28th July 2013

arrested in CJIA cocaine bust GPL doing well despite challenges – prime minister Man drives away with car after begging for a lift 1823 Slave Rebellion Monument almost complete

to introduce agroprocessing from new school year

$50M to be allocated for development of Belvedere industrial site

Fly Jamaica to begin operations here soon

President Ramotar has announced that $50 million will be allocated to further develop the industrial site at Belvedere, Region Six as he opened the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair on Friday.

Speaking at the exposition themed “Raising our standards, embracing our competitiveness”, Ramotar said though Berbice has been facing a number of challenges in its quest for further development, government will not lose hope in the ancient county.

“We have to ensure that we have the right infrastructure in place so that we can raise production and productivity, we can become more competitive, we can earn more for our products and can have value added to our products.”

county remains sustainable.

Minister Ali also disclosed that water facilities are soon to be installed on the Belvedere industrial site, pointing out that the development of the estate will aid in the reduction of unemployment the region.

Region Six Chairman David Armogan said the expo gives Berbicians a chance to make better and informed decisions when choosing products and services.

of Commerce and Industry President Clinton Urling noted that government and Go-Invest retain a primary role in galvanising and catalysing expos of different types to promote exports and showcase domestic market capacities and products.

“Yet time is nigh for the private sector to begin a process of taking command and forging what is fundamentally a business responsibility,” he said.

On this point, he commended the expo.

The president said Guyana has been making progressive steps over the past 20 years, noting that it has moved from the status of a Heavily Indebted Poor Indebted Country (HIPIC) to becoming a developing county, noting that all steps will be made to continue on the development path.

“It also gives us the opportunity to display Berbice local produce… Over the years, the economy in Region Six has shown growth, with the increase production of rice, cash crops, livestock and cattle rearing.”

Acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali said government will continue to make the necessary capital and social investments to ensure the socio-economic base of the

He noted that the region also has potential for tourism and called on local tour operators to create packages at reasonable prices so that persons can experience the wonders of Berbice.

Georgetown Chamber

“I must also commend the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce, led by the enthusiastic, mindful and supportive Minister Irfaan Alli,” he concluded.

The Berbice expo has become the premier trade and investment showcase, allowing exhibitors to showcase their talent, entrepreneurship and industry. The expo would be open from July 26 – 28.

Fly Jamaica is expected to commence operations here in another month’s time, marketing manager of the airline Wesley Tucker said.

According to Tucker in an interview with Guyana Times, the airline has already trained some 25 Guyanese to man the local leg of the operations.

“We have completed training and we have ads out for cabin attendants… to begin with, we will have warm and customer-friendly staff and we will be providing hot meals on board,” he said.

The Jamaica-based airline will also be launching its services in Toronto, Canada aside from Guyana when the company would have finalised legal requirements with the Canadian authorities.

He said passengers will be able to travel with 50 pounds and two pieces of hand luggage.

The marketing manager stated that both the government and private sector have been supportive of the airline operating here, and Guyanese are excited about the upcoming launch. The Jamaica-based airline will be transporting passengers to New York, Canada and Caribbean territories.

On Monday, LIAT

Airlines began operations at the Ogle International Airport with the first flight departing the Grantley Adams International Airport, Barbados, to a warm Guyanese welcome on touching down here. Present to witness landing of the 50-seater Dash 8 aircraft was Transport Minister Robeson Benn, who witnessed the touchdown of the 50-seater Dash 8 aircraft, stated that regional connection is a challenge to Caribbean integration and the development is a step in the right direction in addressing the issue. The minister cited northern Brazil, Venezuela, Suriname and French Guiana as possible destinations. He posited too that with the upcoming football world cup and Olympic Games in Brazil, the transportation issue would have to be tackled aggressively.

Acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali had said the challenge to provide adequate and reliable airlift to and from Guyana is being addressed, pointing out that government has been engaging other airlines, including COPA Airlines and JetBlue, to begin operations in Guyana.

WEATHER TODAY

Ramotar rebuffs secrecy claim on Amaila project

resident Donald Ramotar has rebuffed claims from the opposition that the Amaila Falls project was a secret deal, pointing out that both the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) were adequately consulted on the initiative.

Addressing thousands at the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair at the Albion Sports Complex on Friday evening, Ramotar contended that the opposition’s claim is far from the truth, explaining that the process in selecting the contractor was done through public tendering.

He said since then, the opposition has been updated and has made input into the project.

“We have had full disclosure on this project. In my short term as president of this country, we had three full briefings with the opposition, we had two briefings with the IDB, and we had briefings with Site Global, the company that is making the hydropower station.”

He said the private sector was also briefed. “So now for the people to say that it is not transparent is far from the truth, and let me also say this, the project went through public bidding. That was evaluated by the IDB and the company chosen was chosen because it had the best proposals, yet we hear some people saying that it was a secret deal.”

President Ramotar said the hydro project will reduce the cost of electricity by 40 per cent, and will be of great benefit to all Guyanese, as he expressed dismay at opposition’s refusal to support the project.

“After 20 years, this power plant will belong to the people of Guyana and for the next 55 years, there will only be operational cost.”

Addressing calls for the retendering of the project, the president said Guyana

sideration, because it went through the processes and yet some believe that the world is waiting for us.”

The president said as a nation, all should grasp the opportunity for the realisation of the hydro project

cannot at this point in time afford to do so.

“To do that will take time, that could very well drive up the cost of this project from between US$1 million to US$2 million more and those who are concerned with cost must take that into con-

now and not later.

Moreover, he said, apart from producing cheap electricity, the project will also be producing clean energy.

“Meaning that it will not contaminate the air but more than that, it will save us about US$90 million a year on the importation of

fuel.”

According to the president, this money can be used on projects that will further improve the lives of Guyanese. Given issues such as timely and proper disposal of solid waste, the need to repair roads and streets in communities and the current drainage problem, Ramotar said if Guyana can save US$90 million annually, these matters would be addressed to the satisfaction of all.

Sunday Times Editor: Tajeram Mohabir

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Emancipation lessons

Later this week, the nation will be commemorating “Emancipation Day”. It is a seminal event in our history –perhaps it's a foundational one. But it was an event that did not just “happen”: it was the culmination of hundreds of years of struggles, by the people who were enslaved, for the right to create their own destiny. However the event set off its own dynamics that offer us in the present, much to chew over as we ponder whether we have fulfilled the dreams, hopes and aspirations of “emancipation”.

The reflection this year is even more critical since it comes at a time when the political system, controlled by the descendants of the emancipated, has ended in a cul de sac. Political control in 1834 was not even a dream for most but it was a dream that had fired the imagination of Cuffy and the other organisers of the Berbice Rebellion back in 1773. It is nothing but a tragedy that some present political leaders do not appreciate the historic role they could play if they were to pick up from where their forefathers left off, to fulfil those dreams.

What were those dreams? First and foremost was to live a life of dignity. They did not expect such a life was going to be handed to them: part and parcel of “dignity” is to be able to not depend inordinately on others. To make emancipation a positive act rather than just the negative one of being “freed”, the ex-slaves used their “free time” during the fouryear “apprenticeship” period that followed emancipation to work feverishly to accumulate a reservoir of savings.

This act demonstrated pellucidly that the newly freed slaves could practice the vaunted value “deferred gratification”, which economists and sociologists inform us, many of us have unfortunately discarded. Immediately upon being able to leave the plantations, they so did and formed villages by using their savings to purchase villages across the coastland. We know the first one was named Victoria after the British Queen of the time.

These villagers did another thing that has also been evidently lost in the present: they embarked on securing economic independence. This was pursued through peasant farming, hard bargaining for their labour with the plantation owners and eventually as a proletariat in the towns, especially Georgetown. This insistence on economic independence must be re-inculcated in our present generation – but it will only become reality if the constraints are removed.

At Emancipation, peasant farming stagnated because the planters bitterly fought the farmers by denying them rights to water and drainage as well as funnelling credits to the newly imported Portuguese. There was also the structural constraint that since Guyana was off the regular shipping lanes of inter-Caribbean trade, the market for their goods never expanded beyond the local shores. The government of the day kept on encouraging the importation of foreign foods on which their agents could make huge profits.

In the present, there are also structural constraints that are holding back our still unanswered dreams for economic independence. The World Bank, other financial institutions and development experts are unanimous in their conclusion that poor or non-existent infrastructure is one of the most serious binding constraints on our thrust for development. Cheap power is the most critical of those constraints. Britain could embark on its industrial revolution because of their abundant coal at the time to power the manufacture of high value goods for trade. Petroleum succeeded coal as the fuel of choice and has remained on the top of the heap in spite of its high prices. Hydroelectric power offers us a practical alternative to achieve energy independence while moving us out of the vicious trap of being only primary product producers.

This Emancipation Day, we hope our politicians will emancipate themselves from mental slavery and support the Amaila Falls Hydro-Electric Project (AFHEP).

Citizens need to feel safe

Dear Editor,

The word from the Home Affairs Ministry is that it is alarmed by the recent spike in armed robberies. The talk was about certain hotspots in the city, as well as other areas where crime can be anticipated and where the

police force should deploy its resources to effectively deal with those specific areas.

Since I read this, a lot of things have happened and in terms of being effective and controlling the situation, I still remain very pessimistic. I still feel very vulnerable.

Whenever the police discuss internally what has been recently taking place, officers must leave with a clear message to bring the situation under control.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) must also get the gen-

eral public to realise how important a role all officers play. It is the only way in which citizens will feel safe in their respective communities.

Yours sincerely, Asgar Mahmoud

The malaria fight needs everybody’s input

Dear Editor, I heard a recent newscast relating to fumigating and fogging exercises in regard to the fight against malaria. In the U.S., scientists have now found a way to infect mosquitoes with bacteria in order to break the chain of malaria transmission.

This approach has helped to cut back on dengue in some locations and researchers are hoping that the findings could of-

fer a path towards reducing malaria among the most common mosquitoes in the Middle East and South Asia.

Here we are doing well, thanks to the Health Ministry. As of recent, 16 senior microscopists completed a two-week seminar at the Georgetown Public Hospital. According to the Health Ministry, the end of the workshop marks the beginning of improved services. On the ground, a lot of

work is still being done.

The ministry has actually increased its sensitisation campaign by educating high-risk communities through the distribution of pamphlets and posters because many of them don’t understand the importance of adhering to prescribed medication.

Additionally, the ministry has distributed more than 44,000 Long Lasting Insecticide Impregnated

Nets to high-risk regions. In fact, it is estimated that the ministry will surpass its 50,000 distribution mark by year end.

Generally if people reduce the number of mosquito bites they receive, they decrease their chances of getting malaria. These little things go a very long way towards fighting malaria.

Yours faithfully, Cindy Barnwell

The six-month maternity leave

Dear Editor,

This thing about maternity leave is a very big one and I am so happy that Guyana is thinking about a six-month break for mothers after they have their babies. Where maternity leave is concerned, many countries provide just up to 10 weeks of pay. I know of a lot of mothers, when they can afford it, they simply quit their job, preferring to spend at least the first year with their babies.

Generally, when it comes to parental leave, it is important not only for the mother, but for the father as well. When both partners are working and a little baby is left with even a near relative, the

anxiety factor is still there.

Research has shown that tense workers always underperform. What paid leave does is to give parents the time to provide great prenatal and postnatal care, and allows for a great sense of bonding.

This of course will give the family the opportunity to unite, relax, and be together as a family, before work and family spill over is introduced. So that early beginning, if only for six months, can really help overall.

According to Motherhood Manifesto, paid family leave will also help out the employing company by saving money on recruitment and

training. This means that in allowing for the extended maternity leave, there is every likelihood that there will be higher job satisfaction and in return, this will lead to better work productivity. It is better to have a worker or two on maternity leave, even for a year, than to hire and train new ones.

Apart from the money factor, it takes a lot of time to actually bring new workers to the desired level of the company.

If it becomes reality, and mothers in the Caribbean Community (Caricom) get the six months of maternity leave, it spills over into another realm. It will ensure

that new born babies be exclusively breastfed.

This is one of the drives of the region’s health officials anyway, and as we are aware, it is part of the effort to tackle childhood obesity, that is related to a lack of breastfeeding.

In the U.S., it may get worse, as child obesity is bordering on becoming an official disease. There is a kind of panic there already. Here, we have to be proactive. It is far better to invest in preventing a sickness, rather than having to look after victims of it.

Yours truly, Monty Hazel

The vet lab at Mon Repos is a very good investment

Dear Editor,

The proclamation from the Agriculture Ministry as regards the update on the Guyana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara is that the facility is a good investment. When all is said and done, the laboratory will have the capabil-

ity to test, detect and diagnose diseases that may affect animal and public health.

To date it is almost half way done and is expected to be commissioned in approximately four months, and that means a pre-Christmas gift to the nation.

This facility costs US$ 2.5 million and is sitting

on what was previously the Animal Health Laboratory that was barely utilised. Thus the old facility was demolished and redesigned.

With this kind of laboratory, people will have more urges to raise animals.

Yours sincerely, Sadiq Yousuf

Timehri squatting needs urgent closure

Dear Editor,

There seems to a form of belligerence from the more than 400 families “squatting” in Timehri North, on the East Bank of Demerara. There is now the plan to relocate them and their house lots from the Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/Linden Highway area, and I can sense a show down.

I believe the government tends to allow too much slack for too long, and when it is ready to set things in order, it is often too late.

Squatting is never recommended, and I always want to know why people choose this route and then why are they allowed to be-

come settled.

I see no need for a lot of noise making and disruption of life, via protest marches. What I do know is that the earlier this matter comes to a resolution and closure, the better it is for everyone.

Yours faithfully, Carmen DeFreitas

TIP campaign must be countrywide

Dear Editor, Government said it is standing committed to the fight against trafficking in persons in Guyana and is therefore calling upon all stakeholders to join the fight to end this scourge.

Just a few days ago, I heard the strong denunciations of a few ministers along this same line. It is time for a very concerted effort in stamping out any kind of

crime, especially when it is against children. We need to keep our eyes and ears open for evidence of human trafficking or enslavement. There are many warning signs as regards any individual caught in this vice.

Here we have a Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking in Persons (MTFTIP) and this team did visit Imbaimadai, Region Seven, as well as surround-

ing areas so as to conduct focused group discussions with residents on human trafficking and child labour.

However, human trafficking is sometimes right next door, and that is why we need to be informed. What the MTFTIP should now do is to campaign countrywide at all times.

Yours truly, Ethan Hyles

The Benab Foundation is on a mission to help people

Dear Editor,

My name is Elson Browne-Low and I am writing on behalf of the Benab Foundation, the budding non-profit recently featured in an article in the Stabroek newspaper entitled, “Young people initiate solutions.”

Objective journalism is about truth, not opinion. It seems that much of the truth about the Benab Foundation and our message was obscured in this article.

It is true that Guyana’s pass rates hover well-below 50 per cent, but it is also true that the Education Ministry is working hard to improve this, by no means

lethargic.

To those who doubt this, there is a simple proof to quiet their concerns. Guyana’s pass rates in mathematics and English are akin to those around the Caribbean, from oil-rich Trinidad to the smaller isles. It is easy to blame the Education Ministry, and especially the government, for every problem we citizens encounter.

The Benab Foundation has never and will never be concerned with blame because we are not interested in doing the easy thing to no avail.

What we are interested in, this day as always,

is helping Guyanese who need it. There are certainly problems in Guyana’s education system and too many children, who could succeed, fail.

There is nonetheless hope – not in the easy glory of political opposition, but the disciplined will to step back and ask ourselves what the problems are and how we can help. This is the role the Benab Foundation seeks to carry out this day and always. This is what we stand for.

Yours respectfully, Elson Browne-Low Co-founder and vice president, The Benab Foundation

Page Foundation

Cricket’s always been one of the things that has brought us together as a Caribbean people – never mind that it’s the source of some of the fiercest arguments you can imag ine. You know the most passionate arguments are with families!! Now with the Limacol CPL starting next week, I’m sure the words around cricket will be flying faster and more furiously. Caribbean people, after all are acknowledged across the globe for “knowing their cricket”. We have a reputation to maintain!!!

And we now have our own individual

One thing I really like about this tournament (apart from the fact that we have our own team and we’re getting games without begging anybody) is that many young, local cricketers are getting a chance to play. This opportunity will both give them a chance to experience what it’s like playing against international players and also a chance to shine and be recognised. With the other tournaments like the IPL, CLT20, and Australia’s Big Bash, there are so many new players that impress us who eventually make it onto the national team. Hopefully the same will happen for the West Indies – we’ll discover some new talent to revive the current team.

As some of my friends were saying the other night, we might as well as

“Rally,

rally round the Amazon Warriors

Never say never

Pretty soon the runs are going to flow like water”

- Adapted from David Rudder, “Rally Round the West Indies”

have supported Pakistan in the last couple of matches, seeing as there were no Guyanese on the team.

Maybe that’s

But we supportthe West Indies anyway, because identify with the Indies – we’re West Indians. We mightn’t strictly be a part of the West Indies geographically – we’re smack on top of the AMAZON. But culturally and historically, we’re more West Indian that some of the islands. We’re cut from the same cloth, we all survived colonialism, we used cricket as our way of beating the rulers at their own game. So we’ll support the West Indies – they’re our team, but with them snubbing and cut ting out our Guyanese play ers, it’s becoming increas ingly difficult not to feel a bit miffed.

But with the CPL, we’re rooting for something else entire

rooting for our country. The Guyana Amazon Warriors is OUR TEAM!!! It’s Guyana versus Trinidad, or Guyana versus Barbados – not West Indies against the rest of the world.

It’s a powerful thing, this nationalistic feeling. It’s a whole new adrenaline rush when it’s your country’s team that wins. It’s your country’s flag that you’re waving; your country’s colours that the players are wearing; it’s you, the Guyanese people who are being represented. All within the Caribbean family of course!!

In Guyana, we don’t have trouble having sold-out matches, we’re always starved for more cricket. I’m sure this set of matches in the Limacol CPL will be the same. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families or friends to hang out together to enjoy a sport that has brought together so many generations of sports enthusiasts. They scoffed at the new slam-bam format in the beginning –but now that T20 has brought in so many new fans, no one’s scoffing any more.

The games begin on Tuesday; may the best team (Guyana Amazon Warriors) win.

Phone etiquette 101

– teach your children telephone manners in seven basic steps

By Kadidjri LahaB

“Hello?”

“Can I speak to Mrs Smith?” “Yeah.

Hang on. Mom! Moommm! Phone call!”

Sound familiar? This exchange isn’t even the worst of bad phone etiquette a child can dish out. It’s annoying to callers, embarrassing to parents and doesn’t do any favours for the children, who grow up without the basic manners to answer a phone properly.

But Pamela Barc, a certified etiquette consultant founder and executive director of Etiquettes Edge in Lake Orion, says it doesn’t have to be that way. “I think it’s important for parents to know that they are not only teaching their children life skills, but that the phone can be an excellent parenting tool,” she says.

As Barc believes, wellmannered children become wellmannered adults, and proper phone etiquette has become a neglected part of manner skills. To prep your child for proper phone habits, Barc offers the following seven tips.

Privilege, not a right. When a parent demonstrates that the telephone is a privilege and not a right, it immediately communicates that it’s something of importance. Barc says this establishes the concept of boundaries.

Start early. “I believe if you’ve got a child that can form a complete sentence, then they should be able to use the phone,” Barc says. Studies have shown that three-year-olds are more mature today because of day care and preschool, she adds. And the earlier you start, the sooner you can begin instructing children on boundaries. It’s also very important to teach a young child to dial 911 in case of an emergency.

Set a safe but polite tone. A child from the age of seven and up should understand how to answer the phone respectfully but give limited information. The

excellent greeting is, “Hello, may I ask who’s calling?” This immediately puts your child at an advantage, Barc says. “It immediately puts an adult off guard.”

Once the person identifies him or herself, the child can ask, “Who would you like to speak with?” If the person is not there, particularly if it’s a parent, the child should say that the person is not able to come to the phone at that time. As many parents know, children should never tell callers that mom or dad isn’t home.

Information gathering Children also should be taught to take proper messages. “If a pencil or pen is placed by the phone, parents can begin training children to process and write down information correctly,” says Barc. To prevent your child from forgetting to tell you that you have a message, instruct him or her to leave all messages near the phone, so you know to check for them when you get home. Request the use of the phone. An elementary-age child should ask for permission to use the phone. This reinforces the idea that phone usage is a privilege. Barc says this also helps parents keep a pulse on their child’s life. “You learn more about your child when they are talking to other children,” she says –even if it’s just getting a sense of who they’re chatting with.

Making a call. Teach children to introduce themselves to whoever answers the phone before asking to speak to their friends, so it becomes habitforming. For example, they could say, “Hello, this is John. May I speak to David?”

End the conversation politely. And finally, teach your child how to end a conversation with manners. He or she could say, “My mom is calling me to dinner, so I have to go. But it was very nice speaking with you, Isabella.”

This may seem like a lot to insist of a child speaking with his or her friends, but Barc says it’s important preparation for the workplace. “We’re a society that often doesn’t end on a positive note,” she says, “and small things like this get you

GPL doing well despite challenges – prime minister

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) has been doing quite well, despite being faced with a number of challenges.

Speaking at the parliamentary sectoral committees on economic services and natural resources on Friday, Hinds pointed out that the challenges confronting GPL include the power network across the country since geographic location affects quality of service.

Commenting on a recent IDB report on the company, he observed that since 1992, GPL and its predecessor –GEC (Guyana Electricity Corporation) – have both been under constant review by the bank and there has been continuous focus on corporate development.

Major targets

Regarding GPL and government’s continued financial support for the company, the prime minister observed that there are two major targets for the company which government would always support to enable it to continue to exist. These are the lowering of tariffs and expansion and upgrade of services.

On the subject of losses, Prime Minister Hinds told members of the Economic Services Committee that this cannot be placed on the utility company’s management. He said 90 per cent of the losses experienced by

the company is due to electricity theft.

He explained that over the years, underinvestment in the company has resulted in the extreme wear of equipment, and this leads to commercial losses.

At present, customers are charged US25 cents per kilowatt hour, which the prime minister said when contrasted to the rest of the Caribbean compares quite well.

Hinds defended the management of GPL and the members of the board, listing their experience within the sector.

Touching on the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project (AFHP), he observed that the target production range seeks to remove Guyana from petroleum generated power. He also noted what would happen if the AFHP was halted. He explained that it would mean a con-

tinued generation of electricity by petroleum-based fuel, which costs US25 cents per kwh while the fuel produced through the AFHP would cost about US10 cents per kwh after 20 years with the company being owned by GPL.

Meanwhile, GPL Deputy Chief Executive Officer Ash Deonarine delivered an extensive power point presentation of the company to the members of the committee. The presentation highlighted the different sections of the company’s performance, including its corporate governance and management structure.

Deonarine also explained the company’s performance and its targets within a 10year period and about the foregone revenue which is aligned with subsidising the cost of electricity to the consumers. Generation and sales projects and generation capacity were also highlighted as well as plans for

Several arrested in CJIA cocaine bust

Several staff members of the Timehri Handling Service (THS) and Caribbean Airlines Security were taken into custody after Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) ranks discovered a large quantity of cocaine at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Saturday morning.

it is recorded.

“Once CANU or police realised that there are extra bags on the flight, all the baggages will be offloaded followed by a probe. This morning, luckily the law enforcement officers detect the bag by the old label,” the official said.

the future.

The GPL executive also explained the fuel prices table and the increased costs which led to more monies being allocated to the company by government.

The sectoral committee agreed to defer the completion of the meeting until July 31 where detailed questions would be addressed to the GPL officials.

The committees scrutinised the management of the company, while examining policies and administration within GPL. They were seeking to determine whether the execution of government policy is in consonance with the principles of good governance and in the best interest of all the people of Guyana.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds who holds the portfolio for the energy sector delivered an overview of GPL, outlining tariffs, productions costs, consumers and the challenges facing the company.

The 10 parcels of cocaine were found around 02:00h in a suitcase which weighed about two pounds each. The bag was detected by CANU ranks at the baggage area with an old label or name tag which indicated that it was placed there and did not go through the normal security checks.

The suitecase was intended to go onboard Caribbean Airlines Flight, BW 526 destined for the John F Kennedy Airport, USA.

An airport official confirmed that the flight was schedule to leave at 03:30h on Saturday morning and all baggages were scanned, except the one containing the cocaine. The official said the bag was found among others on the ramp while CANU ranks were conducting routine checks.

Upon the discovery, all staff members who worked on the shift were questioned with at least seven being taken for further questioning at CANU headquarters. The police were also summoned to assist in the investigations.

The airport official stated that once a baggage has cleared security, a special mark is placed on the tag and

In May, a 19-year-old employee of the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPO) at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was charged following the discovery of 15 kilograms of cocaine in a mail bag destined for the United States.

Mail bond

It was reported that on March 21 at the CJIA, Syaer Grantstuart worked the 06:00h to 14:00h shift and went home but returned to the mail bond with a bag in his possession about 22:30h. He subsequently asked the security guard on duty at the time to allow him access to the bond, since he had forgotten his mobile phone.

The security guard was kind enough to allow him into the bond without searching his bag, and after spending almost 10 minutes, he left.

On March 22, the bag containing the mail was being prepared to be taken on board a Caribbean Airlines flight when CANU ranks realised that the weight affixed on the tag of the mail bag did not match the actual weight. This prompted them to check the bag and the illegal substance was discovered.

CVC laments violence towards LGBT community

he Caribbean

TVulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC) is deeply concerned by a stream of reports coming from Caribbean civil society organisations about incidents of violence towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. The CVC and its members are disturbed by the anti-gay march held by evangelical churches last week in Haiti, and the alleged violence towards LGBT people afterwards.

“We are truly saddened by reports from Jamaica this week that a gender non-conforming 17-year-old was mob attacked and stabbed to death in Montego Bay. CVC extends it condolences to the families and friends of those affected by this violence.

“These tragic events are not isolated acts but instead a reflection of systematic discrimination and violence experienced by Caribbean LGBT people, particularly the most visible and vulnerable,” the organisation said in a release.

Organisations such as United and Strong in St Lucia, United Belize Advocacy Movement in Belize, Jamaica

Forum for Lesbians AllSexuals and Gays (JFLAG) in Jamaica, Trans Always Friends (TRANSSA) and The Community of TransTransvestite Dominican Sex Workers (CONTRAVETD) in The Dominican Republic often have to deal with similar horrific threats, harassment and violence towards their communities because of their sexual orientation and gender identity and expression.

Violence

This violence is a consequence of fundamentalist and hateful discourses towards LGBT communities and is likely to be replicated if urgent action is not taken, the CVC said. “We call on our allies involved in Caribbean struggles for social justice – progressive faith leaders, trade unions, feminist organisations, and civil liberties groups – to join us in denouncing and challenging fundamentalist views which fuel violence towards LGBT people in our region. Hate speech and extremism have no place in our Caribbean democracies, where resistance against discrimination, unity,

and strength in diversity are hallmarks of our shared history. These hateful views do not reflect the teachings of the region’s religions that variously emphasise respect for diversity, non-violence, justice and unconditional love as their cornerstone values.

Protection

“We demand of our Caribbean governments, greater protection for all LGBT people, legal frameworks that guarantee human rights protection, and investment in mechanisms that effectively respond to violence. And we call on Caribbean states to ensure that in no circumstance is the right to freedom of expression allowed to endanger the right to life, liberty and security of person, and to the right to privacy.”

The CVC said without challenging fundamentalist discourses which undermine dignity and rights, and continuing to foster a culture of human rights, Caribbean states cannot expect to develop, and Caribbean citizens cannot expect a better future for its families or children.

“We stand in solidarity with all Caribbean civil society organisations and movements working towards more just and equal societies, where everyone’s rights and dignity are respected.”

The Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC) is a regional coalition of community leaders and nongovernmental organisations working at the frontlines of HIV and AIDS across the Caribbean. Founded in 2004 by one of the Caribbean’s most well-respected HIV and AIDS activists, the late Dr Robert Carr, the CVC is the largest coalition of civil society organisations working in HIV and AIDS in the region.

The CVC member groups work with and on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, sex workers, people who use drugs, orphans and other children made vulnerable to HIV, migrant populations, ex-prisoners and youth in difficult circumstances.

The organisation has around 90 members across the Caribbean, from Guyana in the south, to The Dominican Republic in the north.

Queenstown man on bail for stealing Samsung Galaxy phone

A20-year-old waiter from Queenstown Village on the Essequibo Coast was granted bail for stealing a Samsung Galaxy phone from Latika Peters. He ap-

peared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Anna Regina Magistrate Court.

Mark O’Brian pleaded not guilty to the simple larceny charge. He allegedly stole the Samsung Galaxy

phone from Peters of Bush Lot Village on the Essequibo Coast.

The waiter was represented by Attorney Haimraj Rajkumar and bail was not objected by Prosecutor

Krishna Datt Ramana. The Administration of Justice Act was applied to the case and the defendant was granted bail in the sum of $70,000. He is expected to return to court on August 4.

Taxi driver granted bail for allegedly raping schoolgirl

A56-six-year-old taxi driver from Zorgen-Vlyght on the Essequibo Coast was granted bail on a charged for allegedly raping a schoolgirl. He appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court.

The man was not required to plea to the indictable charge of rape of a child under age 16. He was represented by Attorney Hemraj Rajkumar, who stated his client has three children ages 15- 18.

According to police, the well known taxi driver, allegedly had sexual intercourse with the minor between March 1 to 31. He allegedly took the minor to his house where he had sexual intercourse with her.

Prosecutor Krishna Datt Ramana did not object to bail, but asked for it to be substantial.

The taxi driver was placed on bail in the sum of $150,000 and was asked to refrain from directly or indirectly contacting the virtual complainant pending the hearing. He is expected to return to court on August 20.

Eyew tness

Remembering friends...

...in Cuba

The news that 12 new doctors have been added to our medical system, courtesy of Cuba, reminds us of the solid contribution that country’s made in our quest to make “emancipation” not just another big word. These doctors are just one batch from over 300 that will soon be back from their training and internship in Cuba.

Our medical system still has a long way to go...but who would deny that the government has put its money where its mouth was and focused on delivering better health care to ordinary folks? The opposition? In addition to improved facilities, the key was getting more doctors. Overseas Guyanese doctors weren’t returning to serve their country and many of the locally trained ones from the University of Guyana (UG) Medical School were also leaving for “greener pastures”.

While Cuba had been training our doctors for decades, it was former President Bharrat Jagdeo who made the arrangements for the large batch that’s now entering the system. All Guyanese must “big-up” Cuba. We also echo the sentiments of the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Berbice Medical Authority that these new doctors shouldn’t develop the “God complex” that’s so prevalent in Guyana.

This caution would’ve been unnecessary if these doctors remember the history of the country that trained them. On the same day they received their certificates, it was “National Day of Rebellion” in Cuba. Emancipation didn’t come easy for Cuba. “Freed” from Spain as a colony in 1898 by the U.S., Cubans quickly discovered they’d exchanged one set of masters for another.

The U.S. ruled behind a facade of governors and Cuban dictators who allowed the country’s wealth to be drained as the people were exploited. Batista was only the last of a long line of dictators, and – as a matter of fact – was enjoying his second dictatorial stint. Fidel Castro was a young lawyer from the middle class: but he had a social conscience. Sixty years ago, on July 26, 1953 he and some other patriots launched their attack on the dictatorship. They failed then but returned to armed struggle in 1956 after they were freed. That’s guts for you! On January 1, 1959 Batista fled to the U.S. and the rebels were in control of the government. But the U.S. government took a hard-line stance against the new government and soon two thousand miles away, our destinies were to become intertwined. Ah fate!!

...in Guyana

The U.S. had decided that Fidel Castro was a communist because he’d turned to the USSR, after the U.S. had refused to help in its reconstruction. Cuba, it decided presented a threat to its strategic interests.

After a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)-backed invasion had been ignominiously defeated at the Bay of Pigs, the new U.S. President John F Kennedy announced that he would not “allow” another Cuba in the hemisphere. He decided that Dr Cheddi Jagan, who’d won the 1961 elections, which was supposed to lead to independence from Britain, was a “fellow traveller” of Moscow and duly deposed him through “fiddled” electoral arrangements. By then Cuba had given our rice industry a shot in the arm by buying paddy at higher prices than our other West Indian neighbours. Communists assisting communists!!! When we think of the Cuban assistance in training doctors we must remember that since 1961 Cuba has been under an economic embargo by the U.S. Since prior to 1959 every piece of machinery had come from the U.S., one can only imagine the hardships they’ve had to undergo while trying to rebuild their economy.

We hope the U.S. will soon end that embargo as Cuba’s being liberalised.

...from the U.S.

It could be that the U.S. is trying to make up for its actions in the 1960s here. It has initiated a flurry of initiatives to “entrench” democracy in our dear country. The question is, however, whether we’re on the same page as to what constitutes “democracy”.

sunday, july 28, 2013 |

Guyanese in BVI charged for sexually assaulting minor

Information technology specialist Oliver Lewis, 34, of Guyana will return to the Magistrate’s Court in September for a hearing in a sexual assault matter involving a minor.

Lewis, who is also a resident of Lambert Estate, Tortola, British Virgin Islands (BYI) was charged with eight counts of indecency with a child below the age of 14 years when he appeared before the Magistrate’s Court on June 21.

The acts allegedly occurred between April and June.

When the matter was called on July 19, Senior Crown Counsel Sarah Benjamin told the court that the Crown needed to secure additional information before proceeding with a trial against the defendant.

It was also revealed that full disclosure of all relevant documents had not been made on the defence at the time.

Lewis pleaded not guilty to all the charges when they were read to him by Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards. He is represented by Attorney Stephen Daniels.

He remains on US$60,000 signed bail with two sureties and was instructed to have no contact with the virtual complainant (VC) or third parties associated with the VC as part of his bail conditions. He was also asked to report to the East End Police Station on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 6:00h and 18:00h.

The matter is set for report on September 27.

Allegations read by

Principal Crown Counsel Tiffany Scatliffe stated that the VC is a child of 13 years of age and the accused and family of the VC are friends.

It is alleged that on a Saturday in the latter weeks of April, the accused had a conversation with the VC’s father and asked if he (VC) could assist him at work where he is an IT specialist for a security firm.

The father reportedly agreed and the accused picked up the VC from his home with his private vehicle and took him to a residence in the area of Mount Healthy. While at the residence, the accused allegedly indecently assaulted the VC.

Repeated assaults

About two days after, the VC allegedly had a conversation with the accused while he was at school. As a result, the accused allegedly went to the school and signed out the VC during lunch hours and took him back to the residence at Mount Healthy and allegedly assaulted the VC before taking him back to school.

The incident was allegedly repeated the day afterwards around the same time.

The incident was allegedly repeated again several days later and the accused was said to have allegedly assaulted the VC and enticed him to perform other acts of gross indecency.

Allegations further stated that on a weekend following the initial incidents, the defendant contacted the VC’s father once again for the child to go to work with him and the father reported-

Attorney general urges maximum use of House sitting

Attorney General Anil Nandlall said government wants maximum use of every sitting of the House as it costs taxpayers some $1.7 million per sitting.

The government is contending that there should not be sittings merely for the purpose of sittings.

“It is on that basis that the government wanted a sitting later so that it can be a full and proper sitting that would have borne fruit. At the last sitting not much was achieved. We believed that that could have been combined with other businesses on a different occasion, and hence our proposal for an ad-

ly agreed.

The VC was reportedly taken to the defendant’s Lambert Beach apartment where he was allegedly assaulted and enticed to perform gross acts of indecency by the defendant. The acts were allegedly repeated at the same location by the accused on subsequent dates with the VC.

On June 11 the brother of the VC told his parents that he saw the VC leaving with

the accused at lunch time and reportedly told his parents that it was a usual occurrence for the accused to collect the VC at lunch.

The VC’s father reportedly had a conversation with his son and the VC told him certain things. A complaint was later made to the police. A detective met the accused in the area of Road Town and told the accused of the report against him before cautioning the defendant. He report-

edly replied: “I’m aware of it.”

He was arrested on suspicion of committing acts of indecency with a child and taken to the Road Town Police Station where an audio/video interview was conducted with police officers in the presence of his attorney.

The attorney denied that this was so when it was mentioned and stated that he was not present at the time. Lewis was later formally charged for the offence.

journment to that later occasion when we could have had a fuller, wholesome sitting,” he said.

The attorney general said government feels that there is still hope that the Amaila Falls project will receive the full support of the opposition, “and we wanted some time to discuss and to negotiate with the opposition because we believe that is so important, that every effort should be expended to have political consensus on this matter”.

Government, through the prime minister, had written the Speaker of the National Assembly seeking to have the July 25 sitting of the National Assembly deferred to August 7. The prime minister moved the motion for the adjournment of the sitting, noting that the decision was taken, “to allow for the last opportunity in this session before the recess for further consultations at the highest levels with the objective of restoring these items and ensuring their safe passage through the National Assembly”.

However, the opposition outvoted the government and the sitting proceeded but not much was accomplished.

Man drives away with car after begging for a lift

Police are searching for a suspected carjacker who drove away with a cash crop farmer’s car after asking him for a lift on Friday at Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice.

The white car, bearing registration number PJJ 5277, owned by Pervhan Isreed, was last seen when its owner went into a shop to

purchase an item, but ended up spending more than 30 minutes. The alleged theft was reportedly committed by “Black Boy” of Bush Lot, New Housing Scheme, West Coast Berbice.

Based on reports received, on the day in question, the victim was driving his car along the Armadale Public Road, West Coast

Berbice when the suspect stopped him and asked for a drop.

After collecting the suspect, Isree proceeded to the Bush Lot Public Road where he stopped, disembarked the car and left the keys in the ignition with the suspect in the car. He reportedly went into a shop and spent about 30 minutes but when he re-

turned, he found his car missing.

The police were subsequently summoned. They reportedly questioned several persons and acting on information received, checks were made at Black Boy’s home, but he was nowhere to be found. A report was lodged and police have since launched an investigation.

Museum of African Heritage launches emancipation celebrations

Double agent...

Satiricus is a Caribbean man. So he follows the goings on in the islands as best as he could. Trinidad in particular fascinated him. Those Trinis were so similar to his dear old midland – but yet so different. Satiricus figured it had something to do with all the money that flowed into their pockets from oil. Was it Fitzgerald who’d said the rich were different from you and me?

So Satiricus was quite miffed when he read that the shabby treatment of Guyanese by the help at Piarco Airport was still going on. Barbados, he could understand – they wanted to take to the max, their pretensions to be “Little England”. But Trinidad? Even though they had more money, they sure liked to fete – just like Guyanese. In fact they would hop over every month, it seemed to Satiricus, to have a fete with Guyanese at their Chutney shows.

The Museum of African Heritage under the auspices of the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry on Friday officially launched its annual Emancipation Celebrations and Exhibition at the Square of the Revolution.

This year’s activities will be held under the theme “Honouring our heroes of 1763”.

This year marks the 175th anniversary since slavery was abolished in 1834, and the ministry, in collaboration with the museum and the many cultural groups across the country, has planned several activities to commemorate Freedom Day.

These events will also highlight the 250th anniversary of the Berbice Slave Uprising and 190 years since the Demerara Slave Uprising.

Assistant Director of Culture, Colonel Linden Ross told those gathered at the event that in honouring Guyana’s heroes, the people must respect the work they did and try to emulate it.

Ross also highlighted the support that the ministry has been giving to groups across the country which is intended to encourage persons to get involved in cultural activities, and at the same time, promote various aspects of Guyana’s rich heritage.

This year, 68 African cultural groups received the sum of $7.6 million from the ministry to stage their emancipation activities.

Ross also urged the elders not only to remember this time of the year, but to teach the children about the struggle of their ancestors. “And therefore, they too should try to achieve the success of their ancestors,” he stressed.

The Culture Ministry has also been working over the years to preserve Guyana’s national cultural heritage in various aspects such as literature, exhibitions, lectures, art, films and dance to preserve Guyana’s culture and educate the public about the country’s heritage.

They also liked to “ole talk” which Satiricus had discovered was just like the good old fashioned Guyanese “gyaaf”. They liked their rum; they liked to lime. Why if it wasn’t for the funny way they talked, Satiricus would’ve sworn that they were just like any rich Guyanese from Bel Air.

So Satiricus wasn’t surprised when he heard that a rich lawyer from Guyana, who’d been a minister in the PNCEE, was invited to buss a gyaff from the platform of Jack Warner in Chaguramas, Trinidad. Jack, of course, was the world football biggie who’d resigned from his top post because he’d been dipping into the cookie jar.

He’d been forced to also resign from his minister wuk by Kamla because his baggage got just too heavy. Then, lo and behold, Jack forms a new party and challenges Kamla in her safest seat. Anyhow the Guyanese lawyer didn’t even finish his speech when he’s yanked from the stage. The next day when Satiricus opens up the Trini papers on the web, all hell breaks loose. What the heck’s going on, thought Satiricus.

Seems that the PNCEE ex-minister used the word “coolie” a gazillion times, called Warner a “coolie black man”, Kamla’s UNC was “United Nation of Coolies” and said that since Warner had never stolen from “coolies” so what if he took some from the “white man”? But the Guyanese rich lawyer, if nothing else, was an equal-employer practitioner of ethnic slurs.

He called the opposition PNM – “Party of Negro Movement”. Satiricus hadn’t heard the word “negro” in quite a while...but he figured it might’ve been used in PNCEE circles. Satiricus was intrigued to find out that the Trinis couldn’t really decide whether the Guyanese lawyer’s rant helped Warner or Kamla more.

But Satiricus knew what was going on. The Guyanese lawyer fellow must’ve been hassled at the Piarco Airport by some snotty immigration officer – and wanted to stick it to all Trinis. Let's get them a bit riled up, like Guyanese at Piarco. He’d become our double agent. He hoped when the chap returned to Guyana he’ll be getting a medal.

Alleged murderer still on the run

ANorth West District farmer is still on the lam after he reportedly murdered his child’s mother and then fled the scene with their infant baby.

A police source confirmed that the murder suspect reportedly took the baby to a relative’s home at Port Kaituma and confided what he did before leaving. According to reports, his relatives pleaded with him to surrender but this has apparently fallen on deaf ears. He was not seen since and is believed to have crossed the Venezuelan border.

The woman was laid to rest on Friday in Port Kaituma after her body was handed over to her family following a post-mortem examination which proved that she died as a result of perforation of the liver due to a stab wound.

It was reported that Gweneth Alexander, 18, was killed after she confronted the man about an affair he had with another woman while she was away. Alexander, upon return to Tenapu Village was told that her re-

puted husband had another woman, but as she confronted him, he started to beat her.

As the assault continued, her reputed husband reported took a knife and stabbed the woman to her abdomen and then locked her in their shop to die. He did not raise an alarm and calmly walked to the riverside where he boarded a boat and travelled to Port Kaituma.

Alexander’s corpse was found a few days after the stabbing incident by customers who went to the shop to purchase goods. They did not hear the sound of the baby crying and there were no signs of any movement. This they thought was strange. Members of the neighbourhood reportedly peeped through a hole and saw the woman’s foot and the police were summoned. She was found on her bed.

Alexander and the murder suspect have been together for five years, and according to reports, it was a rocky relationship. Police are still hunting for the alleged murderer.

Man shot during verbal tirade in stable condition

Lloyd Britton, 20, of Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara remains in stable condition after he was shot to his abdomen during a confrontation on Mandela Avenue, Georgtown, which left one man dead.

Gregory Elvis Fernandes, 24, of Mandela Avenue, West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was shot once to the head and once to his chest during an argument on Friday evening at Mandela Avenue.

The police stated that the driver of a minibus and another man had an argument earlier at Mandela Avenue which resulted in a vehicular accident.

Fernandes and Britton reportedly crossed paths later in the evening along Mandela Avenue as the minibus stopped to put off a passenger and another argument started. This time, Fernandes and a police officer were in the motor car.

The argument continued and suddenly turned into a warzone when Britton reportedly opened fire on Fernandes, hitting him in the chest. The policeman allegedly returned fire hitting Britton in the abdomen. Britton re-entered the minibus and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation by the driver while Fernandes who was rushed to the same medical institution, but was pronounced dead on arrival

When contact was made with relatives of the dead

man, they refused to speak, claiming that they are not in receipt of any information with respect to the shooting.

At the hospital, on Friday evening, relatives were also tightlipped, but friends explained that the two men; Fernandes and Britton have been at war for some time. They could not say what led to them to be hostile against each other.

An eyewitness said he was in the bus when the argument started at the traffic light at Mandela Avenue, but it continued on their journey.

The minibus and the car again came into contact with each other a while later and he suddenly saw Britton disembarking the minibus. Soon after, he said gunshots were heard.

“I just see one of the man in the car jumped out and open back fire… the other man de done get shoot… he get at least two shots to he body,” the man stated. The man further stated that soon he heard Britton screaming that he was shot and he saw blood oozing from his abdomen.

The eyewitness said that he later learnt that the two men had an old grievance over some damages incurred to a minibus that Britton once conducted. He also posited that the policeman who was with Fernandes should have intervened and brought the matter to closure before it got out of hand.

Police are still continuing their investigations.

Autopsy on baby found in septic tank delayed

Amother of eight will have to wait a while longer to know her faith following the news that the autopsy examination that was schedule to be performed on the remains of her newborn son who was found in a septic tank was delayed.

The post-mortem examination was scheduled for Friday, but for unknown reasons, it was put off for Monday.

Marlyn Severine, 33, of 133 Victoria Street, Albouystown, Georgetown was taken into police custody on Thursday after her decomposed new born baby was found in a septic tank in Victoria Street, Albouystown, Georgetown. The discovery was made after a dog was seen with one of the baby’s arm.

It was reported that the woman attended a Bingo game in the community on Tuesday night last week, but left in a hurry after complaining of experiencing “labour” pains.

She reportedly told rela-

tives that after she reached home that evening, she went to use the washroom and the baby came down after she used a substance to fast track the delivery.

According to reports, the woman panicked and reportedly threw the baby into the septic tank.

Investigators believed that the baby was alive when it was disposed of.

After one week, the body was badly decomposed but parts on the arms and legs were still intact.

This would have been the second child that the woman delivered at her home without the aid of a midwife. Her eldest child is reportedly 21 years old and resides overseas.

The decomposed body was taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Home and a postmortem is expected to be performed on Monday to determine the cause of death.

Severine could be charged with murder if the autopsy proved that the child was alive when it was dumped into the septic tank.

1823 Slave Rebellion Monument almost complete

Renowned sculptor Ivor Thom, who is designing the 1823 Slave Rebellion Monument, has disclosed that work on the structure is almost complete with the final design to be laid sometime during this week.

Speaking to Guyana Times, Thom explained that when tasked with the responsibility of sculpting the monument, he consulted the Internet for information on the rebellion, after which he decided to design three pieces depicting people.

Two pieces have already been laid. One of the pieces portrays a woman moving forward with a cutlass in one hand with her mouth opened, imploring others to join her. Another is with a man moving forward. The final piece is a man with a cutlass, cross and broken chain.

Thom said the cutlass was included since this was the main form of weapon used during the rebellion, the cross since religion played a major role in orchestrating the rebellion and the broken chain represents the slaves fighting for their freedom.

The sculptor said the construction of the monument is a huge accomplishment for Guyana since it will be the first in the country with

everything done locally.

“With the legacy of this monument, we will gain collateral benefits from it, we have an art foundation at Burrowes School of Arts.”

He stated that several setbacks were faced during the housing of the monument, but added that with determination and assistance from a few willing persons, he was able to overcome the odds.

Thom expressed disappointment that he could not find someone dedicated enough so far who he could train to manage the monument. “I am hoping with time, I can find someone who will continue this work.” The monument located on Carifesta Avenue, opposite the Guyana Defence Force ground is expected to be unveiled sometime during August. The project is being constructed at a cost of some $26 million.

Thom got the opportunity to sculpt the monument after he won a free and open competition organised by the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry. The monument is being erected in recognition of the historic August 1823 Slave Revolt which occurred on East Coast Demerara. The slaves, who worked on the sugar plantations, revolted against their enslavement and many were killed in the uprising.

ACDA to roll out cultural awareness programmes

As part of efforts to ensure Guyana’s heritage is kept alive, the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) will be hosting a number of awareness progammes.

According to ACDA Executive Director Dr Eric Phillips in an interview with Guyana Times, these educational programmes will be held through the association’s recently established youth centre.

He said he believes past heroes have been forgotten and thus there is a need for a rebirth of knowledge on the roles they played.

Dr Phillips also pointed out that there is a need for constant awareness programmes, contrary to only during special events and holidays.

As such, the ACDA member said the youth centre will ensure youths are kept up to date about their history.

He said the organisation has hired a facilitator to put together programmes for young people, “whether it’s poetry, culture or drama”.

Dr Eric Phillips

“We are also going to have a cultural tour. So they’re going to see the Square of the Revolution where Cuffy is and even visit Phillip Moore, those types of things.”

There is also expected to be a conference on August 4 as part of emancipation observances.

Phillips said the confer-

ence “will help youths to realise their true identity and role as a Guyanese”.

They will also learn skills such as how to find a job and to become an entrepreneur.

Aside from the specially designed programmes to keep the youths informed, Phillips said they will be introduced to the organisation’s library.

“We have a school where we are teaching them about their pride and identity, so there are many things ACDA is going to be doing throughout the year.”

Meanwhile, the ACDA executive urged all to come out and part of the annual traditional emancipation celebrations at the National Park on August 1.

“We hope that everyone comes out to the park because it’s about children and it’s about freedom.”

He revealed that an African group called “Zuma Zuma” will be showcasing its skills as well as groups from Suriname.

Some 28 groups from all across Guyana are also expected to be a part of the day’s events.

Charmaine Blackman to appear on cover of GEM magazine

Diva Charmaine Blackman will grace the cover of the 58th edition of GEM magazine which will hit the news-stands shortly.

Blackman, hot off her recent marriage to long-time partner, singer and producer Bonny Alves and finishing her second stint as a Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) Jingle and Song competition judge, continues to increase her fan base through her performances and fashion choices.

Her 20 years in the music business also helps to add credibility to her input in the industry. Even though the songstress has been featured multiple times in GEM, she has not appeared on its cover before.

Charmaine can be seen on the August/September cover decked out in a white naval stripped dress with matching hat and white shoes.

In one of her answers from a question relating to how she handles her critics, she responded: “At first I used to lose sleep over it because some of it was unfair, based on hearsay and people were just following the crowd; but with time I learnt to deal with it and now I just Gi Dem Mo Fuh Talk!”

GEM, a bi-monthly glossy magazine which has been Guyana’s definitive lifestyle and entertainment source since 2004, in a brief statement said that Charmaine was chosen mainly because of her longevity and her ability to remain relevant in an era of flavour-of-the-month artistes that do not last.

Make sure you pick-up your copy to read more on

candid interview and other interesting features.

Pope Francis urges dialogue to defuse Brazil protests

Pope Francis has told authorities and civil society leaders in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro to use dialogue as an alternative to “selfish indifference and violent protest”. The country has seen several violent demonstrations in the past month.

Earlier, the Pope chal-

lenged clergy to leave the comfort of their churches and reach out to the marginalised. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims are marching towards Rio’s Copacabana beach for a 24hour vigil later on Saturday. The vigil will be opened by Pope Francis and is set to culminate on Sunday with a

communal Mass, which also marks the end of the World Youth Day festival in Brazil.

Up to 1.5 million young pilgrims are expected at Copacabana beach this weekend, following a lastminute change of venue due to floods in the area where the vigil was supposed to take place.

Before opening the vigil, on the penultimate day of his first major international trip, the Pope addressed civil leaders and government officials at Rio’s Municipal Theatre. “Between selfish indifference and violent protest there is always another possible option: that of dialogue,’’ he told the audience in a reference to the demonstrations that have been rocking the country since June. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Phillips confident as Jamaica gets ready for IMF test

Finance and Planning Minister Peter Phillips says the government is confident that Jamaica will pass the first quarterly performance review, to be conducted by an International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission Team in August. The Jamaica Information Service (JIS) reported Phillips as

saying the team is expected on August 14, and the review would be done under the new US$932.3-million, fouryear Extended Fund Facility (EFF) agreement with the IMF.

“We feel very satisfied about the June 30 performance review, and we expect that when the Fund Mission

visits, that their review will confirm our review that June 30 targets were all on track,” Phillips told a Manchester Chamber of Commerce forum at the Mandeville Hotel on Thursday. “We expect, also, that there will be a similar performance for the future targets,” Phillips added.

In underlining the government’s confidence, Phillips said, “We have established our own Coordination and Implementation Unit in the Ministry of Finance to track our performance.” The finance minister said progress had been made in implementing key components of the country’s Economic Reform Programme (ERP), a prerequisite for concluding the EFF, as well as “important and positive signs”, from these efforts. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

St Kitts-Nevis PM rejects accusations of dictatorship

Accusations that he is a dictator have been rejected by St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Denzil Douglas. The allegations have been made by opposition politicians, as well as by three of his former government ministers.

In denying these allegations, Douglas suggested in turn that two of the three: Dr Timothy Harris and Dwyer Astaphan have dictatorial tendencies. He also labeled former national security minister Astaphan,

who has Lebanese roots, as a racist. “I dismiss it simply because I have had the opportunity to examine myself … and I don’t think I am a dictator,” the prime minister said in response to the claims that he acts in a dictatorial manner.

“I believe that Harris has serious dictatorial tendencies – ruthless. Dwyer has also strong dictatorial tendencies because Dwyer is a racist,” Douglas said in an interview on radio station Freedom FM. According to

Douglas, Astaphan, who held the tourism and national security portfolios in government, had difficulty with “a young black boy from St Paul’s (meaning he, Douglas)” heading the Cabinet when the former parliamentarian was a minister.

Astaphan dismissed the prime minister’s statement as “an unfortunate remark” that is “very untrue”. He says that he will be seeking legal advice on that matter.

Antiguan govt completes payment on first ever T-Bills

Seven years after issuing them, government reported Friday that it successfully completed repayment on securities offered on the Regional Government Securities Market (RGSM) in 2006.

A press release from government’s Debt Management Unit stated that “payment on the securities have been made on time, and in full, throughout the programme.” On March 15, 2006, for the first time in the nation’s history, citizens were able to lend mon-

ey to government at competitive rates of interest via the RGSM.

Three types of securities were offered valued at a total of EC$151 million and repayment began with T-bills in 2010. A set of 91day Treasury Bills was auctioned in three tranches of EC$17 million each, at an interest rate of 6.5 per cent.

Thirty million dollars worth of Treasury Notes were also offered paying 8.25 per cent per annum. On Friday, government completed payment on the seven-year

bonds worth EC$70 million, also a part of the 2006 issue. Investors in that security received eight per cent interest for the first two years, 8.5 per cent for the next two, and nine per cent for the remainder of the term.

“Based on its outstanding record of payment on the RGSM the government has continued to launch securities and has issued two securities thus far in 2013, both of which have been over-subscribed,” the release from the debt management unit noted. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

TT government holds its hand

The government’s plan to implement a pilot project under the Administration of Justice (Indictable Offences) Act on August 2 has hit a snag. With just seven days to go, legal sources said yesterday the highly contentious legislation, which became the topic of debate over the last few days in the legal fraternity, has been deferred indefinitely. A source at the judiciary said Friday that the implementation of the new

law had been deferred. This was confirmed by a source at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Contacted Friday, head of the Criminal Bar Association Pamela Elder, SC, said if that was the case, the move was definitely welcomed by the association. “It is an immense relief to the Criminal Bar Association. It remains committed to working with the Justice Ministry to give whatever assistance is nec-

essary to ensure any new system is a fair and just one,” Elder said. She added, however, that the association was yet to be formally notified that the plan was to be deferred.

What was key, Elder said, was that the government must take into consideration all concerns and making necessary amendments. This process, she emphasised, must include all stakeholders. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Turkish PM Erdogan threatens to sue Times over open letter

Tincreasingly authoritarian. “The press wants to throw mud to see if it sticks,” Erdogan told reporters in comments broadcast on Turkey’s NTV channel.

“The Times is renting out its own pages for money. This is the Times’ failing. We will pursue legal channels regarding the Times.” Erdogan said those who signed the letter – taken out as an full-page advertisement – had “rented out their thoughts” and did not genuinely support democracy.

A row over a park in Istanbul last month triggered widespread anti-government protests. At least four people were killed and thousands more injured as police cracked down on demonstrators who accused Erdogan of becoming

urkey’s prime minister has threatened legal action against a UK newspaper for publishing an open letter criticising his handling of recent protests. Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused the Times of “renting out its pages for money”. Hollywood celebrities and academics were among those who signed the letter this week accusing Turkey’s government of “dictatorial rule”.

“If they truly believed in democracy, they couldn’t have displayed such a lack of character to call the leader of a party that won 50 per cent of the vote a dictator,” the prime minister said. The Times has so far not commented on the remarks. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Egypt: Scores killed as army launches offensive

Eagainst Muslim Brotherhood

gyptian security forces and armed men in plain clothes killed scores of Muslim Brotherhood protesters on Saturday as the brutal and organised crackdown on the Islamist party and its supporters appeared to be gathering pace.

In what may turn out to be one of the worst single mass killings in Egypt since the fall of president Hosni Mubarak two-anda-half years ago, it was claimed that more than

100 Brotherhood supporters were shot and killed on the fringes of a sit-in at a Cairo mosque demanding the return of former president Mohamed Morsi, who was deposed on July 3. Government officials claim that the number who died was 65.

The deaths came as men in helmets and black police fatigues fired on crowds gathered before dawn on the fringes of a round-theclock sit-in near a mosque in north-east Cairo, Morsi’s

Muslim Brotherhood movement said. “They are not shooting to wound, they are shooting to kill,” said Brotherhood spokesman Gehad el-Haddad. “The bullet wounds are in the head and chest.”

The latest violence came amid the continuing sharp polarisation within Egyptian society that has made the country increasingly ungovernable. Elsewhere on Friday, eight people were reported killed in clashes in Alexandria. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Millions prepare to vote in Mali elections

Millions of Malians are expected to vote in elections they hope will usher in a new era of peace and stability in a country torn apart by an 18-month political crisis and armed conflict.

Voters will have a choice of 27 candidates on Sunday as they go to the polls for the first time since a separatist uprising led to a coup and then a sweeping religious offensive last year which upended one of the region’s most stable democracies.

The three-week campaign came to a close on Friday without major incidents, but it was played out in the shadow of violence in the north which has cast doubt over Mali’s readiness to deliver a safe and credible elections.

United Nations

Secretary General Ban Kimoon and Mali’s interim leader Dioncounda Traore have acknowledged that the vote may be “imperfect” in a country with 500,000 citizens displaced by conflict,

but have urged Malians to respect the outcome.

Critics of the process have argued that Mali, under pressure from the international community, is rushing to the polls and risking a botched election which could do more harm than good. But Louis Michel, the head of the European Union observation mission said conditions had been met for a credible first round as it emerged that 85 per cent of voter cards had been distributed. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Libya protesters attack Muslim Brotherhood offices

Protesters in Libya have attacked offices linked to the Muslim Brotherhood following the assassination of a prominent political activist. Abdelsalam al-Mismari was shot dead as he left a mosque in Benghazi in eastern Libya after Friday prayers. Demonstrators blaming the Brotherhood have taken to the streets. They stormed offices of the Justice and Construction Party, the Brotherhood’s political wing, in Benghazi and

the Libyan capital, Tripoli. A retired air force colonel and a senior police officer were also shot dead on Friday in Benghazi in the latest in a series of targeted killings of security personnel. Libya’s government is struggling to control armed groups nearly two years after Colonel Muammar Gaddafi was toppled. There has been growing opposition to the increasing influence of the Justice and Construction Party (JCP) in the country’s parliament.

Mismari, a lawyer, was a vocal critic of the Brotherhood’s presence in Libya. He was one of the earliest organisers of protests that eventually led to the overthrow of Gaddafi in August 2011. It is unclear who carried out the killing.

Protesters in Tripoli stormed the headquarters of the JCP and as well as those of the secular National Forces Alliance on Saturday, according to reports. They smashed windows and looted furniture at the offices.

(BBC News)

GSA to introduce agro-processing from new school year

The 2014 graduating class of the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) would leave the institution with the ability to drive a motor vehicle and operate a tractor as this would become a requirement for graduating, even as the school will introduce agro-processing from the new school term, Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy announced.

While the number of registrants for the new course is small, it will be carried, the minister said.

He was at the time speaking at the institution’s 49th graduation ceremony which saw 125 young men and women, the largest batch of students, officially completing the first stage of their studies in the field of agriculture.

To date, about 3160 people have received training at GSA headquarters at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara in the diploma and certificate programmes which include animal health and veterinary public health, forestry and fisheries studies.

The chairman’s prize was presented to Alwyn Seegolam from the Essequibo campus while the chief executive officer’s prize was secured by Vishan Persaud from the Mon Repos campus. Both of the awardees achieved distinctions in the diploma in agriculture programme.

Seegolam also achieved the Gold Medal; an award that has not been given out for a number of years. The Gold Medal is awarded to a person who performs academic and practical work, in addition to campus community service.

Some of the other outstanding performers include Ceciley Lonke and Shivram Ramdeen for their efforts on the farm; Tyrone Austin, Denesha Henry and Elroy Thomas (forestry); and Safraz Persaud, Padmini Luckram, Rondecia Cozier and Larenzo Richards (an-

imal health and veterinary public health).

Quality training

Recognised as Guyana’s primary school of agriculture, GSA over the years has provided many Guyanese, and even people from other countries, the opportunity to be schooled in agriculture. Two of this year’s graduates hail from Barbados and St Kitts and Nevis.

Minister Ramsammy noted that many of them are now teachers at the GSA and even hold high posi-

tions in institutions around the world. In this regard, he is of the view that the institution has lived up to its expectations.

“As a Guyanese and as a Member of Parliament, I stand in front of you proud, yes, there is a level of boasting, but I stand here with genuine pride… but there were many naysayers 50 years ago who said it couldn’t be done that we were making a mistake… 50 years later as we graduate 125 students from this school, I think we can look

with national and international reputation and significance, and it must be treated with the respect it deserves.

Greater collaboration

“We have been working with the new vice chancellor of the University of Guyana to ensure greater collaboration… I want to see more graduates from the Guyana School of Agriculture completing their degree in agriculture at the University of Guyana,” Minister Ramsammy pointed out.

back and say our then visionaries were right and we are grateful that they had the will and courage to follow their dreams,” he said.

In light of the possibilities, the minister highlighted that the students (past/ present), and the new batch belong to an institution

He further acknowledged that there are many observable skills among the citizens of Guyana, and in this regard, he stressed that in 2013/2014, one specific skill the school will ensure its students have is the ability to carry out hybridisation so as to improve the genetics of plants and in the

long-run, yield.

Over the next year, the Agriculture Ministry will be developing land within the GSA compound and other land owned by sister ministries, such as the Culture Ministry’s New Opportunity Corps (NOC), which will be put to good use.

The minister was referring to the introduction of incubator plots where students can be formed into entrepreneurial groups and develop commercial projects.

“Some of these integrator plots will continue to be available to the graduates for between one and two years after they graduate… by the time our students leave here they must not only know agriculture science by the book, they must not only have some farm experience, but they must be able to translate this knowledge into a commercial venture… this is the new agriculture for Guyana,” he emphasised.

Minister Ramsammy also called for the harmonising of agriculture science training opportunities and the teaching of sanitary standards. He explained that assistance has been solicited from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the InterAmerican Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) to work with the GSA to develop a curriculum for new and current students on sanitary standards.

In his report, GSA’s Chief Executive Officer Brian Greenidge spoke on the school’s mission, vision, personnel, staff development, public relations, financing and maintenance.

158 graduate from Kuru Kuru Training Centre

The Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry is working to make available a higher standard of certification for the Kuru Kuru Training Centre (KKTC) that will cater for students moving seamlessly into another institution to continue their education.

“We would like to move this institution forward… It is the desire of the ministry and the government to see this idea unfold… maybe by the next batch of graduates,” Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony said at the KKTC’s 13th graduation today.

The 2012-2013 batch of 158 students completed a 10-month residential course that encompassed a wide range of skill based subjects, under the Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training (YEST) programme conducted at the KKTC on the Soesdyke-

Linden Highway.

This brings the total number of youths trained at the KKTC to 1885, since it started in 2000. The current batch of graduates comprises 55 females.

The YEST programme seeks to provide opportunities for youths to develop their talents in cultural activities, sports and confidence building, and entrepreneurial skills through practice, in order that they become well-rounded individuals

The students were involved in occupational areas including business studies, carpentry, electrical installation, furniture making, masonry, motor mechanics, plumbing and sheet metal, welding and fabrication and garment construction.

This year’s top student is Narell Henry from the Berbice River, Region 10, who did garment construction.

Guyana Amazon Warriors appoints marketing and media coordinator

Jessica Xavier has been appointed marketing and media coordinator for the Guyana Amazon Warriors Cricket team. Xavier will act as the liaison between the Guyana Amazon Warriors and the media and will be responsible for disseminating information about the team to the public.

Given her vast experience, Xavier brings to the team a strong background in

marketing, project management and public relations. She has previously served as the public relations officer for Specialised Patient Action Network (SPAN) and as project manager for Advertising and Marketing Services.

She occasionally fundraises for the Rotary Club of Demerara and assists with medical outreaches for the club. She is well versed in Portuguese and taught English for three years in Boa Vista and Manaus, Brazil. The Guyana Amazon Warriors welcomes her to the dynamic team.

The inaugural season of the Limacol CPL kicks off July 30 in Barbados and concludes in Trinidad and Tobago on August 24. Matches will be played in Guyana on July 31, August 2 and August 4 respectively at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

ADVISORY

The public is hereby advised that CPL OPCO (Guyana) Inc/ Guyana Amazon Warriors has the exclusive right, title or interest to use or display the name, logo, design and/ or trademark of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, and as such, is the only authorised entity to sell or distribute fan merchandise.

Any unauthorised replication or imitation of the name, logo and design of the Guyana Amazon Warriors by any other person or entity other than CPL OPCO (Guyana) Inc/ Guyana Amazon Warriors

is strictly prohibited and legal action will be taken against all violators.

If you are aware of any case of infringement or suspected infringement, you are kindly asked to contact us on telephone number 223-1437.

Patrons are advised that they can purchase T-shirts, caps and other fan merchandise of the Guyana Amazon Warriors from the head office located on Middle Street (former Del Casa building) and at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Associating with some friends whose exuberance is infectious will make this a fun day. Make it a point to avoid dullards.

(Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Although you’ll have a reservoir of strength to draw upon that will serve you well in successfully performing tedious endeavours, you’ll still need to pace yourself if you want to run the best race.

(Feb. 20-March 20) PISCES

When dealing with others on a one-on-one basis, your manner will put them at ease. If your interlocutors sense your sincerity and concern, they’ll feel impelled to treat you similarly.

(March 21-April 19)

As of today, you should have some stabilising influences starting to manifest in areas that have been disruptive lately. Relax and let these calming trends bring you some peace.

(April 20May 20)

Don’t hesitate to disengage yourself from others if you need to attend to an important matter that requires your immediate attention. It’s OK to make it your top priority.

(May 21June 20)

Because you are likely to require solitude to perform at your best, try to quietly slip away from others to a place that is totally free from outside interference.

By Bernice Bede Osol

(June 21July 22)

Relaxed social activities with some old friends will prove to be the most pleasurable part of your day. You’re not apt to feel the same way when with newer, more casual acquaintances.

(July 23Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Surprisingly, you might find someone with whom you’ve rarely seen eye-to-eye to be especially good company. This could produce a benchmark for a new relationship. Make the most of it. You’d be smart not to allow yourself to be overwhelmed by details. In fact, you’ll fare much better if you make yourself look at the big picture instead of just a few brush strokes.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Don’t appear too eager if someone is trying to interest you in a business proposition. It would weaken your position if you look to be too easy. Let him or her offer the opening bid.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

In an arrangement where your mate opts for the lead, it’s OK to relegate yourself to a supporting role. It’s not important who directs the show, as long as it produces mutual benefits.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Do yourself a huge favour by pushing away from your desk and getting some exercise. A stimulating activity, preferably outdoors, will be just what the doctor ordered.

car rental

Journey Inn Apartments & car rental. Rooms & car to rent from $3000 Premio, Vitz. Phone: 6896668, 639-4452.

Dentistry

Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte Street, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

WHERE CAN YOU GET A BOOK FOR $40? THE MASSIVE BOOKSALE, NOW ON AT BOOKLAND, ABOVE MATTS RECORD BAR (226-2874). BOOKLAND, ON A SALE MISSION “ TO GET BOOKS IN EVERY HOUSHOLD”.

FlOwers

Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

FOR SALE

All models of engines (Perkins, cummins, lister, deuez, john dere etc) enclosed and open air any size of KVA. Call Ram on 619-4483 or 226-6325

Healthworld Holistic Centre: Psychotherapy available for all types of abnormal behaviors –addictions, emotional, suicidal, anger, relationship and sexual problems. Treatment of stress disorders, depression, fear, low self-esteem, insomnia, trauma, psychosomatic sicknesses, and children's disorders. We also conduct IQ evaluations and behavioral assessments. By appointments only. Clinic hours: 11:00 – 17:00h. Tel: 592-621-0552. Email:healthworldhc@gmail.com Are you pouring on pounds? Then call Raul /Carol Wilson: 660-6818, 641-5923, 216-3016, 216-3601 for your healthy eating package.

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YELLOW PAGES

sunday, july 28, 2013

2 storey concrete house, 32’ x 55’, 4 bedrooms block 8 Mon Repos, ECD. $35 million. Phone 642-2116

Big real estate agency, 2 storey 4 bedroom house in C/Ville , 2 storey 5 bedroom house on Camp Street, 1577 acres of land (Bartica ) ½ mile from stelling 2 ½ miles river front access available. Phone: 622-7097.

serVices

Multi-purpose shopping mall opens in New Amsterdam

LAND FOR SALE

One business property , Lamaha Street. Phone 669-3313, 2314586, 695-4382.

J. Eastman and Associates

spirituality

Chartered Accountants, services, taxation, financial services, VAT preparation, auditing, income tax, vehicle and building compliances. Phone: 223-2105, 6627467, located 190 Church Street, Georgetown (opp Pet Shop).

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7-bedroom family/students/ individuals. Bungalow for long & short term rental (local & overseas guests), facilities included, vegetarian meals available. Contact BG Real Estate Agency on: 622-7071, Isha 624-7111/220-2130. prOperty FOr sale

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TO LET

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Government has created an enabling environment that encourages investment both local and foreign and will continue to support those who wish to invest locally, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said on Friday as he formally opened the Bristol Mall in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

The owner of the multi-purpose establishment, Charles Bristol, was congratulated by the prime minister for his perseverance over the last 30 years to make his dream a reality, and for overcoming any bureaucratic hurdles he may have faced during his efforts.

The re-migrant was also cited as an example for others to follow by the prime minister, who described the multimillion dollar investment as

a timely one for the Berbice community.

“The life we live is the life we make for ourselves. This is what government is about; helping all persons regardless of their race, creed or religion, to develop themselves and in so doing, develop the country. We want growth and development for all,” the prime minister said.

Bristol, in brief remarks said the multi-storied building was the culmination of a dream he harboured as he worked long hours, saving his funds to eventually make it a reality. He thanked the prime minister for attending the ceremony, stating that it was an indication of government’s recognition of the role re-migrants can play locally to boost development and the economy.

158 graduate from...

Thirty-one of the students successfully completed their driver’s education examination conducted by the Police Traffic Department after which they acquired their driver’s licence.

Be good role models

Dr Anthony during his address at the graduation expressed satisfaction with the work of the students. He urged them to be role models of their communities, and to gainfully utilise the knowledge they have acquired.

Minister Anthony said the life skills programme by the government is very important, but there are other aspects that need to be taught to students. “We need to teach people some of the social things that are around us, things like substance abuse, issues related to sexual transmission infections and so forth, and I’m sure some of that would have been incorporated into the programme,” Minister Anthony added.

The youth minister said the YEST programme emphasises the achievement of life values rather than academic training. Expressing confidence that they will secure jobs, based on their skill training, he said, “We want them to be more than that! We know that they will get jobs. We want them to be examples; we want them to be role models in their communities… if they could achieve that then we would have done something substantial in this institution.”

Minister Anthony highlighted that the graduates can sign on to the Youth Apprenticeship and Entrepreneurial Programme launched in June by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry in four hinterland regions for

from page 17

youths between the ages of 18 and 40.

plan

“In years to come we envision ourselves as being a college where we can provide information technology training both on the software side and the hardware side. We feel that there is a need in this country for people who are properly qualified to fix computers and all these different electronic gadgets that are coming out. There’s a great need… and we have not had systematic training going on in these areas,” Minister Anthony said.

He highlighted that the institution over the years has developed with constant improvements seen.

Council of Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) Chairman Clinton Williams said that in all sectors there have been the search for skills, and one issue affecting the country’s development is migration.

“In order to address the supply of the manpower deficiency, TVET in collaboration with the Stats Bureau, and the Ministry of Labour recently conducted a labour market survey in the mining sector,” Williams stated.

Meanwhile, the graduating batch also completed developmental projects at the centre as part of their training such as the accommodation for the supervisor of the female dormitory, rehabilitation of the technical drawing room, rehabilitation of walkways to classrooms, construction of offices for social workers, enhancement of the kitchen and stores facilities, and installation of flood lights around the play field.

Ramdin sees LCPL as chance to prove himself

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Wicketkeeper

Denesh Ramdin is anxiously eyeing the Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20 tournament as yet another chance to prove that he belongs in international cricket.

The 28-year-old, Ramdin, who will turn out for the Guyana Amazon Warriors, after being picked by the Roger Harper-coached franchise, said this tournament is another opportunity for him to showcase what he is made of and how capable he is with the bat and glove.

“I am really looking forward to playing in the firstever CPL; it is going to be a fantastic spectacle for fans and a great experience for all players involved. It will be good experience for me and most of the players; this is another opportunity to showcase what I am made of, how capable I am with the bat and glove,” Ramdin said.

The agile keeper, who was dropped from the West Indies team after some inconsistent performances with the bat,

admitted the prospect of lining up again among some of the world’s best players over the next couple of weeks would be a big test for him.

“It is absolutely massive for me in terms of my career, but having said that I do not want to place too much pressure on myself. It is going to be an excellent tournament with global exposure and I’ll be looking to impress and improve as a player, and keep putting my reputation as a high quality player out there on the world stage.”

“I am mentally and physically ready for this challenge. My form is ‘there’ and I am feeling confident with the bat and I have been working twice as hard to make sure I get runs when I’m out in the middle. Behind the stumps I worked overtime to make sure that I am fit and ready.”

Ramdin sees his role with the bat as a supporting one, mainly to hit the ball in the gaps, run hard between the wickets and record good scores for the team.

“So basically, I see myself as someone to keep things ticking and look to bat

through to the end once I get that chance.”

The out-of-favour West Indies wicketkeeper said he has no problems playing for Guyana and acknowledged that it would be different from representing his native Trinidad and Tobago’s Red Steel.

Commenting on the squad, Ramdin believes Guyana can make a big impact in the tournament, saying “The team is very evenly balanced so I am confident that the Warriors can go a far way in this tournament.”

On the other hand, Ramdin believes that the Caribbean Premier League tournament will definitely help develop young talents in the region.

Following the opening ceremony on July 30, the Barbados Tridents will face the St Lucia Zouks in the tournament’s first game at the historic Kensington Oval.

The Amazon Warriors will be in action the following day against Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel from 20:00h at the Guyana National Stadium.

Guyana on collision course with USA in All-Star game

By Treiston Joseph

The Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG), collaborating with the Partners in Christ, will host one of the most-anticipated nights of basketball in recent memory tonight at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH).

A USA Under-17 and 19-and-over team will rub shoulders against some of Guyana’s best players in what is expected to be an intense rivalry. Dubbed as the International All-Star night, the teams are headed for a massive collision as they battle for pride and bragging rights.

Speaking with coach of the USA teams, Kevin Johnson, who has done work with players from the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) Miami Heat and is also a women’s Division Two college coach, believes that while his team is now implementing its system, the players will be ready.

“Well this is the first time we are being able to practice with everyone at once so we have been on the go for the past four days while implanting our system but it’s an opportunity I think is great for us to come here and play because some of these guys have Guyanese parents but have not been here, so it’s a new challenge for them,” Johnson stated.

Johnson also related that his team is well prepared to go up against the Guyanese all-stars, saying “We went to Linden and we played against their under-17 and we beat them by 40 points and we played their 19 and

over team and won by 15…I haven’t had a chance to see all the Guyanese All-stars, I have seen some of the them play and we know what to expect but from the practices we have seen they look like a disciplined bunch and like they can pass the ball well.”

Meanwhile, Guyanese All-Star over-18 player Travin Dryden assures that the Guyanese side will go all out in the game tonight.

“Well practice has been simple but great we are jelling as a team and we have been going through the paces to go out there and give it our all we are happy for the opportunity and I will come out playing my A game,” Dryden mentioned.

National player Nikkoloi Smith, who is also on the team, ensured that the training the team put in will pay off.

“Training has been intense, we did a lot of work and you know for sure I will give me best,” Smith stated after a training session at the CASH.

The co-director of the YBG weighed in on the monumental occasion for basketball, pointing out that he believes it is a great opportu-

Wismar/Christianburg, Waramadong clash in Digicel football final today – who will win in repeat of 2012 final?

The third annual Digicel Schools football championship concludes today with the final at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary.

After weeks of intense rivalry, reigning champions Wismar/Christianburg Secondary and last year’s runner-up Waramadong Secondary clash in a repeat of last year’s final. Action will kick off at 18:00h. Prior to that, the third place playoff between St George’s and Covent Garden

secondary schools will kick off at 16:00 hours.

Last year’s final at the same venue ended 5-2 in favour of Wismar/Christianburg Secondary, but that scoreline is expected to be much closer this time around since there is little that separates the two teams this year.

The finalists played unbeaten to emerge from a total of 147 schools, drawn from the 10 administrative regions of the country.

In two exciting semi-finals last Wednesday, Wismar/

Christianburg Secondary and Waramadong Secondary recorded contrasting wins to advance to the championship game.

Wismar/Christianburg Secondary inflicted a 6-1 whipping on St George’s at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground, while Waramadong had to play hard to hold Covent Garden to a two-all draw at the Beterverwagting Community Centre ground after regulation time.

In the penalty shootout, the Waramadong lads scored three shots while their opponents failed to trouble the score sheet.

Admission to today’s final and third place encounter is free, and another large crowd is expected to flock the venue to witness the best of school football.

As has been the norm over the years, high ranking officials of Digicel, Education Ministry, Guyana Football Federation and corporate partner Banks DIH Limited, are expected to be present at the games, as well as assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion.

“Premium Cues Showdown” wraps up today

nity for youth basketball in Guyana.

“It is important for youth basketball and it is important for basketball in general not many time you will have the opportunity to rub shoulders with players from America and I hope our young players understand this and I think all the youth players should be out there on Sunday.

“Basketball is an American sport it is in their DNA and our youngsters will learn a lot from this as we look to give them more exposure,” Bowman noted.

Whether or not the Guyanese All-stars will fare well against the Americans, Bowman simply noted that it all comes down to game time.

“Well really we don’t know, we have to wait and see and I know that the under-17 American players are skilled and talented and our players will learn that watching such high level players play against playing with them on the court are two totally different things,” Bowman issued.

Meanwhile, gates open at 17:00h and the Under-17 games start at 18:00h, followed by the 18-and-over matchup.

Twenty-one players will contest the Banks DIH Limited sponsored “Premium Cues Showdown” national pool final today at Stabroek Sports Bar on Brickdam.

The players were selected following seven zone tournaments in West Demerara, Essequibo, Linden, Berbice, East Bank Demerara,

Kingstown, ST VINCENT – World Twenty20 champions West Indies failed to hold their nerve at crucial stages and Pakistan claimed a tense, two-wicket victory in the rain-affected first Twenty20 International on Saturday.

Shannon Gabriel collected three wickets from his four overs, but he conceded 44 runs, including 10 in the penultimate over, as Pakistan successfully chased 153 for victory at the Arnos Vale Multiplex.

Gabriel removed Manof-the-Match Shahid Afridi caught at long-on for 46 in his final over, leaving Pakistan to get six from the last six balls of the match.

Marlon Samuels was entrusted with the final over and Zulfiqar Babar, playing his first international ever for Pakistan at the age of 34,

East Coast Demerara and Georgetown.

Banks/Premium Beer Manager, Brian Choo-Hen, said that the top three players from each zone were selected to contest the national final.

Colin Carr, Anthony Rajkoomar and Nicholas Dhanesar will represent West Demerara; Vishwannauth Persaud, Ramesh Ramsaroop

for

kept Zulfiqar

and Rameshwar Seeraj will represent East Coast Demerara; and Sean DeSouza, Shem Haripersaud and Bhisham Dharundhar will be East Bank Demerara representatives. Dwayne McAlmont, Nandalall Persaud and Ganesh Roopnarine will represent Linden; Brijmohan Ramsahai, Andy Persaud and Bisram Balaram are the Essequibo representatives, with Amadat Singh, Feroze Khan and Tameshwar representing Berbice, and Ryan Rambalak, Troy Soodoo and Bernard Bagot set to represent Georgetown.

The winner will receive $125,000 and the Premium Beer Pools championship trophy, with the runner-up securing $70,000. The third place finisher will collect $35,000. Action will get underway at 11:00 hours.

Philander wins NSC feature race

By Avenash Ramzan

Albert Philander produced one of his better performances in recent memory to win the feature event of the 37th annual National Sports Commission (NSC) sponsored 11-race programme at the inner circuit of the National Park on Saturday.

Competing in the feature 35-lap School Boys and Invitational race, “Berty”, as he is popularly known, made a dash from the peloton with two laps to go and never relinquished the lead.

Philander was in a large bunch heading into the tailend of the race, but pulled away from the pack on lap 33. With the remaining riders in the trailing bunch looking for someone to make the first move, Philander kept increasing the lead, until Raynauth Jeffrey sprinted away from the pack in pursuit of the race leader.

Though Jeffrey managed to significantly close the gap, Philander had already created a sizeable lead, crossing the finish line unchallenged in a time of one hour, 16 minutes, 35.01 seconds (01h: 16m: 35.01s).

Jeffrey, who had to settle for the runner-up spot, had himself built a lengthy lead over the pack, leaving John

Charles, Robin Persaud, Delroy Hinds and Alonzo Greaves to settle for position four to six in that order.

Hinds collected three of the eight prime prizes on offer, while Philander, Jeffrey, Warren McKay, Paul DeNobrega and Akeem Wilkinson took one each.

Prior to the main event, several age category races were held with the BMX riders taking centre stage in the programme, which was being held to measure their progress in the ongoing 37th annual Teach Them Young cycling camp sponsored by the NSC.

In the BMX 6-9 race, Sherwin Sampson won ahead of Jeremiah Harrison

First Global Money (Guyana)...

First Global Money (Guyana) Inc. is located on Camp Street, Georgetown, and is one of 12 international subsidiaries of First Global Data Limited, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. There are approximately 70,000 First Global locations worldwide.

The company specialises in offering non-banking financial services that are rapidly becoming popular due to the growing use of technology for business purposes. It also offers financial services such as mobile and online money remittances and payments.

Commenting on the company’s decision to become a sponsor of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Ram said, “We at First Global see great potential in this venture, not only financially but also culturally as it will take the beloved Guyanese tradition of cricket to a whole new level. First Global, being a global company with subsidiaries worldwide and a customer base of over one million, see the Limacol CPL as yet another opportunity to partake in an international affair and to fulfil our corporate responsibilities to the various communities we serve.”

With their alliance, First Global Money (Guyana) Inc. will be featured in advertising cam -

paigns for the Guyana Amazon Warriors and their logo will also be showcased on the leading arm of the Guyana Amazon Warriors players’ uniforms. Additionally, the company’s logo will be advertised on the perimeter board on the field at the Guyana National Stadium for the four matches that will be held at the venue.

Director of the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise, Ramcharitar revealed that, “The Guyana Amazon Warriors welcome the sponsorship and support of First Global Money Guyana Inc. for this the inaugural Limacol CPL. It is an honour to have a subsidiary of such a large and prominent global company on board for this historical event in Guyana.”

The company thrives on delivering a superior service, integrity and respect to their customers and other stakeholders and is aiming to bring these same values to the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the Limacol CPL. Meanwhile, present at the signing were Dwayne Lovell, representative of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team management, and Guyana Amazon Warriors players, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Steven Jacobs. Limacol CPL matches will be held on July 31 and August 2 and 4 in Guyana.

and Alexander Leung, while Rashidi Ceres won from Amo Gomes and Stephan Wilkinson in the BMX 9-12.

Deeraj Garbarran was the winner of the BMX 1214, leaving Raphael Leung and Rawle Small to settle for second and third respectively.

The BMX Open and 1214 Open were won by Jamal

John, who sped away from his rivals in both events.

Christopher Griffith and Cleveland King were second and third respectively in the BMX Open, while Nigel Duguid and Tarique Williams trailed John in the 12-14 Open.

Junior Niles was the leading Veterans Under-50 rider, finishing ahead of Shameer

Baksh and Kennard Lovell, while Virgil Jones copped the Veterans Over-50 race ahead of Wilfred Thom and Courtney Hackett. The evergreen Maurice Fagundes was the lone entry in the Veterans Over-60.

The Juveniles race was taken by Alanzo Ambrose, who won ahead of Silvio Inniss and Stephano Husbands, while Keon Thomas, Julio Melville and Clyde Jacobs were 1-2-3 in the Mountain Bike race.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, national coach and organiser of the event, Hassan Mohamed, congratulated the BMX riders for the progress they have made since the Teach Them Young programme pedalled off on July 8.

The camp, which has produced almost 95 per cent of the country’s champion riders, is being held from 09:00h to 12:00h on weekdays.

It is being conducted by Mohamed, who is instilling the basics of the sport to the young riders, who hail from Georgetown and surrounding areas.

Mohamed noted that the programme has been going as planned, adding that this year they were able to attract four five-year-old participants, who have all expressed an eagerness to learn.

He added that the camp is still open to persons desirous of learning the intricacies of the sport, and all they have to do is equip themselves with a bike and the relevant protective gear.

Director of Sport Neil Kumar, who was unavoidably absent from Saturday’s proceedings, sent best wishes to the young riders, adding that the NSC will continue to support the development of cycling.

By Avenash Ramzan

With the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) bowling off on Tuesday, Guyana Times Sport will help to get you familiarised with the players in the Guyana Amazon Warriors squad. Until the start of the tournament, we will be featuring members of the squad, sharing with you their profiles and achievements. Today our focus is on all-rounder James Franklin and fast bowlers Krishmar Santokie and Keon Joseph.

James Edward Charles Franklin

(Left-handed batsman; left-arm

(Left-handed batsman; left-arm medium-fast)

James Edward Charles Franklin began his career as a left-arm medium-fast bowler, but over the years became an effective all-rounder, particularly in limited-overs cricket.

At 32, Franklin has already notched up 12 years at the international level, appearing in 31 Test matches, 110 One-Day internationals and 38 T20 Internationals for New Zealand.

In total, the left-handed batsman and left-arm seamer has played a staggering 170 T20 matches at the domestic and international levels.

He has amassed over 3000 runs with 14 half-centuries at a healthy strike rate of 120. Coupled with that, Franklin has also picked up 87 wickets in the format, a clear indication of his allround capabilities.

Franklin’s experience will be vital to the Guyana Amazon Warriors campaign, since he also played in the Indian Premier League and Big Bash, representing Mumbai Indians and the Adelaide Strikers respectively.

Aleft-arm seamer, Krishmar Santokie represented West Indies in the Under-15 Crosscutter Cup in England in 2000.

He made his Jamaica debut in the 2007-08 season, but featured in just a handful of limited-overs games and is yet to make his First-Class debut.

However, Santokie made a name for himself in the inaugural Caribbean T20 in 2010, taking a five-wicket haul against Trinidad and Tobago.

He got his chance following an injury to Jerome Taylor and was one of the finds of the tournament, picking up 10 wickets at a very respectable economy rate of 5.55.

He troubled the batsmen with fuller length deliveries and half of his wickets were clean bowled.

He had to wait another year for his international Twenty20 debut and did not do too badly, taking 1-17 in a low-scoring match that West Indies won against England at The Oval.

With 66 wickets from 35 domestic T20 games at a parsimonious average of 11.50, Santokie is surely one to watch in the Limacol Caribbean Premier League.

Pepsi/Gatorade Under-16 boxing championship underway

The third annual Pepsi/Gatorade Under-16 boxing championship got underway on Saturday with Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment, Odinga Lumumba, urging the boxers to focus on their education even as they ply their trade in the ring.

The two-day activity, which concludes this afternoon, has attracted boxers from all parts of the country looking to outdo each other in the various age groups.

Lumumba laud-

ed the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) for staging the event when he delivered the feature address at the opening on Saturday morning at the Andrew “Six Head” Lewis gym, Albouystown. He also praised the work of GBA president, Steve Ninvalle, noting that amateur boxing has been making strides under his stewardship. That aside, he urged the boxers to dedicate time to academic pursuits, the same as they would for boxing.

“It is important you have a good education. Boxing is a skill, but you must also be smart as boxer. I want to urge Mr Ninvalle and the association to ensure you continue your studies and become role models for others to follow,” the presidential advisor told the youngsters.

Lumumba, also president of the Alpha United Football Club, praised Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) for sponsoring the activity under its Pepsi and Gatorade

brands for the third successive year, noting that corporate support is always welcomed in sport.

Sponsorship, he said, is crucial to the development of any discipline, citing that amateur boxing should be grateful for the generousity of DDL over the years.

Meanwhile, welcoming the boxers, Ninvalle pointed out that Stephon Green, Joel Williamson and Travis Fraser are all products of DDL-sponsored

programmes and they have all earned selection to the South American Games, scheduled for Peru in September.

He said the three boxers have graduated from the Pepsi/Gatorade initiative, which is proof of the benefits derived.

More than 40 boxers from the various associations worldwide will participate in the tournament. Wencel Thomas is the coach and Eustace Cuffy, the manager.

AThe fiery fast bowler

A former West Indies Under-19 player, Joseph is yet to play T20 cricket for Guyana, having appeared in four First-Class games and three List A matches since making his regional debut in 2010.

Although his returns have not been exemplary, he gave a glimpse of what he could do on his day, ripping through Jamaica’s batting earlier this year in the regional Four-Day competition with 4-53 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

A Berbician, Joseph will want to make the most of this opportunity and make a name for himself, just as countryman Beaton did in the Caribbean T20 earlier this year.

GSCL 12/12 tournament starts next Saturday

The Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) will be hosting another 12/12 championship from next Sunday over a two-day period.

The 12 teams will be divided into four groups with the two top teams advancing to the quarterfinal stage. Matches will be held at the Everest Cricket Club and Education Ministry grounds.

According to an official of the GSCL, a gala opening ceremony is planned for next Sunday at 09:30h at the Education Ministry ground. Afterwards, the teams will get into preliminary round action; the quarter-final is set for Saturday and the semi-finals and final, the following day.

An Over-40 20/20 exhibition contest featuring Regal XI and an opponent that is yet to be named will precede the final.

The Man-of-the-Match from the semi-final stage will receive $5000 and a trophy while the fans will receive giveaways, compliments of the GSCL and their sponsors.

Wolf Warriors, Regal XI, Universal DVD Club Titans and Memorex XI, who won the first GSCL 12/12 championships back in May, have indicated their interest to compete for the top prize of $600,000 and trophy; the runner-up will pocket $200,000 and a trophy.

Other teams interested in participating in the tournament have until Tuesday, when regis-

tration closes. Contact numbers are: 225-4802, 623-2704 or 6535374 while the registration fee is $50,000.

The drawing of teams will be done at the Guyana National Industrial; Corporation Sports Club at 17:30h.

At the competition there will be musical entertainment and the final is expected to air live on radio on August 11.

Trophy Stall, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Wolf Furniture Store and Everest Cricket Club have thrown their support behind the tournament.

Meanwhile, with the aim of decentralising the sport, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre has undertaken to sponsor a 12/12 Open tournament, along with an Over-40 20/20 tournament for teams in Essequibo.

Both tournaments are set to bowl off on the same day and teams are vying for $100,000 and a trophy in the Open category and $50,000 and a trophy for the Over-40, with the runners-up pocketing $25,000 and a trophy respectively. The Man-of-the-Match for both finals will receive a trophy each.

Registration can be done through Patrick Rooplall on telephone number 622-3196. The Open teams will pay $5000 and Over-40, half that amount.

First Global Money (Guyana) Inc signs as sponsor of Guyana Amazon Warriors

Georgetown, Guyana – First Global Money (Guyana) Inc., a subsidiary of First Global Data Limited, has signed on as an official sponsor of the Guyana Amazon Warriors for the inaugural Limacol CPL which bowls off on July 30.

The announcement was made on Thursday by Ravie

Ramcharitar, director of the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise.

Signing the sponsorship agreement on behalf of First Global Money (Guyana) Inc. was Bobita Ram, regional vice president for the company’s Caribbean chapter.

Guyana Amazon Warriors practise under floodlights

The members of the Guyana Amazon Warriors completed a successful practice match under floodlights at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara on Friday night.

Under the watchful eyes of Coach Roger Harper, Assistant Coach Curtly Ambrose and Manager Omar Khan, the Guyana Amazon Warriors took to the field to simulate an actual game situation with a view to getting familiar with the ground and pitch conditions, as well as the floodlights.

The composition of the six teams in the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League brings together players who have never been on the same squad together. Hence, the opportunity was also used to build greater team spirit and teamwork among the players.

The games in Guyana are scheduled for July 31 (Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel, 20:00h); August 2 (Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Jamaica Tallawahs, 20:00h); and August 4 (Antigua Hawksbills vs Jamaica Tallawahs, 15:00h and Guyana Amazon Warriors vs St Lucia Zouks, 20:00h).

The timing of all the matches in Guyana has been set either late in the afternoon or at night so that fans can enjoy the games in the cool of the evening and under floodlights, negating the heat of the sunlight that typically affects some of the stands during daytime games.

Fan have overwhelmingly welcomed this.

Ramdin sees LCPL as chance to prove himself

Caribbean Alliance is principal sponsor of Antigua Hawksbills

Caribbean Alliance Insurance Company Limited has put its full support behind the Antigua Hawksbills franchise team and signed on as principal sponsor of the team for the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20 Tournament.

The announcement was made at the Sir Vivian Richards National Stadium just before the Hawksbills played a practice match against Antigua and Barbuda’s reigning T20 champion team, The Piggots Crushers.

With Sir Viv Richards managing the team and leading franchise players Marlon Samuels and Ricky Ponting being part of an exceptionally talented group of players, the Hawksbills are tipped as one of the favourites for this year’s tournament.

Pete Russell, Commercial Director for LCPL commented, “The Hawksbills are delighted to have Caribbean

Commenting on Caribbean Alliance’s sponsorship of the Hawksbills team Company Director, Alistair Letby said, “Caribbean Alliance is very proud of its Antiguan roots and the Hawksbills gives us a perfect platform to be part of a team that will bring excitement and inspire loyalty across the Island, not just for this year, but for many years to come. As Caribbean Alliance begins the next chapter in its history, we are delighted to be part of something new and exciting that will make such a difference to the local communities whilst also putting Antigua back on the cricketing map.”

Alliance as their partners. They share the team and league’s vision, and we look forward to creating a strong partnership with

Ernest, Alistair and their team over the coming years. The tournament will be a huge boost for the region and, importantly Caribbean Alliance will be seen as a catalyst for change across Antigua and the Leeward Islands as they help support young players to develop and perform on cricket’s global stage.”

The inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premiere League T20 tournament begins on July 30 in Barbados. The Hawksbills play their first match on August 1 at Kensington Oval against the Barbados Tridents.

Matches will take place at the Sir Vivian Richards National Stadium on August 13, 15 and 17.