when the lamp-post landed on her house, the electric wires began sparking and fire quickly began spreading. The mother, who was at the time, speaking with a neighbour out in the yard, said that when the pole hit the house and she saw the network of dangling wires, her immediate and greatest fear was for the safety of her three children - Catasha 12; Cateshe 8 and Emanuel 4, who were inside.
She ran towards the building to get them, as the terrified sisters scampered to get through the door over which the sparking post hung dangerously. But, little Emanuel, impulsively, jumped over the verandah and was caught by a neighbour.
She thanked the efforts of the kind-hearted neighbours, who even before the arrival of the fire department’s units, put out the fire using buckets of sand. However, the woman yesterday said that she and her 12-year-old daughter suffered injuries which included burns and bruises and were treated at a hospital. Notwithstanding, she said, they were all badly traumatized by the incident and are trying to get over it.
Mrs. Rodrigues and other residents of Guyhoc Park were loud in praise for the Guyana Chronicle for making prompt representation on their behalf on the night of the incident.
As a result of the incident, GPL plans to have a press conference on Monday.
Once out of danger and snug up on his father’s back, four-year old Emmanuel recalling the horrifying incident, told reporters, “When I see de fire, I jump over de verandah and a man catch me.”
Meanwhile, contacted yesterday, GPL’s Public Relations Officer, Ms. Chevonne Sears Murray, who, on behalf of the company expressed regrets over the incident, and said the company views the situation with much concern. Having completed initial repairs, she assured that the Guyana Power and Light was making efforts to have the roof to the Rodrigues’ home repaired as soon as possible.
Reacting to other residents’ complaints yesterday, that more poles in the neighbourhood were infested with wood-ants and needed to be changed, the PRO said that since the company is not always aware when these things happen, consumers are asked to bring it to GPL’s attention as soon as possible.
“Consumers can call the Technical Call Centre at Sophia on telephone numbers: 226-4015 or 226-4016, and make their reports,” she advised.

At rally on partnership… President Ramotar emphasises education key role in ending poverty

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:26:50 +0000

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar said yesterday that if Guyana is going to accelerate social and economic development and put an end to poverty, education has a key role to play in the struggle.

“We have to increase the capacity of our people and the only way I know that can be done is by improving the educational standards within our country.”- President Ramotar

He was speaking at a rally, aimed at promoting partnership for education delivery, in Queen’s College (QC) Auditorium on Thomas Road, Georgetown.
The Head of State said if more attention is given to the allotted money in the budget, it can be seen that a large portion of the expenses goes to the social sector, of which education is a major part.
He declared that there is no better investment than that in education, as by investing in education an investment is being made in the future of Guyana.
Mr. Ramotar said the most important factor for development is people and added: “We have to increase the capacity of our people and the only way I know that can be done is by improving the educational standards within our country.”
He said equality in education can only be achieved if conditions are created in which educational opportunities provided are fully utilized, and noted the emphasis government is placing on the building of schools and dormitories in the interior locations.
President Ramotar said looking at the results of any examination, there is a broader spread with regard to, from which schools the top performers come. He remembered that, several years ago, one could have counted on one hand from where the outstanding ones came and compared that to the fact that the top successful candidate at this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination was from Essequibo.
He observed that science and technology has been playing a prominent role in societal development and said constant focus needs to be placed on improving the quality of education, teaching students to think critically and ensuring that they become multi-disciplined, in order for them to compete with the rest of the world.
Mr. Ramotar acknowledged that the private sector plays an important part in developing national educational standards and should be encouraged to give scholarships to students to attend various higher institutions locally and even to go abroad.
President Ramotar disclosed that United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has formed a body to look at global education, and he has been invited to sit on the steering committee, the first meeting of which he will be attending on September 26.

Two die in three-vehicle smash-up -including Henry Greene and a 10-year-old

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:30:48 +0000

MANY people were shocked yesterday after it was confirmed that former Commissioner of Police Henry Greene and a 10-year-old child, Shaffiya Jamaluddin, were killed in a three-vehicle collision on Harlem Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD).
The tragedy occurred about 09:10hrs as the recently retired Top Cop was driving his motor vehicle, PLL 7411. It is reported that it veered into the lane of car PJJ 4812, which was proceeding in the opposite direction, resulting in a head-on collision between PLL 7411 and Bakewell Canter truck, number GJJ 9067, which was behind motor car PJJ 4812.
Following the crash, Greene and Amaluddin, of Canefield, East Canje, Berbice, who was in PJJ 4812, suffered injuries and were pronounced dead on arrival at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH).
Victor Persaud, 35, of Vriesland, West Bank Demerara, who was driving the canter and two porters on it were also injured. They were all taken to the WDRH but only Persaud was admitted, while the other two were treated and sent away.
Meanwhile, Raheem Kaleem, 45, who was at the wheel of PJJ 4812 along with the other occupants, Reeaz Kaleem, 18, Fawaaz Kaleem, 15, Shaimoon Kaleem, 46, and Zaitoon Hoosein, 26, all of Canefield, were also taken to the WDRH. Shaimoon Kaleem was treated and sent away while the others remained patients.
During the continuing investigations, residents at the scene said Greene was pulled from his mangled white Land Cruiser, showing no obvious physical injuries but collapsed after a few minutes and was conveyed to the WDRH where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Harlem villagers told the Guyana Chronicle they heard the loud impact and, when they rushed out to enquire what had happened, they saw the smash-up and alerted others who helped free the injured persons who were trapped in the vehicles.
It was the Muslim Youth League of Guyana’s ambulance that first responded to the emergency and transported the injured.
Greene’s death follows on the heels of his mother’s earlier this year; as well as that of his colleague, another ex-Commissioner of Police, Laurie Lewis.

Public outcry
Greene, who was hospitalised several times for various ailments and was fingered in a rape scandal in 2011 had been forced into early retirement after a public outcry for him to step down from the helm of the GPF.
The 58-year-old, who was also a qualified Attorney-at-law, had become involved in mining and other businesses after a married mother of two alleged that he had raped her at a hotel last November when she sought his help in a police investigation, an allegation which he denied, claiming they had consensual sexual intercourse.
Greene was sent on leave and the High Court subsequently quashed rape charges against him.
In 2006, the United States had revoked Greene's visa following drug-trafficking accusations which he had also refuted.
After news of Greene’s demise circulated, Director of Sports, Mr. Neil Kumar expressed condolences to his family and relatives.
He said, in a press release, that Greene was elected President of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) on July 31, 2010, at a time when that organisation was experiencing severe managerial difficulties and was unable to carry out its mandate.
Greene used all his experience and put systems in place to ensure the proper and effective forward movement of the association, led by example, and motivated his executives to emulate his very high standards, Kumar said.
The Director added that Greene’s interest in the players was unquestionable and he encouraged them to be committed, dedicated and to strive for success at the highest levels.
“His concerns for the development of the players and the game were obvious in the implementation of attractive incentives for players and his presence at competitions.”

Working relationship
The release said Greene, as President of the GTTA, established a very close working relationship with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission, the corporate community, the Caribbean Regional Table Tennis Federation and the International Table Tennis Federation.
He also promoted a family atmosphere among the GTTA executives, players, parents, coaches, fans and the public at large.
“He touched the lives of many with his democratic management style. He was a leader by example, committed to the cause and honest in his dealings. This stalwart will truly be missed by those with whom he came into contact,” Kumar said.
“The Guyana Table Tennis Association will definitely miss a President, father, mentor, friend and a leader of quality,” the release said.
It revealed that, just a few hours before his death, the Executive Body of the GTTA met, discussed and agreed on the activities for the remainder of the year, such as the National Tournament, the Inter-Organisation Teams Tournament, the Schools teams tournament, the Latin American Pre-Cadet Championship in Venezuela and the North American Championship in the United States as well as the hosting of the Caribbean Pre-Cadet Championships in July 2013.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission, too, tendered sincere condolences to Greene’s immediate and extended family, the GTTA, the sports fraternity and those to whom he would have been near and dear.
Under his presidency, the GTTA accomplished much, decentralising the game to many parts of the country, including Berbice, Essequibo Coast, Bartica, Linden, West Demerara, Mahdia, East and West Bank Demerara.
Distribution of tables to schools in various areas, Regions 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 and 10, Georgetown and the University of Guyana (Turkeyen and Berbice); resuscitation of the National Schools Teams Tournament, the Inter- Organisation Teams Championship and the National Championships.
The GTTA was awarded the Most Improved Sports Association and Best Association of the Year, introduced the Umpire ITTF Basic Coaching Course and training programmes for players overseas, organised a number of level one coaching courses while increasing and strengthening the local training base.

Odingo Green murder trial hearing begins

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:41:52 +0000

THE trial of Odingo Green, called “Dingo”, for the unlawful killing of Nazalene Mohamed, began yesterday before Justice Franklyn Holder and a mixed jury at the Demerara Assizes.
The offence is said to have been committed between February 2 and 12, 2009.
Leading prosecutor, Mrs. Judith Mursalin, who is appearing in association with Miss Diana Kaulesar, will deliver her opening address when the trial continues on Monday.
Ten witnesses are expected to be called by the prosecution.

Murder accused Tekeram Latchanna pleads guilty to manslaughter --to be sentenced on Sept 20

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:42:53 +0000

TEKERAM Latchanna, who had pleaded not guilty to the unlawful killing of Mohamed Rafeek Sheriff, called ‘Sheriff’, on July 18, 2007, yesterday changed his plea to guilty of the lesser count of manslaughter.
Justice Roxanne George postponed sentencing to September 20, 2012.
Prosecuting in the matter are Miss Retina Singh and Mrs. Konyo Sandiford-Thompson.
The facts of the case are that the unlawful killing resulted from a quarrel and a fight between the men, after one of them had worn a jersey belonging to the other, and was told to take it off.
A kitchen knife was said to have been used to commit the crime.
The accused is being defended by Attorney-at-law Mark Waldron.

Unions report… Full resumption by striking City Council workers Monday

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:43:35 +0000

STRIKING Georgetown City Council workers are expected to resume work shortly, in keeping with the terms of resumption agreement signed by their unions on Thursday, at the Ministry of Labour.
The Guyana Local Government Officers Union (GLGOU) and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) had initiated the strike last week over unpaid August salaries and a raft of other issues affecting their members.
GLGOU President Dale Beresford, said that they agreed to resume within 72 hours, with full resumption from Monday. However, they have to meet with the Ministry again on Tuesday.
He said the unions have been assured that there will be no victimisation of employees who had heeded their unions’call.
The meeting on Tuesday is expected to discuss the outstanding issues, which include non-payment of overtime benefits; provision of protective gear; deduction of deposits towards a pension scheme and the Town Clerk’s appointment.
Among the municipal services that were affected by the work stoppage were: the Public Health Department, Day Care, markets, Public Relations Department, Treasury Department, the Stone Depot and the Mechanical Workshop.
Meanwhile, Mayor Hamilton Green and several Councillors, at a recent media briefing, had supported the unions.
Green apologised to the citizenry but claimed the workers had been provoked and industrial action was the only tool left available to them. (Whitney Persaud)

OP extends condolence to Henry Greene’s family, relatives

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:45:23 +0000

The Office of the President (OP) has expressed condolence to the family, relatives and friends of former Commissioner of Police, Henry Greene, DSM., who died today as a result of an accident.
A statement from OP said: “Greene held a long and distinguished career as a public servant, most of which he spent as a member of the Guyana Police Force. His service to the nation beyond his retirement was testimony to his selflessness and unwavering commitment and dedication to policing.”
“As Commissioner of Police he was responsible for the leadership and development of the force and during his career, security of the people of Guyana was a primary preoccupation of his, as demonstrated in his tireless efforts to introduce and promote new and innovative ways of crime fighting.”
“Greene’s contribution to the nation, especially in security will always be remembered.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, other relatives and friends. As much as you miss him, so too will this nation which he served so faithfully.”

Chinese National in custody on immigration probe

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:47:09 +0000

US Evangelical Fellowship donates school supplies for ECD children

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:47:45 +0000

OVER 100 children drawn from Sophia; Industry/Cummings Lodge; Enmore; Bare Root; Unity; La Penitence; Lowlands and other East Coast Demerara villages last Saturday received much-needed school supplies to suitably equip them for the reopening of schools as at September 3, 2012.
The donations of new uniforms and back-packs came with the compliments of Bible Fellowship Pentecostal Assembly of New York Inc., and Partners for Academic Support and Success of New York Inc, United States of America.
Playing a lead role in mobilising and shipping the gift items was US-based Rev. Ben Anthony, President, Founder and Pastor of Bible Fellowship Inc; while local project coordinator, Sister Esther Latchman of Enmore, ECD, conducted the distribution at the Gethsemane Assembly of God Church, 232 Beezie, Enmore.
Distribution continued on Sunday, September 2 at the Lowlands Church, East Coast Demerara. Latchman said the gesture is to be repeated annually.
Reverend Anthony, who was unable to come to Guyana for the presentation, directed to the recipients a message which was read by Sister Esther Latchman. In his opening remarks, Rev. Anthony warmly greeted the children, asserting: “All of you boys and girls who are gathered here today, I want you to know that you are very special and dear to my heart and to the people of Bible Fellowship Inc.”
On a note of encouragement, Rev. Anthony shared recollections of his boyhood days at Newtown, Enmore, where he grew up, claiming that he thus understands the challenges the boys and girls face, having lost his parents at an early age. “So you are not alone,” he said.
But his peculiar circumstances, he said, did not lead him to drop out of school. “This never happened, because during those times, there were people I met along the way who became my role model and whom I emulated - people in the church and in society.
“I met people who were willing to make an investment in me; people who were generous and kind, and used their own resources to bless me and minister to my needs; people who showed me a lot of love and affection, and cared about me so much so that it changed my life forever.”
Such attitude of love, caring and sharing as meted out to him several years ago, Rev. Anthony said, is exactly what is being extended to the children to whose needs the Bible Fellowship Inc. is now ministering.
“These were people with the same passion and fervour as you see today; people like we have today, who worked so hard to make this day a reality and a success.”
In addition, he recalled his teachers had the confidence in him, and his ability to excel and to one day become somebody who could make a difference in a positive light. Through it all, he said, he was resolute, stayed focused, and was determined to succeed in life.
Rev. Anthony recalled that the word ‘failure’ was not in his vocabulary, and affirmed that ‘success’ was his motto.
In perspective, he says, no mountain was too high for him to scale and no valley too low to cross. He admonished the youths to let that same be for them. He urged them to set themselves realistic goals, pursue their dreams and aspirations, and work diligently towards achieving goals.
Having set himself goals, young Anthony worked hard, made sacrifices along the way, and never gave up. Today, without regret, he proudly looks back on the returns of his labour.
In the next few moments, except for the message being read, there was an almost deafening silence as his success story resonated powerfully across the church, where the appreciative band of children listened with rapt attention.

Said Rev. Anthony: “Today, I can say my boyish ambitions which started in Newtown, Enmore, extended to Enmore Primary School, where I passed my PC exams.
* To Cove & John Secondary, where I was top of my class.
* To Golden Grove Secondary, where I finished with 9 subjects at the GCE examinations.
* To CLICO, where I became the Operations Manager/Underwriter and a Fellow of the Life Management Institute and other Fellowship designations.
* To the United States, where I am the founder and president of two not-for- profit organisations mentioned above.
* To the Information Technology Director of a multi-million-dollar company.
* A graduate of the State University of New York and the College of Westchester.
* Being the Immigration Director of COPO, a not- for-profit organisation in Brooklyn NY, serving the South Asian populations
* An advocate for immigrants, and an Immigration Law student of City University of New York.
* A candidate for Accreditation by the Board of Immigration Appeal to practice law in Immigration courts in the United States to help people like me.

“Boys and girls, the sky is the limit, never forget that; and you can count on me to reach the sky. “Appreciate life and those along the way -- your parents, teachers and loved ones -- and make all of us proud of this and many more years to come.”
The donor pastor, on behalf of his organisation, exhorted the recipients to value the sacrificial giving of the donors’ time and money in an effort to prepare them for school. He challenged them never to forget kindness, but to let it motivate them to work hard, study, and pursue their dreams.
Reverend Anthony also thanked all of those who helped “in whatever way”, for a job well done.

Transformation through agriculture – Amerindian communities gaining headway

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:50:32 +0000

AGRICULTURE is not a relatively new concept to Guyana’s first inhabitants, the Amerindians, because for generations it has been the backbone of their livelihoods.
But transforming the practice from subsistence occupation to wealth creation is revolutionary to the majority of communities.
As custodians of the country’s forest, they should by now be setting the example over other groups in society who are today profiteering from value-added agriculture. With encouragement from the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Agriculture, the gap is likely to be bridged.
The ministry’s plan will see the indigenous people benefitting from a mechanism where the nation’s agriculture will be generating wealth for the people.
At the end of August, the focus for Region 1 was outlined with similar arrangements being coordinated in Region 9.
Entrepreneurship and enterprise are the key pillars on which the plan is being crafted, and according to Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, who ventured into Region 1 with a team of experts recently, “Farmers are not peasants but business people.”
Value-added agriculture is indeed a tangible solution, as a community like Mainstay/Whyaka, on the Essequibo coast, has proven with the production, processing and exportation of organic pineapple to Europe.
“Mainstay/Whyaka is on the world map through agriculture … just 13-square miles of land and we are doing this,” newly elected Toshao of the village, Joel Fredericks, told the National Toshaos Council (NTC) meeting this year.
The announcement was met with applause from the 120 village leaders gathered for the meeting and was probably an eye-opener to those that are brainstorming ways of expansion.
The Amerindians still attach great significance to agriculture, as an analysis of the Community Development Project (CDP) proposals agreed to and submitted at the village level has shown.
Eighty percent of the projects are agriculture-based, and with the way paved for the release of the long awaited Guyana REDD Investment Fund (GRIF), the waiting time for implementation is no longer a concern.

Investment and progress
The Ministry of Agriculture’s plan builds on several initiatives implemented by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, such as the Hinterland Secure Livelihood Programme that was launched three years ago to empower farmers to develop business training, marketing support, technical training and farmers’ skills, and familiarise them with market realities.
That programme launched through a partnership initiative of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) is deeply rooted in 15 communities across Region 1.
Similar programmes are ongoing in Regions 7 and 9, with the overall objective of creating employment opportunities, sustaining food security, income generation, wealth, economic diversification and secure livelihoods.
The training of community based volunteers to corroborate the work of the VSOs in the fields of agriculture, aquaculture, pest management, food technology, business development, marketing and finance and organizational development facilitated the programme.
Value-adding enterprises in pineapples, orange and passion fruit, ginger and cassava, crabwood oil and aquaculture were identified.

Innovations
Three years ago, the government had explored the possibility of opening the Morawhanna facility to cater for direct exports to Venezuela, while Wauna farmers were advised on strategies to find markets for peanut farmers.
The deployment of officers to the regions for agricultural extension services supplemented the effort, and training was offered for residents of the regions to become extension officers.
The undertaking was being advanced even as the government realised the need to improve the living conditions of Amerindians through improved access to health, education and transport.
Moco Moco in Region 9 is earmarked for large-scale agriculture and tourism with a farine factory built with support from the German Bank kfw and there is a bright outlook for job creation in the area for about 400 residents, many of whom are single parents.
It is a project residents are anxiously awaiting, especially when considering the benefits that will accrue from supplying the market for farine to Moco Moco and other parts of the region.
The community is already benefiting from a rice and beans project which was launched in 2009 to facilitate the harvesting and selling of rice to residents within the area at a cost of $2500 and $4000 elsewhere. The project is now in its third phase.
Residents have seen and given testimony to the benefits of the $128.6M project and are optimistic that it has potential to be developed on a large-scale basis, given the abundance of land and availability of machinery.

Support
They have also attested to the worthwhile support offered by the Ministry of Agriculture in the eradication of the acoushi ant, and providing planting and farming materials as well as breeding animals.
Communities that have diversified from the traditional crops are now cultivating spices such as black pepper, turmeric, nutmeg and ginger. The Agriculture Ministry has also been placing significant emphasis on aquaculture.
Through the ministry’s extension service, several persons from the hinterland have benefited from apiculture training in hive construction and capturing of wild bees for rearing.
Under the extension services, the ministry has also been providing veterinary services to residents.

Blood Bank in collaborative drive at NCN compound

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:55:29 +0000

THE Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Blood Bank, staged a fair and collection drive at the National Communications Network (NCN) yesterday.
The exercise, in keeping with the Ministry’s mandate to provide healthier living for less healthy Guyanese, realised six viable pints from donations by six staffers at NCN and the Government Information News Agency (GINA) in the same compound on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.
Various vaccinations and medications, such as ‘flu shots and different tests, including HIV and hypertension, were offered free of cost. In some cases this resulted in persons being unable to donate blood.
However, speaking on behalf of the Blood Bank, Ms. Radha Ramdhari acknowledged its reliance on donations from public- spirited persons to assist in situations where transfusion may be the only way to save a life.
She said they are thoroughly pleased and satisfied with the receipt of every valuable drop of blood.
Ramdhari said the management and staff of NCN were all more than willing to participate in the drive and have shown tremendous support.
Members of the Red Cross Society also worked with the donors carefully and cautiously supervised by senior members of the organisers.
Ramdhari said the Blood Bank is always in dire need and invites others to sponsor similar collection drives.
She said she is proud to see persons cooperating and showing a positive attitude towards the efforts.

Police issue wanted bulletin for Herstelling man

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:56:03 +0000

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued a wanted bulletin yesterday, for Prem Persaud also called Prem Rampersaud.
A release said Police want to question him in relation to a series of frauds.
He is described as of East Indian descent and his last known address was given as Lot 6 Herstelling, East Bank Demerara.
Among his alleged victims are Latchmi Manbodh and Ramkumar Rajban, who reported having been defrauded between 2012-05-01 and 2012-06-30 at Herstelling.

National body recognises continuing work of GPGs

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:57:18 +0000

THE National Community Policing Executive (NCPE) said, yesterday, that it recognises the continuing work of the many members within the fraternity which has, over time, led to the arrest of several persons for the commission of various crimes.
It recalled that, last August, the Number 68 Village, Corentyne, Berbice Community Policing Group (CPG) was directly involved in searching for seven-year-old Saheed Muknauth. The boy was found dead with marks of violence and a suspected was arrested.
Additionally, the group assisted financially with the child’s burial and his parents expressed their gratitude to the CPG for its involvement and care in the matter.
More recently, a CPG member responded to a call for help from a young female who was the victim of an armed attack while she was traversing the Industrial Access Road at Ruimveldt, Georgetown. At personal risk, the suspected was chased an apprehended shortly afterward by a passing mobile Police patrol.
The NCPE, noting that the above are only two of dozens of instances where dedicated men and women members of CPGs helped in the upkeep of law and order in the country, took the opportunity to congratulate and urge them to continue their good work within their communities.

After steps taken… Burrowes expresses extreme frustration over city garbage situation

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 06:58:02 +0000

COMMISSIONER of Inquiry into the operations of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), Mr. Keith Burrowes, who is also in charge of implementing corrective measures, said, Thursday, that the growing issue of garbage pile-up around the capital has reached a level of extreme frustration.
Speaking at a press conference, in the Ministry of Local Government, he said: “It has reached a level where I’m extremely fed up. We have, over a couple weeks ago, worked out some strategies with the City Council. We were able to help with the garbage problem but it’s back where we started.”
Burrowes said that, while several agreements were arrived at and steps were taken, the situation is back to square one.
He declared it is a shame on the country’s behalf, since visitors are welcomed to such an unpleasant smell and look.
“People who have families coming in to Guyana would be totally embarrassed at the situation,” said he.
Burrowes pointed out that, in some cases, vehicles were given to the Council to assist with the removal of garbage from households and businesses.
He added that, with the help of a few businessmen around the city, bobcats, trucks and other equipment were loaned to the Council to provide further assistance with the cleaning and he thanked those who did the lending, through which the exercise started and bore some fruit.

Improper disposal
Burrowes said, under his leadership several projects were initiated and persons have since been arrested for improper disposal.
He disclosed that the next stage would have been to distribute jerseys to about 30 persons, the idea behind it being for them to see who are throwing the garbage “because we really want to catch some of these men and so they are enforcers so to speak.”
He said, already, several persons were arrested in that process and ongoing talks with the Local Government Ministry will see penalties being put into place to deal with them.
But he expressed dimmed hope at the progress that has been made at some points, noting that, after every step is accomplished, it seems the situation heads two steps backwards.
Burrowes said he believes that, unless drastic actions are taken, this situation will always be the same in Guyana.
However, he said:“I hope that we could find ways in dealing with this, as I said over and over, my committee is getting frustrated.”

Guyana is powerless in this situation

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 07:00:49 +0000

KN dated Sat. Sept. 2 reads of the following reasons U.S.-based Miss Kadecia Baird's representation of Guyana might not be possible at the Under-23 South American Championships, slated for Sao Paulo, Brasil:
Clashes with her schooling, two months prior notice is required, and attending the meet is not feasible.

SN dated Sept. 4 penned a similar story.

It is quite evident that Guyana has just failed to cross the very first hurdle towards Rio 2016 as regards this young, up-and-coming track potential hopefully representing the Golden Arrowhead. This is absolutely no fault of Miss Baird’s.
The fact of the matter is that it matters not how many sporting events Guyana has slated for representation, we have to accept the fact that the final word from her current U.S. coach and other responsible persons in her camp looking over her welfare, makes the decision when she is available.
That's a crystal-clear indication to me that Guyana is more or less powerless.

I am once again saying that when Miss Baird uplifts her citizenship of the USA, global status and stardom could only be achieved should an avenue open up for her to compete under the U.S. flag.

It is also my belief that there are responsible persons surrounding her in the U.S. camp, and only with the guidance of those persons will she grow much healthier.

Your's faithfully
T.Pemberton

What a shame

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 07:03:50 +0000

CHRONICLE’S entire back page on Thursday September 6, 2012, the most prominent sports page in the newspaper,was dedicated to a foreign sport that we are trying to foist on Guyanese.
Robin Singh is a failure with cricket, while the other member at the head table, Juman Yassin, is a total failure in several sports disciplines where he was once-upon-a-time President.

Shame on Chronicle; Support real sport!

Alcan distributed excess current free of cost to Linden

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 07:04:27 +0000

THE Linden issue is a representation of a community which was placed in a position where they believe that it is their "God given right" to live a charmed life at the expense of the rest of the country. They were enabled into this privileged position by the former PNC administration, due to the sterling contribution that community gave by way of votes and other miscellaneous acts to the PNC.
The PPP/C administration continued that trend when the civic component was added to the party when former Lindener Samuel Hinds joined the party and thus began the Guyana chapter of affirmative action.
Commentators brand this kind of strategem as narrow, divisive and in an overall sense volatile.
The question is why was this situation permitted to happen right here in beautiful, poverty-stricken Guyana? And the answer eludes my limited intelligence.
Linden is an example of affirmative action of the worst kind. I make no apologies for this. So the frantic rush to undo this near four decades long situation is a monstrous task confronting the administration or, to muzzle the monster which they have created in the first place is altogether an uphill task.
As the story goes, the processing of calcined bauxite required a lot of energy and much of the energy generated was being wasted, hence Alcan distributed the excess current free of cost to the surrounding community known as Mackenzie. With the brainless nationalisation plan of the industry in 1971 this trend continued with the PNC government, this time with renewed emphasis, the place was renamed after its "owner" Burnham coupled with the fact that it was the party's stronghold. Therefore the special favours granted became more pronounced as the years went by.
Come 1976 however, the bauxite industry and by extension the country became bankrupt and all sorts of troubling setbacks set in; yet the largesse at Linden continued. Although the country could not have carried itself financially, it still fetched Linden's wasteful costs. So when the PPP/C came into power, they having full knowledge of this, why did they continue the trend?
Proper planning would have dictated that Linden's horse pull its own oats long before now; at least in an incremental fashion.
What causes my blood to boil is that workers in the sugar industry were not remotely close to the crumbs that fell from Linden's table. When you compare the two industries salary wise, the pay packets of the two workers were like night and day.
The Wimpey boys' take-home pay and pensions were far superior to a sugar worker at any given time; not forgetting his allowances and other priviledges. I speak with authority on this because I have four uncles who left sugar and went over to bauxite. In this regard, I challenge anyone to prove me wrong on these facts. So partiality and poor judgement by the administration is cause for its undoing.
When the Lindeners realised that they had no leg to stand on they quickly changed their tune to one of theirs being a depressed community. Now, where in Guyana can one find a situation where life is an easy street? I beg the talkers of such nonsense to bear me out on this one. To drive home the point more forcefully I again turn to the sugar worker and his experience during out-of-crop periods. If that sugar worker does not get off his hindquarters and take up his castnet and catch some "cacabelly" (I would humbly ask the editor to publish the said word for emphasis) that worker is sure to starve. The bauxite industry has no out-of-crop season, so what’s the gripe? I say none whatsoever. What Lindeners firmly believe is that they are a superior group of persons who somehow must get special treatment come what may. Therefore, as one of the "revolutionaries" puts it "we are gonna fight for we rights." What rights are they talking about?
Lastly, amidst all the protesting the focus is on Linden and only Linden, what about the bauxite workers at Bermine? Weren’t they affected by the same downturn in the bauxite industry? Seems like "human beings" do not exist in Berbice.
Let me tell you the response I got from my friend and supporter of the Linden struggle: "People does live in Berbice, what the hell Berbicians want with light? So there you have it the contempt the r*** pass that others have for a people by whose franchise they are kept in government speaks volumes. No wonder the people from that constituency spoke in the way they did in the last general elections. Linden can be afforded the services of WOW (Women OF Worth), a programme geared towards the employment of its single mothers; yet they could say the government has done nothing to alleviate their depressed state. In the same token what have they - government - done for Berbice and by extension other poor communities? On this note I rest my case.

Some Region 7 Toshaos are bent on misleading

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 07:05:06 +0000

I WISH to support the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs for their caption – ‘Amerindian Affairs Ministry disputes allegations by Region 7 Toshaos’, August 18, 2012 - GINA.
This is a tragic affair for some indigenous leaders of Region 7.
I am surprised that three years after the Low Carbon Development Strategy(LCDS) consultations and at every National Toshaos Conference thereafter, leaders of indigenous communities continue to peg the LCDS consultations as inadequate. I ask, were the consultations inadequate or your leaders failed to disseminate the information to you? I recall, that at every NTC conference since the launching of the Low Carbon Development Strategy in 2009, except that of 2012 the LCDS booklet and other information were distributed to every Toshao and council representatives. Even so, at the 2012 conference there was an LCDS information desk where information was readily available. So, in reality, planners again skilfully engaged the Toshaos and Village Councillors through an information desk with the expectation that they will complete the consultation process by having this information filtered down to the communities. Did the Toshaos and councillors complete that mandate?
For the alleged inadequate consultation process of the LCDS, I am in possession of evidence that indicates the opposite.
However, the argument by some individuals and organisations who suggest that the LCDS support documents should have been formatted in traditional languages are not visualising the implications that it would have caused to the consultation process. What is my reason for making such a statement? Over 95% of indigenous peoples will not be able to read their own language if it is written, printed and available for reading. About 75% of the Amerindian languages are not written, published or taught in schools. So the argument that the LCDS consultations must have a written, traditional language component to make it effective and better understood will undermine the process. Although I would like to see our traditional languages written and used to educate and inform the indigenous population, it is far from reality.
Because of these existing constraints, indigenous experts whose input into the design of the LCDS consultation process suggested the engagement of interpreters and local scribes, the spoken language remained dominant and it was expected to enhance clarity and comprehension, particularly for the senior citizens, who were the primary targets of the consultations.
So, it is disappointing to hear statements by leaders of Region 7 saying they did not have enough consultations on the LCDS. The re-election or electing of new Toshaos does not eliminate the national response by the government.
Further, because of similar claims of not being adequately consulted by these same communities of Region 7, immediate action was taken by the National Amerindian Development Foundation (NADF), The Guyanese Organisation of Indigenous Peoples (GOIP) and The Amerindian Action Movement Of Guyana (TAAMOG) in collaboration with the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) to remedy the situation, records show that Paruima, Waramadong, Warwatta, Kako and Jawalla were the major beneficiaries.

Presidential hopefuls and perversion

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 07:06:41 +0000

They attempt to project themselves as the guardians of society, upright and moral, but the underlying decay seeps out like effluent from a breached sewer. They sit for hours and pontificate on issues, citing corruption by public officials and weaving their spider’s webs of conjectures, half-truths, and outright lies, hoping to catch the unwary voters. They are the presidential hopefuls of Guyana, and one by one they are being exposed as paedophiles; as psychopaths; as thieves and fraudsters; as pederasts; as liars of no mean order; and as voyeurs, if not pornographic merchants.
And when they are caught in the act they scream their innocence, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, but they have money and they can buy their way out of trouble, which they do, but there is a Guyanese proverb that says “ every day bucket a go a well and one day the bottom will drop out.” And the day has eventually caught up with several of those who are convinced that their clever rhetoric and semantics will get them out of trouble and keep their reputations intact.
One paedophile, who purports to help vulnerable women, offers monetary and material help, then helps himself to their girlchildren, some of them little more than babies.
One Prakash Persaud and two other old clients recently exposed two fraudsters who, being lawyers, subverted the law to rob them of millions of dollars, even while offering themselves to the Guyanese as potential presidents.
Then there are the tax evaders and those who acquire the properties of others by questionable means.
And one must not forget the Globe Trust fiasco.
There was another expose when the police, acting on information, obtained and executed a search warrant on a building owned by another presidential hopeful.
The building houses several apartments, but the police were able to access only one occupied by a female, who was the sole occupant. The search revealed the existence of three covert cameras. One that was hidden in a clock on the wall obtained a panoramic view of the apartment, another was hidden in a radio in the bathroom, and a third focused on her bed.
The police became suspicious that the perpetrator may have been in possession of pornographic material featuring the young ladies who rented the apartment from time to time and may be distributing pornography with these women as the unwitting central features.
During that incident, the perpetrator was chief executive of an opposition party that perennially accuses government functionaries of corruption. .
However, it seems that once someone has affiliated him/herself to an opposition party they assume status above the law, because these criminals are hardly ever pursued by the law; or else they scream, along with their affiliates in the media, the GHRA, and NGOs, that they are being persecuted because of their political affiliations.
During the debates on NICIL and on corruption, they have scattered like scared chickens, running helter-skelter, because their ostensible exposes are being debunked, one by one, and their real faces and agendas are instead being exposed to the public.

Are wireless devices harmful to health?

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:38:27 +0000

LAPTOPS, computers, media players, and other electronic devices are manufactured with certain safety standards to shield users from possibly harmful effects. One of these standards used to be that they could not release radio frequencies (RF). Then, along came the Age of Wireless Networks! Suddenly, your computer is designed to emit microwave radiation. Add to this the fact that your laptop is often kept on your lap!
The problem is not from laptops alone. These days, the typical home wireless network includes a desktop PC or two, some laptops, an entertainment system, wireless keyboards and mice, wireless printers, tablet PCs and your BBM device... The Blackberry! So, Yes! You’re literally swimming in a soup of electromagnetic (EMF) pollution! Yikes!
Even if you don’t keep a wireless network -- WiFi (wireless fidelity), a brand licensed by the Wi-Fi Alliance to describe the embedded technology of wireless local area networks (WLAN) based on the IEEE 802.11 specifications) in your home, you are exposed to them in stores, restaurants, coffee shops, libraries, schools... and the list goes on. In fact, cities have been building huge wireless networks to offer free broadband service to their citizens. Some have called all these frequencies “electro-smog”. Wi-Fi and the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo are registered trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance, the trade organization that tests and certifies equipment compliance with the 802.11x standards.
The use of the term has now broadened to generically describe the wireless interface of mobile computing devices, such as laptops in LANs. Wi-Fi is now increasingly used for more services, including Internet and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone access, gaming, and basic connectivity of consumer electronics such as televisions, DVD players, games, and digital cameras. More standards are in development that will allow Wi-Fi to be used by vehicles in support of an Intelligent Transportation System to increase safety, gather statistics, and enable mobile. Some companies in Guyana are already using GPS technology - a wireless system.
Hooking up all our home or office devices is called a local area network (LAN). Once upon a time, all the devices needed to be hooked together with wires that carried signals to a connecting device, usually a router/switch/hub. Now wireless routers have made wired networks nearly obsolete. Who wants to run all those cables through ceilings and walls when it can be done wirelessly? However, all the accessibility comes with invisible exposures.
With a wireless LAN, each device on the network is built so that it can send a signal to the router and receive signals back. Wireless routers typically have a range of a hundred to several hundred feet. Adding a booster that increases the signal strength can increase the range. As with all radio signals, the closer you are to the transmitter (the router), the stronger the signal. Cellular phones work on the same principle. The difference is that cell-phones work at a different frequency, and put out a stronger signal than wireless LANs. Now, who likes their cell-phone more than their books?
Cell-phones work on the same principle. The difference is that cell-phones discharge roughly nine times the radiation of wireless routers. This leads many to the belief that wireless routers are safe, due to their low power intensity – far below the minimum standards for cell-phones. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security. Cell-phone standards are set for short-term exposure, and they’re based on the thermal (heating) effects of the microwave radiation they emit. However, there are other non-thermal effects of cell-phones such as memory loss, sleep disruption, slowed motor skills and reaction time, decreased immune function, dizziness, headaches, lowered sperm count, increased blood pressure and pulse, etc.
Also, let’s not forget one major difference: Cell-phone exposure is intermittent (occasional); it affects you the most during actual phone calls, and to a lesser degree when the cell-phone is turned on and worn on the body. Wireless routers, on the other hand, subject you and family members to constant long-term exposure: A constant bath of low-strength RF radiation.
So what can you do about the constant electromagnetism pollution from wireless networks? Evidently, don’t put one in your home. Use a wired system. Okay! I hear you when you say that’s just not an option. You already have your wireless LAN, or you just don’t want to run all those wires. There are a few things you can do:
Turn off you wireless device when not in use.
Avoid having the device on your bed.
Don’t use it while driving.
Avoid spending long hours close to wireless towers, access points, etc.
Use cable when available.
Don’t abuse your cell-phone usage: You BBM & SMS people!
Use less microwave/micro-oven cooked food.
Open your landline phone to Cell access, so you can make calls to cell-phones.
Using wireless is indeed harmful, but not life threatening if you use but don’t abuse, you’re good to go; but hey, don’t take my word for granted! Ultimately, you have to make the choice. Remember the song: “Cell-phone thing mash-up life!”

Ambassador Talbot does Guyana proud--appointed Head of UN’s ECOFIN c’ttee

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:39:25 +0000

GUYANA has achieved another honour at the level of the United Nations with the appointment of Mr. George Wilfred Talbot as head of the Economic and Financial (ECOFIN) Committee for the 67th Session of the General Assembly. His appointment was announced by Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon at his post-Cabinet news briefing Thursday.

ECOFIN is a committee within the United Nations dealing with issues relating to global finances and economics. It is one of the six Standing Committees of the General Assembly.

Mr. Talbot headed the list of six key diplomatic appointments made by the Government of Guyana in January last when he was appointed as this country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

Ambassador Talbot, who began his career in Guyana’s Foreign Service in 1993, previously served from October 1991 to June 1992 as Assistant Lecturer of Spanish at the University of Guyana.

He previously served in the Department of International Economic Cooperation, and had also worked in the private sector from 1981 to 1986.

Ambassador Talbot has had varied experience in multilateral diplomacy, working on economic, social and political issues, and was once Guyana’s Charge d’ Affaires at the United Nations.

He has been a member of this country’s delegation to several Sessions of the General Assembly and ECOSOC (Economic and Social Council –United Nations), including during Guyana’s chairmanship of the Group of 77 in 1999; and was also Head of Delegation in New York during Guyana’s chairmanship of the Rio Group in 2006 and the UNASUR in 2011.

Mr Talbot has also held several posts on inter-governmental bodies within the United Nations system, including Vice-President, High-Level Committee on Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries; Vice-Chairman, United Nations Forum on Forests; Vice-Chairman, Commission on Sustainable Development; and Vice-President of the UNDP/UNFPA (United Nations Development Programme/World Population Fund) Executive Board, according to a bio-data on the new Ambassador to the UN.

Also, from June 2001 to August 2002, he was Adviser to the United Nations Coordinating Secretariat on Financing for Development.

He is the holder of an M.A. in International Relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University; and a B.A. in Modern Languages (Spanish/French) from the University of Guyana.

His appointment to head the United Nations ECOFIN should be a source of pride for all Guyanese, Dr. Luncheon said Thursday.

Jean-Paul Belmondo: The star-making personality (Part I)

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:40:34 +0000

AFTER all the examples of unforgettable and original screen stars Hollywood in particular has left us from its Golden Age of Film History, it is not really easy for emerging screen stars to add to this list. As hurtful as it may sound to some, the more classic Hollywood or European cinema is NOT visible, spoken or read about, the more lower standards in all aspects of contemporary cinema will remain hidden by this lack of comparison with the cinema of the past.
And when we do ask ourselves what remains the secret of genuine or attractively unique screen stars, the simple answer inevitably seems to be their underlying personality brought to their roles.
Of course, their achievement may seem easier when we notice a repetitious similarity in their screen roles, but that is beside the point, since their achievement in the first place is related to the originality of their screen personality. Such an originality is closely linked to the cultivated personality of the actor/actress, rather than an ability to adapt to various characterizations they may be tasked to realize.

Special quality
The French screen star, Jean-Paul Belmondo emerged at the beginning of the 1960s as one of cinema’s most captivating actors whose appeal is linked to the projection of his cultivated and congenial personality regardless of the role.
Born in the early 1930s, Belmondo, by age 26, after studying drama for several years and appearing in at least nine minor screen parts, landed the lead role in Jean–Luc Godard’s first film, ‘BREATHLESS’, which, as everyone knows, was a unique event for movies.
Belmondo’s role in ‘Breathless’ suggested a dual quality which he began to represent in many roles to follow. That quality had to do with the searching, stumbling, ant-heroic, but un-pandering and dignified definition of a new type of male personality cultivated by knowledge or awareness of an inconstant or changing world.
Belmondo’s man is not your typical movie hero or villain; he is not that clear-cut, as movies tend to make characters who are easily understood by an entertained audience. The difference of Belmondo’s characters on screen from typical movie characters is that the interests and style of Belmondo’s real personality, his intellectual and reflective moods, his curiosity, his humour, his excellent style of dressing, his youthful rebelliousness against prejudicial stereotypes, his romantic weakness for women, his adventurous and tolerant nomadic lifestyle, all this is an essential part of most movie roles he will play.
We begin to recognize this repeated quality in his films, which is based on the charisma of Belmondo dominating the role, and not the role dominating Belmondo.

Real example
The brilliance of Belmondo’s performance in his first lead role in ‘Breathless’, is that we cannot fail to recognize the natural style of Belmondo, the man -- a non-acting quality that director Godard and others like him encouraged in the ‘stars’ of their films -- combining with the character he is playing, who is a petty criminal in love with Humphrey Bogart’s image in 1940s & 50s Hollywood Film Noir movies.
Director Godard’s originality began with Belmondo’s role in ‘Breathless’ becoming a criticism of those attitudes by film fans who glorify or imitate the heroic roles of actors/actresses, rather than the lesson of their REAL skill at their UN-REAL performances. For example, Belmondo’s wayward character in ‘Breathless’ is more concerned with his hero, Humphrey Bogart’s tough-guy movie roles, rather than Bogart the real man, who was far from being any of the tough characters he portrayed on film.
We can bet that Belmondo also liked Bogart’s real-life character and acting skills, and what Belmondo achieved in ‘Breathless’ is the delivery of both his admiration and emulation of Bogart, the human actor, as well as a criticism of imitating the actor’s tough, callous portrayals.
What Belmondo developed as his originality is the ability to make films, or to act roles where one’s real personality, one’s real beliefs are casually represented even more than a fabricated character; where one’s real human character, including its flaws, is revealed in an un-heroic yet attractive screen-star personality; where one of the foremost qualities of the modern artist, especially the writer, actor, or singer, is to admit self-criticism in one’s works, rather than dogmatically fabricate and perpetuate false or naïve morality as a standard.

That Man from Rio
In 1964, Belmondo made one of his best and most loved films, ‘THAT MAN FROM RIO’, under the direction of one of France’s most exciting and adventurous film directors, the wonderful Philippe de Broca. It is with this film that Belmondo found his chance to signify multiple values of lower and higher class, the sophisticated and coarse, the cultured and rustic, the past and the future, European and non-European, big cities, coastland and jungle, humor and seriousness, Europe and South America.
Throughout all these dualities, splendidly demonstrated by director de Broca, Belmondo, and the late Francoise Dorleac, one of France’s most delightful actresses, also expertly projected his own perfectly blended personality reflecting the physical and mental humour of Charlie Chaplin, the zest of Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster, and the male vulnerability of Mongomery Clift.
Added to this was Belmondo’s chic fashion on a lean body, his suavity from head to toe, and those sleek dirty white jeans with brightly striped long-sleeved shirts, a combination which became a hit among chic males. The star-making personality of this actor became an extension of the best human qualities from the golden age of film history.

Comedy and oral literature

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:42:07 +0000

IT SEEMS that we are unable to keep pace with our oral literature. While there are many notable efforts to record our oral literature of the immediate and not too distant past, the present prolific production of oral literature is accumulating by leaps and bounds, leaping and bounding away from our grasp. One example would suffice: The life and work of comedian extraordinaire, Habeeb Khan. If we were to capture every thing he says on stage (notwithstanding his everyday communication, which is more numerous and much longer than his stage discourses), it would fill tomes.
Habeeb Khan can make you laugh in some seven languages, and his mimicry of countless accents is awesome. When he articulates the word ‘bustenhalter’, there is no need for a German/English Dictionary; you will get the picture; a graphic picture. That’s the hallmark of a true comedian.
As a storyteller, he would piece together his presentation in such a way as to lead the audience on to a resounding climax. He would take the unfamiliar and connect it to you with his extensive vocabulary, like the skilled and consummate storyteller he is.
Khan subscribes to no groupings, which, he says, are usually single-minded, narrow-minded, leading to antipathy. And for him to connect to his audience; for him to execute his jokes; for him to extend his satire throughout the whole gamut of human experience, he is wary of any religious and ethnic tags and labels.
But, he declares, “I am Guyanese, first and last, from here in Guyana to wherever I travel -- Canada, USA or the Caribbean. I am Guyanese and proud to be a Guyanese.”
His ‘nation’ jokes will always find a Guyanese ahead of the others. And he’s dead serious. Well, most of the time. At other times, he puts “lash pon dem Guyanese foh show dem dem stupidness.” But as he loves to repeat, he is first and last a Guyanese. That is the main reason why he is still here, while the others have gone to ‘Region Eleven’. As he stoutly declares, “I have a responsibility to my country’s culture, because I love my country, and my country loves me.”
It is not easy to tell a joke. According to Khan, “Humour is a serious thing; you got to be very careful with word construction; psycho-analyse de crowd…But I get through because of body language. However, being a stand-up comedian is not easy.”
He is no stranger to heckling, and never shies away from it. Rather, he feeds off it, capitalising on it. On the subject of language, he said, “You don’t need to be vulgar to be funny; you don’t need to be vulgar to crack a joke. If you’re in command of the language, you can polish the vulgarity and still connect to a particular audience.”
And Khan has been successfully connecting to audiences the world over, whether it’s the Caribbean, Canada, or the USA. He’s worked with Norman Beaton, Eddy Nassey, and Sammy Jerrick (Together, they were called the ‘Four B’s’) and many other luminaries in the field of entertainment.
He loves making people laugh. “Deh pay me to mek dem laff. Heh-heh!” So everyone is happy. It’s the making of a successful arrangement.
A great deal of his mimicry involves adding words, phrases and verses to set pieces of dialogue and song. Khan could mimic the greats like Billy Esktine, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, and Frank Sinatra, paving the way for him to appear on stage with the likes of Boris Gardner, Sparrow, Ben E King, and Mahalia Jackson.
If Khan’s public life can fill volumes, then his private life could fill bookshelves. He has fathered 14 boys and two girls. Children are his touchstones; they keep him in touch with the vogue, especially in respect of language (slang of the day) and culture (minibus culture) and more. Fourteen children and grandchildren! What an audience! And a whole lot of talking! A whole lot of oral literature to be preserved!

(To respond to this author, either call him on (592) 226-0065 or send him an email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com)

What’s Happening:
• The current issue of The Guyana Annual magazine will be dedicated to Braithwaite. Tributes, reviews of his publications, and related articles are invited for possible inclusion in the magazine.

This week on Merundoi

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:43:08 +0000

DAH mouth dat man tek fuh court woman, ah de same mouth he ah
tek an put she ah door!!! Shavani surprises everyone, including Ramesh and Diane, but for different reasons.
What effect does Sonya’s recent illness have on her household, especially her husband, Fineman?
Nasifa has had some chilling experiences with Akeem. How will she deal with this form of abuse?
Don’t miss this week’s exciting episodes!
Also, do make a special effort to keep Merundoi on air. To sponsor, please call 218-3417/1521/1972.
To subscribe, please pay to the Merundoi account at the Republic Bank branch in your neighbourhood.

Good for your heart; good for your brain too

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:44:07 +0000

SIPPING green tea is not just good for you heart - it could boost the memory as well, say researchers.
A study from China has found that the chemical properties of the healthy beverage promotes the generation of brain cells, providing benefits for memory and spatial learning. Study leader, Professor Yun Bai from the Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China, said: “There has been plenty of scientific attention on its use in helping prevent cardiovascular diseases, but now there is emerging evidence that its chemical properties may impact cellular mechanisms in the brain.”
Professor Bai's team focused on the organic chemical, EGCG, that is found in green tea.
“We proposed that EGCG can improve cognitive function by impacting the generation of neuron cells, a process known as neurogenesis,” Prof Bai said. “We focused our research on the hippocampus, the part of the brain which processes information from short-term to long-term memory.”
The team found that ECGC boosts the production of neural progenitor cells, which, like stem cells, can adapt into various types of cells. The team then used laboratory mice to discover if this increased cell production gave an advantage to memory or spatial learning.
“We ran tests on two groups of mice, one which had imbibed ECGC and a control group,” Prof Bai said.
“First, the mice were trained for three days to find a visible platform in their maze. Then they were trained for seven days to find a hidden platform.”
The team found that the ECGC-treated mice required less time to find the hidden platform. Overall the results revealed that EGCG enhances learning and memory by improving object recognition and spatial memory.
“We have shown that the organic chemical EGCG acts directly to increase the production of neural progenitor cells, both in glass tests and in mice,” concluded Prof Bai. “This helps us to understand the potential for EGCG, and green tea which contains it, to help combat degenerative diseases and memory loss.”
The research is published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research.

It’s a girl for Ce’Cile ‘n Chris

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:44:54 +0000

DANCEHALL diva Ce’Cile and Chris Martin welcomed their first child, a girl, a week ago. A source close to the singer said Ce’Cile had checked in the hospital the night before the baby’s birth. Both mother and baby are reportedly doing great.
Chris Martin, who was touring overseas at the time, should be back on the island by now to meet his baby girl.
The 35-year-old singer, born Cecile Charlton (February 24, 1977) is among the best known current Jamaican artistes.
She discovered music through a friend of her father’s, Michael "Ibo" Cooper from the reggae band, Third World, and brought out her first single, "Beat of Her Heart". She added her own style to classical reggae, and took it toward dancehall.
In 1995, Steven Ventura, the owner of Celestial Sound Recordings, noticed her. Her first major success was with the single, "Can You Do the Work" with Sean Paul in 2001. This track later appeared on his album, Dutty Rock (Atlantic Records), which went on to sell over 2 million copies in the U.S., also winning a Grammy.
Her first album, Bad Gyal, was released in 2008 with Kingstone Records, and was the first dancehall album that was ever discussed in the German Playboy. Next to the article was a large print promotion photo of Ce'Cile, but she did not appear as a Playmate. In 2009 her second album Waiting was released with Danger Zone/SoBe Entertainment.
Born of humble beginnings, 25-year-old Chris Martin (born February 14, 1987) shot to fame after winning the Digicel Rising Stars competition, and is currently one of the most sought after Jamaican artistes.
His debut releases include ‘Nah Go Change’, ‘Take My Wings’, ‘Tonight’, ‘Giving It’, and the chart-smashing single, ‘Jamaican Girls’ and ‘Gallis’, featuring Busy Signal. He has worked with a number of top producers in the Reggae and Dancehall arena to include, Robert Livingston, Arif Cooper, Shane Brown (Jukeboxx) and Christopher Birch.
Chris has performed on numerous stage shows across Jamaica, and set a precedent for newcomers when he was invited to perform at 'One Night with Michael Bolton’ and at the 2008 Air Jamaica Jazz Festival.
The year 2008 was a productive one for Christopher, as he was nominated for numerous awards to include, ‘The Jamaica Observer Teenage Choice Awards’ and ‘Excellence in Music and Entertainment’, an achievement which has secured permanence in his art.

Why so much crime?

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:46:18 +0000

Don’t make this land go thirty for blood;
Don’t make this land cry out for bullets. Drop your weapons and stop short;
Turn and change the future of yourselves.
Why so much crime?

Is it not enough that your revolver is empty?
Is it not enough that your blades are dripping?
Why then don’t you think twice?
Why then don’t you have mercy?
Why so much crime?

The young, the old, the middle-aged
All have the right to live, and live to the fullest.
Don’t be like rust in the hands of the clock.
Why so much crime?
Why so much crime?

The eyes have seen, the ears have heard
But the mouths are sealed.
Fear has gripped the lips shut
But the brows furrow with concern.
Why so much crime?

The population sinks like a leaking ship;
The economy is drunk up like wine.
The horror continues without stop.
The lights go out!
Why so much crime?

Families go faster than they come;
Terror creeps in at all hours.
The nation weeps in uncontrollable misery
And every mouth asks the same question:
Why so much crime?

Appeal Court frees alleged rapist of 14-year-old girl

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:47:06 +0000

IN 1966, the Appellate Court of Guyana freed convicted rape accused Samuel Dubar because the judge at the jury trial had given the jury an unrealistic picture of the defence as it related to uncorroborative evidence, etc. Consequently, Dubar, who was convicted and sentenced to four years’ imprisonment for rape, appealed and had his conviction and sentence quashed by the Appellate Court, constituted by Justices of Appeal Edward Luckhoo, Guya Persaud and P.A. Cummings.

The facts of the case disclosed that on May 21, 1966, a girl who gave her age as being “now in 14 years” was dipping water from a trench when the appellant suddenly came up behind her, held her hand, and threw her down on the ground, choked her, removed her panties, and had sexual intercourse with her.

The girl had no external signs of injury, and the medical examination revealed rupture of the hymen in two or three places. But the doctor gave evidence that those ruptures were consistent with sexual intercourse engaged in at least two weeks before the incident, or longer.

The girl alleged that the appellant was the first man who ever had sexual intercourse with her, and that it took place on the very day of the incident.

The appellant gave a written statement to the police on May 23, 1966, which he adapted from the dock at his trial, to the effect that they were friends, and had had sexual intercourse some time before. He alleged that he had asked her for sex that day, but she had declined, saying that he was to be engaged to another girl in a few days’ time.

He vehemently denied the allegation of rape.
On appeal against his conviction and sentence, the Appellate Court held that:
(i) Although there was ‘opportunity’ and ‘desire’ on the part of the appellant to have sexual intercourse with the girl, those aspects could not be considered in isolation, since they were wedded to other elements in the statement which sought to explain how the desire arose, why nothing came of the opportunity, and a possible motive for the allegation.

In referring to this ‘opportunity’ and ‘desire’, the trial judge gave an unrealistic picture of the defence, since there were only two circumstances in the context of other related and germaine answers;

(ii) further, when those ‘bits’ and ‘pieces’ of evidence were placed before the jury, they were, in effect, being invited to treat it as corroboration after they had been clearly told no corroboration existed;

(iii) although the sworn evidence of a child need not be corroborated as a matter of law, the jury should be warned not that they must find corroboration, but there is a risk in acting on the uncorroborated evidence of young boys or girls, though they may do so if convinced that the witness is telling the truth;

(iv) a girl in her fourteenth year should fall within the category of a young girl, and

(v) the requirement of warning the jury of the danger of acting on the uncorroborated evidence of a young child is no longer a matter of discretion for the trial judge, but a peremptory prerequisite.

At the hearing of the appeal, the appellant was represented by Senior Counsel, Mr. Fred Wills.
Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. J. Gonsalvles-Sabola, appeared for the respondent.

Justice of Appeal Edward Luckhoo, who delivered the judgment of the court, noted that the appellant was convicted of having carnal knowledge of the girl without her consent on May 21, 1966, contrary to Section 76 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Ordinance, Chapter 10, and was sentenced to be imprisoned for four years.

According to him, the girl was then under the care of her cousin, Susan Gibbons, with whom she resided, and who gave her age at the trial in November 1966 as being “now in 14 years”.
The little girl was medically examined by Dr. Hardutt Singh, the Government Medical Officer of the district, on the very day -- May 21. He found the hymen had been ruptured in two or three places, but not recently; those ruptures, he said, were consistent with intercourse at least two weeks before or longer.

In her evidence, the girl said, “The accused was the first man with whom I ever had sexual intercourse, and it was on that day.”

Continuing, Justice Luckhoo said the trial judge directed the jury that there was no corroboration to be found in the case; and that in view of the medical evidence, they should find that she was not speaking the truth when she said the incident of the 21st May, 1966 was her first experience with sexual intercourse.

He said: “It seems the doctor’s evidence gives the lie to that; but it does not mean that you have to reject all of her evidence.”
Justice Luckhoo went on to say it would be apparent, therefore, that because of the age of the girl, the absence of corroboration, and the probability that she had lied on the question of not having sexual experience before, the necessity for a very careful summing-up throughout was essential.

The girl’s story was that when she was dipping water from a trench, the appellant suddenly came up behind her, held her hand and threw her down, she did not expect him to come up’ she ‘fought’ up; he kept choking her for about ten minutes – pressing her throat hard; during that time, he removed her panties and had intercourse with her. There was no evidence of any external injuries.

On the 23rd May 1966, the appellant, in a written statement to the police, told his story, which was consistent with his earlier denials of the allegation of rape, and was as follows:

“Myself and Sahadat and a girl name Data were sitting at my bottom house the same Saturday (21.5.66) when I saw this girl passing. Myself and her were gaffing whilst going to the pond for water, and I ask her foh leh we sex, she say no because ah got a girl already and ah getting engage Sunday coming (29.5.66).

“We only spend five minutes at the pond gaffing, and in that five minutes ah dumb woman (Raj) saw us. That is all wha happen that day. Wwhen she go home ah ent know what she tell she grandmother, and she grandmother come to me house and ask for me, and she say me do this girl so and so (that ah hold down the girl) and she grandmother said ah should not ah hold down the girl, ah should ah hold down me mother, and she started to curse. I told her I never hold down the girl; the same day, 21.5.66, ah went back there at the girl’s home and she said that ah hold she hand but I never choke she neck.

“I sex she before, but not on that Saturday. And me and she were close friends for past two years.”

At the trial, the appellant said from the dock: “I rely on my statement which I gave to the police. That statement is true. Nothing more”.

The grounds of appeal which merited consideration, put shortly, were:
1. That the learned trial judge erred in law in his direction to the jury on the question of the probative value of the appellant’s statement to the police which
(a) Tended to remove from them the issue of whether the accused could be found ‘not guilty’ on the indictment.
(b) Conveyed to them that the girl‘s evidence was so strengthened by parts of that statement that they would have no choice but to find him guilty, if they accepted those parts.

Allowing the appeal, Justice of Appeal Luckhoo added,
“In this case, we find that certain directions invited the jury to give a probative value to portions of the appellant’s statement beyond their capacity. That may have made all the difference to the jury’s verdict, and so we were constrained to allow the appeal.”

Tips on Gardening (Part I)

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:48:17 +0000

EVERGREEN Nature Study Club is a local non-profit organization geared, through nature tours, to educate and re-educate persons on environmental literacy. Founded and led by Fitz Ogle, a former Curator of the Botanical Gardens, Evergreen Nature Study Club has celebrated its 15th anniversary of existence this week with the launch of a 94-page publication titled: ‘Uses of medicinal plants in Guyana and other remedies’.

The following tips on gardening are recommended by the Club, and readers are reminded that it offers nature-based goods and services, including technical advice.

Its website is www.evergreenstudy.org.

Gardening
Gardening is the growing and caring for plants, as an enjoyable leisure activity, to produce food; or to create beautiful landscapes with artfully arranged flowers, shrubs, and trees.

For some, gardening is a form of exercise, a way to save money on food, or a way to ensure that fruits and vegetables are free from pesticides or other chemicals. For others, gardening is a profession: landscape gardeners design, install and maintain gardens for a living.

Unlike farmers, who typically produce large quantities of crops using complex equipment, gardeners usually produce plants in smaller quantities, relying on manual tools such as spades, rakes, and hoes, and small power tools, such as mowers and tillers.

All over the world today, gardening is practised using a little soil, some seeds, and a few basic tools; and even inexperienced gardeners can enjoy the rewards of creating a garden and watching it grow. Gardeners with more experience and time can delve more deeply into the science/art, carrying out research to select appropriate plants, and learning about the particular requirements for each type of plant.

The more gardeners apply what they learn, the more their gardens thrive and grow.

Selecting plants
Plants differ in their tolerance for heat, cold, and moisture, so when selecting plants, gardeners must take into account the climate of their region. Gardeners also evaluate the soil type, and how much sunlight falls on the proposed site, factors that affect the types of plants that can be grown in a particular area.

They consider, too, the plant’s life cycle — how long it takes a plant to grow, flower, produce fruits or seeds, and die. Annuals, such as marigold, bloom and produce seed the same year they are planted, then die within the same year. Biennials — pigeon pea, for example — live for about two years. In the second year, they produce flowers, and die when the weather turns cold. Perennials, which include shrubs and trees as well as flowers, are plants that live for three years or more.
From the plants adapted to a particular climate, soil, and light, gardeners can choose plants for their characteristic appeal. Some popular traits include easy care and attractiveness to butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.
A gardener can experiment with a stunning diversity of interesting garden styles and types. Herb gardens may feature culinary herbs, medicinal herbs, and fragrant herbs. Flower gardens may combine a variety of flowering plants, or focus on just one type, such as roses, white-flowered plants, or flowers that bloom only at night. Specialized gardens include rock or alpine gardens, which display plants native to mountains; and water gardens, which host plants adapted to wet conditions.

Botanical gardens are designed to display plants for scientific and educational purposes, and in those gardens, the plants are often labelled with their names and their optimal growing conditions. (Courtesy of Erin Hynes of the Evergreen Nature Study Club)
To be continued…

Gum disease and pregnancy

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:50:04 +0000

GUM disease not only affects you the woman, but also your unborn child. It is remarkable how oral health can affect nearly every facet of our lives. Fetal development is another condition that can be directly influenced by the health of our mouths. It has been observed that periodontal (gum) disease can adversely affect pregnancy outcome, increasing the risk of delivering pre-term and low-birth-weight babies. Mothers of pre-term and low-birth-weight babies have a significantly greater incidence of periodontal disease.
Research shows that pregnant women with periodontal disease are seven-and-a-half times more likely to have a premature or underweight delivery, and the more severe the disease, the greater effect it has on the baby.
Many years ago when I was the dentist based at the Bartica Hospital and also had responsibility for Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), we had a programme whereby all pregnant women were routinely referred to the dental department for an oral examination and treatment whenever it is considered crucial to their pregnant condition.
Low birth weight is considered 5.5 pounds (2,500 g) or less. The birth weight of an infant is not just about size; it has a significant impact of the baby’s health. An infant’s birth weight is the most potent single indicator of the infant’s future health status. A low-birth- weight baby has a statistically greater chance than a normal weight baby of developing diseases, and of dying early in life. About one in every 13 infants born in the US is a low-birth- weight infant, and about one-fourth of those die within the first month of life.
How does oral bacteria affect a developing fetus? Studies show that bacteria commonly found in the mouth and associated with periodontal diseases can find their way into the amniotic fluid of pregnant women. Amniotic fluid is a liquid that surrounds an unborn baby during pregnancy. Any contamination of the amniotic fluid, such as bacteria, could potentially be dangerous to both the mother and baby.
Another problem linked to oral health that can occur during pregnancy is preeclampsia. This is a serious condition that occurs during the second half of pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood pressure and water retention. Additional symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and visual disturbances.
Preeclampsia occurs in about one out of every 20 pregnancies. Untreated, it may develop into eclampsia, a life threatening form of toxemia that can cause severe convulsions, kidney failure, and even death for the mother or fetus.
In three clinical studies, researchers at Tulane University in New Orleans determined that dental treatment led to a 57 per cent reduction of low-birth-weight deliveries, and a 50 per cent reduction in pre-term births.
It is estimated that 60-75 per cent of pregnant women have gingivitis. If a pregnant woman suffers from constant vomiting, the acid can severely erode the enamel of the teeth. To avoid this, the woman should rinse the mouth with a solution consisting of 1 tablespoon of baking soda mixed in 1 glass of water, after every episode of vomiting.
Women who are pregnant, or are considering becoming pregnant, should pay particular attention to their dental health to assure that they and their babies have the best health possible.

Rearview mirror

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:51:23 +0000

IN 2009, I got married to a man that was married before. I was a virgin. While we were married, I got pregnant and later discovered this other woman, who happened to be his wife. That was unbearable, so I moved out and annulled the marriage. Our daughter is now two. When he is at a low, this man wants us back. I gave him conditions: He must be divorced with proof thereof; apologize to my parents; pay past child maintenance; have a sound job; and be in right standing with God.
But all these he needs to work on. He plays a guilt game, and I am at the point of thinking, ‘Doesn't everyone deserve a second chance?’ I must either take him back as he is or move on, which I have done.
I have made it thus far on my own, but I don't want my daughter to think I never gave her dad a chance. Any advice?
Monique

Monique,
You think a second chance means a second chance for him to be better. He thinks it means a second chance for him to be who he is, and for you to accept it.
What he did to you was heinous. He is a man you would have no connection with if you had known he was married. Now he is using the evil he did you as a reason to take advantage of you some more. When he leaves again, what good will you have done your daughter?
You moved on, but you didn't move on far enough. Keep moving.

X-Games

Admin2 — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 20:51:53 +0000

I HAVE been in a relationship for two years, my first relationship after my divorce. On our first date, she brought a home movie of herself with her ex-husband. Later, she decided to change jobs and go into the same field as her ‘ex’. So I helped her study for her licensing exam. As she was learning the business, she would call her ‘ex’ several times a week for advice. Then she went to work for a company her ‘ex’ was fired from.
At one point, she brought her ex-husband in on a sales call out of town. They didn't ride together to the meeting, but they didn't sell anything either. She didn't get home until 01:30am, but she told me about it, so it's not like she tried to hide anything.
As time went on, she wasn't making that much money, and decided to look for a different company. Her ex-husband had started his own company and wanted her to go work for him. We talked it over, and she said she would be making a lot more money and could do most of her work from home.
Needless to say, she isn't making more money, and she does all her office work at his office. You have to know this guy to believe him. He came over at Christmas to bring their daughters home, and just came in the house, walked around, and talked to everyone except me. No invitation or anything.
We are now separated, and trying to work things out. I ask questions, and she doesn't like the questions I ask. She says I am controlling, and my jealousy is destroying us. Now she has moved in with her sister, and our communication is less and less. Am I being controlling or just concerned?
Andy

Andy,
The best way to deflect blame is to blame the other person. That's why she says you are controlling and jealous. Whatever caused their divorce doesn't matter; she still wants him.
And you still want her. Why? Because human beings are reluctant to accept a loss; that's why people hold on to bad stocks and bad relationships. Once you see it's easier to accept a failure than hold on to it, you can let her go.

Scotiabank’s ‘Bright Future’ programme donates millions to local organisations

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 04:26:14 +0000

IN support of initiatives through which children will benefit, Scotiabank has donated some $4.5M to six organisations: Help and Shelter; The Rotary Club of Demerara; The Scouts Association of Guyana;the Guyana Rugby Football Union; Childlink; The Rotaract Club of the University of Guyana; and the Rotary Club of Georgetown.

Donations were made in the name of Scotiabank’s ‘Bright Future Programme’, which focuses primarily on children and children’s causes in the Caribbean, Latin America and Central America.
Through these donations, hundreds of children will benefit in the areas of education, health and social well-being.
Childlink’s “Tell Scheme”, an education campaign against child abuse, received major funding of some US$8,500. Other initiatives include a sanitation block at the Kuru Kururu Nursery School; a literacy programme at the Victoria Primary School; a book club at the East Ruimveldt Primary School; and a Rugby Youth Development Programme.
Scotiabank’s ‘Bright Future Programme’ is recognised internationally and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic activities. It has provided on average approximately CDN$45 million annually to community causes over the past several years.
‘Bright Future’ is Scotiabank’s global philanthropic programme that brings together all of its charitable, social and community efforts and employee volunteer activities. Through the Bright Future Programme, Scotiabank’s charitable efforts are aimed at being relevant and responsive to the needs of each community at a grassroots level; and at providing support across the fields of health,the arts, education, social services, sports and the environment.

Port Kaituma residents cease protest after meeting with NDC --critical road rehabilitation works to begin after inclement weather

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 04:32:36 +0000

PORT Kaituma residents have ceased protest action after meetings with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council to discuss the way forward in rehabilitating community roads.

This disclosure was made by Permanent Secretary in the Local Government Ministry, Collin Croal, in an invited comment to this publication yesterday.
The protest action had been taken by frustrated residents who were faced with daily issues relative to bad roads in the area.
Minister within the Local Government Ministry, Norman Whittaker, said in a recent press conference that plans had already been in place to begin rehabilitative works on the roads, but the inclement weather had forced postponement of those works.
He said that government had allocated some Gy$30 million for critical works to be done on the roads, but the overall road rehabilitation exercise could cost as much as Gy$100 million.
Minister Whittaker explained that it was the best decision to put works on hold during the inclement weather, because the objective is to give residents quality road structures which would not deteriorate easily.
The minister said that Reunion Manganese, a Canadian company operating in the North West District, has been maintaining sections of the Matthew’s Ridge road and the main road to Port Kaituma.
Minister Whittaker assured that the situation would be addressed with urgency. He said emergency work would begin on Friday, September 14, on the One to Three Mile stretch of road, which is “the most critical section that requires grading.” An excavator owned by Region 7 would be used to do “remedial work” ahead of “more permanent” work that would be done eventually.
Port Kaituma residents used old vehicles, felled trees and other objects to block a number of roads on Thursday, including the one leading to the airstrip. On the first day of protest, residents had parked their vehicles in front of the offices of the NDC and the Regional Executive Officer.
And down in Bartica, minibus operators stayed off the road for a third straight day. Several of them picketed the offices of the Region 7 Administration on Thursday to demand that the One to Five Miles Potaro Road be repaired urgently.
Region 7 Chairman, Gordon Bradford, met with several of the demonstrators outside his office during the day, and explained the situation to them.

Manickchand tells rally… Education Ministry to focus on special needs students this year

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 04:40:15 +0000

EDUCATION Minister Priya Manickchand addressed an audience at the Queen’s College auditorium following the rally for education on Friday last, emphasising the ministry’s desire to provide equal access to education for everyone in Guyana, hence this year’s theme for Education Month: “Transforming the nation through inclusive education.”

Minister Manickchand quoted Rabbi Howard Morrison: “Inclusion means equal access to resources and opportunities. It means having a voice in society.”
She said that in speaking about inclusive education in Guyana this year, “we are really speaking about the special needs students.”
According to her, the special needs students should not be left out. She related that the Education Ministry would be conducting consultations with the differently-abled to find out what can be done to improve their lives as students. Education Ministry personnel would be listening to the students, parents, teachers and other members of the community, and drafting policies in response to the needs articulated.
The minister related that, currently in Guyana, almost everyone in every area has equal access to primary education. She noted that Guyana has already achieved what many countries are still striving for, even as she informed the audience that Guyana is now on its way to achieving universal secondary education -- something which President Donald Ramotar had promised would be achieved before the end of his first term as president.
According to the minister, none of this could “fall from the sky”, it takes planning and the will to see all students getting equal opportunities. She said it involves strategic planning to ensure equal access to resources and opportunities is delivered to the Guyanese people.
Manickchand said schools will be built in areas which do not yet have schools; and constructing schools in strategic locations will ensure that all of Guyana’s children receive a secondary education.
She related that there will always be something to be critical of in the education sector, because that sector involves 300,000 students, 10,000 teachers and 1,000 schools. Nevertheless, “if you truly love Guyana, you will join in making sure that the country moves forward”.
She related that education in Guyana today is at the best it has ever been in the country’s history.

Seeing is believing

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 04:42:28 +0000

EVERY day we see people saying things and firmly believe those things to be true. If they talk about 10 aspects of a sportsperson, these people are apt to believe that those 10 things are the truth. These people believe in so much of what they say that they are unable to realise that there are other beliefs and perceptions other than their own.

And these beliefs and perceptions drive their behaviours, even though some perceptions may be false. You see, perceptions are real for the people who hold them, regardless of whether these perceptions are right or wrong. Indeed, even if their perceptions are objectively wrong, there are some people who would still try to show that they are correct.

‘…perceptions are real for the people who hold them, regardless of whether these perceptions are right or wrong. Indeed, even if their perceptions are objectively wrong, there are some people who would still try to show that they are correct’

This concern of people to feel that they are correct has a lot to do with their perceptions of the subject matter at hand. So it is not surprising that a perception is one of the most powerful factors shaping human behaviour.
Ashleigh Brilliant said that "Seeing is believing. I wouldn't have seen it if I hadn't believed it." Pitzer of the University of Minnesota makes the point that when people obtain information, they perceive that information. What does perceiving this information mean?
It means that these people try to make some sense of the information, they also try to interpret that information, they may try to define the situation to which the information refers, and then arrive at some conclusions. By doing these things, people develop a perception of whatever. Of course, in an objective sense, that perception could be right or wrong, depending on the quality of the information.
Your perception that you are the most popular journalist will influence you to write in a manner that you think will make you popular. Think about situations where as a journalist you have this feeling that you have to write in a ‘gossipy’ manner to become popular, like some columnists in the New York Times, contributors on CNN and al-Jazeera, or panelists on Bill Maher’s Real Time. However, regardless of whether that feeling to write in a ‘gossipy’ manner to become popular is real or imagined, the ‘gossipy’ writing in the newspaper to become popular is real. W.I. Thomas states: in the Thomas Theorem that "If people define situations as real, they are real in their consequences."
Even though the interpretation of the ‘gossipy’ writing may be incorrect in that it does not make you popular, that writing is real in its consequences, i.e., the ‘gossipy’ content is within the columns of the newspaper with all the good and bad results.
In this case where the ‘gossipy’ writing does not make you popular, it means then that you as a journalist are carrying a false perception. And a false perception produces behaviours with inappropriate results. In this situation, seeing is believing where you are seeing something false because of your false beliefs.

Good news at a challenging time

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 04:52:07 +0000

THIS past week, while the political opposition continued their campaign with

various statements and actions, designed to obstruct government policies and programmes, the administration of President Donald Ramotar remained focused on initiatives to advance Guyana’s progress and improve the general welfare of the Guyanese people.
In this context, it is relevant to reference statements made during the week by at least three cabinet ministers pertaining to developments under their respective portfolios -- those of Finance; Culture, Youth and Sport; and Education.
Yesterday, Education Minister Priya Manickchand, in her official observance of United Nations-designated ‘International Literacy Day’, was proudly noting that Guyana has registered ‘a high literacy rate’ as a result of two ‘key conditions’, namely, “Political stability, and the absence of conflict in our society.”
The cynics may well be tempted to scoff at the minister’s contention in relation to an ‘absence of conflict’ when they could perhaps cite cases of sporadic political conflicts as emerged, for instance, just recently in Linden.
But this could be dismissed by more critical observers that the Education Minister was evidently taking a more global perspective on how deficiencies in the education sector in some UN member states could be traced to often bloody tribal, religious and/or political conflicts.
Minister Manickchand has called on Guyanese to avoid becoming self-satisfied with just the formal school system and, instead, exhibit interest in elevating literacy standards, nationally.
This could be enhanced, she feels, by cooperating with the UN new initiatives to promote literacy criteria as being encouraged by the new initiatives announced by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to mark “International Literacy Day”.
Prior to the Education Minister’s observations on education and literacy, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony, was formally handing over a cheque for G$5 million to the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) in appreciation of the important role played by that NGO in helping to organise and host this year’s “Emancipation Day” celebrations.
Critics of ACDA, inclined to recall the rather sensational divisive position adopted by a leading figure of the organisation at the height of last November’s general election campaign, may wish to question the State’s financial contribution handed over by the minister to ACDA’s representative, Eric Phillips.
This, however, would be wrong and quite in conflict with the government’s policy to foster and encourage the development of the cultural aspirations of ALL segments of Guyanese society, consistent with our national motto: “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”
Minister Anthony noted at the cheque handing-over event, that during the period of ‘Emancipation Celebrations’, 45 other groups would have benefited from support provided by his ministry. He was personally pleased to note that the groups taking advantage of the assistance from the government have increased over the years.
News of an overall, encouraging dimension had earlier come from the Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh. He was quite happy to inform the nation that latest statistical data have revealed that Guyana continues to remain on the path of “positive economic growth”.
Dr Singh, primary bearer of encouraging national economic growth news for some five successive years, was reporting on a 2.8 per cent real growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at mid-year in 2012.
The Finance Minister told a media conference, hosted at the National Communications Network (NCN), that the 2.8 growth in GDP “reflects continued progress on the diversification of the productive sector, where we have now arrived a point where we were 10 years ago, entirely dependent on one, two or three dominant sectors…”
Those bent on sowing social and political divisions and, worse, spreading degrading falsehood and political hatred, with the intention of retarding Guyana’s continuing progressive strides, should perhaps pause and reflect on the need to pursue an alternative path for spreading harmony and tangible, practical national progress.

Of ‘wild men’ and ‘wild west’ politics --scenarios in T&T and Guyana

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:09:43 +0000

IT SEEMS that not just this Caribbean Community member state, Guyana, but also Trinidad and Tobago, is currently facing challenges resulting from so-called ‘wild men” politicking.

In the case of the twin-island republic, an hour’s flying time from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, the current focus is on the President of the Oilfields Workers Trade

Union (OWTU), Ancel Roget, who appears to relish his mass media image as a militant, “angry leader”.
During a ‘Labour Day’ march last Thursday, the OWTU’s president, known for a passionate dislike of the People’s Partnership Government of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, declared that T&T was being “run on remote by a cabal,” and warned that the country was heading for the biggest set-up workers have ever seen.
And while the Anglican Dean, Knolly Clarke, was lamenting during a funeral service for a murder victim that the country had become “an angry nation” and was “in need of healing”, the Trinidad Express was editorially questioning “Roget’s motives” for causing the “panic buying” of fuel last Monday.
In response to media reports that workers of state-owned Petrotrin had gone on strike, the Union disagreed with an assurance from the company‘s management that there were sufficient supplies of gas and, therefore, no need for any panic buying.
As noted by the ‘Express’, it turned out that the Petrorin management “was speaking the truth while Mr Roget was being disingenuous…”
He may be “satisfied his action (in misrepresenting the availability of gas) had gained the union some headlines needed to advance its self-seeking propaganda…”
As reasoned by the ‘Express’, “whatever happens next, motorists would be well advised to ignore Mr Roget, who is apparently seeking to further his own interests -- which may not be the same as his union’s -- by these shenanigans. But the OWTU president badly miscalculates if he thinks the general public will blame Petrotrin rather than the OWTU and its workers…”
In Guyana, the “wild” or irresponsible politically-motivated behaviour may not be as specifically directed at a single individual in the case of OWTU and Petrotrin.
Here it extends to various elements in the opposition parties (APNU and AFC); the chairman of the Region 10 Council, Sharma Solomon, and political advisors like Aubrey Norton, once quite influential in the main opposition People’s National CongressReform (PNCR).

Corbin’s ‘wild men’ warning
Before the implosion of the political crisis in the bauxite town of Linden in July -- that originally surfaced as a protest over the government’s announced intention to implement a phased hike in electricity tariff to eventually achieve equalisation with consumers across the entire nation -- there was a pertinent political warning:
It came from the former leader of the PNCR, Robert Corbin, perhaps the most ‘grounded’ of key figures of the party of Forbes Burnham, when delivering his farewell address at the party’s 17th Biennial Delegates Congress last July.
Corbin, a lawyer, thought it necessary to sound a warning to the Linden community, a traditional political stronghold of the party: “Beware,” he said without calling names, “of the wild men in your midst who have their nefarious agendas…
“As the struggle continues at Linden, our activists must be aware of and not be misled by those who seek to use their genuine problem to satisfy their own partisan political agendas or to achieve public recognition…”
It was “the wild men”, he added, “who years ago had violated the party’s plan during a protest march (in Gorgetown) by leading protesters into the compound of the Office of the President (then Bharrat Jagdeo) that resulted in the deaths of eight supporters of the PNCR.
Before the 17th PNCR congress was concluded, it became quite evident to more than the party’s loyalists that among those “wild political men” were elements who had been sidelined as parliamentarians following last November’s general election and whose influence on the party’s decision-making councils was now of no significance.
One of the more recurring names of those politically sidelined by the PNCR after the election at which the incumbent PPP/C retained the government but lost control by one seat of the 65-member parliament, is that of Aubrey Norton. He has been featuring since the campaign against the proposed hike in electricity tariff as an acknowledged “adviser” to the Region 10 Council chairman, Sharma Solomon.
The Council’s chairman was heavily leaning for guidance on strategies for actions on the ex-influential PNCR decision-maker in pre and post-turbulent politics in Linden, including his amusing shenanigans during negotiations for an appropriate end to the crisis.
Differently, the minority Alliance For Change leader Ramjattan, had also found a reliable “ally” in Norton, as well as in Solomon during the month-long Linden crisis.
The grim data including three deaths, reportedly by police firing at demonstrators; injuries suffered by at least a dozen others; widespread destruction by arson of private and state-owned properties, amounting to billions of dollars, were to subsequently form part of the terms of reference of a high-level independent Commission of Inquiry involving well known and reputable legal personalities of Jamaica, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.
This inquiry is scheduled to get under way later this month and, hopefully, its “evidenced-based” findings should, according to chairman Lensley Wolfe, former Chief Justice of Jamaica, be available for presentation to President Donald Ramotar, in November.
In the meantime, in what’s taking the shape of a ‘wild west’ political development, the Region 10 Council chairman, Solomon, and “adviser” Norton have been openly providing encouragement for a just-held “election” by residents of the Kwakwani area to run their own local government affairs.
This development followed the government’s revocation of Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) from the control of Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) in ongoing confrontational politics and long overdue nation-wide local government elections.

Arctic Sea Ice and Climate: The ‘Unknown Unknown’

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:15:19 +0000

IT’S no surprise that we will have a record minimum of ice cover in the Arctic Ocean at the end of this summer melt season. It’s already down to around 4 million square kilometres, with at least another week of melting to go, but this is what you might call a “known unknown”.

Scientists knew we were losing the ice-cover fast; they just didn’t know how fast.
I’m no fan of Don Rumsfeld, who helped to lead the United States into the disastrous invasion of Iraq when he was George W. Bush’s defence secretary, but I never had a problem with the distinction he made between “known unknowns” and “unknown unknowns” when discussing the intelligence data. He was brutally mocked in the media for using such jargon, but there really is a difference.
A “known unknown”, in the case of the Arctic Ocean, is how long it will be before the entire sea is ice-free at the end of each summer. The last report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), published in 2007, talked about that happening some time in the second half of this century, but it couldn’t be more specific.
The IPCC usually underestimates the rate of climatic change, but even the pessimists didn’t think we’d get there before the 2030s. I did encounter one maverick at the National Ice and Snow Data Centre who thought it might happen in this decade, but nobody actually knew. A “known unknown”, in other words.
There were also some assumptions about what would happen next in the Arctic. At first, the ice would return each winter, although it would be thinner and less extensive than before, but as time passed the ice-free period would get longer.
A frozen ocean reflects sunlight back into space, but open water absorbs it and turns it into heat, so the ocean itself would now be getting warmer. The warmer water would inhibit the growth of ice even in winter, and eventually the Arctic Ocean would be ice-free all year round – but nobody knew when this would happen.
As for the impact that an ice-free Arctic Ocean might have on climates elsewhere, it would obviously accelerate the global warming trend, but beyond that there wasn’t much to go on. This was the territory of the “unknown unknowns”: big things might happen to the complex atmospheric system of the planet when a major chunk of it suddenly changes, but nobody knew what.
Now we begin to see the consequences. The polar jet stream, an air current that circles the globe in the higher northern latitudes and separates cold, wet weather to the north from warmer, drier weather to the south, is changing its behaviour.
In a paper in Geophysical Letters last March entitled “Evidence linking Arctic amplification to extreme weather in mid-latitudes,” Jennifer Francis of Rutgers University and Stephen Vavrus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison offered a hypothesis that may explain why world grain prices have risen 30 percent in the past four months (and are still going up).
First, a warmer Arctic reduces the temperature gradient between the temperate and polar zones. That, in turn, slows the wind speeds in the zone between the two and increases the “wave amplitude” of the jet stream. The jet stream flows around the planet in great, swooping curves, like a river crossing a flat plain, and those curves – Rossby waves, in scientific language – are getting bigger and slower.
The bigger amplitude means the Rossby waves reach farther down into the temperate zone than they used to, and the slower winds mean that the waves take more time to track across any given territory. The weather north of the jet stream is wet and cold (even warmer Arctic air is still pretty cold), and to the south it is dry and warm – and now many temperate regions of the planet are stuck in one kind of weather or the other for much longer periods.
This is a recipe for extreme weather. In the old days the Rossby waves went past fast, bringing the alternation of rainy and sunny weather that characterised the mid-latitude climate. Now they hang around much longer and generate more extreme weather events: droughts and heat-waves, or prolonged rain and flooding, or blizzards and long, hard freezes.
The temperate zone has been seeing a lot of that sort of thing in the past couple of years – much more than usual. It’s cutting deeply into food production in the major breadbaskets of the planet, like the US Midwest and southern Russia, which is why food prices are going up so fast. And this was an “unknown unknown”: nobody saw it coming.
All the scenarios that the military of various countries were working with assumed that climate change would hit food production very hard in the tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world, and that is still true. But the scenarios also assumed that the temperate regions of the planet would still be able to feed themselves well (and even have a surplus left over to export) for many decades to come.
If Francis and Vavrus are right, that may not be the case. It’s a most unwelcome surprise – and it may be the first of many.
(Gwynne Dyer is a London-based independent journalist, and military historian.)

‘The Golden Scheme’ premieres today in Buxton

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:18:19 +0000

“THE Golden Scheme”, a full-length play written and directed by internationally known playwright, director and producer Ras Leon Saul, premieres today at the Tipperary Hall in Buxton, East Coast Demerara.

The play is described as a musically infused, humorous play about teenager Hope Banigan (Melika Edmonds), who wants to be a singer and wants to find her roots; while her father, Paul Banigan (Max Massiah), dreams of building a “green” hemp car.
International gangster Dr. Ching, aka “The Godfather” (Mark Kazim), kidnaps Hope to get the patent for the car, but music producer Shango (Kwasi Edmondson) comes up with “the golden scheme” to save Hope.
Other members of the accomplished cast of “The Golden Scheme” include Gerard Gilkes, Sean Thompson, Colleen Humphrey, Jennifer Langevine, Harriet Simmons and international reggae recording and performing artist “Killa” Milla.
The play, which has been entered into the NATIONAL DRAMA FESTIVAL 2012, will continue its run on Sunday, September 16, and Sunday, September 23, at the Aracari Resort in Versailles, West Bank Demerara, and will be adjudicated on Saturday, October 6, and Sunday, October 7, at the National Cultural Centre.
Sponsors of “The Golden Scheme” include ANSA McAL (Carib brand), First World Symmetry & Health Care Products, Trinity Grid Holdings, the City Mall, People’s Pawn Shop, Caribbean Cargo & Package Services Inc., Swiss House and Waterchris Restaurant & Bar. It was produced by Carib Feedback Productions.
Admission to the performance of “The Golden Scheme” is $1000 (adults) and $500 (children). Part of the proceeds will go to the Alpha Children’s Home – an orphanage in New Amsterdam. Showtime is 20:00hrs.

Kumar offers condolences on Henry Greene’s passing

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:23:49 +0000

IN REFLECTING on the life of former Commissioner of the Guyana Police Force Henry Greene, Director of Sport within the National Sports Commission Neil Kumar has offered condolences to all those associated with him, be it family, friend or associates.

In the tribute, Kumar noted Greene’s association with sport, mainly table tennis over the years and his sterling contribution to the improvement of that game over the past two years, in which he headed the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA).
Here is the full text of the message:
“Mr Henry Greene, Former Commissioner of Police and President of the Guyana Table Tennis Association died in the early morning of Friday, September 7, 2012 on the Haarlem Public Road, West Coast Demerara. His death was as a result of a three-vehicle accident.
Mr Greene was elected President of the Guyana Table Tennis Association on July 31, 2010, an Association which at the time was experiencing severe managerial difficulties and was unable to carry out its mandate.
As a consequence, he used all his experience and put systems in place to ensure the proper and effective forward movement of the association. He led by example and motivated his executives to emulate his very high standards.”
“His interest in the players was unquestionable. He encouraged them to be committed, dedicated, to strive for success at the highest levels. His concerns for the development of the players and the game were obvious in the implementation of attractive incentives for players and his presence at competitions.”

Under his presidency, the GTTA accomplished much, namely;
-    Decentralising the game to many parts of the country including Berbice, Essequibo Coast, Bartica, Linden, West Demerara, Mahdia, East and West Bank Demerara.
-    Distribution of tables to schools in various areas, Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10, Georgetown and the University of Guyana (Turkeyen and Berbice)
-    Resuscitation of the National Schools Teams Tournament, the Inter-Organisation Teams Championship and the National Championships.
-    Was Awarded the Most Improved Sports Association and Best Association of the Year.
-    Introduced the Umpire ITTF Basic Coaching Course and training programmes for players overseas.
-    Organised a number of Level I Coaching Courses while it increased and strengthened the local training base.
-    Three ITTF Level I Coaches attended the ITTF Level II Coaching Course in Trinidad and Tobago.
-   Increased the financial base by way of regular, well organised fundraising activities.
-    Raised the level of the local competitions.
-    Was able to attract adequate sponsorship for local and overseas competitions.
-   Successfully hosted the 53rd Senior Caribbean Table Tennis Championships.
-   Participated in Pre-Cadet, Cadet Junior and Senior Caribbean Championships, Commonwealth Games in India and Latin American Championships in Mexico.

“Greene, as president of the GTTA, established a very close working relationship with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission, the Corporate Community the Caribbean Regional Table Tennis Federation and the International Table tennis Federation.
He also promoted a family atmosphere among the executives, players, parents, coaches, fans and the public at large.
“He touched the lives of many with his democratic management style. He was a leader by example, committed to the cause and honest in his dealings. This stalwart will truly be missed by those with whom he came into contact.”
“The Guyana Table Tennis Association will definitely miss a President, Father, Mentor, Friend and a Leader of quality.”
“Just a few hours before his demise, the Executive body of the Guyana Table Tennis Association met, discussed and agreed on the activities for the remainder of the year, such as the National Tournament, the Inter-Organisation Teams Tournament, the schools teams tournament, the Latin American Pre-Cadet Championship in Venezuela and the North America Championship in the United States of America; the preparation for the hosting of the Caribbean Pre-Cadet Championships in July 2013.”
“The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission expresses sincere condolences to his immediate and extended family, the GTTA, the sport fraternity and those to whom he would have been near and dear.
May his soul experience eternal rest!”

Kallis, Duminy steer South Africa to easy T20 win

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:24:35 +0000

CHESTER-LE-STREET, England Jacques Kallis guided South Africa to a seven-wicket win over World Twenty20 champions England in the first Twenty20 international at Chester-le-Street yesterday.

The Proteas were in trouble at 29 for three, chasing a seemingly modest 119 for victory. But opener Kallis, returning to international duty after being rested from the drawn one-day series between the two countries, made 48 not out off 44 balls with seven fours.
Together with left-hander JP Duminy (47 not out) he shared an unbroken stand of 90 in 91 deliveries as the Proteas, who won with an over to spare, went 1-0 up in a three-match series ahead of this month's World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka.
"We were 20 or 30 short, we didn't adapt to the condition of the pitch or bat to our average," England Twenty20 captain Stuart Broad told Sky Sports.
"We got a little bit stuck with the spin. We played nicely through the first six overs but struggled in the middle period. We are aware of that and we know where to improve."
England can expect to face plenty of spin on receptive pitches in Sri Lanka but Broad, like Kallis returning after being rested from the one-dayers, had no undue worries about his team's ability to play slow bowling.
"It's not too much of a concern, we need to adapt and learn from this game," he said ahead of tomorrow’s second match in Manchester.
South Africa captain AB de Villiers praised his attack, with man-of-the-match Dale Steyn taking one for 13 in four overs and spinners Robin Peterson and Johan Botha sharing four wickets, for setting up this victory.
"The bowling was brilliant, led by Dale Steyn. He bowled with a lot of pace and looked like taking wickets throughout," said de Villiers. "We never allowed England to get momentum."
Steyn added: "I can live with bowling one-over spells. It's a lot easier than Test matches."
South Africa saw hard-hitting opener Richard Levi caught in the slips off Jade Dernbach and Twenty20 international debutant Faf du Plessis lbw to fast bowler Steven Finn. de Villiers was then caught behind by Craig Kieswetter off Dernbach for 10.
South Africa were now 29 for three and England, all but out of the contest after their innings, were back in the game. But if South Africa could produce one decent partnership they would win and in world class all-rounder Kallis and left-hander Duminy they had the men for the job in the absence of the rested Hashim Amla.
Ultimately England's 118 for seven - their third lowest total in this format - did not give their bowlers enough of a score to defend.
Spin bowling, long regarded as the Proteas' Achilles heel, accounted for four England wickets with Botha (two for 19) and left-armer Peterson (two for 27), striking after de Villiers won the toss.
At 85 for seven, England were in danger of posting their worst Twenty20 total before an unbroken stand of 33 in 27 balls between Broad and Graeme Swann, who both finished on 18 not out, gave them a foothold in the match. No England batsman made more than opener Kieswetter's 25.
England's collapse started with a needless run-out. Alex Hales, who made an England Twenty20 best 99 against the West Indies in June after replacing the still exiled Kevin Pietersen, charged down the pitch for a non-existent single and, turning back, was run-out by Kallis's direct hit. Kieswetter then fell when he was plumb lbw to Botha's first ball.
And Ravi Bopara, who averaged just 5.50 with the bat during the one-dayers, fell cheaply in familiar fashion when he edged Steyn to Botha at slip. Botha then struck again when he bowled danger-man Eoin Morgan for 10, after the former Ireland left-hander bottom-edged a pull-sweep. (AFP)

ENGLAND innings
C. Kieswetter lbw b Botha 25
A. Hales run-out (Kallis) 11
R. Bopara c Botha b Steyn 6
E. Morgan b Botha 10
J. Bairstow c Botha b Morkel 15
J. Buttler b Peterson 6
S. Patel c Kallis b Peterson 4
S. Broad not out 18
G. Swann not out 18
Extras: (b-2, lb-3) 5
Total: (7 wkts, 20 overs) 118
Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-40, 3-50, 4-66, 5-76 , 6-80, 7-85.
Bowling: Peterson 4-0-27-2; Steyn 4-0-13-1; Tsotobe 2-0-22-0; Morkel 3-0-12-1; Botha 4-0-19-2; Kallis 3-0-20-0.

SOUTH AFRICA innings
R. Levi c Swann b Dernbach 8
J. Kallis not out 48
F. du Plessis lbw b Finn 4
AB de Villiers c Kieswetter b Dernbach 10
JP Duminy not out 47
Extras: (lb-1, w-1) 2
Total: (3 wkts, 19 overs) 119
Fall of wickets: 1-9, 2-14, 3-29.
Bowling: Finn 4-0-22-1, Dernbach 4-0-31-2, Broad 4-0-18-0, Bopara 2-0-20-0 (w-1), Swann 4-0-16-0, Patel 1-0-11-0.
Remaining Fixtures
Septrmber 10: 2nd T20, Manchester
September 12: 3rd T20, Birmingham

Drogba helps Ivory Coast to come-back win

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:25:25 +0000

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - Didier Drogba and former Chelsea team mate Salomon Kalou were among the goalscorers as the Ivory Coast twice came from behind to beat Senegal 4-2 in an African Nations Cup qualifier in Abidjan yesterday.

Gervinho and Max Gradel scored the other goals to give the Ivorians a two-goal advantage ahead of next month's return leg in the final round of preliminaries for the 2013 finals in South Africa.
Three-time winners Cameroon, however, face an uphill struggle to avoid missing out on qualification for a second successive tournament after they lost 2-0 to the Cape Verde Islands.
Nigeria, who also missed out last time, are well-placed after drawing 2-2 at Liberia while Sudan completed a thrilling 5-3 win over neighbours Ethiopia.
Emmanuel Adebayor marked his first competitive game for Togo this year with a late equaliser in a 1-1 away draw with 2012 co-hosts Gabon.
Defending champions Zambia, Ghana, Mali and the Central African Republic were also winners in yesterday's final round, first leg games, with five fixtures to be played today.
Senegal stunned the home crowd by taking a 32nd-minute lead through Dame Ndoye before Kalou equalised soon after halftime.
Papiss Cisse restored Senegal's advantage on the hour mark and the possibility of an upset against Africa's top-ranked team loomed large.
Ivory Coast, however, scored three goals in 20 minutes to turn the match around with Gervinho equalising in the 65th minute, Drogba adding a penalty soon after and Gradel scoring the fourth with five minutes to play.
Drogba also had a late effort disallowed. Cameroon were without forward Samuel Eto'o, who is refusing to play for his country in protest against the team's management.
They face a tough task in the return leg of their tie after Portuguese-based Helton and Djanini scored in Praia for Cape Verde, who are now poised to qualify for the first time.

WINNING START
Victor Moses was instrumental in Nigeria's away draw in Monrovia, with the visitors' goals coming from Nosa Igiebor and an Ike Uche penalty.
Tunisia are also well set after a 2-2 draw in Sierra Leone.
Adebayor, playing just his third international in more than two years, netted a late equaliser in Libreville to give Togo hope of qualification.
Zambia, who won the last Nations Cup in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon earlier this year, made a winning start to the defence of their crown with captain Chris Katongo scoring the only goal of their qualifier at home to Uganda in Ndola.
Uganda were denied a late equaliser when Zambia goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene made an important save to deny Emmanuel Okwi seven minutes from fulltime.
The Nations Cup is usually held every two years, but is being played in 2013 to accommodate a switch from every even to every odd year.
The 16 finalists from this year's tournament play a two-leg tie against teams who won an earlier round of knockout matches to decide who goes through to the finals to be played in South Africa in January.

Murray reaches final at windy U.S. Open ... Second semi between Djokovic and Ferrer suspended; schedule moved back a day because of foul weather

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:25:55 +0000

NEW YORK, NY (Reuters) - Britain's Andy Murray produced a masterful performance against Tomas Berdych to book his place in the U.S. Open final yesterday but will have to wait to discover his opponent after foul weather wreaked havoc.

The forecast of a massive thunderstorm forced tournament officials to suspend the remainder of yesterday’s schedule, including the second men's semi-final between Novak Djokovic and David Ferrer and the women's final between Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka.
Those matches were both rescheduled for today, meaning the men's final will be pushed back until tomorrow, for the fifth year in a row.
"It was not too difficult a decision to make," tournament director David Brewer said. "The goods news is that tomorrow is going to be beautiful day."
Ferrer was leading Djokovic 5-2 in the first set when they were told to pack up as organisers decided to clear Flushing Meadows before the storm arrived.
The conditions were already terrible for tennis with all the players struggling just to hit the ball in the near gale-force winds.
"It was some of the hardest conditions I've ever played in," said Murray. "And I come from Scotland, so that's saying something."
Murray handled the wind better than Berdych, a big hitter who relies heavily on his power game. The Czech, who has the highest ball toss of any player on the tour, made 64 unforced errors compared to Murray's 20.
"Our sport deserves to have some rule if the conditions are like that," he growled.
Murray is now bidding to become the first British man to win a grand slam singles title since Fred Perry won the U.S. Open in 1936 when tennis was still played with wooden racquets and in long trousers.
The Scotsman has played in four previous grand slam finals, the U.S. Open in 2008, the Australian Open in 2010 and 2011 and Wimbledon this year, but lost the lot, raising questions about his mental strength on the biggest stage.
But he silenced a lot of his doubters when he won the gold medal at the London Olympics this year and has continued his great form at Flushing Meadows over the past fortnight.
"I've never made two grand slam finals in a year, so that's obviously a good sign that I'm playing better and still learning," he said.
"And the Olympics was the biggest win of my career by far. It meant a lot to me."
His match against Berdych was delayed for an hour and a half because of wild morning storms, including a tornado that made landfall in Queens, the same New York City borough where the annual tournament is held.
Both players repeatedly had to abort their serves as the gusts caught their ball tosses and the players were forced to slow down their serves just to land them in court.
Murray dropped serve in the first set when he agreed to replay a crucial point after his cap was blown off his head, distracting Berdych as he scrambled to get to a drop shot.
A handful of other points were delayed when scraps of litter were whipped into the air current and Murray had to replay a serve in the second set after a blast of wind toppled his courtside chair and scattered the contents of his bag on the playing service.
Berdych took the opening set after 77 minutes but became increasingly frustrated as the match went on.
Murray ripped through the second and third sets and appeared to be on his way to a comfortable win when he opened up a 3-0 lead in the fourth before momentarily losing his way.
Berdych broke back and forced a tiebreaker. He led 5-2 and got to set point but Murray rallied back to seal victory and get a surprise visit from Sean Connery and Alex Ferguson during his post-match news conference.
"Hopefully they'll be back for the final as well," Murray said. "I hope this one is a different story."

Sloppy Windies Women lose opener by eight wickets

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:26:38 +0000

CHESTER-LE-STREET, England (CMC) – A sloppy batting effort from West Indies Women condemned them to an eight-wicket defeat to England Women in their opening Twenty20 International of the five-match series here yesterday.

Missing World number one batsman Stafanie Taylor, West Indies struggled in seamer-friendly conditions at the Riverside Ground and were held to 71 for eight off their allotted overs – their lowest ever T20 total.
Captain Merissa Aguilleira, batting at number three, top-scored with 21 from 29 balls and led only three players in double figures as Tremayne Smartt (14) and Shemaine Campbelle (11) chipped in.
Left-arm spinner Holly Colvin finished with two for five from her four overs while new-ball bowler Katherine Brunt claimed two for 16.
England needed just over half-hour to claim victory, as Laura Marsh (31) and captain Charlotte Edwards (27) set the foundation for the easy victory with a 59-run opening stand.
Marsh stroked five fours off 22 balls while Edwards counted three boundaries off 26 balls.
West Indies stumbled out of the blocks, losing Juliana Nero without scoring to the second ball of the game with no runs on the board, lbw to Brunt swinging across the line.
Four balls later, left-hander Kycia Knight also departed without scoring via the lbw route.
When the dangerous Deandra Dottin was also lbw without scoring, this time to Brunt’s new-ball partner Anya Shrubsole, West Indies were in a deep hole at seven for three in the second over.
Aguilleira, however, halted the decline with a 28-run fourth-wicket stand off 48 balls with Campbelle.
The right-hander stroked two fours and looked to be pulling the Windies around when she was one of two wickets to fall in successive overs with just two runs added.
Campbelle was bowled around her legs by Colvin before Aguilleira, attempting to push the scoring along, lofted off-spinner Marsh to mid-off at the end of the 11th over.
Wickets then fell steadily and Smartt’s run-a-ball 14 was the only spark at the end.
West Indies will travel to Manchester for the second match tomorrow.

WEST INDIES innings
J. Nero lbw b Brunt 0
K. Knight lbw b Brunt 0
M. Aguilleira c Shrubsole b Marsh 21
D. Dottin lbw b Shrubsole 0
S. Campbelle b Colvin 11
S. Daley c Beaumont b Wyatt 6
B. Cooper run-out 5
S. King stp. Taylor b Colvin 0
T. Smartt not out 14
A. Mohammed not out 8
Extras: (lb-2, w-4) 6
Total: (8 wkts, 20 overs) 71
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-5, 3-7, 4-35, 5-37, 6-48, 7-48, 8-54.
Bowling: Brunt 4-0-16-2 (w-2), Shrubsole 4-0-20-1 (w-1), Colvin 4-1-5-2, Marsh 4-0-11-1, Wyatt 4-0-17-1 (w-1)..

ENGLAND innings
C. Edwards not out 27
L. Marsh stp. Aguilleira b Mohammed 31
S. Taylor c Cooper b Campbelle 4
A. Brindle not out 5
Extras: (w-4, nb-1) 5
Total: (2 wkts; 9.4 overs 72
Fall of wickets: 1-59, 2-66.
Bowling: Selman 2-0-18-0 (nb-1), Smartt 1-0-9-0 (w-1), Daley 2-0-11-0, King 1-0-16-0 (w-2), Mohammed 2-0-9-1, Campbelle 1.4-0-9-1.

GCA/DAVID PERSAUD INVESTMENTS U-19 - DCC ‘B’ hold advantage for today’s final at Everest

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:27:21 +0000

FOLOWING their emphatic four-wicket semifinal victory over Georgetown Cricket Club, coupled with an earlier victory over their ‘A’ team, Demerara Cricket Club’s (DCC) ‘B’ team will start today’s final of the Georgetown Cricket Association-organised, David Persaud Investments-sponsored Under-19 tournament against the said ‘A’ team, as favourites to cart off the crown.

The contest will be played at the Everest Cricket Club ground, under the guidance of Nolan Hawke and Shannon Crawford and is expected to get under way at 09:30hrs, where both sides will be battling not only for supremacy at the youth level of Georgetown’s cricket, but bragging rights among themselves.
The ‘A’ side which will be led by Omesh Dhanram, includes players of the calibre of Tevin Imloch, Andrew Gibson, Michael Shalim, Yenkini Favorite, David Mohammed, brothers Khemraj and Sunil Rupee, Clitus Johnson, Orlando Sturge and national Under-19 fast bowler Dexter George.
The ‘B’ team will be looking to skipper Kemal Savory, Xaviee Smith, Renaldo Renee, Cavell Reece, Travis Persaud, Josiah Matil, Carlton Jacques, Dequan Murray and national Under-15 player Malcolm Hubert to steer them past their more illustrious opponents, while enabling them to live up to the bragging rights that were being extended during the past week.
The presentation of prizes won during the staging of this inaugural tournament should follow the completion of this contest which promises to be an exciting one.

U.S. women beat Germany 1-0 to win U-20 World Cup

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:27:45 +0000

TOKYO, Japan - The United States won the women's Under-20 World Cup soccer for the third time, defeating defending champion Germany 1-0 yesterday on a goal by Kealia Ohai in the 44th minute.

Crystal Dunn beat a German defender in the penalty area and squared a pass to Ohai, who sent a right-footed shot over goalkeeper Laura Benkarth. It was the first goal Germany gave up in the tournament.
"I saw Crystal making a run and every time she does that you know she is going to get something in the box," Ohai said. "I sprinted as fast as I could and she got the ball to me and I just squared it."
Earlier yesterday, Japan downed Nigeria 2-1 in the third-place game. Yoko Tanaka and Asuka Nishikawa scored for Japan and Desire Oparanozie had Nigeria's goal.
The U.S. and Germany also met in the group stage, with the Germans winning 3-0 on August 27 in Miyagi. The Americans also captured this tournament in 2002 and 2008. Germany won in 2004 and 2010.
"It was a great performance by our team," U.S. coach Steve Swanson said. "It's a reflection of a lot of people's efforts. We had some adversity in the group stage but the players learned from that and our character showed tonight."
Germany pressed forward in the second half, but the Americans defended staunchly to protect the lead. Leonie Maier rattled the crossbar in the 72nd minute and came close again with a long shot in the final minute, but U.S. goalkeeper Bryane Heaberlin made a good save.
"Our defence got better and better as the tournament went on," Swanson said. "They deserve a lot of credit, and when I say that I include the goalkeeper.
“We needed to stay compact. We got a little stretched out against Germany in the first game against them so we knew we needed to be better defensively and that was a key to our winning tonight."
Germany scored 15 goals in the group stage, but couldn't find a way to break through in the final.
"I don't think beating them 3-0 had any implications for today's match," Germany coach Maren Meinert said. "Playing the United States is always tough. We gave up a goal in the first half and that made it harder for the players to respond and it was a totally different situation than the first time we played them."

DeSouza hits ton for GNIC; MSC in sight of victory

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:28:10 +0000

GUYANA National Industrial Corporation’s (GNIC) Shawn De Souza struck a century while Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) were within sight of victory at the end of the first day of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)-organised, Carib Beer/Friends of Cricket/Heroes Cup first division competition yesterday.

Playing at the Demerara Cricket Club ground against a hapless Transport Sports Club (TSC), De Souza struck 11 fours and 9 sixes in his 140, which piloted GNIC to 378, while at the MCS ground, Thomas Lands, the home team bowled out Everest Cricket Club (ECC) for 97, replied with 177 for a lead of 80, before restricting the visitors to 80 for 8 in their second innings.
At the DCC ground, De Souza who was bowled by Ewart Samuels (3 for 65), received support from Marc Nicholson who struck 8 fours and 2 sixes in his 80, Ranole Bourne 40 (4x4, 2x6) and Collis Butts 27 (2x6, 1x4), which helped propel GNIC to their eventual total.
Shae Chase took 2 for 49 to support Samuels in the bowling department for TSC, who, thanks to the batting of Sunil Singh and Stephen Alves who both made 24 and Carl Rambharose’ 23, reached their close of play score, which was a remarkable improvement, taking into consideration their humiliating innings-and-155-run defeat at the hands of DCC in their last encounter.
To date, Orlando Fraser has taken 2 for 15 for GNIC, who will be looking to wrap up the TSC bating lineup who need a further 256 runs for first innings points, with seven wickets in hand.
In the MSC versus ECC encounter, the home team won the toss and opted to field first, a move that paid dividends as the visitors were dismissed for 97, with only Rajendra Chandrika and Dayanand Roopnarine who both made 16 and West Indies Under-19 leg-spinner Amir Khan (13) offering resistance.
Chandrika struck two fours and one six, while both Roopnarine and Khan struck three fours in their innings before the pace/spin combination of Kellon Carmichael (3 for 34), Steven Jacobs 2 for 14 and Seon Daniels 2 for 33 dismissed the visitors batting lineup.
When MSC batted, they were bowled out for 177 from 43.2 overs, with Imran Hassan hitting 10 fours in his top score of 52, Jacobs two fours and one six in 28 and Carmichael 26 (2x4, 1x6) against the bowling of Javed Rasheed who took 4 for 40, Khan with 3 for 53 and Damian Van Tull’s 2 for 36.
Faced with a deficit of 80 runs, ECC ended on 80 for 8 in their second innings, with Khan showing some fight hitting three fours in his unbeaten 21, while Chandrika made 15 that was also decorated with three fours.
Steven Sankar, Jacobs and Daniels have all taken two wickets each for 8, 12 and 25 runs respectively for MSC, who will be looking to dismiss the visitors’ batting lineup under 100 for a second time in the match and in the process give themselves an easy target for victory.
Action in both matches commences at 09:30hrs today.

Canada, Mexico and Jamaica take charge in CONCACAF

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:28:42 +0000

(REUTERS) - Canada and Mexico took big steps towards the next phase of World Cup qualification after wins in the CONCACAF region on Friday while Jamaica tasted victory over the United States for the first time.

At the half-way stage in the third round of qualifying in North and Central America and the Caribbean, Mexico are the only team with a 100 percent record after they picked up a third win in three games with a 2-0 victory at Costa Rica in Group B.
Both Mexican goals came from corners with Carlos Salcido putting 'El Tri' ahead two minutes before the break and then Jesus Zavala adding the second in the 52nd minute.
Jamaica are now outright leaders in Group A, with seven points, after they came from behind to beat the United States 2-1 and leave the Americans level on four points with Guatemala.
Clint Dempsey put the U.S. in front after just 36 seconds but two long-range goals from free-kicks from Rodolph Austin (24) and Luton Shelton (62) kicked off a party at the National Stadium in Kingston.
"Jamaica deserved the win, they were hungrier and they were more determined. After the equaliser they rose to the occasion," said U.S. coach Juergen Klinsmann.
Guatemala suffered a scare against Antigua and Barbuda, falling behind to a Peter Byers goal in the 38th minute but Carlos Ruiz scored twice before Dwight Pezzarossi slid in at the back post in injury time to wrap up a 3-1 win.
Canada are the surprise leaders in Group C, on seven points, after a Dwayne De Rosario goal gave them a 1-0 win in Toronto over Panama, who are now a point behind the Canadians and two ahead of Honduras.
De Rosario's record 20th goal for his country came in the 77th minute, as he reacted to a quick free kick by Atiba Hutchinson to fire past Panama keeper Jaime Penedo.
"It was good to score, good to get the points and the atmosphere was fantastic. I thought the first half was some of the best we've played and I said at halftime that the goal would come," said Canada head coach Stephen Hart.
Honduras remain in the chase though after they picked up their first win in Group C with a 3-0 victory over Cuba in Havana - Jerry Bengtson (31), Victor Bernandez (63) and Marvin Chavez (90+2) getting the goals.
Guyana's chances of making it to the final six stage of the qualifying competition are remote but they showed signs of their progress with a 2-2 draw in El Salvador.
Treyon Bobb equalised twice for Guyana after goals from Isidro Gutierrez and Osael Romero for an El Salvador team who are two points behind Costa Rica in Group B.
Friday's fixtures will now be reversed for Tuesday's return games.

CGX Energy hands over painting to ‘Tiger’ Chanderpaul

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:29:08 +0000

IT WAS painted and commissioned in England by David Skinner and on the recommendation of former Commonwealth Secretary General Sir Shridath Ramphal, CGX Energy offered their support to sponsor and donate an oil painting of dependable West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul last Friday.

At a simple presentation ceremony which was held at the Georgetown Cricket Club the home of Chanderpaul, Chairman of CGX Energy Professor Suresh Narine and the Company’s Founder Kamal Dookie expressed their company’s delight at being associated with the presentation.
Witnessing the presentation were Shivnarine’s father Hemraj and his son Tagenarine, along with the visiting Perseverance Sports Club of Trinidad and Tobago and members of the GCC club, including national middle order batsman Leon Johnson.
Said Narine, “CGX Energy recognises Shivnarine Chanderpaul as a Sports Ambassador for Guyana and the region at large. Most of our Guyanese staff are cricket enthusiasts and we are more than pleased to be associated with this venture.”
He added, “We would like to say thank you to Shiv, not only for his talent, but the way he has led our hopes and aspirations to what Guyanese can be … Obviously, he has come to mean much more than a cricketer, he is truly an ambassador for our country and our region, a cricketer who is known as far as in India and CGX would like to clearly congratulate you.”
As if to make the left-handed Chanderpaul who has so far scored over 10 000 runs at the Test level for the West Indies happier, Dookie firstly congratulated Chanderpaul’s son Tagenarine for his success achieved at the Caribbean Secondary Examinations Council (CSEC) examinations, while adding that CGX Energy would like to see him go to University.
“On behalf of CGX Energy, I wish to do the best for your son Tagenarine. We had a discussion and apart from his cricketing talent, we would like for you to get a degree and in addition to your ability as a cricketer, we would like to support you to go to university, as we want to see you keep up with your academics,” stated Narine.
He said his company wishes to support the young people of Guyana, while calling on the younger Chanderpaul to take up the mantle and continue to excel in the field of academics.
In his thank-you speech, Shivnarine Chanderpaul thanked the company for the kind gesture, one he promised to use as a memory in regard to his achievements on the cricket field during his playing days, when he decides to retire.

Golden Jaguars battle to hard-fought 2-2 draw against El Salvador

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:30:14 +0000

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador - Guyana's Golden Jaguars, clinched their first points in Group B, with a commendable 2-2 draw against El Salvador, when action in the North, Central American and Caribbean Zone, third round 2014 World Cup qualifiers, continued last Friday evening at the Estadio Cuscatlan.
The star of the night for the Jaguars was

19-year-old, Caledonia AIA, left-winger Trayon Bobb who in his first game of these qualifiers, scored a clinical double in the 20th and 54th minutes, while Isidro Gutierrez and Osael Romero scored for the home side in the 4th and 21st minutes respectively.
With Mexico defeating Costa Rica 2-0 in Friday night's simultaneous Group B encounter, Tuesday's home game is now a must-win game for the Jaguars.
According to FIFA, Mexico will already qualify for the next round if they defeat Costa Rica at the Estadio Azteca on Tuesday, while Guyana will be eliminated if they lose at home to El Salvador and Costa Rica topple Mexico.
Thus home support once more at Providence for Tuesday’s encounter will be a key factor in aiding the Jaguars getting a victory in that encounter.
In front of a typical hostile Central American crowd, the locals were decked out in a sea of blue to show support for La Selecta, while inversely intimidating the visiting Golden Jaguars.
On what was a fairly damp outfield which made passing tricky and control of the ball difficult for both sides, the 90 minutes of play descended into a lively counter-attacking affair with both defences looking appreciably vulnerable.
Guyana's defence was the first to be exposed as La Selecta opened the scoring inside the first five minutes of play.
A long cross from midfield was misjudged by Walter ‘Boyd’ Moore at left back which saw Gutierrez proceed to ghost into the box and fire his shot straight through the legs of Guyana’s custodian Richard Reynolds.
The opening 20-minute salvo from that first goal saw the home side in relative control as the Jaguars struggled to grab a foothold in proceedings.
However, totally against the run of play, Guyana struck back thanks solely to the partnership between Bobb and Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, which would go on to torment the hosts for the remainder of the game.
Richardson first took advantage of a fumble in El Salvador’s midfield to break away on the counter-attack and slid a gem of a pass to Bobb, who slammed home a superb long-range left-foot strike from just outside the 18-yard box, past the outstretched glove of El Salvador’s custodian Dagaberto Portillo and into the top of the net.
This sent his team mates and support staff into pandemonium as the Jaguars scored their first official goal of the qualifiers, since the one against Mexico in the first round was recorded as a defence error.
That feeling of ecstasy was immediately short-lived however, as La Selecta made it 2-1 right after kick-off.
Gutierrez was again into the action when he sent a cross down the right flank into the path of Romero, who charged forward from midfield and slotted home in the 21st minute, as the Jaguars’ central defence became lethargic and was punished for seemingly switching off at a crucial transition phase of the game.
The remainder of the first half closed out in frenetic Gung-ho fashion for both teams, with El Salvador slightly more composed in mid-field possession while Guyana continued to aim to catch the hosts on the counter-attack.
As the second half resumed the telepathic Richardson/Bobb combination would once again link to a devastating effect.
Richardson, who had one of his best games for the national team, playing in the trequartista/playmaker position, sent a delightful through ball into Bobb's path and with the defenders flat-footed, Bobb only had the keeper to negotiate and he obliged once more, to bring the Golden Jaguars level with their hosts.
The final 30 minutes saw both teams creating further opportunities to win the game, but each side failed to secure a winner as the game petered out to a draw.
Two of the more notable chances occurred first in the 71st minute when El Salvador’s Jamie Alas hit a long range shot that hit the top of the crossbar.
Two minutes later, Chris Nurse who was on the attack sent a long pass from mid-field into the path of substitute Dwain Jacobs, whose cross across the face of goal was barely smothered away by the keeper, ahead of Ricky Shakes who was coming in on the right side to take a shot.
Speaking after the game a clearly proud Golden Jaguars’ national coach Jamaal Shabazz stated his clear pleasure with the result.
"I am very proud of the team coming out with a point in what were difficult conditions. We played as a strong united force and got some great individual performances from some guys. Richardson and teenager Bobb stood out as a picture of selfless work and a team-comes-first approach."
He continued: "I was overwhelmed when at the end of the game the entire El Salvador stadium who were hostile to us during the encounter, gave us a standing ovation after the game. That touched me deeply and it’s a moment I will cherish in my football life. Our boys bought into the tactics and we got a good result, tomorrow is another day".

International Coastal Clean-up

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:35:57 +0000

GARBAGE is one of the biggest problems threatening our oceans and waterways.

The ocean is the planet’s life support system, providing us with the food, water, and oxygen we need to survive. It also drives our climate. Litter along the coast impacts both human and marine life. Sharp items can cut beachgoers, and batteries, car parts and chemical drums may leak toxic compounds, while even the mightiest whale can drown when entangled in old rope or fishing nets, and many fish, birds and animals eat plastics which they mistake for food. This results in these animals choking and slowly starving since they are unable to digest plastics but their stomachs seem full. Ocean trash affects coastal economies as well by reducing tourist visits and causing enormous clean-up bills.
Ocean Conservancy, a non-profit organisation based in Washington D.C., USA, coordinates the International Coastal Clean-up in a bid to protect the ocean and its wildlife.

International Coastal Clean-up: What's it all about?
All year long, organisations and individuals across the globe take part in Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Clean-up to remove trash and debris from the world's beaches and waterways, identify the sources of that debris, and change the behaviours that allow it to reach the ocean in the first place.
It all culminates on the third Saturday in September each year when hundreds of thousands of volunteers from countries all over the world spend a day picking up everything from cigarette butts and food wrappers to lost fishing nets and major appliances. Because trash travels to the ocean by way of drains and waterways, they don’t just work along ocean beaches; these dedicated individuals trudge through mud and sand along lakes, streams, and rivers, too, often working far inland. Many walk, while others set out on boats. Some even dive to seek trash below the water’s surface.
This year will mark the 27th year that volunteers participate in Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup in a bid to make our ocean and waterways cleaner by collecting data that shows the extent of this problem. If you can think of it, volunteers have found it on shorelines and waterways - from cigarette butts and plastic bags, to waste from industry and abandoned fishing gear. Some of the weirdest items that have been found include an entire toilet set, wedding dresses, tuxedoes,a dining room table and even fireworks debris. Here’s a look at the top 10 items found:

The main aims of the International Coastal Clean-up are:
•   To remove trash from the shorelines, waterways, and beaches of the world’s lakes, rivers, and oceans.
•   To educate people on the issue of marine litter, and
•   To collect valuable information on the amount and types of debris and to use this information to create positive changes at all levels, from the individual to the international, to reduce marine litter and enhance marine conservation.

Local action, global change
The International Coastal Clean-up all began with one woman walking along the beach of South Padre Island, Texas. Appalled at the amount of trash she saw, Linda Maraniss immediately felt compelled to do something about it. Teaming up with like-minded people, she organised a beach clean-up. In just two hours, 2,800 Texans had picked up 124 tons of trash along 122 miles of coastline. Since 1986, that effort has extended across the globe, and has grown into a much valued experience that nearly half-a-million people look forward to with more joining each year.

Importance of data collection
Volunteers who participate in clean-ups around the world do not only pick up trash, they record every item they find on standardised data cards. Ocean Conservancy compiles and analyzes the data each year, and publishes an item-by-item, location-by-location snapshot of marine debris in an annual report. By understanding what is out there, we can work together on solutions. When elected officials know what comprises marine litter, they can make informed policy decisions that will help to fight this problem. Community leaders are able to more effectively implement recycling and other waste reduction programmes, e.g., in Nicaragua, the municipal governments have increased the number of garbage receptacles on the beaches and collect them with greater frequency due to the increased awareness that comes from the clean-up there. Even corporations will see the need for improved technology and reduced packaging, e.g. in 2009, the Coca-Cola Company launched the first-ever 100 percent recyclable PET plastic beverage bottle made partially from plants. These bottles are easily recyclable which means less ends up along our coastline. More importantly, individuals would be inspired to properly dispose of their trash to keep it out of the ocean.
You can organise your own clean-up on this day to aid in the fight against marine litter. People of all ages, from any walk of life, can participate: friends, families, neighbours,and youth groups can all come out to support this global event.
Log on to http://www.oceanconservancy.org/ to find out how you can be involved in this activity.

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com.

Cooperation and cohesion

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:52:43 +0000

ALL this week I followed the Democratic Convention in the United States and one common theme came through. Michelle Obama started the thread with her statement that “Success isn’t about

how much money you make, it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”
Before the President’s speech, that thread was neatly tied up by Elizabeth Warren, senate hopeful and longtime public intellectual, who retorted to Obama’s opponent, “No, Governor Romney, corporations aren’t people. People have hearts, they have kids, they get jobs, they get sick, they cry, they dance.”
That was a direct response to one of Romney’s most telling gaffes earlier this year when he told one person at a public meeting, “Corporations are people too, my friend.” I’m not going to second guess Romney’s true meaning, but I can use his statement as a point of departure for what I want to explore in this week’s article – the impact of the human element, the ‘people factor’, in running a functional entity, whether it’s a country or a company, and how it impacts upon development.
In the case of a country, let’s list the core elements for sustainable and meaningful growth: there’s a healthy GDP as both an indicator of and prerequisite for development; there is the element of capacity, as can be gauged by the avenues for training and education; and then there is effective health care. All of these things, while having clear systemic bases and implications, are based upon one building block, the individual human being. If these systems were based on machines, robots, locked into one set programme, then everything would be perfect and I’d probably not have a column to write – the reality is that the human element is defined by its quirkiness and even in the best of situations, this means that a monkey wrench can appear out of nowhere and mess up the gears of the otherwise efficient machine.
Let me present the lower end of that scale in a hypothetical scenario – let’s imagine there is a small company that is producing, say, shoes. Materials are in abundant supply, the supply chain is reliable, distribution channels are obstacle-free and the market is far from saturation point, is indeed expanding. Let’s say that Mr. X, the longtime general manager of the company, the man who has sailed the ship smoothly from the inception, has retired and the ownership has to replace him.

"The human element is a paradoxical one: it allows us to design and implement complex social and economic systems,while at the same time it is the human element which proves the key destructive force when those systems fall apart."

They advertise for a replacement and finally choose a person who has all the apparent qualifications for managing the company efficiently. A month into the job however, staff complaints increase drastically, all about the heavy-handed autocratic management style of the new GM. There is also evidence that the management recruit is brusque with suppliers and customers alike. The owners continue to have faith in his qualifications, despite the complaints, primarily because production surges for a while – over time however, those figures begin to drop to record lows due to a multiplicity of factors, from poor attendance at work, to low morale, to external inefficiencies both in supply and distribution.
Let’s now examine, the flip side of it. Same company, manager leaves, new manager, but this time very personable, open, communicative – despite this, the person goes to management with reports of a drop in efficiency and a concurrent rise in subordination. The results are basically the same: poor relations with suppliers, marketing agents and customers.
Whereas in the first case the overarching problem was autocracy, in the latter scenario it is insubordination – and in both cases, that core problem is ostensibly unwarranted, other than an issue of personality.
That is the human factor, and this is something I’ve written upon, granted not directly as in this case, in column after column, from my articles on territoriality, to those on public trust, to those on the need for fairness. The human element is a paradoxical one:it allows us to design and implement complex social and economic systems, while at the same time it is the human element which proves the key destructive force when those systems fall apart. On one end of the scale we have cooperation and cohesion at a refined, sometimes sublime level; and at the other end of the scale we have the disintegration of systems and relationships for oftentimes no other reason than a superficial shift in operations, one person, one cog, replacing another that has ceased to function, for whatever reason.

Congratulações, Brasil! --on your 190th Independence Anniversary

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:24:46 +0000

THE Federative Republic of Brazil is celebrating its 190th Independence anniversary this year.

At a reception hosted by Brazil’s Ambassador to Guyana, Luis Cardoso, President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Mrs. Deolatchmee Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Mrs. Hinds, Opposition Leader David Granger and Mrs. Granger, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues–Birkett, the crème de la crème of the diplomatic community, and many other well-wishers gathered to celebrate the milestone.
Ambassador Cardoso told the gathering that Brazil is enjoying a fairly good economy, despite the global economic challenges. He also indicated that Brazil is pushing for more investments in the area of infrastructure. About Brazil’s relationship with Guyana, Ambassador Cardoso said his government wants to take the economic and trade relations between the two countries to new levels, with more cooperation in security and agriculture.
In brief remarks, President Ramotar congratulated the Government and people of Brazil on behalf of the people of Guyana. He said Brazil had made significant progress in the industrial and social sectors, so much so that it has become the fifth largest economy in the world.
According to the Guyana President, Brazil has proven itself a good neighbour and constant friend as Guyana grapples with many issues, including a rapid shift in the environment.
He added that Guyana has embraced the people of Brazil in Guyana’s mining and other productive sectors, and that Guyana is one with Brazil in its quest for regional integration.
British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre, speaking to this newspaper, said Brazil is a key partner of the UK, and that the two countries enjoy good trade links.
Brazil is one of the world’s rising economic powers. It will host Football World Cup in 2014 and the Olympics in 2016.

‘Moms’ Burrowes still batting for family unity at 100

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:25:44 +0000

SEPTEMBER 8 is always greeted with much enthusiasm by the winsome Mrs. Stella Burrowes, fondly referred to as ‘Moms’, and her extended family. But there was something extra special about yesterday.

The good news is that ‘Moms’ celebrated her 100th birthday yesterday; and she had been eagerly looking forward to the event within recent times. She would count the days ahead and rehearse the traditional birthday song, “Happy Birthday to you.”
And, of course, she had occasion to sing it in her especially melodious voice yesterday, thrilling the hearts of her loved ones as well as this publication’s reporter who was on hand to chronicle the event.
Later that afternoon, a special thanksgiving celebration was held in her honour at Cara Lodge on Quamina Street, Georgetown.
Having now joined the distinguished ranks of Guyana’s few centenarians, Moms is overjoyed, bubbling with energy, and is prepared for the challenge of making it to 105 or more.
‘Moms’ was elated as, elegantly propped in bed, she was surrounded by several of her children and grandchildren, who showered her with birthday greetings as they engaged in gay chatter yesterday. They had travelled from various destinations – North America, the Caribbean and elsewhere -- to share in the joy of celebration on her special day.
Mrs. Burrowes, who lives on Gordon Street, Kitty and attends the St. James-The-Less Anglican Church in that community, thanked God in earnest for sparing her life, keeping her in good health, and causing her to see her 100th birthday.
“Today, I am happy that God has blessed me and caused me to see 100. I feel strong in body; and because I know that with Him all things are possible, I feel I can see 105 and beyond.”
The sprightly centenarian is cared for by her youngest daughter, Marcia Burrowes, and family. Moms lives in a home where love abounds. A mother of 13 children, 8 of whom are alive, she is also the grandmother of Mr. Keith Burrowes, Chairman of the GNNL Board of Directors, among 44 others.
Although happy at being 100, she admitted that there’s nothing she cherishes more than being in the company of her family and experiencing their genuine love, especially the true warmth and comfort of being hugged, cuddled and repeatedly smacked by her grandchildren.
“My greatest birthday gift is being in their company; being loved, and knowing that I can bring joy to their lives. And yes, I love flowers,” Moms remarked.
As she sat up in bed, two of her granddaughters were busy giving her a manicure and pedicure, while a third – Jewel from Trinidad -- waited patiently to give her a special hairdo.
Thus she was excited when her grandson Andrew (Andy) Gunraj, who resides in New York, turned up at her bedside with a gorgeous bouquet of colourful flowers, which he presented to her. Atop the bouquet was mounted the figure 100 in bright shiny gold.
Incredibly, even at her age, she was able to distinguish the 100 sign, and could identify the colour of every flower in the bouquet.
Stella, whose parents were Eddie Alphonso Graham and Christina Shepherd of Plaisance, ECD, was born on September 8, 1912 in Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, where she grew up. She is the second and last surviving of eight siblings.
In 1939, she married Eric Earle Burrowes, a mechanic then employed with Sterling Products Limited at Providence, East Bank Demerara. He died in August 1985.
Even though she never worked outside of the home, being an industrious and hard working person with an independent mind, Stella was always busy in the home -- when not doing regular housework – sewing, or cooking and baking tasty delicacies which she sold to villagers from her glass case at home.
How well she remembers her cassava pone, which according to her would always sell out ‘in a flash’.
She was also a reputable seamstress, and was herself a glamorous lady who was literally a trendsetter in the line of fashion, and so fetched ‘a pretty penny’ on that business. With money earned from her snacks’ sales and dressmaking, Stella recalls, (she saved every extra dime) she was able to buy herself a wooden house in Gordon Street, Kitty, where her children all grew up under one roof and under her tender watch.
And to her credit and good fortune, Moms, to this day, still has good vision, and boasts, “I can see bright like a tom cat.” She hears very well; sings melodiously; and in her own words, has a hearty appetite, eating just about anything although using dentures.
Unlike many people her age, she is neither affected by the dreaded diabetes nor by cholesterol, and has only a mildly elevated blood pressure. She proudly boasts about not contributing to stressing out doctors.
She insisted on doing her own cooking well into her nineties, and never stopped trekking back and forth and up and down the internal stairway, until a year ago when, at age 99, she had a fall and injured her leg, necessitating hospitalisation for a period of time.
She is now much recovered, but is unfortunately now confined to bed. Notwithstanding, this has in no way detracted from her pleasant personality.
At agreed times, her Parish Priest and /or Parish Lay Assistants visit her home to read the Word with her and give her Holy Communion.
Her exhortation to her children -- and grandchildren especially -- is: “Live always in the fear and love of the Lord. Be good citizens, go resolutely after education; education is power, and knowledge is the key. Plan your work and work your plan. Be independent. You who are parents love your children, and let them know you care. Respect them and demand respect from them. As a family, always stick together; let nothing destroy the unity we worked to establish.”

Welcome to Micobie! -- Heritage Village 2012

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:27:55 +0000

MAICOPIK is a small lizard prevalent in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) that has lent its name to an Amerindian village called Micobie.

Interestingly enough, back when former Canadian Prime Minister, Pierre Trudeau visited Tumatumari the village was also called Cassava Hill and New Foundout.
A subsequent village meeting however unanimously agreed that the village should be given its rightful name: Maicopik.
Trouble was, in the Official Gazette, it was misspelt Micobie, hence the name by which the village is now known.
Micobie is situated approximately two miles downriver of the famous Tumatumari Falls on the Potaro River.
It is accessible by road via the Linden/Mabura and Bartica/Potaro roads, or by aircraft to Mahdia, then by road. The journey by road involves approximately ten hours’ travel.
Each year, during the Amerindian Heritage Month of September, an Amerindian community is selected as the Heritage Village, and its residents are given the opportunity of sharing their way of life and achievements with the rest of Guyana.

Historical overture
According to Ovid Williams, a Patamuna tribesman who documented the history of Micobie, the village predominantly comprises of Patamuna People, said to be relatives of the Akawaios, who share many similarities, including language, diet, marriage rites and the practice of herbal medicine.
Micobie has been in existence since in the 1800s, when the now National Heritage, the Denham Bridge, was being constructed. Initially, the workers on the bridge and pork-knockers patronised the small community by purchasing their cassava bread, which is how the village came by the name, ‘Cassava Hill’.
The satellite village of Micobie is El Paso, located on the right bank of the Potaro River below the Tumatumari Falls.
In the 1960s, when captains were being elected to govern the community, one Mr. Bennett, of Arawak descent, was elected, and he changed the name from Cassava Hill to New Foundout.
Through the next Village Captain, Mr. Braithwaite, also of Arawak descent, the then very small village of Micobie forged a relationship with the Guyana National Service (GNS) and the Guyana Youth Corps stationed at Tumatumari, as ranks there purchased ground provisions and cassava bread from the village.
In the 1800s, a family broke away from a community that was settled at Kangaruma, in the area now called Princeville, a satellite village of Campbelltown in the vicinity of Mahdia.
It was customary that farming and hunting grounds were the key forces in seeking ‘new lands’ for more comfortable livelihood, since, in that era, there was hardly any form of income-generating activity in comparison to present day.

Customs
Until his death in the late 1970s, the elder of the village, Mr. Isaac Williams, affectionately called ‘Uncle Isaac’, was one of the last remaining Piaimen of Region Eight.
A Piaiman is one who relies on his exclusive and in-depth traditional training in ‘high science’ to cure ailments and afflictions.
The legend of the Tumatumari Falls has eclipsed the history of Micopik by its very nature of being a warning signal.
Tuma is a popular meal of the Amerindian, and consists of boiled meat and hot peppers. When a family snares game, it is usually shared among the villagers; and for the morning meal, the host family would invite neighbours to dine with them by shouting, “Tuma! Tuma!”

Legend of the howl
Legend has it that sometimes on a moonless night, the Falls would make an eerie sound resembling the words “Tuma! Tuma!”
Villagers would interpret this call as a bad omen; and indeed there were natural disasters that followed such a howl, as someone would either drown in the Falls or the River. This is posited as how the Falls originally got its name Tumatumari.
The Aleluya religion (Indigenous religion) was practised in Micobie until the Anglicanism was introduced to the region.

Population
Micobie now has a population of approximately 360 persons. The village boasts a primary school, and students qualifying for secondary education would attend the nearby Mahdia Secondary School.

Economy
Because of its mineral and forest resources, Micobie had attracted a lot of private investors, but no infrastructure and skills were left when they moved on. The residents themselves are now engaged in small scale mining and, of course, their traditional farming.
Through presidential grants, Micobie benefited from a complete solar panel unit, a poultry production project, and a rest house in the community.

Governance
Governed by Toshao Julie Johnson, the grand-daughter of Mr. Isaac Williams, who heads six Councillors, Micobie’s guidelines for effective governance are outlined in the 2006 Amerindian Act.
In 2006, after lengthy consultations accompanied by procedural bottlenecks, Government awarded Micobie its land title for 24 square miles of land.
For a village with a humble beginning, it is now the task of the New Council, the descendants of “Uncle Isaac”, to assiduously work towards the betterment of Micobie.

Fire guts abandoned Better Hope hardware store --quick thinking averts major disaster

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:28:44 +0000

FIRE of unknown origin yesterday gutted an abandoned hardware store at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, seriously threatening a neighbouring wooden two-flat residential property.

The property in question, which is west of the burning building, is home to two families, including children.
Flammable items stored in the gutted Guyadin’s Hardware Emporium included paint and several gas bottles, a reliable source disclosed.


Guyadin’s Hardware Store being consumed by fire

Quick response and the application of professional fire-fighting techniques averted what threatened to be a major disaster, as firefighters quickly neutralized the gas bottles.
Because the hardware store had been well secured, firemen were forced to tear down sections of the fence and hack their way into the burning building, exposing themselves to severe smoke inhalation.
As the fire raged, seriously threatening the nearby wooden building, firemen were forced to douse that too with water to prevent it from igniting.
And ironically, even though the Guyadin premises had been well fenced, vagrants and prospective thieves still managed to access its interior from the unfenced yard next door, facilitating free and easy access to a vantage point to get into the unprotected Guyadin’s Hardware Emporium.
The occupants of the unfenced yard claimed that their premises had been fenced until the drainage construction operations in the area began. Dredging with heavy equipment caused their wire fence to collapse.
It is unclear what caused closure of the hardware business, but residents recall it had been locked up for approximately the last three years, with no indication as to when it would be reopened.
There are unconfirmed reports that a man was seen walking away from the building shortly before neighbours spotted smoke emanating from its interior.
Now that the two families in the neighbouring two-flat wooden building have suffered considerable damage and loss caused by dousing, they are asking who would compensate them for their losses.
Officials on the scene advised them that no compensation is usually given for damage suffered by water at a fire scene.
On the other hand, no one has made any offer to repair their fence, damaged during excavation of the trench.
In the meantime, bandits and ‘junkies’ are reportedly having a field day in that area.

At Heritage Day celebrations… Prime Minister plugs forging more & closer partnerships --in the interest of further development

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:29:20 +0000

THE Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) village of Micobie yesterday came alive as Guyanese from across the regions gathered to be part of the

‘Heritage Village’ celebrations, one of the main events during Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations.
Many people who were visiting the village for the first time were quite taken by the scenic environment, while others were busy sampling the mouth-watering Amerindian delicacies, indulging in the drinks, admiring the beautiful craft pieces, and enjoying the songs and dances.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who attended the celebrations, informed that Government, as is traditional, will be making a special heritage contribution to the village, as well as an additional $5M to support income generation, infrastructure or other projects. This announcement was met with applause.
“The improvement that we have made through our work and through our working together over the last 20 years, we have achieved much… We in the PPP/C Government recognise that our major task is to the development of our people and our country, and so we have been focusing particularly on aspects such as improving education and other important social services,” the Prime Minister said.
He spoke of the many young Amerindians who have improved themselves as a result of the opportunities that were made possible through Government, such as scholarships; and they are today returning to the communities as professionals.
“How does a country get better? A country gets better by the work of its people; when its people can individually produce more, or provide better service, and when we can work together in greater harmony,” he posited.
The Prime Minister also updated the residents on the progress of the Hinterland Electrification Programme, which is currently being implemented to provide an overall 11,000 solar home systems to residents; as well as the roads programme, which will provide vital links to the various communities and will pave the way for more economic opportunities.
He assured the residents that as long as the PPP/C remains in office, they will continue to work harder to realise the aspirations of Guyanese. He noted that even though they come from different cultures and backgrounds, they have shown the ability and willingness to work as one people with a common destiny.
“The more we can come together in partnerships, the greater the possibilities before us,” the Prime Minister stated.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker, said the fact that the Amerindian population in Guyana has been able to keep their culture virtually intact despite other influences is a success story by itself.
Amerindian culture is recognised at the highest level of Guyana, as it is enshrined in the constitution.
Minister Whittaker spoke of the Amerindian Act of 2006, which is a product of Amerindian input, and which defines the way in which villages are governed. Other important achievements are the establishment of the National Toshaos Council and Indigenous Peoples Commission. Amerindians are also represented at many important international forums.
“You have achieved…and with the continued support of the PPP/C Government, you will continue to achieve more and more,” Minister Whittaker said.
Also present at the celebrations was Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, and Permanent Secretary of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, Nigel Dharamlall.
The village of Micobie is situated approximately two miles downriver of the famous Tumatumari Falls in the Potaro River. It is accessible by road via the Linden /Mabura and Bartica /Potaro roads, or by aircraft to Mahdia then by road.
This year, Amerindian Heritage Month is being celebrated under the theme “Embracing our Identity, Celebrating our Culture.”

Amerindian Heritage Day celebrations in photos…

Seeing is believing

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:47:21 +0000

Of ‘wild men’ and ‘wild west’ politics --scenarios in T&T and Guyana

Admin2 — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 08:47:40 +0000

IT SEEMS that not just this Caribbean Community member state, Guyana, but also Trinidad and Tobago, is currently facing challenges resulting from so-called ‘wild men” politicking.

In the case of the twin-island republic, an hour’s flying time from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, the current focus is on the President of the Oilfields Workers Trade

On basis of exemplary service in Insurance Division… GNSC to represent its principal partners, Lloyd’s in Suriname

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:12:33 +0000

THE Guyana National Shipping Corporation Ltd. (GNSC) which represents the Lloyd’s Insurance Market in Guyana has announced that it has been asked by its Principal Partners, Lloyd’s in London, to officially extend its Marine Surveying Territory to Suriname.

This new responsibility which follows a Network meeting in the Lloyd’s Agency Department, London on July 18 last will see GNSC’s Insurance Division (or Lloyd’s Agency) automatically extending its territory of involvement to Suriname.
Managing Director Ag., Mr. Andrew Astwood, commented that management was happy with the appointment which, he said, will contribute to further widening the scope of the Corporation’s business in the region.
“We expect to make Lloyd’s proud of our new involvement which could lead to other territories being added to our portfolio,” he added.
The Guyana National Shipping Corporation Ltd. has been proudly representing the Lloyd’s Insurance Market in Guyana since 1876 (for about 132 years), through its Insurance Division (Lloyd’s Agency). The GNSC is one of approximately three hundred Agents and Sub-Agents around the world.
Meanwhile, Project Manager, Mr. Eion Oudkerk outlined that these Agents usually represent Lloyd’s in their own country. He however said, it is not unusual for Lloyd’s to request an Agent to represent them in neighbouring countries.
And Astwood said the move by Lloyd’s, has no doubt come about because of the exemplary service the Insurance Division has been providing over the years as their Agent in Guyana. Moreover, because of the mandatory Cargo Claims Surveys Proficiency Exams, Lloyd’s requires its agents to take. Personnel within the Insurance Division have not only passed their Stage 1 Exam but also the Stage 2, he added.
Another contributory factor to the green light being given to extending the GNSC’s territory, the Project Manager said, is the surveying activity in which the Division has already been involved, for a number of years, in carrying out surveys in both Suriname and French Guiana. This became necessary when both the Agents in Suriname and French Guiana were asked to cease operations for particular reasons.
The surveys carried out in these countries ranged from simple pilferage to carrying out investigations to damaged piers and sunken boats with on-board cargo and the division intends to carry-on delivering this special service.
Although the above mentioned visits to carry out surveys in Suriname were being done from time to time, a special visit by a team which included the Insurance Executive was made to Suriname recently to market the services of the Corporation more extensively. The visit included meetings with; consignees, ship agents and the Maritime Authority of Suriname. Speaking with personnel from these various categories of businesses allowed the team to gather valuable information to use for increasing its market-share of business activity in Suriname.
Meanwhile, follow-up visits to Suriname in the near future have been planned, to further enhance the process of GNSC’s (Lloyd’s Agency) service provision.

Hundreds turn out to Wellness Day Walk

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:19:47 +0000

Caribbean Wellness Day which was observed on Saturday with a walk which attracted hundreds, including Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran.

The occasion which brings to the fore the importance of living healthy lifestyles and here in Guyana, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the CARICOM Secretariat saw the walk begin at the Secretariat’s Liliendaal Office and ended at the National Park.
Caribbean Wellness Day 2012 was celebrated under the theme ‘Love that Body – Building the Foundation for Healthy Lifestyles’.
The walk was well attended by Staff of the Health Ministry, CARICOM, Qualfon, New Guyana Phrmacueutical Corporation, Banks DIH Limited, the American Embassy in Guyana, the World Health Organisation/Pan American Health Organisation (WHO/PAHO), Guyana Prison Services, Rome Athletics Club, Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre and the Cuban Brigade. Following the walk, the participants were taken through a round of aerobic exercises.
Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran stressed that focus is being placed on the ‘wellness’ of children and youths since once they are encouraged at an early age to practice healthy lifestyles, then it will be inculcated and become useful later in their lives.
He added that the turn out to the walk indicates that people are getting the message about living a healthy lifestyle, and urged the participants to be ambassadors of healthy living and to spread the message.
Senior Advisor on Sustainable Development and Environmental Health, PAHO/WHO, Adrianaus Vlugman emphasised that Wellness Day highlights what can be done to lengthen people’s lifespan by combating the impact of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) which affect people’s lives and the economy.
eputy Secretary General of CARICOM, Ambassador Lolita Applewhaite in her remarks noted that similar activities, such as the walk today, are taking place in all the Member and Associate Member states.
She highlighted that the first four years of observing Wellness Day focused on raising the awareness of the burden of NCDs at both the Regional and National levels and on Member States prioritising the battle against the diseases in their plans.
In going forward the Community’s Wellness Day observances will be centered around preventing and controlling NCDs throughout the life cycle. “It is in that context that this year we begin with a focus on children in order to promote a healthy lifestyle from as early as possible and provide them with the foundation to ensure a healthy and productive workforce and population,” Ambassador Applewhaite.
She added that adults have the responsibility to lead healthy lifestyles for their personal well-being, as well as to ensure a healthy and productive workforce and an equal responsibility to their children to set good examples.
“Therefore, let us resolve to address our NCD risk factors and be good examples to the children around us…let us also resolve to do what we can to ensure that our children develop healthy lifestyles to protect their health and wellbeing full in the knowledge that the health of the region is the wealth of the region,” she emphasised.

Homeless shelter to become operational by December

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:22:00 +0000

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is working with the contractor of the Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration at Onverwagt, Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) to ensure that the facility is completed by the end of September and is made operational by December.

This is project is funded by the Venezuelan Government with counterpart funding provided by the Government of Guyana.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Jennifer Webster in a recent programme aired on the National Communications Network (NCN) said that the issue of homeless people in the society has attracted a lot of attention in the media.
This facility will be different from the existing Night Shelter in that the Ministry will be working to rehabilitate persons; providing them with livelihood skills so that they can be reintegrated into society.
The $402M shelter will accommodate 200 males and 100 females in separate dormitory facilities. Other buildings will include a medical facility to house a resident doctor, nurse, mess hall and kitchen, training room/conference hall, a recreation centre.

Colonel John Flores-an exceptional indigenous personality

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:23:24 +0000

THE contributions made by Guyana’s first people to national development cannot be disputed; today they are no longer known as mere forest dwellers; in fact, their achievements over the past years have propelled them into the spotlight.

Amerindians today are becoming more involved in the affairs of their country; taking up prominent, top-ranking positions in Government and other institutions.
Coast Guard Colonel John Flores of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF)who hails from Mabaruma, North West District is one such outstanding Amerindian personality.
Colonel Flores was born on September 7, 1961 and attended the St Joseph Primary School in Mabaruma. He acquired one of the early Amerindian Scholars scholarships in 1972 to attend Queen’s College.
After his secondary education he left Georgetown for the Rupununi, where he served as a teacher in Karasabai.
“Karasabai is the first village in North Pakaraima and it is completely surrounded by mountains. There were some satellite villages around Tiger Pond and some other small villages, so I used to be teaching there, I spent about 18 months before returning to Georgetown,” Colonel Flores said.
He joined the GDF in 1981, where he completed the Officer’s Course in August 1982 and was sent to England to attend the Royal Naval College for three years.
Upon his return in 1983, Colonel Flores spent almost four years on small patrol boats as a Coast Guard before leaving for Canada to pursue another course.
Colonel Flores explained that his passion for the training saw him being appointed as a Coast Guard Training Officer upon his return from Canada. In 1991, he completed his smaller ship training in the United Kingdom.
He spent seven years with the GDF Training Unit, conducting training programmes and imparting the skills he acquired in Canada to local officers before returning to the Coast Guard unit.
The Coast Guard head describes 2001 as the defining year of his career, when he led a team to England. Upon his return in September 2001 (heritage month) he was named Commanding Officer of Coast Guard.
In 2009, Colonel Flores graduated with a distinction in Public Management and completed a Masters in Global Studies from the University of the West Indies in 2011.
“Since then I have been involved in number of small academic programmes to do with management and those things that relate to the office… I like studying but I also like the challenges of the work,” he said
On the lighter side, Colonel Flores is a sports fanatic; engaging in swimming, football, volleyball and other outdoor games. He is a national volleyball referee and an executive member of the Guyana Volleyball Federation.
He is married and is the father of three children. His father died in 1987, but his mother is alive and currently resides in New York. He also has 94-year old grandmother.
Last year, Colonel Flores was conferred a national award, the Military Service Medal (MSM).

Guyana/Brazil to iron out bilateral trade shortfalls -Ambassador De Andrade – at Brazil’s 190th Independence celebrations

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:25:14 +0000

COMMITMENTS have been made to remove the bottlenecks to bilateral trade between Guyana and its Souyh American giant neighbor,Brazil when the Portuguese speaking nation celebrated its 190th independence anniversary on September 7.

Transportation is one of the likely challenges and the Brazilian government intends to pursue measures to remove the barriers that impede Guyanese exports across the border.
“Technical cooperation has been provided to look at the training of Guyanese technicians, to look at sanitary certification. This will allow the sale of value added quality Guyanese food and drinks to Brazil,” Brazilian Ambassador to Guyana Luiz Seixas De Andrade said at an independence anniversary reception last evening at his residence.
Exporters of goods in Lethem had raised some concerns in April when President Donald Ramotar met members of the Lethem Chamber of Commerce, about compliance with obligations under the partial scope agreement Guyana and Brail share. The impassable state of the main thoroughfare during the rainy season was another
With opening of the bridge across the Takutu River Bridge, communication links between the two countries have been boosted, resulting in an influx of Brazilian entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the country’s productive sector.

“Attaining such a status, while at the same time moving more than 20 million people out of poverty, is by no means a small feat. We applaud the Brazilian people on these achievements and wish them continued progress and prosperity.”- President Ramotar

Representatives of both countries have been meeting at the level of the bilateral frontier committee on several occasions to address a large number of issues that are of interest to Lethem, Region Nine and Bon F
Healthy, education, animal and plant health, water resource management, security, indigenous people and protection of women were among the priority issues.
The focus on improving the Linden Lethem road remains a priority for both countries since the commitment was made by former Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula Da Silva three years ago.
In October a multi-disciplinary mission from the Brazilian Cooperation Agency is scheduled to visit Guyana in October to explore ways of expanding cooperation
President Donald Ramotar who joined in a toast with Ambassador De Andrade to the good neighbourly relations between Guyana and Brazil expressed pride at the fact that Guyana is a partner with a country ranked the fifth largest economy in the world.
“Attaining such a status, while at the same time moving more than 20 million people out of poverty, is by no means a small feat. We applaud the Brazilian people on these achievements and wish them continued progress and prosperity,” President Ramotar said.
Brazil has set 2014 as the target for total poverty eradication and President Ramotar has assured that the Guyana Government at the level of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), the Amazon Caribbean Treaty Organisation (ACTO) and the Community of Latin American and
Caribbean States (CELAC) among others will be a patron to efforts at promoting human development.

UG reopens today

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:37:55 +0000

FOLLOWING a two-week delay of its originally scheduled opening, the University of Guyana (UG) last Friday officially welcomed new and continuing students for the academic year 2012/2013 and classes are set to begin today.

Registrar of the university, Mr. Vincent Alexander, who delivered the opening remarks at the ceremony, cautioned new students of the transition they are about to embark upon, now that they are beginning university life. He noted that, especially for students who are just out of high school, they will now have to learn to be more responsible for themselves since the systems at the university are different from those at the secondary level.
“That taking responsibility is not restricted to your studies. It involves all of what you do, as persons and as students,” he said.
An important aspect of university life, Alexander highlighted to the new students, is that they are expected to “read” for their degrees. He noted that in secondary schools most students rely solely on notes given by teachers. However, he warned that much more effort would now be required.
He further went on to state that the University is all about knowledge, “The university is supposed to be the factory of knowledge, a place where knowledge is produced. And so, what you have come to is a place where you should be involved in the production of knowledge and in learning how to produce knowledge.”
The Registrar also impressed upon the students that the university prepares you for life, not only for jobs but other aspects of life as well.
He also explained that UG is not only about academia and that it affords students an opportunity to be well rounded through their involvement in extracurricular activities such as sports, drama and various religious societies.
Current President of the University of Guyana Students Society (UGSS), Duane Edwards also took the opportunity to welcome students to the first semester of the 2012/2013 academic year, stating that he hopes their time at the university is “socially memorable and academically fulfilling.”
He promised that the UGSS will continue to work in collaboration with the administration of the university to create an enabling and conducive learning environment.
Edwards noted that the opening ceremony was an auspicious occasion and that entering the university is as important as leaving it. Education in general, he said, is a privilege, and higher education is a higher privilege.
He stated that it’s important for students to realise that their education is not only a tool to be used for personal achievements and aggrandizement but more importantly, a medium through which they can fulfill their larger social responsibilities.
Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Dr. Marlene Cox revealed that UG will soon be celebrating its 50th anniversary, having been established on April 23, 1963. She said that there will be various activities during the academic year to mark this occasion.
In addition, she stated that during this academic year, UG will benefit from changes to the regulatory structure, systems and operations and also the rehabilitation of the science and other facilities at the Turkeyen Campus, all made possible through funding from the Caribbean Development Bank and the World Bank.
These projects, she said, are intended to upgrade the entire university operation so that they can deliver quality higher education and respond better to the needs of our country.
In addition to the remarks by various faculty members, the audience was also entertained by cultural performances from both past and present students of the university. Also, on the university tarmac various booths were set up by the different clubs and societies of the university which new students can now be a part of.
Classes across the entire Turkeyen and Tain campuses are scheduled to begin today, September 10th. Individual faculties will be hosting orientations for new students throughout the first week of the semester.

High Level Caribbean Forum in Trinidad and Tobago ends on optimistic note

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:40:34 +0000

THE High Level Caribbean Forum held in Trinidad and Tobago at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on September 4 and 5 ended on an optimistic note with participants expressing confidence that CARICOM countries could recover from the devastating effects of the global financial crisis once they adopt the correct remedial measures.

The Forum was a collaborative effort of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and attracted several high ranking officials including Prime Ministers, the Deputy Director of the IMF, the Governor of the CDB and Finance Ministers among others.
Guyana was represented by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Lawrence Williams
The objective of the Forum was to discuss and formulate a policy to deal with the peculiarities of small states in dealing with the effects of the global financial crisis.
Deputy Director of the IMF, Min Zhu, speaking at the opening of the forum noted that economic growth in the region has been weak as the economies have been hit hard by the financial crisis which have been compounded by internal weaknesses and therefore they will have to face a lot of challenges.
Mr. Zhu explained that because of their small economic size the countries in the region would find it extremely difficult to handle external economic shocks and this would lead to greater challenges for small states and therefore solutions would have to be formulated to deal with the situation.
President of the CDB, Warren Smith said the economic sloth has been affecting the dynamic poles of growth and collective vulnerability requires collective action. In this regard he urged that the private sector, governments, labour and civil society work together to deal with the economic challenges ahead
Finance Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Larry Howai, also speaking at the opening of the Forum exhorted that the reality of the current financial situation demands fiscal adjustments and his country is aware of the challenges ahead.
He revealed that unemployment in his country is low and foreign exchange is at a reasonable level. However, Howai said the Forum is timely and hope its outcome would result in helping the region supervise the fiscal imperatives and provide steps to address fiscal challenges.

Where is the opposition media corps impartiality ?

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:45:02 +0000

The tragic accident that took the lives of former Commissioner of Police Henry

Greene and a little girl is one more episode serving as a weapon by the opposition cabal against the government, bringing up contentious issues that were vented ad nauseum by the opposition media corps while the former Top Cop was alive and serving the nation; of course, as is their wont, without foundation or premised on any truthful or accurate analyses.
The fact is that the normally careful driver suddenly began swerving erratically on the road, as attested to by witnesses, was not due to drunkenness or carelessness. The man probably was having a heart attack, which may have killed him;thus the impairment to his ability to control his vehicle; but the opposition media cabal, with their usual vituperative vendetta, ascribed the basest reasons for Greene’s sudden inability to control his vehicle. The post mortem will reveal the cause of his death.
Their vindictiveness indirectly contributed to the death of the man’s mother; because stress is a killer; and most probably to his heart problems, yet even after the man’s death they would not relinquish their poisonous diatribe; as they are not prepared to do with regard to former President Jagdeo, of and about whom they continually find grounds for their endless vituperation.
During observances to commemorate the death anniversary of the Father of the Guyanese Nation, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, at the Babu Jaan Cemetery on Sunday March 1, then Guyana’s Head-of-State, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and General-Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party and incumbent President, Donald Ramotar, spoke of the role some sections of the Guyanese media are today attempting to play as king makers or in this instance president-makers, in efforts to chart a new course in this nation’s political demographics, with no pretence to seeking facts or clarifying issues to attain some degree of objectivity in their news reports.
Addressing the large gathering paying homage to a man who epitomised truth, sincerity and uncompromising adherence to integrity, the leaders denounced the propensity for gutter journalism that has become a norm in Guyana’s media world and adjured media practitioners to become more professional in their approach to execute their duties, because those duties are mandatory and above self-serving agendas and prejudices if the credibility of both the reporter and the media house he/she is representing is not to be compromised.
Lo and behold, only three days after they were called upon to strive for greater professionalism, there appeared on Page 13 of the Kaieteur News an article vilifying the Rice Producers Association(RPA) and its General-Secretary, Dharamkumar Seeraj, ascribing to the RPA General-Secretary remarks that he could not possibly have made, because he was not present at that meeting that had been at focus, had not been asked by the media house for a clarification on his position on the issue, yet he was quoted verbatim as having made the remarks reported in the Kaieteur News.
This lack of professionalism in some sections of the media corps, and the lack of a sense of responsibility on the part of some media houses to report the news accurately and not to serve the vested interests of interested parties by vilifying public personalities without ensuring that their facts are accurate, if indeed that is their intent, redounds to no one’s benefit and discredits the profession as a whole.
We urge our colleagues in the media fraternity to be objective and fair in their reporting, and the Guyana Press Association(GPA) to be fair in its representation of Guyana’s media fraternity, because it has been noted that the GPA took strong action when Mr. Gordon Moseley of Capitol News was sanctioned by Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo in his capacity of Guyana’s Head-of-State for inaccurate coverage of an event, then for being disrespectful and making disparaging personal remarks in a published statement about Guyana’s President, but was thunderously silent when PNC Chairman of the Region 4 council ejected an NCN reporter from a meeting which he was entitled to attend, for giving no offence whatsoever; and this has been a continuum of the prejudicial position of the GPA.
We would like to say: “Pardon, Sirs and Ladies, your prejudice is showing.”

Protests that threaten security of other citizens cannot be accepted

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:12:41 +0000

IT is critical that the government begins to understand and learn from the continuing fallout from the events in Linden and surrounding areas.

It is vital that central government, which includes parliament and the opposition realise that there must be put in place an acceptable plan that is both fair and firm to address further protests and any future government responses to them.
The idea that local authorities or groups can use some means of protests that may threaten the security and wel-being of other citizens as a bargaining tool cannot be encouraged or accepted. Following hard on the heels of the defiance at Kwakwani on the government-appointed IMC, the people of Port Kaituma are now blocking roads to compel governmental action? Where will such actions end? The people need a forum to address their grievances, but that forum must be their duly elected officials in parliament and local governments within the laws of the constitution.

No government by any party can ignore the consequences that can occur if central government powers can be usurped or the laws of the constitution ignored. The President must do whatever is necessary to see that the agreement with Linden is carried out to the letter and on schedule, while keeping the public informed. He must also insist that his ministers be more focused and proactive in preventing conditions within their jurisdictions from getting to the point of protest and justified calls for redress. The PM and local government ministers should be providing more oversight to ensure projects and programmes in the regions are being implemented properly and reported accurately.

CCWU gave solidarity to GAWU

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:13:25 +0000

REFLECTING on GAWU’s 20th Delegates’ Congress, let us remember that the CCWU was one of the unions which gave solidarity with the sugar union GAWU when the PNC government planned a shutdown of the industry permanently, while persuading the workers to return to work.

We all know some trade union leaders are a pack of jokers. All they could do is sell their members out quicker than members can sell themselves out.
Some trade union leaders go to meetings just to make them talk shops. Industrial action is about genuine issues affecting workers. Gordon Todd and Dr. Cheddi Jagan were truly good friends. Remember when CCWU called the strike at Guyana Stores in Water Street in 1979 and 82 of our members were knocked off, then again in 1989 when 300 were dismissed for participating in solidarity strikes.
The experience the union has had with JP Knights and Viceroy Shipping was nothing new in the experience of the CCWU. It was all part of a calculated attempt by the authorities to just frustrate the CCWU.
In the General-Secretary’s report at the 1992 CCWU Annual Delegates’ Conference, the report highlighted the failure of the Ministry of Labour to prosecute our union’s claims to over 12 recognition requests over the last 10 years of that period. J.P. Knights and Viceroy Shipping form part of that trend whereby the Ministry of Labour continues to fail the CCWU.
Take the application for recognition at the Kent Shirt Factory. The union had called a strike there over the issue of recognition, signed terms of resumption and the Ministry of Labour undertook to conduct a survey. That never materialised. The union was left unsupported at Sampson’s Enterprises, Squirrel Manufacturing Company, C.R. Jacob, the Cinema Proprietors, to name a few.
The CCWU’s most trying experience was the strike of 300 days for recognition at the National Restaurant. For 300 days we fought for those workers. The owners were granted an injunction restraining us from picketing in front of the restaurant and their home. Those 15 workers were permanently locked out.
The case of J.P. Knights is a palpable demonstration of the failure of the Ministry of Labour to persuade or compel foreign employers to respect our sovereignty and the right of our workers to be represented by unions. It was the union’s view that the government would have exerted its authority to bring those foreigners to book, but that was not the case in the past. Instead, the workers were abandoned to their fate and to the whims of those employers.
The CCWU applied to J.P. Knights for recognition. They sent representatives to meet the union at our headquarters to determine our bona fides to represent workers in that category. The union provided evidence that satisfied them, and then nothing has ever happened. The Ministry of Labour was approached.
Then a worker on one of J.P. Knights’s vessels was injured out in the Atlantic. The company had no provision for first-aid, any communication or emergency transport back to Georgetown. Two other workers hailed a passing boat and brought him to Georgetown for treatment. And do you know what the reaction of the company was? They fired the injured worker and the two others who had helped him. The union brought out the workers on strike. For 49 days the union held out. Then the union suspended the strike.
The union met the then Minister of Labour. The Ministry of Labour said they had met the J.P. Knights people, but what we knew is that J.P. Knights flatly refused to respond to the Ministry of Labour’s letter for a meeting at the Ministry. In fact, one of our members had to accompany the Ministry of Labour official who took the letter to J.P. Knights’s Officer, who refused to accept it. It had to be thrown into the yard even though the official from the Ministry of Labour had identified himself. It was a clear case of a foreigner showing gross disrespect for a Guyanese institution, Guyanese workers and the government appearing powerless to do anything about it.
Now take Viceroy Shipping, another expatriate company. The CCWU had to call a strike for recognition, and signed terms of resumption. Then they refused to take the workers back, claiming there was no work available. What they really did was to employ others, thus denying the union recognition.
Let me return to share another experience of victimisation, this time by a local company – Muneshwer’s Ltd that bought over the Guyana National Trading Corporation (GNTC) as part of the PNC government’s divestment programme. The CCWU had recognition at that workplace in the Sandbach Parker and Jessel days as the CCWU had under GNTC.
This is how a private Guyanese employer who bought over these companies has refused to recognise the CCWU or any other union. They called meetings of the workers, hurled all sorts of threats and abuse at them and threatened those who were CCWU members with dismissal. They are clearly anti-union and nothing was done about it. Here the CCWU has gone the complete circle, public to private, then back to ownership. Recently,there was the Guyana Pegasus hotel using anti-union tactics by de-recognising the CCWU.
It was asked, what sin did the CCWU commit. We have rights, the sin of militancy, of being a champion for the workers, of remaining free of all political affiliation, of all those who trample on the workers’ rights. Our ideology is rooted in the workers’ aspirations and desires. Our approach to politics is well defined. We have a deep and abiding interest in political issues and policies that seek to share national life and affect workers, but not in partisan political squabbles. Our only permanent interest is the welfare of the workers and any move by anyone that adversely affects that interest has to be opposed.
To GAWU, the challenges to build a new model of development that is truly sustainable might be expressed through some premises: how to reorientate a national economy towards the highest common good of humanity, including in it the development of each human being,and not forgetting future generations?
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is that committed to eradication of poverty and distribution of wealth.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is that committed to food sovereignty. The control of few corporations over the world’s agriculture and food system, of genetic resources to supermarket chains, leads us to food vulnerability. The challenge of a country does not lie only upon its food sovereignty, because the abundance of food nationally produced does not guarantee its access to those that do have incomes. That is why we hereby defend the concept of “food sovereignty”, conceived as family farming that requests autonomy for communities through the right to decide what to plant, how to produce, what and how to consume”.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is one that proposes that science should be aimed mainly to stimulate the social development, using these new technological patterns in the interest of society, the environment and the planet, not in the interest of capital.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is one that is committed to a quality education to everyone. We are concerned about education under the aegis of a ruling class. An education that aims to supply students, turning them into passive students and keeping the social structure that the elite requires, contrary to what is believed to be the sense of educating a free and conscious citizen. That is why we are against the privatisation and commercialisation of everything that is educational, a higher education must be defined as a vital resource for the civic and democratic life of a nation. We must fight to potentialise education as a true tool of democracy and equality for the future.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is one that is committed to increasing the supply of electric energy: clean, renewable and competitive. We need to defend the use of new technologies. Solar, wind, wave, tide energy are projects that should be priorities in our country, the advantages are huge.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is one that is committed to the recognition of the access to water as a human right and declared by our country as a common good.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is one that is committed to the creation of green jobs- as jobs and activities that substantially contribute to preserve or restore the environmental quality, as jobs that reduce the consumption of energy, materials and water through high-efficiency strategies – and decent work.
To GAWU, a truly sustainable development is one that is committed to the promotion of a high level of social protection for everyone. It means guaranteeing the commitment of the government to provide social protection to all workers and ensuring that workers and their families are protected from multiple crises, either economic or related to the environment.
GAWU defends the creation of a Green Fund: it’s about an input of money to finance development and the fight against climate change, besides contributing to the reform of the financial system that was the main cause of the entire financial crisis around world.
GAWU defends a new economy, an economy of care, an economy guided to decently satisfy the needs of human beings respecting the natural systems of life and of the planet.

Place stop signs on poles so they are more visible

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:14:10 +0000

TWO die in three-vehicle smash-up including Henry Greene and a 10-year-old.

Many people were shocked on Friday after it was confirmed that former Commissioner of Police Henry Greene and a 10-year-old child, Shaffiya Jamaluddin, were killed in a three-vehicle collision on Harlem Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

After spending a glorious month in Guyana visiting friends and family I planned on writing about something I witnessed with my very own eyes.
It is not shocking at all to know why these accidents occur so frequently where lives are lost and property destroyed.
I urge the authorities to take a serious look at the Lamaha and Middleton Streets intersection where in the past month three serious accidents had occurred.
Death and destruction are waiting to happen at the intersection at Middleton Street and Campbell Avenue.
All over the Georgetown area I witnessed the many stop sign markings on the roads where the paint is faded.
I witnessed speed humps on the roads which are great things to slow drivers down but some are not marked so drivers who are not familiar with those speed humps damage their vehicles.
I urge those in authority to place stop signs on poles where they can be clearly in the face of motorists so they will know stop means stop.
I saw an elderly lady who grabbed a child at the Middleton and Lamaha Streets intersection and fling the child in the grass saving the child's life from a speeding driver zooming from Lamaha Street on to Dennis Street.
That driver like many other drivers must have thought she/he had the right of way because the painted stop sign on Lamaha Street heading on to Middleton Street is faded.
Same thing goes on at the intersection at Middleton Street and Campbell Avenue where total disaster is waiting to happen, especially for schoolchildren who may be crossing.
Stop signs on poles will go a long way toward saving lives and preventing damaga to property, not those faded stop sign markings on roads.

Why this preoccupation with slavery?

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:14:38 +0000

WHAT is this preoccupation with “slavery” that has so warped his mind, thoughts and actions that seems to make Mr. Eusi Kwayana’s so divorced from the 21st century reality of an independent Guyana?
Now again he raises the spectre of

renewed slavery fearfully again threatening blacks with a new doomsday like the Sword of Damocles. In this period of Guyana’s history, Mr. Kwayana’s must clearly explain who are the new “owners and oppressors” likely to sell blacks to whom and for which industry?
When former Chief Magistrate Ms Juliet Allen-Holder threatened to expel all Guyanese Indians to God knows where Mr. Kwayana was most silent. Mr. Kwayana’s cannot afford to remain silent, and must explain clearly where is the evidence which muzzles or motivates him. Obviously there is no white presence in Guyana like long ago colonial days. With the PNC effectively ensuring the Portuguese quitting Guyana after their own folly of coalition in 1964 there is, again, no prospects. And despite Indians never being slaves nor slave owners, Mr. Kwayana’s exhortations therefore cannot be categorised as being subtle. In provoking and harnessing fears about a coming slavery among his black kith and kin, he unequivocally can only mean that the new slave owners would be, who else?
But tell me something. Who in their right minds, including Indians, can ever consider any attempt to re-impose a slavery on anyone, anywhere in the world, much less poverty-stricken Guyana? Why is Mr. Kwayana again crusading on such a frightful agenda likely to sow racial hate and animosity?
In the KN of 29-8-12 titled “any society without protestors is headed straight to slavery”, Mr. Kwayana seems disappointed that black people are not demonstrating all across Guyana. He wants to change that. It should surprise no one. Maybe he can explain why battle-weary Buxtonians failed to dig up their pristine PPP/C built roads and block traffic as in 2006 at the urging of Dr David Hinds in pursuance of their unsavory WPA agenda.
Indeed, Mr. Kwayana more than anyone amongst those who fought alongside Dr Jagan’s PPP can be pinpointed for his singular championship, defence, promotion and agitation for black people’s rights and aspirations. Consistently a champion of black people’s hopes, he completely disregards all his critics and is darling of some in the media. In this regard he is an excellent role model whom refreshing Indian activists must take lessons from, and emulate. But where are they? So when Mr. Kwayana reminds us “but be sure, that any society without protestors and those who insist on full justice and respect for all, and refuse to shut up when ordered, is heading straight for slavery”, we can be sure he is only following his lifelong passions of black redemption. What becomes clearer is his conjuring up a threat of a new, ominous slavery for Guyanese. Any alignment with the teachings of black Muslim hajji(reborn in his Mecca pilgrimage) Malcolm X who sought to liberate black thinking and independence “by any means necessary”. What’s the Indian equivalent? No surprises here. Right?
Mr. Kwayana has certainly not been modest in again seeking to lead blacks to a new salvation from slavery, by reminding them of a new, looming, imaginary, slavery. Can advocating any alleged fear of imminent slavery for black people yield profitable dividends similar to that achieved when in the colonial sanctioned battles against the PPP government ,Guyanese witnessed the PNC boldly marching up Georgetown streets behind a huge banner in the 1960s proclaiming “Slavery Begins if Jagan Wins”? Indians became so fed up with the political climate in the run-up to the British-administered 1964 elections that a significantly small percentage voted for the United Force allowing the PNC to jump into a coalition government and 28 years of economic misery and talented human exodus. Indian dissatisfaction and support for the AFC may still repeat itself as in 1964 because of negligence and corruption nowadays.

The lesson was clear. Dividing or minimising the supposedly monolithic Indian vote became the road to PNC political victory. The object was to reduce the Indian population since they were viewed as a political and racial “numerical anomaly” as ACDA’s Mr. Barrington Braithwaite so boldly wrote in SN11-27-11. Just by their existence and presence Indians have been considered guilty, even obstacles to be eliminated just because of their numbers; in effect, they were viewed as hindrances in the way of their PNC opponents.
Now in the new reality after the 2011 elections ( as in the 1964 elections) most working-class Indians are again disenchanted with the PPP/C because of neglect and disconnect to address their needs, fears, miseries and aspirations. That three Lindeners were shot dead after provocation is no cause for celebration. Indeed, it is an occasion for pause, reflection and sympathy. But it would seem that Mr. Kwayana still prefers to dance on their graven memory to again advance his age-old black agenda.
Yet there are absolutely no bold champions of Indian causes, rights fears and aspirations to equally match any of our black activists in the entire Guyanese and Caribbean political spectrum. Why is this so? In comparison, prominent Indian activists including the self admitted Afro-centic Mr. Frederick Kissoon singularly, exclusively and incessantly only address black political aspirations, concerns and fears. The evidence absolutely does not lie. It is as if pro black, de-culturised Indian advocates always require black validation (quite unlike Mr. Kwayana) for their very utterances and existence.
Notice however that Mr. Kwayana omitted our prominent national legend Dr Walter Rodney as one of Guyana’s heroes? Let’s understand why. While it may however be too much to concede and acknowledge even as he himself ponders, “are we hypocrites that honour Cuffy, Accabre and Damon… but hold back from recognising protestors of our own time (?)”, there has always been a crafty premeditated scheme to all of Mr. Kwayana’s actions.
Undoubtedly. In acknowledging without dispute that the prominent, assassinated historian subsumed race to class, all his sacrifices and contributions were pointing to building an harmonious, multi-ethnic Guyana. One has to appreciate what is of particular significance for Dr Rodney was not exactly the same for Mr. Kwayana. Mr. Kwayana never revealed the WPA was stockpiling weapons in spite of the saintly cloak with which he adorns himself…the same Mr. Kwayana who attacked Dr Jagan’s PPP “ for arming Indians to shoot black people” when the racially balanced Special Services Unit (SSU) was formed by Dr Jagan’s 1960s government as a precursor to Guyana’s current GDF. Does Mr. Kwayana actually believe he was justifiably more “saintly” using the WPA stockpile of weapons to shoot at the predominantly black armed forces totally under the ruling (1964-1992) PNC’s government control? In effect, what empowers Mr. Kwayana to justifiably shoot black people for their own “good” anytime he so chooses? No wonder Minister Rohee can claim he has a clear conscience since he never gave nor sanctioned any orders to shoot anyone at Linden.
In consideration of Mr. Kwayana’s prolonged political experience we can now therefore comprehend why he had no interest in preventing the good doctor’s assassination. Mr. Kwayana is so wrapped up in yester- year's slavery cocoon that he is unable to emerge from it to float like a butterfly. Instead, he constantly wallows in stinging like a bee, unable to gather honey for himself while he constantly offers it freely to others.

Pietersen 'names Twitter suspects' as England row continues

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:49:32 +0000

KEVIN Pietersen has reportedly asked for a full investigation into concerns James Anderson and Graeme Swann were involved in a parody Twitter account mocking him as talks about the batsman's England future continue

The account - KP Genius - poked fun at Pietersen's supposed obsession with money and his ego, and was believed to have upset the 32-year-old.
A friend of Stuart Broad - Richard Bailey - has admitted starting the account, and Broad himself has made a public statement insisting he had no involvement in the account. The account has since been closed.
But according to Cricinfo, Pietersen has contended that some of the subject matter in the story could only have come from private conversations he had with Swann and Anderson.
The issue matters to Pietersen because if he is right that his team-mates were feeding information to the parody and it were to go unpunished, he would point to double-standards, having been frozen out from the England team after sending private messages to South Africa players about his then captain Andrew Strauss.
Pietersen and Flower met this week to discuss their long-term future - but he was not awarded a central contract when the list was announced on Friday. With only 10 full contracts and four incremental ones offered, however, the ECB said there was room to award another central contract for the year in due course.
More talks are planned between Pietersen, Flower, and new captain Alastair Cook, but it appears that there are still deep-rooted issues holding up any resolution, which continues to dog England's preparation for their summer fixtures and upcoming T20 World Cup.
The next test of how talks are going will be when England confirm their touring squad later this week for the Test series in India at the end of the year.(Eurosport)

Closing ceremony ends extraordinary British summer of sport

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:50:16 +0000

(REUTERS)-The closing ceremony of the most successful Paralympic Games rounded off a spectacular summer of sport in Britain as the Olympic Stadium once again hosted a memorable party for athletes and fans alike yesterday.

Paralympians rose and joined in with the Mexican waves inside the vast arena in east London after the end of the 11-day festival of sport in which China finished top of the medal table.
The Asian powerhouse bagged 95 golds in their 231-medal haul with Russia (36 golds, 102 overall) and hosts Britain (34 golds, 120 overall) in second and third respectively.
"We've had the most extraordinary summer of sport," London Olympics chairman Sebastian Coe told a news conference yesterday, while International Paralympic Committee (IPC) president Philip Craven could barely believe the amount of coverage.
"I'm floating on cloud nine, sometimes cloud 10 or 11. When you get everything in alignment you get a damn big bang and that's what we've had here."
The London Paralympics sold 2.7 million tickets in total, almost 900,000 more tickets than Beijing four years ago and the unprecedented sales brought in nearly 45 million pounds, exceeding organisers' original target of 35 million.
The ramped up coverage and interest was felt everywhere, Alan Oliveira's shock defeat of Oscar Pistorius in the 200 metres final even "knocked out" all the football coverage in Brazil, said IPC chief executive Xavi Gonzalez.
Pistorius said after his 400 metre win on Saturday that the Olympics and Paralympics in London had been "the biggest highlight" of his life.
Australia's Evan O'Hanlon, who won the 100 and 200 metres in the T38 class for cerebral palsy sufferers and said having a disability is probably the "best thing" that ever happened to him, was equally overwhelmed.
"You have massive profiles over here. Hopefully London and Britain have set an example and the rest of the world can follow. Thanks to everyone for watching. Even just flicking on the TV is bringing our profile up."

Ward stops Dawson to retain titles

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:51:02 +0000

(REUTERS) - Undefeated American Andre Ward dominated challenger Chad Dawson in Oakland, California on Saturday, knocking him down three times and stopping him in the tenth round to retain his WBA and WBC super middleweight titles.

"He's a hell of a fighter," said Dawson, a light-heavyweight champion who moved down in weight to challenge Ward. "He's a great champion. He's the best."
Dawson, boasting a 31-2 record (17 KOs), started brightly, keeping Ward off balance with a strong southpaw right jab in the first round, and then scoring with counter left hooks as Ward looked to press the action in the second.
By the third, however, Ward (26-0, 14 KOs) was timing his opponent with sharp left jabs and hooks, using swift footwork to throw Dawson off.
A short hook near the end of the third dropped Dawson, and another one knocked him down again at the start of the fourth.
Ward pressed the advantage in that round, nearly putting Dawson down again and pursuing him across the ring.
The challenger survived, however, and for the next several rounds some of the steam evaporated from the contest, as Dawson appeared content to keep Ward at bay with jabs and by tying him up when the two men were close.
Ward was relentless, however, and a sharp right hand in the ninth round buckled Dawson's knees again.
In the tenth, a three-punch combination had Dawson wobbling on his legs and a follow-up barrage knocked him to his knees.
Although Dawson beat the count, he signaled to referee Steve Smoger that he had had enough.
It was Ward's first stoppage win in three years, and the champion said the quality of his opponent had caused him to raise his game.
"All we did was eat, sleep and drink this guy, because you can't take a chance on someone like Chad Dawson," he said. "He's beaten future Hall-of-Famers."
Dawson, the reigning WBC light-heavyweight champion, whose most recent win was over veteran Bernard Hopkins, said he would be returning to that weight division.
"I'm not going to hang my head low. I'm still light-heavyweight champion of the world," he said.
However, Ward may have eyes on that title, too.
"A move to light-heavyweight is not out of the question," he said.

England star Anderson slams former skipper Vaughan

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:51:28 +0000

ENGLAND pace bowler James Anderson has launched a scathing attack on the captaincy of Michael Vaughan, who led his country's successful bid to regain the Ashes in 2005.

Vaughan was widely regarded as a fine leader after revitalising England in the run-up to their first Test series win over old rivals Australia in 18 years.
But Anderson, who didn't feature in the 2005 Ashes after losing his place in the England team, claims Vaughan lacked the ability to talk to his players as individuals and left him feeling "alone and isolated" when he needed support.
Writing in his autobiography, an excerpt of which was published in the Mail on Sunday, the 30-year-old, who is now a key member of the England bowling attack, talked about his relationships with Vaughan and Nasser Hussain, another former national team captain.
"My relationship with Nasser was good on and off the field. The same could be said of my relationship with Michael Vaughan, captain during my early England years, since his retirement. Unfortunately, despite our cordiality now, I didn't enjoy Vaughan as a captain," Anderson said.
"As a young fast bowler, you need to know that your captain has his arm around your shoulder, if not physically, then metaphorically.
"Unfortunately, that is not something I ever felt playing under Vaughan. I actually felt alone and isolated when I most needed support.
"Prime example of that was my recall for the fourth Test against South Africa at the Wanderers in 2005.
"I had spent the first three Tests on tour out of favour. My tour was one big net, and because I had been so far removed from selection, I wasn't even thinking about playing.
"When preferred to Simon Jones, I was underprepared. It was five months since my last first-class action. I didn't bowl very well.
"Although I started okay as first change, it wasn't long before I began dragging the ball down short and wide. I got clattered everywhere and was soon shot of confidence.
"Vaughan asked: 'What's up, mate? Radar gone?'
"'Yeah, I think it has,' I said, desperate for some backing. All I received was a pat between the shoulder blades and an instruction to 'keep going'."
Anderson believes Vaughan's failure to communicate well was largely ignored because he was in charge of so many good players that the team's results kept the spotlight off the captain.
"A good captain should know how to talk to his team as individuals. I don't think Vaughan ever had that in him - a major reason I've not held him in as high regard as others have," Anderson added.
"He was not as good a captain as others made out. He was captain of a truly great team in 2005."(AFP)

Djokovic advances to U.S. Open final

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:51:49 +0000

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Second seed Novak Djokovic completed a weather-interrupted 2-6 6-1 6-4 6-2 victory over fourth-seeded Spaniard David Ferrer yesterday to return to the U.S. Open men's final in pursuit a repeat championship.

The 25-year-old Serb, winner of this year's Australian Open, will go against third-seeded Olympic champion Andy Murray of Britain, who will be aiming for his first grand slam title in a final rescheduled for today because of the delays.
"It's definitely a huge relief to get through this match. He's a great competitor," Djokovic said about Ferrer.
Five-times grand slam winner Djokovic, befuddled by the blustery winds of an advancing storm that eventually suspended the semi-final on Saturday, trailed 5-2 when the match resumed on Sunday under sunny skies.
After the 30-year-old Spaniard held serve to end the first set, and hand Djokovic his first set loss of the tournament, the Serb dominated the rest of the way to reach his ninth grand slam final.
Djokovic blasted 28 winners, double the total of Ferrer, over the last three sets and made just 20 errors against 31 for the Spaniard. He was lethal when opportunity presented itself, converting six of eight break point chances.
"We were all praying for less wind today," said Djokovic, who has won the last three grand slams played on hard court. "I think he handled the wind much better than I did.
"I came in today as a different player and I'm very happy to get to another grand slam final."
Djokovic has made seven of the last ninth grand slam finals, while Ferrer was denied his first trip to a championship match after his fifth opportunity as a grand slam semi-finalist.
The world number two improved his career record to 9-5 against the hard-fighting Spaniard, who has won five tournament titles this season.

Serena survives Azarenka to win US Open

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:52:13 +0000

(REUTERS)-Serena Williams won the US Open women's singles title at Flushing Meadows, beating world number one Victoria Azarenka 6-2 2-6 7-5 in a dramatic final to capture her 15th career Grand Slam title.

Through sheer force of will as much as her unquestionable skill, the American showed all her great fighting qualities to claw her way back from the brink of defeat to become the oldest women's champion at Flushing Meadows in nearly four decades.
Against the odds after losing the first set, Azarenka looked to be on the verge of an unlikely victory when she led 5-3 in the decider.
On her best behaviour but unable to dominate an opponent seven years her junior, Williams showed all her great fighting qualities to survive a ferocious comeback from Azarenka and seal victory after more than two and a quarter hours to become the oldest US Open champion in nearly four decades.
"I honestly can't believe I won," Williams said in a courtside interview. "I was preparing my runner-up speech because she was playing so great. I'm really shocked."
Billed as a clash between the greatest player of her generation and the top player in the world this year, the match lived up to all the hype and more after initially offering only a one-sided romp for Williams.
The American raced through the opening set in just 35 minutes with two service breaks and 16 stunning winners.
But the Belarusian, who won her maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January, suddenly found a way to penetrate the booming Williams serve, setting the stage for an epic contest in which both players ran themselves to the point of exhaustion.
Azarenka broke Williams for the first time in the opening game of the second set and again to lead 4-1. When the American started to show the first few signs of nerves, Azarenka seized her opportunity and for the first time since 1995, the US Open women's final was forced into a deciding third set.
"I'm just honoured to be standing with such a champion here," Azarenka said.
"I definitely gave it all today. Stepping out of this court today I will have no regrets."
The capacity crowd at the Arthur Ashe Stadium centre court roared with excitement as the two combatants produced some exquisite shotmaking as the stakes rose and the tension increased.
Williams kept her cool, even when she was called for a foot fault, avoiding a repeat of her petulant behaviour at Flushing Meadows in the 2009 semi-final against Kim Clijsters and last year's final with Sam Stosur.
But in the third set, it was Williams who blinked first. Suddenly her golden summer, which included winning a fifth Wimbledon title and two gold medals at the London Olympics, looked like coming to an end.
Azarenka broke and led 5-3, and was two points away from the championship with Williams serving to stay alive.
Williams then provided an emphatic reminder of why she has amassed so many major titles, reeling off the next four games on the trot to seal victory, just a few weeks before her 31st birthday.
Only Australia's Margaret Court, who had already turned 31 when she won her last US Open crown in 1973, won the title at an older age.

Luckless Barbados finish T20 tourney winless

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:52:34 +0000

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC)-Barbados, without four key players, lost to Afghanistan by five wickets, to finish the Asia vs. the Caribbean T20 tournament winless.
Barbados struggled to 119 for nine in their 20 overs at the Queen's Park Oval Saturday night in the four- nation tournament.

Mohammad Nabi turned in another excellent all round performance as the Afghan players romped to their target losing five wickets and recording their second win of the tournament.
Nabi grabbed 3 for 23 with his off-spinners to help restrict Barbados to an inadequate total and then slammed a rapid 40, as his team chased down the score.
Afghanistan lost three wickets for just 38 runs before a 66-run partnership between Mohammad Nabi and Asghar Stanikzai lifted the Asians to 122 for five and sealed Barbados' fate.
Nabi finally fell for 40 off 30 balls with three fours and one six and won the hearts of the fans at the Oval.
Stanikzai stuck around and although losing Gulbodin Naib via the run out route for six towards the end, he ensured victory with an unbeaten 34.
Earlier, Barbados without former skipper Ryan Hinds, regular skipper Kirk Edwards, fiery pacer Kemar Roach and in-form Shai Hope, were unable to mount meaningful partnerships.
Apart from Mayers, only skipper Shamarh Brooks got into double figures scoring 22 off 29 balls with a four.
Mohammad Nabi clearly the best player for Afghanistan was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 23, while Izatullah Dawlatzai took 3 for 29 and Gulbodin Naib 2 for 19.
Kyle Mayers a revelation for them at this tournament scored an unbeaten 39 that salvaged some pride for the Caribbean team.
His 39 came off 25 balls with four fours and a six.

Football chief praises head coach Whitmore

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:52:56 +0000

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC)-Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president Captain Horace Burrell has praised head coach Theodore Whitmore for his role in the reggae boyz historic victory over the United States in Friday’s world cup qualifier.

Jamaica came from behind to beat the US 2-1 to end an 18-game winless streak against the Americans in Kingston.
Captain Burrell described Whitmore as “a special person” and said he never lost confidence even after the Americans drew first blood in the opening minute.
"He played professional football, he went to the World Cup and scored two goals, he understands football at the highest level “said Burrell.
“…and I am not sure that many of our other local coaches have had the opportunity and the privilege to play football professionally."
Rodolph Austin and Luton Shelton converted free kicks in the first and second halves to ensure Jamaica become sole leaders of CONCACAF World Cup semi-final round Group A on seven points.
The two teams will now travel to Ohio for the return leg tomorrow.
"Coming from behind and then to win the game in the way we did certainly gives us a great feeling “said an elated Whitmore.
“This is certainly something that we will not forget. Theodore is a special person," he added.
The Reggae Boyz, who defeated Guatemala and drew with Antigua, could seal a place in the final-round group of six with another win on Tuesday.

BCB/Tenelec Inc 50 overs competition - Brilliant Hicks, Pestano lead RHTGG to finals

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:53:15 +0000

FAST and hostile bowling from Clinton Pestano and an aggressive innings from Delbert Hicks, ensured Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets (RHTGG) record an easy 8-wicket victory over Universal DVD Club Young Warriors in the first semi-final of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Tenelec Inc 50 overs competition at the Area ‘H’ Ground last Saturday.

Pestano claimed his second successive five wicket haul (5-49) to bowl out the opposition for 109 off 23 overs, following which, Hicks blasted unbeaten 62 as the home team raced to 113 for 2 from 17.1 overs.
Batting first after winning the toss, Young Warriors lost both openers in Shimron Hetmyer (00) and Richard Ramdeen (04), who were both dismissed by Pestano to be 7 for 2 in the third over of their innings.
They stumbled to 35 for 5 in the 7th over after losing Linden Austin for 11, Seon Hetmyer 03 and Kevin Ramdeen 03, before Balram Samaroo (28) and Rocky Beepat 12 added 30 for the sixth wicket to help revive the team, before Beepat was caught by Lloydel Lewis off Pestano.
Following the demise of Beepat, Universal DVD Young Warriors were finally dismissed for a meager 109, with Pestano receiving support from Renwick Batson and Shawn Pereira who both took a wicket each.
In their turn at the wicket, RHTGG who needed to score 110 from 50 overs, lost Batson (07) when he was trapped lbw by Suresh Dhanai (1-28), before Hicks and Khemraj Mahadeo (26, 2x6, 2x4 added 73 for the second wicket in 12 overs.
Mahadeo was dismissed by Kevin Ramdeen (1-44), but that was the last success for Universal DVD Club Young Warriors, as Rajiv Ivan joined Hicks who struck five sixes and the same number of fours in his unbeaten innings, to calmly guide RHTGG home, with Ivan being unbeaten on 8.
RHT Gizmos and Gadgets would play the winner of the second semi-final that was contested between Memorex Bermine and Albion Community Centre ground, on a date to be announced by the organisers.

The Jaguars charmed a hostile crowd, says Shabazz

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:53:54 +0000

GUYANA, Georgetown, (CMC)-Head coach Jamaal Shabazz says he was deeply touched by the reaction of spectators in Latin Americas largest stadium to Guyana’s die-hard performance against El Salvador in the semi-final round of the 2014 world cup qualifier Friday night.

Twice the Golden Jaguars fought back to equalise as Guyana and El Salvador battled to two all score line at the huge Estadio Cuscatlan stadia in San Salvador.
A standing ovation for the Guyanese footballers replaced hostility from the 40,000 capacity crowd as soon as the final whistle was blown, Shabazz said.
“That touched me deeply and it’s a moment I will cherish in my football life “said Shabazz.
“Our boys bought into the tactics and we got a good result, tomorrow is another day".
In front of a typical hostile Central American crowd, the locals showed support for the home team while seeking to intimidate the visiting Golden Jaguars.
But, the Guyanese played courageously to come back from a goal down, twice, to force a draw as a result of a double from Treyon Bobb.
“I was overwhelmed when at the end of the game the entire El Salvador stadium who were hostile to us during the encounter, gave us a standing ovation after the game”Said Shabazz.
Shabazz credited his team for securing a point in the game despite difficult conditions.
“We played as a strong united force and got some great individual performances from some guys”Shabazz said.
“Richardson and teenager Bobb stood out as a picture of selfless work and a team-comes-first approach."
Home support will be a key factor in aiding Guyana in Georgetown Tuesday when both teams meet in the second leg of the qualifier.
Guyana must win their next game and could face elimination if they lose at home to El Salvador and Costa Rica topples Mexico.

Confident Windies leave for ICC World T20

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:54:16 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – The West Indies cricket team flew out of the region yesterday, confidence high, enroute to Sri Lanka for the ICC World Twenty20 tournament.

Just before take-off, Captain Darren Sammy urged fans to continue to” rally around the West Indies” saying his team was already “feeling the love” from supporters across the Caribbean.
The players spent the last nine days in Barbados, where they held a preparatory camp under head coach Ottis Gibson at the Sagicor High Performance Centre.
“The people are really behind us and that’s a fantastic feeling,” said Sammy.
“The players in the team have been talking about it and everyone is excited and very happy to see the way the people have come out and offered their support”.
Several current and past professional players around the world have ranked the Windies as favorites going into the tournament.
Their 15 man squad includes several of the world’s leading Twenty20 cricketers such as Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Sunil Narine.
“We are a strong unit and as the coach said a few days ago, we have depth in the squad. Everyone is aware of his role and knows exactly what is required.” Said Sammy.
“This is a huge tournament for the team and the fans as well, so we will go to Sri Lanka and give it all we’ve got. We believe we can win, but it will be hard, tough work”.
While sessions at the training camp were held at indoor and outdoor nets, players also focused on improving their fitness as well as their ability to play spin using a new machine on the market.
“A few days ago, we played two practice matches at the Three Ws Oval here in Barbados, and it was truly amazing to see how many fans came out to watch the matches, talk to us, and encourage us “recalled Sammy.
“People have been talking to us on the streets and have just been warm and friendly.”
The World T20 Tournament, which features 12 teams, will be played from September 18 to October 7.
West Indies have been drawn in Group B along with Australia and Ireland – and both first round matches will be played at the Premadasa Stadium in Sri Lanka capital of Colombo.
“Sri Lanka is a really nice place to play cricket and a great place to visit” said the West Indies captain.
“The conditions should be helpful to our style of play and we just want to go out and play a brand of cricket that would bring joy to our supporters all over the World.”
West Indies open the tournament against the Aussies on Saturday, September 22 followed by a clash with the Irish on Monday, September 24.

GCA/DAVID PERSAUD INVESTMENTS U-19 Paul and Savory steer DCC ‘B’ to take title -Gibson’s magnificent ton in vain

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:54:44 +0000

PROMISING to turn up to the party for his team Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ‘A’, Andrew Gibson certainly did so with a magnificent unbeaten ton which

revived his team’s innings, but was not enough to give them victory, as they succumbed to DCC ‘B’ by five wickets, losing the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) organized David Persaud Investments Under-19 title at the Everest Cricket Club ground yesterday.

Scores: DCC ‘A’ 223 for 9, DCC ‘B’ 225 for 5.

DCC ‘A’ were rocked early by Under-15 speedster and man of the match Kemo Paul (4-49) and Rajiv Balgobin (2-44), who left them precariously placed on 23 for 4, before reaching 223 for 9 from their 50 overs, thanks to Gibson’s 112 and Orlando Sturge’s 47.
When DCC ‘B’ batted, Savory who topscored with 69 and Renaldo Renee 36 added 107 for the first wicket, but it was the fireworks that came from the bat of Paul who struck five fours and one six in his unbeaten 45, which powered them to 225 for 5 from 44.2 overs.
Gibson, who was given a life by Renee off Balgobin early in his innings, and Sturge repaired the damage for their team with a 145 runs fifth wicket partnership.
This followed the demise of brothers Khemraj and Sunil Rupee who made 03 and 01 respectively along with Michael Shalim (00),who were all sent back by Paul, while Balgobin accounted for the ‘A’ team’s skipper Omesh Dhanram (05), which reduced DCC ‘A’ to 23 for 4.
Gibson and Sturge commenced ‘Operation Recovery’ for their team in dramatic fashion, with Gibson saying thank you to his opponents for the chance given to him, by opening his account with two fours off Balgobin.
Sturge was content on rotating the strike to get a set Gibson, who posted his first half century from 79 balls with seven fours, on strike.
They realised their team’s 100 in the 30th over, while Gibson motored to his ton, hitting an additional four fours and his lone six struck over midwicket off Xaviee Smith, before Sturge was given a life by Deron Crandon who dropped a straight forward chance at long on off Smith, with the loose ball nestling against the boundary ropes.
It took a run out by Michael Herbert whose return to Kemal Savory found Sturge struggling to make his ground after he made a resilient 47 off 95 deliveries with five fours and one six, which helped rescue his side from the perilous position they found themselves in taking them to 168 for 5 in the 42nd over.
In their hunt for quick runs, DCC ‘A’ lost Clitus Johnson for 19 which included a six struck off a Balgobin no ball, while Gibson eased a red hot Paul through extra cover for one of his 11 fours struck overall, before the overs expired in the DCC ‘A’ team’s innings.
Savory and Renee got the ‘B’ team’s reply off to a canter, with Savory hitting national Under-19 fast bowler Dexter George for a hat trick of fours off successive deliveries with the greatest of ease, prompting lots of heckling from his teammates.
They raced to 50 from 10.2 overs, when Savory eased Shalim in nonchalant fashion past extra cover for four, before he struck the same bowler between mid-on and midwicket with the greatest of ease for another boundary, as DCC ‘B’ set about hunting down their target purposefully.
Not to be outdone, Renee showed he was a competent opening partner for Savory, by graciously driving Dhanram between cover and extra cover for four, pushing the score to 66 without loss at the end of the 17th over.
They added 107 from 24.3 overs, before Renee who had earlier struck both Shalim and David Mohammed who took 3 for 48, for boundaries, was adjudged lbw to the latter for 36 which was scored off 59 deliveries and included six fours.
Prior to Renee’s dismissal, Savory got his half century from 64 deliveries with eight fours, before he was caught at the wicket by Khemraj Rupee after getting a thin edge from the bowling of Dhanram departing for 69 (10x4, 103 balls), leaving his team on 128 for 2.
Hubert (23) replaced Renee and welcomed George, who returned to the bowling attack from the Carifesta Avenue End, back with a pugnacious front foot pull through mid wicket for four, powering DCC ‘B’ to 149 for 2 off 34 overs before he was lbw to Mohammed.
Balgobin who made 11was next to go, dismissed by Sturge but that was to be the last success for the DCC ‘A’ team, as Paul, who made a robust unbeaten 45 (5x4, 1x6) sealed the win for his side who ended on 225 for 5 from 44.2 overs, with Smith being unbeaten on 1.
Paul followed up his opening burst with the ball, by wading into the ‘A’ team’s bowling attack following the dismissal of Savory, hitting George for a four through extra cover, followed by a six over long on off Keanu Harry.
At the presentation ceremony which followed, DCC ‘B’ received a trophy, 15 medallions and $75,000 for the win, the ‘B’ team collected the same number of medallions, a trophy and $50,000, while Gibson and Paul received a trophy each as they were named the Best Batsman and Bowler of the final respectively.

Special needs students included five-year education strategy

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:11:22 +0000

A five-year strategy is in the process of being crafted in the education

system that caters to those with special needs, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand said on Friday.

The strategy was influenced by a needs analysis of the overwhelming majority of suggestions coming out of the nationwide consultations that were spearheaded by the Education Ministry to address as corporal punishment, special needs education and automatic promotion.
“We have been listening to those parents, students, teachers members of the community … checking to see from the people who are disabled, what it is we can do to make your lives better as students,” Minister Manickchand said while addressing an education month rally held in the auditorium of Queen’s College.
Her remarks came after Leon Walcott, Chairman of the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons Living with Disabilities had bemoaned what he considered “attitudinal” issues among those who impart knowledge to students with special needs and the course at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) which he believes is not equipping teachers with the right knowledge on how to communicate with the disabled.
“CPCE should have ensured that they have the right candidate for special needs education… … academic excellence must take second place to the attitude of the teacher involved,” Walcott said.
He sought to highlight some distinguishing characteristics about persons with disabilities that sometimes create barriers for tutors and believes that knowledge about such characteristics makes the process of teaching persons with disabilities much easier.
Education month in September is significant for the differently-abled who usually gets the Ministry’s approval to take a deaf awareness message to schools of their choice according to Walcott.
Although peeved at some head teachers and senior masters who often request written permission from the Minister of Education he lauded the ministry for “being on track” with support to the differently abled in society.
The theme for education month 2012 “Transforming the Nation through Inclusive Education” was described by Walcott as fitting, especially where persons with disabilities are concerned.
A well choreographed dance titled “The Signal” by the Deaf in Guyana Association at the education month rally was a reminder that the nation’s youth regardless of their challenges can soar to heights.
“In Guyana when we speak of special needs education, in 2012 we are really speaking of our special needs students,” Minister Manickchand said as she drew parallel with other countries’ interpretation of inclusive and special needs education.
Having achieved universal access to primary education, gender and geographic parity Minister Manickchand said Guyana’s achievements in the education sector are unparalleled.
“When we speak of inclusive education today, the fact that we are speaking of our special needs students, is in itself an accomplishment for our country because we have achieved what many countries are still striving for,” Ms. Manickchand said.

Pirates rob and injure fisherman in Pomeroon

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:18:36 +0000

A Good Hope, East Coast Demerara fisherman was attacked and injured by pirates on Saturday when he and his crew were robbed while fishing in Pomeroon, Essequibo River.

Police reported that at about 11:00 hours on Saturday Shameer Safeek, 44, of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara, and three crew members were fishing in Pomeroon when they were attacked and robbed by four men in another boat who were all armed with guns.
The pirates took away a fishing seine, fuel, a cell phone and $6,000.00. They also assaulted Shameer Safeek about his body and damaged his boat engine before escaping.
Investigations are in progress.

Bloated corpse of 14-year old found at Lamaha Conservancy

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:19:02 +0000

THE bloated body of a 14-year-old boy who left his home to go swimming yesterday morning was fished out of the Lamaha Conservncy (Blacka) hours later aback of North Ruimveldt.

Dead is Daniel Younge, a student of Nehemiah Comprehensive School, Queenstown. He was the son of June Ann Peters and Colin Younge, popular wholesale beverage distributor and proprietor of Yam Party Service, La Penitence.
His death came as a shock to relatives, who said they were totally unaware that anything had gone wrong after he left home. Relatives recalled Daniel had earlier in the day left his South Ruimveldt Park home in the company of another lad, but they had no idea he was going to swim.
A few hours later, (shortly before 14:00 hrs), an elder cousin whose call name was given as ‘Skirt’ was nearby the Blacka, when a man swimming in the water suddenly raised an alarm that his foot had hit something funny underwater. Curious, ‘Skirt’ immediately advised him to delve deeper to see what it was.
The man in the water dived, only to realize that it was a body. An alarm was sounded and persons in the vicinity managed to get the body out. But ‘Skirt’ was shocked out of his wits when he realized that it was the body of his cousin, Daniel. He immediately contacted relatives.
The police were alerted and they visited the scene and took the body to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH). News of the tragedy quickly spread and relatives hurried down to the hospital in large numbers. Pandemonium broke out when they saw the body. He was already swollen, and strange enough, they said, was fully clad in his jersey and trousers.
Relatives said doctors surmise that the young man’s body had been under water for at least three to four hours. Asked whether the body bore marks of violence, the police told relatives that they were unable to say.
However, what the relatives find strange is that the lad with whom Daniel had left the home, never returned to them to say that anything had gone wrong or that Daniel was even missing. Following the gruesome discovery, the dead teen’s relatives tried in vain to reach the other lad.
At the hospital, relatives were inconsolable at the hospital yesterday. His mother June Ann and siblings fainted as they came face to face with the reality of Daniel’s demise.
Daniel’s eldest sister, Fiona, said her brother was a strong and experienced swimmer who was not new to swimming in the ‘Blacka’. But even more baffling, relatives said was the fact that he was fully clad when found. “Daniel would never jump into the water with his clothes on if he’s going to swim,” they insisted that something seemed amiss.
Meanwhile, his father Colin, who left for the United States of America just last Tuesday, was devastated on receiving the news of his son’s mysterious death and immediately began preparing his return trip home.

Mahaicony tractor driver pinned to death at

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:19:23 +0000

DELON “Gully” Morrison, 26, of Zeskendren, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, was killed when he lost control of the tractor he was driving at a rice field at Carlton Hall, which turned turtle and pinned him.

Police said the accident occurred at about 17:00 hours on Friday and that Morrison was not licensed to drive a tractor,
He was rushed to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital where he was pronounced dead..
Investigations are in progress.

Police await outcome of three-vehicle fatal smash-up investigation -post mortem to be performed today

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:19:37 +0000

FOLLOWING the smash-up at Harlem, West Coast Demerara, on Friday morning which claimed the lives of former Commissioner of Police, Henry Greene, 58, and 10-year-old Shaffiya Jamaluddin, Acting Traffic Chief, Hugh Denhart yesterday told the Guyana Chronicle that they are still investigating the accident as such he is awaiting the outcome of a report,

The Superintendent of Police added that so far they know that the Canter truck attached to Bakewell and a motorcar was proceeding west along the Harlem public road but for some reason Greene’s Land Cruiser ended up on the southern side of the roadway which caused a head-on collision.
He said that a post mortem is expected to be performed today.
Meanwhile, when asked about reports in some sections in the media which suggest that the former Top Cop reportedly fell asleep at the wheel and he was speeding at the time Denhart said that he cannot make a pronouncement since the matter is still being probed.
Survivors reported to the media that before the collision Greene’s vehicle was swaying and suddenly it increased speed and came directly in their path.
They added that the accident could not be avoided although the drivers of both the truck and car had slowed down after observing the vehicle’s movements on the roadway on Friday morning.
Police reported that at about 09:10 hrs former Commissioner of Police Henry Greene was driving his motor vehicle PLL 7411 along the roadway at Harlem, WCD, when it is reported that his vehicle veered into the lane of motor car PJJ 4812, which was travelling in the opposite direction, resulting in a head-on collision. PLL 7411 then collided with motor canter GJJ 9067 that was travelling behind motor car PJJ 4812.
As a result of the collision Henry Greene and Shaffiya Jamaluddin, 10, of Canefield, East Canje, Berbice, who was in motor car PJJ 4812, received injuries and were pronounced dead on arrival at the WDRH.
Victor Persaud, 35, of Vriesland, West Bank Demerara, who was driving the motor canter and his two porters received injuries and were taken to the WDRH. Victor Persaud was admitted, while the two porters were treated and sent away.
The driver of motor car PJJ 4812 Raheem Kaleem, 45, along with the other occupants Reeaz Kaleem, 18, Fawaaz Kaleem, 15, Shaimoon Kaleem, 46, and Zaitoon Hoosein, 26, all of Canefield, East Canje, received injuries and were also taken to the WDRH.
Shaimoon Kaleem was treated and sent away, while the others have been admitted for medical treatment.

President tells PYO… Democracy, freedoms worth defending at all costs

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:19:55 +0000

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar has exhorted members of the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), to consolidate the gains of the past, even as he reminded the organization of the struggles that its parent body, the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has undergone over the years.

Noting that present conditions in Guyana are even more difficult than in the past, the president said a case in point was the ongoing debates on corruption now being aired on NCN, whereby in spite of all the accusations being leveled at the present administration, it detractors have not been able to identify a single area of corruption, and are instead trying to shift the arguments to other issues.
He said the PYO must fight to preserve freedom of the press and freedom of association from people who are pretending to be fighting for these rights but whose history and intention are really to try to take the country back to being a repressive state.
In face of this development, he said, and given the plethora of information available to the public, it is incumbent on the PYO and the PPP to educate its members to enable them to understand and sift out the real truth.
He said the opposition has been trying to disparage the achievements of the PPP over the last 20 years, and therefore, the PYO has to have a world view and a position that would help it understand what is really happening in the society, and not to fall prey to the opposition tactic of repeating lies.
He said the PYO has the best opportunity to be builders of the society, and must be ready to make more sacrifices to defend Guyana’s democracy, and work to build the country.
PYO members, he said, must also guard against falling prey to perennial temptations by constantly fighting against corruption in every area of life.
President Ramotar called on the PYO not only to be nationalistic, but to have an international outlook as well. He said that wherever freedom is threatened or is under attack, that threat also jeopardises Guyana’s freedom; and Guyanese must express solidarity with people elsewhere in the world who are struggling for freedom.
The President made particular reference to Palestine, urging the PYO to rekindle the spirit of internationalism, and to express their views on what is happening in the world; to seek solidarity, and to seek to give solidarity to our own causes in Guyana.

The PYO
The PYO is the official youth arm of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP).It was formed in 1952, two years after the formation of the PPP.
The President said the first steps that the PYO took 60 years ago brought the members along many paths which have tested their reserve, but not their resolve or courage.
He said the PYO has been a reliable ally in the struggle for unity, liberation and social justice.
Congratulating the PYO on attaining its 60th year in existence, the President said that organisation has a glorious history, and it is time for that history to be officially documented.
Leading PYO member Omar Sharif, who is the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President informed the gathering that following a directive from President Ramotar, who is also the General Secretary of the PPP, the PYO took steps to reconstitute, rejuvenate and re-engineer its strategies, resulting in establishment of an Interim National Steering Committee, which was then broadened to include the representatives of regional steering committees from the East Coast of Demerara and from Region 2.
The interim bodies will form a temporary organizational skeleton to rebrand the PYO, to make it better equipped to adjust to the new realities, and to allow it to work with greater flexibility within the society.
The goal is to have a fully constituted National Committee that includes all the regions by the end of November 2012; and by March 2013, an elected national executive body of the PYO will be formed.
Sharif reminded his comrades that they are being called on to safeguard past gains; therefore, they must be vigilant and defend those gains, because PYO members are torch bearers of the economic and social transformation unfolding in Guyana.

Investigation into Georgetown Magistrate Annex fire taking a criminal turn

Admin2 — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:22:22 +0000

FIRE CHIEF Marlon Gentle yesterday told the Guyana Chronicle that the investigation into Saturday night’s fire at the Georgetown Magistrate Court Annex is now taking on the toll of a

criminal investigation which is being handled by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

He added that while he is not sure if access will be granted to the building by the police to the various office bearers, but if it is granted, electrical work will have to be carried out on the building since it currently has no power supply and several electrical connections on and within the building will have to inspected first.
Quick action by the Guyana Fire Service prevented the Georgetown Magistrates Court Annex from going up in flames on Saturday night. The fire is suspected to be the work of an arsonist and was started at approximately 22.00 hrs.
On Saturday night persons reported that they saw a man calmly walking away from the building with apiece of lit cloth which he later discarded on Croal Street before turning south on to Avenue of the Republic and vanishing. It was seconds later that persons noticed smoke coming from the interior of the building at one of the offices on the lower flat.
The building, which houses magistrates hearing traffic offences and some other matters, is also home to several legal offices of prominent attorneys-at-law.
After the alarm was raised about the fire on Saturday night the Guyana Fire Service responded promptly and fire fighters quickly activated their pumps and hose and began dousing the flames, kicking down several doors to various sections of the building to allow the building to be ventilated which resulted in trapped smoke making its way out of the building.
During their fire fighting exercise and the loud noise a senior citizen who normally occupies the upper flat of the building was awakened from his slumber but was too traumatized to make it down the stairs of the building.
He however indicated that he had the keys to the building and he was ordered by a public spirited citizen to toss the keys into the yard which he did. The keys were then used to unlock the doors to the building allowing the man to make his way out with the assistance of a member of the public. The senior citizen was identified as one Mr. Fraser.
However, the actions of at least one police officer had a section of the crowd enraged on Saturday evening. After Mr. Fraser was brought down from the building and was displaying some signs of difficulty breathing the police rather than taking the man to the hospital placed him in an impact vehicle and took him down to the Brickdam Police Station for questioning. One police whose photograph was taken by this publication even abused the persons who advised them on taking the man to the hospital, using a series of expletives.
On Saturday too the police were not fully prepared to deal with the massive crowd that converged at the scene of the fire and instead of attempting to keep the crowd back they stood helplessly looking at the fire fighters doing their job. It was only after some senior police ranks came on the scene and ordered the other ranks to get busy that they began ordering the people to step back. Despite the absence of barricades at the location at the present time, the police officers were heard ordering spectators to get behind the barriers which clearly invoked loud laughter with persons asking the police officers to show them where the barriers were.
It was at that point that the police began using their vehicles to cordon off the area which was later complemented with several barriers that arrived on the scene about half hour after the fire started and was brought under control.
After the word of the fire at the court’s annex several persons, many of them known for liming around the Stabroek Market area and conductors and drivers of minibuses, were heard commenting that the building should burn down because of the amount of people that had to appear there for various offenses. Some were even overhead expressing their disappointment wit the quick response of the Guyana Fire Service fire tenders where they were able to bring the fire under control.
Also on the scene of the fire was Minister within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill who said that the move to damage a building that houses arms of the justice system is a backward move that comes from a perverted mind and should be condemned in the strongest possible words.
Edghill said that after he heard that there was a fire at the magistrate court he hurried to the scene since the courts are of special interest to him and his ministry. He noted that millions have been spent to refurbish and extend the substantial magistrates court building in the government’s effort to improve the justice system and administration in Guyana.
He was pleased that the building that was being refurbished and extended was not the one affected by the fire. He also said that based on reports he received from the Fire Chief who was also on the ground, the act seemed to be deliberate since there was a high smell of flammable substance in the room that the fire was suspected to have started.
The substantial magistrate building on Croal Street and Avenue of the Republic is being refurbished with financing under the Justice Sector Improvement Program.
Yesterday when this publication revisited the fire scene the police had barricaded the area between King Street and Avenue of the Republic and the building was being guarded by three police ranks.
Yesterday efforts to contact the Chancellor of the Judiciary to ascertain whether those operating from the damaged building would be allowed to carry out their functions as per normal today were futile.

Boat owner offers $300,000 reward for stolen outboard engines --issues public appeal for help to arrest piracy

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 05:51:38 +0000

THREE hundred thousand dollars are being offered as reward to anyone with information on the whereabouts of two Yamaha 48hp outboard engines which were stolen by pirates during an attack on fishermen two Sundays ago.

The owner of the boat, who was robbed of the engines, prefers to remain anonymous because of fear of being targeted by criminals, but he said that all information received would be treated with strict confidentiality.
Persons can call telephone number 628-1200, or contact the nearest police station to deliver the information they have.
Disclosing that this is his first experience of encountering pirates at sea, the man is calling on the general public to make an extra effort to ensure piracy in reduced in Guyana.
“We operate out of (the) Georgetown Fishermen’s Co-op Society. Sunday morning, my captain operate(d) out of LBI, and (at) about 3 o’clock a boat hit their boat (my boat) at the side. When they come out (to investigate), the guys pull out their gun and started to fire up in the air,” the man stated.
He said his men immediately realized it was a piracy attack because the slangs the attackers were using were different from those of ordinary fishermen.
“When they shot, one of the shells from the gun fell back into the boat, and we have it… We already made the report at the police station,” he said.
The two missing engines are painted in black. “I’m asking (the) general public to help in the stamping out of piracy. These men are taking everything that we have worked hard for,” he said.
According to the fisherman, the pirates have been getting away with their criminal acts for too long, and those acts must come to an end.
Some of the items stolen from the fishermen include radio, GPS, compass, cell phones and fish glue.
Ten other boat owners have been similarly affected during the incident.
According to Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Guyana is still working to implement strategies to curb the issue of piracy in Guyana.
He said Guyana continues to advance along the technological path of the 21st century as it moves to implement a new Global Positioning System (GPS) mechanism to monitor licensed vessels that are at sea and may encounter difficulties.
This is all through the collaboration involving the Agriculture Ministry, the Transport and Hydraulics Ministry and stakeholder companies to protect fisherfolk and curb the increasing number of piracy attacks on them.
This collaboration came about with the recent increase in piracy attacks on fisherfolk at sea.
The initiative was first talked about, then implemented mentally at the Fisherfolk Convention held earlier this year, where the minister promised that Guyana will be heightening its efforts to protect fisherfolk from the wrath of pirates.
“One of the strategies that are being looked at closely is a Global Positioning System (GPS) which will allow fisherfolk to be under watch by the local authorities even after they have left the borders,” Dr Ramsammy said.
“It will be a system whereby they can press a button and we will automatically receive a signal that they have either sighted a suspicious boat, or (have encountered) any kinds of problems. With this system, we will know the name of the ship that is leaving, and the names of the crew members and other such information that is needed to be on the alert and up-to-date.”
The new process will ensure that the authorities are up-to-date with what is going on in the industry, and with the fisherfolk; so that the necessary assistance can be rendered at any point whenever it is needed, Dr Ramsammy assured.
He recalled that, over the years, even while there has been an increase in robberies at sea, advanced measures were implemented to lessen the number of criminal activities; and it has been a continuous effort.
The minister reiterated that fisherfolk are important assets to Guyana. He added that the fishing industry will not be orphaned, but treated with as much importance as the other areas that fall under the Agriculture Ministry.

GUYEXPO 18 days away -400 exhibitors, 150 overseas participants and over 80,000 local and overseas visitors expected

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 05:56:41 +0000

GUYANA is 18 days away from hosting Guyexpo 2012, the region’s premier trade expo, and organisers are optimistic about its success.

Speaking to the media yesterday, acting Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Irfaan Ali said Guyexpo 2012 will see more than 400 exhibitors, a contingent of 150 overseas buyers and investors from Brazil, Barbados, Canada, China, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, USA, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago and more than 80 thousand local and overseas visitors converging at the Sophia Exhibition Site from September 27 to 30 this year.
This year’s expo under the theme ‘Strengthening the Traditional, Embracing the New’ is sponsored by GT&T, Ansa Mc Cal, Banks DIH, Digicel, Safico and DDL.
Ali said the choice of theme is an active response to President Donald Ramotar’s exhortations to find ways in which the existing economy can be strengthened while ensuring that we are prepared to face the challenges and opportunities that are presenting themselves in the new economic frame work for Guyana.
Crucial to the drive to strengthen the economy is the Jagdeo Initiative and the Low Carbon Development Strategy, both of which will be evident in the kinds of products, services and investments that will be exhibited during the 4 day event.
The Jagdeo Initiative is a policy document that has been adopted by CARICOM as its core strategy in addressing not only food production but the whole issue of the food import bill for the region. It discusses the constraints facing agricultural development in the Caribbean and is an important initiative to ensure food security and sustainability in the region.
This initiative aims to explore the opportunities within the agriculture sector for agro – businesses thereby creating employment and increase export earnings and by extension the income of stakeholders particularly farmers.
Guyexpo 2012, he said, is an opportunity to present Guyana as becoming the premier food destination in the region.
The Expo will promote Guyana and Guyanese products, as well as new products that are not yet available or popular on the local market. It will also showcase alternatives to some products that have become challenging due to rising prices or shortages, for example alternative building materials will be presented.
In addition, two seminars will be held on September 28 at the International Conference Centre for local producers and exhibitors and investors.
Ali also announced a number of new villages, features and businesses that patrons will enjoy. Among them new sanitary blocks, expanded parking that will accommodate 1000 vehicles, information booths, green areas, a kids zone, more local entertainment from traditional sources like steel pans and drumming and attendants to monitor and control the crowds.
New businesses include Topco from the construction sector that deals with windows and doors, Safico - a new company that sells cement, Global Tech, Fitness Pro, The Guyana Prison Services, Zoon - an online shopping company and Giftland OfficeMax Mall.
New villages have also been added in the areas of fashion, tourism, youth and services.
What will perhaps be welcome news for many producers, retailers and investors is the inclusion of a dedicated buyers time. For 2 hours before patrons enter the site, these stakeholders will be able to interact with the exhibitors without being encumbered.
There will also be nightly stage shows, an international food court and many give giveaways. Patrons will be able to win plane tickets to Suriname and the US, products, food and beverages, phones and samples among other prizes.
Telephone giant GT&T is expected to give away a house to one of its customers on the final day of the Expo. Subscribers will earn points every time they text, talk, top up or receive calls. Subscribers with a thousand points will get a ticket which enters them in the draw for the house.
Banks DIH will also be hosting a concert which will see an international artiste performing at its Guinness 252 celebrations.
The opening ceremony is slated for September 27 at 18hrs. The expo will be open to the public from 15 – 23 hrs on September 28, and from 13 – 23hrs on September 29 and 30. Tickets will be presold and cost $500.00 and $300.00 for adults and children respectively. They will be available at the Ministry of Tourism, the Guyana Tourism Authority and at Exhibition Site. Parking costs a $1000.00 per vehicle.

Saturday night Croal Street fire… Access to offices restricted as arson probe continues

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:00:31 +0000

SEVERAL business and other offices in the Croal Street annex of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court were still unable to carry out their daily activities yesterday, following last Saturday night’s fire suspected to have been started by arson.

Up to yesterday morning, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) kept sections of the building off limits and prevented public access. However the section which houses the Traffic Courts was functioning, though without electricity, as it was not affected by the 22:00 hrs blaze.
On Sunday, Chief Fire Chief Marlon Gentle had indicated, to the Guyana Chronicle, that the investigations were taking a criminal turn since it was strongly suspected that the conflagration was deliberately set. Yesterday a senior member of the GPF told this publication that, while he is not aware of any new developments, the probe is continuing.
Yesterday, too, it was only after several senior legal personalities enquired why they were not being permitted into the damaged edifice that the police began granting permission for their entry but maintained a presence outside the office where the flames were suspected to have originated Saturday night.
Former Human Services Minister and now in private legal practice, Attorney-at-law Ms. Bibi Shaddick confirmed that she was one of the persons who barred from entering her chambers yesterday morning. She said she is moving from that location to a place that will be safer for her and the records of her clients.
On Saturday night, the police took Shaddick’s legal clerk into custody and kept her for several hours after she ventured into the chambers to ensure that nothing was damaged nor was there a threat of destruction.
New premises
Shaddick could not operate there yesterday, either, as most of her work necessitated the use of computer and there was no electricity but she has secured new premises to where she will be moving by Friday.
Asked about reports that the Croal Street property was sold to a popular city businessman, the former minister said she continues to pay her monthly rental to the same person since 1998.
Meanwhile, another tenant, Sunita Housein said firefighters had to break another office so she could enter hers and she found that everything inside had been damaged beyond repair either by water or flames.
She said, at first, a firefighter said the outbreak may have started in her office or the other next to hers which was abandoned after another tenant moved out about a week ago.
Housein said she lost documents, machines and other appliances but is unable to estimate her losses. She is still to contemplate what next needs to be done or, more realistically, can be done.
She said that she had been paying for her tenancy to the son of the former Judge Jainarayan Singh but ceased doing so, since August last year, after being served a notice by someone else and the matter is presently engaging the High Court.

Three-vehicle smash-up… Greene died from a fractured spine; Shaffiya succumbed to multiple injuries

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:05:58 +0000

POST mortems on the bodies of former Commissioner of Police, Henry Greene, 58, and 10-year-old Shaffiya Jamaluddin yesterday revealed that he died as a result of a fractured spine while the latter died of multiple injuries following a three-vehicle smash-up at Harlem Public Road, West Coast Demerara, on Friday morning.

After the post mortem, yesterday the bodies of both Greene and Jamaluddin were handed over to the families for burial.
According to reports, since Greene was not on active duty in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) he will not be given a military funeral but his pallbearers will be the Acting Commissioner of Police, Leroy Brumell and Deputy Commissioner ‘Law Enforcement’ Seelall Persaud, followed by the Last Post.
Acting Traffic Chief, Superintendent Hugh Denhart on Sunday said that so far they know that the canter truck attached to Bakewell and a motorcar were proceeding west along the Harlem public road but for some reason Greene’s Land Cruiser ended up on the southern side of the roadway which caused a head-on collision.
Meanwhile, when asked about reports in some sections of the media which suggest that the former Top Cop reportedly fell asleep at the wheel and that he was speeding at the time, Denhart said that he could not make a pronouncement since the matter was still being probed.
Survivors reported to the media that before the collision Greene’s vehicle was swaying and suddenly it increased speed and came directly in their path.
They added that the accident could not be avoided although the drivers of both the truck and car had slowed down after observing the vehicle’s movements on the roadway on Friday morning.
Police reported that at about 09:10 hrs former Commissioner of Police Henry Greene was driving his motor vehicle PLL 7411 along the roadway at Harlem,, when it is reported that his vehicle veered into the lane of motor car PJJ 4812, which was travelling in the opposite direction, resulting in a head-on collision. PLL 7411 then collided with motor canter GJJ 9067 that was travelling behind motor car PJJ 4812.
As a result of the collision Henry Greene and Shaffiya Jamaluddin, 10, of Canefield, East Canje, Berbice, who was in motor car PJJ 4812, received injuries and were pronounced dead on arrival at the WDRH.
Victor Persaud, 35, of Vriesland, West Bank Demerara, who was driving the motor canter and his two porters received injuries and were taken to the WDRH. Victor Persaud was admitted, while the two porters were treated and sent away.
The driver of motor car PJJ 4812 Raheem Kaleem, 45, along with the other occupants Reeaz Kaleem, 18, Fawaaz Kaleem, 15, Shaimoon Kaleem, 46, and Zaitoon Hoosein, 26, all of Canefield, East Canje, received injuries and were also taken to the WDRH.
Shaimoon Kaleem was treated and sent away, while the others have been admitted for medical treatment.

Eleven beauties vying for Miss Guyana Universe title

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:07:26 +0000

Eleven beautiful delegates vying for the Miss Guyana Universe title this year were sashed by their respective

sponsors last Sunday at the Palm Court Nightspot located on Mainstreet Georgetown.

The final aspect of the competition is scheduled for September 15 at the Princess Hotel located Providence, East Bank Demerara.
One of the young ladies will be chosen to represent Guyana at the 61st Miss Universe Pageant to be held on December 11 at a venue which will be announced by the Miss Universe Organization shortly. Leila Lopes from Angola will crown her successor at the end of the event.

Guyana’s credibility and standing on world stage continue to improve – Foreign Affairs Minister

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:13:08 +0000

GUYANA, because of its unique position as the only English-speaking country in South America, must be promoted in the best possible light as it has been able to demonstrate leadership on a number of issues, internationally, despite challenges, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett said recently on a television programme.

Speaking on the ‘The Factor’, with host Neaz Subhan yesterday, Guyana’s chief diplomat noted that the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), macroeconomic policies and continued economic growth, despite a global recession, mean that other nations and international agencies have noted Guyana as a good example at various forums.
More work has to be done to improve the international view of Guyana, she said, and she lauded the work of former President Bharrat Jagdeo for putting the country on the world map. She also noted that President Donald Ramotar is poised to add to this impressive portfolio with Guyana’s acceptance of membership in the Global Green Growth Institute and his appointment to the Group of Member States Champions for the “Education First’ initiative. The latter will be officially launched on September 26.
Only recently, a delegation led by His Excellency Andrew Ayre, British High Commissioner, and including Mr. Ian Bolton, Climate Change and Energy Desk Officer at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Mr. Matt Nottingham, Political Officer at the British High Commission in Port of Spain met with officials of the Climate Change Unit, Office of the President, to gain a better understanding on how the UK and Guyana can work more closely and establish areas for greater cooperation on climate change.
Guyana’s LCDS is internationally recognized as a workable model for forested developing countries to achieve national development goals through sustainable exploitation of natural resources.
The country had led the way with the historic Norway agreement from which Guyana has begun receiving payments for avoided deforestation and other climate change related forest services. The partnership represents the world’s second largest Interim REDD + scheme and the first national-scale effort, with Guyana being one of a few countries in the world that is being paid for the climate services its forests provide.
Minister Rodrigues-Birkett, comparing the work of the Foreign Ministry to that of years past, said this will always be an issue; but the point is moot, since the times are different and the world has changed dramatically as issues evolve. Some of these issues, such as food security, financial instability and energy crises are being dealt with through Guyana’s membership in various organizations, such as Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) regional international outlook recently identified Guyana among the resource exporting countries of the Caribbean, and by extension, the most outstanding economic performer of recent years.
The Fund has also praised Guyana for its resilience and growth over the past few years, which the Guyana Government attributes to good macroeconomic fundamentals and prudent management.
In reports from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Guyana was again acclaimed as one of the principal drivers of growth in the Caribbean.
The Foreign Minister addressed the negative perceptions faced by Guyanese travelling overseas and singled out Trinidad and Tobago as one example. She said that despite various agreements, the CARICOM sister state continues to target Guyanese unfairly with visitors having to undergo repeated security checks even when in transit to other countries, when the same measure is not applied to other nationalities. These are some of the issues which her ministry continues to tackle and these are being actively engaged with her ministerial counterparts.
It should be noted that many of the countries in which Guyanese are hassled are in fact benefiting from key services provided by this country. Many are quick to point out those Guyanese who fall foul of the law, but conveniently forget to mention when they also perform creditably, she added.
The task of changing the perception of Guyanese is a job for all, according to the minister, not just government, but all other sectors of local society.

Post mortem on Daniel Younge’s body scheduled for tomorrow

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:15:45 +0000

A post mortem is to be performed on Wednesday to determine the cause of death of 14-year-old Daniel Younge, whose lifeless body was found at the bottom of the Lama Conservancy (Blacka), shortly before 14:00 hrs on Sunday.

Police are also trying to locate a lad with whom he had left his home at South Ruimveldt Park, presumably to go swimming.
Tragedy struck just five days after the father of the deceased, Colin Younge, popular wholesale beverage dealer and proprietor of Yam’s Party Service, La Penitence had left for the United States on a short visit. He was on his return trip home on Sunday when the gruesome discovery was made, but relatives did not break the tragic news to him until he had settled down at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. It was the kind of shock relatives say that will remain with him for a long time.
The elder Younge and Daniel’s siblings yesterday visited the body at the Lyken Funeral Parlour and went to the district police station as well, but it is not clear whether they came up with any leads.
Daniel’s body was pulled from the canal by a man who was swimming there around 13:45 hrs. Pathetically, this shocking discovery was made in the presence of Younge’s elder cousin who was also at the conservancy at that hour. When the swimmer sounded the alarm that his foot had hit something underwater, it was ‘Skirt’ who advised him to persist and see what it was. But ‘Skirt’ was shocked out of his wits when the body was brought up and he realised that it was his younger cousin. He remains in complete shock since he was not aware that Daniel was not at home, or in fact missing. He immediately phoned and alerted other family members and the police were called in.
Relatives said Daniel had earlier in the morning left his South Ruimveldt Park home, in the company of a friend, presumably to go swimming. Several hours passed and they did not return, but no one thought that anything was amiss. It was not until they received a phone call from his cousin ‘Skirt’ that the family became aware that he had drowned.
When found, the lad was fully clad in the clothes he was wearing when he left home, and strangely, relatives say, his body was already swollen, leading doctors to suspect that he had been dead and under water for about three to four hours.
But relatives are concerned, especially since he was found with his clothes on. They also reasoned that even if Daniel had accidentally fallen into the water, he would have swum to safety, since he is an experienced and strong swimmer. They also expressed disappointment that, the lad with whom he had left his home did not return to let them know that something had gone wrong, or that Daniel was missing.
Meanwhile, his sisters recalled that very early on Sunday morning, he singled out two pairs of boots which he washed and placed outside to dry before leaving home. They were also moved by an essay he wrote on his return to school, relating how he had spent his August holidays. In that essay, he mentioned the fun times he had, including taking swimming lessons , since swimming was one of his hobbies.
Daniel leaves to mourn, his parents: Colin Younge and June Ann Peters; about nine siblings, and several other relatives and friends.

In Region Two… PYO record lauded at 60th anniversary celebration

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:19:23 +0000

PRESIDENTIAL Adviser on Science and Technology and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) stalwart, Mr. Navin Chandarpal has called for peace, progress and prosperity to continue in Guyana.

He issued the exhortation at a special service to mark the 60th anniversary of the party’s Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) on Thursday, September 5.
Speaking on the occasion at State House compound, Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Chandarpal said, in honour of all those who have made great sacrifice over the years, some with their lives, the PYO anniversary should be celebrated to ensure peace, progress and prosperity continue across Guyana.
He said the PYO, since its formation on September 5, 1952, has struggled alongside the PPP for the freedom of all Guyanese and this milestone should be used to reflect on the memory of the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, whose vision it was to form the grouping for young people.
Chandarpal said the organisation, which represents betterment for all Guyanese, has come a long way since its formation and many have paid with their lives so freedom can be enjoyed today.
He suggested that PYO groups be set up in every village on the Essequibo Coast so young people can become active to make their voices heard.
According to him, the only way to have empowerment in life is to organise and mobilise to carry on the struggle started 60 years ago by Cheddi Jagan, father of the nation.
Chandarpal challenged all in his audience to make the commitment to ensure PYO groups are established to reach out to young people, so that they can be properly informed and educated.
Many leaders
He noted that many leaders and Ministers of Government came through the ranks of the PYO.
Several other speakers, including executive member of the PPP Central Committee and current Minister within the Agriculture Ministry, Mr. Alli Baksh also attested to the many sacrifices of their comrades, some even losing their lives during the struggling and dark days to ensure the survival of the PYO.
Baksh also shared his life experiences in the PYO.
Another speaker, former Member of Parliament (MP), Mr. Isahack Basir said that the PYO is a very important university for the working class and other classes of people and persons must make the most of it.
Head of the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), Indra Chandarpal in her address posited that pioneer groups be established in the region so as to develop the PYO base and she pledged her grouping’s support to the effort.
Director of Sports and PPP member, Mr. Neil Kumar recalled that, over the years, the PYO has produced strong leaders of the party and he endorsed the suggestion that groups be created in every village.
The celebratory programme, which attracted a large group of youths and members of the PPP, also featured poetry, songs and dances.

Government replaces burnt Region 9 ambulance with brand new one --grateful region pledges proper care of vehicle

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:19:56 +0000

THE Ministry of Health handed over a brand new ambulance to the Lethem Regional Hospital last week after the previous ambulance, which served as the main means of transporting patients, had been destroyed by fire on Saturday August 25 at approximately 03:00hrs.

Director of Regional Health Services in Guyana, Dr. Irv Chan, said that mainly the interior seat, internal panels and medical monitors of the previous ambulance had been badly damaged, leaving the hospital with no means of transporting patients, should the need arise.
He noted that the Health Ministry immediately noted this lack of ambulance service, and decided to arrange for a new ambulance to be sent to the regional hospital shortly after the fire.
Dr Chan said he personally accompanied the ambulance to Lethem, and did the simple handing over ceremony with the Regional Chairman Winston Laurentino and Regional Executive Officer Mrs. Claire Singh.
Acting Regional Health Officer of Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo), Mohamed Ally, accepted the ambulance on behalf of the region, and expressed gratitude to the administration for its quick response. He pledged the effort to ensure that the new ambulance was properly cared for.

GNNL presents annual bursary awards ceremony for employees’ children

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:22:37 +0000

THE Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) on Friday held its annual presentation of bursary awards to the children of its employees.

Monetary awards were presented to children of employees with expectation that it would be used to purchase the necessary educational equipment.
Senior staff members of the GNNL, which included General Manager Mr. Nandkumar Puran, Administrative Manager Mr. Colin Alfred, and Assistant Editor and acting Editor-in-Chief Mr. Chamanlall Naipaul were present at the ceremony.
Mr. Puran said the awards are meant to encourage the children to continue studying and performing well in school. He also encouraged the students to continue studying and trying to do and be their best.
He noted that the monetary contribution may not be able to cover all the expenses parents are faced with, but the GNNL has still assisted parents with what contribution can be offered.
Mr. Puran said he sees this contribution as helping to advance the lives of the children, as it doesn’t matter how little help one gets, because a little help goes a long way and is better than none at all.
He said he is expecting to see a hundred percent passes coming from all of the students at the end of their academic year, along with improvements in their education.
Mr. Alfred and Mr. Puran both encouraged students to participate in their present online Mastermind Quiz, at the end of which prizes will be given for best performances.
The children who have been presented with bursary awards are Bevan Murle, Okeisha Murle, Kinsall Mark Gibbons, Joseph Gibbons, Akeena Chesney, Sileena Arjune, Aba Crawford and Oronde Crawford.

Passenger charged with theft of taxi driver’s phone

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:24:30 +0000

ANDSFORD Hopkinson, 22, of Lot 42 Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Friday charged with simple larceny.

Particulars of the offence, to which he pleaded not guilty, said on September 5, he stole a BlackBerry cell phone valued $55,000 property of Colin Richardson.
Police Sergeant Gordon Mansfield, prosecuting, said the defendant is known to the virtual complainant, who is a taxi driver and had picked up Hopkinson that day.
The prosecutor said Hopkinson was the only other person in the car and, when he disembarked the vehicle, the owner discovered the phone missing.
But, defence counsel Paul Fung-a-Fat claimed there were two more passengers in the car.
However, the magistrate ordered the defendant to post $50,000 bail and return to court on Sept 12.

Fined, jailed for cocaine smoking pipe

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:24:54 +0000

NEVILLE Mahasa (no address given) was fined $6,000 and imprisoned for one year on Friday for having an improvised pen pipe for smoking cocaine.

Before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, he pleaded guilty to the offence, particulars of which said, on September 3, he was in possession of the instrument used to smoke the narcotic.
Mahasa told the court that he suffers pains about his body and the drug would give him relief.

Roti Plus burglar claps after getting prison sentence

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:25:24 +0000

KASSIM Khan (no address given) was sentenced to nine months imprisonment on Friday for a burglary at Roti Plus shop on Sheriff Street, Georgetown.

Before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, he pleaded guilty to the offence, particulars of which said, between September 1 and 2, he broke and entered the place and stole four gallons of paint, eggs and knives, all to a total value of $27,080, property of Mahadeo Boodnauth.
The prisoner told the court that he returned the paint and knives but cooked the eggs.
When the magistrate pronounced sentence, the convict clapped and said he would stop smoking, then thanked her before he was escorted to the lock-ups.

University of Guyana Tain Campus Director, challenges regional educators to transform themselves

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:26:00 +0000

AS he delivered the keynote address to the dual gender audience in the crowded Berbice High School Auditorium at the launch of Education Month on Wednesday, Professor Daizal Samad, Director of the University of Guyana Tain Campus, challenged regional educators to transform themselves, even as they sought to transform the nation through inclusive education.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we shall transform this nation only if we transform ourselves, me and you together and singly. If we do not know what it means to be a father or mother or son or daughter or sister or brother or teacher or doctor or police officer, then how can we understand a nation, a thing much bigger than ourselves?” he questioned.
“It takes hard work to answer this. It takes honesty of analysis, the cruel honest truth about ourselves,” he posited.
Highlighting the theme, ‘Transforming the nation through inclusive education’, Professor Samad questioned its meaning, and thereafter asked, “Transforming the nation from what to what? Is it from insularity, petty politics, isolation, racist sentiments, gender bias, rape, breaking bottles on the road after I finish a beer, beating my wife to vent my frustrations, driving in the most irresponsible fashion, moral turpitude, and coming to work without any thought of work, if we show up at all?
“We shall transform our nation if, and only if, we cure these ills,” Dr Samad said.
He noted that nations are transformed bit by bit, individual by individual, action after action.
“Your job is not enviable, as who puts the children of others before their own children?” he questioned.
“But that, educators, is what it takes to transform nations. Transforming of this Guyana depends on you; in the way you conduct yourselves, the way you do your jobs, the manner in which you relate to your neighbours,” the professor posited.
Defining the term “inclusive education”, the professor opined that it includes each child and every citizen, including the disabled, who will find a home in the system.
“Education of drivers to be cautious, and not go on drunken sprees that may result in the slaughter of our human resources; having a vested interest in all institutions of learning, including the police training colleges, religious and social groups, the chambers of commerce and the public libraries.
“Because we do not know that we are a part of this inclusive education, we will continue to drive the way we do; beat our partners the way we do; conduct the affairs of law and order the way we do; care for our sick and elderly and handicapped the way we do,” he posited.
Samad questioned his attentive audience, “When did the nation abandon pride as a people? When did we marry ourselves to the betrayal of ourselves and all around us? I pray unto you to do include all and exclude none, so that this nation shall be indeed a nation, small but beautiful to behold.”

Prison officer on narcotics charge remanded to prison

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:27:21 +0000

PRISON Officer Yugesh Gossai, 24, known as ‘Scar’, of Lot 118 Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice, was remanded to prison after he was refused bail on a charge of introducing 80 grammes of cannabis sativa [marijuana] into the New Amsterdam Prison.

Additionally, the married father of two faces another charge, namely, being a prison officer, and without lawful authority, introducing to the prison a prohibited article, to wit, a cellular phone.
The defendant appeared before Magistrate Adela Nagamootoo at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court, and denied the allegations before being remanded to prison until September 24, when the case will be heard at the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Court.
Police are contending that on August 19 last, the defendant was scheduled to resume duties at 06:00hrs at the New Amsterdam Prison, but arrived minutes later.
His supervisor invited him into the lunch room, and asked him to declare his property. A parcel containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be portions of the hemp plant was taken from his pocket, along with his cellular phone. He was told of the offences, after which the police instituted charges.

Armed bandits chop and rob Adelphi woman

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:28:02 +0000

A New Amsterdam Magistrate Court staff is currently hospitalised as a result of several lacerated wounds to her hands after bandits broke into her home on Friday and robbed her of a quantity of gold jewellery.

The attack occurred shortly before midnight on Thursday at the home of Kuntie Persaud of Plantation Adelphi, East Canje, where neighbours were alerted after hearing several gun shots.
The typist / clerk was at home with her eight-year son Andy, when their home was intruded by three masked bandits who were armed with a cutlass, a gun and an axe. During the 15-minute ordeal, her son remained unhurt.
Her husband, Yadram who works in Suriname, travelled overland on receiving the news and arrived at the scene before the crime scene detectives.
Neighbours have voiced their disapproval over the response of the crime scene detectives, who had arrived after midday on Friday and hastily dusted for finger prints.
A neighbour told this newspaper that on returning home from duty at the Rose Hall Estate minutes before the attack, he was alerted by the sound of shattering glass and several gun shots.
Fearful for his life he stayed indoors from where he observed the gunman standing just near the entrance of the yard.
‘I heard her screaming for a few minutes. The place became quiet. I looked outside and saw three men walking casually in the eastward direction. After they left, the neighbours reluctantly ventured outside.’
According to reports, another neighbour who owns a car, called out to the injured woman, who on responding said, she was badly beaten, chopped on her hand, and robbed of all her gold jewellery. She was advised to wrap the hand before venturing outside and was subsequently taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where she remained in the Operating Theatre until late Friday afternoon, as doctors tried to save a badly lacerated finger.
Meanwhile, when Guyana Chronicle arrived at the scene shortly after 09:00 hrs several members of the community had converged at a nearby neighbour’s house, awaiting the arrival of the woman’s husband from Suriname, and discussing the events of the previous night.
The community consists mainly of persons who are employed by the Guyana Sugar Corporation, and the women folk have collectively expressed fear of being home alone at night when their husbands have to work the night shifts.
However, their men folk have expressed concern over the limited lighting in the area. According to them street lights were recently installed in the village, but they are confined to one area, leaving other areas in total darkness.
In the meantime, following the arrival of Yadram just before 10:00 hrs, the man was shaken and had to compose himself for a few minutes before enquiring what transpired.
He ventured into the yard, where the security bulb lay shattered on the concrete surface of the yard. Blood stains were visible on the stairs and in the hall where a large amount was smeared on the landline telephone where it is assumed that the lines were severed after Kuntie attempted to summon help. The window facing east and which is adjacent to the stairway was broken along with the wooden security bars which were axed, to allow the bandits access. There were gunshot holes on the zinc roof, but there were no visible signs of ransacked rooms.
According to Yadram, he has two suspects “on his radar” and he ‘would get them if the police don’t.’

PM Samuel Hinds signs book of condolence for late Rev. Moon

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:31:39 +0000

PRIME Minister Samuel Hinds yesterday signed the book of condolence for the late Reverend Sun Myung Moon at the First Federation Building, Thomas Street, Georgetown.

Rev. Moon, who was a religious leader and founder of the Unification Church, passed away at age 92 on September 3 in Seoul, after spending two weeks in hospital with pneumonia.
Moon, it is reported, through several companies and organisations, had controlled the Washington Times, the United Press International wire service, Atlantic Video based in Washington, the New Yorker hotel in Manhattan, and in Connecticut, the University of Bridgeport.

Competition, exhibition being staged to promote visual arts

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:32:50 +0000

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is currently accepting entries for the first biennial Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition, in a move to promote visual arts in Guyana.

Mr. Alim Hosein, a Linguistics Lecturer at the University of Guyana (UG), has been tasked with planning and managing the event. He hopes that Guyanese artists will gain recognition from the staging.
Hosein said other objectives are to encourage working artists and to stimulate interest in people who may be thinking about creating art work, as he believes the event can help to develop and grow creative arts in Guyana.
Hosein said any Guyanese artist over the age of 16 years is eligible to enter the contest, and make submissions in six categories: painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, textile and photography. Any artist is allowed to enter a maximum of three pieces in any category, or in a combination of categories.
Hosein explained further that, for this year only, work produced within the last five years (November 2007 to November 2012) will be accepted. However, this is just because no such initiative has been staged in Guyana since 1994.
For the next competition, though, which will be staged sometime in 2014, only work produced after 2012 would be accepted.
Noting that the Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition is open to both new and experienced artists, Hosein said it is important to note that the Ministry is not limiting entrants in terms of age, experience, style, or theme.
The deadline for submission of entries is November 23, after which approximately two weeks would be taken for judging, and there would be an awards ceremony; but the exhibition would begin sometime in December.
The exact date and venue for the latter activity have not yet been decided upon.

Accessible
“We haven’t finalised the venue as yet, but it’s going to be a central venue where persons can have easy access, because we’re trying to make the exhibition as accessible as possible, both to the artists and also to the public,” Hosein said.
He said judges are presently being reviewed and shortlisted, and that those would be persons of high calibre in the field of the arts, such as critics, academics and artists themselves. They would be both Guyanese and nationals from other Caribbean countries.
Hosein said the sponsors are trying to work with the prospective judges from outside the country, to determine if they would be available to spend some time in Guyana for that purpose. He indicated that judges would have approximately one week to examine the various pieces and come up with a short list after some deliberations. From that listing, they would pick winners in each category, who would be announced at the awards ceremony.
He assured that not only the winning entries will be on display at the exhibition, but all entries that were submitted.
The first prize winner would be awarded $500,000 and a gold medal; second prize winner $300,000 and a silver medal, while the third place winner gets $200,000 and a bronze medal. A special ‘promise’ award, of $200,000 and a bronze medal will be given to an emerging artist whose work shows exceptional promise.
Interested artists can view the competition rules and regulations at www.mcys.gov.gy, or a hard copy can be obtained from the Mashramani Secretariat on Middle Street, or from the Burrowes School of Art.

CPOG expresses shock at Henry Greene’s passing

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:34:35 +0000

The Community Policing Organisation of Guyana (CPOG) yesterday expressed profound shock at the passing of Mr. Henry Mr. Greene, DSS former Commissioner of Police.

The Organisation through a press release recognises and records the sterling contributions and timely support that Mr. Greene gave towards its development.
As head of the Guyana Police Force, the Community Policing earned tremendous benefits from his advice at his monthly Statutory Meeting with the National Community Policing Executive and as such members were able to formulate strategies in reducing the fear of crime in their communities, the release said.
It noted that Mr. Greene expended a great deal of energy in improving the relations between the police and the Organisation by ensuring training, social inter action, fun days and participation in police activities.
The release added that it is therefore with the deepest feeling of sadness that the Organisation extends its heartfelt condolences and exhorts the aggrieved to garner strength and faith to overcome the challenges that may confront them in this their time of sorrow and pain.

PYO concludes 60th Anniversary activities with participation in nationwide Pick It Up campaign

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:35:10 +0000

THE Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), the youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), on Sunday concluded a successful series of activities to mark its 60th Anniversary as the oldest youth movement in Guyana.

A release from the PYO said several groups of the PYO in various regions on the coastland participated in the nationwide Pick It Up campaign in several communities, besides being engaged in other activities in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.
This is in line with the PYO’s efforts to spread awareness regarding two of Guyana’s modern challenges --increased generation of waste, and improper disposal habits, particularly in the more populated housing areas.
Groups from Region 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam) also conducted a tree-planting exercise in keeping with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy drive, and to maintain the structural integrity of roads next to some of the main drainage canals in Affiance, Essequibo Coast.
A coordinated effort between the Diamond/Grove PPP and PYO groups of EBD also resulted in a massive cleanup campaign of the Diamond Diagnostic Centre compound, to make it more environmentally friendly.
Over in Region 3, the PYO spearheaded an initiative at Leonora, WCD to restore the monument of Kowsilla, a martyr who was killed on March 6, 1964.
The series of activities commenced on Sunday, September 2, 2012 in a national road safety drive, with the painting and repainting of pedestrian crossings along the coastland.
Lectures on the history of the PYO were also hosted by the Lethem PYO group in Region 9, and at Anna Regina in Region 2, among other places.
The main activity was a grand cultural show at Red House, Main Street, on September 6, 2012, which saw participation of several diverse PYO groups from across the country. The large audience was addressed by His Excellency, President Donald Ramotar, among several other leaders.
The PYO expressed gratitude to all those who participated or supported its activities, which were all designed to promote the various skills and volunteerism of our youth in Guyana.

GARLAND hosts World Literacy Day book fair

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:37:43 +0000

THE Guyana Association for Reading and Language Development (GARLAND) yesterday hosted a book fair in Main Street Avenue in downtown Georgetown to promote World Literacy Day 2012.

Host, President Grace Brown, said the theme for this year, ‘Literacy and Peace’ was chosen because, if one is not literate, one cannot effectively communicate in order to make peace.
At the venue, persons from GARLAND proposed literacy-related ideas for the public, mainly children, such as ‘Mother Goose’s storytelling time’; ‘Read a book get a book’, through which a child, having read a book, could win it on conclusion, depending on his/her reading performance.
There were also literacy fun games, including bingo and face painting.
Ms. Brown said the event was staged to promote literacy and sell the organisation, which has been in existence since 1987, despite becoming dormant over time.
She said GARLAND was resuscitated last June, and has since been doing what it does best, promoting literacy across Guyana.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) proclaimed September 8 International Literacy Day on November 17, 1965, when it was first celebrated. World Literacy Day aims to highlight the importance of literature and literacy to individuals, communities and societies.
On each International Literacy Day, UNESCO makes it an obligation to update the world community on the status of literacy and adult learning globally.
UNESCO said on its website that many persons worldwide lack minimum literacy skills, and that surveys show that one in five adults is still not literate; while more women than men are illiterate.

GPL submarine cable project across Demerara River moving apace

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:40:06 +0000

GUYANA Power and Light (GPL) Chief Executive Officer, Bharat Dindyal yesterday said that as part of the Chinese US$42M Infrastructure Development Project, they are presently seeking to have the submarine cable, from the New Kingston Plant in Georgetown to the Demerara River, linked to the West Coast Demerara sub-station at Vreed-en-Hoop and laid at a total depth of 10.5 metres below the Demerara River channel.

Dindyal told a press conference yesterday at the Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown headquarters that the submarine cable is currently laid at 3.5 metres in the bed of the Demerara River and since there have been talks of dredging the river to a depth of 10 metres the submarine cable would be sitting right at the surface making it exposed and at risk for damage by vessels.
Dindyal added that they were working with one contractor to lay the cable a further four metres below the Demerara River channel, but unfortunately that arrangement did not materialise because of the unavailability of equipment and as such GPL is now working with another contractor to lay the submarine cable to a total depth of 10.5 metres below the channel.
He explained that the submarine cable would still be safe even if the Demerara River is dredged as the cable is quite costly- to the tune of US$5M, so they have to protect it.
Dindyal said the completion of this project would dramatically improve the quality of power supply on the West Coast, East Bank, East Coast of Demerara and with connection of the Berbice grid to Demerara the reliability of power in Berbice will also dramatically improve.
“You might have seen complaints of the reliability of power supply in Berbice but we did say that we have encountered a problem at Canefield, Berbice with our 69KV transformer which was compounded by transmission problems with the release of transmission #53 Village and Canefield and West Berbice to be out.
“We have since completed major transmission links with the installation of protection equipment but we are still working on the 69KV transformer but the transmission lines between West Coast Berbice and upper Corentyne and Skeldon is now linked to #53 Village and linked with West Berbice through Canefield,” Dindyal said,
He added that as such they are operating on a low in that area until the 69KV transformer is restored, but linking the Berbice and Demerara systems would enable the Berbice system to benefit from the strength of the Demerara system, therefore, GPL is at a stage now where they could expect some dramatic improvements to the quality of power supply to consumers in Berbice.
On March 12 this year, GPL began laying of the submarine cable from the New Kingston Plant, in the city, to the Demerara River to be linked to the West Coast Demerara sub-station at Vreed-en-Hoop, and with the completion of the laying of the submarine cable will bring 15megawatts of power to West Coast Demerara.
In addition, he noted that with the brand new 36-megawatt plant at Kingston, coupled with other capacity in Demerara, GPL will deliver all the required power to West Demerara.
Dindyal said that the operational cost of the submarine cable is in excess of US$5M; but the entire project costs US$42M, funded through a loan from the Chinese.
When completed, the $42M infrastructure development project at Kingston will have the capacity to deliver over 150 megawatts to West Demerara.
The GPL CEO told reporters in March that the new Kingston Plant will be expanded to provide inter-connection to West Demerara, and a new certified MVA transformer purchased by GPL will be connected and commissioned after expansion of the Kingston sub-station for the city.
He said that a total of 70 MVA transformer capacity at the Kingston Plant, coupled with the 250MVa sub-station capacity and under the Chinese infrastructural development project, there will be an added 117MVA in six new sub-stations, which will significantly boost supply for consumers.
Dindyal explained that the seven new sub-stations in Sophia, Greater Georgetown, cannot have transformers but have transmission facilities. Of the six sub-stations, two are located on the West Demerara, one in the city, one on the East Bank Demerara, and two on the East Coast Demerara.
He said, “We are hoping that progress will be sustained this year; and, as planned, by mid next year, when all these works have been completed, West Demerara would be integrated with East Demerara, and Demerara with the Berbice systems; all will be inter-connected.”

GTU boss sees need for special needs specialist

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:42:13 +0000

GUYANA Teachers Union (GTU) President Colin Bynoe highlighted the benefits of inclusive education in noting that it supports and accommodates the varied needs and abilities of all students within the usual educational setting.

However, he urged the Ministry of Education to institute in the education system reforms that would allow for the principles and practices of inclusion.
Bynoe made these remarks in addressing his fellow principals and other educators at the launch of Education Month, held at the Berbice High School Auditorium on Wednesday under the theme, “Transforming the nation through inclusive education”.
According to him, students with special needs experience increased self-esteem because they are attending classes in regular schools rather than in special education institutions. Consequently, learners with high self-esteem perform better in school than those with low self-esteem.
Additionally, Bynoe observed that learners who are not considered as having special needs develop a greater understanding and acceptance of students with disabilities and diversities.
“This is important, because another important factor that can influence learners’ academic performance is the level of threat in the classroom. The fact that learners with special needs are understood and appreciated, their differences will increase the level of safety that they need to boost their self-concept, thus motivating them to try their best,” Bynoe said.
The unionist insisted that life for learners can be transformed, but educators are in dire need of adequate knowledge and skills to effectively engage learners in the inclusive classrooms.
In addition, he noted that there is need for a special needs specialist who can effectively monitor the inclusive education programmes at the various levels.

Magistrate issues arrest warrants for 350 traffic defaulters -to recover over $2M in fines

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:44:56 +0000

SOME $2M are owed to the government’s coffers as a result of traffic ticket defaulters failing to pay their fines at the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Court.

Consequently, Magistrate Adela Nagamootoo has taken the evidence of the respective traffic ranks and has since had fines imposed on August 16, last.
But defaulters, in excess of 350 drivers, have failed to honour their debts, forcing the court to have arrest warrants issued for them in order to recover in excess of $2M.
The ticketed charges range from obstruction to speeding and overload.

The Indian Science Fair

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:47:13 +0000

The amazing world of India opened its doors to Guyanese at the Indian Science

Exhibition, which began on the 20th of August at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown.
Schools, groups and individuals all have visited the exhibition and were left amazed by what they saw.
The Indian civilisation is one of the most ancient in the world.
It is known as the Sindhu civilisation or the Indus Valley civilisation or the Aryan civilisation. Sometimes it is also referred to as the Vedic civilisation.
The Aryans kindled the light of this civilisation on the banks of the river Sindhu (Indus) in Northern India, thousands of years ago. Later, they helped spread it across some other parts of the country.
The historians cannot ascertain the precise period when this great civilisation flourished. The scholars differ on the period of its development. Even the origin of the Aryan race has been debatable. Some historians believe that the Aryans migrated from North Central Asia and settled in India. Some other historians contend that the Aryans have been the natives of India.
In the opinion of Lokmanya Tilak and other Indian scholars, the Aryan civilisation is 4,000 to 8,000 years old.
According to Wikepedia, the beginning of stone sculpture in India goes back to a very remote age. The excavations carried out in 1924, at the ruins of Mohenjodaro on the Indus River and Harappa in the Punjab, brought to light a highly developed urban civilisation, archaeologically known as the Indus Valley or Harappan Culture. It flourished from C.2500 B.C. to 1500 B.C. These ancient cities had systematic lay-ous, wide roads, spacious houses made of bricks, and an underground drainage system, somewhat like our own. People worshipped the Mother Goddess or Goddess of Fertility. Trade and cultural contacts existed between these cities and those of Mesopotamia of which the evidence is the occurrence of seals, as well as similar carnelian beads, knobbed pottery, etc., at both places. Clay was the earliest medium in which man began to mould and we have discovered a large number of terracotta figurines from these Indus Valley sites.
A statue of a bronze dancing girl of the same period discovered at Mohenjodaro is perhaps the greatest surviving achievement of the metal work of the Harappan age. This world-famous figure shows a female dancing figure standing as if relaxing after a dance number, with her right hand on her hip and the left dangling free. She wears a large number of bangles, probably made of bone or ivory on her left arm together with a couple of pairs on her right arm.
The statuette is a great masterpiece of the art of the metal craftsman of the period who knew the art of bronze-casting in the cire perdue or lost-wax process.
This terracotta figure representing the large-sized mother goddess is one of the best preserved and comes from Mohenjodaro. The significance of the broad pan-like appendage on either side of the coiffure of the goddess is not easily understood. Since she is the bestower of fertility and prosperity, she was worshipped for this very purpose. India is traditionally a country where more than 80 per cent of its inhabitants are agriculturalists who naturally worship gods and goddesses of fertility and prosperity. The pinched nose and ornamentation flatly laid on the body and pressed on to the figure and the general folk effect in art are most interesting. The sculptor at Mohenjodaro was adept in his art and could fashion both realistically as well as stylistically.
The fair, which runs until September 30, is a collaborative venture between the Governments of India and Guyana, and showcases Indian ancient science and technology and the progress that India has made in the field of science.
The event is providing Guyanese with an overview of over 7,000 years of scientific achievements in that country.
The government provided the venue and partnered with a number of local agencies, such as the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Guyana Learning Channel to ensure the success of this initiative.
Touch-screen televisions have been made available so that persons can readily access information; likewise, science models are also available.
Among the many areas of science that Guyanese children are learning about through this exhibition are biotechnology, space and nuclear science.
Following independence science and technology in the Republic of India are included automobile engineering, information technology, communications as well as space, polar, and nuclear sciences.

Kaieteur News ‘Dem Boys Seh’ piece on women is insensitive journalism

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:48:40 +0000

THE views expressed in a letter to the Editor of the Daily Chronicle dated September 1 regarding the treatment of women in the media generally, but more specifically the very distasteful piece in a recent episode of the “Dem Boys Seh” carried in the issue of Kaieteur News dated July 21 is fully supported.

There should be some retraction of that feature or an apology for that kind of debased and insensitive bit of journalism for which there could be no excuse.
I wish to take this opportunity to inform the public that the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security in collaboration with UNICEF had undertaken an extensive Media Monitoring Programme over the period 2008-2010 and data was collected on the treatment of women and children in the print media focusing on all four national newspapers (with Guyana Times being included with effect from June 2008), as well as the electronic media focusing on local news broadcasts on Channels 7, 9, 11 and 28. The data collected from more than 2000 local newspapers was analysed by a consultant, Dr P. Mohamed and the results along with comment and recommendations presented in a comprehensive Report – Media Trends: Representations of Women and Children in the Guyanese Media 2008 – 2009. This Report was publicly launched at a function at which journalists, other media personalities and representatives of a number of organisations were present. The findings and recommendations presented in this Report later formed the basis of a workshop held for journalists. This exercise did not only focus on the presentation of women and children in the Media, it also looked at ethical and balanced reporting and adherence to standards of reporting as established by UNICEF, UNESCO, the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the recommendations on Women and the Media contained in the Beijing Platform for Action: Strategic Objectives and Actions, to which Guyana made a commitment of implementation.
This entire programme was formulated on the premise that there was a need for more balanced and ethical reporting on women and children. It now seems that all has not yet taken root in sections of the media.

Women’s religious orders

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:49:23 +0000

THE Vatican recently initiated a major reform of women’s religious orders in America. Particularly targeted was the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) which represents about 80 percent of the country's 57,000 religious women.

The reform comes in light of a hardened defiance against Catholic morality in areas of family life and human sexuality and is meant to ensure the nuns’ fidelity to Catholic teaching in areas including abortion, euthanasia, women's ordination and homosexuality.
While we often hear about the present-day priest shortage, few seem aware that all religious communities, great and small, male and female, contemplative, active or mixed, if not strictly decimated, have been reduced to a fraction of their former selves in the course of the past 50 years. In Canada, the U.S. and Western Europe, nuns are vanishing at an alarming rate.
A recent study by the U.S. National Religious Vocation Conference found the number of nuns in the United States had fallen a stunning 66% over the past four decades. In Canada, there are 19,000 nuns, down 54% from 42,000 in 1975. Indeed, at the beginning of the 60s, Quebec was the region of the world with the highest number of women religious orders in relation to the population. Today, all sociologists agree that unless there is a reversal of the present trend, women’s religious life as we have known it will be only a memory in Canada.
Pope Benedict XVI has reduced the problem mainly to a certain "radical feminism" that has crept into women’s religious orders, causing an identity crisis among active orders and congregations. Women’s religious orders, the pope says, have turned away from theology and sought liberation in psychologists and psychoanalysts who can only say at most how the forces of the mind function but not why and to what purpose.
After Vatican II, religious communities began every kind of reform imaginable: abandonment of the religious habit; degrees at secular universities; insertion into secular professions; and a massive reliance on every type of "specialist". Not surprisingly, modern secular values were often uncritically adopted and the concept of "love of neighbour" was soon replaced by that of "social welfare". In the process Christianity gradually became reduced to an ideology of doing. Pope John Paul II later warned against this minimalist approach, saying that the true leaders are those who are "profoundly rooted in contemplation and prayer. Ours is a time of continual movement which often leads to restlessness, with the risk of ‘doing for the sake of doing’. We must resist this temptation by trying to be, before trying to do."
A major cause of the decay is a distorting of the evangelical councils by taking them as a psychological and sociological outlook rather than as a special state of life structured in accordance with the counsel Christ gives in the Gospel. True renewal means an adaptation of external activities with a view to a more effective pursuit of holiness. It is begotten by a disgust with weakening of discipline and by a desire for a life that is more spiritual, more prayerful and more austere. Post-conciliar reform tends to move from the difficult to the easy or less difficult rather than from the easy to the difficult or more difficult. Today, a religious order questions itself, confronts experiences, demands creativity, searches for a new identity (which implies that it is becoming something other than itself), moves toward building "true communities" (as if for centuries past religious orders had consisted entirely of false communities).
Ultimately, the crisis among religious orders is the result of an excessive conforming to the world, and a taking up of the world’s positions because one has despaired of winning the world over to one’s own. A by no means small or unimportant sign of this alienation is the change in the dress of members of religious orders, inspired by a wish that it should no longer differ from that of secular persons.
This drift in reform of religious life today is parallel to the one governing the reform of the priesthood. On the one hand there is the obfuscation of the difference between the sacramental priesthood and the priesthood of all believers; and on the other, of the difference between a state of perfection and the common state. What is specific to religious life is washed out or watered down in thought and behaviour. Take for example, the three evangelical counsels (chastity, poverty, obedience) that are essential to religious life. Today, there is a certain distaste for chastity. A certain decline in delicacy and care are obvious not only in the widespread slackness in clerical dress, but in the more frequent mixing of the sexes, even on journeys, and in the abandonment of the precautions adopted even by great and holy men. With regard to poverty, there is an habitual and at times uncontrollable use of such technology as the television and internet. Of all the counsels, obedience is the one where the drift towards relaxation in religious orders shows itself most clearly. The concept of obedience has been lowered by lowering the principle of authority and mixing it up with a kind of fraternal relationship by means of a fruitful dialogue. True Catholic obedience, however, implies submission to the will of the superior - so long as the command is not manifestly illicit - and not a re-examination of the superior’s command by the one obeying. Catholic obedience does not seek a coinciding of the wills of subject and superiors. Such an agreement negates any sacrifice of one’s own will by conforming it to somebody else’s. It ultimately produces self-government, self-teaching, self-education and even self-redemption.
This weakening in obedience has lead to a weakening of the spirit of unity. Individuals are now left to do the things proper to the religious state as if the community did not exist. Mass is said at anytime, prayer is left to the spirituality of each person. With this aim in mind it is easy to see why religious institutes have virtually disappeared. It is a contradiction in terms to join a community in order to do individually, and on one’s own account, things one has joined the community to do in common.
Not surprisingly, cloistered contemplative orders are under no such Vatican scrutiny. This is because they have withstood very well due to the fact that they are more sheltered from the Zeitgeist, and because they are characterised by a clear and unalterable aim: praise of God, prayer, virginity and separation from the world as an eschatological sign. Their wonderful capacity to give love, help, solace, warmth and solidarity did not give way to the economistic, and trade-union mentality of the "profession. "
We are at a point now when religious life in the Catholic Church should be presenting an alternative to the dominant culture of death, of violence and of abuse, rather than mirroring it. Hopefully the new reform will remedy this.
One thing is clear: sisters need to refocus their communities on the founding charisms or original purpose of their orders. They also need, as a remedy against radical feminism, Mary whose mystery was inserted into the mystery of the Church at Vatican II, making her a focal point for the equilibrium and completeness of the Catholic Faith.
When one recognises the place assigned to Mary by dogma and tradition, one becomes more solidly rooted in authentic Christology. As both a Jewish girl and mother of the Messiah, Mary also binds together, in a living and indissoluble way, the old and the new People of God. She is, as it were, the connecting link without which the Faith (as is happening today) runs the risk of losing its balance by either forsaking the New Testament for the Old or dispensing with the Old.
Finally, according to her destiny as Virgin and Mother, Mary continues to project a light upon that which the Creator intended for women in every age. Mary is the one who rendered silence and seclusion fruitful. She is the one who did not fear to stand under the Cross. As a creature of courage and obedience she was and will always remain an example to which every Christian man and woman should look.
In 2005, Pope Benedict XVI issued a resounding call for reform in the Catholic church. He lamented "How much filth there is in the church, and even among those ... in the priesthood." In May, 2010 he reiterated this plea, stating: "Today we see in a really terrifying way that the greatest persecution of the church does not come from the enemies outside, but is born from the sin in the church," These exhortations were widely interpreted as references to the sex-abuse scandal affecting the church's standing in North America and other parts of the world. However, the Pope’s comments were also directed more widely to the phenomenon of modernism that is poisoning the church at its core - the result of decades of liberal exegetical, theological, and "pastoral" creativity in the name of the Second Ecumenical Vatican Council. One of the key areas where modernism has been allowed to take root, fester and spread has been women’s religious orders.
Thankfully, there are still some very good contemplative orders that have never given up the vision of the Eternal Church and have passed this on to younger religious orders, who in scattered places preserve the Apostolic faith, much as the monks did on their lonely islands during the Dark Ages. It is with this hope that the church will again be revitalized and become once more a vehicle for re-Christianizing the world.

No Amerindian village will be forced into LCDS

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:50:24 +0000

PLEASE permit me space in your letters column to respond to a letter written by Janette Bulkan in the Stabroek News of Saturday, September 8, 2012 under the caption, “Where is the document explaining the rights and responsibilities of a Village Council “opting in” to the LCDS?”

Kindly allow me to state the following:
(1) Janette Bulkan, an LCDS prophet of doom has once again and suddenly emerged from her dungeon in Florida to question the “opt in” mechanism for Amerindian villages to participate in Guyana’s LCDS.
(2) Bulkan, an unpatriotic twit is known for her wicked and mischievous campaign against Guyana’s LCDS both locally and overseas in which she failed miserably. It must also be known that Bulkan has a political agenda against the Government of Guyana.
(3) Bulkan even wrote to Norway not to fund Guyana’s LCDs. But Norway ignored her and quickly dispatched her letter to its garbage collection. Others did the same and suffered the same fate.
(4) Bulkan is not qualified to speak or write on indigenous people’s rights issues, since she never sought the free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) of Guyana’s indigenous peoples when she wrote to Norway not to fund Guyana’s LCDS.
(5) Janette Bulkan must therefore be recognised and isolated for being unpatriotic towards her home country Guyana, since she doesn’t want Guyanese and more particularly Guyana’s indigenous peoples to benefit both socially and economically from Guyana’s LCDS where our forests are protected to fight against Global Climate Change and its dangerous consequences.
(6) Bulkan’s opposition to Guyana’s LCDS is like a lone voice crying in the wilderness, since both the strategy and its REDD+ Initiative are success stories with the flowing of funds for their effective implementation for the benefit of all Guyanese. Definitely, Bulkan should be the last person on earth to speak or write about Guyana’s LCDS.
(7) Mr. Ashton Simon, an indigenous specialist of the Patamona tribe was absolutely correct and in order when he said that it will be useless for the LCDS documents to be printed in indigenous languages, since over 95% of indigenous peoples will not be able to read their own language if it is written, printed and available for reading. (Guyana Chronicle, Saturday Sept 8th, 2012)
(8) The argument therefore by Bulkan and others that the LCDS documents for use in the Amerindian communities should be printed in indigenous languages to help in the LCDS consultations process was a ploy to frustrate the LCDS consultations in the Amerindian communities.
(9) But while the Region 7, Upper Mazaruni Toshaos are claiming or have claimed that the LCDS documents are difficult to understand, they did not find the highly constructive contents of a letter written by the Amerindian People’s Association(APA) dated 10th March 2010 to Norway not to fund the LCDS difficult to understand. Also the Toshaos, while they find the LCDS documents difficult to understand, did not find a resource material difficult to understand at an APA workshop on climate change facilitated by Vemund Olsen of Rainforest Foundation Norway at the Regency Suites in Georgetown. My contention is that the LCDS document entitled “Frequently Asked Questions” was far way easier to understand than the resource material used by Vemund Olsen for the APA workshop on Climate Change a few years ago.
(10) It is important for Bulkan to know that it is not a “Village Council” that would “opt-in” to the LCDS, but a “Village”, since it is not the Toshao or a Village Council who will have to make the “opting-in” decision, but the majority or two-thirds of village residents who are entitled to vote at a village general meeting.
(11) The “opt-in” mechanism for Amerindian communities into Guyana’s LCDS was discussed at the MSSC level and its concept paper approved. The MSSC took a decision that the concept paper be sent to the National Toshaos Council (NTC) for consideration and review. This was done in 2010 and again at the recently held NTC conference. It must be noted therefore that in 2010 all the Amerindian communities were provided with copies of the “opt-in” concept paper and again at the recently held NTC conference. Bulkan is not living in Guyana and therefore needs to get her facts straightened out. All the MSSC minutes are on the LCDS website for public information.
(12) Bulkan wants the “opting-in” mechanism for Amerindian communities to be printed in Amerindian languages. This is directly a call by Bulkan to frustrate Amerindian communities from participating in Guyana’s LCDS, since there will be problems for Amerindian communities reading their languages in print.
(13) Yes, three Amerindian organisations (NADF, GOIP & TAAMOG) in collaboration with the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) did follow-up LCDS consultations in five villages of the Upper Mazaruni, Region 7 (Paruima, Waramadong, Warawalta, Kako & Jawalla) in September 2009. All five villages expressed that they understood the LCDS and will give their support only in principle, since they need their land issues to be solved. The problem here is that the said villages acted on poor advice and took the government to court where their land matter currently is over 10 years ago. The government stands ready to solve the land issues of the Upper Mazaruni communities, but cannot do so because of the said court matter.
(14) Mr. Editor, even a CXC student knows that the Government of Guyana is firmly committed to the rights of Guyana’s indigenous peoples and will ensure that their participation in Guyana’s LCDS will apply the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). No Amerindian village will be forced into the LCDS and neither will there be any deadlines.

Opposition parties politicking as if still on campaign trail

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:52:35 +0000

IN the wake of controversy sparked by accusations made by parliamentary opposition on government corruption, I would like to add my input.
It boggles the mind that these parties could go against a government that maintains diplomacy which is often

required, and sticks to confidentiality in order to be effective.
These parties, especially the PNCR/APNU, ought to know that the release of certain information could compromise certain operations and projects. Yet they insist that such information should be used to hold the government accountable. Accountable for what?
I am negative about their resolution that the people's right to know outweighs the governments need for confidentiality. Can they prove that?
The AFC claims that corruption is when decisions are taken for private interest instead of for public benefit and as corruption increases, regimes become more secretive, and basic social and economic rights are threatened.
Information is held, received and imparted by governments, their departments and agencies to further the public interest. Public and not private interest, therefore, must be the criterion by which equity determines whether it will protect information which a government or governmental body claims is confidential.
Balancing the public interests in confidentiality, on the one hand, and freedom of information and discussion on the other will lead to different results, depending on the type of information under consideration.
Information should only be demanded when it can be proved that the government was engaged in illegal acts or the government’s policies jeopardised the life, health or safety of persons.
The AFC and APNU have had the opportunity and still have the chance to enter public debates televised live on national television.
APNU has dropped, the AFC continued. Yet at all the debates aired so far, they have attempted to create a nexus with the topic on hand and other issues irrelevant to the topic. Why?
Why not stick to the topic and present your solid and specific proof of corruption instead of straying off into other areas?
I therefore submit that there is no solid proof that government is corrupt and that the opposition parties are still politicking as if they are still on their campaign trail.

Sangakkara and Kulasekara boost Sri Lanka T20 hopes

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:55:41 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (Reuters) - Sri Lanka batsman Kumar Sangakkara and fast bowler Nuwan Kulasekara are winning their battle to be fit for this month's Twenty20 World Cup on home soil.

The 34-year-old Sangakkara is recovering from a broken finger while Kulasekara, 30, has been troubled by a groin strain.
"Kumar is fine," captain Mahela Jayawardene told reporters yesterday. "He has been asking our coaches for extra net sessions and is coming along very nicely.
"Nuwan has been bowling at 80 to 90 percent during the last couple of weeks and next week we will let him push himself even further."
Sri Lanka open the tournament with a match against Group C rivals Zimbabwe at Hambantota on September 18 then play South Africa at the same venue four days later.
"We have played at Hambantota before and the wind there presents some challenges," Jayawardene said.
"But it is the same for the other teams as well. With the experience we have we should see how we can use it to our advantage."
The top two in the three-team group will advance to the Super Eight stage.

Afghanistan win T20 tourney on net run rate

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 06:59:50 +0000

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC)-Afghanistan were adjudged winners of the ASIA vs the Caribbean Twenty/20 tournament after three teams won the same number of matches.

The win is expected to boost the confidence of the Afghan players ahead of the ICC Twenty/20 tournament starting in Sri Lanka later this month.
Afghanistan edged hosts Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh on net run rate after all three teams finished the tournament on two wins at the Queen’s Park Oval.
They posted a net run rate of 0.402 while Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh registered 0.105 and 0.33.
Barbados, the other team in the four-nation tournament, lost all three matches.
The net run rate was required to determine which team gets the US$50 000 winner-take-all top prize after a cliffhanger encounter between Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh.
The Trinidadians snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in a sensational four-wicket win over Bangladesh who scored 124 runs for nine wickets.
Trinidad and Tobago in reply ran into early trouble and were reeling on 12 for the loss of five wickets including two in the first over.
Jason Mohammed and Sherwin Ganga started the fightback with a sixth-wicket stand of 39.
Mohammed cracked a pair of cover-driven sixes, off Mahmudullah’s off-breaks before loosely edging Abul Hasan to the keeper to end his 27-ball knock.
But Sherwin Ganga found an ally in Yannick Ottley who scored an unbeaten half-century and they steered the hosts to victory with a game-winning partnership of 78.
Ottley struck two sixes off Al Hasan and Mahmudullah and with Ganga reduced the target to 19 runs from the remaining two overs.
The penultimate over produced 14 runs including a reverse sweep by Ganga for a boundary and a six overhead by Ottey who top-scored with 52 from 27 balls with a four and four sixes.
Needing five runs in the final over, Ganga got three runs from Al Hasan’s first two balls before Ottley slog-swept the third for his fourth six, which brought up his fifty as well as the team’s victory.

Fake twitter account ... KP's ‘spite’ against teammates worsens chances of return

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:00:13 +0000

LONDON, England (ANI): Kevin Pietersen's accusation against England teammates Graeme Swann and James Anderson over their involvement in his fake Twitter parody account is expected to worsen his hopes of a possible comeback in the national teams after he lost his central contract.

According to the Daily Mail, Pietersen lost his central contract after refusing to admit that he was totally wrong over the collapse in relations with his teammates that left him in exile and crushed the team spirit, which coach Andy Flower holds so dear.
Pietersen still feels his teammates had an involvement in the parody Twitter account 'KPGenius' that has upset him so much, created by a friend of the players, Richard Bailey.
Stuart Broad has already been cleared by the England and Wales Cricket Board of having anything to do with Pietersen's fake Twitter account, while Swann took to the social networking website on Sunday to insist he wasn't involved, the paper said.
Swann tweeted: "Sorry to disappoint all you piers morgan fans but KP's parody had nothing to do with me. I suggest a warm cocoa and an early night."
It is understood that even Anderson has vehemently denied any involvement in Pietersen's fake Twitter account, the paper added.
It was the criticism of Andrew Strauss in messages sent by Pietersen to South African players that sparked this affair.
According to the report, the ECB considers the Twitter business to be a side issue and accepts that Broad, Anderson and Swann had nothing to do with it, which leaves Pietersen further away from a return to the fold than ever and almost certainly out of the Test squad to tour India.

Villa boost for Spain as favourites begin defence

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:00:39 +0000

MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - Favourites Spain start the defence of their world title away to Georgia today when coach Vicente del Bosque will have another chance to test the form of record marksman David Villa, recently returned from eight months out with a broken leg.

The 30-year-old Barcelona striker, who sat out Spain's triumphant Euro 2012 campaign, came off the bench to score in his first game back for both club and country and his eye for goal appears as sharp as ever.
His strike from the penalty spot in Friday's 5-0 friendly victory against Saudi Arabia was his 52nd goal for his country on his 83rd appearance and he told reporters afterwards the surgery to repair his leg had been a complete success.
"I have not felt any concern since the first day I returned to training seven weeks ago and there has been no problem since the operation," Villa said.
"I am building up muscle tone, confidence and strength in my movement," he added.
"I have been training a long time now and the body is adapting but whether I can play from the beginning is a decision for the coach."
Villa was an automatic starter for del Bosque at the 2010 World Cup but without him at Euro 2012 the coach alternated between playing Fernando Torres as a lone striker and using Cesc Fabregas as a roving forward.
Villa's return adds another attacking option to a team who have swept all before them since winning Euro 2008.
The world's top-ranked side are on a 22-match winning streak in European Championship and World Cup qualifiers, last failing to win in a 1-1 draw in Iceland in September 2007.
"Villa is a man who loves scoring goals," his in-form Barca and Spain team mate Pedro, who netted twice against Saudi Arabia, told a news conference on Saturday.
"We knew the injury was very serious but he has made a spectacular recovery and he is continuing to build fitness, confidence and rhythm."
France will likely be the main threat to the Spanish in Group I, which is completed by Belarus and Finland.
France and Georgia are joint top on three points after they won their opening qualifiers on Friday away to Finland and at home to Belarus respectively.
Georgia were indebted to goalkeeper Giorgi Loria for keeping the Belarussians at bay as Tornike Okriashvili scored the only goal of the match six minutes into the second half in Tbilisi.

Australia floor Pakistan in T20 tour-ender

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:01:05 +0000

DUBAI: Australia brought Pakistan down to earth with a thumping 94-run defeat in the third and final Twenty20 international at Dubai Stadium here yesterday.

Chasing a daunting 169-run target, Pakistan were all out for 74 - the joint lowest by a Test playing country in all Twenty20s - for their biggest defeat in the history of the shortest form of the game.
Only Nasir Jamshed (17), Yasir Arafat (15) and Abdul Razzaq (13) could reach double figures as Australian paceman Mitchell Starc (3-11) and Pat Cummins (3-15) ran through the Pakistan batting line-up.
Pakistan, who won the first match by seven wickets and the second in Super over, never looked the same side as they lost wickets at regular intervals, the first five falling by the sixth over with the score on 19.
Razzaq and Arafat shared the highest partnership of the innings with 20, taking Pakistan past the lowest total in all Twenty20 - 67 by Kenya against Canada in Belfast in 2008.
Pakistan's previous biggest defeat in Twenty20 internationals was by 48 runs, against England at The Oval in 2009.
India were also dismissed for 74 by Australia at Melbourne in 2008.
Earlier Warner made a 34-ball 59 with six sixes and a four and Watson hammered five sixes and a boundary during his 32-ball 47 to put on Australia's best opening stand of 111 in all T20s after they were put in to bat.
The Australian openers went berserk from the eighth over when Watson hit Shoaib Malik for three towering sixes and from the other end Warner hit left-armer Raza Hasan for as many sixes in the ninth.
Even the successful Saeed Ajmal was hit for two sixes as Australian openers hit nine sixes in the space of 19 balls, bringing the second fifty off just 15 balls.
Paceman Arafat, who replaced Sohail Tanveer as the only change to the line-up, had both the openers in successive overs to put brakes on the Australian innings, finishing with 2-30.
Glenn Maxwell chipped in with a 20-ball 27 with three fours and a six.
Ajmal finished with 2-19, taking his tally to 60 wickets -- the most by any bowler in Twenty20 cricket.
The two teams now head to Sri Lanka where the fourth edition of the World Twenty20 begins on September 18. (Yahoo Sport)

AUSTRALIA:innings
D. Warner c Hafeez b Arafat 59
S. Watson c Gul b Arafat 47
G. Maxwell c Jamshed b Hasan 27
M. Hussey b Ajmal 12
G. Bailey b Ajmal 3
C. White c Umar b Gul 0
D. Christian c Kamran b Gul 3
M. Wade not out 6
P. Cummins not out 1
Extras:: (b-4, lb-2, w-4) 10
Total: (for seven wickets) 168
Fall of wickets: 1-111, 2-114, 3-140, 4-145, 5-152, 6-159, 7-167.
Bowling: Razzaq 2-0-12-0, Gul 4-0-30-2, Arafat 3-0-30-2, Ajmal 4-0-19-2, Hasan 3-0-34-1 (w-4), Malik 1-0-20-0, Hafeez 3-0-17-0.

PAKISTAN innings:
M. Hafeez c Christian b Cummins 9
I. Nazir lbw b Starc 1
N. Jamshed c Bailey b Maxwell 17
S. Malik b Cummins 0
K. Akmal c Watson b Starc 0
U. Akmal c Hussey b Watson 2
A. Razzaq c sub. (D. Hussey) b Cummins 13
Y. Arafat c White b Hogg 15
U. Gul run-out 3
S. Ajmal b Starc 1
R. Hasan not out 5
Extras: (b-4, w-4) 8
Total: (all out) 74
Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-15, 3-15, 4-16, 5-19, 6-36, 7-56, 8-61, 9-64.
Bowling: Watson 3-0-13-1, Starc 3.1-0-11-3 (w-1), Cummins 4-0-15-3, Hogg 4-1-11-1 (w-1), Maxwell 4-0-12-1 (w-1), Christian 1-0-8-0.

Murray ends Britain’s 76-year wait for a male Grand Slam champion ..beats Djokovic in epic U.S. Open final

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:01:49 +0000

ANDY Murray ended Britain's 76-year wait for a male Grand Slam singles champion with an epic victory over Novak Djokovic in the US Open final.

The Scot finally emulated Fred Perry's 1936 achievement, winning 7-6 (12-10) 7-5 2-6 3-6 6-2 in four hours 54 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Murray - the new world number three - ended Djokovic's title defence and 27-match hard court winning run at majors.
It caps a fine year for the 25-year-old, who also won Olympic gold.
But this result will arguably have a greater impact on his career and the future of tennis in the United Kingdom.
Murray lost his first four Grand Slam finals - an Open era record he shares with coach Ivan Lendl - but like the Czech he has triumphed at the fifth time of asking.
"He's one of greatest players ever to play, he made eight consecutive finals here," Murray said of Lendl in his acceptance speech.
"Having him here supporting me has helped in the tough moments. But it's not only him - everyone else too. They've been there since the start, thanks very much."
While it is a dream of his to win Wimbledon, the British number one has long been tipped to make his breakthrough at Flushing Meadows.
He was the boys' singles champion there in 2004, hard courts are his favourite surface and he enjoys the atmosphere in New York.
Murray is unlikely to ever forget the atmosphere inside the world's biggest tennis arena as he celebrated his success.
A swirling wind made conditions troublesome for both players, but it was Murray who coped better in the first two sets.
"They were incredibly tricky conditions," said the right-hander from Dunblane. "Novak is so strong, he fights until the end every of match and don't know how I managed to come through in the end."
After early breaks were exchanged, Murray struck again before moving 4-2 ahead following a game that included a 54-shot rally.
Djokovic rallied to force a tie-break, yet his opponent showed greater belief and converted a sixth set point with 87 minutes on the clock.
Murray roared with delight and carried his momentum into the second set, breaking an out-of-sorts Djokovic twice for a 4-0 lead.
A lapse in concentration allowed Djokovic back in and when the Serbian landed a majestic lob for 5-5, Murray clutched his left thigh.
There were no signs of injury, though, as Murray held to 15 and then forced a flurry or errors from the world number two, opening up a two-set lead for the first time in a Grand Slam final.
The crowed urged Djokovic to respond and he did - threatening in game one of the third set before making his move in game three.
Murray was now starting to berate himself and voice his frustrations in the direction of his player box, never more so than when two backhand mistakes saw chances squandered in game six.
He then fell a double-break down thanks to an incredible backhand on to the baseline from Djokovic, who easily closed out the set.
Djokovic looked revitalised, Murray weary, and the right-hander from Belgrade swiftly found himself 2-0 up in the fourth set.
Just when it seemed Murray might respond, Djokovic was called for a time violation and he angrily took his performance to a new level.
When Murray's backhand broke down again, Djokovic leapt with joy and it seemed he could become the first man since Pancho Gonzales in 1949 to rally from two sets down to win the US Open.
But Murray had other ideas and made a devastating start to the decider, breaking in game one and consolidating it with some defensive play of the very highest order.
The third seed was in dreamland when Djokovic netted a forehand to hand over the double-break, only for a nervous Murray to immediately surrender one of his strikes with a timid backhand.
A love service hold put Murray back on track and he advanced to within one game of victory when Djokovic netted a forehand.
Murray served out the championship 79 years to the day - on the same court - that Perry won the first of eight major singles crowns. (BBC Sport)

Gibson confident in Windies T20 chances

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:02:29 +0000

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - West Indies coach Ottis Gibson has expressed confidence in his side’s chances in the World Twenty20 Tournament taking place in Sri Lanka this month.

Gibson said the composition of the team struck the right balance between experience and talent, and he expected West Indies to live up to his belief that they can win the title.
The 15-man squad flew out of the Caribbean Sunday en route to Sri Lanka for the 12-team tournament from September 18 to October 7.
“The players have done very well at the camp and looking at the composition of the team, we have a good combination, a good mix of experience and young players,” said Gibson following a nine-day training camp in Barbados.
“We feel we have a real good chance of doing very well in this tournament.”
Darren Sammy’s side are ranked as favourites by several of the world’s current and former cricketers.
The squad includes some of the world’s leading Twenty/20 players such as Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Sunil Narine.
“They have been stars of the Indian Premier League, and have in-depth knowledge of this format,” he said.
“The captain, Darren Sammy, is in great form, so too Andre Russell and Fidel Edwards, and there are others that can step up.”
West Indies have been drawn in Group B along with Australia and Ireland and both first round matches will be played at the Premadasa Stadium in the Sri Lanka capital of Colombo.
Gibson said it was hard to predict which sides were the biggest threat in the competition and it was important that West Indies focus on the things within their control.
“On the day, if everybody executes well, anybody can win a match. We have seen it before. In this format, anything is possible.” “It is important that you are on top of your game on the day, on top of your plans, and people stick to their skills, and always do the basics. This game still revolves around string basics.”
West Indies open the tournament against the Aussies on Saturday, September 22 followed by a clash with the Irish on Monday, September 24.

Harper and Mentore shower praise on Nedd

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:02:52 +0000

FOLLOWING Demerara Cricket Club’s (DCC) Under-19 ‘B’ team’s five-wicket victory over their ‘A’ team counterparts which handed them the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/David Persaud Investments Limited championship trophy, both presidents of the GCA and DCC respectively, Roger Harper and Alfred Mentore, showered praise on the club’s coach Gavin Nedd.

At the time of his comments, Harper who in his own rights is a former DCC, Guyana and West Indies all-rounder, was addressing his audience at the presentation ceremony, following an exciting final at the Everest Cricket Club ground on Sunday.
“The fact that DCC had two teams contesting the final here today is a strong testimony to the work being put in by their coach Gavin Nedd, who one week ago, coached their Under-15 team to a successful defence of their title.”
Harper also expressed his gratitude to the sponsors for partnering with the GCA, adding that he was looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship. He also thanked the management of Everest Cricket Club for providing a wonderful venue which had a lightning fast outfield.
While Harper was brief in expressing his gratitude to Nedd, the softspoken Mentore who has been at the helm of the Queenstown-based DCC for the past four years, said the results his club is presently enjoying are not an overnight thing.
“The results persons are reading about when it relates to the DCC youth teams, are not an overnight thing. We have invested in our youths from the Under-13 and Under-15 level, where most of these guys would have been playing together over the past few years and we are just reaping the rewards of that investment,” stated Mentore.
He added, “I am pleased with the works, efforts and commitment shown to these guys by Nedd. He was away with the Guyana Under-15 and U-17 teams, which prevented us from hosting our annual two-month summer camp.
“At the same time, he was not around during the early stages of this competition, but the guys stood together and made it to the semifinals, at which time he was back and in control of things, while the kind of effort he has been putting in, is being shown in the results we are experiencing at the moment.”
Like many other cricket enthusiasts who witnessed last Sunday’s action, Mentore posited the bright future his club has at the youth level, especially with the soon-to-be-done regularisation of cricket in the Land of Many Waters.
“With the regularisation of cricket in Demerara and Guyana, it’s a hope that DCC cricketers will be able to play against bigger teams. On a wider scope, playing against other teams across the length and breadth of Guyana will give us a chance to test our ability to prove whether or not we are truly national champions at this level.
“We have always been doing developmental stuff. This year, we were unable to host our annual summer camp, as we were hosting the Atlantis Cricket Club from the United States of America and another overseas team, to herald in our Centenary Anniversary, along with other activities.
“However, we will be doing so next year as that in itself enabled us to identify specific talent for the club and at the same time enable us to motivate our players; and having said that, I wish to say once again, thanks from the depths of my heart to Nedd,” stated Mentore.
The results from Sunday’s match showed DCC ‘A’ who won the toss and opted to bat first in sweltering heat on a straw coloured Camp Road track, recovering from 23 for 4 in the 11th over to reach 223 for 9 at the end of their 50 overs, thanks to Andrew Gibson’s unbeaten 112.
However, skipper Kemal Savory and his opening partner Renaldo Renee added 107 for the first wicket, with Savory top-scoring with 69 and Renee contributing 37, while Kemo Paul, who was later named man-of-the-match, chipped in with a robust unbeaten 45 that piloted DCC ‘B’ to 225 for 5 from 44.2 overs.

Windies women lose second T20 match to England

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:04:16 +0000

OLD TRAFFORD, England (CMC)-West Indies women lost to England by 28 runs in their second of a five-match series as part of their preparations for the world Twenty20 in Sri Lanka later this month.

Chasing 151 for victory at Old Trafford, the Caribbean side never mounted a serious threat and were restricted to 122 for six off their allotted overs.
They lost their opening game on Saturday at Chester-le-Street by eight wickets.
Captain Merissa Aguilleira again top-scored with 37 while Tremayne Smartt got 25 and Britney Cooper, 20.
Seamer Arran Brindle (2-12) and off-spinners Laura Marsh (2-17) and Danielle Wyatt (2-25), all picked up two wickets apiece.
Earlier, Sarah Taylor top-scored with a breezy 37-ball 53 while Brindle stroked a near run-a-ball 42 to help the hosts up to 150 for three off their 20 overs.
Left-arm seamer Shanel Daley finished with two for 27.
Although Daley did well to remove England's openers, a third-wicket stand between Taylor and Brindle put England back in control of the game at Old Trafford.
Taylor and Brindle added 78 in 10 overs for the third wicket and laid the foundation for an unreachable target.
Taylor, who worked the ball around superbly, scored 53 with seven boundaries while Brindle hit one four but needed just 41 balls for her knock.
After Taylor's departure, West Indies did well to deny England any boundaries in the final four overs of the innings.
However, a total of 150 was always going to be a tough task for a side held to 71 for 8 in the previous match.
Windies opener Tremayne Smartt, who did not wear a helmet, withstood some bouncers from Katherine Brunt and Anya Shrubsole.
However, as in the England innings, spin brought the breakthrough as Juliana Nero was stumped by Taylor aiming a slog-sweep at Danielle Wyatt.
A diving catch by Holly Colvin and an even better one-handed effort by Shrubsole at mid-off removed the dangerous Daley and Deandra Dottin respectively as England took a firm grip on the game
Aguilleira and Cooper briefly threatened but West Indies were always behind the run rate as England took a 2-0 series lead.
Their three-pronged spin attack kept the squeeze on West Indies and, although Aguilleira and Cooper enjoyed an entertaining fifth-wicket stand of 40, they left it too late to threaten the result.
Cooper was well caught by Susie Rowe - running back from mid-wicket and nearly colliding with Brunt, running in from the boundary - the tourists needed 55 from the last 13 balls.
Taylor, named player-of-the-match, then stumped captain Aguilleira in the penultimate over to complete a comfortable England win.
The third game of the five-match series is in Northampton on Thursday.

Golden Jaguars and El Salvador in return clash at Providence Stadium - ‘If we win we get a life’ tonight -says coach Shabbazz

Admin2 — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:04:47 +0000

TONIGHT the Golden Jaguars approach one of their more-than-often ‘must win’ situations in the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers when they play El Salvador in the return match at the Guyana National Stadium from 20:00 hrs.

If the Jaguars wish to survive in this football jungle they need to go for the kill against this team, which can keep their hopes alive. However, Jaguars must also hope that Group B leader Mexico beat Costa Rica who is second so that they would remain on four points.
El Salvador is third with two points while Guyana has one point at the bottom. Guyana and El Salvador battled to an intense 2 – 2 draw last Friday night in El Salvador which gave Guyana that one point.
Yesterday in a press briefing with the representatives of the teams in the Conference Room of the Princess Hotel, they did not have a slug fest with words but rather disclosed what must be done on their behalf to reign supreme tonight.
Head coach of the Guyanese team Jamaal Shabbaz is confident that Guyana can win come game time because the squad has been working auspiciously and now have a lot to play for. Shabbaz noted that the Caribbean Representatives are few so it is not only Guyana who is behind them but the entire Caribbean people.
He said that playing El Salvador they learnt a lot, but sometimes, the teacher can learn from the student. The coach expects fierce rivalry tonight when the two teams collide; he also gave them props for their hospitality and fair play but noted that Jaguars is a very ambitious team and it is important to destroy the opposition.
Meanwhile, the El Salvador side was represented by their Head coach Juan de Dios Castillo who stated that the side plans to do their best against Guyana, in the hope of keeping their chances of progression alive.
Castillo disclosed to the press that talks were done with the team, in which they asked the players to be more responsible on the pit. The squad is focused to play a better match than their last to achieve the desired results.

Both teams are unchanged for this showdown.

Guyana squad: Richard Reynolds, Colin Edwards (Goal-Keepers), Charles Pollard, Walter Moore, Colin Nelson, John Paul "JP" Rodrigues, Jamaal Smith (Defenders), Chris Nurse (captain), Kayode McKinnon, Konata Mannings, Nick Millington, Dwight Peters, Dwain Jacobs, Kester Jacobs, Ricky Shakes, Trayon Bobb (Mid-Fielders), Carl Cort, Gregory Richardson, Vurlon Mills, Anthony Abrams, Shawn Beveney (Strikers). Coach: Jamaal Shabazz,

El Salvador Squad: Dagoberto Portillo, Benji Villalobos, Carlos Romeo Moneagudo, Dennis Alas, Isidro Gutierrez, Osael Romero, Elder Figueroa, Alexander Larin, Ramon Alfredo Sanchez, Eliseo Quintanilla, Nelson Bonilla, Christian Castillo, Alfredo Pacheco, Darwin Cerén, Steven Francis Purdy, Victor Turcios, Herbert Sosa, Mark Lester Blanco, Jaime Alas, Rafael Burgos, Milton Molina, Ricardo Ulloa, Xabier Garcia, Jonathan Aguila Joya, Derby Carillo, Cuellar Yimi, Irving Valdez, Julio Martinez, Omar Mejia. Coach: Juan Castillo

The ultimate act of self-destruction

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:36:43 +0000

Morbidity associated with depression is difficult to quantify; but the lethality

of depression takes the measurable form of completed suicide, a primary cause of death in many developing countries.
Depression is a potentially life-threatening mood disorder that affects most people at one time or the other. Depressed patients are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that, not counting the effect of secondary disease , over the next 20 years, unipolar depression is projected to be the second leading cause of disability worldwide, and the leading cause of disability in high-income nations, including the United States.
The current economic cost of depressive illness is costing nations hugely, both economically and financially. In addition to considerable pain and suffering that interfere with individual functioning, depression affects those who care about the ill person, sometimes destroying family relationships or work dynamics between the patient and others. Therefore, the human cost in suffering cannot be overestimated.
In Guyana, depression is not generally viewed nor treated as a disease, and people with depression do not realise that they have a treatable illness and do not seek treatment; so only a few of those individuals receive treatment consistent with current international practice guidelines, and certainly most of these people are those with resources, not to mention caring and supportive persons in their lives.
The reality is that, of patients who had suicidal tendencies, and of those who have actually made attempts at suicide, few are recognised to be ill. What is worse, those persons who attempt suicide in Guyana are treated as criminals instead of as people who are really ill and in need of help, because the powers that be do not provide the requisite care, or even perceive the need for such care.
Persistent ignorance about depression and misperceptions of it by the public, and even some health providers, as a personal weakness or failing that can be willed or wished away lead to painful stigmatisation of and avoidance of the diagnosis by many persons who are affected by the disease.
The cause of depression is multiple, and family histories of depression are common among persons with the disorder.
In addition to depression, other etiologies such as alcohol/substance abuse (especially of opiates and cocaine), impulsiveness, and certain familial factors are highly associated with risk for suicide.
These factors include a history of mental problems or substance abuse, suicide in the immediate family, family violence of any type, separation or divorce, and other depressive emotional issues.
Prolonged, regressive and terminal illnesses are also factors that aggravate depression.
Other risk factors include prior suicide attempt(s), presence of a firearm in the home, incarceration, and exposure to the suicidal behaviour of family members, peers, celebrities, or even highly publicised fictional characters, along with peer pressure, bullyism in and out of schools or other institutions and sibling rivalry, among many other factors. It is also established that the initiation of treatment for depression with psychotherapeutic agents can temporarily increase the incidence of suicidal ideation and therefore the likelihood of suicide attempts. The incidence of depression in health-care workers is comparable to that in the general population, though the rate of completion of suicide is higher.
In a society where societal, community and even family structures have broken down, leaving someone feeling alone, lonely and abandoned, with no one to turn to for help, guidance, or even companionship, such as old and helpless parents neglected or abandoned by their children, or little children whose perception is that their parents do not care about them – whether real or imagined- there is every likelihood of an increase in depression leading to a suicidal state, and even to committal of the ultimate act of self–destruction – suicide.

Guyana’s airport ‘discrimination’ row with Trinidad and Tobago….

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:38:30 +0000

THE GOVERNMENT of Trinidad and Tobago may need to take some quick action to resolve a recurring human problem that, unless appropriately handled, could well sour the normally good relations that exist between this country and Guyana.

It involves what the Guyana Government, and more specifically its Foreign Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has identified as “recurring, hurtful discriminatory treatment” against Guyanese visitors at Piarco International Airport, including among them intransit airline passengers.
Guyana and Jamaica are perhaps the two Caribbean Community partner states--much more than others of the 15-member regional economic grouping—that often find themselves having to probe and make representations of discrimination and even hostilities against their nationals at official ports of entry within CARICOM.
It so happens, that while the allegations vary from individuals and countries, the more frequent referenced complaints by Jamaicans and Guyanese have been levelled against immigration authorities in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and, to a lesser extent, The Bahamas.
On Monday, the long-serving Guyanese Foreign Minister chose to go public with her “grief” during a television interview on state-owned NCN when dealing with a range of nationals issues on the programme “The Factor”.
Commenting on “negative” experiences and perceptions faced by Guyanese travellers within CARICOM, the Foreign Minister singled out T&T as perhaps “the current worse case scenario” of harassment and discrimination against her fellow citizens and stressed that it was high time for this long standing problem to be resolved.
For the Guyanese Foreign Minister, “this problem has been officially ignored for far too long, despite our (Guyana) repeated efforts at the highest and other levels to stop this practice….”
Speaking candidly, she stressed: “I cannot sit as Foreign Minister and not only just receive reports, but actually witness with my own eyes the embarrassment, the inconvenience and ugly treatment meted out to Guyanese nationals as they are herded, separately, at the Piarco Airport for no known reason, while other CARICOM nationals and other travellers are allowed to continue with their flight arrangements, bound for home or other destinations….”
Rodrigues-Birkett said she was “at a loss” to understand why some specific actions to curb and eliminate the discriminatory treatment have not been undertaken by the government in Port-of-Spain in cooperation with the relevant airline authorities operating out of Piarco, including Caribbean Airline (CAL).
The evidently angry Foreign Minister noted that “CAL has its single biggest flying business among CARICOM countries with Guyana and, therefore, it and the Ministry of Civil Aviation in T&T have a moral obligation to help bring an end to “this ugly and disgusting situation affecting Guyanese travellers at Piarco airport…”
In contrast, she was “pleased to note” in response to other questions, “how much improvement there has been and continues to be with Barbados, where we (Guyana Government) once had some very serious problems with immigration authorities there….”
Later, speaking to Foreign Minister Winston Dookeran about the lack of concrete action by T&T to deal with the problems facing Guyanese travellers, he responded with characteristic calmness, “I am very concerned to learn about what the Guyana Foreign Minister has said and I intend to make an early assessment of the relevant problems to which she has alluded….”
Dookeran said that the T&T government was “naturally interested in fostering good relations” with Guyana and, therefore, would seek to resolve whatever “the nature of the problem, or problems…”
Good, mature diplomatic talk. Now for the dialogue initiatives by Port-of-Spain and Georgetown to end the complaints of “discrimination” and “unnecessary inconveniences” against Guyanese travellers at Piarco International Airport.

President to open Courts’ new store at Great Diamond, EBD

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:41:20 +0000

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar is expected to declare open the newest branch of Courts Guyana Inc. at 589-599 Great Diamond, East Bank Demerara on Friday.

Courts Guyana Inc. is celebrating 19 years in Guyana this month, and a series of activities has been planned, including the opening of its newest branch store, located on the East Bank Demerara corridor.
Formerly the Courts Grove Store, the operations have been relocated to a larger, more comfortable and more ambient location in the business hub of the newly created Diamond community.
Courts, recognising the business and family environment that has been created in the Diamond community over the past few years, has accordingly seen the need for the presence there of a store that would serve the furniture, appliances and other needs of the community.
At Friday’s opening ceremony, a cultural presentation will precede the cutting of the ribbon to signal the opening of the spanking new store.
Several government and business officials are expected to attend Friday’s activities at Courts’ new store.

Dismissed cop awarded $250,000 compensation with $25,000 costs

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:42:46 +0000

FOLLOWING a trial in which dismissed Police Constable Ryle Williams was asking for damages in excess of $100,000 for alleged unlawful dismissal, the plaintiff was denied all the reliefs sought, but was awarded the sum of $250,000 as compensation.

This compensation was granted under Article 153 of the Constitution of Guyana, and it was for violation of his right to personal liberty, guaranteed under Article 139 thereof.
He has also been awarded interest on the compensation granted at the rate of 6% per annum from the time of the filing of the action – December 15th, 2010 -- to the date of the judgement; and thereafter at the rate of 4% per annum until fully paid.
Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang, S.C., C.C.H., who granted the compensation, added, “There will be costs to the plaintiff in the sum of $25,000.” It appears that some costs were thrown away by both parties in the course of these proceedings.
In delivering the judgement, the CJ said the charge against the plaintiff was not that he had issued threatening words to the Commissioner of Police, but rather that he had spoken certain words the nature of which amounted to “Conduct to the prejudice of good order or discipline”. It is therefore not fatal that the Commissioner of Police, who was the complainant, did not testify as the hearing.
“This court finds no basis on which it can interfere with the hearing into the disciplinary charge, which culminated in the dismissal of the plaintiff.
“Since the plaintiff was dismissed, rather than discharged by the Commissioner of Police, no issue of the plaintiff’s right to superannuation benefits has arisen.
“This court, however, has difficulty in finding a basis on which the plaintiff could have been arrested at all for a disciplinary offence which did not constitute a criminal offence.
“As such, this court must find that the plaintiff was unlawfuly arrested and incarcerated, albeit he was released on station bail in the sum of $20,000 before the expiry of 72 hours.”

Juror’s illness causes abortion of Odinga Green murder trial -new jury expected to be selected tomorrow

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:46:59 +0000

JUSTICE Franklyn Holder, one of two judges presiding at the current criminal sessions in Demerara, aborted the murder trial of Odinga Green, called ‘Dingo”, after one of the jurors in the selected panel of 12 became seriously ill over the weekend.

Because of the extent of that juror’s illness, the judge had no alternative but to abort the trial.
All the remaining jurors are expected to attend court this Thursday (tomorrow), when a new panel is expected to be struck.
Odinga Green, called ‘Dingo’, is indicted for the murder of Nazaleene Mohamed, committed between February 2nd and 12th, 2007.
At the recent hearing, when the panel was struck, the accused, represented by Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes, pleaded not guilty to the offence.
Mrs. Judith Mursalin, in association with Miss Diana Kaulesar, is prosecuting in this trial.

National Literacy Unit holds literacy showcase to observe Education Month

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:47:59 +0000

THE Ministry of Education’s National Literacy Unit (NLU) yesterday held its annual Literacy Showcase in observance of Education Month 2012 at its Sports Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

Giving the feature address, Chief Education Officer Olato Sam said that literacy is the key to academic success in its entirety. He opined that if a person was not literate, that person could not master the other dimensions of the educational process.
Sam said that literacy has a key role in shaping and defining the quality of life for everyone. “The nation we aspire to have will depend greatly on the extent to which our citizens have mastered these basic competency skills”, he said.
He also said that literacy leads to higher levels of tolerance, and acceptance of different cultures and ways of life.
According to him, literacy goes well beyond the classroom, and speaks to our national state of affairs.
He related that all Guyana needs to embrace the role each has to play in improving the quality of our literary output.
Sam noted that the evidence emerging from the education system is highly encouraging, as the national literacy assessment at the grade four level has produced the highest level of literacy seen thus far.
He applauded the teachers, parents and students for their hard work in improving the education system.
According to Sam, the Ministry of Education is ready and willing to support any entity that comes forward with an appeal for support in moving its workers, community members and citizens forward in the area of literacy.
“You step forward and we will find the resources to help you. No matter where, no matter how, we will make it happen,” he said.
Head of the NLU, Samantha Williams, said the state of illiteracy among citizens of the world is growing phenomenally. She said that, like many other countries, Guyana faces the problem of illiteracy.
Williams noted that it is not enough to acknowledge that illiteracy exists, but everyone has a role to play in ensuring that illiteracy is eliminated.
According to her, one of the major effects of illiteracy is that it inhibits the development of any nation. “The National Literacy Unit believes that a literate citizenry is able to make wise decisions, live in mutual respect, exercise tolerance, and develop and modernise a nation”, she said.
According to her, the showcase served to sensitise the public of the programmes and services that are available to help any child or adult develop literacy skills.
Various entities, such as Guyoil, Sterling Products Limited, and the National Library, had a wealth of information on display, including how to improve literacy levels; converting games children love into literacy activities; fostering a love for reading through storytelling; and using pictures to develop writing skills.

After changing plea again… One defendant in Panday robbery jailed

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:50:31 +0000

RABINDRA Seemangal, one of the six people charged following the daring robbery at businessman Malcolm Panday’s Bel Air residence last year, pleaded guilty to all the charges against him yesterday and was sentenced to eight years imprisonment.

The 20-year-old prisoner, of Lot 100 Sheriff Street, also in Georgetown, changed his plea to guilty on more than one occasion when the trial was in progress but had reverted to not guilty.
However, yesterday, when the case was called, again, before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Seemangal, who had been in prison because he could not post $600,000 bail, stood up in the dock and made a final change.
One robbery under arms offence said the convict, on July 12, 2011, being armed with a gun, robbed Anne Ramsood of $7.4M property of Malcolm Panday. Another said, the same day, he robbed Ramsood of a BlackBerry curve cell phone valued $47,000 and $380,000.
A third charge said he had possession of eight rounds of 9 mm ammunition and an unlicensed 9mm pistol.
Seemangal told the court he does not intend to waste time anymore because his wife and children are suffering. He said he is guilty and is prepared to face the consequences of his actions.
Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos, prosecuting for the State, advised the court not to accept the man’s guilty plea if he does not fully confess to the crimes.

Young babies
Seemangal said he is guilty of whatever he is facing; adding that he has two young babies to look after and has no job. He added that he was with the wrong friends at the wrong time and that he is very sorry for what he did but was being influenced by friends.
He further asked that the court be reasonable when sentencing.
Before penalty was pronounced, De Santos reminded the magistrate that the prisoner had informed that he will be testifying on behalf of the prosecution.
However, Seemangal said he would no longer be a prosecution witness.
The magistrate took into consideration that the defendant did not have any previous convictions, had already been in jail for 14 months and the guilty plea saved the court’s time.
The aggravating factors were the prevalence and seriousness of the matter, the defendant having invaded the virtual complainant’s home with a loaded firearm and threatened the family, including the lives of young children, the amount of money that was stolen and given Seemangal’s age, he should have known the consequence of his actions.
The magistrate also considered that Seemangal recanted on testifying for the prosecution, that he seems not to be remorseful and that he had scotch-taped the family, who included two young children, aged three and five years.
When the magistrate asked Seemangal if he had given orders to shoot the children if they made any noise at the time of the robbery, he responded in the affirmative.
He was sentenced to four years imprisonment on the robbery under arms conviction and on the charge for the firearm, he was fined $100,000 together with four years imprisonment. The magistrate said, given the circumstances of this particular case, the sentences will run consecutively.

Will continue
The trial for the other defendants will continue today, involving Panday’s mother-in-law, Chandrada Rampersaud and Hardat Kumar, 23 (no addresses given); Jermaine Mitchell, 20, of Lot ‘YY’ 15 North East La Penitence; Aubrey Simon, 21, of Lot 1414 Princes Street and Rayon Jones, of Lot 2 Hardina Street, Wortmanville, also in Georgetown, all of whom are on $1M bail.
They, too, are charged with the July 12, 2011 armed robbery of $7.4 M committed on Ramsood.
Another charge said Mitchell, Simon and Jones robbed Ramsood of one Blackberry curve cell phone valued at $47,000 and $380,000.
Three more separate charges against Simon said, that July 12, he had in his possession eight rounds of 9mm ammunition and an unlicensed 9mm pistol and fraudulently used identification mark, PKK 3700, on a motorcar.

Conspiracy, false passport charges defendant on $150,000 bail

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:52:07 +0000

BRENTNOL Brian, 33, of Linden Squatting Area, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday, charged with conspiracy and uttering a forged document.

One charge alleged that, between August 27 and September 9, he conspired with persons unknown to forge an Inter-Caribbean travel document in favour of Travis Simeon, purporting to show that it was issued by the Central Immigration and Passport Office, knowing it to be false.
Another charge said, on September 9, at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), he uttered, to an immigration officer, the forged Inter-Caribbean travel document, purporting to show that he was Travis Simeon, knowing that to be false.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Police Sergeant Gordon Mansfield, prosecuting, said the defendant was an outgoing passenger to Trinidad when he tendered the travel document to an immigration officer who observed that it was not genuine.
Brian was put on $150,000 bail and the cases were transferred to Providence Court, also on East Bank Demerara, for October 8.

Former driver charged with company burglary

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:52:42 +0000

KISHAN Persaud, 20, of Lot 132 Eccles Old Road, East Bank Demerara, has been charged with break and enter and larceny.

Before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday, it was alleged that, between August 23 and September 8, he broke and entered the bond of Guyana Trading Company and stole a quantity of energy drinks, soaps, corn, peanut butter and Milo, all to a total value of $751,520.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge and, on an application by attorney-at-law Mr. Patrice Henry, Persaud was granted $100,000 bail until September 17.
The lawyer said the defendant was previously employed with the company as a driver.

Police report… Armed robberies with guns increased up to August

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:54:58 +0000

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reported that the incidents of robbery under arms have increased by 23 percent.

The report said, up to August 2012, there were 670 such, as compared to 544 for the same period in 2011.
The statistics indicate an increase of 17 percent in the armed robberies involving the use of firearms and 35 percent where weapons other than guns were used by the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, a total of 92 murders were recorded at the end of August 2011, in comparison to 81 for the same time this year, representing a 12 percent decrease.
The documentation said, of the 81 murders, 38 were of the disorderly type, five committed during armed robberies, 16 domestic related and five execution style, with another 17, so far, not categorised.
The police said an overall decline in serious crimes, of two percent, was on record at the end of August this year, in comparison to last year. The total number by August 31 this year was 2,498, as compared to 2,542 for August month end last year.
Some of the criminal offences monitored are murder, robbery under arms and with violence, larceny from the person, break and enter and larceny, burglary, rape and kidnapping.
However, in relation to traffic, there has been 18 percent less road fatalities up to the end of August this year, as compared to the same period last year, with 65 in 2012 and 79 in 2011. This year also continues to see reductions in relation to the other categories of traffic accidents which resulted in serious and minor damages.
Pedestrians are the main road users affected, with 20 such having lost their lives by the end of August 2012. Fifteen pedal cyclists and 14 drivers of motor vehicles have also been killed in that time.
Speeding continues to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents, causing 44 of the 61 occasioned, by August month-end, too.
Traffic enforcement by the police has resulted in a total of 44,712 cases being made against errant motorists during that time, 10,189 of them for speeding.
Up to Sunday, September 9 last, there were four fatal accidents resulting in five deaths for the month.

Home Affairs Ministry credits Greene with GPF transformation

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:55:24 +0000

THE Ministry of Home Affairs has said it is shocked and saddened at the tragic passing of former Commissioner of Police, Mr. Henry Greene, D.S.S, D.S,M, last Friday, September 7.

In a press release, the ministry noted that Greene was quite an amiable person who displayed a high level of cordiality whenever he interacted with its administration and staff.
The release said, as Commissioner of Police, Greene’s overall positive impact on the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will always be remembered.
“He placed heavy emphasis on outreach programmes, such as the Scouts Groups and Youth Clubs, since he saw these programmes as providing beneficial alternatives, for youths, to a life of crime. He was very supportive of the Communnity Policing Programmes, which created a partnership between the police and citizens, further developing public trust and confidence in the Force,” the ministry said.
It stated that, during his tenure as commissioner, there was a significant expansion of the Neighbourhood Policing Programme.
According to the ministry, Greene presided over the transformation of the GPF under the Citizen Security Programme (CSP) and, because he had a clear, conceptual and practical understanding of the fundamental tenets of modern policing, he was able to offer valuable inputs, thus accelerating the forward thrust of the reform.
The statement also said it is important to single out his involvement in the development of the Integrated Crime Information System, where his adaptness of policing procedures was instrumental in guiding its developers in their work.
The ministry said Greene was a member of the High Level Policy Committee of the Crime and Social Observatory and, during its meetings, he brought his intellect to bear on a wide range of policy related issues, offering timely comments.
“Greene’s love for and commitment to the Force was evident in the way he defended and fought for the necessary resources to enhance its work,” the release said, as it hailed his contribution to the GPF, public security and safety in Guyana.
It ended: “We extend our condolences to the bereaved relatives and friends.”

High demand for prepaid meters - Dindyal -another 12,000 to be made available soon

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:56:43 +0000

THE prepaid meters have become the metering system of choice for more Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc. consumers, an initiative that is practically selling itself, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Bharrat Dindyal said Monday.

He explained that this demand is currently placing a significant financial burden on the utility company as GPL has just placed an order for about 12,000 meters at the cost of about US$1.2M.
“I think we no longer need to sell prepaid meters, almost all the consumers who are using these meters have good things to say to the extent that people are coming in large numbers asking to be converted from post-paid to prepaid; but the problem for us is keeping up with that demand,” the CEO said.
Prepaid meters are supplied free of cost; however, one prepaid meter costs the power company about US$130 (both cost of meter and installation).
The prepaid metering system is a new technology that allows customers to carefully manage their electricity. It consists of a display unit that is setup in the house and is interconnected to a central meter established on an electric pole.
The consumer wishing to purchase power approaches the vendor/seller and discloses a number that is assigned to the consumer’s house meter. The consumer is then given a code that is linked to the meter number.
The technology also has a wide range of features, such as a built in alarm mechanism, an electricity duration indicator and other services that would update the customer on a timely basis.

Guyanese pharmacists elected to, retain CAP posts

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:57:24 +0000

TWELVE members of the Guyana Pharmacists Association (GPA) attended the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists’ (CAP) Conference, in Barbados last month.

On their recent return, they reported that the Guyanese delegation continued to excel in all areas as they obtained awards and recognition, again, this year.
Ms. Karishma Jeeboo received the Pharmacy Practice Pioneer Award 2012 while Mrs. Fabiola Robertson was elected Third Vice- President. Mrs. Kalawattie Datt-Singh and Ms. Lonette Samuels retained their positions as CAP National Liaison Officers in Guyana.
The conference is held annually in a different country and attracts attendance from across the Caribbean, Canada, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (U.S.).
Pharmaceutical companies from around the world set up booths at the venue, displaying their range of products while delegates were exposed to continuing education sessions, at which they were encouraged to keep abreast with current developments in pharmacy and the delivery of health care services.
They were also challenged to serve and mobilise individual country associations towards a more vibrant collective pharmacy workforce.
In 2013, the conference will be held at the unique ocean-themed Atlantis resort in The Bahamas and would be a joint meeting between CAP and Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) delegates. Guyana has been identified to host the gathering in 2015.
The GPA is urging all local pharmacists to become actively involved in its monthly meetings and seek membership of the CAP, thereby increasing the numbers for the 2013 conference.

New Education pilot project to target Fourth Formers

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:07:53 +0000

MICRO-LEARNING, that takes the CXC syllabus and transfers it into small modules that can then be used on an Information Communication Technology (ICT) platform, will be introduced in the national school system.

The Roraima Learning Trust is set to launch the project, its Chief Executive Officer, Kojo Parris said during an interview on the National Communications Network Monday. Mr Parris is also Guyana’s Honorary Consul to South Africa and a Visiting Fellow at the University of Leeds.
The pilot project is expected to be launched this week and will run until next June. Seven secondary schools will participate, with a total of 150 fourth formers. The initial subject areas are Mathematics and Chemistry.
Chief Education Officer, Olato Sam welcomed the project and expressed the hope that it would indeed help to push the standard of education in Guyana even higher. He stated that with the advance of ICT, it is only fitting that the learning process be continued in that format.
He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to aid in the development and advancement of the school system and its focus on ensuring that students excel in their academics.
Parris explained that the focus would be to have learners access the programme on their cell phones, smart phones or their laptops, in order to increase the rate at which they are taught in school.
He gave the assurance that the system is meant to run parallel to the existing system and will not replace what is done in the classroom; but at the same time, it frees up teacher time.
“Teachers won’t have to spend so much time now on their questions and the invigilation process, but can use that time to help children in other areas,” he said.
Parris is hopeful that the micro-learning system can help reduce the cost of education and more importantly, help teachers to have a deep and very rich data base on information on the performance of students.
The Education Ministry has implemented over time several methods aimed at improving student performance in Mathematics and English, including a five-month pilot project launched last December.
The project which targeted Fifth Form students from secondary schools in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 and 10, provides students and teachers with teaching and learning resources, inclusive of calculators, text books, solutions for Mathematics and English, learning DVDs and teaching guides.

Students complete archaeology course at Walter Roth Museum

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:11:15 +0000

TWENTY-FIVE persons are now certified archaeologists after successfully completing a course by the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, which included field research in various hinterland areas.

The students recently received their certificates from the Director of Culture Dr James Rose, who said he was very proud of their work.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Alfred King, lauded the students, stating that this is the period (Amerindian Heritage Month) that “we are reminded of the rich culture and heritage of the Amerindians, some of those who have helped to preserve our rich diversity in the indigenous culture”.
King said that their actions will help to promote the awareness of archaeology locally and aid development of indigenous heritage.
Mention was made of two outstanding performers, Louisa Daggers and Soyini McPherson. Mc Pherson is also a University of Guyana Environmental Science student. The two are among a group which discovered bone fragments indentified as that of a Siriki man, from 4,000years ago. Louisa Daggers is now the holder of a Master’s Degree in anthropology, after attending Boise State University in the United States via a scholarship.
The Walter Roth Museum was founded in 1974 from the collection of late Guyanese archaeologist, Dr. Denis Williams. The museum of Anthropology and Art History (as it was originally called) was the first museum of anthropology in the English speaking Caribbean. The museum’s collection includes excavated artifacts from the ten administrative regions of Guyana, as well as several other small ethnographic and archaeological collections.

Why not let banks collect fines for traffic tickets

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:16:02 +0000

MAGISTRATE issues arrest warrants for 350 traffic defaulters -to recover over $2M in fines.

But defaulters, in excess of 350 drivers, have failed to honour their debts, forcing the court to have arrest warrants issued for them in order to recover in excess of $2M.
The ticketed charges range from obstruction to speeding and overload.

Most traffic violators will pay their fines if government could make it possible to easily pay those fines.
I was told it's like an all day hassle when one goes to pay fines at the court, they are told to run here there and everywhere.
The government could easily make a deal with bank branches all over Guyana for fines to be paid at the banks.
In that way, traffic violators will not be able to complain of hassles when they go to pay their fines.
If traffic violators failed to pay their fines through this convenient way, then it means that they do not intend to pay fines and must be banned from driving until outstanding fines are paid.
Once again I am pleading with authorities to place fresh paint markings on all roads and speed humps and I am pleading with authorities to placing stop signs on poles at all intersections.
It would be easy to make all intersections without traffic lights a four way stop, especially in the Georgetown area.
These would save lives and reduce costs and damage to personal property.
Drivers would always be aware of these stop signs at almost every intersection.

The opposition continues spouting lies bout former President Jagdeo

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:16:41 +0000

I write in response to a series of inaccurate facts in the media by elements of the opposition in their rabid attack against the former president and his pension plan.
It is clear that they have an obsession,

but it becomes dangerous when, in their degenerative effort to paint a negative picture of the former president, they resort not only to innuendos, but also to spouting blatant misinformation and outright lies.
This slander campaign is exposed when, on the one hand, certain sections of the opposition, specifically elements of the AFC, are questioning where the former president got the money to build his post-retirement home, implying corruption, and on the other hand, they are doing some magician’s math with their assumption of what was Mr. Jagdeo’s presidential salary cumulatively during his tenure in office and then deeming the total figure ‘stupendous.’
Mr. Editor, here is yet another glaring example of the desperation and obsession with the former president and evidence as to the length they will go, even to the point of contradicting themselves.
Another plan by the opposition is to constantly compare what the former president is receiving to the lowest paid workers or pensioners in Guyana. These very same opposition elements had never wasted time in holding Mr. Jagdeo accountable for the office which he held, that being the highest in Guyana.
Yet, now it is convenient for them to turn him into a minimum wage worker or even less. The facts would also show that during his tenure at the helm of our nation, benefits to these categories improved significantly.
Even more interesting is that the opposition had since 1999 to raise these very issues they are raising now, regarding the salary of the former president; yet they chose to wait over a decade later as he was about to leave office and quite conveniently as elections were approaching. Added to that is the fact that they did not raise the issue when other former presidents were receiving the same benefits.
Their plan is exposed even further as not once have we heard these individuals call into question the salary, pension and other benefits of the Leader of the Opposition Mr. Robert Corbin, and now Mr. David Granger.
The degeneracy of their obsession is even more glaring as in the AFC and APNU constant ranting, they carefully avoid mentioning that the salaries of the Chancellor of the Judiciary and Attorney-General are the same as that of the President.
Such is their sinister agenda, that it is clear that they have no problem with the Head of the Judiciary or the Attorney-General who sits in the president’s cabinet receiving such a salary, but Mr. Jagdeo, as Head of State, according to them, is exhibiting ‘bullyism, insolence, intimidation and entitlement’ just because he receives not more, but the same salary as one of his ministers.
The nonsense articulated by some of the opposition letter writers clearly shows the contempt they have for the intelligence of Guyanese, as in a recent case by one M. Maxwell, where he is quick to pull out the 2011 GDP per capita figure of US$2869, but then boldly states as fact that former President Jagdeo destroyed this nation during his tenure in office.
Mr. Maxwell and his opposition colleagues would do well to state what the GDP per capita was when Mr. Jagdeo assumed the Office of President of Guyana, and compare it to what it was when he left, some 12 years later.
Just as a reminder, the GDP when the PPP/C came to office in 1992 was somewhere around US$300.
The greatest fraud by Maxwell and his opposition colleagues is not only reserved for the people of Guyana, but also Americans as the opposition in Guyana have apparently rewritten the Congressional report on what the former U.S. president’s benefits are.
Maxwell, just as the AFC and APNU have done in the past, is keen on comparing what he believes is the figure of the total package of President Jagdeo’s pension to that of what he believes will be Mr. Obama’s when he demits office, and appears to be an expert when he pronounces that the former Guyanese Head of State will receive more than his American counterpart, and his usual semantics follow.
According to him, President Jagdeo’s pension and other benefits will add up to approximately US$180,000 per year, while President Obama will receive US$127,129 per year.
His blatant lie is exposed in a 2008 report to the U.S. Congress on former Presidents’ Federal Pension and Retirement Benefits, where entitlements for former President Bill Clinton for that year amounted to US$1.162 million dollars. This does not include security and other costs and the figures were provided by the U.S. Office of Budget, General Services Administration. Again, I repeat that figure is since 2008.
But it does not end there, as it is clear that all the figures Mr. Maxwell bundles around regarding the former president’s salary and pension are merely ‘guesstimates’, as in reality, the pension would be around US $72,000 annually.
It was actually funny to observe no other than AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan on television recently attempting to justify his misinformation that the president’s pension was $3M per month, or as Maxwell parroted and came up with the grand sum of US$180,000 annually.
So in reality, the former Guyanese President pension is but a mere fraction of what former U.S. presidents receive, another lie by the opposition exposed.
Now we know what method was used by the AFC when it crafted its manifesto and publicly paraded financial plans to cure all the ailments of Guyana and then some, in the lead-up to the last elections.
What they are not telling the Guyanese people is that the same set of benefits for former President Jagdeo was also afforded to former Presidents Arthur Chung, Hoyte and Janet Jagan. Why are they so obsessed with only former President Jagdeo?
Is it because he presided over a period of modernisation and economic growth; became respected for his ideas and work in several areas, including conservation, by not only regional but global leaders; that he put Guyana on a path to sustained development with his initiatives; ensured Guyana became more attractive to foreign investments while overseeing a local boom in several sectors; implemented term limits for presidents and saw the country attain its highest recorded foreign reserves which makes it monumentally difficult for the opposition to convince the masses that they are worse off today; so they have resorted to accusations of corruption and discrimination?
I conclude by noting that it is even more evident now that the opposition is comforted in the belief that they can blatantly lie to the Guyanese people about the PPP/C Government and they will never be held accountable.

GDF Coast Guard captures pirates after fishermen robberies

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:39:39 +0000

QUICK action by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard, yesterday morning, resulted in the capture of three pirates off the Waini sea coast in North West District and the recovery of five outboard engines, fish, fish glue, a global

positioning system (GPS) and fishing equipment.
It is reported that five pirates had attacked six fishing boats off the Pomeroon River Mouth Saturday and took away outboard engines, fish and fishing equipment, before escaping. But they were captured by the Coast Guard ranks who braved the rough seas over the past two days.
The Coast Guard ranks, who captured three of the five men and got back five outboard engines, one 12-volt battery, guns, one GPS, six cell phones, a quantity of fish, fish glue and the boat that was used in the robberies, were praised by fishermen and a large crowd for their brave effort as they landed at the Charity Wharf, on Essequibo Coast, early Tuesday.
The three pirates, whose names were not disclosed to the public by the Coast Guard, were quickly handed over to the police and taken to Charity Station.
Reports said the pirates are expected to be charged and placed before the court at Charity on Thursday.
Other fishermen, who heard about the capture of the pirates, hurried to Charity and tried to get a glimpse of the prisoners as they were taken to the police station.
The Coast Guard, during their operations, conducted searches in the Barima River and Morawhanna areas of North West District but two of the suspects escaped and the hunt for them is continuing.
Fishermen have been attacked, robbed and terrorised by pirates many times but the government has put measures in place to stem the attacks and protect the victims, their boats, engines and livelihood.

IDB, CI-Guyana sign US$1.6M deal for LCDS implementation

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:40:51 +0000

THE Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Conservation International-Guyana (CI-Guyana) signed an agreement yesterday, to begin a project that will test models for implementation of this country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

The US$1.6M undertaking, called ‘Leveraging Natural Capital in Guyana’s Rupununi’ (Improving Livelihoods through Low Carbon Economic Development in the Rupununi), is the largest such, to date, financed by the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) of the IDB locally.
It will support the LCDS by contributing to the economic development of the Rupununi while preserving its ecosystems, by creating and strengthening environmentally and socially sustainable, local level, business-led initiatives in that region.
Signatories to the deal were IDB Country Representative Sophie Makonnen and Executive Director of CI-Guyana, David Singh.
Makonnen advised that the aim is to give low income populations the tools to boost their income, by giving them the necessary skills, access to markets, access to financing and basic services. It is intended that the lessons learnt will be documented and shared with national and international audiences through the IDB’s knowledge network.
Singh revealed that 70 percent of the programme will be financed by IDB and the remaining 30 percent through funds raised by CI.
Three platforms
He also noted that CI’s work is based on three platforms; science, working with partners and through field demonstration activities. This, he said, is very important since it starts with carrying out a number of assessments to understand how one can enable the community based enterprises within the context of LCDS and then working with these enterprises to develop their businesses and support them both technically and financially.
“Our intention in this particular project is really not only in regard to working and developing this initiative within the Rupununi, but to test and learn how one could actually embark on low carbon development at a local level, learn from those examples so that we can expand that across the country and across the world,” Singh said.
He also disclosed that the target for the three-year duration is 23 community based enterprises and (indirectly) approximately 7,500 indigenous people will benefit.
A joint press release, from the IDB and CI, said the scheme will be built on community based nature tourism and agriculture which the local and indigenous communities have identified as being central for sustainable development in Rupununi.
The release added that the project will build on and support current initiatives already being implemented by the communities, Government of Guyana and other development partners and will test the assumption that low carbon businesses can receive a premium for their products, through the benefits of operating within and maintaining an intact environment.
The formal launching in Lethem, Rupununi will take place on October 13.

Gang opens fire on police, teenager shot dead

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:42:36 +0000

POLICE reported that they had a confrontation, yesterday, with a group of men at Caesar Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, in which a party of policemen returned gunfire and shot and killed Shaquille Grant and shot and injured Romel Bovell, who is a patient under police guard at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Police said at about 12:10hrs yesterday, ranks on a mobile police patrol came under fire from a group of men at Caesar Street, Agricola.
The ranks returned fire, fatally wounding Shaquille Grant, 17, of 12 BB Eccles, East Bank Demerara, and wounded Romel Bovell, 20, of Brutus Street, Agricola, who was admitted to the GPH.
Police added that a .38 Smith and Wesson revolver was recovered by the police and three other men were arrested and are in police custody assisting with investigations.
Relatives of 17-year-old Grant said that he was not part of any gang and would have celebrated his 18th birthday today.

MV Kanawan makes first commercial trip

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:42:59 +0000

WATER transportation from Region 2 to 3 has been taken to another level as the new roll-on/roll-off ferry vessel ‘MV Kanawan’ Monday made its first commercial trip from Parika to Supenaam, with a total of 46 passengers, nine trucks, three canters and two cars on board.

The MV Kanawan and Sabanto were gifted to Guyana by the Chinese Government in December 2011, but their sailing was delayed in order to accommodate modifications to the stellings at Parika and Supenaam.
General Manager, Transport and Harbours Department of the Public Works Ministry, Marclene Merchant said that Monday’s voyage was long outstanding.
“A lot of commuters were awaiting the operation of the two new ferries…these boats will be making initially one trip each per day…this will significantly improve the traffic destined to and from Wakenaam, Supenaam and Parika,” Merchant said.
Whilst the maiden voyage did not see the boat utilising its full capacity, Merchant believes that by Wednesday this will be realised.
“Kanawan will provide a straight shuttle from Parika to Supenaam…MV Malali will be making one return trip from Parika-Wakenaam-Supenaam per day,” Merchant said.
Each vessel has a seating capacity of 800 and a decking capacity of 20 lorries or 44 cars, along with a modern VIP lounge.
Government invested $240.1M and $138M for the construction of docking facilities at Parika and Supenaam respectively, to accommodate the vessels.
The governments of Guyana and China entered into an agreement to provide Guyana with the two roll-on/roll-off ferries valued at US$14.4M.
Recently crew members embarked upon navigational training exercise to acquaint themselves with the ‘on and off’ loading of the new vessels.
On Saturday last, the crew made a test run with 52 passengers and a total of 24 vehicles, ranging from trucks to cars.
At the transferral of the vessels in January to the Public Works Ministry, Chinese Ambasador Yu Wenzhe had stated, “These two vessels, which will be used across the Essequibo River, will greatly facilitate the movement of people and commodities…this in turn will greatly facilitate an improved livelihood of the people and the production of agriculture and other goods on both sides of the river.”
The boats are similar to the Makouria class vessels and of the size of the Canawaima that plies the Guyana /Suriname route.

Russia keen on natural resources cooperation with Guyana

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:43:16 +0000

RUSSIA and Guyana are set to co-operate in the areas of natural resources development and environmental management.

Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Robert Persaud, yesterday met with his counterpart from the Russian Federation, D.G. Khramov, in Moscow, where they explored areas of possible co-operation between the two ministries and related agencies.
Guyana and Russia, like several other countries, recently adopted a model of having a single ministry which embraces natural resources development and environmental management. Both sides recognised this as being consistent with the new global thinking that can contribute positively to the sustainable development thrust.
The areas identified for co-operation include technical support in mining, especially in the use of new technology to improve recovery, sharing experiences in the wider extractive industries, including oil and gas, and balancing natural resources development with environmental management.
It was agreed that the two sides will develop and consider a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to serve as the framework for co-operation. Minister Persaud urged for training opportunities in mining, oil and gas, as well as Russian experts being deployed to Guyana to support the growing extractive industry.
The Russian aluminum giant RUSAL has already invested heavily in Guyana’s bauxite industry, to the tune of more than US$100M. Another Russian-British Company is pursuing interest in the gold mining sector.
The Russian Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, D.G. Khramov, noted that Russian companies are keen on doing business in Guyana. However, he urged the Government of Guyana to continue to ensure the necessary enabling support is provided.
Minister Persaud also met with the Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, while in the country to attend a meeting with RUSAL, and he also attended a major International Bauxite/ Aluminum Conference.

Over 430 Region 3 families receive Gov’t laptops - as second phase of 2012 distribution commences

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:43:38 +0000

FOUR hundred and thirty seven Region 3 families are today happy recipients of government’s laptops under the One Laptop for Family (OLPF) programme. The OLPF Secretariat Monday commenced distribution of its second phase for this year.

At the Kawall Primary School, Canal Number 2 Polder, 165 laptops were given out to qualifying recipients, while 172 were distributed at the Wales Community Centre.
The recipients also benefited from the first two hours of the mandatory ten-hour training sessions that they must complete before receiving complete ownership of their laptops.
This session, which was conducted on site by OLPF trainers, mostly serves to expose the recipients to the laptop, most of whom are first-time users.
The distribution exercise will continue at various locations across Region 3 until the end of September. Similar distribution exercises will commence across the country in Regions 2, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10, and will run until the end of the year.
Approximately 2,438 laptops were distributed across the country during the first half of this year. In fact, as of the end of June 2012, a total of 11,149 of the devices were distributed under the programme.
The OLPF programme remains one of the key components of government’s Communication Strategy, aimed at improving the social and economic welfare of all Guyanese.
The programme, pioneered by former President Bharrat Jagdeo, was launched in 2011, to be implemented over a three-year period for the benefit of 90,000 less fortunate families. He believed that every Guyanese must have the skills to function in the world of tomorrow, and as such, pushed the implementation and development of ICT locally.
Scores of ICT labs have been constructed in secondary schools across the country, and the fiber optic cable from Brazil to Guyana will ensure that high speed internet becomes readily available and also create more jobs as more call centres will spring up.
ICT is being viewed as a knowledge based sector which has high value in today’s world, given the volume of wealth it holds for the future, and it is one of the new sectors expected to generate greater disposable income for Guyanese and lead to the creation of thousands of jobs.
At present, the devices are mostly being distributed to persons earning $50,000 or less, the differently-abled and single parents.
The OLPF secretariat in May indicated that it was open to applications from persons earning up to $100,000.
The programme seeks to empower poor and working class Guyanese with the modern means of enhancing their education, livelihood and personal ambitions, through the use of computer technology.
The OLPF became a victim of the Opposition’s 2012 budget cuts in April, and shortly after, during the celebrations of Guyana and China’s 40th anniversary of their relations, the Chinese offered Guyana 30,000 laptops through a US$8M grant-gift agreement.
Families joining the programme will inevitably come face to face with the infinite range of opportunities and possibilities for self-development, business and growth that reside in the global marketplace made possible through the worldwide-web.

Guyana’s LCDS and REDD+ model promoted at IUCN World Congress in Korea

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:44:23 +0000

GUYANA’S Low Carbon Development Strategy and REDD+ model has been cited by former President Bharrat Jagdeo at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Congress in Jeju, South Korea, as one of the working examples to achieve conservation of nature and address global climate change while creating livelihood opportunities at the national and local level.

Mr. Jagdeo was one of the feature speakers at the first in a series of World Leaders Dialogues at the Congress and spoke on the topic Nature + Climate: can nature save us? The forum recognized that reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the only long-term answer to stabilizing the global climate, but as a global climate agreement remains elusive, nature based solutions such as REDD + are increasingly being recognized as urgent priorities for affirmative climate action.
In the discussions, Mr. Jagdeo recognized the important role the scientific community has played in bringing the issue of climate change to international attention and recognition, but emphasized that we need to move now to addressing the issue and finding solutions; and this requires collective action by the public and private sector, civil society and the academia and research community. He emphasized the important role of protecting forests for its ecosystem services and biodiversity, and that this represents the largest climate change action and an immediate low-cost abatement solution. Mr. Jagdeo pointed out the need to scale up pilot initiatives to national scale models and cited the work of Guyana through its LCDS and REDD+ model with Norway as a working example of helping to address some of the issues surrounding making REDD+ work and giving the assurances that are needed by both developed and developing countries in areas such as sovereignty over forests, financial accountability, social and environmental safeguards and measuring and addressing the drivers of deforestation.
The session was moderated by Ms. Sally Ranney, journalist and IUCN patron and among the panelists were Mr. Henri Djombo, Minister of Sustainable Development, Forestry Economy and the Environment, Republic of Congo; Dr. Maan-ee Lee, Former Minister of Environment of Republic of Korea; Ms. Ruksana Mirza, Head of Sustainable Development, HOLCIM; and Mr. Marvin Odum, President of Shell Oil Company, Director Upstream Americas of Royal Dutch Shell.
The IUCN World Conservation Congress is the world’s largest and most important conservation event held every four years. The 2012 congress brings together leaders from government, the public sector, non-governmental organizations, business, UN agencies and social organizations to discuss, debate and decide solutions for the world’s most pressing environment and development issues.
Mr. Jagdeo is attending in his dual role capacity as IUCN High Level Envoy for Sustainable Development in Forest Countries and IUCN Patron for Nature. Also attending is Adviser to President Donald Ramotar and Head of the Office of Climate Change, Mr. Shyam Nokta, who is also Chair of the Board of the Protected Areas Commission.
While at the conference, former President Jagdeo and Mr. Nokta also had meetings with the new CEO of GEF, Ms. Naoko Ishii, and Minister Yoo Young Soo from the Korean Environment Ministry. Korea is one of the global leaders on green economy and has taken the lead in the establishing of the Global Green Growth Institute to which Guyana is a participant member.
At the recently held Rio+20 UN Conference on Sustainable Development, Guyana joined 16 other industrialized, emerging economies and developing countries in signing the agreement on the establishment of the Global Green Growth Institute which is dedicated to pioneering a new model of environmentally sustainable economic growth, known as “green growth.”
Mr. Jagdeo was also guest speaker at the Conservation International’s 10th anniversary of the Global Conservation Fund (GCF). The GCF was the source of CI’s financial support for Guyana’s Conservation Trust Fund that was established with a contribution of U.S$3.5 M and which will support Guyana’s efforts to establish and manage its Protected Areas System. This endowment will be rolled into the statutory National Protected Areas Trust Fund under the Guyana’s Protected Areas Act.
While at the Congress Mr. Jagdeo will participate in the meeting of the IUCN Patrons that will review IUCN achievements to date, and consider its new programme of activities for the next four years.

Amaila Falls EPC contract executed -- historic moment for Guyana-China Relations, says Finance Minister

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 04:44:44 +0000

THE Engineering Procurement and Construction agreement (EPC) for the construction

of the Amaila Falls hydro project and transmission line was yesterday executed in Xian, China, by Sithe Global and China Railway First Group (CRFG).
The contract was executed by Mr. Bruce Wrobel, CEO of Sithe Global and Dr. Sun Yonggang, Chairman of China Railway First Group.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh described the occasion as a historic moment for Guyana and for Guyana-China relations, alluding to the strong historic relations between the two countries and the increasing role that Chinese enterprises are playing in the development of Guyana.
Minister Singh stated that the Amaila Falls project presented an opportunity for these relations to enter a new phase, as the project represented the single largest investment in Guyana, and one of the largest Chinese investments in the Caribbean.
The execution of the agreement was witnessed by Minister Singh, Guyana Power and Light Chairman, Winston Brassington, Office of the President Advisor, Steven Grin, along with representatives of the Province of Shaanxi, the China Development Bank, China Export and Credit Insurance Corporation, the Inter American Development Bank (IDB), and other representatives of Sithe Global and China Rail.
“This transformational project is the single largest investment in Guyana, and will allow Guyana in one single step to move from being almost entirely dependent on costly fossil fuels to being supplied almost entirely by renewable energy. We are delighted to have such credible partners recognize the importance of the project and be ready to invest private capital in Guyana,” Minister Singh said.
CEO of Sithe Global, Mr. Bruce Wrobel, stated that, “We are pleased to be associated with this project, long in the making, that will make a huge difference to the people of Guyana and is representative of the globalised world that we inhabit, a project with many important players, such as the CRFG, CDB, IDB, the Government of Norway, and the GoG.”

UEFA hands out millions to clubs for Euro 2012

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:19:05 +0000

(REUTERS) - UEFA will share 100 million euros among the clubs who released players for the Euro 2012 soccer finals and qualifying competition, the European Clubs Association (ECA) said yesterday.

The amounts range from 3.095 million euros in the case of Bayern Munich to a more modest 3.494 euros for English lower-tier club Barnsley, Finland's Jyvaskyla and Turkey's Bucaspor.
A total of 575 clubs will benefit from the so-called solidarity payments which are regarded as a form of compensation for the time players spend away from their clubs when they represent their country.
It follows an agreement between UEFA and ECA, which represents around 200 European clubs, signed in March.
The other top beneficiaries were Real Madrid (2.996 million euros), Barcelona (2.210 million), Manchester City (2.069 million) and Juventus (2.023 million).
Inter Milan, whose squad are largely made up of South American players, received a modest 301 445 euros, less than the Czech Republic's Viktoria Plzen, who received 465 390.
FC Vaduz, who supply the bulk of the Liechtenstein national side and play in the Swiss second division, were rewarded with 209 644 euros, more than Bundesliga clubs Eintracht Frankfurt, Fortuna Duesseldorf, Freiburg and Hoffenheim.
Clubs are rewarded for each player called up by a national team with the exact amount depending on how long the player spends with the team and other factors.
Different scales of payments were used for the qualifying competition and final tournament.
"I am delighted that we are able to provide clubs with financial benefits from UEFA Euro 2012 to reward their contribution to the competition," said UEFA president Michel Platini.
"We witnessed a truly fantastic UEFA European Football Championship final this summer, and I am pleased that the clubs can now also be associated with the event."

2014 World Cup qualifiers.. SPAIN AND GERMANY SCRAPE VICTORIES, ENGLAND HELD

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:19:49 +0000

…World champions snatch 1-0 win over Georgia; Germany hold on for 2-1 victory in Austria
England held by impressive Ukraine at Wembley; Russia thrash Israel, Netherlands trounce Hungary

LONDON, (Reuters) - Spain stretched their winning run in tournament qualifiers to 23 as they began the journey to the 2014 World Cup with a 1-0 victory in Georgia yesterday but along with Germany and Italy they struggled to take the points.
The world and European champions, who last failed to win a qualifying match five years ago in Iceland, needed an 86th minute Roberto Soldado strike to kick-start their Group I campaign in Tbilisi.
Germany, who won all 10 of their qualification matches for Euro 2012, made it two from two in Group C but had to battle all the way for a 2-1 victory against neighbours Austria in Vienna. Italy, beaten by Spain in the European Championship final, were unimpressive in a 2-0 win at home to lowly-ranked Malta.
England had to settle for a point against Ukraine in Group H, Frank Lampard's late penalty salvaging a 1-1 draw at Wembley that put Roy Hodgson's side level on four points with Poland and Montenegro.
England had skipper Steven Gerrard sent off for a second booking late in the game.
France, who will battle for top spot in Group I with Spain, beat Belarus 3-1 in Paris to claim six points from two games.

BOSNIA SPREE
While some fancied sides laboured, the best performances on a busy night came from Russia, who won 4-0 in Israel to top Group F, the Netherlands, 4-1 winners in Hungary in Group D, and Serbia who beat Wales 6-1 in their Group A clash in Novi Sad.
Bosnia lead the scoring charts though after crushing Latvia 4-1 having put eight past Liechtenstein on Friday. Greece joined Bosnia on six points in Group G after beating Lithuania 2-0. Spain encountered an ultra-defensive Georgia side and were enduring a night of frustration until Soldado, given a rare start in place of the likes of Fernando Torres and David Villa, converted a cross from substitute Cesc Fabregas.
It was a little hard on Georgia who defended tenaciously and also had to contend with the loss of their first choice keeper Giorgi Loria through injury with 20 minutes remaining.
"They closed ranks from the start and we tried everything but we were missing a little attacking dynamism," coach Vicente Del Bosque told Spanish TV.
"These are three exceptionally important points though because if we had drawn today it would have been a significant setback," he added.
Germany survived a torrid first half against Austria before Marco Reus and Mesut Ozil scored either side of halftime to give them a 2-1 win and an eighth successive victory over their neighbours who have not qualified for the World Cup since 1998.
Zlatko Junuzovic pulled one back for Austria and Marko Arnautovic missed a great chance for the hosts late on.

DIFFICULT MONTH
"We had some good spells when we controlled the game, but not for the whole match," Germany coach Joachim Loew said. "We had fewer chances and Austria should have equalised at the end."
An early goal from Mattia Destro and a late own goal from Malta's Andrew Cohen earned Italy their first win of the qualifying campaign after Friday's draw with Bulgaria.
"Right now the team isn't playing amazingly well, we know that historically September is a particularly difficult month," Cesare Prandelli told reporters.
Italy and Bulgaria have four points each after the latter beat Armenia 1-0 in a game that saw three red cards. A fracas resulted in Bulgaria's Svetoslav Dyakov being shown a second yellow card while Armenia substitute Marcos Pinheiro was also sent off and was later joined by Gevorg Gazaryan who got a red card for shoving a ball boy.
England's Gerrard was also in trouble, although there was relief for his side after they had fallen behind to a stunning first-half strike by Echan Konoplianka.
Lampard kept his cool to equalise from the spot after Evhen Khacheridi had handled for his third goal of the campaign.
Portugal made it two wins from two in Group F with a 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan while Switzerland are the early pacesetters in Group E thanks to a 2-0 victory over Albania.
Belgium, who are strongly fancied to qualify for the finals in Brazil, came back from a goal down at home to Croatia in Group A to earn a 1-1 draw.

Murray's Open triumph the antithesis of British failure

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:21:53 +0000

LONDON, England (REUTERS) - British tennis was savouring its first male grand slam champion for 76 years yesterday but Andy Murray's extraordinary feat in New York was actually the antithesis of decades of failure from the nation where the sport was born.

The 25-year-old's refusal to accept second best in Monday's U.S. Open final against Serbian ironman Novak Djokovic, to stare defeat in the face and still find the will to outlast one of sport's greatest warriors are not qualities to be found in any of Britain's Lawn Tennis Association coaching manuals.
If they were, Scot Murray might not be ploughing a lone furrow in the world's top 100 in which he is the only British male.
Thanks to the hugely profitable Wimbledon championships, British tennis enjoys a budget that is the envy of the rest of the world, yet its failure to provide a crop of players capable of competing at the highest echelons of men's tennis has long been a cause for embarrassment and amusement.
Before a scrawny, teenage Murray announced himself as a major talent by winning the U.S. Open juniors in 2004, Wimbledon nearly-man Tim Henman had shouldered the nation's hopes year after year along with Canadian-born Greg Rusedski.
Henman grew up with a tennis court in his back garden and Rusedski on the other side of the Atlantic. Like Murray, they were not products of a failing system.
When Henman and Rusedski, a former U.S. Open runner-up, neared retirement, British tennis was staring at an alarming black hole. However, Murray's mother and coach Judy had the courage and foresight to pack her son off to Barcelona aged 15 to acquire a proper tennis education.
Already blessed with a razor sharp tennis mind and a natural feel for ball on strings, it was at the Sanchez Vicario Academy that Murray honed the metronomic groundstrokes that did for Djokovic with thousands of hours of relentless hitting drills.

PERCEIVED UNDER-ACHIEVEMENT
The fruits of that labour soon became apparent as Murray climbed 449 places in the world rankings after turning professional in 2005, reaching the third round of Wimbledon where he lost in five sets to Argentina's David Nalbandian.
Yet, those early steps into the seniors were difficult ones.
Still growing into his 18-year-old frame, Murray's physical conditioning was clearly lacking, while his messy hair and whiskers, dishevelled appearance and teenage scowl did not endear him to a British public still yearning for that "nice chap Tim" to come up trumps.
Not that Murray really cared.
Clearly prepared to go it alone, he focused all his energy on getting fitter and stronger, rather than indulging in popularity contests.
He hired, then fired, Andre Agassi's former coach Brad Gilbert and surrounded himself with a team with whom he felt comfortable, headed by coach Miles Maclagan who came on board in 2007.
Murray reached his first grand slam final in 2008, losing to Roger Federer at Flushing Meadows.
He lost to Federer again in the 2010 Australian Open final and 12 months later fell to Djokovic, meaning that in his first three grand slam finals he had failed to win a single set - prompting unfair suggestions that he was too passive and "choked" when it came to the crunch.
When Djokovic, a few weeks younger than Murray, broke the grand slam domination of Federer and Rafael Nadal, culminating in the Serb's incredible 2011 when he was almost unbeatable, the focus on Murray's perceived under-achievement grew more intense.
Murray, who had dispensed with Maclagan's services in 2010, responded by hiring Ivan Lendl at the start of 2012, the poker-faced Czech-born multiple grand slam champion, who made a career out of winning titles rather than friends.
It has proved to be a masterstroke with Murray proving beyond doubt he is a bone-fide member of the ‘big four’.
Few doubted that Murray had what it took to break his grand slam duck but Lendl appears to have eradicated the demons that often haunted the Scot on the biggest of stages.
Murray became the first British man since Fred Perry to reach the Wimbledon final this year and his performance against Federer illustrated his new belief, even if it did end in tearful failure as the Swiss maestro battled back to victory after Murray had won the opening set.
The British public took Murray to their heart after that emotional defeat and he rewarded them a month later when he returned to the All England Club to beat Djokovic and then Federer on his way to Olympic gold.
Failure to back that up and beat Djokovic in the cauldron-like atmosphere on Arthur Ashe Stadium would have given more ammunition to the doubters.
When he surrendered the third and fourth sets to the rampaging Serb, it looked odds on that Murray would become the first man to lose his first five grand slam finals.
Instead, like a true champion, he found another gear to clinch a momentous five-hour triumph as the New York crowd roared its approval.
With the monkey finally off his back, Federer in the twilight of his career and Nadal's knees creaking, 2013 promises even greater rewards for Murray whose rivalry with Djokovic is already shaping up to become one of the sport's most entertaining.

Mendis pledges to bowl all five variations in T20

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:22:28 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (REUTERS) - Sri Lanka spinner Ajantha Mendis has promised to deliver all five of his bowling variations in the Twenty20 World Cup tournament which begins next Tuesday.

Mendis, who holds the best bowling figures in the T20 format with 6-16 from four overs against Australia in 2011, has been included in Sri Lanka's squad after spending nine months out with a back complaint.
He is known for his unique style of spin bowling in which he applies finger techniques similar to those used while playing a popular Indian subcontinent board game called Carrom.
Mendis' own ‘Carrom ball’ is bowled using his middle finger to push the ball out of the hand. It often troubles batsmen who fall victim to lbw after failing to spot its hidden characteristics.
"Now I'm ready to bowl all five deliveries," the 27-year-old told reporters.
"The difficulty I had was that I wasn't able to bowl all five variations I used to deliver, with the injury. But after my recovery I can tell you that I have come back to my old form."
Sri Lanka, hosts of the Twenty20 World Cup, have included Mendis, Rangana Herath and the uncapped Akhila Dhananjaya as three spinners for the tournament.
Sri Lanka open the tournament with a match against Group C rivals Zimbabwe in Hambantota next Tuesday, followed by a game against South Africa at the same venue four days later.

New Zealand spoil Yuvraj comeback party, win T20 series

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:22:53 +0000

CHENNAI, India (REUTERS) - Yuvraj Singh was denied a fairytale comeback from serious illness as New Zealand beat India by one run in a see-saw Twenty20 International to win the two-match series yesterday.

Brendon McCullum's 55-ball 91 lifted New Zealand to a total of 167 for five and India finished on 166 for four to give the Kiwis their only victory of the tour.
India won both the Tests and the first Twenty20 International at Visakhapatnam was washed out.
Virat Kohli top-scored for India with a 41-ball 70 and Yuvraj contributed 34 runs off 26 balls on his return to the side following cancer treatment.
"Kohli batted very well, he could have taken the game away from us .... Hopefully we can take this confidence through (to World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka)," New Zealand captain Ross Taylor told reporters.
Yuvraj was given a thunderous welcome by the crowd at M.A.Chidambaram Stadium as he walked out to bat.
The left-hander was lucky early in his innings when his top-edged eluded McCullum and Kyle Mills who were involved in a nasty collision.
"They bowled brilliantly and the wicket slowed down a bit which made it quite difficult for us. This was a game which we should have won," India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said.
Earlier, Zaheer Khan pegged back scoreless Rob Nicol's leg stump and fellow left-arm seamer Irfan Pathan breached Martin Guptill's (one) defence as New Zealand, put in to bat, slumped to two for two inside nine balls.
McCullum, however, found an able ally in Kane Williamson (28) and they added 90 runs from 11 overs to overcome the wobbly start.
McCullum took 32 balls for his ninth half-century in Twenty20 Internationals and twice hit off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin over the ropes. His other six came off Yuvraj.
Pathan (3-31) broke the stand when Williamson fluffed his scoop shot and Ashwin ran backwards from short fine leg to take a smart catch.
McCullum was looking good for his second international century in this format when Pathan foxed him with a slower delivery which the batsman dragged on to his stumps.
Yuvraj, who went wicketless in his two overs, left the ground having hurt himself trying to catch McCullum off his own bowling before returning to catch James Franklin off Lakshmipathy Balaji.

NEW ZEALAND innings
R. Nicol b Zaheer 0
M. Guptill b Pathan 1
B. McCullum b Pathan 91
K. Williamson c Ashwin b Pathan 28
R. Taylor not out 25
J. Franklin c Yuvraj b Balaji 1
J. Oram not out 18
Extras:: (lb-1, w-2) 3
Total: (for five wickets, 20 overs) 167
Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-2, 3-92, 4-139, 5-142.
Bowling: Zaheer 4-0-27-1 (w-1), Pathan 4-0-31-3, Balaji 4-0-33-1, Yuvraj 2-0-14-0, Ashwin 3-0-34-0 (w-1), Kohli 3-0-27-0.

INDIA:innings
G. Gambhir c & b Mills 3
V. Kohli c sub. (Southee) b Franklin 70
S. Raina c Taylor b Mills 27
Y. Singh b Franklin 34
M. Dhoni not out 22
R. Sharma not out 4
Extras: (lb-3, w-3) 6
Total: (for four wickets, 20 overs) 166
Fall of wickets: 1-26, 2-86, 3-120, 4-162.
Bowling: Mills 3-0-17-2, Milne 3-0-36-0, Oram 4-0-27-0, Vettori 4-0-37-0 (w-2), Hira 2-0-20-0, Franklin 4-0-26-2.

Adams wins El Dorado Golf Tournament

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:23:38 +0000

GOLFERS participating in the second El Dorado Golf Tournament enjoyed some brilliant weather over the weekend in the course’s best condition at the Lusignan Golf Course.

Carlos Adams emerged as the winner with net 66 followed by Kishan Bacchus second who had net 68 and Brian Hackett was third with net 68.
Bacchus bettered the back nine on the countback to claim the title with best gross went to S. Deosarran with 78.
The president of Lusignan Golf Club, Jerome Khan, stated that he was very pleased with the interest shown by El Dorado, whom he thanked for helping to make the event possible.
The players will be in action again this weekend.

Sri Lanka and West Indies abandon Test series

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:24:05 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (CMC) - A Test series between West Indies and Sri Lanka carded for next April in the Caribbean has been abandoned to accommodate players’ participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

An ODI triangular series involving Sri Lanka, West Indies and India has now replaced the series of two Tests, 3 ODIs and 2 Twenty20Is, originally planned.
Agreement has already been reached between the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) after the International Cricket Council (ICC) refused to provide an exclusive window for the (IPL).
WICB corporate communications manager Imran Khan said all three boards had agreed in principle to the tri-series.
However the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not confirm India's involvement in any change of plans.
"We have been told about this but the matter is being discussed. Nothing has been decided or finalised yet," a senior BCCI official has said.
The decision also means that players from both teams will remain available during the IPL, which runs from April 3 to May 26 next year.
Dates and details would be finalised following final sanction from the BCCI.
In 2009, Sri Lanka declined to replace Zimbabwe in England, when Zimbabwe were unable to tour for political reasons.
In 2011, several players, including Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, missed tour matches playing in the IPL ahead of a three-Test series in England.
West Indies spin bowler Sunil Narine also missed two Tests against England due to his IPL commitments.
"Once you provide a window for one particular member, you have to be conscious of the fact you may well have to do it for other members," said then ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat during the body’s annual meeting in June.
"Hence why we have not been supportive of a window specifically for any one of those domestic leagues."
The request for the tri-series has come from the WICB, reports in the Sri Lankan media have indicated.

GTTA and NSC host vigil for Greene tonight

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:24:35 +0000

THE GUYANA Table Tennis Association (GTTA) in collaboration with the Director of Sport within the National Sports Commission (NSC), Neil Kumar, will be holding a vigil at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue tonight to celebrate the life of the late Henry Greene.

The 58-year-old Greene, who served as Commissioner of the Guyana Police Force and was at the time of his sudden passing through an accident last Friday the serving president of the GTTA and was very pivotal in the transformation of table tennis in Guyana.
The following activities will be part of this evening’s proceedings which will be held between 19:00hrs and 22:00hrs;
• Signing of the Book of Condolence
• Showing of Table Tennis matches
• Tributes
• Soft Music
• Candle Lighting (Persons can bring their candles)

Meanwhile, Level One Course Instructor of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Richard McAfee, who is also a Hall of Famer in the United States Table Tennis Association and ITTF’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director for Development Glenn Tepper both expressed their sympathy to the GTTA on Greene’s death.
Below are their sympathy letters that were sent via email;
“This is very sad news indeed! I greatly enjoyed meeting Henry while I was in Guyana conducting the Level 1 Course. His hospitality to both myself and all the coaches participating in the ITTF Course was amazing. He was indeed a very impressive man and certainly loved the sport. I know he will greatly be missed by everyone who knew him.

Respectfully,
Richard McAfee

International Table Tennis Federation
Level One Course Instructor
USA Hall of Famer
Dear Linden,
Deepest sympathy to the table tennis community and the family of Henry Greene. Wishing that you will push forward to even greater heights as an honour to his legacy.
Best regards,
Glenn Tepper
Deputy CEO/Executive Director-Development

Chattergoon bats through for unbeaten ton to ease Albion into final

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:25:24 +0000

FORMER West Indies opening batsman Sewnarine Chattergoon produced an outstanding performance with the bat for Albion Community Centre which provided the backbone of their victory over Memorex Bermine to see them through to the final of the 2011 Tenelec Inc. first division limited overs competition in Berbice.

In the semi-final, played at the Albion ground, Memorex Bermine won the toss and asked Albion to take first strike.
Chattergoon and former national Under-19 batsman Kandasammy Surujnarine (16) started things for the home team, before national off-spinner Steven Latcha induced Surujnarine to hit a delivery back to him, which he accepted gleefully to separate the openers.
With Latcha tightening up his end, a few overs later, national Under-19 fast bowler, Romario Shepherd-DeJonge had Veerapen Permaul caught for 3 at 38 for 2.
National t20 batsman Jonathan Foo joined Chattergoon and they added 42 for the third wicket against some tight bowing from Latcha and left-arm orthodox spinner Eugene La Fleur who sent back Foo for 20, to leave Albion on 80 for 3.
Chattergoon continued to prop up the innings, putting on 28 for the fourth wicket with current West Indies A team skipper, Veerasammy Permaul (11) and 40 for the fifth wicket with West Indies leg-spinner, Devendra Bishoo (13).
With Shepherd-DeJonge snapping up Andy Mohan (2) and Satesh Dwarka (0) in consecutive balls, Albion slumped to 161 for 7 in the 45th over with Chattergoon still there on 95.
He was joined by David Latchaya, and they added a valuable 36 runs with Chattergoon, who was dominating the partnership, attaining his century to see Albion to their eventual total of 197 for 7 from their 50 overs.
Shepherd-DeJonge, ended with 3 for 41 from 9 overs bowling for Memorex Bermine who must have fancied their chances.
However, they were confronted with the off-spin of, Veerapen Permaul, in the second over and lost two key batsmen in Keion De Jesus and Eugene La Fleur, with just 1 run on the board.
Tregon Henry and former national Under-19 batsman, Anthony D’Andrade repaired the damage with a 47-run third-wicket partnership, before Henry fell stumped off Veerasammy Permaul for 20.
D’Andrade, who was going well, fell shortly after, caught off Bishoo, playing an injudicious shot for 31 and with Berbice Under-17 batsman, Hakeem Hinds outfoxed by Guyana Under-19 left-arm spinner, Gudakesh Motie for 4, Bermine slipped to 64 for 5.
Berbice batsman, Devon Clements, was joined by former Berbice Under-19 cricketer, Ishwar Singh, and together they gave Bermine some hope, adding 41 for the sixth wicket, before Clements was caught off Motie for 26 and 17 runs later Singh was stumped off Motie for 30 at 122 for 7.
With Veerasammy Permaul coming back and cleaning up the tail, Memorex Bermine fell for 142 in 46.5 overs, giving Albion a comfortable 55-run victory.
Bowling for Albion, who will now face Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets in Sunday’s final, Veerasammy Permaul took 4 for 28 from 8.5 overs, Gudakesh Motie 3 for 36 from 10 overs, Veerapen Permaul 2 for 31 from 10 overs and Bishoo 1 for 20 from 9 overs.

Greaves, Persaud dominate list as GCF names team for October meetings

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:25:55 +0000

ARCH rivals Alonso Greaves of Roraima Bikers Club and his Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club competitor Robin Persaud are two prominent names who have found their place on every team named by the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) to compete in three prestigious events scheduled for next month.

The teams will represent Guyana in the Tour Tobago to be held on that island from October 2 to 7, the sixth annual Five-Stage road race right here in Guyana from October 11 to 14 and the Senior Elite Championships in Antigua on October 20 and 21.
Greaves and Persaud will be partnered by national road race sprint king Jude Bentley and Geron Williams for the Tour Tobago, but most importantly and after years of pleading from the local cycling fraternity, Guyana will ride as a team in the gruelling five-stage event, with a senior and junior team being named to compete this year.
In the senior category, Team Guyana will comprise Greaves, Persaud, Bentley, Williams, Orville Hinds, Kester Croal, Eric Sankar and Enzo Matthews, while the junior team is made up of a solid bunch of rising stars.
This team comprises national junior road race champion Raynauth Jeffrey who has been turning heads on the local scene among his senior competitors of late, Paul De Nobrega, Michael Anthony, Akeem Arthur, Mario King, Raul Leal and Alonzo Ambrose.
After the Five-Stage event is completed, Team Guyana will journey to Antigua where they will be battling for supremacy in the Senior Elite Championships, of which a female Guyana team which includes Naomi Singh and England-based Guyanese Claire Fraser will also be competing.
However and quite surprisingly, Berbice’s Marica Dick or Linden’s Hazina Barrett did not make the cut for the female team, despite creditable performances so far this year and some wonder whether it is an oversight by the GCF selectors or a lack of funds that contributed to their non-selection.

RHTGG honours Test player Assad Fudadin

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:26:17 +0000

THE ROSE Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets (RHTGG) first division team last Saturday took the time to honour their teammate and captain Assad Fudadin on his achievement of becoming the club’s first Test player.

The left-handed Fudadin made his Test debut against England at Birmingham last June and scored 28 in first innings with four fours, while he got his first half-century against New Zealand one month later, when the West Indies took on the Black Caps at the Sir Viv Richards Stadium, in Antigua.
The presentation was done after Fudadin led the team to victory in the semifinals of the Berbice Cricket Board-organised Tenelec Inc. 50-overs-a-side semi-final against Young Warriors at their Area ‘H’ ground.
At the presentation ceremony, Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club Hilbert Foster told Fudadin the club was very proud of him becoming the 16th Berbician to play Test cricket and disclosed that it was always the aim of the club to produce a Test cricketer since its formation in 1990.
He traced Fudadin’s career since he joined the club in 1996 at the tender age of 11 and urged him to stay disciplined and focused as it was always more difficult to stay at the top than to reach the top and urged him to share his experience with his younger teammates and to be a role model to every youth in Guyana.
National Under-19 captain and Fudadin’s RHTGG vice-captain Shawn Pereira congratulated the West Indies player on behalf of his teammates and wished Fudadin more success in his career and reassured him that all the members of Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation would continue to support him on and off the cricket field.
Fudadin received a plaque compliment of Mr. Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall, a cap to mark his Test debut while the club also launched a coloured poster that would be placed in every classroom in Berbice.
The poster which was produced by the club will feature Fudadin’s career statistics and the ‘Say No to Drugs and Yes to Education’ message, while the West Indies middle order batsman also received a collection of gifts from his teammates.
In his reply he expressed gratitude to the club for its support over the years while promising to make the club even prouder in the future and to be a sports ambassador for the club, Berbice and Guyana at large.
He also expressed gratitude to all the sponsors of the cricket teams of the club especially Farfan and Mendes Limited, Bakewell, Courts, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, Gizmos and Gadgets and Pepsi for investing in his career.

2014 World Cup Qualifiers… Jags go down 2 – 3 in thriller against El Salvador

Admin2 — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 07:21:16 +0000

A terrific night of football it was at the Guyana National Stadium when the Golden Jaguars hosted the El Salvadorians in the return match of their round-three 2014 World Cup Qualifiers last night, but the host lost 2 – 3.

That win took El Salvador to six points in Group B while Guyana remained on one point. On the other hand, that lost meant the end of Guyana’s hopes of progressing to the fourth round.
Up to press time last night Mexico were up 1 – 0 against Costa Rica in the 65th minute. At the start of the night Mexico was on top of the points table with nine points while Costa Rica was second with four points.
The 90-odd minutes of action showed a battle from the opening whistle. In the first 45 minutes, Guyana undoubtedly got off to the best start of their qualifiers when Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson finished clinically in the first minute after he received a terrific ball on top of the 18 yard box from Carl Cort on the left flank.
As the match progressed Guyana kept turning on the pressure with a boost of confidence from the opening goal. However, the opposition would find the equaliser in the 12th minute in a similar fashion to Guyana’s goal.
Rafael Burgos came storming down Guyana’s left flank challenged by JP Rodrigues but the challenge was not enough to prevent the cross which found Osael Romero inside the six-yard box who finished with a lovely header.
Guyana had more shots on goal in the first half but the possession was almost equally shared. Burgos and Eliseo Quintanilla were a handful for Rodrigues and Walter Moore on the flanks but they managed to keep them at bay until half time.
Jackie Chan was in his usual unselfish mood as he created dangerous plays near goal while the captain Chris Nurse kept the midfield intact and the veteran Charles Pollard commanded the defensive line.
Guyana played a 4-4-2 formation which varied to a 4-4-1-1 while the opposition also played a 4-4-2 formation.
The second half saw El Salvador claim the lead in the 56th minute when Jaime Alas scored from a corner kick, but Guyana equalized in the 62nd minute from the boot of the captain, Nurse.
From there it was a see-saw battle with the sides trading shots for the lead. Unfortunately for the home side it was the guests who went ahead in the 76th minute. Burgos scored what looked like the decider which silenced the National Stadium that had a turnout of about six thousand spectators.
Fans began heading for the exit when three minutes of injuries and stoppages time was signaled because all hope was lost.
However, all hope was not lost in the middle; Moore was fouled inside the 18 yard box in the second minute of injuries and stoppages time which gave Guyana a gifted penalty attempt.
With a chance to equalise, Carl Cort’s patted attempt was denied by the opposition’s custodian Dagoberto Portillo which in turn was Guyana’s final chance at going home with at least a draw.

Bus owner embroiled in seating capacity controversy -claims being given royal run around

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 04:51:34 +0000

THE owner of a route Number 50 minibus who bought his vehicle from Trans Pacific Auto dealers at Good Hope, East Coast Demerara in September 2011 is claiming that when the auto dealers took it to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to get the documents for the vehicle written up it was registered as a 15-seater bus, meaning that it would be allowed to carry 15 persons on board, including the driver.

What the person at the Revenue Authority perhaps did not observe, was that at the front of the bus, there was only one seat provided for a passenger along with the driver, and not two. The space provided between the driver’s seat and the seat next to the door on the left, was not in effect, a passenger’s seat, but merely a compartment carrying a cover, which could be used to store the driver’s food and beverage or even tools for emergency use.
However, when the bus was inspected by the police, they certified it as a 14-seater vehicle, which meant that thereafter, it would only be allowed to have 14 persons on board, including the driver.

Who’s right and who’s wrong?
In the ensuing months, the owner of the vehicle Sallielal Budhoo, of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice continued to hold steadfast to his claim that his vehicle has a seating capacity for 15, since that is what is stated on the GRA document. On the other hand the passengers in the bus stoutly object to him taking 13 persons on board, along with his conductor. That situation continued for almost one year, with the traffic cops insisting that the bus could legally carry only 13 passengers, and Budhoo maintaining that he is covered to carry 14, including a conductor.
Budhoo said that when he took the vehicle back to the auto dealers and requested them to get the document to reflect a 14-seating capacity, they promised to do so but he waited for quite a while, only to learn later that they were not getting through.
He said that as time was slipping away and no action was being taken, he decided to try doing it on his own. He approached the GRA office in Smyth Street, and was advised it is not as simple as matter as just changing the figure. There was a procedure to be followed. The officer advised him to get the following documents: A letter from the Brickdam Office verifying that it was a 14-seater vehicle; a photo copy of the auto registration and that the person from Trans Pacific Auto Sales should report to the GRA office as well.
The purchaser claimed he secured all the documentation requested and took them to the GRA Office (Smyth Street). He has not been able to get the Trans Pacific Motor Spares representative to respond to the call. Since then, another five months have elapsed and there is no response from GRA. But to compound matters, the licence expired on September 6, and the Budhoos would like to have it renewed.

Royal run-around
He said he went back to the Smyth Street office, but this time, was advised to go the Traffic Chief, with the understanding that he would give the permission to have the document changed. But when Budhoo and his wife arrived at Traffic Chief’s Office, they were advised that he has nothing to do with it: GRA registered it, so they must make the change. They have since been going around in circles: To the Office of the Commissioner of Police who considered it ludicrous that they should be sent to his office; other GRA officials, and eventually the GRA Commissioner General yesterday.
Budhoo claims that in all his months of trekking yesterday’s experience was the worst, and the net result is that his document is now at the Lamaha Street Office and he was advised that he will have to continue waiting – perhaps indefinitely.
The time has now come for the licence of the motor vehicle BNN7851 to be renewed, but the owners want a final decision to be made as to what category the vehicle fits into. In the meantime, the deadline has passed, and they would be expected to pay a late fee of $8,000. They are adamant, claiming that it is not their fault that the licence has not yet been renewed, and feel that some discretion should be offered.
In the meantime, the owners are greatly perturbed over the fact that if they have to park the vehicle pending a decision to be taken by GRA. They are likely to suffer great inconvenience, including the financial embarrassment of not being able to honour their loan repayment.
This newspaper tried in vain to reach the parties concerned: Trans Pacific Motor Spares, in the first place. When contacted, Mr. Mahendra Satram at the Lamaha GRA Office was unavailable for a comment; the Smyth Street Officer could also not be reached. A traffic rank at Traffic Headquarters offered advice on how to go about getting the initial documents requesting the change, but Budhoo said he has already gone through that and his problem has still not been solved.
But it is still not clear what prompted the GRA official to indicate that the bus was a 15-seter and not 14. Also just why Budhoo was left on his own to deal with the problem when, as he claims, it was the auto sales dealer who accepted the document which states that the bus is a 15-seater.

Remembering Stephen Campbell

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 04:54:31 +0000

THE Amerindian Member of Parliament, Stephen Campbell was remembered at the Annual Stephen Campbell Lecture Series held at the Umana Yana on Monday evening.

The event is part of the Amerindian Heritage Month activities and was well attended by students, Amerindian luminaries, and representatives of the government.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, Nigel Dharamlall spoke on behalf of Minister Pauline Sukhai who was away on official duties.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds in his remarks to the audience talked about the life of Stephen Campbell and his resolve to carve out a better life for his people.
David Campbell, son of the late Stephen Campbell sent a video message in which he shared memories of his father.

Mr. Hinds also opened a small exhibition which showcased among other pioneering Amerindians, the late Dr. Desrey Fox, Audley James – a pioneer of the endangered marine turtle conservation and Vibert De Souza – Guyana’s first Amerindian Affairs Minister who was appointed by late President Dr. Cheddie Jagan.

Guyana sympathises with U.S. at killing of Ambassador, others in Libya

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:01:12 +0000

THE Guyana Government has extended sympathy to the people and Government of the United States for the attack on its consulate in Libya and the death of its Ambassador and three others.

Following is the text of the message sent through the Guyana Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
The Guyana Government strongly condemns the attack which has targeted the Consulate of the United States of America in Benghazi, Libya, resulting in the death of His Excellency Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three others, as well as the attack on the U.S. Embassy in Cairo.
The Government of Guyana wishes to urge that protests be peaceful and that there be restraint and tolerance on the part of those exercising their right to protest.
The government wishes to convey its sympathies to the bereaved families of the deceased and to the Government and people of the United States of America for the loss of lives, injuries and damage to property caused by this tragic event.

GWI assists Region 8 to set up reliable water distribution network

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:01:36 +0000

THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region 8 (Potaro/Siparuni) has been assisted by the Guyana Water Inc (GWI) in solving its water problems, which stemmed from continued natural disruption of the water network at Salbora, Mahdia, some six months ago, by unknown persons living in the pathway of the network.

The RDC's maintenance crew was able to replace the damaged water mains and remove blockages in the network, resulting in the water reaching a part of the network.
Region 8 Executive Officer Mr. Ronald Harsawack, in an interview with this newspaper, indicated that the water network was installed two years ago, and served over 5,000 residents; but was vandalized last February. The region did an examination of the network, assisted by technical support from the community, and found there were some teething problems, thus the Guyana Water Inc had been approached to render assistance.
The GWI team arrived last Friday, inspected the entire network, and made recommendations after an entire troubleshooting exercise was done. Residents thereafter began receiving water through their taps between Saturday and Monday morning.
The REO noted that during the period when water was not flowing through residents’ taps, the RDC had to supply water to the hospital, schools, students and teachers dormitories, along with other important buildings in the community.
He explained that with the maintenance crew now having a detailed understanding of the network, periodic maintenance will commence, and the network will undergo some simple modifications, as recommended.
Speaking with residents of Mahdia, this publication was made to understand that the water situation has since been rectified, bringing relief to residents, who no longer have to purchase water and sometimes revert to the nearby creeks for water for drinking and other domestic needs.
The administration now has a crew to undertake repairs and maintenance of the network, and to monitor theft of water in the mining area of the network’s pathway.

Roraima celebrates 20 years in the service, tourism industry

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:03:35 +0000

Celebrating 20 years in the tourism and service industry, local hospitality industry giant Roraima Group of Companies on Monday announced a month of activities to mark the milestone. The event was held at the Roraima Duke Lodge, Duke Street, Kingston.

The month of activities starting in November will include significant discounts on hotel restaurant and bar services, a special price for an aerial tour of the city, an interfaith thanksgiving service, brunches for children, distribution of garbage bins around the city, contests, a movie night at Santa Mission, a staff funday, an appreciation dinner for loyal customers and more.
Roraima Airways was established in November 1992 commencing its operations as a domestic airline doing charters in Guyana, South America and the Caribbean with particular emphasis on executive clientele.
Over the years the company extended its range of services into ten divisions. The divisions of the company today are: Air Charters (passengers/cargo), Duke Lodge Hotel, Residence Inn, Arrowpoint Nature Resort, Roraima Tours, Airline Handling Services, Airline Aviation Security Services, Roraima Executive and First Class Lounge, Roraima Crew Resting Lounge and Roraima Air Medical Evacuation Service.
The Roraima Group was Co-founded by Captain Gerald and Debbie Gouveia both of whom are experienced transport rated pilots. Captain Debbie is a graduate of Flight Safety Academy in Vero Beach Florida while Captain Gerald graduated from the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He continued his education at the George Washington University in Virginia and the National Defense University in DC.

Legacy of a great leader

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:05:00 +0000

RECENTLY, the youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party, the

Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) held a series of activities to mark its 60th anniversary, but this group should not rest on its laurels.
The Guyanese people are the legacy left by Dr. Cheddi Jagan – the Father of the Guyanese nation. As long as this nation, as a collective, stands firmly, in unity, to carry on the work to which Dr. Jagan dedicated all his adult life, then the legacy of Dr. Cheddi Jagan will never die.
Detractors label him many types of “ists,” but Dr. Jagan was a humanist, who lived his creed on which he based his primary goal: “Development with a human face.”
This great leader never lost his simplicity, and his humane approach to problem resolution. His love for humanity crossed every border and transcended every divide to encapsulate the global community, within the concepts and the context of his “New Global Human Order. Although he was dubbed the Mahatma of the western hemisphere because of the greatness of his soul, he never lost the common touch. Those who knew him can afford to ignore those who attempt to besmirch his character, because he will always walk taller in the corridors of Guyana’s history than anyone else ever can.
Followers of the great Dr. Cheddi Jagan can never let the “uninformed ramblings” of the inconsequential and the insignificant derail the impetus of development initiatives and goals of the People’s Progressive Party, the political party that he founded, which currently forms the government of Guyana.
The Guyana Human Rights Association should take cognisance of the fact that human rights violations were factored into every aspect of the daily existence of every immigrant or emancipated slave, even after slavery was abolished, until the emergence of the People’s Progressive Party.
The struggles and accomplishments of the PPP and the PYO are well chronicled, and the truth shall prevail over those who are attempting to re-write the history to make white seem black, and vice versa.
However, it is incumbent on every member of the PYO to embark on a dynamic thrust to re-affirm its commitment to solidifying its parent party’s base support – the grassroots people, because that is where its strength lies. The grassroots support is the foundation and the backbone of the PPP. Thus, members should interact with them, be accessible to them in their times of difficulty, because this is the only way the group can build trust and discourage a landscape whereby the opportunists could infiltrate its ranks with their false promises and grandiose but impractical “solutions”.
The educational quotient in outreach programmes should not be minimised, because knowledge provides armour against the pathological liars who are glib with their tongues and promises, so there is an imperative to let the support base know the truth – and to know if, when and how help can be provided, and what are the dynamics and the implications involved.
If immediate help cannot be provided then they need to be told, and why, so that understanding and tolerance can re-build trust in the areas where the infiltrators have weakened with their misrepresentations and lies.
Dr. Cheddi Jagan always believed in cooperative efforts to build communities, so the PYO needs to follow the example he set and work with persons across every divide in the nation so that it sustains the primary goals always sought after by the founding leader of their group, to unite the nation through trust-building developmental initiatives within Guyanese communities, so as to enhance the social capital of Guyana.

Murray's Open triumph the antithesis of British failure

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:08:07 +0000

Coe to stand for BOA leadership

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:14:24 +0000

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Sebastian Coe will stand for the leadership of the British Olympic Association (BOA), saying he wanted to show his gratitude to the organisation that helped him to win gold in the 1980s and guide the London 2012 Games to a roaring success.

Coe, twice an Olympic 1500 metres champion who won his first gold at the 1980 Moscow Games and was appointed the chairman of the 2012 Games, will go for election when current BOA head Colin Moynihan, in charge since 2005, steps down later this year, with a vote likely in November.
Moynihan announced after the Olympic Games in August that he would hand over to a replacement to give them time to settle in before the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.
"I am happy for my name go to forward. I was asked formally and on this day of all days why wouldn't you want to help?" Coe told reporters on Monday following a London parade to laud the efforts of the British Olympians and Paralympians.
"I wouldn't presume anything but I was asked, I thought about it, and I have always had a huge debt of gratitude to the British Olympic Association."
Coe said his participation in Russia in 1980 had been thanks to the BOA, who also gave the middle-distance runner a berth at the 1984 Los Angeles Games despite a battle with illness.
"They fought to allow me to go to Moscow and actually everything I have done in the last few years might not have been possible had I not had that Olympic experience.
"So it's an organisation I have a deep, deep commitment to. The BOA is a fantastic organisation."
Coe helped to secure the Games for London in 2005, a move which had its doubters.
Britain's Olympians notched up 29 gold on their way to their biggest haul of 65 medals in more than a century while the Paralympians' tally of 120 medals was their best since Sydney in 2000. Huge and enthusiastic crowds packed venues during the Games.
Coe has also expressed interest in running for the presidency of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) after Senegal's Lamine Diack leaves the post in 2015.
Coe was appointed by Prime Minister David Cameron as Olympic legacy ambassador following the closure of the July 27-August 12 Olympic Games and is a former Conservative Member of Parliament.
He will advise Cameron on how best to secure the long-term benefits of hosting the Games as a roving ambassador to help win new trade and investment deals for British businesses.

UK's Cameron apologises for 1989 soccer stadium disaster

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:14:57 +0000

… Ninety-six Liverpool fans died in stadium crush
… PM calls it UK's worst peacetime 20th century disaster
… Report says police tried to blame fans for crush
LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) - British Prime Minister David Cameron said yesterday he was "profoundly sorry" for failures and cover-ups in the wake of the 1989 Hillsborough soccer disaster in which 96 spectators died after a crowd crush in the stadium.

Attempts by the police to defect the blame for Britain's worst sporting disaster onto Liverpool fans to cover up their own flawed response and the dangers of an outdated stadium amounted to a "double injustice", he said.
The victims died in an overcrowded fenced-in enclosure at the Hillsborough stadium in Sheffield, northern England - a tragedy that changed the face of English soccer and ushered in a new era of modern, all-seated venues.
Britain was shocked by harrowing images of young fans crushed against metal fences, bodies lying on the pitch and spectators using wooden advertising hoardings as makeshift stretchers on a warm spring afternoon.
The Conservative Party leader spoke after the release of an independent panel's investigation into the deaths that said police had sought to blame the Liverpool fans, portraying them as aggressive, drunk and ticketless and bent on packing into the already crowded stadium.
Speaking in parliament, Cameron called the disaster "one of the greatest peacetime tragedies of the last century" and acknowledged that the report would be harrowing for relatives of the deceased.
"It was wrong that the families have had to wait for so long - and fight so hard - just to get to the truth," he said. "And it was wrong that the police changed the records of what happened and tried to blame the fans.
"On behalf of the government, and indeed our country, I am profoundly sorry for this double injustice that has been left uncorrected for so long."
Three relatives of the victims fainted when they heard that the panel put forward evidence of a cover-up, apparently vindicating their 23-year campaign to find "Justice for the 96".
"There were two disasters at Hillsborough - one on the day and one afterwards," said Trevor Hicks, who lost two daughters in the disaster. "There was a contrived, manipulated, vengeful and spiteful attempt to divert the blame."
The independent panel, set up in 2010 by the last Labour government to examine all the public paperwork relating to the tragedy, concluded that it could have been avoided, more lives could have been saved and the police response was flawed.
"There were clear operational failures in response to the disaster and in its aftermath there were strenuous attempts to deflect the blame onto the fans," it said.
Senior police edited their officers' witness statements from the day to paint them in a less damaging light, the report said.
South Yorkshire Police removed negative comments from 116 out of 164 police statements.

'CONCERTED CONSPIRACY'
Barrister Michael Mansfield, who helped the victims' families, said he believed the police's behaviour was part of the biggest cover-up in British legal history and the report could lead to prosecutions within months.
"The system failed miserably," Mansfield said in a news conference at Liverpool's imposing Church of England cathedral.
Former Labour justice secretary Charles Falconer said the report showed a "concerted conspiracy to withhold the truth by public bodies", while Liverpool Football Club chairman Tom Werner said "the world has heard the real truth about what happened".
South Yorkshire Police said "grave errors had been made".
"I am shocked by it and so are my senior people. If people are shown to have acted criminally, then they should face prosecution," Chief Constable David Crompton told the BBC.
While inquiries found hooliganism played no part in the disaster, the police crowd management plan was preoccupied with preventing disorder, the report said.
Liverpool fans had been tainted by the Heysel stadium disaster in Belgium in 1985. Fighting inside that stadium led to Juventus fans being crushed against a wall that collapsed. Six Liverpool fans and 33 supporters of the Italian team died.
The real danger at Hillsborough lay in the emergency services' poor planning and a stadium that failed to meet minimum safety standards, the report said.
Its capacity was overstated and previous crushes at Hillsborough had been ignored.
The disaster is still an open wound in Liverpool, the port city of nearly half a million people that is passionate about soccer and has fielded great players like Kevin Keegan, Kenny Dalglish and Steven Gerrard.

FAMILIES INCENSED
All the victims during the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, held at the neutral ground of Sheffield Wednesday, were Liverpool supporters.
The press secretary of then Conservative Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher incensed families by blaming the disaster on a "tanked-up mob".
The report found no reason for the coroner's decision to take blood alcohol samples from all of the victims, including children.
"The pattern of alcohol consumption among those who died was unremarkable," the report said. "The weight placed on alcohol levels was ... inappropriate and misleading."
The disaster was also one of the low points for Rupert Murdoch's British newspaper group, currently reeling from a phone hacking scandal that has led to criminal charges against former senior executives and reporters.
Many in Liverpool still boycott Murdoch's newspapers after the top-selling Sun accused their fans of stealing from the dying, urinating on policemen and beating up an officer giving the kiss of life. Yesterday, Kelvin Mackenzie, the editor who published those false allegations, issued an apology.
Relatives rejected his comments as "too little, too late" and began a news conference by asking any journalists from the Sun to leave the room.

Mexico advance, Canada beaten in Panama

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:15:44 +0000

MIAMI, Florida (Reuters) - Mexico booked their place in CONCACAF's final phase of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup with a 1-0 win over Costa Rica on Tuesday but the battle for the other five slots remains wide open.

A goal on the hour from forward Javier Hernandez was enough to secure a win at the Azteca Stadium for Mexico, who have won all four of their games and lead Group B with 12 points.
'Chicharito' headed home a deep cross from Jorge Torres Nilo to ensure Mexico maintained their 100 percent record and gave the Manchester United striker his 26th goal in 41 national team appearances.
While Mexico are through with two games remaining in the third qualifying phase, El Salvador, who won 3-2 in Guyana, are on five points with Costa Rica on four and Guyana out of the running on one.
Panama lead Group C on nine points after a 2-0 victory over Canada with goals from Rolando Blackburn and Blas Perez.
The game was stopped after six minutes when stadium lighting went out, and when action resumed after a 15-minute stoppage, Blackburn headed Panama in front in the 23rd minute and Perez doubled the lead 12 minutes into the second half.
Honduras and Canada trail Panama by two points, while Cuba are eliminated after failing to get a point, or score a goal, in their four games so far. Honduras, who qualified for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, have put themselves firmly back in the frame after picking up six points from their two September games against Cuba.
In-form Jerry Bengtson headed the only goal in the 32nd minute from close range after some lovely work from Roger Espinoza.
It is tight at the top of Group A with Guatemala, the United States and Jamaica all on seven points, with Antigua and Barbuda struggling with just a point.
The United States recovered from their 2-1 defeat to Jamaica in Kingston on Friday with a 1-0 win over the same opponents in Columbus, Ohio, thanks to a 55th minute free-kick from Herculez Gomez.
However, Juergen Klinsmann's team may have to win their final game at home to Guatemala after the Central Americans maintained their challenge with a 1-0 win in Antigua, Carlos Ruiz scoring in the 25th minute at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
The top three teams from the final round of qualifying, a round-robin involving the six sides that advance from the third stage, will automatically qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.
The fourth-placed team will take part in a play-off against the top team in the Oceania region.

2014 South America World Cup qualifiers - Messi shackled in Lima, Colombia win again

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:16:13 +0000

… Argentina snatch draw in Peru, Colombia win in Chile, Ecuador hold Uruguay, as Paraguay lose to Venezuela
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (Reuters) - Lionel Messi's recent goal spree came to an abrupt halt in Argentina's uninspiring 1-1 draw against Peru as Colombia came out on top in the latest round of South American World Cup qualifiers that concluded on Tuesday.

Argentina lead the nine-nation group ahead of Colombia and Ecuador but only three points separate the top six teams with the series set to reach its halfway mark next month.
Peru laid bare the failings in Argentina's rearguard that their brilliant forwards often disguise in tricky conditions at the Estadio Nacional in Lima.
Gonzalo Higuain's fine equaliser was one of the few Argentina highlights in a performance that also featured Sergio Romero's early penalty save from Claudio Pizarro.
Messi was almost unrecognisable as the world's best player, softened by a series of early fouls but not subjected to the aggressive man-marking Diego Maradona endured in a 1-0 defeat in the Peru capital 27 years ago.
He was kept in check by Peru's heavily populated midfield, which still found space to carry danger to Argentina with defender Carlos Zambrano scoring in the 22nd minute and Luis Ramirez hitting the post in the second half.
"The pitch didn't help, you needed one or two touches more to control the ball. We left the pitch angry because we couldn't play our game but an away draw is good," Messi, who had scored 10 goals in his last six internationals, told reporters.
"We're bitter at having only seven points when we deserve a few more," said Peru's Uruguayan coach Sergio Markarian, who is attempting lead the team to the finals for the first time since 1982.
"Peru didn't surprise me. Nowadays, it's always tough, always very even," Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella said of the result and the tight standings.
Argentina have 14 points, Colombia and Ecuador 13, Uruguay and Chile 12 and Venezuela, looking to reach their first finals,
11.
At the end of the marathon campaign, the top four will qualify for the 2014 finals and the fifth-placed team will play off against an Asian nation for a berth in Brazil.

SIX-POINTER
Colombia, with strikers Radamel Falcao and Teo Gutierrez scoring three goals apiece in two matches, followed their 4-0 rout of Uruguay last Friday with Tuesday's 3-1 away victory over m an accomplished Chile side in Santiago.
"The team were confident despite falling behind in the first half," Colombia coach Jose Pekerman said.
"This (confidence) has been very positive for us and confirms the team has potential. This is one of the hardest matches you'll get in the qualifiers."
Charged with putting Colombia back on track after a poor start by his sacked predecessor Leonel Alvarez, the Argentine said the key had been to spend the FIFA international date in August practising rather than playing a friendly.
"This double (qualifying) fixture has helped us a lot and I think we're now enjoying the fruits of our work but it was painful when (critics) didn't understand our work," he said.
Ecuador, trained by former Honduras World Cup coach Reinaldo Rueda, picked up a good point with a 1-1 draw at Uruguay, who were thrashed by Colombia in Barranquilla on Friday.
"Uruguay had come from a tough time and were going to put their best on the pitch, but we were orderly, made the most of the lead (Felipe Caicedo's eighth-minute penalty) and had good control of the game (in the first half)," Rueda said.
His opposite number Oscar Tabarez, whose side equalised through Edinson Cavani, said: "We recovered the intensity customary in this team's game.
"We're going through a lean spell and we'll see how we overcome it in a month's time. This is a long haul. There are teams who were far behind and have recovered in the last two fixtures. I think we can also do that in the coming matches."
The team that came off worst were Paraguay, accustomed to doing well enough to have reached four successive finals but now rooted to the bottom of the standings after losing to Argentina and then 2-0 to Venezuela in Asuncion on Tuesday.

Pietersen's international career still in tatters

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:16:53 +0000

LONDON, England (ANI)- Kevin Pietersen, who has held a number of meetings with top officials from the England management in an attempt to resurrect his international career, is expected to become a freelance cricketer after his current England contract ends on October 1, and it is highly unlikely he would be included in the team that would tour India.

According to the Telegraph, despite a string of meetings over the past week, during which Pietersen has explained his side of the story on a one-to-one basis to coach Andy Flower, captain Alastair Cook and the England team director, Hugh Morris, he remains out in the cold as England prepare to name their touring party for India today.
Pietersen has already been linked to a six-figure offer from one Australian franchise to play in their Twenty20 tournament, the Big Bash, and unless his England career resumes in early 2013 he will be free to play the whole of the Indian Premier League, an arrangement that would be worth around £1.5 million, the paper said.
Pietersen's meetings with England have been good-natured and he is believed to have explained he did not send messages to the South African side with tactical information to dismiss former captain Andrew Strauss, the paper added.
The South African-born batsman admitted there is no record of the exchanges as they were sent via BlackBerry messenger, although he is thought to have cleared the air with Strauss, the paper further reported.
Unless the situation changes, Pietersen's winter diary will feature only Twenty20 cricket starting with the Champions League tournament for his IPL franchise, Delhi Daredevils, in October, the paper further added.
The England squad fly to Sri Lanka today for the World Twenty20 tournament just as the tour squad for India is expected to be announced, the paper concluded.

Kieswetter, Buttler star as England tie T20 series

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:17:22 +0000

THRILLING knocks from Craig Kieswetter and Jos Buttler saw England end the summer on a high note, squaring the NatWest Twenty20 Series against South Africa with a 28-run victory at Edgbaston.

The familiar sight of rain reduced the match to an 11-over thrash, a format that suited the Somerset pair down to the ground as Kieswetter made 50 in 32 balls and Buttler blazed 32 not out in just 10 deliveries.
The fourth-wicket duo added 48 in 11 minutes to lead the hosts to 118 for five, Buttler launching a brutal attack on Wayne Parnell that saw him concede 32 in an over - the second costliest over in international T20 history. As so often in recent times, Hashim Amla was South Africa's lynchpin, top-scoring with 36 in an ill-fated reply that ended at 90 for five.
With plentiful runs on the board, England's Twenty20 debutant Danny Briggs was handed the first over of the South Africa innings. Amla took the 21-year-old spinner for two boundaries but was also beaten twice on the outside edge.
Out-of-form opener Richard Levi did not detain England long, castled by Tim Bresnan for a single, but as so often Amla looked to be the danger man. Faf du Plessis fell for eight after Briggs found the leading edge with his left-arm spin and Eoin Morgan took a simple catch at the edge of the ring.
Amla struck Stuart Broad for his sixth boundary to bring up the Proteas' 50 and his lone hand continued when AB de Villiers steered Graeme Swann straight down Jonny Bairstow's throat at deep-midwicket. With the required-rate climbing sharply Amla finally succumbed in almost identical fashion to de Villiers.
Jade Dernbach showed off his variations as his first over cost a meagre two and when Justin Ontong miscued Bresnan to point the game was all but over. England's innings was built almost exclusively around the efforts of Kieswetter and Buttler. But the first major contributor to England's total was Morne Morkel.
He sent down a wild first over that included four comical wides down leg side, a waist-high full toss and back-to-back boundaries from Kieswetter.
Michael Lumb managed one fluent drive off Parnell before losing his middle stump to the left-armer. Kieswetter found the ropes for the third time when he smashed Johan Botha back over his head in the fifth over.
Botha's second over cost only two and he picked up the scalps of Luke Wright and Morgan for single figures. Jacques Kallis' introduction saw Kieswetter smear his third delivery for six over long-on as England reached 74 with two overs remaining.
After just one sighter Buttler crashed Parnell for a steepling six over long-off and then immediately repeated the stroke.
Parnell was spooked and sent down successive no-balls, Buttler producing a pair of impudent paddled fours off the resulting free-hits.
Buttler's third maximum of the over, this time pulled flat over mid-wicket completed Parnell's misery. Kieswetter pulled a third six to bring up his half-century in the final over but Morne Morkel bowled both him and Bairstow. (PA Sport)

Bolt hails coach Glen Mills as key to his recent success

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:17:44 +0000

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Sprint legend Usain Bolt on Tuesday hailed coach Glen Mills as the key to his recent success at the London Olympics.

The 26-year-old swept both sprints to become the first athlete to win back-to-back sprint titles at an Olympic Games, following his success in Beijing Olympics four years ago.
“I want to give thanks to Glen Mills. He is the greatest person; he has been a father figure, my mentor, he's been a coach and for me he is the person that makes me laugh,” Bolt told a news conference.
“He’s truly a great person overall. He is the greatest coach ever.”
Bolt returned to the island on Saturday with little fanfare, following the conclusion of the lucrative Diamond League campaign with the last meet in Brussels.
He went unbeaten on the international circuit and his only losses during the season came at the National Trials here in June when he suffered two shock defeats to training partner Yohan Blake.
That sparked mad speculation over Bolt’s form and raised serious doubt over his ability to defend his Olympic title.
Bolt praised his “true fans” for standing by him during that testing period.
“I just have one thing to say. Never doubt a champion,” Bolt said.
“I want to thank my real, true fans. There were a lot of doubters and a lot of people were happy that I lost (Trials) and were saying a lot of things. But my true fans, my coach, my team gave me that support and were 100 per cent behind me.”
He joked: “I want everybody to continue supporting Usain Bolt, Doctor, the Honourable.”
Bolt won the 100 metres at the London Olympics in a meet record 9.63 seconds before also re-capturing the 200 metres in a season-best time of 19.32 seconds.

President’s Cup Golf Tournament on this Sunday

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:18:08 +0000

THE inaugural President’s Cup Golf Tournament which is sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce is on track to tee off at the Lusignan Golf Course this Sunday.

Yesterday in a press briefing in the Boardroom of the Ministry of Tourism, president of the Lusignan Golf Club, Jerome Khan, and the Ministry’s Indranauth Haralsingh gave an update of how plans have been falling into place for the event.
Khan disclosed that there are already 40 participants signed up for the amateur tournament with participants coming from the USA, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Kingdom and of course the local arena.
He said, “I’m quite pleased because entries have been appearing everyday which signifies that golf sparks an interest. I don’t know if it’s a coincidence but there has been an increase in persons who have signed up to the club to learn how to play golf and this is what we have been hoping for.”
According to Khan, the course is in tip-top shape, the fairways and roughs have been cut and the green is being sprinkled every night so the current dry season would not affect it.
Works are ongoing to make the clubhouse even better; parking has been improved and security will be in effect for Sunday.
Khan stated on behalf of the club that they are very pleased to partner with the Ministry and look forward to a long successful relationship.
His Excellency President Donald Ramotar, in whose honour the tournament was named, is expected to tee-off the event.
Haralsingh said the support received from business entities played a major role thus far. The sponsors included Banks DIH, Ansa McAl, Brian Tiwari, DDL, Impressions, CIDI, Beepats and NAMILCO.

Gayle backs West Indies to go all the way

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:19:03 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (CMC) – Talismanic opener Chris Gayle has backed West Indies to reach the final of the World Twenty20 Championship.

The big-hitting left-hander, the hottest commodity in World T20 cricket, said he believed the Caribbean side could improve on their showing at the 2009 edition of the tournament in England when they reached the final four.
“When you look at our team you can say we are well balanced. In these tournaments the best we achieved was the semi-finals in England back in 2009,” the Jamaican said here yesterday.
“We didn’t do so well when it was played at home back in 2010 so we want to get it together this time around. Once we stick to what we know, I don’t see any reason why we can’t go all the way.”
Boasting Gayle along with several other international T20 stars, West Indies have been installed as one of the favourites for the September 18 to October 7 tournament.
Off-spinner Sunil Narine along with all-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard are all expected to put their immense talent in the game’s shortest version, on show for the Windies.
The Caribbean side play their first official warm-up against the hosts today and Gayle said it was important for the team to start well.
“We are away from home and we have to adapt to the conditions as quickly as possible. We want to make a solid start and look to put the other teams under some pressure,” Gayle pointed out.
“I’m really looking forward to it. There are a lot of competitive teams here. Every team has a chance to win ... there’s not going to be any walkovers. No one is going to take anyone for granted and we have to be at our best at all times.
“We want to get off to a good start and also look to be there at the end when the semi-finals and finals are played.”
West Indies have been drawn in Group B alongside Australia and Ireland and both first round matches will be at the Premadasa Stadium.
They open against the Aussies on September 22 before taking on the Irish two days later.

Shabazz takes full responsibility for El Salvador loss … says young team to play next two games

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:19:29 +0000

THE twelfth man came out in their hundreds at the Guyana National Stadium last Tuesday night to roar along with Guyana’s Golden Jaguars in their crucial 2014 World Cup qualifying home fixture against El Salvador.
This was after the team rebounded from

humiliating losses to Mexico and Costa Rica, to hold the El Salvadorians to a 2-2 draw in their backyard last Friday and when they saw their team score in the opening goal within the first minute of the first half, they roared heavily in support.
However, the end result is what must have been lingering on the minds of not only the fans in the stands, but those around the world and even the technical staff and players of the Golden Jaguars, who saw El Salvador equalise and go ahead on two occasions, to come away with a 3-2 victory.
It was a defeat that was felt by many, as it sent home another nail in Guyana’s coffin, ruining further the Golden Jaguars’ chance of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup which will be played in neighbouring Brazil and one for which Technical Director (TD) of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Jamal Shabazz took full responsibility.
Addressing the media at the post-match press conference, Shabazz firstly defended the decision to have Carl Cort take a vital penalty kick that was won by Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson in the `dying stages of the contest, saying “I would back him to make that penalty 99 out of 100 times.”
“I feel very hurt. I feel very exhausted, but I thought we gave everything that we had. I feel proud of the players, the team and the group that we fought and I am not happy with the result, but I thought we gave a good account of ourselves.”
“I see this defeat as the pains that we will go through as a growing football nation and I accept full responsibility for the result and take full blame, if any, for what happened tonight (Tuesday night)” stated the Trinidad and Tobago-born Shabazz.
Reflecting on his team’s performance in the return match against the El Salvadorians while looking ahead to the two remaining matches, Shabazz said he saw a team that is a work in progress in adapting to this level of the game.
“We went ahead, then we went behind and we fought back right down to the point where we got the penalty. It showed that we were prepared to fight to the very end and for me, this is good for me, that against a Central American opponent, we can take the lead and when we are down, fight back and do so right down to the end.
“Of course we can say we need to learn how to keep the lead and keep our composure in a tough situation, but this is a tough lesson for us and I am proud to be a part of this game today and a part of this learning experience and this moment for Guyana,” posited Shabazz.
The TD took the time to look back at his team’s last three games, which included the practice contest against Bolivia and the home and away encounters against El Salvador and told his audience, he saw more desire from his players than before.
“There were more desires, more tactical understanding by the players and a willingness to make the group effort. I was very pleased that we tried to play as a group that we tried to play as a team and we believed that we could score back, even when the score was 3-2 in their favour.
“Every player in the dressing room felt that they think we could score back when the score was 3-2 and that belief is important to me, that belief in us as a country, if it transforms to the society will raise this nation. It is important to me that the players believed we could still win the game, even when we missed the penalty.”
He added, “Guys were still trying to get the ball across the face of the goal and if at that point they started to walk and had given up, I would have been disappointed. I am pleased, really pleased with their performance tonight.

REDEEM
Shabazz said the away game to Costa Rica will continue to be a learning experience for his team, who will not go there and lie down, but continue to believe in themselves, that they can win, despite the setback suffered by the loss to El Salvador.
The Golden Jaguars will first oppose Mexico who defeated them 3-1 last June, in a return fixture at the Guyana National Stadium on October 12, before taking on Costa Rica in Costa Rica four days later, with Shabazz saying a young team will be given the chance to represent the nation in these two encounters.
“Clearly there is a new spirit in the team and if you know me, I never say die even if I get a heart attack. I fight and fight and fight, and fight to the end and this is what you can expect until the last game. We are not going to go and make it easy for Costa Rica.
“We will not bow our heads and think … We play for our nation, but we have pride in ourselves and we appreciate the efforts that we make,” posited Shabazz.
“I say we are not playing for ourselves and the people should stand for the team. When you are down, this is when you need the support and if the supports don’t come, we stand alone and if we have to play in front of an empty stadium for Guyana, we will play.
“We’ve made that commitment three weeks ago that if the people don’t believe, the people are not our leaders. We believe and we will follow this thing to the last game and when it is finished, we will look to the Caribbean Cup Championships and try to qualify for the Gold Cup,” stated Shabazz.
He was referring to Guyana’s last hope of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, adding that he will continue to be the team’s TD until December of this year when his contract expires.
“This is what men do. Men see it to the end and we will see it to the end, with or without the support of the people. If we have to stand alone - how many people followed Jesus, peace be upon him, 12 - and they changed the world forever and ever.
“We stand firm that Mexico and Costa Rica will get a united Guyana team. Maybe a younger one to give the Trayon Bobbs and other youngsters a chance to taste and smell the game at this level, since our two-tier system has the capacity to facilitate such.”

Breeze shopping sprees return with ‘Tell a neighbour, tell a friend’ promotion

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:31:29 +0000

BRYDEN and Fernandes Limited yesterday launched the 2012 Breeze Soap Powder annual promotion, labelled “Tell a neighbour, tell a friend, Breeze shopping spree reloaded”, at the Bounty Supermarket on Water Street, Georgetown.

All that is required to enter this promotion is submission of a 900 gram or 400 gram breeze sachet in an envelope, along with the name, address and telephone number of the entrant and a friend. Winners will participate in one of 18 shopping sprees, or be eligible for the following consolation prizes: a washing machine, a 22-inch flat screen television, or US$150.
The supermarket hosting the shopping sprees will be announced later, but customers countrywide are encouraged to shop Breeze soap powder for this awesome opportunity to win, not only for themselves but also for their friend or neighbour.
Entries can be deposited at participating supermarkets nationwide, or at any branch of Courts Guyana Inc.

Terry Andrew Joseph, aka Spanish Man wanted by police

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:37:54 +0000

POLICE yesterday issued a wanted bulletin for Terry Andrew Joseph, aka “Spanish Man,” whom they seek for questioning in relation to a series of armed robberies/piracy.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Terry Andrew Joseph, aka “Spanish Man”, is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers: 225-8196, 226-1326, 227-1270, 225-6411, 226-7065, 911, or the nearest police station.
All information will be treated with strict confidence.
His particulars are as follows:

Name: Terry Andrew Joseph

Alias: “Spanish Man”

Ethnicity: Mixed

Date of Birth: 1984-07-09

Height: 5’ 7”

Last known address: Lot 6 Farm, EBD.

Victims of 2008 Lindo Creek killing finally laid to rest

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:39:38 +0000

THE remains of the eight miners who were killed at Lindo Creek in 2008 were buried in Georgetown’s Le Repentir Cemetery on Tuesday, after a funeral service at Lyken Funeral Parlour.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Law Enforcement, Seelall Persaud, yesterday said the GPF has since received the final report from its Jamaican counterpart as it relates to the identification of the remains, and there is no need for the remains to be stored any longer.
He added that three of the eight remains were identified and the relatives were informed, but only one showed up for the funeral service at Lyken on Tuesday.
Persaud said the government paid the funeral expenses, as it did for the storage of the remains prior to burial.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, in a press release on January 3, 2012, said that following a report about the deaths of Cecil Arokium and seven other miners, which occurred between June 12 and 24, 2008 at Arokium Mining Camp, Lindo Creek, Upper Berbice River, the Guyana Police Force (GPF), honouring its obligation, commenced an investigation.
Evidence found at the crime scene suggested that persons in the camp were burnt to the extent that none of them was identifiable. Suspected human remains, inclusive of feet, bones and skulls, among other body parts, were recovered.
Assistance in processing the crime scene was provided by members of the Special Anti-Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Major Investigation Task Force of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
The Home Affairs Ministry’s release also said investigators advised that the identification of the murdered victims could only have been done by way of DNA analysis, and as a result, samples of the human remains taken from the crime scene were transported by the Jamaican Team (which included a forensic pathologist) to the Jamaican Forensic Laboratory for analysis, while the remainder was stored at Lyken’s Funeral Parlour in Georgetown.
The ministry said the Jamaican Constabulary Force submitted a report of a partial analysis that was conducted, and promised to submit the full findings by the end of January 2012.
According to the ministry, the remains at Lyken’s Funeral Parlour formed a vital part of the evidence collected; and although it is usual for the bodies of persons killed in murders to be disposed of after a post-mortem examination by handing over their bodies to relatives; in the Lindo Creek case, what is exceptional is that the victims were not identified, and therefore could not have been handed over to anyone nor disposed of by the State, due to emotional issues normally associated with their relatives.
The result is that, apart from the samples taken to Jamaica, the remains were still at Lyken’s at the expense of the State.

Controversy
The ministry’s statement added that, because of the controversy surrounding the Lindo Creek incident, the GPF sought to exercise caution in the storage of the victims’ remains, and there was no viable option available at the time to facilitate storage of the remains, neither did the GPF anticipate that it would have taken a long period of time to obtain the DNA results.
The ministry maintained that none of the financial regulations was breached, and the expenditure was charged to the correct Line Item –‘6294 - Other’ in the current allocation of the GPF. This Line item caters for payment of expenses relative to cases of unnatural death, where the GPF has to intervene, which invariably leads to situations where it has to engage the services of funeral parlours for the transportation and storing of dead bodies prior to their disposal by way of burial by relatives of the deceased or the State, the ministry explained.
The ministry said it wishes to reiterate that, at all times, appropriate efforts are made to ensure that money allocated to it and its departments is expended in such a manner that value is received for such expenditure.
Those presumed to have been murdered in the Lindo Creek mass killings are Bonny Harry, Dax Arokium, Cecil Arokium, Clifton Wong, Nigel Torres, Compton Speirs, Horace Drakes and Lancelot Lee.

Mabaruma sub-region electricity problem being addressed –Local Government Minister Ganga Persaud

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:41:07 +0000

LOCAL Government Minister, Ganga Persaud has said there has been some difficulty in supplying electricity to the Mabaruma Sub-region in Region One (Barima Waini), and the sub-region is currently without electricity.

The electricity crisis has, however, been rectified in Moruca, the minister said while addressing a press conference yesterday.
He said that although a new generator was provided for the sub-region, several challenges are still facing the area in regard to the provision of electricity.
“We were able to procure a new generator for that sub region. The intention was to extend electricity supply in areas of close proximity to Mabaruma,” Persaud said. “The new generator is already in the region, but somewhere along the line, the regional administration must have overlooked the cost to accommodate such a generator in providing electricity.”
Minister Persaud said transformers within the sub- region do not have the capacity to withstand the pressure of the new generator. As such, several steps have been taken to bring them up to the capacity of the new generator, but this has not happened because of several reasons.
“We tried to rectify this (inability to handle the full generation capacity of the new generator), but there are several obstacles that are hindering this,” the minister pointed out.

We Apologise

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:42:23 +0000

THE Guyana Chronicle hereby retracts the offensive statement: “She had been paying for tenancy to the son of former Judge Jainarayan Singh but ceased doing so…..” published on page 2 of the Guyana Chronicle of Tuesday, September 11, 2012, under the caption: “Saturday night Croal St. fire….Access to offices restricted as arson inquiry continues”.

The Guyana Chronicle also sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to former Judge Jainarayan Singh (jnr) and family members.

YEST- providing a lifeline for youths

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:45:08 +0000

YOUNG people are considered the wealth of a nation; and cognisant of their role in the future development of themselves, families and country, the Administration continues to pave the way for their development, so as to prepare them for the world of work through the creation of learning institutes and training centres.

The Kuru Kuru Training College (KKTC) is one institution that has been providing a range of skills for hundreds of youths, drawn from all the administrative regions of the country.
This year, 207 youths have been admitted to the centre to pursue training at the residential facility, located on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, according to Assistant Director of Youth, Davenand Ramdatt.
They will now join the 1,727 others who would have benefited since the introduction of the Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training (YEST) programme in 2000.
The programme provides out-of-school, unskilled and unemployed youths with continuing education, and skills which are fully accredited and equated to Caribbean vocational qualifications. This programme is a unit under the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport which aims primarily to prepare participants for entry into other institutions of learning, employment in private or public sectors, and self-employment. Students are attached to work sites, and often benefit from employment with the same entities.
As part of their curriculum, students would also assist with maintenance works at Uncle Eddie’s Home and help the elderly within the Kuru Kuru neighbourhood.
Over the past five years, KKTC facilities have improved significantly with the acquisition of a generator which provides two hours of electricity to students at night to complete their homework.
Water, once sourced from a creek, is now supplied via an artesian well.
The Youth Ministry has also been collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Food for the Poor and other partners to construct new dormitories and classrooms, and engage in rehabilitation works.
Through acquisition of funding from Food for the Poor Guyana Inc, the centre and other partners constructed a 30X60-foot chicken coop, and purchased a vehicle which is utilised for driving lessons. A fully equipped computer lab has also been constructed.
The students are subjected to practical and continuous assessments, with a final test being administered at the end of the training cycle. Additionally, students are required to attain at least 85 percent attendance in order to be evaluated and given their certificates at the conclusion of training courses.
KKTC and the Sophia Training Centre in Georgetown are proof of government’s attention being placed on youths, to provide them with skills training and continuing education.
Skills areas offered at KKTC include: Business studies, carpentry, electrical installation, joinery, masonry, motor mechanics, plumbing, welding and fabrication, and garment construction.
During the ten-month period of attendance at the college, students are trained in the skill of their choice. Uniform, meals, a monthly stipend, counselling/guidance, sports, culture and health benefits are also offered to students.
The Sophia Training Centre accepts youths between the age of 16 and 17 years, who must complete the entry-level test before being selected to pursue the training. As many as 100 youths are trained over a six-month period in the following skills: Catering and home management, office administration and information technology, refrigeration and air conditioning, handicraft, welding and fabrication, and masonry.
Students from this programme are engaged in a four-week attachment to an agency towards the end of their training.
Testimonies from past students have shown that they have become meaningfully engaged, with a fair number forming their own small business establishments.

Cabinet grants ‘no objection’ to contracts for several sectors -including housing, water, & forensic laboratory

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:50:07 +0000

HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon, disclosed at a press briefing yesterday the contracts to which Cabinet granted ‘no objections’ after its members met on Tuesday, September 11, 2012.

Among the awarded contracts which he disclosed were those of the housing, water, and electricity sectors. Dr. Luncheon said that a total of $251M was awarded for four lots at Plantation Peter’s Hall, East Bank Demerara, in Region 4 (Demerara/ Mahaica). He said the contract was for construction of roads and structures, and installation of the pure water distribution network.
Dr. Luncheon also revealed that three lots were awarded on the East Bank of Demerara for the installation of Guyana Water Incorporated utility networks. He said the first lot, which is from Providence to Diamond, totalled $40.2M; the second lot, Covent Garden to Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) Sales Office, was for $33.4M; while the third lot, situated from DDL Sales Office to Diamond, totalled $23.2M. This, he said, amounted to an overall total of approximately G$96.9M.
According to Dr. Luncheon, $46.5M was awarded for the provision of electricity for the Sand Hills Secondary School Dormitory and the teachers quarters in Region 9(Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo).
Dr Luncheon also disclosed that a total of US$127.6 was awarded for the forensic laboratory which is situated in the compound of the University of Guyana Turkeyen Campus. This money, he said, is for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of security equipment. Also, US$72.7 was awarded for the air conditioning equipment for the forensic laboratory.

GPL prepaid meter selling itself as preferred choice -CEO Dindyal

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:51:49 +0000

GUYANA Power & Light Inc. (GPL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Bharat Dindyal, said on Monday that the prepaid metering project is selling itself, and is the preferred choice of consumers countrywide.

He made these remarks in announcing at a press conference in the utility’s Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown headquarters that the service provider has since ordered 12,000 more such meters.
Dindyal said demand for the prepaid meters is so high that it is placing a significant burden on GPL, because the order GPL placed costs US$1.2M.
He pointed out that prepaid meters are provided and installed by GPL free of charge, but the delivery costs the company US$130 each.
Dindyal remarked: “I think we no longer need to sell prepaid meters. Almost all the consumers who are using these meters have good things to say, to the extent that people are coming in large numbers asking to be converted from post-paid to prepaid; but the problem for us is keeping up with that demand.”
When GPL introduced the prepaid metering system for domestic and small businesses, sections of Georgetown and Berbice were chosen to conduct pilot schemes. Places chosen in Georgetown were the Bourda Market; Newtown, Kitty; and parts of Festival City in North Ruimveldt; and in Berbice, Black Bush Polder was chosen because it is representative of the wider society.
GPL did the introduction with two types of meters, the Cashpower Power Rail Split and the Jade Split. Those come in two parts: the actual meter, and an interface unit commonly referred to as the Customer Interface Unit (CIU).
The CIU is a 12-key keypad with audible feedback that allows for the entry of tokens and the accessing of various management functions. It has a custom liquid crystal display which shows the remaining credit among other features. Each customer will be provided a pamphlet outlining the available features and how to access them.
The CIU is mainly a remote extension of the meter, and communication between the two units takes place in real time. It can be set to information mode by the entry of a three-digit code by the customer. In this mode, electricity consumption over the current or past 30 days or 24 hours can be displayed. These, along with the display of instantaneous power consumption, can aid the consumer in prudent management of electrical energy.
The CIU provides both visible and audible alarms to indicate that the credit level is at or below preset “low level” limits. It does not measure power consumption, and damage to the unit and/or communication cable will in no way interfere with the provision of electricity to the consumer, or the related decrease in available credit. However, such damage will prevent consumers from entering a new voucher into the meter when the available credit expires. To avoid the inconvenience, consumers are encouraged to take care of the CIU and the communication cable.
The Pubic Relations Department, which can be contacted on telephone number 225-1471, fax 231-0105 or e-mail publicrelations@gplinc.com, recommends the prepaid meter as great for energy conservation.
It said: “If you find that you are using too much energy, you can respond immediately by turning off appliances within your home. You will never believe you can save so much in electricity until you start monitoring your own use.”

Collaborative workshop targets sexual, reproductive rights of disabled

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:56:58 +0000

THE Disability and Rehabilitation Services within the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) started a three-day workshop Tuesday, themed ‘Understanding Sexual & Reproductive Health.

Targeting persons living with disabilities, the rationale is it has been recognised, over the years, that persons with disability have been denied their societal rights even though there are steps in place to eliminate the stigma attached to them.
Specifically in the area of sexual and reproductive health (SRH), there is a great need for those persons to become more educated in this regard and the initiative has come at a very important time, when Government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are striving to completely eliminate this issue in the twenty-first century.
Speaking at a session, hosted at the National Library on Church Street, Georgetown, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Health Ministry, Mr. Trevor Thomas acknowledged the timely intervention.
He said: This comes at a time when we, at the ministry, are bringing a closure to the five-year strategic plan, reviewing it and looking at health sector strategies that will take us to 2020.”
More importantly Thomas said the ministry is receiving support from the UNFP and it is placing more emphasis on the current curriculum for the midwifery programme to ensure that proper training is imparted to deliver quality services in this regard.
He continued: “When I was speaking at the opening of this workshop, I made note that we have got to recognise that providing quality health service has many facets and the whole concept of teaching and learning is one that you have got to be constantly looking at.”

Gaps
Thomas said the review of the curriculum is to ensure that the gaps, as they relate to the situations, are filled and the requirements of the standards of the international confederation of midwifery are met.
“This is to also ensure that those who are trained as midwives can perform the services that are required in a modern society.”
Continuing, he said the ministry is looking at improving quality services and setting health standards in terms of what to guarantee the public at every level within the system.
Thomas observed that, even though in this society words are used to cushion what is the reality, sometimes, with regard to persons living with disabilities, it is not enough to soften the term disability.
“Unless we go beyond using words and actually recognise that these people have rights and ensure that, in the delivery of services, those rights are recognised, we are not moving forward,” he declared.
Therefore, Thomas contended, having this programme serves to reorient dedication towards recognising the rights of persons living with disabilities.
According to the UNFPA’s Programme Officer, Babsie Giddings, an estimated 10 percent of the world’s populations -650 million people - live with a disability and, all too often, the SRH of persons with disabilities has been overlooked by both the disability community and those working on SRH.
“Persons with disabilities have the same needs for SRH service as everyone else,” she observed.

Vulnerability
She said it is a fact that persons with disabilities may, actually, have greater needs for SRH education and care than person without disabilities, due to their increased vulnerability to abuse.
Giddings stated that the challenges to SRH faced by persons with disabilities are not necessarily part of having a disability but, instead, reflect lack of social attention, legal protection, understanding and support.
“Persons with disabilities often cannot obtain even more information about SRH, thus they remain ignorant about basic facts about themselves, their bodies and their rights to define what they do and do not want,” she asserted.
Gidding said persons with disabilities may be denied the right to establish relationships or forced into unwanted marriages, where they may be treated as housekeepers or objects of abuse rather, than as a member of the family.
“A group of persons with disabilities fit the common pattern of structural risks for HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, for example, high poverty rates of illiteracy, lack of access to health resources and power when negotiating safer sex,” she added.
She said persons living with disabilities are up to three times more likely than non-disabled persons to be victims of physical and sexual abuse and rape.
In her view, persons with intellectual and mental disabilities are the most vulnerable since they are, sometimes, placed in homes, hospitals, groups or other living conditions where they may not only be prevented from making informed and independent decisions about their SRH, but where they may also face an increased risk of abuse and violence.

Dependent
Additionally she said violence against persons with disabilities is compounded by the fact that the victim may be physically and financially dependent on those who abuse them.
However, research has shown that persons with disabilities are as sexually active as persons living without disabilities.
“Despite this, too often, their sexuality has been ignored and their reproductive rights denied,”Giddings said.
She pointed out that most existing policies and programmes are concentrating on the prevention of pregnancy but ignore that many persons with disabilities will, eventually, have children of their own.
“At worst, forced sterilisation and forced abortion have been imposed on persons living with disabilities. SRH services are often inaccessible to persons with disabilities for many reasons,” she said, including physical barriers, lack of disability-related clinical services and stigma and discrimination.
In many situations, these health barriers include lack of physical access to facilities such as transportation, ramps, adapted examination tables, information and communication materials, health care providers, negative attitudes, co-ordination in health centres and funding of health insurance.

Croal Street search yields unlicensed gun

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:59:23 +0000

POLICE arrested a man yesterday after finding an unlicensed gun in his possession.

The police report said it happened about 02:10 hrs, as ranks on a mobile patrol, stopped him and a search of his person on Croal Street, Georgetown, yielded a .38 Smith and Wesson revolver.
Charges will be laid against him shortly.

Signing of Amaila Falls EPC agreement brings project closer to fruition-Dr Luncheon

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:00:40 +0000

EVEN though plans were not executed ‘according to the script’ as far as the construction of the Amaila Falls Access Road is concerned, Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon believes that the

recent signing of the Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) agreement is more significant in bringing the project to fruition.
The EPC for the construction of the Amaila Falls hydro project and transmission line was executed in Xian, China, by Sithe Global and China Railway First Group (CRFG). The contract was executed by Mr. Bruce Wrobel, Chief Executive Officer of Sithe Global and Dr. Sun Yonggang, Chairman of China Railway First Group.
“I would be the first to concede that things ain’t happen the way we planned where this road is concerned; it’s not gone according to the script. But I think armed with what we have achieved (the signing), it has brought additional energy to this equation,” he remarked.
Dr Luncheon, also Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), was speaking yesterday at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at the Office of the President, Shiv Chandarpal Drive, Georgetown.
There were a number of hurdles that had to be addressed where this project is concerned, he remarked, but signing the agreement was probably major among them as a tremendous amount of energy and capital had to be invested in achieving this outcome.
Dr Luncheon said though the access road has its own difficulties surrounding it but they are energised by what has happened with the signing. “All the other things are, I wouldn’t say insignificant, in the face of this major accomplishment. If you get the world record in the 100’s, getting it in the 50 is a lesser challenge,” he remarked.
He reported how President Donald Ramotar described the EPC signing as an important step in bringing closer to fruition the project and hailed the news of the execution of the agreement, labeling it historic.
Dr Luncheon said Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh declared in his address at the event that the signing provided for the single largest investment in Guyana and one of the largest Chinese investments in the Caribbean.
The minister noted the transformational aspect of the project, insisting on how profound it was in allowing Guyana to move from a fossil fuel dependent economy to one that would now be primarily renewable energy.
According to Luncheon, the key players include the Government of Guyana, the Chinese Development Bank, the Inter American Development Bank, Sithe Global and their principals in Black Water Group, and the China Railway First Group and their principals, China Railway Engineering Group.
At the signing event, Wrobel said: “We are pleased to be associated with this project, long in the making, that will make a huge difference to the people of Guyana and is representative of the globalised world that we inhabit, a project with many important players, such as the CRFG, CDB, IDB, the Government of Norway, and the GoG.”

Manickchand blasts Kaieteur News over inaccurate Moleson Creek Primary report

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:02:12 +0000

MINISTER of Education, Priya Manickchand has expressed disgust at an article published in the September 11 edition of the Kaieteur News about the temporary closure of the Moleson Creek Primary School which featured a front page picture of 14 children.

The article headlined “What is the truth? – ministry says closure because only two school aged children in area, but residents bring out 14” claimed that there are more than two children available to attend the Moleson Creek Primary School but the ministry still chose to close the institution.
Ms. Manickchand was particularly upset that the faces of 14 young children were printed on the front page of Kaieteur News, which is a breach of an important principle in journalism that restricts the publishing of names and faces of minors.
In addition, with the assistance of Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne) Schools Welfare Officer, Alfa Mohamed and Regional Education Officer, Shafiran Bhajan, she proved that only two of the 14 children in the picture were eligible to attend the Moleson Creek Primary School.

‘It is destructive of a country, it is destructive to the people of a country when newspapers and publications start making up stories just so that they can sell newspapers; or start twisting the truth of stories, or publishing a twisted truth simply because they did not take the time to confirm whether the stories they plan to publish are true,’- Ms. Manickchand

An investigation carried out by the Ministry of Education showed that of the 14 children, four attend the Crabwood Creek Nursery School and are therefore not the required age to enter the Moleson Creek Primary School. Six of the students live in the Jackson Creek area which is closer to Crabwood Creek Primary and hence, attend that school since the ministry places children in the school closest to their homes.
Additionally, two of the students who are from Moleson Creek attend Darul Akram, a private school in Crabwood Creek. That leaves us with two children who are from Moleson Creek and the only two at this time who are eligible to attend the Moleson Creek Primary School. Following the temporary closure of the school, the two boys were relocated to the Crabwood Creek Primary School.
Chief Education Officer (CEO), Olato Sam explained that the Moleson Creek Primary School could not remain open because it did not have the minimum amount of 25 students for enrolment. The school was closed temporarily because the ministry cannot sustain it for only two students.
Regional Education Officer, Shafiran Bhajan advised that teachers are not the issue for the Moleson Creek Primary School. According to her, a teacher is available for that school but could not be placed there to teach only two students.
Ms. Manickchand further stated that if Kaieteur News continues to report in this manner, she will put a temporary halt on engagements with the publication. She reiterated that she, the CEO and the Permanent Secretary are available 24 hours every day to answer questions and verify any information before it is published.
According to the minister, the media have a duty to publish facts even when those facts are critical of the ministry and/or government. However, she believes that it was beyond carelessness for the Editor and management of Kaieteur News to allow the picture to be published without the information being properly verified.
“It is destructive of a country, it is destructive to the people of a country when newspapers and publications start making up stories just so that they can sell newspapers; or start twisting the truth of stories, or publishing a twisted truth simply because they did not take the time to confirm whether the stories they plan to publish are true,” she said.

Motor cyclist killed while attempting to undertake-police

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:02:34 +0000

POLICE have taken a man into custody following a fatal accident on Bath Public Road, West Coast Berbice, yesterday morning.

It happened about 08:30 hrs, resulting in the death of motor cyclist Ivan Ephard, 24, of Cottage, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.
Police said investigations revealed that Ephard was driving his motor cycle when it is alleged he attempted to undertake a motor car on the inside and collided with the vehicle which was turning at the same time.
As a result of the collision, Ephard lost control of his machine and was hurled onto a parked forklift.
He was taken to Mahaicony Cottage Hospital where he succumbed while receiving medical treatment.
The driver of the car involved is being detained by the police.

CAL to operate direct Georgetown/Toronto flights

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:02:51 +0000

CARIBBEAN Airlines Limited (CAL) will be operating a twice weekly non-stop scheduled service, Georgetown to Toronto, for the period September 10, 2012 to September 9, 2015.

Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon made the announcement yesterday at his weekly post-Cabinet press conference at the Office of the President, Shiv Chandarpal Drive.
He said the request by Caribbean Airlines was approved when Cabinet met last Tuesday.

Mother’s search for missing son over -son with father in Berbice

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:03:07 +0000

A mother’s search for her missing son came to an end after she received, on Tuesday, a telephone call from the boy’s father saying the child is with him at his home in Berbice.

Although relieved that her son, Shakeel Flatts, 10, of Lot 123 Section ‘C’ Sophia, Greater Georgetown is safe, Euclyn Burnette noted that, after weeks of looking for the boy, she is relieved; but feels that her child’s father could have informed her that he was taking the child away with him.
The woman told the Guyana Chronicle that Flatts has been with his father at Albion, Berbice since he vanished while they were at a church service on July 22, 2012; but neither the child nor his father had told her anything, and she was under the impression that the boy was missing and may have come to harm.
Yesterday, the relieved Burnette said she is happy her son is found, and she would like to be reunited with him, but his father did not say when he would return the boy to her.
The single mother of five added that her son had accompanied her to Kingdom Hall at Stone Avenue, Campbellville, Georgetown; and somehow, during the service, he had slipped away, and despite numerous searches, his whereabouts had remained unknown.
She explained that her son had gone away during daylight hours a few times before; but, at nightfall, he would spend the night by his aunt who lives in Sophia before returning home. Accordingly, she was clueless as to where he would have gone.
The pupil of Sophia Primary School is a habitual delinquent, who roams the streets while his mother is away at work, since she is the sole bread winner of the family.

Guyana, Brazil to beef up bilateral defence co-operation

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:03:23 +0000

THE Minister of Defence of Brazil, Ambassador Celso Amorim, accompanied by representatives from the Brazilian Armed Force, paid an official visit to Guyana earlier this week, when he paid a courtesy call on President Donald Ramotar. He also met with Prime

Minister, Samuel Hinds and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett.
A working meeting was held between Dr. Roger Luncheon, Secretary to the Defence Board of Guyana and Minister Amorim at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides reiterated their desire to intensify bilateral defence co-operation with a view to promoting mutual trust and ensuring that the principle of peaceful solutions to controversies continue to prevail in the relations between South American States.
They reviewed the existing programme of co-operation between Guyana and Brazil in the area of defence and agreed to the implementation of a number of measures aimed at expanding and strengthening collaboration, not only at the bilateral but also at the regional level, within the context of existing initiatives of the Union of South American Nations.
In this regard they agreed to adopt the following decisions:

i. To create a Guyana/Brazil Bilateral Defence Working Group (BDWG), in order to provide oversight and follow-up to the defence agenda between Guyana and Brazil, through annual meetings of Joint Chiefs-of-Staff level or their equivalent, and three sub-groups dedicated to issues relating to the Army, Navy and Air Force;

ii. To increase co-operation in the area of military training and education at Brazilian military institutions, through the provision of additional offers to military personnel from Guyana;

iii. To promote the co-ordination of military operations in their respective border areas, in order to ensure more effective results and to enhance the integration and stability of the respective communities;

iv. To intensify collaboration in the area of defence procurement through the exchange of information and expertise;

v. To promote collaboration with civil society through the development of joint projects in the border areas aimed at the delivery of services to those communities;

vi. To commence co-operation in the area of geo technology applied to defence and security, through the training of officials from Guyana at the SIVAM (Brazilian Amazon Surveillance Integrated System) facility in Manaus, Brazil.

vii. To send a military mission from Brazil to prepare an assesment of technical expertise that can be provided to advise and/or, work within the Guyana Defence

Force to increase expertise in deficient areas.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Celso Amorim thanked the Secretary to the Defence Board of Guyana, Dr. Roger Luncheon, for the kind hospitality offered to him and the Brazilian delegation and extended an invitation to him to visit Brazil at a mutually convenient date.

Coast Guard commended for doing a good job

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:08:18 +0000

I wish to take this opportunity to salute the Coast Guard for work well done. For too long our fisherfolk have being harassed, beaten and robbed at sea.

I wish in the same breath to sound a call on the magistracy to let the full force of the law take its course. Only then, when examples are made, that some of the culprits will come to the realisation the hurt and pain they have inflicted on families. The Guyana Police Force needs to improve its patrol and service in the Pomeroon River so as to complement the GDF coast guard.
Once again, hats off to our prestigious army coast guard.

What a slap in the face of students

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:09:27 +0000

WHAT a slap in the face of students. The University of Guyana, Turkeyen, announces “improvements” in new academic year.

This announcement was made at the ceremonial opening at Turkeyen on Friday. “Improvements?” That, I am waiting to see. UG is starting off on the wrong foot by opening two weeks late-- and Turkeyen is promising “improvements”! Two weeks that will cost many students--time that could have been used to commence studies so that the semester could have been wrapped up in an early and timely manner. This university is nowhere near serious when it comes to its students’ welfare. I am yet to uplift my student ID/ badge, for which processing began sometime in January this year, a badge that I was supposed to have since September of last year! This is the ineptitude I speak about. Improvements?

The Turkeyen Campus had its “opening” last Friday. What’s the point of these ceremonies? The Berbice Campus was never closed. Its doors have been opened throughout the entire August vacation, functioning, delivering to the community, being there for people and children. Up to last week the campus distributed tons of books to several organisations. UG Berbice Campus (UGBC) is too giving at times I think.

It’s a pity UGBC does not have autonomy. This new academic year would not have started two weeks late. UGBC, I am sure, has been rearing to go weeks ago! I hope UGBC becomes separated from Turkeyen soon and all Berbicians should call for this.

The improvements talked about on Friday are just another nice speech. It’s going to be elections time again for the student government. They will come around with nicely coined catch phrases and empty promises for votes, in Berbice. They shall not have my vote; none of them. They are all a pack of power-grabbers, including this current person in charge. What have they done for improvement of life for students at the Berbice campus? Does their vision even extend to Berbice?

Much of the improvements I have been seeing in Berbice are because of the dynamic leadership that exists at the Berbice campus. Leadership that does not talk, talk, talk, and more talk, rather leadership that acts and acts swiftly.

Turkeyen is hindering the full potential of UG Berbice and the late opening is a major blow to all students in Berbice, since I am sure that all lecturers and staff in Berbice were all ready to work on the scheduled opening date in August.

It is another academic year to watch Turkeyen self-destruct. Let’s sit back and watch how it all pans out.

What is Mr. Kissoon’s point?

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:09:54 +0000

Dear Mr.Kissoon,
I read your comments in your column on Tuesday September 11 concerning the COI that was established to enquire and report to Roraima Airways
management its findings and recommendations concerning the discovery of illicit drugs during the delivery of catering services by an aviation security agent (AVSEC) at the Cheddi Jagan International on Monday September 3, 2012.

Just to clarify in case you missed it, the COI was established to probe the event and examine our SOPs, as an internal enquiry for the information and if necessary corrective action by the administration of Roraima Airways

The findings will be used by us to improve our own internal systems so as to hopefully make it more difficult for such an event recurring.

The COI is not meant at any time to interfere with or substitute the work of the state’s law enforcement agencies, nor is it going to be examining their systems, procedures, or their roles.

I am not sure I understand your comments concerning Mr. Bond's involvement in this COI. He is a young, professional lawyer and in my opinion is respected for his independence and intelligence. This is not a political issue.
Just so you know, Mr. Nigel Hughes is both my personal lawyer and my company’s corporate lawyer and has been so for many years, while Mr. Chris Ram has been my company's auditors for 18 years.

And what is your point about Mr. Bond?

Congress in denial mode

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:10:34 +0000

THE spectre of corruption has come back to haunt the Congress-led UPA with the Comptroller and Auditor-General coming down heavily on the Centre for its flawed policies on coal blocks allocation, airport and power projects.

Coming on the heels of the Commonwealth games scam and the 2G Spectrum issue, “Coalgate” has clearly hobbled the UPA government, making its continuance in power untenable. The recent logjam in parliament with the BJP-led opposition stalling all proceedings and baying for the Prime Minister’s resignation, had been caused by the CAG report that the government’s coal block allocation had favoured certain private parties and caused a loss of Rs.1.86 lakh crore to the exchequer. This is another record-breaking amount, after the loss of Rs.1.76 lakh crore in the 2G spectrum scam. It is really shameful to witness so many corruption scams of epic proportions getting unravelled so frequently. What is more shocking is the manner in which the UPA is brazenly defending itself instead of putting a stop to corruption. It was not very long ago that a senior Union Minister said that the losses in the 2G scam were notional and that there was no actual loss incurred by the government. The UPA must come out of its denial mode and admit its mistakes.
Indeed, same brazeness was evident in the “no loss” argument given by senior ministers and Congress leaders regarding coal blocks allocation. That the UPA government has used the same “zero loss” argument which it used in the 2G Spectrum case, in defending coal- gate is pathetic. In fact, Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram’s defence of coal allocation that no loss has been incurred because the coal is still unexploited is really amusing. Seriously, who is the finance minister trying to fool? Nobody in his right mind will buy this weird reasoning. The coal he is talking about does not belong to the country anymore. It has been given away to individuals. Does then Mr. Chidambaram plan to withdraw the licences awarded under the non-competitive bidding policy, as was done in the 2G case by the Supreme Court, and allocate them through competitive bidding? Because that is the only way he can convince the nation of his presumptive “zero loss” theory.
Going by Mr. Chidambaram’s bizarre argument, the general view is that the government is trying to dodge accountability. In fact, its defence of the allocation is full of holes and contradictory. That said, Sonia Gandhi’s declaration of war on the BJP, egged on by the UPA coterie, shows one thing for certain:that the party is seeking its escape by levelling counter allegations to castigate the opposition.
No government can afford to be autocratic and stamp out dissent any longer. The UPA chairperson knows that a string of scams have put her and the Congress on the back foot, but she is still shadow-boxing with the BJP. The Congress appears to have embarked on the path of counter aggression without making any effort to win back public trust. The media has blamed the BJP for paralyzing the parliament over the damming report. But no one seems to understand that the BJP did not invent the coal scam. Also, it is not the opposition’s fault that it was exposed by the CAG. Instead of blaming the BJP the Congress would have done well to hold talks with the opposition to ensure that the entire session was not a washout.
In the din of the denials and defences of CAG’s methods of computing losses, we must not overlook the basic question of government inefficiency, arbitrariness and violation of the principle of transparency and accountability. The Prime Minister’s confusing reply in parliament is his government’s policy of allocating coal blocks is far from convincing. It has become a ritual with the Congress leaders to attack others to defend themselves. And Dr. Singh is no exception. He appeared to blame the BJP- ruled states for his government’s policy. What he has conveniently forgotten to say is that Congress-ruled states like Maharashtra were also initially opposed to auctioning and all the states subsequently agreed to the procedure. Likewise, he has failed to explain why the coal ministry was in a hurry to allocate the blocks when the policy was yet to be finalised. His argument that any delay in allocation would have hampered development does not hold any water.
Apart from blaming the opposition, the scam-ridden UPA II is out to gag the CAG. In fact, people were surprised when the PM pointed out that the CAG’s computation of losses was flawed and misleading. The government‘s strategy of sustaining its bellicose stance is neither politically prudent nor morally defensible. Dr. Singh is morally responsible for the loss to the exchequer. He cannot hide under the pretext of blaming the state governments saying that they were against competitive bidding. His statement is not a good enough response to the controversy surrounding his government. He must respect the views of the opposition and not belittle them. Inarguably, it is Congress that needs to come clean on the issue as the El Supremo of the nation, the buck stops with the PM. If only the government were ready to come out of its denial mode, it would not have seemed to be in a hurry indigence of its policies or crude in its attack on the opposition.
It has also to be pointed out that by stalling parliament, the BJP has projected itself as an irresponsible party. Going full throttle on corruption, the leading party of the opposition is using the CAG report to try and embarrass the UPA. That is why instead of using the Parliament as a platform to grill and expose the government on its failings, the party revels in obstructionist tactics to deflect all attention from the chinks in its armour. Its leaders do not seem to be interested in a meaningful debate in the House. By refusing to let the PM clarify the issue, the BJP either wants to help the government get out of the crisis or is apprehensive of exposing some selections in its own cupboard.
The magnitude of “Coalgate” is enormous. But the principal opposition has failed to expose the government through the most effective and proper platform available to it. It is evident that the BJP is no longer interested in functioning democratically. Stalling the parliament is no substitute. Ever since the CAG submitted its report in the coal blocks allocation. The BJP has remained adamant on the PM’s resignation. This stand has seen many precious days of parliament, which could have offered scope for some meaningful discussion go to waste. The reports on the 2G Scam and coal block allocation have not been discussed at all. They have only been used to obstruct parliament, to fill newspaper columns and dominate news on television channels. One wonders why the BJP develops cold feet when it comes to discussing a scam in parliament. Could the party be avoiding it because the states ruled by it are also mired in corruption?
It is true that in a democratic system, the opposition has a major role to play. But the manner in which our honourable MPs are handling the proceedings in both houses is a matter of shame. Political parties often resort to shouting at each other on the floor of parliament instead of conducting a coherent debate on policy issues. Repeated adjournments and suspension of legislative business have become the order of the day. The lack of healthy debate is lowering the common man’s faith in elected representatives. It is indeed sad that three bills were passed in parliament without any debate. Surely, does it suit the government to let parliament be stalled?
It is time the parties stop fooling the public and appreciate the intelligence of the common man.

Pirates are parasites and deadly terrorists

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:11:11 +0000

GDF Coast Guard captures pirates after fishermen robberies.

QUICK action by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard, yesterday morning, resulted in the capture of three pirates off the Waini sea coast in the North West District and the recovery of five outboard engines, fish, fish glue, a global positioning system (GPS) and fishing equipment.
Fishermen have been attacked, robbed and {terrorised } by pirates many times but the government has put measures in place to stem the attacks and protect the victims, their boats, engines and livelihood.
I, like most Guyanese, am extremely happy to read this report which used the word "terrorised".
These parasites are nothing but deadly terrorists and must be tried as such and be given a life sentence once found guilty as charged.
A life sentence will send a clear and powerful message that society will not tolerate terrorists in Guyana.
One can only imagine how helpless and the sheer terror those poor, hard- working fishermen felt while being attacked and robbed.
One can only imagine how their families felt when hearing news of their loved ones being robbed and terrorised.
Had those fishermen resisted, their lives would have been wiped out and for what? For trying to make an honest living for themselves and for their families?
The Guyana Coast Guard did their job and now the court of law must do its job to ensure justice is served.
The only way for justice to make sure these terrorists do not get the chance to terrorise innocent hard-working people again is to try them for what they truly are.
Thanks to the Guyana Coast Guard for doing their job.

Pleased about consideration of City Hall debt recovery unit

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:11:37 +0000

I am happy to see that the Mayor and City Council are considering establishing a debt-recovery unit to address its dilemma of unpaid taxes and other revenues.

This is indeed commendable in view of the fact that just over two years ago (April 2010 to be exact) I had suggested in a letter to the editor that a debt-recovery policy could inform the Council’s efforts in that regard. Please allow me to share those thoughts with readers who might have missed my contribution. I wrote, “I am firmly of the view that I am not alone in the belief that there are doable solutions to the problems of the Georgetown City Council. This thought was borne out in a recent article which argued for “rule changes” by the Private Sector Commission (PSC), and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).” The argument makes the pitch that the PSC and GCCI should encourage their constituent members to comply with their obligations as corporate citizens. Chief among the myriad problems which beset the city is environmental pollution caused by improper waste disposal practices which is not helped by the City Council’s perennial claim of inadequate funds. Another is the lack of support in collecting outstanding revenues owed by businesses and private property owners.

What the foregoing indicate is that there is an urgent need for a city business plan in the first instance; and secondly, for a realistic corporate revenue and debt-collection policy. This suggestion presupposes that one (or both) is currently in place and might be due for review in terms of an implementation action plan to address old and/or emergent issues. Of course, any proposed policy should apply to all relevant departments of the City Council, and focus on debt recovery and charges with particular emphasis on the service user’s ability to pay Council’s rates and taxes. In other words, the approach to recovery must be sensitive to debtors’ circumstances while weighing the fact that the City Council’s ability to provide services is dependent on available financial resources.

In cases where a debtor has more than one debt with the City Council, the payments could be divided across the outstanding debts in proportion to the value of those debts, with the debtor’s agreement. However, this could be subject to reviews to adjust the spread of payments in instances of a default on the agreement or if a further debt is accrued. The Greater Manchester Consortium is a joint initiative which employs external bailiff companies to recover debt under standards and guidelines drawn up by the City Council and other Greater Manchester authorities, with particular regard to vulnerable categories of services users.

I believe I have heard that the Georgetown City Council encourages its customers to contact the Council if they are in difficulty meeting their payments to get advice on the management of their financial obligations free of charge. This is commendable, since such an approach can make the difference between getting agreed payments and getting nothing. In the undesirable scenario of a bad debt, a mechanism should be in place where it could be written back into the recovery process if the circumstances are proved to have changed in favour of the debtor, or in the event an absconded debtor is located. If the debtor is able to make voluntary additional payments, these should be accepted in order to reduce the payment period needed to clear the debt.

The advantage of the role of communication as a factor in the debt- recovery equation can never be overemphasised, and that is where the new role of the PSC and GCCI comes in. Debtors should be encouraged to contact the City Treasurer’s Department to utilise the available financial assessment and advisory services whether they are in-house or provided by external contractor. Augmenting these initiatives could be telephone calls, personal interactions, website information, and public service announcements to promote the services offered.

Monitoring would be an important process to assess the effectiveness of the policy (implementation) since it can – in addition to highlighting and responding to cases of hardship, have an impact on the rate of collection of money owed. All of the foregoing notwithstanding, feedback via information about the effectiveness of the Council's policy could be used to carry out reviews at regular intervals. It is suggested that this policy document will establish a standard approach to dealing with customers in a fair and consistent way, while also protecting the City Council’s need to collect revenue to provide future services.

Finally editor, a corporate debt-recovery policy will ensure that recovery action is professional, uniform and timely, taking into account the individual debtor’s circumstances to ensure that undue hardship is not suffered; and reinforce the existing framework to cost effectively pursue debts owed to the City Council by ensuring that citizens pay their debts and (in the case of PSC/GCCI constituents) fulfil their corporate obligations.’ Having said all of the foregoing, I sincerely hope that we don’t have to wait another two years before the Council addresses the introduction of a traffic congestion tax about which I made a few suggestions in March 2010.

Waited eight hours for processing of passport application

Admin2 — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:12:04 +0000

I visited the Passport Office in Georgetown last week. I arrived there at approximately 07:05 hrs after travelling from Region Number 6.
First I must compliment the Chief Immigration Officer for the building of a shed to accommodate persons applying

for passports. Previously, persons had to wait in the rain and sun for hours before they could enter the building.
While I commend them for this gesture I am disappointed and frustrated at the length of time it took for me to get through.
I was in that shed for exactly five hours before I entered the building. Imagine if that shed was not there I would have been standing in the scorching sun for five hours. After I got into the building it was another three hours before my turn came.
Do you think it is fair to spend eight hours to obtain a passport? I had other things to do that day but could not do so. Myself, and others just sat there while persons kept going to the officers and getting through.
I think if everyone wait their turn this would not happen. I am not against them helping the elderly, pregnant mothers and small children, but persons just know someone there and go and get through. When I look at the procedure it does not take long for a person to be processed so you can imagine how many persons are getting priority treatment.
The other problem is the toilet facilities. Persons were told that the toilet would not be opened until 8 o’clock. Can you imagine travelling from home so early in the morning, getting there only to be told you cannot use the toilet until 8 o’clock?
I would like the Chief Immigration Officer to look into this matter urgently. Persons who have to leave their homes from four and five o’clock in the mornings to travel to Georgetown are frustrated with this system.

AFC starting free citizens’ clinics tomorrow

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:26:04 +0000

THE Alliance for Change (AFC) announced yesterday that it is offering free legal and other advice to members of the public.

It will be providing free, expert advice to members of the public from September 15, at its Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica) Office, Joseph Pollydore Street and Cemetery Road, Lodge, Georgetown.
The announcement said Attorney-at-law, Mr. Nigel Hughes and Quantity Surveyor, Mr. David Patterson will be available and members of the public are invited to consult with the two experts, for which there will be no charges.
The AFC said it intends to conduct these citizens’ clinics in Georgetown on a regular basis, where experts in various fields will provide free advice to members of the public.
The citizens’ clinics are open to all members of the public, regardless of their political persuasion and there are also plans to extend this service to other areas in the country, the party sad.

NCN Debate No. 6 – No NICIL corruption specified by independent panelist

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:26:35 +0000

THE penultimate part of the National Communications Network (NCN) debate series on corruption has left the opposition and an independent panelist yet to identify a specific instance of corruption and state what exactly it entails.

Wednesday night’s debate series focused on the National Industrial & Commercial Investments Ltd. (NICIL) and the charges of corruption levelled against the agency by the parliamentary opposition.
While representatives of the opposition failed to show up, Christopher Ram, Chartered Accountant and member of the Alliance for Change party, was present in an independent capacity. Other panelists were Mrs. Marcia Nadir-Sharma, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of NICIL; Anil Nandlall, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs; and Irfaan Ali, Minister of Housing and Water. The debate was moderated by Professor Al Creighton, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana.
A summary of the debate by AG Nandlall aptly described not only Wednesday night’s debate, but previous ones as well. “Once again the nation is seeing and being exposed to the reality, that they have been misled and there is a deliberate attempt to continue to mislead people on many aspects of governmental conduct and activities and to perpetuate the myth and perception that corruption dominates governmental conduct.”
Minister Nandlall pointed out that NICIL, which has already generated a lot of criticism and propaganda, has been the victim of this approach by the opposition.
While Ram addressed NICIL’s financial matters, including the repeated accusation of non-submission of financial records, he was presented with the details of submissions up to 2010 by both Minister Nandlall and Mrs. Nadir-Sharma.
The AG decried the fact that while Ram’s interpretation differs from the government’s and the Auditor General’s, as well as Ram’s misinterpretation of the laws, “he has not said to us, as I have repeatedly asked, out of the 150 transactions which has been done by NICIL, which one he feels is above board or which ones have some element of corruption in them.”
Throwing the ball into Minister Ali’s court however, provided the viewers with facts of corruption in 1991 and 1992. Producing a document prepared by Dr. Odeen Ishmael, currently serving as Guyana’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Kuwait, Minister Ali presented details of corruption in the sales of complexes of the Guyana Rice Milling Marketing Authority (GRMMA). GRMMA complexes in Black Bush Polder and Corriverton were sold in August 1991 to a foreign firm, Curacao Investments Co. Ltd, for US $3.8M, but were both valued at US$14.9M; complexes at Ruimzeigt and Wakenaam were sold for US$2.5M and were valued at US$8.5M; complexes at Anna Regina valued at US$14.2M were sold to a St. Vincent firm for US $4.2M and renamed CARICOM Rice Mills Ltd.
Minister Ali, presenting these facts of corruption occurring in 1991 and 1992, said, “We, as a people and a nation, must take action on these things.” He derided Ram’s presentation as complete assertions based on political manoeuverings, interpretations and dimensions.
Meanwhile, AG Nandlall, rebutting Ram’s presentation on the financial accounting of NICIL and the accusation that the company violates the law, pointed out that Ram did not state how this was done. On the issue of NICIL violating the constitution, Ram cited Articles 216 and 217 of the constitution, but never developed the argument.
Minister Nandlall faced down Ram with the fact that since NICIL, according to Ram, is committing legal wrongs such as violating the Public Corporation Acts and the Constitution, and hijacking state assets, he queried why it is that over the last 20 years a case has not been filed against NICIL. The AG acknowledged that one case filed against the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project was dismissed in the High Court.
NICIL was incorporated as a Private Limited Company under the Companies Act, Chapter 89:01, in July 1990. A new Companies Act was enacted in 1991 with effect from May 1995 by the Companies Act (Commencement) Order, No. 25 of 1995, and NICIL was registered as a continuing company pursuant to Section 339 of the new Act in 1998. NICIL is 100 percent owned by the Government of Guyana.
The primary objectives of the company were that of subscribing for taking or otherwise acquiring, holding and managing the government’s shares, stocks, debentures or other securities of any company, co-operative societies or other corporate body. This meant that all government shareholdings in public corporations and companies including, those falling under the Public Corporations Secretariat, and the Co-operative Finance Administration Institutions, were to be transferred to NICIL. The objective was to have a unified and systematic management of government’s shareholdings.
NICIL is also the holding company for Government owned minority/majority interests, and deals in property management which includes the acquisition / disposal / rental of government owned properties. The company is also responsible for monitoring government’s equity in other companies and acting as agents for other Government agencies in the disposal of properties or management of companies.
NICIL has a Board of Directors that consists of the Minister of Finance, the Head of the Presidential Secretariat, the CEO of Go-Invest, an opposition representative and the Executive Director of NICIL.

Three held in Agricola shoot out released

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:27:41 +0000

FOLLOWING the fatal shooting incident in Agricola, Greater Georgetown in which 17-year-old Shaquille Grant was shot and killed by the police on Tuesday morning and Romel Bollers, who was shot and injured Deputy Commissioner ‘Law Enforcement’ Seelall Persaud said that three men were released from police custody yesterday and the injured Bollers was taken to the hospital for medical attention.

He added that the matter is being investigated by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and Office of Professional Responsibilities (OPR).
Meanwhile, the policemen who were on the scene in Agricola are still on active duty since no evidence of misconduct is at hand, the crime Chief said
On Thursday morning a group of residents from Agricola staged a protest action in front of the office of the Acting Commissioner of Police, Leroy Brumell, who also met with them yesterday.
The group also had a picketing exercise outside Brickdam Police Station on Wednesday calling for the release of the young men and the police to investigate the killing of the teenager on Tuesday.
However, Police reported late Wednesday night that at about 19:15 hours persons lit tyres which were thrown across both the eastern and western carriageways of the main road at Agricola, Greater Georgetown, causing obstruction to traffic.
The police, assisted by personnel of the Guyana Fire Service, extinguished the blaze and removed the obstacles and traffic resumed freely.
On Tuesday morning a party of policemen on a mobile patrol went into Agricola and cornered five men, who were under a shed in the village, not long after gunshots rang out and Shaquille Grant, 17, was shot and killed.
Police said at about 12:10 hours on Tuesday ranks on a mobile patrol came under fire from a group of men at Caesar Street, Agricola and the policemen returned fire fatally wounding Shaquille Grant, 17, of Lot 12 BB Eccles, East bank Demerara and injured Romel Bollers, 20 of Brutus Street, Agricola.
A .38 Smith and Wesson weapon was recovered by the police.

Canje fatal accident under investigation

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:29:17 +0000

Police are investigating a fatal accident that occurred at about 01:00 hours yesterday at Canje Public Road, Berbice, and which resulted in the death of motor cyclist, Jarvis De Freitas, 28, of Theatre Alley, New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Reports revealed that Jarvis De Freitas was riding a motor cycle allegedly at a fast rate when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed. He received injuries and was taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Gov’t has done a lot for Leguan – Deputy IMC Chairman

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:31:37 +0000

In a recent interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Deputy-Chairman of Leguan’s Interim Management Committee (IMC), Albert James, said a lot has been taking place in recent years for the island of Leguan, located in the Essequibo River.

James explained that in 1989, the sea defence structure on the island was in state of disrepair, but the current administration has, over the years, invested in its rehabilitation. This, James said, has been welcomed, as residents and farmers are not as vulnerable to overtopping at high tides as compared to back then.
“Sea defences have been restored and persons were able to return to the rice industry…at present 3721 acres of rice are under cultivation…in 1981 there was only 1500 acres under cultivation,” James said.
He asserted that the current administration must be commended for its efforts which led to a resuscitation of the rice industry, providing for a better standard of living, not only for farmers, but also for residents.
“We have about 60,000 rods of draining length in Leguan…most of the trenches are clean…we will soon get an excavator on the island to ensure these trenches and drainage and irrigation remain…the NDC, with little resources, has been able to provide thus far an effective and efficient service,” James said.
Turning his attention to roads, James indicated that several were recently rehabilitated on the island, such as Enterprise, Blenheim and Waterloo, among others which speaks of significant improvement for the island that gives residents the encouragement to stay and help in the development process.
“Because of this, the standard of living for the people has improved tremendously…there are many people from abroad that are returning and building new homes and rehabilitating old ones…this is so because of the conducive conditions that exist, because of a caring and loving government,” James said.
Two significant road projects which assist farmers and commuters on their daily activities, and were recently rehabilitated are James and Zul streets, which saw government spending $32M, while five other streets have been highlighted for rehabilitation during this year.
Sheik Mohammed Inshan Ayube, resident and councillor, said that he has enjoyed a number of benefits under the current administration and continues to do so.
“A lot of sea defence works has been done…there are ongoing works at Blenheim, which was in a critical situation …very shortly such work will be completed…in Maryville, Leguan, we have a lot of sea defence work that will be completed soon… because of the timely intervention of the government, we were able to feel secure,” Ayube said.
He believes that improved sea defence evokes a lot of confidence in the people to invest in Guyana, which is seen in the types of buildings being constructed currently.
Ayube also indicated that over a number of years, emphasis has been placed on the health and education sectors, which have always received upgrades over the years to ensure quality service is provided on the Island.
“Schools are far better than what we used to enjoy… rehabilitation works are ongoing on the Success and Endeavour primary schools and, the Leguan secondary school…our secondary school is also equipped with a computer laboratory… we cannot help but express our heartfelt thanks to this government for the effort and money that has been spent to enhance education in Leguan,” Ayube said.
He added that testimony to the investments made to the education sector is a student achieving seven Grade Ones at the recently concluded CSEC examinations.
“This is all possible because the environment for education is far better… we have more qualified teachers, the class rooms are better equipped, more text books are available…we cannot help but express our heartfelt thanks,” Ayube said.
Recently the Head of State, along with two of his Cabinet ministers, visited the island, thereby giving residents an opportunity to raise their concerns. It was noted that residents no longer relied on the use of bottle lamps but enjoy electricity and potable water, which obtains in every household.
Early in the year, more than 100 residents of the Region 3 Island benefitted from eye care and VIA services, as a result of a Ministry of Health’s medical outreach held at Leguan’s Cottage Hospital.
While Leguan falls under the Region 3 Administration, as one of its islands, other areas in the region have not been left out of the administration’s development thrust.
Recently, more than 400 families were recipients of laptops under the administration’s One Laptop per Family Programme, which targets improving national literacy levels in the use of Information Communication Technology.
Additionally, in excess of $15B was spent in the region’s housing sector to benefit an untold number of people, who can now boast of the opportunity of owning their own homes, which did not obtain in the past.
Some of the areas that have benefitted from development include Zeelugt North and South, Tuschen North and South, Tuschen Phase One and Two, Parfaite Harmonie, Onderneeming, Uitvlugt, Westminster, Recht Door Zee, Belle West, Plantation One and Two, Anna Catherina, Leonora and Cornelia Ida.
The region enjoys a $639.5M allocation under the Community Roads Improvement Programme (CRIP) which will see a number of community roads, along with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) offices being rehabilitated and upgraded
The sum of $427M for a new technical Institute and a synthetic athletic track, $110M on a Diagnostic Centre in Leonora, and $293M for a secondary school at Leonora, all form part of government’s development thrust that was established and maintained countrywide over the years.

Body found at Wismar awaiting post mortem

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:36:56 +0000

THE body of Brian Anthony, 24, of Half Mile, Wismar, was discovered, by residents, in a drain at Kara Kara, another part of Linden, on Wednesday.

Police said it bore no marks of violence and was transported to the Linden Hospital Complex mortuary, to await a post mortem.
Reports said it is believed that Anthony may have fallen into the water and drowned due to the darkness of the night or he was the victim of foul play and his corpse dumped at the location.

Brazilian Defence Minister’s visit paves way for expanding military cooperation

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:37:37 +0000

A RECENT visit to Guyana by Brazilian Defence Minister Celso Amorim has paved the way for expansion in the programme of defence and military cooperation already existing between the two neighbouring countries.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon, made this observation on when when he spoke at his weekly post-Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive in Georgetown.
Amorim was accompanied by a high level Brazilian Armed Force delegation that arrived in Guyana last Tuesday and stayed up to yesterday. Dr Luncheon also reported.
According to Dr Luncheon, the two sides are specifically committed to creation of the Guyana/Brazil Working Group to oversee the outcome of annual meetings of the joint chiefs-of-staff of their respective armed forces.
Further, the countries are committed to the enhancement of military cooperation in training at Brazilian military institutions, and to enhanced coordination of military operations in the adjoining border areas, so as to ensure stability and integration there.
Dr Luncheon said, too, that the two UNASUR countries pledged to promote interaction in the area of military procurement; the promotion of participation in joint military humanitarian projects in neighbouring border communities; and the promotion of Guyana’s access to Brazilian geographic technological survelliance system, particularly as it applies to security and defense. “And that promotion would have visits to the operational centre in Manaus in Brazil,” he said.
During Amorim’s visit, he paid courtesy calls on President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, and Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkette.

Unity of purpose needed to achieve progress

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:47:22 +0000

Providing security for our nation must be approached holistically, because security

encompasses many spheres.
Crime and its related ills have been impacting on our national image for too long and our security forces need a re-invigorated approach to crime-fighting, with fighting being the operative word. The scourge of illicit drug use is accelerating, especially in the ranks of our young people, and the security forces need to develop strong community linkages so that the dealers can be identified, isolated, and prosecuted.
In many instances the desperation for the next “fix’ drives persons to commit heinous crimes, leaving many casualties, so an integrated approach by the providers of social services, the Government, the schools, the communities – in religion-driven and social exercises, and the security forces is needed for any effective leverage to prevail against this scourge.
Public health care provision needs bolstering in ways that could restore public trust in the systems. There have been many instances where allegations have been made about lack of sympathetic medical interventions, so the government can provide the physical facilities, but if the human and humane components are missing then our healthcare systems cannot provide optimum service to our people.
Food security is a factor that is currently being addressed by the Agriculture Ministry’s aggressive “Grow More Food” campaign, as well as many interventions in necessary areas of the sector.
The external threats within the global dynamics, and this includes the anomalies of climate change and the rising fuel prices – among other issues, are threatening the quality of survival of developing nation states, and we, despite our wealth of resources, are indisputably one of the poorer of the developing nations, because we are only now emerging from the quagmire that the PNC Government left us in, although this nation’s macro-economic fundamentals are now stabilized and there is real economic growth, which has positioned Guyana for further socio-economic development.
The sad truth is that our economic security is compromised because of the reality of divisive politics that is impeding development strategies initiated by the Government.
There is a great need to circumvent this because we have learnt, painfully, that we cannot appeal to the conscience, nor the patriotism of those who create blueprints for disunity, mayhem, and murder in this nation of ours, so it is an imperative for government to strategise and circumnavigate in ways that can restore this nation to a unified force striving together to create of this country a land of Peace, Prosperity, and Plenty.
Acceleration of development is only possible when the human element can be motivated to join forces in developmental strategies. This is the vital factor and the primary component that can drive our country into achieving the MDG’s. Government has put in train mechanisms that seek to involve all stakeholders in decision-making processes. However, the administration has to contend with those who seek high office through the backdoor and who use nefarious leverages, whatever the cost to the nation, to derail the initiatives put in place to take this nation forward.
That is why outreach programmes are imperative, so that communities learn to support each other to enhance personal and national development; and when the administrative systems fail, it is the entire society that suffers, so public servants need to be held accountable, with no consideration of race, religion or politics, because this nation needs unity of purpose if real progress is to be achieved.

Derbyshire and Yorkshire win promotion

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:49:00 +0000

DERBYSHIRE and Yorkshire won promotion to the first division of English county cricket with both sides battling for top spot.

Derbyshire celebrated their first-ever promotion to make it a day to remember for Ross Whiteley who marked his 24th birthday with an unbeaten half-century and two late wickets in the LV= County Championship Division Two match against Hampshire at Derby.
Kent's defeat at Glamorgan sealed Derbyshire's place in Division One next season and they will go up as champions if they beat Hampshire who closed day three on 142 for six, only 139 ahead, with Bilal Shafayat unbeaten on 52.
Whiteley scored an undefeated 57 out of 275 and then took two for six from five overs to give Derbyshire the advantage going into the final day of the season.
Yorkshire also have the chance to claim the Division Two title after their promotion was confirmed. Glamorgan's win meant Kent could not catch Yorkshire who head into the final day against Essex needing a win and hoping Derbyshire do not match their result to take top spot.
Yorkshire's first task is to bowl Essex out a second time after leaving them a target of 388. Yorkshire declared their second innings on 252 for eight and by the close Essex were struggling at 28 for two.
Robert Croft took a wicket with his final ball in first-class cricket as Glamorgan ended Kent's promotion hopes with a day to spare at Cardiff. The 42-year-old off-spinner had Charlie Shreck caught at long-off as Kent were bowled out in their second innings for 280 after following on.
Glamorgan were left with 61 runs needed to victory and they achieved it by seven wickets.
Claude Henderson snapped up two wickets in the penultimate over of the day to give Leicestershire a chance of finishing the season with a victory against Gloucestershire at Grace Road. The veteran South African left-arm spinner dismissed Will Gidman and James Fuller as Gloucestershire closed on 254 for nine in their second innings, leaving them with a lead of 193.
Earlier, Fuller had taken three wickets for five runs in 10 balls to restrict the home side to a first-innings lead of 61.
Then, Wayne White grabbed three wickets in one over as Gloucestershire looked to set a challenging target. Dan Housego hit 62 and Will Gidman 72 off 81 balls, but Henderson's late double strike put Leicestershire in the driving seat.
Abdur Rehman finished with match figures of 14 for 101 as Somerset clinched runners-up spot in LV= County Championship Division One with victory over relegated Worcestershire by an innings and 148 runs at Taunton.
The Pakistan left-arm spinner took five for 36 as the visitors stumbled to 152 all out in their second innings, Alexei Kervezee top-scoring with 76.
The hosts took 23 points to Worcestershire's two as their players guaranteed themselves a share in a £162 000 cheque for finishing second behind champions Warwickshire.
Steven Mullaney enhanced Nottinghamshire's chances of finishing on a high with a victory over Warwickshire with a fluent 94 - his highest first-class score since May 2010.
The all-rounder hit an enterprising 119-ball knock that contained 11 fours and four straight sixes as he took charge in a fifth-wicket partnership of 119 in just 28 overs with Chris Read (36).
Either side of that, Neil Edwards (53) had scored only his third first-class half-century in as many seasons and Riki Wessels made a brisk 38, while Paul Franks (76 not out) and Ben Phillips (38) put on 91 for the eighth wicket.
New Zealander Jeetan Patel (four wickets for 127 runs) was the pick of the Warwickshire bowlers as Nottinghamshire closed on 444 for eight for a lead of 395 going into the final day at Trent Bridge.
Zander de Bruyn's first hundred of the season and polished half-centuries from youngsters Rory Burns and Tom Jewell ensured Surrey made a commanding start against relegated Lancashire.
Following two days of rain at Liverpool, a fixture with nothing but pride on offer saw both sides finally get under way at the start of day three. Surrey closed on 324 for five, with De Bruyn unbeaten on 105 off 229 balls and Jewell 57 not out. Burns had earlier scored 73.
In-form Durham finished their season with a fifth win in six games after beating Sussex by five wickets with a day to spare at Chester-le-Street. Michael Richardson struck 58 and Ben Stokes a quick-fire 45 as Durham chased down their victory target of 165 after dismissing Sussex for 180.

Windies slump to third loss despite Taylor’s presence

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:55:20 +0000

NORTHAMPTON, England CMC – Not even the return of World number two batter Stafanie Taylor could save West Indies Women from a 10-run defeat to England Women in the third Twenty20 International here yesterday.

The prolific 21-year-old fell cheaply as the tourists, set a moderate 104 for victory, were bowled out for 93 off 19.2 overs at Wantage Road.
With the defeat, West Indies conceded the series as they now trail 0-3 in the five-match rubber following losses at Chester-le-Street and Old Trafford over the last week.
Asked to field first, West Indies did well to restrict England to 103 for seven, with off-spinner Anisa Mohammed (2-11), seamer Shemaine Campbelle (2-14) and left-arm medium pacer Shanel Daley (2-18).
Sarah Taylor top-scored with 27 from 31 balls with two fours but no other batsman made it past 20, as West Indies kept the brakes on scoring.
England started positively with openers Charlotte Edwards (17) and Laura Marsh (14) posting 33 from 32 balls, but once the partnership was broken however, England lost their way and stumbled to their eventual total.
West Indies had a terrible start, losing Tremayne Smartt for a first-ball ‘duck’ to the seventh delivery of the innings.
Taylor, who missed the first two matches because of exams in her native Jamaica, was bowled by seamer Arran Brindle (3-16) in the fourth over at six for two as the innings sputtered.
Deandra Dottin, with a breezy 24 from 17 balls with two fours and a six, tried to revive the innings but when she was bowled in the penultimate over, the Windies who travel to Hove for the fourth T20I tomorrow, went with her.

Cariah eyes strong performances on Sagicor HPC tour of Bangladesh

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:55:39 +0000

KHULNA, Bangladesh – Yannic Cariah said the tour of Bangladesh by the Sagicor High Performance Centre team will be a good experience for him and the other members of the squad.

The 20-year-old Cariah and the rest of the team arrived in the Bangladesh capital of Dhaka on Wednesday before travelling to this south-western city ahead of the opening match of the tour against the Bangladesh National Cricket Academy, starting on Sunday at the Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium.
“It will be the first time I will be going there, playing in Asian sub-continent conditions, and I will be looking to take all that I have learnt in the Sagicor HPC and all the preparation we have done and try to perform well,” he said.
“It will be a good chance for me to showcase my talent. All the hard work over the last three months, it is for me to go out there and play well, clear my mind and do what I have got to do, and was born to do.”
The month-long tour also features a four-day match against the Bangladesh A-Team, as well as three One-day and two Twenty20 matches against the same opponents between September 16 and October 5.
Cariah said the first three months of the Sagicor HPC programme had been challenging, but there were a few lessons that he had learnt over the period.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be in the Sagicor HPC,” he said. “I have learnt a lot and I have worked hard on my game. Everybody, including my coaches and my teammates, has put in a lot of hard work.”
He added: “I have tried my best to gain a lot of information about all aspects of my game including the mental side.
“One of the important things I have learnt is that anything you do in practice will be reflected in your game. You have to do everything 110 per cent. You have to be purposeful if you are going to succeed in this game.”
The Sagicor HPC squad has been encamped since June 1 this year at the Cave Hill campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados.
Cariah, a leg-spinner and handy left-handed batsman, said the players had bonded well and had grown into a closely knit unit, which he felt would serve them well on the tour.
“This is a family,” he said. “People from different countries, different backgrounds, and we have grown to know and understand each other. We are all getting along very well and we are all looking forward to doing well on the tour.”
Cariah, a former West Indies Under-19 player at the 2010 ICC Youth World Cup, has played five Regional 4-Day for his native Trinidad & Tobago and two Regional Super50 matches for the Windies U-19s over the last three years.
He said his obvious long-term goal was to play for West Indies, ultimately becoming a reliable member of the team.
“I have my goals in life, but my expectations are high because I set very high standards for myself,” he said.
“I want to continue to enjoy playing the game and giving my all in everything I do.”
This is the second squad of players at the Sagicor HPC since its inauguration two years ago. The first squad of players that included current West Indies opener Kieran Powell and fast bowler Shannon Gabriel successfully completed the programme.
The Sagicor HPC programme, which is exclusively funded by the West Indies Cricket Board through sponsorship from regional financial services company, Sagicor, has been broadened to focus more intensely on developing the mental prowess of the players.
In addition to the standard, rigorous training in skills development and fitness required for high performance athletes, the players are also benefiting from specialised training in a number of other areas including their roles as ambassadors, personal development, anti-doping and anti-corruption.
The 2012-2013 Sagicor HPC programme will conclude next May and the touring squad reads: Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Marlon Barclay, Jermaine Blackwood, Yannic Cariah, Sheldon Cotterrell, Miguel Cummins, Jason Dawes, Andre Fletcher, Dawnley Grant, Trevon Griffith, Jahmar Hamilton, Kyle Hope, Keddy Lesporis, Kjorn Ottley, Veerasammy Permaul and Jomel Warrican.

Gibson plays down warm-up loss

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:57:22 +0000

(CRICINFO) - West Indies' reputation as one of the tournament favourites took a knock when Sri Lanka crushed them by nine wickets in a practice match in Colombo, but West Indies coach Ottis Gibson is adamant that the result means little, given the timing and conditions of the defeat, and their resting of key players.

Batting first, West Indies were restricted to 132 for 6 by a disciplined Sri Lanka bowling effort, before Mahela Jayawardene and Tillakaratne Dilshan struck fluent fifties to make short work of the target, hitting the winning runs in the 16th over with nine wickets to spare.
A low wicket at the Nondescripts Cricket Club hampered the expansive ambitions of the West Indies batsmen, who failed to hit a six between them despite the ground's modest proportions. Lasith Malinga was particularly difficult to get underneath during the death, while Angelo Mathews also proved too skiddy to crash away.
"A hundred and thirty three (133) seemed to be a challenging total on a wicket where some balls kept low," Gibson said. "But when they batted they made it look easy. We didn't bowl particularly well, which we'll need to look at."
Fidel Edwards was intense during his first over to Dilshan Munaweera, but was friendly thereafter, trying to intimidate with pace and bounce but managing only to serve up poor short balls, most of which were not on target anyway.
Andre Russell and Dwayne Bravo were also wayward, and after a few overs at the crease Jayawardene even felt comfortable trialling a new stroke - a reverse pull-shot - over short third man that went for four while Sunil Narine and Samuel Badree did not trouble the batsmen either, perhaps due to a flat pitch, rather than many failings of their own.
"When we bowled we looked very aggressive," Gibson said. "Ravi (Rampaul) bowled well. The spinners need to get used to the conditions here and get used to the wicket and not expect anything. I think the spinners expected some turn but there was none. You've got to find the right length against people who have grown up on these pitches and play a lot of spin."
Gibson said that in addition to a pitch that didn't offer a lot for the West Indies bowlers, his players were still becoming accustomed to the climate and that he viewed the practice match as an opportunity to test team combinations.
"The game started at 09:30hrs when most of the games will be in the afternoon. It was very hot this morning, and our guys flew in only two days ago, so it will take a while to get used to the conditions.
"Considering we didn't have Chris Gayle, Darren Sammy and Marlon Samuels in the side, it was an opportunity to give other people a chance. You'd like to win every game, but this was just a warm-up, but if we want to win the World T20, we'll need our bench strength.".
West Indies play one more warm-up match against Afghanistan tomorrow, with Sri Lanka set to take on India the same day. Their first match of the tournament is on September 22, against Australia.

Pietersen selection moves closer

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:58:03 +0000

(CRICINFO) - England departed for Sri Lanka yesterday with even more baggage than normal for a touring team. The decision to delay the announcement of the England squad for the Test tour of India means that speculation over the position of Kevin Pietersen will spill over into their World T20 campaign.

It looks increasingly likely that Pietersen will be included in the squad for India. While for some time there was an impasse over Pietersen's future, the appointment of Alastair Cook as captain seems to have revitalised the process. Cook missed the last round of Championship matches as did Pietersen which would have helped facilitate further talks between the pair.
Cook, who is understandably keen to begin his captaincy career with the strongest possible team, would appear to have convinced all parties to redouble their efforts to find a solution to the Pietersen conundrum. While it would be premature to conclude that Pietersen will definitely be included, the situation is swinging that way.
One man who insists that Pietersen should be included is Darren Gough, the former England fast bowler who played with Cook at Essex and was best man at Pietersen's wedding.
He accepts that Pietersen's behaviour in recent months has fallen below acceptable standards but Gough believes that other players in the squad have also been at fault and that the time has now come to "shake hands and get on with it".
"There has been some immaturity on both sides," Gough told ESPNcricinfo.
"There are issues with the parody Twitter account - I think it's obvious that players were involved in that - and there are issues with things that were written in players' books about Kevin that were just not right. But at the same time, some of Kevin's words have not been acceptable. Everyone knows that.
"But haven't we all called the boss a few names at some stage? It happens. You don't have to be the best of friends on the pitch; you just have to be prepared to work together. Nasser Hussain and I used to argue like cat and dog when he was England captain. But neither of us ever held a grudge. He got the best out of me. I'd have run through a brick wall for him.
"What do you do? You look each other in the eye, shake hands and get on with it. And that's what I expect to happen.
"Alastair Cook has come in. He's an ambitious new captain and he wants to win. And so he should. So he's come in determined to take the best side he can to India. He knows - we all know - that Kevin is in the best team. I'm very hopeful he'll be in the team now and I definitely think he should be."
The England squad will be named on Tuesday.

Ricky Hatton can win a world title again ... says Barry McGuigan

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:59:08 +0000

FORMER world champion Barry McGuigan says Ricky Hatton can win a world title again if, as expected, he comes out of retirement.

Two-weight world champion Hatton, 33, is expected to announce his return to the ring today.
"It (Hatton's proposed comeback) is not ridiculous. There's every chance we'll see 90% of the Ricky Hatton we saw a few years back and that will be good enough to beat someone like Paulie Malignaggi," McGuigan told BBC Sport.
Manchester fighter Hatton has not fought since suffering a second-round knockout by Manny Pacquiao in May 2009, but he stopped Malignaggi in 11 rounds in his penultimate fight in 2008, since when the American has become the WBA welterweight champion.
Hatton formally retired last year and now runs his own promotions company.
But he has called a news conference for today at 11:30 BST, when he says he will make a "major announcement".
It is expected Hatton will face a lesser-known opponent in November before pursuing Malignaggi, who has expressed interest in a rematch.
Former world champion Amir Khan, who beat Malignaggi in 2010, is also said to be interested in fighting his fellow Brit.
"Because Ricky has had his problems with drugs and gained an awful lot of weight people are concerned. But he's not a fool, he'll do things properly," said former featherweight world champion McGuigan.
"He will take his weight down slowly, have lots of time to get ready, probably have an exhibition in the gym, box with smaller gloves on to feel what it's like to be hit again. He won't come back in a half-hearted fashion, he will give it everything. If that's not good enough, so be it.
"I don't think any ex-boxers have the right to judge another fighter, it's Ricky's decision and a very personal decision. If he decides to come back, I'm 100% behind the guy. I'd rather he did it now than waited five years and then decided to come back."
However, McGuigan, who took 22 months off after losing his world title to American Steve Cruz in 1986, conceded it could be a long road back for Hatton.
"We'll never really know how sharp Ricky is until we see him in that ring again," said McGuigan, who won three fights after returning to the ring before losing his final bout to Britain's Jim McDonnell in 1989.
"I never said it out loud but it was when the lights went off at night that I asked myself the question: 'Is it still there or not?' Will Ricky have the same body-punching ability, the same relentless aggression? Or will he be a different fighter?
Ricky is a lovely, lovely man and he's been great for British boxing so it would be devastating for him and British boxing if he came back and was a pale comparison of his former years. But I don't think that's going to happen. I don't think he'd come back if he didn't think he could be almost as good as he used to be."
Hatton was a light-welter and welterweight world champion. His most notable win came when he claimed the IBF light-welterweight title from Kostya Tszyu in 2005.
He lost to Floyd Mayweather in 2007 before suffering a comprehensive defeat at the hands of Pacquiao three years ago and in 2010, he was stripped of his licence to box by the British Boxing Board of Control after allegations of cocaine use.

Serena, Sharapova to join Murray in Brisbane

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:59:36 +0000

(REUTERS) - French Open winner Maria Sharapova will join US Open champions Serena Williams and Andy Murray in warming up for next year's Australian Open at the Brisbane International.

Williams and Murray started their seasons at the tournament this year but Russian Sharapova will be making her first appearance at the event, which takes place at the Queensland Tennis Centre from December 31 to January 6.
"Going into Australia after a long offseason you always want to have the best possible matches," the 25-year-old, losing finalist at Melbourne Park this season, said.
"I tried to put Brisbane on the map last year but unfortunately couldn't make it out of injury ... I have heard so many great things about it."
Williams beat Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka at Flushing Meadows last week to win her 15th Grand Slam title and was looking forward to returning to Brisbane, despite injuring her ankle at the tournament in January.
"I love the tournament, it's great," she said. "It helps me prepare. I get a great tournament ... tough field. I had so much fun this year but unfortunately it ended fast for me with a disaster of an injury."
Murray, who won his first Grand Slam title on Monday, was already confirmed to return to Brisbane to defend the title he won by beating Alexandr Dolgopolov.
The Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year, begins in Melbourne on January 14.

Former and current Regional Chairmen weigh in on regatta accident

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:00:18 +0000

FORMER Regional Chairman Holbert Knights and his successor Gordon Bradford have weighed in on the recent regatta accident which claimed the life of 42-year-old speedboat champion Orin Keith Belle last month.

Knights pointed out that while the recent tragedy would affect future regattas in several ways, it would force operators and persons involved in regatta activities to be more conscious of river safety.
He said that the recent death of the popular champion would force a level of consciousness with regard to safety and preparedness.
“This accident will definitely affect future regattas in some way as it would force the operators to be more conscious and aware of what is critically important in events and activities like these,” Knights said.
He expressed confidence in the level of safety measures and systems that are usually put in place for the staging of the Bartica Regatta, noting that while they have been fortunate to not have any major disaster this will further serve to improve and enhance whatever measures they already have in place.
“We at the Bartica Regatta Committee (BRC) will continue to explore ways and avenues in further ensuing that operators and all involved are safe during the staging of regatta and this would only serve to keep us more alert,” he noted.
The former Regional Chairman who has also served as Chairman of the BRC pointed out that speed boat racing involves some amount of risk as it is a relatively dangerous sport adding that come next year both the public and those involved in the races would recognise the need for the highest level of safety to be implemented so as to protect lives and limbs.
“Belle’s death should serve as an eye-opener to all that safety should continue to be of paramount importance and what many may have taken for granted over the years they can now recognise what can happen to anyone even to a very experienced and gifted racer like Belle,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Bradford disclosed that Belle was a regular competitor at the regattas held in Bartica noting that he was an accomplished sportsman.
“This was an accomplished sportsman who competed religiously at every regatta over the past several years and his death has an impact on the community as he is sorely missed by all,” he said.
Bradford added, “The RDC would be doing something to honour him. I cannot say as yet what it would be but I am sure that we will do something significant to keep his memory alive.”
Bradford pointed out that Belle’s contribution to the community was far-reaching and wide noting that he was a member of the Brattice Lions Club.
He stated that while the death will have some impact on future regattas he is confident that the impact would not be disastrous. “It’s quite true that Belle’s death will have an impact on regatta but I am very confident that it will not have any disastrous effects thus preventing the sport from going on as the sport will continue,” he declared.
He spoke about the importance of continuing the sport so as to ensure that the memory of such a great racer lives on.
“People are really sad and hurting but I firmly believe that people will continue the sport so as to ensure that the sport and the love and passion that Belle had for it can continue,” he reiterated.
When quizzed on what possible activity or event the RDC would be involved in so as to recognise the contributions made by Belle, Bradford said they may consider naming a part of the Golden Beach or something in honour of him.
“He was a proud and well respected Bartican who made valuable contributions to the continued development of his community and for this it is important that we recognise his contributions in some way,” he concluded.

Ireland ease to warm-up victory

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:00:46 +0000

IRELAND enjoyed a comfortable victory over Zimbabwe as they started their World Twenty20 preparations, winning by 54 runs in Colombo yesterday.

Having made huge strides in one-day cricket over recent years, all eyes are on Ireland to see what sort of impression they will make in Sri Lanka and they gave a nod towards it being a good one at the Moors Sports Club, batting first after being put in and making 181 for five, before restricting Zimbabwe to 127 for eight in response.
Niall O'Brien starred with the bat, making 62 from 49 balls, while Kevin O'Brien (30 not out) and Ed Joyce (29) offered ample support.
George Dockrell and Alex Cusack then equally shared six wickets as Zimbabwe, short of Hamilton Masakadza's 44, made a disappointing fist of their chase.
They were left to rue asking Ireland to bat first, conceding 34 runs off the first 22 balls before they broke the momentum when Brian Vitori got rid of Paul Stirling.
Captain Will Porterfield did not last much longer, going to Chris Mpofu, but that threw Joyce and Niall O'Brien together and then duly shared a partnership of 83 in a little under 10 overs, with their union eventually ending when Joyce became Mpofu's second victim.
O'Brien hung around a little longer before Richard Muzhange found a way to remove him, but by then the damage had been done. Zimbabwe's performance in the field had been sloppy and they could not have had a worse start with the bat either, with Vusi Sibanda trapped lbw by Boyd Rankin with the very first ball.
Captain Brendan Taylor added just three before Trent Johnston snared him and, despite Masakadza adding a breezy 27-ball 44, Ireland were in control, with Dockrell and Cusack coming on to choke the life out of their opponents, who lost six wickets for just nine runs.
Craig Ervine offered mild resistance with 24 but was castled by Dockrell.

Adventure Sports Club and Smith’s Eleven open with convincing victories

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:01:08 +0000

AS ACTION in the Essequibo leg of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association 15/15 competition opened, Adventure Sports Club and Smith’s Eleven inflicted severe thrashing on the Eldorado Sports Club and the Richmond Titans respectively.

In the first match which was played at the Airy Hall ground, Eldorado Sports Club batted first and made 130 for 8 from their 15 overs, with B. Singh top-scoring with 39 while R. Rampersaud supported well with 25.
Bowling for Adventure Sports Club, G.. Sharma took 3 for 29 and N. Ghir 2 for 25, before their team reached their required target for the loss of four wickets from 10.4 overs, thanks to S. Grovesnor who made a blazing 45 and E. Grovesnor with 30, while C. Jairam made an unbeaten 24.
All this occurred despite the exceptional bowling efforts of M. Dass, who took 3 for 15 which was not enough to prevent Adventure from winning the match.
Playing in the second match yesterday, Richmond Titans batted first and could only post a paltry 56 all out in just 11 overs, as they struggled to counteract the bowling of Omesh Gobin who took 4 for 10 from his three overs, as J. Nauth, who top-scored with 21 runs and A. Collins (12) were the lone batsmen to record double-figure scores for Richmond Titans.
Gobin received excellent support from Chabilall Etwaroo who snared 2 for 4 and Ehwaz Baksh who took 2 for 7 for Smith’s Eleven, who raced to 60 without loss from a mere four overs, thanks to Latchman Rohit’s unbeaten 28 and Fazeer Khan’s 21.
Coordinator of the Essequibo leg, Khalid Baksh, said he is pleased with the response and enthusiasm shown by the teams in the competition.
He expressed confidence that some more teams will register, adding that he foresees a very competitive tournament noting that the teams are determined to win the Essequibo leg.
He pointed out that while the teams representing Essequibo had been knocked out in the quarterfinals, he firmly believes that they will do much better this time around, while urging teams who are desirous of competing to register early, since time is quickly running out.

Ricky Hatton comeback set for approval by boxing officials

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:01:36 +0000

FORMER two-weight world champion Ricky Hatton's comeback has moved closer after he appeared before boxing officials to ask for his licence back.

Hatton, 33, attended a British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) meeting in Cardiff on Wednesday and is set to hold a news conference today.
General Secretary Robert Smith told BBC Sport: "His licence will be granted pending the completion of medicals. He spoke well, looks fit and he wants to have one more hurrah."
Hatton, nicknamed 'The Hitman', has not fought since suffering a second-round knockout by Manny Pacquiao in May 2009.
The Manchester-based former light-welterweight and welterweight champion formally retired last year with a record of 45 wins and two defeats and now runs his own promotions company.
In 2010, Hatton was stripped of his licence to box by the BBBoC after allegations of cocaine usage.
"He looks very well, everything seems to be in order and he's sorted himself out," Smith said.
"From what he was saying, he seems very settled with his family. He has already had some of the medicals and we are making sure he's on track."
Hatton dominated the light-welterweight division and his most notable win at that weight came against IBF champion Kostya Tszyu in 2005.
The following year, Hatton defeated Puerto Rican Luis Collazo to take the WBA world welterweight title and followed that victory by beating Juan Urango to reclaim his IBF light-welterweight title.
He lost to American five-division world champion Floyd Mayweather in 2007 and suffered a comprehensive beating by Pacquiao in his final fight three years ago.
Hatton, who frequently ballooned in weight between bouts, has lost three stone this year and is tipped to return to action with a fight in November.
He stopped Paulie Malignaggi in 11 rounds in his penultimate fight in 2008, since when the American has become the WBA welterweight champion.
Hatton's former promoter Frank Warren believes the comeback is a mistake.
"I believe he's had a good career and he should reflect on that. No-one should be encouraging him to return and I just hope it doesn't wind up being a big disappointment for him," said Warren.
But former world champion Barry McGuigan has told the BBC that Hatton can win a world title again.
"There's every chance we'll see 90% of the Ricky Hatton we saw a few years back and that will be good enough to beat someone like Paulie Malignaggi," McGuigan said. (BBC Sports)

Chavez looks to step out of shadow

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:01:58 +0000

JULIO Cesar Chavez (Sr) scored 86 knockouts in 115 career fights, a staggering rate that places him among some of the sport's most fearsome punchers.

The elder Chavez scored knockouts in 74.7 percent of his bouts, a figure that far exceeds Sugar Ray Robinson's 54 percent rate (108 KOs in 200 fights), with only the heavy-handed heavyweights Mike Tyson (75.9 percent/44 KOs in 58 fights) and ‘Big’ George Foreman (84 percent/68 KOs in 81 fights) being only slightly ahead of Chavez Sr.
But Chavez Sr wasn't the kind of puncher like Foreman, who could knock a man out with a single shot.
Rather, Chavez would relentlessly bore in on his opponents, raining punches upon every part of their bodies. Eventually, they couldn't lift their arms, were unable to move their legs and simply wilted under the pressure of his onslaught.
As his oldest son, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, was starting his own professional career, there were few comparisons between the two except their names.
But as Chavez Jr. prepares to defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) middleweight title tomorrow against Sergio Martinez before a crowd in excess of 19 000 at the Thomas & Mack Center, the one striking similarity between them is, stunningly, their punching power.
Just like his famous Dad, Junior is the type of puncher who mauls his opponents and batters them into submission. He stopped Andy Lee in his second title defence on June 16, battering Lee with punches before referee Laurence Cole had to save him in the seventh round.
Hall of Famer Emanuel Steward trains Lee and told Boxing Scene that Lee marvelled at Chavez's punching power.
"As Andy said, 'I've boxed with Wladimir Klitschko many times,’," Steward said. “'For this fight, I boxed with guys (who weighed) 180 pounds. His strength was going like he was almost a 500-pound man.' "
Chavez Jr, 26, is 46-0-1 and has scored 32 stoppages, putting his 68.1 knockout percent slightly lower than his father's. While one-time Chavez Sr’s opponent Greg Haugen once derided the elder Chavez’s opponents as ‘Tijuana taxi drivers’, for years, that would have been a compliment for Junior's opposition.
It wasn't until the last several years that Top Rank was willing to match him with anyone who was even remotely competitive. And clearly, one of the major advantages Martinez will have over Chavez Jr is having already faced quality opposition.
Martinez has beaten the likes of Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and Kermit Cintron, all three of whom are better than anyone Chavez has faced.
But about two years ago, it began to click for Chavez. Suddenly, his strength increased dramatically. His footwork improved significantly. He began to punch with authority. And, as if it were a gene he inherited from his famous father, he developed an iron chin.
"He's got an amazingly good chin," said boxing manager Cameron Dunkin, who handles Pavlik, a potential opponent for Chavez down the line. "He's just like his father. It's like you can't hurt him."
It's that chin and the power in his fists that give Chavez a chance to pull off a victory that few would have considered possible even 18 months ago.
Martinez is the third-rated fighter in the world in the Yahoo! Sports rankings, but is just a 2-1 favourite at the MGM Grand sports book – that's according Chavez a lot of respect.
As he showed against Peter Manfredo and Lee, Chavez is a determined body puncher whose wicked shots to the midsection can be heard in the first few rows. He's also developed a quality uppercut and doesn't get tied up when fighting inside despite his long arms.
He'll probably come to the ring at around 180 pounds after rehydrating following the weigh-in, trainer Freddie Roach said. That's going to be a lot of man for Martinez to handle, considering that Martinez is probably better at 154 pounds than he is at 160.
"Look, I'm not (expletive) anybody," Martinez promoter Lou DiBella said. "I believe my guy is going to win, but this kid is huge and he punches like a (expletive). This is a fight, a serious, serious fight."
That someone of DiBella's stature would perceive Chavez as a threat is a testament to the vast improvement Chavez has made and the ground he's covered over the last several years.
Chavez has tried desperately to carve his own niche and create an identity all his own, separate from his father. And in many ways, they're vastly different.
"I can't help that people say that stuff about me," Chavez Jr said. "I am the son and that is who I am. He is my Dad, but little by little I have proven myself. I have proven it in the ring. You have seen what I have done in the ring the past few fights. You can't take that away from me, my victories and my championship. I have done a lot of things on my own. I have my own story now.”
He's his own man, for sure, but in terms of their power, the one area that made Senior a Hall of Famer and makes Junior a champion, they're just about carbon copies. (Yahoo Sports)

Lara to join stalwarts in Hall of Fame

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:02:24 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka CMC – Batting genius Brian Lara will join several other great former West Indies players when he is inducted into the Cricket Hall of Fame tomorrow.

The former West Indies captain, who retired from international cricket five years ago, will be formally inducted at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Awards ceremony at the Waters Edge Resort here.
Cricket’s world governing body, the International Cricket Council, made the announcement yesterday, adding that former England women’s player Enid Bakewell would also be inducted.
Lara is widely considered as the most exciting batsman of the contemporary era and still holds the records for the highest Test and first class scores.
The left-hander played 131 Tests, garnering 11 953 runs to be the highest run-getter in West Indies history. He is third on the all-time list led by Indian prodigy Sachin Tendulkar.
He also managed 10 405 runs from 299 One-Day Internationals, the last of which came during the historic 2007 World Cup in the Caribbean, while he has led the West Indies in 47 Tests.
Only last year, one of Lara’s former teammates Curtly Ambrose was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame with fast bowling greats Courtney Walsh and Joel Garner called up the previous year.

BCB/RAMCHARITAR CONSTRUCTION TOURNAMENT - Action bowls off tomorrow

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:03:37 +0000

CRICKET action in this year’s Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) season which restarted recently is gaining momentum with the BCB/Ramcharitar Construction-sponsored 50 overs first division knockout competition getting under way tomorrow at five venues across the Ancient County.

This year’s tournament, which is the fourth to be sponsored by contractor Anirudh Ramcharitar will see 10 teams, namely Albion, Police, West Berbice, Memorex Bermine, Edinburgh, Bush Lot United, Port Mourant, Universal DVD Young Warriors Cricket Club, Blairmont and Skeldon battling with the defending champions Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets for supremacy.
Players of the calibre of West Indies middle order batsman Assad Fudadin along with Shawn Pereira, Rajin Ivan, Khemraj Mahadeo, Delbert Hicks, and Clinton Pestano will lead the defending champions line-up.
Albion Cricket Club, who boasts players the likes of another West Indies middle order batsman Narsingh Deonarine, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Jonathan Foo and Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai can be considered the strongest rivals to the defending champions’ throne, with the two likely to meet in the final once again.
The first round fixtures are as follows: Albion take on Police at Albion, West Berbice clash with Memorex Bermine at Bush Lot, Edinburgh host Bush Lot at Edinburgh, Port Mourant face Young Warriors at Port Mourant and RHT Gizmos and Gadgets take on Blairmont at Blairmont.
Skeldon have drawn the bye for the first round of matches which starts at 0930hrs, with the BCB reminding all clubs that the tournament will be played with coloured clothing, white balls and black sight-screens.

BCB/NBS 2nd Division - Arch rivals Albion and RHT Bakewell to clash in final tomorrow

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:04:03 +0000

IT SEEMS like almost destiny but all cricket finals in the Ancient County seem to be an epic battle between arch rivals Albion Cricket Club and teams from their nemesis Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC).

The keen rivalry continues tomorrow at the Area ‘H’ ground, when Albion and Rose Hall Town Bakewell clash in the final of the 2011 Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)-organised, New Building Society (NBS)-sponsored second division limited overs tournament from 11:00hrs.
Rose Hall Town Bakewell, who have played unbeaten in the tournament, will be led by veteran all-rounder Ravi Narine and their batting will be centred on Narine, Eon Hooper, Jason Sinclair, Devin Baldeo, Michael Hicks, James Fraser, Shailendra Shameer, Arif Chan and Nicholas Cameron.
Female West Indies left-arm pacer Erva Giddings will lead the attack with support from medium pacers Jamal Jarvis and Ingram Dey, with support coming from spinners Hooper, Shameer, Chan, Baldeo and skipper Narine on a pitch which is expected to turn a lot.
Even though Albion did not disclose their lineup for this important fixture despite many requests from the BCB, they are expected to field a young but talented team, who will be looking to give their senior counterparts food for thought, taking into consideration, teams from both clubs will be clashing in another final the following day.
They will be led by national Under-19 left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai, who will be getting valuable support from Kandasammy Surujnarine, Balchan Baldeo, Veerapen Permaul and Sharaz Ramcharran.
Satesh Dwarka will be the only medium pacer in the Albion bowling attack which is basically a spin-based one that will depend heavily on Motie-Kanhai, Permaul, Ramcharran, David Latchaya and Avinash Wazid.
Officials of the BCB and sponsors will be on hand to meet the teams and participate in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion of the contest, which will see the winning team receive $50 000 and the championship trophy, runners-up $25 000 and man-of-the-match in the final $5 000 and a trophy, while prizes will also be given for preliminary round matches.

Teams: RHT Bakewell from: Shailendra Shameer, Devin Baldeo, Jason Sinclair, Eon Hooper, Ravi Narine (captain), Nicholas Cameron, Michael, Hicks, James Fraser, Jamal Jarvis, Arif Chan, Erva Giddings, Ingram Dey, Daniel Lewis and Jason Sinclair.

Albion CC team: To be announced.

Deccan Chargers reject sole takeover bid

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:04:42 +0000

(REUTERS) - Owners of the cash-strapped Hyderabad franchise have rejected the one takeover bid they have received for the Indian Premier League (IPL) team, the country's cricket board (BCCI) said yesterday.

Deccan Chronicle Holdings, which owns the Deccan Chargers, put the Twenty20 team up for sale last week after getting the nod from the cricket board.
"They informed us the price and terms were not suitable so they did not accept it," BCCI president N. Srinivasan told reporters in Chennai.
"The BCCI assisted the Deccan Chargers and we also looked at the eligibility criteria, whether they were fit and proper. We found the party was acceptable to us. After that, though, it was between Deccan Chargers and the bidder."
According to media reports PVP Ventures, a company which has interests in real estate and also finances film projects, submitted a bid of nine billion rupees (£100.8 million) to buy the troubled franchise.
Deccan Chronicle paid $107 million in 2008 to bag the franchise for 10 years.
The team finished last in the inaugural IPL but came back strongly to win the next edition in South Africa in 2009, but were second to last in the most recent IPL tournament that ended in May.

Windies lose opening warm-up to make rocky start

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:05:34 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka CMC – West Indies’ final preparations for the World Twenty20 Championship got off to a rocky start when they plunged to a nine-wicket defeat to hosts Sri Lanka in their first official warm-up game here yesterday.

Sent in at the Nondescripts Cricket Club, West Indies were restricted to a meagre 132 for six off their 20 overs, with rookie stroke-maker Johnson Charles top-scoring with 30.
In reply, Sri Lanka coasted behind unbeaten half-centuries from seasoned campaigners Mahela Jayawardene and Tillakaratne Dilshan, to reach their target with 26 balls remaining.
The result would have been disappointing for West Indies who arrived here this week having been installed as one of the pre-tournament favourites.
With Chris Gayle rested for the encounter, both openers failed. Dwayne Smith was bowled by seamer Nuwan Kulasekara (2-35) with the eighth delivery of the game and Lendl Simmons perished for two in Kulasekara next over with the score on 22.
Dwayne Bravo stroked three boundaries in getting 14 from 16 deliveries as he put on 23 for the third wicket with Charles.
He was getting into stride when he was prised out in the eighth over and Charles followed soon afterwards, after also hitting three fours off 26 balls.
The best partnership of the innings then came through Darren Bravo and Kieron Pollard who put on 34 for the fifth wicket without being explosive.
Bravo stroked 29 from 31 balls with three fours and Pollard got 28 from 27 balls with two boundaries.
In reply, Sri Lanka started smoothly thanks to opener Dilshan Munaweera who spanked an enterprising 24 off 22 balls with five fours before falling to seamer Ravi Rampaul in the fifth over at 32 for one.
However, captain Jayawardene was sublime in his 57 off 35 balls, striking six fours and two sixes, while opener Dilshan finished on an even fifty from 38 balls.
West Indies face minnows Afghanistan in their second and final official warm-up game next Monday.

SCORECARD
WEST INDIES innings
L Simmons c wkp. Sangakkara b Kulasekara 2
D. Smith b Kulasekara 5
J. Charles run-out 30
DJ Bravo c Jayawardene b Mathews 14
DM Bravo c & b Malinga 29
K. Pollard not out 28
A. Russell run-out 11
D. Ramdin not out 8
Extras: (lb-1, w-3, nb-1) 5
Total: (for 6 wickets, off 20 overs) 132
Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-23, 3-46, 4-65, 5-99, 6-113.
Bowling: Malinga 4-0-27-1 (w-2), Kulasekara 4-0-35-2 (nb-1), T Perera 2-0-19-0, Mathews 2-0-7-1, Mendis 3-0-15-0, A Perera 3-0-17-0 (w-1), Mendis 2-0-11-0.

SRI LANKA innings
D. Munaweera c Badree b Rampaul 24
T. Dilshan not out 50
M. Jayawardene not out 57
Extras: (b-1, w-2, nb-1) 4
Total: (for 1 wicket, off 15.4 overs) 135
Fall of wickets: 1-32.
Bowling: Edwards 3-0-19-0 (w-1), Badree 2-0-15-0, 3-0-24-0, Narine 3-0-21-0, Russell 2-0-12-0, DJ Bravo 1.4-0-27-0, Pollard 1-0-16-0 (w-1, nb-1).

Distancing myself from Kaieteur News September 11 article

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:07:56 +0000

I wish to distance myself from the Kaieteur News article of September 11, 2012 "Moleson Creek School saga: What is the truth.

" I was not the author or reporter of the article and I equally had nothing to do with the penning, investigation, reportage, photography, etc, etc. concerning the previous (first) article which was published some time late August. I was not in the country then.

Several negative reports and letters to the editor which have been appearing in the newspapers over the past year have caused the Regional Education Officer in Region Six to think that I am the author of such articles, especially the letters to the editors-- many with weird, fictitious names. I have since informed that official that those articles were not my handiwork and stated that should I have anything critical to say about education delivery in Berbice, I will use my name in these columns. I have never ever used anything but my name when penning articles. Most of my newspaper articles have my name in the by-line or at the bottom in brackets.

A lot of wrong accusations are being peddled out there. Persons should be aware that Kaieteur News does not have one Berbice reporter and should also familiarise themselves with how a newspaper, reporting and the editorial office works. Also, every reporter has a writing style.

I have since recused myself from any reportage that has to do with any education controversy in Region 6. I have reported on other education matters and issues. I am a balanced reporter and individual, and have a very good working relationship with the education officials in Region 6, especially the Regional Education Officer, contrary to what many in the country may think.

At the end of the day, I am a teacher under the employ of the Government of Guyana and the Region 6 Administration. Notwithstanding, I shall continue to report on the issues that matter, credibly, balanced and fairly.

Guyana needs its own National Flag Carrier

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:09:55 +0000

GUYANA’s Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett says Guyanese continue to be unfairly targeted by authorities in Trinidad.

She said that despite various agreements, the CARICOM sister state continues to target Guyanese unfairly with visitors having to undergo repeated security checks, even when in-transit to other countries when the same measure is not applied to other nationalities.
This unfair treatment has been going on for many years now and it has been only but nothing was done about it.
I have written many times about how Guyanese are maltreated while in-transit in Trinidad having to undergo many security checks.
Only last year I wrote about the Trini checks I and many others had gone through prompting many of us to even ask the stewardess on the plane if we have to strip before being seated.
The flight touched down in Trinidad and we were checked, hand piece scanned, belts, shoes and bangles off and off we went to our gate.
One hour later an announcement was made that we had to go to another gate for boarding.
Again hand piece scanned, belts, shoes, bangles off before going to our waiting gate.
The security checks were not done there by any means since they announced to commence boarding.
Before showing your passport and boarding passes, many of us were pulled aside and made to take off our shoes, removed belts and bangles and a physical hand piece inspection.
It was overbearing to take which prompted me to ask the lady if she wanted me to drop my pants and shorts to ensure I have legal things on me only.
After many passengers heard me asked, they too asked the stewardesses if we all have to strip down before being seated.
Only recently on September 7, 2012 I had gone through the Trini checks and yet again I saw many things were being taken away from many Guyanese going to US and Canada.
It appears as though the Trini security personnel love feeling up Guyanese.
Again I told the Trini security lady she is not feeling up the right and real part of me.
I begged her to grab it and hold it and feel it if she likes, which prompted laughter from her and many others.
On my way out at Toronto I told them they will never be allowed to feel me up ever again since I will be flying direct Toronto/Georgetown with EZJet.
Once again I am urging the Minister of Tourism to get Guyana it's very own National Flag Carrier for direct flights to and from Toronto / Georgetown.

When Kwayana warns:”Look out Citizens!”

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:10:17 +0000

WITHOUT any hesitation Mr. Eusi Kwayana rushes to defend his fellow Buxtonian Dr David Hinds, mimicking God as if to say “behold my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased, in whom I have glorified my name. (Bible).

Why is the same firebrand who failed to instigate harassed Buxtonians to dig up and destroy that village’s pristine PPP/C built roads so favoured by his mentor, both living in America? What informs our ‘saintly elder-in -exile pleasures when rabble rousing politicians such as Dr Hinds were busy fanning the flames of violence in Linden, which resulted in three Guyanese being unfortunately shot dead? What is Mr. Kwayana’s continuing nexus with an expired agenda associated with death, destruction, doubt, damnation and racial divisions all constantly opposed to that which is good, peaceful, progressive and fair in Guyana? Why has a justifiable equality for all Guyanese to pay the same electricity rates only again emphasised Mr. Kwayana disconnect with Guyana’s realities?

Without any doubt Mr. Kwayana’s letter, “OP discredited Hinds when he complained of harassment instead of discouraging it” in the SN of 11-9-12 indeed exhibits a nagging disturbance about Dr Hinds activities. Should a foreign university’s infamous full time faculty member, evidently busy creating chaos to justify an unfair demand for unequal electricity payments, be rightfully censored because it exposes both to shame and ridicule? Should Guyana's President become unnecessarily preoccupied with a single visiting Guyanese?
Still, there is neither bite nor credibility whether Mr. Kwayana writes that “it is public knowledge that the PPP/C moved against academics at the University of Guyana and having them dismissed some of them for life. It follows the policy of “our academics” and “those other academics.” There are no academics, as such. In what ways are these (PPP/C) rulers better than those they succeeded (?)”, he inquires.
With a self admitted “primary and high school” teacher status Mr. Kwayana cannot fail to comprehend that no academic has been assassinated ( e.g. Dr Walter Rodney) or been maimed for their entire lives (e.g. Dr Joshua Ramsammy) or fired (e.g. Dr Mohamed Insanally) for unjustifiable causes under the PPP/C’s watch compared to what occurred under the PNC. Those are significant differences in today’s democratic Guyana with its free press.
Urging Buxtonians to destroy its roads while being in the midst of Linden's death and disturbances certainly cannot be a flattering image to which any good American educational institution would be pleased when it employs the foreign national Dr Hinds. Yet while the university reportedly championed Dr Hinds right to free speech in America, it has no jurisdiction nor can it be held responsible to either defend or guarantee those rights in Guyana. “All cannot be equal with some being more equal than others”, (George Orwell’s 1984) even when President Ramotar is also expected to comply.

Nevertheless there is an added dimension to this Linden fallout drama about Mr. Kwayana where “methinks thou dost protest too much” (Shakespeare’s Hamlet). Eternally seeking to create an environment of disturbance in Guyana he injects the contention that there are even more sinister hidden forces at work. Who? Get this. Now, Mr. Kwayana points out that ,listen carefully now, that, even though “Dr Hinds, whatever his suspicions, did not accuse the executive (PPP/C) party…is there another political force in Guyana that will have that kind of interest in endangering Dr Hind’s employment?” Did anyone really expect Mr. Kwayana to be openly pointing a finger at APNU and its leaders? Why shouldn't he? Former PNC leader Mr. Robert Corbin did warn of “wild men in our midst”. Since Dr Hinds and that opposition party are at loggerheads what else does explain why they have rejected and abandoned him? See http://www.demerarawaves.com/index.php/201209104565/Latest/qwhat-damage-to-property-is-more-than-lifeq-david-hinds.html
The proof of the pudding can only be in the eating. Guyanese cannot and must not be condemned constantly and forever by visits of racial violence, death, destruction doubts and divisions when democratic avenues are available. So what are we to expect when Mr. Kwayana warns:”Look out Citizens!”

Why the obsession with the former President’s pension?

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:10:44 +0000

I write in response to a series of inaccurate information in the media by elements of the opposition in their rabid attack against the former President and his pension plan.

It is clear that they have an obsession but it becomes dangerous when in their degenerative effort to paint a negative picture of the former President they resort not only to innuendos but also blatant misinformation and outright lies.

This slander campaign is exposed when on the one hand certain sections of the opposition, specifically elements of the AFC are questioning where the former President got the money to build his retirement home implying corruption, and on the other hand, they are doing some magician’s Maths with their assumption of what was Mr. Jagdeo’s Presidential salary cumulatively during his tenure in office and then deeming the total figure ‘stupendous.’
Mr. Editor, here is yet another glaring example of the desperation and obsession with the former President and evidence as to the length they will go, even to the point of contradicting themselves.
Another plan by the opposition is to constantly compare what the former President is receiving to the lowest paid workers or pensioners in Guyana. These very same opposition elements had never wasted time in holding Mr. Jagdeo accountable for the office which he held, that being the highest in Guyana.
Yet, now it is convenient for them to turn him into a minimum wage worker or even less. The facts would also show that during his tenure at the helm of our nation, benefits to these categories improved significantly.
Even more interestingly is, that the opposition had since 1999 to raise these very issues they are raising now regarding the salary of the former President, yet they chose to wait over a decade later as he was about to leave office and quite conveniently as an elections was approaching. Added to that is the fact that they did not raise the issue when other former Presidents were receiving the same benefits.
Their plan is exposed even further as not once have we heard these individuals call into question the salary, pension and other benefits of the Leader of the Opposition Mr. Robert Corbin and now Mr. David Granger.
The degeneracy of their obsession is even more glaring in the AFC and APNU constant ranting. They carefully avoid mentioning that the salaries of the Chancellor of the Judiciary and Attorney General are the same with that of the President.
Such is their sinister agenda as it is clear that they have no problem with the Head of the Judiciary or the Attorney General who sits in the President’s cabinet receiving such a salary, but Mr. Jagdeo as Head of State according to them is exhibiting ‘bullyism, insolence, intimidation and entitlement’ just because he receives not more but the same salary as one of his ministers.
The nonsense articulated by some of the opposition letter writers clearly shows the contempt they have for the intelligence of Guyanese, as in a recent case by one M. Maxwell where he is quick to pull out the 2011 GDP per capita figure of US $2,869, but then boldly states as fact that former President Jagdeo destroyed this nation during his tenure in office.
Mr. Maxwell and his opposition colleagues would do well to state what the GDP per capita was in 2009 when Mr. Jagdeo assumed the Office of President of Guyana and compare it to what it was when he left, some 12 years later.
Just as a reminder, the GDP when the PPP/C came to office in 1992 was about $300 US dollars.
The greatest fraud by Maxwell and his opposition colleagues is not only reserved for the people of Guyana but also Americans as the opposition in Guyana have apparently rewritten the Congressional report on what the former US President’s benefits are.
Maxwell, just as the AFC and APNU have done in the past, is keen to compare what he believes is the figure of the total package of President Jagdeo’s pension to that of what he believes will be Mr. Obama’s when he demits office and appears an expert when he pronounces that the former Guyanese Head of State will receive more than his American counterparts and his usual semantics follow.
According to him, President Jagdeo’s pension and other benefits will add up to approximately US $180,000 per year while President Obama will receive US $127,129 per year.
His blatant lie is exposed in a 2008 report to the US Congress on former President’s Federal Pension and Retirement Benefits where entitlements for former President Bill Clinton for that year amounted to US$ 1.162M. This does not include security and other costs and the figures were provided by the US Office of Budget, General Services Administration. Again, I repeat that figure is since 2008.
But it does not end there as it is clear that all the figures Mr. Maxwell bundles around regarding the former President’s salary and pension are merely guesstimates as in reality the pension would be around US $72,000 annually.
It was actually funny to observe that no other than AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan was on television recently attempting to justify his misinformation that the President’s Pension was $3M per month or as Maxwell parroted and came up with the grand sum of $180,000 US annually.
So in reality the former Guyanese President’s pension is but a mere fraction of what former US Presidents receive, another lie by the opposition exposed.
Now we know what method was used by the AFC when it crafted its manifesto and publicly paraded financial plans to cure all the ailments of Guyana, in the lead up to the last elections.
What they are not telling the Guyanese people is that the same set of benefits for former President Jagdeo was also afforded to former Presidents Arthur Chung, Desmond Hoyte and Janet Jagan. Why are they so obsessed with only former President Jagdeo?
Is it that he presided over a period of modernisation and economic growth; became respected for his ideas and work in several areas including Conservation by not only Regional but Global leaders; that he put Guyana on a path to sustained development with his initiatives; ensured Guyana became more attractive to foreign investments while overseeing a local boom in several sectors; implemented term limits for Presidents and saw the country attain its highest recorded foreign reserves, which makes it monumentally difficult for the opposition to convince the masses that they are worse off today. So they have resorted to accusations of corruption and discrimination.
I conclude by noting that it is even more evident now that the opposition is comforted in the belief that they can blatantly lie to the Guyanese people about the PPP/C government and they will never be held accountable.

PNCR continues to be on the side of the criminals

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:11:15 +0000

I wish to express deep sadness at the untimely death of Shaquille Grant of Agricola. The report is that this young man died in a shoot out with the police. It is sad to see that young life wasted.
However, we cannot divorce these

incidents from the actions of the political opposition parties. Those parties have close relations with criminal gangs and give them support because they feel that it brings them political gains.

Recall, that during the height of the criminal activities the PNCR gave a lot of support to the groups. The leaders of that party were the only ones that could have gone into the besieged village of Buxton, which the criminals had taken over. Many were reported to have been rubbing shoulders with the bandits.

Whenever any member(s)of the gangs got killed during confrontations with the police the PNCR in many cases organised their wake and funeral. PNC equipment (PA systems etc) were used at their funerals. In one case the flag of Guyana was desecrated when they draped the coffin of the infamous “Blackie” London with it.

I thought that with Granger those days had passed, but it is not so. It continues.

In the recent wanton lawlessness at Linden, where criminals extorted millions from miners and other law abiding citizens, the PNCR’s silence was deafening and seen as tacit support for the illegal acts.

More recently, Mr. Granger and other leaders of that party unveiled a monument in Buxton in memory of those that died in confrontation with the police. These included Dale Moore, Linden “Blackie” London, Andrew Douglas, Shawn Browne, “Fine Man” Rawlins and others.

The opposition AFC and PNCR never saw it fit to express sympathy and solidarity with the police when officers of the force were savagely murdered by the criminals. In one case they even called on their supporters to wear red to celebrate the assassination of the outstanding crime fighter Leon Fraser.

PNCR, APNU, WPA, AFC must find other role models for youths to aspire to.

Man arrested after GWI contractor threatened

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:16:28 +0000

POLICE have arrested a man following investigations into a report that, a Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) disconnection contractor executing a routine, on September 11, was threatened with a cutlass by the occupant of the home at

Lot 59 Craig Milne, Cove & John, East Coast Demerara.
GWI Divisional Revenue Manager, Malica Dowlin said it was verified that the property was scheduled to be disconnected when an occupier of the house approached Miles Moore, who is attached to the GWI contractor.
Dowlin said the individual brandished the weapon and issued the threat of bodily harm if Moore executed the task.
GWI contacted the Cove and John Police Station and the arrest was effected and the suspect remains in custody.
The water utility said it is unaware whether the individual held is the account holder stated in its customer database.
Meanwhile, GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Nigel Niles strongly condemned any threats to the employees or contractors associated with the agency by customers.
“The company will explore all legal avenues to thoroughly prosecute any customer who threatens or harms any worker conducting business on behalf of GWI,” he said.

Kaieteur Falls mesmerises CSEC top performers, GTA competition winners

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:17:28 +0000

THIS year’s top Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and winners of the various Competitions of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) became the latest visitors to be mesmerised by the splendour of our majestic Kaieteur Falls compliments of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and the GTA.

A release from the Ministry said that the 15 persons were captivated by the beauty of Kaieteur Falls when they journeyed to the tourist site last week
Those visiting the Falls, included this year’s top CSEC performers, Jessica Anthony, Jennel Cadogan, Deowattie Narine, Meikel Mahabir, Bibi Ameena Nazaralie, Aaidah Bacchus, Benedict Sukra and Karran Singh along with several winners of various competitions conducted by the GTA during this year’s International Building Expo and the Berbice Expo.
Expertly led by their knowledgeable tour guide, Mr. Lawerence Gibson, the first time visitors were taken on a guided tour of the Kaieteur National Park and were afforded the rare opportunity of glimpsing the golden dart frog hidden within the Tank Bromeliads; nearby the surrounding natural environment.
The adventurers were also given the chance to appreciate the vastness of the country’s beauty during their 55-minute flight from Ogle to the Kaieteur National Park.
Excitement and awe were evident on the faces of those who were gifted with a trip to one of Guyana’s premier tourist attractions, as the Tourism Ministry continues to promote domestic tourism by ensuring that Guyanese can explore and experience the country’s beauty, the release said.
Kaieteur Falls is a 226-metre high waterfall located in the Potaro River in the Siparuni Region in Guyana; this 741 ft single drop waterfall is the most exciting attraction in Guyana and is considered the highest single-drop waterfall in the world.
The surroundings of the Kaieteur waterfall is also part of the Kaieteur National Park which covers about 627 square km and is host to unique species such as the golden frog; this area occupies a prominent position in the centre of the Guiana Shield.

Accused trio in recent pirate attacks remanded

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:17:55 +0000

THE three men captured after the recent pirate attacks on fishermen at sea were remanded to prison when they appeared in Court yesterday, on several charges of robbery under arms.

Before Acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry were Richard Mangal, 26, of Lot 44 Pigeon Island, East Coast Demerara; Eon Sampson, 26, of Mocha/Arcadia, East Bank Demerara and Gary Joseph, 42, of Barima River, North West District.
Particulars of the indictable offences with which they are charged said:
* on September 8, at La Bonne Intention (LBI), on the vessel ‘Sir Leonard’, within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with handguns, they robbed Jamir Khan of one boat engine among other things with a total value of $2.3M, property of Leonard Jettoo;
* between September 7 and 8, at LBI, they stole one fishing vessel ,valued $400,000, property of Munilall;
* on September 8, at LBI, within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with a handgun and aboard fishing boat ‘Zabeeda’, they robbed crew members of items worth a total of $510,000, property of Mohamed Odeen;
* the same day, in Pomeroon, within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with a handgun, they robbed crew members of items valued $360,000, property of Shameer Saffie;
* also on that day, in Pomeroon, within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with a handgun, on fishing vessel ‘Naresh’, they robbed crew members of items worth $616,500, property of Vibert Singh;
* the same day, too, being armed with a handgun, they robbed crew members of items priced at $1.9M, property of Anjanie Singh;
* the very day, as well, within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with handguns and on fishing vessel ‘Annan’, they robbed crew members of items worth $686,000, property of Ramnarine and
* within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with handgun and on fishing vessel ‘Ramdeen’, they robbed crew members of items valued $240,000, property of Nandlall Gopaul.

Different locations
Police Inspector Stephen Telford, prosecuting, informed the Court that the virtual complaints in the cases employed crew members who were on their fishing vessels at different locations when the accused confronted them with guns.
The Prosecutor said the accused ordered the virtual complainants and their crew members to hand over all the items and then made good their escape but, on receipt of information, the Police, later, went to the home of another person who is also implicated in the piracy and recovered some of the booty.
The Prosecutor requested arrest warrants for two suspects but the magistrate said she cannot do so until the investigating officer swears to the information that the two were in his custody before escaping.
However, the Prosecutor said the trio admitted to the offences in caution statements and he asked the articles recovered be handed over to the virtual complainants.
The cases will be called, again, on September 18.

Guyana gets US$26,000 UNESCO grant for heritage digitalisation

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:18:22 +0000

THE Guyana National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) yesterday, made a grant of US$26,000 (approximately G$5.2M) to the National Archives to fund a digitalisation project. This will be supplemented with a local input of$5M.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, speaking at the formal handing over, thanked UNESCO for the gesture, noting that Guyana holds important records, such as on East Indian and Dutch immigration records.
Those documents have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Register and according to the Minister the digitalising will be very instrumental for their preservation.
Anthony pointed out that the equipment to be bought will not only be used for the indentureship records but would include others, as well. He also explained that the Ministry is looking into ways to preserve audio and video recordings.
“For us, as a country, it’s very important that we maintain these records and we are very, very pleased that we have this partnership with UNESCO and I hope that you would also encourage other partners to see the value, in terms of helping us to preserve these records,” he added.
Regional archives
In addition, Anthony said he envisages that the archives will not only be developed at a national level but the regional level and he is hopeful for the development of regional archives where documents pertaining to matters of individual administrative regions can be stored.
He said the true beneficiaries of the digitisation process will be the researchers and others who access information at the National Archives. However, he noted that it is very important for future generations since it holds history.
Secretary General of the Guyana National Commission on UNESCO, Ms. Inge Nathoo said its new initiative ‘Heritage and Dialogue’ will seek to develop new approaches to complex issues, through the creation of sub-regional working groups on heritage management, conservation and promotion, covering world heritage, intangible heritage, cultural industries, museums and cultural institutions.
Archivist Ms. Nadia Gamel-Carter revealed that the Ministry of Culture will be providing additional funds which were allocated to the National Archives for 2012 capital projects.
She said the digitising of the records will allow for increased access to rare resources and enhanced capabilities for searching and browsing of rare archival collection. It will also aid in the continued preservation and conservation of rare and valuable collections.
Gamel-Carter advised that, for this project, they will microfilm and digitise records which were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Register, most notably of East Indian immigration.
Meanwhile, Senior Assistant Archivist, Ms. Karen Budhram has been selected to participate in an international conference, themed ‘The Memory of the world in the digital age: Digitalisation and Preservation’, which will take place in Vancouver, Canada, from September 26 to 28.
The event is organised by UNESCO, in collaboration with other international bodies and leading non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the area of preservation.

Post mortem reveals ‘Blacka’ victim was strangled

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:18:40 +0000

A POST mortem conducted on the body of 14-year-old Daniel Younge, which was fished out of the Lama Conservancy, called ‘Blacka,’ on Sunday revealed that he died from drowning following strangulation.

A relative of the dead teen, who along with his father witnessed the autopsy, confirmed that the corpse bore evidence of violence.
There was a big black mark on his forehead and indications of an accumulation of blood under the skin at that point, the relative said. In addition, there was froth in his mouth, consistent with strangulation and his fingers were inclined inwards, in a crouching position, appearing as though he was scrambling for life whilst in the water.
After the operation, the lad’s father accompanied the police who witnessed the procedure, as they went in search of another boy whose name was mentioned as having been in Younge’s company at the Lama Conservancy.
It is not clear whether police have made any arrests but relatives now have every reason to believe that Younge’s death was due to foul play.
The funeral will take place tomorrow. The cortege leaves Sandy’s Funeral Home on Chapel Street, Lodge, at 11:00 hours, for his father’s business place, Callendar Street, Albouystown, but the thanksgiving service for deceased will be held at the South Road Full Gospel Church, also in Georgetown, starting 15:00 hours.

After earlier delay… Homeless shelter near completion, GOG getting value for money- Webster

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:19:28 +0000

THE shelter for the reintegration and rehabilitation of the homeless at Onverwagt, on the West Coast of Berbice, in Region 5, is likely to be completed and handed over to the Government of Guyana by the end of this year. The centre was to initially be handed over to the government last March.

During a visit to the location on Wednesday, Human Services and Social Security Minister Jennifer Webster said that based on the amount of work completed at the facility, it could be safe to say that 90 percent of it is done.
On Wednesday, Minister Webster, Permanent Secretary Lauren Baird, Director of Social Services Whensworth Tanner, national engineer Walter Willis and project director Radesh Rameshwear, representing KARES Contracting and Engineering Services, visited the location.
Unlike a previous visit to the location by Minister within the Finance Ministry and Minister Webster earlier this year, when she showed visible signs of frustration at the pace at which the works were going, Minister Webster on Wednesday praised the present contractor for the work done.
Speaking with the state media after a tour of the facility, Minister Webster noted that the works at the facility seem to be of a high standard and opined that the government seems to be finally getting its money’s worth on the project.
According to Webster, the administration building, infirmary area, training facilities, library, mess hall, living quarters and even the guard hut are all looking presentable at this time.
The minister said that the facility which has a capacity to house 120 males and 60 females, still have some minor work to be done.
The centre is being built with assistance from the government of Venezuela and has several long term plans in its objectives, one of which is to provide skills training for homeless persons who can be reintegrated into society. The meals for the facility will be prepared on site and will be covered by the Government of Guyana.
The facility has accommodation for a resident doctor and a caretaker with his or her family. The facility will also have a maintenance superintendent who will be tasked with ensuring that all fixtures on the premises are in good working order.
A support staff is also expected to be part of the new facility.
The rehabilitation and reintegration centre also has a generator that will be providing back-up power supply in the event of a power failure.
After errant contractors were fired earlier this year, the ministry had to go back to tendering for the facility.
Walter Willis explained that the errant contractors still owe the state monies which could amount to close to $40 million, representing advances that were given to them during their holding of the contract.
He added that the present contractor is also way above the completion date, but the ministry is still contemplating how they will address this issue. Willis explained that this is so because at the time that the contractor was given the contract, his work was hampered by inclement weather and there were cases where payment for his licenses were delayed by the ministry which saw him being late in his acquisition of materials.
KARES has been awarded the contract to complete the project for $270M.
KARES was awarded the project on April 28, 2011, after several contractors fell short on their obligation to the project.

Miss Universe calls on President Ramotar

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:19:45 +0000

MISS Universe, Leila Lopes, yesterday paid a courtesy call on President Donald Ramotar in the company of a small entourage, three days before she makes a special guest appearance at the 2012 Miss Guyana Universe pageant.

The 27-year-old native of Angola, who made history as the first woman from that country to win the Miss Universe crown in Sao Paulo, Brazil, had an enlightening conversation with the Head of State in the presence of Acting Minister of Tourism Irfaan Ali, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Jennifer Webster, and Presidential Adviser on Community Development Odinga Lumumba.
“Normally when we know we’re going to meet a President, we tend to feel a little bit nervous but he made me feel very comfortable… he asked me about my country I asked him about his country… it was a very nice conversation,” Miss Lopes said.
She is looking forward to being at the upcoming Miss Guyana Universe pageant, including meeting and interacting with the 11 delegates to motivate and inspire them to understand what it takes to win the crown.
“At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how beautiful you are; you have to be smart,” Lopes said in an invited comment to the Government Information Agency.
Lopes will be performing the duties of crowning Miss Guyana Universe who will be representing the country at the 61st Miss Universe Pageant to be held on December 11 at a venue announced by the Miss Universe Organisation.
The final segment of the pageant will be staged tomorrow at the Princess Hotel, two days after the question and answer segment which was scheduled for last evening at the National Communications Network.

Housing Ministry/ Toolsie Persaud Ltd ink building materials whole sale prices agreement -for low income house lot owners

Admin2 — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:20:01 +0000

THE Ministry of Housing and Water’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) yesterday inked an agreement with Toolsie Persaud Ltd and

Group of Companies under which the latter entity will offer building materials for sale at whole sale prices to house lot owners who fall within the low/moderate income and vulnerable categories.
This means that low and moderate CHPA allottees, including the disabled, can now benefit from as much as 10 to 15 per cent discounts when making purchases of building construction materials from Toolsie Persaud’s. This include lumber, quarry materials, electrical and other hardware items – you name it, the firm’s Commercial Manager/Director, Mr. Kadirullah, confirmed.
This announcement was made at a media briefing held yesterday at the Ministry of Housing and Water, Brickdam,.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Water, Mr. Emile Mc Garrel, noted that the partnership was brokered as government seeks to continue finding ways in which to promote public/private partnership for the provision of housing. Through this initiative, he said, a stellar private sector organisation in Guyana has come on board to help in the realisation of home ownership for low income and moderate income earning Guyanese.
Meanwhile, in brief remarks to the media, Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali who expressed appreciation for the offer made by Toolsie Persaud, said: “We are inking an agreement and understanding with Toolsie Persaud, whereby every single allottee of a low income or moderate income house lot, or any one being part of the construction of the ‘Turn Key Home’ or ‘Revolving Home’, will benefit from the wholesale price of building materials and supplies.”
This offer he said, also includes - any of the contractors working in partnership with the Ministry and a financial institution. Ali noted that, while it was a simple ceremony, it is an event that would have tremendous impact on ordinary Guyanese, who fall within the rank and file of the CHPA’s low income earners or low/middle income earners.
The Housing Minister recalled that during last year, his Ministry launched an initiative which saw it partnering with the private sector in developing programmes that would bring greater benefit to the consumers, and to ensure that the market pricing mechanism does not pose and an additional burden on the allottees in the construction of their homes.
This, he sees, as an excellent example of the partnership between the Housing sector and the private sector, in advancing programmes and policies that are sustainable, and reach every segment of the society.
He hinted too that Toolsie Persaud, at some later time would be announcing a major initiative in which they are working on expanding their industrial and manufacturing facilities that would create hundreds of jobs along the new East Bank Development segment that will become very highly populated. Similarly, the Ministry has on the cards, negotiating an arrangement with one of the cement companies, TCL, for the grant of a 20% discount to every allottee from the CHPA making purchases of cement for the construction of their homes.
“We see this as coming at a very important point in the construction sector, when international prices are changing,” Ali said. He noted that even though moderately, there are never-the -less increases in the prices of construction materials around the world. Hence, to have such an offer coming at a time when the local construction sector is doing well and making remarkable strides, is to be seen as commendable, he remarked. Such initiatives the minister sees and lending to the development and expansion of the construction sector and ensuring that it remains sustainable.
He disclosed that the Ministry has set itself a target of more than 6,000 house lots this year, and assured that all of these would be completed. With an approximate 55% having been finished so far, the initiative is now looking towards the construction of another 3,000 housing units to realise its set target, and this is outside of the expansion by the private sector.
“So I think that today marks another important day in the history of the relationship between the relationship between the Central Housing and Planning Authority and the private sector. It is about the confidence both sectors place in each other, as we seek to achieve one common good - and that is to bring to the consumer, a better service, a better product and a better pricing mechanism, that would ensure their dreams become reality,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kadirullah, Commercial Managing Director of Toolsie Perrsaud said that it is an established fact that Toolsie Persaud Ltd has always been supportive of government’s projects. adding: “…whether it is roads, sea defence, water – we are there, and today we are very pleased to be associated with the Ministry of Housing to get this low income housing project going.”
Others at the ceremony included: Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Ms. Myrna Pitt and General Manager / Company Director of Toolsie Persaud’s, Mr. Avinash Persaud.

Visiting Region Eight… Whittaker orders closure of Region 8 dump site

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 04:55:58 +0000

MINISTER within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Norman Whittaker after a visit to the existing dump site three miles outside Mahdia, in Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni) last week Friday instructed that it be closed.

The instruction for the closure was after he had encountered a number of issues with regards to regulation and health.
The minister accompanied by Regional Chairman, Mr. Mark Crawford; Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Ronald Harsawack and other officials, including from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), indicated that his Ministry has adopted an approach to address the solid waste situation in all 10 administrative regions in Guyana.
He said presently the focus is on Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica) and its Haags Bosch location for the collection and disposal of garbage.
According to Whittaker, the Ministry has decided that with public/ private partnership it can deal with the solid waste collection, transportation and disposal in all the administrative regions.
The Neighborhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) do not have the resources that would allow them to do what is expected, he said, mentioning that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which has guidelines regarding landfill sites and is presently working to have at least two in each Region by January 1, 2013.
Whittaker explained that landfill is different from the traditional dump site, where dumping and burning is done. The landfill will see a new format in cells and the solid waste being thrown, covered and the process repeated until a cell is filled and another, new one begins the similar process, so that the idea of dumping garbage will be removed from citizens.
Positive response
The Ministry two months ago had advertised in the local newspapers for persons interested in solid waste management and there was a positive response from a number of people. They were engaged in meetings between the Ministry and stakeholders, to have a clear understanding on the Ministry interested personcompany guidelines of the intent of the project.
Whittaker said in some cases the interested parties, Ministry officials and other stakeholders had visited the sites to see the location, determination and implementation of the policies of the operation and guidelines set out by those in authority. This, he said, left the interested party with a clear picture after which questions and answers and recommendations were made and the stakeholder is knowledgeable of the operation thereafter.
He said, most of the Regions should, by January 1, 2013, have at least one solid waste site and the successful company will be in full operation as they have undertaken to provide the residents they will be serving with receptacles for the waste collection.
Once accepted, the price quoted by the interested party cannot be changed without the intervention of the Minister as, he said, if the service is effective and reliable and can suit the pocket of the residents, they will pay.
The NDCs will now continue to provide more services as regarding drainage etc for the citizens in their respective areas, already with such as Cevon's Waste Management and Puran Brothers executing theirs reliably and affordably in Regions Four, Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) and Five (Mahaica/Berbice).
In Mahdia, only one company has show interest and a site location and visit is expected with a proposal in two weeks time, Whittaker disclosed.

APNU joins AFC in thanks to Suddie Hospital

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 04:58:40 +0000

ALLIANCE for Change (AFC) Councillor in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Mr. Archie Cordis is very thankful to the doctors, nurses and staff of Suddie Hospital for providing quality service to him while he was hospitalised recently.

Expressing his thanks at the statutory meeting of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on Tuesday, he said positive things are happening at the hospital and he is very grateful for the service.
Cordis said the staff is very dedicated and courteous.
Noting that, many times, negative things are said against persons he declared that the positive must also be reported, too.
The councillor said he felt very comfortable while in the hospital and, even more important, when the Chairman of the Region, Mr. Parmanand Persaud and the Superintendent of the Hospital visited him.
A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Councillor, Ms. Linda Duncan also thanked People’s Progressive Party/Civic Councillor, Ms. Shanta Springer, who is employed at the hospital, for doing a good job at the institution.
Duncan said Springer is an all-rounder and would always assist persons at the hospital. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

APNU Councillor praises PPP/C for solar, laptops delivery

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 04:59:48 +0000

A PARTNERSHIP for National Unity (APNU) Councillor of the Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Mr. Prince Shepherd said he is happy that the nine Amerindian communities across the region have received solar panel units from the government, despite the cuts to the National Budget by the opposition parties including his own.

Shepherd was heckled, by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Councillors, while speaking at the statutory meeting on Tuesday. They reminded him that it is the prudent management of the economy by the government that has caused the solar electrification programme to become a realty in Amerindian communities.
However, Shepherd, who is his party’s representative on Amerindian and Hinterland Affairs Committee, shot back, saying, in spite of the opposition parties’ cuts to the National Budget, he is happy that the government has, somehow, found the money to supply the solar power panels and other equipment to the nine villages.
The councillor also thanked the government for distributing laptop computers to the Amerindian communities in the region.

Regional Chairman explains Pomeroon River floating base delay

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:00:17 +0000

CHAIRMAN of Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Mr. Parmanand Persaud has announced that the military floating base will be set up shortly at the mouth of the Pomeroon River.

He said the project was delayed because the Regional Administration does not have the kind of machinery to drive down long piles into the river bed required to anchor the pontoon that will house the base.
However, the machinery is currently being sourced from outside the region.
Persaud offered the update after another Councillor, Mr. Rudolph Williams called for the outpost to be established urgently, in light of the recent attacks on several boats that were fishing off the Pomeroon River mouth and Moruca sea coast.
Williams also commended the efforts of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard for the brave effort that led to the capture of three pirates and recovery of several stolen outboard engines and other equipment in the Waini area of North West District.
The floating base is intended to monitor the movements of boats entering and leaving the Pomeroon River and give fishermen added security while at sea.

On Essequibo Coast… Rice farmers assured with harvest in full swing

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:00:55 +0000

PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) officials of the Rice Producers Association (RPA) and others from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) met with scores of farmers at Anna Regina Seed Bond on Wednesday to discuss the current crop being harvested and paddy prices.

GRDB General Manager, Mr. Jagnarine Singh told the gathering that its Quality Control Manager, Ms. Allison Peters will be in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) for several days and would check on rice mills that are purchasing paddy.
Singh said GRDB will always be available to help farmers and solve their problems and he assured them that the Mahaicony Rice Mills (MRM), which owes planters millions of dollars for paddy bought more than two years ago will not be given licence to operate until the last farmer owed, is fully paid.
The Farmers Group, which purchased the grains last crop, is now closed and is not in business any longer. A member of it, named Seecharran, however, assured that money owed would be paid within another two weeks.
The GRDB General Manager called on farmers to ensure that there is proper documentation as required when selling their paddy so that the laws can be implemented concerning payments.
General Secretary, Mr. Dharamkumar Seeraj told farmers that several initiatives by the RPA, GRDB and the government have led to farmers being paid by MRM. He said the government took $400M and paid farmers.
Serious headaches
According to him, there are problems with two foreign owned companies in the country that have caused serious headaches concerning payment to farmers but MRM and Alesie are on their way out.
Farmers also raised several other issues, including the export of paddy and rice to overseas markets and payment for their produce purchased by millers.
Some farmers said millers are offering different prices, with which they are not pleased, for paddy.
Region Two Chairman, Mr. Parmanand Persaud, who also attended the meeting, reported that the administration is grading and levelling access dams so farmers can transport their paddy quickly.
He gave the assurance that he would work in their interest to develop the rice industry which is the heart of Region Two.
Harvesting is in full swing on the Essequibo Coast.

GUYAID make presentations to winners in essay competition

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:03:30 +0000

THE Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Guyanese Assisting in Development (GUYAID) on Thursday held their 19th annual award ceremony for their essay writing competition at the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD).

Deputy Chief Education Officer (Secondary), Ms. Doodmattie Singh said that the competition targets both primary and secondary schools in all education districts across Guyana, and comprises of three categories- under 12, over 12 and over 14. She also said that the number of entries for this year was much larger than the other years. This year, there were a total of 269 entries, an increase of a 100 from last year.
Ms. Singh related that the competition provides a platform for the students to enhance their literacy and research skills. She said that on March 13 a memo was dispatched to all education districts requesting topics from schools, and while not all the education districts responded, they were overwhelmed by the number of topics received. According to her, after the polishing and refinement of some of the topics, a group identified the topics for the various categories.
For the under 12 category, the topic was “The teacher I would like to be.” She said that this topic was chosen because they wanted teachers to understand what it is that students are looking for in a teacher. The topic for the over 12 category which was “The harmful effects of plastic bags and bottles” was chosen to raise awareness of this topical issue. For the over 14 category the topic which was “My country a tourist dream” was chosen so that the students would learn what is out there apart from the community in which they reside.
According to Ms. Singh, the students were given the topics long in advance, so that they could do whatever research deemed necessary. She related that the essay writing was an in class activity which was written on a particular day, in order to ensure fairness. Ms. Singh added that students from region 7 (Cuyuni/ Mazaruni) wrote the essay on June 13, while the students from the other educational districts wrote it on June 20.
“The development of literacy and research skills is vital to a nation’s success and development”, she said, adding that the efforts of organisations such as GUYAID are lobbied and supported by the ministry of education.
Chairperson for the Guyana chapter of GUYAID, Mrs. Bernice Mansell, expressed her thanks and appreciation to all the officers and staff of the Ministry of Education, students, teachers and parents who played a part in the educational endeavor. She said that GUYAID salutes and congratulates all the students who participated in the competition, noting that they worked hard and succeeded, and they celebrate their success. Mrs. Mansell encouraged the students to continue to persevere and believe in themselves, knowing that they can achieve anything they put their minds to.
One of the judges of the competition, Head of the English Department at the Tutorial High School, Ms. Shandrina Lee presented the judges report. She said that for the under 12 category, the students’ essays expressed their desire for a child-friendly classroom, quality teaching practices and innovative methodology. Ms. Lee related that it was discovered that at one school, two essays had the exact information. She said that this means that the teacher allowed both students to copy the same information.
Ms. Lee said that in the over 12 category some of the students copied the information wholesale from the internet and presented it as their own. She noted that in the over 14 category students downloaded information about Guyana, and as a consequence the essays lacked originality and creativity. According to her, while the use of technology is commendable, students should be taught to use it wisely.
The national first place winner of the Under 12 category was Bibi Famela Ganie of the Saraswat Primary school in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara), the winner for the over 12 category was Vijay Shivkaran of Diamond Secondary school in region 4 (Demerara/Mahaica), and the winner for the over 14 category was Oma Devi Nanku of Bygeval Secondary in region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice). These students were presented with certificates and will receive monetary awards. The regional winners were also presented with certificates and their school presented with plaques.

Mahdia consultation secures support for corporal punishment

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:05:43 +0000

THE Ministry of Education continued its series of consultations on Grade RepetitionRetention & Automatic Promotion and Corporal Punishment
last Tuesday at Mahdia Community Centre in Region 8(Potar/Siparuni) with about 100 residents participating in the discussions

The participants included, Ms. Collette Adams, from the Office of the Regional Executive Officer (REO); Mrs. Marcia Paddy-Andrews, Regional Education Officer; teachers from the nursery, primary and secondary schools, as well as their head teachers, District Education Officers, Schools Welfare Officers, other regional officials and Toshaos among others.
The visiting team, led by Ms. Carol Benn, National Coordinator of Parent Teachers Associations, Ministry of Education and Ms. Elsie Croal, Ms. Pauline Stanford and Mr. Ryan Toney from National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD).
Making her presentation to the gathering, Benn explained, in detail, the outline of the national consultation and sought questions and clarification from the teachers, first, before inviting the views of parents and other citizens.
A number of issues were raised and explanations sought by both teachers and parents, regarding the Government’s policy on the topics being discussed.
Some residents suggested there should be a programme for slow learners in the school system, although they had major concerns over the automatic promotion.
Several indicated that not all are interested in activities inside and outside of Mahdia, as regards mining but have seen several youths mostly males elevate themselves academically at a late stage.
Other issues
Others pointed to the need for more consultations on other issues as they saw the necessity for their views to be heard and their interest in the assistance and creation of a more parent/teacher relationship for the development of their children and students of the school and community.
Speaking about corporal punishment, Benn got support from many of the parents for the Ministry to reintroduce it with prescribed guidelines.
Older teachers present pointed out some of the students to whom they had administered lashes and, today, are teaching and are well set in moulding the nation's children to become leaders and, like themselves, teach tomorrow’s brood.
Toshao of nearby Campbelltown Village, Ms. Marbell Thomas sought clarity on behalf of her community, noting that it is a good thing to seek the intervention of people from Mahdia on such an important matter. She saw the necessity for the creation of a more parent/teacher/child relationship in achieving progressive academic results.
The congregation expressed satisfaction and thanked the officials for such a timely exercise in Education Month.

Government taking steps to normalise situations facing municipalities -- Whittaker

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:06:12 +0000

MINISTER within the Local Government Ministry, Norman Whittaker has said that government has begun to take every step necessary to normalise the different situations faced by the various municipalities around the country.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday in the boardroom of the Local Government Ministry, Whittaker said that a new Town Clerk has been appointed in Linden and would have assumed duties already. This development came after the township was affected by the July/August protest actions which created the need for interventions by the ministry in the town’s municipality.
“So we would expect some semblance of normalcy to be returned. A number of officers would shortly be appointed, including municipal treasurer and environmental health officer, and staffing (would be boosted up) especially at the senior level,” Whittaker said.
He said these interventions would have substantially boosted the municipality, and mass improvement is expected in terms of service delivery.
“In terms of the municipal issues, I did engage the municipal chairman for the IMC in Linden essentially, and dealt with the work of that municipality in terms of work and delivery of services (which have) been affected by the protest activities,” Whittaker said.
He said that primary among tasks to be completed would be the need to have the budget prepared and submitted, and this is expected to happen shortly.
In terms of the Georgetown municipality, Whittaker said the Local Government Ministry continues to work with the clerk and staff at City Hall, and expectation is that, coming out of these frequent engagements, new and different approaches would be arrived at to improve service delivery.
“During these engagements, we will be able to offer guidance and advice in dealing with some of the issues that confront this new team. Issues to do with (include) improving the quality of staff, issues to do with the way they record the funds, and the ways in which the funds (are) used; and most importantly, issues to do with the service that they are suppose to deliver,” he emphasized.
The minister disclosed that the municipality, the union and the Ministry of Labour are involved in discussions on several issues.
“We met recently, and issues have begun to be addressed; and the town clerk at the Georgetown municipality is engaging in a meeting -- right now as we speak -- with the staff, with the expectation that, coming out of it, they will be able to bring conclusion to some of these matters,” he stated.
Among these issues is a request that workers be paid by the union for the days they were on strike. The minister said those workers will be paid; however, they will have to wait until there are funds available, since there are other commitments at that level.
“There has been some concession, but the workers will have to receive that payment when the funds are available, because we have other commitments at those levels.” He added.
In regard to the other municipalities of Corriverton, Rose Hall Town and New Amsterdam, the minister said that, for the most part, they have been delivering service at a reasonably high level.
“We continue to work with them. Incidentally, very shortly, Corriverton will be celebrating its 42nd anniversary as a town,” he highlighted.
The minister also disclosed that several visits were made in Region 8 to take a look at the site which is to be used as a landfill. Those visits, he said, were made in the company of the Region 8 Chairman.
“We are committed towards working with (the) private sector to improve this service that will be delivered across the 10 administrative regions,” he stated.

Encouraging response to USAID/Guyana’s SKYE project

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:07:17 +0000

THE Skills and Knowledge for Youth Employment (SKYE) project of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID/Guyana) on Thursday hosted an Employment Sector Advisory Group meeting and a Labour Market Assessment Stakeholders’ seminar at the Regency Suites in Georgetown, with objectives to establish the Employment Sector Advisory Group members, provide orientation for members and beneficiaries, and share initial results of a labour market assessment relevant to stakeholders.

Representatives from several entities, including Bounty Farm, Roraima Airways, and the Berbice and Georgetown Chambers of Commerce, were among several other attendees which by their attendance signified their readiness and willingness to work along with the USAID/Guyana SKYE project, to further the prospects of vulnerable youths in Guyana by improving their skills.
The SKYE project is focused on strengthening the environment that facilitates youth development; supporting the reintegration of high-risk population; and importantly, supporting youths to find employment, or to start their own businesses; and to support their greater participation as Guyanese citizens.
The Employment Sector Advisory Group will play a direct role in improving the work capabilities of vulnerable and at-risk youths in Guyana.
Membership in this group will provide guidance and participation in project activities; identify employment sector alliances to maximize project resources; and assist the project team in identifying employment opportunities for at-risk youth beneficiaries.
The Labour Market Assessment (LMA) Stakeholders Seminar served as an opportunity for partners to review and validate data generated from the labour market assessment. Seminar participants were from academia and the private and public sectors.
The initial findings of the LMA highlighted the entry point into the workforce for SKYE’s target beneficiaries in both formal and informal sectors for Regions 4, 6, 9 and 10.
The LMA provided information on the project demand for labour within the next three years, and identified sectors in which development of new enterprises may be viable.

President’s appointed to UN education review committee –adds to Guyana’s global image

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:09:28 +0000

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar’s appointment to the steering committee put together by United Nations Secretary General Ban-ki Moon to review the education system around the world adds to the list of Guyana’s accomplishments in the international arena.

According to Education Minister Priya Manickchand it can be argued that the appointment vindicates the world recognition Guyana has been gaining for its achievements over the years, particularly in the education sector, which is today the best it has ever been in history,.
It was announced on September 8 that the Guyanese Head of State was invited to serve for a period of one year on the Group of Member States Champions of the Education First Initiativethat will be launched on September 26 at the General Assembly.
President Ramotar credited his appointment to the “tremendous” work that is being done by all stakeholders who have over the years served with loyalty in the country’s education system.
The call for a review was spurred by the UN Secretary General’s concerns that with the 775 million illiterate adults and 61 million out-of-primary-school children, the 2015 target to provide education for all may not be reached.
The Initiative aims to raise the visibility of education on the global agenda, and focuses on getting every child into school, improving the quality of learning and fostering global citizenship.
In consultation with UN agencies and other key partners, UNESCO was entrusted with setting the vision of this Initiative that addresses persistent challenges and taps the potential of education to make development sustainable, the UNESCO website stated.
With President Ramotar being appointed a member, coming from a country where universal access to primary education has been achieved, it is hoped that a practical resolution will be forthcoming.
The fact that the expertise of Guyana is being sought after on global issues, in a rather unprecedented way, should be highlighted; but it also speaks volumes about the transformation in the country that now warrants the attention of the international community.
The fight against climate change in particular propelled Guyana’s image to the world and earned the country funding through a model forest climate services arrangement with the Government of Norway.
A historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kingdom of Norway will see the country earning up to US$250M in forest carbon payments by 2015. The Norwegian Government made good on its promise to disburse two tranches totalling US$70M to the Guyana Redd + Investment Fund after Guyana discharged its obligations in implementing the terms and conditions in the MoU.
Credit must be given to 2010 Champion of the Earth Awardee, former President Bharrat Jagdeo, whose Initiative on Avoided Deforestation, launched in 2008, has taken Guyana to the point where it is today.
The former president was named by TIME Magazine as a Hero of the Environment, and in 2010, he was appointed by the UN Secretary General to the high-level panel, which also included former British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown; Meles Zenawi of Ethiopia; and Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg of Norway, to shore up climate change funding.
Under his leadership, Guyana co-chaired the Interim REDD + Partnership with Germany, with the aim of scaling up actions and finance for initiatives to reduce emissions from REDD+ in developing countries.
In 2011, he was invited to join the Board of Directors of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and was appointed roving ambassador to forest basins when leaders from countries in the Amazon, Congo and Borneo-Mekong met in June.
Diplomacy also played a crucial role in Guyana’s image overseas and is considered stronger today than ever before, particularly with neighbours at the South American borders that in the past had issues over territory.
Guyana’s relations with Suriname and Venezuela, for instance, have been characterised by a resolve to put behind the issues that had in the past botched their relations and focus on what is binding. Guyana and Suriname in particular have agreed to revive the border commission to build on trust between the two nations and meet at least once every six months.
Appointed overseas missions have been aiding the “positive” image abroad. Mr. Talbot headed the list of six key diplomatic appointments made by the Government of Guyana in January last when he was appointed as this country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.
Recently he was appointed head of the Economic and Financial (ECOFIN) Committee for the 67th Session of the General Assembly. ECOFIN is a committee within the United Nations dealing with issues relating to global finances and economics. It is one of the six Standing Committees of the General Assembly.

Post mortem reveals Agricola lad died from multiple gunshot injuries

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:17:30 +0000

A post mortem performed on the body of 17-year-old Shaquille Grant yesterday revealed that he died of multiple gunshot injuries and was shot three times to the body.

Meanwhile, Romel Bollers, 20, of Brutus Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, who was in police custody was released on bail yesterday.
He was taken for medical attention on Thursday after his relatives met with Acting Commissioner of Police, Leroy Brumell and asked that the four men be released from the Brickdam Police Station.
The three other men were released from Brickdam Police Station on Thursday also, following that meeting with the Top Cop.
Brumell on Thursday during a meeting with relatives of Grant said, “It’s unfortunate what happened, I want to express my condolences to everybody, the family first and everybody in Agricola, as to the death probably that young man, probably…listen to that word, was in the wrong place at the wrong time, but I can assure you all that we are doing intense investigation. And when I say intense, we have the normal investigation being done by the police and I also brought the Office of Professional Responsibility, that’s the section of the force [which does] the internal investigation that investigates complaints and reports made against police ranks, and I know that the investigation that they do is very delicate.”
He explained that the officers involved in the shooting are still on duty and may be given desk duties until the investigation concludes.

US$4M 2012 population census begins today

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:32:52 +0000

THE 2012 Population Census was officially inaugurated yesterday at a press conference in Regency Suites Hotel, Hadfield Street, Georgetown and today September 15 has been declared Census Day.

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh announced that almost US$4M had been allocated in the 2012 budget to fund the exercise and, immediately after the allocation was passed, technical preparations began, which involved preparing questionnaires and training of staff.
He emphasised the importance of the count, noting that the information that will be derived would not only be useful or relevant for governmental purposes, but also for other stakeholders, such as business leaders and academics.
Dr Singh took the opportunity to congratulate the Bureau of Statistics on its work during the 2002 counting, which was well executed and for how it prepared for 2012.
He called on every citizen in Guyana to participate in the undertaking since it is of “tremendous national importance”, pointing out that it is compulsory, by law, for everyone to be counted and urged everyone to cooperate with enumerators.
Regional Census Coordinator at the Caricom Secretariat, Mr. John Mensah, explained that the national census is not only of importance to the country itself but to the Region, as well.
He said member countries of the Caribbean Community are participating in the World Population and Housing Census Programme and data from it is one of the wide ranges of statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics and other agencies in member states that the CARICOM Secretariat collects.
These statistics are compiled in regional databases and then disseminated to users regionally and internationally and the Secretariat would partner with international agencies, such as the European Union (EU) and the Inter-American Development Bank, among others, to seek to build capacity in member countries to produce statistics required for policy formulation and the strengthening of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).
16 countries
Mensah advised that 16 countries in the region have already conducted their censuses while 10 have released their results.
Also present at yesterday’s formal launching was Chief Statistician of the Bureau of Statistics, Mr. Lennox Benjamin, who spoke about how the census will be conducted.
He advised that the first household to be counted this morning would be that of President Donald Ramotar, followed by that of Prime Minister Sam Hinds and then the general public.
Benjamin said every single building within the borders of Guyana will be visited and all occupants would be enumerated. However, the period of time considered ‘census night’ is September 15 from 12:00 midnight to 06:00 hrs.
He said, further, that, although the actual collection of data will take approximately six weeks starting today, only that of persons alive during census night will be recorded.
Benjamin stressed that this national census is not a census of Guyanese but rather of all residents found within the borders of Guyana on census night and, therefore, includes foreigners. He said, even crew members on ships in port on census night will be counted.
Chief Executive Officer of Tagman Consultants, Mr. Alex Graham, who chaired the forum, disclosed that various public information/education exercises will be conducted throughout Guyana, the first of which was held yesterday at Stabroek Market Square in the city.

Rogue cops destroying GPF credibility

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:34:06 +0000

THEY take bribes. They have been accused, rightly or wrongly of loaning

their guns to bandits and of setting free dangerous prisoners, who were captured with great effort and at great risk to their fellow officers. They have even been accused of perpetrating criminal pursuits themselves, and it is only just that, when caught, they should be dealt with in more punitive ways than those meted out to civilians, because they are supposed to be guardians of the laws of the land and protectors of the society, so their felonious actions are tantamount to crimes against the State, and therefore treasonous.
They disgrace their uniforms, and the organisation to which they belong. They bring disrepute to the entire force with their criminal actions and should be dealt with condignly by their own counterparts in the service, as in a case where one policeman nabbed three bribe-takers.
The mini-bus conductors know all the traffic policemen who take bribes, and their stories of persecution by those delegated to protect travellers from lawless road-users who commit traffic violations that endanger lives are many. Amnesty should be offered to those who were coerced into paying bribes by the disreputable brigade of lawmen.
One mini-bus conductor complained of being threatened with being arrested for driving without a driver’s licence when he was merely sitting in the driver’s seat of a properly-parked vehicle fixing a loose wire on the dashboard. He alleged that he had to pay the police $15,000 before he was released from custody and his impounded bus was returned to him.
The law banning music from mini-buses is constantly being flouted, within hearing of police ranks, who ignore the cacophony because they themselves feel that music in mini-buses is enjoyable and should be tolerated by those who object, so they abdicate their responsibility of being guardians and enforcers of the law, despite their personal preferences.
The travelling public is still being held to ransom by the lawless mini-bus operators, and the noise levels keep rising higher and higher, even while the police either blithely ignore the booming sounds or they themselves have been observed gyrating, even while in uniform, to the lewd, cacophonous sounds emanating from the boom boxes in the mini-buses and taxis; and/or private cars operating with impunity as taxis, disturbing residents as well as passengers, but caring not a whit, because they know that they would not be held accountable for their actions.
The rogues have to be weeded out by loyal and honest members of the force themselves in sting operations, bearing in mind that the disgrace is not merely to the renegades, but that it filters down to every officer; even those proven to be heroes, who have given service to their country beyond the call of duty.
There have been heroic members of the disciplined forces, who have put their lives in jeopardy to protect and serve this nation, such as young narcotics detective,Jirbahand Dianand, who was found shot dead in his car at Number 70 Village, Corentyne, presumably because he was making a significant impact in denting the drug trade in the area where he was stationed; and their reputations should not be tarnished because of a greedy, lawless few, so these men and women should be adjured not to hesitate to act against those who compromise the security of the nation, and the reputation of the joint services, by their traitorous and criminal actions.
Before embarking on any campaign against traffic violators and criminal elements in the society, the Police Commissioner should first direct his attention to the rogues who derail the sincere efforts at protecting the society and spare no one proved culpable of abrogating the responsibilities of a member of the police force to instead become a predator in the society.
And the responsibility for this can only be effectively carried out by those most suited for investigative and punitive processes – the members of the Guyana Police Force.
Unless and until a serious attempt is made to eliminate the rogues from the force the image of every police rank will carry the mark of Cain, both the guilty and the innocent.

Essequibo fishermen urge no bail for suspected pirates

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:38:41 +0000

SCORES of fishermen on the Essequibo Coast are calling on the government and Ministries of Legal Affairs and Agriculture to ensure that the three captured pirates are not given bail.

Fishermen are calling for the full force of the law to be enforced on the pirates who over the past years have caused their livelihood to be destroyed.
One fisherman Bharrat Kallicharran of Paradise Village said he cannot return to sea to continue his fishing business because pirates have attacked him twice at sea and took away his outboard engines.
Mr Kallicharran said in 2010 pirates attacked him just off the Moruca Sea Coast in the North West District and burnt his boat. His new 15 HP engine was stolen by the pirates.
He recalled that he took another outboard 15 HP engine from Courts Store on credit terms to continue his fishing business but on February 3, 2012, pirates again attacked him and his crew just off the Pomeroon River mouth and stole his engine. He said they also cut his 500 pounds seine that was drifting and tied to his boat.
The fisherman said he lost all his seine and engine worth more than $1.2M
Kallicharran said he has not gotten help from any source to help him go back to sea. However, the fisherman said investigators must get the truth from the pirates concerning the attacks in 2010 and February of this year and trace the whereabouts of the stolen engines.
Kallicharran said he is looking forward to getting back his two outboard engines.
Another fisherman, Mr Tillack also of Paradise Village said he lost his engine to pirates in the February attack. The fisherman said he is still working at sea but with a very old engine which is giving lots of problems. He said his loss is more than $900,000.
Fisherman Motie Lall Mohabeer said in the February, 2012 attack pirates broke up his boat which sank with all his fishing equipment in the Atlantic Ocean.
Mr. Lall said it cost him some $1.2M to repair and send back his boat to sea.
Fishermen said they are very fearful while at sea and are again calling for no bail for the pirates. They said if the pirates are given bail fishermen lives would be at stake while at sea and the fishing industry would be seriously affected.
Fisherman are also calling for the army floating base to be quickly set up and more coastguard boats should be on patrol especially around fishing grounds 24 hours round the clock.

Motor cyclist seriously injured in Eccles accident -may not be able to walk again

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:39:58 +0000

POLICE are investigating an accident that occurred about 01:00 hours on Thursday at Eccles Public Road which resulted in Satesh Narine, of Lot 212 Golden Grove, also on the East Bank Demerara, being seriously injured.

Narine was riding a motor cycle when he lost control and it skidded causing him to suffer severe injuries.
He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) where received medical attention.
His wife, Viviya Narine revealed later that he may not walk again, as the left foot is broken in two parts, with most of what is left not having any flesh.
According to an eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the motor cyclist was apparently racing with others when upon losing control, he panicked and tried to jump off while the machine was still moving but was trapped after it fell and dragged him along the road.
Narine’s wife said he is the sole breadwinner for the home and fathers their two children, aged two and four. She lamented that such a thing should happen to her carpenter husband, as he is always careful.

Detective killed execution style at Jackson Creek

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:43:15 +0000

DETECTIVE Constable Jirbahan Dianand was shot and killed execution-style yesterday with his body found slumped at the wheel of his motor car on the public at Jackson Creek, Berbice, with a single gunshot wound to the head.

Police said at about 05:30 hours on Friday the body of Detective Constable 20682 Jirbahan Dianand, 23, was found in his motor car PHH 6528 on the public road at Jackson Creek, Corentyne, with a single gunshot to the head.
Constable Dianand was stationed at the Molsen Creek Police Outpost and attached to the Narcotics Section.
Investigations are in progress.

Nursing students accuse police officer of fondling them -during search for missing $$$ -PS, MoH dubs search breach of SOPs

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:43:36 +0000

FEMALE students of the Georgetown School of Nursing are accusing Criminal Investigation Department (CID) ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) of “touching them inappropriately” during a search for $43,000 lost from a coil of over $70,000 that a student had reportedly collected from a money transfer service.

The students are accusing the administration of the nursing school of causing them embarrassment and humiliation.
When the Guyana Chronicle visited the nursing school yesterday afternoon, the locked gates of the facility were being manned by a security guard.
The students said they were unaware that another student had misplaced her money. One student told this publication that it was not until some students ventured downstairs that they realised the gates to facility were locked, denying passage to persons entering or leaving the premises. Enquirers were informed that the administration of the school was awaiting the arrival of CID ranks from the GPF.
One student told this publication that when a certain female police officer entered the classroom, she began to point out selected students on whom she conducted a through search, before she searched other students. That student is alleging that vaginas and breasts were touched in a manner that can best be described as “inappropriate”.
That student explained that her fellow student who claimed to have lost money said she had placed the money in her locker, which is shared by three persons; the other students were accordingly curious to find out what would have caused them to be subjected to the kind of search and embarrassment they endured yesterday.
Because of the way the search was being conducted, coupled with the fact that the alleged loss of the money did not occur in their section, an entire batch of students, numbering 95, refused to be searched by the female officer. They signed a document to that effect and left it in the school’s office.
That very batch of students allegedly also informed tutors that they would not be staying in the building until the search was conducted, because the money was not missing from their department.
Our informant said that the 95 students who signed the paper indicated that they would not subject themselves to any search, nor would they stay in the building while the search was under way. Moreover, they indicated that they were warned by the senior tutor that their refusal to subject themselves to the search would be dealt with accordingly on Monday.
The students divulged to this publication their fear of being victimised by the nursing school administration, but indicated notwithstanding that they will be turning up for classes as per normal on Monday, to see what would eventuate.
The angry student who spoke in representation of her colleagues said they are all “big people who dwell at the facility”, and should accordingly have been approached about the situation before the police were called in.
The students are also of the view that once the school was going to take the approach it did (locking the gates and confining persons to one area), the administration should have communicated to the persons involved the necessity of the move, none of which was done on Friday.
Because of the lockdown at the facility, students were unable to fulfil off-campus engagements and assignments.
The school was scheduled to be dismissed as per normal at 3pm, but that did not happen; and it was not until 16:00 hrs had passed that persons were allowed to leave the compound after being subjected to the inhumane search.
Yesterday, this publication was directed to a woman who was identified as the administrator, and whose name was given only as “Sister Semple”. Asked to comment on the issue, the woman was very reluctant to say anything, opting instead to lecture this reporter about calling the Ministry of Health before showing up at the facility.
Asked about the amount of money that was missing, Sister Semple said initially that she was unaware of the amount, but challenged the wisdom of involving the police in a cavity search of students without first ascertaining the extent of the loss, which might well turn out to be a mere $10 or $20, the woman indicated that the loss was substantial.
In the upper flat of the building, where the search was ongoing, several tutors allegedly watched as the police conducted searches, even as some of the female students were reduced to tears by the manner in which they were being humiliated.
And despite the amount of students present and the nature of the search, it was done in full view of at least one male police officer, who positioned himself in the doorway of the room, and refused to excuse himself from the proceedings. The door was also left open, diminishing privacy during the searches.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Leslie Cadogan, was very upset at the development when he was informed at approximately 17:45 hrs,almost four hours after the incident. He said he was not aware of the development and moreover was not aware that the police were called in to conduct searches at one of the ministry’s facilities.
According to Mr. Cadogan, someone will have some hard questions to answer, since the standard operating procedures (SOP) were breached. Informed about the misgivings of those students who refused to subject themselves to the search, Cadogan said they will not be discriminated against, since he is the person to make such decisions.

Outbreak of Bourda fire threatened municipal and other buildings -quick action by public spirited citizens averted a disaster

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:43:54 +0000

A fire which started yesterday in a cemetery aback of the South Road Municipal Buildings, swept out of control seriously threatening the South Road Nursery School, Day Care Centre and Health Centre, which contained scores of children at the time.

Also threatened were the neighbouring offices of the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS to the east of the cemetery and several boutiques along Bourda Street in the west.
Had it not been for the public-spirited nature of two young men in the area who scaled the cemetery fence and began dousing the fire in earnest, assisted by female Day Care Attendants and teachers who formed a bucket brigade, the magnificent wooden Municipal Centre (a heritage building), would have gone up in flames, signalling the start of a major inferno in that part of the city.
Staff at the municipal facilities said that the fire in the cemetery started around 13:45hrs and they immediately alerted the fire department. They expressed utter disappointment and outrage that the fire tenders never responded to their call until well over half an hour, by which time the fire was fiercely making its way towards the municipal building, accompanied by thick black billowing smoke, forming a blanket over the area.
When the first unit arrived, the firefighters concentrated their attention on the area to the north of the cemetery and closer to Regent Street, but within minutes the 400-gallon water container on the fire tender was exhausted, rendering the firemen powerless to continue their fight as there was no water reservoir or trench where they were parked.
Asked for a response, a senior fire official at the scene said that, it is the policy to always respond promptly to calls which report fire. However, he said that before being able to comment on the response on this occasion, he would first have to check the log books to see when the calls were received and at what time the units were dispatched. In relation to charges about the tenders arriving at the scene without water, he explained that the water capacity in a fire tender is only 400 gallons, which is used up pretty fast, once the men begin fire fighting. “Therefore for persons to say that the fire department dispatched tenders without water, would not be accurate,” he said.
Pandemonium broke out, as teachers and Day Care attendants, on realizing the impending danger, hurriedly evacuated the children out of the buildings and huddled them into a safe corner of the compound until they could be picked up by their parents and guardians.
By then the entire neighbourhood was engulfed in smoke, but Day Care workers and male civilian volunteers, braved the threat of smoke inhalation, with visibility greatly reduced, to find water and douse the fire. Also proving a great source of help were the GBCHA’s four black water tanks storing water in their compound. Volunteer rescue workers climbed to the top of the tanks and dipped water, using buckets, to fight the fire.
Soon after, they were joined by firemen who became part of the bucket brigade pending the arrival of a second unit around 15:00hrs.
That unit sourced water from the South Road outfall trench and managed to effectively keep the flames moving towards the municipal building at bay, but at the expense of the boutiques owned by small businessmen and women operating along Bourda Street in the west.
By then, fanned by the breeze blowing across from the east, areas which had earlier been doused by fire fighters began flaring up once more, and soon there were several pockets of fire popping up in the condemned grave yard and heading towards at least three boutiques. This was seriously aggravated by tyres dumped in the cemetery, which was like adding fuel to the flames. But by then, the fire fighters had all moved towards the Municipal building, and perhaps because of the density of the smoke, were not aware of the danger being faced in the clothes vending area.
Left to fend for themselves, the tearful and hapless owners, including Debra Richards and Sonia Archer, fetched water from a yard across the road, which they used to douse the flames fast approaching their businesses. It was not until reporters brought this situation to the attention of a senior fire official who had just arrived on the scene, that one of the hoses was diverted to aid in protecting the boutiques.
Staff at both the Municipal Health Centre and Day Care Centre were adamant declaring, “They are not efficient; they turn up here and have no water; they need to have things in place, so that when they get here they have water to fight the fire.”
Meanwhile, the Guyana Chronicle caught up with Deputy Mayor, Mrs. Patricia Chase-Greene who visited the scene after learning about the fire.
“I responded to a call that there’s a fire and it’s affecting the children and they (teachers and attendants) were afraid that the fire might have reached the building. She said when se arrived the fire tender was on Bourda Street and later another one came up, Ms. Greene said.
The Deputy Mayor commended the two men (one from Leopold Street and another wearing a pink jersey), who were of great help in forming a bucket brigade and keeping the fire at bay. She recalled that when she arrived the Chest Clinic and GBCHA building was already threatened and staff at the Municipal Health Centre were removing computers and other tools and equipment from the building for fear they would be destroyed. She commended staff of the Municipal facilities for their sterling contribution in whatever way.
Ms. Greene recalled that earlier in the morning on her way to work, she noticed a fire tender in Regent Street, tending to a fire closer to Regent Street. It would therefore appear that the area had been threatened on previous occasions, since other persons told of a fire having started there on Tuesday as well. It was put out by the fire department.
There was speculation yesterday that ‘junkies’ may have started the fire in the cemetery, but other persons feel that it could have been as a result of dry grass which was recently cut. Whatever the cause, citizens say, the fire department should be suitably prepared at all times.

Visiting Miss Universe brings joy to GPHC wards

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:44:13 +0000

MISS Universe 2011, Leila Lopes toured several wards at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) yesterday accompanied by Presidential Adviser on Empowerment, Mr. Odinga Lumumba, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr. Joseph Hamilton and other officials.

In an invited comment, the beauty queen said it was a pleasure having the opportunity of meeting and interacting with the patients.
“I am very privileged to have had this opportunity and to, at least, bring a little sunshine to the faces of the children,” she said.
Lopes made history for her country after becoming the very first Miss Angola to be crowned Miss Universe last year September.
The 25-year-old laughed and smiled as she hugged runner-up Miss Ukraine, Olesia Stefanko, before having the crown firmly placed on her head at the pageant staged in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
The business student, from Angola’s seaside city of Beguela, dazzled the panel of judges with both her beauty and brains.
When she was asked, earlier, what she might change about her physical characteristics, Leila replied that she was satisfied with who she is.
“I consider myself a woman endowed with inner beauty. I have acquired many wonderful principles from my family and I plan to follow those through the rest of my life,” she had told the judges and the audience.
Of the 13 pageants in the past decades, seven have been won by Latino contestants, making Miss Angola’s win even more exciting for her home country.
She started competing in the Miss Universe Contests in 1998, with the first ever contestant from the African nation being Emilia Guardado.
Since 1997 two Miss Angolas have been semi-finalists in the top 15 and one made it into the top 10, but Leila Lopes is the first to be crowned with the title.
She is expected to tour several other places in Guyana, including The Palms, also in Georgetown and the majestic Kaieteur Falls, among others, before heading back home.

China Railway refutes Kaieteur News article -that it built collapsed Harbin Bridge

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:44:33 +0000

THE China Railway First Group Co. Ltd, which has been awarded the contract for the construction of the Amaila Falls, has refuted a Kaieteur News article which claimed that the company built the collapsed Harbin Bridge.

According to the Kaieteur News article published on Thursday last under the caption US$300m bridge in China collapsed, months later-same contractor to build Amaila Falls hydro-electric a section of the US$300M built by the China Railway First Group Co. Ltd in southern China collapsed killing three persons and injuring five, just nine months after being commissioned.
The article went further to assert that it is the same China Railway which has been awarded the lucrative US$506M to build the Amaila falls Hydro-electric project.
However, China Railway in a statement categorically stated that the collapsed ramp was not under the same contract as the Yangmingian Bridge.
According to the website www.whatsonxiamen.com/news26875 the “Xiamen-headquartered Fujian Jiaojian Group Engineer Co.,Ltd is the builder of the collapsed ramp of Yangmingtan Bridge in Northeastern China’s Harbin city, according to a report by Shanghai-based Dragon TV on Monday.”
A 100-metre section broke off early on Friday (24th Aug) when four heavy trucks drove onto the newly-constructed bridge, plunging them some 30 meters to the ground, said a CCTV news reporter at the scene. Two people were killed on the spot, a third died later, and five remain in hospital.
The eight-lane bridge, which was designed to handle up to 9,800 vehicles per hour, opened only last November after two years of construction that cost 1.9 billion yuan (US$298.8 million), China News Service reported.
The Xiamen-headquartered company said they have sent experts to join the ongoing investigation in Harbin and will comment after inspections.
Fujian Jiaojian Group Engineer Co., established in 1979, has a registered capital of 300 million yuan and had been responsible for the construction of key projects at national and provincial levels over the past years, according to the company’s website.
According to XMHouse.com, the following projects in Xiamen have also been completed by the company: BRT Line 1 (Chengyi College Station), Yanwu Bridge, Wuyuan Bridge, Yuanboyuan Project, Chenggong Avenue, Ruijing Park Phase II, and the currently ongoing Lianyue Tunnel.

President Ramotar opens $250M Courts Diamond branch

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:44:54 +0000

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar yesterday declared open the spanking new $250M Courts Guyana Inc. 8th branch store at Great Diamond, East

Bank Demerara urging the furniture and household appliances giant to demonstrate their corporate responsibility by giving back to the community.
He said that Courts Guyana Inc. has over the years become a household name and they are a trend setter in which they have succeeded in creating competition in the manufacture of high-end furniture as well as household appliances and since their entry into the local market they have a wide range of products to choose from.
The Head of State added that Courts Guyana Inc. contributed to the sector in which they raised the bar in providing quality furniture for Guyanese and at the Building Expo he saw they had bamboo flooring and as well as bamboo furniture which is quite noteworthy and unique.
Ramotar stated that a few years ago the area in which the Courts Guyana Inc. store is standing was cane- fields and today the landscape has been transformed into a hub of activities and businesses, observing that Courts is in the right location for commerce, owing to the vastly populated new housing scheme and the presence of three commercial banks there.
He said that they are currently expanding the roadway to a 4-lane highway and efforts are being made to link the East Coast Demerara and East Bank Demerara roads to stimulate economic development, since Diamond has become a buzz of activity in business and housing development.
The President added that Diamond is considered a secondary town and within sometime it will blossom into a full fledged township.
He noted that Courts Guyana Inc. chose the perfect location for prudent business to grab the opportunities that the site has to offer, and will serve the needs of the community in which they can shop in great comfort and utilise the hire purchase system in place.
He also urged Courts Guyana Inc. to give back to the community and play their role in enhancing the social development of the residents, who are important stakeholders.
The President said he was pleased to be associated with the launching yesterday afternoon.
Following the opening of the newest Courts Guyana Inc. store at 589-599 Public Road, Great Diamond, East Bank Demerara, President Donald Ramotar got a first hand tour of the facility and was impressed with the variety of furniture and household appliances available at the outlet.
Also present was Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, who noted the rapid growth taking place on the East Bank Demerara corridor, and recalled the arrival of Courts in Guyana where they set a high standard in providing quality furniture to customers and also created financing for the acquisition of home furnishing for customers.
He said that the average man was able to walk into the store and walk out with the purchase of his choice as a result of the access to financing, once he had proof of his income, which is commendable and Courts over the years has become synonymous with “Hire Purchase”.
The minister however, urged Courts Guyana Inc. to re-examine the issue of the cost of financing, owing to the fact that they have a large customer base as any utility in Guyana, and also find ways to extend their reach across the country.
He noted that strides are being made to have the Credit Bureau Bill passed in Parliament where financing would become easier in which licence would be granted for businesses to establish a Credit Bureau.
Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali told the gathering yesterday that Courts Guyana Inc. and Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) over the years developed and excellent business relationship through partnership and by their creation of jobs for many.
He revealed that Courts Guyana Inc. will soon embark on the construction of a state-of-the-art Distribution facility to the tune of US$6M in three years time and the area is ripe for development, in which 17,000 new houses were constructed and 8000 allocations were approved, and that corridor will also see more developments in the near future in which five new private sector projects at a cost of $31M will be undertaken.
Ali said that Courts is noted for their excellent customer and care services and it also provides high standard of shopping for customers in which they utilise the hire purchase facility.
Meanwhile, Courts Guyana Inc. Managing Director, Clyde de Haas said yesterday that it all started when they saw a thriving East Bank Demerara community and the dire need to expand their operations to meet the demands of the developing corridor.
He added that the vision of the government to provide Guyanese with an affordable home saw the rapid development of not only the Diamond community, but the entire East Bank from Eccles and beyond.
de Haas said that to deliver on their brand promise of “Bringing Value Home” they had no other choice than to provide East Bank Demerara customers with a shopping environment suitable to their needs.
He told the gathering that the building was constructed at a cost of $250M by the shareholders of the Unicomer Group of Companies to facilitate the shopping needs of customers on the East Bank Demerara, and also said that they made a donation of $2M to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre.
The opening ceremony of the store yesterday saw prayers, songs, dance, drum fusion and steel pan music, but the song performed by Tennicia De Freitas “Texting” was the much liked by those present.

Charity Police Station should be properly secured

Admin2 — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:53:12 +0000

THIS is my final call for immediate action. For a number of years I have being calling for the Charity Police Station to be properly secured.

We are waiting for a next Bartica scenario, and then immediate measures will be taken. The police station is sandwiched by illegal stalls around the building, thus making the ranks visibility to the mighty Pomeroom River impossible. The River is situated alongside the police station and is approximately 50 feet away.
Also, a look out hut should be built to oversee the river front on busy days, especially on market days. Charity is on the move with many booming businesses erupting and the security of the waterfront area needs to be urgently attended to.
The customs boat house and office is also compromised with many shabby businesses around the area. GRA needs to step in and make its voice be heard. Let’s don't wait for something to happen then make changes. I am foreseeing a bright town in the making and I wish our leaders can think in the same line as we as citizens are therefore seeing.