30th June 2013

Sterling Products Limited awards six Grade Six students

Six students who were successful at Guyana’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examinations were recognised on Thursday at the Sterling Products Limited (SPL) annual bursary awards ceremony.

The recipients of the award were Hilmar Chester, Shemroy Melville, Sabriyah Mulchand, Jessica Mangru, Emanuel Thomas and Deandre Williams.

In his address to the students, SPL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramsay Ali congratulated the students on their success and encouraged them to strive for higher goals in their pursuit of ac-

ademic excellence.

“We are very proud to recognise your efforts and achievement at the National Grade Six Assessment examinations. I encourage you to use these funds constructively, in a way that would benefit your education,” he said. Ali encouraged the students to forge ahead in order to achieve greater academic success and urged them to meet the challenges of a rapidly developing technological world.

Twelve-year-old Hilmar Chester, speaking on behalf of the other students, thanked SPL for the award and committed to continue working hard in the new academic year.

SPL Finance Controller Deodat Indar said the company is pleased to recognise students for their efforts and hopes that it would serve to motivate them to continue improving their performance. SPL has been awarding students who excel at their examinations for the past 10 years.

Persaud congratulates Harding on re-election

Natural Resources and the Environment

Minister Robert Persaud has congratulated Patrick Harding on his re-election as president of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA).

Minister Persaud applauded Harding for his leadership and wished him another successful and productive tenure in office.

“The Ministry of Natural of Natural Resources and the Environment looks forward to continued collaboration with Harding and executive members of the GGDMA to consolidate and expand a very important sector,” a release said.

The GGDMA was initially established 1982. The rationale for the establishment of this organisation was based on two factors: the establishment of the autonomous body for mining, the GGMC in 1979, and the establishment of the Gold Board in 1981 as the sole authority to purchase gold in Guyana.

Today, the association is registered under the Trade Union’s Act and its membership is made up of large, medium and small scale miners.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, June 30 from 10:30h to 12:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, June 30 from 09:25h to 11:55h.

WEATHER TODAY

Countrywide: Thundery showers are expected during the day, with clear skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East north-easterly at 3.12 to 4.02 metres per second.

High Tide: 04:04h and 16:37h reaching maximum heights of 2.81 metres and 2.66 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 10:08h and 22:25h reaching minimum heights of 0.38 metre and 0.54 metre respectively.

Judicial backlog a problem not only in Guyana – Professor Hamilton

– AG says govt taking steps to enhance

By Michael younge

University of London

Law Professor Jenny Hamilton said the challenges which arise as a result of having to deal with a backlog of cases in the judicial and a relatively slow justice system are not unique to Guyana or the wider Caribbean.

Dr Hamilton was at the time speaking during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times while on a business visit here to shed more light on the University of London’s relationship with Nations University to provide its law degree programme to Guyanese at an affordable cost and on flexible terms.

Access to justice

“I think this is an issue that is not peculiar to Guyana. It affects just about every other country in the world. In the United Kingdom, there are similar issues about access to justice, the speed of the courts and there was a very influential reforms programme which commenced in the UK to address these,” she said.

Hamilton’s comments come on the heels of heated debates and public exchanges about the state of the country’s judiciary and the need for more to be done to enhance citizens’ access to speedy justice and an effective administration system.

She alluded to the system in England while highlighting the fact that several other aggressive reforms have taken shape in the sector to ensure citizens and

their communities benefit from quality representation and an effectively functioning judiciary which she noted is critical in the world today.

Professor Hamilton declared too that developing countries must accept that justice must not only be “procedural” in nature, but must also be speedy and substantial. “It’s not just a case of being able to get to court quickly, but it’s a case of being able to get substantial justice when you get to court,” she said.

“It is a challenge,” she continued, as she lauded Nations University for seeking to provide Guyanese with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the law and to have access to a legal education which would empower their activism while strengthening their understanding of their rights.

Not automatic

Asked about the need to improve the functional quality of students that leave these law programmes and attempt to practice, Dr Hamilton said that mastering theory and the basic requirements of a programme do not mean that one will automatically have the ability to be a skilled communicator or public speaker.

Using the law degree offered by the University of London, which started some 100 years ago, Professor Hamilton said that young lawyers have to demonstrate that they have the competency and ability to perform after acquiring the degree.

justice system

Meanwhile, Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall has endorsed the sentiments expressed by Professor Hamilton. Speaking with this newspaper from New York on Saturday, Nandlall said the problem with the backlog of cases has been recognised in Guyana and the Caribbean and governments are actively implementing measures to deal with it.

“The solution is not in a singular remedy, but it’s in a concatenation of initiatives designed to bring expediency to the judiciary,” he said. The AG said that Professor Hamilton was accurate about the need for speedy justice and the impact this could have on the administration of justice in Guyana, the Caribbean and the wider world.

Initiatives

Guyana, he reminded, has embarked on a series of such initiatives which include paying judges an incentive to deal with and dispose of cases that are in the system for a long period of time and effecting legislative changes designed to augment speedy judicial disposal of cases.

The attorney general, who is also the legal affairs minister, reported that government had commenced a process which would see the establishment of more specialised courts where cases

in a particular area of law are dealt with by these entities. “Very soon,” Nandlall said, “the laborious task of judges and magistrates having to take evidence manually could become largely an automated process”.

“So these various mechanisms and initiatives are what we are doing in Guyana to achieve the results of addressing the backlog issue because we recognise that the timely and reliable delivery of justice is important to the economic development of our country,” he said.

“Investors will not have confidence in a country that does not have a system which can effectively resolve legal and commercial disputes and we recognise this as a fundamental tool to the development of Guyana,” added Nandlall.

Sunday Times Editor: Tajeram Mohabir

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

Mailing address:

238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

Bad food habits and waste

One of the ironies of improved incomes in developing countries has been the increasing consumption of unhealthy foods. Another has been the excessive packaging waste that is generated from this increase in food products.

The Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has already noted that increased incomes in developing populations often lead to a transition to unhealthy diets – from foods often packed into a variety of non-biodegradable packaging. Processed and convenience food packages and containers are the main substances to be found in many landfill sites in these countries. Sites that lag behind in their capabilities to adequately contain the mountains of waste generated.

Because these developing countries often cannot yet afford the more efficient but – for meagre budgets – expensive methods of waste collection and disposal, increasing waste leads to unhygienic disposal and sites, and frequent public health hazards.

In Guyana, one only has to see the waste generated after a “lime”, street fête or entertainment concert to understand the enormity of the situation. Non-biodegradable food containers and wrappers clog drains and litter streets, continuously beleaguering cash-strapped authorities responsible for waste disposal.

In addition, there is an urgency needed in both citizens and authorities to recognise and understand the need for healthier food consumption, and not see increasing importation and consumption of unhealthy foods as signs of improving personal and national economies.

Much of the increase in unhealthy food consumption creates public health crises like obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease that add to the burden of fledgling developing health ministries. Developed countries are already facing such public health crises as a result of poor food choices in the face of unhealthy food options as medical care costs skyrocket.

According to a recent book, “Rich Food, Poor Food”, by Mira and Jason Calton, some ingredients found mainly in processed foods in the U.S. have been banned in other countries for their harmful health effects. These foods, imported mostly from the U.S. however, can be found stocked in most supermarkets across Guyana, and it is not difficult to make the assertion that we are obviously not making the best choices when it comes to importing foods.

It is imperative that steps be taken to monitor our food imports while educating consumers in healthier eating habits, as ways of ensuring the Guyanese population is protected from future health problems. In the UK for example, authorities there have banned foods containing olestra, an ingredient commonly found in low and non-fat products in the U.S., for its damaging gastrointestinal effects on its citizens. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT),found in some brand name U.S. cereals, have also been banned in England and Japan as known cancer-causing agents.

Why then should Guyana allow the import of such unsafe products, to be consumed by its citizens, and why should Guyana allow the import of products that create excessive waste that our limited budgets can scarcely manage?

Truth be told, there is little food that needs to be imported to maintain our good health. Guyana is quite capable of producing a majority of the fruits and vegetables, meat and fish necessary to maintain healthy diets. Such biodegradable foods need not lead to excessive waste that consumes landfill sites and creates environmental pollution.

To some extent, the current demand for packaged, imported foods that are often unhealthy, can be seen as a demand for ill health and excessive waste that many Guyanese seem to prefer as part of their extreme desire for foreign food products.

Seemingly a sign of their increasing spending power, Guyanese are gobbling up foreign foods as fast as they arrive in the country, increasing the number of diet related diseases, and leaving a trail of trash that has already overwhelmed our inadequate garbage collection and disposal services.

The large scale importation of unhealthy foods is not only unnecessary in terms of foreign currency expenditure, but also in terms of nutrition and consumption. It is by no means a call to ban food imports, but rather a call to temper the range of unhealthy foods currently being imported that bring with them unrecyclable waste.

Improving our nutritional intake is essential to improving the quality of our lives as the country develops, but feeding our young children and ourselves the wrong kinds of food and living with excessive trash is no way to begin improving the quality of our lives.

Correcting reports on New York real estate fraud among Guyanese

Dear Editor,

This is to correct reports in two other newspapers that reported that New York-based Guyanese realtor Ed Ahmad was the source of information that led to the indictment of Guyanese American State Senator John Sampson. Letters sent to both papers correcting their reports were not published. The reputed New York Times reported it was St Albans Senator Shirley Huntley, and not Ahmad, who was the source of information that led to the indictment of Sampson. Huntley, a Southerner, mentored several Queens politicians and almost all of them have been indicted for financial impropriety.

I surveyed several Guyanese, associates as well as critics of Ahmad, on whether he was the source of information against Sampson. They are divided on the subject. I also interviewed a few victims of real estate schemes and attended seminars, as a community advocate and as a reporter, on the subject to learn about the fraud. I, myself, was interviewed by a reporter of the New York Times for my views on the Richmond Hill real estate fraud.

The Times reporter asked me specific questions about mortgage and real estate fraud among Guyanese, as well as my views on Ahmad. My responses straddled the middle lane, as the New York Guyanese community, in my study on the real estate issue, revealed both negative and positive views of Ahmad, as well as on other prominent Guyanese.

An objective commentator and academic researcher must present both sides of the issue and that was not presented in the reports of the Guyana papers. Several mainstream Queens-based weeklies, as well as the rep-

utable New York Times, reported that Huntley was the source of the information to indict several prominent African American politicians from the city. The Times noted that she “was wired” and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tapped several of these politicians making compromising statements.

On how the community feels about the news item, Ahmad’s friends are divided into whether they feel he also “ratted” on Sampson. Some said “he could have” while others said “they don’t think he did”. Critics and opponents of Ahmad felt he “told on Sampson” without offering evidence.

It is noted that real estate and mortgage fraud was not limited to the Guyanese or just Richmond Hill. In fact, realtors and mortgage agents from other ethnic communities did worse than Guyanese but they are not hauled before the courts. Many Guyanese feel the community is targeted. I have not seen reports on how the real estate fraud affected other communities. There were and are tens of thousands of victims of all communities. But it appears a selected few real estate and mortgage agents, as well as lawyers and insurance agents, were targeted for discipline, while others escaped scotch free.

Real estate fraud is wrong and must be condemned. Perpetrators must face the brunt of the law. My interviews with Guyanese who lost their homes found very little sympathy for Ahmad and or for the several real estate agents, mortgage brokers and agents, lawyers, and insurance agents and brokers, among others, who were convicted on the various schemes.

However, Ahmad also re-

ceived praise for his financial support of community events. He sponsored sporting events, pageants and cultural variety shows. He gave hefty donations toward the construction of and support for masjids and Islamic events and educational programmes. He also sponsored Hindu calendars and clocks one year to promote his business among Guyanese Hindus, for which he was chided by radical clerics. More than half of Ahmad’s real estate agents are Hindus and more than half of his clients (home purchasers, sellers and renters) were and are Hindus. Also, over half of his commissions came from Hindus.

Further, more than half of his friends and associates are Hindus. And while I am not a friend of Ahmad – most of his friends have abandoned him now because of his legal trouble – I was invited to several of his social and religious events (Eid celebration, for example), as a community reporter and I did pen several reports on them.

Few real estate and mortgage fraud victims accept responsibility for their decisions to acquire homes, knowing they did not qualify for the huge mortgage to which they affixed their signature, accepting the legal and financial ramifications. Several real estate and mortgage agents told me that Guyanese would come to them pleading for help to be a home owner. So, according to the agents, some of the victims were also a part of the scams.

Nevertheless, the agents knew better and in spite of cultural pleas towards home ownership, the agents have a moral responsibility towards such clients, explaining the ramifications of purchasing a home. Some victims were rescued through renegotiations with the mortgage hold-

ers, but eventually lost their homes and their good credit rating. By and large, most of those who lost their homes and, by extension their limited lifetime investments, were those who lost their jobs because of the downturn in the economy since 2007. If the economy had steadied or if the U.S. government (Presidents George Bush and Barack Obama) had provided assistance to these poor people instead of bailing out the super rich with US$2 trillion – virtually none of which filtered down to the poor – they may have saved their homes.

The real estate and mortgage fraud schemes had its social, financial and cultural complexities and community implications. Studies need to be done on the subject to apportion blame and how to avoid it from recurring.

It is all speculation on who was a source of evidence against whom for lighter sentencing, in spite of the reports in Stabroek News, Kaieteur News, New York Post, New York Times, and other publications, although the Times seems to have much more credibility than the Post, a paper known for its sensational reporting. In due course, we will know the facts on this mess. The FBI should also go after the big guns behind the mortgage scams, not just the little guys, and restitutions should be made to those who were victims of the mortgage fraud. And how about the government regulators and supervisors of mortgages, banks and real estate transactions? Should they not also be held accountable for sleeping on the job?

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

A shelter for women is more than a building

Dear Editor,

The Essequibo women are calling for a shelter to be set up in their part of the country so that abused women can have a place of refuge. It is a natural and fair cry, but the setting up of any shelter is not an overnight happening. Also, it is not about a mere edifice. Lots of things must be taken into consideration.

Worldwide, refuges and shelters provide safe and secure accommodation for women and children escaping violence. They usually help women get back on their feet by providing emotional support and legal assistance.

When it comes to direct staffing, it gets even more complicated and demanding.

In many shelters, the talk revolves consciously and unconsciously about misandry, that is, the direct hatred for and against men. Already, evidences are seen in cases when there are reconciliations. Many times, incompetence and a lack of knowledge from helpers lead many embittered and hurt women to get involved in wanting to even the score or swinging the pendulum to their extreme side.

I do have a bigger concern even though I feel deeply for the scores of women on the Essequibo Coast, who are calling on the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC) to act on their behalf.

The United Nations

views the provision of shelter and other services as a critical part of the state’s obligation to protect victims of violence. Governments then should provide well-funded shelters and relief support for girls and women subjected to violence.

Governments must also provide medical, psychological and other counselling services, when and where these are needed. In Guyana we are moving in the right direction, but we have to face a few realities. There is still a prevailing thought that says women are less than men, especially when the women in relationships are not earning.

Even when some of them have a certain level of independence, they act subservi-

Apologies about songs

Dear Editor,

I have always proposed that when it comes to songs on the air waves, most people are in for entertainment and nothing else. In fact, even some of the artistes go this way.

By the way, how many rum songs we have now? It can get worse. We enjoy ourselves even to the point of drinking, but we cannot blame the song. Literally, for most of us, it is about a nice tune. The lyrics then have no implication.

It is not for me to cast aspersions on the listeners of music, but I will like for a few critics to check and see the commonalities. I will not fight a battle for those who care not about the things I am fighting for. Those who feel offended have personal choices to make.

Yours faithfully, Rajcoomar Persaud

The mental state of a burglar

Dear Editor,

Just the other day, a man was sent for a psychological evaluation after he asked a magistrate to shoot him in his head. Who will do the evaluation and what will be the procedures?

Most mental health professionals do not use tests to determine mental illness. Instead, specialists assess the signs and symptoms and use their experience to determine what illnesses a patient may be suffering from. They give a mental health evaluation based on the person’s demeanour, physical appearance, list of symptoms and medical history.

Occasionally they might use question-

naires. Overall, it is not an easy task. Since the physical, that is, the body is quite healthy, how can specialists determine if someone is acting out deliberately? Criminals use this as a ploy.

As for the man, he was charged with breaking and entering and at the trial he put on quite a show. He entered the courtroom, stating that he was not guilty, long before the charges were read to him. Maybe, this man should be put in a room with a surveillance camera. Real mental problems manifest in things like hallucinations, delusions, catatonia and thought disorder.

Yours truly, Janice Hinds

ently at public events. This kind of attitude emboldens men to react violently when problems arise in relationships.

Women have to make a move against these types of paradigms. Another good thing for women to do is to make sure that even mere suggestions of abuse are taken seriously. Women must report and press for actions to be taken when men infringe.

The talk about police and their lack of concern in domestic abuse is half mythical. If women keep on the trail of reporting, men will straighten up.

Yours sincerely, Ingrid Lowe

What really is the price of gold?

Dear Editor, Guyana continues to be fuelled by the natural resource gold which accounts for a significant portion of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This nonrenewable resource has changed the lives of thousands of Guyanese throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.

Many Guyanese and foreigners alike have rushed to our interiors in search of our El Dorado. Most of us know at least one person who works in the mining and exploration industry. It is for this reason our country has experienced the spur of growth, as businesses directly and indirectly benefited from the revenue created as a result of this natural resource.

Nevertheless the indus-

try is not without its share of criticisms. The industry has experienced a wave of violence that has seen the loss of many lives due to the greed associated with gold –not to mention the attacks of malaria which often plague those who work in the industry.

Those who are somewhat thinking of going into the industry because of the high price of gold must be wary of the consequences and weigh the opportunity costs of the degeneration of, and danger to, one’s health and strength.

The price of gold as sold on the world market through the Guyana Gold Board and the associated profits may not be worth it.

Yours respectfully, Kristal Osman

Page Foundation

MCaricom Day 2013

“There are three things in the world that deserve no mercy, hypocrisy, fraud, and tyranny.” – Frederick William Robertson

onday is Caricom Day. For many of us, the long weekend is exactly what we’ve been praying for – a welcome break. For some of us, it’s exactly what we need in order to wind down after an action packed week. Some of us, as members of the Queen’s College Graduating Class of 2013, need a little more time to come down from our high after graduating last Friday. I know I probably need some more time before I can be let out to interact with the general public. It’s still pretty difficult for me to suppress the urge to shout out, “School gave Dobby a certificate, Dobby is freeeeeeee!!!” I guess it speaks something about school life if I’m comparing the life of a student to that of a house-elf from Harry Potter.

Tomorrow is the first Monday of July, a day set aside to celebrate Caribbean unity. But I’ll admit I’m having some mixed feelings about what exactly it is that I should be celebrating.

I mean, there are aspects of Caribbean unity that I think have been particularly successful, CXC being one of the most important to me. But on the other hand, there’s the whole issue with the Caribbean Airlines. With them having practical-

ly a monopoly of the whole business of flying people in and out of our country, they’re doing exactly what companies with a monopoly do – they’re charging an arm and a leg. Hey, they’re basically charging an arm, a leg and your firstborn.

But how’s that in keeping with this whole idealistic notion of the Caribbean as a unit that helps each other out and keeps each other afloat? Caribbean Airlines has been appointed as our country’s national flag carrier.

In biology we covered three types of relationships between organisms. Those were: Mutualism, where both organisms benefit from the relationship; Commensalism, where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected; and finally Parasitism, where one organism benefits and the other suffers.

If we’re to practise what we’re preaching about helping each other as Caribbean people we should have a relationship where all parties at least derive some sort of benefit from the relationship, no? But this, this squeezing of Guyanese for max profit, this isn’t a mutualistic relationship. This is poor sportsmanship. We have no choice but to fly Caribbean Air, and they’re milking us for all we’ve got. This is kicking a man when he’s down – and not just any kick – it’s a below-the-belt kick.

I’m just coming into the adult world and I’m learning everyday that so many of the ideals that are thrown out to us in social studies class, most of the promises made by politicians from their podiums, most of the goals set out by these organisations that seem too good to be true are just that – too good to be true. Is it any surprise that so many of us have trust issues?

Caribbean Airlines needs to take a good hard look at what exactly it is they’re doing. To them, the people that fly with them are just faceless people that they can make money off. But we’re fathers, mothers, brothers, people with other obligations –we’re people without limitless bank accounts.

And some of us are people that thought that there was something called a “Caribbean Community” that actually meant something. But money obviously seems to matter more, and the rest of us are left here with our shattered ideals, broken dreams and holes in our pockets.

Happy Caricom Day.

A magic parenting word that can help us all

Ihave come to think that parents are the most competitive creatures in the world. Parents are constantly comparing their children’s development to other children’s progress. Parents are very possessive about their preferred child-raising techniques and tend to judge others for choosing different styles of upbringing. Parents worry excessively if their children aren’t meeting whatever milestones are considered to be the norm and are quick to use labels for why a child isn’t precisely “on track.”

Some are hands-on, some are hands-off, some love discipline, some prefer freedom. It’s a real Wild West of childraising philosophies out there, so it’s no wonder it feels like a giant competition all the time – to see whose child turns out “best.”

All this competitiveness is utterly ridiculous because there’s no way every child can be assessed by the same criteria, nor will every child respond identically to the same upbringing. As any parent of multiple children knows, you might use the same technique for raising all of your children, but because they have such different personalities, the results will be entirely different. Comparison – and the underlying assumption that all children are the same and can be compared – is pointless.

Parents need to slow down, stop comparing, and wait. This word, “wait,” is used too rarely in today’s frenetic lifestyle. Magda Gerber, a renowned child therapist and infant specialist, considered waiting to be a fundamental part of her child care philosophy. Parents don’t wait for their babies and children often enough, since we’re always in a mad rush for them to achieve, perform, and do us proud. By waiting for children to accomplish things in their own time, we acknowledge that each child has their own “unique developmental timetable.” Janet Lansbury explains the different ways in which parents should wait for their children. Here are some of her tips:

*Wait for development. “Readiness is when they do it,” Gerber often said.

*Wait before interrupting. Allow your child to become an independent self-learner.

*Wait for problem solving. Children are capable of doing many things on their own.*Wait for discovery. “When you teach a child something, you take away forever his chance of discovering it for himself.” (Jean Paiget)

*Wait for feelings to be expressed. Allow the child to process them before we react to our own emotions.

If more parents embraced waiting as an inherent part of raising well-adjusted children, much of the competitiveness would disappear and the whole experience would become a lot more pleasurable for everyone. (shine.yahoo. com)

International Financial and Economic Report

Chairman, Guyana Americas Merchant Bank

The capital markets are being even more confused because there is now speculation that the Federal Reserve will be forced to give up its plan to “taper” bond purchases starting this year because of a weak U.S. economy. Others disagree and are rushing to sell bonds with fund redemptions this month so far amounting to US$61.7 billon which is a record.

Gold has continued to drop precipitously this week

ratio. It is fascinating that the regulators would return to leverage as a criteria of risk in banking which used to be the guide years ago. Naturally, some banks argue that requiring them to hold equity equal to three per cent of assets (which then is a 33 per cent total leverage) regardless of risk will unfairly penalise low risk activities such as mortgage lending and trade financing as well as damage the economy.

conference board consumer confidence index increased 7.1 points to 81.4 in June (Tuesday).

Jobless claims (Thursday) fell by 9000 to 346,000 in the week ended June 22, while personal consumption rebounded in May following the largest drop in more than three years. Household purchases rose 0.3 per cent and disposable income increased by 0.4 per cent, while pending home sales were up 6.7 per

and is currently down to below US$1200 an ounce, which is a drop of almost 40 per cent from its peak of US$1913 in August 2011. All of this upheaval started with Dr Ben Bernanke’s remarks following the Federal Open Market Committee Meeting (FOMC), when he gave the impression that not only would bond purchases be reduced in 2013, but be stopped altogether in 2014.

The idea that Bolivia could borrow for 10 years at under five per cent just a few weeks ago and that Honduras could borrow at all is regarded as yesteryear and a result of buyers having little or no choice in their selection of assets with the real alternative being zero returns in cash.

On Wednesday, the final first quarter estimate for the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) showed only a 1.8 per cent expansion as compared with the earlier estimate of 2.4 per cent. Also, the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) released plans this week to limit overall bank borrowing and have banks disclose their “leverage” ratios from 2015.

The BIS Banking Committee plans to impose a three per cent leverage ratio from 2018 to prevent banks from cheating on their capital

Apart from the bad news about the first quarter GDP that will probably result in forecasters lowering the estimate of growth for the second quarter, the economic reports were generally good this week.

On Tuesday, durable goods orders in May rose 3.6 per cent, which was more than forecast and the S&P/ Case-Shiller index of property values increased 12.1 per cent from April 2012, the biggest gain since March 2006. New home sales continued to improve with purchases increasing 2.1 per cent to 476,000 homes which was the highest level in five years. The

cent in May (Thursday).

On Friday, the Chicago PMI dropped to 51.6 in June from 58.7 in May, which was the longest monthly drop in four years. Consumer sentiment was little changed in June with the Thomson/ University of Michigan index at 84.1 which was very near the 84.5 level of May.

In overseas news, there is good news coming out of Japan with housing starts rising by 9.4 per cent in May and with JPMorgan revising up its GDP forecast growth to 3.8 per cent in the second quarter and 3.5 per cent in the third from 3.2 per cent and 2.5 per cent, respectively. Since last

BY GEOFFREY BELL

Friday, 30-year bonds have risen from 3.49 per cent to 3.55 per cent and 10-year notes from 2.42 per cent to 2.52 per cent.

As mentioned earlier, the 30-year bond rose to 3.60 per cent and the 10-year note to 2.60 per cent, and interest rates in other countries have risen. For example, UK 10year gilts have risen 49 bps in the last month, German 10-year bonds 20 bps and Australian bonds 48 bps. The only country where yields have fallen is Japan with 10year government yields falling 0.5 bps to 0.84 per cent in the last month.

The rise in U.S. interest rates has cut the euro from US$1.32 to US$1.30, the pound sterling from US$1.54 to US$1.52, the Swiss franc from 0.93 to 0.94 and the yen from 97.7 to 99.1. Oil prices have been very volatile starting the week at US$95.50 (WTI) but ending at US$97 a barrel. Gold was at US$1278 an ounce last Friday and is US$1194 this morning, the first time that the metal has been under US$1200 since August 2010. The Dow Jones index rose about one per cent over the week after starting out with a fall on Monday. Not surprisingly the Nikkei did very well rising by over three per cent.

The fact is that the market is confused about interest rates and economists are increasingly puzzled about the direction of the world economy.

NEW GPC INC appoints general manager

NEW GPC INC has appointed finance executive Ravie Ramcharitar as its general manager. This appointment comes at a time when the company is rapidly expanding in Guyana and will see the general manager taking responsibility for growth in one of the company’s key business segments.

Ravie, as he is fondly known, has a reputation for versatility and is actively involved in the decision-making machinery of the company. He has been a senior executive with the NEW GPC and the Queens Atlantic Investment Inc (QAII) group since January 2000.

He has held positions previously in finance and administration. Ramcharitar also serves as director at QAII and its subsidiaries.

Ramcharitar is a professional accountant by training. He is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and member of the Certified General Accountants (CGA).

The NEW GPC, via Limacol, recently announced its title spon-

sorship of the inaugural Caribbean Premier League Twenty20 (CPL T20) competition and the acquisition of the Guyana franchise, the Guyana Amazon Warriors. This is a big and necessary boost for cricket and tourism in the region and will also see the company’s products being promoted even further on the international stage.

The board of directors, management and staff of the NEW GPC, as well as the entire QAII group, congratulate Ramcharitar on his most recent appointment.

Guyanese Canadian lives to serve others

− started youth group at age 14

For Narine Dat Sookram, volunteering is much more than a passion. It is practically in his blood and almost a full-time job.

Growing up near Number 63 Beach in rural Guyana, Sookram, at age 14, established a youth group to enable members to learn, grow and support their community.

His obsession to serve people and communities continued when he migrated to Kitchener in 1993. He founded the Active Vision Charity Association to promote Indo-Caribbean culture in Canada and help newcomers assimilate into a new society.

For the past 17 years, Sookram and his organisation have helped new immigrants shape their resumes and cover letters and offered advice on job hunting. The organisation also provides driving lessons and tips on how to apply for a drivers licence and he can always be counted on to provide transportation for seniors and other area residents who do not have access to vehicles.

“I like to help people, so volunteering comes easily to me,” said Sookram, who was presented with a June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism recently at the One King West Hotel in downtown Toronto.

Through his organisation, Sookram provides Guyanese schools with text books and other school supplies and he hosts a weekly 45-minute radio show on CKMS 100.3 FM on Mondays. The musical show features soca, chutney and Indian classical sounds.

A home inspector, Sookram is also

an emerging poet. He is the recipient of the 2009 Pakaraima award for Home Away from Home. Last year, the Alliance of Guyanese Community Organisations recognised him with an award for community service.

Ontario’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Dr Eric Hoskins made the presentation to Sookram. Eleven other individuals and eight groups were also recognised with awards.

“It’s such an honour to be here with such an outstanding group of

people who are passionate about making their communities, our province and our country a better place to live in,” said Hoskins.

“Your spirit of service and your conviction to strengthening the foundation of our society recalls the values and commitment of late journalist and author June Callwood.

“You noticed a problem and decided to act. Sitting back and doing nothing was not an option. You decided to be part of the solution and to do so in the most unselfish way by volunteering your time and your brain power.”

Hoskins said the stories of Sookram and the other recipients are inspirational and their contributions are remarkable.

“All of the recipients honour the legacy of June Callwood, a humanitarian, who was one of Canada’s best known social activists and one who is remembered as Canada’s conscience for her support of countless causes, including poverty reduction, health and wellness and freedom of expression.”

The well-known journalist, author and activist passed away four years ago. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards that recognise thousands of residents who generously donate their time. A total of 48 ceremonies will take place across the province this month, honouring countless dedicated and devoted volunteers.

Eyew tness

Doltishness...

...in entertainment

Finally someone’s doing something about what passes for popular music these days. One of the commissioners of the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC) vehemently denounced two songs she judged to be offensive in several grounds. Ravi B’s “Prescription” announced that “three bottles of rum” is just what his fans need to imbibe daily and Burning Flames’ “Kick Een She Back Door” offered advice on what his male fans should do if the object of their attention don’t give in.

People have been complaining for years about the glorification and promotion of alcohol by chutney singers, especially out of Trinidad and Tobago. Output on this theme became so consistent and extensive it’s practically a genre – “Rum Songs”. Another Trinidadian, Adesh Samaroo, got the bottle rolling, so to speak, a decade ago with his “Rum Till I Die”. There was no staggering back after that.

In the dancehall and soca arena, lyrics that objectified and denigrated women as simply objects for satisfying the perversions of the male libido have become standard. The lyrics about the “back door” wasn’t just a double entendre about a sexual position but also an explicit call to break into the woman’s home to have what’s nothing less than rape.

Just last month we had the president of the Barbadian National Organisation of Women (NOW) announcing that women are “exhausted” by lyrics about their body parts during Crop Over, in which lewdness has replaced creativity. “It appears lewd and rude have replaced creativity,” Marilyn Rice-Bowen said during her report to NOW’s biennial general meeting. “Everything possible has been sung about the ‘bumper’. As women, we have little to rejoice about. We have been pulled, we have been stripped, we have been ‘jucked’, and the latest one is ‘bup, bup, bup, headboard’,” she said.

After the Guyanese threat, Ravi B issued a public apology and the Trinidadian Calypsonians Association called for more “responsibility” all around – including from radio stations that play the offensive music. The bottom line is that we only got this reaction because the WGEC commissioner, Nicole Cole, also happens to be a member of the Media Monitoring Committee in Guyana. Her call for banning of the songs carried weight.

We don’t know about other places but here in Guyana we’d better do something about not just the two songs Cole threatened to ban, but the entire genres they represent. The scourge of alcoholism and violence against women has reached epidemic proportions. The least we can do is stop making “sport” out of it.

...in politics

As if we don’t have enough problems – with the never ending rain that’s literally washing away the sugar crop, for one – we have some politicians conjuring up some from thin air. And as usual it has nothing to do with the country – and all to do with swollen political egos and ambitions.

Republic Bank’s application for waiver denied

Republic Bank’s application to the Securities and Exchange Commission in Ghana for a waiver of the code on take overs and mergers, following its acquisition of 32.02 per cent of the shareholding of HFC Bank Ghana Limited, has been denied.

According to a release, the Ghana SEC has advised Republic Bank via a letter that it must comply with the mandatory takeover requirements and make an offer for 42.98 per cent of the shareholding in HFC Bank Ghana Limited.

Republic Bank is currently engaged in discussions with the Ghana SEC

and the Bank of Ghana regarding the next steps in this matter.

In December, 2012, Republic Bank acquired an 8.79 per cent stake in HFC Bank Ghana, as part of its Africa expansion strategy, and on June 7, increased its shareholding to 32.02 per cent, following the purchase of an additional portion of shares previously held by Aureos Africa Fund LLC.

Republic Bank has reit-

erated its interest in working with the management and staff of HFC Bank to add value to its operations.

Republic Bank Limited is an independent Caribbean bank with a history that spans 176 years of service. It has its roots in the Colonial Bank which started business in Trinidad and Tobago in 1837, later becoming Barclays Bank Trinidad and Tobago Limited and eventually Republic Bank Limited. Republic Bank boasts a current asset base of US$8.6 billion (TT$51.6 billion) and profit after taxation of US$88.09 million (TT$1.2 billion).

HFC Bank (Ghana) was licensed as a commercial

bank in 2003, and today operates 26 branches throughout Ghana, providing a wide range of banking services, including mortgages and real estate services, commercial banking, investment banking, microfinance, private equity and venture capital fund management. It was instrumental in the development of the mortgage industry in Ghana and continues to be the leading home loan provider in that country, commanding 30 per cent of the market.

HFC Bank has an asset base of US$301 million and profit after taxation of US$7.7 million, based on its last published financials.

Confession

Satiricus isn’t too religious. But he feels that confession is a good thing. It good for the soul. You never know when you going to meet your Maker. Just in case it was right now...at least He knew that you knew you’d strayed from the straight and narrow. Satiricus believed, “Why take chances?”

So Satiricus was very happy to see Mook Lall’s confession in his MuckrakerKN’s editorial yesterday. The editorial talked about “people” like Mook Lall, who became more rich than Bookers – just like that! But yet nobody could really tell where all the money come from. Satiricus knew Mook Lall from the old days when the fella used to sell shallots at the Big Market. Nothing wrong with that. Satiricus used to sell bigan from he backyard in the Forbes Burnham days. Things were tight. But Satiricus always wondered how the heck, in just a couple of years after the government change, Mook and he best friend Tiny Yattin could buy the biggest store in Guyana. The store even name “Universal”! And Bookers used to own the store. That is why Mook Lall now boasting he now more rich than Bookers.

Well now Satiricus know where the money came from. The editorial said is drugs. That explain why Mook and Tiny bring a big suitcase with US$4 million in small bills to pay for the store. People does pay for drugs with small bills. The U.S. ambassador said Mook had a “sketchy past” but he only mention “backtracking”. Satiricus always feel was more than just backtracking.

Now Satiricus know that when Mook used to ship fish to Tiny up in New York for them fish shop, Mook had to be shipping in more than just gill-baka. Satiricus figured the fish smell used to cover up the smell and the customs dogs couldn’t smell anything. But Mook confession bring up more story.

It also explain why, even though he more rich than all the old time rich people, Mook still selling newspapers. Mook confess about “money laundering”. Satiricus now understand the problem Mook had when he end up with all them small bills from selling drugs. They ask you questions when you try to put it in the bank. Is the new “Anti Money Laundering Law”.

But if Mook Lall say he selling newspapers the bank can’t ask questions. The money turn clean. Laundry. Satiricus also hear Mook Lall was buying property all over Georgetown with small bills in suitcase. He even open up a mall. But he smart. He always put somebody else name, who he trust, on the deed.

And Mook Lall also confess why he so upset with the Prezzie. He think because he can throw big party at the Princess, he can buy Prezzie. He got long to wait. But the big party do some good. Now that he turn 50 Mook feel he got to confess. Mouth open and now story jump out.

The Anna Catherina Muslim Youth Organisation, youth arm of the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex will be hosting their eight annual “Welcome to Ramadan Dinner Programme” on Saturday, July 6 at 18.30h, at the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex.

The programme is geared towards educating Muslims about their responsibilities and obligations during the Muslim holy month as well as the great benefits of this gift to mankind.

The programme will con-

tain multi-media presentations on Ramadan by prominent Sunni Muslim scholars, including Huzoor Maulana Zain ul Akhtab Siddiqui. Tickets for the dinner are available from any member of the Anna Catherina Muslim Youth Organisation/ Anna Catherina Islamic Complex or at the Guyoil Service Station, Anna Catherina; the Medina Halaal Restaurant, De Willem; Celebrity Indian Fashion, Cornelia Ida on the West Coast Demerara; or by emailing: muslimjournal@ yahoo.com.

Disabled persons on Essequibo Coast complain of discrimination

Members of the Community Rehabilitation Centre said persons with disabilities are being discriminated against on the Essequibo Coast.

Member of the organisation Carlon Sergeant, who is differently-abled, told a consultation on peace, harmony and development on Friday that some car drivers and boat operators do not cooperate with these persons.

The forum at the Anna Regina Town Council on Saturday, was one of several outreach programmes being promoted by the United Nations Association of Guyana in an effort to encourage dialogue and interaction within local communities.

United Nations Association of Guyana President Donald Trotman in his address to a sizable gathering called on Essequibians to embrace peace, noting this is a vital tool to pave the way for further development in Guyana.

Peace and harmony

Trotman said “peace and harmony” are two key words, which must be put into practise in every society.

He said person from various organisations and society should work together in ironing out their differences, positioning Guyana in the direction to unhindered development.

The forum focussed on rights and responsibilities of government and civil society in relation to older persons,

ties and the private sector, care homes for the elderly can be established on the Essequibo Coast.

Anna Regina Interim Management Committee (IMC) Chairman Toolsie Narine said the forum was a wise initiative and commended the United Nations for reaching out to the youths on the Essequibo Coast. He said “peace and harmony” should be permanent features in society.

Some participants who spoke with Guyana Times

women and children, youth and persons with disabilities.

It was held under the theme “Harmonising our environment for peace, reconciliation and development”.

The retired justice Trotman pointed out that the United Nations which has an office in Guyana, has approved several conventions supporting the protection of senior citizens, providing an action plan for the aging population, catering for employment, among others.

Trotman, also the chairman of the National Commission for the Elderly, called on stakeholders and regional authorities to erect care homes for the elderly within the various communities on the Essequibo Coast.

He said many times older folks are not being cared for, and are often disrespected and cannot afford to reach to the Palms in Georgetown.

Trotman explained that with collaborative efforts from the regional authori-

said all Essequibians live in peace and togetherness, and told their facilitators that understanding is needed to solve any problem.

During the consultation, there were dialogues on justice, human rights, government and civil society, economic, social, cultural, religious and moral issues. Participants were given the opportunities to identify issues that affect them, and they were provided with possible solutions.

In the past few years, the United Nations Association of Guyana has conducted similar programmes aimed at enhancing human rights, peace and reconciliation among residents of communities in Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo.

Also in attendance at the forum were Regional Vice Chairman Vishnu Samaroo, representatives from United Nations Association of Guyana Belinda Persaud and Tracy Marks and several government officials.

Good Success farmers receive equipment to boost production

The Good SuccessGarden of Eden Farmers Association, Craig Village, East Coast Demerara on Friday received several pieces of agricultural equipment under the Rural Enterprise Development (READ) Project to improve their opertaions.

The items handed over by Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy to Good Success-Garden of Eden Farmers Association Chairman Gowkarran Sukhdeo were: three land tillers, ten 450 gallons water tank, 60 length irrigation hose, six rolls of drip irrigation hose, six mist blowers, 10 CP3 spray cans, four forks, 10 cutlasses, 12 files, 12 rolls of UV shade plastic, 12 rolls of shade mesh, one two-disc plough and $700,000 worth in building materials for the shade house.

The farmers’ group has so far benefited from a $6 million grant used for the purchase of these equipment, implement and farm supplies as well as a $4 million in loan which can be accessed by the members

to assist them financially to upgrade their farms.

The group’s main focus is cassava, ground provision and agro-processing. However, the farmers also cultivate other vegetable crops and with the assistance received on Friday, they indicated that it will enhance their productive capacity and allow them to modernise their agricultural practices using drip irrigation and shade house technology.

Assistance

Dr Ramsammy also had an interactive session with the farmers to listen to their concerns and recommendations on agriculture in their area. The farmers say they welcome this contribution and assistance through the READ Project of the ministry, noting that it will surely allow them to build capacity and encourage their youths to remain in agriculture.

The READ Project also provided training in record keeping, data collection, management among others, to all the groups they are working with countrywide.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy told the farmers that he along with a team from the ministry will take a full tour of their farmlands on Monday, July 1, after which he will send in other departmental technical officers to work closely with farmers as they continue to establish themselves in agriculture.

At the meeting, Dr Ramsammy outlined the efforts of the Agriculture Ministry in revamping the extension services. He also highlighted that farmers today should start thinking of crops such as corn, soya, quinoa, and black-eye peas for which there are growing international markets and demands.

Dr Ramsammy encouraged farmers to continue to work closely knitted in their groups since this can bring enormous benefits economically, and urged that farmers maintain a close working relation with the extension services and the Guyana Agricultural Producers’ Association.

Guyana Trade, Tourism Expo in New York attracts thousands Blood bank honours top donors

The thousands of patrons who attended the opening of the Guyana Trade and Tourism Expo in New York were more than thrilled by the energetic and entertaining cultural performances that heralded the start of the three-day event.

The Fitzgerald Stadium came alive on Friday evening as Guyanese music filled the air and the aromas of local food wafted about, welcoming the throngs that came to see the display of craft, products, food and fashion.

Many were captivated by the colourful displays in the isles as each exhibitor sought to display their company logos in grand style, with banners of green, red, yellow,

blue and a kaleidoscope of other colours adorning the venue.

Addressing the gathering at the grand opening ceremony, acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali extended warm greetings and expressed his gratitude to the patrons who took the time to visit the event and participate in the many sweepstakes and activities planned for the occasion.

“Today, we join all of our brothers and sisters back home in sharing a piece of your country with you and the many opportunities that you can be part of. That is why we brought this Trade and Tourism Expo here, we believe that we have a strong tourism product,” Minister Ali announced.

At this point, Ali spoke of the record in arrivals last year, when Guyana was leading the 32 member Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) countries in arrivals, with several record breaking months.

Expounding further on the developments sweeping the nation, the acting tourism minister noted too that Guyana has moved from a destination with 700 hotel rooms to having more than 3000 rooms, excluding the accommodation at the Marriott Hotel which is presently under construction.

“In addition, we will be having a new airport and more than $32 billion has been invested in the improvement of infrastructure to develop the industry. Major investors are turning to Guyana as they realise that they have the opportunity to expand their business.”

In closing, Minister Ali resounded the call for more Guyanese to return home and assured those gathered that the government is ready to partner with them, and welcome them home.

“We want all Guyanese to be part of the transformational process, we want to take this opportunity to say that home is awaiting you and we want you to be part of the future Guyana. I want to assure you that we have a bright future ahead.”

Developments

Tourism brand ambassador and veteran Guyanese cricketer, Sir Clive Lloyd also spoke of the developments in Guyana and placed the call for more persons to witness the developments taking place.

The expo opened at 09:00h on Friday morning and by the closing time, 21:00h that night, the venue was still overflowing with patrons all wanting a chance to glimpse the displays and experience the authentic products on display.

For many patrons, the nostalgic nature of the expo provided the incentive to visit and for others, it offered the chance to network and to meet industry representatives on hand with important investment, housing, travel and tax information.

The Guyanese business representatives that travelled to New York for the show all lauded the organisers and pointed to the massive exposure that such an activity will provide, considering that it spanned several days and will attract thousands

visitors.

The National Blood Transfusion Service

(NBTS) on Friday hosted an appreciation ceremony at its East and Lamaha streets location in Georgetown, honouring its top voluntary donors for their valuable contributions over the years.

This activity was held to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank voluntary unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood.

NBTS Director Dr Nadia Liu thanked all the donors who have donated blood over the years, noting that their act has ensured that 7717 units were achieved by the Blood Bank. She added that in Guyana, more accidents are occurring, causing the

loss of blood by victims and the need for more blood in the hospitals is increasing.

Dr Liu added that the blood bank will always be calling donors to continue to give blood.

Radhamonie Das, also from the NBTS, highlighted that in many countries, there is not an adequate supply of safe blood, and blood services face the challenge of making sufficient blood available while ensuring quality and safety.

“Today in just 62 countries, national blood supplies are based on close to 100 per cent voluntary unpaid donations, with 40 countries still dependent on family donors. The National Blood Transfusion Service of Guyana has achieved over 90 per cent and is aiming for

100 per cent voluntary unpaid blood donation by the end of 2013,” Das said.

Donor Wayne Bakker said he started giving blood since 1987 when he was encouraged by his father and has been donating as often as he could. He said it has made him feel stronger mentally and physically. Bakker added that he constantly travels to the interior region and due to continuously donating blood; he has never been affected by malaria or any other diseases.

Kala Seegopaul, also a blood donor, admitted that she has had a long lasting relationship with the blood bank. She is not the only person that donates blood in her family, but almost all of her family members follow her footsteps. She considers donating blood something good for humanity.

Every year on June 14, countries around the world celebrate World Blood Donor Day. The NBTS encourages people whose lives have been saved through blood donation to make themselves known, as a way of motivating regular blood donors to continue giving blood and people in good health who have never given blood, particularly young people, to do so.

CFATF representatives meet combined opposition

Members of the combined opposition, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) on Friday met with representatives of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) at the Office of the Opposition Leader, Hadfield Street, Georgetown.

The meeting provided an opportunity to brief members of the opposition on the operations of CFATF and Guyana’s responsibilities within the ambit of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act 2009.

U.S. embassy, Political and Economic Chief Michael Fraser, Roger Hernandez of CFATF and C Murray-Bailey of the Trinidad and Tobago Anti-Money Laundering Unit, comprised the visiting team.

According to an APNU release, Hernandez gave a detailed overview of CFATF and the importance of the

legislation and a credible action plan to satisfy the requirements of the taskforce. He said Guyana was evaluated in 2010 and put in an expedited follow-up process, which required reporting every six months.

In May, 2013, Guyana was placed by CFATF on a “public statement” for failing to meet deadlines and being non-compliant with all 16 requirements.

Both Hernandez and Murray-Bailey stressed that passage of legislation by Guyana would not be enough to remove the country from its present status.

Hernandez said the legislation alone would serve to meet one key and critical element of the compliance requirement, but it would not be enough to remove Guyana from the expedited status.

The CFATF representative said what was required was political commitment combined with an action plan.

The opposition team

comprised Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, Basil Williams, Joseph Harmon, Keith Scott and Mark Archer from the APNU and Khemraj Ramjattan and David Patterson from the AFC.

The opposition has said that they need more time to study the bill, and voted for it to be sent to a Special Select Committee.

The government has pointed out that the bill brings benefits to the people, reduces the cost to do business, improves transparency, safeguards external dangers from terrorist groups and helps to modernise Guyana’s financial architecture.

The CFATF has since extended its deadline on Guyana, giving this country until November to make the necessary amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Act to avoid blacklisting.

Wakenaam farmers choosing coconut over rice

Farmers on the island of Wakenaam, Region Two, are focusing on large scale cultivation of coconut so as to cash-in on the demand for the commodity in to region and further afield.

The farmers told Guyana Times that rice cultivation on the island is facing troubling times, and as such, they have switched their attention to coconut cultivation.

Coconut farmers from Marias Pleasure, Wakenaam, said they are cultivating huge acres of coconut, with one farmer, Diabee Persaud informing this publication that he is cultivating 10 acres alone.

Persaud said the main reason for planting more coconut on the Island is due to the easy access to market.

Persaud said coconut plants need less attention and the price for a coconut on the market is increasing.

The farmer, who also cultivates rice, said his coconut farm gives him less trouble than his rice field.

He said marketing rice on the island is “troublesome”, pointing out that there is only one major buyer of paddy on the island. On the contrary, he said, there is a ready market for coconut, with a price of $20 per nut.

While on the island, Guyana Times caught up with two major coconut buyers, who said they have secured a market for dried coconut in Dominica.

According to Gomattie Persaud, on a weekly basis, she purchases in excess of 200,000 tonnes of dried coconuts from the island.

Persaud said she managed to secure the market in Dominica, where she supplies a company on West Coast of Demerara, and it in turn incurred the expenses of shipping the coconut to Dominica.

She has been purchasing dried coconut on the island for some seven years, and during those years, Persaud said her business has been doing well.

The businesswoman said

she has encouraged many persons on the island to get involved in coconut cultivation as there is a demand for the commodity in the region.

Persaud currently has 10 persons in her employ, whom she said carefully select and grade the coconuts. She offers $15 to $20 for a dried coconut.

Another large scale coconut buyer, Deodad Singh, who was visiting the island to make his purchase, said he purchases over 40,000 tonnes of dried coconuts from the island every week.

He also supplies the Dominican market. Like Persaud, he grades the coconuts and pays similar prices. Singh has been buying coconut from the island for the past two years.

Farmers said they enjoy planting coconut since it is marketable and it can grow easily on the island. Due to the ready marketing opportunities on the island, many farmers are putting more and more lands under coconut cultivation.

Spartina grass to protect mangrove cultivation in Region Two

The Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project (GMRP) will be planting Spartina grass in five locations on the Essequibo Coast in an effort to preserve mangrove cultivation in Region Two.

According to GMRP Project Engineer Ranata Roberston, the grass will be transported from Victoria, East Coast Demerara, to aide in the restoration process.

The grass encourages the growth of mangrove and assists in the trapping of mangrove seedlings. Roberston said the condition on the Essequibo Coast is ideal for the planting of the grass, noting that it is far cheaper than to plant the actual mangrove plants.

Speaking to media operatives at the La Belle foreshore, Roberston said a programme has been drafted within the project to safeguard mangrove and to avoid persons from cutting down the “valuable” trees.

She said for 2013, focus will be placed on Region Two, specifically, where coastal intervention, mon-

itoring and restoration activities will be conducted.

The GMRP project engineer said five mangrove sites, namely in Anna Regina, Devonshire Castle, La Belle Alliance, Andrew and Lima were selected as focal points for the project.

However, Robertson said three of the five mangroves activities this year will be done. She explained that accretion and favourable conditions exist in Anna Regina, Lima and Devonshire Castle. She said work on the two others sites selected for the project will begin in 2014.

Community Development Officer Ryan Toolsieram said persons from the various communities will join the GMRP in protecting the mangroves. He said the objective of the project is to bring the community together as well as to teach persons to care for natural habitat.

He said the group that will be formed will work as volunteers and would educate persons about the care for mangroves.

Toolsieram noted that reading materials will be

distributed by the volunteers to persons living within the community where the mangroves can be found. He said the Village Mangrove Action Committee groups will be part of the huge public awareness aspect of the project.

Monitoring Officer Rudolph Adams said the grass-planting initiative encourages the preservation of mangrove plants, and is an experimental project.

Inspections

The team from the GMRP visited the Essequibo Coast on Friday and inspected areas where mangroves were planted. Inspections were made and suitable recommendations to further develop the mangroves site were done on site by the team. The team included Toolsieram, Robertson and Adams.

The GMRP is funded by a partnership between the government of Guyana and the European Union (EU), and is being implemented by the Agriculture Ministry through the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

The objective of the project is to seek the commitment of Guyanese towards the protection and development of sustainable mangrove forests. The project commenced activities in February 2010 and is working in the areas of administrative capacity development, research, community development and capacity building, mangrove restoration (replanting), monitoring and awareness and education.

Dark days in East Port of Spain

Port of Spain police were kept busy for almost 24 hours between Thursday evening and Friday, after two murders, a fire which claimed the life of a six-year old-girl and a clash between gunmen and police, all in east Port of Spain. The incidents came hours after acting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams announced a ten per cent decrease in murders.

While speaking at the launch of the Caribbean Institute for Security and Public Safety on Thursday, Williams said the Port of Spain Division had been responsible for the largest percentage of violent crimes. However, he noted that they had been able to reduce the overall murder rate by 10 per cent in comparison to the same period last year.

Police officers confront youths on the rooftop of a Nelson Street, Port of Spain apartment building as they search for a shooting suspect in the area known as “The Plannings” shortly after midday Friday

After this latest killings, the toll for the year rose to 185. Figures from the Crime and Problem Analysis (Capa) branch of the Police Service show there were 203 murders between January and June last year. In the latest incident yesterday morning, homicide detectives had to run for cover at a crime scene when gunmen tried to clash with rival gang members at an apartment complex at George Street. According to reports, around 8 am, homicide and crime scene detectives were called to George Street after a woman was shot dead in an apartment. While processing the crime scene, police said, a group of armed men began walking towards a group of residents and media personnel who were standing nearby. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Blair resigns as Jamaica’s political ombudsman

olitical Ombudsman

PBishop Herro Blair has tendered his resignation, effective June 30, King’s House announced Friday.

In a letter to Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, Bishop Blair stated that recent developments in his ministry will no longer afford him the quality time required to function in the office, said a release from King’s House, the Office of the Governor General. Blair

was first appointed political ombudsman in 2002, and was reappointed for a fiveyear term in 2009. He has, however, been coming under severe criticisms from Jamaica who have questioned the relevance of his office. Opposition Member of Parliament Everald Warmington has been one of his leading critics. Sir Patrick said King’s House has expressed appreciation for Blair’s dedication and commitment to service,

and the dignity with which he carried out his duties as political ombudsman.

Blair said it was a great honour for him to have been afforded the privilege to serve Jamaica as political ombudsman, saying that the political growth and maturity which Jamaica has experienced over the last 11 years should ensure that the negative political events of the past are not manifested in the nation’s future. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Popularity rating of Brazil’ s president plummets

Public approval of Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff’s government has suffered a steep drop in the weeks since massive protests broke out across this country, according to Brazil’s first nationwide poll released since the unrest began. Published Saturday by Folha de S Paulo, the country’s biggest newspaper, the Datafolha survey found 30 per cent of respondents rated Rousseff’s government as “great/good,” a sharp fall from the 57 per

cent who gave it that rating three weeks ago before the demonstrations began.

The government’s popularity was down throughout the country, including in the north-east where the ruling Workers Party is strong. Her rating dropped there from 64 to 40 per cent. Datafolha interviewed 4717 people on June 27 and 28, and the poll has a margin of error of two percentage points.

The government’s approval rating had hit 65 percent in March, according to

Datafolha, but in June suffered its biggest drop since Rousseff took office two and a half years ago. Many Brazilians have been upset about rising inflation and shrinking purchasing power. The firm said the government’s approval had suffered the biggest drop for any president since a 1990 fall for then-leader Fernando Collor de Mello who tried to control spiraling inflation by freezing all savings accounts. (Excerpt from Yahoo! News)

ABEC-rectified act to validate electoral commission passed

Government has successfully pushed through the parliament an act which would validate the present Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC), which was ruled invalid by a recent court decision. Despite strong resistance by the opposition members of the parliament, government was able to use its majority in the Lower House to pass the act.

“We have to preserve the actions of the electoral commission during this inter-

vening period, because if we do not, it creates a chaotic situation,” Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer said.

Early in June, the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal invalidated all actions of the electoral commission from December 22, 2011 onwards.

That was the date on which prime minister retroactively put into effect the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act 2011, under which the present commission was established. The PM’s retroactive Order was

deemed invalid by the court. In the parliament Friday, Spencer said he would not let the debate on the Act go beyond the matter at hand –validating the commission’s acts and decisions.

“Take the emotions out of this and deal with it for what is,” he said.

“Yes, we may talk about the circumstances surrounding it, but there are differences of views on that.” The opposition saw things differently, however. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Police reject reports of involvement in shooting death of Nevis youth

St Kitts and Nevis police have denied reports that officers were involved in the murder of Adrian Springette in Nevis. According to a statement released on Friday, assistant commissioner of police with responsibility for crime, Ian Queeley, assured the public that there is no truth to the reports circulating on the island that police were somehow involved in the June 22

homicide.

The statement said that the police force had no operation underway in the area at the time of the incident, and that there were no police officers pursuing anyone, in particular the deceased, before, during or after the shooting that took place at Grove Park, Nevis. “Such careless and reckless statements have the potential to build discomfort and mis-

trust between the citizens of the Federation and the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force,” the release said. Queeley, it said, has requested that members of the public refrain from perpetuating what he refers to as “derogatory rumours”, which he says will only bring doubts about the police force and may discourage the citizens from cooperating with them in fighting crime. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Former Cayman Islands premier threatens to sue auditor general

Former premier of the Cayman Islands, McKeeva Bush, who is currently facing a number of criminal charges, has threatened to sue the territory’s auditor general over allegations of political interference in the hiring of two Port Authority employees.

A report by auditor general Alastair Swarbrick released this week documented the hiring of two employees by the Port Authority – once in 2004 and again in 2009 –on specific instructions from Bush. On Thursday Bush denied he had done anything wrong and said, “I’m going to sue him [the auditor general].” According to the report, two Port Authority workers were initially hired in 2004, when Bush was leader of government business and also chairman of

the Port Authority’s board of directors.

In 2005, the two employees were terminated from their positions, presumably following a change of government. In 2009, Bush, then the newly re-elected premier, instructed the Port Authority director to reinstate arrangements with the same two employees at a salary of US$1000 per month, the auditor general reported. “Up to February

2012, a total of US$90,000 had been paid to these individuals without any evidence of work being done,” Swarbrick’s report noted. “The action identified above is a clear example of undue political influence and override that undermines the ability of an organisation such as [the port authority] to operate effectively,” Swarbrick continued. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Caribbean must get foreign exchange earning sectors to grow – Barbados’ PM

The Prime Minister of Barbados Freundel Stuart has said that a major priority for regional governments should be treating the haemorrhaging of the foreign exchange earning industries of tourism and international business. Addressing an audience yesterday morning at the 31st Annual Caribbean Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Caribbean (ICAC) which took place at the Hilton Hotel, the prime minister noted that these two sectors had taken a

beating as a result of the impact of the global conditions.

In painting the context into which regional economies now found themselves – stubborn fiscal deficits, increasing public debt levels and debt-to-GDP ratios, anaemic economic growth – Stuart explained how that reality with our trading partners was affecting our main economic drivers. Focusing on the international business sector, he noted that there was an increased and sustained drive by OECD member countries

to stop or curtail tax avoidance by their taxpayers.

“This has meant more pressure on taxpayers in those countries not to establish offshore branches in low tax international business domiciles”, he remarked.

He further commented that because international business jurisdictions such as ours had had to face the constantly renewed OECD attacks, the region struggled to maintain or grow its international business and financial services sector.

Obama hails Mandela “inspiration” in South African visit

U.S. President Barack Obama has praised Nelson Mandela as “an inspiration to the world” while visiting South Africa.

The U.S. leader, who was speaking in Pretoria after talks with President Jacob Zuma, does not intend to visit the 94-year-old, who has been critically ill for nearly a week. But he met the Mandela family in private and spoke by telephone to his wife, Graca Machel.

Riot police clashed with anti-Obama protesters in Soweto. The American leader was in Soweto to deliver a speech to young African leaders at the University of

Johannesburg. According to Zuma, Mandela remains “stable but critical”, and he added that he had “every hope that he will be out of hospital soon”. However, South Africa’s last apartheid president and the man jointly awarded the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize with Mandela, FW de Klerk, is to cut short a visit to Europe due to Mandela’s poor health, his foundation said in a statement. In Pretoria, Obama said Mandela’s example of “the power of principle, of people standing up for what’s right continues to shine as a beacon”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Syrian army launches major offensive on Homs

Syrian government forces launched a major offensive on the western city of Homs – centre of the country’s two-year

on Saturday, in what is the latest attempt to seize control of an axis connecting Damascus to the Mediterranean

Syrian President

Bashar al-Assad’s forces launched a major offensive on Saturday against rebels in Homs, a centre of the two-yearold uprising, in their latest drive to secure an axis connecting Damascus to the Mediterranean. Some activists said jets and mortars had pounded rebel-held areas of the city that have been under siege by Assad’s troops for a year, and soldiers fought battles with rebel fighters in several districts.

“Government forces are trying to storm (Homs) from all fronts,” said an activist using the name Abu Mohammad.

There were no immediate details of casualties but video footage uploaded by activists showed heavy explosions and white clouds of smoke rising from what

Edward Snowden has not weakened U.S. president, says Susan Rice

The incoming U.S. national security adviser has dismissed claims that the surveillance whistleblower Edward Snowden has weakened the president, Barack Obama, and damaged American foreign policy.

Susan Rice, the outgoing U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said it was too soon to judge whether there would be any longterm repercussions from

the intelligence leaks by the former National Security Agency contractor, which were published by the Guardian.

Rice rejected suggestions that Snowden’s disclosures had made Obama a lame duck, damaged his political base and hurt U.S. foreign policy, saying: “I think that’s bunk.”

“I don’t think the diplomatic consequences, at least as they are foreseeable now,

are that significant,” she added. “I think the United States of America is and will remain the most influential, powerful and important country in the world, the largest economy, and the largest military, [with] a network of alliances, values that are universally respected.” Chuck Hagel, the defence secretary, and General Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, have called Snowden’s

leaks a serious breach that damaged national security. Hagel said on Thursday an assessment of the damage was under way.

“There will always be difficult issues of the day and frankly this period is not particularly unique,” Rice said. “I think the Snowden thing is obviously something that we will get through, as we’ve gotten through all the issues like this in the past.”

Thousands march in Istanbul in solidarity with Kurds

Thousands of protesters marched to Istanbul’s Taksim Square on Saturday chanting slogans against the government and police after security forces killed a Kurdish demonstrator in south-eastern Turkey.

The protest had been planned as part of larger unrelated anti-government demonstrations that have swept through the coun-

try since the end of May, but became a voice of solidarity with the Kurds after Friday’s killing.

“Murderer police, get out of Kurdistan!” some protesters chanted. “This is only the beginning, the struggle continues. The murderer state will pay!”

Turkish forces killed the man and wounded 10 others when they fired on a group

protesting against the construction of a gendarmerie outpost in the Kurdishdominated region.

The incident, in the Lice district of Diyarbakir province, appeared to be the most violent in the region since a ceasefire declaration in March by jailed Kurdish rebel chief Abdullah Ocalan in a decades-old conflict between his fighters and the

Turkish state, and it risks derailing the nascent peace process.

Around 10,000 protesters descended on Taksim, which has been the center of weeks of anti-government demonstrations, but were prevented from entering the square by riot police. Many in the crowd sat in the roads leading to the square after being denied entry. (Excerpt from Reuters)

they said were rebel districts. Loud, concentrated rounds of gunfire could also be heard.

One clip showed thick black smoke rising from a mosque identified as the 13th-century Khalid ibn al-Walid mosque, on the edge of the Khalidiyah neighbourhood. Syrian state media said the army was “achieving great progress” in Khalidiyah but the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an anti-Assad monitoring group, said there were reports that rebels had destroyed an army tank as troops tried to penetrate the Old City in the centre of Homs. The attack on Homs follows steady military gains by Assad’s forces, backed by Lebanese Hezbollah militants, in villages in Homs province and towns close to the Lebanese border. (Excerpt from France24)

Rehabilitation unit moving forward with new ventures, technology

Rehab Week 2013 culminated this Friday with an entertaining segment of karaoke, but over the years rehabilitation in Guyana has not always been fun and frolic.

As the Rehabilitation Department of the Health Ministry celebrates the week of activities under the theme “Rehabilitation moving forward: New ventures, new technology”, there has been nostalgic reflection on the development of the field as well as a sense of optimism for the field’s potent future.

Rehabilitation services have been provided by the Health Ministry for over six decades; starting from the year 1949, with physical therapy being the leading form of therapy available. The 1970s and 1980s saw major strides in the development of physiotherapy services.

What began as one small department at the Georgetown Public Hospital, the provision of rehabilitation services has expanded through the establishment of other units in Georgetown, namely the Palms Geriatric Home and the Red Cross Convalescent Home for Children.

As the pioneering field

for rehabilitation services in Guyana, physiotherapy services were also extended to hospitals in Regions Two, Three, Four, Six and 10. The 1970s saw specialised services for children with physical disabilities being introduced through the establishment of the Children’s Rehabilitation Centre referred to as the Polio Rehabilitation Centre and later renamed the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre. This facility provides longterm care for persons with profound disabilities. During this time, the fabrication of orthopaedic appliances and other assistive devices were introduced at the Children’s Rehabilitative Centre.

As disability and injury became better understood in Guyana, rehabilitation services evolved to include occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, audiology, prosthetic and orthotic services and vocational skills training for persons with disabilities.

Rehabilitation services can now be accessed throughout Guyana at the regional and district hospitals and in some cases at the level of the health centres. One of the more recent ventures has been intervention programmes which are being

provided at the special needs schools and homes for the elderly.

With the vast majority of therapists trained abroad, it is hoped that the introduction of the medical rehabilitation degree programme at the University of Guyana will encourage growth in the specialist areas of physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy.

Rehabilitation Services director and physiotherapist Barbara Lawrence believes the key areas of rehabilitation that will be earmarked for development lies in the field of Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR), and in incorporating preventative rehabilitation.

Lawrence, who speaks with the candor and enthusiasm befitting a trained physical therapist with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Manitoba, spoke of moves to nationalise CBR, which targets persons with disabilities in their homes and villages. It is envisaged that paid and specially-trained volunteers will aid in providing hands on care to allow therapy to reach individuals outside medical institutions.

The director also expressed keen interest in being able to offer prevention services, and earmarked increased promotion of safe practices and exercise. Rehabilitation has also ventured into the realms of early detection with the assistance of Maria Sheena Villareal, a physiotherapist from the Philippines specialising in that field.

Proactivity

As the National Rehabilitation Services Strategy is assessed and discussed in coming weeks, one can sense the air of proactivity in the approach of the National Commission on Disabilities. Lawrence believes that therapists should “champion physical activity and exercise”, and is hopeful that in the future this can be done by the specialists of exercise and fitness.

With overwhelming evidence suggesting that exercise has positive effects on persons with chronic diseases, Lawrence believes that championing the drive toward increased physical activity can have positive implications on persons with diabetes, stroke, hypertension, Alzheimer’s and coronary heart disease. Studies have now shown that physically active persons with breast and prostate cancer are more likely to finish demanding chemotherapy regimens, and reduce their risk of cancer-related death. As a consequence, the Rehabilitation and Disability Services Department is ready to move forward into new ventures that could have enormous health benefits for the Guyanese population.

GT&T launches “After 2 Belongs to U” promotion

The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) on Saturday launched its newest promotion called “After 2 Belongs to U”. The deal allows customers more reasons to smile while talking and texting, and takes effect on July 1.

The launch took the form of a road show which manoeuvered throughout the streets of Georgetown, with the telephone giant’s brand ambassadors, Jumo Primo, Adrian Dutchin and Calvin Burnette sensitising the public about the promotion.

The three took time out to explain how the promo-

tions work.

“It is simple, customers on the same network can make a call and after two minutes on that call, the next 10 minutes are absolutely free,” Primo said. In the same way, persons can send two text messages at the cost $8 each and text free for the rest of the day.

The ambassadors noted that this promotion only applies for persons who are in possession of a GT&T sim-card. They also stated the promotion will be epic and will be one with a difference. “What you will find happening, persons will talk and text all day long,” Primo

opined.

Customers only need the standard rates to send a text and make a call. The promotion will kick into gear on July 1 as part of GT&T’s summer promotion. The initiative will be an ongoing one and will also see customers winning fabulous prizes. The public was treated to several giveaways as the promotion rolled out on Saturday. The atmosphere was festive, with music arranged by GT&T. Several models were also having a ball as they distributed pamphlets and other items, sensitising the public about the promotion.

Culture Ministry “crunching figures” for

local Carifesta delegation

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony said the ministry is currently trying to “crunch its figures” to see how best it can utilise the funds available to transport and accommodate its 50-member delegation at the upcoming Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta) in Suriname.

Due to the new model formulated, participating countries in the Caribbean community (Caricom) have to pay their transportation costs to and from Carifesta as well as their accommodation expenses.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Dr Anthony said, “We are now working out the cost because to find

housing and transport in Suriname is adding up to be quite a bit.”

He said money from the $100 million Sports and Art Fund will be used to finance the local delegation.

Dr Anthony noted that the ministry will not be able to pay for more than 50 persons as the cost would be too high, but stated that if there are persons who would like to go to Suriname and be a part of Guyana’s delegation, and are willing to pay their way to get there plus take care of their own expenses, the ministry is willing to consider bringing them onboard.

He said the ministry has already approached the Suriname government to

see whether other persons can be accredited to go with the ministry, but is still awaiting a response.

The minister disclosed too that the audition process for choosing the delegation which will be heading to Suriname to represent Guyana should be completed shortly.

Carifesta XI which is slated for August 16 to 25 is a showcase of the work of artists, musicians and authors in the Caribbean and Latin American. The last Carifesta was held in Guyana in 2008 and saw numerous tourists flocking the country to attend the events. The first Carifesta took place in Guyana in 1972.

Providing equal opportunity to small miners a priority – natural resources minister

Natural Resources and the Environment Minister Robert Persaud said providing equal opportunities to small miners remain an area of focus as the ministry grapples to stamp out illegal mining throughout the country.

He said while it is important to clamp down on illegal mining, it is also imperative to look at creating newer and better horizons for miners who may be at a disadvantage.

Opportunities

“We have also looked at ways in how we can provide opportunities to small miners in Region 10 because whenever I go in the Northwest area, Upper Mazaruni, Mahdia, or I go down to South Rupununi, there are lots of miners who emanate from Linden and around Region 10... we’ve made available within this particular region mining properties targeting small miners and miners who do not have their own property and so we had (made available) two lotteries.

"Those lotteries were made public and persons from within the region were encouraged to be a part of it,” the minister noted.

Additionally, he said the

second step the ministry has taken is to set up certain requirements for persons to qualify for a lottery, which also includes them having their own registered equipment.

“And then it becomes a tricky situation because someone would not invest in a dredge, excavator or a pump or any form of equipment unless they have property and so they would need the property first to do that. The decision that you have to qualify first was taken because we know there are hundreds of individuals who have equipment, but do not have their own property. So that group was targeted and that

is why that requirement was placed.

“I have waivered that requirement for Region 10 whereby you don’t have to own your own equipment, but you can participate in the lottery. So while we had lottery taking place in the different mining districts, only in Region 10, we had that exemption... and it was also intended to create opportunities for young people who wanted to get involved in mining,” Persaud explained.

New lottery

Providing access to certain opportunities in mining to the people of Region 10 has remained a priority, the minister noted, making reference to another lottery which he added should be expected sometime in July. He said addressing the issue of illegal mining has been given serious attention by the ministry.

“We have ongoing ‘Operation El Dorado’ and that is to ensure that there is full compliance and enforcement of our mining regulations in this regard.”

As such, he noted that discussions are continuing with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA) and the Guyana Geology and

Mines Commission (GGMC). The minister said it is necessary to ensure that there is full compliance and mining operations conducted are environmentally safe. Environmental health and safety regulations, he noted therefore, play an integral role in the sector.

Safe mining

“In ensuring that there is compliance and everyone is in good legal standings, we don’t only look to see or establish the fact that you’re operating on illegal property, but also we seek to establish that you are following occupational health and safety guidelines and that there are safe mining practices... we have seen cases where persons were buried alive because of their failure to adhere...,”he said.

Minister Persaud said the issues of compliance, monitoring and enforcement do not only focus on the operation on illegal property, but also on occupational health and safety standards.

“We’re encouraging technology so that we will be able to move the recovery which stands between 36 and 41 per cent and we want to move it to 95 per cent. That means you get more for less resources,” he said.

The Guyana experience is a lesson for Caribbean countries – CDB president

There are some interesting lessons for the rest of the Caribbean region to learn from the road Guyana has travelled, having moved from a deep abyss to a position of enjoying seven years of uninterrupted growth up to 2012, at a rate of 4.5 per cent per annum.

This is the view of Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) President Dr William Warren Smith, who noted that Guyana’s growth did not start seven years ago, but that those who have been around for a while would be familiar with the challenges that the country had been experiencing over too long a period of time.

Potential

“Those of us who are from the region have always known about, talked about and hoped for the blossoming of the Guyana potential,” Dr Smith said during a recent interview with the National Communications Network.

“Even though Guyana was coming from a very deep abyss, in many respects what has been interesting about Guyana’s experience for me is that once Guyana took the decision to start to address its economic and social issues, there has been a very remarkable and commendable consistency of policy from one regime to another and it has

been maintained up to this point,” Dr Smith emphasised.

There is no question in his mind that that has been a direct underpinning of the successes today, and in spite of all of the pressures, Guyana has been able to maintain that constancy of policy especially in the economic arena.

“What we have seen is a willingness to make very tough decisions and live with them in spite of the fall-out – political or otherwise,” the CDB president was quoted by the Government Information Agency (GINA) as saying.

Good police

He stated that the fact that Guyana was able to survive that difficult period has a lot to do with good economic policy, and that approach was reflect-

ed in the management of the financial sector; however, going forward, Guyana’s financial sector is one that would have to show much more rapid development and greater deepening in order to underpin the dynamism of the economy that is now emerging.

“Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is part of the good story… it has helped to drive development…that FDIs perhaps would not have been attracted to coming here if that economic stability and foundation had not been created over a very long period of time with a lot of pain so that the two things are related and they create an environment within which much greater things can be done on the economic and social front,” Dr Smith said.

Good governance

When it comes to advising the government of Guyana, the CDB president highlighted that the bank is of the view that Guyana needs to put a lot of emphasis on good governance, social development, creating stronger institutions to strengthen the good things that are happening here.

“That is a work in progress… I think that the government themselves they acknowledge the work that needs to be done in strengthening those areas and some good things are beginning to

Man dies after falling off moving lorry

After leaving his home for a day’s work, a carpenter met his demise on Saturday morning after he reportedly fell off a moving vehicle at Number 47 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

The dead man was identified as Gopaul Megnauth, 37, of Lot 35, Number 47 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

According to information received, Megnauth left home about 7:30h on Saturday morning to go with his employers to purchase a quantity of manure at Number 36 Village and was on his way back to Number 47 Village when the accident occurred.

Based on reports, Megnauth was in the tray of the motor lorry and while the driver was negotiating a turn, the now dead man reportedly braced on the tray which slipped off its bearings and landed onto the roadway.

As a result, Megnauth fell into the path of a moving truck. Most of the injuries were concentrated around his head.

Dinish Megnauth, a brother of the dead man explained that he was at home when he received the message of his brother’s demise. He disclosed that his brother would normally work with him as a carpenter, but due to the rains,

his work was stalled up, forcing Gopaul to do other jobs in the meantime. The distraught brother stated that it has been three days now Gopaul has been working with the people whose truck was involved in the accident. At the scene, he added that the back of his brother’s head had a huge cut and he was bleeding through the nostrils.

He said when he saw his brother, he was still alive, thus he picked him up and headed to Skeldon Hospital, but he died on his way.

Megnauth added that the family is hoping the post-mortem examination is done as soon as Monday so that funeral arrangements can be made early. Megnauth leaves to mourn his two children and seven siblings.

happen,” he said.

What the bank is trying to do is use its resources and the experiences to help the Guyana government and other member countries to address these problems because sometimes they would recognise the need, but the resources are not there to carry it out.

Caribbean situation

With regards to the financial situation being experienced by the Caribbean, Dr Smith stated that it is one of the most difficult periods that he has experienced.

“The Caribbean is experiencing the international economic crisis in somewhat of a differentiated way; every simply put, what we’re seeing on the global scene where you have sort of a two-speed development taking place, where you have some countries developing rapidly and others are recovering slowly, the same phenomenon is playing out in the Caribbean,” he pointed out.

Meanwhile Guyana, Suriname and Belize are experiencing very rapid economic growth, with very high foreign direct investment inflows and are generally on a very good trajectory as far as the development of their economies are concerned.

Berbice man found dead in yard

Two men are in police custody following the discovery of a body in a yard at Number 11 Village, West Coast Berbice on Saturday morning. The discovery was made about 04:25h.

The dead man was identified as Jaipaul Sampuran, 34, a lorry driver of Waterloo New Scheme, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice.

At the time of his discovery, blood was oozing from his ears and eyes. The man’s body was taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Persons at Number 11 Village were tightlipped when the media visited on Saturday. Reports reaching Guyana Times revealed that the man left the house where he lived and went to the one that he once occupied.

Sampuran’s widow, Renita, stated that her husband arrived home on Saturday evening about 21:30h and went to bed. She said he drove a truck

and would leave about 06:00h every morning and she was not sure why he was out of the house that early.

The woman said they have been living in the area for the past five years and her husband had no issues with anyone and was not sure who might want to harm him. She added that the police have not told her anything about her husband’s death and she was clueless as to what occurred.

They have been married for the past 10 years and their union has brought forth four children. The man’s widow could not say if her husband had suffered from any illnesses.

“He doesn’t go hospital and so to seh he bin sick or so… he de strong,” the woman added. Sampuram is survived by his wife, four children and seven other siblings. His body is at the Fort Wellington Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. Police are continuing their investigations.

(Dec. 22Jan. 19)

There are some hopeful indications that you’re moving toward firmer ground in your affairs. Any pressure you’ve been feeling could be eased considerably.

(Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Some happy news could put you in a pleasant mood and get you started on a productive course of action. Because of this, more good things will develop.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

The charitable way you deal with people will yield you large returns down the line. The seeds of kindness you’re planting are being sown on fertile soil.

(March 21-April 19)

When it comes to doing something with others, the group will be looking to you to establish the programme. Fortunately, it’s what you do best, and you will have something in mind.

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Someone you’ve always been able to rely on will have something in mind – without you even having to ask – that will please you very much. You’re lucky to have such a friend.

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The fresh insights you’re looking for can be realised through brainstorming or a conversation with a friend in the know. Seek out anyone who fits this description.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

You shouldn’t have any trouble gratifying your ambitious objectives. Make the most of this wonderful cycle.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Generally speaking, you should be able to get along with most everybody you know. You’re likely to be most effective dealing with people on a one-on-one basis.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

You often work in fits and starts, but not so today. It’s almost a foregone conclusion that whatever you set your mind to doing will be completed to your satisfaction.

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Young people urged to learn their history

Assistant professor of African studies at the Hamilton College, New York, Dr Nigel Westmaas is advocating for Guyanese, in particular the young generation, to be equipped with the requisite information of the country’s history.

He was at the time delivering the feature presentation on the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion as compared to the Haitian Revolution during the Sixth Annual Research Conference, at the National Library, Georgetown on Saturday.

The assistant professor said in Guyana historical events such as the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion and the Enmore Martyrs have been politicised over the years; however, he said Guyanese from all walks of life should know the country’s history in its entirety.

National events

“I see Guyanese as Guyanese, so we should try to embrace all the national events, especially one like the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion.”

Westmaas said special emphasis should be placed on educating children from as early as nursery right onto the university. He said 250 years after the staging of the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion; historians have compiled a wide cross-section of books and documents on the revolt.

In similar fashion, an array of information has been generated on the arrivals of the Amerindians, Africans, Portuguese, Europeans, Chinese and East Indians in Guyana, in addition to the observance of Enmore Martyrs’ Day and Emancipation Day celebrations.

On the Dutch colony of Berbice, on February 23, 1763, the slaves on Plantation Magdalenenberg rebelled against the harsh and inhu-

mane conditions which were prevalent at the time. The rebellion which lasted until June 1764, was led mainly by Cuffy; a house slave who garnered the support of approximately 2500 African slaves.

In 1968, then President Forbes Burnham had initiated the concept of erecting a national monument in recognition of the occurrences of 1763. Ivor Thom, an artist, related that the 1763 Berbice Slave Revolt Monument designed by Phillip Moore is a representation of Guyana’s rich history.

“Phillip used a lot of symbols on his work, for example, you had the protruding mouth... he used that as defiance because the slaves defy the authority. He has the map of Guyana at the back of the sculpture with six faces representing the six races of Guyana.”

The Sixth Annual Research Conference which was organised by the Guyana Institute of Historical Research (GIHR) was held under the theme “The 1763 Berbice Revolution”.

Preserving history

GIHR Director Hazel Woolford said this year’s theme signals the importance of preserving the country’s history. “In 1763, psychologically, the slaves had successfully overcome abuse, neglect, shame and fear in their attempt to create a republic hemisphere. This is a major achievement.”

Reflecting on the staging of the rebellion, Woolford said when Cuffy assumed control of the 1763 Revolution, his long-term objective was to establish a unity government.

Historians, librarians, archivists, exhibitors, teachers and students were among those present at the conference.

The Guyana experience...

From page 17

“Those of our economies that are more dependent on services, especially tourism and financial services are having a very difficult time. These countries tend to be much more integrated into those economies that are experiencing either very low growth or recessionary conditions – I am speaking about North America and the European countries,” Dr Smith indicated.

He added that the tourism and service dependent economies are either going through negative economic growth or very marginal growth, whereas the commodity-based economies

like Guyana, Belize and Suriname are growing rapidly.

The CDB does not only finance projects, it does much more than that. “We like to think that the advice that we provide to our countries is as much a part of our mandate as the financing role and we do have very frank and open dialogue with our countries about economic strategy, we also talk to them very frankly about the issues they need to address in order to be more diversified, to become more attractive to international investment,” the CDB president emphasised.

Cavendish misses out on yellow jersey

Mark Cavendish’s dream of claiming his first Tour de France yellow jersey disappeared because of a crash near the end of a farcical opening stage.

Germany’s Marcel Kittel won the stage, which had a confusing end after a team bus became wedged on the finish line.

With the riders less than 15km away, the finish was temporarily brought 3km forward but that decision was reversed when the bus was moved.

“The problem was the change in the finish,” said Manxman Cavendish, 28.

The Omega PharmaQuickstep rider added: “With 5km to go, we heard the sprint was in 2km – and then

one kilometre later they were like: ‘No, it’s at the original finish.’ It’s just carnage.

“I didn’t crash, I was just behind the crash. I’m lucky I didn’t come down. My teammate Tony Martin is in a state – he’s not in a good way.”

A decision on whether Martin will continue in the race will be taken on Sunday, his team said.

“He has a concussion and a contusion on his left lung. He also has soft tissue damages on his hip, chest, left knee and shoulder, and also on his back. Furthermore, he has a very deep wound 5cm wide on his left elbow that reaches his muscles, which causes a lot of pain and a problem moving his arm,” said a spokesman.

Kittel, riding for Argos Shimano, was unaware of the controversy surrounding the finish. When asked if he knew that a bus had been wedged under the finish line, he replied: “I didn’t.”

The stage winner also said he “had no idea” the finish had been temporarily moved.

Britain’s Geraint Thomas, who predicted in his BBC Sport column there would be “carnage” in the opening days of the race, was also caught up in the crash and injured his pelvis – but the Team Sky rider is fit to continue after an X-ray showed no serious damage.

It was a farcical end to the opening stage of the 100th Tour, which is visiting the Mediterranean island of Corsica for the first time.

The riders were within 20km of the finish when the Orica GreenEdge bus became wedged under the overhead banner across the finish line.

Orica were later fined 2000 Swiss Francs (£1393) by race officials. The team’s sporting director Matt White said: “The bus was led under the finish gantry, and we took for granted that there was enough clearance. (BBC Sport)

Serena Williams thrashes Kimiko Date-Krumm

─ Djokovic cruises to win over Chardy

Serena Williams wasted little time in seeing off Japan’s Kimiko DateKrumm after their thirdround match was moved under the Centre Court roof with the light fading at Wimbledon on Saturday.

The world number one and defending champion powered through 6-2 6-0 in 61 minutes to reach the last 16. At 42, Krumm was the oldest woman ever to reach the third round at Wimbledon.

Their match had been scheduled for Court One, but with the time approaching 20:30 BST they were moved to Centre, where the roof guaranteed they would be able to finish.

Williams, 31, was surprisingly broken when serving for the first set, to the delight of the Centre Court crowd who wanted a contest in their unexpected bonus match.

The American was not

in a charitable mood, however, and responded in kind to take the set before racing through the second to claim her 600th career win.

“That’s awesome,” she told BBC Sport. “I had absolutely no idea. That feels really good. On Centre Courtwhat better place to win 600 matches?”

Krumm, who lost to Steffi Graf in the 1996 semi-finals, did at least make one of her targets by keeping the fivetime champion on court for over an hour.

“I’m finally starting to feel a little better,” Williams added.

“I had such a long claycourt season and my first match I felt was a little awkward, so I’m getting there. I always like to peak towards the end.

“It’s unbelievable playing here on Centre Court under the roof – I don’t think it gets better for me than playing under a closed roof on grass.” Williams will next face

Orealla steamroll Lower Corentyne 13-0 in rain

Orealla displayed unmatched football skills on their way to trouncing Lower Corentyne Secondary 13-0 in the Berbice leg of the Digiciel Schools football tournament played at the Skeldon Community Centre on Friday.

In a match which was played on a wet outfield Orealla possessed the ball about 75 percent of the time and kept the ball in Lower Corentyne’s half for most of the game until the rains came and energised the boys from the Lower Corentyne Secondary.

Kevin Dick got to business

in the second minute of play when he sent a right foot shot flat and wide goalkeeper Joel Holder. Three minutes later Evon Herman made it 2-0 and then registered three more goals in that half.

Also finding the back of the net in the first 45 minutes of the game were Jermaine Biswaneand Brinsley Rajnarine to see Orealla lead 7-0 at the interval.

Upon resumption, Herman wasted little time and netted his fifth goal. Before the final whistle goalkeeper Holder was forced to defend two powerful shots off the boot of Herman. However

apiece. A defence error in the 48 minute accounted for the other goal. Orealla will meet last year’s Regional champion Tutorial Academy on Friday at the same venue. Tutorial drew a bye to the second round. The competition continues in the Region on Monday at the All Saints ground, New Amsterdam, when School of the Nations meet Winifred Gaskin Secondary. (Andrew Carmichael)

Limacol cPL promises a...

Germany’s 23rd seed Sabine Lisicki, who beat number 14 seed Sam Stosur of Australia 4-6 6-2 6-1.

Eighth seed Petra Kvitova remains the highest-ranked player in the opposite half of the draw, after beating Ekaterina Makarova in a rain-delayed match.

The Czech, who won the title in 2011, had lost the second set and was a break down when rain stopped play on Friday.

Meanwhile, world number one Novak Djokovic cruised into the fourth round of Wimbledon with victory over 28th seed Jeremy Chardy.

Djokovic made just three unforced errors on his way to a 6-3 6-2 6-2 win over the Frenchman, who found his opponent unplayable.

The Serb, 26, lost just six points on his own serve, in a match which lasted one hour and 26 minutes, to send out a warning to the rest of the draw.

His last-16 opponent will be Tommy Haas, who beat Feliciano Lopez.

Djokovic and Chardy’s last meeting came at Wimbledon in 2011, when the eventual champion again made easy work of his opponent, winning 6-4 6-1 6-1.

“I felt very confident stepping onto the court but it’s never easy against Chardy, he’s a quality player,” said Djokovic. (BBC Sport)

But I believe from what we know so far, and what I’ve heard at the security discussions, is that the fans all across the Caribbean will be pleased with the access they would have for the number of things that would make a Caribbean party a Caribbean party.”

Apart from the publishing of the list of items allowed/disallowed at the matches, the price structure for tickets will soon be made public as well.

Graham explained, “In addition to whatever those ticket prices are going to be, the access to tickets for the games here and entire tournament is going to be broader than any other access to tickets for cricket that we’ve had before, because we’re going to be distributing tickets throughout all of the Digicel stores and

all the Courts outlets. That increases significantly both in the numbers and in the geographical spread the availability of tickets. That’s something I hope a lot of our cricket fans would be anxious about.”

Venue team

At the start of the press briefing, Graham introduced the Limacol CPL Venue Team for the Guyana leg of the tournament.

The team comprises Volunteers Coordinator Sabrina Panday, Cricket Operations Officer Reon King, Security Officer Simon McBean, Sponsorship Coordinator Ariana Gordon, Ticketing Coordinator Natasha Khan, Media and Accreditation Maliza WaltonSinclair, and Logistics Officer,

unbeaten gafoor leads...

Former national champion Fred Collins is in third spot with six wins and spread of 630, while Leon Belony is in fourth position with five victories and a spread of 1298 and James Krakowsky in fifth with four wins and a spread of 655.

The players will be in action again today from 09:00h. Eight rounds will be played today, while the same number of rounds will be contested on Monday.

Give of your best

Earlier in the day, the tournament was officially declared open by Administrator of the National Sports Commission, Gervy Harry, who wished the players well and urged them to “give of your best.”

“This is a competition and I want you to give of your best.

I know that everyone wants to win and become Guyana’s representative at the World Championship, but we have to remember there can only be one champion, so give it your best shot and put your all into it,” Harry told the players.

Marketing Manager of Courts (Guyana), Pernell Cummings, said his company was pleased to partner with GASP as the exclusive sponsor the championship.

He noted that the alliance will continue into the future, as Courts is aware of the benefits that can be derived from playing the game of scrabble.

President of GASP, Leon Belony, who delivered opening remarks, lauded his executives for their diligence during the past weeks in helping to prepare for the hosting of the championship.

Carmachand Rambarran. Also present were Limacol CPL Commercial Director, Jamie Stewart, coach of the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise, Roger Harper, and Guyana Amazon Warriors players, experienced middleorder batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan, energetic all-rounder Christopher Barnwell and young opener Trevon Griffith. The Limacol CPL will bowl off on July 30 in Barbados and conclude on August 24 with the grand final in Trinidad and Tobago. Six franchise based teams – Antigua and Barbuda Hawksbills, Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Jamaica Tallawahs, St Lucia Zouks and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel- will participate in the tournament.

He envisaged that the competition will be a keenly contested one, as all the players had been working overtime on sharpening their skills.

Battling for top honours in the competition are two-time defending champion Abigail McDonald, Leon Belony, James Krakowsky, Moen Gafoor, Fred Collins, Colin Chichester, Orlando Michael, Ruby Cummings, Wayne Cave, Devraj Deonarine, Maurice Munro, Julian Skeete, Anand Mohabir, Robert Williams, Grace Hercules, Kampta Ramnarine, Michael Benjamin, Romario Gonsalves, Chetnauth Persaud, Mohanram Ramnarine, Dwain Albert, Karen Bobb Semple, Wazir Dilipchand and Wazim Dilipchand.

Hats off to Limacol/ NEW GPC INC

Hats off to corporate citizen, Dr Ranjisingh Ramroop, for his genuine support to the first Caribbean Premier League (CPL) as franchise owner! NEW GPC INC, through its Limacol brand, has taken the title sponsorship of the CPL. This impressive Caribbean cricket tournament will now be called the Limacol CPL.

The Limacol Caribbean Premier League Twenty20 will be a spectacular cricket championship in the Caribbean. This first genuine, most attractive and well organised tournament will bring to the Caribbean quality cricket at its best.

The franchise superstars from around the world will be playing with the Caribbean’s best. The very young cricketers with their potential and talent will have a well-deserved opportunity to play in the same team and against some of the best in the world.

Euphoria

Oh! It will indeed be a delightful euphoria to see the likes of Ricky Pointing, Ross Taylor and Muttiah Murlitharran playing with our Caribbean stars in the same team.

The first-ever Caribbean Premier League is coming after the well-established Indian Premier League, Big Bash in Australia and other Twenty20 leagues in Bangladesh and elsewhere.

However, our Caribbean cricketers are known for their special calypso type cricket and after all we in the Caribbean are fully aware of the nostalgia when our own “Super Cat” Clive Lloyd lifted the first two World Cups.

The West Indies cricket team has achieved greatness and our cricketers are world class players.

India can boast that they are the richest cricketing country with an abundance of world class players and money. Hence, the thousands of spectators who fill the huge stadiums across India and the millions who watched their television stations and the further millions, who listened to radio commentary, certainly help to bring peace, tranquility and satisfaction to a greater part of the Indian population.

Diaspora

Scores of Guyanese in the diaspora are already calling and requesting information about returning home to see the matches that will be played at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. Hundreds of Guyanese from North America, UK and other parts of the world will be coming home to share in our Emancipation Day activities and will seize the opportunity to witness the CPL matches at Providence.

The NEW GPC sponsorship is a multi-year agreement which will be in all aspects of the tournament, from branding, uniforms, advertising, marketing and production.

Above all, NEW GPC is the franchise owner of our country’s pride, Guyana

The Guyana Amazon Warriors is really a very good team. Ramnaresh Sarwan was the first captain to win the first ever Twenty20 tournament in the Caribbean. He was the Man-of-the-Series in the 2004 Champions Trophy tournament when West Indies won.

Sarwan is known as the batsman who can walk to the wicket at number three and play through the innings. Most significantly is the fact that Ramnaresh Sarwan is a great finisher. The Amazon Warriors includes the number one bowler in the world Sunil Narine, New Zealand’s in-form batsman Martin Guptill, Pakistan’s solid allrounder, Mohammed Hafeez.

Team strength

The batting will further be strengthened by the dependable and experienced Narsingh Deonarine, Lendl Simmons and the West Indies wicketkeeper/ batsman Denesh Ramdin. Hence, it cannot be denied that the Amazon Warriors are extremely strong in batting.

The bowling will benefit from the speed of Ronsford Beaton, who will receive valuable support from Krishmar Santokie and James Franklyn. Narine will receive support from Hafeez

Guyana U-17 team depart for...

Meanwhile, manager Nazeer Mohamed said the squad has had adequate preparation leading up to the regional championships and he is confident that Guyana would performing outstandingly in the tournament.

“The players are committed and eager to do well. I am confident the players will do a good job. They are supporting each other and the team spirit is high. We have some talented players who can hold their own in any given situation,” he said.

Speaking about the players in the squad, captain Travis Persaud said: “We have a talented squad with capable batsmen and wicket-taking bowlers.”

He stated that he expects a lot from vice captain Shimron Hetmyer and fast

bowling all-rounder Kemo Paul.

“These are two senior guys in the team; I know what they are capable of and I am looking forward to their support in every department,” added Persaud.

The captain affirmed the team’s allround ability, stating “the batsmen have the ability to build an innings and occupy the crease so I am confident we will be able to get scores of 250 or close to three hundred.”

He added, “The bowlers are good enough to restrict oppositions, we have a variety to choose from.”

Guyana will be in action on Monday against the Windward Islands.

The Guyanese will then play Barbados on July 3, Leeward Islands on July 4, Jamaica on July 6 and hosts Trinidad and Tobago

on July 7.

The tournament will comprise five rounds and 15 50-over matches that will be played on a round robin format.

Jamaica are the defending champions after winning the inaugural tournament last year and will be looking to defend that title against the five other regional teams: Barbados, Guyana, Leeward Islands, Trinidad and Tobago and Windward Islands.

Guyana: Travis Persaud (captain), Shimron Hetmeyer (vice captain), Grisean Grant, Travis Drakes, Ronaldo Renee, Brandon Persaud, Parmesh Parsotam, Kemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, Daniel Lewis, Keanu Harry, Navendra Persaud, Permanand Ramdhan and Ryan Adams.

and Veerasammy Permaul. Young Christopher Barnwell, Trevon Griffith and William Perkins are players who can impact on the tournament.

Dr Ramroop is very optimistic about the future of cricket in the Caribbean. He said “Guyana Amazon Warriors represents an investment we have in the CPL, in the sport, in the players. Caribbean cricket is part of our culture.”

He added, “We believe in the transformative potential of CPL for the Caribbean region. Not only does it promise to completely rejuvenate and revitalise cricket in the Caribbean, it has the potential to provide a tremendous economic and social boost as well. We feel it is important for the major corporate houses of the region to support this landmark initiative and intend to set an example by taking the title sponsorship of the event.

“Limacol is a product that for decades, Caribbean people have used to refresh and rejuvenate themselves. To sponsor the CPL, an event that promises to rejuvenate and refresh not just cricket in the Caribbean, but the region in general, is an obvious fit for us. “Cricket is close to the heart of the Caribbean people. This particular form of cricket is what our players love. The cricketing fraternity expectations are sky high that this CPL will be a great tournament.”

GCF Time Trials… Jeffrey, Anthony, Newton and Fraser victorious

Raynauth Jeffrey, Michael Anthony, Raymond Newton and Claire Fraser emerged victorious in their respective categories on Saturday when the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) held its time trials ahead of today’s National Championship.

For the second year in succession, the Time Trials was held on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway, with the riders starting at Madewini, proceeding to where the first toll station was and back to the point of origin for the finish.

Jeffrey, who recently graduated to the senior ranks, easily topped that category, as Team Coco (Guyana) had a 1-2 finish.

Jeffrey finished the course in a time of 14 minutes, 31.90 seconds, with Paul DeNobrega clocking 15 minutes, 31.40 seconds.

The experienced Newton topped the Veterans category, winning in 15:25s, ahead of Stephen Fernandes (15:35s), Kennard Lovell (18:12s), and Lancelot Rose (20:09s).

On the distaff side, Fraser was the leading rider with a time of 18:07s, followed by Hazina Barrett (18:09s), Naomi Singh (18:18s) and Marica Dick (19:27s).

The riders will today compete in the National Championship with registration set to start at 06:00 hours on Homestretch Avenue. The senior riders will then move off from that location, head to Soweto on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway, before returning to the start point for the finish.

The junior riders will turn back at Long Creek on the upward journey, while the veterans and females will turn at Kuru Kururu and return to Homestretch Avenue for the finish.

The defending champion of the senior division is Orville Hinds of Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club.

The other top finishers in the senior division were Marlon Williams (15:37.30s), Godfrey Pollydore (15:38.64s), Rastaff O’Selmo (15:48.60s), Davindra Sahadeo (15:55.14s), Jude Bentley (15:59.51s), Hector Edwards Jr (16:41.95s) and Mark Sonaram (17:55.58s). Anthony, another Team Coco (Guyana) rider, was the leading competitor in the junior division, clocking 15:17.92s to finish ahead of Hamza Eastman (15:56.68s), Shaquille Agard (15:59.81s) and Akeem Arthur (16:33.49s).

20 graduate from FIVB beach volleyball course

By Avenash Ramzan

Several personnel in the local volleyball fraternity are now better equipped to assist in the development of beach volleyball in Guyana following the conclusion of a one-week FIVB Grassroots programme at the Carifesta Sports Complex in Georgetown.

Twenty persons, inclusive of four females, graduated from the course, which was conducted by FIVB’s Instructor, Mauro Hernandez, of Venezuela. He was accompanied by compatriots, Johan Gutierres and Leonardo Ojeda.

At the closing ceremony on Saturday afternoon at the course’s venue, Hernandez and president of the Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF), Lennie Shuffler, presented the graduates with Volleyball Cooperation Programme Certificates, accredited by the world governing body, the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB).

Collaborative effort

The participants were tutored on the basics of beach volleyball as part of a collaborative effort by the FIVB, and the central body here, the GVF. The course was both theoretical and practical, and according to Shuffler, it formed part of a directive of the FIVB for Guyana to focus on the development of beach, school and community volleyball.

Guyana benefited from the course since it falls under the Levels One and Two bracket of countries affiliated to the FIVB.

Shuffler challenged the participants to maximise their new found knowledge by spreading it in their re-

spective jurisdictions, noting that the GVF will offer as much help as possible in this regard.

At the conclusion of Saturday’s ceremony, Shuffler presented six beach volleyballs and two nets each to the Berbice Volleyball Association and the Demerara Volleyball Federation to continue the process of development in those areas.

He also hinted at the possibility of staging a beach volleyball competition shortly to measure the level of talent that exists, while also tapping into neighbouring Suriname and Brazil by having an active programme at the Number 63 Beach and in Region Nine respectively.

Cost-effective

Shuffler said the GVF is committed to developing this format since being a twoplayer team game it is cost effective and permits the federation to send teams to compete outside of Guyana.

The GVF boss noted that the local body has had instances in the past where it had to pay exorbitant sums to send a 17-member contingent of players and officials to regular indoor tournaments overseas.

Shuffler pointed out that with a much smaller touring party of players and officials for beach volleyball competitions, the local federation will be in a better position to finance such an arrangement, making the current course a step in the right direction for local volleyball.

Hernandez, speaking through an interpreter, said Guyana is now in prime position to develop beach volleyball, adding that he is willing

and available to offer further assistance in this regard.

Like Shuffler, Hernandez urged the participants not to be selfish with the data gained, but rather disseminate it in the interest of popularising and developing the format in Guyana.

He also called on the GVF to spread the game to all regions of Guyana, while he also urged all stakeholders to work in unison as his aim is to see Guyana being represented in beach volleyball at the prestigious Olympic Games in the future.

Beach volleyball is fast gaining popularity worldwide and is an Olympic sport since 1996.

Informative course

Meanwhile, Guyana Times Sport spoke with a few participants, who expressed gratitude to the FIVB and the GVF for staging the course, which they say was timely and informative.

Krysta Amy Yan of the Vanguard Volleyball Club said she now has a better understanding of the basics of the game and is now eager to spread the message among her peers.

Quacy Matheson of the Port Mourant Training Centre Volleyball Club said the course provided him with a clear view of the different techniques and their usage, noting that he is looking forward to putting them into practice soon.

Ronald Smith of Park Rangers Volleyball Club expressed similar sentiments, adding that in the space of a week, he was able to gain a ton of knowledge on beach volleyball, something he is grateful for.

Black Sharks in must-win situation against Smythfield Rockers today

The Mackeson Top Six basketball tournament in New Amsterdam continues today with one match at the Vryman’s Ervin court. Leaders Smythfield Rockers will take on bottom half of the points table team Fyrish Black Sharks. The Rockers have already qualified for the finals, having won their three pre-

vious games while the Black Sharks are in a must-win situation. Smythfield will be looking to rock the boys from Fyrish out of contention for a place in the final.

The Sharks are hungry for a win, which if they get, will keep their hopes alive.

The Black Sharks have only been able devour cellar placed Rose Hall Town Jammers. They must win

Young footballers in Region Eight educated on substance abuse

By Treiston Joseph

On the eve of the Region Eight final of the Digicel Schools Football Championship in Madhia, the telecommunication giants held an informative seminar with the players on drug abuse.

Facilitated by Hollis Roberts, the lecturer touched on alcohol, tobacco and marijuana as he made the session interactive by having the players in groups to share their thoughts on the three forms of substance abuse on Friday evening. Roberts, after his presentation with players, said the talk should help them further their careers.

“Well, it’s basically for them to stay away from the use of alcohol, tobacco and

marijuana because it can jeopardise their careers so in a way they can give more to the sport once they stay away from them,” Roberts stated.

Organiser of the tournament, Lavern FraserThomas believes that the seminar will help the players become well rounded individuals. “The information shared was very relevant and informative for the youths to understand the importance of how and why drug abuse should not become a way of life.

“Also I think that their recognition that the information is not just for them now but even as they mature and become individuals and it was very significant,” Fraser stated. Fraser also men-

tioned the importance of the event on Digicel’s part, noting that it is aiding the overall grooming of the youths.

“Digicel considers this programme very necessary for the development of Guyana’s youths and would consider the programme successful for every one youth who is prevented from becoming a drug abuser,” Fraser emphasised.

Christopher Chung, coach of Paramakatoi Secondary, thanked Digicel and Roberts for the information, highlighting that the seminar was a good addition to the tournament. “Well on behalf of PK (Paramakatoi) I want to say thanks for sharing this with us because we came here thinking it was just football,” Chung noted.

GSCL finals set for Monday at Everest

The Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) tournament is expected to climax on Monday with the staging of the three category finals at the Everest Cricket Club ground from 09:30h.

The tournament, which is featuring some of the leading softball players in the country, is being sponsored by the Trophy Stall, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Salod Marketing Agency, Star Party Rentals and Mike’s Copy Centre.

In the Male Over-35 category, Park Rangers will face Regal in a 12-overs-a-side contest; Wolf’s Warriors will take on Regal in the Male Open 20/20 final, a repeat of last year’s Guyana Telephone and Telegraph-sponsored 10/10 final, while Aroaima Rusal Warriors of Linden will come up against Regal in the female segment, which is a 12-over affair.

The winners in the Over35 and Female divisions will receive $100,000 each, while the Open champion will take home $200,000.

Skipper Troy Kippins, Chien Gittens, Patrick Rooplall, Mohammed Ayume and Safraz Esau will lead Regal Open’s challenge against Amit Rai, Safraz Karim, Balbinder Shivpersaud and Diaram Persaud of Wolf’s Warriors.

Supporters of the Regal Over-35 squad will be hoping that Mahendra Hardyal, Samuel Kingston, Mahendra Arjune and Lyndon Lyght bring their ‘A’ game to stop

the Park Rangers line-up, which includes the veteran Ricky ‘Bimbly’ Singh, Danny Mohanram and Tony Singh.

The ladies’ encounter is the perfect foil for a supporting role in the day’s activities and to this extent, Lashanna Toussaint, Nalini Sumintra, Dawn Nichols and Vanessa Choonoo will be looking to turn back the challenge of the Mining Town ladies, whose line-up is unknown.

Semi-final

Meanwhile, in their respective semi-final encounters, Regal XI defeated Speedboat XI by seven wickets, while Wolf’s Warriors claimed a last ball thriller over Trophy Stall, coming away with a one-wicket victory.

In the Over-35 category, Regal Masters stopped Ogle with a 41-run victory before seeing Park Rangers get past Success Masters by three wickets, with one ball to spare in another exciting encounter.

Batting first, Speedboat were limited to 96 all out, following a good start, as Britvi Motilall, Esau and Kippins pegged things back for their team with three wickets each.

In reply, Regal XI rode on the back of Ricky Sargeant’s unbeaten 43, which was backed by an unbeaten 24 from Gittens to reach 97-3 from seven overs.

In the other semi-final in the Open category, Wolf’s Warriors asked Trophy Stall to bat first and bowled them

out for 110, with Randy Ketwaroo (45) and Rafman Ally, who made an unbeaten 24, being their principal scorers.

Dayanand Persaud snared 4-21 for Wolf’s Warriors, who in reply reached 111-9 off the final delivery of the 12th over, thanks to Amit Rai’s 28 and Persaud’s unbeaten 21, even as Terry Oxford took three wickets and Ketwaroo 2-7 for Trophy Stall.

In the Over-35 semi-finals, Regal Masters batted first and accumulated 189-6 from their 20 overs, with Eric Thomas and Arjune getting 60 and 29 respectively. S Persaud claimed 2-27 for Ogle, who were bowled out for 148 with one ball to spare, with Wallack Joseph (21) and K Dindyal (16) being their principal scorers against the bowling of Hardyal, Arjune and Shaheed Mohammed, who all took three wickets for 12, 17 and 37 runs respectively. Park Rangers then faced Success Masters in their semi-final matchup for the Over-35 category and having bowled out their opponents for 152 in 17 overs, replied with 153-7 from 19.5 overs. Meanwhile, the GSCL’s Male nationwide 12/12 softball competition will commence on July 6 at the same venue and the Banks DIH/ Cloud Nine tournament will start six days later at the Thirst Park ground.

their remaining matches and hope that the Jammers can beat Canje when those two teams meet.

The top teams will qualify for the final in the ANSA McAl-sponsored tournament. At stake is $80,000 for the winner while the losing finalist will take home $20,000. Today’s game starts at 16:30h. (Andrew Carmichael)

Day one of the final round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire and Life Insurance-sponsored (GTM) Under-19 InterCounty three-day day cricket competition was washed out without a ball being bowled on Saturday at both venues in the city. The matches are scheduled to be played at the Demerara Cricket Club ground in Queenstown where tournament leaders Demerara face the defending champions Berbice and at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground where the President’s XI oppose Essequibo. However, heavy rains on Friday and early on Saturday morning left the grounds waterlogged and play was abandoned at both venues just after lunch.

Play is expected to start this morning at 09:30h, weather permitting. Demerara with two outright wins lead the points table with table with 31 points while Berbice are on 22.5 points. GCB/GTM U-19 Inter-County Cricket Tournament… Rain

By Avenash Ramzan

With a plethora of regional and international T20 superstars, the on-field action in the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) promises to be electrifying and riveting, creating an atmosphere that is synonymous with West Indies cricket.

And a true fan would tell you, the flair, energy and vigour associated with cricket in the Caribbean goes way beyond the boundary. It is with this in mind that the upcoming Limacol CPL will look to keep fans in the game, by generating a Caribbean party atmosphere in the stands. “The goal of the CPL is to really produce

Limacol CPL promises a “Caribbean party”

a Caribbean tournament and Jamie Stewart, Limacol CPL Commercial Director, has been using the world carnival. C, as in CPL, became carnival in some instances, so that’s the objectives, for the Caribbean life and the spirit to be reflected in the venues as the games go on,” Events Operations Manager of Limacol CPL, Alex Graham, told local media operatives at a press conference at Duke Lodge on Saturday evening. He added, “And to do that we need to allow access to some things, but these things to meet security standards can’t be without limits, so we are going to be making a number of public service announcements to ensure that fans understand what they can bring and what they cannot bring.

Guyana U-17 team depart for TT, confident of winning title

By Rajiv Bisnauth

The national under-17 cricket team departed Guyana on Saturday morning, confident of doing well in the second edition of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) regional tournament which bowls off on Monday in Trinidad and Tobago.

Prior to their departure from the Wind Jammer Hotel, Kitty, Coach Garvin

Nedd said he is backing his charges to make Guyana proud, adding that the team would be going all out to win the title.

“Overall we have a very a good all-round team. We have players with the ability to perform at this level and win matches. The main strength of this side, however, is the team unity and self-belief. The players are

a mentally strong group of young men. At the moment the players are thinking about their contribution to the team and the overall team goals.”

Nedd continued, “We have a positive attitude in the camp, team spirit and the level of discipline are very high and that the players are eager to get into action”.

Unbeaten Gafoor leads after day one

By avenash Ramzan

Moen Gafoor was the only player to remain unbeaten at the end of day one of the Courts National Scrabble Championship at the Bank of Guyana rooftop on Saturday. As expected, he ended the day sitting pretty at the top of the points table, and in a prime position to challenge for the title of national champion, which has been in the

hands of Abigail McDonald for the past two years.

Gafoor, who entered this tournament as the Guyana Association of Scrabble Players (GASP) number four ranked player, finished on the maximum seven wins and a positive spread of 1466.

He defeated all of his opponents, which included Ruby Cummings, Dwain Albert, Michael Benjamin,