Guyana Times Daily - September 2, 2015

Public has confidence in Police...

“Crimes politically influenced” –Commissioner

crime spirals…

ignores Police statistics East Ruimveldt man executed in yard Exporter robbed of over $1M moments after leaving Scotiabank

Abrams Zuil wins 2014 Sagicor Challenge

– receives award after days of hard work at Education Month launch 2 in custody following gun, ammo find

Jagdeo not in support of Govt regulating media – says PPP still to discuss issue

Govt “hypocrisy” on appointments

Jagdeo says Govt still in “flip flop” mode

– as a new NICIL Chairman appointed to replace Jordan

Nagamootoo’s media overtures betray APNU/ AFC’s campaign promise – GPA – calls on Journalists not to be swayed by politicians GuySuCo to issue contracts for all sugarcane farmers, suppliers

Baby with exposed brain… New form of hardship being faced by brave mother

symptoms take over Mashabo, Tapakuma ... Toshaos request medical outreach

wednesday, september 2, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Nagamootoo’s media overtures betray APNU/AFC’s campaign promise – GPA

– calls on Journalists not to be swayed by politicians

The Guyana Press Association (GPA) on Tuesday said that it has noted with concern recent reports of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s interaction with a Chronicle reporter following the publication of a news report in the Guyana Chronicle, over which the Prime Minister expressed disappointment.

The GPA, in a statement to the media, said it felt compelled to comment on the issue, because while the Prime Minister was free to express his views, he should not express such views directly to media workers as this was known to be a tactic of intimidation and may have a dampening effect on press freedom that can result in self-censorship.

“Further, the GPA regards the Prime Minister’s stated pro-Government expectations of the publiclyfunded Guyana Chronicle

newspaper (and presumably all State-owned media) as a retrograde and intolerable step that betrays the governing coalition’s campaign and postelection promises not to engage in the same press freedom violations previous Administrations were accused of.”

The statement continued, “On the matter of the Prime Minister’s comment on “Government-owned media” there needs to be a clear distinction between the State and the Government. The GPA wishes to suggest that there should be, following extensive consultations, a policy which adumbrates the way the executive should interact with State-owned media that would allow for freedom of

the press to be exercised in a meaningful way within these entities.”

As a result, the GPA argued that in the approach towards a free and open State media, there should be the reform of the Broadcasting Act and the adoption of the British Broadcasting Corporation’s editorial guidelines that govern that United Kingdom State-owned and funded broadcaster.

“The GPA takes this opportunity to call on all Journalists never to be swayed by opinion, good or bad, once your story is factual, accurate and true. Questions from political leaders regarding your work should be directed to your editors.”

East Ruimveldt man executed in yard

Ayoung man was shot dead in East Ruimveldt Squatting Area, Georgetown, on Monday night after he was attacked by a group of armed men with whom he had an old grievance. The dead man has been identified as 22-year-old Kellon Hinds called “Bajan” of East Ruimveldt Squatting Area. According to reports, the young man was killed sometime around 21:10h when four armed men attacked him in front of his home. The injured man was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. According to a Police release, investigations into the murder are in progress.

Reports indicate that as the gunmen opened fire on Hinds, he ran into the yard for cover, but was pursued by two of the perpetrators. The men caught up with him and shot and killed him. Relatives of the now dead man claim to know who his killers are, stating that the incident stemmed from an old grievance.

The man’s aunt, Charlene Bess, related the event’s of Monday’s ordeal. She explained that her nephew was sitting in front of the yard with his cousin when a friend came and he left with the friend. She noted that sometime after he returned, gunshots were heard.

“I left the door open and tell he “when you ready come in” but we went in. I de looking at the TV, I hear (gunshots) then I hear a running in me yard. I turn off my house light and left the yard light but within that I see shadows running to the back but I aint know was who. When they come to the back I hear a tumbling,” she recalled.

The woman noted that shots were fired again and after some time, she ventured outside calling out to her nephew but there was no response, so she started to cry because she knew he was dead. Bess further revealed that her daughter then came out and informed her that she had a torchlight and saw one of the persons whom she recognised as “Shawn Barrow”.

According to Bess, about a year ago, Hinds returned from French Guiana, where he usually worked as a labourer. She added that he was robbed of a quantity of

jewellery and cash amounting to over $2 million by two men, one of whom was Barrow. She noted that her nephew opted not to go through with the court proceedings against the perpetrators, whom he knew, because he was afraid and did not want to endanger the lives of his family.

However, the men have been after him since, threatening to harm him. Bess related that about a week ago, the Police were on the dam on which the family resides, looking around. They later learnt that it was Quincy Barrow; the brother of Shawn Barrow, who alleged that Hinds had threatened him.

“It was nothing of the sort. They just trying to put up an allegation so that whenever they do what they do now, they would be free,” the woman stated. She went on to say that the Police had arrested Hinds and had him in custody for over a week before finally releasing him on bail on Monday, adding that it was when he returned home that he was killed.

Hinds’ cousin Melanie Garraway, who lives in the same yard, also told Guyana Times that on Monday night after she heard the gunshots she saw Shawn and his brother Quincy Borrow at the back of her house.

“I heard gunshots and I wake up my child father and when we wake up we see me cousin running and Shawn Borrow and Quincy Borrow, and two others,” she related.

This newspaper was also told that about six weeks ago, the men had come to their house and opened fire, hitting the front wall of one of the apartments in the yard and damaging a gas stove. It was explained that although the Police arrived and retrieved several spent shells from the yard, nothing has been done thus far.

Kwakwani man fined $20,000 on narcotics charge

Aman was on Tuesday fined $20,000 by Magistrate Ann McLennan when he appeared before her in Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with possession of a narcotic substance. Romaine Welcome, 31, of Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), pleaded guilty to the charge which

read that on Friday, August 28, at Kwakwani Park, he was found in possession of two grams of cannabis. The man told the court that he smokes the narcotic and as such, he had it in his possession for his personal use. The Magistrate sentenced him to a fine of $20,000 as well as six weeks of community service.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Wednesday, September 2 – 05:00h-06:30h and Thursday, September 3 – 08:30h-10:00h.

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

Wednesday, September 2 – 06:45h-08:15h and Thursday, September 3 – 07:35h-09:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Winds: East North-easterly to East South-Easterly between 0.89 metres and 3.12 metres per second.

High

Public has confidence in Police...

“Crimes politically influenced”

− Commissioner

− ignores police statistics

By Devina Samaroo

efending his position that public confidence in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is not lost, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud expressed his belief that the political Opposition is undermining the GPF’s efforts to fight crime by generating a perception that crime is spiralling out of control and that public trust and confidence in the system is rapidly deteriorating.

During an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, Persaud said it is extremely unfortunate that crime has grown to become a tool for all political

Oppositions to attack and defame the Government of the day, stating “It is extremely unfortunate that crime generally is a social issue, it is a social problem but unfortunately in Guyana, it is also a political problem. It is a highly political issue and it shouldn’t be.”

Persaud remained grounded that the public’s confidence in the Police Force is not lost, pointing out the headway in several high profile cases were made through assistance from the community.

He argued that public confidence simply cannot be lost when the support of the community is evident in helping to solve crimes, making reference to the Montrose Granny Murder, the Nandy Park Shooting, the attack on the Land Court Judge and her husband, and the buried body in Berbice, among others.

Possible political influence

Therefore, in supporting his argument that crime is heavily politicised, the Commissioner highlighted three major incidents of crime that recently occurred which he concluded was politically influenced. He referred to the robbery in Campbelville where Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan’s neighbour

Geetanjalie Ramotar was brutalised and tape bound by bandits, indicating that this situation raises suspicion.

“From all our experience in criminal operations, they (bandits) don’t have time for that (scotch-tape victims), they don’t have time to do that. The other thing too, tell me; when something like that is going on, why would somebody try to photograph that person rather than to help them. The Minister was one of the first people to go over. They didn’t call the Police, they called the Minister and the Minister called the Police. So someone took that photo prior to. So you believe that any rational thinking person would come to mind that you know, take a photograph instead of calling a Police. The other thing, the Police asked how they got in the house. They were informed that the men break the padlock…On to now, the padlock cannot be produced. So you have situations like that that inflames…and it makes it bigger than it is,” he said.

He also referred to the murder of Corentyne resident Pamela Kendall which sparked a massive protest against the Government by residents in the area.

“There was a case in Berbice, there is a big hue and cry about the crime

there and the man used that opportunity to kill his wife. So there was blackout in the area at the time and he killed his wife because he believes what the media is reporting that criminals are running around the area all the time and based on his perception and opportunity, he did that,” the Commissioner posited.

He pointed out that the Opposition forces used this situation as a political tool to attack the Government rather than take a more proactive approach to help fight crime.

“Instead of helping, you are interfering…Situations like these come when crime is politicised and we should not be doing that, we should be coming together and working towards reducing crime,” Persaud contended.

He also highlighted another situation which he strongly believes was politically motivated, given the circumstances surrounding the situation that was reported.

“We have on the Corentyne, a woman went to the Police Station at 4 o’clock in the morning and reported that two men went into her house…held her at gunpoint, demanded money and she handed over $210,000. Her husband was in the hammock sleeping, they did not interfere with her husband, she walked out of her house at 04:00 am and went to the Police station and didn’t wake up her husband. Who does that? Who does just get robbed at gunpoint and would leave your husband sleeping in the hammock and walk to the Police station to report a robbery. Nobody does that,” the Commissioner argued, pointing out that, political influences on social problems like crime can impact the behaviour of supporters. “So those kinds of things happen. While the politicians may not be behind it, people who think that they will serve a political purpose will venture into doing those things… It affects the people that vote for them as well,” the Commissioner said.

Persaud related that in all his years of working with the GPF, the Government always exhausts its efforts to fight crime while the Opposition would lay back and attack.

But he is of the view that the Government, as well as the Opposition, and the public, need to put differences aside and determinedly work together to bring crime down.

Editor(ag): Michael Younge

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

Hands off the media!

State Minister Joseph Harmon last Thursday hinted that the newly installed A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government is drafting a media policy which would seek to regulate the media's operations in Guyana with specific focus on State media.

Harmon said that while “it is early days yet”, that policy would “emerge” as he called on those covering governmental affairs to be “fair, objective and balanced” in the meantime.

There was a direct correlation between the brouhaha involving Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo upbraiding a young reporter of the State-owned Guyana Chronicle over the publication of a story under the headline: “Govt blunders on Budget Estimates"…and Government’s volte face on state media policy.

Pressed for answers by the independent media here on the matter, the Prime Minister after vacillating on the matter and giving conflicting responses, admittedthat he was “very disappointed with the headline” and that he had a ‘conversation’ with the reporter on the matter. Nagamootoo then expressed the startling view that the State media was owned by the Government and should toe the government's line.

This is the same Prime Minister who told the extant 11th Parliament during its second sitting that the state newspaper had been transformed from a partisan, propagandistic rag into a bastion of public information. He had also informed journalists while in the Opposition benches back in May that “the AFC is opposed to the State or politicians legally regulating or controlling the press. Though we admit that standards ought to be raised…this should be done by selfregulation”.

He even said before becoming Prime Minister that he believed “the Government has a legal duty to protect press freedom, not to undermine it” or to “make laws that could muzzle it and turn it into a toothless poodle”.

Since making those statements, however, and after becoming Prime Minister, Nagamootoo and the Government in general have been severely criticised by the free media for failing to honour several promises made to the electorate and for the manner in which they have governed the affairs of the country since occupying Executive office.

The missteps by the new Government have also been exposed by the media and this newspaper in particular. On media issues, these have also included the installation of political cronies at the helm of the State-owned National Communications Network and Government Information News Agency and the publication of a politically infused piece from the pen of the Director of Public Information within the PM’s office (who is a public servant) in defence of the PM and the pursuit of a Cadillac lifestyle at the expense of the public purse.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo and this new Government have also failed to make all the "revolutionary changes” which they had bitterly complained about and lobbied against in the international community but instead have gone overboard in demanding the state media institute complete sycophantic coverage. They have imported several voluble and extremely letter writers who supported the opposition against the PPP government and installed them as columnists in the Chrinicle.

It is not hard, therefore, to believe that Nagamootoo, a self-proclaimed veteran Journalist, will go to extreme lengths to destroy objective, hardline criticism and media coverage of his and the government's activities from the Guyanese press corps.

There can be no legislatively imposed media policy for operatives here without their involvement and without understandable cause. Media houses here are likely to oppose every attempt of this new Government to frustrate them from holding it accountable as the Government cannot realistically determine what is fair coverage, balance, and impartial journalism if it wants its own State media to favour its views and toe its line.

This newspaper too, which has suffered the brunt of disrespect and personal attacks, from the new Government, will resolutely oppose any form of politically motivated regulation as hindrance to the development of a modern, free press which is the sine qua non of a functioning democracy.

Education must be the Cornerstone for Heritage Month 2015 Celebrations

Dear Editor, The National Amerindian Development Foundation (NADF) seizes this opportunity to contribute to the celebrations of Amerindian Heritage Month 2015.

Concluding some of our development programmes and other activities for 2014 proved that the Indigenous Peoples are a versatile and projective Group. As we fearlessly mobilize to candidly showcase our numerous talents during this time this is demonstration of our concretized determination which propelled us to withstand the challenges of 2014 and together piloted ourselves through 2015.

Throughout our most challenging times, some of us got swayed by events of the times but our commitment and resolve to overcome these challenges have outmatched and outperformed those challenges. Though some injuriously

assumed that our capability and capacity to steer ourselves through those turbulent times were nonexistent, our achievements stands as testimony of our strength.

Our achievers profile demonstrates that the Indigenous Peoples have committed to improving and pursuing their dreams. We were focused enough to realize that to achieve maximum results we had to amalgamate our cultural and traditional ways of life into the wider society, this we did with credit.

However, we acknowledge that these achievements could not be realized without entrenching education as the corner stone for our development and so the Indigenous peoples must pursue their educational opportunities with the zest as other non Indigenous students. So, NADF implore our Ministry of Education

and other educational institutions to train our teachers and equip our schools with the necessary tools so they can deliver quality education to our students this will cause them to excel to their fullest potential. The Indigenous students have the right just as any other student to demand the highest level of tuition in their related field of studies.

Education is the key ingredient to transforming uncertainty into confidence and confidence into opportunities and opportunities into reality. It is education that will open windows to a world for aspiring students who seek new technical, vocational, professional and skilled programmes. It is Education that will change poverty to wealth which ultimately will improve and create a better world for all.

The National Amerindian Development Foundation during this our

festive time extend to all our Amerindian Brothers and Sisters a true indigenous bonding, filled with compassion, respect and inseparable love towards humanity. NADF also takes the opportunity to extend our gratitude and thanks to our Government, Government Ministries, the International Community, advocacy groups, Agencies and Interest Groups, NGO’s, fellow Guyanese, Religious bodies and all who in any way contributed towards our cause. We invite all ‘Come celebrate with us’ In concluding - On behalf of the National Amerindian Development Foundation (NADF), I extend best wishes to our entire Amerindian community. I wish you a fruitful celebration and a happy ‘Heritage Month 2015’!

Sincerely, Ashton Simon

Governments never listen to the people

Dear Editor,

I have been reading the various suggestions for what is hoped could contribute to the smooth running of Guyana in several areas that affect the everyday life of most people; the letter writers all seem sincere and well-meaning, no doubt hoping someone would listen and act.

In the 1980s, at work in London, we had a supervisor who used the workplace and the work force as an experimental field for some of her impractical ideas. She never lent a hand herself, but sat and watched, leaving

us to get on with it. When we tried, realised the serious drawbacks of those procedures, and let her know, she came up with another harebrained idea. Until her much-respected assistant got fed up, described her antics as “playing at things” and applied for a transfer. Guyana’s situation reminds me of that work scene. From day one, every Government seems to be “playing at things” and getting many of them wrong. Among the recent suggestions I have seen are some that involve road safety, the protection and safety of

young children in schools and at play in an area meant for the purpose, the treatment of offenders in certain circumstances, the running of co-operatives, etc., etc. Do ‘they’ take notice?

I often wonder whether Governments listen - all of them - and if they listen, do they hear, if they hear, do they even try to follow some of the sound advice given?

Or are they treating the country as their ‘plaything’?

In the 1990s, a woman who had worked very hard for, and contributed a lot to, the political party that formed the first government under

Independence told me that she decided to emigrate because, after election, “they would not listen”. I saw the effort she made before the elections on their behalf, expressed misgivings, and fell from grace. Not listening seems to be citizens’ biggest gripe against governments. They never listen. Is it arrogance, indifference or perversion? Maybe some wise old owl, sitting in an oak, has the answer. Let us hear it.

Sincerely, Geralda Dennison

Dindyal did a good job

Dear Editor,

I refer to Charles Sohan’s letter captioned: “Dindyal’s dismissal is due to mismanagement of GPL” carried in the print media of August 19.

Mr Sohan in his cheerleader role for the APNU/ AFC is carrying wrong statements and half-truths.

For instance, he wrongfully asserts that “In most democratic countries, newly-elected governments more often than not usually change the heads of key departments at the start of their Administration”.

In Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and India among others, this is not so. For example, from the 20th century, the American system kept evolving to become more stable, and heads of technical departments were maintained in their positions for the purpose of stability. In these countries, it is still only those headsof-with an obvious political linkage that have to be changed, and Dindyal and GPL are not in that category. For Sohan justification for Patterson’s dismissal of Dindyal being that it’s common practice in “most democratic countries” is therefore preposterous nonsense. In any case, Patterson acted illegally since it is the Board’s remit to dismiss or engage very senior personnel. Such illegality is emphasised by Board being recently appointed by Patterson himself and his Government.

His assertion that “Regular blackouts are the order of the day.” Is also misleading. When Dindyal took over from the Irish management, there were indeed regular and prolonged blackouts. By judicious improvement in generation with Wartsilla and within the parameters of limited fi-

nances, the electricity supply became more and more regular until today there are very few prolonged blackouts.

The GPL’s annual reports list all outages from one minute and upwards. The number of outages recorded may be comparatively high but they were mostly for a minute of two. The total hours lost in blackouts is therefore quite low. There has been continuous improvement moving towards perfection.

“Theft of electricity was at a high level” declared Sohan. However, under Dindyal, theft was reduced from 30% to 12%. In the USA and UK, theft ranges from 3% to 5%. Electricity theft should be differentiated from line-losses due to the old wires which are gradually being changed and Sohan should not confuse the two. The cure for theft would be to establish an electronic system but this is too costly at the moment.

Sohan further stated that “the accounting system at GPL was in shambles” as some of the staff paid themselves hefty wages with the Board’s approval”. However, the billing system at GPL was significantly improved under Dindyal and is now comparable to internationally recognised systems. For almost three months now, auditors and investigators have been scouring the GPL’s accounts and found only one officer who allegedly paid himself monies unauthorized by the Board. Sohan probably made that assertion the intention of misleading readers.

Sohan then claimed that “subsidized electricity was given to selected groups”. However, there was no such subsidised electrici-

ty, except in case of Linden where it was almost free but which was given by the Government’s diktat and not the management of GPL. There are three categories of rates – domestic, commercial/ industrial, and registered and ascertained charitable institutions. A consumer falling into any of the three categories is not “selected” by anyone. Sohan has been unable to give the names and addresses of two of the “selected groups” thus exposing a careless fabrication.

Sohan presumably feels that the $30,000 per annum rate rebate given to old age pensioners should not have been made since the GPL had been making no profits. Does Minister Patterson feel the same way?

Furthermore, the Vreeden-hoop Power Plant didn’t have large time and cost overruns. Sohan must produce the figures to support these claims.

Sohan said that those who required meters to be replaced had to bribe the technicians to get them and he could personally attest to that. The various sectional managers of GPL have been trying to curb such bribery over the years but when persons of this ilk indulge in bribery and corruption of the technicians, it makes the task of the managers impossibly difficult to curb bribery.

Sohan must know that for the purpose of credibility, truthfulness and factuality is best, requiring at least a modicum of research.

His claim that Dindyal mismanaged the GPL, based on the unfactual assertions above is therefore invalid.

Yours sincerely, Manoj Narain

How and why a Christopher Stanley of Tiger Bay?

Dear Editor,

It was with total sadness to have read about the tragedy that took place in Tiger Bay where Christopher Stanley was involved. Assuming the value of two variables being accurate: the synopsis that was reported in the many newspapers; the other being the residents’ accuracy to the media of what unfolded, then this is an example of the mental state of many of the impoverished and what they endure. After reading what his mother reported, it takes no rocket scientist to realize that a possible cause is the stress created from and within the society. Time and money is frittered away as the peoples entrusted with governing and providing solutions (being both opposition and government), try to fatten their purses and argue about witch hunting, consolidating funds, ethnic cleansing, rats and cats, 2 am curfews and other such items, at times engrossed in irrelevant discussions of a personal nature, discussions having nothing to do with the advancement of the common Guyanese. There is the perception of neglect towards the “wayward” and the possible thought that it

is not their responsibility to give guidance or produce a solution to make these outcasted people valued participants in society. The whole machinery of governing (government and opposition), is to find solutions for all, everyone, it should not be for self benefit or to be vindictive. As they roll around in their eye-catching vehicles, these bickering officials must realize that the downtrodden and neglected are also part of our society, they are human beings and they are here to stay. This parliamentary body needs to stop rearranging the blamegame deck chairs while the titanic of downtrodden sinks. They will have to sacrifice some of their fat cat habits and give a little humble time, common sense and money towards trying to identify, treat and then rehabilitate persons of the likes of Christopher before it gets to the precipitous level of violence.

To be constructive, it is worth redirecting a mere fraction of the money spent from the many present day commissions towards something substantive as a “commission” to interact with respect and study how and why did Christopher, the de-

ceased and members of his neighbourhood got to this point, then formulate solutions to prevent such. This is when and only then any governing system can build a better Guyanese society and generation. Many times I have witnessed the ignorance and scorn dished out at the downtrodden folks. It does not matter if any of these folks are black, brown, yellow or white, or if they are deportees dumped by Canada or the US to Guyana, they are our Guyanese sisters and brothers and as fellow Guyanese we are their keepers, like it or not. They are part of the present day Guyanese fabric. The best we can do is try to find a use for the fabric and not throw parts away.

Finally, it would be noted by many eyes to witness who from the benches of Parliament will step up to the plate and delve into the intricacies of the Christopher Stanley’s case or will be at the funeral of the deceased in order to show solidarity to the plight of peoples of a Tiger Bay type neighbourhood.

Sincerely, Andrew Doohkan

Need for an Information Officer in Region Five

Dear Editor, We the residents of Region Five, Mahaica/ Berbice, have been suffering for the lack of information on the programs, polices and decisions of the Regional Democratic Council. The Regional Administration seems not to have an Information Officer, to inform residents and civil society on the Region’s development. For example, no statement was released on the issue of a needle from a syringe that was left inside

a baby’s buttocks. The Regional Administration needs to have a reliable, efficient and effective Information Officer, a plan to evaluate information and communication strategies and present to the public, and other stakeholders. They should also be responsible for promoting a good information flow within the organisation, responding to enquiries from the public, media and other organisations, arranging interviews with journalists while preparing and distributing media releases. Also, they should write, edit and arrange production of newsletters, in-house magazines, pamphlets and brochures.

We the residents of Region Five are requesting the Regional Administration, to be more open to the residents of this beautiful Region. Information helps to empower citizens.

Sincerely, Marlon Ross

Page Foundation

BY PATTI GHEZZI

When a child needs to find new friends, parents can help by initiating play dates. “Friendships are made one at a time,” Elman says. She adds that some children will need structured play dates all through elementary school, while others can direct their social lives from an earlier age.

Elman favours play dates that are short, planned, and activitybased. Going roller-skating, swimming, or to the playground gives children something to focus on besides the interaction, which can be hard for shy children.

Boys generally favour more physical activities. Or they might like to play a game on the computer or build something. Try to pick activities ahead of time that your child and the new friend will enjoy.

If your child is nervous, role-playing in advance can help calm her nerves. Many children are so busy with activities that they have limited time for unstructured play and need to be taught social skills more explicitly, Elman says.

As parents get more involved in helping their child socially, frustrations can surface. Often parents

will invite a child over for a play date, but the other parents won’t reciprocate. “Don’t worry,” Elman says. “Your child needs practice and social skills.”

A child getting passed over for a birthday party invitation can particularly sting. “Help your child

tempted to call the other child’s parents. “The best thing to do is work with the teacher and principal,” she says. “It’s so much better if the Guidance Counsellor can deal with it.”

When children need more help Some children aren’t

understand the myriad of reasons she might not get invited,” she says. Some parties may only accommodate a few guests, for example.

A final tip from Elman: Involve the school. Teachers know the social dynamics of the classroom and have experience handling conflicts. When there’s an altercation at school parents are often

just shy. They aren’t just having minor problems making friends. They can’t fit in socially, possibly because of sensitivity to noise, problems with sensory integration, or difficulty relating to the world.

“These are often the children who just can’t crack the code,” says Dr Perri Klass, a Paediatrician who co-authored Quirky Children: Understanding

(Continued from tuesday)

and Helping Your Child Who Doesn’t Fit In – When To Worry and When Not To Worry.

Klass chose the word “quirky” to describe such children because it is an affectionate word, she explains, “but we did not shy away from the fact that many of these children do have a hard time.”

Parents can help their child by focusing on what he’s good at, Klass says. Whether it’s music or dance or soccer, it may be an opportunity for a child to make a friend. Another strategy is to allow your child time and opportunity to practice interacting through a social skills group. These groups, which are often run by Child Psychologists, help children learn such things as how to pick up on changes in a person’s voice and expression.

Whether your child has trouble making friends or is upset about a fight with a long-term pal, it’s best to let him take the lead. Parents can help their children develop the social skills they need to build friendships, but children have to take the next steps themselves. And even with intervention, some children will resist friendships. “Give it time,” Klass advises. “It’s a hard thing to force.” (www.schoolfamily.com)

BY TESSA VINING

With the summer over, there is a lot of anxious excitement over the beginning of the school year.

Whether you are a parent of a child entering school, a child going into elementary, middle, or high school, or even to college, this time of year can cause

manageable.

* Visit a new campus. For younger children that might mean attending an orientation event that the school or PTA may officially organise. Explore different areas or play at the playground. For college students, some schools will organise a pre-school activity such as camping or a volunteering. This is

stress.

Here are some helpful stress reducing ideas to consider before school starts:

* Verbalise your worries. Ask yourself how you are feeling about the new year. What are you excited about? What parts are you nervous about? Talk to someone about these things. Many times we make things out to be larger than they are. Once we put those worries out into the universe they become smaller and more

a great way to get familiar with your school before it begins.

* Organise your school supplies. Make a list of all the supplies you think you will need to start the year. Perhaps you create a system where one folder is for assignments.

* Communicate and discuss. Sit down as a family and talk to one another about what the expectations are for the year. Things to consider would include wakeup times, how everyone is getting to school, what courses and activities are “a must” and what activities are for. Allow each person ample time to express their thoughts and feelings.

* Relax, enjoy and reflect . Enjoy time as a family, alone and with friends, before school and extra-curricular activities kick in. Plan something fun that you have wanted to do all summer. This is a great time to make sure you charge your batteries! The following are the ingredients for a healthy start to school:

* Regular and consistent sleep to recharge and refresh.

* A balanced, healthy meal plan to nourish and create energy.

* Physical activity to release nervous energy and build stamina.

* Organisation and cleanliness to prepare and plan ahead.

* Friendship and family contact to balance work and fun.

(baristanet.com)

Govt “hypocrisy” on appointments Jagdeo says Govt still in “flip flop” mode

− as a new NICIL Chairman appointed to replace Jordan

Former President and now Opposition

Leader Bharrat

Jagdeo is condemning the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government

for its “flip-flop” move, in the appointment of Dr Maurice Odle as the Chairman of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL).

Jagdeo in a telephone interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday evening stated that during the 2015 Budget debates, his Party – the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic – highlighted a number of cases where the pres-

ent Administration has been ‘flip-flopping.’

He said this latest action of replacing their Finance Minister Winston Jordan from the helm of NICIL, only after the PPP/C’s criticisms, is evidence of the Government’s incompetence.

them and pointed out their double standards and hypocrisy that they have now replaced Jordan with Dr Odle,” the former President posited.

It has only been a few days since Dr Odle was appointed as NICIL’s Chairman and he is already the Chairman for the Tax Reform Committee which was recently formed by Minister Jordan.

The Finance Minister reportedly divulged that Dr Odle served in a number of positions during his stint at the United Nations and the Caribbean Community (Caricom). He is an Economist.

Under the previous Administration, then Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh held the post of Chairman at NICIL. The APNU/AFC had then criticised the PPP/C for this act, stating that it was unacceptable due to conflict of interest.

Furniture shortage affecting some Region 5 schools

Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) Chairman Vickchand Ramphal said some schools in that region were being affected by the lack of adequate seating accommodation.

The Regional Chairman blamed this on the late presentation of the 2015 National Budget.

would be working vigorously to remedy the situation.

Speaking to students who were uncomfortably cramped in classrooms, the Chairman apologised on behalf of Government, noting that the Regional Democratic Council regrets the inconvenience caused.

Ramphal encouraged parents to fully participate in their child’s education and to maintain a close relationship with schools.

He thanked all teachers, parents and students for the patience they have exercised.

“This is a sign of incompetence from the Government and it is expected. When they argued that it was illegal to have a Minister of Finance at the head of NICIL, they turned around and put their Finance Minister there. It was only after we criticised

However, in early August this year, there was silence by the Administration as to the appointment of Minister Jordan as the Chairman of

NICIL in spite of arguments put forward by the now Opposition party.

Ramphal’s comments came after he and a team from the Department of Education visited a few schools in the region on the first day of the new school year.

However, Ramphal said now that budgetary allocations were available, the Regional Administration

During his visit to schools in the region, the Chairman interacted with teachers, parents and students of Grade Seven at Fort Wellington Secondary School. Secondary schools commence tutoring from the seventh grade.

Crimes politically...

“Crime affects all of our lives regardless of one’s political affiliation. It cuts across religion, greed, race, whatever, it affects all of us and in order to really drive the situation down, we need to come together, all of us and deal with crime,” he stated.

The most recent crime statistics reveal that serious crime increased by a drastic 10 per cent at the end of July, in comparison to the same period last year.

A total of 94 murders were recorded at the end of July 2015 in comparison to 80 at the end of June 2014, which saw an increase of 18 per cent. On to the 13th

day of August, four murders were recorded taking the toll to 98 for the year thus far.

Of these, 35 murders were committed in A Division (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara), followed by 17 in C Division (East Coast Demerara) and 16 in B Division (Berbice). In addition, 12 were committed in F Division (Interior locations) and four each in D (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo) and E Division (Linden-Kwakwani) while six were recorded in G Divisions (Essequibo CoastIslands).

Statistics shows that 37 of the 94 murders committed were disorderly, followed

He said that children always excelled when there was a good relationship between the school and parents. He also congratulated the school since its performance has improved tremendously at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams this year.

The Chairman also visited the Bush Lot Nursery School and Hopetown Primary School. Both schools, he said, were well prepared for the reopening.

FROM PAGE 3

by the 15 during robberies and six through executionstyle killings.

Eleven were as a result of domestic disputes, 23 were from unknown causes and two by other means. Further, there has been an increase of 68 per cent in the number of reports of rape, with 243 cases being reported at the end of July when compared to 145 for the same period last year. Break and enter, larceny and burglary have shown an overall increase of nine per cent.

A whopping 28 more illegal firearms were seized when compared to the same period last year.

wednesday, september 2, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Eccles resident remanded on cause of death charge

Twenty-four -yearold man was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Magistrate Ann McLennan after he appeared before her on a number of charges; the major one, causing death by dangerous driving.

Shameer Barker of 212 Yubani Avenue, Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was not required to plead to the charge which read that on Wednesday, August 12, at Eccles Public Road, EBD, he drove motorcar PPP 1354 in a manner dangerous to the public, causing the death of Latoya Thompson.

Barker also pleaded not guilty to a charge which read that on the same occasion, he drove motorcar PPP 1354 in a manner dangerous to the public, result-

ing in an accident which caused Latoya Thompson and Irvin Wellington to receive injuries and failed to render assistance after the accident. He also denied the charge which stated that on the said occasion, he drove motorcar in a manner dangerous to the public, causing damages to motorcycle CG 5451 property of Irvin Wellington and failed to stop the motorcar after the accident.

Finally, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges which read that on the said occasion, he drove the motorcar in a manner dangerous to the public, causing damages to motorcycle CG 5451 and failed to report the accident to a Police Officer or a Police station within 24 hours.

The man was rep-

resented by Attorneys Glen Hanoman and Priya Mancikchand. Hanoman made an application for reasonable bail, stating that when the defendant heard that the Police were searching for him, he panicked but later turned himself in, in the presence of his Attorneys. He submitted that his client did so in full intention to face trial and had all intentions of cooperating with the court. Hanoman also revealed that his client, as well as his mother, has been receiving death threats from a relative of the deceased who was present in court during the proceedings.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones objected to bail citing the gravity of the offence and the penalty it attracted. He

stated that the accused was in hiding and as such he is a possible flight risk, despite the statements made by his Attorney.

Prosecutor Jones stated that after committing the act, the accused abandoned the car and went into hiding, and this act does not demonstrate remorse but rather that the accused has a “funny” attitude towards the incident.

After reviewing the facts presented, Magistrate McLennan refused bail and remanded the accused to prison until September 16. The matter was transferred to Court Five and the Magistrate advised that the family, as well as the accused, report the death threats immediately to the Police.

Mason remanded for armed robbery

Amason was on Tuesday remanded to prison after he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan in

Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, charged with armed robbery. Travis Nicolas, of 6

Stanleytown Village, West Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on Sunday,

August 23, at Campbellville, Georgetown, while being in the company of another and armed with a gun, he robbed the Virtual Complainant (VC) Mervin Persaud of one Toyota Premio motorcar valued $2,000,000 and a BlackBerry Curve Smartphone valued at $10,000, all to a total value of $2,010,000, property of the said VC.

Defence Attorney Courtney Richards stated that her client does not have any knowledge of the incident and denies all allegations being levied against him. She said that her client was picked up by the Police while travelling as a passenger in the car which was allegedly stolen. She claimed that the Police stopped the car and the driver ran away leaving her client in the car. She stated that no weapons were found on her client to link him to the offence and that the Police used some form of inducement to get her client to give a statement. She requested reasonable bail as her client has been in custody since last Thursday, stating that he fully intended to return to court.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones revealed that the car was recovered on the East Bank Demerara. He objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence. The Magistrate, after considering the facts refused bail and remanded the defendant to prison. The matter was adjourned until September 8 when it will appear before Magistrate Alex Moore in Court 10 of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Nicolas’ alleged accomplice, Linden Hodge was on Monday remanded to prison on the same charge. They are expected to be tried together.

Eyew tness

Social Cohesion....

...or else!

Well, well, well....the British are sponsoring a grand conclave to foster "social cohesion" among us natives. This Eyewitness'd wondered how this whole "cohesion" business from the new Government came about to begin with. He'd scoured the APNU/AFC Manifesto several times with his gimletlike eyes but could find neither head nor hair of such an aspiration. Not even under the section captioned "Social Integration". Realły, your Eyewitness had no problem with "social cohesion"...in principle.

But when he saw the new Ministry announced followed by Simona "I is" Broomes plunging into the interior to drag out those working girls, he was thrown for a loop. Regular readers would remember your Eyewitness pondering the conundrum presented as to how snatching working girls servicing all those homeaway miners would foster "social cohesion". He was damned surprised there weren't some violent protests over the withdrawal symptoms!

So he'd assumed that it was just a front for the U.S. Poster girl Broomes on their latest "bee in their bonnet" - TIP. These fellas from up North always made sure they had their native informants. And this was why he wasn't too surprised the British were behind the latest effort. The U.S. Had gotten their "junior partner" from across the pond to join them into another foray into Guyana? History does go around in circles, no?

And creates its own irony. After all, the British sponsoring Social Cohesion is like the rapist offering counselling services to the ravaged victim! Here we were, minding our own business - eating foo-foo in Africa, garlic pork in Maderia, curry in India and fried rice in China when they snatched us and dumped us into this godforsaken mud hole. And not satisfied with that, arranged for us to be at each other’s throats as we competed for scraps from their tables.

Then after a hundred years - when we might've been getting used to each other - they sponsor some riots and arson and murder between us for good measure. AND NOW THEY WANT TO FOSTER SOCIAL COHESION?? Bloody nerve!! And what kind of cohesion they mean? That we should all become brown and black Englishmen, sticking our pinkies out as we sip tea picked by child labour up in Darjeeling?

Because this Eyewitness would want to see exactly who are these "groups" who'll be gathered under the Big Benab at Liliendaal. And since things have to "cohere" around some centre, who's gonna be that centre we'll all be hovering around in Guyana?

Won't it be a b*tch if we all end up singing "God Save the Queen"?

...and politicians

For as long as he could remember your Eyewitness had heard the British describe Guyana (OK...British Guiana) as "The Land of Six Peoples". And then suddenly the independent Government decided we'd become "One People, One Nation, One Destiny". Or we were supposed to become all those things. You'd think if they really wanted us to arrive at that condition, they'd do something to help the process along, no?

No! With independence, there went the "Whites"! Then right after, the government started with its nationalisation binge and drove out all the local big businessmen. Meaning most Portuguese and Chinese. The Amerindians tried a thing in the Rupununi and the government came down so hard on them that it's been half a century since - and they still don't have the confidence to take centre stage in national life.

So that left the Africans and Indians to duke it out over whatever spoils were left.

And we can see since May, how this government expects to bring us all into one happy family!!

...by imitation

Since the British are sponsoring this group hug maybe they'd share their successful experience as how they were able to foster "social cohesion" with their millionplus Muslim population?

Show, don't tell!

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

Out-of-control crime spirals…

Exporter robbed of over $1M moments after leaving Scotiabank

Moments after leaving Scotiabank’s Carmichael Street Branch, an exporter was cornered and relieved of more than $1 million on Monday at Lamaha Street, Newtown, Kitty.

Rosana Persaud, also a professional nurse of Lot 129 Lamaha Street, Newtown and her mother left Scotiabank about 13:46h for their home, and, upon arriving at their destination, two men on a CG motorcycle pounced on them.

One of the men was armed with a hand gun, while the other remained on the motorcycle bearing registration number CG 5216.

After relieving Persaud of her bag containing the money – $1.020 million, mobile phone, ID card, debit cards and other items, they made good their escape.

Speaking to Guyana Times on Tuesday, Persaud was of the opinion that the robbery might have been as a result of collusion between bank staff and the bandits.

She explained that earlier in the day, she and her mother went to Republic Bank to change a cheque, but given that the cheque was from Scotiabank, the bank requested certain documents but they did not have them in their possession. Hence, they made a decision to go over to

Scotiabank’s Carmichael Street branch.

Upon reaching that location, as per normal there was a lengthy queue so they awaited their turn. The cheque was eventually changed and the money collected and put in her bag.

Before exiting the bank, Persaud said, she called a taxi that they normally used and after the driver stated that he was close by, they stepped out.

plained that she went into the front seat while her mother sat in the back seat.

“After my mother told me of her suspicions, I sat in the front seat so that I can use the rear-viewing mirror to see if anyone was following the car,” she stated.

As they travelled along Lamaha Street into Vlissengen Road, the roadway was clear so she felt much more comfortable.

As they reached Republic

Persaud’s mother recalled while in the bank, seeing a man dressed in a white t-shirt and a washout blue jeans acting in a suspicious manner.

As they stepped out of the bank, the guy reportedly exited as well but was on his mobile phone and as he passed the duo, he deliberately bumped into Persaud. The taxi subsequently came and Persaud ex-

Street in Newtown, Kitty, they stopped the taxi and disembarked one house before theirs. As she exited the car, a motorcycle with two men suddenly appeared in front of them.

One of the men, she recalled, was wearing a striped jersey and a pair of long pants and the other was wearing a white jersey with a pair of three-quarter pants.

One of the men, she noted, jumped off the motorcycle, went past her mother and came straight to her where he pulled out a gun, put it to her head and demanded that she hand over the bag.

“I pelt the bag and hoping that it would go in the taxi so that the driver can pull off, but instead it dropped on the road and the man collected it,” she related.

All the time, she said, her mother was screaming at the top of her voice. The bandit hurriedly jumped on the motorcycle with his accomplice and rode away. The man who relieved her of the bag, she recollected, was tall and fair in complexion.

Persaud noted that she went to the police station where she lodged a report and she and several ranks went into Sophia, West Ruimveldt and other areas to look for the suspects, but they came up empty-handed.

Two young men who were seen in the vicinity of Scotiabank were also arrested, but were subsequently released following an ID parade.

The Police have launched an investigation into the robbery and promised to visit the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to determine the identity of the owner of the bike, since the registration number was given to the Police.

2 in custody following gun, ammo find

Two men were on Monday arrested following the discovery of a quantity of ammunition and a firearm during separate operations carried out by the Police.

In the first instance, a farmer of Number 51 Village, Corentyne, Berbice was taken into custody after Police found 21 12-gauge shotgun cartridges at his premises.

The Police, according to information received, went to the home of the farmer where a search was conducted in his presence and the cartridges were discovered hidden in a section of the house.

The man, from all reports received, would normally sell the ammunition to hunters in the area. He was told of the offence, cautioned and arrested.

He is expected to make his court appearance before the end of the week and will be charged with illegal possession of am -

munition.

Meanwhile, a Montrose, East Coast Demerara resident was arrested on Monday about 23:00h following reports that he had discharged a loaded firearm in the community. The man had in his possession an unlicensed 9mm Glock pistol and three matching rounds of ammunition.

Police ranks who responded to the report also recovered four spent shells at the scene. He reportedly told Police ranks that he was under the influence of alcohol and decided to discharge a few rounds into the air.

He did not mean to hurt anyone, he reportedly stated. Police are checking his background to determine if he were previously charged for possession of firearm and ammunition. He is expected to be charged shortly as Police continue their investigations.

EYDG spruces up road signs in Enmore

As part of its annual programme of activities, members of the Enmore Youth Development Group (EYDG) on Sunday last braved the searing midmorning heat to brighten road signs in the East Coast Demerara village.

The activity, which is held annually just before the start of the new academic year, was put on in collaboration with the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) and the recently-resuscitated East Coast Road Safety Council (ECRSC).

EYDG President and ECRSC Secretary Romel Putulall said the exercise by members of the group was geared towards making the roadways in the community safer for both pedestrians and motorists.

“As youths we saw it fit to help make our roadways safer for everyone. Road safety should be everyone’s business and concern; at the end of the day, all of us are road users,” Putulall said.

nated 30 gallons of white, black and yellow paint, along with brushes and thinner to execute Sunday’s activity.

Apart from the repainting of road signs, the group also brightened the markings on bridges and culverts in the area.

One businessman, who spoke with this publication, said while he was appreciative of the work of the EYDG, he was calling on the relevant authorities to institute a speed limit in the area. He pointed out that persons would usually speed down the main road and adjoining streets, unaware of the dangers of their action.

His sentiments were echoed by another resident,

Putulall said the EYDG was grateful for the support given by the GNRSC, especially its coordinator Ramona Doorgen. He said the GNRSC and the Public Infrastructure Ministry do-

who called on motorists to exercise caution when using the roadways, especially during this period when school has been re-opened.

Over a decade ago, speed limit signs were erected on the main road, commonly called “Station Road”, but over time they were either torn down or defaced by unscrupulous persons.

All awee a waan

Satiricus was shocked that he - an ordinary duffer - could understand what the Government was up to - bringing together the people - and the fellas just couldn't get it. And it wasn't that he'd suddenly become a brainiac. All he had done was to remember his favourite line from his favourite moviethe Lion King. When Rafiki advised Timon when you want to find something that wasn't too clear "Look beyond the horizon".

"What de arse yuh mean, Sato?" Said Cappo bemusedly. "De guvment a knock off all kinda Amerindian and Indian people and you tell me dis gon bring we together?"

"Yes Sato! Is me sister lose she job, because deh tink she PPEE!" screamed Suresh. "And now me got fuh mind she!" Suresh didn't usually speak in the vernacular...but then, Satiricus realised that Suresh and his sister never got along. And now they had to live together?!

"Budday!! Listen to me. Is reverse psychology the Government using," Satiricus tried to explain as they quaffed their beer at the Back Street Bar.

"Reverse who?" asked Cappo, who usually stuck to the basics as a card-carrying cane cutter.

"Eh! Eh! Like you son teaching you big words, boy!" chuckled Mukesh.

"Don't worry about that fellas," Satiricus said patiently with a smirk. "I looking beyond what you can see. Reverse psychology is when you push one line but you really want people to do the opposite."

"Like when yuh does seh you gon buy beers and me does seh ...Naaaah man!?"' Asked Cappo.

"That's right budday!" said Satiricus as he quaffed his beer. "And the reverse psychology didn't start with all the firing of workers."

"Is what you mean?" growled Suresh.

"Well, is GrainJa who learn about this reverse physiology business." explained Satiricus. "And he first try it out on Naga Man."

"Really?" Asked Mukesh.

"Was just after the elections," continued Satiricus. "GrainJa tell Naga Man he would give him all kinds of powers like chairing the cabinet and so on, since he was the PRIME Moocher."

"And??" Mukesh said as he leaned forward.

"Naga Man said, 'Naaaaah Man!!" Satiricus said. "And GrainJa replied, 'Well OK, then!"

"And Sato, you think Naga Man na bin shi**ing bricks?" Asked Cappo.

"Naaah... He didn't want the big job and big salary after GrainJa use reverse psychology." And Satiricus concluded, "Just wait till the APANU/KFC government fire another five thousand Indians and Amerindians, you'll see how it will bring this country together!!"

Working group formed to tackle suicide in Region Two − aims to reach out to youths

Having recognised that the numbers of suicide in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) have increased, a working group has been formed under the Region Two administration to tackle this growing problem. The group consists of 18 persons who will be working together to try and assist those at risk of committing suicide within the region.

Chairing the group is People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Councillor, Dr Ranjeev Singh and he will be assisted by Pharmacist Sunil Singh as Co-chair. Physiologist and School Welfare Officer Hamraj Hamandeo will function as the group’s Secretary.

Other members in the group include Parmanand Singh, Desiree Charles, Sattie Ramnauth, Rameeza Mulah, Kevin Adonis, Khemraj Khandai, Marian Williams, Samad Baskh, Joel Fredericks, Stand

Peters, Toolsie Narine, Elroy Stepheny and Reema Natram.

The group will be working closely with non-governmental organisations, schools, health clubs, religious organisations and youth groups in spreading positive thoughts and information, as well as organising activities that are aimed at keeping youths meaningfully occupied.

Addressing the group, Region Two Chairman Daveanand Ramdatt said that the group comprises of competent individuals capable of bringing about positive change. He urged the group to come up with an action plan to address the issue of suicide.

The Chairman said the issue is a regional one; as such, necessary resources from the regional administration would be available to tackle the issue and lend assistance to the group. He urged for more sensitisation programmes and work-

shops be organised from the RDC level, the Anna Regina Town Council and the Neighbourhood Democratic Council.

At the meetings, persons suggested that billboards, essay competitions, and interactive talks among secondary and primary school student be held, as well as the composition of a jingle promoting the importance of life. Prizes will be awarded accordingly to the winners of the various competitions. The group will also be focusing on promoting sport at the various community levels.

Recently, the Region Two administration held a regional conversation with major stakeholders to tackle the issues. During the conversation, it was suggested that a group be formed to assist in the process. After the regional conversation, three persons who were contemplating suicide were counselled. Only recently, Bisnauth, a rice farmer from Region Two, took his own life.

Maternal deaths on the increase

Guyana is likely to exceed the maximum Millennium Development Goal (MDG) limit of 11 maternal deaths this year, as it continues to struggle with the issue of late detection.

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton made this disclosure during an exclu-

sive interview with Guyana Times on Monday. Already, eight maternal deaths have occurred in Guyana, with 21-year-old Akeisa Richardson being one of the most recent victims.

Dr Norton said while many of the deaths have occurred at the Georgetown Public Hospital, that medi-

cal institution should not be blamed entirely for the deaths, explaining that many of the referrals were done too late.

“The last case from Berbice came too late, and this is a big problem for us. If we are going to reduce maternal deaths, we got to improve early detection of high risk cases,” the Health Minister explained. As a result, he pledged to work with the regional hospitals to improve their detection skills, noting that emphasis would be placed on training.

No cover-up

In addressing some of the allegations levied against the Health Ministry, Dr Norton made it clear that his Ministry was not in the business of cover-ups. “I am saying to the public, we have a problem with maternal death. We want to find the reason; we want to find how we can better it. There

Teacher remanded on armed robbery charge

Atwenty-nine-year-old Berbice teacher was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court

Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after he appeared before her charged with armed robbery.

Timothy Sampson of Number 48 Village, Berbice, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which

read that on Wednesday, August 5, at Number 48 Village, Berbice, while in the company of others and being armed with a gun, he robbed the Virtual Complainant (VC) Indranie Singh of $100,000 property of the said VC. He was also charged for unlawfully and maliciously discharging a loaded firearm at several Police ranks in an attempt

to evade capture.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones said the defendant was placed on $40,000 station bail and was later arrested and brought to the court to be charged. He objected to bail citing the gravity of the offence. The Magistrate remanded him to prison until September 11 when he will return to court.

is going to be no cover-up,” he stressed.

According to him, it is unfair for persons to accuse the Health Ministry and by extension the Government of Guyana of covering up maternal deaths. He stressed that if it was found that negligence would have resulted in a maternal death, those responsible would be held accountable.

On July 28, 2015, Richardson, who hailed from Parfaite Harmonie, West Coast Demerara, died three days after giving birth to a healthy bouncing baby boy.

According to a release issued by Georgetown Public Hospital at the time, Richardson was experiencing seizures, and was, therefore, immediately transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) where she was being monitored. However, she subsequently died. The release did not detail what could have caused her sudden death.

Guyana Times spoke with the godfather of the newborn, Jamal Mark, who was at the hospital at the time when the young mother gave birth. He explained that she seemed healthy and perfectly normal after giving

birth, but for reasons unknown, she fell into a coma. In the period 2007-2011, Guyana had a reported maternal mortality ratio of 86 deaths per 100,000 live births (this figure was estimated at 280 deaths per 100,000 by United Nations agencies and the World Bank in 2010).

However, in 2013, the Health Ministry, based on the estimated number of births, recorded a maternal death rate of 79.7 per every 100,000 live births. In 2014, a UN report ranked Guyana as second on the list for highest maternal deaths in the Caribbean after Haiti, which recorded 380 deaths between 1990 and 2013, followed by Guyana with 250. The main direct causes recorded last year were hemorrhagic conditions, hypertension in pregnancy, eclampsia and adverse effects relating to bleeding.

GuySuCo to issue contracts for all sugarcane farmers, suppliers

Soon, all of the sugarcane farmers who supply their produce to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) will finally have legal documentation covering their partnership (contracts).

This move comes after long periods of working along with the sugar company without being provided with such.

Paul Bhim, who sits on the Board of Directors at GuySuCo, in a phone interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, stated that there were a number of sugarcane farmers who have never received contracts for the job which they execute with regard to the supply of cane to GuySuCo.

He explained that while there were suppliers/ farmers who have already been operating with legal documents in the form of contracts in the past, a number of their contracts were also being renewed presently.

This publication understands that this was on account of the fact that many of these contracts have expired and in trying to ensure that GuySuCo and these suppliers/farmers have legal standing agreements, there is the urgent need for their renewal.

In the case of issuing contracts for the first time to cane farmers, the two estates and factories which are being targeted in the near future are the Skeldon Sugar Estate, Berbice (Region Six) and the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate, West Coast Demerara (Region Three).

These contracts would officially state the “fine details” of the type of sugar cane desired

by GuySuCo, its quality and of course, the payment figures for the produce supplied.

Guyana Times was also told that the old contracts which have expired were not “under review” as what was being reportedly stated in the sugar industry.

“There is no review of any of the contracts because it is simply that a lot of farmers need contracts and these are new contracts. As for those who already have had contracts, there are those who need to have theirs renewed.

The sugarcane farmers have always called for contracts and it has been a lapse on the part of both GuySuCo and the farmers in not having been able to have had these set of contracts before now, but we are working on this,” said Bhim.

Meanwhile, a source close to the sugar industry told this newspaper that the major concern presently is that of the privatisation of GuySuCo.

According to the source, the sugar workers are ‘divided’ as to whether or not they want and would welcome privatisation if government did decide in the near future to have this done.

As the future of the sugar industry remains unclear to those whose employment, sustenance and family maintenance depend on the decisions that GuySuCo and the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration will have to make, talk was already “going around” that there would be strike actions soon.

Keeping it real

Guyana’s Demographics: challenges and opportunities

Demographics refer to the scientific study of population and the changes in the global community caused by population changes. Thomas Malthus, the British cleric and scholar, based upon trends he witnessed during the Industrial Revolution in England, argued that population will increase exponentially, and food, energy and resources will become scarce, leading to massive starvation and other social conflicts. Malthus, of course, was wrong on both counts. He could not have foreseen an industrialized Europe with zero or declining population growth rates or the rewards of the Green Revolution that made countries like India, Mexico and China self-sufficient in grain production. With more than 7 billion people in the world today, and counting, most rapid population growth is taking place in the less developed countries.

While population continues to decline in some areas, it is increasing in others. However, there are some interesting demographics taking place in the world. By 2044, the white population in America will be less than 50% of the population, largely due to in-migration and higher birth rates among non-whites. It is projected that by 2028, India, not China, will have the largest population in the world.

Population changes, nationally or globally, do have ramifications. Since under the restrictive policies of communist China, people are encouraged to have only one child without being punished, married couples today prefer to have a male child to carry out the family tradition, resulting in massive abortion rates if the child is a female.

Some countries with large populations, Japan, for example, have been encouraging migration abroad. China has been doing so quietly over the years as a means to release

the pressure of having a large population. In the United States, intra-migration patterns and population shifts will place greater power in the hands of non-whites, as the white population is projected to become a “minority” by the late 2040s. Higher birth rates among minorities concentrated in states like California, New Mexico and Florida now form an important “Hispanic” voting bloc.

Here in the Caribbean, our main problem has been out-migration and declining birth rates. Caribbean countries are faced with an international migration pattern and a brain drain with our educated people leaving for North America. Migration patterns, as well as internal migration and marriage patterns also change the nature of the population. For example, Indians, once in the majority in Guyana, are now less than 45% of the population. Unofficial estimates put the number of Guyanese leaving the country in the late 1980s at 10,000 to 30,000 annually. Many of these emigrants were middle-class professionals, resulting in a significant loss of skilled personnel. Fifty percent of our population is below the age of 25. Guyana has an estimated 2014 population growth rate of -0.11%, an unusually low growth rate for a LDC. In a recent letter, Dr. Ramesh Gampat noted that Guyana’s population “is not expected to increase significantly by 2050” and that a “Preliminary Report of the 2012 national population census found that Guyana’s population fell by 3,339 between September 2002 and September 2015, falling from 751,223 to 747,884”. The 2015 United Nations report on population projects a generous increase in Guyana’s population to “806,000 in 2050, which represents a doubling from 1950”. Making projections keeps us in the realm of theorizing about the future. However,

Guyana’s demographics create some windows of opportunities for the future.

One, given our large size and small population, Guyana has a low population density, except in our primate city of Georgetown, and a low agricultural density (the ratio of farmers to arable land). There is land for everyone, and there is a potential for the development of untapped resources once the appropriate infrastructural designs are in place to “open up” the country. Two, with a small population, Guyana does not have the social and environmental problems that are common in countries with large populations (overuse of resources, pollution, etc). We are in a unique position to adopt national policies that avoids the mistakes made by countries with similar demographics. Third, pro-creation should be encouraged, if for no other reason but to increase the size of the population and productivity in the long term. Fourth, the population that exists in the diaspora possesses tremendous skills and extensive knowledge in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), the areas in which we are most lacking to create the critical mass needed to take advantage of the technological world in which we live.

Dr Baytoram Ramharack is an Associate Professor of Political Science (adj) at Nassau Community College. Send comments to BRamharack60@gmail.com

Govt establishes National Education Council

– as Education Month 2015 launches with focus on reforms

By Alexis Rodney

Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine on Tuesday announced that Cabinet has given its noobjection to the establishment of the National Education Council (NEC), which will oversee the implementation of initiatives for the sector.

Dr Roopnaraine, delivering the feature address at the opening ceremony of this year’s Education Month activities, declared that the new Administration has already taken a number of initiatives that will seek to inform and guide educators in a particular path.

Some of these initiatives have already been undertaken, while others are still under consideration. He said the idea was for the outcome of the initiative to reflect in the deliberation of the now established NEC, which will then make recommendation for the review of the sector’s strategic plan and the finalisation of the draft education bill.

Under the theme “Quality Educational Leadership: Improving schools from within”, Education Month 2015 was launched at the Theatre Guild, Kingston, Georgetown.

Speaking on this theme, Dr Roopnaraine said Government was working to-

wards the strategic enhancement and delivery of proper education to the nation’s children.

“It is these two culminations that will be the embodiment for us,” Dr Roopnaraine told the gathering of Regional Education Officers (REOs), headteachers, teachers and students. He said the guiding principle in all of this, “is that what will work will be retained, what could be salvaged will be salvaged. What will not work and is unsalvageable will be discontinued and new initiatives will be undertaken. New initiatives will express the thinking of the new regime with regard to the education, while providing for its completeness,”

Skeletal remains found under collapsed house

The skeletal remains of a man were found under the rubble of a house which had collapsed months ago at Farmers Field, South Sophia, Georgetown.

The discovery was made by Reugel Henry on Monday around 10:00h. The young man related to Guyana Times that the remains were believed to be those of his brother, Mervin Henry, who has been missing for three years now.

This newspaper understands that at the time the man went missing, relatives had searched everywhere for him but never looked in the house, because the man had a habit of locking up and disappearing for days.

According to Henry, the house was an old building and it collapsed a few months ago; as such, he decided to clear the yard when he made the discovery. “The land wasting so I come clean it up to get to use the land and when I start

he said.

He said the theme squarely pointed to the need for effective leadership and the manpower. From the leadership perspective, he said it was at this stage that the managers of the system would be objective, oriented people who would constantly monitor the education sector to ensure that all the required elements were in place and were working. From the manpower perspective, he said the challenge would be to ensure that the preparation was relevant and they (teachers and policymakers) were committed to the task in the application. According to him, from the delivery perspective, the issue of methodology of delivery and the technology of delivery will be critical elements. In that regard, he added, ways and means must be found to enhance the curriculum through integrated and multidisciplinary teaching with absolute provision for extracurricular activities.

“It is quality that should be sought, rather than quantity. It is application that must be mastered rather than regurgitation. The education system should focus on developing quality systems, and this is the approach that Government will be taking. The manpower development plan, in this regard, challenge personnel in the system, hoping that they commit to the delivery of quality education under leadership ... responsive to the needs of the children”.

Reclaim

Speaking also at the event, Chief Education Officer Olato Sam called on teachers and educators in the public school system to raise the bar and reclaim their rightful place in society.

“It is high time that we make the clarion call to this nation so that our teachers could reclaim their appropriate place in the society. For too long teachers have been

undermined in many communities. If we are to progress as a nation and fulfil our developmental objectives, our teachers are the ones who will lead that effort,” Sam said.

“Our communities need to support our teachers, we as a nation need to value... teachers and teaching to ensure that on a daily basis they are executing their functions

with the full knowledge that they are supported by this entire nation.”

He said this year’s theme really spoke to the core of what the Education Ministry was seeking to do. He noted that there was a need for committed and dedicated teachers who were able to deliver on a daily basis, together with a supportive environment for students to garner support.

Sam said Guyana has a wonderful foundation to build on whereby teachers, despite the challenges they face on a daily basis, consistently contributed and have helped to move the education agenda forward.

He also called on the nation to develop a deep sense of value for the youth, who he said were very often shone a dim light. The Chief Education Officer added that it was high time to turn things around and highlight the positives that the youth do.

taking off the zinc sheet off the roof, I see he lying on the table,” he stated.

The young man explained that he was sure the skeletal remains belonged to his brother since there were some hand bands found on the body that matched the ones his brother used to wear. Henry related that he was unaware that his brother was missing, because he was in the interior; however, he knew the man’s family had been looking for him.

This newspaper was told that the missing man, who was in his mid 40s, was a drug addict and used to be aggressive towards others; hence no one bothered to check the house. Meanwhile, residents nearby were not aware of the body, claiming that no stench emanated from the yard.

“We didn’t get any smell from there … (but) we know he used to lock up and go away for days, weeks and months, and then you would see him back,” one person related.

Jagdeo not in support of Govt regulating media

– says PPP still to discuss issue

The plan by the David Granger-led Administration to regulate the Guyanese media has been blasted by the leader of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, who is now the Opposition Leader in the 11th Parliament.

The Opposition Leader emphasised that his Party has never had any definitive discussion on the matter. And while he was not directly speaking against the comments made by his Party’s General Secretary, Clement Rohee, Jagdeo said he has always been against any such policy. Rohee had intimated that there was need for possible media regulation in Guyana.

Jagdeo maintained that during his terms as President of Guyana, he had never touted a media regulation policy.

He explained that while he has suffered the brunt of the vilest and most unjust criticisms from the media, he has never sought to implement a media policy.

“It is no secret that I have suffered the brunt of lies, unethical reporting, slander and all sorts of concocted reporting, but despite this I believe in self-regulation and I firmly believe that Government has no authority to interfere with the free and independent press. It can criticise it but not interfere in its operations.”

The Party’s General Secretary on Monday had said that the PPP may support the proposed policy as laid out by Government;

however, there must first be a public debate or consultation.

“I don’t agree that the media should have a freefor-all. The question of regulation in terms of the media is going to be a very sensitive issue, maybe it will have some constitutional impacts as well and I hope that whatever comes out, that it will be subject to public debate and discussion before anything is actually formalised and laid in the Parliament,” Rohee had told Journalists at the Party’s Robb Street headquarters.

“Journalistic accountability”, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, speaking to Journalists last Friday said Government was seeking to ensure “journalistic accountability”, particularly as it relates to matters involving Government and that a policy was well underway in that regard.

“It is not ... fully complete and in the interim, there are

a number of things that still need to be done that will guarantee that there is responsible reporting of the news in the media and that it is important that we establish some level of responsibility of what you put out there,” Harmon had said.

He reminded that the media remained the fourth estate and was an important element in any democratic society. It is not something “for you to do as you want”.

“It is the early days yet and I am sure some policy will emerge. However, the media must act responsible and if one is reporting on Government business, that report must be balanced and objective”, Harmon said.

Given the recent public exchange between Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and a freelance Journalist attached to the State-owned Guyana Chronicle on the issue of the media’s right to call a spade a spade, local Journalists and the Opposition alike had taken

the current Administration to task, citing what they believe was apparent hypocrisy regarding the operation of the State media.

Previously, the then A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) Opposition had objected to the alleged PPP/C interference and control over the State media in the 10th Parliament, using its oneseat majority to slash millions from the annual budget allocated to the Government Information Agency and the National Communications Network in particular.

While in the 10th Parliament, Moses Nagamootoo, then Vice Chairman of the AFC. had expressed concerns that politicians were regulating or controlling the press.

Nagamootoo, who himself is a Journalist, had said that his party had no issues with the independent monitoring of the press, blasting Government and accusing the PPP/C Administration of double standards by pushing for media regulation and abusing the State-owned media to its advantage.

“Whilst the State is terrified of the few non-Government media, it encourages the vulgarity of its own media for being wholly partisan, propagandistic and pathetic, and for disregarding wholly standards of objectivity, balance and fairness,” he had said.

PPP sources pointed out that now that the shoe is on the other foot, Nagamootoo is “singing a different tune”.

New form of hardship being faced by brave

Emannie Melvin, the baby born with a partially exposed brain, will be turning one year old, and the brain tissue protruding through his skull continues to grow. It is only a matter of time before life gets extremely uncomfortable for the little lad – and extremely challenging for his mother, Felicia Melvin.

Baby Emannie made headlines all across the Caribbean after reports surfaced in Guyana of this rare brain-defect condition and his mother’s desperate struggles to try to save her first-born’s life.

Fortunate is he to have lived to his one-year birthday after all doctors predicted the worst.

Emannie will be celebrating his birthday on

mother

October 8, but though his mother continues to hope for the best, she often times fear the worst as his condition appears to worsen with time.

She was already advised by doctors that it was too late to perform any surgery and that Emannie will have to continue living as he is. But the worried mother explained that the exposed brain continues to grow forward over her baby’s eyes, affecting his sight. She also explained that Emannie would often play with the exposed tissue, causing it to bleed on occasions.

“He would be troubling it and irritating it, so I have to put socks on his hands so he won’t damage himself,” she had told Guyana Times Melvin admitted that the

Gun amnesty programme… Two pistols, 1246 ammo handed over on first day

As the Public Security Ministry rolled out its Firearm Amnesty Programme on Tuesday, persons have already used to opportunity to rid themselves of over a thousand ammunition and two firearms.

The programme provides for persons in possession of illegal firearms, ammunition or explosives to hand them over to the authorities without facing prosecution, as part of Government’s plan to curb the number of illegal firearms circulating in the country.

The programme began at 09:00h on Tuesday and is being implemented through the Guyana Police Force. The period of acceptance will run until 16:00 daily at selected Police stations identified in the various Police Divisions.

On its first day, at least two persons in Georgetown within A Division (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara) turned over illegal weapons and ammunition that were in their possession. Divisional Command, Clifton Hicken informed Guyana Times that by the time the collection time was up for the day, two semi-automatic pistols and 55 matching ammunitions were handed over while earlier in the day, one man took a total of 1191 7.62x51 high-calibre rounds at a Police station in Georgetown.

the amnesty period has expired will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of Guyana.

In the A Division (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara) the Timehri, Ruimveldt, Providence, East La Penitence, Brickdam and Albertown Police Stations were selected for handovers to be done. The Fort Wellington, Blairmont, Central, Albion, Whim, Number 51, Springlands and Mibicuri Police Stations were air marked in B Division (Berbice).

Meanwhile, six Police stations were identified in the C Division (East Coast Demerara) namely Sparendaam, Beterverwagting, Vigilance, Cove and John, Mahaica and Mahaicony. Over at the D Division (West Demerara), the La Grange Police Station, Vreed-enHoop, Leonora and Parika Police Stations were selected.

Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud told this newspaper that within 30 minutes after the commencement time of the programme, the man brought in over a thousand rifle rounds of ammunition. However, he noted that at the time, no word was given about what may have been handed over at the other Police divisions. Seelall however said he was satisfied with the success of the first day.

past months have been extremely challenging, “It’s been difficult, quite a struggle, these past months, but

he’s my son and I love him and I will do anything for him.”

According to the Top Cop, every gun and ammunition that is turned in is one less on the streets and one that could have taken the life of someone.

The Firearm Amnesty Programme will run until September 30. The Public Security Ministry has assured that “all transaction conducted in relation to this specific amnesty period will be treated with strict confidentiality” while also warning that those who are found in possession of any illegal weapon, ammunition or explosive after

The Kwakwani, Mabaruma, Wismar and Mackenzie Police Stations were air marked in the E Division (LindenKwakwani ). However, in the F Division (Interior) a total of 25 stations were indentified including Bartica, Kurupung, Aranka, Enachu, Issano, Lethem, Annai, Aishalton, Karasabai, Monkey Mountain and the Kato Police Stations, as well as the Mabaruma, Moruka, Yarrikita, Port Kaituma, Matthews Ridge, Baramita, Kamarang, Eteringbang, Imbaimadai, Kaikan, Mahdia, Paruima, Kurupukari and Itabali Police Stations. Then in the G Division (Essequibo Coast and Islands) the Suddie, Anna Regina, Charity, Wakenaam, Leguan and Aurora Police Stations were listed as locations for handing over the illegal items.

Amerindian Heritage Month launched

Under the theme “Preserving our Customs and Traditions”, Indigenous Peoples’ Heritage Month was officially launched in splendour at the Heritage Village at the National Exhibition Centre at Sophia, Greater Georgetown on Tuesday evening.

The ceremony featured a grand cultural showcase that included traditional dances, songs and poetry from indigenous persons across Guyana.

In his address, Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister and Vice President Sydney Allicock urged indigenous Guyanese to embrace their heritage with pride and to reflect on the value of what their forbearers left behind for them. He added that Guyana’s indigenous people should not be intimidated, as they were a special people and needed to be treated that way.

The Minister also stated that indigenous people should stop attacking each other and to start attacking the issues that were keeping them from being the “best they can be.”

Also addressing the gathering was President David Granger, who said the Government of Guyana was pleased to be associated with Indigenous Heritage Month, as time was dedicated to observances and events that highlighted various aspects of indigenous life and showcased their contributions to national life.

The President declared that the rich and diverse culture of Guyana’s indigenous people needed to be safeguarded. He added that

modernisation and penetration by other cultures were threatening many of the traditions and values which many people hold dear. Culture encompasses the totality of a people’s experience and existence and incorporates customs and traditions, Granger highlighted. “Culture is about value and relationships with one another and with the environment. It is about languages and today, I wish to express hope to the future of indigenous languages within our public.”

The President explained that the Government was at the forefront of the mission to preserve customs and traditions as suggested by the theme, as much emphasis was to be placed on the preservation of indigenous languages. He stated that it was very important that Amerindian languages were preserved and practised.

The President believes that it was time for all

Guyanese to embrace the indigenous languages as “language is part of our people’s identity; language shapes our senses and identity; language helps us to express how we represent our self.”

He added that the heritage of Guyana’s indigenous people, therefore, should be seen as the patrimony of all Guyana.

President Granger highlighted that the Government favoured cultural retention and cultural continuity and greatly respected the identity and heritage of the indigenous people of Guyana, and therefore wanted to see those languages preserved and propagated.

Activities will continue throughout the month for the celebration of indigenous heritage including the Heritage Pageant, Cultural Extravaganza, Indigenous Heritage Fashion show and many others for the month of September.

New form of hardship...

The young mother suffered a lot from the time of giving birth to her son. She experienced hardships and found herself venturing on a rough journey.

The single parent often had to seek public assistance to help take care of her son, all of which she has expressed her sincerest gratitude for.

Her trips around Georgetown and other regions to locate a doctor to best advise her on the surgery needed to ensure her son’s survival also contributed to her struggles as many of the local physicians were unable to do so owing to the rarity of the child’s condition.

Organisations have stepped forward to provide assistance to the family, but owing to the long trail of paperwork, the process never got underway. Eventually, she made contact with a doctor oper-

ating out of Guyana through the Dr Balwant Singh Hospital, but he advised her that it was too late to perform any surgeries and that any attempt to interfere now could result in complications.

“So for now, I am just living every day as per normal and trying to make the best,” Melvin stated, noting that all she could do is monitor the situation.

Encephalocele

Emmanie’s condition is typically known as Encephalocele, according to research.

According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Encephalocele is a rare type of Neural Tube Defect (NTD). The neural tube is a narrow channel that folds and closes during the third and fourth weeks of pregnancy to form the brain and spinal cord.

GuySuCo field worker pinned to death

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has launched an investigation into the death of one of its employees who was pinned by a Bell Loader which slipped off a bridge on Monday evening in East Canje, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Dead is Muhammad Iftikar Oosman also called “Amin” of 73 East Street, Canefield Settlement, East Canje.

Reports are that the Bell Loader operator was pinned under the vehicle when it fell into a canal that the 30-year-old operator was attempting to cross at the time.

Human Resources Manager of Rose Hall Estate, Adesh Singh said the incident occurred about 19:20h at Lot 16 Field 4 in the cultivation area.

He told this publication that the matter was being investigated and the Corporation could not make a pronouncement at this time.

According to one eyewitness, who asked to remain anonymous, Oosman was the last of five operators crossing the canal to get to the work area.

“When me reach, the machine bin done dea pun the side and the man bin pin down.”

According to the eyewitness, he immediately joined others in the canal to try to remove Oosman from under

the Bell Loader. He added that all he was able to see at the time was the operator’s feet as half of his body was under the vehicle. “From he waist go down went under the machine in water and mud.” At the time, he explained the water level was reaching his chest.

The eyewitness, who operates a tractor, said Oosman was leaving the dry access dam to get to a field which cane harvesters had earlier in the day levelled, leaving the cane for the Bell Loader to pick up.

Reports are that Oosman remained submerged for more than 15 minutes. “We had to pull the machine with a plough tractor till we get he out because we couldn’t get him out but him pin down. He went under water like 15 to 20 minutes before we get he out oh deh.”

Oosman was pronounced

Asked about

Encephalocele is a saclike protrusion or projection of the brain and the membranes that cover it through an opening in the skull and happens when the neural tube does not close completely during pregnancy. The result is an opening in the midline of the upper part of the skull, the area between the forehead and nose, or the back of the skull.

The CDC estimates that each year about 375 babies in the United States are born with Encephalocele. Babies with Encephalocele are vulnerable to nervous system and other health problems.

Generally, surgery is performed during infancy to place the protruding tissues back into the skull, remove the sac, and correct the associated craniofacial abnormalities. Even large protrusions can often be removed without causing major functional disability.

dead at the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was taken.

Workers said it was not the first time a Bell Loader slipped into a canal while someone was attempting to cross.

However, the Human Resources Manager said it was the first reported case in 11 months since he has been on the job. Singh said a full report on the incident will be available when the investigation was completed.

The investigation is being headed by Human Resources Director Orin Morris. The Police have also launched an investigation into the incident.

Oosman was working the 16:30h-04:30h shift when the accident occurred. He had been working at the estate for 11 years. Initially, he worked in the spray gang and then moved to the Bell gang as a Scrapper (picks up cane the loader missed) before becoming an operator.

He leaves to mourn two children ages one and three, a wife and two parents. He was the eldest of three. Meanwhile, following the incident, the Senior Manager of the Rose Hall Estate visited the mourning family. According to Singh, GuySuCo will be assisting with funeral arrangements. He noted that management took the opportunity on Tuesday to express condolences to the grieving family.

Trump, China says US people want good ties

China understands people in the United States have the right to say what they want, but most want good relations with China, the Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday, apparently dismissing repeated attacks by billionaire Donald Trump as “disturbances”.

The Republican presidential hopeful has recently focused his ire on China’s currency, which the Government devalued last month. He has also accused China of stealing US jobs.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visits the United States later this month.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying would not comment directly on Trump’s broadsides, and noted last week’s visit to China by US National Security Adviser Susan Rice, saying both countries wanted a successful visit for Xi.

“We understand that in the United States every person has the freedom to make all kinds of comments. But

for the Chinese Government, we pay even more attention to the US Government’s policy towards China and mainstream US public opinion,” she said.

“The history of the development of Sino-US ties in recent years shows that from time to time there will be all sorts of voices, or sometimes

certain disturbances,” Hua told a daily news briefing. The reason relations kept developing was that people wanted ties to be good, she added.

“I hope that all sides, whether officials or the media or people in both countries, can aim at this and work hard together to move in this direction.”

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Abrams Zuil wins 2014 Sagicor Challenge

– receives award after days of hard work

Coming out on top ahead of schools from eight countries, including the United States of America, the Abrams Zuil Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast has made Guyana proud, bringing home the 2014 Sagicor Visionary Challenge Science Project award.

Members of the business community have been urged to consider and appreciate the commercial viability of the project, adopt it, and use it for their own economic advantage.

With its “Paddy Husk Particle Board” project, the Secondary School was judged to have had the best project at the event which was held late last year in Trinidad and Tobago.

The school received prizes, including ‘the most relevant to community development prize’ from Sagicor representative Marlene Chin, at the launch of Education Month at the Theatre Guild on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after the programme, Deputy Headteacher of Abrams Zuil Secondary, Jerome Raj Persaud said he was elated over the success of the project, which he noted had seen an improvement at every level. The project, he explained, is based on the ways through which rice husk could be reused for sustainable projects.

“When the paddy is milled, the rice husk is burnt in the open and emits a lot of carbon dioxide in the environment which is a danger to the environment... if Guyana is going to talk green, we need to find a use for the rice husk. We have proposed that the husk be used in the particle board and is of very high quality,” he said.

He said the board is fire resistant, heat resistant and termite resistant – qualities of a good construction material. “We are hoping that someone from the business community would take this into consideration”.

The school had presented the same project at the Science fair in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam),

and difficult project, but I thank the science teacher for providing guidance for the project. Here they are today, proving that hard work pays off,” she declared.

Chin added that the students demonstrated that the rice husk particle board was viable and could benefit residents of Region Two and Guyana

where it came out on top. The exact project was also taken to the National Science Fair, where it was again successful. The final stop was at the science fair where several Caribbean territories plus the United States participated. He said at every competition, the team sought to add to the project, making it better than the previous.

Chin told the packed Theatre Guild auditorium that the programme remained committed to ensuring that secondary school students develop effective, innovative and sustainable solutions to the challenges in the environment, and sought to improve the lives of persons in communities in which they operate. She congratulated the Guyanese students for their performance

“I know it was a long

Region Two gets new medical heads

Region Two Chairman Daveanand Ramdatt at several ‘face the community’ meetings held over the past weeks disclosed that Region Two (Pomeroon-supenaam) has new medical heads who are placed at the Suddie Public Hospital.

According to Ramdatt, Dr Afrah Khan replaced Dr Allison Brown as Regional Health Officer (Acting) while Sonia Grey was appointed as Medical Superintend (Acting). Dr

Khan replaced Dr Brown who has reached the age of retirement.

Ramdatt said he will be working closely with the new appointees in moving health care delivery ahead in Region Two. He said medical outreaches will be held more often in Amerindian communities.

Khan, who spoke with Guyana Times said he will be handing over the best to Dr Brown and wished her all the best. Dr Brown also said that she hopes that

she, along with Dr Grey, can work together to move the health sector in the region forward by implementing new programmes and strategies to deal with issues in the sector.

Dr Brown will be overseeing the welfare of health centres, hospitals and health posts within the region, as well as making necessary recommendations for medical officers to the Public Health Ministry and the Region Two Administration.

Flu-like symptoms take over Mashabo, Tapakuma

... Toshaos request medical outreach

Toshao of the Amerindian Village of Mashabo in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Sylvin Raphael has reported that there is a outbreak of flu and fever in his village. Raphael was at the time speaking at the Regional Toshao Conference held on Monday at the regional State House.

Raphael brought the issue to light, saying that many persons in his community are suffering with headaches, flu like symptoms and fever. He further requested that a urgent medical outreach be dispatched to his community. Raphael said almost every home is affected, will residents experiencing these symptoms for over one week now.

When asked if the community health worker is assisting those affected, he said she is aware but nothing has been done. The village Toshao related that it is very expensive for families to travel to the Suddie Public Hospital on the Essequibo Coast to seek medical attention, adding that it would be

wiser and more cost efficient for a health team to visit the area.

It was also explained that the health post is not properly equipped to deal with the sudden illness that has befallen the residents there.

The Toshao also asked that a boat be provided to the community health worker so that she can increase her at home visits to those who are too ill to come out. At present, he noted, the health worker has an engine but no

boat.

Another Toshoa from Tapakuma also echoed similar cries, telling those gathered that several families within his community are also experiencing the same illness as those from Mashabo.

After listening to the Toshao’s requests, Region Two Chairman Daveanand Ramdatt requested that Regional Health Officer (Acting) Afrah Khan investigate the matter and organise a medical outreach to the communities. Khan said she was not informed about the issue; however, she would be following up such promptly.

Meanwhile, the Region Two Chairman said that efforts are being made for medical outreaches to be held in Amerindian villages once every three months. The Toshaos present at the Conference expressed their happiness at the initiative to send medical outreaches to their communities, noting that in the past, their villages were neglected.

as a whole.

Entries were evaluated and judged at the national level in each of the Challenge Countries, with the winning school in each country moving on to the regional competition. Representatives of the national school winners and their respective teachers will also participate in a seven-day, all-expenses STEM Ambassador Programme to Florida.

The Sagicor Visionaries Challenge is open to entries from Antigua and Barbuda; Barbados; Belize; Dominica; Guyana; St Lucia; Hillsborough County, Tampa, Florida, US; and Trinidad and Tobago.

Raj Persaud said the school would definitely be entering this year’s competition and hoped that it was successful.

Former Policeman charged for stealing motorcycle

Aformer Policeman was on Tuesday placed on a bond to keep the peace after the owner of a motorcycle that he allegedly stole chose to be lenient with him and withdraw the charges against him.

Akeem Marks, 19, of 221 West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded not

guilty to the charge which read that on Sunday, August 30, at Leopold Street, Georgetown he stole a Jialing motorcycle bearing registration plates CA 5859 property of the Virtual Complainant Leonard Eastman.

The motorcycle was recovered in the defendant’s yard. The VC stated that he did not wish to proceed with the matter, but that he just wanted his motorcycle which was in the possession of the Police. The Magistrate, in response, placed the defendant in a bond to keep the peace and dismissed the charge.

Education Ministry employee on bail for narcotics possession

Aman was on Tuesday placed on $100,000 bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan when he appeared before her in Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking.

Damien Eddie, 21 of 50 Middle Street, Georgetown,

pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on Monday, August 31, at Georgetown, he was found in possession of 8.3 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. His Attorney, Paul Fung-A-Fat informed the court that his client is a carpenter attached to the Education Ministry and he has no previous brushes with the law. He also argued that the drugs were found in clothes in a house that he occupies with several other persons, as such, he requested reasonable bail. Bail was granted in the sum of $100,000 and the matter was transferred to Court 11 for September 21.

Wakenaam resident produces first ever wooden bicycle ... adds

value to raw materials

By IndrawattIe natram

Ajoiner from San Souci village of the Island of Wakenaam in the Essequibo River, Region Three ( Essequibo IslandWest Demerara) has produced the country’s first wooden bicycle. Shazim Bacchus made the bicycle from hardwood.

Bacchus in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times said that the bicycle was made from wood harvested from nearby forested areas. He related that he constructed the bicycle using his own skills and technology and with the raw materials that were available to him.

Further explaining his trade, Bacchus said that he is very skillful in producing furniture pieces, such as chairs, tables, kitchen cupboards, wardrobes, dinning sets and beds of unique designs. When ask what prompted him to construct a wooden bicycle, Bacchus said that he heard President David Granger advocating for persons to add value to their products.

“I love what I do, the designs come from within, I just craft the design and then carve the end product,” Bacchus said. Speaking about his business, he said it was established under the name EF Trading

which means Evergreen Exotic Forest at San Souci in Wakenaam.

Bacchus said that he got the idea for the construction of the bicycle after he realised that many of the available hardwoods were suitable for the manufacture of various products, including creative craft, including the bicycle.

“God has blessed me, I built this bicycle. I hope I can get more sales... it is unique and it’s quiet different” Bacchus said. The craftsman said he is proud of the construction and is optimistic he would be building more pieces of this type. Bacchus said he is proud to produce the first wooden bicycle in Guyana.

He said he learnt his trade and honed his skills under the stewardship of his father Kazim Bacchus who is a Carpenter/Contractor at Wakeaam.

Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community challenges critics of Islam during concluding address at 49th Jalsa Salana UK – more than 35,000 attend and 96 countries represented

The World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, has delivered a powerful and authoritative response to critics of Islam who blame the world’s problems on the religion.

His Holiness made the comments during his concluding address at the 49th Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the United Kingdom on Sunday, August 23, 2015.

While delivering a comprehensive defence of Islam’s true teachings before an audience of over 35,000 gathered at Hadeeqatul Mahdi in Hampshire, His Holiness condemned all forms of terrorism and extremism as completely against the teachings of Islam.

This year, delegates from 96 countries attended the Jalsa Salana. Apart from the thousands of Ahmadi Muslims, many non-Ahmadi and non-Muslim guests and dignitaries attended the three-day convention.

One of the highlights of the Jalsa Salana was the pledge of allegiance, known as the Bai’at that took place on Sunday afternoon, where the participants pledged allegiance to Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad as the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph) of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him). The participants formed a human chain lead-

ing to the Khalifa as they repeated the words of the pledge in unison.

In his concluding address, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad rejected the notion that religion was the cause of violence or warfare.

His Holiness also said that among those who claimed Islam to be a religion of violence were people who continued to justify the deployment of nuclear weapons against Japan during the Second World War and those who had supported the failed military interventions in Libya in 2011 and Iraq in 2003 in which hundreds of thousands of innocent lives had been lost.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said: “Many people in the developed world consider religion to be the pri-

mary cause of world disorder; however, this is due to a misunderstanding of religion itself. The disorder and injustice we see around the world is not as a result of religion, rather it is being perpetrated by self-interest and greed. It is a result of people misusing the name of God to fulfil their vested interests, and it is also a result of the denial of the very existence of God.”

His Holiness recounted how recently an academic he met had stated that religion should evolve and adapt to suit the modern age and the latest cultural trends.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad responded: “Religion is there to lead and guide humanity, not to follow people’s worldly desires. And so we believe in that book (the Holy Quran) which has been preserved for more than 1400 years and whose teaching is in every way perfect and complete. It is a teaching for the people of every age and every land!”

Speaking about the desperate state of much of the world, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Today we are clearly seeing the fulfilment of the prophecy of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) in which he said a time would come when the Muslim clerics would not spread anything but ignorance, injustice and disorder and their words would be at complete odds with their deeds.”

SVN’s top students on US scholarships

Rafena Mustapha, the 2013 best graduating Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) student of Saraswati Vidya Niketan (SVN), has been awarded a scholarship by her school to study in the United States.

In 2013, she had obtained 15 distinctions at the CSEC exams and on the basis of her performance, was given the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Humanities Award. The following year, she was successful in five subjects at the unit one level of the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and this year, 2015, she successfully completed another five subjects at the unit two level.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said that anti-Islamic powers were taking advantage of the widespread conflict within the Muslim world and were fanning the flames of fear and mistrust of Islam.

He said: “We see that the opponents of Islam are levelling false allegations against Islam as a matter of routine. They are declaring Islam to be a religion of disorder and extremism whereas oth-

Mustapha has been accepted at Queens College, City University of New York (CUNY), where she plans to do a degree in Computer

Later in his address, His Holiness said that Islam teaches one to favour others and to prioritise their rights over one’s own rights. However, the major powers rarely sought to favour those who were vulnerable and any help or aid they gave was generally contingent on the fulfilment of certain conditions or criteria.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor

Science. Travelling arrangements to the United States has been made with the compliments of N&S Mattai & Company, Guyana’s leading food warehouse. Also on an SVN scholarship is Nirmala Singh who is returning to the United States to pursue a Master’s in Education Psychology at CUNY’s Hunter College. Her travelling arrangements were made possible with the compliments of Yesu Persaud, Chairman of Demerara Bank Ltd and Executive Advisor to DDL Ltd. Singh was the SVN’s best graduating student in 2005 and as such was given a scholarship to the US where she did a degree in Math Teacher 7-12 at CUNY’s Brooklyn College. Upon completing her first degree, Singh returned to SVN where she has been teaching Mathematics and Information Technology.

His Holiness concluded ended his address by praying for world peace and for mankind to exhibit a spirit of true compassion and love for one other.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said: “May Allah implant the sympathy and compassion that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) had for humankind in all of our hearts.”

ers are portrayed as the flag bearers of world peace and harmony.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad continued: “On the one hand we see that certain leaders or commentators say that Islam is not a violent religion, yet on the other hand they are also claiming that there is a link between Islam and extremism. Their remarks are contradictory and an attempt to placate all sides. Thus let me make it clear that no other teaching promotes peace and tolerance to the extent that Islam has championed.”

Ahmad said that before objecting to Islamic teachings, those opposed to Islam should look to their own examples. His Holiness said that those who had dropped atomic bombs on Japan continued to feel no sorrow or shame. They continued to claim that the use of nuclear weapons at Hiroshima and Nagasaki were acts of bravery and honour, even though hundreds of thousands of innocent men, women and children were killed and generation and after generation had suffered the ill effects of those devastating attacks.

The Jalsa Salana concluded with a silent prayer led by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad.

Apart from the five addresses delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, various other speakers and scholars took to the stage during the course of the three-day event.

Various exhibitions were also on display including a photographic exhibition documenting the history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, an exhibition displaying a replica of the Shroud of Turin and a human rights exhibition.

SUDOKU

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

(May 21June 20)

CANCER

Everyone around you will have trouble keeping up with you. You will be the center of attention no matter where you go or what you do, so put your best foot forward.

Remember to be tactful when dealing with others. You are bound to ruffle some feathers if you don’t choose your words wisely. Try not to meddle in someone else’s affairs.

Widen your circle of friends and associates. Getting involved in a progressive group will lead to life-long friendships that offer opportunities and bring great satisfaction.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

You will be tempted to intrude on someone else’s business or personal affairs. Stand back and let others do as they please. Your focus should be on your own interests, not on other people.

Revitalize your mind by beginning a new course or seminar, or attending a conference. Satisfy your thirst for knowledge by choosing a subject close to your heart. Love and romance are highlighted.

A look at your assets will lead to an investment opportunity. Act quickly once the facts indicate a favorable venture. Host a get-together with people who share your interests.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Romance and passion will be front and center, making this an ideal day to look for love or to nurture an existing relationship. Live in the moment.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Mixing business with pleasure will not work in your favor. Thrust yourself into the forefront at the workplace and let your achievements gain you recognition.

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Let your imagination wander. Your creative talent will shine through and draw a crowd. Attend media, cultural or philosophic events, and your contributions will be welcomed.

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

Keep your emotions out of the equation in order to avoid an altercation. The current change unfolding in your life will turn out better than anticipated.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Don’t let upsetting personal issues get you down. If you open up and share your experiences, you will receive support from a trusted friend. Positive action will bring a favorable response.

Raising your income should be on your mind. You must remain realistic and stick to a workable budget. Efficient and economical planning will help reduce expenditures.

GFF, Government meet over Stag Elite League support

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Monday met with Minister of State, Joseph Harmon as the Federation moved to garner the Government of Guyana’s support for its Stag Elite League, which is set to kick off on Friday, September 18 at the Leonora Track and Field and Football Facility.

GFF Normalisation

Committee Chairman Clinton Urling, Vice Chairman Dr

Karen Pilgrim, Technical Director Claude Bolton and Assistant General Secretary Deidre Davis represented the GFF at the meeting, which was held at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Eight of the country’s top clubs – Slingerz FC, Fruta Conquerors, Pele, Alpha United, Buxton United, Monedderlust, Georgetown Football Cub and Guyana Defence Force – will compete in what is considered as

the most lucrative League to be held in Guyana.

“It’s an eight-month League for our highest level of football in the country,” Urling added, saying that it would require enormous resources to pull off the League in a professional manner, noting that even though the GFF and FIFA are “putting a lot” into ensuring that the League starts, Government’s support is also needed to make the League a reality.

Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal lived up to their billing with victories in the first of this year’s US Open night sessions.

Top seed Williams needed just 30 minutes to begin her bid for a first calendar Grand Slam as Vitalia Diatchenko retired at 6-0 2-0 down.

Nadal, seeded eighth, saw off 18-year-old Borna Coric 6-3 6-2 4-6 6-4.

World number one Novak Djokovic went through, but fourth seed Kei Nishikori was beaten.

The Japanese player, last year’s runner-up, lost 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 to Frenchman Benoit Paire.

“It’s always very sad to lose in the first round, but I think he was playing good tennis so I don’t think I played bad,” Nishikori said.

Djokovic swept past Brazil’s Joao Souza 6-1 6-1 6-1 to reach round two, and Nadal showed glimpses of his best form in beating Croatia’s Coric.

The Spaniard, 29, domi-

nated the first two sets and then saw off a resurgent Coric in the fourth with a rasping forehand to earn the decisive break.

“I think I started playing well,” Nadal said. “The first two sets was a very high level for me, then I got a little bit tired.

“The conditions here are very humid, I am sweating a lot and in those conditions I suffer a bit. I was able to play aggressive in the fourth. He is an amazing player and has a great future.”

There were several upsets in the women’s draw, where Serbian seventh seed Ana Ivanovic was beaten 6-3 3-6 6-3 by Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia, and she was followed out of the tournament by five more seeds.

Draw opens up for Serena Serena Williams was generous in her praise for 25-year-old Russian Diatchenko after a workout that last just 37 points, with the American winning 32.

“I told her I was proud of

Ishant, Chandimal handed one-match bans

it benefitted us.”

The meeting, according to Urling, was to “discuss the mechanics of the League and to solicit Government’s support financially”.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State pledged Government’s support for not just the League, but sports in Guyana.

Harmon, an ardent follower and lover of the sport of football, indicated that he would like to see “a clear tangible programme that says we are going to pay attention to these young men and women who play football”.

The Minister said that Government’s contribution must mean something to players and they all must benefit.

Chairman Urling applauded the Government’s endorsement of the League and was now looking forward to the Government playing a major role in the development of football throughout Guyana.

Up next for the GFF is a meeting with the Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, to discuss Government’s financial support for the Stag Elite League. (www.gffonline.com)

Williams and Rafael Nadal reach round two of US Open

her for coming out and making this effort, knowing she was injured,” Williams said. “That’s a great effort.”

Her chances of reaching the women’s final were boosted even before the world number one began her title defence as seeds tumbled to leave the American with no other top-10 player in her half of the draw.

As well as Ivanovic, eighth seed Karolina Pliskova - who lost 6-2 6-1 to Anna Tatishvili - and 10th seed Carla Suarez Navarro failed to progress, while world number three Maria Sharapova withdrew on the eve of the tournament because of injury.

Former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, seeded 30th, and former finalist Jelena Jankovic, seeded 21st, also exited on day one.

Williams’ sister Venus, the two-time champion, did advance to the second round, beating Monica Puig - only her second victory since losing in the last 16 at Wimbledon. (BBC Sport)

Ishant Sharma and Dinesh Chandimal have been handed one-match suspensions for behaviour that breached the ICC code of conduct during the SSC Test, while Dhammika Prasad and Lahiru Thirimanne were fined 50% of their match fees.

This means that Ishant (who received “two suspension points”) will miss India’s first Test against South Africa, in Mohali, in November. Chandimal (“one suspension point”) will miss Sri Lanka’s opening ODI in the home series against West Indies.

Chandimal was penalised, an ICC release stated, for a

Ishant received his suspension for a separate incident in the final innings of the Test, wherein he gave Sri Lanka opener Upul Tharanga a sendoff after dismissing him. By doing so, he had breached the ICC codes relating to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his/her dismissal during an international match”.

Ishant had also been fined for two separate incidents during the second Test, a total of 65% of his match fee for having given send-offs to

breach relating to “inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with a player”. The incident occurred in the 76th over of India’s second innings, when Chandimal made what was deemed to be deliberate physical contact with Ishant, who was batting at the time, even while the batsman was in the middle of an exchange of words with bowler Dhammika Prasad.

The ICC release said Thirimanne had also got involved at this time, despite two warnings from the umpires not to, and he hence was fined. Prasad too was fined for his role in this incident.

India captain Virat Kohli, however, said after the game that this particular incident was to India’s benefit, as it charged up Ishant. “I was very happy with the incident when he was batting because it happened at the right time for uswe had to bowl yesterday and they made him angry and it couldn’t have happened at a better time for us,” Kohli said. “The timing was absolutely perfect and everything fell in place for us as far as being aggressive is concerned. And the way he bowled in the second innings, he didn’t concede a boundary for 19 overs. And that’s the kind of pressure he created on those batsmen because of one incident. So it had to be controlled but in the end

Thirimanne and Chandimal. Hence he received a suspension this time. Another such breach in the next 12 months could have him suspended for a fixed period going up to a year. All four players admitted to their offences after the game, and so there was no formal hearing.

Match referee Andy Pycroft said after the match: “Monday’s incidents were not good advertisements for international cricket. These experienced cricketers forgot their fundamental responsibilities of respecting their opponents as well as the umpires, and got involved in incidents which were clearly against the spirit of the game. Their actions cannot be condoned and must be discouraged.

“Chandimal was not directly involved in the incident between Prasad and Sharma, but came into the conflict and made deliberate physical contact with Sharma, and had the umpires not intervened, the situation could have escalated.

“As regards Sharma, he had been put on notice after being charged twice for sendoffs in the previous Test. Any repeat of this action within the next 12 months will potentially see him suspended for a much longer period.”

Murray expects firedup Nick Kyrgios

British number one

Andy Murray ex-

pects Australia’s Nick Kyrgios to put recent controversy behind him when they meet in the US Open first round.

The pair will play for a fourth time in the day two night session, which begins at 00:00 BST on Wednesday.

Kyrgios, 20, was fined and given a suspended ban for comments made about Stan Wawrinka’s girlfriend during a recent match in Montreal.

“I’d expect him to be ready. He gets fired up for big events,” said Murray.

“I think he likes playing on big stages, that’s where he’s played his best tennis.”

Murray backs under-fire Kyrgios

The British number one has backed the Australian to learn from the fall-out from his comments to Wawrinka, and Murray does not plan to be distracted by the furore on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

“For me, it’s a tennis match and I go about the match the best way possible by getting all the tactics and everything sorted, tailoring my practice around his game style,” said the Scot. “You don’t pay attention to the other stuff.”

Kyrgios only spoke to a select few outlets before the

tournament but was seen smiling and joking with compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis - one of those implicated in his on-court comments.

“I guess I’ll just learn from it,” Kyrgios told the Observer. “I mean, obviously I wouldn’t do it again but I wouldn’t say I was embarrassed by it at all. I’m not embarrassed by it.”

History favours in-form

reached the semi-finals in Cincinnati.

Kyrgios reached the fourth round at Wimbledon but has since managed just one win over John Isner in Canada, before Wawrinka retired from their now infamous encounter.

“Every match is a new match,” said Murray. “He might come in and do something completely different

Murray Murray has won all three of his previous meetings with Kyrgios without dropping a set, the last two encounters coming at this year’s Australian and French Opens.

The third seed also arrives in New York in fine form, having beaten Novak Djokovic to win the Rogers Cup in Montreal and

against me this time so I need to be prepared for that.

“He’s quite an unpredictable player so you need to expect that when you go on the court.

“I’ve played well against him but he’s a top player, he just missed out on a seeding here, and I’m sure he’ll be one of the top players at this event for the next few years.” (BBC Sport)

Bravo receives the Hummingbird Medal

West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago all-rounder

Dwayne Bravo has been presented with the Hummingbird Medal, the country’s third highest award.

The medal was presented to Bravo Monday night for his service to sport amidst celebrations marking the twin island republic’s 53rd anniversary since gaining independence.

Bravo led the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force to the Caribbean Premier League title in 2015 producing outstanding performances with the bat and ball.

“Receiving the third highest award in Trinidad and Tobago, the Hummingbird Gold, for my contribution to sport,” Bravo posted on social media.

“I could not have done it without the love and support of my fans and most of all my teammates. This one is for you”.

Bravo, half-brother of fellow West Indies player

Darren Bravo and cousin of West Indies legend Brian Lara, was also part of the Mumbai Indians team that won the 2015 Indian Premier League title.

Meantime president of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), Azim Bassarath, has congratulated Bravo, describing his award as “well-deserved” and saying it will help to motivate other young cricketers to work hard and establish themselves.

“It was just a matter of time before he was handed the captain’s armband for the West Indies 50-overs team, and was one of three T&T captains of West Indies teams which also included Denesh Ramdin (Test) and Merissa Aguilleria (Women), all in one calendar year,” said Bassarath.

Bravo has played 40 Tests and 164 ODIs for the West Indies as well as 11 first-class matches and over 300 T20 games. (CMC)

Persistent India complete...

R Ashwin, who picked 21 wickets and scored a fifty was adjudged the man of the series

That he did so on cue and with a really full ball, two feats he has notoriously found difficult to muster over his career, will make the lbw sweeter.

There were important lessons in there. Ishant’s eighth no-ball of the match, bowled in his first over of the day, had Mathews caught on 25 but India heard the heart-breaking call of noball even before they could go up in appeal. Later in the day, with nothing going for India and the sun beating down on their heads, Amit Mishra had Mathews plumb lbw on 93, except that umpire Nigel Llong thought the sound from the bat hitting the ground was an inside edge. Umpires are human, they make mistakes, which is why we have DRS in Test cricket. In Test cricket not involving India, that is. Had India opted even for an abridged DRS without relying on the predictive tracking technology, they would have won the series 3-0. It was not all umpiring

decisions that denied India the clean sweep. Dinesh Chandimal’s counterattack in Galle played a big part in that grand comeback. One of the features of that comeback, which put India off their plans, was the reversesweep, a shot that Pererawho followed in Chandimal’s footsteps to become only the second wicketkeeper to debut with twin fifties - played and will have people crucify-

ing him for it. Perception of risk, though, has changed in modern cricket.

Perera is predominantly a right-hander, and used to bat right-handed until he decided to emulate Sanath Jayasuriya when he was around 10.

He plays the reversesweep well, and Sri Lanka had got this far in the fourth innings by not letting India bowl the lines they wanted, by keeping the scoreboard moving. Just when, five overs before the new ball, India started to bowl at the pads of the batsmen with predominantly leg-side fields, Perera looked to keep the pressure on by exploiting the field. He made a sweet connection too, but found to perfection the man accustomed to getting out minutes before intervals, Rohit Sharma, at point.

It was until then a testing toil for India, who didn’t do much wrong but found themselves helpless against a slowing-down pitch and resolute defence from Mathews and Perera.

A mark of how well India bowled was in the first session when they got just two wickets, but always looked close to taking a wicket. For the first 90 minutes the quicks operated. Umesh Yadav got rid of Kaushal Silva, yet again with a bouncer, and even though he didn’t take a wicket Ishant kept testing the batsmen and conceded just nine runs in six overs. (Cricinfo)

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Zico appeals to FIFA rivals for early debate

FIFA presidential candidate Zico has invited his potential rivals to take part in an early debate about football’s troubled governing body.

The former Brazil international has sent an email to Michel Platini, Musa Bility, David Nakhid and Chung Mong-joon, who have also declared their intention to run, saying that “FIFA deserves a debate at this preliminary stage”.

“We all agree that FIFA needs to evolve into a much better organisation, particularly in matters of democracy and transparency,” said Zico in the email, a copy of which was sent to Reuters.

“Change, however, is not an event. It is a process and we must start by making sure this election is fair, transparent and democratic.

“It is of the utmost importance that all member associations get the chance to know better all potential candidates and their ideas as soon as possible.”

UEFA president Platini, a former French international, is considered the front-runner to win the election to replace the outgoing Sepp Blatter on Feb. 26.

Zico has admitted that he faces a tough battle to get the written backing of five national associations (FAs) by Oct. 26, as required by the FIFA electoral rules, to allow him to run for the presidency.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) have promised to support him only if he first gets the backing of four other FAs.

Bility, president of the Liberian FA, is also struggling after failing to get the support of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

South African businessman and former political prisoner Tokyo Sexwale is also considering a bid and told reporters last week that he still had to make up his mind.

Zico said: “Einstein would say that insanity is doing the same thing, over and over again, expecting different results. It is therefore very important that we build this election with much more democracy and transparency.

“It is time all member associations, its constituents and everybody concerned with football worldwide learn more about the potential candidates. Everybody interested in football should somehow participate in this election.”

“I invite you to join efforts in order to stimulate and organise a public debate with all the potential candidates at the earliest possible date.” (Reuters)

Water will be clean in time for Games – Rio 2016 chief

The water quality at the Olympic sailing venue in Rio de Janeiro is a serious issue but will be resolved by the time the Games begin next year, Rio Organising Committee president Carlos Nuzman said on Tuesday.

carry out its own tests for viruses in Guanabara Bay where the sailing events will be held.

Nuzman began his media conference in central London by saying that improving the quality of the water at the Olympic ven-

A scientific report carried out last month said the waters were so contaminated with high levels of bacteria and viruses from human sewage that athletes could become ill and unable to compete at the Games, the first to be held in South America.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has ordered testing for disease-causing viruses after taking advice from the World Health Organisation, while the International Sailing Federation has said it will

ues was a key priority.

Last week, two international sailors, from South Korea and Germany, training in Rio contracted infections which they said came from the waters.

Asked if he could guarantee that no athlete would become ill because of the well-publicised contamination, Nuzman replied: “The health of the athletes is the No.1 point we are working on.

“We are working very closely with the State government and the researchers and I am sure we will

have no claims (that the water is dirty) during the Games.

“I have no doubt we will have no problems with the sailing at Guanabara Bay. Other Olympic cities have had problems with the waters and fixed them in time and Rio will do the same.

“This is a very serious matter and we are doing our absolute best to protect the athletes’ health.

“Marina da Gloria needs improvement but will be totally clean by the end of the year with the construction of a new pipe structure that will take sewage and rain water elsewhere.” Other open air venues will stage triathlon, swimming, windsurfing, canoeing and rowing.

“The health and wellbeing of the athletes is our first priority. There will be no compromise,” he added. Turning to doping, Nuzman favours an idea being discussed in sporting circles that the support team behind any athlete found guilty of doping -- such as the trainer, physiotherapist, masseuse -should serve the same ban as the athlete.

“As an Olympic athlete myself, who took part in volleyball in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, I have zero tolerance for doping.

“The whole team behind the athlete should be banned if there is a positive test. Not the country but his personal team.” (Reuters)

Two GFSCA teams to compete in Toronto Cup

The Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) will be sending two softball teams to Canada to compete with teams from the host nation and the United States of America in the Toronto Cup. The three-day event will bowl off on Friday, and will

see the Guyanese competing as Floodlights Masters and Floodlights Legends.

The tournament, which is being hosted for the first time by the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Club (OMSCC), will be played in two categories. The Male Open is players of any age, while the Male Masters is for players 44 years and older. Both Floodlights teams will participate in the Masters division.

Many trophies will be up for grab and cash prizes of over US$5,000 will be at stake. The preliminary rounds will be played on Friday and Saturday morning, while the four semi-finals are slated for Saturday afternoon.

The two finals will be played on Sunday, and the grounds to be used during the competition are Ashtonbee Park, Littles Park, Woburn Park, Nielson Park and Ellesmere Park.

The finals will be played at the University of Toronto ground.

Floodlights Masters and Legends will come from Lakhram Singh, Lalta Gainda, Ramesh Sunich, Ramchand Ragbeer, Ricky Deonarain, Rohan BojRaj, Jailall Deodass, Ago Gopaul, Steve Narine, Pithamber Maharaj, Surendra Nauth, Uniss Yusuf, Pooran Singh, Abdool Khan, Roger Sunich, Shakar Chowbay, Mark Lube, Rajen Paul, Ravi Lutchman, Hux

Lutchman, Sydney Jackman Jnr.,Teekchand Madho, Unos Baksh, Sudesh Persaud, Jerry Gaznabi, Sayan Maharaj and Indira Gainda. The managers are Vannessia Narine (Floodlights Legends) and Savitri Nauth (Floodlight Masters).

BCB/BBCI 50-over cricket tournament… Pestano, Fudadin lead RHT Gizmos & Gadgets to easy win

Ahostile spell of fast bowling from former national youth allrounder Clinton Pestano and a solid half-century from national and West Indies batsman Assad Fudadin led the Rose Hall Town (RHT) Gizmos and Gadgets first division team to a crushing victory over Upper Corentyne in the opening round of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI) 50over knockout cricket tournament.

Pestano claimed six wickets for 28 runs from eight overs of aggressive fast bowling, while the experienced Fudadin batted solidly for a well played 65, a knock that included five

boundaries and two massive sixes.

Winning the toss and batting first, Upper Corentyne was given a solid opening partnership of 65 runs in 15 overs by Devendra Boodhu and Nadeem Yacoob as the home team pace trio of Pestano, Keon Sinclair and Fudadin struggled to throw off rustiness after the long break in Berbice cricket due to the rainy season.

Former national Under-19 captain Shawn Pereira broke the partnership when Boodhu edged a delivery to Collis Butts at first slip for 13 in the 16th over and then Sinclair claimed the wickets of Premashwar Chatterpaul and Viendra Gooniah in

quick succession to leave the visitors at 70-3 in the 19th over.

Pestano then made sure Upper Corentyne never recovered as he bowled with genuine pace and alarming bounce.

Yacoob with a composed 45 and number nine batsman Devanand Chatterpaul with 11 were the only batsmen to offer resistance to Pestano as Upper Corentyne were bowled out for 104 off 32 overs. Pestano’s 6-28 was well supported by Keon Sinclair (2-21), Pereira (118) and Butts (1-6).

Needing to score 105 from 50 overs for victory, Fudadin and former Berbice Under-19 player Vidal Crandon batted well to remain unbeaten on 65 and 36 respectively as RHT Gizmos and Gadgets reached 106 without loss in 15.4 overs. Crandon struck five boundaries in his knock.

RHT Gizmos and Gadgets will now play Port Mourant in the second round on Saturday at the Area “H” ground, with the winner advancing to the final with a bye at the semi-final stage.

Meanwhile, the management of the club has announced the appointment of Clinton Pestano as Vicecaptain to Shawn Pereira, while off-spinner Collis Butts has been placed in charge of the discipline of the team.

Trophy Stall domino slated for Sunday in Wakenaam

Domino teams in Wakenaam will renew their rivalry this weekend when the Trophy Stall tournament takes place at Amit Ramnarine Sports Bar in Good Success.

Action will get underway at 09:30h and among the teams set to battle for supremacy are Underdog, Allstar, Seawall Boys, Rugged and Melville.

The winning and runner-up teams, as well as the Most Valuable Player will receive trophies and cash prizes. Entrance fee is $6,000 per team.

In an invited comment, Malenee Narine of Trophy Stall Bourda Market said they are please to be associated with the sport on the island, adding that it is their way of giving back to the society. She stated that

sport helps to unite and develop communities. Meanwhile, Allstar won the Amit Ramnarine competition, which was contested on Sunday. Allstar posted 74 games to finish ahead of Bad Boys on 58 and Underdog 54. Vijay Persaud chalked up 15 games, while Mohamed Kalam Zafrull made 13 for the winners.

GT Beer Futsal Tournament... Final group games set for tonight

By TreisTon Joseph

The final group stage of the GT Beer Futsal Tournament will be held tonight at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from 19:00h with four games.

The first game will be between West Back Road and Beterverwagting in what can be a low scoring encounter between the two highly competitive sides.

Both teams can defend well but also like to counter attack, two sides with similar styles might have a tough match-up in the opening game.

The second game of the night will pit Sophia against

Broad Street in a match that should thrill the expected large turnout. Both teams have experienced players and like to control the pace of the game.

The match will come down to who makes the least of mistakes in the encounter.

West Front Road and Showstoppers will battle in the third game of the evening in a match that can be very high scoring.

Both sides love to attack and will hold nothing back on the offensive side of the floor; a cracker of a game is definitely expected with this match-up.

Meanwhile in the final

BCB/NBS Second Division 40over cricket tournament…

Mahadeo leads RHT Bakewell to fourth successive victory

AMahadeo

brilliant all-round performance by former Berbice and Guyana Under-19 cricketer Khemraj Mahadeo led Rose Hall Town Bakewell to an easy victory over Whim in the last round of the Berbice Cricket Board’s (BCB)/New Building Society (NBS) Second Division cricket tournament.

It was the fourth successive victory for Rose Hall Town (RHT) Bakewell team as Mahadeo scored his third half-century for the tournament.

Batting first after losing the toss, Whim made 157 all out in 29.3 overs with the leading scorers being P. Tilkaram (30), Aaron Thakoordeen (23), V.Sookshine (27) and N. Deonarine (17). Bowling for RHT Bakewell, Mahadeo took 5-27, Rondell Lewis 2-26 and Erva Giddings 2-20, while Sylus Tyndall and Azam Khan each claimed a wicket as Whim late order added crucial runs.

In reply, Mahadeo and former Berbice Under-19 player Vidal Crandon added 70 for the first wicket in just 8.5 overs before Crandon was bowled by Anthony Deosarran for 35 (2x4s, 2x6s).

Mahadeo was then joined by West Indies female cricketer Shemaine Campbelle then added 90 for the second wicket to carry RHT Bakewell to victory at 160-1 in the 21st over.

Mahadeo ended unbeaten on 80 (10x4s, 2x6s) and Campbelle 31 (2x4s). Bowling for Whim, Deosarran was the lone successful bowler with 1-30 off six overs.

Lumumba skeptical about Elite League

President of Alpha United Football Club

Odinga Lumumba is a bit skeptical about the newly formed Elite League set to kick off later this month.

Lumumba’s skepticism branched from the fact the club will be investing at a lost especially with the registration fee start from $500,000 and could venture to one million dollars.

“The prize money is too low for the kind of money you have to invest, if you serious about making people improve their clubs, they have to be some proper compensation at the end of the road, if you not talking about 20-40 million in prize monies the you not talking serious football.

“Because any club would have to spend about two to two and a half million per month to play proper football,” Lumumba noted.

game of the evening Bent Street will battle North Ruimveldt in an encounter that might produce little goals since both sides can be said to be on even keel.

The skepticism caused Lumumba to call a meeting with the Normalisation Committee (NC) of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) which was attended

by seven of the eight clubs that will participate in the league except for Pele FC as well as Chairman of the NC Clinton Urling.

“I wasn’t personally comfortable but it is my view against seven, six others so I can’t jump the moon,” Lumumba stated of his feeling after the meeting.

However, Lumumba noted that his club “may” have to participate in the league.

“We may have to participate under these difficult circumstances, we may

have to try for a year and see where it goes,” Lumumba.

As far as the sustainability of the leagues goes, Lumumba also shared his thoughts, “It can only be sustained if they are more sponsors and the sponsors got to include the clubs not just the tournament, you cannot have a club, you have to strengthen the Elite league and strengthen the teams,” Lumumba highlighted.

Lumumba also pointed out that to hold such a league you also need the capacity to bring in spectators, “The specatators are important and you don’t have the facilities, a woman wants to urinate she has to go at the side of the fence and to keep regular games at the Stadium is too costly,” Lumumba noted. However, Lumumba deemed the league “not sustainable” in the short term but will only be sustained if financial improvements are made with the help of sponsorship from all stakeholders.

5 bronze medals for Guyana at CAREBACO Individual Championships

Guyana’s four-member team secured five bronze medals at the recently-concluded Caribbean Regional Badminton Confederation (CAREBACO) Individual Championships, held at Club Los Prados, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Priyanna Ramdhani who competed in the Girls’ Under-15 Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles won bronze in all three events.

Tyrese Jeffrey won bronze in the Under-15 Mixed Doubles, while Guyana’s leading player, Narayan Ramdhani who competed in the Boys Under-19 also took bronze.

Here are the quarter and semi-final results:

Under-19 Boys’ Singles: Narayan Ramdhani defeated Palmer Shaquille (Jamaica) 21-14, 21-16.

Under-19 Boys’ Doubles: Narayan Ramdhani and Jonathan Mangra lost to Joel Angus and Palmer Shaquille (Jamaica) 16-21, 19-21.

Under-19 Mixed Doubles: Narayan Ramdhani (Guyana) and Anjali Paragsingh (Trinidad) lost to Argenis Marinez and Arisleyda Frias (Dominican Republic) 14-21, 17-21. Under-15 Girls’ Singles:

Republic) 21-18, 13-21, 16-21.

Under-15 Mixed Doubles: Priyanna

Ramdhani and Tyrese Jeffrey defeated Jaison Marte and Kaina Lucero (Dominican Republic) 21-13, 21-11.

Under-15 Boys’ Doubles: Tyrese Jeffrey (Guyana) and Samuel Rosado (Dominican Republic) lost to Daniel Acosta and Edison Ramirez (Dominican Republic) 6-21, 7-21.

Semi-Finals Matches:

Under-19 Boys’ Singles: Narayan Ramdhani lost to No 1 Seed Soren Opti (Suriname) 16-21, 15-21.

Under-15 Girls’ Singles: Priyanna Ramdhani lost to Lisbeth Ortiz (Dominican Republic) 15-21, 8-21.

Under-15 Girls’ Doubles: Priyanna Ramdhani (Guyana) and Erisa Bleau (Suriname) lost to Lisbeth Ortiz and Mileiki Acosta (Dominican Republic) 12-21, 12-21.

Under-15 Mixed Doubles: Priyanna Ramdhani and Tyrese Jeffrey lost to Daniel Acosta and Lisbeth Ortiz (Dominican Republic) 14-21, 17-21.

The seven competing countries were the hosts Dominican Republic, Barbados, Panama, Trinidad, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Guyana.

Persistent India complete series win

You spend hours planning for outside edges and lbws, pegging away just outside off and breaking backs bowling bouncers, sweating, despairing, hoping for slip fielders to take the catches, praying the umpires agree with your lbw appeals, debating over DRS and no-balls, and then a Test turns on a reverse-sweep. Coming together at five down with 78 overs to survive, cap-

tain Angelo Mathews and debutant Kusal Perera kept India at bay for 38.1 overs and 135 runs, giving them an outside chance at an improbable win - still 144 away with 40 overs to go - but Perera fell to a reverse-sweep four overs before new ball and tea.

India’s dying spirits - they were no doubt reminded of Johannesburg, Wellington and Galle over the last 20 months - found just the resuscitation they needed. With the first over with the new ball, Ishant Sharma, the much-maligned fast bowler, the hero of two of India’s last three Test wins, and in the spotlight for his behaviour, removed Mathews for a valiant 110 to register his 200th Test wicket and pave the way for India’s first away series win in four years and their first in Sri Lanka in 22 years.

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