29th August 2013

thursday, august 29, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

Two men injured during separate incidents Berbice burglars steal shotgun, pistol from rice farmer

Two men were on Tuesday chopped about their bodies in separate arguments and have been admitted patients at the New Amsterdam and Fort Wellington Hospital respectively.

A suspect in the first incident has been arrested and is expected to be charged shortly for inflicting grievous body harm, while the other suspects in the second incident fled the scene and has not been seen since.

Surujnauth Ramnarine, 44, of Number 60 Village, Corentyne, Berbice is nursing several chops on his hand and about his body which were inflicted by his son, while Zaheer Basheer, 22, of Lot 21 Shields Town Village, West Bank Berbice was slashed on the face and head by three men who made good their escape.

In the first incident, information reaching Guyana Times revealed that on the day in question, Ramnarine and his son Teranie Gulcharran called “Brodo” were at home after attending a wedding celebration, when an argument started. It was alleged that during the argument, Ramnarine slapped Gulcharran.

In retaliation, the suspect picked up a cutlass which was in the yard and reportedly chopped his father to his right hand and on his body. After receiving the chops, the victim re-

fused to go to the hospital to seek medical treatment, but after his health deteriorated; he was rushed to the Skeldon Hospital about 09:00h the following morning where he was admitted.

He was subsequently transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital for further treatment. The matter was subsequently reported to the Number 51 Police Station and based on police investigations; the suspect, Gulcharran was arrested.

Meanwhile, the police are also investigating the alleged unlawful wounding committed on Zaheer Basheer which occurred about 09:00 on Tuesday by one suspect referred to as “Papee”, and his two sons at Shields Town. Investigations revealed that Basheer was at a shop in Shields Town consuming alcohol when a heated argument started between him and the suspects. The argument escalated and turned into an altercation resulting in the suspects lashing Basheer in the head and face with beer bottles, causing him to receive several cuts.

The victim was picked up and rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was treated and admitted a patient. The matter was reported to ranks at the Fort Wellington Police Station who visited the scene and questioned several persons, but no one was arrested.

Berbice burglars have turned their attention to stealing firearms instead of cash and jewellery, a new challenge for police ranks already struggling to contain the daily raids on the homes of residents and business persons.

Days after burglars invaded the home of Bhagirath Sukhai of Lot 184, Miss Phoebe, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice and stole one Harrington and

Richardson 12 gauge single barrel shotgun with registration number HP 363754; they struck again, this time in Golden Fleece, West Coast Berbice.

The police are investigating the alleged break and enter and larceny committed on the house of Ranjatan Balido of Lot 3, A, Golden Fleece Village, West Coast Berbice on Tuesday, which resulted in the robbers escaping with one shot gun, one .32 pistol, an undisclosed sum

of money and household items.

Guyana Times understands that Baido is an overseas-based Guyanese who secured his home on August 17 with all the safety means provided. The two firearms mentioned were inside a safe before he left for the United States.

Upon his return, the rice farmer saw the broken windows and immediately checked for the weapons only to discover that they were missing.

The police were contacted and several persons in the area were questioned which led to the arrest of a neighbour, Suraj Baichu, 38. He is assisting with investigations.

During the time he was out of Guyana, the robbers prised open a window of the upper-flat of the twostorey home and gained entry. They then reportedly removed the articles mentioned and made good their escape.

Murder of Mocha youth remains a mystery

Almost a month af-

ter the decomposed body of Delon Melville, 26, of Lot 134 Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia was discovered in a clump of bushes in the village, police are yet to make any breakthroughs with the case despite arresting and subsequently releasing two men last week.

Guyana Times also understands that the relatives of the dead man are awaiting the telephone records from his phone before, during and after he would have been killed.

His sister, Melissa, explained that they are tired and frustrated with the way investigations are being conducted.

The woman explained when the family contacted Digicel to get the print out of her brother’s telephone records; they were told

that only the police are authorised to uplift same. This was confirmed by Digicel Public Relations Officer Shonette Moore, who explained that in delicate cases, they work directly with the police, but could not confirm if the trace was completed.

Moments after the young man went missing; relatives began to receive calls from several persons who claimed that Melville was dead and promised to return a call with further information.

The telephone numbers which were used, when contacted show that they belonged to someone residing in Herstelling and another man who claimed that he was from East Coast Demerara, but did not know Melville and had no reason to contact him.

The distressed sister further disclosed that

two persons were arrested, but were released after the 72 hours detention period had expired.

Melville’s body was discovered about a mile away from the village

with several stab wounds about his body.

There were also signs of his head being shaved at the back and his legs broken. He was naked and a white vest was wrapped around his neck with a portion covering his face.

This discovery has left villagers pondering as to who might want to cause harm to the young man since he was an easy going person who always participated in church activities. He went missing a few days prior to his discovery.

The man’s body was found about 06:30h on August 2 by two teenagers who were made aware of a decomposed body due to a heavy stench. Relatives recognised him by a band he was wearing and a birthmark on his leg. Melville is survived by his mother, two sisters and a brother.

AFC donates books to Timehri residents

Alliance For Change (AFC) parliamentarian and shadow education, social security and human resources minister Valerie GarridoLowe, donated more than 500 texts and other reference books to the community-based organisation Timehri North Community Development Council (TNCDC) last Thursday at Timehri North, East Bank Demerara.

The books were handed over at a time when the residents, through the CBO, reached out to national organisations for assistance to improve their way of life, the AFC said in a release. Expressing concerns over the poor performance of pupils and students attending nursery, primary and secondary schools, the organisation posited the view that with the establishment of a reading and research centre with-

in the area, much could be achieved, given the requisite equipment, tools and human resources.

TNCDC Public Relations Officer Sherlanda Daniels thanked the AFC for once again delivering on yet another promise. She said during a discussion, the CBO executives had with Nigel Hughes, who is also the legal representative of the organisation and by ex-

tension, the community, on plans for the community, he agreed to help the community further their developmental thrust. She said the promise was made a reality and the community is grateful for the support and assistance. Meanwhile, another pledge of two sewing machines, which was made to the women’s group “Northern Roses” of that community, is expected to be presented shortly. Northern Roses Chairperson Sheila Quinton told the shadow minister that the women in her group are mobilised and have plans to establish a sewing pool where bed linens, window curtains and school clothes among others would be made, thereby providing employment for the women.

Quinton, speaking on behalf of the 17 women in her group, said earlier this

year AFC leader Khemraj Ramjattan, through his party’s Region Four representative, pledged two sewing machines to the group which inspired them to initiate the project. She said the ladies are anxiously awaiting the sewing machines and expressed profound gratitude for Ramjattan’s insightfulness. Garrido-Lowe pledged her personal support and that of her party for the further development of the community and the ladies group. The official opening of the Timehri North Reading and Research Centre is slated for today. A community cook-out and big screen movie night will follow the simple ceremony. The occasion is dubbed “Naaba Naaba” (meaning neighbour, neighbour). “Ghett’ a Life” and “Invictus” are the movies scheduled for viewing.

Countrywide: Sunny skies in the morning will give way to thundery showers during the day and into

Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East south-easterly between 1.11 and 1.38 metres per second.

High Tide: 10:18h and 22:45h reaching maximum heights of 2.09 metres and 2.12 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 16:11h reaching a minimum height of 1.16 metres.

Amaila hydro project Govt says APNU responsible for stalled IDB due diligence

By Umadevi BUx

The Finance Ministry on Wednesday said that the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) has ceased the Due Diligence Report on the Amaila Falls Hydro Electricity Project (AFHEP) and that this can result in the death of hydropower for Guyana.

“The IDB’s due diligence has now ceased, and without it, the public review of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project cannot move forward,” the ministry said in a release.

The statement further revealed that the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) was asked to form a consensus, which would let the independent IDB body complete its last few weeks of work on the project’s due diligence. According to the statement, it would allow the facilitation of a six-week public review of the AFHEP.

“Having spent millions of dollars over many years, involving hundreds of experts, their views and expertise could have been used to resolve any issues the APNU would have had with this project. Instead the party chooses to prevent the IDB from completing its work without reason”, said the statement.

Alleging that it is yet another clear indication that

APNU’s goal is not to gain a better understanding of the project, but to hold the public at ransom in order to gain political mileage, it continued, “APNU is not being asked to support the finalisation of the project, rather they are being asked to join a political consensus that would move the project out of the exclusive realm of politicians in the last few months of its design.”

The release said that the opposition has been furnished with precisely the same information as government. According to the statement, the two parties have been engaged for over a year and a half with the expectation that they would actively participate in supporting the project.

The statement further said, “Even today, should they require further answers there is President Donald Ramotar’s repeated invitation to meet to discuss any concerns or questions in detail. If the APNU was serious about this project, they would have accepted the invitation and be prepared with their list of questions and concerns.”

“Their unwillingness to meet with the president and his technical team is yet another clear sign that they are not serious about resolving this impasse that could otherwise positively change the course of Guyana’s future.”

The statement noted that the government believes that unless there is a rapid and radical change in APNU’s willingness to let the IDB do its work and to let the people of Guyana have their say during the six-week public review process, there is no hope for the hydropower project.

Recently, an analysis done on hydrology using historical rainfall and river flow measurements from several locations in the Amaila Falls area, as well as more than 40 years of monthly stream flow data (from 1950 to 1990) to calculate inflows and determine the potential energy that the project might generate. The findings of the reviews have all been positive, surmising a low hydrology risk to the project.

Specifically, it validated the transposition factor used by the first study, citing it as

“representative of the project site”. Additionally, even when varying this transposition factor by an acceptable range, energy yields still remained good, moving by one per cent to eight per cent of the average annual yield. The specific energy estimates based on the 41 years of flows have also been affirmative.

Three weeks ago, the developer of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, Sithe Global pulled out from the more than US$800 million initiative that has been dogged by political brinkmanship and a lack of consensus in the National Assembly. Sithe Global had previously stressed that consensus was a key prerequisite to moving forward.

The New York-based company said the support of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), minority opposition party the Alliance For Change (AFC) and non-partisan organisations and stakeholders was not enough for the project to receive international development funds critical to its completion.

The project needed the support of the main opposition APNU, which did not support the passage of the hydroelectric amendment bill and the raising of the debt ceiling motion in the National Assembly during the last sitting before recess. (umab@guyanatimesgy.com)

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

India faltering

For an entire decade, India had enjoyed annual growth rates approaching 10 per cent, low inflation rates, high foreign direct investments (FDI), and a booming stock market. A middle class equalling the entire population of the U.S. had been created and it was a key member of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), which pulled the entire globalised economy out of the downturn caused by the economic collapse in the West. Today, however, there are signs India might be faltering.

Its growth rate has fallen to below five per cent, inflation is above six per cent and rising, FDI has decreased significantly, the stock market has plunged and as a result of all this, the rupee has plummeted 20 per cent this year already – with no end in sight. But the bad news is not only confined to the economy.

For most of its post independence history, India has been forced to spend a large portion of its revenue on defence, on account of the threat from Pakistan over the status of Muslimmajority Kashmir. With the war in Afghanistan winding down, it is certain that many of the Islamist fighters from a host of Muslim countries will fulfil their promise to turn their attention to India.

Internally, its economic “miracle” has by and large not lifted the poor out of their abject living conditions as for instance, occurred in China. As a consequence, the disparity in wealth between the top 25 per cent and the remaining bottom 75 per cent has widened enormously.

The Maoist guerrilla movements launched in the North to close the much smaller gap decades ago have increased their activity. The other cause of domestic tensions – communal violence – has also risen since to a large extent the poor are located in the neglected lower castes and the Muslim minority.

The caste cleavages have been translated into modes of political mobilisation which created a seismic shift in national politics. The latter had been dominated by the Congress Party up to the 1990s until the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) challenged it and assumed power in that decade. Since most castes are specific to particular regions, the rise in caste mobilisation has produced a huge number of regional parties with which the two major parties have to form coalitions to govern at the centre.

These coalitions have proven very fractious as the impossible task of balancing diametrically opposed interests is attempted. The Congress central government, as a result, has been weak and vacillating in dealing with the challenges confronting the country.

One of those challenges has been the corruption factor. Ever since its independence in 1947, India had been a very corrupt country. This was due to the bureaucratic governance structure created to oversee an economy that was guided by five-year development plans. Almost every economic activity necessitated a licence from a government department which led to rapacious rent seeking by the bureaucrats and politicians. While the liberalisation of the economy in the 1990s reduced the “licence raj”, it increased the scope of the corruption.

This corruption has not only drained the Indian state of large amounts of revenues, it has affected its defence capabilities. It was forced to institute elaborate, time consuming procedures to prevent corruption in foreignsourced defence spending after several damning revelations. Combined with the endemic inefficiencies of the domestic defence industry, India is challenged to keep up with the strategic threats from its eastern and western borders – China and Pakistan.

Many commentators believe the answer as to whether India will be able to reverse its backward slide is which individual will lead which coalition to victory at the next national elections, due next year.

While India overall has faltered, several states, led by strong willed leaders, have maintained double-digit growth and increased equitable standards of living. It is hoped that one of these individuals will translate their success at the national level.

Advancing a nation's education

Is Granger really a nationalist?

Dear Editor, Opposition leader David Granger, in responding to the call by U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt for support for the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project (AFHEP), is reported to have said that “my interest lies with Guyana and its people”. But this expression of nationalism seems to be more of a lame excuse than a demonstration of any genuine interest in the progress and development of Guyana.

Granger, in the two debates in the parliament (July 18 and August 7) did not make a single statement. In fact, no A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) parliamentarian spoke on July 18 and just a few spoke on August 7. This was clearly a display of the contempt with which the opposition holds for the Guyanese people.

Granger himself has given no explanation for this opposition to the amendment of the debt ceiling bill or the hydro power bill. Why has he avoid-

A

ed the debate? Is it because he is aware that the project is good for Guyana? Is he afraid that the government will get kudos from this and he does not want that?

If that is the case, then surely that is anti-national. It also displays a narrow-mindedness and pettiness that are truly unworthy of a leader and an opposition that wants to be the government of this country.

We have already had experience with them in office. They ruined Guyana. That attitude shows why. It also demonstrates that they have not changed and if, God forbid, they ever put their hands on the levers of government again, we can expect a repeat performance of destruction.

So far we have heard no coherent response to some simple, straight forward positions on the project. The country will not incur any debt for this project. It is mainly a private sector investment. The guarantee has nothing to do

look at the

Dear Editor,

One writer seems to think he is speaking for many, or that he is representing the cricketing intelligentsia. The letter, “Was Guyana Amazon Warriors defeat a sell-out,” smacks of such that the writer thinks he is a cricket intellectual. I am troubled by this kind of superficial and emotional response, especially when it is based on pure conjecture.

We need to do the field work and a comprehensive one too. I want to know where the writer got that kind of idea. In Guyana, quite a handful of people are upset with Ramnaresh Sarwan, but

with government borrowing. It is a commitment to ensure that the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) discharges its obligations to pay for the power purchased.

That is a no-brainer, since GPL is generating power at 19-20 U.S. cents per kilowatt and will buy at 10-11 U.S. cents from the hydro company. In all likelihood, GPL will never default given the substantial savings to its current cost.

Guyana will have great savings. Subsidies will go; the $3 billion for Linden and the $6 billion for the rest of the GPL customers will be eliminated. The huge oil bill to import fuel to generate electricity will be saved.

The money would go to other areas for greater socioeconomic development and a better quality of life for all Guyanese. The consumers will pay much less for power. It is expected that bills will fall by between 20-40 per cent in the first place and continue downwards to 90 per cent

of today’s bills. Blackouts could almost be totally eliminated. Experience has shown that cheap electricity stimulates manufacturing and the creation of jobs for our people, mainly our youths.

These are only a few of the benefits that hydropower can bring. These are what the People’s National Congress (PNC)/APNU-led opposition has deprived us of. Granger is trying to hide this betrayal of the Guyanese people behind nationalistic sounds.

The reality is that even if this U.S. ambassador is representing his country, since Sithe Global and Blackstone are U.S. companies, his position on this issue coincides with the national interest of Guyana.

It is the PNC/APNU and the opposition as a whole that are anti-nationals in this instance.

Sincerely, Name withheld by request

Guyana Amazon Warriors defeat

there is no feeling of “selling out”.

Sarwan also explained his reasons and he takes full responsibility for what played out. This is commendable. Cricket exposes the fallibility of emotional support. The same Sarwan used Chris Barnwell in a last over against Jamaica and it paid off. Everyone said “great captaincy”. The next game, the Barnwell heroics were forgotten and Sarwan was cursed –the said bowler bowled four overs for 48 runs. Captaincy is about decisions and some will go both ways at various times. The fact that Sarwan did

not bat in the game is nothing new in tournaments. Many still find it strange that he did not grasp the opportunity to bat at three and do the “Shivnarine Chanderpaul” thing by batting as long as possible.

I would have gone this route, but who am I to say what was best for the team. What I sense throughout the games is that, whether win or lose, Sarwan’s team were very sportsman-like. They never showed internal bickering, even though, who knows, they might have had a few tiffs.

Finally, Krishmar Santokie’s over is not unique. I need only to go back to

Courtney Walsh’s 1987 World Cup one against Pakistan. Walsh ended with 10/1/40/4, but his last over sealed the Windies fate. He went for 1,1,2,6,2 and 2, with all (but the second single) coming from Abdul Qadir. In fact, cricket’s history is littered with many infamous last overs. If Santokie had sizzled in that over, all would have praised Sarwan.

Let us take the good from this inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premiere League (CPL) tournament. It is time to build on its huge success.

Yours sincerely, Rupert Moonessar

You can send your letters with pictures to:

or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Training for Youths is vital A successful summer camp in Berbice

Dear Editor, Some 1500 youths in Regions Four, Six, Nine and 10 will receive “Work Ready Now!” training by August 2015. It is a very worthy goal. Many people want the fruits of hard work but either they cannot work or just don’t want to. Both areas need addressing.

For those who do not want to work, they must realise that stealing and begging are not worthy options. Both are very antisocial. In the case of begging, it has become a way of life for so many people.

I think that we should campaign against people who masquerade as beggars. They try to filch from people, using all kinds of demeaning tricks. The police should get on the case of these people and deal with them.

When it comes to stealing, I think that those convicted should be dealt with very severely. A person who steals items usually has a buyer and this person should also be targeted. I think that this news of the graduation of 135 youths should be told to many of those, who are not involved

in working, but who think that they can steal their way through life.

Now we all hate the idea of truancy and we are trying to curb it. However, the reality is that many will slip through. Then even though education is free and available, many will not gravitate to it. This means that we need to cater for those others, who have no education.

We cannot think whose fault but simply deal with realities, and this is where the just concluded training comes in. It usually seeks to transfer a set of

basic employability skills, knowledge and behaviours, essential for the success of young people as entry-level workers or entrepreneurs.

Bottom line – it gives them the opportunity to be self-sufficient and get off the streets. It is a splendid crime-preventive move.

I encourage our adults to push our youths, who are not in a position to earn a living, to get into these programmes. They are for free and they should be maximised.

Sincerely,

Lennox Stanton

Drunk drivers must be intercepted before getting on

Dear Editor

Most accidents in Guyana are caused by drunk drivers. So yet again the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force is stepping up its enforcement campaign to minimise fatalities and road accidents.

Tracking drunk drivers is as easy as ABC. If vehicles are parked where people are drinking, then who will be driving? Obviously it would be an intoxicated driver. All that is now needed is for the police to wait and make their move. It would be easier and safer too.

We like to talk about removing drunk pedestrians from the road. This is good.

It is even better to remove drunk drivers. They are killers in the waiting. When accosted, these drunks must be restrained from driving – they can be jailed for the night and eventually there will be a change. They can still drink, but they may have to resort to using taxis or having a driver designate. This will be so good for all of us.

The next thing is that sellers of alcohol must help in this cause. If they know of potential drivers who are drunk, they should call the police. To me, if they continue to sell these people who are already drunk and who will be driving, then they are like accessories to

Music should be taught all through high school

Dear Editor,

We need to make music a regular Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subject. We cannot afford to wait. Most people never go after music as a subject, because it is hardly taught in our schools.

The very few who have made music their career had to rely on various conservatories even for their rudimentary courses. Many of them too got into music because of their church background. There is a need to change all of this and make the subject very national all the way through high school.

I am, however, glad when any kind of musical education is being pushed. Recently there was an eightday music workshop and 16 participants, from several organisations across

the country, received certificates. The workshop was coordinated by the Tina Insanally Foundation. They were urged by the culture, youth and sport minister to go out and spread their knowledge.

Implicit here is the fact that we were once better off, but now we are getting back there and will most likely surpass our history. There is no doubt that the ministry is behind music teaching. This recent session was held at the music school, which is doing a very good job.

Too many times, the mistake is being made that things like the creative art forms – dancing, singing and playing an instrument – are not really serious nor important.

Yours faithfully, Ovid Hamilton

the road

a crime.

We talk about drinking responsibly – how about selling alcohol in a mature and responsible manner too?

Again our law enforcers will be positioning themselves outside of bars and other drinking places so as to apprehend inebriated motorists.

Some business people have accused the police of killing their businesses, but for me, it is better to kill a drinking business than to take people’s lives or injure them. There must be greater responsibility and maturity.

These businesses can still thrive, but that effort

must be made that drinkers must not be drivers. If people can afford to drink, it stands to reason that they can afford taxis. The small man should be encouraged to drink at home too. It is safer this way.

The next thing we have to address here is what other negative setback drinking has. These people who drink and drive may also be abusive at home. A check is needed here. They may also be neglecting other responsibilities. So I suggest a holistic kind of approach. It makes better sense to help people in an all-round manner.

Respectfully,

Roylene Figuiera

Dear Editor,

Following a successful summer camp in Berbice, a unit leader of President Youth Award, Republic of Guyana (PYARG) has explained that many of the participants had issues of low self-esteem, but by the time the programme was completed, they had a better outlook about themselves.

This encapsulation came at the end of a special camp held at the Smithfield Dropin Centre, where some 67 children took advantage of this offering from the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry. The camp ran for three weeks and catered for children between the ages of four and 18. The camp closed off with a splendid showcasing of the participants’ work – making pillow cases, table mats, chains and necklaces.

Now, while this exercise was fruitful, I have to highlight a very important point that many usually miss. This is about self-esteem and it makes these kinds of camps so much more meaningful.

Self-esteem is initially acquired through others’ treatment of us, and also by what others tell us. Then as adults, our self-esteem is largely based on two sources of self: our perceived self –who we really think we are, and our ideal self – who we really think we ought to be.

According to reports, PYARG divided the campers into two groups, with the main group consisting of persons between the ages of 11 and 18 years old. During the period, it was not just fun and practical work, the participants were also exposed to skills training, drama, career guidance planning, workshops on gender-based violence, discussions on youth issues, and lectures on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD).

The plan now is that the drop-in centre will be hosting evening classes shortly for Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) students. These classes will be free and already arrangements have been made for retired teachers to volunteer.

This is a good time to call on those with time and expertise to come out and help. PYARG must be given all the help it needs to move on with helping the young people in our community.

It is the gap that herein exists that creates so much of a problem. So, I am pleased, when at the end of any session with young people, they are able to manifest what was acquired. This is where a big plus must be given to PYARG. The group moved the participants to where they should be. It is not easy helping people with low self-esteem. They may be bright and talented, but their lack of selfbelief can cause them to become psychologically crippled. PYARG did some great work – involving them, giving them positive feedback, expressing care and concern, and always listening to them.

Removal of vendors will always be a problem

Dear Editor,

What is so wrong about the removal of vendors from the vicinity of the Amerindian Hostel? As soon as there is a place where people have to go or be on a permanent basis, vendors of all types just flock around. It is a sickness in our society and we have to deal with it.

The Amerindian Affairs Ministry say the removal of the vendors is to facilitate the upgrade of the building and its surroundings. This of course came about because of the vendors – their numbers and their spots.

Is there legality for their being at this place? I think here of the immense problems with vendors from Regent Street – they are illegal, and when they are being forced to be removed, they create all kinds of problems.

How about squatting? Essequibo has problems here and I was reading about a situation in Annandale. The expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is another example with some of the same kinds of problems as well.

As always, these things come down upon us when

we allow a little wrong in the first place. The adage of giving an inch and taking a mile remains true. We have to nip wrong things in the bud.

I hope that we can see the rightness of what the Amerindian Affairs Ministry is embarking on. We have to be legal, orderly and proper in all that we do. Some of these vendors, even if they operate with a licence, need a good talk about mannerism and hygiene.

Sincerely,

Rhonda Williams

Yours sincerely, Annalisa Ally

Page Foundation

Teaching children the importance of proper education

Uthursday, auGust 29, 2013 CONTINUED

BY MArY BOdEL

nemployment figures have been driving down the world’s economy for years and the numbers aren’t getting better. While that’s mostly all you hear about, a new problem is coming up. There’s a skills gap between what these unemployed and underemployed people have and the jobs that are available. There is a lot of blame

there. Take the two together and find your niche.

To do this, you have to start young. The first real step is to get them interested in education and to understand why it’s important. As most parents know, this may involve some bribery and a great deal of subterfuge, but it’s all in a good cause. Here are a few things that might help you:

Learning toys: This is a broader suggestion than just

as well as all the things you need. It needs to be shown as a lifelong thing, not just a bribe.

We did have a special box for milestone moments in learning. When the girls finished a workbook, did a particularly hard assignment well, etc, they got to pick from the box. The stuff in it wasn’t a lot, some stickers, rubber stamps with ink pads, special pencils and so forth. It wasn’t the item itself, it was the prestige...

of grocery items to buy, enough to cover it even if they picked the most expensive item on the shelf and then told them they could keep what was left over. It worked.

The fun factor: Anything that’s fun will never be forgotten. Our third year of homeschooling we concentrated on the Oregon Trail. We would take the children to the park and cook the foods served on the trail...over a wood fire.

in the park wander past in hopes for a taste.

We also set up the coffee table as if it was a covered wagon. We gathered some of the things that would be packed in it and then we went down the trail. I made flash cards with some of the stops, some of the rivers and so on. There were places where they would have to decide what to do, just as those on the real trail would. Some of the rivers were difficult for the pioneers, and there were other bad things that could hap-

STEVEN NOLAN

You don’t have to homeschool to put these things in practice. I will admit it’s a bit easier, because it’s more flexible. But anything you can do that will motivate your child, encourage the development of talents and prepare him or her to look for the best opportunities, will help them find a brighter future. (Yahoo!

Here Anisa Lunat, the Head of RE at Clapton Girl’s Academy, who coached a team to win the ESU London Debate Challenge in 2011, shares her experiences of using debates in the classroom, along with some top tips.

“Every teacher will be able to remember lessons in which a very interesting topic was being discussed by students. I am also sure that they will remember hearing the same voices contributing to those discussions over and over and the few students dotted around the room that looked as though they were listening attentively but were more than likely day dreaming.

In subjects like RE where discussions are central to exploring key issues, this can often be the case. It was for me anyway until I started using debating in the classroom. This was an exciting, innovative way to eliminate the “two-student ping pong discussions” once and for all and yet continue to give students the platform they deserve to voice their views.

Using debate within the lesson encourages all students to be engaged in exploring the issue being discussed. This is because each student is assigned a role that can range from being the chair, timekeeper, a speaker or a speech writing assistant! The motion is decided, roles distributed, speeches written and later evaluated – all of which is done by the students.

The impact of including debating within the classroom has been profound. It has encouraged students to produce their own arguments rather than regurgitate those of others and most importantly, it develops their higher-order thinking skills of evaluation and analysis. Across all year groups, debating has improved students essay writing skills as they are now able to produce more developed arguments and structure them in a coherent way.

Words cannot do justice to the value of debating within lesson. I strongly urge all teachers to try it out at least once – I can assure you that both you and your students will be keen to try it again!”

(The Guardian)

Govt pledges to continue fighting TIP

By Svetlana MarShall

The Guyana government on Wednesday pledged to continue fighting human trafficking wherever it raises its ugly head.

“We do not see trafficking in persons (TIP) as a major social issue in this country,” Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee told a forum dealing with social issues in the mining industry on Wednesday.

Problem exists

While admitting that human trafficking exists in Guyana, Minister Rohee said the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration will continue to tackle the issue until it is completely eradicated.

“We are committed as a government to fight this problem of trafficking in persons whether it is big or small. We are committed as a matter of principle, based on the conventions that we sign to fight trafficking in persons.”

Rohee, who also heads the Trafficking in Persons Task Force, said, even as the administration battles with this social scourge, it does not look for recognition. “We don’t look forward to medals or awards or chain around our necks or plaques to place on our wall to say we did a good job”, he said.

In July, the Donald Ramotar administration rejected the U.S. State Department TIP findings on

the country.

Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul, who also addressed the forum on Wednesday, said not one case of human trafficking was discovered on the coastland, with just a few from the hinterland. “While throughout the coastland we have visited an average of 13,000 to 15,000 workplaces every year, we have not been able to find an incidence of trafficking at these workplaces, you hear about them, but, by the time you arrive, they escape,” he explained.

Few cases According to him, it is only recently that the labour, human services and social security ministries were able to detect a few cases in the hinterland. On this note, he expressed gratitude to the Guyana Police Force and the judiciary system for their proactive and responsive approaches to addressing human trafficking cases.

“I am happy that the legal system has been working, to the extent that for the last two months we saw three cases where persons were sent to prison,” the labour minister pointed.

“I want to urge that the justice system work to ensure that we completely eliminate the issue, the scourge, of trafficking in persons.”

In addition to law enforcers pursuing the matter, Dr Gopaul said employers in the

hinterland and remote communities should desist from engaging in any form of trafficking and child labour.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud advocated for a holistic approach to bring an end to this scourge of modern day slavery. He said firstly there must be an acknowledgement that the problem exists, and then there must be the innate desire to stand up against this social ill. “This is not a responsibility of a single entity, but rather a collective group,” he said, stressing that all should work together.

Awareness

He said too that awareness is key to solving the problem so that persons can understand their roles and responsibilities. “We want to make it absolutely clear that there’s zero tolerance for issues, whether it be issues of trafficking in persons, whether be it child labour, issues of prostitution, or any other social behaviour that is in conflict in our law, we have zero tolerance.”

On the same note, the minister said the progress made in the industry should not be overshadowed by social issues such as trafficking. “I want to make it clear that we must not see it as a product of the mining sector and allow that to over shadow the other benefits and what is taking place...”

(svetlanam@guyanatimes.gy.com)

Former GuySuCo chairman laid to rest

ational awardee

NHarold Davis who made history as the first local chairman of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) was laid to rest following a church service at the Trinity Methodist Church on High and Leopold streets on Wednesday.

A packed congregation including, President Donald Ramotar, a former GuySuCo board member, and Opposition Leader David Granger, paid their final respects to the man who served with distinction in many well-respected positions. The funeral service included prayers, hymns, tributes, musical selections, scripture readings, and the signing of the book of condolences.

A former Pro Chancellor of the University of Guyana and chairman of the Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire and Life Insurance Company (GTM), Davis died last Wednesday at the age of 88. Davis died in his sleep, relatives confirmed. He resided at New Market Street, Georgetown.

Dedicated service

At its annual general meeting last Wednesday, new GTM Chairman Ram Singh recalled that at the last such meeting, Davis had advised that he was not well. Singh said after 40 years of dedicated service as director, 17 of which he served as chairman, Davis retired from GTM on March 31. “Davis brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, particularly in the field of training and human relations, corporate governance and transformational leadership,” Singh said.

According to Singh, over the years, Davis discharged his duties and responsibilities with fervency and zeal, and made a significant contribution to the growth and development of the company.

Malcolm Sonaram freed of trafficking charge

Well-known customs broker Malcolm Sonaram was on Wednesday freed of a trafficking in narcotics charge almost a year after he was charged, because the prosecution failed to establish a connection between him and the drugs.

Thirty-nine-year-old Sonaram of Lot 188 Garnett Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, denied trafficking 19.930kg of cannabis between December 20, 2011 and January 10, 2012, at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC), Lombard Street, Georgetown.

The police claimed that they had received a tip as such they went to GNIC, where they conducted a search on a container of pumpkins destined for Barbados and discovered a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems. Investigations revealed that Sonaram was the customs broker of the con-

tainer, hence he was arrested and after months of investigations, advice was given to institute charges.

Sonaram was charged in October of last year and was remanded to prison; however he subsequently secured High Court bail to the sum of $750,000. The trial into the matter began earlier this year before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The case was prosecuted by Police Prosecutor Vishnu Hunte, who had some 46 witnesses to present, with five still to testify.

No evidence of link

However, on Wednesday, Magistrate Latchman ordered the prosecution to close its case after which Attorney Sanjeev Datadin made a nocase submission, stating that the prosecution failed to establish a connection between

his client and the narcotics.

The attorney told the court that there was no evidence linking Sonaram to any unlawful activity, nor were there any witnesses linking him to the shipment. Datadin also stated that the prosecution presented several documents, certificates and even the narcotics, but there was nothing substantial to show that his client was involved in narcotics trafficking.

"Just the broker"

At the time of his arraignment, Sonaram’s attorney told the court that his client was just the broker and he was retained to ship the container. The attorney also said his client had given the police particulars of two other persons, one of whom is the person who retained him to ship the container, but no attempts were made to arrest anyone.

However, another attor-

“His commitment, dedication, and hard work must be recorded with gratitude,” the new GTM chairman said. He added that Davis earned the respect of his colleagues by displaying a sense of fairness, impartiality, good guidance, and “we are all indeed grateful to him”. He possessed sound “leadership skills, wise judgement, and a good sense of humour”.

Singh said GTM would forever be indebted to Davis for his sterling contribution to the group over the years. Davis is survived by his wife, Mayleen and five children. The 1980 Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH) recipient was a teacher for 13 years, and after returning from the United States with a Bachelor of Science degree in social administration and a Master of Art degree in sociology from the University of Ohio began working as a personnel officer at Skeldon estate.

He worked his way up to personnel director and in 1976, became the first local chairman of the corporation when it was nation-

alised – a post he held until he retired in 1990. Among the numerous positions in which he served were past district governor of Rotary International. His involvement in the church and the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre occupied most of his later years.

ney who was in court at the time indicated that he had taken a man who was connected to the shipment and wanted to surrender, to the police station, but he was later released.

He added that another person was also implicated and there were no efforts to arrest that person despite him being known to the police. The attorney pleaded with the court to grant the defendant bail, noting that this is a “disgusting” situation.

Speaking to Guyana Times, the attorney pointed out that those persons whose particulars his client gave to the police were mentioned by the prosecution’s witnesses; however, nothing was done to check them. He stated that there was never anything connecting his client to the drugs, noting that Sonaram should not have been charged in the first place.

Logger charged for Karduni Backdam murder

Charles Goodluck called “Charlie”, 64, of Betsy Ground, East Canje Berbice, was on Wednesday charged with the murder of Chandradat “Deo” Hussain, 39, also of East Canje, who was killed on Friday last in Karduni Backdam, Berbice River.

Goodluck was remanded to prison by Magistrate Clive Nurse when he appeared at the Christiansburg Magistrate’s Court. He will

make another court appearance on October 20.

Hussain was found hanging at a logging camp at Kurduni, Berbice River on Friday last which left co-workers to believe that he had committed suicide. Nevertheless, their presumptions were wrong since the post-mortem performed by pathologist Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan on Monday last confirmed that Hussain was actually murdered.

This revelation led to the arrest of the suspect since it was believed that the two men had prior altercations. The file was sent to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for advice, who recommended that he be charged with murder.

It was reported that the now dead man left for Kwakwani two Sundays ago to work with a man called “Ganesh”. However, last Friday evening, his

mother Narainee Chinoo received a telephone call from a female who enquired about Hussain, and claimed that she wanted to speak with his mother.

Hussain’s mother was told that her son had fallen ill and arrangements are being made to bring him out of the logging camp. The caller subsequently told Chinoo that her son hanged himself. Hussain is survived by his mother and four siblings.

Fight lands duo in court

Two men were granted bail on a cross charge of assault when they appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday.

Leon Bartram, 32, of 630 A Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, is accused of unlawfully assaulting Calvin Barrow, a 35-yearold taxi driver, of 57 Back Street Mc Doom, Greater

Georgetown on August 8 at Mc Doom. He pleaded not guilty to the charge read against him. It is also alleged that at the same time and place, Barrow unlawfully and maliciously wounded Bartram. He was not required to plead to the charge read against him. Bartram, who was unrepresented, told the court that he sometimes stays at his girlfriend’s residence in

Mc Doom, where the incident occurred. He also stated that he is skilled in a variety of trades. Barrow was also unrepresented. When asked by the magistrate if there were any objections to bail, Prosecutor Seon Blackman said he had none for the matter against Bartram. He then stated that if Barrow is granted bail, he should report to the

Abusinessman charged with abusive language was granted bail by Magistrate Faith McGusty on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

It is alleged that on

August 25 at North Road, Marvin Hicks, 35, of 29 Back Street, Mc Doom, Greater Georgetown, made use of abusive language to Oley Manerson whereby a breach of the peace was occasioned.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The defendant was represented by Attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat, who said that his client is the owner of a restaurant at Lot 10 North Road and the virtual com-

Ruimveldt Police Station every Monday and Friday. Magistrate McGusty granted Bartram bail in the sum of $10,000 and Barrow was granted $100,000 bail with the following conditions: he reports to Ruimveldt Police Station Monday and Friday at 09:00h and has no contact with Bartram. Both matters are set to return to court on September 4.

Restaurateur placed on bail for abusive language Handyman remanded

Ahandyman appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to the charge of break and enter and larceny on Wednesday.

It is alleged that between July 22 and July 23 at Georgetown, Frank Slow broke and entered the dwelling of Roxroy Jeffers and stole three

flat-screen televisions, a complete surround sound system, a Sony stereo set, a quantity of gents clothing and shoes, 30 bottles of alcohol and a Wii gaming console valued a total of $2,110,000. He was not required to plead to the charge read against him.

The defendant, who was unrepresented, told the court that he is 30 years old, resides in North

plainant has a shop next door.

There were no objections to bail put forward by the prosecution and it was set at the sum of $10,000. The matter is set to return to court on September 4.

for $2M theft

Ruimveldt and does handy work with his uncle.

He explained that he did some work for the virtual complainant who underpaid him, so he decided to commit the act to compensate himself for the job he did.

Prosecutor Seon Blackman objected to bail on the grounds that the defendant gave a different address to the court, stat -

ing that it was clear that he did not have a fixed place of abode. Blackman also objected to bail on the grounds of the nature of the offence and the punishment such an offence attracts.

Magistrate McGusty refused bail and the defendant was remanded to prison. The matter is set to return to court on September 4.

Battling neighbours get bail

Two neighbours who ended up in a scuffle over a “comment” were brought before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday.

On August 22 at Campbell Street, Albouystown, Shondell Williams allegedly wounded Lloyd Daniels. She pleaded guilty with explanation to the charge of unlawful malicious wounding. Daniels was accused

of likewise wounding Williams at the same time and location and damaging one bucket valued $400. He pleaded guilty with explanation to the charges.

Williams, who was unrepresented, told the court that on the day in question, she bought fish and cleaned it and was taking the guts to throw away when she looked into the yard next door for Daniels. Her assailant then made a remark which she answered and he became

annoyed and ran up to her.

Williams said Daniels then kicked her to her face and punched her to the mouth. She then told him that she will tell her brother to which he replied, “Bring he nah! I got me gun right here!”

Based on her explanation, a not-guilty plea was entered on her behalf.

Daniels was also unrepresented. He told the court that he was not speaking directly to Williams when he made his comment.

He claimed that Williams became annoyed, ran up and scratched him on the neck which resulted in him slapping her. A not-guilty plea was also entered for him, based on his explanation.

There were no objections to bail for either party put forward by the prosecution. Bail was set in the sum of $20,000 for Williams and $25,000 for Daniels. The matter is set to return to court on September 4.

Eyew tness

Sussing out...

...corrupt opposition

We’re told that a commission from the Organisation of American States (OAS) – self-explanatorily named “Mechanism for Follow-Up on the Implementation of the Inter-American Convention against Corruption” (MESICIC) – will be in Guyana soon. While such a commission’s work might appear to be esoteric, we are quite excited, if the truth be told.

Why? Well, it appears that, while the commission is in its fourth round of consultations, it will also “address the implementation of the recommendations formulated in the first round in areas such as conflicts of interest, the reporting of acts of corruption, and systems for registering income, assets and liabilities”.

Now we all know these are areas of abuse among the opposition that are endemic and notorious, but, for some reason, just don’t seem to get official sanctions. We’re hoping that MESICIC can get a grip on this mega problem and it’s not only going to be the government on their radar. After all, the opposition have left no stone unturned to remind all and sundry that with their oneseat majority in Parliament, they’re even superior to the “government”.

Take for instance, the cancer of “conflict of interest”. From the Alliance For Change (AFC) camp, we’ve had its chairman Nigel Hughes involved in such a blatant conflict that it boggles the mind why the local bar association hasn’t moved to disbar him. Being the company secretary of Sithe Global (its legal officer), while simultaneously heading the political party that supposedly supposedly opposed the hydro deal in parliament, but backflipped in the end, is just too sordid for words. Also if the test of probity is to be “purer than Julius Caesar’s wife” from the conflict of interest angle, it doesn’t appear that Cathy Hughes is any Caesar’s wife.

Then there’s the case of the leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan. Or should we say “cases”. The man’s a walking conflict of interest. Right off the bat, we can talk about Ramjattan flacking in Parliament for his contributor and client Robert Badal, owner of the Pegasus Hotel, to stave off the construction of the Marriott Hotel that would compete with the Pegasus. Then he ups and does the same thing for his client Fedders Lloyd, which lost out in the bid to build the Speciality Hospital, and cuts all funding for the hospital.

MESICIC is supposed to also investigate “systems for registering income, assets, and liabilities”. Well, we have an integrity commission to which all parliamentarians are supposed to report their income and things, guess what? The opposition have never done that. Never!! We say to MESICIC -- recommend jailing them and throwing away the key.

...Hinds' racism

Dr David Hinds must think he’s a contortionist. Or else he has to be one if he insists on riding two horses at once. As is usual with his party, the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr Hinds likes to present himself as above racial political mobilisation but then – even when an opportunity doesn’t present itself – he whips up racial hysteria. Recently, the minister of education reacted to the opposition’s clamour about “educational apartheid”. All she said was that the opposition would be better served if they’d do some work on the issue with their constituents.

Dr Hinds immediately offered this snarky riposte: “I know some of us may be peeved that an Indian Guyanese leader is telling African Guyanese how to fix their business. Some of us would correctly ask if it is not also the minister’s business to help with the counselling of all constituents, regardless of their party affiliation.” Well, if the minister can’t talk to African Guyanese about “fixing their business”, how the heck can she “counsel” them? Is she supposed to use sign language?? We wish Dr Hinds would shut up with all this race talk. ...squatting

The squatters at Timehri say they’re not “squatting on government land”. They probably think the government’s accusing them of sitting in a crouching position with knees bent and their buttocks on or near their heels.

PPP/C warns against military strike on Syria

– urges West to await UN report

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)

is urging the major NATO powers to await the findings of a United Nations inspection on whether the Syrian government had used chemical weapons against its foes before launching military strikes on the civil wartorn nation.

Reuters news agency reported late Wednesday afternoon that people in Damascus stocked up on supplies and some left homes close to potential targets as United States officials sketched out plans for multi-national air strikes on Syria that could last for days. UN chemical weapons experts completed a second field trip to rebel-held suburbs, looking for evidence of what caused an apparent poison gas attack that residents say killed hundreds of people a week ago.

But as UN chief Ban Ki-moon appealed for unity among world powers and sought more time for the inspectors to complete their work, Washington and its European and Middle East allies said their minds were made up and that President Bashar al-Assad must face retribution for using banned weapons against his people.

According to the Reuters article,e there were growing signs, however, that the timeline for launching a widely expected military strike on Syria could be complicated not only by the UN inspectors’ continued presence there but by the Obama administration’s efforts to coordinate with international partners and growing demands for consultation with U.S. lawmakers.

Indecent haste

In a statement on the widening conflict, the PPP/C said it views with great concern the indecent haste by some NATO powers before the UN can investigate allegations of the use of chemical weapons by Syrian authorities. The party said reports of the use of chemical weapons are indeed serious and it supports the full investigation by the UN.

“This is reminiscent of the military attack by Western powers on Iraq long before the UN inspectors could conclude their investigations into the use of weapons of mass destruction in that country. A million Iraqis were killed on a false charge since no weapons of mass destruction were found and that country continues to experience a high level of instability and violence. This created more instability in the area. It appears that a repeat performance is being planned in Syria.”

According to the PPP/C, the NATO powers, mainly the U.S., the UK and France clearly do not want to wait for UN inspectors to complete the investigations on the use of chemical weapons. Using their powerful mass media to whip up hysteria, the NATO forces seem determined to attack the Syrian government.

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

Waiting for inspectors finding may remove the justification to do so. “The question to be asked is why would the Syrian government want to use chemical weapons knowing they would attract the attention of the U.S. and its NATO allies, and that that would be inviting an attack on the country?” the party asked.

Unwise

The PPP/C said from various accounts, the Syrian government is winning the internal war and has no reason to use chemical warfare this. Moreover, it would be stretching the imagination that the government would want to do this when a UN team is in the country. NATO has many reasons to want to attack Syria. In the first place they see attacking Syria as delivering a blow to Iran, a country that they plan to attack on the unsubstantiated claim that the Iranians are building nuclear weapons.

The other reason, the party said, is that it would deliver a blow to Russia. Syria hosts a huge Russian Naval Base on its territory. “U.S is

determined that Russia will never be a threat to it again and has already surrounded that country with military bases.” The PPP/C said the situation in the Middle East is already tense and any military action at this time would only aggravate the situation there and possibly the world.

“In pursuit of such controls, it appears that human lives do not matter to be the Western military. It is just collateral damage. The PPP/C calls for support for a thorough investigation by the UN and a halt to the sable-rattling and war preparations by the West. We say no to military intervention. We need peace, not war,” the PPP/C asserted.

Syrian officials say the West is playing into the hands of its al Qaeda enemies. The presence of Islamist militants among the rebels has deterred Western powers from arming Assad’s foes. But the West says it must now act to stop the use of poison gas.

Britain pushed the other four veto-holding members of the UN Security Council at a meeting in New York to authorise military action against Assad to protect Syrian civilians – a move certain to be blocked by Russia and, probably, China. The meeting ended without a decision. The United States and its allies say a UN veto will not stop them. Western diplomats called the proposed resolution a manoeuvre to isolate Moscow and rally a coalition behind air strikes. Arab states, NATO and Turkey also condemned Assad. Washington has said repeatedly that President Barack Obama has not yet made up his mind on what action he will order.

thursday, august 29, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

Georgetown Rotary looking to boost membership

By SaBatini DanielS

Recently-appointed Georgetown Rotary Club

President Harryram Parmesar said one of the major challenges the club faces is recruiting new members in the country, but asserted that the organisation will be embarking on a member drive this year to address this issue.

Speaking to Guyana Times on Wednesday, he said competing with other social organisations to obtain new members in such a small environment as Guyana poses tremendous restraints on the club. However, despite this, he noted that the Georgetown body has been able to grow its membership at an average of about five per cent each year. “Our club is the largest club in Guyana and the oldest club. Our membership currently stands at 66 and our target for this year is to grow at least by five members more.”

Young people

Parmesar said the organisation is hoping to recruit younger persons specifically students at the University of Guyana, since he disclosed that less than 30 per cent of persons from UG are in the various Rotaract clubs across the country. He stated that the benefits of young people being part of this acclaimed club are numerous, since there are many educational workshops and various seminars which are developmental. He also said being a Rotarian serves as a way of keeping youth out of trouble, since they will be engaged in meaningful activities while helping deprived communities.

He disclosed that persons can become part of Rotary clubs by visiting the societies. He added, “Generally, our members would look out there to see who would make a good Rotarian and meet the ideals of Rotary, they would bring them to the club and let them have several visits to get a feel

Georgetown Rotary Club President Harryram Parmesar receiving a $1,000,000 cheque from Searice Guyana Inc Operations Manager Mohamed Ali

of what goes on in the clubs.”

Once these persons indicate that they would like to be part of the organisation, there is an interview and successful candidates are inducted as members.

Building linkages

Parmesar stated that the Rotary club is also looking to build its linkages with Corporate Guyana which will aid in it getting sponsors for charitable initiatives.

Meanwhile, the Georgetown Rotary Club also received $1 million on Wednesday from Searice Guyana Inc to assist Seon Peters of 468 Block X, Liliendaal, Georgetown who was injured in a work-related accident about four years ago that left him in a wheelchair. Since his accident, Peters attended a course in home electrical appliances repair and is now qualified in this field. Hence, the donation will be used to make certain modifications to his home, which will allow him to set up a business to repair appliances and other items.

Additionally, in light of Education Month being observed in September, the

Georgetown Rotary Club will also be holding a Retro Dance, Dinner and Dutch Auction on September 28 at Barakat’s Residence, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara from 20:00h. Tickets for the event cost $6000.

The purpose for this event is to raise funds to establish three libraries in three separate schools. “Once it is established, we are hoping that annually we will add more books to the libraries.”

Parmesar highlighted that the Georgetown Rotary club is also in discussions with a Rotary Club in America to set up a water system in Kumaka, underscoring that the current budget is US$60,000. This will also be done in partnership with the Housing and Water Ministry. “We are looking for partners to make this project a reality and hopefully we will get started soon.”

The Rotary Club of Georgetown Central was chartered in 1984 in Georgetown, Guyana. Its mission, as that of all Rotary clubs, revolves around the ideal of service above self. (sabatinid@guyanatimesgy.com)

Trotman says UG needs vision – urges vice chancellor to build partnerships

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman said the University of Guyana (UG) badly needs vision to move it forward and urged new Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi to build partnerships with every sector of society if he is to turnaround the fortunes of the institution.

Speaking with Guyana Times on Wednesday, Trotman, who was among the panelists at a forum on the state of the university on Tuesday, said: “I know he has taken on a challenging task, I believe that he has the capacity to overcome the challenges and be an excellent vice chancellor.”

Professor Opadeyi has come in for high criticism from the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) due to his apparent failure to address key issues plaguing the tertiary institution, but Trotman strongly believes that the university can continue to create a legacy of producing outstanding lawyers, doctors, engineers, dentists, journalists, geologists and agriculturalists, if all sectors play a part in its development. The Speaker of the National Assembly himself is a graduate of the university.

Addressing a small batch

of students during a roundtable discussion on Tuesday at the Turkeyen Campus, Trotman said there must be a vision. “There is a lack of vision of where we are and where we need to be… the problem is not just the politicians, it is our problem,” he told the students.

Issues

Deplorable facilities, shortage of staff, underpaid lecturers and lack of critical equipment are some of the problems facing students at the cash-strapped university, but Professor Opadeyi said these problems are being addressed. Speaking with Guyana Times on Wednesday, the vice chancellor pointed out that his administration has its eyes focused on refurbishing all the buildings within the fac-

ulties of science and technology. Curriculum review has also been placed high on its agenda.

In March, Professor Opadeyi had announced his intention to increase tuition fees. This move, he said, is necessary to raise the standards of education delivery at the tertiary institution.

Quality

“If we want quality degrees, we have to get qualified lecturers to teach here and we must pay those people to leave full-time jobs and private practice to lecture at the university. This is the cost of providing a quality education. If you don’t want to pay, then you get low-quality teachers,” the vice chancellor had said to justify the tuition increase.

Even with the university operating on a $300 million deficit, students pay $127, 000 annually, although it costs the institution $345,000 each year to maintain a single student.

But this announcement had sparked widespread concern and was met with major opposition, and just a few supporters such as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

Decision

“I think that the fact that in March 2013, it is still on the table for decision, if by no other analysis or reasoning, it is inescapable that the administration was unsupported from 1992 to 2013, there is no other conclusion that one could come to in the face of the fact that it never took place,” head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon said during one of his frequent press conferences. But just days ago, he told the press that a hike in tuition fee is dependent on policymakers.

Back in 2012, a special select committee was appointed to oversee the appointment of a new council that would guarantee the transformation of the university. Attempts to solicit an update on the progress made by the committee close to one year after it was formed proved futile.

G-PEE-Hell is plenty hell

De more de country talk bout hydropower, is de more blackout G-PEE-Hell givin. And whenever de power deh on, which is not very often, is all kinda voltage people gettin from de G-PEE-Hell station. Is one hell to hear all de politicians dem argue bout hydro, and is another hell to get no power or low power from G-PEE-Hell. Now is more hell wid more G-PEE-Hell sub-stations.

Plus when people go to query a light bill, which always heavy, and which does be fuh more darkness than light, that does be another hell by itself. People does need de power of de Lord to go in that G-PEEHell pun Main Street. By de time yuh come out, yuh does feel like yuh deh pun Pain Street.

Half of de G-PEE-Hell staff does look like dem just come from hell, and de other half does look like dem goin to hell wid de way dem does talk to people. It even worse when yuh call pun de phone. Half de time is one hell to get through in de first place, and when yuh eventually get through, is sheer hell all over again.

One preacher seh some of dem G-PEE-Hell staff gon go to hell twice. But de problem is that even dem dead people who already in hell gon friken some of dem G-PEE-Hell people who now comin in. He seh dem G-PEE-Hell people got de ability to put out any ting, and dem might even put out de fire in hell too. After all is always sheer darkness when G-PEE-Hell around!

Ting-a-ling-a-ling...friend tell friend...mattie tell mattie! Is another hell fuh read whah Ducktor Rose and Hardish Singh does write, although dem is two career letter-writers-fuh-life. Dem two like Sanjay and Craig. Somebody must tell dem how fuh spell Amaila. But don’t leave it to de Kocheur man!

Caricom reaffirms commitment to ensure development of Haiti

Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Rodney Charles

The Caribbean Community (Caricom) on Wednesday said it remains committed to calls to work with the international community in the development of Haiti, still recovering from a 2010 earthquake that killed an estimated 300,000 people and left more than a million others homeless.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Rodney Charles, told the United Nations Security Council debate on

Haiti that the 15-member regional grouping was appreciative of the work done so far in the re-development of the French-speaking Caricom country.

“For us, in Caricom, the stability and economic development of Haiti is inextricably linked to the wider development agenda of our sub-region. Consequently, Caricom lauds the efforts of MINUSTAH (United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti) which has facilitated increased stability in Haiti,” Charles said in his address on behalf of the Caricom grouping.

He said Caricom also welcomed the decision of the Security Council to renew MINUSTAH’s mandate until October 15, and support the recommendation of the secretary general that the mandate be extended until 2014. “Caricom further welcomes plans to encourage investment which will play a critical role in spurring the social and economic development of Haiti.”

But the Trinidad diplomat said Caricom countries

“submit that international assistance must be aligned with Haiti’s national priorities to ensure that there is appropriate national ownership of programmes intended to benefit the Haitian people”.

Welcomed strides

He said Caricom also welcomed the strides made by the Haitian government to achieve certain political milestones which are indicative of progress. “We remain optimistic that the forward momentum achieved thus far will be sustained and that all parties involved in the political process would be able to rise above the differences that exist between them and, in the spirit of compromise, work together to put in place the machinery for the holding of the overdue partial senatorial, municipal and local elections.”

He said Caricom had also taken note of the progress made in upholding the rule of law in Haiti as exemplified in the government’s “5 E” policy programme which

lists the rule of law as one of its pillars. “We are heartened by the reduction in civil unrest and the incidences of homicides and kidnappings and encouraged by the fact that the political and security situation in the country has remained relatively stable with a notable decrease in major crimes.

“We are encouraged by the appearance in court in February of this year of two former presidents. We view these as positive signals of an emerging trend towards stability and evidence of an increasing acceptance of the judicial process, which is an indispensible ingredient for the maintenance of the rule of law.”

Charles said Caricom countries were also encouraged that the performance of the Haitian National Police has continued to improve since it assumed increasing responsibility for the provision of internal security. But he told the UN Security Council that the region notes, “however, that the targets of the National Police Development Plan

requires continued commitment by the government as well as Haiti’s partners in order to ensure that adequate resources are available to support its viability”.

Other positive developments

Charles said there have been a number of other positive developments in Haiti following the devastating earthquake in 2010 and the further destruction caused following hurricane Sandy last year. He said these advancements include the establishment of the interMinisterial Committee on Human Rights, the resettlement of a number of formerly displaced persons, and efforts to address the cholera epidemic, including those undertaken in line with the initiative of the UN secretary general to support national plans in this regard.

“The efforts made by Haitian authorities to propel socio-economic development, including strides made by President (Michel) Martelly to attract foreign direct investment are

also noteworthy,” Charles said, noting however that Caricom “remains gravely concerned about the declining international aid to sustain the rehabilitation work in Haiti.

“This situation is unacceptable in the midst of the hurricane season when Haiti remains vulnerable to the effects of devastating storms. We therefore urge all parties to pay outstanding contributions to ensure the timely execution of the mandates of United Nations Peacekeeping Missions whose work is crucial to the fostering of peace, security, stability, the protection of human rights and the promotion of development in respective states.”

Charles said that Caricom remains committed to working together with other partners in the international community in support of the agenda of the Haitian government and MINUSTAH’s efforts in this regard, to facilitate lasting stability as well as the social and economic development of Haiti.

CJIA squatters offered assistance in acquiring house lots

Squatters who are in the path of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project were on Wednesday afforded the opportunity to apply for house lots, as government forges ahead with its relocation plan.

At least 25 residents turned out to hear what Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, and other officials had to say at a meeting, the CJIA said in a release. While the meeting was in progress, a group of agitated residents protested outside about not being able to join the meeting, which was intended for those persons living in the immediate path of the airport expansion.

According to Minister Benn, the most viable options immediately available are either to relocate residents to Yarrowkabra or other housing schemes. For those who have already applied, housing officials were on hand to take pertinent information regarding their applications, while new applicants were inter-

viewed.

“We are committed to work out what assistance or help we can do with the relocation. The only things I could say definitively at the moment is that this matter was discussed at the Cabinet and the area identified is Yarrowkabra… You don’t have to go to Yarrowkabra, you can go to other places, but the important thing is that we need

The future of energy: Earth, wind, water

BY ERIC A POWELL

Strip our biggest sources of energy to their most elemental, and you are left with fire – the burning of fossil fuels. To build a sustainable energy future, we will have to start relying a lot more on the other three classical elements: water, wind, and earth. This year, discover teamed up with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the National Science Foundation to bring leading energy experts to Capitol Hill, where they briefed Washington insiders and charted the scientific, technological, and political challenges that lie ahead on the road to a new energy economy.

Earth: Tap into the heat beneath your feet

The challenge –Geothermal energy has been around so long that it hardly deserves to be called “alternative”; people have been tapping hot water below the Earth’s surface to generate electricity for a century. But geothermal accounts for only about 16 terawatt-hours a year in the United States, less than half of one per cent of total electricity consumption. As with wind energy, geothermal is simple in principle but hard to do successfully in practice. Too often, drilling results in wells that are hot but have no water or wells that are simply not hot enough.

to pave the way to start the construction of the airport. For those who can move now, we are prepared to provide the transportation to assist,” Minister Benn stated.

The minister noted that if the airport is not expanded and improved to meet the demands of the airlines, the business community, the travelling public and then the entire country will suffer economically and more importantly, persons living in the Soesdyke/ Timehri area will lose financially.

Prior to the commencement of the meeting, persons claiming to be official representatives of the squatters demanded to be part of the audience. In light of this, Minister Benn explained that his ministry, along with key stakeholders, has agreed to relocate the squatters in phases.

“In terms of the immediate construction, you are the phase one persons. Persons who are not immediately affected by the building or the extension of the runway will be looked at in phase two, and there is a phase three.”

The new energy economy – Geophysicist David Blackwell of Southern Methodist University says that lack of attention is a mistake. He estimates that there are 100 to 500 gigawatts of potential geothermal energy locked beneath the United States. What is needed to successfully exploit all that energy, according to Nevada geologist James Faulds, is investment in more detailed geologic mapping, three-dimensional modelling of underground water flows, and testing of water chemistry that can indicate the temperature of subsurface waters.

Such support for geothermal energy is suddenly looking more likely due to an unlikely ally: the natural gas industry, which is in the midst of a giddy boom driven by the widespread adoption of the controversial drilling technique known as fracking.

Water: Turn wastewater into energy

The challenge – Every day you are literally flushing energy down the toilet. “You can’t talk about energy as a resource and water as a resource independently,” says Tom Peterson, an engineer at the National Science Foundation. In California alone, 19 per cent of all the electricity and 30 per cent of the natural gas is used to move, treat, and heat water.

The new energy econ-

omy – Since transporting water eats up so much electricity, developing ways to recycle the water that goes down the drain could yield big energy savings. The nation’s model for this kind of innovation is Las Vegas. “We reuse virtually 100 per cent of our wastewater,” says Patricia Mulroy, general manager for Las Vegas Valley Water District.

Over the past 20 years, the district has modernised its water reclamation system, which now returns 70 billion gallons of treated wastewater annually to Lake Mead, the source of 90 per cent of Las Vegas’s water.

Air: Reap the wild wind

The challenge – Anyone who made a cross-country trip in the last few years will have seen the transformation that turned the United States into the world’s leading producer of wind energy. The wind farms that now punctuate the landscape from California to New York produce a total of almost 100 terawatt-hours of electricity a year, almost 2.5 per cent of total demand. But that is still small potatoes compared with the 45 per cent generated by coal-fired plants.

The new energy economy – Because of the lack of data, energy projections at wind farm sites can be highly inaccurate, with errors of up to 20 per cent in farms that are built over uneven terrain. A small change in the wind has big implications: A 10-mile-an-hour wind can generate 65 kilowatts, but at 15 miles an hour, the same turbine can produce 300 kilowatts. Complex airflows over hills and mountains create wind shear and turbulence that produce stress on tur-

bines’ blades, gearboxes, and bearings. Since turbines are designed without a complete understanding of such wind flows, they are failing at higher than expected rates.

Efficiency: Exploit human behaviour

The challenge – The greatest clean energy sources and efficient technologies are pointless if nobody wants to use them. Sometimes the resistance reflects a problem of engineering (for instance, the short range, high cost, and long charging time of electric cars). Often, though, the problem is one of perception. “Our default is the status quo, and we have a myopic focus on the here and now,” says Elke Weber, a psychological economist at Columbia University who studies why people engage in risky environmental behaviour. She argues that understanding consumer behaviour needs to be at the heart of a meaningful energy policy.

The new energy economy – Some of the most effective strategies to help consumers overcome aversion to change are very simple. Weber finds that merely offering the energy-efficient option as the default choice can greatly increase its acceptance. She examined the familiar light bulb decision: Should I buy a compact fluorescent bulb (CFL) or go with the more familiar incandescent bulb that is cheaper but eats up more electricity? (An average incandescent bulb is US$0.50 and will cost you US$49 per 10,000 hours of use. Compact fluorescents may run you US$3, but rack up an electricity cost of only US$11 per 10,000 hours of use.)

(Discover Magazine)

Some self-employed professionals are biggest tax cheats

– Sattaur says many evading taxes despite strong measures

BY SABATINI DANIELS

Guyana

Revenue Authority (GRA) Commissioner General Khurshid

Sattaur said some self-employed professionals are the biggest culprits of tax evasion in Guyana, listing physicians, lawyers and vendors as being among the shrewdest evaders.

Sattaur said the actions by this category of workers continue to place significant constraints on GRA’s tax collection ability, although the tax body has taken steps over the years to net errant persons.

A recent Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) study had said that complex tax systems and widespread evasion are distorting investment decisions by companies in Latin America and the Caribbean, reducing the efficiency of markets and preventing governments from investing in infrastructure, education and other key public goods.

Tax collection

This hinders the productive possibilities of the region’s economies, according to the IDB study, noting that Latin America and the Caribbean have low tax collection by international standards, with collection concentrated on large corporations. The study did note that since tax rates and transaction costs are high, it is not surprising that tax evasion is widespread in the region, pointing out that tax evasion among both small and large companies is rampant, with the great majority of small and micro companies paying no taxes and formal companies underreporting as a much as 40 per cent of sales in some countries, such as Brazil and Panama.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times last week, Sattaur said the GRA has been pursuing self-employed tax evaders, explaining that “they are the ones

who do not issue receipts, keep proper records, proper computer records… we have to use indirect methods”. Additionally, he noted that such persons have foreign bank accounts or they use different names for assets which are also overseas.

“This is since they have the greatest spending powers and capabilities of engaging in tax evasion and they exploit this to the fullest.”

False declaration

The commissioner general said the GRA has identified vendors who come into the country and declare their goods as “personal effects”, which means it is for their own use in an attempt to evade paying taxes when in fact it is “commercial effects”; goods to sell. In light of this, he said the agency has been more careful in conducting its activities at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and Ogle International Airport (OIA).

“We have adopted a riskprofiling system to determine which passengers are likely to be those that are evading their taxes.” The risk-profiling system means that GRA inspects people who they think are most likely to try to evade paying taxes.

Sattaur acknowledged that while the GRA has adopted measures to stop tax evasion, the practice continues. He believes that unless there is a harsher and more aggressive system to deter

tax evasion, the total evasion of taxes will never end.

“Our systems in Guyana have gone through over the years quite a number of trials… but we have been able to minimise the level at which it is taking place, it is not occurring at the serious level as the past.”

Sattaur recognised that people continue to use various methods to evade their taxes. “We have strengthened the auditing of taxpayers for correct declaration and reporting of income, information technology... using that in order to have a greater level of success in dealing with a large numbers of tax payers and the coalition of information.”

Legal action

The GRA previously threatened to take legal action against professionals who operate without their practice certificates.

It had demanded in the past for Category A – accountants, auditors, legal practitioners, medical practitioners, architects, dentists and optometrists pay $250,000 for the practice certificate; Category B – engineers and veterinary surgeon – $150,000; and Category C ─ physiotherapists, pharmacists and surveyors – a sum of $75,000 is required.

The GRA had said professionals who qualified within three years preceding the date of the application for the practice certificate were permitted to pay $25,000 and were liable to pay the full prescribed fee, while it noted that all conditions has to be satisfied before the certificate was issued by the GRA.

A Tax Practice Certificate is valid for one calendar year and is renewable annually. All applicants must uplift and complete an application form from the Compliance Section, Tax Operations and Services Department, Guyana Post Office building or any regional branch office. (sabatinid@guyanatimesgy. com)

British Bird Watching Fair promotes Guyana’s tourism

Destination Guyana is expected to gain increased international recognition following the Guyana Tourism Authority’s (GTA) participation in the British Bird Watching Fair (BBWF) recently held in England.

Updating the media on the outcome of the just concluded fair and how it has benefited Guyana, GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh said the event allowed them to meet with a number of bird watching companies and tour operators who were keen on promoting Guyana as a bird watching and tourist hub.

“Hundreds of persons visited and interacted with the team in Guyana. Many were satisfied birdwatchers who had visited Guyana; others were very interested in Guyana and are planning holidays. Many want to visit a second time, but want tailor made packages; many came seeking information and to sample the El Dorado Rum,” he said.

Haralsingh said some 18 international tour operators were proactively advertising destination Guyana at the bird fair through their catalogues and websites compared to operators eight years ago.

As a result, tours are being advertised for Guyana in 2013, 2014 and 2015, rep-

GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh

resenting millions of U.S. dollars for Guyana. At the fair, Guyana’s tourism sector was promoted via a number of publications and brochures which attracted the interest of visitors.

“A number of key meetings were held with potential new tour operators who have a keen interest in selling destination Guyana,” Haralsingh said, adding that expanding sales and distribution networks is critical to the growth and development of birding in Guyana.

He also noted that there was favourable feedback from tour operators at the event, who noted that there were a number of inquiries about Guyana as a tourist destination.

Haralsingh noted too that the GTA and Wilderness

Explorers met with tour operator Cox and Kings on August 20 to discuss a proposed Wildlife Festival in Guyana in 2015.

“This event will have the participation of world famous wildlife experts, travel writers, authors and photographers and will run for eight to 10 days. This festival will feature wildlife workshops and lectures, photography, travel, writing and art workshops and will serve to attract the high-end bird watchers from across the world.”

This, he said, will help to position Guyana as a top birding and wildlife destination. Haralsingh said Guyana will continue to attend the British Bird Watching Fair and other similar events so as to gain wider international recognition.

The BBWF is dubbed an international wildlife event and the world’s largest bird fair organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. It attracts over 300 exhibitors and over 25,000 birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. According to Haralsingh, “Bird watching is one of Guyana’s most successful niche products and the market for bird watching is growing”.

Tripped transmission line caused Tuesday blackout – GPL

The Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) said that one of its two transmission lines linking Garden of Eden and Sophia tripped on Tuesday, causing a total shutdown within the Demerara Interconnected System.

According to the company's release, on Tuesday around 14:33h during adverse weather conditions, one of two transmission lines linking Garden of Eden and Sophia tripped on a tran-

sient ground fault, affecting generating sets in operation and resulting in a total shutdown within the Demerara Interconnected System.

The machines were quickly brought back on line, and restoration of power began approximately 14:49h, GPL said. It added that about 15:39h, full restoration was achieved when consumers on the East Coast were repowered. The transmission line was successfully returned to service about

17:50h.

“GPL regrets the inconvenience caused and urges customers to report all localised faults to 592-226 4015/16 as the company may not always be aware of the problem.”

Further, GPL said customers are advised that all arrangements are in place to supplement emergency responses to deal with the expected increase in number/ severity of faults as a result of the inclement weather.

New World Bank Caribbean director visits Jamaica

Just three weeks into her incumbency, new World Bank Country director for the Caribbean region, Sophie Sirtaine is now in Jamaica meeting with government officials, private sector representatives and social partners.

According to a World Bank release, Sirtaine will begin by meeting with Finance Minister Dr Peter Phillips to discuss issues related to strengthening the World Bank’s support to Jamaica’s agenda for eco-

nomic growth and greater global competitiveness.

During the visit, she will also talk with business leaders as well as the social partners who collaborated with the bank to stage Kingston, Jamaica’s first animation conference in June. Sirtaine expressed great optimism toward this initiative and will spend time Thursday morning with a group of young Jamaicans involved in animation.

Sirtaine indicated that

her goal is to support a programme of sustainable solutions driven by Jamaica’s growth agenda. This, she believes will not only improve economic competitiveness, but also actively promote shared prosperity in the country.

In her current position as director for the Caribbean region, Sirtaine is responsible for maintaining a strong partnership with the governments of 14 countries in order to address their development and financial chal-

lenges and support growth opportunities. She also leads the bank’s programme support in these countries and oversees the management of the country offices in Jamaica, Dominican Republic and Guyana.

A Belgian national with over 14 years of experience in the World Bank, Sirtaine has held various positions in the Latin America and the Caribbean, South Asia and Europe and Central Asia regions.

Her most recent post was

as director of the Corporate Reform and Strategy Department in Operations, Policy and Country Services (OPCS).

Prior to joining the World Bank, Sirtaine worked in London in investment banking at JP Morgan and as an infrastructure economist for Halcrow Fox and Associates.

Sirtaine replaces French national Françoise Clottes, who served as director for the Caribbean region between 2010 and 2013.

Guyana says ties with Venezuela based on friendship, cooperation

The relationship between Guyana and Venezuela continues to grow from strength to strength and the upcoming state visit of that nation’s president is an indication of this, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett said on Wednesday as preparations continue for a one-day state visit by Nicolas Maduro.

The Venezuelan head of state has had a close relationship with Minister Rodrigues-Birkett over the years, having served as that country’s foreign minister under the late President Hugo Chávez. The two countries have had ties for decades, but there was a marked improvement in relations after Chávez took office. The minister said President Chávez and former President Bharrat Jagdeo regarded each other with a sense of brotherliness and this further helped both countries to forge closer ties.

This relationship has continued under President Maduro, she noted. “This is why President Ramotar felt it was important that we invite President Maduro to make this visit to Guyana because our relations are very, very good and we believe that it will be a good gesture to a good neighbour and good friend as well.”

Bilateral agreements

The current bilateral agreements between the two nations such as the PetroCaribe deal is a good and very positive arrangement, one which Minister Rodrigues-Birkett said has drawn recognition from others such as the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) countries. She said that at a recent summit in Equatorial Guinea, the call was made for others to look at the concessionary agreement and the resultant benefits it brought to participating countries.

As part of the PetroCaribe deal, Guyana is supplied with petroleum products at concessionary rates, with an initial upfront payment and a long period to pay the remaining debt. This arrangement has been modified with Guyana supplying rice at very favourable prices for petroleum products in

a first of its kind deal, said Minister Rodrigues-Birkett. “That arrangement started when President Chávez and President Jagdeo met on the margins of the UN General Assembly.” This move has brought immense benefits to local farmers, their families and Guyana as a whole, she noted.

The two countries are also working to implement what was described as a Cold Chain Project. “It is a project which will look at cold storage facilities for products for export and this is being implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture,” RodriguesBirkett said.

Rehabilitation centre

The recently commissioned Hugo Chávez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration located at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice, is another example of cooperation by the two nations and funded in part by the Venezuelan government to the tune of US$2 million. These were just two of the major initiatives highlighted by Minister RodriguesBirkett, who said, “If you notice, they are all intended to benefit farmers, people that are vulnerable, food producers, etc so they are all more social projects, and I think we know that if we invest in social capital, the results can only be good for our country as in these cases.”

The United Nations Good Office process which is addressing the border issue between the two countries is still ongoing, according to Minister Rodrigues-Birkett and both nations are in-

volved in this process. She added that Guyana is a member of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and The Common Market of the South (MERCOSUR), and as such, also interacts with Venezuela at these forums.

South American destiny

“This has helped Guyana certainly in terms of finding itself on the South American continent and our South American destiny, and I might add, this is not to the detriment of our relationship with Caricom, but to complement that. This is why President Ramotar proposed to Caricom to invite President Maduro to address them. President Ramotar felt that as Venezuela is a neighbour of Caricom, many of the countries that benefit from the PetroCaribe deal are part of Caricom and so we were very happy that the invitation was extended by Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar and the president was able to address the heads of government of Caricom… this is the consolidating of a relationship that will continue between Venezuela and Caricom.”

The Venezuelan president is due to visit Guyana on Saturday, August 31, with a high-level delegation. Bilateral discussions will be held between presidents Donald Ramotar and Maduro, following which local officials and their Venezuelan counterparts will meet. The visit will conclude with a social encounter.

CJIA squatters offered...

Despite the numerous warnings by the ministry over the years, persons continued to expand their living quarters on the airport’s land. In 1990, the Guyana Lands and Surveys recorded 16 structures, most of which belonged to the Guyana Defence Force. However, in 2002, a Housing Ministry survey recorded a significant upsurge – 216 dwell-

ings were documented. Two other surveys executed in 2008 and 2013 revealed that those numbers climbed to 299 and 325 respectively. And now that the land is required for the airport’s expansion, Minister Benn pointed out, political pundits are using it for their own agenda.

“But I want to say this clear here, this is not just

Mexico donates books to UG library

The University of Guyana (UG) on Wednesday benefited from a quantity of Spanish literature donated by the Mexican embassy here.

The donation will boost the university’s collection of Spanish literature. Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi said the students will benefit immensely from the kind gesture, pointing out that every student should be given an opportunity to learn a foreign language.

“If you can learn how to speak it, then you can learn how to read it,” Professor Opadeyi said, adding, “These books will add to the creative and language programmes the university has

to offer.”

Mexican Ambassador to Guyana Francisco Olguin said the donation is its third in the country.

“Library is the heart of a university and books can help to broaden the minds of young people,” said Olguin. He noted that during his stay in Europe as a Mexican ambassador, young students travel a lot across countries to learn new languages and experience different cultures.

“Despite the books being in Spanish, the students will learn to accept, and at the same time, experience a new culture while learning to read in a different language.”

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the interest of the Ministry of Public Works, or simply the interest of the government – it is the public’s interest,” he explained.

Against this backdrop, Minister Benn urged the squatters to work with him to “make this process as seamless as possible”. There are approximately 49 squatters in phase one of the ministry’s relocation plan.

New management has taken over another branch of the Mahaicony Rice Mill Limited (MRML).

The facility located at Branch Road, Mahaicony, Region Five, has been bought by popular Guyanese businessman Omprakash “Buddy” Shivraj.

The facility, now dubbed the Buddy’s Rice Milling Complex, was bought in July this year.

Speaking to Guyana Times in a telephone interview, partner and chief executive officer of the newly-owned company Arnold Gajraj said the mill is currently under renovation, as they are in the process of upgrading and modernising facilities there.

As such, he noted that the mill has not yet begun operation, but is expected to start business soon. “We are looking to start buying paddy within a week’s time. Our target market is all farmers,” Gajraj said.

Rice farmers are expected to begin harvesting their crops within a one-to-two -week period.

Gajraj added that the company will be setting their buying price for the upcoming crop within the “next two to three days”. “However, these prices are not cast in stone, they will depend on

The ambassador told Guyana Times that students can benefit from numerous scholarships being offered through the partnership between Guyana and Mexico.

“If students want to pursue a master’s degree or doctor of philosophy (PhD) or even research… we offer scholarships for that through our partnerships with universities in Mexico.” Meanwhile, according to UG Librarian Gwyneth George, the donation of the books will aid in the teaching of Spanish in the context of creative arts. The books donated by the Mexican embassy cover topics including culture, traditions and identity of people. It focused mainly on the Mexican culture, politics, people, traditions and identity.

Buddy’s buys Mahaicony Rice Mill

the market,” he stated. The new chief executive officer assured farmers that they are now in good hands. “Rice farmers can expect honesty and prompt payment of rice with the new management of the company.”

Meanwhile, Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) General Manager Jagnarine Singh said the Buddy’s Rice Milling Complex has already submitted its application for a milling licence, and it is being processed.

He said the requirements for a licence include proof of ownership, assurance of quality and sufficient grading equipment, among other things. “We will be checking on them to ensure all facilities are in place,” Singh stated.

However, Singh said while a milling licence is needed before a company can commence operations, the GRDB would from time to time flex with companies so as to ensure farmers’ pad-

dy are sold.

“We try to work with them to avoid a bottleneck in buying. So we work with investors to reduce the long lines of farmers having to wait for their paddy to be sold,” he outlined.

The U.S.-based company Sea Rice Caribbean Guyana recently acquired the assets of MRL in Regions Two and Six for $495 million and has paid off farmers owned by MRL.

Sea Rice Caribbean Guyana manages the former MRL Black Bush Polder Mill (BBP) and the buying centre at Number 70 Village, Corentyne, Region Six and the Vilvoorden Mill and buying centre at Paradise, Region Two. Up until last year, the Agriculture Ministry stated that the late payment to rice farmers continued to be a concern. As such, the GRDB did not issue a licence to the MRL for 2012, prompting the sale of the entity.

Barbados' government asks Facebook for data on specific users

Barbados is the only Caribbean Community (Caricom) country to have made a request of the social networking website, Facebook, for information regarding how its nationals use the facility.

Facebook has for the first time published data on how often governments around the world request data on

its users, and according to the social network, Barbados made three quests on three individual users in the last six months.

Facebook does not specify the nature or type request but said it sets “a very high legal bar with each individual request in order to receive any information about any of our users”.

There has been no official comment from Bridgetown but Facebook has outlined the conditions under which requests are accepted from governments.

“As we have made clear in recent weeks, we have stringent processes in place to handle all government data requests. We believe this process protects the data of the people who use our service, and requires governments to meet a very high legal bar with each individual request in order to receive any information about any of our users.

“We scrutinise each request for legal sufficiency under our terms and the strict letter of the law, and require a detailed description of the legal and factual bases for each request. When we are required to comply with a particular request, we frequently share only basic user information, such as name,” Facebook said. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

St Lucia political party supports ALBA in principle

The Lucian People’s Movement (LPM) said that it supports the Bolivarian Alliance for the Americas (ALBA) in principle but, it has reservations about a long-term dependence on the organisation.

“While the government of Saint Lucia should have engaged in greater consultation with the people of Saint Lucia before joining ALBA, the LPM is behind it in principle,” said Therold Prudent, the leader of the LPM.

Prudent stressed the need for a broader approach to international diplomacy, stating, “The world is a much different place today. Therefore, small countries, including Saint Lucia and the rest of the region, can no longer adopt the cold war mentality of non-engagement with countries that the United States does not agree with. While it is very important to remain an ally of the United States, we must begin to put our nation’s inter-

ests ahead of political ideology.”

“Therefore, as long as the nations with which we enter into diplomatic or trade agreements are not state sponsors of terrorism and do not threaten the stability of the region or the rest of the world, we should have the right, without fear or national anxiety, to exercise our sovereignty in the interests of our people, ”he added. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Brazil: Building collapse toll rises to eight

Firefighters searching the rubble of a collapsed building in the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo have found another body, taking the death toll to eight.

cials, the construction work did not have the necessary permits and two fines had been issued already in relation to the work carried out.

Edilson Carlos dos Santos, a lawyer for the owner of the site, blamed the engineering company hired to work on the building for the collapse.

Santos said the company, Salvatta Engenharia, had been installing lift shafts and staircases at the time of the collapse on Tuesday.

The Bahamas looks to Middle East for growth

The government of The

with the intention of drawing into the country some of the region’s wealth in the form of sovereign wealth funds and high net worth individuals.

Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell said officials from Saudi Arabia will visit The Bahamas next week, a representative from Qatar will come in October, and a trade mission to Dubai is being planned for later that month.

Financial Services and Trade Minister Ryan Pinder told Guardian Business that the government will continue to look for new partners in order to expand the financial services sector dur-

ing a period when traditional sources of wealth are less forthcoming.

“When you look to expand an industry, you have to be nimble enough to adjust to look at markets that demonstrate growth and wealth, and certainly it is clear we’ve identified Latin America as one of those regions and we understand that the EU economy has limited growth prospects there, so we look to other markets. Latin America is one, North America is one and certainly we feel that certain areas in the Middle East are growth areas,” Pinder said. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Jamaican entertainment manager found dead

The St James police have listed a man known only as “Mario” as a person of interest in the fatal stabbing of 41-year-

old entertainment coordinator Dean Moriah, whose nude, bloodied body was discovered at his Montego Bay home early Tuesday morning.

Moriah’s Bogue Village house was also allegedly set ablaze by his killer who is believed to have fled the murder scene in his grey 2003 Toyota Camry motor car.

The police theorise that Moriah – who was the entertainment and promotions manager at the popular Margaritaville Sports Bar and Grill on Montego Bay’s Hip Strip – was killed in a fight, which stemmed from a domestic quarrel.

Reports are that about 04:30h, residents discovered Moriah’s body a few metres from his house, parts of which were ablaze. The popular entertainment guru reportedly crawled from the torched building in search of assistance.

However, he only got assistance from firefighters from the Freeport Fire Station of the Jamaica Fire Brigade, who responded to a call.

One member of the community was overheard saying that residents decided to wait on the arrival of a professional medical team before moving Moriah because of the severity of his wounds. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Canadian hostage freed in Colombia

Colombia’s second largest rebel group, the ELN, has freed a Canadian man they seized seven months ago.

Gernot Wober was handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at an undisclosed location in the north of the country.

Wober was taken hostage by the left-wing rebels in January.

The ELN had demanded that his employer, Braeval Mining Corp, which is based in Toronto, drop plans to prospect for gold in northern Colombia.

The ICRC said it had re-

ceived Wober in a rural area in Bolivar, the same state where he had been kidnapped. He was reportedly in good health.

Braeval Mining Corp said

Wober would be returning to Canada to be re-united with his family at the earliest opportunity.

The head of the ELN, Nicolas Rodriguez, said Wober’s release was a humanitarian act.

“We hope that this gesture contributes to peace in Colombia,” he said in a video posted on the Internet.

“We want to highlight in our message that this outcome proves that conflicts can be solved through negotiation.”

The ELN has previously said that it wants to hold peace talks with the Colombian government. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Attorney killed execution-style at Trinidad shopping centre

TTwo of the 36 people who are believed to have been working in the building at the time are still unaccounted for.

It is not yet clear what may have caused the collapse.

A further 26 people were injured when the two-storey factory, under construction in the Sao Mateus neighbourhood, collapsed.

According to city offi-

The engineering company denied the allegations, saying in a statement that it had not yet received the keys to the building “because the works he [the owner of the site] had agreed to carry out had not been completed”. (Excerpt

rinidad and Tobago police on Wednesday continued their search for the gunman who shot and killed Attorney Dr Wesley Debideen in the car park of a mall on the outskirts of the capital late Tuesday.

Police described the murder of Debideen, 68, as a “clear hit”, adding that he had been shot in the head and about the body several

times as he drove his vehicle in the car park of Grand Bazaar.

Eyewitnesses said the lone assailant walked a few feet away from the vehicle, and returned to empty his gun on the attorney, who was one of several lawyers appearing before the commission of inquiry into the collapse of the insurance giant, CLICO and the Hindu Credit

Union (HCU).

“I couldn’t see the man’s face clearly because of the cap, which was pulled down low but he wasn’t wearing a mask,” one witness told reporters, noting that the killer appeared unhurried.

Debideen, who held a doctorate in food chemistry, was also a former general manager of the Airport Authority.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Around the World

Strikes loom against Syria

Global powers are working furiously to prepare for the possibility of a strike on Syria –looking at military options, holding emergency meetings and stressing the need for swift international action.

Meanwhile, survivors of the apparent chemical weapons attack that triggered the international machinations are working to get through each day.

“After the chemicals, they woke us up and told us to put masks on,” a six-yearold boy in Zamalka said, describing last week’s attack.

“I told my dad I can’t breathe. My father then fainted and I fainted right after that, but we were found and taken to the emergency room.” CNN obtained video of the boy and other survivors

Damascus residents remain sceptical on U.S. strikes

As the international community wrangles over whether to launch military strikes against Syria, life carries on almost as normal for many of the city’s residents.

France24 is one of the few news organisations still in the Syrian capital. Its reporters, under close supervision by regime officials, spoke to locals going about their daily lives despite the imminent threat of foreign intervention.

The residents France24 spoke to all appeared to be supporters of President Bashar al-Assad and stated firmly their scepticism that strikes by the international community would happen any time soon.

One seemingly re-

laxed resident in a sunny Damascus park told France24 that it was “impossible that it would happen here”.

“They’re just trying to pressure the government,” said one local in the city’s south-western Jaramana district. “If they attack, it will affect the United States, Israel and all the countries in the region.”

“Of course we’re scared,” another resident told France 24. “With thanks to Allah, I hope they won’t attack. But what can we do? If they want to strike us, it’ll be the third world war.”

For others, the daily struggle to get by overshadowed any concerns of international intervention. (Excerpt from France24)

who spoke to a journalist in the area.

One man said he evacuated two dead bodies during the attack. “Then there was another explosion. I couldn’t breathe, I had cramps and I couldn’t see. The doctors helped me.”

The horror of the attack on civilians has jolted the world into potential action on a crisis that has lasted more than two years and killed more than 100,000 people, according to the United Nations.

Last week was not the first time chemical weapons are believed to have been used in the conflict. But it was by far the worst. (Excerpt from CNN)

Feminists want ‘great women’

buried in Pantheon

Around one hundred women and a dozen men gathered outside the Pantheon mausoleum in Paris on Monday to demonstrate in favour of interring more women in the prestigious sanctuary, which is home to the remains of the country’s most treasured national figures.

There are currently only two women to 71 men buried at the site: Marie Curie, whose scientific breakthroughs changed the face of modern medicine; and Sophie Berthelot, who was buried alongside her husband, the chemist and politician Marcellin Berthelot.

In March, French President François Hollande said he wanted to grant due recognition to female histor-

ical figures in French history and has hinted that more women should be buried at the Pantheon in order to “represent the principles of the country”.

Monday’s demonstrators launched an online campaign to promote their idea, and put forward the names of five women they think the authorities should honour by transferring their remains to the site.

These women are Olympe de Gouges, feminist pioneer (1748-1793); Solitude, Guadeloupian freedom fighter (1772-1802); Louise Michel, revolutionary (1830-1905); Germaine Tillion, ethnologist and resistant (1907-2008); and Simone de Beauvoir, feminist philosopher (19081986). (Excerpt from France24)

U.S. marks anniversary of Dr King speech

The U.S. is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the March for Jobs and Freedom, the civil rights rally at which Martin Luther King Jr made his “I have a dream” speech.

President Barack Obama is to mark the occasion in Washington DC with an address from the same spot.

Members of the King family and veterans of the march will also be present.

Obama, the first black U.S. president, has described the 1963 protest as a “seminal event” in American history.

The march was considered a catalyst for civil rights reforms in the U.S.

President Obama arrived to deliver his address at the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall just after an organised ringing of bells by churches and other groups at 15:00h local time (19:00 GMT), marking the exact

Thousands of people have braved rain in Washington DC to commemorate 50 years since Martin Luther

time that Martin Luther King spoke on August 28, 1963. Obama was joined by former presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, who also

spoke.

Former President George W Bush, who is recovering from a heart procedure, sent a message of support.

In his statement, Bush

Russia, Iran warn the West against strikes

The spectre of U.S. military intervention in Syria prompted dire warnings from Iran’s supreme leader, new president, and top diplomat, according to Iran’s Fars News Agency.

Talk of U.S. military action against Syria’s Bashar al-Assad regime emerged after what rebels say was a deadly chemical attack by the regime that killed civilians last week.

Since then, a flurry of comments and activity seems to be laying the groundwork for a military strike against the regime. At the same time, United Nations inspectors are looking for evidence that chemical weapons were used in the Damascus suburbs.

The mounting tension has brought warnings from leaders in Iran, a longtime supporter of the al-Assad regime.

“Starting this fire will be like a spark in a large

store of gunpowder, with unclear and unspecified outcomes and consequences,” Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told Iranian Cabinet members in Tehran on Wednesday.

“The U.S. threats and possible intervention in Syria is a disaster for the region and if such an act is done, certainly, the Americans will sustain damage like when they interfered in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said there is no proof yet Syria’s government is behind last week’s chemical attack. The Russia Foreign Ministry accused Washington of trying to “create artificial groundless excuses for military intervention”.

“The West handles the Islamic world the way a monkey handles a grenade,” Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said on Twitter.

Fort Hood gunman sentenced to death

Aformer U.S. Army psychiatrist has been sentenced to die by lethal injection for killing 13 soldiers at a Texas Army base, a military jury has decided.

Major Nidal Hasan, 42, was convicted last week of the 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, in which 32 others were also injured.

The defendant had tried to admit his guilt but military law bans guilty pleas in death penalty cases.

said Obama’s presidency reflected “the promise of America” and “will help us honour the man who inspired millions to redeem that promise”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

The Virginia-born Muslim said he opened fire to protect Taliban insurgents from troops about to deploy to Afghanistan.

His court-appointed law-

yers have previously told the judge they suspect he is seeking execution in a bid for martyrdom.

The jury handed down its sentence after two hours of deliberations on Wednesday. But it could be years, possibly decades, before Major Hasan is executed because of the long appeals process in the military justice system.

His execution must eventually be authorised by the president.

On Wednesday, before the sentence was handed down, prosecutor Colonel Mike Mulligan urged jurors to opt for a rare military death penalty.

Accounting firm merges practices in Bermuda, BVI and USVI

International accounting and financial consulting firm Deloitte announced the merger of its Bermuda, British Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands offices effective on Monday.

The combination is said to bring enhanced services to clients and greater access to Deloitte professionals who provide insights and solutions to complex business challenges in an ever-increasing borderless global marketplace.

The merger coincides with the retirement of BVI/USVI

U.S. Treasury

The U.S. government will reach its debt limit by mid-October unless Congress acts quickly, Treasury Secretary Jack Lew has warned. The debt ceiling was last raised in January. The government can no longer borrow if it is reached.Lew said that in such a case it will be unable to meet obligations such as pensions, military salaries and Medicare payments.

The country’s borrowing

managing partner Mark Chapman, who will continue as a consultant to the firm through the end of October. Chapman joined Deloitte BVI in 1995 focusing on offshore entities in the financial services sector. In his nearly 30 years with Deloitte, he has helped to build the largest professional services firm in the Virgin Islands.

Directors Carlene Romney and Richard White succeed Chapman and assume leadership of the operations in the BVI and USVI offices.

An audit professional, Romney joined Deloitte in January 2000. She has extensive experience performing audits, including spending three years with the Boston, Massachusetts office with Deloitte where she gained additional experience performing financial services audits.

White has over 13 years of experience working in practice and industry as a chartered accountant. He started his career in London at a Big Four firm working in all areas of public practice. (Caribbean News Now)

Africa

Nigeria: FG borrows US$1.6B from China Bank, others

Nigeria’s Power Minister, Professor Chinedu Nebo said the investments recorded in the telecommunication sector since the introduction of the mobile telephone services in the country would be dwarfed by investment in the power sector, once the on-going reforms in the sector took firm footing.

He spoke to newsmen after a meeting of the Presidential

Action Committee on Power, adding that so far, government had accessed loans from various international lending agencies to fund the expansion of transmission infrastructure to the tune of US$1.6 billion.

He said: “We have substantial amount of funding coming in form of loans from the World Bank, African Development Bank, Euro Bond Issue and Chinese Exim

Bank and NDPHC had already designated US$1.6 million for the expansion of transmission facilities.

“Government is adequately prepared. Everybody is excited at what has just happened; that we had such a significant compliance of all the preferred bidders, who bought the GENCOS and the DISCOS as most of them have paid up. (allAfrica)

Indian rupee falls to new low against U.S. dollar

Tlimit is currently capped at US$16.7 trillion (£10.7 trillion). “Extraordinary measures are projected to be exhausted in the middle of October,” Lew said in a letter to House Speaker John Boehner and other lawmakers.

“At that point, the U.S. will have reached the limit of its borrowing authority, and Treasury would be left to fund the government with only the cash we have on hand on any

The Bank of England may provide more stimuli for Britain’s economy if financial markets get ahead of themselves and threaten to choke off its recovery, its governor said on Wednesday. In his first policy speech since taking over the bank, Mark Carney also announced a relaxation of rules for banks which could boost lending and help Britain’s “solid but not stellar” emergence from its deep recession.

Financial markets have challenged the BoE’s new plan to keep interest rates on hold for possibly three more years and Carney said the bank could provide more stimulus if premature rate hike expectations added to risks facing the recovery. “The upward move in market expectations of where bank rate will head in future could, at the margin, feed into the effective financial conditions facing the real economy,” Carney said, adding policymakers would

given day,” he said.

The cash balance at that time is forecast to be about US$50 billion, which Lew said, would be “insufficient to cover net expenditures for an extended period”.

He said: “Operating the government with no borrowing authority, and with only the cash on hand on a given day, would place the United States in an unacceptable position.” (BBC News)

he Indian rupee has dropped by nearly four per cent to a new low of 68.7 to the U.S. dollar amid growing concerns over the health of the country’s economy.

The decline comes a day after India approved infrastructure projects worth US$28.4 billion (£17.7 billion) to try to revive the economy and prop up its currency.

The rupee has lost 20 per cent of its value this year and is one of the world’s worst-

performing currencies.It has also been hit by fears that the U.S. will scale back stimulus measures.

The U.S. central bank has sought to increase liquidity in the U.S. economy, through its policy of quantitative easing, in an attempt to boost growth.

A part of that liquidity has flowed into Asian markets, such as India, and lifted stock and asset prices.

However, the Federal Reserve has said it will scale back the programme if the

U.S. economy improves, with some analysts expecting this “tapering” to begin as soon as next month.That has seen investors pull money out of emerging markets, hurting currencies and stocks in those countries.

Stocks markets in India, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia have seen big declines since May this year. The currencies of these countries have also been highly volatile and weakened significantly against the U.S. dollar.

(BBC News)

Opportunistic investors limit losses on Gulf markets

watch those conditions closely.

“If they tighten, and the recovery seems to be falling short of the strong growth we need, we will consider carefully whether, and how best, to stimulate the recovery further.” Sterling initially weakened but recovered its losses against the dollar and expectations that the BoE might have to raise interest rates in 2015, a year earlier than its plan implies, were little changed. (Reuters)

Gulf stock markets declined again on Wednesday amid growing fears of a U.S. military strike on Syria, but the dramatic losses repeated early in the morning were largely recovered in an afternoon rally led by opportunistic investors.

After plummeting six per cent in the first 15 minutes of trading, the Dubai Financial Market closed down 1.3 per cent at 2516.48. That followed a seven per cent drop on Tuesday.

Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange almost repeated its 2.8 per cent fall on Tuesday, crashing another 2.2 per cent to 3737.24.

Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul and Qatar Stock Exchange both closed up despite sharp declines on Tuesday. The Tadawul had started the day similarly to Dubai, opening down nearly two per cent but recovered to close up marginally, while Qatar’s stock market plunged nearly four per cent early on, before quickly rallying to close up 2.29 per cent.

Kuwait, which plunged

on Tuesday, lost a further one per cent and Oman, the smallest market in the region, closed down 3.79 per cent.

Analysts said opportunistic foreign investors led the recovery in Dubai in a sign there was still confidence in the market.

“Everybody was waiting for a correction but it was not going to come from fundamentals in the UAE economy because they’re quite strong,” MENACORP CEO Fathi Ben Grira told Arabian Business. (Arabianbusiness)

Continuing education for the busy entrepreneur

But online courses are much more than just reading and emails. The best courses take full advantage of the advancements of technology, incorporating a combination of lectures delivered through both video and audio that are streamed via the web. These lectures often contain unique material that can’t be obtained through reading assignments as well as exercises and quizzes to ensure that students are engaging with

the material. This time requirement is often part of the accreditation process, requiring students to spend a minimum number of hours on a particular course of study.

Plus, many online courses require an interactivity component, typically consisting of a “discussion” via message board in asynchronous classes and a designated chat room or system of instant messaging in a synchronous format, promoting real-time discussion

among all participants.

Distance learning used to have a somewhat seedy reputation, often unrecognised by standard brick-and-mortar universities and prospective employers. And this wasn’t without reason. Many online course offerings in the early days weren’t much more than a boiled-down version of a full course whose sole purpose was to bring in a little extra revenue to the respective collegiate department. (Business Dictionary)

Region Four NDCs get waste bins valued $37M

In moving to strengthen the capacity of the 15 neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs) in Region Four and the Georgetown municipality to better provide solid waste management, Cabinet has approved US$185,000 (about $37 million) for the acquisition of 827 waste disposal bins.

The first set of these bins was handed over to representatives of the NDCs by Minister within the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry Norman Whittaker on Wednesday at the ministry. Also present were the ministry’s permanent secretary, Collin Croal and the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Programme acting project manager, Gordon Giles, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

The bins with volumes of 240,660 and 11,000 cubic metres

are for specific public spaces including schools and hospitals’ compounds, health centres, and markets in the NDCs and Georgetown.

“This is just another phase, another step, another part of our effort to bring improvement to the way we deal with solid waste collection and disposal in Region Four,” Minister Whittaker said.

He pointed out that the ministry’s effort with solid waste disposal has not been confined to Region Four, and that the ministry has been looking at addressing the issue in the other regions. He highlighted the ministry’s focus on the solid waste contracts between the regional democratic councils (RDCs) and solid waste contractors, admitting that there have been some teething problems but the ministry is working to resolve them.

Minister Whittaker also em-

phasised the cost, the importance, and security of the bins, and urged that the NDC officials encourage the residents to use the bins.

Clean-up exercise

Permanent Secretary Croal explained that the bins were funded under the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Programme, which is a Government of Guyana (GoG)Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded project, that has within its boundary the construction and full implementation of the Haags Bosch Landfill site. The programme is also aimed at addressing the issue of littering around Region Four, he said.

He pointed out too that the purchase of four compactor trucks at a total cost of US$620,000 has been approved to support the use of the bins.

The trucks – two waste rearloaders with a capacity of 21.1 cubic metres and two smaller rearload mini-compactors with 6.7 cubic metre capacity, will be utilised to lift the bins and dispose of the waste, he said. Tenders for the bins were advertised internationally and the contract was awarded to Unit Export Limited of England. The bins arrived in Guyana about a month ago.

Minister Whittaker also announced that the ministry is working with the Georgetown municipality and the Public Works Ministry in a cleanup exercise that has already started in preparation for the visit of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who is scheduled to arrive on Saturday, August 31, for a one-day state visit.

Minister Ramsammy congratulates Dr Balwant Singh Hospital on children's heart surgery

Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy on Wednesday congratulated the Dr Balwant Singh Hospital on completing a beating heart coronary surgery on two children in the past week.

In a release, Dr Ramsammy said, in his personal capacity and as the former health minister, said: “I want to express my profound congratulations to both Bally and Madu (Singh) and to the Balwant Singh Hospital for this signal achievement. I also send my congratulations and gratitude to the several professionals, Guyanese and those from abroad, who worked to make these achievements possible.”

“I am proud as a Guyanese and I write this note as a Guyanese who loves my country and who believes sincerely that the opportunities to improve Guyana is limitless, if we believe and if we stop setting limits on what is possible. No one would have dreamt just 10 years ago that today Guyana would be offering open-heart surgery to our people right in our own hospitals, right in Guyana.”

The minister reminded everyone that Guyana has been doing openheart surgery since 2006 and thousands of Guyanese have benefited from angiograms, angioplasties, and open-heart surgeries since then. He noted that the first open heart, beating heart surgeries on adults were done by the Caribbean Heart Institute (CHI) at Georgetown Public Hospital in 2006.

Guyana must now support the further development of such and other services at the Balwant Singh Hospital, Georgetown Public Hospital, CHI and other institutes in Guyana, the minister urged.

Both the public sector and the pri-

vate sector are offering open heart surgery. “There are now thousands of our people who would have died had it not been for this service,” the minister said. “The rich would have accessed this kind of medical service whether it is available in Guyana or not. But poor people would have suffered and died prematurely had it not been for this kind of development. … There were those who were kind in 2001 who referred to me as being “overtly optimistic” when I pronounced in 2001 that we could develop the health sector to provide top-notch high level medical interventions like open heart surgery, kidney transplant, dialysis, radiotherapy, brain surgery and diagnostic services such as MRI and CT scans right in Guyana. The kinder people then thought I was a bit unrealistic, but also were generous in saying to me try anyways.”

He said that Guyana is better off because together many of us worked and dreamed of a better health sector. Today, the private sector is moving rapidly, and Dr Ramsammy said he is extremely pleased to see the rapid pace of development of the private sector in health. “It was my dream then that all health services would be available in Guyana,” he noted. The specialty hospital would help accelerate this dream, he stressed.

The Dr Balwant Singh Hospital, Woodlands Hospital, St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital, the Nanmayah Memorial Hospital and all the others still have much to do to provide the highest quality services. But their services today are consistent with a country that is trying to provide affordable, comprehensive health care for all her people, Minister Ramsammy stated.

Rice industry heading for new heights

Rice has become one of the star performers in the agriculture sector with successive record-breaking production since 2008. This industry, which is projected to produce 500,000 tonnes by year-end, however, had a very modest beginning. That the industry is flourishing today largely as a result of improved farming techniques, better seed varieties, and interventions by the administration, which have lead to improved yield per hectare and more land being brought under cultivation,.

Humble beginnings

Rice cultivation in Guyana is over 100 years old. In the very early days, the crop was planted mainly to complement the diet of the slaves. Not long after, some of the enslaved Africans began cultivating small plots in their farming areas on the plantations.

Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) General Manager Jagnarine Singh said rice production in a consequential way started in the early 1900s, propelled by the indentured immigrants, who came to Guyana, with knowledge of rice planting

and of the culture of the crop.

The first rice export from this country was in 1903, and by 1908, the country had become a net exporter of rice. Growth in rice exports in the early 1900s is credited to the First World War, but following that, exports declined and production did not rise again until the Second World War in 1936.

The early days of rice production in Guyana were characterised by instability, lack of organisation, and economic pricing.

“During that period, we had a lot of people buying and selling rice, but we had lots of problems with pricing, the actual price received for the rice was not passed on to the producers,” Singh said, the Government Information Agency (GINA) noted.

To stop this exploitation, the British government established the British Guiana Rice Marketing Board (BGRMB), which purchased all the country’s milled rice directly from the producers and this served to stabilise prices. The rice was sold to the British islands in the Caribbean (the West Indies Federation), but the industry remained un -

stable, even after Guyana gained independence in 1966.

Post- independence production

There were lots of changes in the sector after the country gained independence from the British. Among those were structural adjustments, which the then government, the People’s National Congress said were aimed at rehabilitating and modernising the industry. It took control of all the rice mills in the country and the BGRMB. Over the years, the board’s name was changed to the British Guyana Rice Board

and then to the Guyana Rice Board (GRB). Then in 1985, the decision was taken to split this board into four entities – the National Paddy and Rice Grading Centre (NPRGC), with authority over paddy and rice grading; the Guyana Rice Export Board (GREB), which had responsibility for exports; and the Guyana Rice Marketing and Milling Authority (GRMMA), which owned all the rice mills and wharf facilities. Research was given to National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI).

Singh said despite all these efforts, by 1990, Guyana had the lowest rice production. The country’s total rice production was

exactly 93,444 tonnes and export for that year was 50,000 tonnes.

In the end, farmers started to leave the rice industry in the hundreds, many sold their land and migrated, while others began cultivating other crops.

Renewed interest in rice

Following the change in government in 1992, when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) came into office, there were significant investments made in the industry. Huge sums were spent on drainage and irrigation (D&I), as the new government implemented an aggressive plan for upgrading and rehabilitating structures countrywide.

While government was spending a lot of money in D&I, it was also looking at research programmes.

The government merged the four entities into the GRDB, which has worked and implemented programmes that have supported and guided successful farmers in the application of new technology. Being able to secure new markets with better prices also boosted production and by 1994-1995, the growth of the industry went upwards.

Production was re-

corded at 365,469 metric tonnes in 1999; 361,527 metric tonnes, in 2010; 402,000 tonnes in 2011; and 422,000 tonnes for 2012. Region Five continues to be the leading region in production, followed by Regions Six, Two, Three and Four.

Exports

Prior to 2010, Europe was the largest importer of Guyana’s rice, but, by 2012, following an agreement between former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, 66 per cent of Guyana’s rice paddy goes to Venezuela. The pull factor is that Venezuela is buying the rice at better prices. For 2013, Guyana will supply 210,000 tonnes of rice and paddy to Venezuela under an agreement sealed in May. The country still continues to satisfy its traditional markets in Europe and Caricom. At present, the GRDD exploring production of rice varieties that will create more value added opportunities for rice farmers and open more lucrative niche markets. In 2012, Guyana introduced its first crop of aromatic rice developed at the rice research centre.

SUDOKU

Make your point heard and your suggestions will be considered. Keep the competition at a distance and your superiors wellinformed. Protect your interests and you will excel.

By Bernice Bede Osol

(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Share your intentions with someone you trust. Now could be the time to suggest some changes to your loved ones. Opportunity will come from an unusual source, but you must be prepared to seize it.

You’ve got everything you need to reach your personal goals. Set your sights high and reach for the stars. You’ll learn what you need to make the right choices.

A change will do you good. It could involve travel or simply trying a new activity or mingling with a new group. You’ll make some long-lasting connections if you put yourself out there.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

(July 23Aug. 22) (Feb. 20-March 20)

Question the relevant motives before you jump into a joint endeavour. You and the other party probably do not have the same purpose in mind. Going solo may be the answer.

(March 21-April 19)

You’ll be drawn to someone for what you see as their unique qualities. Don’t fall for big talk when you have all the facts you need. Size up your situation to make changes and take control.

(April 20-May 20)

Plan a mini vacation or visit someone who brings you joy. Spending time relaxing and catching up will encourage you to make personal improvements.

(May 21June 20)

Talk less and focus on making a difference. Don’t feel the need to pay for others or to try to buy love. Do something that will raise your profile and your confidence.

Put time and effort into a major involvement, and you’ll encounter a crackerjack financial opportunity. Trust what you know, not what someone else tells you. Skill development will come in handy later.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Excess will lead to trouble. Assess your situation and you will realise you can make do with less. Aggressive behaviour will damage a close relationship, so put the other party’s interests ahead of your own.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Seek adventure and expand your knowledge. The people and places you encounter will feed your imagination and contribute major improvements to your home and work lives.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Avoid a scuffle with someone who is in a position of authority. It would be best for you to make personal changes at home, where you can remain in control and out of trouble.

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Burglary accused gets bail

A22-year-old man on Wednesday appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to the charge of break and enter and larceny.

It is alleged that on August 24 at South Ruimveldt, being in the company of others, Trevor Singh broke and entered the dwelling house of Martian Lovell and stole one laptop valued $240,000. Singh, of 3310 Buttercup Place, South Ruimveldt, was not required to plead to the charge read against him.

According to Prosecutor Seon Blackman, on the day in question, the virtual com-

plainant secured his home around 15:00h and left to conduct business. Around 16:00h, the defendant was seen walking out of Lovell’s yard by his nephew with the laptop in his hand and around 17:00h, he gave the laptop to a person named Michael.

Attorney Paul Fung-AFat, who represented Singh, told the court that on the day in question, a man came up to his client and gave him the laptop to give to someone else, but he returned it to the VC and was arrested. He also said Singh was with his father when the incident occurred. In his application for bail, Attorney Fung-AFat said it is his client’s

first offence and he will not leave the jurisdiction since he does not have any travel documents.

The prosecution objected to bail on the grounds of the nature of the offence, the punishment such an offence attracts, and the manner in which the offence was executed.

Magistrate Faith McGusty granted bail in the sum of $150,000 on condition that the defendant lodges his travel document and reports to Detective Constable Prince at the East La Penitence Police Station every Monday and Friday. The matter is set to return to Court on September 4.

Rwanda blocks proposed UN sanctions for two Congolese rebels

Rwanda blocked a joint U.S.-French proposal to impose United Nations sanctions on two senior commanders in the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo, arguing that the evidence against the men was weak, Rwandan and other UN envoys said on Wednesday.

The latest diplomatic wrangling in New York came as UN helicopters and artillery attacked M23 rebel positions near the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday in support of an offensive by the Congolese armed forces. One UN peacekeeper from Tanzania was killed and three other blue-helmeted troops were wounded.

The United States and France submitted documents to the UN Security Council’s Congo sanctions committee last week explaining why M23’s Colonel Vianney Kazarama, military spokesman for the rebel group, and Erick Mboneza, an M23 commander, should be hit with UN sanctions.

Summary execution

Among other things, those documents, seen by Reuters, cite a July Human Rights Watch report that accused Mboneza of ordering the summary execution of a 24-year-old man he said was a thief.

The documents also refer to a UN Group of Experts report that said Mboneza and an M23 Colonel Kaina, who is already subject to a UN travel ban and asset freeze for his activities in the rebel group, were seen meeting with Rwandan military officers between March and May 2013.

The Group of Experts has repeatedly accused Rwanda of supporting M23, an allegation Kigali vehemently rejects. The cross-border accusations underscore the M23 rebellion’s roots in a complex web of local politics and regional conflicts over ethnicity, land and minerals.

Rwanda’s deputy

UN ambassador, Olivier Nduhungirehe, told Reuters that Kigali blocked the proposed blacklisting, because it would have undermined regional efforts to bring peace to eastern Congo and Kampala talks between M23 and Congo’s government.

He added that the evidence supporting the U.S.French proposal was “very poor”.

Diplomats said Rwanda, a temporary council member, was the only one of the 15 member nations that opposed the idea of blacklisting the two men.

The Security Council’s sanctions committee works on the basis of consensus, which means Rwanda was able to singlehandedly block the proposed blacklisting.

In theory, council members could vote on the blacklistings in a Security Council resolution that Rwanda would be unable to block. It was not clear if the council was prepared to do that.

“Deeply regrettable”

Separately, Rwanda has repeatedly rejected council efforts to issue a public statement condemning M23 attacks on UN peacekeepers last week, UN diplomats said. Rwanda complained that the Western-drafted statement was unbalanced and unfairly targeted the M23 while ignoring attacks

by the Congolese army. Kigali initially criticised the statement for not mentioning shelling onto Rwandan territory last week, though later drafts, all seen by Reuters, did ask for the council to condemn the firing into Rwanda.

A new draft of the statement was rejected by Rwanda on Wednesday. A Rwandan delegate said in an email to other Security Council members that it could not support some of the language in the latest draft text.

One council delegation responded to the Rwandan rejection by saying , “It would be the first time when attacks on UN peacekeepers are not condemned by the Security Council. This situation is deeply regrettable,” according to a copy of the email, seen by Reuters.

But Nduhungirehe said negotiations on a statement were continuing. “We are now close to an agreement,” he said.

A 3000-strong UN intervention brigade, with a tough new mandate to protect civilians and neutralise armed groups in the mineral-rich central African nation, sprang into action last week after it accused the M23 rebels of shelling Goma. The violence has been escalating there in recent days.

(Reuters)

England still hold edge despite changes

Any event in the aftermath of an Ashes series has got its work cut out to capture the imagination but a short, sharp Twenty20 series has got a chance, with the World T20 next March adding muchneeded relevance.

Australia will also be extremely keen to take something home and recent history suggests they are a good bet to do so, with the last three Ashes winners struggling in the limited-overs matches that followed.

But Australia may have to wait until the ODI series to find much-craved success because England’s T20 squad is largely fresh and eager to impress selectors ahead of a global tournament. There are potential places in the ODI team at stake too, with England likely to continue rotation of the players involved in more than one format until preparation for the 2015 ODI World Cup begins in a year’s time.

Australia also need to reverse a poor recent record in bilateral T20 series. Since June 2010, they have only won five of 19 matches. That they managed to defy that form with a run to the semifinal of the World T20 in Sri Lanka was down to a remarkable tournament from Shane Watson and a good showing from the now-retired Mike Hussey.

George Bailey returns to lead the side along with a host of one-day specialists including Mitchell Johnson, the mere mention of whom draws guffaws from England supporters, but his good showing in the

Stuart Broad

Champions Trophy suggests he could earn their respect.

England also change captains with Stuart Broad taking the reins. He has a squad full of players in form having recently played in the Friends Life t20 and closing rounds of the Yorkshire Bank 40. Michael Carberry heads that list after over 500 runs in the Flt20 and is in line for a first international appearance since his solitary Test in Chittagong

three years ago. Ravi Bopara has also found his touch and will use the limited-overs internationals to stake a claim for a place on the Ashes tour as a potential No. 6.

It’s a big few weeks for Jos Buttler with the jury very much out on how effective his swashbuckling batting actually is. He will be mostly judged on his performances in the ODIs where there is more doubt on his ability to bat for a long pe-

riod, but he will like to get in credit during this series. His recent showings in T20s for England - two good knocks in New Zealand and good contributions in India before Christmas - plus Matt Prior’s loss of form also give him some leeway.

Mitchell Starc endured a difficult Ashes series, coming in-and-out of the side and struggling for rhythm. One-day cricket appears to be his strength and his best statistics both internationally and domestically are found in Twenty20. He was superb at the World T20 in Sri Lanka, third-highest of the wicket-takers with 10 dismissals.

England’s T20 squad is largely at full-strength with a host of options in the batting order. Michael Carberry has been called up following a super domestic season and should play one of the two matches in this series. Joe Root gives England another spin option alongside James Tredwell, with the choice of fast bowlers looking between Jade Dernbach and Boyd Rankin.

Australia have an inflated 18-man squad for this series, which will be trimmed to 15 for the ODI series. Adam Voges had a limited Flt20 for Middlesex with the bat but was their most economical bowler and, unless Fawad Ahmed is given a debut, Voges will be relied upon for some slow bowling with Glenn Maxwell also an option. There’s a choice between Aaron Finch and Shaun Marsh for the No. 3 slot with Finch having the better record from his handful of internationals. (Cricinfo)

Saqlain Mushtaq to conduct spin clinic

St John’s, ANTIGUA –Former Pakistan player and international spin bowling consultant Saqlain Mushtaq has been engaged by the West Indies Cricket Board to conduct an extensive spin bowling clinic for current and emerging West Indian players.

Twelve male spin bowlers from various age groups along with three West Indies Women’s players will participate in the three week clinic which will commence on September 3rd in Barbados.

The clinic has been organised at the request of West Indies Head Coach Ottis Gibson as part of the general upskilling of both active international players and players who are likely to come into contention for West Indies selection at various levels.

The spin bowlers selected to participate in the clinic are: Devendra Bishoo, Jesse Bootan, Yannic Cariah, Bryan Charles, Akeem Dewar, Larry Edwards, Ramaal

Lewis, Anisa Mohammed, Gudakesh MotieKanhai, Ashley Nurse, Veerasammy Permaul, Shaquana Quintyne, Shane Shillingford, Stafanie Taylor and Jomel Warrican.

Sunil Narine and Samuel Badree (participation in the Champions League T20) and Nikita Miller (pre-arranged personal engagement) were considered for participation in the clinic but are not available. Miller will depart with the West Indies A Limited Overs squad to

India as scheduled.

Permaul and Nurse will leave the clinic on September 10 for departure to India with the West Indies A Limited Overs squad. Shillingford will depart the clinic on September 20 to join the West Indies A Team in India for the ‘Test’ series.

The participants were selected by the WICB Selection Panel, chaired by Clyde Butts. The clinic concludes on September 21.

Mushtaq, widely re-

Rested and ready for Zurich 100m in Diamond League

Usain Bolt says he is rested and ready to run another fast time when he takes on the likes of Britain’s Adam Gemili over 100m at today’s Diamond League meeting in Zurich.

The Jamaican won triple gold at the World Championships earlier this month, clocking 9.77 seconds to win the 100m. “I have got a lot of rest,” said Bolt, who believes he can run below 9.80secs at the Letzigrund Stadium.

“This track is always a fast track and I’ve run some fast times here.”

Bolt, who ran 19.66secs to win the 200m at the same meeting a year ago, will also face American Justin Gatlin and fellow Jamaican Nesta Carter on Friday. They won silver and bronze respectively at the World Championships in Moscow.

Bolt held his pre-race news conference at the headquarters of FIFA, the body that governs world football.

He was greeted on arrival by FIFA president Sepp Blatter and later accepted a blue FIFA football shirt bearing his name.

Bohdan Bondarenko is also targeting a big performance in Zurich when he com-

garded as the pioneer of the now famous doosra, played 49 Tests and 169 One Day Internationals, taking a total of 496 wickets over a nine year international career. He also serves as spin bowling consultant to Bangladesh.

The WICB attempted to engage legendary former West Indies spinner Lance Gibbs to co-facilitate the clinic but he was unfortunately not available for personal reasons. (WICB Media)

petes in the high jump. The Ukrainian, who won gold at the World Championships in Moscow, is edging closer to the world record height of 2.45m, set by Cuba’s Javier Sotomayor in 1993. “My goal is the world record,” said Bondarenko. “The thing is, at this height, there are many different kinds of emotions that interfere with your concentration. This makes an attempt at the record mentally difficult.”

Perhaps the biggest contest of the night will be the women’s 5,000m.

Ethiopian rivals Meseret Defar and Tirunesh Dibaba rarely race each other outside of major championships, but the winners of the past three Olympic titles will clash over the distance in Zurich.

“The 5,000m will be a nice race, but it’s my fourth race in two weeks so I’m a bit tired,” said Defar. “I expect a tactical race because there are too many good runners in the field.”

Other world champions on show include American LaShawn Merritt (400m), American David Oliver (110m hurdles) and Kenyan duo Asbel Kiprop (1500m) and Ezekiel Kemboi (3000m steeplechase). (BBCSport)

St Lucia make clean sweep of OECS Championships

Castries, ST LUCIA - St. Lucia have made a clean sweep of the OECS Table Tennis Championships which attracted participation from only two countries and ended here over the weekend.

St Lucia emerged winners of all titles- Men’s and ladies’ teams, Men’s and ladies’ open singles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles. The host as well as the lone visiting team St Vincent and the Grenadines both fielded A and B teams.

St Kitts and Nevis were expected to attend but cancelled at the last minute due to travel difficulties. Overseas based and Canadian ranked player Dawn Charles starred in the women’s open events by sweeping all three titles.

Charles registered a quick win in the finals against Charmaine Polius 11-9, 119, 10-12, 11-8 and teamed up with Shermaine Blasse Hyacinth to win ladies’ dou-

bles against fellow St Lucian Charmaine Polius and Simone Matthews 9-11, 11-8, 11-3 and 11-4. Charles also teamed up with St Lucia’s number two Chris Wells in the mixed doubles to defeat Adrian Albert and Shermaine Hyacinth in straight sets. The most impressive Vincentian players were Tishuan Matthews and Unica Velox who placed third in the team’s event and ladies’ doubles. St Lucia’s number one ranked player Adrian Albert, a three time winner of the OECS singles title, defeated fellow St Lucian Adrian Glace in the men’s singles final 1210, 11-8, 11-2.

In the men’s doubles, Omarie Ferdinand and Adrian Glace emerged winners over Robert Ballantyne and Joseph Carrington in straight sets.

St. Lucia is now hosting the Caribbean Table Tennis Championships at the Beasejour Indoor practice facility in Gros Islet.

thursday, august 29, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Radwanska and Li Na advance

– Errani advances with double-bagel win

Third-seeded Agnieszka Radwanska needed more than an hour to capture the second set of her 6-0, 7-5 victory over MariaTeresa Torro-Flor in the second round of the U.S. Open on Wednesday.

Radwanska rolled through the first set in 21 minutes, dropping only seven points. It took her 1 hour, 6 minutes to win the second set against her 103rdranked opponent from Spain.

Radwanska, the Wimbledon runner-up last year and a semifinalist at the All England Club this year, has never made it past the fourth round in seven previous appearances at Flushing Meadows.

She finished with only 10 unforced errors, compared to 38 for her opponent.

Meanwhile, top-seeded Novak Djokovic saved seven of eight break points Tuesday night to start with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victo-

ry over former junior world No. 1, Ricardas Berankis of Lithuania.

The victory took only 82 minutes for Djokovic, seeking his second title

Ganga relished studies and cricket

Port-of-Spain, TRINIDAD - Former West Indian and national cricketer, Daren Ganga recently revealed his secret towards properly balancing one’s hectic sporting career and excelling in academics at the same time.

The ex-national captain made the unique revelation to University of London International Programmes online magazine journalist, Lisa Pierre, in a special interview last week.

Ganga, also a University of London Bsc Law with Management graduate, spoke to Pierre on many personal issues and challenges he faced as a young cricketer coming out of the rural community of Barrackpore in south Trinidad.

Travelling extensively as a national sportsman, Ganga still managed to educate himself academically, a feat that is certainly overlooked or bypassed by several top international athletes due to their chaotic sporting schedules.

With reference to balancing his cricketing career and academic future, Ganga explained, “that was a tough one. There were moments when I felt somewhat overwhelmed because of the workload and my lack of time. However, what worked to my advantage is that I truly enjoyed playing cricket — it was not just a job — so after a game, or even training, my brain would feel energised and ready to study.

“In addition, I am very competitive with myself, so I would push myself to complete my courses and excel in exams. I enjoyed the learning process and was grateful that I could both play cricket and study, so this outlook motivated me further.

In addition, my team, family and the University of London team were very supportive of my pursuits, and this was a great comfort to me.”

Recently, the London graduate gave an address at the Undergraduate Laws Programme graduation in Port-of-Spain. In his address, Ganga revealed that he was not the typical student by not studying fulltime and not completing his undergraduate degree within the stipulated time frame. However, he saluted youngsters who attempted to work hard and educate themselves at their own pace. According to Ganga, these characteristics describe “the working professional”.

In his interview with Pierre, the seasoned cricketer also spoke about some of his most memorable moments representing this nation and the regional squad. Reflecting on his first ever West Indian Test debut of South Africa back in 1998, Ganga was just 19 years old and the youngest player selected on that team.

He further explained, “it was a tremendous honour to be part of such an historic tour, at an auspicious time in history: we were the first West Indies team to tour post-apartheid South Africa.

“I must admit it was also very intimidating to be playing among the likes of Brian Lara, Courtney Walsh and Curtly Ambrose and I felt

immense pressure to prove myself and make my mark. In the end, I just believed in myself and tried my best, always seeking to learn from the other senior players, and stretching myself to grow as much as possible at that stage in my career.”

Confessing his greatest sporting moment, Ganga declared, “there are so many memorable moments that I can think of. However, the one that stands out the most, one I will always treasure, is being presented my West Indies Test cap in South Africa in 1998 upon my International Test debut.”

In conclusion, Ganga revealed to the English-based journalist on his dreams of creating a better Trinidad and Tobago all round. However, he also highlighted the many struggles that several locals face on a daily basis towards making basic ends meet.

“Citizens of Trinidad and Tobago are indeed blessed with many opportunities to better themselves. We currently have free education up to the tertiary level, free sporting camps and clinics across the country, and numerous activities in which young people may become involved to develop their talents. That being said, many families do continue to struggle to make ends meet, let alone push their children to pursue their goals. It is my hope that young people hold on to their dreams, regardless of whatever tenuous circumstances, and seek out and take advantage of avenues to excel.

“At the same time, I hope that Foundations such as the Daren Ganga Foundation and the many others that are doing such good work, receive the corporate support required to reach more and more young people, and truly make a positive difference in their lives,” he ended.

(Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)

and fourth straight final at Flushing Meadows.

It was a quiet evening at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the packed crowd barely cheered during the

most routine of matches.

One of the few exciting moments came on the first point of the third set, when Djokovic lobbed Berankis and Berankis replied with

a backward shot between his legs that Djokovic calmly flicked away for a volley winner.

The top-seeded Serb hit 28 winners, with only nine unforced errors.

Fourth-seeded Sara Errani posted a ‘’double bagel’’ Tuesday, routing ‘’lucky loser’’ Olivia Rogowska 6-0, 6-0 to advance to the second round.

Errani, the 2012 French Open runner-up and a semifinalist at Flushing Meadows last year, needed 51 minutes in Armstrong Stadium to dispatch her 151st-ranked opponent, who lost in qualifying but made it into the main draw when Ayumi Morita withdrew with an injury.

Errani won 54 points to 23 for Rogowska.

BCCI’s "operation clean-up" yet to take off

Three months after announcing a plethora of measures to clean up the game, the BCCI’s ambitious plan is yet to take off and is unlikely to make any progress till the board’s AGM at the end of September.

While the BCCI has not offered any explanation for the delay in implementation of the plan announced in the wake of the IPL corruption scandal, it is understood to be a victim of the current leadership crisis in the board.

The decisions were announced in two phases. On May 19, four days after three Rajasthan Royals players were arrested on charges of spot-fixing in the IPL, BCCI president N Srinivasan announced the board’s decision to get players’ agents accredited. That was followed, on June 10, by Jagmohan Dalmiya, the board’s acting president, unveiling what he called ‘operation clean-up’, which aimed to curb corruption and remove “sleaze” in the IPL by enforcing a “strict code of conduct”. It included a requirement for players to reveal sources of their earnings, and for IPL team owners to furnish details of payments and their contractual obligations with players and support staff.

So far, though, those decisions and proposals have remained on paper. The BCCI, which trumpeted those announcements under the spotlight, has been quiet about them ever since and is still short on specifics. “We are still in the process to act upon the decisions. Hopefully, it will be done soon,” BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel told ESPNcricinfo earlier this week.

Dalmiya said the issues were being discussed. “All the procedures about implementation of operation clean-up and player agents accreditation are being discussed. We will let you know once there is an update,” he said.

Neither gave reasons for the delay, and it is understood that nothing will be done before the September AGM. This is mainly because there is no clear leadership in the board. Though Dalmiya is handling the board’s day-to-day affairs, many senior officials feel the board lacks a leader who has the clout to actually implement such a highprofile operation. There is also a feeling within the board that there is no urgency required since most of these proposed changes are related to the IPL.

Meanwhile, those affected by the proposals are yet to hear from the board, directly or indirectly. They feel the sooner it is done the better it will be in terms of bringing in transparency into their business.

The board never spelt out its modus operandi but it believed that the central-

N Srinivasan

ly contracted players will be asked to give details of their representatives, who will then be asked to submit their relevant documents. The move, when first announced, had evoked a mixed response from player agents, a group that, barring an exception or two, has few friends among cricket administrators. One of the leading player agents hoped that the BCCI’s announcement on May 19 “wasn’t a farce” and they would formalise the procedure “before the cricket season begins at home”.

The need for bringing player agents on board was underlined during the spot-fixing scandal that saw many of players’ agentcum-friends hanging around in the team hotel. Jiju Janardhanan, an alleged bookie who was a friend of Sreesanth, may have posed as the fast bowler’s agent.

The decision to ask players to reveal their financial interests had been announced following revelations of India and Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni’s involvement with Rhiti Sports Management, a company that also manages some of the other prominent Indian cricketers.

Since the BCCI does not recognise any player agent as of now, all the demands will be made directly to the players. A BCCI contracted player confirmed that he had not received any notification seeking either his manager’s details or those about his financial transactions. The player added the delay will “unnecessarily keep a sword hanging over players’ financial status and genuine player agents”. (Cricinfo)

MCY&S congratulates “golden boy” Shewdass

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCY&S) has described record-breaking Guyanese powerlifter, Gumendra Shewdass, as the “golden boy” after he became Guyana’s youngest world champion in powerlifting at the World Juniors and Sub-Juniors Powerlifting Championships in Killeen, Texas, USA.

The 18-year-old Berbician on Monday recorded 475.5kgs en route to winning the gold medal in the 53kg sub junior class.

The 2012 runner-up Junior Sportsman-of-theyear’s closest rival was U.S.A’s Dalton La Coe, who finished a distant second with a total of 425kg in the bench press, squat and deadlift.

Shewdas’ best squat of 180kg and bench press of 90kg were below La Coe’s 182.5kg (squat), 105kg (bench press) heading into the deadlifts, but a huge lift of 205kg on his second attempt thrust the Guyanese into the lead.

With Shewdas holding the psychological advantage, La Coe only mustered a lift of 137.5kg and failed twice at 192.5kg. Russia’s Alexei Kula-kov was third with a total of 412.5kg.

In a congratulatory message to the young man on Wednesday, Sport Minister

Dr Frank Anthony said the ministry shares in the glow of Shewdass’ success with a sense of pride and satisfaction.

“The pride emanates from the fact that it was with a sense of patriotic triumph that Guyanese and the sporting world viewed Shewdass and the Golden Arrowhead standing at the top of the podium with two world sporting powers– the USA and Russia– as his mere runnersup,” a release stated.

“The satisfaction is also derived from the ministry’s decision to approve last-minute travel assistance for the

now golden boy Gumendra and his dedicated manager Denroy Livan. The ministry had responded to an impassioned plea from executives of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) for the two tickets to Killeen, Texas, so convinced were they that their disciplined charge Shewdass would perform at his prize-winning best.”

Anthony said all Guyanese should be proud of the “historic triumph.”

“That history was made by virtue of the fact that the young powerlifting world champ is just an 18-year-

old teenager speaks to his rigid devotion to the sport, exemplified by his discipline. His trainer-manager Denroy Livan is on record as reporting that even when Gumendra seemed poised to panic, he regained composure to follow every strategic instruction given by him (Livan) in terms of when and how to approach his final lifts,” the release added.

The release also stated that the disciplines of bodybuilding and powerlifting are slowly, but surely, catapulting Guyana into the world’s sporting limelight.

“Whilst the ministry stands ready to assist the relevant associations with appropriate resources, Shewdass’ participation and international triumph should motivate all of Guyana’s sporting bodies to employ continuous, structured fund-raising activities to make themselves relatively self-reliant.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is confident that the National Sports Commission will, in some significant manner, recognise the historic accomplishment of the teenaged sporting sensation and golden boy- Berbician Gumendra Shewdass. Congrats too to all of his handlers and the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) whose faith was amply rewarded.”

Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich stops funding Russian football

The Russian billionaire and Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich is stopping his funding for Russian football.

His spokesman at the investment firm Millhouse said Abramovich’s National Football Academy (NFA) in Russia had “fulfilled its objectives”.

The news website Forbes says that since 2010, Abramovich has reduced his funding for Russian football. There are no reports of any dispute.

Reports say the NFA funded some 130 new pitches and spent up to $200m (£129m).

The NFA, set up in 2004, also paid for youth coaching programmes in Russia. Abramovich began funding Russian football shortly after buying

Chelsea.

In 2005-2010 Abramovich helped to fund the Russian national football team, including the $7m annual salary of its Dutch coach, Guus Hiddink, Russian media report. Hiddink was succeeded as coach by fellow Dutchman Dick Advocaat in 2010.

Russia failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

After Hiddink’s departure, the NFA stopped covering the expenses of the Russian Football Union. The Russian gas monopoly Gazprom took over that role.

Forbes puts Abramovich 13th in its ranking of Russia’s 200 richest businessmen, with a fortune estimated at $10.2bn. (BBC Sport)

Everton squeeze past Stevenage

Marouane Fellaini’s extra-time goal against Stevenage in the Capital One Cup earned Roberto Martinez his first win as Everton boss.

Stevenage went in front with their first shot of the game, Luke Freeman scoring after Everton failed to clear Oumare Tounkara’s cross.

But Spanish teenager

Gerard Deulofeu equalised on the stroke of half-time when he curled in after a jinking run.

Substitute Fellaini sealed victory five minutes from the end of extra time.

The Belgium international midfielder, who has been linked with joining former Everton boss David Moyes at Manchester United, received a good reception when

he joined the action after 96 minutes and promptly reminded Goodison Park of his value, his close-range strike sending the Merseysiders through to a third-round clash with Fulham.

Stevenage had proved tough opponents, however, and almost snatched victory in the last minute of normal time through boyhood Everton fan Greg Tansey.

Barcelona win record 11th Super Cup

Barcelona won a record 11th Spanish Super Cup on away goals as they drew 0-0 with Atletico Madrid after Lionel Messi’s late penalty miss.

Having earned a 1-1 draw with Diego Simeone’s side in the first leg, Barca were subdued and Messi out of sorts.

And they were indebted to goalkeeper Victor Valdes, who saved shots from Arda Turan and David Villa.

Atletico lost their discipline late on as Filipe Luis saw red before Pedro was tripped for Messi’s spotkick.

The 89th-minute penalty award for a challenge by Miranda appeared harsh

but Argentine Messi sent his spot-kick against the crossbar anyway. The drama did not end there as Turan was sent off for protesting against the referee’s decision, despite already having been substituted.

Luis’s card came after he appeared to swing an arm at Dani Alves nine minutes from the end.

Neymar, who scored in the first leg and started his first game for the Catalan side, failed to link up well with Messi.

But victory for Barcelona earned them their 16th trophy in nearly four years and the first of new boss Gerardo Martino’s reign. (BBC Sport)

Broad defends decision to rest England Ashes stars for ODIs

Stuart Broad has called former skipper Michael Vaughan “disrespectful” for criticising the decision to rest several Ashes players for the one-day internationals against Australia.

Captain Alastair Cook, batsman Ian Bell, off-spinner Graeme Swann and seamers James Anderson and Broad are absentees.

Vaughan said on Twitter that England fans should be given a partial refund.

The five-match NatWest Series starts on September 6 at Headingley.

Kevin Pietersen, Joe Root, Jonathan Trott and Steven Finn were the only players selected in the ODI squad who played some part in the Ashes.

Michael Carberry, Chris Jordan, Jamie Overton and former Ireland international Boyd Rankin - all uncapped by England in ODIs - are included.

Deulofeu, who is at Goodison on a season-long loan from Barcelona, was one of four players to make their full debut in a muchchanged Everton side. England full-back Leighton Baines, who is also interesting United, was an unused substitute but was also applauded as he warmed up. (BBC Sport)

Eoin Morgan takes over as captain from Cook.

Vaughan thought it unfair of England to sell tickets to fans who would have been under the impression they would get to see most of the Ashes winners in action.

Broad said: “I think they’re [Vaughan’s comments] disrespectful to the side that’s going to go out on the field.

“There are guys who have performed throughout the county season to get a chance at the international level.

“As an ODI team, we’re building towards that 2015 World Cup where you need to have a big group of players going into it with experience of international caps.

“They wouldn’t be in the squad if they’re not good enough play and that ODI squad will be very focused on beating Australia.

“I know if I was paying to go and watch, I’d want to go and watch England beat Australia, that’s it.”

Vaughan had tweeted on Tuesday: “I would have only rested Captain Cook. Plenty of time to rest from Sept 16th - Nov 21st!!!? Can’t sell tickets then rest 5 star names!!!!

“No problems resting players but I think supporters who have paid good money to watch the best should get a small refund...” (BBC Sport)

But T20 captain Broad, speaking before the twomatch T20 series against Australia, which begins in Southampton today, has defended the decision, insisting certain players in the Ashes squad needed a rest and that their replacements would be more than a match for Australia.

Diamond tennis camp deemed a success by Jumana

The just-concluded Diamond Tennis Club/Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) junior tennis camp was hailed as a success by president of the club, Ricky Jumana.

Jumana stated that the camp has seen an increase in the number of participants from the previous year, which he attributed to the love for the game along the East Bank of Demerara. The fourth annual tennis camp attracted over 45 participants this year.

He said the large turn -

out of junior players is a clear indication that residents in the area and surrounding villages are very receptive to the sport.

“It was good that we had in excess of 30 juniors; we were hoping to have just about 30 juniors when we were planning and have exceeded that amount and that is good for the East Bank area, to see such a turn out for these activities,” Jumana said.

Playing of tennis should not stop at the camp for the junior players, he also said. Jumana said the club is commit -

ted to having the junior players fully trained and at the top of the game, so they can also be a part of team Guyana, to compete on the regional and international stage.

“We have invited them to participate in the club; along with that we have issued them with club forms so that they can join the club after this camp. They can also access all the facilities at the GBTI Diamond tennis courts,” the president pointed out.

Meanwhile, coach Leyland Leacock, who assisted in training the par -

ticipants, highlighted that with the success of the camp he is expecting more persons or players from the area to join the sport. He too was very happy to see the turnout, which he noted was way beyond the expectation of the club.

Camps like these, the Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) said, would help foster the game and develop well-rounded and top class junior athletes.

The GTA said it is from events such as these that players have emerged to represent Guyana at regional competitions.

15 female volleyball players shortlisted for IGG

Following a practice session at the National Gymnasium last weekend, national female volleyball coach

Trevor Smith shortlisted 15 Under-19 players to repre-

sent Guyana at the InterGuiana Games, set for October 16-20 in Suriname.

The players shortlisted are: Jana Gabriella Edghill, Natasha Candace Skeete, Allana Bose, Nicolette

Harlequin, Krystal Sukra, Gabreal Chalmers, Shana Yan, Kerri Yan, Malika Jarvis, Tamala Felix, Kathleen Andrea Victor, Shenne Suezette Subrattie, Vashti Pooran, Taniesah

Cort and Darshanie Pooran.

According to Smith the players will be involved in regular practice sessions during the upcoming weeks.

Zimbabwe chase history amid gloom

Zimbabwe’s shock win in the first ODI was their first against Pakistan in 15 years, but now the beleaguered team has a chance to go one better - a win in one of the remaining two matches today will give Zimbabwe their first bilateral series win against a top side since beating New Zealand 2-1, 12 years ago.

The win on Tuesday gave Zimbabwe a chance to celebrate amid the gloom; a series win would inject some much-needed faith.

Zimbabwe coach Andy Waller said the success was the fruit of two months of hard work, during which the team has attempted to fine-tune its game plan of the top order making sure they lay the platform for the stroke-makers in the middle order. The manner in which the top three handled the chase in the first part exemplified the team’s methods and Zimbabwe will pin their hopes on the three to do the same at least one

more time.

The batting plan has seemed to work in the last few matches and the bowling has been steady for the conditions, but Zimbabwe need to focus some attention on the fielding. Once one of the best fielding sides, Zimbabwe’s fielding has withered away. Had they taken all the chances that came their way on Tuesday, they could have restricted Pakistan to an even lower score. Waller

said that one of his goals is to take Zimbabwe’s fielding to the level it used to be in the ‘90s and the team is working hard towards it, but poor performances during the matches pull the team back.

The fielding didn’t hurt Zimbabwe on Tuesday as Pakistan made a few errors of their own. Apart from losing the tempo during their batting and the sloppy fielding towards the end of the match, Pakistan misread the pitch and batted first on a surface that Masakadza later said “gets better in the afternoon”. They are armed with the knowledge now and Zimbabwe expect Pakistan to come back harder at them.

But Pakistan can be the most beatable of the top sides and unbeatable on the same day. They are the Harvey Dent of cricket: which side turns up on a day seems to be a result of an imaginary coin toss.

In the spotlight

Zimbabwe’s openers,

Celtic reach Champions League

James Forrest’s stoppage-time strike took Celtic into the Champions League group stage after a dramatic aggregate win over Shakhter Karagandy on Wednesday.

It took until time added on in the first half for Celtic to reduce the 2-0 firstleg deficit through a superb long-range strike from Kris Commons.

But Georgios Samaras then levelled the tie three minutes after the break.

Both sides struck the crossbar before Anthony Stokes set up Forrest to fire home for a deserved, if nervy, win.

The strike sent a delirious Neil Lennon sprinting along the touchline to join in the celebrations with his players, as Celtic Park erupted in noise in front of a watching Nir Biton, the Israeli star set to join on a three-year deal this week.

“That was the greatest thing I’ve ever done in football,” said Lennon.

“The last three months were in preparation for this. We lost three very important players [Victor Wanyama, Gary Hooper and Kelvin Wilson] and it has been difficult to replace them. Coming from 2-0 down tonight just makes the players all the more remarkable.

“They were wonderful, absolutely wonderful.”

Masakadza and Vusi Sibanda, have been batting together since their school days and that familiarity with each other helped them focus during their century partnership on Tuesday.

Masakadza later said that they talked about how their stand was going to be critical for the team’s chances in the chase. The two negated Pakistan’s bowlers with ease and that opening stand will again be crucial to Zimbabwe’s chances.

It wasn’t long ago that Shahid Afridi, on his comeback trail, ripped through West Indies with bat and ball. Since that explosive performance, Afridi has gone into a shell. He hardly caused a flutter with the bat in the first ODI when the team needed some late push, while his bowling lacked zip and he was taken for easy runs. Pakistan would hope the allrounder doesn’t wait to fire till his place in the side is in doubt again. (Cricinfo)

Victory took Celtic, who reached the last 16 last season, into the group stages for the second year running and ended the Kazakhstan champions’ hopes of being the first side from their country to go beyond the qualifiers.

Lennon had ditched the central defensive pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Steven Mouyokolo that was much criticised in Astana, along with left-back Emilio Izaguirre.

Mikael Lustig moved inside from right-back to partner Efe Ambrose, with Lennon looking for Adam Matthews and Charlie Mulgrew to add attacking flair from the flanks.

The result was instant pressure on the Shakhter defence and goalkeeper Alexandr Mokin superbly palmed the ball over as Lustig rose to head powerfully at goal following a cross from Kris Commons.

Forrest had a powerful drive from the edge of the box turned over by Mokin,

who then pushed clear off the line from a header by fitagain Stokes.

The goalkeeper was having an inspired night and, even when he looked to be caught out by Commons’ shot-come-cross, he managed to fly across his line to turn the free-kick clear.

Shakhter were putting bodies on the line in a desperate but increasingly effective effort to deny Celtic clear-cut chances, while displaying a growing confidence that they could hurt their hosts.

The visitors had shown their prowess at long throws in the first leg and the muchchanged home defence were finding the set-pieces increasingly troublesome.

That frustration boiled over with Celtic captain Scott Brown, back to his hot-headed worst, aiming a stamp at Gediminas Vicius that would probably have received a red card had it been spotted by the officials.

However, Celtic continued to probe and, just when Shakhter looked like surviving until half-time, Commons gathered from Samaras and sent a powerful shot past Mokin from 25 yards.

Celtic’s momentum continued after the break and they were level in the tie when Lustig’s mis-hit shot found Samaras and the Greek forward beat Mokin from 12 yards.

Shakhter responded but when Forster could only parry Andrei Finonchenko’s 22yard drive straight to Sergei Khizhnichenko in front of goal, the striker was foiled by an offside flag as well as his poor control.

Stokes ought to have put Celtic ahead on aggregate but somehow volleyed against the crossbar after a Forrest cross found him clear at the back post.

Celtic were then fortunate to escape at the other end when Nikola Vasiljevic’s header was cleared off the line by Matthews and, from another long throw, Khizhnichenko flicked the ball against the crossbar.

Just when a toiling Forrest looked poised to be substituted and the tie seemed destined for extratime, Stokes weaved his way into the penalty box before turning the ball into the path of the winger to fire in off the underside of the bar.

(BBC Sport)

Umpire Duguid relishes Limacol CPL experience

By Avenash Ramzan

Guyana’s lone active international umpire, Nigel Duguid, said the Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was a great experience and the tournament has the potential to develop into something massive.

The 43-year-old Duguid officiated in eight games of the 24-match tournamentsix as an on-field umpire and two as the television umpire.

Duguid’s duties included being the television umpire in the first semi-final between the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel and the Guyana Amazon Warriors, and the on-field official in the second semi-final involving the Jamaica Tallawahs and the Barbados Tridents and the grand final featuring the Jamaica Tallawahs and the Guyana Amazon Warriors, all at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad and Tobago.

“It was a great experi-

INSIDE TODAY’S SPORT P22

Alfred, who presided over two games, and Gyanand Sookdeo, who filled the role of fourth umpire.

received by the fans who filled the venues, so I think the Limacol CPL is a step in the right direction.”

Duguid started officiating in regional cricket in September 2010, and in January 2012 became a part of the International Cricket Council (ICC) list of international umpires.

Since then he has been a busy man, travelling to different countries to render his services. Earlier this year, he stood in 10 matches in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Ireland from July 19 to August 2.

New Zealander.

“He was of great help to us; he was always giving us advice and encouragement. For me he was able to keep me relaxed and comfortable during the matches we did together,” Duguid reflected.

On the other hand, he called the organisers’ use of Zing bails and stumps as “great innovation”. The think tank of the tournament also placed cameras on the peaks of the umpires’ caps during the semi-finals and final.

ence for me. To be part of the atmosphere, seeing the sold out crowds and witnessing some of the world’s best players in the format was a really great moment for me,” Duguid, who started umpir-

ing 13 years ago, told this publication on Wednesday.

Duguid was among three Guyanese who formed part of the panel of officials for the franchise-based tournament. The others were Colin

Speaking on the future of the Limacol CPL, Duguid said he is confident the tournament will grow into something spectacular in years to come. He said, “It can only make cricket better in the region and I’m positive it will get bigger and better as time progresses. It is clear that the franchise system is well

Upon his return from Ireland, Duguid took up duties in the Limacol CPL, where he was part of a distinguished group of regional umpires who were assigned to the various matches.

The affable Billy Bowden was the lone umpire from outside the region who was part of the panel, and according to Duguid, he was able to receive great advice from the

The officials for the Limacol CPL were Nigel Duguid, Billy Bowden, Gregory Brathwaite, Peter Nero, Patrick Gustard, Carl Tuckett, Joel Wilson, Colin Alfred, Gyanand Sookdeo, Leslie Reifer, Danesh Ramdhani, Verdayne Smith, Christopher Taylor, Christopher Wright, Felix Auguiste, Anthony Sonawar, Francis Morris, Sylvan Leacock and Kevin Sisnett. Mike Procter and Hayden Bruce were the match referees.

Fourth Neal and Massy 10k race and fitness walk launched

Lucrative cash prizes will be up for grabs when the fourth running of the Neal and Massy Guyana 10k Road Race and Fitness Walk is held on September 15.

This was disclosed at the launch at the company’s Ruimveldt head office on Wednesday. Over $1M in cash and prizes will be on offer for Guyana’s best middle and long distance runners.

The open winners in the male and female categories will pocket $75,000 each while the first, second, third and fourth runners-up in both categories will carry home $60,000,$40,000,$15,000 and $10,000 each respectively.

In the 16-19 junior category, the winners will receive $50,000 each while the second, third, fourth and fifth place finishers will collect $30,000,$20,000,$10,000

and $5,000 each respectively.

In the Masters’ categories for women 35 years and older and men, 40-55 years, the top three finishers will collect $40, 000, $20,000 and $15,000 each. The men, 56 years and older, will receive hampers.

The race starts 06:00h

at Diamond, East Bank Demerara and ends in front of the Neal and Massey office while the fitness walk starts at the Demerara Harbour Bridge 15 minutes later and ends at Neal and Massey.

At the launch, defending open champions, Cleveland Ford and Alika Morgan

stated that they are prepared to defend their titles. Morgan also called for other corporate entities like Neal and Massey to sponsor similar races and fitness walks.

CEO of Neal and Massey, Deo Persaud indicated that the company is pleaded to support the

event on an annual basis. He also revealed that the fifth edition will run off in Berbice and Essequibo. Also speaking briefly was AAG president, Aubrey Hutson, who hailed Neal and Massy for their sponsorship and encouraged the athletes better last year’s times.