Guyana Times Daily

Dr Gopaul moves to High Court today

friDAY, NOVEMBEr 21, 2014 | guYANAtiMEsgY.cOM

Establishment of new deepwater harbour… Guyana in high-level talks with South American neighbours

BY VAHNU MANIKCHAND

President Donald Ramotar said that his government is currently engaged in discussions with its South American counterparts to realize its intentions of having a deep water harbour in Guyana.

Over the years, there have been numerous calls particularly by the private sector and the tourism industry for such a facility in the country.

President Ramotar told the Guyana Times that the talks are advancing.

He noted that while there are many options available, Government is far from finalizing a deal. The President said that he is looking at all options before making any decisions.

Before speaking with this newspaper, Ramotar in his feature at address to a gathering emphasized the importance of having such facility in Guyana. He said that the country has to find ways to ensure that this project, though costly, can be realized.

The President explained that this will allow the transportation of more than the current volume, which is 10,000 tonnes. This amount is even less when the waterways are clogged up.

“We need to bring huge ships and export in huge volumes,” he stated while adding that with the Panama Canal currently being expanded, it will revolutionalise maritime trade around the world.

On this note, President Ramotar pointed out that Guyana needs to prepare for a massive increase of maritime trade in order to take advantage of it. The deep water harbour, the president noted is getting to be one of the most important developmental infrastructures worldwide.

While there have been interests from many countries for the project including Brazil and China, the South American country stand to reap the most benefits from such a facility.

A deep water harbour

will boast bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries but also provide other incentives for the two countries.

Only last year a large delegation of Brazilians visited Guyana and held discussions with local officials on building the harbour.

The project is mostly likely to be built in Berbice and is expected to be used as a transshipment point for Brazilian goods to ports in the Caribbean, North America and Europe, as it will reduce the current time it takes by at least half.

The handling and storage facilities to deal with these cargos would definitely provide a large economic boost to Guyana’s economy.

Focusing on tourism, this facility will open the possibilities of Guyana becoming the host of cruise ships and other major vessels that currently cannot dock here.

At present, the country hosts small yacht rallies however with a deep water harbour, such events can be held on a larger international scale.

This facility has been the talk of key tourism stakeholders, as they too underscored the importance and the benefits of a deep water harbour to allow for larger vessels to use our ports as a tourism destination while the private sector highlighted that it can be used to exploit our geographical location as the gateway to South America.

Man shot outside City hotel

Ataxi driver of Agriculture Road Triumph, East Coast Demerara (ECD) is now a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he was shot during a robbery on Thursday morning.

According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Fazil Ali, 46, was shot to his left shoulder and relieved of $4 million after three men, one of whom was armed with a handgun held him up.

Police say the incident occurred around 08:20h in front of a popular hotel on Brickdam, Georgetown.

Eyewitnesses at the scene of the crime related that Ali was in his car when the three men approached the vehicle.

The men proceeded to shoot the taxi driver while in the process of demanding that he hands over the bag containing the money.

One man told Guyana Times that the whole inci-

dent happened in less than two minutes.

Reports are that the men proceeded to board a waiting vehicle and made good their escape after the robbery.

When contacted by Guyana Times, family members of Ali were reluctant to provide any information about the incident.

The man’s son who did not provide his name said he is unaware what his father was doing with $4 million at the time of the incident.

This comes even as the GPF says it is implementing stricter security measures to drive away wouldbe bandits during the holidays.

It is around this time of the year that a high number of robberies are recorded in and around the city.

Recently data released by the Police indicated that there was a 22 per cent drop in robbery at the

end of June, while there was a further decline by 11 per cent at the end of September.

Also, there was a 33 per cent increase in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms at the end of June this year, while at the end of September; it was 15 per cent.

At the same time, the Police have recovered a total of 60 illegal firearms at the end of September.

At the end of June, there was an increase of four per cent in armed rob-

beries where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators; it was two per cent at the end of September.

In addition, at the end of September 2014, robbery under arms overall has increased by 11 per cent.

The statistics indicate an increase of 15 per cent in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms and a two per cent increase in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators.

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

The boycott call

Freedom of the press is a celebrated norm in any democracy, as it enables the maintenance of basic checks and balances of the work of public officials. The media would not at all times report positively about politicians, and at times the negative publicity is not intended to denigrate them.

As the eyes and ears of the people, these critical reports often point to double standards and other wrongs, with the hope that those identified will pay heed. Guyana’s media landscape is not peculiar compared to other democracies the world over. Media houses report the news based on their policy, which to a largely extent is guided by the views of their principals. Thus, it is not strange for them to adopt a certain political slant in reporting.

This becomes more evident during times of elections, as they cater for the selective perceptions of the divergent masses. Politicians generally like to portray an image as hands on, effective leaders and when they are shown in contrast, some quickly become upset.

Taking libelous comments aside, the latter behaviour points to immaturity, since politicians by their will to seek public office, must accept that as public officials, they and the party they represent will be subject to scrutiny. No realistic politician would expect glowing reports of his work or his party, and here is where handling negative publicity is important.

Lashing out at media houses that do not embrace their ideologies would not work, a better thing to do would be, in addressing a perceived misconception or inaccurate report, to avoid casting aspersions.

Here is where A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) Co-Chair, Dr Rupert Roopnarine crossed the line when he called for a boycott of Guyana Times, the Guyana Chronicle and the National Communications Network (NCN).

Roopnarine seems to have a strong derision for the latter as one would recall during the 2011 Generally Elections, he branded the entity the “Criminal Communications Network”.

From the appeal by Roopnarine, it appears that the now APNU politician is living a life of contradictions.

As a leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), in the days of the Burnham Government, he actively promoted press freedom and would have had many bitter experiences being harassed for being in possession of the party’s newspaper, the Day Clean.

From what has come out of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry (CoI) thus far, the People’s National Congress (PNC) Government was intolerant of Opposition views, the WPA’s in particular.

Today, Roopnarine is now an ally with his former enemies, so it might not be too surprising why he is so averse to views contrary to his, to the extent of calling for boycott of media houses. From the CoI hearings, the nation was appraised of an incident where newsprint for the Day Clean was destroyed, the Day Clean was burnt, and persons were arrested for being in possession of the newspaper.

This level of intolerance no longer exists as media houses freely publish reports heaping both praise and criticism on the Government and Opposition, but the APNU Co-Chair seemed to be deeply stuck in the old mode of things. The PNC, now APNU, to which Roopnarine is a senior member, is yet to distance itself from the boycott call. And from all indications, it would not.

The PNC when in power developed a reputation for corruption, abuse of power and mistreatment of the citizenry. In Opposition, the destruction continues, and more recently, not with calls for boycott, but actual budget cuts on programmes that will positively impact the lives of ordinary citizens.

Undoubtedly, the party has achieved an unenviable record in the Caribbean of being destructive both in Government and Opposition. So it is within this context Roopnarine’s comments must be viewed, as he is in the bosom of a party that never saw freedom of the press as a fundamental right, but as a privilege for the politically appropriate.

Time to stop the slaughtering of children in Ukraine

Dear Editor,

On November 20, the world celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which sets basic human rights out the civil, political, economic, social, health and cultural rights of children.

Currently, 194 countries are members to the Convention, including every member of the United Nations, except Somalia, South Sudan and the United States. Somalia and South Sudan have started their domestic process to become party to the treaty.

States that signed and ratified this convention are bound to it by International Law. The compliance is monitored by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, which is composed of members from countries

around the world. Once a year, the Committee submits a report to the UN General Assembly and adopts a Resolution on the Rights of the Child.

These days the humanitarian situation in Lugansk and Donetsk (regions of Ukraine) is catastrophic and continues to deteriorate.

According to the latest figures from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the number of victims and survivors of the armed conflict in eastern Ukraine has been steadily increasing.

According to the latest United Nations report, the number of victims of the war in the South-East of Ukraine is increasing: 3,219 people were killed, including 33 children. Among 8,000 injured people 82 are

children.

Children and other civilians bear the brunt of this senseless violence, wrote UN Under-SecretaryGeneral for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Valerie Amos in her report.

It is crucial to ensure stoppage of the slaughtering of children in Ukraine by the Government in Kiev, artillery fire of the urban districts, using cluster ammunitions, phosphorus bombs and start the political dialogue and immediate supply of humanitarian aid to the people of southeastern Ukraine.

Submitted by Denis Kopyl Press Attaché Russian Embassy

Georgetown needs a high rise car park

Dear Editor,

Over the years Georgetown, as well as all urban centres in our country, have seen a dramatic increase in vehicular traffic. With that increase comes the dire need for proper parking.

On any given day, the central business district becomes inundated with all types of vehicles, when illegal parking becomes the norm.

It is not a situation where there isn’t enough space for vehicles to park, there are lots of open spaces where commuters can park. However, the problem is everyone wants to be within close proximity to their place of work or business.

Hence they will illegally park in any available space that presents itself.

With the upcoming Christmas season, it gets even worse when there is little or no room to maneuvre. There would be double, sometimes even triple parking to deal with. It is a near impossible situation in downtown Georgetown.

And heaven help us if a fire or some other emergency should take place in the main shopping area then firefighters are plagued with a sea of illegally parked cars and the daunting task of navigating their way through it.

Now, my suggestion to solve this, is the construction of a high rise car

park in or around the central business district. This would bring an end to illegal parking and traffic congestion in all the urban centres. It is high time for Guyana to get into the modern era and adopt these standards where urban vehicular management is concern. This modern approach is found in other sister Caricom territories, the likes of Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and even in St Lucia. The suggestion made by Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon to cover some of the gutters and waterways to ease traffic congestion in the city would only lead to further problems.

There would be clogged drains where silt and garbage would naturally build up, with greater difficulty to unclog them. The perennial problem of flooding due to heavy siltation coupled with non-biodegradable Styrofoam and plastic would make the city a health hazard.

These factors would only add to the messy situation confronting us right now. It compounds the problem.

I call on Government to erect a high rise car park and charge a small fee for use of the facility. This will genuinely solve the problem.

Sincerely, Neil Adams

Causing death charge has been reinstituted against driver

Dear Editor,

The Guyana Police Force is responding to a Letter to the Editor published in the Guyana Times on November 20, under the headline, “Missing case file shrouded in mystery at Aurora Police Station”.

Here once again the author of the Letter to the Editor, Baliram Persaud, is attempting to mislead the public on a matter relating to the Guyana Police Force in pursuit of his wicked intentions.

The Guyana Police Force categorically states that the file in the matter referred to: “Causing death by dangerous driving,” against Jageshwar Ragoobar, is not “missing” and there was no “sinister motive by the Police”, as alleged by Persaud in his letter.

The Guyana Police Force wishes to clarify that following the charge being made against Ragoobar and his subsequent appearance in court, the file was sent from the Division for the preparation of a Suspension Order in rela-

tion to his driver’s licence.

That procedure caused the file to be absent from the Suddie Magistrate’s Court on November 13, and the matter was discharged by the Magistrate.

However, the file has since been returned to the Division and the charge has been reinstituted against Ragoobar. He appeared at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court before the same Magistrate on November 19 and has been placed on $250,000 bail for court at Suddie on November 27.

The mother of the fiveyear-old victim Renel Roberts has been informed by the Police concerning the reinstitution of the charge.

The Guyana Police Force is now appealing to media houses to clarify with the Guyana Police Force information reported by Persaud prior to publishing same.

Sincerely, Ivelaw Whittaker Police Public Relations and Press Officer

New York Guyanese grandparents felicitated in Queens

Dear Editor,

The Yakusari Humanitarian Group (YHG) felicitated Guyanese and other grandparents last Sunday afternoon at the Royal Express Catering Hall in Ozone Park. It was the second annual event that was held to honour the contributions of the elders in the community.

The chief architect of the programme was Pandit Baya of Prem Bhakti Mandir of Jamaica, Queens. Some 300 guests packed the Guyanese owned catering hall on Rockaway Boulevard and 122nd Street. The gathering included non-Indians as well.

Some farmers will not be able to get urea fertiliser

Dear Editor,

The Ministry of Agriculture has announced that 140,000 bags of urea fertilisers are on the way from Venezuela for 20,000 farmers in all the rice growing regions, at a cost of $ 5,000 per bag.

Actual farm use has shown that farmers are using one bag of urea (50kg/110 lbs) per acre, which results in significant economic gains. A 10-acre block will need 30 bags of urea.

Rice farmers surveyed and registered in all the rice growing regions throughout the country have shown a total acreage of 192,500. This would mean that there will still be a shortage of urea fertiliser for the present crop for the second and third dose applications.

Some farmers will not be able to get urea fertiliser, according to the Ministry of Agriculture’s calculation

of 140,000 bags compared to the overall acreage of 192,500 at three doses.

Farmers were paying $ 5000 for a bag of urea last crop. So in a real sense, the farmers would not be benefitting. Later in the crop, the price went up to $ 5,200 for a bag of urea because there was a shortage of fertilisers, and the farmers had to buy their remaining supplies from businessmen and wholesale suppliers.

When these fertilisers come in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), they are stored outside the central part of the coast, and it is very costly to pay for transportation to the farmers’ destinations.

Sometimes the farmers ended up paying $ 5,500 for a bag when they purchased it at the Government Bond. So they prefer to buy the fertilisers from private businessmen who will transport it direct to their home at the same price as

the Ministry of Agriculture.

These fertilisers can be stored at three districts: Aroura, Suddie and Anna Regina,which would be much easier to access by the farmers, and this will save time and money.

Research has shown that if the Ministry of Agriculture imports 586,500 bags of urea fertiliser, the farmers will have enough supplies of fertilisers for this present crop.

The Rice Producers’ Association (RPA) and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) have a farmers’ register with each farmer’s acreage and the total acres of rice lands in each rice growing region, which can be used as a guideline when importing these fertilisers from Venezuela.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan Former Rice Extension Officer

The organizers said they had looked forward for the event. They spent many hours planning for it to entertain and feed such a large gathering – all free. The organizers said they have had the pleasure of working with people who donated generously of their time and money and who sponsored dishes to make the event a success.

They said they hope the tradition will continue for many years to come.

Popular Guyanese radio broadcaster Eshri Singh was honored for his contribution to media. He expressed gratitude for recognition of his work.

Pt Baya explained it was a tribute event to recognize and honour the grandparents. The organizers said it was carried out to make the grands feel special for their contributions to society.

It was noted that the grands brought loving care

and experience to children and grandchildren and they deserve society’s love and recognition. The luncheon gives them a sense of belonging and self-worth.

The guests were treated with a holiday gift, a sumptuous vegetarian meal, a medal, and various prizes. They were entertained by deejay music as well as a number of prominent local artistes, including Son Son, Oma Mulchand, Harry Gandhary, Mahadeo Ramoutar, among others. There was much singing and dancing.

Prizes and food for the event were sponsored by various community-based organizations. Several organizations joined the YHG to host the luncheon, including the United Adult Day Care Centre and The Hindu Centre.

Pt Baya pointed out that the organization and the event promote all aspects of the community.

He noted it is about getting people to feel appreciated and wanted as well as for them to feel good about themselves.

They have been giving their love, attention, and wisdom to the community and now they are being repaid with a special event. Just as they have done so much for today’s generation, the latter is reciprocating their generosity and kindness to repay them.

The attendees said they enjoyed every minute of the function. They are very grateful to Pt Baya and the other organizers and the Yakusari group for the valuable time spent to put together the programme.

Separately, the IndoCaribbean Senior Citizens holiday dinner is scheduled for December 21 at Villa Russo in Richmond Hill.

Submitted

by

Vishnu Persaud

President’s Prorogation of Parliament…

APNU, AFC reject latest invitation for talks

Leader of the Opposition

David Granger on Thursday confirmed that despite President Donald Ramotar sending him a letter

to request dialogue; the opposition will not be meeting with the President while the prorogation is enforced.

On Tuesday, the President issued letters to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC), inviting them to engage in dialogue with the administration in the absence of the parliamentary institution.

Speaking to Guyana Times in brief telephone interview, Granger stressed, “APNU will not be meeting with the president” outside of parliament.

Granger who is also Leader of APNU disclosed that, he was in receipt of the invitation from the President, but did not reply to the invitation. He said that he has not replied. The AFC has also been maintaining that it will not

be engaged in any “extra-parliamentary” talks with the President.

Both parties have been mounting country wide demonstrations and rallies against the recent decision by the President to prorogue parliament.

The opposition has contended that by proroguing parliament, the President has effectively removed the place for dialogue and discussions.

But even before parliament was prorogued, in fact just one day before, Granger is on record saying that there will be no discussions with the President.

He contended that he had “exhausted” talks with the executive.

Persistent rainfall forces closure of schools on Essequib Coast

By IndrawattIe natram

ersistent rainfall

Pon Thursday has forced schools on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to close for the day.

The students were forced to return home after the Education Ministry issued an advisory informing parents to keep their children home due to the continuous rainfall.

Some of the students who went to school were forced to return home, even though their school was not affected by the heavy water accumulation.

Students returning home after they were told by teachers that schools were closed for the day

Persaud said the sluice at Three Friends is partially blocked by the buildup of sediment, and is also being cleared.

The pump next to Three Friends is in operation, helping to drain the residential area. The pump at Anna Regina is also in operation.

Granger mum on status of Kissoon’s suspension

Opposition Leader David Granger refused to divulge any information on the status of Vanessa Kissoon’s suspension from the Peoples National Congress when this newspaper contacted him on Thursday.

“I do not wish to give any comment on that matter,” Granger said.

However, following months of division between the Peoples’ National Congress Reform (PNCR) Linden arm and the Central Executive Committee, Coordinator Sandra Adams said the situation is improving.

“We at the moment are doing quite fine, it’s getting better,” Sandra said. However, she too refused to comment further on the matter on whether the issue between Region Ten Member of Parliament (MP), Vanessa Kissoon and General Secretary Oscar Clark has been resolved.

Trade Unionist Leslie Gonsalves had said the Linden arm remained committed to the party. He added that “It is not in our mind to give up or move away from what we have been taught by Linden Forbes Burnham and so we are prepared to champion the cause that led to the formation of the PNCR.” Further, a meeting was called with seven of nine active PNCR members in the Linden and it was decided that a letter would be dispatched to the CEC with the aim of resolving the issue.

Gonsalves had told this publication that the CEC had not met with the Linden arm to address the issue put forth following the meeting. Among the issues that were scheduled to be discussed was the imposition of Sandra Adams, who was appointed Regional Coordinator by the CEC earlier in the year, much to the dissatisfaction of region ten Chairman Sharma Solomon and his supporters.

The Region Two Administration said it is closely monitoring the situation as several villages have been flooded due to the heavy rainfall.

water is in low-lying areas, and it has been caused by several blocked channel.

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud said the situation is not alarming, noting that the heavy build up of

Work is currently ongoing at the Taymouth Manor sluice while the channel of the Capoey sluice is being cleared of sediment.

The Chairman said the sluices at Lima and Devonshire Castle are out of operation because the channels are silted up, but an excavator will be sent to do some clearing.

Meanwhile, some rice farmers are happy for the rain, saying is help to them in preparing their fields.

Released convict rapes relative of Police

AMibicuri Black Bush Polder man who was recently released from custody has allegedly raped a female relative of a Policeman.

According to reports, the woman and her husband went to a fair at Mibicuri where the alleged rapist was.

It is believed that the couple was standing outside of the ground the fair was held when the husband said that he was going to meet a male friend.

However, his wife was of the opinion that he was going to meet a female with whom he had a close relationship.

This angered the wife who decided to go home. On her way home, she was approached by the alleged rapist who had spoken to her at the fair.

He offered her a drop home on his motorcycle and she accepted, but instead of

dropping her home, he took her the back dam, reportedly three miles from where she lived, and committed the act.

The victim on recovering telephoned her husband and reported the incident to the Police.

The suspect was subsequently arrested, but was released on station bail. Police sources have confirmed that a file on the matter is being prepared.

The issue escalated when Party Leader David Granger suspended Kissoon over a heated confrontation with Clarke, which went out of control during the 18th Biennial Congress when scores of Lindeners protested, challenging that those who lead the party had breached its Constitution.

Persons in some quarters are saying that Kissoon will not be re-appointed as an executive member in the party.

Gonsalves was very adamant about Kissoon’s issue being resolved and Allan Munroe of the Disciplinary Committee, recommended that Kissoon issues a written apology to the General Secretary which she had reportedly refused to do. Efforts to contact Gonsalves were futile and Kissoon refused to comment on the matter when contacted by this newspaper.

World’s leading tyre company hosts seminar in Guyana

The world’s largest tyre manufacturing company, ‘Bridgestone’, on Wednesday evening hosted a seminar and workshop at the GMRSC ground, Georgetown Guyana aimed at training technicians on the proper usage of tyres.

The workshop was attended by students attached to the New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI), Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) and other private institutions.

They were also given useful information about the importance and selection of tyres.

The seminar was spearheaded by the manager of Bridgestone Guyana Ganesh Persaud, alongside Commercial Technical Advisor of Bridgestone Costa Rica, Oscar Castro.

Persaud said that the Bridgestone Company has the customer’s interest at heart, noting that it always produces the best longer lasting tyres.

He added that although there is growth in the sector, there is still a lot of room for improvement.

He pointed out that while Guyana has been benefiting from low tyres prices many persons have been questioning their quality and durability.

But Singh assured the gathering that for the past seven years the Bridgestone company has been producing the most affordable and strongest tyres, as it strives to live up to its mission statement which is ‘to serve society with superior quality.’

Meanwhile, Commercial Technical Advisor of Bridgestone Costa Rica, Oscar Castro educated the gathering on the importance of choosing the right tyre for a vehicle.

The Bridgestone Corporation is a multinational auto and truck parts manufacturer founded in 1931 by Shojiro Ishibashi in Japan. The name Bridgestone comes from a claque translation and transposition of ishibashi, meaning “stone bridge” in Japanese. Production facilities belonging to the Bridgestone Group number 141 in twentyfour countries, as of the end of 2005.

In 1951, Bridgestone was the first company in Japan to begin selling rayon cord tires, and a five-year project to modernize production facilities was started. This year also saw another Bridgestone building opened in Tokyo, which contained the Bridgestone Museum.

Over 5000 applications being processed for Remigrant Scheme

– as massive transformation reshapes East Bank corridor

In excess of 5000 thousand applications have been received for the ‘Re-migrant Housing Scheme’ programme, according to Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali.

The minister said that the scheme, which is located in Providence, East Bank Demerara is another indication of Government’s commitment to provide housing for all Guyanese at home and abroad.

He pointed out that even though overseas based Guyanese may not be interested in moving back, having ownership of a property within the scheme will bring revenues into the country.

“Even if the overseas based Guyanese use their secondary homes, what that does is it creates employment for gardeners and housekeepers; they have to furnish their homes; they have to get security, and they have to utilise gas, electricity and water. These consumption levels will build the economy and creates spending,” he stated.

The Remigrant Housing Scheme is located north of the Mocha Main Road, about one mile east of the Providence Police Station compound, E.B.D. The lots range from 6000 to 9000 square feet, with prices between $4.5 million and $7 million. Interested remigrants had to be Guyanese over 21-years of age and do not have ownership of homes here. The applications are available online.

Minister Ali was at the

time speaking against the backdrop of the East Bank Demerara corridor undergoing a massive transformation. He was at the time addressing a gathering at the commissioning ceremony of the Unicomer multi-million dollar distribution facility at Eccles Industrial Site, E.B.D.

He explained that Government has invested some $10 billion as part of an extended plan to create new opportunities for businesses to expand their services. The minister noted one such project is the development of Eccles Industrial Site which housed several housing schemes and industrial companies.

Ali pointed out that the area has been designed to have mild commercial activities in front while the major ones will be at the back, where the distribution centre is located.

“The reason why this area has been designated for this purpose is because of its close proximity to the low income housing and the middle income housing. Thus the creation of employment and the reduction of transportation cost to get to your place of employment”, he remarked.

The minister went onto say that the private sector has been taking advantage of the opportunities available at the area and it is estimated that they invest more than US$200 million in projects at the location.

The East Bank Demerara

corridor is home to one of the country’s most developed community and several developing housing schemes. The Diamond scheme is considered one of the most, if not the most, developed community along the East Bank. It currently housed three major commercial banks, a fire station, a diagnostic centre, a secondary and primary nursery schools and a gas station with a food court.

Additionally under the turn key project, the ministry launched the 1000 homes project. This project is seeing increasing interests from persons, particularly those who fall within the low and middle income bracket.

The initial first phase of the Turn Key Project has cost close to G$200 million. From the 1000 projects, some 800 low income and 200 middle income families are expected to benefit. The project’s overall contribution to the economy stands at $4 billion while, the loan portfolio to the banking sector is expected to increase by $4.8 billion over the expected two-year period.

Meanwhile, another project which will see major transformation to the East Bank Corridor is the construction of the four lane highway from Herstelling to Diamond. The road is set to be completed sometime early next year.

Plans are also in the works to construct a highway connecting Diamond Housing Scheme to Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

Minibus Union threatens fare increase

The United Minibus Union of Guyana hinted that the cost to travel may be raised due to the recent increase of excise tax on fuel.

“The travelling public may well have to bear the brunt of such increases.” A release from the Union said.

The association viewed the increase of excise tax on Gasoline from 20 percent to 40 percent and diesel from 15 percent to 35 percent as “ridiculous, inscriptive, and unacceptable.”

NBS $69.9M fraud… Dr Gopaul moves to High Court today …to set aside controversial Ombudsman’s Report

By: Jomo Paul

Labour Minister Dr Nanda Kishore Gopaul

will be moving to Guyana’s High Court during the course of today as he seeks to contest the legality of a recent 25-page report on a New Building Society (NBS) $69.9M fraud several years ago.

While Dr Gopaul was unavailable to comment on the issue on Thursday, a well placed source has confirmed that the Minister along with his attorneys will be moving to the high court to dismantle the report done by the Ombudsman Justice Winston Moore.

The source explained to Guyana Times that the Minister and his lawyers believe that the report that was submitted was undertaken outside the remit of the Ombudsman.

“He wants to have it completely set aside, since the Ombudsman went outside of his remit when he did that report,” said the source.

It should be noted that effectively setting aside the report, nullifies and discredits it, hence will not be submissable in any criminal matter.

“So tomorrow we will know about that at the court,” the source empha-

sized.

Dr Gopaul himself had made similar utterances, saying that by law, the Ombudsman does not have “the mandate and jurisdiction to review the decision of a private company to dismiss its employees.

"The fact that the company was not even consulted simply compounds the wrong.

“Even worse, the Ombudsman embarks upon an inquiry to review a dismissal and to make findings thereon, when that very issue is the subject of active litigation filed in the High Court. The report, therefore, has been done in complete

disregard of the sub-judice principle,” said the Minister.

Dr Gopaul asserted that “there seems to be a lot of spin, political and otherwise, on the Ombudsman’s report on a complaint by Maurice Arjoon against his prosecution as a result of a fraud committed at the New Building Society in 2006”.

Meanwhile, NBS on Tuesday slammed statements which suggested that senior Government functionaries were involved in influencing decisions at the bank.

“The NBS categorically condemns any suggestion by those bent on creating mischief and misleading the public that the Society is or was managed by senior Government functionaries, including former President Bharrat Jagdeo,” the bank said in a strongly worded statement.

The NBS cleared the air on several speculative reports in sections of the media following claims made in a report submitted by the Ombudsman’s Office. The bank stood its ground, stating that the three managers who were dismissed were guilty of gross misconduct, a breach of the rules and standing operational procedures, collusion and conspiring to commit fraud.

The release further went on to highlight the significant reductions in the price per barrel of fuel on the global market and expressed disgust that Guyana will not benefit from such, noting that the transportation sector will be greatly affected.

Additionally, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), in recent reports, condemned this move by the Government, calling it “unwise and uncalled for”.

“We strongly condemn the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration’s unilateral and draconian increase in taxed on fuel.”

However, reports indicate that the usual policy of the Government is to ensure the prices of fuel in Guyana do not fluctuate.

Therefore if there is an increase in fuel worldwide, the excise taxes will go down and if there is a decrease in the fuel worldwide (like the current situation), the excise taxes will go up.

This method will allow the price of fuel in Guyana to remain stable so that consumers will not feel the pressure of a potential rapid increase in the world market.

Macorp celebrates one year doing business in port Kaituma

Machinery Corporation of Guyana Limited (MaCorp), the sole authorised dealer for Caterpillar Machinery on Thursday celebrates their first anniversary of keeping the operations of miners running in Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini).

MaCorp provides a total life cycle value, by offering sustainable products, engines, components, services and solutions.

“our products are of exceptional quality and performance, unmatched reliability, and unparalleled support which assist our customers to move ahead,” a release said.

Twelve months ago, MaCorp launched the $100 million investment, with the hope of contributing to the further development of the local mining sector, as well as providing advice and solutions that adds value for users of its equipment.

“If you want mining to stay, progress and to be efficient, you must also ensure that it is done in accordance with our laws, our regulations, and also with good mining practices so an integrated solution must run the entire gamut that are concerned and connected with responsible mining,” Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud challenged MaCorp a year ago.

Today, MaCorp is saying “thank you” and continues to humbly provide

the required product and social support to an increasing client base and developing community towards ensuring that they are successful in their business and everyday life.

Customers are enjoying less downtime in the mines, easier and more affordable access to spares and access to the many integrated solutions offered under the company’s preventative maintenance scheme, which lends to the reduction of harmful mining practices.

“The residents are and will continue to benefit from our community enhancement projects.

“Our core business in Port Kaituma is product support and towards helping our customers to do more, MaCorp is offering a discount of five per cent off all Cat parts from November 20 to 27.”

MaCorp Machinery Corporation of Guyana Limited is a sustainable integrated solutions provider and Guyana’s sole authorised Caterpillar dealer.

Eyew tness

R...from Gaskin

amon Gaskin’s been a fixture on the political scene for quite a while. If one isn’t too sure of the meaning of the word “gadfly” - think Gaskin. Basically, he gets his nose in things about which he doesn’t even have the faintest acquaintance.

His shtick is to get a rise from folks who’re not on his good books. With the prorogation issue occupying centre stage now, it would’ve been more than passing strange if Gaskin hadn’t plunged in. As usual, he just demonstrated that he’s way out of his depth.

The first “point” Gaskin makes is a howler. He claims the prorogation power of the President in Article 70 must be seen “in the context of the entire Constitution”. Fair enough. He should’ve quit while he was ahead. He then asserts that since the Opposition has the power and (presently) capacity to pass a No-Confidence Motion, then the President’s power of prorogation is null and void!!

So we guess by this Gaskinian flight of fancy, if perchance, the Opposition had actually passed its No-Confidence Motion, the President could’ve claimed that “within the context of the entire Constitution, his prorogation power made the No-Confidence Motion “null and void””! An irresistible force meeting an immovable object and all that. Kaboom!!!

Lest we be accused of unnecessarily cavilling with Gaskin, let’s quote a commentary from the 2013 “Canadian Parliamentary Review” commenting on how PM Harper, facing in December 2008 an imminent Vote of NoConfidence in the House of Commons, sought and received consent from the Governor General for Parliament be prorogued until January 26, 2009.

“Any analysis of the prorogation of Parliament of December 4, 2008 must differentiate between the formal loss of confidence and an imminent loss of confidence. A formal loss of confidence occurs when a majority of the Members of Parliament of the House of Commons ...carry a motion of non-confidence.

“Public statements or written declarations signed outside the House of Commons would constitute an imminent or perceived loss of confidence in the Government. The principle of Parliamentary sovereignty means that only the will of the House as an institution prevails. This does not include the opinions of a group of Members of Parliament speaking outside of the House of Commons. Confidence can only be withdrawn on a formal vote, not in an extraparliamentary fashion or forum.

“An imminent or perceived loss of confidence differs substantively from a formal loss of confidence; therefore, the idea that the Governor General should ever treat an imminent loss of confidence as a formal loss must be rejected.”

Will Gaskin now retire gracefully?? We doubt it.

...from Nagamootoo

The AFC - via Nagamootoo, the man who’ll be its Presidential Candidate if Ramjattan is allowed to run roughshod over the party’s principles - went into raptures over the Ombudsman’s “Report” on the allegations of the fired NBS Executives. And why not?

The Ombudsman - with the vigour and eagerness of the typical “new broom” - went on like a bull in a China Shop after the reputations of several governmental officersincluding Nagamootoo’s bête noir former President Jagdeo - on absolutely nothing more that the complainant «he seh, she seh» kind of hearsay.

Now we can forgive Nagamootoo›s effusiveness over the report - after all, as the only man who heard Cheddi Jagan anoint him his successor - he›s understandably miffed («pissed??) that he was passed over for Jagdeo. And then again he might›ve slept through his recent classes in «Evidence» at Law School. It›s a bitch to keep awake in your 70s.

But what›s Moore›s excuse?? Can›t be just the «new broom» syndrome. APNU sleeper who got past the PPP/C›s radar??

...looking for himself

Granger presented quite a quandary to his minions at his party’s picketing of OP. One placard asked, “Where is the dictator??” When Granger finally arrived, even his own staff swivelled to look at him!!! Oops!!

US LEAD Project to be completed next year

– Parika residents participate in town hall meeting

BY ALEXIS RODNEY

he United States

TLeadership and Democracy Project (LEAD) is expected to be completed in the New Year as there are still several aspects to be rolled out in other communities across the country.

This was confirmed by Chief of Party of the LEAD Project in Guyana, Glen Bradbury during an interview with the Guyana Times on Wednesday evening.

The other aspects of the LEAD project are going relatively well, Bradbury reported.

He said there is a lot of work that still needs to be done with the Women and gender groups.

He related too that the International Republican Institute (IRI) has been in-

strumental in offering assistance to the National Council of Youth, carrying out numerous training sessions with youth groups across the country.

“There are so many Guyanese that are classified as youth so it is important that they have a voice”.

Quoting article 28 of Guyana’s constitution, he reminded that the youth is mandated to have a voice in the operations within the country.

“We have more to go and more to do and we keep the format all the way through. We anticipate that we will complete this when we finish all the regions that we have to go too and municipalities."

He said he has even had consultations with Culture Youth and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony to address issues affecting the

youth.

A third of the IRI’s programme is holding consultations with the National Assembly to provide capacity building enhancement for members of Parliament based on discussions with them he said the Institute in this instance listens to see what the issues are and offer assistance.

Although the National assembly is in recess, Bradbury said, the institute is still seeking to carry out meetings with staff members.

“It’s all part of the advancement of democracy which is the objective of IRI”, Bradbury told Guyana Times

Meanwhile, the LEAD Project was on Wednesday evening rolled out in Region Three (West DemeraraEssequibno Islands) when consultations on local government elections were held with residents of Parika.

Consultations

The consultations focused on their rights and responsibilities as electorates.

The meeting, held at the Parika Salem Secondary School, was one of several more to be held by the IRI.

While the turnout was less than expected, those present paid rapt attention to Chief of Party of the LEAD Project in Guyana, Glen Bradbury as he led out in the consultation.

The LEAD Programme, which has already held

NAPS completes 3rd phase of Behavioural Surveillance Survey

The third phase of the National Aids Programme Secretariat’s (NAPS) Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey (BBSS) has been deemed the most successful since the pilot survey commenced in 2013.

A meeting held at Cara Lodge today, saw a wide stakeholder group, comprising Coordinators of the National HIV/AIDS Programme, representatives from Civil Society groups, members of the key populations, International technical agencies, external funding partners and other stakeholders, being presented with the results of the survey.

The meeting was aimed also at identifying ways to deal with the situation as it relates to gaps and the way forward.

Compared to the previous studies this BBSS has had a greater appreciation of the transgender population and a more in-depth approach towards indentifying gaps in this regard.

The project covered nine of the country’s ten administrative regions of which

1233 persons were for the first time tested for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/ AIDS). In addition, the survey which was conducted in two phases; the Hinterland and Coastland Phases also saw individuals undergoing malaria, Anemia, Syphilis and Hepatitis B testing.

The objective of the project was to estimate the prevalence of infections and HIV prevention programmes in the identified areas.

The goal was to better understand the level of HIV education and to gather information on persons’ behaviour towards the said topic and the utilisation of the level of education that is available to them.

The Hinterland aspect focused on logging and mining sites while the Coastal aspect emphasised on the towns and the more popular social spots where sexual activities were more prevalent. One Neighbourhood Democratic Council in each region was also chosen to be a part of this survey.

Speaking at the dissemination meeting today, NAPS

Director Dr Shanti Singh pointed out that overall 196 sites were indentified in the Hinterland while 751 on the Coastland, bringing the total figure to 947 sites being identified.

A total of 3804 interviews were conducted with persons who were more familiar with the areas such as bar owners and workers, miners, taxi drivers and other such individuals who were able to identify the regular spots. These venues were then compared and the ones that were popular or mentioned by several interviewees were chosen.

In terms of locations, informal bars have been identified as the most popular spot for persons to meet sex partners or to engage with potential sex partners. This was recorded to be 43.5%.

Dr Singh noted that the survey shows of all the locations identified 44.5% offer free condoms while 27.1% have them on sale. It was also noted that most of the areas saw persons between the ages 15-16 being sexually active and in the male population the age range was lower in some areas.

(GINA Extract)

meetings in the New Amsterdam, Rose Hall, Rosignol, Georgetown and Linden municipalities, has at its objective, to provide the much needed information to local Guyanese on their democratic rights and responsibilities.

“The objective has been the same as in every meeting we have had across the country. This is number six and we have another five or six to do which will go into the New Year.

Information

"It’s just trying to provide information to people

Speaking on the successes of the programme, which commenced earlier this year, he said the attendance has been inconsistent across the country; however the objectives are being met.

“But we will do, no matter how many persons come out we will keep the programme going so that we could get out the message we wish to get out. If it’s really bad we may have to even come again”.

Detailed information was disseminated on local government, its functions, and the structure.

tion process is being undertaken in active partnership with a variety of national institutions, including the National Assembly, the Guyana Elections Commission, the Women and Gender Equality Commission, various youth organisations and civil society.

Civic education

He said the programme, on August 15, held consultations with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that are interested in providing information on civic educa-

who will be voting so that whenever the elections come they could be prepared.”

The meetings are being held at a time when President Donald Ramotar has indicated that the long overdue Local Government election could be held by the second quarter of next year.

Bradbury said the project will take the backburner during the holiday season and will resume early January.

The meeting highlighted too the eligibility of voters, their responsibilities as well as the voting process.

Just recently, US Embassy Charge d’Affaires Bryan Hunt had said that the USAID and IRI were currently in dialogue with a wide cross-section of stakeholders to implement the programme’s activities in key areas.

Hunt had told Guyana Times that the implementa-

tion and Local Government Elections.

According to Hunt, sessions with civil society will include the town-hall public meetings, which will be conducted throughout September in selected communities in Guyana. The US Embassy Charge d’Affaires, said following formal consultation with the parliamentary leadership, an initial activity work plan has been developed.

GT, de world and de underworld

GT used to mean George Town a long time ago. People used to call it de garden city. Now GT mean Garbage Town. De whole country know that. Almost de whole world know that too, because GT people deh almost all over de world.

Some GT people even deh in de underworld, like de Paper Man. That, fuh sure, ain’t no hearsay. It got full documentation to that effect right among de same worlda people who Paper Man like to run to.

Is no wonder Paper Man never doubt de underworld story. Now he like to tink that he own de world. But one of he own reporter seh Paper Man only deh in he own lil world, ever since he two Lexus world get tek way.

De reporter even seh that right now Paper Man wish it was de end of de world. But Paper Man world only got one endin. That gon be inside four wall wid a lil grill window. And that is de Camp Street world.

As usual when de rain start to fall in GT,

Green Ham does start to hide, not only from GT, but from de whole world. And de other Green does turn yellow and hide in Green Ham world. But every ting whah dem doin (or not doin) deh in plain sight fuh de whole world. On de other hand, Roy Stone does deh in a different world.

So no Greens in sight, except fuh Green Jah of course who does run de AP-NOO world. After all, de rains give he another reason to protest on another day and wid another setta people in dem own world. But right now Green Jah still can’t put foot in de Linden world.

Last time Green Jah been to de Linden world, de Kiss Woman turn he whole world upside down. Now Green Jah can’t figure out whah in de world he must do or don’t do.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend… mattie tell mattie! Meantime, Rum Jhaat and Nagga Man hidin from de world at large, albeit, wid two large. That is dem world.

Rainfall levels higher than 2005

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

Guyana has recorded the highest rainfall in decades, resulting in widespread flooding, the Hydrometerlogical Service reported on Thursday.

The highest level of rainfall was recorded at 186.6mm in Georgetown, Region 4 following approximately 12 hours of heavy downpours.

This new record surpasses the levels recorded during the great floods of 2005.

The Hydrometerlogical Service said it was in receipt of a number of reports from rainfall stations across the country at 8hrs on Thursday.

“These reports give a total accumulated rainfall between 8hr November 19 to 8hr on November 20. The highest rainfall reported thus far was recorded at Georgetown in Region Four with 186.6mm,” the Hydromet Office explained.

In a joint press conference at his Kingston Office with Public Works Minister Robeson Benn was joined by Junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, and Local Government and Regional Development Minister Norman Whittaker, It was explained that in 2005, the highest level of rainfall was recorded at 166.1mm. The November 19-20th record signals a 20mm increase. It was also reported that some 7 ¾ inches of rainwater was accumulated over a period of 24hrs, resulting in extensive flooding across Guyana, in particular the coastal, low lying and riverine areas.

With such intense rainfall, the Public Works Minister said flooding is expected, explaining that the current drainage network which has been established for more than 100 years, has the capacity to facilitate approximately 1 ½ inches of rain in a period of 24 hours.

Given the difficulty with excessive rainfall, Minister Benn anticipated that flood waters will remain on land for

another two-three days in the worse affected areas.

“Let me emphasize that the significant problem is that we have 5 or 6 percent times more than the normal rainfall that could be handled through the drainage infrastructure that exist on the coast in the country.”

Equipped with an engineering team from the Public Works Ministry and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, the three ministers assessed the flood affected areas in the city, in addition to the drainage infrastructure to determine the magnitude of work that needs to be done in an effort to mitigate flooding.

“Going forward, we will look where we can along with the Agriculture Ministry and the Drainage and Irrigation Authority to see where we can put in pumps, to see where we need enhanced drainage,” Minister Benn added.

Public Works Ministry Technical Advisor and Hydraulic Engineer Walter Willis explained that in Georgetown there are eleven (11) sluices that will help flood waters to recede from the land.

These sluices have been erected in Kingston, Ruimveldt, River View, Meadow Bank and in the vicinities of John Fernandes and Muneshwar. Sluices are also located along Lamaha, Princess and Sussex Streets It was pointed out that there are two sluices at Meadow Bank, one draining Ruimveldt while the other operates Vieira Estates. Additionally, there are pumps in place some of which remain dysfunctional.

Willis said, “should we have the maintenance stepped in the tertiary system to bring the water to these main drainage canals that serve these sluices, then surely we will be able to get the water off.” He said the situation is further compounded by the pollution problem which continues to face the city and by extension the rest of Guyana. It was explained that plastics, bottles and other debris continue to be major hindrance to the drainage system.

Meanwhile, Junior Finance Minister Bishop Edghill said “there is no need to panic.”

Heavy downpours cause widespread flooding

Various sections in and around the city were severely flooded following heavy downpours on Thursday causing the closure of schools and some businesses.

Areas such as Albouystown and South Ruimveldt were also severely affected by floodwaters.

Persons who reside in bottom flat homes and apartments said they woke up to the shock of water in their bedrooms.

“In my sleep, I heard the rain but I didn’t think anything. This morning when I woke up and put down my foot, I jump! Water! Me in the height of my sleep, I still didn’t think it was a flood,” one resident of Albouystown said.

When this newspaper visited Albouystown, persons were seen using an old improvised freezer as a canoe to traverse along certain streets, while others sat at the corner of the road and consumed alcohol as a means of diverting their thoughts from the losses they would have incurred as a result of the floods.

Waters were as high as one foot high in some ar-

Some car drivers complained about floodwaters reaching the inside of their vehicles and some even believed that the magnitude of the flood surpassed Guyana’s worst ever flood in 2005.

Garbage pile-up

residents expressed concern about sicknesses that may arise following the flood.

“They will have to bring vaccine and tablets for us, we will get sick with this water,” one Albouystown resident exclaimed.

but some persons are claiming that the preparations were not enough.

“The Government keep saying ‘Because We Care’, well they have to show care for everyone. We are in a crisis here. Where will I sleep? How will I get money to replace all these things I loss?” Annette McLennan, an Albouystown resident said.

Markets flooded

The Bourda Market was completely flooded on the inside and as a result was closed for business on Thursday. However, vendors operating on the outside of the market remained open for business. Vendors who sell dry goods estimated their losses to be hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The preparedness of businessmen along Regent and Water streets was astonishing. Almost every business was elevated while others had sandbags at their entrances to prevent the entry of floodwaters.

back in the swamp to take them back home.

As Guyana Times passed through the city, many schools were seen closed and some children were on the streets making the most of their day off school.

lamented to grab the attention of anyone who would lend an ear to their problems.

Persons living in the Queenstown area took this newspaper into their home to show the extent of damages to their properties by floodwaters.

The Government had prepared for the rainy season by cleaning and clearing drains in around the city while vendors along

eas. Central streets such as Camp, Regent, and Lamaha were almost entirely covered by water.

Traffic congestion became rampant along these main streets as vehicle drivers tried to maneuver through the floodwaters.

As the floodwaters slowly began to recede during the course of the day, garbage and other forms of debris surfaced in the center of the roadways in the city. In some areas, the streets were covered with garbage and water. Residents in Albouystown had to cope with garbage entering their homes. These

Regent Street indulged in cleaning drains to ward off floodwaters from the anticipated rainy season.

The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) also acquired mobile pumps to remove excess water from the land

Meanwhile, through the ‘Clean up My Country’ campaign, the community cleanup campaign was a smaller aspect of a broader spectrum.

Residents of Albouystown, West Ruimveldt and other areas came out in numbers to facilitate the cleaning of their neighbourhoods.

Residents cleaned drains to the base, removed silt and garbage, but during the floods, they said the cleaning did not reduce the much anticipated impact of the floodwaters.

“We seh after we clean the place the water would not have been this high but we fool we self,” one resident said.

Schools closed

“This morning, all the children I took to school… I had to take back home. Them nah got no school,” one taxi driver said as he complained of the flood situation in his neighbourhood, Sophia.

He added that he walked through swamp because of the floods to take his children to school and traverse

At the St.Pius Community Center ground, some teenage boys engaged in a game of football, while

Quincy Jupiter, who oversees his sister’s home,

in Albouytsown some children ran back and forth in the water.

In other neighbourhoods, some children found it entertaining to sit on the verandah’s and look at the vehicles pass through the floodwaters.

Irate residents

Residents in the badly flooded areas stood at the corner of the road ways and

estimated the extent of the damages would cost his sister thousands of dollars. “I know the Government has been doing a lot but I would like to see them do more. It’s every year we have to deal with this.”

“Come and see my house! All my cabinet loosing off at the bottom! My daughter just got me this cabinet for my birthday…I can’t take this!” Patricia Adam said.

PSC calls for national inquiry into flooding

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has called on the Government of Guyana to ensure areas affected by flood waters are drained as soon as possible while giving its commitment to explore opportunities to assist.

A press release from the organization on Thursday demanded the Government, both central and local, provide support to aid in cleanup, and recovery of household items belonging to those affected by the floods. The PSC said businesses and the poor households

have suffered millions of dollars in losses due to the flood.

The commission was of the opinion that the quantum of rainfall was unusual for the time period it fell but said it is concerned that the leaders of the nation have once again been caught off guard.

“The alert mechanisms, forecasters and administrators both in central and local government have disappointed us in their proactively and reaction to this development.”

PSC attacked the Government’s initiatives to ensure a cleaner and healthier Guyana such as the

‘Cleanup My Country’ campaign. It said the situation is unfolding even after millions have been spent on Doppler weather stations; hundreds of millions spent on drainage and irrigation annually, billions spent on the significantly delayed Hope Canal Project.

However, recently, Lionel Wordsworth of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) said each fur component of the Hope Canal Project and reliable on each other to function. He highlighted the completion of the eight gate sluice as the last compo-

nent stalling the completion of the project.

However, Wordsworth has given December 31 as another deadline for the completion of the project as Government officials come express their desire for the completion of the canal, which is expected to increase drainage and minimize flooding at the Mahaica/Mahaicony and Abary areas.

The PSC also called systems to be put in place for weather advisories to be sent out to the public to keep them abreast with expectations over the next few days. They

called for an assessment of damages for possible financial assistance to aid in recovery of those affected; it was highlighted that the uninsured must be taken into consideration.

PSC appealed to members of the public to allow the spirit of goodwill and friendship to prevail. The PSC blamed natural causes and poor governance for the flooding and suggested a national inquiry be undertaken to ensure the true causes of the problem are known to improve the level of alertness and reaction processes in the future.

Child Rights Toolkit launched

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative Marianne Flach said investment in the child should be a top most priority, as this will allow them to become positive members of society.

She expressed the sentiments at the eve of the 25th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the launching of a children’s toolkit on Wednesday.

“Children should be our highest priority, and we should invest time and resources into ensuring that all children have the opportunity to survive and thrive, and grow up to reach their full potential. Investing in the health, education and protection for children, especially the most vulnerable groups, can contribute positively to improving their lives, communities, and society as a whole,” she said.

The toolkit is basically a manual aimed to provide practical guidance on how to integrate a child right approach in developing programmes, budgets, policy and law-making.

It offers a collection of tools and hands-on guidance on how children’s rights and initiatives to promote the well-being of children can effectively be applied to all programmes in de-

ing the rights of children and the importance of empowering them.

“Across the world, thousands of children are denied the rights which many of us often take for granted. Many are still unable to go to school.

velopment assistance.

The toolkit consists of eight modules on key areas, each containing associated tools for application.

Flach, Family for Every Child Senior Advisor Kate Riordan and EU Ambassador Robert Kopecky, all spoke on the importance of recognis-

They are recruited into armed forces. They are forced into marriage at an early age. They have to work to provide for their family. In short, they are denied the basic human rights and the opportunity to meet their full potential as they grow up,”

Ambassador Kopecky said.

Additionally, Flach noted that even though society’s efforts are progressive, there still continues to be high rates of violence and abuse which can cause great harm to children who may be witnesses or victims.

“We must all commit to breaking the silence and put an end to all forms of abuse against children.”

Since the establishment of the Rights of the Child Convention some 25 years ago, there has been a drastic decrease in the number of children who suffer.

More children have access to safety, security, protection, health-care, education and basic attention.

Stakeholders such as Governments and society are working more to ensure the rights of children are recognised. More countries develop schemes and programmes to ensure more children have access to better home and safer environments.

Riordan said, “We also know that countless more children still wait for their rights to be realised.”

The launching of the Childs Right Toolkit took place at the EU Ambassador’s residence. The evening saw a dramatic performance from the Merundoi cast, singing from Nia Allen and Achasha Harte and a steelpan selection from the Lodge Secondary School.

Digicel welcomes stance taken by ECTEL

– in relation to proposed acquisition of Columbus by Cable and Wireless

Digicel has welcomed the confirmation by the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ECTEL) that the proposed merger between Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) and Columbus Communications Inc (Columbus) is a matter of significant public interest for the region deserving of rigourous regulatory attention and diligent review.

In a statement issued, ECTEL announced its ‘deep concern’ in relation to the proposed transaction and the fact that the proposed merger could ‘potentially result in a negative impact on competition’ by ‘reducing choice for consumers of both services and service providers’.

ECTEL further noted that ‘increased monopolisation can erode the gains made by liberalisation’. ECTEL went on to state that the proposed merger raises significant issues in terms of potential breaches of licences by both CWC and Columbus which must be investigated thoroughly.

In announcements to the financial markets, CWC and Columbus stated that regulatory notifications and approvals would only be required in the United States, Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad. Digicel regards these dismissive statements as constituting an insult to the regulatory authorities and Governments of the ECTEL member states; and particularly those of Grenada, St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Digicel is heartened to note that ECTEL and the local National Telecommunications Regulatory Commissions (NTRCs) in each member

state have signalled their determination to stand up and be counted in the face of such dismissive statements to the financial markets.

Digicel confirms its willingness and desire to engage with ECTEL and the NTRCs in each member state such that a proper rigourous review of the telecommunications markets and the proposed acquisition can be undertaken. It is only on foot of such a review that any worthwhile assessment of the proposed acquisition on competition and consumer welfare can be conducted properly and responsibly.

Digicel Group Chief Executive Officer Colm Delves commented, “We very much welcome this intervention by ECTEL and its expression of support for a rigorous regulatory examination of the proposed acquisition. Digicel was taken aback by the dismissive position of CWC/Columbus that the Governments of the ECTEL member states and the established regulatory authorities in those countries were essentially powerless and had no right to oversee the proposed merger.

The fact that CWC and Columbus are seeking to essentially put a gun to the heads of the Caribbean regulatory authorities and Governments to approve their transaction on their terms, and according to their own self-declared timetables is also a cause for alarm.”

He continued: “Digicel believes that ECTEL and the NTRCs in each member state have an absolute right, morally as well as legally, to subject the proposed merger to a rigorous examination and approvals process in collaboration with their respective Governments and relevant ministerial bodies.”

Mangrove Project boosted with training of tour guides

The Iwokrama International Centre (IIC) has concluded training for bird-watching and tour guides under the Mangrove Restoration Project, with emphasis on Hope Beach and Greenfield communities.

The training was done at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC). The Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development was asked to coordinate the training due to their knowledge in the field.

The training of guides covered elements such as communication, leadership, effective management and community-based tourism.

For birds-watching, it touched on areas such as bird identification techniques and understanding bird habitats.

Annette Arjoon-Martins of the Mangrove Restoration Project

said with the Tourism Ministry’s recognition of Hope Beach as a prime bird-watching site, more attention is being placed on mangroves in the area. Martin explained that the training also touched on other ar-

eas since rangers work in the natural habitat.

As such, she said visits to the Rupununi and a variety of bird locations were incorporated into the training to ensure sound application of what was learnt.

She informed this publication that bird experts Waldyke Prince and Leon Moore were instrumental with such outside excursions as they facilitated the efforts of the rangers to learn about the different species of birds and more of

what bird -watching entails.

Iwokrama Operations Manager Paul Waldron, who also addressed the workshop, spoke on leadership, effective management and customer relations.

Martins said training in leadership skills was important as the rangers have to know to take command of the tours they conduct.

Jimmy Itwaru, a ranger from Hope Beach, said the training on bird-watching was particularly interesting for him as visitors of the mangrove query about the various types of birds that Hope Beach host.

Kevin Ragnauth of Greenfield spoke about the importance of the training and the fact that they complement each other as being a tour guide entails being knowledgeable about the various species of bird.

US Embassy observes International Education Week

The US Embassy observed the 15th Annual International Educational Week from November 17-21 by donating four computer systems and four back-up battery power supplies to the National Library of Guyana to increase access to information.

In brief remarks to acting Chief Librarian and staff, Embassy Public Affairs Officer Bobby Adelson stated, “Education is a right. With the donation of these computers, the US Embassy hopes to provide greater access to research and reference materials to the people of Guyana. Specifically when thinking about young people, access to information is one way in which they can augment their intellectual capital and support their educational framework.”

Through its American Spots located at the National and University of Guyana libraries, the Embassy also offer resources year round to assist young people is pursuing university studies in the United States. The American Spots features guide books on selecting a college or university, information on the university application process, scholarship guides, books on how to write strong college application essays, and resources to help students prepare for standardised tests.

International Education Week 2014 is being observed under the theme, “International Education is for Everyone”.

“International education is crucial to building relationships between people and communities in the United States and around the world. It is through these relationships that together we can solve glob-

al challenges like climate change, the spread of pandemic disease, and combatting violent extremism,” Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Evan M Ryan said.

“We also need to expand access to international education for students from more diverse backgrounds, in more diverse locations of study, getting more diverse types of degrees. Only by engaging multiple perspectives within our societies can we all reap the numerous benefits of international education – increased global competence, self-awareness and resiliency, and the ability to compete in the 21st century economy,” Assistant Secretary Ryan remarked.

Through President Obama’s 100,000 Strong in the Americas initiative, innovative new partnerships are being developed with the business sector, higher education sector, and Governments from across the hemisphere to dramatically increase opportunities for educational exchange between the United States and the Americas. The US Embassy in Guyana is committed to continue working with potential students to guide them with the admissions, visa, and financial information they need in order to successfully prepare and apply for study in the United States.

During the 2013/14 academic year, the number of international students at colleges and universities in the United States increased by eight per cent to a record high of 886,052, confirming once again that the United States remains the destination of choice for higher education.

The report also found

Some schools in flood-affected areas to remain closed today

The Education Ministry wishes to advise the public that all public schools in Georgetown will remain closed today, to facilitate the sanitisation of the facilities.

Meanwhile, schools in Regions Two, Three, and Five with the exception

of the Bygeval Secondary School will be reopened.

Parents and guardians of Region Four (East Bank and East Coast) are asked to note that most schools will be reopened today, with the exception of the following:

• Clonbrook Primary Clonbrook Nursery

• Enmore Primary Ghandi Memorial Nursery

Providence Primary

• Chateau Margot Primary

Chateau Margot Nursery

Ann's Grove Primary

• Ann's Grove Nursery Unity Nursery

Weather advisory

Today: Cloudy skies can be expected in Regions One to Four and Seven with frequent showers and scattered thundershowers. In other areas, partly cloudy skies will become cloudy with scattered showers. Rainfall is expected to range between 0.0 mm and 45.0 mm.

Saturday: Cloudy to overcast skies with showers can be expected throughout Guyana with scattered showers over coastal areas with isolated thunderstorms during the morning becoming partly sunny into the afternoon. In other areas, isolat-

that more American students – a total of 289,408 –studied abroad for academic credit from their US colleges and universities, although the two per cent increase represents a slightly slower rate of growth than the previous year.

Currently, 246 Guyanese students are studying in the United States, an increase of 19.4 per cent from the previous year. The Open Doors report is published annually by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Education USA is a network of hundreds of advising centres in 170 countries, where millions of international students each year find accurate, comprehensive, and current information about how to apply to accredited US colleges and universities and can be accessed at http:// www.educationusa.info/.

The Education USA network is supported by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), which strives to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.

Ted showers can be expected. Rainfall is expected to range between 0.0 mm and 30.0 mm.

Sunday: Mainly overcast skies can be expected throughout northern Guyana with intermittent rain and scattered to occasional thundershowers. Rainfall intensities are likely to be moderate to heavy and accompanied by gusty winds. For southern Guyana, partly sunny skies can be expected. Rainfall is expected to range between 0.0 mm and 60.0 mm. Highest in areas of Regions One to Three.

Urgent dialogue needed for developing framework for regional energy trade – Caricom Energy Programme Manager

There is an urgent need for dialogue that identifies the commitments and the steps that are necessary for developing a framework for regional trade in energy, Caricom Secretariat Energy Programme Manager, Dr Devon Gardner said.

The existing regional trade framework is focused on market access for goods and services and is not designed to tackle energy trade and investments.

The framework should be comprehensive, dealing with trade in multiple energy supplies: oil, gas, solid and liquid biofuels, as well as electricity.

Dr Gardner was, at the time, speaking in Lowlands Bay, St Vincent and the Grenadines at the launching of Caricom Energy Week 2014.

The week was officially launched by St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves.

Other speakers at the launch included Ellsworth Dacon, Director of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Energy Unit; Rene Baptiste, Chairman VINLEC Board of Directors; Dr Andreas Tauber who represent-

ed the German Technical Cooperation agency, GIZ; and Libby DeLucia who represented the Clinton Global Climate Initiative.

Caricom Energy Week is being observed regionwide from November16-22 under the theme “Achieving Climate and Economic Resilience through Sustainable Energy”.

A framework for regional trade in energy, Dr Gardner said, would have the effect of decreasing dependence on extra-regional supplies, which would strengthen regional energy security and “deepen the Caricom integration process through the treatment of energy resources – both conventional and renewables – in individual member states, as a regional good”.

Continuing within the context of using energy as a tool for integration, Dr Gardner drew attention to the fact that the Caricom Energy Policy, approved by the COTED of Energy Ministers in March 2013, addresses regional energy security and energy trade. He, however, pointed that there was an absence of a regional mechanism through which this would be implemented so that, for exam-

ple, the biofuel potential in Guyana would provide St Vincent and the Grenadines with increased energy security, with respect to both the predictability in pricing and supply that is desired in a sustainable energy economy.

He told his audience that the biggest inhibitor to sustainable growth in the majority of Caricom countries was the unpredictable and mostly high cost of imported fuels on which member states were almost completely dependent.

“… the cyclical escalation of global crude oil prices makes the Caricom economies extremely vulnerable to oil price shocks, and the establishment of stable and affordable energy prices can lower the cost of input into the various productive sectors, thereby endowing the economies of member states with increased competitiveness,” said Dr Gardner.

He added that the volume of GDP and foreign exchange resources that Caricom member states continue to pay for expensive, energy imports could have otherwise been directed to making the investments necessary for driving sustainable growth.

he Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is calling on residents of the low coastal regions of Guyana to implement precautionary measures in the event of excessive rainfall and flooding.

The entity in a release said should water supply be compromised due to flooding, persons must ensure that all tap water intended for food, drink preparation and

personal consumption (brushing of teeth etc) is boiled for at least one minute.

Ensure that boiled water, while cooling before use, is stored in a tightly covered container.

“Alternatively, water can be made safe by using household bleach: add three to four drops of household bleach to each gallon of water; mix well and allow to stand

for 30 minutes before use. Again, ensure that treated water is stored in a tightly covered container.

“Further, customers are advised to promptly repair all leaking pipelines within their premises. For further information, customers are advised to call our Customer Services Call Centre on 227-8701/03/04 or visit www.gwiguyana.com,” the release concluded.

TUF plans comeback at next elections

BY ALEXIS RODNEY

Years after suffering a major blow at the General Elections, losing its single seat in theNational Assembly, The United Force (TUF) party said it is on the road to recovery, working on the ground to make a huge comeback and regain the support it once had.

At the last General Election in 2011, the party lost the only seat it held in Parliament, after failing miserably in the electoral polls.

Out of 300,000 electors casting their ballots on Election Day, only 885 voted for the party which has been within the political ambit since 1950.

Since then the party has been keeping a dormant profile, creating the notion that it has fallen off the political corridor.

But the party on Thursday said that unlike popular belief, the political body is not dead.

Recently sworn in Attorney-at-Law Marissa Nadir has been holding the reins of leadership for just over two years.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Thursday, Nadir said the party is currently on the frontline seeking to regain what has been seemingly destroyed.

“Persons think that The United Force is non-existent now, but it is not,” she said.

“I can assure persons that The United Force still exists. The executive still remains the same.

"We accept that we have had challenges and have had to regroup but we have maintained contact and presence with our supporters, not only in Georgetown, but throughout the country and we are working to get these people back together.”

The most significant challenge the party faced was the in house fight for leadership; a court battle which came to an end some two weeks before the General Elections in 2011.

At the helm of that conflict was the party’s for-

mer leader Valerie GarridoLowe, who after a bitter dispute with the party’s leadership, joined forces with the Alliance For Change (AFC). She has since been serving as a Member of Parliament with that party.

Nadir said the party was unable to carry out any major campaigns across the country and bring clarification to supporters who had strongly believed that the party had some major faction and had split up.

She said by the time the court case came to an end the party was “head on” into the election.

There have been talks that with Garrido-Lowe’s departure, strong support for the party had also waned especially in the party’s stronghold, the interior regions.

She said Garrido-Lowe’s conflict had erupted widespread confusion among supporters as to the “real” party leader.

She said her party was forced to take the little time available to do some “damage control” and this has been continuing over the last two years.

Nadir maintains that her party remains TUF and has not coalesced with any political party, neither does it have the desire to do so.

Asked about the party’s preparedness for any eventuality of a snap elections Nadir said the party has always been contesting General Elections in Guyana since its formation.

She said there is no intention of the party ever changing that track record.

“So yes we will be in a position to contest the election, and yes, we are preparing to contest this election.”

She said the party is confident that that it will regain the support it once had, noting too that there is an increased possibility of the TUF reining in fresh support this time around especially since there are younger persons as executive members.

“The fact that we have younger persons we are more connected with the younger persons, we know what we want from the Government and we believe that there is much to be desired from the leaders of this country and having the experience that I have had.

“I have been on the political trail for a long time campaigning since I was in my teens across the country. I have the experience and the knowledge,” Nadir said.

TUF first contested national elections in 1964 when it received 12.4 percent of the vote and won seven seats, becoming the junior partner in a coalition Government with the People’s National Congress (PNC). That was the best showing of the party in an election.

In the 1968 elections its share of the vote fell to 7.4 percent and it was reduced to four seats.

The party did not contest any elections during the 1970s, but returned in 1980, receiving 2.9 percent of the vote and winning two seats.

It retained the two seats in the 1985 elections, before being reduced to a single seat in 1992.

The party retained its single seat in elections in 1997, 2001 and 2006, but lost it in the 2011 elections.

Nadir's father, former Government Minister and now People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament, Manzoor Nadir, was the TUF's longtime leader and MP before crossing the floor and becoming a member of the ruling party.

Rainfall levels higher...

He said while drainage infrastructures were in place, visits were also made to affected areas particularly in the South of Georgetown where there are numerous bottom flats that have been affected. He said every effort should be made to ensure that there is minimum damage at the household level. Though the ‘Clean Up My Country Campaign’ is moving apace, Minister Edghill said a significant amount of plastic and debris can be seen floating in flood waters. “Citizens should be reminded that we are in all in this together,” noting that the illegal dump-

Demerara Bank celebrates 20th anniversary

Demerara Bank Limited Chief Executive Officer

Pravinchandra Dave has extended a huge “thank you” to the Chairman, Board of Director, staff and customers as the bank celebrated its 20th anniversary on Thursday.

The bank in a release praising its management and staff for their tireless dedication and support, also thanked their customers, shareholders, well-wishers and the general public for their overwhelming and continued support and patronage during the years, noting that without them, it would not have realised the success it enjoys today.

Demerara Bank opened its doors to the general public on November 21, 1994 at their head office located at 230 Camp and South

Streets, Georgetown, being the only Guyanese bank at the forefront of providing innovative and superior banking services, with the aim of proving the best possible service in banking.

Demerara Bank has also parented five other locations throughout the country to serve its customers.

Over the years, the financial institution has performed remarkably well in all areas, showing a continuous growth in profit for the last 20 years.

The mission of the bank is to help build a stronger, healthier, more diverse business sector through prudent investment, attractive deposit plans and innovative lending policies.

“Our aim is to excel in providing innovative and superior banking services through well-trained, dedi-

cated and courteous staff in the interest of our customers and shareholders and to fulfill our social responsibilities to society through meaningful involvement in community development.

“In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the bank in the coming weeks will be launching its VISA credit cards. Demerara Bank is the only principal member of VISA in Guyana and we plan to pass on all benefits of this type of membership to our customers. We will also be the only bank in Guyana to have a Signature Visa Card. The bank is also hopeful to open its corporate office by 2015. We would also like to extend to you our valued customers and friends a warm and joyous season and a prosperous new year,” the release concluded.

Georgetown’s 2015 Budget in limbo – completed but not approved by Council

The Georgetown Mayor and City Council’s 2015 Budget Estimate has been completed but it is yet to be submitted to the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry.

From page 10

ing of garbage remains a major problem.

Nevertheless he said, citizens in flood prone areas should take the necessary precautions to avoid water borne infections. “We don’t want to have any outbreak of any epidemic or any spread of disease.”

Subject Minister Norman Whitaker explained that the budget received the approval of the Council’s Finance Committee but approval at the level of the council is still pending. “It must have the approval of the Council before it is submitted to the Local Government Ministry,” he explained.

But given the track record of the Council in recent months, it is unclear when

Statutory Meeting will be held to have the Budget Estimates approved, allowing for the submission.

“There have been statutory meetings at the council, some of them aborted due to quarrels between the council and staff, for reasons difficult to understand, some of these meetings have been terminated before completion of the agenda,” the Minister explained.

The Georgetown Mayor and City Council is the only municipality that did not meet the November 15, 2014 deadline for the submission of budget estimates to the Local Government Ministry.

In a bid to have normal-

cy reinstated at the council, Minister Whittaker said he will be meeting with the senior Administration of the Council to discuss a number of issues.

However the Local Government Minister made it clear that he will not allow the deficiencies of the Georgetown Mayor and Town Council to affect other municipalities in Guyana.

“Believe me, we have five other councils that have been working with us and we will work with them. We wouldn’t allow the internal problems of the City Council to affect the timeliness and the way we deliver service to the other municipalities.”

US increasing non-lethal military aid to Ukraine

The United States plans to increase nonlethal military assistance to Ukraine, including deliveries of the first Humvee vehicles, having decided for now not to provide weapons, U.S. officials said.

The increase in non-lethal aid to Ukraine, which is grappling with a Russianbacked separatist movement in its east, is expected to be announced on Thursday during a visit to Kiev by Vice President Joe Biden.

The officials, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, described it as an expansion of U.S. support for Ukraine’s armed forces, but one that was unlikely to significantly alter the conflict.

The aid falls short of what Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko requested during a visit to Washington in September when he appealed for lethal aid - a request echoed by some U.S. lawmakers in response to what NATO allies say is Russia’s movement of tanks and troops into eastern Ukraine.

Officials in the Obama administration had said Washington believed Ukraine had enough lethal aid and the types of weaponry requested for Ukraine would be of only marginal value. They had also emphasized the need for a diplomatic outcome.

The United States and its European allies have imposed several rounds of economic sanctions on Russia for its seizure of Crimea and incursion into eastern Ukraine. (Reuters)

Around the world

Colombia kidnap: FarC agrees conditions for release

Colombia’s FARC rebels have reached an agreement with the government over the conditions necessary for releasing an army general and four others.

Announcing the agreement in Havana, Cuban and Norwegian officials acting as mediators said the hostages would be released as soon as possible.

However, the details of the agreement were not released.

Peace talks between the

Julian Assange sex case: Swedish court upholds warrant

ASwedish appeal court has upheld an arrest warrant against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, wanted for questioning over sexual assault claims.

The Court of Appeal refused Mr Assange’s attempt to have a detention order issued in 2010 revoked.

Mr Assange, who denies the allegations, has sought refuge in the Ecuadorean embassy in London to avoid extradition.

If he goes to Sweden, he fears he could be extradited to the US to face charges of leaking government documents.

Wikileaks has published thousands of secret documents, which have caused intense embarrassment for the US and lifted the lid on diplomatic relations.

Two women in Sweden accuse Mr Assange, 43, of sexual assault.

Thursday’s decision at the Svea Court of Appeal in Stockholm ruled on an appeal against a similar decision by a lower court.

Mr Assange’s lawyers argued that the arrest warrant should be repealed because it could not be enforced while he was in the Ecuadorean embassy.

(BBC)

two sides were suspended after the men were captured by the left-wing rebels at the weekend.

Ruben Dario Alzate is the first Colombian general to be abducted in 50 years of conflict.

The rebels said they seized the men because they were unhappy at the continuation of Colombian military activities during peace talks.

Farc negotiator Pablo Catatumbo had earlier called for a bilateral ceasefire.

could resume.

Cuban diplomat Rodolfo Benitez and Norwegian official Rita Sandberg confirmed the agreement in Havana on Thursday.

However, they gave no further indication of when the conditions would be met or what they were.

An estimated 220,000 people have died in five decades of armed conflict in Colombia. (BBC news)

Bob Marley places fifth on Forbes dead celebrities rich list 2014

In a replay of last year’s ranking, Jamaican reggae legend Bob Marley has placed fifth on Forbes magazine’s top earning dead celebrity 2014 list, making him the only Caribbean star to shine among a galaxy dominated by North American and British luminaries.

The enduring “One Love” singer is still earning steadily since his death from cancer at the age of 36 in 1981, with Forbes reporting bags

and a line of fruit flavoured drinks, as well as the familiar T-shirts bearing the late music icon’s name. The “Redemption Song” star has also sold well over 75 million albums in the past two decades, and hauled in US$20 million year-to-date to secure fifth position on the 2014 rich list. Like everyone else, Marley still has a way to go to catch up with firstplaced Michael Jackson, who was 50-years-old when he passed away in 2009. (BBC)

8-year-old allegedly sexually assaulted in primary school toilet Mexico missing students: Capital braced for mass protests

Police say they have detained a man who allegedly sexually assaulted an eight-year old primary school student on Tuesday.

They said the man in his 20’s, is expected to appear in court later this week.

Media reports said that the man was observed entering the back of the school wearing a stocking over his head before the incident.

The Tobago representative of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified teachers Association (TTUTA), Orlando Kerr said the school’s principal, when alerted of the incident, ran to the bathroom, pushed in the door and wrestled with the intruder, taking away a knife he had in his possession.

“The principal did a lot, he went into the bathroom. He was able to sort of deal with the situation and he was very happy he was able to do that. He would have put himself in

danger to try to deal with the situation and try to rescue the child.

“The police responded, and the male suspect was apprehended by the police.

However the staff remains traumatised at this time, and we are looking at some short-term solutions to the situation,” Kerr said.

The school will be closed for the remainder of the week to allow for the review of the security arrangements at the school and for counselling of those affected.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Tobago Brian Headley said while his officers must be commended for the quick work in apprehending the suspect, all efforts must be made to have security measures instituted.

“There needs to be security at the school. Persons need to be vigilant. The school needs to be fenced and security guards are needed,” Headley said. (Caribbean 360)

Relatives of 43 missing Mexican students, who the authorities say were murdered by a drugs gang, have arrived in the capital ahead of mass protests.

Convoys carrying the families arrived in Mexico City on Thursday after touring the country to rally support.

The Mexican authorities say local police handed the students to a drug gang who then murdered them.

But some families of the missing are unconvinced by this explanation and still hope they will be found alive.

Francisco Lagro, father of 19-year-old Magdaleno, one of those missing, has been travelling on one of the caravans.

"It's been almost two months without knowing where they are. We don't know anything and we're desperate,"

he said. "What are they doing? In what conditions? Do they get any water or food? Are they tied up? We have so many questions."

Thousands of people are expected to take part in the march in the capital, which starts at 17:00 local time (23:00 GMT). Protests are also under

way in other parts of Mexico and abroad. In one of the first rallies of the day, hooded protesters clashed with police close to Mexico City's international airport.

Witnesses say some of the protesters threw Molotov cocktails at police officers who had been trying to disperse them. (BBC)

Five contestants of the recently-concluded Mr Guyana International Competition have been chosen to represent Guyana at six international pageants in 2015.

These include newly-crowned Mr Guyana International Paul Charles, and his former competi-

guyanatimesgy.com

.

.

. Mr Guyana

International Competitors

to make Guyana proud

tion in the persons of Ryan Washington, Colwyn Abrams, Kevin Bhagrat and Alexander Fiedtkou.

First up, Charles will participate in the Mr Caribbean and Mr Worldwide Competition. A date for the Mr Caribbean contest is yet to be finalised, but the Mr Worldwide Competition is slated for Orlando, Florida on September 6, 2015.

The competition entails sport and talent contests, the National Costume competition and more importantly, the candidates must prepare a video on their preparations for the pageant. All the preliminary competitions will be held behind closed doors.

On the other hand, Ryan Washington will represent Guyana at Mr Model International Competition in 2015. The date for this

competition will be announced in March 2015.

Colwyn Abrams will represent Guyana at Mr Global Tourism Competition 2015. Mr Global Tourism is an international male pageant, a brand of Face of the World Organisation. This competition was created to promote world unity, and encourage education and promotion of global tourism.

The contestants will be judged on their looks, intelligence, fitness, and style. Mr Global Tourism will host a two-day workshop as an awareness campaign on safe travel, tourist protection, and tourist destination identification, development, marketing and promotion. The theme for the seminar is “tourism development, identification and funding towards promotion of global peace, unity and friendship for business”.

A new date for Mr Global Tourism will be announced later, but the pageant will be hosted in Toronto, Canada.

Kevin Bhagrat will represent Guyana at Mr Wonderful World 2015.

The aim of the annual Mr Wonderful World Pageant is to give all men the opportunity to come together in one setting, regardless of their background, to build relationships with other men who are working diligently to make a positive impact in the life of a child in need of love.

Delegates will have the opportunity to visit and enjoy the beautiful host country with its unique range of natural and cultural attractions, as well as other destinations.

During their stay, they will be assured of fun-filled holiday activities and inspirational natural and cultural experiences. The delegates will compete in various events: photo sessions, presentations to the media, visits to authorities, and presentation in bathing suit and evening wear among others. The fi-

nal event will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2015 in Panama.

Finally, Alexander Fiedtkou will represent Guyana at Mr Caribbean International 2015. Mr Caribbean International (MCI) aims to promote positive images of Caribbean men. Through its annual competition, MCI supports its delegates in their display of intellect, talent, community involvement, and physical fitness while showcasing the richness and diversity of their cultures.

A date for this pageant has not yet been fixed.

Second batch of early bird tickets for “Boombastic” Concert released

The first batch of ear ly bird tickets for the “Boombastic” Concert were sold out and as such, the promoter, Golden Boy Entertainment, released an other 1500 early bird tickets on Thursday. These tickets are available at Ashmin’s on High Street, Georgetown at a cost of $2500.

With one week to go be fore the concert, the pro moter confirmed that all plans are in place for the mega event. Preparations at the concert venue (the Guyana National Stadium, East Bank Demerara) have already started and the fi nal tasks are expected to be completed in a few days.

The show, slated for next Saturday, will be epic with the smooth grooves of Mr

Entertainment is making all the necessary arrangements to have one of the safest concerts ever whereby patrons will be well protected as they party down to the vibes.

Thanks to the elevated 31-footx31foot LED screen, which will be set up, everyone will be able to see what is happening on stage. It is the first time such a large screen will be erected at the Stadium

for a concert. In addition, there will be 250 new stadium lights to create that party-like atmosphere on stage.

Regular tickets are available at White Castle Fish Shop; Smart Aid Pharmacy; M & M Snackette; Two Brothers Service Station (West Coast Demerara); Rubis Vlissengen Road Service Station; Moori Toori, Laing Avenue; Joseph’s Record Bar; Full Range Record Bar; Lifestyles Boutique; Colors Boutique; and That Look Boutique.

There are no early bird stage-front tickets; these tickets cost $16,000 and are available at Glamour Designer Brands and King’s Jewellery World.

eigning Miss Guyana

RTalented Teen Reesa Sooklall is expected to wing out of Guyana on December 27 in the company of the franchise holder and Simpli Royal Director Pamela Dillon, to compete in the Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant.

The pageant, which will see fierce competition among the delegates representing the Caribbean nations, will take place in St Kitts-Nevis on December 30. Dillon, in a phone interview, expressed satisfaction with the preparatory work of the reigning queen, noting that she was determined to win the title.

In St Kitts, she is expected to compete in the talent, introductory, evening wear and intelligence segments. The talent competition will be in the form of a theatrical presentation, while the introduction will require an ambassadorial speech.

Sooklall, who was born on October 8, 1999, is described as an outgoing, compassionate, vibrant, talented and downto-earth teenager who is full of energy. . Her upbringing in the quiet village of Mon Repos on the East Coast of Demerara

definitely shaped her outlook. She has an older sister, who is her companion and guide.

The 15-year-old Sooklall is a proud third-form science student of Queen’s College and dreams of one day becoming an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist.

She had her early education at the Starter’s Nursery School and Graham’s Hall Primary School.

During her spare time, she enjoys playing the guitar, dancing, skating, painting, playing with her pets or playing outdoor sports (her favourite outdoor sport is cricket). She also has a special interest in photography and making bracelets.

As Miss Guyana Talented Teen 2014, she has been able to meet with other teens and has been inspiring them with talks on self-esteem building. She hopes to create a positive

impact on other teenagers’ life.

Her days are filled with school, lessons, guitar classes, dance classes, modelling classes and her sessions with children from her former daycare and her friends at the Child Care and Protection Agency. Sooklall is also living a childhood dream of being a model after signing with Traits Model Management.

The talented young woman is also an advocate for raising awareness on global warming and its effects, since it is a major concern in promoting a safe earth.

Her advice to other teens is “you don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. Be confident in yourself and never doubt your potential.

Beauty isn’t only about having a pretty face; it’s about having a pretty mind, a pretty heart and a pretty soul.”

It’s time to start the holiday season! Buddy’s Nightclub and Team MMR present the High School Party this Saturday at the new and improved nightclub. Get dressed in any high school gear and enter free all night. Enjoy $300 shots of Smirnoff and Baileys and $200 shots of El Dorado 5-Year-Old Rum. The Holiday Launch special admission price is $1000.

Team MMR Selector Andy and Partyboss WR ReaZ will be playing it MMR style - the best in Bollywood, Chutney, Soca, Dancehall and more. It’s high school all over again at Buddy’s Nightclub this Saturday.

Also, those who wish to go out after a hard week’s work need to be part of the Friday night party called “Prescription Friday”. It is the ultimate Soca Friday at Buddy’s Nightclub. Get your PRESCRIPTION of FREE rum shots in syringes from the Buddy’s Night Nurse... Ladies FREE before 22:30h. “Prescription Friday” will feature the hottest music on the market.

Local chutney sensation Prince JP will be releasing his latest single titled “One Woman Lover” today on Mega Mix Reload at 15:00h with WR Reaz. The song, which is expected to create a stir on the airwaves, will also be released in Trinidad and Tobago and a few radio stations in New York.

The new single was written by Prince JP, and was produced and mixed by Avenash Roopchand, the lead keyboardist of the Shakti Strings Orchestra.

The song was recorded in the Shakti Strings Studios.

The song showcases that persons in relationships must remain faithful to their partners; despite each partner having a past, the new and future life must be one that is based on trust and honesty. The song, according to the young artiste, is based on his personal experience.

With the release of this new tune, Prince JP is still to decide whether or not to participate in the upcoming Chutney Competition organised by the Culture,

Youth and Sport Ministry in observance of Guyana’s Republican Anniversary in February.

However, he said that he will continue to release songs to please his fans who have been his driving force.

“One Woman Lover” has the potential to reach the top, as Prince JP has several hits under his belt, but, based on initial reviews, this is the best thus far. The artiste is in the process of recording another song titled “Guyana”, which will be done in a slower rhythm.

Gunman killed, three students shot in Florida University library

The gunman who shot and wounded three people at a Florida State University on Thursday was an alumnus who used a semi-automatic handgun as he opened up fire in a library where hundreds of students were studying for exams, officials said.

The shooter, identified by authorities as Myron May, 31, was fatally shot in an exchange of gunfire with police near the entrance to Florida State's Strozier Library in the latest of a string of shootings on U.S. campuses. Authorities said they found journals and videos written by May as part of their investigation.

"Mr. May was in a state of crisis," said Michael DeLeo, chief of Tallahassee Police, at a news confer-

ence.

A 2005 graduate of Florida State, May received his law degree from Texas Tech University in 2009 and had moved back to Florida about three weeks ago, DeLeo said.

Authorities have not released the names of the three students who were shot.

One was treated at the scene for a graze wound. The other two were hospitalized, one critical and the other in good condition, said a spokeswoman at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare hospital.

Campus security was increased and classes were canceled on Thursday. (Reuters)

The place to be this weekend is the 704 Lounge and Sport Bar for some of the hottest parties in town. The first event kicks off this evening -- “Up Town Fridays”. The heat will be turned on with a special appearance by Selector Diamond from Fusion International, who is known for his excellent selection of music ranging from Soca to Dancehall.

He will team up with DJ Tallest. Admission to “Up Town Fridays” cost $2500. Ladies will be admitted free until 23:30h.

The action continues on Saturday evening with a live performance by International Chutney King KI as Southland International officially launches its Carlsberg Beer.

He will be joined by DJ Sheriff out of Trinidad and Tobago. KI, who is known

for his hyped performances, is scheduled to arrive in Guyana this morning and will be making a few television and radio appearances. He promises to take over the stage on Saturday evening as he dishes out some of his latest tunes, including his Chutney Soca Monarch song. There will be special Carlsberg promotions all night along with giveaways. Tickets for this event cost $2000 and are available at the Lounge on Albert and Lamaha Streets or at Southland International,

Brickdam. The live performance starts at 22:00h. Also, on Saturday evening, boxing fans can view the most-talked-about boxing event this weekend, which will see Manny Pacquiao battling Chris Algieri. Both boxers are known for their upper cuts and all the action will be captured on big screen at the 704 Sports Bar. Patrons will enjoy drinks specials and lots of cutters. Fight time is 21:00h.

Police Gymkhana heads to Linden this Sunday

Lindeners have an opportunity on Sunday to witness and be part of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Gymkhana, which is expected to feature a number of spectacular and breathtaking acts. The event is slated for the Bayroc Community Centre Ground, Wismar, Linden.

The GPF’s Gymkhana is a regular feature on the Force’s calendar of activities, and will also be held on the East Coast and West Bank of Demerara and in Berbice.

Gymkhanas are part of the Force’s outreach programme which provide the Police with the opportunity to display their skills, agility and physical prowess to the public, while allowing for closer interaction between the Police and citizens.

The highly-entertaining programme will include grasstrack motorcycle racing, displays by the Police Mounted Branch and sniffer dogs, tugof-war, athletics, gymnastics, drill and karate displays, and pony rides.

The Police Mounted Branch will take the horses through various drills, including jumping through fire and musical

chairs.

The Police Canine Branch with their tracker dogs will perform various tricks. The Majorette groups will be displaying various skills too.

The various Police motorbike divisions, including traffic, will also be part of the day’s activities. Foot-drill, late-forwork, and bounty-hunting dis -

plays will be on show, and the Police Military Band will also show off their skills in what they do best.

Bikers from various biker clubs and grasstrack riders will feature too at the day’s proceedings. There will also be lots of activities for children, including bouncy castle, trampoline, and face painting.

Admission to the event is absolutely free and showtime is 11:00h.

The Police Force have held two previous Gymkhanas so far this year at the Police Sports Club, Eve Leary, and the Uitvlugt Community Centre Ground, West Coast Demerara, where hundreds of citizens were entertained.

Planet Paintball Guyana to host charity event

With the aim of raising funds to help bring joy to less fortunate children during the Christmas season, Planet Paintball Guyana will host an Open three-man charity competition on December 21 at its Woolford Avenue Paintball Park.

According to information emanating from Planet Paintball Guyana, it is intended that 10 teams will compete in a knockout format of matches.

“However, to raise as much funds and reach as many children as we can, we have made the competition Open, so there may be more than 10 teams on the

day. Whilst the aim is to raise funds for the children, there will of course be a trophy for the winning team, as reward

Federer fit for Davis Cup

Roger Federer has recovered from his back injury and will play in the Davis Cup final, which starts on Friday.

The Swiss will play France’s Gael Monfils in Friday’s second singles tie as Switzerland travel to Lille.

Last Sunday the 17-time Grand Slam champion withdrew from the ATP World Tour final against Novak Djokovic because of his back problem.

Federer, 33, is joined in the Swiss team by Stan Wawrinka despite their row at the London tournament.

Federer subsequently played down the argument, describing it as “heat of the moment” and insisting the pair “are friends, not ene-

mies”.

He told reporters on Thursday: “I’m just pleased that I can play tomorrow, give it a go. Things have been going well.”

His match against world number 19 Gael Monfils is second on the bill, with world number four Wawrinka facing France’s world number 12 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the opening tie in northern France.

Marco Chiudinelli and Michael Lammer will be the Swiss pair in Saturday’s doubles against Julien Benneteau and Richard Gasquet.

Federer will then face Tsonga in the reverse singles on Sunday with Wawrinka playing Monfils in the potentially decisive fifth match. (BBC Sport)

for your sterling efforts on the field of battle,” a release from Planet Paintball Guyana was quoted as saying.

There will also be a prize for the best team cheerleader squad (encouraged to wear seasonal attire and can be mixed gender). Teams participating are asked to make a donation of $10,000 per team, all of which will go towards the purchasing toys for the children.

Teams can have up to five players, but only three will be on the field during matches. The remaining two team players will be deemed substitutes.

All equipment required to play will be provided by Planet Paintball Guyana free of charge to the players and each team will receive 500 paintballs to play.

Olympic champion calls for life ban on drug cheats

World and Olympic shot put champion

Valerie Adams says that athletes who test positive for performance-enhancing drugs should be banned for life, even if it is their first

FIFA ethics chiefs agree on way forward for 2018/2022 report

FIFA ethics judge HansJoachim Eckert and investigator Michael Garcia have met for the first time since their public disagreement and agreed a report into the 2018/2022 World Cups bid process should be further reviewed.

They decided on Thursday that Garcia’s report on his investigation into the turbulent bidding process would be sent to the chairman of FIFA’s audit and compliance committee, Domenico Scala, who would in turn decide how much of the report should be sent to the FIFA executive committee.

They also confirmed that the ethics committee had opened a number of formal cases against individuals following Garcia’s 18-month investigation which produced a 430-page report.

Eckert, head of the ethics committee’s adjudicatory chamber, said in a 42-page statement last week there were no grounds to reopen the bidding process which led to Russia and Qatar getting the tournaments run by FIFA, world soccer’s governing body.

But FIFA was plunged into chaos when Garcia said shortly afterwards that Eckert’s statement on his report contained misrepresentations and he would appeal to FIFA’s appeal committee. Thursday’s statement did not make any reference to

that appeal.

FIFA and Qatar World Cup organisers have been fending off allegations of corruption ever since the Gulf state was awarded the 2022 tournament.

Qatar, which has repeatedly denied the allegations, has also been criticised over its treatment of migrant workers in the construction industry.

Major importance

Eckert and Garcia said in Thursday’s joint statement: “Both chairmen agreed that it is of major importance that the FIFA Executive Committee has the information necessary to evaluate which steps are required based on the work done by the FIFA Ethics Committee.

The statement confirmed that “the investigatory chamber has already opened a number of formal cases against individuals as a result of that inquiry.”

It said those cases would not be affected by Thursday’s development, nor by the recent referral of the reports to the Swiss Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Switzerland’s attorney general confirmed on Tuesday the receipt of a complaint submitted by FIFA along with a copy of the Garcia report.

“Both chairmen stressed the vital role of the FIFA Ethics Committee in ensuring the highest standards of ethics and governance at FIFA,” said FIFA. (Reuters)

offence.

“Once a cheater always a cheater - you should be banned for life,” said the 30-year-old New Zealander.

“Kick them all out, none of this back after two years stuff.”

A serious first doping violation leads to a two-year ban, but the punishment will increase to four years in 2015.

However, recent research on mice suggests that athletes continue to benefit from having taken steroids long after their suspensions have been served.

Adams was speaking in Monaco as one of the three nominees for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) women’s athlete of the year award.

United States sprinter Justin Gatlin, who failed drugs test in 2001 and 2006 but has returned to run the fastest 100m and 200m times of 2014 so far, was included on a 10-name long-list for the men’s award.

His inclusion prompted another of the long-listed athletes - German discus thrower Robert Harting - to remove himself from consideration for the award.

“It was quite a massive stance he took,” added Adams.

“I support him. It was pretty strong of him to do that.”

Adams was only awarded gold at London 2012 after Belarussian rival Nadzeya Ostapchuk was stripped of the title for taking the steroid metenolene.

At the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Adams was denied the three extra throws given to the top eight in the field when she finished ninth, only to be retrospectively moved up a place after winner Irina Korzhanenko was found to have cheated.

“It totally sucked, but I have moved on,” said Adams of having not received her London gold at the Olympic Stadium.

Pakistan set up intriguing final day

Pakistan were nine down and 91 runs behind but Sarfraz Ahmed made his third Test century in the company of last man Rahat Ali to frustrate New Zealand and nearly wipe out the deficit in an extended first session. The two Pakistan spinners then struck thrice each but Ross Taylor cut his way to an unbeaten 77 to give his side an overall lead of 177 going into the final day.

New Zealand were not able to break through the last pair despite the extra half hour added to the morning session as Sarfraz and Rahat Ali added 81 in 28 overs. Sarfraz finally fell in the second over after the interval on 112, hitting a return catch to give Brendon McCullum his first wicket in 89 Tests.

Sarfraz’s effort not only prevented New Zealand from taking a big first-innings lead, but also took plenty of time out of the

game. He went past Kamran Akmal for the most Test runs scored by a Pakistan wicketkeeper in a calendar year, and also became the first keeper from his country to make three Test centuries in a calendar year.

Pakistan began on 281 for 6 and lost three wickets in the first ten overs to Tim Southee and Trent Boult. Sarfraz took singles off the first balls of a few overs only to see Yasir Shah and Ehsan Adil succumb to Southee’s tight lines.

Sarfraz became wiser and shielded Zulfiqar Babar from most of the strike, but the left-arm spinner insisted on backing away and heaving at the fast bowlers. Sarfaz gave him one ball to negotiate in the 119th over, but Babar promptly nicked Boult behind.

Southee and Boult rarely bowled a loose ball and 38 runs came in 13 overs in the first hour. Sarfraz had realised farming the strike alone

won’t do, and he whipped and cut Boult for fours.

Ish Sodhi and James Neesham came on after drinks, and Rahat dug in. Sarfraz would take a single off the fourth ball mostly and then Rahat would move across, cover the stumps, and defend from the crease.

Sarfraz launched a flurry of boundaries against the offspinner Mark Craig and Sodhi. The field was spread out but Sarfraz found the gaps consistently. He lofted straight and over extra cover, and swept in front of and behind square. He took 25 off two overs from the spinners, moved to 96, and also brought up the fifty of the partnership.

New Zealand turned to Southee and Boult again, but Sarfraz was in complete command. He cut Southee for four to reach his century, and drove Boult for four more.

Rahat played his role superbly, playing out a maiden to Southee and wearing a blow on his arm. He also edged Craig between

the keeper and slip, but as lunch neared, he developed enough confidence to launch Sodhi to the straight boundary twice. Rahat stayed undefeated on 16, having lasted 49 deliveries.

McCullum came out to bat eager to make up for lost time and cracked six fours in his 45, but New Zealand lost their best batsman of the series, Tom Latham, to a debatable decision. Latham was given caught by a diving Asad Shafiq at leg gully as he attempted to sweep Yasir on 9. He reviewed immediately, and there did not appear to be any visible contact with glove before the ball brushed his forearm. But without HotSpot or Snicko, there was no conclusive evidence for the third umpire to overturn the onfield decision. New Zealand slowed down as the spinners started to produce the edges, but there were no real chances going into tea.

They came in a rush during the final session though, as New Zealand lost 3 for 16 in the space of 17 balls. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Pakistan 1st innings

Shan Masood b Sodhi 13

Taufeeq Umar st †Watling

b Craig 16

Azhar Ali b Sodhi 75

Younis Khan c Craig

b Neesham 72

Misbah-ul-Haq* c Taylor

b Boult 28

Asad Shafiq c Taylor

b Southee 44

Sarfraz Ahmed† c &

b McCullum 112

Yasir Shah c †Watling

b Southee 2

Ehsan Adil lbw b Southee 0

Zulfiqar Babar c †Watling

b Boult 5

Rahat Ali not out 16

Extras: (b 7, lb 2, nb 1) 10

Total: all out 393

Fall of wickets 1-28 (Shan

Masood, 14.4 ov), 2-32

(Taufeeq Umar, 17.1 ov), 3-145 (Younis Khan, 64.3 ov), 4-195 (Misbah-ul-Haq, 84.4 ov), 5-220 (Azhar Ali, 92.6 ov), 6-279 (Asad Shafiq, 107.4 ov), 7-285 (Yasir Shah, 111.6 ov), 8-287 (Ehsan Adil, 113.3 ov), 9-312 (Zulfiqar Babar, 118.6 ov), 10393 (Sarfraz Ahmed, 146.6 ov)

Bowling: TA Boult 30-8-692, TG Southee 30-5-67-3, MD

Craig 28-5-117-1, IS Sodhi 399-92-2, CJ Anderson 7-0-260, JDS Neesham 11-2-12-1, BB McCullum 2-1-1-1

New Zealand 2nd innings

TWM Latham c Asad Shafiq b Yasir Shah 9 BB McCullum* lbw b Zulfiqar Babar 45 KS Williamson c Taufeeq Umar b Zulfiqar Babar 11 LRPL Taylor not out 77 CJ Anderson b Yasir Shah 0 JDS Neesham b Zulfiqar Babar 11

BJ Watling† c Asad Shafiq

b Yasir Shah 11

MD Craig not out 0 Extras: (lb 3) 3

Total: for 6 wickets 167

To bat: TG Southee, IS Sodhi, TA Boult Fall of wickets 1-42 (Latham, 10.6 ov), 2-63 (Williamson, 19.6 ov), 3-78 (McCullum, 21.3 ov), 4-79 (Anderson, 22.4 ov), 5-125 (Neesham, 34.3 ov), 6-166 (Watling, 47.6 ov) Bowling: Rahat Ali 4-019-0, Ehsan Adil 5-1-20-0, Zulfiqar Babar 21.2-5-603, Yasir Shah 18-1-65-3

Vettel to replace Alonso next season

Sebastian Vettel looked forward to following in Michael Schumacher’s Formula One footsteps after Ferrari confirmed on Thursday that the four times world champion would replace Fernando Alonso next season on a three-year deal.

The long-awaited news, an open secret since the German announced in October that he was leaving Red Bull, formally ended a five-year love affair with double world champion Alonso that frustrated both sides.

Vettel will partner Finland’s 2007 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, who has a year remaining on his contract.

“The next stage of my Formula One career will be spent with Scuderia Ferrari and for me that means the dream of a lifetime has come true,” said Vettel.

“When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it’s an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari,” added the 27-year-old, who took his first Formula One win in a Ferrari-powered Toro Rosso at Monza in 2008.

Compatriot Schumacher won five of his seven titles with Ferrari.

“The Scuderia has a great tradition in this sport and I am extremely motivated to

help the team get back to the top. I will put my heart and soul into making it happen,” said Vettel.

Alonso is expected to return to McLaren, the team he spent a torrid season with in 2007 before falling out with current overall head Ron Dennis.

Ferrari announced the news in two separate statements, the first declaring their relationship with Alonso to be over and the second welcoming the sport’s youngest multiple champion.

Alonso, who won his titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, had his hopes of taking a third championship with

NBA Roundup…

Spurs outlast Cavaliers

Tim Duncan and Boris Diaw scored 19 points apiece and the San Antonio Spurs beat Cleveland for the 10th straight time — and got the best of LeBron James again — with a 92-90 win over the Cavaliers on Wednesday night in Cleveland.

Manu Ginobili scored on a layup with 18 seconds left, made a free throw with 9.1 to go and harassed James into a turnover with 1.9 seconds remaining for the defending NBA champions. It was the first meeting between the Spurs and James since last June, when San Antonio overpowered the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.

Anderson Varejao scored 23 points, Kyrie Irving added 20, and James 15 for the Cavs, who fell to 5-5.

The Cavs struggled at both ends, but stayed close down the stretch thanks to Varejao, who scored 9 points in a 3-minute stretch to give Cleveland an 86-85 lead. But Duncan scored inside and fed Ginobili underneath for a

21 points, Terrence Ross had 14 of his 16 in the fourth, and host Toronto beat Memphis. Kyle Lowry scored 18 and Lou Williams had 13 as the Eastern Conference leaders (9-2) won for the seventh time in eight games.

Pacers 88, Hornets 86 — Solomon Hill put back a miss by Rodney Stuckey as time expired, and Indiana overcame an early 18-point deficit to beat Charlotte in Indianapolis.

Hill finished with 6 points and the biggest basket of the night. Roy Hibbert had 18 points and 11 rebounds as the Pacers spoiled Lance Stephenson’s first trip back to Indianapolis since signing with Charlotte in July.

Clippers 114, Magic 90 — Jamal Crawford had 22 points and Chris Paul added 16 points and nine assists as Los Angeles won in Orlando. Blake Griffin scored 20 points, and Jordan Farmar and Matt Barnes each had 13 as the Clippers opened a seven-game East Coast trip with an easy victory.

bucket with 17.7 seconds left to put the Spurs up 91-88.

Irving’s two free throws got the Cavs within 91-90, and after Ginobili missed the second of his two free throws, the Cavs had one last chance.

But in his haste to get the ball up the floor, James lost control and the Cavs fell to 2-3 at home.

Mavericks 105, Wizards 102 — Dirk Nowitzki limped to the locker room after a fourth-quarter fall, then returned to make a key 3-pointer, and Monta Ellis scored 24 of his 34 points in the first half, leading Dallas to victory in Washington.

Ferrari repeatedly thwarted by Vettel and his own team’s lack of performance.

The Spaniard leaves after a partnership that brought him 11 wins and 44 podiums.

He came closest to the title in 2010, when he went into the final race as favourite only for a team strategy error to gift the title to Vettel. The German then began a run of four championships in a row.

Alonso was runner-up in 2012 and 2013 but Ferrari have not won a race since the Spaniard was triumphant in Barcelona in May last year and are staring at their first season without a victory since 1993.

Bucks 122, Nets 118 — Visiting Milwaukee overcame Brandon Knight’s shocking missed layup at the end of the first overtime to outlast the Nets in three overtimes in coach Jason Kidd’s return to Brooklyn.

Knight made the tying 3-pointer in the second overtime and the clinching free throws with 5.6 seconds to go in the third.

Lakers 98, Rockets 92 — Kobe Bryant had 29 points, Wesley Johnson made key free throws down the stretch, and visiting Los Angeles took advantage of Dwight Howard’s absence with a right knee injury for a win over Houston. It was the second consecutive win for the Lakers following a 1-9 start.

Raptors 96, Grizzlies 92— DeMar DeRozan scored

Nowitzki went down in the key with about eight minutes left with what appeared to be a lower left leg problem. But he came back with 3½ minutes to go and Dallas trailing by 1.

Nuggets 107, Thunder 100 — Wilson Chandler had 21 points, including a key 3-pointer late in the game, and Timofey Mozgov finished with a season-high 17 to lift host Denver over Oklahoma City.

Ty Lawson added 15 points and 15 assists for the Nuggets, who returned home following a 2-1 trip.

Suns 88, Pistons 86 — Eric Bledsoe scored 18 points, including the winning basket with 28.7 seconds to play, to lift Phoenix past Detroit in Auburn Hills, Mich. Timberwolves 115, Knicks 99 — Kevin Martin shook off an illness to score 37 points, and host Minnesota, missing three starters, beat New York.

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WICB 4-Day Tournament set for intriguing 2nd round

Intriguing could best describe the second round of matches in the WICB Professional Cricket League Regional 4-Day Tournament, starting on Friday.

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Lesporis, Mervin Matthew, Nelon Pascal, Kenroy Peters, Devon Smith, Tyrone Theophile

UMPIRES: Nandkumar Shivsankar, Peter Nero (Trinidad & Tobago)

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Leaders Guyana Jaguars host Windward Islands Volcanoes at the Guyana National Stadium, Leeward Islands Franchise face Trinidad & Tobago Red Force at Warner Park in St. Kitts and Barbados Pride welcome the Jamaica Franchise at Windward Sports Club in Barbados.

The Jaguars, last year’s bottom-placed side, find themselves at the top of the table after the first round, territory that has become unfamiliar to them in recent seasons, and they will want to continue their bright start to the new season.

The home team will have to put together an extra-special performance to overcome the Volcanoes, against whom they have not won for 11 years and have led on

Both sides have been forced to make a change to their squad and have chosen promise ahead of experience – Alzarri Joseph has replaced injured fellow fast bowler Kelbert Walters for the Leewards Franchise, and T&T have brought the promising Nicholas Pooran in to replace former West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan, who has returned home to Guyana due to personal reasons.

A fierce contest can be expected, when reigning champions Barbados Pride seek to kick-start their season against traditional rivals Jamaica after the weather prevented them from taking care of business in Port of Spain during the first round.

There have been just three draws between the two sides since the start of the new millennium, but the Jamaicans have a slight

MATCH REFEREE: Colin Stuart

RESERVE UMPIRE: Imran Moakan

Leeward Islands Franchise vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force (AT WARNER PARK, ST. KITTS)

LEEWARD ISLANDS

FRANCHISE (from): Devon Thomas (captain), Quinton Boatswain, Jahmar Hamilton, Alzarri Joseph, Yannick Leonard, Jeremiah Louis, Anthony Martin, Orlando Peters, Austin Richards Jr, Lyndell Richardson, Akeem Saunders, Jacques Taylor, Gavin Tonge

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

RED FORCE (from): Rayad Emrit (captain), Bryan Charles, Yannic Cariah, Shannon Gabriel, Akeal Hosein, Imran Khan, Evin

first innings in draw matches only twice in during the same period.

Stung by their first round capitulation, the Volcanoes will be looking to bounce back from that setback and will be inclined to feel confident, with last season’s exciting draw against the Jaguars at the same venue still fresh in their minds. Neither side has changed their squad.

A reminder: the WICB has approved a change of playing hours for this match and it will now start halfhour earlier than regularly scheduled, beginning at 9:30 in the morning with the intervals adjusted accordingly.

The adjustment is due to the early loss of natural light in Guyana during this time of the year.

The story between the Leewards Franchise and the Red Force is similar – but both sides would be looking to build confidence, after it was badly shattered by weak performances in the first round.

The hosts lost inside three days in the first round, at the same time that the Red Force had to depend on the torrential weather that wrought damage in their homeland to escape from a similar fate.

The visitors will be looking to paint the town red, considering that they have dominated the Leewards over the last five years, win-

edge – and broke the Pride’s hearts last season when they stumbled to a one-wicket victory in the semi-finals.

The visitors will have fond memories of the venue – they earned a 10-run victory over the Pride in a lowscoring affair nine years ago and will be looking for another favourable result to cement their place in the top brackets of the table.

Both sides have fortified their bowling for the match with the Pride including leftarm spinner Sulieman Benn and his West Indies teammate Jerome Taylor named in the Jamaica Franchise squad. (WICB Release)

Squads:

Guyana Jaguars vs Windward Islands Volcanoes (AT THE GUYANA NATIONAL STADIUM)

GUYANA JAGUARS

(from): Leon Johnson (captain), Christopher Barnwell, Ronsford Beaton, Devendra Bishoo, Anthony Bramble, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Rajindra Chandrika, Narsingh Deonarine, Assad Fudadin, Trevon Griffith, Veerasammy Permaul, Raymond Reifer, Vishal Singh

WINDWARD ISLANDS

VOLCANOES (from): Liam Sebastian (captain), Sunil Ambris, Alston Bobb, Johnson Charles, Romel Currency, Andre Fletcher, Lindon James, Keddy

Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Yannick Ottley, Denesh Ramdin, Nicholas Pooran, Marlon Richards, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Lendl Simmons

UMPIRES: Nigel Duguid (Guyana), Patrick Gustard (Jamaica)

MATCH REFEREE: Stewart Rawlins

RESERVE UMPIRE: Carl Tuckett

Barbados Pride vs Jamaica Franchise (AT WINDWARD SPORTS CLUB, BARBADOS)

BARBADOS PRIDE (from): Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Sulieman Benn, Carlos Brathwaite, Jonathan Carter, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Ashley Nurse, Omar Phillips, Kemar Roach, Dwayne Smith, Jomel Warrican

JAMAICA (from): Tamar Lambert (captain), Carlton Baugh Jr, Dave Bernard Jr, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, John Campbell, Damion Jacobs, André McCarthy, Nikita Miller, Marquino Mindley, Jerome Taylor, Shacaya Thomas, Keno Wallace

UMPIRES: Gregory Brathwaite, Joel Wilson (Trinidad & Tobago)

MATCH REFEREE: Mervyn Jones

RESERVE UMPIRE: Jonathan Blades

WICB PCL 4-Day Tournament…

Upbeat Guyana Jaguars aim for consistency

– face Windward Islands in round two from today

By Rajiv Bisnauth

The Guyana Jaguars will look ahead to yet another inspiring show, when they face the Windward Islands Volcanoes in the second round of the 2014/2015 West Indies Cricket Board Professional Cricket League (WICB PCL) Franchise

Four-Day Tournament from today at the Guyana National Stadium.

The Guyana Jaguars are on top of the points table with 17 points, follow by Jamaica Franchise 16, Barbados Pride 8, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force 5,

match figures of 10 for 116 the last time these two teams met, and with legspinner Devendra Bishoo, who is on the upward curve; the duo is expected do the bulk of the bowling.

Young pacer Ronford Beaton, who impressed with his pace and accuracy against the Leeward Islands, will again lead the hosts’ new ball attack.

The side which showcased a solid batting display in the opening round boasts a very experienced batting line up with West Indies veteran Shiv Chanderpaul at

the helm.

Narsingh Deonarine showed superb form in get-

Windward Islands Volcanoes 3 and Leeward Islands 2.

The Jaguars started the season brightly, when they embarrassed the visiting Leeward Islands by an innings and 10-runs inside three days in the first round.

The Windward Islands on the other hand, suffered a slim 13-run defeat over Jamaica at Sabina Park.

The two teams have played to a dull draw earlier this year in round three of the West Indies Cricket Board Regional four-day at the same venue. However, one thing is clear, spinners would rule the roost and with the Guyanese spin unit, one of the stronger units according to cricket pundits, the visitors are up for a tough assignment.

Left arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul had

ting an unbeaten 110 last week and much will depend on him again in the middle-order to lend stability. Captain Leon Johnson, Assad Fudadin, Rajindra

makes for a deep batting line up.

Meanwhile, head coach Esaun Crandon, who is well aware of local conditions, said his side were keen to give a tough fight to their formidable opponents.

“We know Windward are a tough opposition, and we will need to play better cricket than them to get the upper hand. But we are confident of doing well,” said Crandon.

Meanwhile, Windward Islands coach, Ian Allen, is counting on players who excelled in last year’s firstclass season to come good again.

Windward Islands Volcanoes, once considered the Cinderella side of the regional game, have started to trend upwards in recent years as a number of promising players have started to establish themselves.

Chandrika, Raymond Reifer, Anthony Bramble and Christopher Barnwell,

“It will not be easy, however, as Guyana are a good quality team which means

Prestigious Umada Cup to hit Guyana

that we will have to play good, consistent cricket over the four days if we are to get a positive result.”

This year, Allen, is relying on the likes of Tyrone Theophile, Keddy Lesporis and Sunil Ambris for another impressive season for the Windwards.

Further, the West Indies Cricket Board advised on Wednesday that it has approved a change of playing hours for the second and third round matches to be played in Guyana.

The matches will now begin half-hour earlier than regularly scheduled, begin-

ning at 09:30 hrs. Admission to the venue is free.

On the other hand, no changes have been made to the Guyana Jaguars squad for Friday’s game.

The Guyana Jaguars squad: Leon Johnson (Captain), Assad Fudadin (Vice-Captain), Rajindra Chandrika, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Narsingh Deonarine, Raymond Reifer, Anthony Bramble (wk), Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Vishal Singh, Trevon Griffith.

Windward Islands squad: Liam Sebastian (Captain), Devon Smith, Johnson Charles, Tyrone Theophile, Keddy Lesporis, Romiel Currency, Sunil Ambris, Andre Fletcher, Lindon James, Mervin Mathew, Nelon Pascal, Kenroy Peters,and Alstan Bobb.

History will be created next week when Guyana, for the first time, plays host to the prestigious Umada Cup chess tournament, which is set to attract over a dozen countries vying for supremacy in two categories.

The tournament will be held from November 27 to December 1 at the Sleep Inn Hotel on Brickdam with a total of 17 countries being invited to compete.

Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony, speaking at the launch, said he is confident in the Guyana Chess Federation’s (GCF) ability to host an event of this magnitude.

He added that chess has been on the rise ever since its resuscitation just under a decade ago, and Guyana’s hosting of the Umada Cup in such a short space of time is a commendable achievement.

The tournament, according to president of the GCF, Irshad Mohamed, is being organised under the auspices of current president of the world governing body for chess, FIDE, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, in collaboration with the Confederación de Ajedrez para América (CCA).

According to Mohamed,

The commission released the statement to Reuters after being asked for an update on Watson’s status.

The 43-year-old is due in Summary Court on Tuesday and the commission added “it is anticipated further charges will follow”.

When he was arrested in August, Watson denied the allegations. He was not immediately reachable for comment on Thursday.

In September, FIFA temporarily suspended Watson from its eight-member Audit and Compliance Committee pending the outcome of the case.

several of Guyana’s leading players, who are FIDE rated, will don the national colours during the five-day competition.

The tournament will be held in two categories: one for players in the Open Section and another for those in the Challenger Section. Both sections will be played under the Swiss System for nine rounds and will be Fide rated. A grand payout package of US$16,000 would be at stake.

In the Open Section, the winner will cart off US$2,500, while the second and third place finishers will pocket US$1,500 and US$1,000 respectively. The winner of the Challengers Section is entitled to US$1,500, with the runnerup copping US$1,000 and third US$750. In the case of a tie, the sum of the prizes involved will be shared equally.

The nations that have been invited to participate are Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Netherlands Antilles, Puerto Rico, St Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Cayman Islands is a power centre in the CONCACAF organisation that governs soccer in

the

‘Respect’ charity game set for December 13

Guyana will witness an entertaining form of basketball when the ‘Respect’ charity game is held on December 13 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

At the launching on Thursday at the Gravity Lounge, the organisers highlighted that the game will feature some of Guyana’s most public figures along with some first division ballers in a basket-

ball game that should entertain the casual fan.

James Bond, one of the organisers noted that “respect comes with the appreciation of values and that is what we want to bring back… it’s a call to return respect to the game.”

President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) Nigel Hinds was in full support of the event.

“We are pleased to sup-

port this event, we think that this will expand our fan base and expand the facets of basketball… we think it will be an entertaining event,” Hinds stated.

Two of the sponsors present at the event, Footsteps and Buddy’s Pool Hall were both grateful to be a part of the event while pledging support for future events.

Organiser of the event, Rawle Toney furthered that the tournament is re-

ally about billing camaraderie among the community while thanking the sponsors for their support in the venture. Meanwhile the tournament is expected to feature two exhibition games before the main game.

The celebrity teams will be released before the date of the one night event as proceeds will go to the charities of the celebrities involved in the game. (Treiston Joseph)

Led by outstanding performances by Bheemraj Ramkellawan, Yuvraj Dyal and Vishwanauth Ramlakhan, the Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club (ECCCC) defeated Cummings Lodge and Ogle at the Enmore Community Centre ground recently in the East Coast Cricket Committee’s 50-over crick-

et competition. The ECCCC also prevailed over Bath Settlement in a friendly contest.

Against Cummings Lodge, ECCCC were dismissed for 197 in 34 overs with Ramkellawan hitting 62 from 29 deliveries, which included one six and nine fours. Gavin Moriah supported with 38, as D. Thomas took 3-38 from seven overs.

While Guyana piled the pressure on however, several shot attempts went wide and two near goalmouth scrambles in the opening 20 minutes failed to produce a score. The half time clock would meet the scores still at 0-0, despite the overwhelming ball possession by the Guyanese, including seven penalty corners to Bermuda’s one.

Guyana adjusted their strategy for the second half pushing forward midfielder Leigh Sandison to the strike line. With the additional player forward

Bermuda struggled to get their offense going, but continued to defend relentlessly. It was not until the 20th minute of the second half that Guyana finally made the breakthrough.

Sandison intercepted a poor pass forward and attacked the Bermuda scoring circle with speed. Her quick shot as she entered the scoring circle seemed to catch goalkeeper Antoinette Rabain by surprise as the ball threw the goal net into a Mexican wave and the Guyanese celebrated their first lead of the match. Despite further at-

tempts by the Guyanese, goalkeeper Rabain held firm and denied the South Americans on each occasion. Bermuda managed a few meaningful runs in the closing minutes as they attempted to equalise the score but never seriously threatened the Guyanese goal.

The one-nil victory for Guyana sees them needing a win and full three points from their tie with defending champions Trinidad today for them to secure a place in the semi-finals.

Guyana has never beaten Trinidad in recent years,

but the team has shown marked improvement as they adjust to the playing conditions and remain optimistic. Trinidad drew 2-2 with surprise of the tournament, the Dominican Republic, in the other Pool B encounter of the day.

In pool A action, Cuba remained unbeaten by defeating Barbados 3-1, while hosts Mexico, the other unbeaten team in the pool, earned an easy 4-0 victory over Jamaica. Cuba faces Mexico immediately following the Guyana versus Trinidad clash to determine the top of pool A.

Enmore Community Centre. Bath Settlement won

ECCCC bag triple win behind outstanding performances Hockey

Cummings Lodge were later dismissed for 133 in 33 overs with J. Mohammed scoring 36. For ECCCC, Dyal took 4-15, while Chandraban Seemangal, Amir Khan and Satesh Jainarine took two wickets each.

On Sunday last, Ogle won the toss and chose to field first and managed to restrict ECCCC to 215-6 from 35 overs. Ramlakhan top scored 69 (5x4s) and Ramkellawan and Dyal supported with 39 and 34 respectively.

N.Hussain took 2-32 from five overs.

In reply, Ogle were bowled out for 177 in the 32nd over, with Waslim Haslim scoring

the toss and took first strike. Led by A. Dennis’ 40 and A. Sewkarran’ 38, Bath Settlement were bowled out for 156 in the final over of the 33 overs encounter. For ECCCC, Premraj Lall took 4-21, Dyal 3-18 and Christopher Surat 3-14. ECCCC were led once again by captain Ramkellawan and 17-yearold Ramlakhan, who hit off the required runs in the 25th over. Ramkellawan remained unbeaten on 101 with 13 boundaries, while Ramlakhan was unbeaten on 43 with four boundaries.

Banned FIFA official charged with fraud, money-laundering

Amember of the financial watchdog committee at soccer’s ruling body FIFA has been charged with fraud, money-laundering and breach of trust by police in the Cayman Islands.

Canover Watson, a vicepresident of the Caribbean Football Union and member of FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee, was charged with five offences by the Cayman Islands Anti-Corruption Commission.

The cases relate to Watson’s time as the head of Cayman’s Health Service

Authority and follow a police investigation into the introduction of a swipe card system. There is no suggestion of football-related crimes.

“The Anti-Corruption Commission can confirm the 43-year-old Caymanian businessman...who was originally arrested on 28 August 2014 by officers from the Royal Cayman Islands Police AntiCorruption Unit...has been charged today,” the AntiCorruption Commission said in a statement on Thursday.

Nationals abandoned!

the inclement weather.

The 2014 edition of the National School Championships came to an abrupt and sad end as rain forced the aban-

donment of the event which was being held at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground, Base Camp Ayanganna.

The event was starting to heat especially after Tevin Garraway’s sensational 100 metres record run in the boy’s under 20

Ansa McAL launches ‘King of the Rim’ tournament

Ansa McAL under its Mackeson brand on Thursday launched their ‘King of the Rim’ 3-on-3 tournament at the company’s board room in Betterverwagting.

With the company looking to reach all of their consumers according to PRO of Ansa McAL Darshnie Yusuf, the organisers made some changes to the fourth edition of the event in hope of making the tournament more successful.

Brand Mackeson, Jamal Douglas was indeed in good spirits for the launching of the tournament, mentioning that “we hope to make

basketball a Mackeson sport.”

The tournament which is scheduled for a November30 start is expected to last nine playing days with the final expected to be held on December 20.

The top team will receive a first place prize of $500,000 while the second place team will receive $300,000. The teams winning the various zones will receive $25,000 each.

Meanwhile President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) Nigel Hinds was sure that the tournament will identify talent that is

not usually on display.

“It is the largest urban sport in the world and FIBA recognises it as a pillar for basketball development.

“We can source talent from this tournament and I am sure we can identify players that can be a part of our national trials,” Hinds highlighted.

The tournament is expected to be played in Linden, Georgetown, East Coast, West Coast and West Bank.

Games are expected to start from 19:00h as registration for the tournament is still ongoing. (Treiston Joseph)

100 metres.

However, in the end all of the lead up and adrenaline churning in the athletes was abruptly quelled with

The Ministry of Education and the Guyana Teacher’s Union as well as the Management

Committee of the championships released a joint statement expressing their gratitude to all those playing a role in the event.

“We would like to express our gratitude to all sponsors and stakeholders and pledge our continued commitment toward the hosting of this event in the future. We anticipate your support in the future in continuing to make this event the premier junior competition in Guyana.”

A visit to the GDF ground by Guyana Times Sport told its own story as the ground was completely covered in water.

The event was abandoned three times before due to inclement weather in 1961, 1964 and 1995.

(Treiston Joseph)

Hockey women register first CAC win

A beaming Team Guyana after the victory

In the cool afternoon wind of the Vera Cruz Hockey Centre, the Guyanese women went into their second match of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games against Bermuda. The Guyanese won by a cool 6-0 margin on the last occasion the two teams met, which was the 2010 PAHF Challenge.

This time around, the Guyanese needed just a solitary goal to walk away with the win.

From the opening whistle Guyana seemed the aggressor as they weaved the ball through the Bermuda defence with relative ease, creating several chances in the early minutes.

This set the tone for the duration of the match as Bermuda opted to fall back into their own defensive area to quell the green and black Guyanese attack. turn to page 23