Guyana Times Daily - October 26, 2015

Sugar workers shut down entire industry

Health Minister condemns GPHC's security

Following the security breach at the Georgetown Public Hospital during which a man sneaked into the female ward and was reportedly caught molesting a teenager, Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, on Friday told reporters that an investigation was being conducted to determine if the security firm should be replaced at the institution.

The Minister said the breach was “rather unacceptable and the outcome was no better”. He added that the breach showed that the security system in place was “slack” and the hospital’s administration – following a thorough investigation – if necessary would remove the security company attached to the institution.

The Minister made mention that he was very surprised by the situation since one security personnel had been very adamant about his driver (the Minister’s driver) not entering the compound, for security reasons.

Dr Norton admitted nonetheless that there were

indeed issues at the medical institution with regard to the security situation, but promised that the matter was under investigation and required measures would be put into place, even if the Ministry had to do so.

“And if it requires removing the company, we surely will,” the Public Health Minister added.

On October 4 around 00:30h, patients of Room 3017 of the female ward of

the hospital, noticed an older man sitting on the bed of a 16-year-old patient.

Reports are that the 48-year-old man had allegedly sneaked into the room to molest the teen, and patients had related that although she was crying, her molester was still attempting to flatter her.

It was reported that the man had told her to place her finger on her lips and be quiet as he repeatedly asked her if she loved him and wanted to marry him.

The other female patients had caused a commotion after realising the intruder was not hospital staff, after which they had cornered him and called the Police who subsequently took him into custody.

The suspect had claimed that he and the young lady were familiar with each other and shared a sexual relationship, but the young woman had denied that.

The man, identified as Anand Singh of West Coast Demerara, was eventually charged and remanded to prison.

Albouystown launches clean-up initiative

Residents of Albouystown on Sunday banded together to make their contribution to the countrywide cleanup campaign, which began earlier this year.

The initiative, founded by two cousins, despise the idea of the community being labelled “ghetto”, and want to elevate the community, thus gathered over 40 residents to join the initiative.

One resident told Guyana Times he hopes the Government or the Mayor and City Council (MMC) can see the work the community is doing and lend assistance in any way possible.

He noted that Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) donated six garbage drums to be placed around the com-

munity for the proper disposal of garbage, and they are hoping other companies will “chip in” and give a hand to a worthy initiative.

The resident further explained that the group plans to continue with the activity every week. He added that as the rest of the country is being cleaned, it seems as though MCC has forgotten about Albouystown, as no one has yet visited the community. Nevertheless, he added that residents have seen that work needs to be done and have taken it upon themselves to get it done.

Another resident reiterated that a lot of persons only see Albouystown as a poverty-ridden community, commonly known as the ghetto, which she claims is

furthest from the truth and that is what the community is currently attempting to change.

She noted that the group, which calls themselves “3rd World District”, plans to create a playground for children within the community. The group plans to further spread the word throughout the community so other persons can join in bettering the community.

“Not because it’s how everyone know us, is how we plan to remain. We want to build ourselves up”, the resident added. She also shared that she hopes this move within the community will help the young people to elevate themselves and always try to do better than what others may think of them.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, October 26 – 14:30h-16:00h and Tuesday, October 27 – 14:30h-16:00h

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, October 26 – 15:10h-16:40h and Tuesday, October 27 – 15:55h-17:25h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Thundery showers with sunny intervals can be expected in the morning, while light rain showers are expected in the afternoon. Thundery showers are again expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius.

Wind: East to East North-easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.02 metres per second.

High Tide: 15:37h reaching a maximum height of 2.90 metres.

Low Tide: 09:11h and 21:36h reaching minimum heights of 0.42 metre and 0.29 metre respectively.

Sugar workers shut down entire industry

...strike for wage increases

BY KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

Thousands of workers from across the sugar belt officially downed tools on Sunday morning to push for higher wages from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) with hopes that this latest action would result in their favour.

After announcing last week that all the sugar estates had exceeded their targets, GuySuCo would have been caught unawares by this industrial action. Operations at all sugar factories were adversely affected and will cause GuySuCo to lose millions of dollars as a consequence of the workers’ decision to strike for a three-day period.

Guyana Times understands the workers have ‘retaliated’ after the sugar corporation failed to meet with representatives of the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) to discuss an increase in wages for sugar workers.

A source close to the union told this newspaper on Sunday that GuySuCo is “avoiding” a meeting with GAWU to have dialogue about proposed increases in the wages for sugar workers who are unionised.

“The sugar corporation is avoiding any meeting with GAWU on proposals for the year 2015. Earlier when we had talked to them about it, they told us to wait until the sugar Commission of Inquiry (COI), which was ongoing, to be concluded before they would have discussions with GAWU on the matter. However, the COI has been completed. GuySuCo is still

not inviting the Union to engage in the talks,” the source stated.

Guyana Times was told that while the COI report is merely a documentation of recommendations and the final decisions are yet to be made, wage increases for sugar workers were not part of the Commission’s mandate.

“Wages is a substantive matter. The COI report is merely recommendations but the gist of the matter from the workers side is that they want wage increases,” the source informed.

This newspaper was told that workers begun their strike action on Sunday morning.

According to the source, the workers turned up on Saturday and worked until midnight. However, no one turned up for the Sunday morning shift.

“Cane harvesters did not go to work today (Sunday) except maybe a few who were not aware of the strike. It is a virtual stand-still,” this publication was further told.

According to the source, if

GuySuCo does not meet the demands of its sugar workers, this may result in a prolonged period of strike action and protests until there is an amicable solution.

It must be reminded that over the past few years, before the month of October or during the first week of October, the sugar corporation would have already indicated a pay hike for its workers.

However, it is almost the beginning of November and GuySuCo has failed to do so for 2015. Given the existing dry weather the sugar industry is losing valuable time for harvesting and the strike action will have a domino effect on production.

Canes which have already been harvested but are yet to be processed will spoil and therefore the sugar corporation will lose millions daily as the strike continues.

However, GuySuCo in a press release on Sunday expressed its disappointment with GAWU’s decision to call on its members to proceed on strike action across the country.

“Their actions have affected all field and factory operations, breaking the prevailing production momentum. The Union is demanding that the corporation commence wages, salaries and fringes benefits negotiations for 2015. The corporation and the Union had a preliminary meeting on September 16, where the corporation informed the Union and the representa-

tives from the various estates that it was unable to commence discussion before the Commission of Inquiry has submit its findings and recommendations,” the sugar entity said.

According to GuySuCo it had subsequently advised the leadership of the GAWU (as recently as Friday October 23, 2015), that it would not be able to commence discussion of the Union’s proposal until the COI report has been considered by the Government and advise is given to the corporation on the way forward.

Editor(ag): Michael Younge

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

Border offers

Within the context of reviewing possible ways of resolving the border controversy precipitated by Venezuela, former President Bharrat Jagdeo revealed that the PPP/C had actually considered “five options” at some point, presumably during his twelve years at the country’s helm, which they thought might have settled the matter once and for all times.

In his words: “There was one view that you could, probably on the maritime area, give Venezuela a channel out to the sea. So, you make a slight concession in the maritime area but make sure that you do not concede any territory that is landbased because the maritime boundaries are still yet to be determined.” This Maritime area would have been off the tip of Point Playa, our westernmost extension into the Atlantic, and adjoining Venezuela’s Orinoco River.

Even though Jagdeo made it extremely pellucid that for a full and final settlement, no land — territory — would be conceded but just maritime boundaries that are still being demarcated, one commentator Ralph Ramkarran called the party suggestion, “foolhardy”. He elaborated: “But assuming that Venezuela had accepted Mr Jagdeo’s foolhardy scheme, after digesting that morsel, there is no doubt that the next generation would have come for more.”

But Ramkarran, who has openly declared his antipathy for Jagdeo, whom he considers as having blocked his path to the Presidency via the PPP’s candidacy for that position, is being quite disingenuous in an area where Guyanese should all stand united. While pointing out rather conclusively that Venezuela already has a right of passage to the Atlantic via the Law of the Sea Convention, which that country has not signed, the Solicitor ignores that if he is correct in his foray into international law, then in the event the PPP’s proposal had been officially proffered and accepted by the Venezuelans, Guyana would have settled the border controversy which has been hanging over our heads since 1962. A Venezuelan claim after a settlement would be an adynaton.

But in his haste to take a potshot at his bête noir, however, Ramkarran ignored some observations by his old comrade from the PPP’s Ex-Co Clement Rohee made in reference to the previous PNC Government not depending only on bellicosity to settle the Venezuelan border controversy.

“Attempts by the two countries to “find satisfactory solutions for a practical settlement to the controversy” through political/diplomatic, economic, cultural and technical cooperation had their ups and downs. Rashleigh Jackson had one time suggested to his Venezuelan counterpart Zambrano Velasco that Guyana might be disposed to provide Venezuela with an ‘outlet to the Atlantic’ but he was rebuffed. “The idea of granting the passage of Venezuelan transport vessels… is not a proposal that might interest Venezuela. Venezuela aspires to an outlet to the Atlantic free from all foreign control and over which Venezuela exercises full Sovereignty” was Zambrano’s reply.”

It is clear that in its internal discussion, the PPP/C was addressing Zambrano’s objection to the original PNC’s proposal to Venezuela on a maritime passage. But while Jagdeo absolutely rejected any land concession to Venezuela, in the course of pursuing “joint development” with Venezuela of Essequibo, then President Desmond Hoyte was not so unequivocal. At a press conference on 10 Nov 1989, to David DeCaries’ question, “Can we rule out absolutely, sir, any possibility of concession of territory?” President Hoyte answered thusly:

“Well, at this stage I wouldn’t want to close any option. I mean we don’t know. You see, there have been cases where controversies have been settled, relating to territory, with what is called rectification of borders, you know, there is a swap. So I mean I don’t want to take a fundamentalist position which closes any option at all.”

At this delicate juncture, we would caution commentators like Ramkarran to put aside their private grouses when it comes to the Venezuelan border controversy.

PNC led coalition is now the problem, not solution anymore

Dear Editor, Why is Eusi Kwayana residing in American peace and comfort - and way past his retirement age - now in media inquiry in the SN 1029-15 whether the PPP/C Government kept the PNC/R and AFC opposition abreast of Guyana’s foreign relations?

For Kwayana to be sleepless at night to focus on the PPP/C’s 23 years of foreign policy record must be irksome. This is hardly a gooby full to douge and create diversion from the stinging rebuke Guyanese are daily heaping on the APNU+AFC’s pay increase. Kwayana must stop distorting history by revisionism to suit his agenda.

The 1953 empowered PPP was no “unity” government “of the descendants of enslaved and indentureds” as he wrote. They were not joined together as a coalition government of fragmented units all uniting from their many separate policies, or separate objectives or by mutual agreements as if in compartmentalized combination of “unity”. Absolutely not!

Realistically the 1950s PPP Government was most accurately and honestly a completely “unified” PPP Government fighting for total independence. Slave descendants and indentured descendants were individually integrated into the PPP from the inception with much more inclusivity and diversity. PPP stalwarts Janet Jagan, HJM Hubbard, Jack Kellshall and Claude Christian were Caucasians, weren’t they?

Kwayana betrays more than he intended and which he can no longer hide anymore. Unless he secretly led or was privy to pre or post 1953 race separation chatter in the PPP, which he kept well hidden until he pounced, he can only be viewed as devious and hypocritical. It should be asked whether he was wrong about his earlier amity - if any - of racial harmony fraternizing daily with his many close Buxton Indian friendships. They all ate from the same pot.

At what stage, and importantly why did he become a sprouting Afro-centric flowering bud - a long sleeping sin-

gle cell publicly non-existent and most dormant only to blossom later? Was he a kicking and screaming about-turn Burnhamite body snatcher specimen, reluctantly infected?

Where is Guyana headed in 2015 with such a prominent paraded loss of Guyana’s majority Black leadership’s collective conscience since Dr Walter Rodney’s assassination? Why would such a huge self awarded pay increase from the Treasury of a country’s economy, grinding to a halt, not cause any wider outrage? That Dr Clive Thomas is silent is no surprise. The PNC led coalition is no longer the solution, they are the problem.

Creating and leading diversion to take the heat away from his fellow acolytes now in public looting of the national Treasury is hardly the right geriatric rescue endeavour for any aged politician. But nice try.

What else is not right with Kwayana’s letter in the SN 10-29-15? It only puts sharper focus on the valid perception that he is really not here with us anymore. Kwayana is way past his retirement age. Minding grandchildren, telling them anancy stories and enjoying a good backyard San Diego pork cook-up should be it - with anyone of such advanced age.

The ousted PPP/C was cheated at the 2015 General Elections, again. But no protest letter, understandably, came from the overseas-based bwana (sir). No reaction from him about the APNU (PNC) led Government’s shameless conferral of Guyana’s second highest medal to Mayor Hamilton Green who Kwayana in the 1970s filed corruption charges against. No surprises here at all.

Kwayana remains a living relic of Guyana’s 20th Century pains and our forever race worries which have kept our progress so long anchored. Time to move on, bwana (sir), like President Nelson Mandela who retired from politics before he passed away. Give it a rest please, and enjoy old age.

With overwhelming Guyanese rancour about the massive APNU/AFC led coali-

tion’s 50 per cent pay increase Kwayana’s latest disconnect screams he is completely out of touch. Such a massive pay increases by his fellow acolytes does not matter, nor bother him to address it?

If Kwayana is demonstrating symbolic racial solidarity with kith and kin against righteousness, it can only signal imminent and repeated Afro-PNC paramountcy as a clear and present danger with David Granger as President.

It was Kwayana who once reminded that: “the PNC is a symbol of Black hope”. He attacked the PNC’s pledge to support whichever party won the 1961 elections to lead our country to independence. The PPP won and the PNC reneged on its pledge. Kwayana was adamantly opposed to any freedom under the PPP and Dr Cheddi Jagan as Prime Minister.

With Dr Thomas’s aggressive support they opposed Dr Jagan as the 1992 Presidential candidate to their own demise. For that matter no earthshattering foreign policy crises occurred during the entire PPP/C 1992-2015 period in Government. Those years required no “critical support” of the PNC or AFC opposition.

The PPP/C engaged Venezuela’s PetroCaribe programme and by so doing got an excellent socialist rice deal. Guyana’s economy thrived. It kept the peace and ensured our territorial integrity remained intact.

But it’s public knowledge the Money Laundering Bill with negative international ramifications was repeatedly blocked by the one-seat post2011 majority opposition.

Did the “loyal” opposition needed to be kept abreast of their damage to Guyana’s financial security when they engaged in Cuban style blockading recalcitrance? All took place in broad daylight. Take it easy man, please.

Parliamentary Questions to the PPP/C’s three Foreign Ministers (Clement Rohee, Rudy Insanally and Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett) were the norm anytime of the day.

Which media houses failed anytime to publish Kwayana’s

letters (like they now deny mine) which rebuked the PPP/C Government for their foreign policy failings during their 23 years in Government? Wasn’t that the right time when he should have spoken up? Why now? What’s the motive at this midnight hour? Kwayana’s refocusing SN 10-20-15 letter of inquiry of the PPP/C’s foreign policy could mean he finds the lack of faith of the force disturbing. This is no misfire but intentional diversion. Consistently preoccupied with embellishing his role in Guyana’s history, he touts that: “This month in 1953, British troops landed in the then British Guiana to dismiss an elected unity (sic) government of the descendants of enslaved and indentured.” By his omission of all five patriots’ names who were detained after the 1953 dismissal of the PPP Government, Kwayana’s cunning effectively masks Forbes Burnham prominently missing in action.

History has proven that the PNC and their leaders were secretly in cahoots with the usual foreign suspects. Kwayana himself was no exception considering his cosy Annandale sponsorship by Colonial Secretary Duncan Sandys who torpedoed the PPP. Foreign emissaries secretly urged Burnham to seize the PPP which he initially did but which did not fully succeed until 1957.

In 1964 the foreign forces installed Burnham as Prime Minister of Guyana simply by imposition of PR.

The PNC led Guyana to independence symbolically picking the Wismar Indian massacre date of 26 May. Dr Jagan, as usual, gave “critical support” by signing off on Sandys will.

Moses Nagamootoo, like so many others, only does what he was trained to do when he was in the PPP. As Prime Minister he will be jumping up and dining on the 50th Anniversary of Independence celebrations next year. Now all becomes clearer as the truth marches. History repeats itself with the PNC again in charge.

Sultan Mohamed

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana

Positive changes, or not

Dear Editor,

Why all the hullabaloo about the 50% salary increase when with this new elite crop of administrators a turnaround in the future is foreseeable with the feed, house and clothe campaign in keeping with Burnham’s mantra.

We have already seen positive changes in attitude towards the City Council by vendors; the beautification of Georgetown by enthusiastic citizens; less corruption in the Police Force; a positive turnaround in the rice and sugar industry; less bashing of wives, thanks to Ramjattan’s 2 am curfew; a proliferation of trips abroad wooing potential investors;

and greater enthusiasm in the Public Service, ask Patrick and Lincoln.

Sooner rather than later other positive changes will include extending the retirement age to 82; a $70,000 minimum wage for Public Servants; increase in the old age pension to $20,000; Christmas bonus for the Police and Army; more roads with free electricity in Sophia, West Ruimveldt, Agricola, Buxton and Linden; the indoctrination of pardoned criminals through bottom house industries and free milk and buns for primary school children in lieu of the $10,000 grant.

As an army general, Granger is a strategist

and like Moses the great Prophet, will turn Guyana into paradise resulting in massive re-migration starting with Sasenarine Singh and Asquith Rose.

And, with the two “bannas” and our Mayor in his cabinet, we will see a massive reduction in crime given the Buxton and Agricola experience; and with everyone being housed by 2020, we will see Granger appointing Hammie as the contractor of the Museum where he will have the opportunity in his final days to develop a replica of himself for further posterity.

Yours sincerely,

D Singh

or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

A welcome decision on prayers in public schools

Dear Sir,

A recent article in the newspapers titled “Government to Review Christian Prayers in Public Schools” has caught my attention and I must heartily congratulate Minister of Education Dr Rupert Roopnarine for taking a most “educated” stance on this long-standing travesty.

At the same time one wonders why previous Governments with leading Pandits in their midst and having a more than warm relationship with leaders of the Muslim community have not seen it fit to correct this anomalous situation a full 49 years after independence.

I remember well my days

at a certain Government school where the deputy Headmistress used the auditorium to carry on Christian prayers sessions without even paying a fee. While at the very school Hindus were given a difficult time to get permission to observe Holi for example or to conduct Havans.

It is my humble view that the Hindus and Muslims have only themselves to blame for this unfortunate state of affairs due mainly to a lack of any serious overt activism to force the change that Dr Roopnarine has now announced.

I therefore ask Dr Roopnarine to immediately send instructions to the

Heads of all Government schools that the practice of reciting Christian prayers only must cease and if prayers are to be said they should be general/generic in nature.

Another possible alternative is to have short prayers from the three major religions be read on a daily basis which may be the preferred option for many. I look forward to further definitive announcements on this matter by the learned Honourable Minister of Education in early course.

Yours sincerely, Chris Persaud

Protective equipment must be provided for workers

Dear Editor,

I have observed within the central districts of Georgetown, a flurry of activity in terms of the cleaning of drains, weeding and levelling of parapets and replanting of trees that were lost over time. This situation reminds me of Washington Irving’s story, where Rip van Winkle fell asleep and woke up twenty years later, having missed the American Revolution, the death of his wife, the marriage of his daughter and the birth of his grandson. This is the same period of time that Hamilton Green and his Councillors took office at City Hall and have now seemingly awakened.

However my more serious concern has to do with the health, safety and welfare of the workers carrying out these remedial works. Having spoken to a number of them at the Bourda Cemetery and in the Lacytown area, I learnt that they were not workers of the City Council but rather were hired by individuals who were given contracts by Council to carry out these works.

These workers who were doing a very painstaking and first-class job, complained that they were being paid low wages, were given no protective gear, were not covered by any insurance scheme, did not have access

to any disinfectants, in fact they were without a simple first aid kit or drinking water to alleviate dehydration in the sweltering heat. This is in spite of the persons who were given the cleaning contracts by Council being paid tens of millions of dollars.

Now surely the Georgetown City Council must appreciate the need to build into the contracts being doled out, provisions to ensure that suitable personal protective equipment must be provided to the workers, that must include waterproof/abrasion-resistant gloves, footwear, eye and respiratory protection. Face visors are particularly important against splashes.

That they also provide adequate welfare facilities, including clean water, soap, nailbrushes, disposable paper towels, and where heavy contamination is foreseeable such as the Bourda Cemetery where the remains of many cholera victims lie, showers. Also portable toilet facilities should be provided.

For injuries which will inadvertently occur because of broken bottles, rusty nails, and other unmentionables lying in the canals

and alleyways, it should be mandatory that the workers are provided with adequate first-aid equipment, including clean water or sterile wipes for cleansing wounds, and a supply of sterile, waterproof, adhesive dressings.

Not because it is not City Council workers doing the work should the Council be exonerated morally or legally from ensuing the proper taxes are paid by the contractors, that the NIS laws are respected, that the Occupational Health and

Safety Act of Guyana is upheld and that proper wages and premiums are paid to these cleaners.

But then again 95% of the contracts given out are to Councillors, friends and family members of Councillors and Officers. It should be given to reputable companies and contractors instead.

Sincerely, Mark Roopan

Page Foundation

Unfortunately these most important aspects of attachment parenting –attunement and responsiveness, which are the basis of self-regulation – often get lost in the media hype. The assumption of critics is that attachment parenting can be reduced to three basic tenets: extended breast-feeding, co-sleeping and babywearing (particularly using slings). This is a bit of an exaggerated stereotype. Bialik herself does endorse breast-feeding but wisely doesn’t set a time requirement, calling this “a very personal and very complicated decision.” She offers babywearing as one of several ways to bond through touch, and co-sleeping as an “option” under the heading of “night time parenting.”

Incidentally, Elisabeth Badinter refers specifically to these practices in The Conflict: How Modern Motherhood Undermines the Status of Women as particular obstacles to women’s advancement. To her credit, she does not blame Bowlby (or even Bialik) for their popularity, nor does she use the term attachment parenting. Rather, her point is that Western society tends to favour mothers at the expense of women in terms of policy. It’s highly doubtful that Badinter intended to endorse any particular parenting style over another. This, however, has not prevented her book from being waved about by critics of attachment parenting as though it had been written in direct response to it.

Opposing styles – or not

others have been made up out of whole cloth. Even if a book succeeds in getting the facts right, its tenets may become exaggerated by readers and hyperbolised by reviewers, and both groups may be so confused about where research ends and philosophy begins that they wind up rejecting what could have been important, life-changing insights. It appears that

parents and Tiger Moms for instance –really that far apart in the fundamentals? And if they are poles apart, where is the evidence to support their philosophies?

In Bringing Up Bébé (released in the United Kingdom as French Children Don’t Throw Food), American-born Pamela Druckerman offers an interesting narrative of the personal challenges she faced while living in France and blending the parenting styles of two cultures. Though her book isn’t intended as a distillation of research, a close look reveals that what Druckerman admires about French parenting is very similar to the most important tenets of attachment parenting – the ones that are left out when the press spotlights breast-feeding, co-sleeping and baby-wearing.

Most popular parenting books are first and foremost a description of the writer’s personal philosophy on the subject, and while some of these philosophies do have solid research to back them up,

the media’s parenting wars are causing many people to throw out the baby with the bathwater. Are the myriad parenting styles offered by the media as opposites to attachment parenting – French

Druckerman presents French Psychoanalyst and Paediatrician Françoise Dolto as a household name in France, “a bit like Dr Benjamin Spock used to be in the United States.” She notes that Dolto’s approach was to tune in to children’s emotions and then guide them to an understanding of appropriate limits. Dolto’s advice for dealing with an upset child is an echo of Bialik’s: “We should try to understand him, and say, ‘There’s a reason. I don’t understand, but let’s think about it.’ Above all, don’t suddenly make a drama out of it.” Dolto wasn’t eliminating limits, Druckerman says, “she just added a huge measure of empathy and respect for the child –something that may have been lacking in France pre-1968.” The preservation of limits while calling for a generous dose of empathy and understanding is also the most fundamental tenet of attachment parenting. It is mainly among the less important details of execution that the two philosophies differ. (www.vision.org)

For 46 years, Sesame Street has been a fixture for children around the world. Its mission: helping children “grow stronger, smarter and kinder”. And to that end, the people behind the American television series have introduced a new character.

Julia, the show’s latest Muppet, has bright orange hair, green eyes and likes to go on the swing with Elmo –the short, furry, red character. But Julia does not answer questions right away, and gets visibly upset over loud noises. She’s autistic, a disorder that affects one in 68 children in

such as the Yale Child Study Centre to bring “Julia” to life.

“We had a coalition of diverse autism organisations,” Betancourt told Al Jazeera. “We discussed our prototype materials... with families with children with autism [and] with young [autistic] children.”

Julia’s introduction is part of “Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children”, an online initiative launched to raise awareness about autism, and to reduce bullying in schools and combat the ostracism of autistic children. For now, Julia, who is described as an old friend of Elmo’s, will not appear on the

Julia, centre, has autism and it is hoped the addition of her character will tackle the associated stigma

the United States, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Jeanette Betancourt, Sesame Workshop’s senior Vice President of US social impact, says it took three years of research and consultations with experts from institutions

broadcast programme, but rather in a digital storybook available online and in print –materials associated with the autism initiative.

In addition to the storybook with audio narration, the website also features videos about autism and “animated aid cards” that help teach basic skills to autistic students. An app with games and activities is also available.

In one scene in the new online book, Elmo introduces Julia to another friend: Abby. But Julia does not respond to Abby, prompting the latter to say, “Your friend doesn’t like me”.

“Elmo’s daddy told Elmo that Julia has autism,” Elmo explains. “So she does things a little differently. Sometimes Elmo talks to Julia using fewer words and says the same things a few times.”

Autistic children have different characteristics: some cannot maintain eye contact, are sensitive to noise and at times cannot talk. Because of this, some groups consider autism a syndrome, while others say it’s a different means of expression.

But for the makers of Sesame Street, Julia will help tackle the prevailing problems of stigma and isolation. According to one study, six out of 10 children with autism have been bullied.

“We know that a child with autism is five times more likely to be bullied than a neurotypical child,” Betancourt said. “It is our hope that kids with autism will feel more included and understood as the general public becomes more aware of the similarities all children share.” (Al Jazeera)

Salarygate scandal

Nagamootoo to public servants: later for you

...treasury could only afford Ministers’ salary increases

Crumbling under pressure amid the intense public outrage over the astronomical salary increases Government has given itself and the cries of betrayal and dishonesty, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo sought to assure public servants that they will be suitably remunerated. However, this will be “just sometime down the line”, the Prime Minister said, insisting that the State could not have afforded to deal with public servants’ increases at this point in time.

“(The salary increase) was an adjustment for a handful of persons that the State could have afforded at this point in time rather than engaging the larger issue of the entire public service that would involve another type of calculation and affordability in terms of the quantum,” Nagamootoo stated when drilled by media operatives on the issue.

“I know that down the line, the public servants would be remunerated,” he added.

As the second item on the 100-day plan, the A

Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition had promised to “significantly” increase the salaries of Government workers including nurses, teachers, security personnel and civil servants. However, in Budget 2015, the new Administration offered a paltry salary increase ranging from 5 to 10 per cent as opposed to the 20 per cent it had promised during the campaign trail.

Against that background, when reports first emanated that Government was considering an enormous pay hike for itself, the public immediately retorted with a wave of anger. Subsequently, Government in the person of Minister of Governance, Raphael Trotman sought to assure Guyanese that no such increases were underway for the near future. However, soon thereafter in the Official Gazette, the Government quietly gave itself a 50 per cent increase.

This chain of events have undoubtedly angered and frustrated the Guyanese

populace, particularly the coalition’s supporters, with many of them expressing their rage and annoyance through social media, online blogs, letters to the editors, staging protests, among other channels.

Prominent columnists including David Hinds, Christopher Ram, Freddie Kissoon and former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran have heavily criticised the Government for its decision. Meanwhile, in further attempting to conciliate the escalating hue and cry over the exorbitant salary increases,

Sugar workers shut down...

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder told Guyana Times on Sunday that it is public knowledge that GuySuCo is operating at major losses and cannot afford wage increases at the moment.

As it relates to workers taking strike action because they believe the COI report does not allow for wage increases, the Agriculture Minister explained that the official inquiry’s findings have to be considered and any conclusion drawn before this is done is premature.

“Before they (findings and recommendations) are considered, because the conditions under which the COI was set up was that they are supposed to submit to the Government by a certain time the initial recommendations , Government is supposed to consider those and send them back to the Commission for any elaboration needed and then a final report would be given. We are now at the situation between the initial submission and the final report. In any event, it would be remiss of Government to get involved in any industrial activity between or anything going on with unions at this stage,” said the Agriculture Minister.

He posited that if the Government were to intervene at this point without perusing and deliberating on the results of the COI then it would “make no sense” having a sugar COI.

“You have to rate their findings, you have to look at their findings, and assess them and then if we ac-

cept their findings then we have to go along with that. So I would like to think that what the workers are doing is politically motivated. GuySuCo has been doing very well over the last few weeks, meeting its targets and the management we have put have obviously been working and the workers have been responding. I suspect that the opposition does not like this and I suspect that they might be creating these situations for a strike, an unnecessary strike,” he posited.

According to Minister Holder, persons are very aware of the fact that Government can get involved, as it has done before the COI’s report was completed, such as in the case where the Administration assisted GuySuCo with some finances.

“They know that Government can get involved in helping them to have increases and in loss making situations prior to the findings of the COI. As a matter of fact on the COI is a GAWU economist, and obviously GAWU might know what the findings of the COI are because they had someone on it. So we will not get involved as a Government, to get involved in a situation that is being considered based on the findings of a COI which itself has not been accepted. GuySuCo’s future has financial implications for the country and for agriculture,” he added.

Meanwhile, reports are that GuySuCo is ef-

From page 3

fectively ‘bankrupt’ with its total debt amounting to billions of dollars. For a number of years, the Sugar Corporation has been operating at a loss and has only survived because of the previous Administration’s massive subventions.

Guyana Times understands that at present the Sugar Corporation is being smothered under its current debt and the current cost of production is over US40 cents per pound while world market prices are a third of that.

This means the revenue that GuySuCo receives is not enough to cover its operating costs, thus resulting in the Corporation suffering huge losses annually.

It was also recently disclosed that the company is running on debt financing.

In this regard, there are also overdrafts by institutions from which GuySuCo borrows, but has not been able to repay; hence, it is not considered a ‘sustainable’ situation and the company can be declared “technically” bankrupt.

The APNU/AFC coalition Government in July had established the COI into the operations of GuySuCo.

Among the issues raised included the impact of the industry over the next few years, particularly with the current world price of US11.3 cents per pound of sugar and the current European Union price in the region of US15 cents. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy. com)

Nagamootoo promised that public servants would be remunerated based on the reports coming out of the various Commissions of Inquiry, which, he said, could be as early as this year.

“We would look at the question of affordability, even this year, if it would be possible to address some of the concerns of the public service, particularly the public servants,” he said, noting that Government would be guided by the reports.

Guyana Times understands, however, that several of the reports including the reports from the Commission of Inquiry, have recommended that there be no salary increases for workers.

Meanwhile, even as the public is coming to terms with the large increase Government has given itself, the Administration have also taken a decision to

‘enhance’ the salaries of the recently handpicked new Regional Executive Officers (REOs).

The Government took the decision to increase the pay of its REOs despite public outcry over its ongoing extravagance and wastage of taxpayers’ monies on hefty salary increases for its Ministers and other politically connected individuals of the ruling coalition.

Under the new remuneration package, the REOs will now receive a non-taxable salary of $300,000; a non-taxable duty allowance of $70,000, and $10,000 as cellular phone allowance. They will also receive an additional $300,000 for payments of electricity bills, security service, and landline telephone service. In addition, the REOs will receive an annual vacation allowance of the equivalent of one month’s non-taxable earnings, which in this case is $300,000. Their contracts will be for a three-year period with 42 days in annual vacation.

As if that is not enough to burden the public coffers, the REOs will also benefit from a driver, an assigned Government vehicle, and yet a duty-free vehicle. The gas to fuel these vehicles alone will amount to over $1 million annually.

Increases

In the Official Gazette

of September 25, it was revealed that a Cabinet Minister would be given a hefty sum of $10,439,124 annually. It is further detailed that annually the Prime Minister would be benefiting from in excess of $20 million, while the other Vice Presidents would each receive $11,135,064.

The three Vice Presidents – Sydney Allicock, Carl Greenidge, and Khemraj Ramjattan will earn monthly some $1.13 million, double the $579,000 which they would have earned as Ministers. In addition, the vacation and other benefits are also $500,000.

A Junior Minister is paid $8,346,492 per annum.

Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition has been offered $10,439, 124 on an annual basis, but Bharrat Jagdeo has already indicated he will not be accepting this salary.

Amid massive public outcry, President David Granger sought to defend and justify the decision for the hefty salary increases. According to the Head of State, the salary increases will eventually translate to good governance.

State Minister Joseph Harmon had stated that the salary increase decision was made to ensure Ministers and Government officials are paid an attractive salary so as to discourage them from being corrupt.

monday, october 26, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

No conspiracy to bypass Lyken Parlour in crime deaths – Police

Controversy now looms over the arrangement between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Lyken Funeral Parlour over the collection of bodies from crime scenes across the country.

Following an article published in another section of the media on Sunday headlined “Police now selling the dead”, the Police Force was prompted to respond to set the record straight and clear its name of any malign that was intentionally or unintentionally perpetuated in the report.

The article stated that the GPF, dating far back as 2012, owes the Parlour $13 million. The article also quoted Funeral Director of the Lyken Funeral Home Dr Dawn Stewart as advocating for the need for proper tender board process to select the Funeral Home to work with the Force.

In a press release issued on Sunday, the GPF insisted that Lyken Funeral Parlour is the only entity complaining of the arrangements made by the GPF.

The Force highlighted that earlier this year,

the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) by way of letter informed the Commissioner of Police that they are handling funerals of Muslims in Guyana and paying costs associated with those deaths. They also informed that they have a contractual agreement with the Memorial and Crematorium Gardens Funeral Parlour to handle bodies and funerals of Muslims.

The CIOG requested the Guyana Police Force facilitate collection of bodies by the said Memorial Parlour from the scenes.

The Force noted that it found the request to be a reasonable one and as a result the Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud forwarded the letter to the Divisional Commanders with instruction to facilitate the request.

“No funeral parlour complains about this arrangement except the Lyken Funeral Parlour which has been insisting that it has a contract with the Guyana Police Force that gives them a monopoly to uplift and store bodies,” the GPF stated.

Furthermore, the GPF pointed out that it is re-

quired by law to investigate all unnatural deaths, partially by conducting post-mortem examinations by a registered government pathologist.

The practice has been whenever an unnatural death occurs, at a place other than the public hospitals; the Police will have the bodies stored at a funeral parlour until the post-mortem is completed.

Thereafter, the body

will be handed over to relatives for burial. In the event relatives do not come forward to accept the body, the Police will cause it to be disposed of, at the expense of the State.

It is on this note that the GPF pointed out that Lyken Funeral Parlour is only one of the funeral parlours being used and that there is no contract which stipulates that the Force must use only the Lyken Funeral Home.

Meanwhile, the Police Force added that the monies Dr Stewart is claiming to be owed is not accurate, however it did not provide the correct figure.

It noted also that the unpaid monies are still being processed by the Government.

Eyew tness Cart before the horse…

…on training

Your Eyewitness has gone through this before… but you, dear reader, must bear with him. He doesn’t seem to be getting through to the man at the top –who presumably calls the shots – but for sure, with whom the buck stops. “Nonplussed” was what you might call yours truly after he espied Pressie once more exhorting some impressionable youths – this time “Presidential Youth Awardees” – to get trained in skills “for employment”.

This time it was “IT” training”, which followed “STEM” subjects in High Schoo,l and Vocational and, Agricultural, etc etc. Pressie however, studiously avoided training to become “quality” politicians and become the highest paid workers in the land. And this is what’s bugging most young people today. How can they take all these exhortations to burn the midnight oil – or the back-lit screen as the case may be – when in the various service sectors all they’ll end up with is a minimum wage with 5% salary increases?

Being a politician though, means just talking from notes handed to you, hugging some buxom women, (female politicians can’t be seen hugging up men, however –they’d be called “bad-women”) wining on some stages, kissing babies and pandering to the worst prejudices and stereotypes in your “constituency”. And when your party’s elected, voila!! – you become an expert in any area of governance as you become the Minister. And it’s all because you’re a “quality” person. The knowledge about the subject area you’re in charge of, is presumably going to ooze into your little grey cells through some prose of osmosis or diffusion.

Let’s face it - it’s not just the lower animal kingdom that reacts to inducements that tickle their fancies. And in Guyana today, when a Minister of Government – with absolutely no experience in, say, Housing- can become head of the largest sector that was carrying the entire country’s growth trajectory for the last few years, what incentive is there for kids to take up Civil Engineering?

But there’s the other angle to the obsession with “training”. And we ask once again: “Training for what? Where are the jobs?” The Government really thinks that if people get trained that’s why investors are going to rush in? Even though it’s very late in the day - let’s clue these “economic advisors” who never owned or ran businesses.

Businesses invest to create jobs when there are markets for the “goods” or services they’ll produce. To plunk their hard-earned cash into the businesses, the government can’t just exhort them to “move from trading to manufacturing”. Government have to create the enabling environment that lowers the risk of the businesses tanking.

Like providing cheap energy for manufacturing — and not in Tumatumari.

…on separation of church and state

This Eyewitness must commend the new Minister of Education for finally – on the cusp of fifty years of independence and forty years after the abolition of “dual church/state control” of schools – to tell headteachers in schools they can’t insist on only Christian prayers be recited. Isn’t this the height of arrogance in this 21st Century - to coerce kids to worship in another religion’s practices?

We remind doubters of Art 145 (3) of the Constitution: “Except with his own consent (or, if he is a person who has not attained the age of eighteen years, the consent of his guardian), no person attending any place of education shall be required to receive religious instruction or to take part in or attend any religious ceremony or observance if that instruction, ceremony or observance relates to a religion which is not his own.

Let’s finally place the Constitution before the prejudices of headteachers in front.

…on equity and debt

This Eyewitness is happy former PM Sam Hinds took time off to explain the difference between “debt” and “equity” to the “financial analyst” of the Stabber News.

But since this has to do with the Marriott - a “Jagdeo Project” - does it matter to those funny fellas?

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

Govt should focus on locals rather than Diaspora – RPA Action Committee

By Kristen MacKlingaM

As the agriculture sector continues to suffer tremendously, specifically the two major revenue-earning industries – rice and sugar – Co-Chairman of the Rice Producers Association (RPA) Action Committee, Dr Turhane Doerga is calling on the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition to focus more on the citizens living in Guyana rather than those abroad.

Speaking with Guyana Times on Sunday, Dr Doerga stated that the Administration could transform the state of the economy and both the sugar and rice industries if it did more for the locals in the country.

“Some of the approaches are wrong. For instance, they are concentrating on the Diaspora because in business psychology they are making a major flaw because in business psychology you have to go back… who are these people (in the Diaspora)? They left, they didn’t stay in Guyana and fight for a better Guyana but they left for greener pastures, so they are not going to leave their greener pastures to come to the now El Niño pastures. They will only come, just like in the rice industry, when things are really up and running,” he posited.

According to Dr Doerga, many of these persons were farmers or previously employed in the agriculture sector when they decided to migrate for various reasons. Some returned to their homeland and began to reintegrate themselves into Guyanese society and now that the economy may be too difficult, they were leaving here once again.

“Those people will only come when we spread the bed here for them. The Guyanese here should do the work themselves and

if those overseas come back and they want to invest, they are most welcome. But Guyanese should start to believe in their own strength and that is what I believe in,” he stated.

The Co-Chair of the RPA Action Committee explained that the purpose of a coalition was to ensure that persons from all walks of life living in Guyana, regardless of political affiliation, race, culture or creed, would work together for the further development of the country.

Guyana Times was told that if this goal had been met, then those living in Guyana would be able to face the economic crisis much better, in fact, there may not have been as many difficulties as they were presently.

“I am part of the coalition, but the coalition was never meant to be that we would just sit down quiet and let nonsense continue. We want to work with everyone, whether it is the PPP/C or anyone else, all we want are that those things which have happened in the past that we review them, that we pledge that they will not happen again and everybody would work and fix Guyana, because our country is worth fighting for. And basically that is what we are trying to do. It is going to get worse in the agriculture sector because the Minister, Noel Holder, doesn’t have a clue about which direction to go and that is the sad situation,” Dr Doerga emphasised.

He further stated that the country has enough professionals to “do it right” with regard to revitalising both the sugar and rice industries and all they need was to be given the opportunities to do so.

Dr Doerga lamented the choices which the Agriculture Minister has made in putting certain professionals at the helm of both the rice and sugar industries, noting that if those individuals were already seniors in the past and were not able to turn around the industries, then this Government should have given the opportunities to other qualified individuals.

Guyana Times was also told that if the APNU/AFC Government wished to see the sugar and rice industries “perform better” in terms of production, both industries needed to be restricted immediately. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy. com)

Rice crisis continues:

RPA to meet with banking association to negotiate on farmers’ behalf

By Kristen MacKlingaM

The rice industry in Guyana is not what it used to be in previous years and rice farmers are now facing devastating effects as a result of low prices, non-payments, hold ups and no relief yet provided by the APNU/AFC Government.

As such, the Rice Producers Association (RPA) has taken it upon themselves to have dialogue with the banking association of Guyana with hopes there can be some alleviation of the burdens farmers are forced to bear in repayment of loans and mortgages.

General Secretary of RPA Dharamkumar Seeraj told Guyana Times on Sunday that rice farmers throughout the country are under a lot of pressure due to the current crisis the rice industry is facing, and so the

major concern at this point in time is about the arrangements many of those affected have with the various banks.

“So a lot of farmers now are worried about that aspect of the work with regards to instalments because if they can’t make money then how can they repay the banks? Rice farmers

pledged their houses, their equipment, their machinery and we (RPA) are scheduled to have a meeting shortly with the bankers association to discuss some of these matters to see what can be done in terms of restructuring of loans and waiving off of interest and giving them longer periods to pay them back,” Seeraj stated.

He explained that until now the APNU/AFC coalition is yet to intervene in the plight hundreds of rice farmers are facing and thus far it is unclear whether or not the Government has any intention of providing any form of relief.

The situation in the rice industry is currently so severe that rice farmers have already signalled their intention to ‘rest’ their lands come the next crop, given the low prices and lack of Government intervention.

The lack of action and unfavourable responses from the relevant authorities to inject funds into the industry has only made matters worse.

Generally, in a crisis of this nature, the previous Administration would have released the necessary funds to the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to pay the millers so they could pay the farmers. If it is a case where the millers actually have the money but are reluctant to settle their debts with farmers, the then Government would usually threaten to take the millers to court or have their licences revoked.

But the Granger-led Administration is taking a different approach — one which stakeholders argue will see rice farmers continuing to suffer as the industry crumbles. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

Berbician to release book on Guyana-Venezuela controversy

Berbician Winston Felix is soon to release a book on the Guyana-Venezuela controversy.

Felix, of East Canje,

Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), said his new book The Shifting Foreign Policy of Venezuela Towards Guyana highlights the 1899 findings of the Arbitration Tribunal which were considered to be final after an agreement signed by Venezuela and Great Britain.

“It is approximately 128 years since diplomatic relations were severed between

Venezuela and Great Britain over the border issue with Guyana. At the insistence of Venezuela, the United States considered the controversy as falling within the purview of the Monroe Doctrine. Consequently, the United States pressured Great Britain into making an Agreement with Venezuela in 1897,” Felix said in an interview with this newspaper.

He noted that the agreement averted a war between the two major powers as they both agreed to submit the dispute to arbitration under the Treaty of Washington.

According to Felix, his new book highlights the findings of the international Arbitration Tribunal which set the border as it is now. However, Venezuela later contested the Award and the Geneva Agreement of 1966 was then signed. “The Agreement was specifically designed to address the issue raised by Venezuela. However, the Agreement clearly stipulated that no new claim or enlargement of an existing claim, to territorial sovereignty in those territories shall be asserted while this Agreement is in force.”

Venezuela continues to claim 5/8ths of Guyana, disregarding international

norms.

The Shifting Foreign Policy of Venezuela Towards Guyana will soon be in bookstores across the country, Felix noted.

“This book shows that although it has been more than a century since the Guyana and Venezuela border dispute was settled, Venezuela continues to shift its foreign policy away from compliance with its international obligations. Today, Venezuela still does not consider the controversy settled and has consistently made claims against Guyana’s territory and shifted its foreign policy away from adjudicating the outstanding issues with Guyana,” Felix added.

He said that after reading his book, persons will get a greater understanding of the controversy and how the world views Venezuela’s behaviour.

Potaro Road,

Over 100 residents of Potaro Road, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) are frustrated and impatient over the unavailability of basic landline telephone services in their area and are calling on the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) to urgently address the situation.

Residents are complaining bitterly that the absence of these telephone landlines, and by extension the DSL services, affect the educa-

US Ambassador pays courtesy call on Health Minister

The United States Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway had his first formal meeting with the Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton on a number of health sector issues.

Following the meeting, Holloway told reporters that the US has been working with the Health Ministry for a little over 10 years now, primarily in the area of HIV/AIDS.

“Thanks to the work of the people in the Ministry with assistance from the United States Government, tremendous strides have been made in terms of the incidence rates and the mortality rates as it relates to HIV/AIDS,” the US Ambassador shared.

He noted that fewer people were contracting the virus, and fewer people were dying which was very good for Guyana. The envoy added that this meant that persons could continue to be good productive members of the work force, and the Ministry would eventually over time, as it continued to lower the mortality rates, be able to free some of its resources for other priority areas.

Holloway also noted that the US would be looking for other opportunities in the general health sector to cooperate on in the future.

He said cooperating with Guyana’s Health Ministry over the years had been fantastic and under the current Minister, he had no reason to believe that the relationship would not be fantastic going forward.

He added that the US was committed to the continuation of robust programmes here in Guyana with the Health Ministry for years to come.

Minister Norton told reporters that he was very pleased to receive this visit from the Ambassador. He noted that the two also touched on the issue of maternal mortality rates at the Georgetown Public Hospital, which was unacceptable, and he hoped that with the help of the US, these rates could be lowered in the near future. It was also noted that the two spoke of Guyana’s mental health situation. “I know we have a lot to do in that area, and the Ambassador promised to help us along that line and reinforce whatever we already have in place and we hope that in the near future, we will able to have favourable impact on suicide rates which certainly is not where we want it to be,” Minister Norton added.

tion of their children and hamper the development of their community and ultimately their lives.

Represented by the Bartica United Youth Development Group (BUYDG), the residents submitted a petition to the Telephone Company in April 2014, requesting that landline services be installed in a timely manner. To date, residents complain that nothing has been done. According to the Group, GT&T noted that it would send an engi-

neer team to survey the petitioned area (Potaro Road) to determine the possibility of granting the residents’ request but to date, still nothing has happened. The residents are requesting that 168 landline services be installed.

Based on correspondence seen by this newspaper, GT&T had acknowledged receipt of the petition and the request and had assured that the matter is engaging the Company’s attention.

Govt should give sugar workers wage increases as promised – Dr Ramsammy

– strike action not ‘politically’ motivated

BY KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

In light of the strike action by sugar workers to press for wage increases, former Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy is calling on the APNU/AFC Government to give these workers the 20 per cent increase which the coalition had promised on its campaign trail.

According to Dr Ramsammy this Administration had recently boasted of the production recorded by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), taking credit by claiming the successes were possible because of the APNU+AFC coming into power.

However, though the cash-strapped sugar entity has been suffering increased losses over the years, it has always done well whenever Guyana benefitted from good weather conditions, he maintained:

“The truth is GuySuCo has always done well when the weather is good and we have had several years of uncertain and unsuitable weather for cane and sugar production. This is one of the first extended periods of dry weather and GuySuCo has responded as they have always done in the past and even through our worst years when the weather was good: GuySuCo performed.”

He added: “There is nothing that this Government has done that is responsible for the extended good production that GuySuCo has had and if the Government is stating that GuySuCo has done well under its leadership, then the APNU+AFC should give the sugar workers the 20 per cent increase that it promised them.”

Guyana Times was reminded that during the first crop there was good weather and on 26 occasions in this period GuySuCo earned weekly bonuses.

“So the proof is there that anytime there is good weather GuySuCo performs and I would like as the former Agriculture Minister to congratulate the workers and the management for their good

performance. GuySuCo’s good performance should be rewarded because even the worst years the Government which was the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) then supported management in their negotiations with the workers union to give pay increases,” he said.

Dr Ramsammy pointed out that when production was far below target, “we must recognise it was not the workers fault, we can’t blame the workers for the bad weather, and given good weather the workers performed.”

He further stated that if the APNU/AFC coalition can give increases to public servants across the country then they must also be able to award an increase in the wages of sugar workers for this year.

The former Agriculture Minister noted that these sugar workers are not demanding or requesting that they be given “astronomical pay increases” but that they at least deserve to receive the same percentage which public servants have gotten.

“We have been able to find money in the Treasury for astronomical pay increases for the ministers so we must do so also for the sugar workers. The further delaying of the discussion on sugar workers’ pay increase is discriminatory and the Agriculture Minister could self righteously talk about political motivation for these strike actions but I personally don’t see this as political motivation because the APNU+AFC made a promise to the sugar workers to give them 20 per cent pay increases,” he added.

ANSA McAL gets bigger stake in Banks Holdings Limited

OMeanwhile, a source within the PPP/C on Sunday told this newspaper that if what the APNU+AFC Government is positing about GuySuCo “doing well” under this Administration, then they should pay the workers an increase in wages.

The source added that the PPP/C have publicly said it is happy the factories are doing well, especially since they were saying, like in the case of the Skeldon factory, that it was a white elephant.

“Suddenly the white elephant is performing, so it proves our point that it was never a white elephant. Secondly, the people that they put back to manage the industry are not new because these people managed the industry from 2009 to 2014, Errol Hanoman and Paul Bhim, and they did a good job under the PPP/C and are doing the same good job under this Administration so their performances have nothing to do with this APNU+AFC coalition being in power,” the source added.

If the sugar industry is doing so well now under the APNU+AFC management, the source added, then it is expected that they keep their promise, which is to pay sugar workers the 20 per cent wage increase.

In relation to the strike action being “politically motivated” Guyana Times was told the sugar workers have been protesting and taking strike action on numerous occasions for many years and each time it occurred it was never deemed “politically motivated” by the PPP/C Government.

“Why would a routine industrial matter suddenly become political? Is the Government through its Agriculture Minister saying that sugar workers cannot strike again in the country because any time they strike in the future it is political? When the workers took strike actions under the PPP/C it wasn’t political but now because the APNU+AFC Government is in power any strike action is going to be deemed political?” the source questioned. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

n the heels of the bid by the ANSA McAL Group for control of Banks Holdings Ltd (BHL) comes word that the T&T-based conglomerate has already bought BWPL Holdings Ltd, the second largest shareholder in BHL.

That deal, which was finalised mid-October, gives ANSA McAL 8,446,546 common shares – approximately 13 per cent of BHL’s issued share capital. The group also owns nearly 15,000 shares through its wholly-owned subsidiary ANSA McAL (Barbados) Ltd. The company has not revealed how much it paid for BWPL Holdings.

Dominic Hadeed, owner of Blue Waters Products Ltd, resigned as Chairman of BWPL Holdings on the day that its sale to ANSA McAL was completed.

The conglomerate is making its offer to acquire BHL through AM Caribbean Development Ventures Ltd, a subsidiary set up solely for that purpose. Its offer to BHL

shareholders – TT$5.20 per share is the approximate fair market value of the shares as determined by BHL’s financial adviser, KPMG. The offer, totalling $337.2 million, is an improvement on the TT$4 a share offer from Brazilian beverages giant Ambev, which is also vying to take over the Barbados company.

Ambev, through its subsidiary SLU Beverages, currently owns just over 40 per cent of BHL. Its takeover offer expires today.

However, at least one BHL shareholder is lobbying for both offers to be rejected. Dennis Clarke, a retired Barbadian trade unionist, has expressed his opposition to the planned takeover of the island’s largest beverage manufacturer by outside investors.

He told a Barbados newspaper it could lead to further retrenchment in the Private Sector at a time when the country is already grappling with high unemployment. Clarke said he was also

concerned about what a takeover would mean for small shareholders in BHL and he hoped the company could remain in Barbadian hands.

He said he did not want BHL to go the way of the former Barbados National Bank and Barbados Shipping & Trading, which are now owned by T&T conglomerates.

BHL owns Banks (Barbados) Breweries Ltd, Barbados Bottling Company Ltd and Barbados Dairy Industries Ltd. Its range of beverages includes leading international brands produced under licence such as Coca-Cola, Sprite and Guinness and originals like Frutee, Tiger Malt, Pinehill juices and milks and Banks Beer.

Acquisition of the company will give ANSA McAL control of every major beer brand produced in the English-speaking Caribbean, adding to a portfolio that currently includes Carib, Stag, Mackeson and Red Stripe.

(T&T Guardian)

monday, october 26, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Changes to be made in insurance industry – Nagamootoo

…as Hand-in-Hand celebrates 150 years in Guyana

The Hand-In-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company has celebrated 150 years in existence and serving the nation. The celebratory event was held at the Marriott Hotel on Saturday.

Speaking at the anniversary ceremony, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who was in high praise of the company’s input into the development of Guyana, said he was happy that the insurance company not only helped Guyanese to mitigate the impact of great losses, but also cherished the industry in which they are pioneers.

Hand-In-Hand Group of Companies Chairman John Carpenter

The Prime Minister hinted at the development of the industry saying “the government has recognised the important role the insurance role plays in the development of Guyana; as such “we are putting measures in place to ensure the industry properly safeguards citizens. The insurance industry will be under the purview of the central bank and also the new insurance act that has been drafted will repeal the old insurance act of 1998… This will come as a great boost to the industry and hopefully will

be the safeguard to allow more investment in the economy, the Prime Minister added.

Hand-In-Hand Group of Companies Chairman John Carpenter, in his address to the gathering, said that the company was committed to providing for its customers and the group will continue to expand on greater frontiers.

Hand-in-Hand Trust Corporation Incorporated is part of a broad-based international financial group, providing efficient and reliable customer service at affordable prices.

Hand-in-Hand Trust Corporation seeks to establish a long-term relationship that is designed to assist customers to accumulate, invest and manage financial assets for maximum returns.

UN reiterates support for Guyana

The United Nations on Saturday reiterated its continued support for Guyana in its quest to protect human rights. UN Resident Coordinator Khadija Musa made the announcement at the UN’s 70th Anniversary celebration at Georgetown Club, Camp Street.

Musa related that after 70 years of existence, the UN remains the only platform in the world that brings together friends and foes on the world stage:

“The stage remains relevant and cannot be duplicated. The United Nations was created to save succeeding generations from war, protect human rights, establish conditions of justice, promote social progress as well as better standards of living.”

She emphasised that the UN would be upholding its core values in all circumstances as to foster the development of all countries, especially the vulnerable:

broad range of fundamental global issues.

The resident coordinator stated that in Guyana, the UN and its various agencies have been working with other partners and stakeholders to support the Government and people of Guyana so as to improve food security, ensure national security, pro-

President David Granger in his address to the gathering, reflected on the establishment of the worldwide organisation and its history, saying: “The end of the war in Europe not only brought an end to global warfare but also brought around the collapse, eventually, of some of the huge European

“In its 70 years, the United Nations has been the subject of much debate, much praise and its equal share of criticism. Someone once said ‘the United Nations was not created to take humanity to heaven but to save them from hell’, and the current session of the General Assembly has focused on many issues of war.”

She quoted the United Nations General Secretary Ban Ki-Moon who said the global problems being faced today can never be resolved by one country acting alone.

She reiterated that: “as the world’s only truly universal institution, the UN offers the best if not the only forum globally to take action to meet the challenges ahead, from conflict prevention and humanitarian assistance to peace keeping and peace building,” adding that the UN has, from the inception worked on a

tect the rights of children and youth, as well as promote dialogue, and improve governance.

She related some of the more important issues facing Guyana that are being examined by the UN are the improvement of education at all levels; supporting essential health services especially at the levels of sexual and reproductive health: fighting the HIV epidemic; providing policy guidance as well as offering strategic support to the extractive industries.

Musa noted that the UN is focused on offering its support and assistance to the world’s vulnerable and in following that aim, it would be strengthening existing partnerships with Guyana as well as fostering new ones.

She emphasized the UN’s continuous support for Guyana in our venture to end poverty, inequality and injustice, as well as tackling climate change.

empires which dominated the south…The collapse of these empires started the process of decolonialisation”, adding that this would have led to the birth and Charter of the United Nations.

He opined that the Charter was timely and it has become an irreplaceable regime in making relations among scores of states and as such the celebration of the 70th Anniversary is special, not only for all nations but also for humanity. He commended the UN for its progress and works in protecting the vulnerable and for its human rights efforts. He expressed appreciation for the dedicated staff of the UN for their continuous support.

He also solicited the support of the UN in managing Guyana’s international affairs and the protection of the Nation’s sovereignty in light of recent border controversies.

RIVAH hosts walk against Domestic Violence in Anna Regina

By IndrawattIe natram

Reigning Miss World Caribbean and former Miss World Guyana, Rafieya Husain on Sunday hosted a walk from Anna Regina Car Park to Land of Plenty, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) in her fight to

Nandranie Coonjah.

At the end of the walk, persons gathered at the Shafeek Khan Outreach Centre, Land of Plenty, as hundreds of purple balloons were released into the sky as a symbol of the fight against domestic violence.

In his remarks, Region

ing pains as opposed to females,” he said.

In her address to the gathering, Husain said that too often persons were abused and had nowhere to go or no-one to confide in. She said during her time as Miss World Guyana, she started the “Shatter the Silence campaign” es-

stop domestic violence.

The walk coincide with Domestic Violence Awareness Month and was a collaborative effort by the Rafieya International Vision of Hope (RIVAH) and local sponsors aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence under Husain’s “Shatter the Silence” campaign.

More than 100 persons joined the walk on Sunday.

The walk was headed by Husain herself and included Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt, Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson and Regional Vice Chairman

Two Chairman Ramdatt congratulated the RIVAH Foundation for hosting the walk and urged that the event be an annual feature.

He added that to tackle domestic violence there needed to be more parenting forums at all levels starting from within the family.

He called on spouses, particularly the males, to behave more responsibly to curb the ills of domestic violence.

“The most prevalent form of abuse is being done by partners – males have contributed toward inflict-

pecially for teenagers. Husain said that with much support from the Private Sector, she managed to open the Shafeek Khan Outreach Centre at Land of Plenty, which serves as a counselling centre for abused women and men. She added that it was her desire to establish a home for abused victims and her organisation RIVAH would be working towards that goal.

“There is hope, we at RIVAH are here for you; speak out, you don’t have to live in pain anymore,” Husain said.

She is also calling for

Public Health Ministry supports Mabaruma Heritage Committee Initiative

Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings has made a donation to Amanda Gomes, Treasurer of the Mabaruma Heritage Committee Initiative, to support its programmes.

The Mabaruma Heritage Committee Initiative is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), involved in promoting various cultural activities, sports and health-related issues, and HIV/AIDS awareness programmes in communities across Region One (BarimaWaini). These activities have been ongoing now for the past nine years, the Government Information

Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings

Agency (GINA) reported. The mission of the Mabaruma Heritage Committee Initiative is to help young, underprivi-

support from the Private Sector and the Government of Guyana to build a safe haven for abused victims.

RIVAH Director and Regional Vice Chairman Nandranie Coonjah, during her address, said do-

leged youths and communities of Region One, by creating educational opportunities and training programmes. It also assists these communities to promote their traditions via cultural and sporting engagements within the Region.

The overall objective of the Mabaruma Heritage Committee Initiative is to develop a closer relationship with members of the public, business community, community leaders, and also to collaborate with Government Ministries and other stakeholders, to make a positive difference in the lives of the poor and the needy.

mestic violence in Guyana was very prevalent and RIVAH, as a non profit organisation, would continue to partner with other organisations such as UNICEF and the United Nations in an effort to eradicate the issue. Coonjah said once persons were empowered, there can be a violence-free environment.

RIVAH was founded last year by Husain during her reign as Miss World Guyana 2014.

Regional

Argentina votes in polarised presidential elections

Argentines are heading to the polls to elect their next President after 12 years of being under the leadership of Nestor Kirchner and then his widow Cristina Kirchner.

The South American country’s 32 million voters, who are required to cast ballots on Sunday, are also electing their representatives in Congress and regional bloc Mercosur. Eleven of the country’s 23 provinces are also electing Governors and other officials.

Cristina Kirchner is not able to run again, but has picked a successor, Buenos Aires provincial Governor Daniel Scioli, who is a member of the ruling party.

On Sunday as she cast her ballot, Kirchner said: “It’s a very special day for me because I am voting in a normal country. In the past we have seen handovers that were in crises, with protests on the streets, and now we are in a normal country”.

Scioli is challenged by Buenos Aires Mayor Mauricio Macri and Congressman Sergio Massa.

In a wealthy part of Buenos Aires, people came out early to cast their ballots.

“This is our chance to get rid of this Government. Argentina is an outcast of the world because of their policies”, voter Constanza Acosta told Al Jazeera.

But in working class neighbourhoods, the feeling was completely different.

“We are voting for Scioli, for continuation of what Cristina Kirchner has done for us”, Victor Gonzalez told Al Jazeera.

Cristina Kirchner’s popularity remains high, around 40 per cent, after eight years in office. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Hurricane Patricia spares Mexican cities, roars through remote villages

Hurricane Patricia caused less damage than feared on Mexico’s Pacific coast on Saturday, but hammered an isolated part of the shoreline dotted with luxury villas and fishing villages, where the storm and its 266 kilometres per hour (165 miles per hour) winds landed.

Thousands of residents and tourists fled the advance of the storm, one of the strongest in recorded history, seeking refuge in hastily arranged shelters.

There were no early reports of deaths and it appeared major damage was averted as Patricia missed tourist centres like Puerto Vallarta and the major cargo port of Manzanillo.

However, the storm carved through small rural villages, ripping corrugated metal roofing off modest brick homes and uprooting trees, with the forceful winds sucking the leaves off them.

“I’ve lost everything, I don’t even have anywhere to sleep,” said Roberto Gonzalez, a farmer, as he salvaged belongings from mangled debris of trash, toys and branches strewn across his hamlet of Chamela near the coast of Jalisco state, which took a direct hit.

His mattress was tossed about 20 feet (six metres) away from his house. A hole gaped where his roof used to sit. Power lines were knocked down in some of the worst damage electricity board repairmen had ever seen. Around three-quarters

of some 50 modest homes in Chamela were wrecked. Residents had been evacuated to a shelter.

Flooding streets and battering buildings, Patricia hit land as a Category Five hurricane on Friday evening before grinding inland. (Excerpt from Reuters)

UN SG welcomes next phase of Haiti’s electoral process

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday welcomed the next phase of the electoral process in Haiti, which took place on Sunday with the first round of presidential elections, the second round of legislative elections and the holding of municipal elections.

A statement issued by Ban’s spokesperson noted

that “he reiterates his call to all Haitians to exercise their democratic right to vote”.

He also commended Haiti’s institutions, particularly the Provisional Electoral Council and the Haitian National Police, for the steps they have taken “to facilitate a peaceful, inclusive and transparent vote”.

“The Secretary General deplores the violent inci-

dents that occurred in some locations during the first round of legislative elections on August 9,” the statement added. “He calls on the Haitian authorities to ensure that all perpetrators of electoral violence are brought to justice.”

Meanwhile, Ban urged all political parties, candidates and their supporters to conclude their electoral campaigns peacefully, re-

solve any disputes that may arise through established legal procedures and support the Provisional Electoral Council in the next stage of the process.

The UN chief also reaffirmed the commitment of the UN to extend its full support to the Haitian people in the fulfilment of their democratic aspirations. (Caribbean News Now)

Guatemala election: Comic Jimmy Morales leads opinion polls

Aformer TV comedian with no experience in Government appears likely to win the run-off vote in Guatemala’s presidential election.

Jimmy Morales had a lead in most opinion polls over former First Lady Sandra Torres as voting got under way.

Both have promised to fight corruption after the resignation and arrest last month of President Otto Perez.

Many voters see the comedian as a fresh start following nationwide protests that ousted Perez.

The former President denies involvement in a scheme which saw businessmen pay bribes to evade customs charges.

Correspondents say the signs are that voters see Torres as part of the old widely discredited political order.

She ran Government social programmes when her

ex-husband Alvaro Colom was President between 2008 and 2012.

Morales has regaled voters with stories about his humble origins and jokes from a 14-year period on a TV comedy show.

He has been criticised for some of his more far-fetched policies which include the tagging of teachers with a GPS device to ensure they attend classes and giving each Guatemalan child an iPhone.

His manifesto is only six pages – giving few indications as to how he might run the country – but he is known to favour low taxes and limited government.

One of Morales’ most famous comedy roles was that of a useless cowboy who becomes President by accident.

Even if he wins the presidency, his job will not be easy – his National Convergence Front (FCN) will have just 11 out of 158 seats in the next Congress. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Bharath, Moonilal courted to head UNC

Ashadow of uncertainty hangs over the United National Congress (UNC) even as former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar launched her bid for re-election as party leader Saturday.

The inner turmoil comes as one faction of PersadBissessar’s supporters broke away and formed a new party Saturday, the National Solidarity Assembly (NSA), while other party insiders are courting two UNC heavy hitters to challenge her for leadership of the party.

The Sunday Guardian was informed that both Vasant Bharath and Dr Roodal Moonilal have been approached by party insiders to vie for the top post. The Sunday Guardian understands that an internal rift is developing between Persad-Bissessar’s supporters and those throwing their weight behind Moonilal,

with a small faction backing Bharath. It is Bharath’s support though that seems to be growing, as insiders describe him as the one with the most integrity among the three.

The two former Ministers have confirmed that they have been approached by UNC activists disenchanted with Persad-Bissessar’s leadership and have both been asked to vie for the political leadership post in the December 5 internal elections, with nominations closing off on November 20. Bharath, in an interview with the Sunday Guardian, confirmed that he had been approached, but said he had not yet made a decision. Moonilal, in a text exchange with the Sunday Guardian, was also pensive and said he had to take some time to think about the challenge of leading the UNC.

EU and Balkan leaders hold emergency talks on refugees

European Union and Balkan leaders are holding emergency talks on Europe’s refugee crisis amid threats from three frontline states to close their borders if northern EU countries stop accepting refugees.

The summit on Sunday, called by European Commission President JeanClaude Juncker, groups the heads of 10 EU nations, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in addition to the leaders of Albania, Serbia and Macedonia.

The meeting came after Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia on Saturday warned they would not allow themselves to become a “buffer zone” for the tens of thousands of arrivals streaming into Europe.

“All three countries... are ready if Germany and Austria and other countries close their borders [...], we will be ready to also close our borders at that very same moment,” Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov said after talks between the three Balkan leaders in Sofia.

Over the past months, non-EU member Serbia has

seen a massive influx of refugees on their way from Greece and Macedonia to northern Europe, though Bulgaria and Romania have been much less affected.

Juncker’s office said Sunday’s small summit was needed to foster greater cooperation “in view of the unfolding emergency”.

In an interview published on Sunday by the German newspaper Bild,

Juncker urged countries to stop handing over refugees to neighbouring states in chaotic conditions.

States “must take care to uphold orderly procedures and conditions”, he said.

“The European Commission expects everyone to obey the rules of the game if we don’t want to put Schengen at risk,” Juncker said, referring to the EU’s border-free zone. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Pope, closing synod,

calls for more open-hearted

Pope Francis closed a contentious bishops’ meeting on family issues on Sunday calling for a more open-hearted, compassionate Church rooted in people’s lives and not a programmatic, arid one that fears changes and challenges. At the end of the threeweek gathering, the bishops agreed to a qualified opening toward divorcees who have remarried outside the Church and currently cannot receive communion.

But the final document effectively sidestepped the issue of whether the Church

should use more welcoming language towards homosexuals – a topic that threw a preliminary meeting into turmoil a year ago.

On Saturday, the Pope excoriated Church leaders who he said sometimes bury their heads in the sand and hide behind rigid doctrine while families suffer.

The overall results appeared to be a qualified victory for Francis, who is the final arbiter and will now write his own major document on family issues.

“A faith that does not know how to root itself in the life of people remains

Church

arid and, rather than oases, creates other deserts,” he said on Sunday.

The Pope has stressed since his election in 2013 that the 1.2 billion-member Church should be open to change, side with the poor and rid itself of the pomp and stuffiness that has alienated so many Catholics.

The synod avoided the very real possibility of ending in a total deadlock on some issues, but the fact that conservatives came very close to defeating the articles on divorcees underscored the deep divisions that remain in its wake. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia offers to coordinate with rebels and US in Syria

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said his country is ready to support the Free Syrian Army (FSA) with air strikes and cooperate closely with the US in fighting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group and other factions.

The calls for cooperation came after at least 44 people, including six children, were killed in 24 hours due to Russian and Syrian air strikes across the country,

particularly in Idlib province, the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) reported on Saturday.

Russia says its strikes are against ISIL and other “terrorists”, but rebels and the US, which is conducting its own campaign against ISIL and some rebel factions, say Moscow has focused more on opposition forces than ISIL.

“The Americans’ refusal to coordinate their anti-terrorist campaign with us is

Around the world

Palestinian FM says Al-Aqsa surveillance ‘a new trap’

The Palestinian Foreign Minister has reacted warily to an agreement by Israel and Jordan to install more security cameras at Jerusalem’s flashpoint Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in a bid to defuse tensions.

US Secretary of State John Kerry, after meeting Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Jordan’s King Abdullah on Saturday, said Israel had embraced “an excellent suggestion” by the king for round-the-clock monitoring of Al-Aqsa.

But Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki

called the measure a “new trap”.

He told Voice of Palestine radio on Sunday that Israel was planning to use such footage to arrest Muslim worshippers it believes are “inciting” against it.

There was no immediate comment from Abbas.

Saeb Erekat, Secretary General of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, said Abbas had told Kerry “that he should look into the roots of the problem – and that is the continued occupation”.

Al-Aqsa, which is sacred to both Muslims and Jews, has been the focal point of the recent wave of violence

in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Knife attacks, shootings and protests have become near-daily occurrences since October 1 in violence in part triggered by Israeli incursions at Al-Aqsa. At least 57 Palestinians and eight Israelis have been killed since the beginning of the month.

In one of a spate of incidents on Sunday in the West Bank, a 16-year-old Palestinian girl was shot dead after she allegedly attempted to knife Israeli border Police. Palestinian witnesses disputed the Police account. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Tanzanian election: Incumbent facing strong challenge

Turnout has been high in Tanzania’s most competitive general elections, officials say, as a new Opposition coalition tries to end the governing party’s 54-year grip on power.

In some areas, voting was extended to allow those still in queues to cast their ballots, officials added.

Opinion polls have put the governing Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party ahead, but the result is expected to be close.

Four Opposition groups are backing one candidate, a former Prime Minister.

The BBC’s Tulanana Bohela reports from the main city Dar es Salaam that usually busy streets and markets are deserted, and large queues have formed at polling stations as people wait patiently to cast their ballots.

President Jakaya Kikwete, who is standing down after two terms, has called for peace ahead of the election, adding that “any-

one who tries to cause trouble will be dealt with”. CCM was formed in 1977 from a merger of two postcolonial parties and has effectively been in power since independence in 1961. It has fielded Works Minister John Magufuli, 55, as its presidential candidate. He is being challenged by Edward Lowassa, 62, who quit CCM after he failed to win its presidential nomination.

He is contesting the poll under the banner of the Ukawa coalition. Both main presidential candidates have already cast their ballots.

“I’ve carried out my duty as a citizen by voting. My appeal to those Tanzanians who have not voted is to ensure they do so to elect the people they want,” Magufuli said. Lowassa said he was confident of victory, and urged people to vote peacefully. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Egyptian President Sisi on maiden India visit this week

Ea big mistake. We are seriously prepared for such coordination,” Lavrov said on Saturday.

“We are ready to give air support to the patriotic Opposition, including the so-called Free Syrian Army, but we need to get in contact with the people who will have the authority to represent certain armed groups.”

Lavrov’s offer on Saturday was immediately rejected by Syrian rebel factions. (Excerpt from Reuters)

gyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi will visit India for the first time this week to attend the third India-Africa Forum Summit to boost bilateral ties and invite increased investment, especially in the new, ambitious Suez Canal project.

Sisi appreciates the close historical bilateral relations between the two countries. Both countries are interested in developing the relations and build on it, presidential spokesperson Alaa Youssef said late on Saturday.

“Egypt’s participation in the Summit is to highlight its leading role in Africa and internationally. It also highlights Egypt’s keenness

on boosting relations with Africa and India,” Youssef said, adding that the President will start his trip on Tuesday by visiting the

UAE, India and Bahrain.

“The summit will discuss ways to develop the economic cooperation between India and Africa and enhancing the investments exchange as India became one of the best commercial partners to Africa,” he added.

During his maiden visit to India, Egypt’s former army chief Field Marshal Sisi will meet President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and a number of officials and businessmen.

He will discuss boosting economic cooperation between the two countries and increasing investment in Egypt especially in the new Suez Canal project. (Excerpt from Reuters)

monday, october 26, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com

Mental Health Unit in operation

– to work with persons on remand, recently discharged

Though it is currently without a secretariat, the Mental Health Unit is already in operation, according to Public Health Minister Dr George Norton.

The Mental Health Unit is a key element of the recently launched National Mental Health Strategy which will coordinate the provision of comprehensive mental health services including services for suicide prevention.

During an interview with Guyana Times, Minister Norton disclosed that the Unit is already doing its work and that the Ministry is awaiting the budgetary allocation to establish the secretariat.

The Mental Health Strategy states clearly that the Mental Health Unit intends to work in close collaboration with the Criminal Justice System, including people on remand and recently discharged from custody, most of whom may be at high risk for suicide.

According to the document, the period of greatest risk is the first week of imprisonment, however recent figures suggests the risk of self-inflicted death has decreased in the first week of custody. The report also noted that statistically women prisoners are inclined to commit suicide in comparison to men prisoners. It noted that the presence of health in-reach services, among other mental health interventions into the prisons greatly influence the reduction in self-inflicted deaths while in custody, and this is the direction the

Unit intends to take.

Some interventions that can be used to prevent suicide behaviour in these cases include the provision of police-custody suites and criminal courts with access to liaison and diversion services. These services will be open and accessible to people of all ages, whether they have a mental health problem, learning disability, personality disorder, substance misuse issue or other vulnerability.

They will provide early identification of individuals, allow the police and courts to understand as much as possible about the individual, and inform offender management and rehabilitation. For people in the criminal justice system with mental health needs, the aim is to ensure they receive treatment in the most appropriate setting, whether in prison, secure mental health services, or in the community.

Other services

In addition, according to the Mental Health Strategy, other services the Unit would be embarking upon are providing regular reports on patient suicides and up-to-date statistical data— a feature which many complain is currently lacking in Guyana. These reports will highlight and make recommendations on the areas and/or aspects where clinical practice and service delivery can be improved to prevent suicide and reduce risks.

The Unit will also ensure that toolkits for mental health services are available to all healthcare practitioners. These kits will include measures to assess how well services are documenting best practices on suicide prevention and focus on improving care pathways and follow-up for people present at emergency departments following attempts at selfharm or displaying other forms of suicidal behaviour; and those who present at doctors and are identified as at-risk of self-harm or suicide.

The Mental Health Strategy recognised that often, follow-up treatments are not provided, particularly for people who repeatedly cause self-harm or attempt suicide, and as a result, stressed on the importance of this function of the Mental Health Unit.

The Unit will also provide training on assessment and management of risks which will be an integral part of clinical assessment. This means that all

service providers and caregivers will be given a copy of care plans, including crises plans, risks, clinical assessment guidelines and contact numbers for clients and patients.

Training will also be extended to the University of Guyana to provide support for the strengthening of training in mental health as a part of the University’s undergraduate and postgraduate training programme.

Improving the mental health services through innovative ways is another focus of the Mental Health Unit, the document stated.

“Delivery of better mental health outcomes for people of all ages outlining a range of evidence-based treatments and interventions to prevent people of all ages from developing mental health problems and where possible, the introduction of long-term interventions for patients with severe illnesses,” reads an excerpt from the Mental Health Strategy.

The Unit will also be working in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry to put a number of measures in place to support rural workers aimed at easing some of the stresses which are known to adversely affect farmers, agricultural workers, and their families.

“For example, the establishment of a Rural Stress Helpline can offer a confidential, non-judgmental listening service to anyone in a rural area feeling troubled, anxious, worried, stressed or needing someone to talk to,” the document suggested.

Twitter CEO gives up US$200M in stock for employees

After laying off more than 300 workers, Twitter Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jack Dorsey is trying to lift the spirits of the remaining employees by giving them 6.8 million shares of the stock he owns in the online messaging service.

Dorsey is giving up the stock, currently worth more than US$200 million, so Twitter can award the shares to its employees, according to documents filed Friday with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The gesture comes a week after Dorsey laid off eight per cent of Twitter’s workforce in an effort to make the company profitable for the first time in its nine-year history. The gift represents nearly one-third of the stock Dorsey owns in the San Francisco company.

“I’d rather have a smaller part of something big than a bigger part of something small,” Dorsey tweeted about surrendering some

of his stock. “I’m confident we can make Twitter big!” Twitter said Dorsey’s shares will be earmarked for stock issued to employees next year under the company’s incentive plan.

Dorsey will still own 15 million Twitter shares worth about US$460 million, based on Twitter’s current market value.

Twitter’s stock gained US$1.13, or nearly four per cent, to close Friday at US$30.28.

The shares have declined by 40 per cent in the past six months amid concerns about Twitter’s slowing user growth and inability to make money.

Twitter Inc brought back Dorsey, one of its co-founders, as its CEO in hopes that

Leguan residents benefit from medical outreach

BY INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

The Guyana Sevashram Sangha of Cove and John Ashram on Sunday extended its monthly medical outreach to residents of Leguan, Region Three.

The outreach was made possible through collaborative efforts of the New GPC Inc, Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH), Guyana Chest Institute, and Food for the Poor.

Hundreds gathered at Pandit Mukesh’s residence to access the services offered. The team treated 150 persons for hypertension, skin rashes, glucose, and other conditions. During the medical outreach a number of referrals were made to the Suddie, and West Demerara Regional Hospitals.

Speaking at the outreach, Coordinator of the

that stress is a major contributing factor to most illnesses.

Swami Maharaj said persons are earning through sacrifices and it is recommended that one help the less fortunate in the process. He said sharing fosters that inner spirit of compassion and love, and does not necessarily have to take the form of monetary donations.

“Share whatever you can in whatever way and you shall receive in a 100 fold. Don’t look back. Rewards come in disguise, charity is a divine act and people should do it without asking for anything” Swami Maharaj urged.

The Sangha was established to serve God through humanitarian services and the outreach is the Sangha’s programme to fulfil its mandate of service to the people of Guyana.

he can figure out a way to make the messaging service more appealing beyond its core audience of about 300 million users. By comparison, Facebook’s social networking service has 1.5 billion users, even though it is only two years older than Twitter.

Dorsey was Twitter’s original CEO, but was ousted because the company’s Board did not think he was the right leader at that time.

While he tries to re-tool Twitter, Dorsey is also serving as CEO of Square, a payment processor that is preparing to price an initial public offering of its stock.

Dorsey has given back nearly 15.1 million shares of Square stock during the past two years, too, according to Square’s IPO documents. He remains by far Square’s largest shareholder with a 24 per cent stake in that San Francisco company, which is located a block away from Twitter’s headquarters. (Jamaica Observer)

Sangha Uutreach and Administrative Head of the Guyana Branch of the Sangha, Swami Shivashanranandaji Maharaj said the outreach was made possible through the kind cooperation of the private and public sectors.

The Swami reminded residents that humans have two types of sickness, one being chronic and the other infectious.

The spiritual leader said persons need to appreciate who they are and not “stress over petty problems,” adding

Assisting the team also was Headteacher of the Hindu College, Rajkumarie Singh who along with students from the Hindu College volunteered for the outreach.

The medical and pharmaceutical supplies were provided by New GPC Inc.

One hundred food hampers along with clothing were shared to the needy and vulnerable in the Ashram’s ongoing seva programme (serving human beings is like serving God).

Craig resident wanted for fraud

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has issued a wanted bulletin for Gopaul Tawari for questioning in relation to an investigation into a series of fraudulent activities which occurred October 19-22, 2015.

Anyone with information that may lead to his arrest is asked to make immediate contact with the Police on telephone numbers 229-2700-3, 229-2557, 226-9941, 911

or the nearest police station.

The Police are assuring that all information received will be treated with strict confidence.

Tawari’s last known address is Lot 73 Second Street, Craig Village, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Tawari was born on 1969-06-08, is of East Indian descent, is brown in complexion and is 173cm in height.

Vigil for slain officer in little Guyana emphasises unity

After the candles started dripping and a police commander wiped his tears, Randolph Holder walked from the clutch of his extended family and addressed those standing at the back of the vigil being held for his son, a Police Officer killed in the line of duty.

“I just wanted to give special thanks to all these men in blue,” Holder said Saturday night, his voice booming across the Queens Street. “Amazing. Above and beyond. Thanks, thanks, thanks.”

Holder, 61, was once a proud Police Officer in his native Guyana, and in the days since his son, also named Randolph Holder, was shot, allegedly by a suspect he was chasing in East Harlem on Tuesday, he had been moved to comfort others.

For the 200 or so family members, friends, officers and passers-by who gathered at the triangular intersection off Liberty Avenue and 103rd Avenue in Richmond Hill, a neighbourhood known as Little Guyana, the modest vigil underscored a powerful message. “Unity is strength,” Holder said.

The area is predominantly Indo-Guyanese, the majority ethnic group in Guyana. Late in the week, the event’s organisers asked State Senator James Sanders Jr, a Democrat who represents the neighbourhood, to invite Holder, whose family is Afro-Guyanese.

Holder accepted and brought along 50 relatives and friends in several vans accompanied by a police escort. Together, members of the two ethnic groups mourned by candlelight, setting aside the conflicts that have long divided their homeland.

“This has become an opportunity for us to become

Guyanese all over again,” said Vishnu Mahadeo, President of the Richmond Hill Economic Development Council, which organised the vigil. “One of our own was shot down and we need to be there for each other.”

Gloria Jardine, 58, had come from the Bronx to shop for traditional Indo-Guyanese items. She learnt of the vigil from a handwritten sign in Sybil’s Bakery on Liberty Avenue and stayed, she said, just to shake the elder Holder’s hand.

While Officer Holder’s death has resonated in his

path for members of the black community, with sons often following fathers into the department. And yet Holder, whose own father was also a Police Officer, played down race.

“My father is part-Indian,” he said. “You should love each and every one of us, no matter your race or the colour of your skin.”

The Guyanese are the fifth-largest immigrant group in New York, with a population of about 140,000. The Holder family lives in Far Rockaway, even as the AfroGuyanese community is cen-

home country, some diaspora leaders see Guyana’s influence in the way people have responded here. Six months ago the country formed a new coalition government led by members of Afro- and IndoGuyanese parties.

“The country has been coming together. There has been a sense of healing, of reconciliation, of national pride,” said Rickford Burke, president of the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy, which is based in Brooklyn. “And that has affected the way people are approaching this tragedy — that period of oneness that has taken hold.”

In Guyana, police work has traditionally been a career

tred in Brooklyn.

On Sunday night at St Stephen’s Lutheran Church Hall in the Flatbush section of the borough, a Guyanese “wake night” was held for Officer Holder, with food, games, gospel music and family reflections. One of the three sponsors was a Guyanese police alumni group, which had invited many Indo-Guyanese groups to attend.

It is typical in Guyana, Burke said, to hold memorials for the dead each night until the funeral is held.

Officer Holder’s is scheduled for Wednesday, and he is to be buried in Guyana on Saturday.

At the vigil in Richmond

Safari Tour must fully engage Amerindian stakeholders

Afew days ago the Guyana Tourism Authority and the Safari Club launched the South Rupununi Safari 2015 where it is proposed that in addition to introducing tourists to the interior of Guyana, it will also allow them to visit fourteen Amerindian villages situated on their trajectory.

Hill, family members took turns praising the Police and calling for action to end gun violence.

“We are all human beings on this earth; we should be able to work together,” Sheila Johnson, an aunt of Officer Holder’s, said. “Like we come here tonight, we have to let Washington and the politicians know that this has to stop. If we do not do anything to curtail these criminals from having access to so many weapons, it will never stop. Do not let Randolph’s death be in vain.”

In Guyana, showing disrespect for a police officer is considered an offence, Officer

Holder’s father said.

“You could be arrested for using obscene language with a police officer,” he said before the vigil.

He explained how training reinforced respect.

“After you left the house, the second place that disciplines you is the Guyana Police Force,” he said. “You are well-trained, well-mannered, protecting people, and do all things to make the country a safe place.”

Holder said that when he came to the United States, he had become an auxiliary Police Officer in the 101st Precinct in Far Rockaway. He was joyful when his son announced five years ago that he would be joining the Police Department. He also understood the risks.

Officer Holder, 33, was assigned to the Housing Bureau, Service Area 5, when he was killed. His commanding officer, Captain Reymundo Mundo, gave a brief, emotional speech on Saturday about the Police staying strong.

Afterward, Officer Holder’s father shook hands with officers and strangers, poised and polite. Captain Mundo watched with admiration.

“Ah,” he said of the slain officer, “that’s where he gets it from.” (The New York Times)

This, according to information released during the press conference, would allow tourists to experience aspects of Amerindian culture such as cuisine. The tour was presented as an opportunity for indigenous peoples to market their products and an arrangement of mutual benefits for both Amerindian villages and participating tourists. However, as in most cases of rural tourism, careful planning and organisation is required to ensure that all stakeholders benefit equally and fully from the experience.

From information communicated to the public during the press conference, it is yet to be determined what level of research, organisation and preparation were engaged to render this activity a success on all fronts.

For instance, no mention was made as to whether or not the fourteen Amerindian villages on the Safari route were part of a consultation process to assess their willingness to participate in the activity. It is common knowledge that without prior information and consent of the Village Council, one may be refused entry on Amerindian titled lands. Although this rule does not apply to Government officials, it is common practice that notice is served to Village Councils in advance of a planned visit, in respect for the Village Council and the Toshao’s authority. This is an established protocol by Village Councils and their discontent can be heard when it is not respected, even by Government officials. Such was the case of the alleged short notice served to inform the Moco Moco Village Council of the then President’s official visit earlier this year.

With regards to the possibility of villagers conducting business with the tourists, the question must be asked if these fourteen villages possess the necessary means to market their products, such as a shop, stand or labels for the purpose of displaying their items.

The business management component of the YEAP (Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme) taught CSOs (Community Support Officers) the importance of optimising sale by assisting vendors in their respective communities to enhance the presentation, labelling and display of their items. However, to what extent this knowledge would have been transmitted to vendors is unknown as not every village would have benefitted from CSOs who were interested in business management.

Also, M&E (Monitoring and Evaluation) was never conducted by those responsible for overseeing the programme at the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, and as such no progress reports were ever issued to determine how much knowledge was absorbed by villages. Subsequently, it is important that this be reviewed by any organism pretending to promote business in Amerindian communities, accompanied by the necessary capacity building where needed.

Another element which must be considered when allowing tourists entry into an Amerindian village, is the impact that they might have on village life, especially if this Safari is to become a regular and dynamic activity.

For instance, customs and traditions must be respected, such as days set aside for attending Church (in the South Rupununi it is generally Sunday as the majority of the Wapishana people are Roman Catholics). Appropriate conduct which includes respect for the privacy of Amerindians living in those villages must be enforced to avoid scenarios of tourists snapping photographs of adults and children who remain complete strangers, as though they themselves are a Safari attraction.

In other words, there must be an established code of conduct for all participants in the Safari, developed in collaboration with those Amerindian villages concerned.

Authorities must be explicit in the duration of their engagement. If there is no consistency in the implementation of this activity and it is abruptly discontinued due to inadequate foresight, it might have a reverse effect on village economies, as is the case of several programmes interrupted by this Government. There is indeed much to discover in Guyana’s Hinterlands and Guyanese are generally known for their hospitality. However, all stakeholders in this project must understand that Amerindians do not constitute an attraction worthy of the patronising attitude often delivered by tourists in rural tourism.

(Please send question and comments to sundayarrow@gmail.com)

SUDOKU

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

A misunderstanding will develop into a confrontation if you aren’t precise in the way you present your thoughts. Make sure you have all the facts before challenging someone’s idea or opinion.

Don’t jump to conclusions. Moneymaking opportunities are on the horizon, so be prepared to act. Concentrate on your financial security before you take on concerns that are less pressing.

(May 21June 20)

Someone will try to win your friendship to improve his or her position or status. Be wary of anyone who presses for personal information. Don’t fall for someone else’s hard-luck story.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) ARIES (March 21April 19)

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

A relationship issue will develop. Dedicate your time and effort to doing the best job possible in the workplace. Someone will show interest in the way you resolve a complex issue.

Put your thoughts in order. Your attention will scatter if you try to do too much at once. Once you have determined your priorities, you will be able to streamline your tasks.

Take a realistic look at your financial situation. Revise your budget to increase your savings and reduce interest charges or other fees. Lending and borrowing should be avoided.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Spend time nurturing personal relationships. If you have been too busy tending to your career or hobbies, your loved ones will feel neglected or left out.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Keep plugging away and don’t let what others do deter you from reaching your goals. Promote and present your ideas and you will convince others to pitch in and help.

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Don’t become reclusive. Get together with friends and make plans to do something out of the ordinary. Reduce your anxiety by not dwelling on past regrets or events you cannot change.

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Turmoil at home or arguing with a loved one will cause emotional stress. Don’t blame others for your shortcomings. Honest and open communication will help to resolve personal issues. Offer affection, not aggression.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Consider traveling to places you’ve never been before. Attending a workshop will add to your credentials and improve your status. Mix business with pleasure and you will excel.

Take control of whatever situation you face. Demanding or overbearing people don’t deserve your time or your loyalty. Make personal or professional changes that will improve your self-image.

Ashley-Cooper hat-trick sends Australia into World Cup final

Winger Adam

Ashley Cooper’s hat-trick of tries sent Australia into a first World Cup final since 2003 after a 29-15 victory over Argentina on Sunday secured a showdown with holders New Zealand at Twickenham next weekend.

The Wallabies were superior at the breakdown where David Pocock was immense and too clinical in the backline for the gung-ho injury-hit Pumas who paid the price for costly early mistakes.

Australia, in control from two early tries, were under the cosh for long periods of the second half but resilient defence and Ashley-Cooper’s third try on 71 minutes put the game beyond reach.

“It was a tough game and we knew it would be. We had to defend a lot. That took a fair bit out of the tank,” said Australia captain Stephen Moore.

Coach Michael Cheika added: “What we did was let the game open up which suited them. We had to work hard to stop them from scoring a try. We can improve again and that’s really important now.”

Saturday’s match will be the first time the southern hemisphere powers, both world champions on two occasions, have met in a World Cup final having clashed in three semis.

The only final not to feature either New Zealand or Australia since the tournament’s inception in 1987 was eight years ago when South Africa beat England.

Australia, who scraped

into the semi-finals with a controversial last-gasp penalty against Scotland, flew out of the blocks with 14 points on the board in the opening nine minutes.

Sixty-seven seconds had elapsed when Australia lock Rob Simmons intercepted a risky Nicolas Sanchez offload to sprint under the posts from 30 metres out and set the tone for an open and exhilarating contest.

The Pumas, with confidence high after their

Lavanini was sent to the sin-bin for a no-arms tackle on Israel Folau.

Worse was to follow when captain Agustin Creevy, a fitness doubt all week, trudged off after half an hour.

The Wallabies quickly rubbed salt in the wounds, Ashley-Cooper this time taking a long pass from Will Genia to score in the left corner.

Sanchez’s boot gave the Pumas hope as they trailed 19-9 at the break and two

mauling of Ireland, lacked nothing in ambition but the ploy backfired again when they knocked-on from a quick tap-penalty deep in their own half.

Superb back play by the Wallabies from the ensuing scrum ended with a fine floated pass from Bernard Foley that gave AshleyCooper a clear run to the line.

The Pumas, who lost winger Juan Imhoff to a head knock after 20 minutes, were weakened further when lock Tomas

more penalties from the tournament’s top points scorer got his side to within seven with plenty of time left.

The Pumas came at the Wallabies hard and it needed plenty of scrambling defence to keep them at bay.

Having held firm, Australia got back into Pumas territory and wrapped up the game when winger Drew Mitchell zipped through a flurry of tired tacklers and AshleyCooper walked the ball over the line. (Reuters Sport)

Australia, South Africa, West Indies series to generate much interest

Next June when Australia and South Africa join the West Indies for a tri-nation series in the Caribbean, the interest from the world and fans in the region may be uncountable.

While the West Indies have struggled for a long time with decreasing interest from fans and television, a new-look side, which troubled England in a series in the Caribbean could be pulling some of those fans back into seats and in front of their television sets.

The tournament includes 10 matches and runs from June 6-26, 2016.

“This tournament promises to be very exciting with two of the world’s top teams coming to the Caribbean,” said West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) manager, cricket operations, Roland Holder.

Outside of the interest in the series from fans, the West Indies will get an opportunity to hone their skills with a young captain and young team against two of the best teams in the

world.

“It will provide a golden opportunity for our team to test themselves against two of the best sides in the world in the ODI format,” said Holder.

There will be round-robin games in Guyana to begin the tournament before the teams move to Basseterre, St Kitts for another set of games at Warner Park.

The final round of matches takes place at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados.

(Digicel

Sri Lanka v West Indies, 2nd Test…

Persistent rain wipes out fourth day

Persistent rain forced the umpires to abandon the fourth day of the second Test at the P Sara Oval in Colombo at 3pm local time. The morning session was scheduled to start at 9.45am, after the final session on the third day was washed out, but a steady rain, to add to overnight showers, meant that no play was possible at all.

Chasing 244 for their first Test win in Sri Lanka, West Indies had lost Kraigg Brathwaite lbw to Dhammika Prasad for 3, minutes before rain forced an early end on the third day.

The second day of the Test was affected by rain as well, with the start getting delayed by 30 minutes. The forecast for the final day does not look promising either. (Cricinfo)

(Karunaratne, 0.1 ov), 2-55 (Mendis, 21.5 ov), 3-84 (Silva, 35.5 ov), 4-84 (Chandimal, 36.1 ov), 5-151 (Siriwardana, 55.1 ov), 6-165 (MDKJ Perera, 59.1 ov), 7-195 (Herath, 69.2 ov), 8-203 (MDK Perera, 71.4 ov), 9-206 (Mathews, 75.2 ov), 10-206 (Pradeep, 75.3 ov)

Bowling: JE Taylor 8-3-262, KAJ Roach 6-1-15-0, JO Holder 5-1-9-0, J Warrican 25-2-62-2, D Bishoo 20-3-610, KC Brathwaite 11.3-4-29-6 West Indies 2nd innings (target: 244 runs) KC Brathwaite lbw b Prasad 3 SD Hope not out 17

Extras 0

Total (1 wicket; 9 overs) 20 Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Brathwaite, 8.6 ov) Bowling: KTGD Prasad 5-24-1, N Pradeep 1-0-8-0, HMRKB Herath 3-1-8-0

WIPA congratulates WI Women on a triumphant tournament

After a series clinching win by the West Indies Women squad against Pakistan on Saturday that afforded the Windies women to be tied with Australia as World leaders in One Day International rankings, the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) issued a congratulatory statement.

The statement goes as follows: The West Indies Players’ Association wishes to extend congratulations to the West Indies Women team on their continued outstanding performances. The West Indies Women are now the joint leader team with the Australian women in the standings of the ICC Women Championship.

The new captain Stafanie Taylor led with an unbeaten score of 87 in the fourth and final Women’s ODI. Together with former captain Merissa Aguilleria they led the team to victory and the top of the table.

Taylor led by example cop-

ping the Player of the tournament in the just concluded series against the Pakistan women. Taylor finished the

ceed. We are extremely proud of them and look forward to what the future brings for these ladies.”

Captain Stafanie Taylor is congratulated by the Pakistani players after steering the Windies women to the series victory

four match series with two Player of the Match awards and a total of 261 runs.

President and CEO, Wavell Hinds expressed his uttermost delight by saying, “This team has grown from strength to strength and has the belief and the drive to suc-

The West Indies Women next face off in the ICC Women Championship against the South African Women in February of 2016 who are ranked third, 4 points behind the joint leaders West Indies Women and Australian Women. (WIPA Press release)

Tour of Guyana to pedal

off on October 29

By akeem GReene

In what will be the ninth edition of the annual Tour of Guyana Five-Stage Cycle Road Race, several international cyclists have already indicated their interest in participating.

The event, which was formerly known as the “Ride for Life Five-Stage”, has been rebranded “The Tour of Guyana Five-Stage Race”, to capture the concept of sports tourism.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) and Education Ministry’s Department of Culture, Youth and Sport are the key

organisers, and it is understood that they have been the recipients of sponsorship from the Tourism Ministry as well as beverage giant Banks DIH Limited.

Brand Manager of the Rainforest Brand, Errol Nelson disclosed that “this is part of Banks DIH’s corporate social responsibility to support and aid in the development of sports in Guyana, and our sponsorship of this cycle road race demonstrates our steadfast commitment to the development of cycling in Guyana”.

The race, which will be a total of 266 miles, will commence outside the Corriverton

“Brawl at the Mall” boxing

Police Station, Corentyne, Berbice at 07:30h and conclude at Main and Alexander Streets in New Amsterdam.

On the same day, the second stage will start at 14:00h from the Rosignol Ferry Stelling and end at Carifesta Avenue.

The next day, the third stage will begin at 09:00h outside the Wales Police Station and finish at Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo.

Stage four will be on October 31 and commences at 07:30h from Supenaam, Essequibo Coast, before proceeding to Charity and returning to Suddie for the finish.

The final Stage begins at 08:30h at Kara Kara, Linden Highway, and will conclude on Homestretch Avenue.

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones indicated that this year the event would be different as greater emphasis would be placed on taking care of the riders, in terms of making sure there was proper accommodation and meals being provided. Jones stated that the race would be in keeping with the focus of sports tourism as it would be visiting six of the 10 regions in Guyana. The winner will pocket $1.2 million. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy. com)

Atwell’s injury hands Gonsalves victory

Despite controlling proceedings throughout the fight, Clive “The Punisher” Atwell suffered the misfortune of a foot injury that allowed Dexter “The Cobra” Gonsalves to win their feature match-up on the “Brawl at the Mall” boxing card on Saturday night at the Giftland Mall. By virtue of gaining a Technical Knockout in round eight when Atwell sustained the injury, Gonsalves has been crowned the WBC

FECABOX Super Lightweight champion. Prior to the sudden end to the contest, Dominicabased Guyanese Atwell was leading 40-36 on all three judges’ cards at the end of round four. It seemed Atwell was headed for a certain victory when he fell to the canvas in round eight, which was ruled a slip by the referee. The injury required the intervention of the ringside doctor, and after some attention by the medical

personnel, Atwell decided against continuing.

Atwell’s mishap was Gonsalves’ fortune, as the 26-year-old was adorned with the WBC belt.

Gonsalves later said he was open to a rematch with Atwell.

Earlier in the night, debutant Imran “Magic” Khan disposed of David Thomas, winning in round three of four, while Keeve Allicock earned a similar result over newcomer Terrence Adams.

In the main supporting bout, Quincy Gomes received a split decision win over Anson Green in their super lightweight contest.

National Secondary School Cricket League…

A step in the right direction

SayS Rajiv BiSnauth

You can breathe a sigh of relief when you observe developmental programmes that the authorities are trying to implement and streamline.

At that particular time you think to yourself, with immense enthusiasm that it is worth it, because it gives you the satisfaction of having being heard.

Miyamoto Musashi once said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Thanks to the authorities, the National Secondary School Cricket League is definitely a step in the right direction.

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has come under criticism in the last couple of years for a number of reasons, but when a plan of this nature (National Secondary School Cricket League) is in operation and is working systematically, even the biggest critic will know the Board is hands on.

I am extremely delighted that the GCB has made that first step into our Secondary Schools. I have no doubts that the effective partnership between the Cricket Board and the Education Ministry will bear fruit as the days and years go by.

According to Secretary of the GCB, Anand Sanasie, the League has attracted over 150 teams spread across the 10 administrative regions.

“The purpose of running off secondary school cricket is to ensure that there is a feeder system for the clubs across the country,” Sanasie stated.

This is no time to find out how and why it occurred, but it is the most opportune time.

If West Indies cricket will be competitive and rule the world again, it needs a focal point of power and direction. That power and direction is surely in the School System. It is the nursery for the development of sports. So congratulations are in order for the Guyana Cricket Board.

Previously, in the last 15 years cricket in schools suffered a downturn – schools began to concentrate more on academics. Cricket in general was disorganised. What this new venture will create and sustain is the interest in cricket among our secondary schools students. Here is where the cream of our youths are: Thousands of them!

Through the inter-secondary school cricket competition, we will be able to identify and exploit the best talents.

Future leaders of the sport will be identified and groomed. It will surely like all other sports help to produce well-rounded individuals, who are disciplined and committed to a purpose.

I am positive too that academic achievement will be surely enhanced. Our boys will be more fit and alert – they are necessary ingredients for excellence. I dare say more and more parents and siblings will watch our boys play. Thus, a better relationship between schools and parents.

A strong secondary school competition will have a positive effect on the club structure in our country. These clubs will absorb players after their school life has come to an end. This provides a smooth transition to another level. Isn’t this the best scenario?

It’s a great start! I implore Headteachers to take a lead role in the preparation of their teams. What about sending spectators to watch and support your teams, Headteachers? You must do more than belong, you must participate! (rajivb@guyanatimesgy.com)

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21 sports

Mad Max Racing Team gears up for November race meet

By Akeem Greene

The Mad Max Racing Team is currently in overdrive mode as they seek to be ready in time for the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club Meet on November 15 at the South Dakota Circuit.

Speaking to the team mechanic Navean Seereeram, disclosed that the team is trying to their best to come to the line as their racing engine has been damaged and their currently trying to replace it. Seereeram is using a Yamaha R6 powered by a 600cc Greaves engine, which is said to be one of the best engines in the United Kingdom. Seereeram further went unto say, we have not raced for the year so we cannot expect it to be easy since they are 20 plus racers in the category who have gotten either new bikes or have been racing more. The Mad Max mechanic underscored the importance of having a quality amount of races to give sponsors value for their input. As such he is extremely grateful for the support given by E-Networks who have been the main sponsor for their rider since he was a Go- kart driver

The Mad Max team will be lead by ace rider, Nikhil Seereeram whose career so far in the Super Biker category is quite exceptional for a nineteen- year old. Seereeram was in the races since he was 14, at that time he was go cart driver for two years and was highly touted to do well. Seereeram has already won the “B Class” title in 2013 and

what can be considered most outstanding, is being crowned champion at the Caribbean Motor Racing Champions (CMRC) in 2014. Considering the level of competition in the Super Biker group, Seereeram will need to put in a top performance to come out victorious. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy. com)

Windies women hammer Pakistan...

The win was the Windies Women’s third on the trot after losing the opening game two Fridays ago and more importantly, saw them sweep the contests designated as ICC Championship games and grab the six vital points required to move to the top of

Women were restricted to 182 for five off their 50 overs, thanks to superb bowling from pacer Shamilia Connell who snared three for 32 from her ten overs.

Off-spinner Anisa Mohammed picked up two for 30 while Hayley Matthews strangled the

the points table alongside the Aussies on 16 points.

A qualifying tournament for the 2017 Women’s World Cup, the top four sides from the Championship will gain automatic qualification for the event scheduled for England.

“We executed really well throughout the series. We recognised the importance of trying to dominate this game and again, we did that really well,” head coach Vasbert Drakes said.

“Our objective was to move up the number one spot and it was a great series to do that, and certainly that was one of the biggest motivating factors.”

Sent in, Pakistan

visitors with her off-breaks in a ten-over spell that went for just 20 runs.

Asmavia Iqbal topscored with 44 not out off 43 balls batting at number seven while Bismah Maroof chipped in with 41, Javeria Khan, 25 and captain Sana Mir, an unbeaten 24.

The Pakistanis’ start was a sluggish one, as Javeria Khan and debutant Ayesha Zafar (20) put on 32 from 62 balls before both fell to Mohammed.

Bismah Maroof, who faced 88 balls and struck four fours, put on 35 for the second wicket with Javeria Khan, before adding a further 24 for the third wicket with Nain Abidi (14), to lift the visitors to 91 for two in

the 31st over.

However, Bismah was one of three wickets to fall for 16 runs in the space of 34 deliveries as Connell ripped through the middle order in an incisive spell.

Languishing at 107 for five in the 37th over, Pakistan Women were then bolstered by an unbroken 75-run, sixth wicket stand between Asmavia Iqbal who struck seven fours and Sana Mir who faced 48 balls without a boundary.

In reply, West Indies lost Matthews without scoring with six runs on the board in the fourth over, and were further set back when they also lost the other opener Kycia Knight for 19 at 32 for two in in the ninth.

However, any fears of a West Indies Women collapse were quickly dashed as Taylor took control in two telling partnerships.

First, the right-hander put on 54 for the third wicket with Deandra Dottin who struck 25 from 43 balls with a four and a six. When she departed in the 23rd over to a catch at the wicket off leg-spinner Bismah, Taylor found an ally in former captain Merissa Aguilleira who stroked an important 37 off 62 deliveries with two fours.

Taylor played with assurance, gathering ten boundaries to dominate the innings, and record her second straight unbeaten halfcentury of the tournament. Overall, she finished with 261 runs at an average of 130, to also cop the Player-of-the-Series award. The two teams will now turn their attention to the three-match Twenty20 series which bowls off in Grenada on Thursday.

Final 4-day practice game starts today

– final squad to be announced this week

The final four-day practice match for the Guyana Jaguars cricket squad is scheduled to start at 09:00h today at the Guyana National Stadium as the team aim to step up preparations for the second edition of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League Regional Four-Day Franchise Tournament.

The final squad should be announced during the course of this week, since information reaching this publication on Sunday indicated that the WICB has extended the deadline for submission of teams by a week.

According to Head Coach Esaun Crandon, the game will provide a good platform for the players to impress the selectors, especially those players who failed to make an impression during the first practice game.

Recently, Chairman of Selectors, Rayon Griffith told Guyana Times Sport that performance was among the top criteria for selection.

However, only Kevon Boodie and Vishual Singh scored centuries during the first practice game, while Shimron Hetymer, Assad Fudadin, Christopher Barnwell and Leon Johnson were the other batsmen to have scores that past 50.

Another impressive statistic from the practice match was the bowling of the pacers. They bowled with pace and control, with Berbician Raun Johnson looking the best of the lot.

Meanwhile, Johnson and Hetymer will lead the respective teams.

Leon Johnson’s squad reads: Leon Johnson; Assad Fudadin; Tagenarine Chanderpaul; Vishaul Singh (Vice Captain); Christopher Barnwell; Shivnarine Chanderpaul; Raymon Reifer; Steven Jacobs; Anthony Bramble; Veerasammy Permaul; Ronsford Beaton; Kemol Savory; Anthony Adams and Akshaya Persaud.

Shimron Hetmyer’s squad reads: Shimron

Hetmyer; Kandasammy Surujnarine; Robin Bacchus; Tevin Imlach; Kevon Boodie; Kemo Paul; Dexter Solomon; Javon Searles; Paul Wintz (Vice Captain); Steven Sankar; Keon Joseph; Raj Nanan; Gudakesh Motie and Raun Johnson.

The PCL commences on November 6, and the Guyana Jaguars who are the defending champions, will play their first three games at home.

They will play the Windward Islands Volcanoes in their opening round, before taking on Leeward Islands Hurricanes from November 13 to 16 and Barbados Pride from November 20 to 23.

The Jaguars will then play hosts Trinidad and Tobago Red Force from December 4 to 7, and Jamaica Scorpions from December 11 to 14 in the other two rounds before the tournament break to facilitate the Nagico Super50 Tournament.

GSSF launches trap shooting in Guyana

The Guyana Sport Shooting Federation, in its quest to promote the various disciplines and art of sport shooting marked another momentous day when the first clay was launched in a regulated manner at the GDF Range at Yarrowkabra on Friday.

GSSF Member and renowned shotgun enthusiast, Gerard Mekdeci, was invited to fire the first shot at a Clay target to mark this ceremonious occasion. He held true to the task, hitting the biodegradable clay target with his first shot causing it to shatter in several pieces thus launching the sport of Trap shooting locally.

The GSSF at the end of 2014 secured affiliation to the Amateur Trapshooting Association. Since then, it formed an internal Trapshooting Committee tasked with pioneering

this sporting discipline in Guyana which ultimately resulted in last Saturday’s

President of the GSSF, Vidushi

Tropical Springs Water to rehydrate ECDCA U19 tourney

– Better Hope top Ogle in opening match

Tropical Springs Purified Water has decided to sponsor the East Coast Demerara Cricket Association (ECDCA) for the staging of an U19 40-over tournament which was launched on Saturday at Ogle Community Centre.

The tournament also commenced on Saturday and the teams battling for supremacy are Ogle, Better Hope, Lusignan, Enterprise, Golden Achievers, Strathaven, Fairfield, Calcutta and Unity.

Speaking at the ceremony Rajindra Jhun of Tropical Springs Water noted that they are pleased to be a part of the game’s development.

Secretary of the ECDCA, Jitlall Jowharilall expressed gratitude to the company for their support highlighting that the competition will assist the association in selecting their U19 team for the Demerara Cricket Board inter-association competition.

Vice President of the

ECDA, Ashmul Ali stressed that they are delighted to have such a tournament that the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association has also thrown their support behind the competition.

The semi finals and final will be played under lights at Demerara Cricket Ground. The winning and runner up teams, MVP and man of the match in the final and other outstanding performers will be rewarded.

Meanwhile in the open-

ing encounter, Better Hope topped Ogle by 52 runs. Winning the toss, Better Hope elected to bat first and amassed a total of 256-9 from their allotted amount of overs.

R. Dhanraj top scored with 88 (8 x 4, 8 x 6) while Vickram Paul and M Nandalall contributed 39, (6 x 4, 6 x 2) and 36 (4 x 4, 6 x 1) respectively. Bowling for Ogle, V. Madramootoo was the pick of the bowlers capturing 2 for 45. In reply, Ogle accumulated 204 for 8 in their allotted overs with Devraj Chunilall top scoring with 46, (6 x 4 and 6 x 1), whileTravis Marcellino and Arvinda Gainda were the only batsmen that managed to make double figures scoring 38 and 32 respectively.

Bowling for Better Hope, Paul returned with the ball to pick up 2 for 14 off four overs and Chandra Mohan claiming 2 for 39 from six overs.

ing persons who equally contributed in order to purchase the ATLAS Automatic Trap Machine: Dr. Soumi SenGupta, Mr. Nicholas Deygoo, Mr. Vidyanand Persaud and

who assisted in shipping the machine and clays to Guyana among many others.

Trapshooting is a specific form of clay target shooting utilising shotguns. It is

Official Launch of the sport of

pressed thanks on behalf of the GSSF to the follow-

a game of movement, action and split-second timing which requires the accura-

cy and skill to repeatedly aim, fire one shot in an attempt to break the 108mm clay discs which are hurled through the air at speeds surpassing 65kmh.

In registered trapshooting, the rules specify that targets must be thrown no more than 52 yards and should reach a height of between 8 and 12 feet at 10 yards from the trap house. Shooters stand a minimum of 16 yards from the trap houses and take turns at calling “Pull” for the targets to be launched when they are ready.

Usually there are about 4 types of shotguns which can use for trapshooting; those are over and under, single barrel, semi-automatic and pump action. Regulations stipulate they must be no larger than 12 gauge.

Ms. Persaud alluded to the fact that several persons and organisations were instrumental in assisting the GSSF to introduce yet another stepping stone to an Olympic sport discipline to Guyana.

Chanderpaul honored by Hindu Society

Prolific West Indies and Guyanese batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul was honoured by the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh on Sunday at a special ceremony at Vreeden-Hoop, West Bank Demerara.

Chanderpaul, who is also called “Tiger”, is the second leading run scorer for West Indies cricket and is seen as a highly talented stalwart for the Hindu society. Speaking at the ceremony, Ravindra Dev under-

scored Chanderpaul’s value to the Region owing to his great service and tremendous achievements. Dev went on to say that “cricket gave the Caribbean people something to cheer about, something they could be proud about”.

Also in attendance was former Guyana National Cricket team Senior Coach Ravindra Seeram who said he was proud of Chanderpaul, since he knew him since the embryonic stages of his career and always felt he would go on

to do great things.

Chanderpaul was extremely appreciative of the award and urged young aspiring cricketers to be disciplined and find a balance between education and cricket as there were great opportunities currently but hard work was needed.

Chanderpaul’s son, Tagnarine Chanderpaul, was there at the ceremony as well as young upcoming star Akshaya Persaud and several members of the society.

“Tiger” is the first Indo-

futsal

Caribbean to play 100 Tests for the West Indies, and captained them in 14 Tests and 16 One-Day Internationals. A left-handed batsman, Chanderpaul is well-known for his unorthodox batting stance, which has been described as crab-like. He has scored 20,000 runs in international cricket, and in 2008 he was named as one of the five Cricketers of the Year by the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack, and as the Player of the Year by the International Cricket Council.

Final group stage set for tonight

– Ministries and Corporate Guyana join the fray of sponsors

The Inter-Ministry/ Corporation futsal tournament will continue this evening with 11 exciting game at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Tonight will mark the final matches in the group stage before the tournament moves to its knockout phase.

A number of ministries along with prominent

businesses such as Courts Furniture Inc, Customs, New GPC, Digicel, Wartsilla and even a combined media team will take the floor tonight in hopes of moving to the knockout stage in the tournament.

Some of the Ministries in action tonight are the Ministry of Presidency, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Housing and a

Department of Sport team just to name a few. Meanwhile, Banks DIH Limited, Ministry of Education Department of Sports, the Ministry of Tourism, Oasis Water, Insurance Brokers and Mid-town Cafe' & Restaurant are now onboard with sponsorship of the futsal tournament.

Digicel Breast Cancer Cycling Jeffrey dominates to win

By TreisTon Joseph

Team Coco’s Raynauth

Jeffrey continued his brilliant form to ride away with the Digicel Breast cancer Awareness two-stage cycle road race on Sunday.

Jeffrey won the first 40mile stage from Schoonord to Parika and back before placing second in the final stage from Abary to Carifesta Avenue with an aggregated time of 3h:15m:32s.

Jaime Ramirez (3:16:01s) finished sec-

ond while Marlon Williams (3:16:23s), Orville Hinds (3:16:32s), Marloe Rodman (3:16:48s), Andrew Simon and Geron Williams (3:16:49s) finished from third to seventh respectively in that order. With the win, Jeffrey rode off with $250,000 and is in peak form for the upcoming Tour of Guyana five stage event this week.

Jeffrey’s winning streak has now risen to three including the Ounce of Gold victory since returning to the local circuit.

Jamal John won the junior category ahead of Raphael Leung and Chris Griffith who finished second and third respectively.

Junior Niles was the winner of the veteran’s category while Hazina Barrett won the female edition of the event.

Following the event at the presentation Digicel made a $500,000 donation to the Cancer Society along with the money from the registration from the cyclists.

Digicel’s CEO Kevin Kelly also highlighted that Digicel will continue to support the development of sport in Guyana.