turnaround? Dr Luncheon says NIS financially sound APNU takes campaign to airwaves in Region 2 Japan injects $19M into GPHC Paediatric Ward
Region 10 completes building to house TV station
friday, february 13, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
February 13 – 11:05h-12:35h and Saturday, February 14 – 12:25h-13:55h The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be
February 13 – 12:00h-13:30h and
he Alliance For Change (AFC) on Thursday said its supporters were in agreement with it forming an alliance with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to contest the May 11 elections, Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo has said.
Nagamootoo has also dismissed reports that the AFC’s main constituency in Berbice was not too in favour of the “marriage” between the two parties. Speaking at the party’s weekly press conference at the Georgetown Club on Thursday afternoon, Nagamootoo stated that the Alliance has been engaging its party members and members of the public on the coalition talks, and so far, all stakeholders were supporting the possibility of a coalition between the party and APNU.
“I was at a meeting at Best Village, West Coast of Demerara and after we had spoken to the people, I put to them very specifically, ‘Do you support the idea going forward with an alliance?’ and I asked them to raise their hands. One hundred per cent of those who attended support the idea of the alliance,” he related.
He noted too that he posed the question of the coalition’s leadership to the supporters and despite a few expressing concerns over it, the party received resounding support for whatever decision was taken during the conclusion of the round of discussions.
Nagamootoo remained confident that the talks would produce results, noting that both of the entities were working toward a united country and if they coalesced, it would be the first such coalition in the country’s history. He related that while he cannot, at this point in time, state much on the matter, he was satisfied with the way things were progressing.
“We are confident that we can win. We have never had a multi-party, multi-race, multi-class party in the history of Guyana. It is tragedy that we never had such a coalition, especially one that can form the new Government. As to whether or not, there will be definitive results in this talk, we are satisfied at this point of time that we have re-introduced into the national agenda, the question of unity, of healing, the question of reconciliation, the question of moving this party country forward not as a part but as a whole,” he said.
The former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament further added that in the event the talks fall through, the party would head to the polls as an independent party as it has previously done. However, it is a last resort. “If talks fail,
and I have no reason to believe that talks will fail, then of course, we have a constitutional situation where parties will go on their own alone and, of course, the Alliance For Change is ready for this.”
No vote lost
He also dismissed suggestions that the party could lose the 11 per cent of votes it garnered at the 2011 General and Regional Elections if it coalesced with APNU. He noted that the AFC did not believe there would be heavy racial voting at the May 11 elections. Instead, he predicted that APNU would again win at least 40 per cent of the votes in the upcoming polls and would need his party’s support. He noted that in the previous elections, the AFC had managed to garner 11 per cent of the total number of voters and while it was confident that it would win even more at the upcoming elections, it was catering for a minimum of 11 per cent.
“If you want to cross the line and have majoritarian Government in Guyana, you need 11 per cent. The Alliance For Change has a strategic role in elections where there are two parties
to the contest. We are sure that we will get more than 11 per cent, but we are only putting that as a minimum so the APNU would need our votes to win,” he said.
At the last elections, the AFC under an Indian Guyanese leader Khemraj Ramjattan won 10.3 per cent of the votes, garnering mainly votes from the Indian dominated Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). In 2006, the AFC had secured a similar percentage of votes, but under the leadership of Raphael Trotman, most had come from the APNU African-dominated constituency.
Conceding that the AFC cannot compare itself with APNU in terms of its electoral strength, Nagamootoo who was hand-selected as Presidential Candidate by AFC’s Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan said an electoral alliance was the way to go. Meanwhile, the party will meet with its executive members on Valentine’s Day to decide whether or not it would go ahead with the coalition with APNU. The party will formally select its Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates on March 14 when it will hold its Special National Meeting.
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com
Guyanese all across the country must have breathed a sigh of relief when it was confirmed earlier this week that with effect from March 1, every category of consumer - commercial, residential and industrial - would now be able to benefit from a 10 per cent reduction in their electricity charges.
Rather than welcoming this relief to consumers, some of the pessimists who would only see everything from a negative perspective were quick to dismiss it as an elections gimmick. Whatever the case might be, the fact remains that Guyanese would pay less for electricity, hence, they would have more disposable income in their pockets to spend on other necessities.
Consumers, including manufacturers and service providers everywhere are all of the opinion that the electricity charges are at present too high and have made numerous calls for the rates to be lowered.
In addition to several complaints being made by residential consumers about the burden the electricity bill places on their household, manufacturers and services providers have expressed the view that they are sometimes unable to compete due to the high cost of electricity rates here.
Hence, the decision by the authorities to give a 10 per cent reduction in electricity charges is indeed a welcome one. Other sectors/service providers who are benefitting from the drop in fuel prices should also do what is necessary to allow those benefits to pass on to consumers. This is the sensible and right thing to do.
We have noted that up to press time, in spite of several calls from various stakeholders, the transport service providers – minibuses, hire cars, speedboats, etc – have not given any indication that they will reduce their fares. This is quite unfortunate as these very operators have on numerous occasions in the past, opted to increase their fares whenever there was a slight increase in gasoline prices.
It should be noted though that the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has made it quite clear that since the reduction in fuel cost is not permanent, the drop in the tariffs will be reviewed on a quarterly basis, meaning that every three months, the company will review the cost for fuel as against the reduction, and if it is necessary, then adjustments will have to be made to the tariff accordingly.
As rightly pointed out by the President, while Guyanese are enjoying the benefits as a result of the drop in fuel prices on the international market, it is not a situation that the country can control, and as such, it will not last forever.
For this reason, there is need to explore the option of renewable energy; not only in hydro, but in many other areas, for example, harnessing the possibilities in the sugar and rice industries to generate power. These are all avenues which we could seriously tap into.
We are encouraged by the fact that Government has given a commitment to continue exploring ways in which Guyanese consumers could benefit from cheaper electricity. We have also taken note of the steps being taken to ensure that the hydropower project becomes a reality.
Just recently the nation was told that another developer has been identified for the Amaila Falls Hydro Electricity Project. This is indeed good news as many of us were very disappointed when the combined Opposition voted against the project, resulting in Sithe Global pulling out completely as a developer.
Like most Guyanese we are convinced that there is no justification for the position taken by the Opposition in not supporting such a venture, especially because the Government had made significant efforts to provide all of the details to the various stakeholders involved, including the Opposition parties.
In our view, affordable and reliable sources of energy is very important if this country is to continue progressing the way it should, and the Government is on the right track in ensuring that the issue is treated as a number one priority.
Dear Editor,
Sometimes we commit acts against the law and feel guilty, yet we strenuously defend our actions through some shrewd lawyer in order to avoid the stigma of being a convicted criminal.
We have seen in the dispensation of justice numberless cases where suspected murderers, rapists, child molesters, arsonists go free through bribery, sloppy investigation, intimidation of witnesses, nepotism and political connection. The latest allegations against Raphael Trotman for sodomy is one example.
So the public is either left
to assume or accept wholeheartedly that all those allegations are figments of the accusers’ imaginations or downright fabrication.
Even when there are glaring cases of Police complicity with criminals to subvert justice as recently exposed in the alleged rape against Vishnu Singh, we are expected to believe that these paragons of virtue are innocent.
Can someone say what Johnny Welshman has to gain by making such allegations against Trotman? Why would he want to besmirch the character of a prominent person, who incidentally gave him
a character reference, even though the incident happened some time ago?
Are we to assume that all those allegations against Herman Cain, Bill Cosby, Jian Ghomeshi, CN Sharma and others are also figment of the accusers’ imagination?
If we were to use some logical deduction, we may want to ask why Trotman and not Freddie Kissoon.
And, to crown it off, with all the hulabaloo over the tax evasion of Glenn Lall, the case was dismissed allegedly through some settlement with the GRA. Is a settlement not evidence of guilt, so why not pursue a con-
viction? Or is Glenn Lall one of those untouchables?
Imagine what would have been the reaction of our social activist Freddie Kissoon if it was Anil Nandlall or Kellawan Lall?
And, I can put my neck on the block that the next acquittal will be that of CN Sharma, unless he dies from a heart attack prior to.
Guyana was once regarded as a nation of mendicants, but with the current trend of official and political complicity, we may soon be regarded as a nation of mediocrity.
D Singh
Labour Ministry unaware if current UG industrial action linked to 2012 TOR
Dear Editor,
We take note of the current industrial action which was organized and executed by the unions operating at the University of Guyana (UG), Turkeyen, Campus and bring to your attentionthe following.
While the Ministry of Labour did intervene in the 2012 strike and did participate in the brokering of Terms of Resumption (TOR), it was agreed that if the matters were not adequately resolved the matter should have been taken to conciliation.
I wish to emphasize that thoseTerms of Resumption are not unending or indefinite. I do believe that there was adequate time to move those matters to the Ministry of Labour since 2012 if they were not adequately resolved at the bilateral level.
Additionally, when the unions perceived that they were not getting through in their talks with the University of Guyana Administration, they did not seek the intervention of the Ministry of Labour, and proceeded, as a first resort, at the beginning of this semester with threats and industrial action in breach of all established industrial relations procedures.
Further, when negotiations resumed in 2015 with the expectation of a full resumption of work, the unions rejected the university’s offers and escalated industrial actions. They again did not seek intervention of the Ministry of Labour but proceeded to continueindustrial actions.
The Ministry is also unaware if the issues that have led to this recent industrial action are the same issues that were part of the 2012 Terms of Resumption.
Please note that this does not accord with good industrial relations practices and, while the Ministry has always been sympathetic to the interests of workers, we would equally request unions and workers to follow the normal and recognized industrial relations practices.
However, notwithstanding these apparent lapses on the part of unions, the Ministry would like to have the issues in contention resolved to the satisfaction of both parties and to play whatever mediation role is required in the process atthe appropriate time.
We have contacted the University of Guyana Administration, which is adamant that full resumption and normalcy must prevail before any meeting could be held with the workers and their representative bodies.
This position of the University Administration is one which is supported by time honoured and established industrial relations customs, practices and behaviour.
We would, however, undertake that once full resumption of work takes place, the Ministry would undertake to have the following done: we will ensure that there is no victimization of workers and that there is no break in service and the status quo ante will prevail.
Following further negotiations with the University, and if there isno resolution between the parties, the Ministry undertakes to invite the parties to have conciliatory talks.
It is against this background and these assurances that we only hope that the current industrial action be brought to animmediate end so as to allow the process of negotiation to commencein a situation of normalcy at the University and without duress.
Charles Ogle Chief Labour Occupational Safety and Health Officer Ministry of Labour
Dear Editor, The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) would like to clarify that there is no requirement for logging companies to do reforestation once these operations practise sustainable forest management in accordance with the GFC’s guidelines. Natural regeneration will replace what was harvested by selective logging in accordance with these guidelines. Guyana Forestry Commission No requirement for logging companies to do
Dear Editor,
A few things bother me and I hope you will publish this letter that hopefully will prompt others to offer comments for me to know whether or not I have cause for concern.
President Barack Obama of the USA has lost both the Senate and Congres, where there is a majority of Republicans over Democrats, Obama being the Democratic party.
Kaieteur News has published an article where Obama at a press conference boldly told the Americans that if the House passes legislation to negate the effects of his Immigration and Taxation policy, he will exercise his powers of veto when the Bills land on his desk.
We have not heard anyone in the USA or in Guyana for that matter comment on the stand proposed by Obama.
People are now using drones or transport drugs within the USA. Has America become a narco State? Drugs are going into the USA by American cit-
izens who take it after being paid.
The US government is aware of this, but is criticizing other countries for not dealing with the drug problem. Why does America not protect its borders from the drug traffic in the same way they are preventing undocumented people from going to the US?
US Embassy Officials have not criticized the media or the Opposition for not supporting the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) LBill. Now they are pleading that the legislation should be passed early.
Similarly when, Opposition Leader David Granger made threats at a press conference that those who were responsible for circulating a pamphlet naming him an associate of Hitler and others will be dealt with, the Police may not be able to restrain those angry people and worry about what they will do to the publishers. Not a voice of
condemnation was uttered that he was inciting violence.
How does Granger know those people are angry and why is he not attempting to quiet them down? All those who are circulating pamphlets are exercising their freedom of speech.
Anti-Government newspapers daily issue unconfirmed reports about so many persons, destroying their character and lives and no one has seen it necessary to protest.
A self-confessed historian and daily slanderer is apparently not offered lunch at his home (he boasts about when and with whom he lunches daily). He justifies his libeling people who are deceased and justifies same on the ground that he is not stupid since those persons, if they were alive would have sued him. And Kaieteur News still permits him to keep on writing.
We now have a judge suing the Government because he is not getting tax free salary which is enjoyed by the Chief Justice and the Chancellor. He
is worried also that the pension to which he is entitled will not be enough to maintain his current standard of living. He did not say whether his present salary is enough to maintain his current standard of living or whether he is supplementing same by “other means”.
Interesting to see who will be the judge to try his matter, when the judge is alleging that the privilege afforded the two officials creates the presumption of partiality inconsistent with the independence of the Judiciary and, above all, other judges with respect to the payment of income tax.
Which judge will be free of any apparent perception that he is not prejudiced against self interest in deicing the matter?
Guyana - the country with the greatest freedom to do as one pleases without obligation to the rights of others – is a great place to live.
Chabbi Phagu
Dear Editor,
The statistics in relation to the offences of murder and robbery under arms for January 2015 with corresponding statistics for January 2014 show that, at the end of January 2015, the Guyana Police Force recorded a 12 per cent drop in serious crimes in comparison to January 2014.
Among the serious crimes policed by the Force are murder, robbery under arms, robbery with violence, robbery with aggravation, larceny from the person, break and enter and larceny, burglary, rape, and kidnapping.
A total of 12 murders were
recorded at the end of January 2015 in comparison to 17 murders for January 2014, a decrease of 29 per cent.
At the end of January 2015 robbery under arms overall has decreased by 28 per cent in comparison to January 2014. The statistics indicate a decrease of 28 per cent in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms; and a 27 per cent decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators.
There has also been substantial decreases in the occurrences of burglary and break and enter and larceny with 15
per cent and 18 per cent, respectively.
In relation to traffic, five road fatalities from five accidents have been recorded at the end of January 2015 in comparison to 11 fatalities from 10 accidents for the same period in 2014; a 55 five decrease in fatalities.
Pedestrians have been the main road users affected with 3 such persons having lost their lives at the end of January 2015. In addition 1 pedal cyclist and 1 person travelling in a motor vehicle also lost their lives.
Inattentiveness has been the major contributory factor to fatal accidents so far, having
Dear Editor, I crave your indulgence in giving me the opportunity of expressing my sincere thanks to Public Minister Robeson Benn for his timely intervention in stopping what surely would have been an accident of horrific proportion with the potential serious injury and loss of life.
This is due to the callous and totally irresponsible action of a speeding mini bus driver with maniacal tendencies on the East Coast Highway on February 7.
I was one of the passengers who joined the mini bus (number given) at the Stabroek Bus Park, anxious to get home to my family from work.
With the conductor having placed a touted passenger into the already crowded bus, he collected his commission from the driver and gave the driver a hi-five. The driver did not just move off, he took off weaving in and out of traffic, his vulgar music assailing the sensibilities, as he intimidated other users with his horn and hurling invectives at any driver that was slow in moving out of the way.
been the cause of three of the five fatal accidents for January 2015.
Traffic enforcement by the Police has resulted in a total of 5,022 cases being made against errant motorists at the end of January 2015; of this total 43 cases were for using cell phones while driving, 82 for driving under the influence of alcohol and 1,234 cases were for speeding.
To date, six persons have lost their lives from five fatal accidents during this month February 2015.
Ivelaw Whittaker Police Public Relations and Press Officer
We were approaching Ogle in what seemed to me like a couple of seconds after having left the park zipping in and out of traffic, zipping pass vehicles of all description and sizes.
I was rigid with fear when he moved from one lane to overtake the vehicle ahead of him only to be faced with oncoming traffic, and his only means of evasion was to be forced back into the lane. He was left in front of a car whose driver had to brake hard to avoid being side swept off the road, and in doing so had a close shave with a moving concrete mixer by inches.
A white cruiser whom he had sped pass earlier heading in the same direction came up behind us with all lights and horn, came up alongside and indicated for the driver to slow down and stop, as he was already accelerating.
He pulled over and the cruiser rolled in and stopped some distance ahead and two men got out, one immediately recognised as Minister Benn with one of his engineers.
The Minister came up to the drivers’ side of the bus and told the driver that he was driving dangerously, thus placing other road users and passengers at risk. The Minister then instructed him to drive behind his vehicle and on the way to the nearest Police station.
We met a motor cycle patrol officer who was informed of the driver’s dangerous use of the roadway.
The Minister then informed the driver to take the passengers to the destinations and instructed the officer to ensure the driver is charged.
Pictures of the driver and the vehicle registration number were taken. The Minister then joined his vehicle and continued on his journey.
My heartfelt thanks Minister Benn. I thank you for your timely intervention which ensured I arrived home safely out of the clutches of one of the maniacs who play Russian roulette with the lives of the commuting public on a daily basis. Lastly, I thank the Editor for providing the space for my letter.
Concerned citizen PS: To other passengers who sat passively through the nightmare drive, you all owe Minister Benn a debt of gratitude!
Puberty: It’s not one size fits all Puberty’s changes start when the brain triggers the production of sex hormones. Although physical changes follow a predictable pattern, every child develops at his or her own pace. Puberty usually begins for girls before boys. For most girls, puberty begins around age 11. For boys, puberty starts from 10 to 14. The average age is 12.
Budding breasts can signal puberty
Breast growth is usually the first sign of puberty girls will notice. First, small lumps form behind the nipples. They can be sore, but the pain goes away as breasts grow and change shape over the next
few years. As they grow, it’s not unusual for one breast to develop more slowly than the other. Boys also may have some swelling on their chest but it tends to go away within a year or two.
Boys: Genital changes
The first sign of puberty in boys is subtle – an increase in testicle size. About a year later, the penis and scrotum start to grow. Semen can be released during an erection when he is awake or when he is asleep.
Hair growth in puberty
After breasts and testicles start growing, body hair will start to grow in and become thicker. For both boys and girls, new hair will start growing in
the armpits and pubic area around the genitals. Arm and leg hair gets thicker. Boys also may start developing chest and facial hair.
Acne: An early sign of puberty
Mild acne may be normal in early puberty. Puberty’s high hormone levels can trigger acne outbreaks. During puberty, the oil glands are more active and your child will probably sweat more. Keeping the face and body clean can help, but if acne is a concern, talk to a doctor. Medications may help.
About a year after puberty begins, girls have a growth spurt. A girl will get
taller and start to get wider hips and fuller breasts. Some curve-related fat will appear on her stomach, buttocks, and legs. Girls usually reach adult height by their mid- to late teens.
Growth spurts: from boys to men
The peak growth spurt for boys happens later than it does for girls. It occurs around six months after pubic hair development. When it does, your son’s shoulders will become fuller and broader, and he’ll grow taller, too. His face shape will look less round and more adult-like. Depending on when puberty starts, he may not reach his adult height until his late teens or even early 20s. (WebMD)
tips to deal with your child’s attitude as she grows into a teenager
(Continued from Wednesday)
BY JULIE TILSNER
Choose a tween-appropriate punishment for infractions
When your child was a toddler or preschooler – or maybe even as recently as a year ago – you could pretty much get her to do what you wanted with positive reinforcement (praising her for being good, showering her with stickers) and the occasional time-out. With a tween, however, most parents find they have to bring out the big guns; very few older children are likely to change their behaviour based on, say, the promise of an ice cream cone if they can go a week without stomping around the house.
“I find that taking away a favourite activity, like their Xbox or cell phone, is the best punishment when my kids talk back or mumble something rude under their breath,” says San Diego mom Dana Hess, who has a 10and a 14-year-old. Whatever you do decide, she warns, follow through. “Once you don’t do what you say, they’ll take total advantage, and you’ll lose your upper hand again.”
Reciprocate respect
It’s essential that you remind your child that you’re a person, too. “I’ve told my daughter that it hurts when she screams at me or says she hates me,” says Susan North-Tanaka, a mom of three in Long Beach, California. “I tell her, ‘I don’t hate you, but it really hurts me to hear you say that to me.’?”
At the same time, remember that respect is a two-way street-especially when you start to get caught up in an emotionally charged argument. “I do sometimes apologise,” says Wade. “If I start to speak to my daughter before she finishes her sentence, for example, I’ll say I’m sorry. I realise she’s looking to be treated with respect, too, and I have to hold my own feet to the fire.”
Let her stew
When a “discussion” between you and your tween leads to screaming or hysterics (on the part of your child, of course!), step back and wait for things to calm down.
Encouraging your child to take a break from a situation is a good way to defuse high emotions all around.
I’ll stay calm and say, ‘It seems like I can’t talk to you right now, so go collect
yourself and let’s talk later,’ “ says Wade. “Sometimes she’ll be crying so hard, she’ll say, ‘I can’t calm down!’ but a few minutes alone in her room always works. She’s always in a better frame of mind when she comes out.”
Set aside some face time
Take your tween out for breakfast or invite him along to walk the dog, just the two of you. Don’t push an agenda, but do let your child lead the conversation, even if he just wants to chatter on about that DS game he’s jonesing for. You never know where the conversation might lead – and even if it goes nowhere, you’ll get points for listening.
Along the same vein, be ready to talk when your tween needs to. Sometimes Anna will wander in while I’m working on the computer to lament some schism with a friend at school, say. I’ll make a pointed effort to stop what I’m doing and pay complete attention to what she’s telling me. Even 20 minutes of focused conversation, I’ve found, does a lot of good, showing her that I do care about what she’s going through and that I take it seriously. If I’m right in the middle of something, I’ll make an “appointment” to meet with her downstairs in half an hour. I’ll put on the kettle (in our household, a cup of tea represents calm and comfort), and we’ll talk about whatever’s on her mind then.
Ultimately, experts point out, your tween will continue to come to you if he knows you’re likely to listen to him without jumping in to judge unimportant details. Fan the home fires
As much as your child wants (and needs) to begin separating from mom and dad, he’s still a child and wants (and needs) to have a safety net. So provide one, as Hess did. When she felt extracurricular activities were pulling her children too far out of the family fold, she designated Tuesdays as “Family Night,” meaning no friends, no activities, no computers, no texting and no video games. “The entire family hangs out and cooks together and plays games, with no outside influence,” she says. “It reminds them that they’re part of a family where they’re okay just as themselves. (Parenting.com)
Months after declaring that the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) was spending nearly as much as it was receiving, Board Chairman, Dr Roger Luncheon said it was financially sound and not cash-strapped as was being suggested.
The financial health of NIS has come under intense scrutiny following its $1.5 billion investment in the Berbice River Bridge Company (BBCI) from which it has never received any dividends and the $6 billion it has been scrambling to recover from the failed CLICO Guyana after its collapse in 2009.
Speaking at his postCabinet media briefing on Wednesday, Dr Luncheon said that NIS was solvent and financially sound. “I think what the challenge would be is to ensure that it remains that way,” he added. However, in late 2013, Dr Luncheon had said contribution revenue for 2012 stood at $11.32 billion, but the Scheme paid out $11.33 billion in benefits. He made the disclosure in an address at the Scheme’s 44th anniversary celebrations.
Dr Luncheon said although the spectre of an imminent dire situation was highly exaggerated, the Scheme’s financial vi-
An agreement has been signed between the Linden Mayor and Town Council (M&TC) and Vybz Entertainment for the staging of the 2015 edition of Linden Town Week (LTW).
A simple ceremony held inside the Council’s boardroom last Friday evening, marked the official handing over of the three-year LTW franchise to the entertainment group.
The group comprises young professional entertainment representatives, inclusive of Devin Sears, the Chairman; Colwyn Abrams, Coordinator; Okwesa Rose, the Welfare and Education Manager; and Akelo Elliot, Entertainment Manager.
The agreement has set the stage for the official launching of the week of activities, to be held on Wednesday February 18 at the Linden National Library.
The opening ceremony is set for April 26. With the collaboration of efforts, it is intended that the activities, which will be executed in ten days from April 25 to May 4, will include educational activities, cultural and trade expositions, entertainment, sports and fete.
The annual LTW of activities is intended to bring
a form of social interaction between residents and visitors.
Sears also handed over a cheque of one million dollars to the Council’s Social Committee for the franchise.
Chairman of the Social Committee Winston Caesar accepted the cheque and also signed the agreement on behalf of M&TC.
The entertainment group has also proposed a number of events on the calendar, to be carried out during the week of activities, including signature events such as the Miss Linden Town Week Pageant, art and craft exhibition, senior citizen’s luncheon, Wismar Night, the Main Big Lime and the Colour Party.
Other events include, jazz poetry and comedy night, inter-primary schools’ spelling bee competition, inter-secondary schools’ debating competition, Big and Bold, Biker Fest and science and job fair, among others.
“We are very grateful to have full ownership of the Linden Town Week 20152017 franchise. Our intention is to involve everyone from various cultures… plans are already in place, the closing date for proposals is February13,” Sears said.
The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) ability did evoke apprehension among the informed. “Essentially, the Scheme’s expenditure growth is outstripping revenue growth. Contribution income, the main ingredient of revenue, was $11.32 billion in 2012, while benefits expenditure, the main ingredient of expenditure, was $11.33 billion.” According to him, as is known, long-term benefits
dominate the benefits profile with more than 43,000 pensioners receiving payments at July 2013.
Meanwhile, asked about recent disclosures by the BBCI that it would be unable to pay dividends to NIS, which is a major shareholder, for the year ending 2014, Dr Luncheon shied away from answering the question directly. He would only
say that recovery of debts was playing a greater role in ensuring the viability of the Scheme, as he alluded to funds being collected from the employed and self-employed populations and investments made. “The evidence is there, we can do better when it comes to collection of debt,” he added.
According to a source, late last year, NIS received correspondence indicating that the BBCI did not record a profit. The NIS source had also disclosed that the Bridge Company also indicated that its income was severely affected by the application of IFRIC 12 Service Concession Agreement, an interpretation of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
This newspaper was told that the announcement by the Company did not sit well with the NIS Board
and there were a lot of discussions at the highest level on the issue. It is unclear whether NIS has ever received any return on its investments. Back in 2012, it was reported that quite remarkably, the Scheme had passed up some $200 million in dividends from the BBCI, at a time actuarial reports showed it was running out of money.
The ownership structure of the BBCI is made up of ordinary share capital of $400 million owned by private investors and preference shares of $950 million owned by NIS. The holders of the ordinary shares are NIS, NEW GPC INC, Queens Atlantic and Secure International Finance Company, each having $80 million, and Hand-in-Hand and Demerara Contractors (owned by Demerara Distillers Limited [DDL]), each holding $40 million.
Sixty-two-year-old
Dennis Dorwish, a labourer of Queenstown Village on the Essequibo Coast, was remanded to prison for the illegal possession of a firearm and matching ammunition, when he appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
The court heard that on February 10, 2015 Dorwish had in his possession a .22 firearm although he is not a licensed firearm holder.
Police also alleged that on the same day, the 62-year-old
had in his possession, three live .22 ammunition. The fire arm and ammunition were found in the backlands of Queenstown where Dorwish has an “awara farm.”
The well known labourer pleaded not guilty to the two charges. At the time, he had the full support of his family in court.
In his application for reasonable bail, Attorney-at-Law Lachmie Dindyal told the court that his client is not a flight risk, pointing out that he is happily married and a father of four.
Dindyal said that his client is well known and has a permanent place of abode. He further told Magistrate Scarce that his client had no knowledge of the firearm or the ammunition that was found.
He also informed the court that the firearm, which was found by Dorwish, is a mere “pen gun” and has no trigger.
Magistrate Scarce, however, said that whether it has a trigger or not, it is a firearm and it is illegal to have one without a license. Prosecutor Haimwant Ramsewack objected to bail, stating that the
offense is a serious one. He told the court that Dorwish has relatives in the United States and can very well disappear before the second hearing. Dorwish, however, denied having a US visa. Ramsewack also alleged that Dorwish is a flight risk.
Bail was denied on the grounds that the attorney failed to produce special reasons why the labourer should be granted bail. He is expected to return to court on March 10, 2015.
A25-year-old Bare Root man was killed when the vehicle he was in turned turtle at Buck Hall Road, Essequibo on Wednesday afternoon.
Dead is Junior Assanah, 25, of Bare Root, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Police in a statement said that investigations are being conducted into the fatal accident that occurred about 16:00h Wednesday at 65 Km, Buck Hall Road.
Assanah was a passenger in a motor vehicle that was allegedly being driven at a fast rate. The driver lost
control of the vehicle which turned turtle, resulting in injuries to the occupants. Assanah was then taken to the Suddie Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The driver is in Police custody assisting with the investigation.
There have been more than six deaths on the country’s roadways from accidents thus far for the year. At the end of January, there were five deaths, which represented a 55 per cent decrease in road fatalities when compared to 11
deaths from 10 accidents in the same period last year. Minor accidents also saw a decrease of 24 per cent with only 22 cases compared to 29 last year, while damage accidents recorded a 29 per cent drop with 30 cases thus far for the year compared to 42 in 2014.
Pedestrians continued to be the main victims of reckless road users with three persons having lost their lives by the end of January 2015. Additionally, one pedal cyclist and another person travelling in a minibus also lost their lives in sep-
arate road accidents. The Police have complained that “inattentiveness” has been recognised as one of the major contributory factors to the fatal accidents recorded thus far, accounting for three of the five fatal accidents in January this year.
The Traffic Department of the Police Force continues with its enforcement exercises and has since made out some 5022 cases against errant motorists at the end of January. Of this number, 43 were charged for using cellphones while driving.
It's said that "what goes up must come down". But in Guyana the rule doesn't seem to apply to bus fares.
That keeps going up, up and away forever – and in this Eyewitness' life, he's never seen it ever come down. What's up?? It took an apple to fall on old Newton's head to figure that there was something called gravity that pulled things back to earth.
So who's going to figure to make bus fares to come down?? Now, this isn't an inconsequential question to your average citizen. Most folks use minibuses to get around and when you add up their charges for a month it makes quite a dent on your average paycheck.
We know Guyana's a free enterprise economy and all that...and some people – especially the mini bus operators – think there's absolutely nothing the authorities can do about their gravity-defying extortion. And that's what it is. But in life, there're many ways to skin a cat.
The Government started out right by calling in the mini-bus associations and asking them to lower their fares - since the Government initiated moves to make the gas stations drop gas prices by a whopping 30 per cent. Whenever gas prices had gone up – and it did over the last two years – the mini-bus associations would make intricate calculations to show how this increase factored into their fares – causing them to lose big time!
All this Eyewitness' saying is, it oughtn't be very difficult to do the reverse equations to show how much extra the bus operators are raking in on account of the drop in gas prices. And that they share some of the bonanza with commuters. But as we saw...the bus operators ain't going in that direction. No reverse gear in their calculations.
So what's the Government to do to bring some much needed relief to hard pressed commuters? Well, in all countries it's accepted that public transit be regulated. And let's be clear about this...unlike taxis which are privately hired and can't be shared, minibuses are for the public use.
The authorities have to get involved in regulating this public service. They already give operators a huge boost by not applying the same tax regime for importing buses. This was because of the service they provide to the public. So where's the quid pro quo?
It's insulting the public intelligence for minibus operators to say they're not making anything from this gas windfall. Who do they think they're fooling?? "What goes up must come down" or else
"What goes 'round will come 'round"
For as long as this Eyewitness remembers, the NIS has been a sore point with Guyanese. People would work their whole life, get ready to collect their benefits in their old age - only to be told "we don't have your contributions".
A rigmarole worthy of a novel by Kafka. (He's the fella who wrote about waking up one morning and discovering he's become a cockroach. And he's lying on his back!!) So you'd have these old folks running back and forth for months to face these arrogant bureaucrats. And almost invariably to be told, "Sorry, there's nothing we can do.”
Well after 22 years of "looking into it", the bureaucrats have had to admit that more than ONE MILLION records are missing. Can you imagine how many pensioners are presently being screwed?? The NIS mandarins are also signalling that they're ready to throw in the towel and get the help of private organisations to help them manage the entity.
They say a country is judged by how it treats its old...
In the countryside they're rather direct in their expressions...but that doesn't make them any less true. One pithy expression is, "Don't wait till you want to sh*t to build latrine."
How high do these new parties think they'll fly??
APartnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Christopher Jones has called on Essequibians to give support to the coalition at the upcoming elections slated for May 11.
Jones was at the time speaking during a live call-in programme aired on local television RCA Channel 8. During his programme, he spoke at length about APNU’s plans for Guyana and Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
Jones said that APNU has already begun its campaign in Region Two visiting residents, farmers, and Amerindians.
He mentioned that field officers attached to the party were currently visiting residents individually at their homes, listening to their views and concerns. He noted that APNU started its campaign since in 2011 as it was fighting for the hosting of Local Government Elections before the General Elections.
While addressing the public on the local television station, the Member of Parliament (MP) said that the coalition’s Presidential Candidate, David Granger, was the only Leader that can lead Guyana onto a prosperous path. He informed the public that APNU has a strong background, pointing out the five political parties under the coalition’s Umbrella, “ this is not PNC [People’s National Congress], this is not no party that has led you to bad things in the past; this is a new party that is ready to lead you into the right path”. These parties include the Guyana Action Party, Working People’s Alliance, Justice for All Party and PNC. Jones also noted that all the par -
ties are represented in the National Assembly.
Benefits He called on Essequibians to lend their support for the upcoming poll and promised that should APNU be given a fair chance, everyone would benefit.
Speaking at length, he made some critical remarks over the $10,000 “We Care Grant” offered by the Education Ministry. He is of the view that while the grant will assist some parents, it is “drying up” for some especial -
PPP [People’s Progressive Party] Administration is like a dark tunnel, the old people always say that from the dark tunnel comes a bright light, we believe this, but under this Administration, there is not light, no future, no job for young people, there is no hope,” the MP said.
Jones pointed out that more social recreational activities will be provided for youths so they would not be frustrated and end their life by suicide. During the call-in programme, a few callers questioned Jones on what APNU has done
ly those in the Pomeroon.” Parents in the Pomeroon paid $1000 to get their children to school, that $10,000 grant is nothing for a parent of three”.
He said if APNU were in Government, then free transportation in the form of school buses and boat services for children would be provided. He also noted that the dredging of the Pomeroon River would be on the top of the list to help prevent farmers being flooded out during the spring tide.
He also made mention that APNU was also ready to raise public servant salaries so as to improve the standard of living for the working class. “Under the
for the people of Essequibo Coast. Jones in response questioned the callers on what the PPP had done for them. A female caller highlighted that under the PPP/Civic Government, Essequibo Coast has moved from being a Cinderella County to a fast-producing, highly technological community that is a construction haven. She mentioned the paved roads and the improved education system that produced some of the top students at the Caribbean examinations. Mention was made of the Guyana School of Agriculture and the Essequibo Technical Institute that offer diploma courses for children.
Seven men were arrested after Police seized an M-15 rifle and 30 rounds of ammunition when they stopped and searched a car in Sussex Street, Charlestown, Georgetown on Wednesday night.
In a statement, Police said that about 22:40h, ranks of a mobile Police patrol conducted a search on a motor vehicle at Sussex Street, during which an M-15 rifle along with 30 .223 rounds were found. The seven men arrested are assisting with the investigations. Police investigators said that it was clear that the weapon was going to be used in a major hit. Investigators are also concerned about the access of ordinary citizens to such highpowered weapons.
Although there is a tough law against trafficking in arms, no one has been convicted under it. The Firearms (Amendment) Bill 2013 was passed in the National Assembly on January 17, 2014, and was subsequently assented to by President Donald Ramotar on May 8. Amid high rates of gun crimes of recent in Guyana, with some 73 illegal firearms seized by the Guyana Police Force during the period January to October 31, 2014, citizens have been complaining about the effective application of the law.
Government had amended the antiquated law to include stricter penalties for offenders in an effort to curb trafficking and possession of illegal firearms. The Guyana Times understands that following this, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chambers sent particulars of the amended Act over to Police for implementation with immediate effect.
The new gun law stipulates that traffickers of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and/or related components must face the maximum penalty of up to $5 million in fines and 10 years in jail, upon conviction and indictment at the level of the High Court. However, a maximum penalty of $500,000 in fines and five years in prison can be meted out to offenders if the matter is heard at a Magistrate’s Court or summarily tried.
Initially, Government
had tabled the amended Bill back in 2013; however, the Bill was voted down by the combined Opposition after it was presented by Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, whom the Opposition had declared it had no confidence in. The following year, the Firearms (Amendment) Bill was returned to the National Assembly, this time under the sponsorship of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall and gained the approval of the National Assembly.
During the presentation of the Bill, Nandlall pointed out that there was no use in him making a case of the wide use of illegal weapons in Guyana, stating that the House was fully aware of many instances of gun-related crimes that involved the use of illegal weapons and instances of weapons found in goods imported into Guyana.
The government of Japan has donated US$90,319 (G$19 million) for the purchase of equipment for use in the paediatric ward of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
The Japanese Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago signed the grant contract on March 22, 2013 approving funds for the project with Chief Executive Officer of the GPHC Michael Khan.
Since then, the two have actively collaborated in pursuit of procuring the medical equipment which includes monitors, ventilators and infusion pumps.
In total, six Paediatric patient monitors, six over bed tables, five Paediatric Infusion pumps, four Paediatric Ventilator, three Auriscope and three Ophthalmoscopes were donated.
During a simple closing ceremony at the GPHC Resource Centre on Thursday, Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran disclosed that neonatal mortality (deaths of newborn infants up to 28 days after birth) has been increasing over the years.
Dr Ramsaran said Guyana is well on its way
of achieving its Millennium Development Goals (MDG) in health care as it relates to child mortality and child health.
“Good things are happening to ensure that we achieve our MDG… the protection of our mothers from the dangers and complications of pregnancy have re-
ering under five (child) mortality rates.”
But, he stated that while records show a significant decline in child mortality over the last five years, almost 50 per cent of that figure makes up neonatal deaths, noting that there is a slight increase in the deaths in that subgroup.
sulted in a significant reduction… especially over the last five years, indicating that we would have achieved our MDG… we have also been able to achieve in low-
“This is where the equipment from the Grass-roots Project will be very relevant and timely,” Dr Ramsaran said.
Moreover, the Neonatal
Intensive Care Unit of the GPHC has seen massive improvement since its capacity was expanded some three years ago. In fact, midwives are now saving the lives of babies weighing 500 grams, something that was not accomplished before.
Consequently, similar facilities were set up at the New Amsterdam Hospital, West Demerara Hospital and the Linden Hospital.
Dr Ramsaran has revealed that an expert from the International Children’s Heart Foundation is in Guyana to provide extensive training about the maintenance of the equipment.
“We have taken the right measures to see that your investment in the improved health in our paedatric cases will not go to waste, it will be sustainable… the Government of Guyana is visionary… you can be rest assured that we have already put in place programmes to train people to maintain these equipment… Guyana is not taking this as a single handout as a third world country and then come again.”
According to the First Secretary, Japananese Embassy Takaaki Kato, the grant has extended support to the activities of the GPHC to create a more effective and efficient service to all patients and their families.
Valentine’s Day deh round de corner and love is in de air already. Is real “love and unity, one big family (and) togetherness” all over de place. That was accordin to Rupee and Allison Hinds some time back, but yuh can see it, hear it and feel it right now in GT.
Valentine’s Day gon see some real special couples out and about struttin like peacock, probably de whole day and whole night because of de elections season. In addition to de campaign, dem gon even be campin out as couples, plus stakin out other couples.
It ain’t gon be de usual couples yuh accustom to seein in every year. This year gon be very different. Every body does want some ting different every now and then. Is hard fuh man to live on bread only, it must have some meat as well.
Green Jah done seh he want some body young so that rule out Rum Jhaat and Nagga Man. Green Jah never like de best bone in Nagga Man anyway. So look out fuh de very old soldier wid a very young ting.
Cling Tongue on de other had always gotta young ting, and since he does mek a lotta soup, watch and see which darlin gon get de dumplin. Rum Jhaat and Nagga Man gon have to settle fuh de one large each, which is de only ting that dem never ever leave in life.
As fuh Loosein and de Bandara man, since dem ain’t ketch no body yet, de two of dem gon have to mek out wid one another. As to who gon get de top position is totally unpredictable.
Cowshid and de Mook, on de other hand, plannin a big Valentine’s Day party to spend some of de $100 million whah de GeeRA boss man sign off fuh de Muckraker boss man de other day.
Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Some body seh that boss man does boss around de GeeRA boss man just like how Lil Johnny used to get boss around by Uncle Rafeel.
friday, february 13, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
BY DEVINA SAMAROO
Parents in Guyana should be charged for parental neglect if their underage children are found consuming alcohol.
This is according to the Human Services Minister Jenifer Webster and Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, who opined that such a move, would help to curb the issue.
Minister Webster pointed out that parents can be charged under Section 49 of the Child Protection Act of 2009, which states “A person who by commission or omission willfully contributes to a child being in need of protective intervention commits an offence and is liable.”
The Human Services Minister said parents who consciously allow their children to consume alcohol or enter bars and nightclubs are guilty of such offence.
However, Minister Webster acknowledged that the laws are not effectively enforced by the relevant authorities; hence they do not fulfill their objectives.
But while the Guyana Police Force and the judicial system have critical roles in addressing the issue of underage drinking, the Minister said parents should be held equally responsible.
Webster questioned the audacity of parents to allow their children to go to bars and nightclubs, and while not defending the actions of businessmen, she noted that their main aim is to make a profit.
As such, she said emphasis needs to be placed on parents and guardians who are responsible for these young people.
According to the National Drugs Strategy Master Plan 2014-2018, 52.2 per cent of students reported that they had consumed alcoholic drinks at least once in their lifetime.
Meanwhile, Minister Anthony said while laws and enforcement can play major roles in reducing the prevalence, he believes the real basis lies with educating young people about the harms and dangers of underage drinking.
clubs and school programmes organised by his Ministry.
He said teenagers need to be aware of the dangerous psychological and physical effects of early and heavy consumption of alcohol beverages.
But civil society begs to differ. Many argue that in the 21st century generation, most, if not all children, know underage drinking is illegal and unhealthy, yet the social trend greatly worships the habit.
Dr Dawn Stewart, a mother and a social activist, believes the problem lies with the enforcement of the laws.
Dr Stewart said persons who contribute to underage drinking, such as the proprietors and parents should face harsher punishments.
She said some parents allow their 5-year-olds to drink Shandy and allow their teenagers to drink alcohol.
Dr Stewart explained that parents often justify their actions by saying ‘once they are controlling the process, it’s okay’.
But, the mother pointed out that elders should lead by example, and as such, practice what they preach.
The National Drugs Strategy Master Plan 2014-2018 states the time prevalence rate for consumption of alcohol in males is 57.2 per cent while in females it stands at 49.1 per cent.
Leroy Nedd of Lot 640
South Amelia’s Ward, Linden, Region 10 was on Thursday remanded to prison after he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to eight counts of break and enter and larceny.
The mason pleaded not guilty to all the charges read to him by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.
The incidents occurred during the period of August 2014 to February 2015, in the area of Central Ameila ‘s Ward.
According to the Police, between August 12 and 14, 2014, the defendant broke and entered the dwelling house of the Veronica Headley and stole a quantity of items totalling $290,000. Then between January 19 and 30, he is accused of breaking and entering the dwelling house Leslie Bourne and stole a quantity of articles amounting to over $1 million. He also broke and entered Bourne’s store and stole articles valued $25,500.
and 30, 2014 at the same area, Nedd broke and entered the dwelling house of Lennard Jennings and stole a quantity of items amounting to in excess of $4 million. He is also accused of breaking and entering the dwelling house of Royston Leon and stole items to the value of $479,000.
And finally, it is alleged that between January 25 and February 1 at South Ameila’s Ward, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Don Phillips and stole items quantity of articles totalling $195,000.
Police Prosecutor Michael Grant informed the court that the facts are as charged and noted that items amounting to over $5 million were recovered. The prosecutor objected to bail being granted to Nedd on the grounds of the nature of the offences. He also cited the gravity and penalty attached to the offence in his application.
It was also pointed out that the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Bill addresses the issue of underage drinking. The legislation provides penalty for allowing a person under the age of 16 to be on licensed premises. In this situation, proprietors can be charged $500,000 for first offence, $100,000 for second offence and conviction for the third.
Meanwhile, the National Drugs Strategy Master Plan 2014-2018 includes practical approaches for Government to address the issue by educating persons to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed by intensifying the campaign through the adoption of legislation to reduce “excessive” amounts of alcohol; introduce measures to penalise unlicensed alcoholic businesses; and promoting an increase in the use of breath testing for alcohol. Underage
The Youth Minister said education is a central focus in the various youth
Between the period of January 10 and 16, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Joseph Rose and stole a quantity of items totalling $640,000. Then between January 29 and 30, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Nikesha Feidtkow and stole a quantity of articles to the value of $329,000.
The other charge stated that between October 28
Grant further stated that the defendant is also the prime suspect in other matters of similar nature that the Police are currently investigating. The unrepresented Nedd told the court that he had served six months imprisonment back in 2011 for a similar offence.
The presiding Magistrate upheld the prosecution’s objection and refused bail for the defendant. The matter was transferred Linden Magistrate’s Court for February 11.
Acting Town Clerk
Carol Sooba said the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is experiencing significant challenges in apprehending litterbugs.
During an interview with Guyana Times on Wednesday, Sooba said while the requisite regulations are in placed to penalise defaulters, catching them, particularly business people remains a major problem.
“This has been a very troubling issue for quite
as much as $100,000 if caught littering.
As previously reported under the new litter regulations laid in the National Assembly by Natural Resources and the Environment Minister Robert Persaud, “it does not matter if littering is intentional or accidental; once the act is committed the person responsible would be charged.”
Further, a person who places litter on premises owned or occupied by
some time, it’s an old issue,” Sooba said. While City Hall tries to regulate the issue by apprehending business persons for dumping garbage indiscriminately, its Litter Wardens end up catching vagrants who are often paid to dump the garbage.
Sooba said when vagrants are taken into Police custody, they adamantly refuse to reveal the identities of the business persons who would have instructed and paid them to dump the garbage indiscriminately.
“These people don’t speak and when we arrest them the business people send people to bail them at the station,” Sooba further explained, adding that defaulters are often placed on as much as $8000 to $10,000 station bail.
While the City Council would fine illegal dumpers $10,000 when caught, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through its Litter Enforcement Regulations 2013, has stated that litterbugs can be charged
another person without consent is guilty of an offence under the Litter Prevention Regulations. The fine for this offence is $30,000 or six months imprisonment.
Additionally, if the litter left in an area defaces that area, Litter Wardens appointed by the EPA will give notice to the individual or company responsible for such litter to clean it up and restore the area. Similarly, the owner or person who occupies an area with litter can be ordered to remove it. This may apply particularly to litter such as dead animals, or materials and substances that pose a public health risk.
The fine for failing to obey the notice to clean up public or private premises is $20,000 and an additional $5000 for each day of non-compliance.
Further, the guilty person will bear the cost of the litter removal if it is done by the Litter Warden.
Repeat offenders will pay double the maximum fine for the offence committed or face three months’ imprisonment.
The Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Democratic Council (RDC) has completed a structure which will house its television station at Richmond Hill, Linden.
Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon said that while the building, which took approximately two years to construct,
is “100 percent complete,” the RDC is still awaiting the handing over of a dish and transmitter, which was promised following the signing of the August 21, 2012 agreement with Central Government. He said that the Region is unable to transmit without the equipment.
According to Solomon, the dish and transmit-
ter for the television station were expected to be handed over within 14 days of the agreement between the Region and Central Government, which brought an end to a month-long protest in Linden.
Presently, the dish is being housed at the television station at Richmond Hill; however, Solomon
explained that it cannot be used without the transmitter and the Channel 13 frequency, which it was originally assigned.
“What was promised to the Region was a transmitter and a dish which was there from Green Construction…a transmitter does not exist in isolation, it exists with its frequency…the frequency which was supposed to be handed over was the Channel 13 frequency…what was reported to us, is that the equipment which was supposed to be handed over in 14 days, first thing, the transmitter is non-existent…even though we would have signed the agreement,” Solomon said as he expressed his disappoint-
ment.
“They knew that it was not in their possession…the dish that is in this compound, which should have been handed over, was reportedly sold. So even though the Government planned to hand it over, it was reportedly sold, and that is where the issue lies… to date we haven’t gotten any of the two, and you cannot hand over the transmitter without the frequency which is Channel 13,” he further explained.
The Regional Chairman said too that he has received information that plans were being made to have the dish removed from its Richmond Hill location. In an effort
to secure the television station, the RDC had advanced to establish the Region 10 Broadcasting Inc following the signing of the agreement.
The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) while approving a licence for the Region stated that Channel 13 was unavailable.
Following media reports, Presidential Adviser Gail Teixeira pointed out that the agreement between the Region and Central Government never stipulated that specific channel for the district. Channel 13 is currently managed and controlled by state-owned National Communications Network (NCN).
“With the completion of this project, the Georgetown Public Hospital is now better equipped to achieve its project objectives in establishing and equipping the paediatric critical care ward with current technology, equipment and instruments, to reduce hospital stay and cost, in addition to reducing morbidity and mortality rates,” he said.
He also noted that the Government of Japan recognizes the importance of paediatrics in the context of the health needs of the community and the national priorities in the health sector.
“I have no doubt, there-
fore, that this project truly addresses basic human needs and we are very pleased that we can assist the Georgetown Public Hospital in achieving their noble objectives through the GGP, ” he expressed, while noting the potential for enhanced relations between Guyana and Japan.
Meanwhile, the Embassy of Japan signed a US$61,478 contract with the Director General of the Guyana Red Cross Society Dorothy Fraser on March 4, 2014. This was facilitated under the Japan Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP).
The funds were used to provide an ambulance to the Guyana Red Cross to contribute to the enhancement its daily activities. Fraser in brief remarks said it was always the society’s dream to have a well equipped vehicle that will transform the delivery of quality services at the national and local events to which the Guyana Red Cross responds.
The Japan Grant Assistance GGP is designed to promote human security in the world by assisting organizations in achieving their objectives such as improving their medical services.
The differently-able took priority for Digicel on Thursday as it began celebrations for its eight years of service in Guyana. Several members of staff visited and made donations to the Cheshire Home, St Barnabas Special Education Needs Centre and the Deaf Academy in Tuschen.
At the Chesire Home at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara which shelters around 25 men and women, Communications Manager, Vidya Bijlall-Sanichara and team handed over packages of sheets, towels, cleaning agents, pampers and other toiletries to the residents, while inviting them to participate in the cake cutting ceremony.
Bijlall-Sanichara told this publication that Digicel made a conscious decision to invite persons who had spe-
cial needs to be part of its celebrations as they sought to give back in a new way.
The Communications Manager said that the visit to Cheshire Home was the initiative of Digicel’s Brand
Ambassador and Radio personality, Casual.
Casual said he had visited the home during Christmas with the local music artist Big Red and was pleased by the joy that
overwhelmed the residents then and thought Digicel’s assistance would go a far way.
Digicel has committed to donating a television to the home on Saturday at the
Mother told Police Small, teen daughter were “in love”
The trial into the death of former Queens College student, Neesa Gopaul, continued on Thursday with the court hearing that her mother had told the police that the teen and the number one accused Jarvis Small were “in love”.
The mother of the former Queens College student, Bibi Sharima Gopaul, and her former lover Small called “Barry” are indicted with the murder of the teenager, which they allegedly committed sometime between September 24 and October 2, 2010 at the Emerald Tower Resort, Madewini, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway.
During Thursday’s session, State Counsel Diana Kaulesar, who presenting the case along with Counsels Mercedes Thompson and Stacy Gooding, called another police witness to the stand. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mitchell Caesar testified that after her arrest, Sharima Gopaul told him that she had found Small and her daughter in a “compromising” position in a car on the road and had asked whether they are in love to which they both responded saying yes.
The officer added that the woman further told him that the two then left home that night and went to a hotel in Vreed-en-Hoop, West Bank Demerara, to spend the night. Caesar was at the time giving his evidence-in-chief, telling the court that in October 2010, he was stationed at Alberttown Police Station in charge of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
On October 6, the ASP said he went to the Ruimveldt Police Station CID Office where he contacted Jarvis Small and in the presence of Detective ASP Jerome David, an interview was conducted. According to him, he was told by the accused that he (Jarvis) had information that could shift the direction of the investigation.
Caesar said he cautioned
the accused who then stated that he will only talk in the presence of his attorney. “He wanted his lawyer present,” the witness noted, while adding that Small further stated that when he is finished talking, Sharima Gopaul would be an accessory to murder.
“Under caution, he went on to say that I did not kill Neesa Gopaul but I know who did. At that stage, I asked him who is his lawyer and in the presence of David, he said Bernard De Santos, S.C.” Caesar recalled. The officer added that he then allowed the man several calls to get his attorney and his wife at the station but only his sister came. According to the officer, Small subsequently said that whatever he had to say, he wanted to do in the presence of his wife, who later claimed she was advised against it by her lawyer.
Caesar continued, telling the court that Small admitted to him that he owns the pair of dumbbells that was shown to him. These were recovered from scene where the body of the teen was found.
Meanwhile, the ASP added that he had later interviewed Sharima Gopaul in the presence of ASP David and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Marlon Chapman. Caesar disclosed that the woman had told him that she met Small while at a gym years prior (to 2010) and they had an affair.
The following day, Senior Counsel De Santos turned up at the Ruimveldt Station and requested to see Small, who then told him that he wanted to speak to the police about the incident in his presence.
The ASP recalled that the Senior Counsel advised the accused that he could not be part of any conversations with the police. He then left, Caesar recounted.
Additionally, the ASP revealed that he showed the pair of dumbbells to the sister of Sharima Gopaul, Bibi Redman, who identified them
as thse she saw at her sister’s house. There was a piece of red rope tied to the dumbbells and the woman further revealed that she had seen similar ropes at the house as well. This was done in Gopaul’s presence and Small had admitted that he left the dumbbells at her house.
She then took out her cellular phone and showed Caesar a photograph she took of Gopaul’s younger daughter with the rope hanging on the wall in the background. The officer said the next day, himself and Redman visited Acme’s Photo Studio to develop the photograph.
Caesar said he showed the photograph to Gopaul who then acknowledged that it is a photo of her daughter taken in her house. The officer said when he questioned her about the rope in the background, she responded saying that it was not hers but was left at
her home.
“At that stage, Bibi Sharima Gopaul took a few steps towards Barry Small and indicated to him, at the time (she was) holding on to his hand, “we will have to go through this together”, the officer recalled. The ASP was shown and identified the photo that was developed from Redman’s phone, after which it was admitted into evidence. He was also shown the pair of dumbbells and identified them as the ones he had shown to Redman and Small.
Attorney Lyndon Amsterdam, who is representing Small along with Attorney Glenn Hanoman and Senior Counsel De Santos, begun cross-examination of the witness, which will continue this morning.
He will be followed by Attorney George Thomas, who is representing Sharima Gopaul in this matter.
height of celebrations.
Administrator for Cheshire Home Patricia Bailey said the donation will certainly improve the level of comfort of the residents.
To continue their philanthropic spree for the day, the Digicel contingent stopped at St Barnabas Special Education Needs Centre where they donated a television, a cake mixer, water bottles, cake pans and several other items.
These are expected to improve the Home Economics programme at the school.
The team’s final stop was the Deaf Academy at Tuschen, which is headed by Mr Bacchus. Guyana Times was told that Bacchus’ daughter was born deaf and thus was unable to relate
properly in the traditional school environment. He endeavoured to teach the child himself; inviting others who needed similar help to attend.
Presently, there are some 13 students ranging from 7 –38-years -old.
The 38 year old is a woman who has acquired the skill of sewing which assists with funding the school. As such, Digicel donated sewing machines, along with several books, computers and school kits to assist Bacchus in his own benevolent venture.
Digicel will be celebrating its eighth anniversary in Guyana on Saturday, February 14 and will, among other things, launch its 2015 Mashramani costumes on the same day.
Ataxi driver was granted bail on Thursday by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to face a fraudulent conversion charge.
It is alleged that on October 17, 2014, being solely entrusted with $500,000 by Nicole Clarke to purchase building materials, he converted same to his own use and never purchased the materials.
Marshall was unrepresented and pleaded not guilty to the charge. He told the court that he is a taxi driver and resides at Lot 57 Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara, and has no previous convictions.
There were no objections to bail by Police Prosecutor Michael Grant, hence, Bail was granted in the sum of $100,000 and statements were order for March 13. The defendant was ordered to report to the officer in charge of the fraud department at the Brickdam Police Station every Friday.
Days after A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) revealed it would examine the legalisation of marijuana if it was elected to office, the Alliance For Change (AFC) echoed similar sentiments, saying the law should be a tool of reformation not condemnation.
Responding to questions posed by media operatives at a press conference on Thursday at the Georgetown Club, on whether the party would support APNU’s stand on the legalisation of marijuana, Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo responded in the affirmative, noting that it was an issue which deserved review.
Nagamootoo, a lawyer by profession, while quickly pointing out that it was only coincidence that both parties have committed to the review of the criminalisation of marijuana, noted that the current laws in Guyana were too strict and only sought to condemn. He stressed that these laws needed to be humanised.
“In Guyana, we are not traversing new grounds. We believe that too many people are in our jail today for the use of the drug. I don’t see anyone in jail for tobacco or alcohol and so we have to be careful that we do not criminalise our young people and condemn them to a jail for the possession of marijuana; in terms of trafficking, then the law will deal with that. The purpose of the law is to rehabilitate. The purpose of laws should be for reformation and rehabilitation, not for condemnation. We want, as the AFC, to humanise our laws, to make our laws applicable to reform and rehabilitate rather than to condemn and destroy,” Nagamootoo
expressed.
He noted that the time has come for Guyana to take note of the changes which are taking place in the world.
“We have to be cognisant of where the world is going, where legislation is taking us and we see in the Caribbean, there has been talk of decriminalising marijuana. We are prepared to look at our law like the rest of the world as it relates to marijuana,” the AFC Vice Chairman stated.
APNU had previously expressed that should it form the next Government after the May 11 elections, it would commission a study on the matter that will inform the issue. The local Rastafarian community, which utilises the plant for religious purposes, has held the issue as a bargaining chip for its support.
The coalition’s General Secretary, Joseph Harmon, had clarified that the aim of the review was to ultimately see results for the legalisation of marijuana here, noting that times were changing and Guyana too needed
to change its perspective on these matters.
Push to decriminalise use
The Caricom Heads of Government recently agreed to set up a commission that would examine the social, economic, health and legal issues surrounding marijuana use in the Region; whether the 15-million strong population should be allowed to use medical marijuana; and how courts should handle possession of small amounts of the drug.
The Commission is expected to submit its report by Caricom’s next summit, scheduled for February 2016.
A recent preliminary report found that decriminalising medical marijuana could help boost the Region’s economy.
Across the Caribbean, territories are advancing their review of the decriminalisation of the drug. Puerto Rico is currently debating easing marijuana possession penalties, legalising medical marijuana and allowing cultivation of medical-grade marijuana. Activists in Jamaica, St Lucia and other islands have pushed to legalise marijuana use, with the Jamaican Cabinet recently approving a bill that legalises the possession of small amounts of marijuana in that country. It means that for the first time the country’s Rastafarian community would be able to smoke it legally.
However, many in the Caribbean still consider marijuana a dangerous drug and possession of the substance can lead to jail time and stiff fines across the Region.
The Port Kaituma Interim Management Committee (IMC) said it is presently at the stage of gathering materials to commence works on the Catwalk road.
Speaking with the Guyana Times during a telephone interview on Thursday, Andre Prince, Overseer attached to the IMC, said the committee has employed a contractor who is presently in the process of securing logs to be placed on the surface of the road.
Prince explained that the logs, which are approximately two feet thick, are expected to absorb the excess water from the surface of the road during the rainy season.
It was further explained that when the water from the nearby creek rises, it travels and settles on the road. According to the Overseer, the accumulation of water “totally wrecks” the roadway every time it is redone.
“As soon as he gathers the amount of logs required, we will commence works on
time around will be durable.
In December, 2014 the IMC had revealed plans to start works on the road but its plans were hindered due to the inclement weather. On Monday, Prince was happy to state that there has been “a lot of sunshine in the area,” thereby allowing for the construction of the road.
the road,” Prince said.
He added that after the logs are laid on the surface of the road and clamped in place, a layer of loam will be placed over the logs to create a smooth surface.
Subsequently bricks will be used to create a finished product. The entire process to reconstruct the road should last for approximately three weeks, Prince said.
Prince along with the Chairman of the IMC, Margaret Lambert anticipates that the road, this
During last year, residents of Port Kaituma complained about the poor condition of the access road, and increased transportation fares. As a result, the IMC had vowed to ensure works are properly executed.
But, recent reports in some sections of the media have said that residents continue their cry over the poor nature of works done on their roadways. Earlier on, the Regional Vice Chairman, Region One Fermin Singh had admitted that there have been issues with contracting services to build the road. Singh had assured the roads will be rehabilitated when good weather prevails.
Father accused of malicious wounding gets $100,000 bail
Mark Anthony appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on February 12, charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding.
He is accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm on the Virtual Complainant (VC) Dexter Mentore.
Attorney Jerome Khan in his representation for Anthony told the court that his client is 31 years old and a father of three, who resides at 401 Tabatinga, Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo).
The Attorney also told the court that his client works as a mason.
He went on to tell the court that his client was nowhere near the crime scene and has fully cooperated with the Police, however, he has remained in Police custody since February 8. There was no objections
to bail by Police Prosecutor Michael Grant. Bail was granted in the sum of $100,000 and Anthony was ordered to report to the Lethem Police Station every fortnight. Statements were ordered by the Chief Magistrate for February 27, and the matter was transfer to the Lethem Magistrate’s Court for March 9.
…affected areas to be visited
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) are still in discussions as it relates to the 15 sugar workers who were summarily dismissed from work last week.
According to GAWU President Komal Chand, the Union, along with the workers’ representatives, and the executives from GuySuCo met on Wednesday afternoon where the matter was extensively discussed.
Chand said that it was decided at the meeting that the workers, their representatives, the Union and GuySuCo representatives will on Tuesday go into the fields where it was reported that the inadequate application of fertiliser took place for gathering of evidence.
The Union’s President further related that once this would have been done, the Union would then reengage GuySuCo for another round of discussions on the matter.
He noted that the Union
was doing its best at this time to ensure that the workers’ welfare was looked after.
Meanwhile, the other workers have returned to work as per the norm after the leaders of the different gangs signed a Memorandum of Agreement or a Terms of Resumption with GuySuCo on Tuesday afternoon for work to resume on all of the estates. This was after the sugar company said it would not engage in any discussions unless the workers called off their strike and returned to work.
The sugar workers, more than 380 in number, who took
The Labour Ministry has committed to the University of Guyana Workers Union (UGWU) that once workers resumed duties on Thursday it would, among other things, mediate talks with the administration to reach an agreement.
In a letter addressed to UGWU President Bruce Haynes, a commitment was also made to ensure workers were not victimised.
“Following further negotiations with the University, and if there is no resolution between the parties, the Ministry undertakes to invite the parties to have conciliatory talks,” said the missive, which was penned by Chief Labour, Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Charles Ogle. “We only hope that the current industrial action be brought to an immediate end, so as to allow the process of negotiation to commence in a situation of normalcy at the University and without duress.”
Guyana Times was unable to confirm with either
UGWU or the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA), what their official response was. However, checks on the Turkeyen Campus proved that not much had changed in terms of activity on campus.
Meanwhile, Ogle outlined an earlier held Government position that the decision to continue the strike action during negotiations was a breach of industrial relations practices and urged workers to respect these long-held principles.
“When the Union perceived that they were not getting through in their talks with the University of Guyana Administration, they did not seek the intervention of the Ministry of Labour, and proceeded, as a first resort, at the beginning of this semester with threats and industrial action in breach of all established industrial relations procedures,” he related.
The two Unions claim workers are grossly under-
Police in Linden are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an unidentified man, whose partly decomposed, bloodstained body was discovered on Thursday morning, at a track situated at Matthew’s Lane, Christianburg, Wismar.
The gruesome discovery was made after residents in the area observed a foul scent emanating from the area. According to one of the residents, the foul scent was noted over a matter of days; however, persons had dismissed it as a dead animal. It was not until the discovery was made that residents became aware of the situation. The Police were soon after summoned to the scene.
“We said was some dead animal, so when we hear about the body this morning, it was shocking because nobody ain’t expect to hear that is a man dead,” a resident remarked.
Another resident said that he heard what sounded like squibs or gunshots, in the vicinity where the body was discovered, late Monday evening, and what appeared to be persons running off shortly afterwards. “But who could be firing off squibs so late in the night? It sounded more like gunshots”, he said. The body was discovered a short distance away from where a recent fire destroyed a two-storied house. Investigations are ongoing.
to protesting outside the La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara Estate on Tuesday morning, expressed their dissatisfaction with the action taken by management of GuySuCo to dismiss their colleagues, noting that an injustice had been meted out to them.
According to workers’ representative Rampersaud Ramprashad, the matter arose since July of last year and it was proven at a hearing that the workers were not at fault and were reinstated to their respective posts.
However, on Saturday
last, the workers in question were each given a letter by the estate’s security guard which stated that they were being dismissed with immediate effect for substandard work.
Inadequate fertiliser
In a statement, GuySuCo said that the workers were summarily dismissed for inadequate application of fertiliser, intended for 10 week-old cane plants, at Felicity Fields 49, 49A, 52 and 53, a section of the LBI cultivation, on July 24-25, 2014, noting that prior to the dismissal of the 15 workers, three junior staff and
one senior were dismissed on September 19 and September 26, 2014, for allowing these workers to apply fertiliser inadequately to the cane plants. The Corporation noted that it would spend more than $2 billion annually to import fertiliser and found it totally unacceptable that fertiliser that was intended to nurture the cane plants could not be applied to them in the stipulated amount, noting too that this could have been the contributing factor for the East Demerara Estate experiencing low cane yields and stunted cane.
paid and are demanding a 60 per cent increase in salaries.
The UG Administration offered a 25 per cent increase over a three-year period as well as other benefits such as house lots and duty-free concessions for the purchase of a vehicle for lecturers with a Master’s Degree and 10 years of service.
The Council had also made an offer to buy the cloth needed for work outfits for some staff as well as provide bursaries to the children of the staff who performed well in the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA); the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams and the Caribbean
Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE).
The Unions two days later made a counteroffer of 75 per cent over the three-month period instead. While this continued, the Vice Chancellor’s expectation was that classes would resume and after failing workers failed to so ensure, he ended talks.
Earlier this week, the Unions indicated that they would be engaged in an indefinite strike.
Classes have resumed for the Law Department, students of which are obligated to sit examinations set by an outside university. Classes lectured by part-time staff have also restarted.
friday, february 13, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
uyana’s representatives, Shameeza Jasmine Wong is presently in St Martin competing with more than 22 other beauties for the title of Miss West Indies. The pageant is slated for Saturday, February 14 at the Carnival Village in Galisbay,
The Miss West Indies Pageant features some of the most beautiful, intelligent and talented young women in the Americas.
The event is aimed at highlighting the salient defining factors of today’s woman in terms of her beauty, charm, creativity, intelligence, and talent. The pageant is however, fashion industry driven.
One of the objectives is to establish fashion industry benchmarks in the Caribbean and the Americas and to provide the much needed exposure for both the fashion designers and “fashionistas” of the Region within the global marketplace.”
Shameeza Jasmine Wong, a five foot, six inch tall beauty is born under the Cancer zodiac sign to Maylene Wong and the late Herman George Glen. She is the eighth child in a family of 10 and attended Carmelita Nursery. Growing up she would see the struggles of her mother to make ends meet.
During her university life, Jasmine often contemplat ed modelling and competing in pageantry. As a child she would admire contestants and queens and wished she could achieve the same.
As she blossomed, her per spectives and certain stereotypes and prejudices changed. She realised that as a beauty ambassador, she can reach many people to further her cause and contribute her grain of sand to her community.
She was involved in planning the 2014 Volunteer Youth Corps (VYC) children’s Christmas concert and gift distribution, as she did in
Shameeza enjoys reading, cooking, volunteering for children projects, modelling, photography, surfing the net, music, and meeting new people. She enjoys a tasty plate of baked macaroni and cheese with baked chicken. Her favourite colours are red, black and sky blue.
Pertaining to her academics and goals, she would like to pursue a Masters Degree at a later date and also to be a television producer/host.
As a producer she will do research and analysis to generate content for shows that will also employ youths, since today’s youths are the future generation and they possess great skills and ideas that can contribute to their country and to their empowerment. Her favourite quote is “The ladder to success is never too crowded at
The other countries represented at the pageant are Anguilla, Honduras, Haiti, Antigua, Martinique, Antigua, The Bahamas, Martinique, Barbados, Mexico, Belize, Panama, Bonaire, Puerto Rico, Curacao, St Lucia, Cuba, St Martin, Dominica, St Kitts, The Dominican Republic, Nevis and the British Virgin Island.
Reigning Carib Soca Monarch, Kwasi Ace Edmondson is confident that he will retain the title when the competition is held on Saturday evening at the National Park Tarmac, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.
Speaking on the Morning Times on Thursday, the artiste who will compete with 14 other contestants said he has what it takes to retain the title and has been working exceedingly hard to make it become a reality.
He will be entering the competition with the self written ‘Forking’ that has similar lyrics to “Same Thing” with which he won the 2014 title.
The semi finals were held in New Amsterdam with 16 artistes competing to secure a spot in the finals. Fourteen artistes went through and are all ready to hit the stage on
Saturday evening.
The finalists are George Abrams with ‘Mirror’, Two-time Carib Soca Monarch, Jumo Primo with his entry, ‘Unruly’. The others are Devon Lewis with his entry ‘I Ain’t Gon Be Late’ while Ernesta Nelson will be performing ‘Ain’t Stopping’ and Jermaine Mac Been with ‘Bumpa’.
The others include Jonathan King with his entry, ‘Mash Up De Place’; dancehall artiste, Jory Hector with ‘Whistle’; Kemmyanna Garnett with ‘One for My Country’; Levar Gittens will be performing ‘Monster Attack’; Mark Amar with ‘Right Now’ and Melissa Roberts with ‘Massive’.
Rounding off the top 18 is Onassis Croker with his soca song titled ‘Enjoying My Life’; Orlando Johashen with ‘Ebola’; Quacy Coates will be per-
forming, ‘She Ready’ and Timika Nicholson with ‘Feva’.
The reigning monarch will be the first contestant performing and he expects to set the bar for the remaining artistes. Tickets to the event cost $1500 and will be available at the gates. Carib lovers can get a free ticket with the purchase of a six pack of beers.
By TreisTon Joseph
Anew concept will captivate the sports world in Guyana when the first-ever Crossfit Games here are held on March 1 at the National Park tarmac.
The event, which has E-Networks as the platinum sponsor, will have 36 individuals as well as nine teams participating in five events that will encompass 15 different exercises.
Each participant and
team will be judged by a panel of judges, and points will be attributed based on execution and the speed at which the exercises are done.
Organiser of the event, Zumba instructor Noshavyah King explained the reason for hosting the event.
“In Guyana, we have a number of events such as bodybuilding, cycling, 10k runs, and athletics, but I wanted to see an event that combines all of those activ -
ities hence the reason for the Cross-fit games,” King revealed at a press conference held at the 704 Sport Bar, which will be sponsoring the event under the Golden Brook Oil brand.
Some of the other sponsors of the event such as Courts, Fitness Express, Banks DIH, DeSinco and Star Party Rental, to name a few expressed their enthusiasm for the event.
E-Networks, through its Brand Manager Joublon Beaten, shared one of the
many reasons the company jumped on board with the event.
“We firmly believe fitness is a key part of a healthy lifestyle and having something like this will help to promote that and that is one of the reasons we came on board with the idea,” Beaten mentioned.
The event is expected to start from 10:00h on March 1 and the entrance fee is $500 per adult with children being admitted free.
The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association (ABCA) is complaining that it was left out of a decision taken by the Leeward Islands Cricket Association (LICA) to support incumbents Dave Cameron and Emmanuel Nanthan for the positions of president and vice-president of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).
ABCA president Leon Rodney says he only received an email informing him that LICA has taken a
decision to support the reelection of Cameron and Nanthan in the March 7 elections.
ABCA is one of eight associations making up LICA and Rodney says the decision by the board to support the two incumbents has not been explained.
“We have never had any communications asking what my association thinks,” said Rodney.
“I can tell you that I got an email telling that LICA has made a decision Nathan
as vice president and Dave as president and that was about it”.
Former West Indies fast bowler Joel Garner is challenging Cameron’s presidency- the only two presidential candidates after nominations closed on Saturday.
Garner, whose running mate is Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) director, Baldath Mahabir, is being supported by Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.
Cameron’s reelection bid is also attracting the support of Guyana and the Windward Islands.
The ABCA president says his request for LICA to justify their decision to support Cameron has been ignored.
“I went back to them and said as a new or returning executive to LICA, I would prefer if you had said to me why you are supporting these incumbents.”
The WICB elections, a highpoint of its Annual General Meeting, have become an issue of major contention in the wake of the West Indies aborted tour of India last October.
St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and former West Indies fast bowler Andy Roberts have blamed Cameron for the cancelled tour, which has left the WICB with a US 41 million dollar lawsuit, and are among those opposing his reelection. (CMC)
The 11th edition of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC)/Busta Champion of Champions will start this weekend after the first round of matches were washed out by heavy rainfall two weeks ago.
The tournament, which is being sponsored by the Guyana Beverage Company under its Busta brand, has been organised by the Club’s Cricket Development Committee and is one of the 200 programmes/projects planned for the Club’s Silver Jubilee anniversary.
Young Warriors and Tucber Park, formerly Bermine, will clash on Saturday at the Cumberland Ground in Canje. The home team, minus the service of national opening batsman Shimron Hetmyer, will be spearheaded by Seon Hetmyer, Ishwar Singh, Linden Austin, Kevin Ramdeen and Kassim Khan, while Tucber Park will be led by Romario Shepherd, Eugene and Joemal La Fleur, Keion De Jesus, Devon Clements, Nial Smith, and Anthony D’Andrade.
On Sunday, a young Blairmont team will clash with West Berbice at the Blairmont Ground and will depend heavily on Nick Ramsaroop, Parmanand Ramdhan, Aviskar Sewkarran, Waqar Hassan, and Kevon Jawahir, while West Berbice will have Arthley Bailey, Raffiel Estriado, Raun Johnson, and Kwesi Mentore in their lineup.
Defending champions Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets will be at home against Upper Corentyne at the Area “H” Ground. Skipper Shawn Pereira, Delbert
Hicks, Jason Sinclair, Troy Mathieson, Leroy Bristol, Brandon Prashad, Keon Sinclair, and West Indies female international Shemaine Campbelle will spearhead the home team effort against underdogs Upper Corentyne, who will depend heavily on Lakeram Latchman, Viendra Gooniah, Naeem Yacoob, Parmeshwar Chatterpaul, and Imran Mohamed. At the historic Port Mourant Cricket Ground, the home team will face off with archrivals Albion, who will be without several of their main players. Port Mourant’s challenge will be led by Yudendra Harrinarine, Arif Chan, Joshua Ramsammy, Nicholas Cameron, while national player Jonathan Foo, Kandasammy Surujnarine, Gudakesh Motie, Sharaz Ramcharran, Balchan Baldeo and David Latchaya will seek to make sure Albion advance to the semi-finals, which are scheduled for February 22. The matches will be played on a 40-over per side basis and will all start at 11.00h sharp. Teams are required to be at the venues by 10:15h.
Scotland nearly upset West Indies in their chase of 314 in the warm-up match at the SCG, and fell short by three runs despite needing 14 runs from the last two overs with four wickets in hand. Opener Kyle Coetzer led Scotland's chase with 96 runs, followed by Richie Berrington's 44-ball 66. Once Berrington was run out in the 49th over, Scotland lost two more wickets in the next six balls, as Kemar Roach defended 12 runs off the last over.
Scotland carried their form after thrashing Ireland by 179 runs in their first warm-up and West Indies were coming after a ninewicket loss to England three days ago.
Scotland were given a strong opening stand of 75 in 14.4 overs by Coetzer and Callum MacLeod before Sulieman Benn's doublestrike put them on a shaky 124 for 3 in the 26th over.
Freddie Coleman then combined with Coetzer with a reviving fourth-wicket stand of 60 runs in under nine overs. However, Coetzer fell for 96 off 104, which featured 14
fours, when he was caught off the other left-arm spinner, Nikita Miller.
Coming at No. 6, Berrington's quickfire fifty made sure Scotland were back on top. Berrington and wicketkeeper Matthew Cross powered the innings with 86 runs in only 8.5 overs, bringing the equation down to 14 runs from 12 balls. The momentum then shifted back in West Indies' favour when Berrington was run out on the third ball of the penultimate over by Andre Russell, who also had Rob Taylor
caught three balls later, conceding only two from the over. Roach's work was made easier for the last over and even though he leaked eight runs, it wasn't enough for Scotland. Earlier, West Indies opted to bat and started with a stutter when Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels were dismissed for 1 and 0 respectively. Dwayne Smith and Darren Bravo chipped in with forties, Smith's being the quicker one. The innings got a real push when Denesh Ramdin and Lendl Simmons stitched a partner-
ship of 117 runs for the fifth wicket at nearly eight-anover, charging them to 251 in the 45th over, when Simmons and Ramdin fell within three deliveries to Alasdair Evans. Simmons' 47-ball 55 included five fours and two sixes while Ramdin muscled six fours and a six in his 88 off 86.
The innings got another surge with late strikes from Russell and Darren Sammy, who clobbered 53 runs together in 26 balls to take the score past 300. Sammy was more punishing out of the
not
Extras: (lb 3, w 16, nb 1)
Total: (9 wickets; 50 overs)
Did not bat: J Carter, S Benn, S Cottrell, J Holder*, J Taylor Fall of wickets 1-10 (Gayle), 2-54 (Smith), 3-59 (Samuels), 4-134 (Bravo), 5-251 (Simmons), 6-252 (Ramdin), 7-305 (Russell), 8-312 (Sammy), 9-313 (Miller) Bowling: Wardlaw 10-2-61-1,Taylor 8-052-0, Evans 10-0-633, Davey 10-0-55-2,Haq 10-0-66-1,Berrington 2-0-13-0. Scotland innings
Brendon McCullum also played a role in one of the segments that featured a young boy who dreamed of becoming a great cricketer, and enlisted the assistance of Lasith Malinga, Lord of The Rings director Peter Jackson, and several other New Zealand celebrities in his quest. New Zealand prime minister John Key was also at Hagley Park, and posed for a picture with McCullum. Christchurch mayor
Lianne Dalziel gave an impassioned welcome speech, emphasising both the challenges that an earthquake-stricken Christchurch had overcome since 2010, and also the excitement that had built in the city, at the chance to host a major sporting event. In 2011, Rugby World Cup matches that the city had planned to host were cancelled in the wake of the two major earthquakes, but the city will now host the first match of the World Cup on Saturday.
“We have been waiting for a very long time for this,” Dalziel said of Christchurch’s yearning to host fans of many nations who have already begun descending on the city. She also said the World Cup would be part of Christchurch’s resurgence in 2015.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw – a hugely popular figure in the city - and the remainder of the New Zealand cricket team received cheers when their attendance was made visible.
Shalom Driving School, lot 2 Croal Street, Stabroek. Enjoy 20% discount. Phone: 227-3869, 622-8162, 644-7052, 227-3835
Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315
sas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 2251540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca
friday, february 13, 2015
Eccles: two flat executive concrete house; three bedrooms upper, two bedrooms lower (separate flats). Price negotiable. Tel: 602-2135
Eccles: Build your own home in a modernized, gated community. Lot size 60’x100’ $7.5M. Call: 2272913, Cell: 689-3033.
Eccles: Commercial lots $14M. Call: 227-2913, Cell: 689-3033
One two-storeyed concrete building with four apartments at Fort Ordinance Canje. Size: 50 x 30 feet. Contact Indera Gupta at Telephone: 627-3095 for further details.
One business/ residential transported property located at Friendship Public Road, East Bank Demerara. Property presently houses a variety store and beer garden. Price negotiable. Call 661-8802 for more information.
Two storey house in good location; Lot 55 Section ‘B’ Non ParielFirst Street, ECD ($12m or best offer. Quick sale preferred. Contact 651-8901.
Khemraj & Son -landscaping & plant nursery. Lot 77 Independence Street, La Grange, West Bank Demerara. Landscaping, planting grass, weeding, killing wood ants, killing roaches, rats & mealy bug, treat plants, coconut trees and flowers, cleaning ceiling, grafting coconut plants: 18 months bearing period, treating land, grass & spraying grass, grafted papaya plants: 6 months bearing, grafted cherry plant, sour sop & sapodilla, cutting big trees & removing, treated mould for sale & flower plants for sale. Tel 627-5969/ 603-1134
Computer repairs and computer training as low as $3,000. 2273091, 622-7036, 661-0515
At home practical electrical installation. Lowest prices contact 2273091, 622-7036, 661-0515
Setting up point of sales and Accounting software with on hand training. Call 669-9342
Online shopping and Logistics services in Mahaicony. Call 669-9342
Jean offers courses in dressmaking, curtain, floral, cake-decoration. Phone: 670-2653 / 618-1706
GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100
Learn transcendental meditation and gain deep rest, eliminate stress, increase creativity, intelligence, improve memory, selfconfidence relationship, reduces insomnia and hypertension. Bring peace and inner happiness. For next introductory lecture contact T.M. teacher Asholle 609-3701 or Elton 609-3443
Secured business or office place in Hadfield Street, Wortmanville. no flooding. Tel: 227-2973. Available immediately
Single room self contained furnished apartments. 7 room bungalow (ideal for students or family occasions). House lots for sale, atlantic view for elegant homes. Triumph ECD. tel # 220-2130/2202254/624-7111/622-7079
Two bedroom upstairs apartment. $60,000 monthly with parking. Couples preferable. Tel 233-2607 / 644-7089
For person with stroke and physical disabilities we have herbal baths and spiritual massage medicine call 220-0708, 687-5653, 612-6417
Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc. Call 223-6834/600-7719
HEPHZIBAH MINISTRIES. 23 hrs Miracle Line 322-5081,3374510,337-4259,337-4021,3373070,337-5103.For healing, deliverance, financial difficulties, marriage issues call now. Jesus Cares.
We can help you- remove evil spirit, bad luck, blockage, reunite family and lovers, money problems, jobs, pregnancy, uplift business, skin problems, sexual problem, legal matters and much more. Call today for tomorrow may be too late. Call 674-5317/ 683-5228/ 612-1975
Dutch spiritual healing in removing evil spirit; bad luck; evil sickness; spells; reuniting lovers and prosperity to business etc, Call 612-6417, 220-0708/687-5653.
Cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá protection against evil. Get help to overcome problems with love, relationships, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money. Call 592-690-1824 from 10:0016:00h Email:anew-life@live.com
Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed. Phone: 679-4672
One Peasil white RAV 4 PRR series price $3.6 negotiable. Tel 227-2973
JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA NOAH; TOYOTA VOXY; TOYOTA IST (NEW SHAPE); SUZUKI SWIFT; DAIHATSU MOVE (660CC); MERCEDES BENZ C200 KOMPRESSOR; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; TOYOTA HIACE MINIBUS RZ; PITBULL-STYLE FREEZER VAN; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED 4WD EXTRA-CAB PICK-UP; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, 3L SOLID DEFFERNTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 4 TONS FREEZER; 3 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; NISSAN ATLAS 2 TONS OPEN TRAY TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICES AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST
Truck drivers & Casual Labourers at Readymix Concrete Ltd. Phone: 2332773/4
VACANCY EXISTS FOR ONE OPERATOR FOR EXCAVATOR, TRACTOR AND SKID STEER EQUIPMENT. MUST HAVE BASIC MECHANICAL KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE IN SERVICING AND MAINTAINING EQUIPMENT. VALID DRIVER LICENSE REQUIRED. APPLY IN PERSON WITH WRITTEN APPLICATION TO MAYS SHOPPING CENTRE. 98 REGENT STREET, GEORGETOWN
Outstanding former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd has cautioned critics not to write of the Caribbean side’s World Cup chances just yet.
The Windies have been given little hope of winning cricket’s biggest prize, against the backdrop of their poor run of recent form and the number eight ranking in ODI cricket.
However, Lloyd argued that several underdogs – including the West Indies in the inaugural tournament in 1975 – had already won the World Cup, and said once the Caribbean side gelled their performances, they could pose a threat.
“When I see the players here, they must feel proud to be here. This is the showpiece of cricket. I want to see them happy, I want to see them go out there and give their all – blood and guts – because if they win this World Cup – I know a lot of people don’t give us a chance but you never know,” said Lloyd, who was at the helm when West Indies won in 1975 and again in 1979.
“We weren’t supposed to be winners in 1975, Pakistan were not supposed to be the winners in Melbourne [in 1992], India weren’t supposed to be the winners [in 1983] and they came out of a situation where Zimbabwe had them 80 or seven [in a group stage match] and Kapil Dev played a masterful innings.”
West Indies are coming off a 4-1 drubbing in a fivematch series against South Africa, and also slumped to an embarrassing ninewicket defeat to England in
their first official warm-up match for the World Cup last Monday.
The side is also missing the likes of senior allrounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard, and is being led by new installed captain Jason Holder, himself a new-comer to international cricket.
Lloyd, the current chairman of selectors, said, however, West Indies could defy the pundits and produce good results.
“You never can tell. We have talented cricketers. If we can just get it together, we can give a good account of ourselves and surprise a lot of people,” he stressed. West Indies face Scotland in their second warm-up game on Wednesday night before taking on Ireland next Monday in their opening group stage fixture at Saxton Oval in Nelson in New Zealand
They will also clash with the likes of defending champions India, South Africa, Pakistan and United Arab Emirates, in a tough Group B campaign. (CMC)
339-3536, MetenMeer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.
Two Self contained single bedroom furnished apartments for rental. Self contained 7 bedroom bungalow idea for family/ guests/ students local or overseas long/ short term rental. Contact # 6227097 / 624-7111
The Normalisation Committee (NC) of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has appointed Richard Groden and Diedre Davis to the posts of General Secretary and Assistant General Secretary of the Federation respectively.
Davis will assume her duties on February 24, while Groden will commence his on March 2. The Committee had reached out to the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) to assist in the identification of a General Secretary for the Committee’s tenure.
“CONCACAF recommended Mr Groden and he will serve as General Secretary of the Federation during the tenure of the NC and will demit office on the completion of the NC’s mandate. Ms Davis will serve as Assistant General Secretary of the Federation and will work directly with Mr Groden
in the coming months and will assume the functions of General Secretary on Mr Groden’s departure,” a release from the NC stated.
Groden is a Trinidad and Tobago national and former General Secretary of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation, a position he held for 15 years. Additionally, he has extensive experience in the inner workings of the international football network, having served on many FIFA
and CONCACAF committees throughout his career.
He also served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Organising Committees of five Trinidad national teams’ appearances at various World Cup categories, including the Soca Warriors in the 2006 World Cup in Germany and the Girls Under-17 finals in 2010 in Trinidad.
Davis holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business and a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Relations from the University of Guyana. She has nine years’ professional experience working with the Roraima Group of Companies, her most recent title being that of Human Resources Manager.
“We have no doubt that with their [Groden’s and Davis’] exceptional qualifications and experiences they will contribute to the success of the Federation and to the growth and development of football in Guyana,” the NC release concluded.
from page 23
TBlairmont Cricket Club (BCC) on Wednesday held its Annual General Meeting and election of office bearers for the year 2015.
Mohamed Samad serving as the Assistant Secretary /Treasurer. Richardo Bachan will serve as Estate representative.
would be planned to celebrate this milestone.
Hutson added, “And so at the level of the Ministry of Education, we are always willing to support and to contribute and to partner with any organisation that will help our children to be more stable and to be rounded.”
Field Secretary of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Lancelot Baptiste, reflected on the days when the GTU was leading the way in promoting “grassroots” cricket, noting that cricket in the school system is the way to go.
“GTU started at the grassroots level and so I’m happy to compliment Scotiabank for once more going back to the grassroots and getting these children involved. The 7-9, the 9-12, that is where we need to go; we need to target the schools some more,” Baptiste pointed out.
President of the GCB, Drubahadur, echoed similar sentiments, noting Scotiabank’s contribution to the development of the game.
Thursday’s launch was also attended by Nicholas Fraser of the Education
MMinistry’s Allied Arts Unit and Taaliba Speede of the Child Care and Protection Agency.
Scotiabank’s involvement with West Indies cricket began in 1998 as the Official Bank of West Indies Cricket; in 1999, it became the exclusive sponsor of Kiddy Cricket.
Businessman Shabeer Baksh was re-elected to serve as President for another year. He will be assisted by Rudolph Doodnauth (First Vice President); Omesh Prashad (Second Vice President) and Nigel Trotz (Third Vice President).
The Secretary is Chunilall Sansasi, while Shazad Ali will occupy the Treasurer’s position with
Baksh, serving in his fifth year as President, told the gathering that the Blairmont Cricket Club has moved from strength to strength over the last four years, and his goal was to continue building and maintaining proper cricket structures and systems in 2015.
Baksh also mentioned more emphasis would be placed on developing the youngsters to be better cricketers and individuals of the community, since they were the foundation of the Club.
He urged the elected executive to work together towards the same interest and implement better systems than the existing ones.
He pointed out this year marked the fifth year since the Club was resuscitated, and a calendar of events
The executives are expected to meet soon to discuss programmes and the way forward.
etro Office and Computer Supplies has delivered on its promise to sponsor all the trophies for the second annual Republic Cup, currently being staged by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc.
At a simple function at Metro’s Quamina Street head office in Georgetown, company representatives presented the trophies to officials of the GSCL Inc.
Metro’s representatives Shavane Sooklall and Bernard Ramsaroop said the company was pleased to
“Your efforts have not gone in vain. After 16 years we can see where Guyana is in terms of cricket. Some of our guys who are playing senior cricket would have started when they were 10-12 in this same programme. We, both at the West Indies and Guyana level, will be looking forward for your continued support at Scotiabank.”
partner with the GSCL Inc in the promotion of local talent and the game of softball.
GSCL Organising Secretary Samuel Kingston and Assistant Secretary Russell Jadbeer both expressed appreciation for the support offered by the entity.
Metro is one of three companies that have thrown their weight behind the tournament – the others being Memorex Enterprise and Regal Stationery and Computer Supplies.
The competition is being contested in two categories: Open and Over-40.
The action will continue on Saturday at the Everest Ground from 10:00h when Parika Defenders, Regal Masters, Tropical Spring Masters and Amazon Masters will vie for the remaining two spots in the Over-40 semi-finals. East Coast Masters and Floodlights have already booked their semi-final place in that category.
The finals are scheduled for Sunday at the same venue with the Masters final at 10:00h and the Open final between Farm XI and Regal XI at 14:30h.
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
In a clear demonstration
of its continued dedication to the development of cricket in the West Indies, Scotiabank has committed to sponsoring the Kiddy Cricket Programme for the 16th year in succession.
The Bank, in partnership with several organisations, will once again fund the programme, which is geared at nurturing the next generation of regional cricketers.
The launch of the Guyana leg took place at the Guyana Cricket Board’s office on Regent Street, where representatives of the various organisations were on hand to address the media and divulge pertinent information of the 2015 edition.
Territorial Development Officer of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Colin Stuart, said Scotiabank continues to give invaluable support to the development of cricket in Guyana and the West Indies at the foundation level.
“This year, the Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket Programme will primarily target pupils ages seven and nine – that is Grades Three and Four – and will first place its attention on coaching of the participants and on providing information to these pupils on aspects of the game that are not skillspecific: these are laws of the game, nutrition, selfconcept, teamwork, captaincy and leadership, and child protection, etc,” the former West Indies fast bowler explained.
He added, “This aspect of learning will fall under the theme “Cricket is my game – Learn it” and will be delivered by an appropriate individual – coach, umpire, former player, other suitable cricket-oriented personnel –to a group of primary school children.”
“Upped the ante”
Marketing Manager of Scotiabank, Jennifer Cipriani, said they have “upped the ante” on the quality of the programme by in-
cluding some elements that will make it more meaningful to the beneficiaries.
“Kiddy cricketers will be exposed to, among other things, the history of the game, use and care of equipment, nutrition, and relevant laws, such as ways of getting out and its complexities and fielding placements,” Cipriani explained.
“Under the “Meet the Emerging Player” component, up and coming cricketers will deliver coaching sessions to participants, which gives the emerging play-
ers an opportunity to market themselves and influence our young cricketers in a positive manner.”
During the next school term, the programme will move from coaching education to competition, where students will have an opportunity to match their skills with each other.
This progression curve will result in players who have been identified as more talented participating in Inter-zone and Inter-district cricket during the month of September.
Director of Sport, Neil Kumar said of the programme, “Scotiabank must be proud of sponsoring this programme because they’re there for 16 years –Guyana won the Under-15 tournament last year, the Under-19 tournament and Guyana is doing extremely well presently in the senior regional tournament – then I think Scotiabank is doing something good in promoting cricket.”
Assistant Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson, representing the Education Ministry, spoke of the event being a channel through which students can become well-rounded individuals.
“I believe now, more than ever, if we are going to reverse what we are seeing now in our cricket, we need to really tackle those children at a very young stage where we can impart the kind of values and attitudes that will make them the best in terms of what they do,” he posited.
AThe cricket hubs wound down when the opening ceremony began in earnest with a Kandyan dance performed by a Sri Lankan troupe, followed by a Bollywood-style act, a performance by a bagpiper and an Irish river dance. A Maori cultural group also performed during the evening,
apart from several popular New Zealand musical acts, including artistes like Hayley Westenra and Shapeshifter.
The crowd grew as the sun set, and gathered around the main stage and the three big screens. Many had brought an evening meal and picnic mats.
The event, free for the public, began with four big backyard cricket matches for children, each played at
Christchurch crowd in the tens of thousands welcomed the 2015 World Cup in a colourful, community-focused event, which was capped off by a spectacular fireworks display. A host of cricket stars, both past and present, were in attendance, as were thousands of families, who had begun arriving at North Hagley Park in the early evening to enjoy the carnival atmosphere.
themed stations. There was a Caribbean corner, a "So Beige" Kiwiana mini-venue, a South Asian station, and a Victorian-themed match, replete with ladies and gentlemen dressed in fancy garb, and a painting of WG Grace overlooking the scene.
By Rajiv Bisnauth
Guyana Amazon Warriors newcom-
ers fast bowler Paul Wintz and batsman Assad Fudadin, along with Trevon Griffith, on Thursday received their contracts for this year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL) tournament from Team Operations Manager Omar Khan.
Prior to the handing over of the contracts, Khan briefed the trio on what was expected from them based on their contract obligations.
He also told the players that once they accepted an offer of employment, they were technically entering into a contractual relationship with their employer.
“It’s cricket. I always believe that whatever you play, be it Test cricket, fourday cricket, 50-over cricket or T20 cricket, cricket is a game you have to have an appreciation for what is required to play the right way. It’s a job and you guys must
see it as a job,” the Team Operations Manager pointed out.
Khan stressed to the players that the Guyana Amazon Warriors was a very professional unit, with a lot of systems in place.
“We are a very professional unit; we have a lot of systems in place and we stick to our professional outfit, in terms of adhering to the teams’ guidelines and policies,” he said.
Great opportunity
Khan also pointed out to the players that as young professionals, it was a great opportunity to showcase their talent.
“This provides an excellent opportunity for you young players to assess your professional career. It gives you an opportunity to become better professionals and something to strive for,” Khan related.
“As you know, in T20 cricket the franchise mod-
el involves you to represent teams outside of your country; that is what the cricket business world is about now. Players looking for opportunity to be bought by franchises to earn, so that they can live comfortable.”
Khan was also optimistic
that the inclusion of several international stars provided another opportunity for the players. “Mixing with so much international players will also be beneficial.”
the CPL.
Three stars of Sri Lankan cricket, Lasith Malinga, Tillakaratne Dilshan and Thisara Perera, along with Australia’s Brad Hodge, West Indies veteran batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Trinidadian Sunil Narine, Lendl Simmons, Denesh Ramdin and Guyanese Christopher Barnwell form the nucleus of the squad.
The other members of the squad are: Guyanese Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton and Devendra Bishoo.
The CPL is the Region’s premier T20 tournament, attracting sold-out crowds and millions of viewers across the globe. The 2015 CPL will take place from June 20 to July 26.
The players after receiving their contracts expressed their gratitude to the management of the Guyana Amazon Warriors and also expressed their pleasure in being part of
He also urged the players to work on their individual strengths in order to contribute to the team’s success.
The Amazon Warriors lost at the final hurdle in both of the previous two editions, to Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013 and Barbados Tridents in 2014.
